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Tag: dog training

  • 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.

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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 Tips: Tips to Have a Well-Behaved Dog

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    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.