Got a puppy that chews on everything? The Benebone Puppy Chew Toy is made just for them! 🦴
It’s crafted from gentle nylon infused with real flavors like chicken or bacon, giving your pup hours of safe, satisfying chewing. It’s strong enough to last but still soft enough for puppy teeth.
As a vet tech, I love how Benebone toys help redirect bad chewing habits before they start.
💡 Vet Tech Tip: Check your puppy’s chew toys regularly and replace them once they get rough or small enough to swallow.
Here are some reasons why I recommend these great toys!
✅ Great for strong chewers ✅ Real flavor keeps dogs interested ✅ Promotes safe chewing behavior
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.
Crate training often gets a bad reputation. Some people think it’s cruel, or that it means “locking up” a dog. But as a certified veterinary technician, I can promise you that when done correctly, crate training is one of the kindest things you can do for your pet.
Crate training isn’t about punishment — it’s about safety, comfort, and structure. Let’s break down why it’s such an important part of raising a happy, well-behaved dog.
🦴 A Crate Becomes a Safe, Comforting Den
Dogs are den animals by nature. In the wild, they seek out small, enclosed spaces where they can rest and feel protected. When introduced properly, a crate provides the same sense of security.
A crate becomes your dog’s safe zone — a quiet, cozy space where they can go when they feel tired, anxious, or just need a break. It’s especially helpful during stressful events like fireworks, thunderstorms, or when guests are over.
Puppies in particular benefit from having a defined space to retreat to. It helps them rest properly instead of overstimulating themselves with constant play or attention.
🧻 Crate Training Makes House Training Easier
One of the biggest benefits of crate training a puppy is how much it helps with housebreaking. Dogs naturally avoid eliminating where they sleep, so the crate teaches them bladder control and establishes good bathroom habits early on.
You can use a schedule to teach your puppy when it’s time to go outside — first thing in the morning, after meals, and after naps. With consistency, most puppies quickly understand that potty breaks happen outside, not in their crate or your home.
🏡 Keeps Your Dog Safe (and Your House Intact)
Until your puppy is fully trained, there will be times when you can’t supervise them — when you’re sleeping, working, or running errands. A crate keeps your dog safe during those moments.
Chewing electrical cords, swallowing small objects, or getting into food or medications can all lead to emergencies. A crate eliminates those risks and prevents destructive behavior caused by boredom or separation anxiety.
Think of it as toddler-proofing your home — you’re not punishing your pet, you’re protecting them.
🚗 Makes Travel and Vet Visits Easier
Crate training also helps your dog adapt to travel. Whether you’re taking a road trip, visiting the vet, or flying on a plane, a crate-trained dog feels much more comfortable in confined spaces.
Instead of feeling stressed or scared, your dog sees their crate as their personal safe spot — even in unfamiliar surroundings.
At veterinary clinics, boarding facilities, or groomers, your dog will likely need to stay in a crate or kennel for short periods. Being used to a crate makes these experiences calm and stress-free.
❤️ Builds Confidence and Reduces Anxiety
A dog who’s comfortable being alone in their crate learns to relax without constant human contact. This helps prevent separation anxiety and encourages independence.
Crate-trained dogs also adapt better to new environments and situations. When they have a familiar space to rely on, they feel confident even when routines change.
🐕🦺 Crate Training Is Kindness, Not Confinement
It’s important to remember that a crate should never be used as punishment. The goal is to make it a positive place.
Feed your dog in their crate occasionally.
Offer special toys or treats only when they’re inside.
Keep crate sessions short at first and always end on a good note.
Over time, your dog will go to their crate willingly, tail wagging, because it feels safe and familiar.
💤 Final Thoughts
Crate training is one of the best tools for raising a well-adjusted, confident dog. It helps with house training, safety, and emotional well-being — and gives both you and your dog peace of mind.
With patience, positivity, and consistency, your dog will learn that their crate isn’t a cage — it’s their cozy home within your home.
