Tag: dog

  • Slow Feeders for Dogs: The Simple Solution to Fast Eating

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    If you’ve ever watched your dog gulp down their meal like it’s the last food on earth, you know the worry that comes with fast eating. Dogs who eat too quickly can face problems like choking, indigestion, or even dangerous bloat. Plus, speedy eating often means your pup misses out on the pleasure of savoring their food—turning mealtime into a race instead of a relaxing moment.

    That’s where slow feeders for dogs come in. These clever bowls are designed to make mealtime last longer by adding obstacles and grooves that encourage dogs to eat more slowly and mindfully. Instead of just diving in, your dog has to work a bit to get every bite, which helps slow down their eating pace naturally.

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    Using a slow feeder can make a big difference for your dog’s health. Eating slower means less chance of choking or gulping air, which can reduce stomach upset and the risk of bloat—a serious condition that can be life-threatening. It also improves digestion and helps your dog feel fuller for longer, which is great if your furry friend is on a weight management plan.

    Beyond the health benefits, slow feeders are easy to use and clean. Most are made from durable, pet-safe materials like silicone or BPA-free plastic and dishwasher safe, which means less hassle for you. They come in fun shapes and sizes too, so you can pick one that suits your dog’s personality and eating style.

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    If your dog tends to scarf their food down, a slow feeder might just be the simple change that makes mealtime healthier and more enjoyable. It’s a small investment with big benefits—not just for your dog’s tummy but for their overall well-being. Plus, it can turn mealtime into a fun, engaging activity rather than a frantic gulp-fest.

    So why not try a slow feeder and give your dog the gift of calmer, safer eating? Your pup—and your peace of mind—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. 

  • Reason to Adopt an Older Dog

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    I recently wrote an article about why an older cat may be a better fit for you and your family than a kitten. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, you can check it out here.

    The same could be said of older dogs. You and your family may want to consider helping an older dog enjoy the rest of its life with a family, rather than living in a kennel.

    Unsure about what you should do? Here are some reasons to consider an older dog instead of a puppy.

    You could save a life.

    The truth is that most older dogs don’t get adopted, as quickly as younger dogs and puppies. In fact, they have about a twenty-five percent adoption rate, compared to the sixty percent that young adults and puppies have.

    Though most people assume older dogs have problems, this couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, there are times when their owners had to move and couldn’t take them. Sometimes their owners die and there is nobody who is able to take them in.

    In fact, you most likely will get a fully-trained dog. 

    Older dogs are usually housebroken, so you won’t have to worry about messes in your home. They are usually able to walk on a leash and know a few basic commands, such as sit.

    You know exactly what you are getting. 

    When you get a puppy from a shelter, most of the time they can only guess what breed your new puppy is. This means that the cute little puppy you adopted may turn into thirty, fifty, or over one hundred pounds! When you get an adult, you know exactly how big they are going to get because they are done growing!

    You also have a good idea of their temperament. 

    Though the dog may be scared at the shelter, you will be able to get a good idea of how he or she is going to behave. You may be able to find a calm dog who would just be happy to lay beside you on the couch in the evenings.

    Puppies can be destructive. 

    Puppies go through a lot of stages, including the teething stage where you can’t leave them alone for even a second! They will chew anything that they can get in their mouth (and then some)!

    They can also be destructive when they are playing. They can mess up furniture with their jumping and running around. Puppies often knock things off of counters, as well as overturn objects while they are running throughout the house.

    Though activity is a good thing, the truth is that older dogs are less likely to be destructive to your home. A good walk or two and some ball playing should be enough activity for your older friend.

    This can often make them better pets for young children. 

    Young children can be hard on puppies. They may pick them up and carrying them around, dropping them or hurting them. Though your older dog may need some care due to arthritis, your children will be able to play with him or her.

    It might be cheaper to adopt an older dog. 

    Many shelters don’t charge as much for older pets as they do for their younger versions. In fact, there are some places that waive any fees if you are willing to take an older dog into your home!

    If you have decided to open up your home to another dog, you may want to look at an older one. You could save a life by adopting him or her. You are also going to have a good idea of what you are going to get. An older dog is already fully grown, so you don’t have to worry that your sweet little puppy has Great Dane in him or her! His or her behavior isn’t likely to change either, so you can decide what temperament you need to have in your life.

    You also won’t have to worry about going through the teething and potty training stages, which can be very destructive and time-consuming. Instead, you might just have a dog who loves to lay beside you on the couch. Even better, it may cost you less to adopt an older dog. You may even be able to take one for free!

