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Category: Dog Tips

  • Helping Your Dog Slim Down: Easy Tips That Actually Work

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    We don’t like to talk about it, but sometimes our dogs get a little fluffier than they should. Whether it’s too many treats, too few walks, or just slowing down with age, extra weight can sneak up fast—and it can lead to joint issues, low energy, and even a shorter lifespan. The good news? A few small, consistent changes can make a big difference.

    One of the first things that helped in our house was switching to a slow-feeder bowl. If your dog hoovers food in 20 seconds flat, a slow feeder makes them work a little harder, eat more mindfully, and feel fuller with less. It’s a small change with a big impact.

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    Another helpful addition: low-calorie training treats. I still want to reward good behavior (and let’s be honest, sneak a snack here and there), but swapping to lighter treats keeps the calories in check. Bonus points if they’re crunchy and satisfying—my dog doesn’t seem to notice the difference.

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    Lastly, if your pup isn’t getting as much activity as they should, a tug rope or interactive toy can help sneak in some movement, even indoors. You don’t need to go on long hikes every day—but even 10–15 minutes of active play can help burn off extra energy (and calories).

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    Helping your dog lose weight doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A few tweaks to their routine, the right feeding tools, and some extra playtime can go a long way. Start small, be patient, and remember—it’s not about perfection, just progress. Your dog will thank you with more tail wags and longer walks together. 🐾

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    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • What Breed of Dog Should I Get?

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    Besides basic care, we often get asked about different breeds of dogs and cats. Clients want to make sure that they get the right dog or cat for their life, so they always ask to see if we can help them.

    I recently wrote an article about figuring out what breed of cat you should get. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, you can check it out here.

    I know that you wanted to know about breeds, so I wrote another article about choosing the right breed of cat. Here is the article if you haven’t had a chance to read it.

    Now, when it comes to choosing the right breed of dog, it is similar to finding the right cat. Breed isn’t as important as some of the other factors.

    Here are some things that you need to think about before you stop and get the first cute puppy that you find!

    You should consider the size of the dog that you are going to have. 

    Puppies can be deceiving. Most puppies aren’t going to stay as little as they are now. You could get a puppy that grows up to be five pounds all the way up to over one hundred pounds!

    If you live in a smaller home, you probably won’t want to get a dog that is massive. A smaller dog will still be able to get plenty of energy out just running around your home.

    You also need to think about your lifestyle. 

    Do you have the energy for a puppy who needs to be played with constantly? Are you going to be able to work and then come home and play with a new puppy for a few hours? Or would you prefer an older or more laid back dog that would be happy to sit on the couch every night?

    Are you into hiking and want a companion to spend hours on the trail with a week? Do you want a walking companion for daily walks around the neighborhood? Do you have a fenced-in backyard where a dog can run around and play?

    If you have a lot of guests, you are going to want a dog or puppy that is as social as you are. If you want to be able to take your dog everywhere, you are going to need a more laid-back dog!

    Though you may like shaggy dogs, you need to think about the amount of grooming your new dog may need. 

    Although many dogs need regular baths and brushing, there are some that require more. Many dogs, like smaller dogs and doodles, need regular grooming appointments every six to twelve weeks. If you don’t have the funds or time for all of that extra work, you may want to stick to a breed that has short hair.

    You also don’t need to get a puppy. 

    Though puppies can be a lot of fun, they are a lot of work. There is nothing wrong with deciding that you want to try for an adult or mature dog. If you don’t have the time to devote to a puppy, older dogs need homes just as much as puppies do!

    Choosing the right breed of dog isn’t as important as the kind of dog that you get. You need to decide what size dog you want, as well as what type of hair. Do you want to spend hours brushing your dog’s hair, as well as taking him or her to the groomer on a regular basis?

    It would help if you also thought about your lifestyle. Do you have the time for a puppy? Or would an older dog suit your sedentary lifestyle? Do you have a small apartment? Or do you have a fenced-in yard where an active dog could go crazy?

