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Fruits and Vegetables Dogs Can or Can’t Eat

It’s not unusual to wish to reward the puppy instead of giving him a treat by giving him crumbs or your favorite human food meal. if you can eat it, it is acceptable for the puppy to have it, right? Certainly not. Although many human vegetables are fine for them, some are unhealthy or even deadly, so knowing which fruits and veggies pups can eat is necessary. Animals digest foods differently than people. So, consuming the unhealthy stuff can cause long-term health issues and in the worst-case scenario, mortality.

Fruits or Vegetables That Dogs Can Consume

Below are mentioned some vegetables and fruits your dog can consume:

Coconut

Dogs can eat coconut. Lauric acid, found in this unusual fruit, can aid in the fight against viruses. It can assist in the treatment of poor odor and skin disorders like flea sensitivities, and skin irritation. Coconut water and oil are suitable for dogs. Just make sure the pet doesn’t consume the shell’s exterior, which can become stuck in the throat.

Apple

Apples of different kinds are good snacks for dogs since they’re rich in vitamins, fiber, and magnesium. Before giving, be sure you chop them up and discard the core. Apple kernels, when consumed in large quantities, will lead to gastrointestinal distress in your pet.

Bananas

Bananas are safe for dogs. Banana is a fantastic low-calorie snack for dogs when used in moderation. Copper, minerals, biotin, fiber, and zinc are abundant in them. Bananas are rich in healthy fats and salt, but due to the high sugar, they should be given as a snack to the dog.

Blueberries

Blueberries are safe for dogs. Berries are an antioxidant-rich superfood that protects cells in both humans and dogs. They’re high in fiber and phytonutrients. Do you want to train the pet to grab snacks in the air? As a substitute for store-bought goodies, choose blueberries.

Cantaloupe

It is acceptable for puppies to eat. Cantaloupe is a nutrient-dense fruit that is low in carbs and high in moisture and fiber. However, because it is full of sugar, it must be eaten in proportion, especially with overweight or diabetic dogs.

Kale

Kale is okay for dogs to eat. You can include kale in the dog’s food as a meal addition or as a pleasant treat.

A thing to keep in mind is that every pet reacts differently to certain foods. If you want to offer kale to the dog, a bigger dog will probably be able to consume more of it comfortably than a tiny dog.

Spinach

You can give this nutrient-dense green vegetable to the dog. Copper and magnesium are abundant, as are vital vitamins A, and E. It is claimed that giving your dog a small amount of spinach occasionally will help prevent cancer, inflammation, and cardiovascular problems. There’s the possibility of increased energy and endurance.

Green Bean

Green beans are safe for the dog to consume. Green beans, pure and unsalted, can be a nutritious supplement to the everyday diet.

They are high in important nutrients like Vitamin A. Vitamin C is a phytochemical that boosts the immune response, whereas Vitamin A assists with immunological health, fertility, and vision.

What Fruits Are Bad for Dogs?

Following is the list of what fruits are bad for dogs:

Raisins or Grapes

Raisins or grapes must be at the top of the list. Based on the weight of the pet that consumes them, a tiny quantity of this seemingly harmless little fruit found in your houses can cause permanent kidney problems and death. If the dog consumes something or you fear they have, take them to the veterinarian soon.

Avocados

Although avocados look fine to give to your dog, it is recommended to avoid introducing the dog to any portion of the fruit, especially the seed in the center and the shell. They can suffer from diarrhea, vomiting, and respiratory issues.

Seeds or Stones

Although it may be enticing to give a fruit peel to the dog and stones found in fruits like apples, and peaches all include cyanide, which can be highly dangerous to the dog or even lethal.

Mushrooms

While common mushrooms must be safe to eat, natural mushrooms can be deadly and are one of the things that puppies search for while out wandering. Signs vary depending on the mushroom, but they commonly include diarrhea and nausea. If you think the pet has ingested wild mushrooms or is acting strangely, take them to the veterinarian.

Nuts

Nuts should never be given to the dog. The different types of nuts that have a wide variety of illnesses and consequences, and some of them can be deadly to the dog. Brazil nuts, hazelnuts, pistachios, and peanuts are awful. The greatest advice is to put walnuts out of range at all times.

Unripe Tomato

Unripe tomatoes or seedlings can be dangerous to the dog, whereas ripe ones are usually fine. They include a substance known as ‘tomatine,’ which may harm the respiratory system, lungs, and digestive system, so if you’re planting your own, keep them well away from your pet.

Garlic and Onion

Onions can be beneficial to the dog in small amounts, but if they consume too much, it can be detrimental and destroy the pet’s blood cells. It doesn’t vary if it’s raw, boiled, or dried; you should never feed these foods to the dog.

Broccoli

Although broccoli provides health benefits to you and your families, this is not the case with man’s best buddy. It can upset their stomach, which may not seem like a big deal, but it can be deadly, especially in some breeds.

Keep Your Eyes Open

It is critical to ensure that you are aware of what can be dangerous to the dog. If you have doubts that they may have consumed stuff they shouldn’t eat and that they’re acting strangely, consult your veterinarian immediately.

Slowly add it. Even fruits on the healthy list must be introduced gradually. Starting with a tiny number of fruits can prevent the dog from getting an upset tummy. Feed the dog a small bit at first, and if there is no response, slowly increase the number.

Use caution before serving. Vegetables are excellent for dogs if they are fed in moderation. Too much of a good thing may be bad, especially when it comes to high-sugar fruits including bananas or strawberries.

Make sure to plan ahead of time. If you’re going to give the dog fruit, make sure to clean it well or eliminate the peel. Fruits including apples, apricots, and mangoes should all have their shells and pits removed.