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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. 

  • 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. 

  • 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.

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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. 

  • Tired of Dog Breath? Try This Simple Powder That Works

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    If you’ve ever leaned in for a doggy kiss only to be hit with a wave of truly awful breath, you’re not alone. Dog breath is one of those small-but-annoying problems that nearly every pet parent deals with at some point. Even if your dog’s mouth is healthy, plaque and tartar buildup can cause seriously stinky breath over time.

    And while we all know that we should be brushing our dogs’ teeth every day, hardly anyone is doing that. Most of us either forget or don’t make it a habit. Others can’t, because their dog is simply too wiggly. So, what can you do if you want fresher breath without the daily toothbrush battle?

    That’s where Proden PlaqueOff Powder for Dogs really shines.

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    This easy-to-use dental supplement is made from natural seaweed and works from the inside out. You simply sprinkle it onto your dog’s food once a day—and that’s it. No chasing your dog around with a toothbrush, no flavored gels, and no struggling with finger brushes. It helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup over time and tackles bad breath right at the source.

    What’s especially nice is that Proden PlaqueOff doesn’t just mask odors—it supports better dental health overall. As your dog eats, the seaweed ingredients help soften plaque so it’s easier to break down naturally through chewing or regular eating. Most dogs don’t even notice it’s there, so you can feel good knowing you’re giving them something that’s both helpful and stress-free.

    Of course, every dog is different, and results can take a few weeks to kick in. But plenty of pet parents (and their noses!) swear by it as a gentle, effective way to keep dog breath in check—especially when brushing just isn’t happening.

    So if you’re dodging kisses or gagging during cuddle time, it might be time to give Proden PlaqueOff a try. Your dog gets healthier teeth and gums—and you get back to enjoying close-up snuggles without holding your breath.

    We have seen many patients in our practice who come in with less tartar after starting this food additive. It really helps!

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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. 

  • Why Walking is Good for Your Dog’s Health

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    Whether the sun is out or you will have to bundle up to face the wind and cold weather, the truth is that walking your dog can be very good for the two of you. Even though there are going to be days when you would prefer to stay inside in front of the television, the truth is that you should find time every day to get some fresh air with your dog.

    There are so many incredible benefits to walking your dog. Here are some reasons why you should grab a leash and take a trip around the block.

    Walking is a good cardiovascular exercise that is relatively safe.

    Whether you are in shape or your goal is to get back into shape, walking is a great way to get and stay healthy. It can help you (and your dog) lose weight and stay fit. Before you decide to take the day off, consider your health and fitness goals. You may decide to do a loop around the block for you and your dog’s health!

    Walking provides both mental and physical stimulation for your dog.

    Some dogs, especially those that spend most of their time indoors, need to exercise both their body and their mind. A walk outside will help them discover new places and things. They may meet other people, dogs, and animals.

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    They will see places that they wouldn’t otherwise see if they stayed in their yard. This is especially true if you take your dog to parks and other places to get your daily exercise.

    Walking helps dogs become accustomed to various vehicles, including cars, trucks, and bikes, as well as other everyday objects.

    As you and your dog are out and about, you will introduce him or her to new things. This can include cars, trucks, bikes, and much more. Though you want your dog to get used to them, you also want to make sure that your dog learns to be wary of them. As your dog learns about these dangers, you should also teach them how you want them to handle them. You may want to teach your dog to sit on the side of the road when a truck goes by.

    Walking allows you to spend quality time with your dog.

    In our busy lives, it can be challenging to find time to spend quality time with those we love, including our dogs. By making your walks together a priority, you ensure that you spend meaningful time together. This will help both of you feel loved and appreciated.

    Knowing that you have to take your dog for a walk should be enough motivation to do it.

    The simple truth is that, no matter how much you want to exercise, it is really easy to find excuses not to. It’s really easy to get distracted by your phone or the television and realize that an hour or two has passed. However, when you have a dog that relies on your daily (or multiple times a day) walks, you can’t tell them no. You find the time to get outside. This is beneficial for both your health and your dog’s health.

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    Walking your dog is essential for good health. Not only will it help you get in shape, but it will also aid your dog in shedding excess weight.

    Even better, having a dog will not allow you to find excuses for not exercising. You need to make time to get out of the house and go for a walk. It is also essential for your relationship with your dog. It will give you plenty of quality time together.

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    Please 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. 

  • Tips to Keep Your Kids and Dogs Safe Around Each Other

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    I recently wrote an article about getting a new puppy or dog for your family. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, you can check it out below.

