Man’s best friend remains loyal to his people 365 days a year, and it would be a shame to forget Fido on the holidays. About 80 percent of dog owners say they buy gifts for their dogs. The number-one gift-giving holiday is Christmas (of course!), but it’s not easy to find a special present that will put your dog in the holiday spirit, along with the rest of us. Check out these unique, can’t-miss gift suggestions. But don’t forget that while gifts may be fun, nothing is better than lots of tender love and care. Your dog’s favorite toy is YOU.

Miles Kimball Claudia’s Canine Cuisine – Santa Paws Classic Gourmet Dog Cookies

Santa Paws treats from Claudia’s Canine Bakery are wonderful Christmas dog treats that will make any dog happy. All of the goodies from Claudia’s Canine Bakery are made with love in Maumelle, Arkansas, in the heart of America. Treat your dog this Christmas to high-quality cookies that are made with human-grade ingredients. They’re so good you might be tempted to try one yourself. Every package of Santa Paws Christmas dog treats includes approximately 50 cookies in various shapes and colors.

Ultimate Pawprint Keepsake Kit 

Why not make your very own personalized Christmas ornaments? These kits contain everything you need to make either one large or two smaller keepsake ornaments. Roll out the safe, non-toxic clay, and press your pet’s paw impression into it. The enclosed stencil kit allows you to customize your keepsake with a date or name. Made out of lightweight material, these keepsakes are ideal for hanging on your Christmas tree.

Furbo Dog Camera

Furbo is an interactive camera that lets you see, talk, and give your dog treats while you are out of the house. With the app, you can receive real-time alerts on your phone; handy if your dog gets into mischief or if your dog’s barking annoys the neighbors. Furbo will also alert you when your dog is nearby for Furbo to take a selfie. These cameras are great safety devices, too, with alerts for home emergencies or when a person enters the room. Furbo is compatible with Alexa.

Pendleton Carolina Westerly Dog Sweater

Your preppy puppy should be the most stylish (and warm) dog in the park. Forget corny plaid sweaters-let Pendleton outfit him. This Pendleton dog sweater is an adorable cover-up that features the classic Westerly design—made of super-warm material. It is available in extra-small through to extra-large. 

Pet Umbrella

Protect your dog from the elements this holiday season. Although some dogs love trekking through the snow, many dread going outside in a snowstorm to do their business. A pet umbrella is an umbrella on a leash that attaches to your pet’s collar (it does not rest on his neck or head), enabling you to shield him from the rain, sleet, and snow with minimal effort. 

Dog Bath Towels

Most pet owners pull out the old ripped, stained towels when it’s time to bathe their dog. You know you do it too. Why not treat your pooch to his very own set of soft, luxurious towels? 

For more gift ideas for your favorite dog, check out our Safe Holiday Gift Guide.

Article written by Author: The Dog Daily Expert

In 1973, Kay Laurence got her first dog, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and a life-changing piece of advice from her father. “You’d better take a training class,” he said. Thirty-five years later, Laurence is the head of the class. Based in the UK, she runs Learning About Dogs, a business that organizes conferences and offers classes all on dog training. In her latest book, Learning Games, Laurence advocates teaching dogs through play. Below, she explains both how and why.

The Nature of Dogs

“Playtime is nature’s classroom,” says Laurence. “Puppies will wrestle, stalk, rip toys, carry and explore. All of these behaviors are rehearsals for real life. Play is where life skills are learned.” For example, puppies of Border Collies descended from gathering breeds will stalk each other during play to prepare for their adult role of herding sheep. Gordon Setters, traditional bird-hunting dogs, will practice for adult life by neck-snapping small stuffed toys. In nature, many of these games are guided by a trainer — the pup’s parent.

Explains Laurence: “Pack members do not teach their youngsters with leashes and praise. They play games with young learners. They set rules and decide when to let their pups succeed.” Though humans have designed their methods of training young dogs that do not involve play, Laurence believes these techniques are not the most effective. “Traditional dog training relies on our opinion of how a dog should perform. For example, a ‘dog sits when you press its hips down.’ Unfortunately, this fails with many dogs since their reaction to pressure is often to push back.”

What Play Can Teach Dogs

“Play training seeks to induce natural responses in the dog,” says Laurence. Those natural responses can then be elicited from the dog on command when obedience is crucial to safety or well-being. For example, Laurence uses play to teach her pupils how to sit still, essential for excitable dogs that tend to jump on visitors to your home. “Through play, we can stimulate a dog to maintain absolute stillness in anticipation.”