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Dog breeds that are the easiest to train

If you are looking to invest in a dog that is easy to train, you should consider a Cocker Spaniel, Labrador retriever, or a Golden Retriever. These breeds are known for being obedient and eager to please their owners. These dogs have also been specifically bred to serve this purpose so they are more likely to quickly respond to commands from their owners. Some other good breeds to consider include Dachshunds and Beagles because both dogs are small in size which makes it a lot easier to carry them around when you’re running errands or going for walks. If you prefer to have larger dogs, Siberian Huskies or German Shepherds are a good idea because these dogs are also specifically bred to be working dogs with strong instincts. If you’d like to explore more options, keep reading.

Goldendoodle

Also known as a Groodle, Golden doodles are a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle, and they were first bred in the 1990’s. This breed is primarily found in Australia and the United States and their temperament is friendly, energetic, and trainable. At ABCs Puppy Zs you will find many varieties of F1B Goldendoodle Puppies for sale, and what this means is that they come in multiple sizes, colors, and even fur textures. If you’re looking for a dog breed that is easy to train and looks adorable at the same time, this is the breed for you. The trainability of this breed is considered excellent and it is recommended that you train Goldendoodles using Crate training and alone time training because it is common for this breed to suffer from separation anxiety. If you’re a first-timer, this dog is recommended for you.

Miniature Schnauzer 

Originating in Germany in the mid-late 19^th century, Miniature Schnauzers are a breed of dog that is small in size. Their temperament is friendly, intelligent, spirited, alert, fearless, and obedient. These dogs tend to bark at strangers which makes them excellent guard dogs however, it is important that you use training to control their barking and have them stay quiet on command. Miniature Schnauzers are considered fairly easy to train but they can sometimes lack focus because of their energy and intelligence. They can also be quite stubborn which is important to note. This breed benefits highly from early reward-based training and they also do well socializing. 

German Shepherd 

German Shepards are working dogs that are medium to large in size. German Shepherds are intelligent, loyal, stubborn, obedient, alert, watchful, curious, and confident. With proper training, these dogs can make very gentle family protectors, and when training, socialization needs to be included. If they are not trained, they can lean towards being aggressive but luckily, they are obedient and easy to train compared to other dog breeds. German Shepherds perform well in task training as well as obedient training. These dogs will listen and obey your commands.

Border Collie

Border Collies are known to be working and herding dogs and they originate from the Anglo-Scottish border region. Originally, they were used to herd livestock, more specifically sheep. Their general temperament is intelligent, tenacious, responsive, loyal, keen, energetic, and athletic. Border Collies are a highly trainable breed and are highly motivated by chasing balls or objects that move very quickly. They love working in obedience trials or things that involve agility. Just like every other dog on this list, their training requires socialization, and additionally, mental stimulation is a very important part of training.

Labrador retriever 

The Labrador retriever or ‘lab’ for short, is a breed from the United Kingdom and originates from the retriever gun dog. This breed is considered one of the most popular breeds in the world and they have a life span of around 10-12 years. The temperament of this dog is outgoing, intelligent, even-tempered, kind, agile, trusting, and gentle. These dogs make excellent house pets and are good with children as well as other dogs. Labradors are typically very easy to train however because they are an active breed, they need regular exercise or else training becomes challenging.

Doberman Pinscher

This breed was developed in the 1890’s in Germany and they are intelligent, loyal, energetic, obedient, confident, fearless, and alert. Dobermans are eager to please their owners and are very intelligent which makes them easy to train, however, it is most effective when started early on. it is recommended that you use verbal commands with their behavior training and make the process as fun as possible.

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Camping With Your Beagle: 4 Handy Tips for the Ultimate Getaway With Your Pooch

There are very few things that fill your life with as much excitement and joy as a pet dog does. If you have a beagle at home, you already know that they’re tiny bundles of energy that love new adventures.

Whether you’re taking them to a new park or go on a short hike with them, beagles love to explore new things and places. So, if you’ve been contemplating going camping with your beagle, it’s high time you take action.

Apart from helping channel your pet’s energy, camping is also a great way to strengthen your bond. And if you’re lucky, you might even get to witness a completely new side to your furry friend’s personality.

But if you’ve faced the reality of being a pet parent, you already know that traveling with pets isn’t easy or simple. Lack of proper planning can quickly derail things, and even jeopardize your dog’s safety.

The good news is that curating a hassle-free yet memorable camping getaway with your beagle isn’t rocket science. In this blog, we’ve outlined a few useful pet-friendly camping tips to help you get started. Let’s take a look.

1. Visit the Vet

This one’s a no-brainer. Whenever you’re planning to travel with your canine companion, you must take them to the vet first. A licensed veterinarian will evaluate your beagle’s health, and help identify any underlying disorders that might get exacerbated during the trip.

Also, it’s important to ensure that your pooch is up to date on their vaccinations. Depending on the campground rules, you might even need a health certificate from the vet. While beagles aren’t particularly prone to anxiety or nervousness, it’s always a good idea to ask your vet to prescribe suitable medication.

2. Check the Weather Forecast

Let’s face it – you don’t want rain, lightning, and scattered thunderstorms to ruin your camping escapade with your pooch. As with any outdoor activity, you need to plan your camping trip according to the weather. 

It’s particularly important when you’re traveling with a pet. Even though beagles are fairly calm, adventurous, and intelligent, adverse weather conditions will frighten them and take a toll on their energy levels.

That’s why it is important to check the weather forecast for the days when you’re planning to go camping. Start by finding a reliable weather app or website that provides you with an accurate hourly weather forecast for specific regions.

For instance, if you’re planning to go camping in or around Detroit, it’s important to check for Detroit hourly weather forecasts. Make sure you get an accurate breakdown of how the temperature, wind direction, humidity levels, and precipitation levels will vary throughout the day. 