    As long as you think carefully and pick wisely, any dog that you get will be lucky to have you (and you him or her)!

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    Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Even though I am a veterinary professional, this blog is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Golden Years: Low-Stress Ways to Keep Senior Dogs Moving

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    When your dog starts to slow down with age, it’s easy to assume they’re just “over” playtime—but truthfully, most senior dogs still want to engage, they just need a gentler approach. Keeping them active doesn’t have to mean long walks or high-energy fetch sessions. A little light movement and some mental stimulation each day can do wonders for their mood, mobility, and overall health. It’s all about adjusting the pace.

    One of my favorite things to use is a soft snuffle mat. It’s easy on aging joints, encourages natural sniffing behavior, and gives your pup a fun little challenge at mealtime. Just hide a few treats or pieces of kibble, and let them forage at their own speed. It’s great for mental stimulation, and for dogs with fading eyesight or mobility issues, it’s low-impact and accessible.

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    I’ve also had great luck with slow-paced treat puzzles—the kind that require gentle nudges instead of lots of pawing or flipping. These are perfect for keeping their brain engaged without asking too much of their body. You can even use a few favorite toys or rolled-up towels with hidden treats if you want to keep things simple.

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    And if you want to support their physical health, a low, firm balance cushion or wobble pad can help strengthen muscles and improve coordination. It doesn’t take much—just a few minutes of shifting their weight while standing or sitting on it. Think of it like senior dog pilates: gentle, purposeful, and surprisingly effective.

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    With older dogs, it’s not about tiring them out—it’s about keeping them engaged in ways that feel good. A few simple activities, done regularly, can help your pup stay sharp, mobile, and happy well into their golden years. Try introducing just one of these options and see how your senior dog responds—you might be surprised by how much they still enjoy a little “play.”

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    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

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    You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • How I Keep My Dog Busy Indoors (Without Losing My Mind)

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    When the weather’s gross or your schedule is packed, keeping your dog active indoors can feel like a real challenge. Some dogs are content to nap the day away—but if you’ve got a high-energy pup, you probably know the signs of indoor boredom: the intense staring, the pacing, the sudden interest in chewing your shoes. It doesn’t take long before they start inventing their own fun, and let’s be real—it’s usually not the kind you want.

    Over the years, I’ve found a few go-to products that help burn off that restless energy without needing a backyard or a long walk. First up: the snuffle mat. If you haven’t tried one yet, it’s basically a puzzle made of fabric strips where you hide kibble or treats, and your dog has to sniff around to find them. It taps into their natural foraging instincts, keeps them mentally stimulated, and usually buys me 15–20 minutes of peace (which is a win in my book).

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    Another favorite in our house is the treat-dispensing toy—those bouncy or roll-around ones that release treats a little at a time. My dog will chase it all over the living room trying to get every last piece out. It’s great for mental enrichment and keeps them moving.

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    And when we both need to burn off some steam, a classic tug-of-war rope always does the trick. It’s simple, it’s cheap, and it turns a few minutes of play into some quality bonding time. Bonus: it usually leads to a very satisfying nap afterward.

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    You don’t need a full agility course in your living room to keep your dog happy on an indoor day. Just a couple of well-chosen toys can make all the difference—and save your shoes from becoming “boredom chew toys.” Give one a try and see what gets your pup’s tail wagging!

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    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Walking Made Enjoyable Again: Gentle Leader for Pulling Dogs

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    Let’s be real—walking your dog should be relaxing, not an arm-stretching battle. But if your pup turns into a sled dog the second you grab the leash, you know how exhausting it can get. I used to dread walks for that exact reason—until I found something that actually helped.

    If your daily walk feels more like a game of tug-of-war, you’re not alone. Dogs that pull can turn even a quick stroll into a frustrating upper-body workout—and it’s not fun for you or your pup. That’s where the Gentle Leader comes in.