    Now that you have a new puppy or dog, you are going to want to make sure that your children (and puppy or dog) are safe around each other. Though they can be great friends, the truth is, according to the CDC, most dog bites are with children who are under nine years old!

    Though that may surprise you, the truth is that young children can be quite impulsive. They are just so excited about seeing a dog, they may push them past its limits. They may run over squealing and making other loud noises, which can really scare dogs, even the ones that aren’t too nervous.

    With that being said, you can help your children have a great friendship with your new puppy or dog. Here are some tips to help.

    You are going to want to give your dog his or her own space.

    Just like your child has his or her own room, you are going to want to give your dog some personal space, too! While your dogs don’t need their own room, you may want to have a crate that they can get into when they need to get away. Even if they have a safe area in your living room, that might be enough, too!

    You also have to know your children. 

    If your children are young, remember that they may not always know the right way to treat their new puppy or dog. They are often impulsive, which can lead to problems between them and your new puppy or dog.

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    If your children are older, they may not be as excited about their new puppy or dog. They may not overwhelm them by hugging and loving on them, but they may not be as accepting of their new puppy or dog as you would hope.

    Because of this, you need to really watch your children and your new puppy or dog at all times! 

    You can’t just be in the room with them as they interact. You need to really watch them together. If you are on your phone, you won’t be able to see what’s going on.

    Always remember that you are the only one who is responsible for both your children and your new puppy or dog. 

    By observing the interactions between your children and your new puppy or dog, you can ensure that everyone remains safe.

    If you notice that your children aren’t treating the new puppy or dog with respect, you can talk to them about what they should be doing instead. You may also notice that your new puppy or dog is getting overwhelmed, and it’s time to separate your children from them.

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    Though this may seem like this will take a lot of your time, the truth is that it will be worth it when you see the relationship blossom between your children and their new puppy or dog. One of the most essential things that you can do is choose the right dog for your family.

    Then, ensure that both your children and your new puppy or dog have safe spaces where they can retreat if they need to be alone. This may be a room for your children and a crate for your new puppy or dog. A special corner may also be used for your new puppy or dog.

    You also need to know your children and the stage that they are in. Are they going to be in your new puppy’s or dog’s face, or are they more likely to get mad if the new puppy or dog is in their way? Then, take the time to observe how they interact. You are the only one responsible for what happens between them.

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    Dogo App

    If you are struggling with your dog, you may want to check out Dogo’s tailored training programs. After taking a survey, you will receive a customized training plan for you and your dog. They also offer courses for your new dog, no biting, potty training, basic obedience, tricks, and more! 

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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. 

  • You Made the Decision, Now What?

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    If your pet is older, you may be starting to face the reality that they aren’t getting any younger. You may even be facing the realization that your pet has a disease that isn’t going to get better. He or she may not be living the best life anymore, and you may be considering making a decision.

    Once you decide to euthanize your pet, you may be wondering what happens next. There may be some things you need to consider as well.

    Are you already facing the decision? Here are some tips to help you through the euthanasia process.

    It is important to make the decision and stick to it. 

    Many pets seem to have a really good day, as soon as you decide that it is time to put him or her to sleep. Let your pet enjoy that day, but don’t put it off too long. He or she may get even worse when the good day ends.

    If you’re struggling with the decision, you may want to read my article, ‘Is It Time to Say Goodbye.’ If you want to check it out, you can read it right here

    Figure out what you want to do with your pet’s body. 

    Not only do you need to make the decision, but you also need to determine what to do next. Burying your pet in your backyard may not be an option for you, depending on your life situation, so most clinics offer cremation services.

    You may choose to get your pet’s ashes back, though you may also decide not to. This may come down to cost; however, you may also need to decide what to do with your pet’s ashes. Do you want to share them with someone or keep them with you safely?

    Let everyone say goodbye. 

    You want to make sure that everyone gets a chance to say goodbye before you go to the veterinarian’s office. Some of your family and friends may want a chance to come over and say goodbye before it happens.

    Decide who needs to be there. 

    At the veterinarian’s office, we see it all. There are some pets who only have me by their side during the process, while others bring their whole families. You have to decide who you want in the room when your pet goes to sleep.

    If you are single, you may not want to be alone. Don’t be afraid to ask a family member or friend to go with you. If you have a spouse, he or she may also want to be there, even if your spouse has to take off work. If you have children, you may need to decide whether you want them to be there or not.

    Our veterinarian uses a sedative prior to giving the euthanasia solution. 