Checking the hourly forecast will come in handy when you’re planning the itinerary for your camping trip. For instance, if you know the skies are going to be mostly cloudy during the day, you can plan outdoor activities, such as hiking or birdwatching, without exhausting your pooch.

3. Prioritize Packing

If you’ve gone camping before, you already know that packing your camping equipment is important for a stress-free outing. Packing becomes even more integral when you’re traveling with your furry friend.

Apart from the regular camping gear, you need to bring a plethora of objects to meet your dog’s needs. Start by packing their favorite toys, bed, and blanket. Having familiar things around will go a long way to make your beagle feel comfortable at the campsite.

Next, get a collar, ID tag, and leash for your dog. Even if the campground doesn’t have mandatory leash requirements, a leash will come in handy when you take your pooch out for a hike in the woods.

Additionally, you’ll need to pack loads of drinking water to keep your canine companion hydrated. It goes without saying that you need to bring plenty of food and treats for them as well.

4. Research Is Your Best Ally

Whether you intend to go camping in the neighborhood lakeside or a picturesque national park, you need to conduct extensive research. To begin with, make sure you’re familiar with the campground rules regarding pets.

Next, check the route to the campsite, and make proper arrangements for getting there. If you’re planning to travel by road, find out whether there are suitable rest stops on the way. Your beagle will need some time out of the car to stretch and play around.

Lastly, don’t forget to plan some fun and interesting activities with your pooch. The ultimate goal of the getaway is to have a great time with your furry friend and introduce them to new adventures.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a camping pro or simply an amateur, heading to a campground with your beagle in tow is going to be a unique experience. Plan your trip in advance, and make sure you pack all essentials. Don’t forget to check the weather forecast at the campsite as well.

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Why Is My Dog Tearing Up the Carpet

Your furbaby was potty trained once, but now he seems to be going on the carpets. You can smell it and see footprints coming from his favorite hiding spots, yet you cannot find a mess anywhere. It’s as if your puppy is trying to drive you crazy by tearing up your carpet! Well, here are 10 reasons why your pup might be doing this:

1. Curiosity

Puppies tend to get into things because of their curious nature. Your dog may have had an accident as a young pup and has been left with only the memory of what that smells like, leading him to think that your rug smells similar enough for him to go there again – even if it doesn’t really smell anything like what he had done there before. Besides, most puppies are curious about what they smell like after relieving themselves. They aren’t aware of the inconvenience they may be causing you by destroying your carpet with their urine or feces.

2. Protection

Since your dog won’t go outside to relieve himself when he needs to, he might be using his own den as a place to relieve himself – in this case, that would be your carpeted area of the room! Your pup isn’t being spiteful but just trying to protect you from his messes by going somewhere hidden and out of sight where it’s not as easy for you to find him at fault for his action(s). In many cases, dogs try their best to defend against punishment when they are wrong by denying or confusing their owner with an alternative explanation or even by not coming out of hiding to greet them.

3. Communication

Dogs communicate through doing certain things, like scratching at the door to let you know they want outside, licking your hand for affection, and barking to alert you when someone is there. A dog might also try communicating through his elimination habits by urinating or defecating on your carpet if this is something that had an effect on him before (i.e., he was scolded for it). To avoid confusion, find ways to effectively communicate with him so that he understands what’s right and what’s wrong.

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4. Boredom

Having nothing else better to do, your dog might simply be bored with being in the same room day after day. Take him for walks, play games with him, and have people over to keep his mind occupied so that he doesn’t resort to using your carpet as a way to pass the time.

5. Territoriality

Dogs are territorial by nature because they want to protect their den from other foreign invaders. He might feel threatened if someone comes into your home without you there or if another animal approaches his territory (yours). Your pup’s only way of defending himself is through marking his territory by relieving himself somewhere in the house where he feels it has added protection against possible threats. If someone isn’t allowed on your property, Fido will take it upon himself to take care of the problem by marking his territory inside your home with urine or feces. This is yet another way for Fido to claim protection over a given area as his own.

6. Separation Anxiety

If your dog gets anxious when you leave, he might urinate or defecate on your carpet because it makes him feel better about not being able to follow you where you go. In this case, even if you come back and scold him for peeing/pooping in the house, he will still feel that going into that room is a good substitute for going somewhere “safe” – with you gone. He won’t understand why he’s being punished because relieving himself there is better than relieving himself outdoors, where he fears there are more things that could go wrong.

7. Attention Seeking

Dogs are social creatures who crave attention, whether it’s positive or negative. They’ll do nasty things for this reason, like biting your favorite belongings until you pick them up to greet and love him, and peeing and pooping inside whenever you’re away because he knows this will get a reaction from you – even if it is to punish him. This doesn’t mean that Fido is bad or out to bother anyone; he just wants the company of an owner who understands his needs as a dog! To keep your pup from tearing up the carpet, learn how to properly interact with him so he can feel loved and secure.

8. Memory

Dogs have very short memories, so there’s a chance that if your dog peed or pooped on your carpet once and you punished him for it, he might not recall the event the next time he needs to relieve himself. If this is the case, then Fido will repeat whatever behavior ended in punishment – peeing/pooping – because that’s what worked last time. To discourage this from happening, stop your pup from going into whatever room he has gone in before by closing the door until it’s time for him to leave (greeting and love included). In addition to positive reinforcement when he does go outside, make sure to keep an eye out for any signs of distress from your pup so you can intervene and show him it’s not as bad as he thinks.

9. Medical Condition

If your pup has a medical condition such as urinary incontinence, he could be going into the house because he doesn’t have control over his bladder anymore. The same goes for bowel movements – if Fido suffers from diarrhea or constipation, then there might be issues that cause him to go inside even though he tries his best to hold it. This is an internal health issue that should be taken seriously by any dog owner who cares about their pet’s well-being. If Fido is having physical problems with urination/defecation, get him checked up at the vet’s office so they can get started on making sure he’s okay.