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    Unlike traditional collars or harnesses, the Gentle Leader redirects your dog’s pulling by gently guiding their head—kind of like how a halter works for a horse. It’s not a muzzle (they can still pant, sniff, and snack on treats), but it gives you way more control without putting pressure on their neck. Most dogs adjust quickly, and walks become calmer, easier, and way more enjoyable for everyone.

    If you’ve tried everything and still feel like you’re being dragged down the block, the Gentle Leader might be the simple fix you’ve been looking for. It made a huge difference for me—and honestly, I wish I’d tried it sooner. Give it a go and enjoy walks that feel like walks again. 🐶💛

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    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Simple Fixes for Dogs That Gobble Their Food Too Quickly

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    If your dog eats like it’s a race against time, you’re definitely not alone. Speed eating is one of those small but frustrating habits that can cause real problems—from gas and gagging to vomiting, choking, or even a dangerous condition called bloat. For pet parents, it’s stressful to watch (and clean up after). Luckily, there are a few simple tools that can help your dog slow down without turning mealtime into a battle.

    One of the easiest and most effective solutions is switching to a slow-feeder bowl. These clever bowls have ridges, spirals, or maze-like designs built right in, which forces your dog to navigate around the shapes to get to their food. It naturally slows their pace and adds a little mental stimulation, too. The Outward Hound Fun Feeder is a go-to for many dog parents—it’s durable, dishwasher safe, and comes in a variety of sizes and patterns to match your dog’s needs and eating style.

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    If you feed wet food or have a super clever dog who quickly figures out standard slow bowls, a lick mat can be a game-changer. These are soft, textured mats where you spread a thin layer of wet food, peanut butter, or yogurt. Your dog has to slowly lick it out of all the little grooves, which helps reduce anxiety and prevent gulping. The LickiMat Soother is a favorite for its simplicity and calming benefits.

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    Another great option—especially for high-energy or easily bored dogs—is a snuffle mat. These soft mats mimic grass or shag rugs and let you hide kibble in the layers, encouraging your dog to sniff and forage for their meal. It’s not only a great slow feeder, but it also taps into their natural instincts. The AWOOF Snuffle Mat (my previous link) is well-made, machine washable, and folds up for easy storage.

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    The best part? These tools don’t require changing your dog’s diet or routine. Just swapping out their bowl or adding a lick mat can make mealtime calmer, healthier, and even more enriching. So if your pup tends to inhale their food like it’s going out of style, it might be time to turn chow time into a fun (and safe) challenge.

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    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Lick Mats vs. Kong Toys: Which One Actually Keeps My Dog Busy Longer?

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    If you’ve got a dog that gets bored easily, deals with separation anxiety, or just needs something to do besides chewing your furniture, you’ve probably looked into enrichment toys. Two of the most popular choices are lick mats and the classic Kong toy—and while both are great for mental stimulation, they work in different ways and suit different types of dogs.

    Lick mats are flat, textured silicone pads you smear with something tasty—think peanut butter, plain yogurt, canned food, or even pumpkin. Your dog has to work to lick every last bit out of the grooves, which takes focus and can be super soothing. Lick mats are awesome for calming anxious dogs during bath time, nail trims, or crate rest. They’re also super easy to prep and clean. But for some dogs (especially the high-energy, power-chewer types), lick mats might only keep their attention for 10–15 minutes before they’re ready to move on.

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    KONG Classic Dog Toys are made from durable rubber and are hollow inside, which means you can stuff them with treats, kibble, or a frozen mixture of goodies for a longer-lasting challenge. They bounce, roll, and make your dog work to get the reward out—great for both physical and mental stimulation. Kongs tend to last longer during use (especially when frozen) and are ideal for dogs who love to chew or need something to keep them occupied when you leave the house. The trade-off? They can take a little more effort to fill and clean.

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    So which one’s better? If your dog gets anxious and needs something soothing and easy during stressful moments, a lick mat is a gentle, calming option. But if your pup has a ton of energy or you need something that keeps them busy for a while when you’re out, a stuffed Kong might be your new best friend.

