However, there are breeds in various sizes to choose from, depending on what you’re looking for. Here’s a list of dog breeds that resemble stuffed animals.

Akita

The Akita is known as “the silent hunter” in its native Japan. These heavy-bound dogs stand between 24-28 inches at the shoulder. They come with a cuddly thick coat originally designed for Japan’s harsh winters.

It’s the largest of the Japanese spitz breed and comes with a bear-like quality, including its rounded ears. The breed is highly energetic and can be difficult to train, but Akitas are known for their fierce loyalty. Guarding and hunting dogs need regular daily exercise to keep them from becoming temperamental.

Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees receives its name from the high mountains between France and Spain. In many cases, the Great Pyrenees resembles a great polar bear in the distance. A male Great Pyrenees can stand 32 inches in height and weigh over 100 pounds.

Its huge build and lush white coat have developed from their history of herding dogs, where they would herd away sheep from wolves and bears.

The Great Pyrenees is a gentle giants at heart because of their intelligence. They’re highly affable to a family environment and work excellently as guards.

Chow Chow

The Chow Chow originates from Ancient China. Every Chow Chow comes with a thick furry coat and a deep chest. In many ways, they resemble a bear in the wild, yet they’re still dignified dogs.

The Chow Chow is one of the cleanest canines around, with particular attention paid to its serious and aloof nature.

Samoyed

The Samoyed is another spitz breed, but this one originated in Russian Siberia. Samoyed dogs were bred for their strength and intelligence. Samoyed dogs were known for pulling sleds for arctic expeditions.

Samoyed dogs may have been working dogs, but they’re extremely affectionate, making them part of your family is perfectly fine if you have young children. This breed’s playfulness has marked it out for being a designer dog.

During the last few years, the Samoyed breed has risen to prominence due to its discovery by many on social media.

Mini Goldendoodle

The Mini Goldendoodle is a cross between the Golden Retriever and the Miniature Silver Poodle. The Mini Goldendoodle has developed into a playful, friendly, and intelligent breed from both breeds, with particular emphasis on the golden retriever.

These small dogs are favored for apartment living because of their independence and easiness of training. Furthermore, they have a diminutive statue, which makes them perfect for carrying and cuddling.

Mini Goldendoodle puppies for sale are easy to find, but make sure that you purchase only from a reputable breeder.

Newfoundland

At first glance, Newfoundland dogs may seem like difficult dogs to work with. But, like some other breeds, the Newfoundland is a gentle giant. It’s a breed known for its patience, gentleness, and ease of training.

Originally, Newfoundland used to be bred as working dogs for the fishermen of Newfoundland in Canada. Throughout their history, the Newfoundlands were called “nanny dogs” because of how much they protected the children under their charge.

Newfoundland dogs have huge heads and a short snouts, giving them the appearance of bears when fully grown.

Keeshond

The Keeshond is a breed with a fascinating history. It has long been known as the “people’s dog” because of its affiliation with the Dutch Patriots Party of the Netherlands in the 18^th century. It acted as a guard dog and a companion on some of the earliest Dutch vessels of the time.

The Keeshond is so loved because of its teddy bear-like appearance. Its furry face, slightly rounded ears, and upright brow give it its distinctive look.

Keeshond dogs are intelligent breeds that are simple to train and love to be around people, but they can also be extremely energetic.

Caucasian Shepherd

The Caucasian Shepherd is named after the Kavkaz Mountains in Eastern Europe. Instantly, most people believe these dogs are small bears. However, the massive muscular build and thick coats made them perfect for guarding homes and herds within harsh conditions, including fighting off wolves.

Caucasian Shepherd dogs are known for their loyalty and protectiveness. These strong, large dogs are ideal for family-friendly environments. However, be aware that their size will mean they need regular walks to allow them to expend their energy.

Leaving this breed alone without space to roam for extended periods could lead to behavioral and temperament issues.