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Please note, thisinformation 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.
If you’ve got a curious pup who loves to play hide-and-seek, the Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Toy is pure gold! 🐿️
This plush puzzle toy comes with a soft tree trunk and a few squeaky squirrels your puppy can dig out, chew, and carry. It’s adorable, safe, and mentally stimulating — perfect for keeping your puppy busy and building problem-solving skills.
💡 Vet Tech Tip: Rotate plush toys regularly, and supervise your puppy if they’re heavy chewers. Replace any toys with holes or missing stuffing.
Here are some reasons why I recommend these great toys!
✅ Great for mental stimulation ✅ Encourages natural hunting instincts ✅ Soft and gentle for puppies
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.
Puppy teething can be tough — for both you and your pup! 😅 That’s where Nylabone Puppy Teething Rings come in.
These rings are designed to soothe sore gums and satisfy your puppy’s natural urge to chew. They’re firm enough to last, but soft enough not to hurt those baby teeth.
As a vet tech, I’ve recommended Nylabone products for years because they help prevent destructive chewing and keep puppies safely occupied.
💡 Vet Tech Tip: Supervise young puppies when chewing and replace toys once they start to wear down or splinter.
Here are the reasons why I recommend them: ✅ Gentle but durable for teething puppies ✅ Encourages healthy chewing habits ✅ Long-lasting and safe
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.
If I had to pick one toy every puppy owner should have, it’s the KONG Puppy Toy. 🐶
Made from soft, chewable rubber that’s gentle on developing teeth, the KONG keeps puppies busy, mentally stimulated, and comforted — especially during teething.
You can stuff it with peanut butter, kibble, or soft treats, and even freeze it to make playtime last longer. It’s perfect for crate training, separation anxiety, and teaching your puppy how to entertain themselves in a healthy way.
💡 Vet Tech Tip: Start with the pink or blue KONG toys. They are designed specifically for puppy teeth. As your dog grows, move up to the red “Classic” KONG.
Here are some reasons why I recommend these great toys! ✅ Soft, safe rubber for teething puppies ✅ Encourages healthy chewing habits ✅ Great for crate training and boredom relief
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.
If you’re potty training a new puppy, caring for a senior pet, or managing life with an indoor-only dog, pee pads are probably already part of your daily routine. But at some point, you’ve likely asked yourself: Should I stick with disposable pads, or try the washable kind? Both have their perks—and their downsides—and which one works best really comes down to your lifestyle, your dog’s habits, and how much laundry you’re willing to do.
Disposable pee pads are definitely the most convenient option. You just lay one down, toss it when it’s used, and grab another. No scrubbing, no washing, no waiting for the dryer to finish. They’re great for quick cleanup, perfect for travel or crates, and ideal for pet parents who don’t want to deal with extra laundry. But here’s the tradeoff: over time, constantly buying new pads adds up—and they’re not exactly eco-friendly, especially if you’re using several a day.
Product Available on Amazon
Washable pee pads, on the other hand, are reusable and more environmentally conscious. Most come in multi-packs, so while one’s in the wash, another is ready to go. They’re usually larger and more absorbent than disposables, which can be great for larger breeds or overnight use. The downside? You’ll need to rinse or wash them regularly (and let’s be real—no one loves washing pee pads). Still, if your dog uses them consistently in the same spot, and you’ve got a laundry routine down, they can save you quite a bit of money in the long run.
Product Available on Amazon
So which one’s better? If you want quick, hassle-free cleanup with no laundry involved—especially during the early stages of training—disposable pee pads are probably your best friend. But if your dog is on a more predictable potty schedule, or you’re in it for the long haul, washable pads could save you money and reduce waste.
Still can’t decide? Try starting with both—use disposables when life gets hectic, and keep a few washable ones for regular use. It doesn’t have to be all or nothing, and your future self (and your floors) will thank you.
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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.