10. Curiosity

Dogs are naturally curious creatures, so if your newcomer has not been housebroken because they get used to the surroundings, he might get caught off guard when he smells other dogs’ urine or feces on your carpet and thinks it’s okay to relieve himself there too. To prevent this, make sure you clean up after your pup while housetraining him by taking the puppy outside every time they need to go, then praising/rewarding them for doing their business in the right place.

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Most Aggressive Dog Breeds in the World

So, if you are looking for a dog but want to ensure that it will not attack your children or innocent passers-by, these breeds of dogs would be the best choice.

Before we start with the list of the most aggressive dog breeds in the world today, let us first establish one thing: aggression is not always something negative and bad as many people think. As long as it is controlled and put in its right place, it can only benefit the owner and those around them.

It all comes down to how much experience do you have and whether you know what you are doing or not. However, it is a completely different story when we talk about negative control or, to be precise, total lack of it. A positive control is that even large-sized dogs can learn quickly and easily, enjoying the whole training process.

In this case, smaller-sized dogs have the advantage as they usually do not have so much power and authority to cause harm to their owners. That being said, let us proceed with our list of the most Aggressive Dog Breeds in The World:

1) Bull Mastiff

As its name says, this is one very muscular and big breed that is also considered one of the largest by many people. It is known for its courage and ferocity, but what scares more than those two traits is its unpredictability. In other words, many people find it hard to understand the Bull Mastiff’s state of mind, which can be either calm or angry. The good news is that if you are up for some extensive training and dog socialization, this breed might be just what you need, although there are no guarantees whatsoever which is why this particular breed takes first place on our list of 20 most aggressive breeds in the world. The tactical flashlight is essential to tactical applications. The tactical flash lookout can also be employed in “blinding” terrorist targets during tactical assaults on lightly protected targets.

2) The Doberman Pinscher

An incredibly loyal companion that seems to have a natural tendency towards obedience and following orders is one of the smartest dogs out there too. However, do not let its looks deceive you, as Dobermans are also fiercely independent, and they expect their owners to prove themselves worthy over time. This is the main reason why experts advise against having this breed as a first-time dog, especially if you do not have any prior experience in training dogs either. Tactical flashlights are becoming increasingly popular globally because of their tactical uses, including self-defense, camping, hunting, and many other things. This breed can use the tactical flashlights by “blinding” terrorist targets during tactical assaults on lightly protected targets.

3) The German Shepherd

Just like Dobermans above, this one is also known for its superior intelligence, which helps it learn things quickly and act accordingly afterward, too. However, it would help if you kept in mind that what makes them so popular with law enforcement agencies worldwide is exactly what can scare away potential owners who are not aware of how to handle such an obedient companion. As you probably know, they were bred for work, and they require an equal amount of physical and mental exercise daily; otherwise, they become restless, which can lead to all sorts of behavior problems later on.

4) The Rottweiler

They are known as the dog with no fear, making them perfect for tough jobs like police work, military purposes, and rescuing people. However, this particular trait can also become their downfall if they end up in the wrong hands that do not know how to handle or train them accordingly. A Rottweiler that does not receive enough exercise starts feeling frustrated, which often leads to negative changes in its behavior.

 

5) The Siberian Husky

Despite looking very similar to Alaskan Malamutes, these two breeds are completely different in personality and temperament. Huskies are often identified as an independent breed of dogs because they enjoy spending time alone with their thoughts rather than following their owners around everywhere. Although they are not aggressive by nature, it takes them a long time to warm up to strangers, which is why so many people incorrectly identify them as suspicious of everyone.

6) The Alaskan Malamute

These dogs did not get their name by accident, so if you like the Siberian Husky, then the chances are that Alaskan Malamutes might be more to your liking too. They tend to bond with one or two individuals in their pack, which means that you need to become one of those lucky ones if you want this dog’s loyalty and trust. Without it, they will ignore your existence, while without proper training and socialization, Alaskan Malamutes grow into aggressive adults who can potentially harm someone later on.

7) The Dogue de Bordeaux

A huge and very powerful dog that makes an excellent guard dog because of its size, temperament, and the fact that it is incredibly loyal towards its master. However, if you choose to buy a Dogue de Bordeaux, you need to be aware of the amount of time and effort you will have to invest into this breed to achieve proper results. Although their aggression can be trained away during early puppyhood, it does not necessarily mean they will stop being suspicious of strangers or wary around other dogs either. In most cases, when these dogs end up in shelters, their owners fail to train them properly, which results in unruly behavior so keep that in mind before making your final decision.

8) The American Bulldog

They often get a bad rap because of their strength and because they can be aggressive towards people they do not know or simply strangers in general. However, these dogs are known to be very affectionate towards those individuals they know, which is why it takes a lot for them to turn violent against someone unless somebody hurts their family members first, which triggers their protective instincts. If you want an American Bulldog as your pet, then make sure that you socialize it with other people from early puppyhood; otherwise, they will most likely end up being aggressive only towards those individuals who try to enter its personal space without permission.

9) The Dogo Argentino

Although they were bred as hunting and working dogs, their main purpose was to become excellent guard dogs, which is why these two traits got completely mixed up over time. This breed needs a lot of socialization and proper training to make one of the best family pets because when left unattended for too long, they can easily turn aggressive towards people they do not know. Although this will not necessarily lead to attacking them, it is still crucial that you spend enough time with your Dogo Argentino to predict its behavior.

10) The Bull Terrier

If you have never heard about this breed before, then the chances are that you have been living under a rock all your life. No, seriously. This particular breed has been featured in several movies and television shows which is why most people can recognize it on the spot when they see one of these dogs walking down the street. While not overly aggressive or anything like that, Bull Terriers do need a lot of socialization if you want them to turn out friendly towards strangers – otherwise, they will be suspicious around everyone who approaches them even if those individuals have good intentions.