In a game, she calls, “Where’s the Mouse?” Laurence uses the canine tendency to focus intently on small prey. “When a dog spies a mouse or rabbit disappearing down a hole, it will maintain a focus on that hole for many hours. It will be able to stay perfectly still for a long period,” she says. For this game, then, Laurence puts a counterfeit “mouse” — in this case, a piece of cheese or sausage — in her hand and waits until the dog fixates on it. At this point, Laurence puts the “mouse” in her pocket, leaving the dog frozen, still in excited anticipation of its feast. Laurence eventually feeds the treat to the dog, reinforcing the pup’s behavior.

Other “life skills” imparted by Laurence, her trainers, and students of her methods include focus, balance, coordination, self-awareness, and puzzle-solving.

Try This Game at Home with Your Dog

For safety’s sake, your dog should be able to run from one location to another based on your direction. If Fido is in the street staring down an approaching car, you need to be able to convince him to run to the curb and fast. To train your pet to move on command, Laurence suggests teaching “The Sausage Bowling Game,” appropriate for dogs 20 weeks and older. Here’s how to play:

• Begin on a non-slippery surface, showing your pup a treat in your hand.
• Make sure it watches your hand as you slowly bend and make an underhand arc as if you were bowling in slow motion.
• Release the treat once your arm reaches the end of the arc, just as you would a bowling ball. Allow the pup to chase and then eat the treat.

• Repeat, “bowling” the treat to a different location each time. Once the dog has mastered following the arc of your arm to your area of choice, make the game harder by turning suddenly just before you release.
• With regular “training,” your dog will follow your command whether or not you’re throwing a reward.

“This uses all the elements of nature’s purpose of play,” says Laurence. “The older pack member, you, has alerted the pup to a chase situation, and the pup is instinctively drawn to join you. Every time they get to employ a natural, instinctive behavior, they enjoy it more and more. What a fabulous way to teach safety!”

Article written by Author: Darcy Lockman

With the winter holidays now upon us, many dog owners consider buying new toys for their pets. According to the American Pet Products Association’s (APPA) National Pet Owners Survey, 53 percent of dogs and 38 percent of cats receive gifts at Christmas. Dogs are more likely to get gifts during the holidays than at any other time of the year; many of these gifts are toys.

For safety reasons, the Humane Society of the United States advises that you avoid toys with the following:

• String
• Ribbon
• Rubber bands
• Eyes or any other parts that might come out and be ingested
• Small balls and other small objects that could be swallowed
• Rawhide (unless you check with your veterinarian to determine which rawhide toys may be safe for your dog)

The Humane Society also reminds us that some rawhide products may be made from byproducts of the “cruel international fur trade.” As an alternative, tough rubber toys may be safer and last longer.

The APPA shares that the following are some popular presents — both toys and other useful objects — appropriate for gift-giving:

Booties by Ultra Paws 

Booties are lightweight and prevent snow from balling up on paws. A single Velcro strap ensures a comfortable closure, and the Booties feature foam comfort pads to stay snug on paws. 

Bags on Board Waste Pick-up Dispensers 

Bags on Board Dispensers easily attach to leashes and include 30 disposable bags for on-the-go convenience. 

Loofa Santa Dogs by MultiPet 

Loofa Santa Dogs are elongated plush toys, complete with Santa hats, and are available in different colors and sizes. They also feature squeaky sounds that pets love.

The Loft Jacket by Kurgo 

The Loft Jacket features a waterproof top layer for protection from rain, wind, and snow, fully reversible and reflective. Team it up with the Kurgo Fleece Sweater for extra warmth this winter.

The Reflective Safety System by Petflect 

This safety set includes a leash, vest, and collar. It ensures that dogs are safely visible from more than 500 feet away during outdoor activities or winter walks when the days grow shorter.

The Bitter Cherry Spray by OUT! International 

OUT! is a safe, alcohol-free taste deterrent that discourages pets from chewing, nibbling, and licking certain spots and materials (like the gifts under the tree). Plus, the clear, non-staining formula has a pleasant scent.

The Good, Bad, Hol-ee, and Bad Cuz Toys by JW Pet 

These toys are sure to be a hit. Awarded the Best New Dog Product title at the 2011 Global Pet Expo, the Hol-ee Cuz and the all-new Bad Cuz toys feature all-natural rubber for nibbling and soft plush that any dog will love.

For more gift ideas for your favorite dog, check out our Holiday Gift Guide.

Article written by Author: The Dog Daily Expert

The best workout partners never complain, bring unfailing energy to your exercise sessions and stick by your side rather than racing ahead or trailing behind. If it sounds like it would be tough to find someone to fit that description, it’s time to consider a four-legged workout partner.

“For the most part, any dog can be a runner,” says Lindsay Stordahl, a professional dog runner, and walker who operates Run That Mutt in the Fargo-Moorhead area of North Dakota. Stordahl has covered more than 4,200 miles with clients’ dogs. “People get too caught up over whether or not their dog can run. If you are not sure, then simply try.”