Leonberger

The Leonberger is known as the royal dog because these majestic dogs were bred for royalty and were said to resemble them.

Leonberger dogs possess impressive strength and size, including being able to pull carts in the absence of horses. The bear-like appearance can make them seem ferocious, but these dogs are gentle and calm.

Leonberger dogs are excellent as watchdogs for your family.

Eurasier

The Eurasier is a dog that descends both from Europe and Asia, hence the name is a combination of two continents. This well-balanced dog is confident and loves being around humans. Euraiser dogs are known for their playfulness as one of the largest of the bear-like breeds.

The Euaiser is muscular and comes with thick fur. Its imposing experience makes it an ideal guard dog for the family home.

Conclusion

Most of these dog breeds look like bears of some description. However, anyone looking for a cute dog that can also serve other functions, such as protecting children, should opt for one of these cute breeds.

Other designer breeds also exist in other sizes. However, make sure you purchase puppies from ethical, licensed breeders.

What is your favorite stuffed animal dog breed?

The post <strong>10 Dog Breeds That Look Like Stuffed Animals</strong> appeared first on Top Dreamer.

Measure Your Space

First and foremost, figure out where you want to keep your fish tank. Yes, part of this consideration is aesthetic, but much of it is practical. You don’t want your tank to be kept near the heater, nor do you want it directly in front of a window. The sunlight will increase water temperature and encourage algae growth, making maintenance much harder on you. You also don’t want the tank in a room that gets too cold or somewhere where a giant glass tank is at risk, like where the kids tend to play indoor hockey. Once you’ve figured out where you’ll keep the fish tank, measure out your space. You’re trying to figure out what the biggest tank you can fit in your chosen location is, as this will let you know your upper limit in terms of size.

Choose Your Size

Once you know where you’re keeping your tank and what the biggest size you can house is, it’s time to decide which size of tank is right for you. Be sure to read up on the particular fish species you’re interested in getting, but in almost every case, you’re looking for the biggest tank you can afford and fit within your space. Fish are far more likely to thrive if they have lots of space to move around in. Like all other animals on the planet, including humans, movement is important for fish to maintain their health. Likewise, constriction produces unhappiness. Don’t let outdated ideas of fish consciousness fool you; the latest studies show that fish are far more intelligent than previously thought. Just like you wouldn’t cram a human or a mammal into a small space, you shouldn’t cram a fish into a small space.

Type Of Water And Light

Some fish live in freshwater; others live in saltwater. Whichever type of fish you’re looking to purchase will require one type. Take note of whether you need a fresh water tank or a saltwater one, and be sure to eliminate all the potential tank options that don’t align with your chosen water type.

Beyond this, different fish species need different light levels depending on how deep in the water they typically live. So eliminate fish tanks that don’t offer the right amount of light for your chosen kinds of fish.

Check Out The Reviews

Once you know the size of tank you’re looking for, it’s time to start looking at reviews. Ideally, you want to find a series of comparison reviews conducted by people who not only have fish but have a developed understanding of fish needs and preferences. If, for instance, you’re looking for a five-gallon tank, you’re going to want to read a review catalog that makes comparisons, noting the pros and cons for any 5-gallon tanks. This can help you narrow down your choices pretty quickly. Often comparison reviews also contain a variety of budgets so that all shoppers can find what they need within their price range.

Your Available Time

Once you have a shortened list of potential tanks, it’s time to have a quick read through the manufacturer’s instructions on maintenance. While fish typically do not require as much work as dogs or cats, they’re still living creatures that need care and attention. Bacteria can cause serious health problems for your fish. Figure out what each tank requires in terms of a time commitment from you when it comes to cleaning both the tank and the filter and changing the water. A tank isn’t right for you if you cannot commit to the daily, weekly, and monthly maintenance required. A tank filled with algae and suffering fish isn’t going to be enjoyable for you or the fish. 