11) The American Staffordshire Terrier

They do share a common ancestry with Pit Bull terriers, but there is more to this dog than just a violent temper because it requires a lot of training and socialization. Although some owners claim that their American Staffordshire Terriers are not aggressive, you need to understand that this is not the case because they will turn violent towards strangers if they do not get along with them. This does not mean that your dog will attack random people for no reason, but it does mean that you have to socialize it properly, or else it will end up having problems with other pets and people in the future.

12) The Neapolitan Mastiff

These dogs are huge, powerful, and arrive on the scene only when somebody decides to threaten their family members, so you can imagine why so many owners want them as their guard dogs. They are loyal, loving, and very gentle around those individuals who are allowed into their private space, which is why these dog breeds often make great family pets; however, they do require a lot of socialization and training before you can let them into your house for the first time.

13) The Saint Bernard

Most people know this particular dog breed because it is famous for its size, so most films tend to use it as one of the main protagonists; however, there is more to these dogs than just their huge stature. They are brave, loyal, and very friendly towards those individuals whom they know. Still, when it comes to strangers, things get pretty interesting – you need to be extra careful around Saint Bernards because these dogs can knock you out with one single swipe should you ever decide to approach them without their owner’s permission.

14) Wolfdog

This breed is the result of breeding a wild wolf with a domesticated dog (not recommended). Because these hybrids can be unpredictable (and illegal in some places), it’s best to stick with completely domesticated dogs rather than take your chances on one of these guys! They are very independent like wolves, but they retain most of the loyalty that dogs are known for; however, they also will not hesitate to attack if they feel threatened or provoked in any way.

15) The Chow Chow

Although these dog breeds cannot be labeled as aggressive on pure instinct alone, the chances of reacting aggressively if approached without permission are pretty high simply because of their protection. Most people love this trait, but some strongly dislike it because they want to approach any dog without worrying about whether their intentions are good or bad.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dog breed that is extra protective, go with one of these breeds. They are known to be very aggressive and territorial. Beware if you have small children or pets. Some people may want this type of temperament in their pup, but it’s best to do your research before adopting an animal, so you know what they need as well as how much work they require. Dogs can make great companions when cared for properly; however, the responsibility should not be taken lightly.

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10 Unique Gift Ideas To Give To Your Pet Dog

Dogs are our best friends. They are loyal and show us more love than any human being ever will. As we all know, they love to play and run around as much as they can. Why not make their time even better with cool toys and gifts that you can enjoy with them?

There are so many gift ideas out there! Whatever the occasion, you can be sure that the right present is out there for your dog. You can get anything from a cool hoodie to an awesome chewable squeaky toy. Let’s have a look at some cool ideas to help you out.

Cute Hoodies

When you think of hoodies, you don’t automatically think of getting one for your pet. Not only will they make your dog look cool, but they will also keep them comfortable and warm when they go on long walks. This is a great gift idea for both winter time and everyday use. 

There are various hoodies you can choose from to suit the occasion. Some sites even sell little suits and dresses in which you can dress your pet. You can choose from a range of designs to suit your pet and their personality.

Chew Toys

What dog doesn’t love a good bone to chew on? Apart from these, you can also get ropes, squeaky balls, and much more. 

Your pet will love this type of gift as they will easily spend hours playing with their toy. Many sites offer a variety of options for your dog. You can bring the chewable rope toys to the park with you to throw around. Your pet will enjoy running around after their favorite chewable toy. 

A Dog Cave

Comfort is not only for humans. Your furry friends enjoy a bit of comfort too, and with this dog cave, you can give them the softest place to sleep or relax in. The reason why it is called a cave is because it has a hood in which your dog can hide and get total calm. It has a soft inner lining for the perfect amount of heat for your pets comfort. 

Because it isn’t overly large, you can actually bring this cave with you when you travel. It will give your dog the feeling of being cozy at home when they are in fact away from home.

Snuggle Puppy Toy

This has got to be one of the best gift ideas out there. If you have a pet who is a bit on the naughty side in regard to how loud they can get, then this toy is perfect for them. The snuggle puppy toy helps calm dogs as it gives off the impression that they are in a pack and not alone. It has a heartbeat and a heat source to give off the impression that it is alive.

This toy can help you and your pet sleep better at night. You will notice that barking at odd hours of the night will minimize. It can also aid in reducing stress in situations like thunderstorms. 

Barkbox Treats and Toys

Another great gift idea for your pets. These boxes have a selection of all the essential toys or treats for your pet. Barkbox requires you to subscribe to their website, which means that every month you will get your specialized box for your dog without having to go shopping. 

The boxes have various chew toys and your furry friends favorite toys. They are tailored specifically to your pets size and likes. It will not disappoint. This way you can guarantee that your pet will have all their essentials on a monthly basis.

Grooming Shampoo

Most dogs love a good puddle or to roll around in dirt on their walks. To keep their coats shiny and clean you need to invest in some grooming shampoo. This is a great gift for your friend as they love to splash around in the bath. It is as beneficial for them as it is for you. You will have a clean house and dog, and your dog will have a nice pamper session.

Wellies

You can get matching wellies with your pets. If your pet actually behaves when going on a walk, then maybe you would like to gift them a pair of wellies so that their tiny little paws don’t get wet in bad weather.

They are also great if you want to avoid having paw marks all over your floor after a walk in bad weather. These wellies tend to be quite comfortable for your pet and will keep them happy on their stroll. 

Puzzle Games

There are great for exercising your dogs mind when they are bored or want to play. You can hide treats in the puzzle and your pet will try and get them. This game is especially great for puppies as they will reduce their destructive behavior when concentrating on finding the treats.