    Honestly, I keep both on hand—lick mats for quiet moments, and Kongs for long stretches when I need my dog distracted (like during Zoom meetings). Either way, your dog gets a fun, tasty task—and you get a little peace and quiet. 🐶🧠

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    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • How Can I Help My Pet Who Is Grieving?

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    When you lose a pet, you may find yourself struggling with your grief. Even months later, you may really be struggling. If you are, I recently wrote an article about it that you may want to check out.

    However, you may not realize that your pet is grieving as well. I recently wrote an article about it, and you can read it below.

    Therefore, if you believe your pets are grieving, it is up to you to help them. Here are some tips.

    Let them see the body. 

    Animals need closure, just like we do, so it is important to let your other animals see the body of their deceased friend. Although your pet may not understand what is happening, it may help them feel more at ease.

    Give everyone time to grieve. 

    The grieving process can be quite overwhelming. You may notice that some of your pets aren’t really sure what is going on. Some may spend days and weeks looking for their lost friend, while others may try to take over that pet’s position.

    Don’t mess with the routine. 

    Dogs and cats thrive on routine, and you should do everything that you can to ensure that the routine doesn’t change while everyone is grieving. Continue feeding at the same time, and going for walks like normal. Make sure that if you came home from work and played for an hour, you continue doing this.

    This is not the time to get a new pet. 

    Though many people rush right out to get a new dog or cat, the truth is that things need to settle down in your household before you think about adding more stress. When things calm down, you can then consider getting another pet.

    It may be the perfect time to try something new. 

    While everyone is unsettled, it may be the perfect time to take your dogs to a dog park you’ve been wanting to visit for a while. You may want to try a new food or toy that you think everyone will love. You may even want to consider taking your cat on your next vacation.

    No matter what you do, it is essential that you make time to spend with the ones you have left. 

    Not only will it help you, but it will also bring comfort to your pets. Make sure that you find time every day to cuddle and play.

    That being said, you also don’t want to reinforce bad behaviors. If your dog is pacing around the house, you shouldn’t just pick him or her up. Your dog may learn that, in order to get your attention, he or she just has to pace around. Instead, wait until your pet is calm before picking them up.

    If your cat is getting in your face and meowing, gently push it away until it is quiet. Then, you can feel free to give them the attention that is needed.

    Don’t be afraid to talk to your veterinarian. 

    If your pet is really struggling, you may need to take them to your veterinarian. If he or she quits eating, starts vomiting, or develops diarrhea, you should seek medical attention immediately.

    Some behavioral specialists may be able to help you. They specialize in helping patients who struggle with their behavior, and it may be just what your household needs!

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    Just as you need time to grieve, your pets do, too. In fact, you may notice that they are sulking around the house and looking for their missing friend. However, you need to make sure that you give them some time to act differently while they are grieving. You shouldn’t punish them while they are dealing with their feelings.

    That being said, you also need to continue with your normal routine and spend plenty of time with them. They need your comfort as much as you need theirs! This is NOT the time to get a new pet! There is enough stress in your household; you don’t need to add anymore.

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    Please understand that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Even though I am a veterinary professional, this blog is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.

  • Reasons to Spay or Neuter Your Pet

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    Owning a pet is a big responsibility, one that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Your cute and cuddly kitten is going to grow up into a cat that may prefer to spend time outdoors (rather than beside you on the couch). Your little puppy may become over fifty pounds, so it isn’t going to be cute when he jumps on you at that size. In fact, he could seriously hurt you!

    There are many decisions that you may be facing as a new pet owner. You will need to decide which vaccines you want your new pet to have. You may also be trying to determine if you want to get your pet spayed or neutered.

    If you are one of those owners who aren’t sure about what to do, here are some reasons why you may want to think about getting your pet spayed or neutered.

    Responsible

    Spaying and neutering your pet is the responsible thing to do. It will stop adding to the unwanted animal population.