The above tips should help you select the right fish tank for you. Of course, different fish species have different requirements, so it’s a good idea to run your selection past a little research on your chosen fish species before making the final purchase. Beyond this, it’s important to regularly check up on your fish and see if they’re enjoying their new home or struggling. If you find your fish is struggling, you need to do more research, speak to professionals, and keep making well-thought-out changes until you notice an improvement in your fish.

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Animals are transported around the world daily for hundreds of different reasons. They may be pets, personal assistance or rescue dogs, agricultural animals for breeding and husbandry, exotic animal transportation, animals being transported between zoos and wildlife conservancies, breeding programs, animals being transported for their protection, and sporting animals such as racehorses, camels, and even birds of prey. It seems that animals need to move almost as much as humans do.

Because the movement of animals by air cargo is a complex, multi-contact process that includes many interested parties; owners, ground transport companies, air cargo handlers, and airline staff, the industry needs to be well-governed and regulated. Because of this, live animal cargo shipping is governed by a long list of rules and regulations – Live Animal Regulations (LAR) – all created to ensure the wellbeing of the animals being transported. Should any of these regulations be bypassed or broken the consequences for both the shippers and the animals can be catastrophic.

Regardless of the type of animal cargo, LAR has guidelines for transporting everything, from day-old chicks to Derby-winning racehorses. Issued by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) the LAR advises on government regulations, carrier regulations, animal behavior, documentation, container requirements, handling, and everything animal air cargo providers need to be aware of.

Equine transportation

Live animal cargo flights involving racehorses and other sport horses are a highly specialized sector of the air cargo industry, that’s why owners, trainers, and breeders build lasting relationships with specialist cargo charter companies. Specialist cargo animal transporters will have an in-depth knowledge of LAR and will manage the whole transport project, along with the required paperwork well in advance of major race days or other sporting events. These companies can even provide professional flying grooms, who are usually professional equestrians and have the necessary accreditation and licenses to travel with animals worldwide. 

The health and safety of the horses are of paramount importance to the cargo carriers where every step is carefully considered and the horses are constantly kept in a comfortable and calming environment. Many of these animals are insured for millions of pounds, dollars, or euros and their safety is of the utmost importance. The horses are walked on to specially designed ‘air stables’, which will, in turn, be loaded into the aircraft’s hold along with their traveling grooms. With an ambient temperature set for the animal’s comfort, conditions inside the aircraft’s hold are closely monitored at all times. Additionally, just like first-class travelers, horses in transit are fed, watered, and their every demand is catered for right up to their point of arrival and safe delivery to their new destination.

Livestock transport

Minimizing the time livestock, such as cattle, pigs, sheep, etc. spend in transit is vital for their health, safety, and wellbeing – this is also carefully regulated by LAR international conventions. The first port of call for anyone wishing to ship livestock by air is an experienced and professional animal air charter company that will be able to advise on all aspects of the journey.

They will cover sourcing the right aircraft and equipment, such as loading facilities, livestock crates, professional livestock handlers, traveling veterinarians, and even government observers. The charter company will also coordinate closely with airport ground handling service, both pre and post journey to ensure a fast and stress-free carriage for the animals. Additionally, livestock air freight companies will advise on quarantine regulations, while ensuring that all of the livestock’s documentation, paperwork, and health certificates are obtained and ready for transport well in advance of the journey. Once again, as is the case with equine transportation, the animals’ health and safety throughout the entire moving process will be the highest priority. Finally, good charter companies will have in place a network of trusted partners, airport handling services, and specialist carriers around the world to ensure the provision of a seamless and reliable service using one playbook to regulate the process over every stage.

Exotic animal transport

There are many reasons for transporting exotic animals, however moving exotic, or unusual animals by air cargo is a highly governed sector and one best tackled by professionals who are experienced in such matters. Animals such as rhinos, lions, leopards, dolphins and whales, wild horses, and other critically endangered animals are often required to relocate between zoos, breeding centers, game reserves, and animal welfare organizations, to stabilize or bolster local populations, along with missions of mercy and transportation for rehabilitation or emergency healthcare.