    This allows the pet to fully relax before administering the medication to put them to sleep. Some people only stay until their pet is sleeping before they leave. Many people with children allow them to be present until it is time to give the actual medication.

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    Making the decision to end your pet’s suffering can be very difficult. You may want to have a frank conversation with your veterinarian to see where everything stands. He or she may be able to give you some more time with your pet or help you come to the realization that it may be time.

    Then, you need to give yourself time to say goodbye. Don’t forget to consider any family or friends who may also want to spend some time with your pet. You may also have to decide who you want to be with you. Many people have to think long and hard about whether they want their children around. This is a very personal decision, and shouldn’t be taken lightly. It may also depend on your children. Some may want to be there, while others may not.

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    Please 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. 

  • Reasons Dogs Are Better Than Cats

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    Most people consider themselves “dog people” or “cat people.” Even if they own multiple critters, they may feel like they love either dogs or cats more.

    Unsure if you prefer one over the other? Here are some reasons why dogs are better than cats.

    Dogs are often known as man’s best friend (and for good reason). 

    They have been faithful companions for thousands of years and will continue to do so as long as we want them to be our friends. They love us unconditionally and want nothing more than to spend all of their time with us.

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    Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, no matter what you are looking for. 

    Cats are pretty much all the same. You may see some unique Maine Coons, but most house cats are just domestic short-haired cats.

    Meanwhile, you can get a dog that is smaller than your cat, or you can choose a dog that weighs more than you! This allows you to find the perfect breed of dog for you, taking into account your lifestyle and even your location. If you live in a tiny apartment, a little dog can run for hours in it, while a Great Dane might struggle to move around at all. If you spend your time outdoors all year long, you’ll want to consider a dog that suits that lifestyle rather than a couch potato.

    Many people acquire dogs as a means of protection for themselves and their families. 

    Most dogs are quick to bark when anyone comes to their home. They want to protect their owners and warn them when someone comes onto their property. Even if they aren’t vicious, their bark may make someone think otherwise before coming into your yard.

    Training dogs is easier than training cats. 

    In fact, if you want your cat to do something, it probably isn’t going to happen. They do what they want, when they want to, without considering what we think.

    Many dogs enjoy training sessions. They want to please you and will do anything that they can to ensure that you are happy with them. Most are also motivated by food and will do whatever you want them to.

    Dogs just love to play!

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    Most dogs love to play with you and your family. They enjoy playing fetch with a ball or even a Frisbee. They will play tug-of-war. They may chase you and your children around the yard. If you have multiple dogs, you may even get to watch them play together. Some people get their dogs together for “play dates” where they can have fun and burn off some steam!

    They may even help you get healthy (or stay healthy if you already are). 

    If you have a dog, you know that you’ll have to get up and take them outside multiple times a day. Even if you have a fenced-in backyard, you will likely take your dog for a walk every day to help them stay fit. These daily walks may even help you lose some of your extra weight!

    Many people enjoy taking their dogs on walks and hikes around their neighborhoods. You may even find yourself looking for parks and hiking trails to take your dog. Some runners train their dogs to run alongside them during their training sessions. You may even want to try a dog sport like agility or diving. These can be a great bonding experience while also keeping you both active.

    Dogs go to the bathroom outside. 

    Cats use litter boxes inside your home, and if you aren’t able to keep up with it, it can really stink up your home. Dogs go outside your home. Though you should pick up their stools for health reasons, you aren’t responsible for cleaning up their urine. You also don’t need to worry about your house smelling due to their urine and feces (once they are potty-trained)!

    Dogs can be more than just your pet! 

    Many working dogs have important jobs to do. There are farm dogs that can protect livestock and herd them from one field to another. Some dogs work alongside our police and military. Many breeds excel in search and rescue missions. They are often better at finding lost humans due to their sense of smell. Service dogs are helpful for people with disabilities and those who are blind.

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    Dogs can be great companions, as they have proven to be for years. They have been faithful friends for thousands of years. This is because they love us and want to spend time with us. This makes them easy to train, because they want to please us.

    Even better, there are numerous types of dogs, making it easy to find one that suits your lifestyle. If you are away a lot, you will want a smaller dog that may not require as much exercise as a larger one. That being said, dogs love to play, and you can find a lot of enjoyment in them. They may even help you stay healthy by taking them for regular walks!

    Not a dog person? My next piece is going to be about why cats are better than dogs. You may feel like you would rather spend time with your cats instead of a dog.

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    Please 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.