Getting a puppy can be an exciting time for most people. They can’t wait to add a fur ball to their life. They think of all the fun and love that a new puppy can bring into their lives.
That being said, it can also be stressful. Puppies can’t be left alone because they can get into such trouble in a short period of time. They need to learn what they can and can’t do. Potty training can be pretty overwhelming for everyone involved (including the puppy).
Struggling with your puppy? Here are some tips to help you raise a good dog.
When you first get your puppy, you don’t want to overwhelm him or her.
Give your new puppy time to get used to you and your family, as well as his or her new home. Though socializing is essential, you don’t need to have everyone come over and visit right away. You also don’t want to take him or her to the dog park or pet stores until he or she is fully protected with vaccines. Then, do it slowly.
If your pet looks overwhelmed or uncomfortable, it is time to go back home. Don’t push, or you may not be happy with your puppy’s behavior. They may become anxious in new situations and may lash out when feeling this way.
It helps to get into a routine.
You should put your puppy to bed at the same time every day, and get him or her up at a regular time. If you feed your puppy at the same time every day, he or she will end up going to the bathroom at regular intervals, which will help immensely when it comes to potty training.
With potty training, you need to listen to your puppy.
You may want to keep your puppy on a short leash so that you can watch them closely. This will also keep them from sneaking off to go to the bathroom in the house.
It also helps to take your pet to the same spot outside, so that he or she knows that is where it is safe to go to the bathroom. If you take your puppy out and nothing happens, put them in the crate and try again in a few minutes.
You need to get your puppy used to going to the veterinarian.
Puppies who go to the vets regularly aren’t scared of them. It may even help to take them a few times when they don’t have an appointment, to get them used to walking in the building and meeting the staff and other animals. If they learn early that the vet can be a good place where they get treats, they will be less likely to get scared as they get older.
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Make sure that you get them used to being handled.
Sometimes, the vet isn’t the problem. It may be the restraint, or your puppy may not like his or her feet touched. You should touch their feet regularly, along with their ears, and all over their body, so that you will be able to do this easily when they get older.
When you are playing with your new puppy, you need to consider what you are teaching them carefully.
It might be cute when your five-pound puppy jumps up at you, but once he or she is full-sized, you may get hurt by this action.
The same goes for play biting. You don’t want to teach your puppy that it is ok for him or her to bite you. You could seriously get injured when he or she is one hundred pounds!
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Getting a puppy can really change your home, though once you get him or her settled into a routine, you will just be able to enjoy your new bundle of joy. This is also the time to socialize your puppy. Make sure that going to the vet is a good thing, even if you take your new puppy to hang out and visit at the vet. You also want to get them used to being handled, including their ears and feet.
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Please note 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.
There is nothing more exciting than getting a puppy for Christmas. They make great gifts, but only if you and your whole family are ready. I should know. When I was a kid, I remember coming out on Christmas morning, only to hear a noisy box that we just had to open first!
Because this isn’t always the best idea, I thought that I would ask my other veterinary technician friends to see what their thoughts were on the subject, and as you can imagine, there were not many reasons why it is a good idea, but there are plenty of reasons why you should hold off.
Here are some reasons why you may want to give a puppy as a gift for Christmas.
If you and your family are ready for a puppy, this can be a great surprise.
As I mentioned above, I will never forget the Christmas when we got a puppy when I was a kid.
It can also be a romantic and thoughtful gift from someone you love.
The memories will last a lifetime!
Here are some reasons why you should not give a puppy as a gift for Christmas.
Many puppy mills and backyard breeders bank on people buying puppies for Christmas.
When you choose to buy a puppy right around the holidays, you are just supporting their businesses. They will continue breeding as much as possible, in order to supply puppies for Christmas and all throughout the year, without any thought for the parents.
Money is often tight during the holidays, so your budget may not be able to afford a puppy.