Again, like all forms of cargo animal shipping, the animals’ welfare is the most important factor when planning every step of the process. As exotic animals vary so widely, their individual needs to be ascertained and catered for throughout the journey. Some may require specified temperatures, while others may need to be sedated and accompanied closely by a suitably qualified veterinarian who will travel in-situ with the animal. Additionally, the animals being transported – dolphins for example – will require the provision of large quantities of water, and specialist traveling containers, exotic birds, reptiles, and dangerous animals will have their individual needs also. For some animals, only certain aircraft types will suit the needs of the project, making the assistance of a professional animal cargo transport company invaluable for the success of the project, and the welfare of the animal being transported.

Cargo animal transport equipment

Unlike Noah’s Ark, animals embarking on a cargo flight can’t just be walked up a ramp in the same manner as might be done with ground transport. Every type of animal being transported have their particular qualities and needs, that’s why the equipment used for their safe and stress-free movement needs to be tailored specifically to suit the animal in question.

The best animal air cargo charter companies have invested time, money, and resources into exploring, designing, and creating the safest and most comfortable transport equipment solutions. One example of this equipment is the introduction of collapsible horse stalls – perfect for return shipping – which is quick and easy to assemble and disassemble, are highly durable and robust, and offer premier standards of comfort and space to facilitate the animal’s welfare. 

There are also fixed stalls, offering comfort and durability, while also being easily accessible for both animals and traveling grooms, veterinarians, or other personnel. Along with stalls for horses, and other similar animals, animal air cargo specialists have invested heavily into the development and production of animal cargo equipment; animal-friendly loading ramps, Airbus-unique stalls, livestock crates and livestock stalls, even specialist exotic transport equipment like extra height giraffe stalls to ensure the head-room required by these giants of the animal world.

Regardless of the type of animal cargo involved, it can’t be over-emphasized that a specialist animal cargo company will be able to answer all of your questions, provide all of the solutions, negotiate the rocky terrain of international animal transportation, along with securing all of the necessary licenses, health documents, and traversing the bureaucracy involved. Many of these companies have made transporting horses, livestock, or exotics their livelihood. They care about the quality of service they provide, and their ultimate concerns are the animals in their care.

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When you name your pet something unique, it shows that you care about their unique personality and want to capture their unique essence. It also makes it easier for other people to discuss the pet with you because they can address them by name instead of using general terms like “pussy”, “kitty” or “buddy”. 

See also: petstime.com/cat/halloween-cat-names

If you’ve adopted or rescued an older pet, you may find that their past owners named them something that doesn’t suit the modern world — like Fluffy or Snowball. Getting rid of these old names can help make way for new ones without angering the feline by forcing them to change too much. Some others choose unique kitty personalities and pair common words together; this is especially popular in today’s internet age, when memes show up everywhere! 

Best unique cat names

Below are a few unique cat names that you might want to consider for your new pet:

1. Bandit. This name is perfect for a mischievous little kitty who loves to play jokes on their owners.
2. Merlin. This mystical name is perfect for a magical feline friend.
3. Sushi. A unique and quirky name that’s perfect for a sushi-loving cat!
4. Schrödinger. This unique name references the famous quantum physicist and is perfect for a curious and clever cat.
5. Dandelion. A unique and whimsical name that’s perfect for a playful and carefree cat.
6. Athena. This powerful is perfect for a confident and independent cat.
7. Luna. This unique name is perfect for a feline that has a special connection to the moon and stars.
8. Kitten. For a cat who was adopted as an older pet, this unique name may be a good choice because it acknowledges their previous owner positively. You can also use “kitten” when you talk about your new pet to make it less awkward when addressing them directly [in front of others].
9. Mr Bigglesworth/Mrs Purrfect. Names inspired by famous characters from popular culture are always unique and interesting names to choose from! 
10. Nyan Cat. This unique name is great for a cat with its own unique personality, just like Nyan Cat.