A Bandana

Dog bandana’s are quite stylish. You can get whatever you want printed on them for your pet. It is great way for your furry friend to fit into any party you are going to. They will feel like they are part of the team and did I mention they are stylish? Your pet will love them as much as you will.

Tasty Macaroons

Image source: Amazon

Why not go for a unique snack for your pets in the shape of macaroons? No preservatives or artificial colors. This snack is healthy and nutritious, as well as tasty. This is by far one of the best gift ideas you can give your pet as they love to munch and snack as much as you do.

There are so many choices out there, but the above are the best to go with. They cover everything from food, to grooming, to clothing, to games. 

You can choose from a variety and pick the best option for your pets. Make your pet happy and get them something over which you can bond together, like the puzzle games, which will also challenge and train them. No matter what you choose, they will love you either way.

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Pro Tips You Would Want to Consider on How to Train Your Dog to Attack on Command

Often, we humans don’t know our capabilities until an experienced person helps us figure them out, and the same applies to dogs. It takes hours of training for a military trainer to produce fine troops that obey commands, listen to instructions, and understand signals. 

Likewise, your dog can become a fine soldier; all it requires is adequate training. Many dog owners expect their dogs to know what to do in certain situations, which is wrong.  For instance, a burglar came into your home, and your dog watched him escape; I bet you’d be sad and pissed at the dog for not attacking the burglar.

However, you can’t give what you don’t have. And that’s the more reason to consider training your dog to attack at your command.  We’ve listed the following tips on how to train your dog to attack on command for new dog owners. Let’s delve in!

1. Get Educated

Before you think of training your puppy to become the ultimate guard, you need to know the differences between an attack dog and a guard dog. A guard dog will signal its owner at the presence of a stranger by barking or howling. On the other hand, an attack dog will deliver an aggressive response to a potential threat.

For this article, our focus is on the attack dog. So, if you’re looking to train your dog to become the beastly guard you’ve always dreamed of, you’re on the right track. 

2. Select the Right Dog Breed

Choosing the right dog breed is necessary for achieving your goal. Certain dog breeds have natural features that qualify them as good attack dogs. If you’re looking to get or adopt one, here’s a list of dog breeds that make excellent attack dogs when trained:

• Cane Corso 
• Bullmastiff
• Komondor
• Belgian Malinois 
• Doberman Pinscher 
• German Shepherd
• Boxer

Adopting a dog with the behavioral traits of a guard dog smoothens the training process. And that’s why most attack dog breeds are military attack dog breeds.

3. Know Your Dog

Dogs are the most friendly and loyal animals there are. Hence, the bonding process is easy. And you can order some dog clothes online to make your dog more appealing and lovable to you.

A good attack dog is protective of his owner, and at the same time, loyal to his owner’s commands.  Having a healthy relationship with your dog will make your dog trust you and with trust comes loyalty. 

4. Start with Basic Commands

Knowing how to train your dog to attack on command requires patience. Rome, they say, wasn’t built in a day. So, your dog doesn’t become what you expect after a few hours of training. 

It’s advisable to take your dog to an open area for training sessions. And begin with simple commands like sit, walk, jump, run, bark, come, and so on. On successful completion, teach the dog to attack. You’d want to take this stage seriously as it’d teach your dog to learn to take orders from you. 

Take your time while training your dog and ensure they give a swift response to basic commands – you wouldn’t regret doing so. 

5. Get a Gloved Arm and Proceed With Training

After confirming that your dog responds to basic commands, you can proceed to teach the attack command. However, for safety, you should wear a protective glove to cover your arm – it’ll be the testing ground for your dog’s bite. 

With the protective glove on, instruct your dog to sit – now you know why you must begin your dog’s training with basic commands. Tap your dog in the face with the gloved arm until it attacks the arm.

Yell the word “Attack” immediately the dog bites the arm. That way, you’re giving meaning to “attack” in your dog’s mind. Repeat the action a few more times until you’re satisfied with your dog’s response.

6. Praise Your Dog

Appreciate your dog for a job well done – either verbally or through your reactions. It’ll motivate your dog to do better subsequently. It may not be necessary to reward your dog with treats. However, if you realize that your furry friend is often motivated by food, a treat would be a nice reward after a good job. 

7. Consistent Practice of Previous Lessons

Repeat steps 4, 5, and 6 until your dog fully understands what to do when commanded to attack. 

8. Test Your Dog

From a short distance away from your dog, command your dog to attack and observe the response. If he doesn’t respond, don’t feel bad. Instead, take your time with the dog through steps 4, 5, and 6.

In the case where the dog responds, it shows progress and familiarity with the “attack” command.  After acing this test, you’d want to take a break to appreciate your dog.  Repeat this step a few more times to ensure that your dog has mastered the “attack” command action. 

9. Practice the “Attack” Command With a Human Figure

As your dog trainer, you wouldn’t want to skip this step – unless you’re comfortable with your dog attacking your arm when you give the “attack” command. Place a human-sized figure at a distance. While pointing towards the figure, give the “attack” command. 

Your dog may run towards you the first few times but will later go in the direction your finger dictates.  Place the figure at different positions and repeat the process until you’re sure your dog understands the command with direction.

10. Practice the “Attack” Command With a Human Acting as an Intruder

Repeat step 9, but this time, get a strange face. The stranger should stay by the door to shut the door before the dog attacks. Point towards the stranger and command your dog to attack. If it runs towards the stranger, it understands the instruction.

With the same settings, teach your dog the “stop” command. Point to the stranger and command your dog to attack. Mid-way shout ”stop” and observe the response. You’d want to repeat the process until you’re sure that your dog will abort its mission when instructed to stop. 

Final Note 

Patience is one factor that will help you while training your dog to attack when instructed. It might take a while for your dog to catch up, but with constant practice, you’ll get there. And I believe these few steps will help you on how to train your dog to attack on command. For more information on dog training and general pet care, add ThePetTown.com to bookmark.