It’s also possible you might find another exercise activity to enjoy with your dog, such as swimming, which is low-impact for joints, says Dr. Amber Andersen. Dr. Andersen is a veterinarian at Point Vicente Animal Hospital in Rancho Palos Verdes, Calif. A dog-focused activity such as agility training can also provide workout benefits for both you and your dog.

Before You Begin a Workout Program with Your Dog

Of course, it’s not merely a matter of grabbing a leash and heading out the door. Before you begin working out with your dog, experts say you should consider these factors:

• Your health and the health of your dog  

It’s a good idea to check with your veterinarian and your physician before you begin a workout program.

• Your dog’s breed

Stordahl runs with all manner of breeds. However, short-faced (i.e., brachycephalic) dogs, such as English Bulldogs and Pugs, can overheat quickly. “They have an already compromised respiratory system,” says Andersen. “Monitor them closely.” An English Bulldog will likely be happier walking because of its heavyset body.

• Your dog’s age

“Many veterinarians will stress that a large-breed dog should not run until it’s about 18 months old because the dog’s bone structure will not be fully developed until that time,” says Stordahl. Check with your veterinarian to determine when a young dog is ready to jog, then keep to a modest pace and distance. Older dogs, like older humans, can suffer from arthritis or other health conditions.

• Weather conditions

Extreme temperatures and weather conditions can impact your dog’s ability to work out. Be particularly conscious of your dog’s water needs in warmer weather.

Working out With Your Dog

“Gradually increase the intensity and duration of exercise over a few weeks,” says Andersen. “Be consistent and committed so both you and your dog can build stamina.” Exercising with your dog will work better if you do the following:

• Let your dog be a dog

“Usually, our dogs are allowed to stop and sniff on daily walks, so they will want to do this during more intense jogs or runs,” says Andersen. “Before you start running, let your dog have ample time to relieve itself as well as sniff around. During the cool down after your run, let your dog do this again.”

• Use a harness and ditch the retractable leash

A harness allows for greater control, and you’ll want to keep your dog on a short leash.

• Do regular paw-checks

“If your dog is new to running, you should stop and check its feet at least every five minutes until you know how much it can handle,” says Stordahl. “If the paws look pink or tender, then slow to a walk and head home.” Bleeding paws mean a few days’ rest, though they should heal on their own. Your dog’s feet will naturally toughen.

• Know when to stop

If you see a wagging tail and your dog is alert and responsive, it most likely is enjoying the activity. It’s time to stop when you see any respiratory distress or lameness or when your dog starts dragging behind or slowing down.

Be creative and patient as you find a workout routine you both enjoy. “Exercising is vital to both human and canine health,” says Andersen. “Finding a way to incorporate your dog’s fitness routine with your own will make you both happy and can be a huge time-saver.”

Article written by Author: Kim Boatman

A yard, your family and friends, plus at least one dog equal a recipe for ultimate summer fun. Alison Smith, the author of the book 101 Fun Things to Do With Your Dog, has a whole section on games that you and your family can play with your dog. Here are two enjoyable ones for a summer afternoon:

Doggy Baseball

You need at least three human players, a Wiffle-type ball, and your dog for this game. You also need to set up bases, which can be easily done with any colorful objects, such as upside-down buckets. One person is a batter, while another pitches. Everyone else — including your dog — is a fielder. “The aim of the game is for the batter to hit the ball as far as he can and try to get ’round all of the bases without being out,” explains Smith.

Your additional job is to encourage your dog to go after the ball and bring it back to you. Most dogs instinctively do this, but you might have to work a bit to get your dog to return the ball to you. Yelling “Fetch” and bringing along treats can help.

Tag for Dogs

Just like the human game of tag, someone has to be “it,” giving other players — including your dog — a 10- to 15-second head start to run away before “it” can begin to chase others in a defined area. The first player tagged then becomes “it.” “Part of the fun 

is darting around and avoiding the dreaded ‘tag’: the point at which the person chasing touches another person or dog, making them ‘it’ in turn,” says Smith. Time the game in one-minute sessions, stopping play by yelling or blowing a whistle. The “it” individual at that point “must sit out until a new game starts,” she instructs. “The aim is to have one winner at the end of all the games.”

Be sure to have plenty of cool water for all players. For dog tag, Smith also says having more than one dog can up the fun. The dogs may never completely figure out what’s going on, but everyone will have a good time anyway.

Article written by Author: The Dog Daily Expert

It’s hard enough to keep up with your to-do list, but do you ever stop to think about your dog’s daily schedule? If your best friend doesn’t receive plenty of mental and physical stimulation, your dog’s to-do list could be a real yawner. That’s because, just like people, your dog can get stuck in a dull rut. It might seem like bliss to have nothing to do all day long, but it soon grows old for both humans and their furry pals.