There are so many unique things about cats, it’s sometimes hard to keep up! If you’re looking for unique names for your cat, the above list should help you come up with some ideas. 

Best uncommon cat names

Not only do unique cat names sound cool, they can also be funny and clever! Here are a few examples:

1. Booger
2. Buttons
3. Whiskers
4. Boots
5. Toes
6. Mittens
7. Sasquatch
8. Paws
9. Jellybean
10. Octopus 

There are so many unique and interesting cat names to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect one for your new feline friend! If you want something unique, funny or clever, one of the names on this list is sure to fit the bill!

How to name your cat?

It can be a difficult task to take care of a cat, and it is not surprising to think about unique names for your cat.  You don’t want to name your cat something common, like Bob or Max. You want to give your cat a unique name that will stand out and make it easy for people to remember.

There are many ways to come up with unique names for your cat. One way is to select a name that is unique to your cat’s personality. If your cat is playful, you might call it Tigger or Spot. If your cat is lazy, you might call it Snuggles or Moocher. If your cat is adventurous, you might call it Indiana Jones or Safari.

Another way to come up with unique names for your cat is to get creative with words. You can try to describe your cat, like cuddly, lazy, playful, or sassy. You can also use nouns to name your cat, like pirate, princess, lion, or tiger.

Likewise, you can also use names of famous people, places, or things to name your cat. It could have a name after a celebrity like Madonna or Elvis. You could name your cat after a place like Paris or Rome. Or you could name your cat after a thing like ice cream or Christmas.

No matter what unique name you choose for your cat, be sure to pick one that you and your cat will love. And don’t forget to have fun with it!

The post Naming your pet: top 20 best unique cat names appeared first on Top Dreamer.

1. Use paw balm regularly

Your dog will love getting paw balm rubbed into their paw pads. Paw pads tend to get dry and crack, especially in hot months or when dogs play on rough terrain.

Paw balm helps to soothe the pain by healing cracks in their pads. It’s like using lip balm for cracked lips – it feels wonderful.

You can get paw balm online from many different companies. Each brand is made with slightly different ingredients and they all have different textures, ranging from soft to hard.

If you’re new to paw balm, check out Bone and Yarn’s review of the 10 best dog paw balms. You’ll find all kinds of information, including the ingredients, where each product is made, the texture, and whether or not it’s scented or contains chemical ingredients.

2. Give your dog a bath

Your dog probably wouldn’t consider a bath to be any kind of royal treatment, but don’t let that stop you. While dogs don’t need frequent baths, they do need to be cleaned periodically, especially if they enjoy rolling around in things that stink.

Before you dunk your pup, consider using bath time to teach your kids how to bathe your dog. Picking up poop is a good way to teach responsibility, but it’s not fun.

Bathing a dog, however, can be really fun for your little ones. There’s something exciting about getting soaked and full of soap while trying to bathe a giant beast that doesn’t want to sit still.

If you do let your kids bathe the family dog, you’ll definitely want to supervise, especially if you have a big dog. If your bathtub or shower can’t fully contain your dog, consider bathing them outside in a kiddie pool.

So, how does giving your dog a bath work in their favor? When your dog is clean and smells good, they’ll get more attention from everyone in the family.

3. Trim your dog’s nails

Grooming is important, but nail trimming is vital to your dog’s health. Overgrown nails cause dogs to walk on their paws sideways, and dew claws can become ingrown. If your dog develops an ingrown dew claw, it’s best to have a vet clip their nails.

It’s actually easy to clip your dog’s nails when you know all the right tricks. For example, placing your dog on their back, between your legs, facing away from you will give you the best view for clipping. This position makes the quick easily visible, since you’ll have a direct view into their nails from this angle.