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    That being said, you should talk to your veterinarian to determine the best time to spay or neuter your pet. Many veterinarians recommend spaying or neutering cats of either sex around six months of age.

    However, with dogs, more veterinarians are waiting until they are a little older. This is even more true with bigger breeds. Veterinarians agree that you should wait until your large breed male dog is over a year old (unless he starts exhibiting destructive behaviors). For females, some recommend spaying prior to heat, while others recommend letting them go through at least one heat cycle.

    Keeps your pet home

    The simple truth is that male animals are driven to find females that are in heat. If your male cat or dog gets out, he will likely roam until he finds what he is looking for. In fact, this is one of the reasons why males get lost. They are too busy chasing a female that they get lost and can’t find their way back to their owners.

    And safe

    Male dogs and cats are more likely to get hit by cars because they are too busy focusing on the scent of a female in heat.

    Healthier

    Spaying and neutering early can prevent many diseases. Neutering will prevent testicular cancer and prostate diseases. Spaying early will prevent breast tumors. With every heat cycle that a female has, she is more likely to get mammary cancer.

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    Unspayed females can also get a pyometra. This nasty disease, which is an infected uterus, can kill your dog, if left untreated. The only way to fix the problem is to spay your dog. However, by this point, your dog is sick, so the surgery is riskier than a routine spay. This is just one more reason why you need to consider spaying your dog before anything happens!

    Less behavioral problems

    Spaying and neutering pets can help reduce certain unwanted behaviors. This may include males who like to mark their territory. Males are also less likely to hump your leg. Neutering early can also help you avoid any aggressive behaviors.

    Though you may be struggling with the decision on whether you should spay or neuter your dog, you really should consider it, unless you decide to breed your pet. It is the responsible thing to do. It also helps to keep your pets home. They will be less likely to roam the neighborhood, looking for a mate.

    It is also healthier. You won’t have to worry about testicular cancer or prostate problems in your male dog. If you have a female, you won’t have to worry about pyometras and spaying her when she isn’t feeling well! It can also help prevent behavior problems before they start.

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    Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Even though I am a veterinary professional, this blog is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • How to Keep a Bored Dog Busy: 3 Must-Have Toys

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    If your dog is chewing shoes, digging in the yard, or staring at you like you’re their only source of entertainment… you’re probably dealing with a bored pup. Boredom isn’t just annoying—it can lead to destructive behavior, anxiety, and even weight gain.

    Dogs, especially energetic or intelligent breeds, need more than food and love to stay happy. They need mental stimulation, problem-solving, and a little fun. Luckily, there are a few simple toys and tools that can make a big difference.

    First up: the KONG Classic Dog Toy. This is a tried-and-true boredom buster. It’s a durable, stuffable rubber toy that you can fill with peanut butter, yogurt, or treats—then freeze it for an even longer challenge. It satisfies your dog’s need to chew while giving them something rewarding to focus on. Even better, it can be great for crate time or when you need to keep them busy while working from home.

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    Another smart option is a snuffle mat, like the AWOOF Snuffle Mat. These soft, fabric mats are designed to hide kibble or small treats in layers of folds and pockets, turning mealtime into a sniffing adventure. It taps into your dog’s natural foraging instincts and slows down fast eaters at the same time. For high-energy or food-motivated dogs, this one’s a win-win.

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    And if your dog thrives on interaction, try a treat-dispensing puzzle toy, like the Outward Hound Hide N’ Slide Puzzle. These toys make your dog think, problem-solve, and use their nose to uncover hidden treats. It’s like a brain game that rewards them as they go. These kinds of toys are perfect for rainy days, downtime, or whenever your pup needs a little extra mental workout.

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    Dog boredom is totally fixable—and you don’t need a big backyard or hours of free time to help. Just rotating a few of these toys into your dog’s routine can go a long way in reducing bad behavior and boosting their mood. After all, a tired brain is a happy brain (and a less-destructive one, too).

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    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.