It won’t wreak havoc with your schedule to improve your canine chum’s daily routine. Check out our schedule makeovers that could put the spark back into your dog’s everyday life. Here’s a look at the common signs of a bored dog — and the fixes:

Is My Dog Bored?

Doggie boredom and loneliness surfaces in several behaviors. You might recognize your pal in one of these types:

• The couch potato 

“Some dogs have a natural tendency to rest and sleep,” says Daphne Robert-Hamilton, a certified pet dog trainer in Morgan Hill, Calif. But if your dog’s routine involves little more than a good morning snooze on its bed or the sofa followed by a midday snack, then an afternoon nap and a sleepy, yawn-filled greeting when you arrive home, it’s probably time for a makeover.

• The piner 

This dog spends its morning pining for your return, then waits longingly by the door all afternoon.

• The digger 

Left to its own devices, the digger happily starts its day excavating your favorite rosebush, then spends the afternoon tunneling under the back fence.

• The chewer 

That sock you dropped while carrying clothes from the dryer? It’s fair game for the chewer, which could spend much of its day gnawing on everything it shouldn’t.

“It’s not that we need always to supply our dogs with activities all the time,” says Robert-Hamilton. “A lot of it has to do with managing their environment, giving them plenty of physical exercise and mental stimulation.”

How Can I Provide More Stimulation for My Dog?

Suppose you’re ready to makeover your dog’s daily routine. In that case, it helps to think like a dog, advises Laurie Luck, owner of the Maryland-based Smart Dog University and president of the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. Luck continually looks at everyday objects as potential entertainment and mental stimulation for her dogs. “Ask yourself, ‘How can my dog have fun with this?'” says Luck. Of course, she says, you’ll want to make sure that the objects you use are safe and that your dog won’t be able to create more of a mess than you can handle with good humor.

Acknowledging your dog’s fundamental nature helps, as well, when trying these makeovers:

• Off the couch 

If your dog is a couch pup, you needn’t try to put it through Olympian feats each day. Simply add an enjoyable walk in the morning or evening, varying your route, says Luck. Try playing games with modest obstacles, having your dog jump over a downed tree branch if it’s able to, for example. “Add a walk guided by your dog,” advises Luck. “Go wherever he wants to sniff. I think they get a real kick out of that. It’s encouraging enough for couch potatoes.”

• Lonesome no more 

You may be able to satisfy a couch potato with an intriguing evening walk, but how do you help a piner? Dogs with severe separation anxiety may need professional behavioral work, says Robert-Hamilton. If your dog is simply a bit lonely, think about having a friend, neighbor, or dog walker come and take it for a stroll during your time away. Doggie daycare might be an alternative. If possible, adopting another dog could also help ease your pet’s loneliness, along with your own.

•  Entertained 

For piners, diggers, and chewers looking for something to do during the day, both Luck and Robert-Hamilton suggest investing in a KongTime device. It releases Kongs — little red toys — stuffed with food or treats. With a timer, you control when the Kongs are dispensed. “Some dogs eat all their meals out of the bowl,” says Luck, who finds the KongTime a simple way to vary your dog’s routine. “With the stuffed Kongs, dogs have to work for their food. It gives your dog something to do in those eight hours when you’re gone, and it’s better than just 30 seconds of your dog inhaling its food.” Other suggestions include the Nina Ottosson Interactive Puzzles, which can also be stuffed with a treat, and the Gazillion Fetch a Bubble machine, which — believe it or not — blows bacon-scented bubbles.

Other enrichment ideas include hiding a treat in an empty tissue box or placing a stuffed Kong inside a paper lunch sack, then twisting it closed. These provide your dog with a puzzle to investigate and solve during the day. If you roll up balls of a newspaper but only place a treat inside one ball, your dog will have to work to find the food reward. One word of caution: These ideas work best in a single dog household. You don’t want your pups competing for treats.

Once you’re home, take the time to play similar games, say the experts. Have your dog guess which disposable cup hides a treat, or create a tunnel with blankets draped over kitchen chairs and encourage your dog to walk through it by offering a treat at one end. If your dog is a digger, block off a corner of your yard as a legal digging area, suggests Robert-Hamilton. Find an Earthdog event designed for multiple breeds, such as Dachshunds, initially bred as underground hunters. During such events, your dog can dig and wander through tunnels, Robert-Hamilton says. The American Kennel Club and other organizations post information online about upcoming Earthdog events.

Luck says, “If you can just change up your dog’s routine occasionally, it works.”

Article written by Author: Kim Boatman