You’ll also need to get familiar with what a quick looks like inside of a nail. Dark or black nails make it harder to see the quick, but there is a way to make it easy. For dark nails, wear a headlamp and shine the light directly into your dog’s claws and you’ll be able to see the quick start to appear as you clip.

If you’re a first-time nail clipper, be aware that your dog’s quick will grow with the nail, so you don’t want to cut your dog’s nails all the way in one clip.

Rather than clipping off large chunks, start small and check for the quick after each clip. If your dog isn’t afraid of noise, you can also use a Dremel or a similar tool made specifically for dog nails. However, be careful when grinding nails, as you can still hit the quick.

Last, don’t forget the Quick Stop – it’s a blood clotting agent that will stop the bleeding if you nick your dog’s quick. It comes as a powder and a gel in a tube.

4. Let your dog dig

Dogs love to dig, but most dogs don’t get to dig because they’ll ruin the yard. Consider creating a section in your backyard just for your dog. In that area, let them dig all they want. With some effort, you can train your dog to only dig and play in that area.

Give your dog the best life

Dogs just want to play and spend time with their humans. Your family dog deserves to enjoy living their best life. Give them all the love, time, and attention they crave.

The post 4 Ways to Give Your Family Dog the Royal Treatment appeared first on Top Dreamer.

Choose a piece of art that reflects what your friend love about dogs

One of the primary things that you should consider when choosing the perfect piece of wall art for a dog lover is what their favorite aspect about dogs is. Many people love all kinds of dogs, but there may be one particular breed or type of dog that they tend to favor over others. Take the time to explore online sources, where you may be able to come across sites that customize pet portraits. In this case, you can check them out for you to have a good idea of how much it will cost to have the portrait of your dog lover’s furry friend made. Rest assured that going with a piece of wall art that has your friend’s dog in it may be the best way to go.

Find artwork that is either in the same color scheme as your friend’s room or complements it

Another thing that you should consider when choosing wall art for a dog lover is what the color scheme of their room looks like. If your friend’s entire bedroom or living area has a lot of browns and oranges, then it may not be wise to opt for something with bright colors, since this will clash with everything else in the space. Instead, try opting for a piece of wall art that is within the same color scheme as their room.

Make sure that the size and shape of the artwork fits the space 

You should also make sure that the size and shape of the artwork you choose are proportional to the space where it will be hung. It would not make sense for someone who has a lot of wall art in their room already, but perhaps no large pieces leftover on any walls, to purchase something very big or bulky-looking because this could clutter up an entire area quickly. In this case, it would be best to opt for a piece of wall art that compliments the current pieces in place.

Consider whether you want to hang it

One of the things that you should keep in mind when hanging wall art is whether or not your friend will be able to take it down easily if they decide to rearrange their furniture. In this case, opting for a piece of wall art that hangs on the wall with keyholes vs. tape is something you should consider. Keep in mind that more permanent wall art may be difficult to take down without damaging your friend’s walls in any way.

Now that you have all the knowledge of what to look for in a dog art piece, go out and find your favorite. Just be sure to take measurements with you when looking at pieces, so they’ll fit properly. Try incorporating the dog-friendly decorating tips listed above to choose the perfect wall art for your dog-lover friend.

The post How To Choose The Perfect Wall Art For A Dog Lover appeared first on Top Dreamer.

Before even attempting to secure a policy, though, you will need to do a couple of things. Do some research on the type of animal that you have. See what types of medical problems are common for your breed. Find out what the average life expectancy is. Check to see if there are any specific issues that arise for pets in the area that you live in. For instance, if you live in an area surrounded by wilderness and wild animals, or if you live in an apartment in the center of a bustling city. Every aspect of your life affects the animals lives and should be considered when getting a pet policy.

All insurance policies have the potential of being confusing, and frustrating. Having the coverage that you need may fall short if you do not avoid the seven most common mistakes made when purchasing pet insurance.