Puppies need to go to the veterinarian every three to four weeks until they are sixteen weeks old to receive full vaccinations. They also need to be dewormed. Flea, tick, and heartworm prevention also costs money. If the cost of the puppy is too much, you need to think about all the other costs associated with a puppy.
What if there is an emergency?
Puppies also like to eat things. Christmas morning is often a mess of wrapping paper, tissue paper, and new toys. There are plenty of things that a puppy can eat that they shouldn’t.
Not to mention all the extra food that is available during the holidays. Puppies and dogs can’t handle a lot of the food that could be dropped during holiday meals. This can lead to expensive emergency visits.
If you are having a party, you may have a lot of people coming and going.
Your puppy (who doesn’t really know where home is yet) could get out and run away. You may never find your precious puppy again. Even worse, your puppy could be hit by a car.
The holidays are also one of the top reasons for dog bites.
With lots of people in and out of your home, along with strange dogs, your new puppy may be very overwhelmed. He or she could bite (or get bitten by another dog) in the confusion of the holidays.
Because of the confusion of the holidays, routines go out the window.
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New puppies thrive on routines in order to settle in. They need to know when they should eat, when they should go to bed, and when it is playtime. Not to mention potty training. It can be tough to potty-train a puppy that doesn’t eat at the same time every day!
Even worse, you may have the puppy for a month or so until things settle down, and you can get into a routine. This is really important time for a puppy to adjust to his or her new home.
Your children may go to school bragging about how Santa brought them a puppy.
Other children may not understand why they can’t get one from Santa! If your children still believe in Santa, it can be hard to explain why one family gets a puppy from Santa when all they got were a few small things!
Because of this, too many puppies and dogs find themselves in shelters right after the holidays.
If you ask anyone who works in a shelter, they will tell you that shelters fill up right after the holidays because of inadequate planning. Whether you bought someone a dog that didn’t fit their lifestyle or they simply didn’t really want a puppy, many puppies and dogs find themselves homeless after the fun of a new puppy wears off!
So, what can you do if you want to give someone a puppy for the holidays?
Another veterinary technician recommended getting a gift certificate to a shelter so that your loved one can choose the perfect pet for their lifestyle.
Too many people buy puppies or dogs without considering their lifestyle. Though the puppy may be cute, your loved one may not have the energy that a herding dog needs. He or she may be better off getting a lap puppy! They may not want a long-haired dog that requires daily brushing. They may not have the money for the groomer every six to eight weeks.
He or she could even wait until things settle down after the holidays, when it would be a better time to get a new puppy or dog. There might even be more of a selection as Christmas gifts end up in the shelter!
By allowing him or her to pick out his or her new dog, which is just what the family needs, the gift will continue to be a blessing instead of becoming a hassle that the person was not ready for.
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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.
That being said, it can be challenging to distinguish between an ethical breeder and one that is merely breeding for profit. For this reason, you need to look for red flags. Just like you would end a relationship over a red flag, you should do the same with a breeder.
Here are some red flags to avoid.
Breeders who don’t do any health testing.
Good breeders want to ensure that their puppies are of the highest quality, and they aren’t afraid to spend the money to prove that! They do as much health testing as required for the breed, so that you know that you are getting high-quality puppies.
They are also unlikely to register their dogs.
Whether you are looking for registered dogs, choosing parents who are registered helps you feel better about the puppies you are selecting. You will know that they come from good stock.
Puppies that end up in pet stores are often from backyard breeders.
No reputable breeder would sell their puppies to pet stores to get into the hands of anyone who wants a puppy! They will want to take the time to ensure that they put their puppies into the right hands.
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Fancy websites should also be avoided.
Many websites are full of puppies for sale, many of which are bred without any thought other than making some money!
The same goes for breeders who sell puppies before they are eight weeks old.
Puppies need time with their mom and other puppies before being sold. In fact, some smaller dogs are kept with their parents until they are twelve weeks old.
They won’t allow you to visit them in their environment.