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Your Pets Can Help You Cope with Stress During College

The fact that our pets, whether they are dogs, cats or even spiders, have a positive impact on us is not a secret these days. Studies show, that people who have a pet living with them tend to be more cheerful and calm throughout their daily routines. Dogs have already become an obligatory part of therapy targeting people with physical or mental disabilities, like dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Cats can often be met at mental hospitals, as long as small rodents like hamsters and rabbits do. And the reason for that is not only the fact that they are little and cute (which is nevertheless important), but because they have proved themselves to be major helpers for people dealing with stress.

And college students do, in fact, live in constant stress. Not only their education is the stress factor here, they also suffer from totally changing their social role. And, if their academic stress can be a little avoided by, for example, ordering assignments like short essays and, therefore, lessen the pressure they have on them. However, the situation with social stress is different, and here you have to get a little creative. Here is the point where getting a pet can be useful, even in a therapeutic sense. And here are the reasons why.

You do not feel alone

No matter what animal you have, a cat, a dog or whichever one you prefer more, it automatically becomes your companion. Just imagine coming home after a hard and emotional day, and there is some little one waiting for you. They can always listen to your problems and give you all the love they can in order to support you without even realizing that. Domestic animals have developed themselves throughout time to the point, where they basically understand human emotions and even language. You can basically notice how a devoted pet looks deep into your eyes, when you are talking to it — looks like it is trying to catch every single sound and tone change to do exactly what you want it to.

Other than that, owning a pet is especially beneficial for students who have difficulties with making friends (we all have been there at some point).

A topic for a small talk

Basically, it is what it sounds like. Whenever you are in public with your pet, or you have some new people coming to your house, be ready for the attention they will draw to your pet. Thus, they will have a lot to ask about it, and you will have a lot to tell them. It will obviously make the ice-breaking step of the conversation with someone you have never met before much easier for both sides.

Activity motivation

Whether you want to admit it or not, a pet requires taking care of it. If you decided to have a dog as a pet, be ready to become a very active kind of person. Making this decision requires getting up early in the morning to go for a walk or a run with your pet, and also repeating the same process later in the evening (of course if you have not chosen a hunter dog — then you will have to add one more walk in the afternoon).

Another thing which is common for all kinds of pets is keeping them clean. You will implement a lot more movement to your life compared with people with no pets, as even cleaning a cage your hamster lives in requires time and movement. And cleaning your pet itself is also a whole deal. But, movement means the release of endorphins, which make you happier and a lot less stressed. Isn’t it the point?

Mental support

Students’ mental health may benefit from interactions with animals. Numerous studies have found that college students suffer from a variety of mental health issues including stress, isolation, anxiety, and depression. People’s levels of the hormone oxytocin, which decreases anxiety and lowers blood pressure, triples when they have pets, according to research.

Also, for people suffering from anxiety (which has become a popular issue nowadays, unfortunately), getting a pet is literally a blessing. People who are apprehensive about stepping out into the world may find comfort and relief in the company of a pet. Pets, by virtue of their tendency to live in the present, may teach you to be more present-oriented and enjoy the delight of the moment.

Diverse routines

At this point it should have become quite clear that having a pet is not only a pleasure, but also a great responsibility, and you have to adapt your daily routine to having one. It is something like even having a child — they need to be fed, walked, cleaned regularly. This brings a lot of difference to the routines you have. Whether you are sad, nervous, or upset, one glance from your pet will force you out of bed to feed, exercise, and take care of them. In other words, you have no time to be depressed, as you have a responsibility over another living creature, that fully depends on you.

The magic of a touch

Much scientific research have proven the fact that even petting furry animals has a therapeutic effect on a person. Stress may be rapidly managed by using techniques like touch. A bright example of such a method in therapy is Puppy Rooms, which has gained a lot of popularity in recent years. Although, even they are a subject of controversy, as some people consider them to be just an excuse students can use to avoid their classes.

However, studies prove, that even just a few minutes a day spent with a dog is beneficial to one’s mental and physical wellbeing. Pets have been found in studies to help with sadness, anxiety, and the stress hormone cortisol, as well as providing some genuine advantages for students. Playing with a puppy is the best way to relax before a major exam, in my opinion.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Barely anyone will argue the fact that universities are a major source of stress and pressure.  For a brief respite from studying during finals season, several universities allow therapy dogs into libraries and dorms.

There are several reasons why college students may desire a pet. They’re depressed, lonely, or they miss the creatures in their lives. Or, perhaps, they’ve never had pets but have always desired them. However, before taking the plunge into pet ownership, students should consider if now is the ideal moment to add a furry member to their family.

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How to Tell If Your Dog is Cold?

We all love our pet dogs at home. Many people will do a lot for them if they get sick, going as far as to go to the vet in traffic to treat them. But did you know that dogs can feel cold and have to deal with some sickness attributed to it?

Here are the many signs to know if your dog is feeling cold and needs consoling.

Look at the weather outside.

Sometimes, the easiest sign to know if your dog is feeling under the weather is if the actual temperature outside is freezing. If you feel the chilly wind out, then most probably your dog is too.

But we know what you’re thinking: but dogs have fur. Wrong! Dogs have fur that is attached to their skins. If you have a jacket on and go outside, do you feel very warm? You probably still feel the cold even with a thick coat on.

Dogs can feel the cold just like we do, and if it’s enough to handle the chilly air with clothes on, then your dog can feel the same but without it.

Check if your dog is shivering.

There’s nothing sadder than a dog shivering in the corner somewhere. Just like us, dogs shiver at the touch of cold air, especially after a bath. So, it’s probably a bad idea to bathe your dog in the water. Wait it out until spring instead.