You can learn a great deal about puppies by observing their parents. If you aren’t able to at least see the mom, you might want to be wary of the puppies.
You should be able to meet the mother of the puppies, at the very least, before choosing one. Getting to know and meet the mom is a great way to learn more about your puppies. If you can’t see her, you might want to avoid them.
Don’t trust those who breed for smaller sizes.
Many fad breeders breed “teacups,” which actively promote runts. These smaller dogs may not be as healthy as their standard relatives. They may struggle to keep their blood sugar levels stable, which can lead to seizures and other health issues.
The same can be said for those who breed for special colors.
If the breed that you are looking at doesn’t have specific colors, you should avoid getting those puppies. These breeders attempt to breed “flashy” and “rare” colors solely because they can earn more money doing so.
You may also want to avoid mixed-breed puppies.
True and ethical breeders will not want to breed two different breeds together.
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Though you may be looking for something in particular when it comes to your next dog, the truth is that you have to be careful when buying puppies. There are many red flags that you should avoid. You should avoid buying puppies from dogs that are not registered or those that haven’t undergone any health testing. It is a good idea to stay away from pet stores, as well as fancy websites. You should also avoid some of the fads that are popular, such as different colors, smaller sizes, and mixed-breed dogs that are sold as purebreds!
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Please note, 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.
I recently wrote an article about why you should look for ethical breeders instead of just backyard breeders. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, you can check it out right here.
Once you decide to use an ethical breeder, it is time to find one. Here are some tips to help you find the puppy you want from an ethical breeder.
These breeders will want to ask YOU questions about your background and may even request veterinarian references.
Backyard breeders, on the other hand, are likely to be willing to sell a puppy to anyone who wants it. If you show up with cash, you could be going home with your new puppy.
If you find an ethical breeder, they will be more likely to help match you up with the right dog.
To them, it is more essential to pick a puppy that matches your lifestyle than to meet your preferences for sex and color. They will help you with that, but if they find a puppy that would work well for you and your family, they may recommend that you consider this opportunity.
They may even ask for references because they want to ensure that their puppies are going to the right homes.
Many breeders want to show off their litters to potential buyers.
If you are looking for an ethical breeder, you will want to be able to stop by and see how the puppies are doing. Although puppies can be messy, they should look clean and healthy when you visit. You should also ensure that the mother appears healthy.
They are proud of the dogs and puppies they have and will work to ensure that the puppies they sell are ready to go!
Many breeders spend a significant amount of time with their puppies, gaining extensive knowledge about them. They often start training and socializing them, so that they are not fearful in the future. They quickly learn which ones are suited for pets and which ones work well in other types of homes.
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So, when you decide that you want a dog, they will ask you what you are looking for so that they can match you up with the right dog for your family and lifestyle.
If you are more active and looking for a dog to take on hikes, you will need a different dog than one that will lie beside you while you work and watch television.
Long-time breeders may have a waiting list.
If you find a breeder with a waiting list, they have likely produced a high volume of quality puppies, which brings people back for more. Although you do not need to find a breeder that has been doing it for years, you can feel better knowing that many people have been coming back for more puppies.
You may also be required to sign a contract when you purchase a puppy.
In the contract, they may want to know what you plan to do with your dog, whether it will be a show dog or a pet. The breeder may require you to spay or neuter your pet at a certain age, because they don’t want to support backyard breeders. Most breeders will have a clause where they will want you to return the dog to them, instead of getting rid of him or her.
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It can be challenging to find a quality and ethical breeder because there are numerous backyard breeders. However, if you find a breeder who is dedicated to his or her breed, as well as his or her dogs and puppies, you have likely found a good breeder.
These breeders spend a lot of time with their puppies, and they will do whatever they can to ensure that you get the right one for you and your family (as well as your lifestyle). That being said, you may find yourself on a waiting list because a good breeder often has people waiting to find the right puppy!
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Please note, 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.