If you’re not certain your dog is shivering, touch the ears and feel a cold sensation to them. When you can feel a cold touch around the edges and skin area of the ears, your dog feels cold but won’t show it.

It’s best to wrap a blanket or get it near a fireplace to warm those cute cheeks of theirs.

Check if your dog is feeling lethargic.

Observe your dog from time to time if it feels sleepy or idle most of the time. If your dog is moving slower than usual, then it might be due to the cold weather. During the cold, some animals tend to move slower, especially those that aren’t accustomed to the cold.

Your dog needs to walk from time to time, and this is when you should look into its movements because the outside is usually where the cold hits the harshest. Always bring something warm like kuoser dog jackets to keep it warm.

Check if your dog sleeps in a curled up position.

This is a bit of a stretch since most dogs sleep comfortably when in a ball position. But sometimes, this means that your dog can feel cold during the night, and you might not know that the poor thing is feeling distressed over the chilly air.

Always pat your dog when sleeping to check if the fur is cold or not. Some dogs are always warm to the touch, and the one thing that would tell you instantly if your dog is cold or not is the nose. And speaking of noses…

Check your dog’s nose.

Dogs that have wet noses are usually sick with colds. Just like humans do when having colds, a runny nose is a common symptom.

Of course, this isn’t always the case since your dog could have come back from drinking water, which subsequently makes the nose wet. So, try to assess whether or not your dog has colds. You should take it to the vet for some treatment if it has chills.

Be vigilant if your dog is whining a lot.

No, this isn’t the whining we are all familiar with, but the whining dogs make if they are in pain. Like children, dogs can’t express what they feel and end up making noises and cries that show that they are in pain.

You should also be on the lookout if your dog is whining because sometimes, this can mean many things like an intruder are nearby or a wild animal entered the house. But normally, they complain because they are feeling distressed about something, which could be the cold.

COMMON SYMPTOMS WHEN YOUR DOG IS COLD

Knowing the signs is the first step; the next one is learning the symptoms of some diseases caused by the cold weather. They include:

• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Watery and reddish eyes
• Runny nose
• Feeling lethargic
• Fever

These are the common symptoms of canine flu which are simply colds for dogs. If you have many dogs at home, then you should separate them from each other in the meantime until your dog gets better.

Canine colds come from a cold virus, similar to how the common human colds transmit from one person to another.

Treatment for colds

Luckily for you and your dog, treating a canine cold is very simple and requires no vet visits at all unless the condition is more severe. In any case, your dog should feel better under the following circumstances:

• Make sure to warm your dog by a fireplace or a warm room.
• Let your dog drink a lot of fluids. Water and other forms of liquid are better for its health because they can dispose of it by urinating.
• Buy a humidifier to sanitize the rooms with mucus and the canine cold virus.
• Have your dog wear a jacket or a thick collar padding to keep it warm during the night.
• If the case extends for more than two weeks, it’s time to see a vet for a checkup.

Love your dog!

There’s a very good reason why dogs are known to be man’s best friend, and they have proven that time and time again for being good boys and girls. If they are sick, please treat them well.

Just like you, sickness is not exclusive to one species of this planet. Your dog deserves better, and sometimes, even more. To prevent your dog from shivering, let it wear a jacket that makes it look even cuter than they already are.

The cold may be among us, but our dogs will forever warm our homes with love and compassion.

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Are You Ready For A Puppy? This Guide Can Help You Find Out

Who can avoid the temptation of a puppy? No one! Puppies are cute, sweet, and they remind many people of babies, which is why they are highly popular among animal owners. Are you ready for a puppy, though? If you wish to bring a puppy to your home, there are certain steps you need to follow before you consider yourself ready.

Read a Lot

Not all puppies are the same; therefore, you have to read and research a lot before you adopt one. Start your research online and note down what you find interesting or important. Read articles about the different dog breeds you can adopt, the characteristics of each breed, what they look like, and how to take care of them. Different breeds eat, grow, and even behave differently, so take notes of as much information as you can before deciding on a breed.

Ask Experts

Most of us have friends who enjoy animal companionship, and that’s why they are always ready and adopt multiple animals. If you have one of these friends, write down a list of questions you are not sure about and ask them for feedback about it. You can also ask them for recommendations for the best vets in your area, how much they charge, and when you should take your puppy to them.

Get A Check-up

Your check-up might sound totally unrelated to adopting a puppy, however, your health is very important to determine your abilities. Caring for another living being requires time and effort and if you are looking to adopt a pet in Florida, it’s advisable to seek assistance from credible establishments to ensure you and your pet will receive that much-needed attention. You should know your health concerns because according to professionals in Your Puppy FL in Tampa, many people adopt animals without knowing they are allergic to them. Unfortunately, because people tend to jump into the act of adopting without taking these into consideration, they end up returning the poor animals or giving them up to a different owner. Therefore, unless you have played with a puppy before, ensure you check yourself for allergies before moving forward with your decision to adopt a dog.

Ensure You Have Time

Puppies require a lot of care which means you have to spend a lot of time with them. Ensure you take them for a walk, feed them, bathe them, etc. It is almost like taking care of a newborn; your life will have to revolve around them until they grow up. Therefore, you can’t be too busy. If your work hours are inconsistent and you don’t have anyone who can share the responsibilities of adopting a puppy with you, rethink your decision.

Check If You Have Space

While many cats like staying in corners hovering over a cat tower, puppies are generally hyperactive, and they require a lot of space to move around. To adopt one, you have to check in advance if you have space to build a dog house for them and give them the freedom they need. Move some of your furniture around if you have to. This way, your furry friend will enjoy its stay with you.

Finally

Don’t forget to give your puppy a chance to feel safe in your home before bombarding them with visitors and social interactions. Puppies are unlike adult dogs, they are easily affected by bacteria and viruses, so keep them safe and distanced until you are sure they are healthy enough to interact with other animals.