1. Coverage Amount-The amount of coverage that you will need depends upon numerous things. You want to make sure that you have the correct amounts, without paying for things you do not need. You should have already analyzed your specific needs, and everything that could affect the health of your animal. If you find yourself with a high-risk pet, or if you are living in a dangerous area, you will want to have a higher coverage amount that includes provisions for accidents and emergencies.
2. Emergencies-Pets can have emergency situations, just like us. As stated above, the average amount of an ER vet bill can be a substantial amount. Some policies will not cover this type of pet care, so double check any contract that you are considering before you sign on the dotted line.
3. Policy Coverage-Read every line of the contract of your pet insurance Australia policy. You need to know exactly what is covered. If you have a puppy that is prone to jumping off the stairs, you will want a policy that can cover sprained, or broken, bones. 
4. Exclusions-Since you did the research listed above you will already know what types of illnesses, or diseases, are likely to occur to your furry friend. Check your policy to see if any of these are not covered. The insurance company will have pre-made policies designed for the type of animal that you have, and the breed. They will try to add exclusions to prevent themselves from having to pay for vet bills that are needed for your specific pet.
5. Pre-Existing Conditions-Problems that are already present in your animal will not be covered. There will be a clause in your policy that details what will be covered, and what will not be. If your animal has already seen a vet for an issue, such as diabetes, you will be responsible to cover any, and all, bills that pertain to that issue.
6. Premium-The premium, also called the excess, is an area of the policy that you want to have control over. The effortless way for you to do this is to adjust the amount that you will have to pay first, before the insurance policy kicks in. Set the amount at a level that you can pay easily. 
7. Claims-If you do ever have to file a claim, make it quickly. Many companies will have a time limit in which you can file for compensation. If you go over that amount of time the bill will fall on to you to pay.

Avoiding mistakes when buying a pet insurance policy is important if you want to ensure that your fur baby is covered. It is a policy that should be added to your personal insurance portfolio. Your pet is part of the family, and as such, deserves to have insurance coverage in case something should happen to them,

The post HOW TO AVOID SEVEN OF THE MOST COMMON PET INSURANCE PITFALLS appeared first on Top Dreamer.

Your Dog’s Personal Space

Your dog’s personal space is a place where your dog can go to get away from the chaos of family life. This may be a bed, an area on the floor, or even a crate. Your dog needs her haven for relaxation when he wants it! A comfortable den gives him some peace which will make his overall well-being better in general. If you get a barking dog to quiet down you can start by providing them with their own private space. Dogs often feel the need to defend their territory, which includes everything within smell distance of where they are sitting/laying at any given moment (this is known as the “home zone”). This means that if you let your dog into your house and then he lays down on the sofa or in his crate, this will be considered his personal space – regardless of whether it’s inside or outside! 

So how do you teach him not to bark when someone comes around? The most important thing is for everyone who lives in the home to agree on rules about barking so there aren’t different expectations between members of your family. You should also explain new rules using. Remember that dogs are social animals so let your pup curl up on a cushion next to you whenever she wants to!

Your Dog’s Food and Water Bowls

Don’t leave food and water out all day long. Your dog will eat when she’s hungry, so don’t worry if you’re not around to feed her three times a day. Just make sure that both of your dogs’ bowls are taken away before bedtime (when they should be empty). Also, remember to clean the bowl after every meal! Dirty dishes attract germs that can be harmful to your pup. If the dog is old enough he might start stealing food from his housemate’s dish. This won’t hurt him but it may upset his buddy and lead to potential problems later on in life like resource guarding between them over their respective personal space. Make sure everyone who feeds the dog puts down fresh water at least once a day.

Toys and Chews

When it comes to toys and chews, keep them unique. If your dog is a heavy chewer, nylon bones aren’t going to last long. Give him some rubber chew treats instead! There are even flavored ones that will make his breath smell better too! For the toy lovers of the world, get creative with what you give your pup. Hide little pieces of cheese or peanut butter in old socks for a fun game of tug-of-war! Make sure he has more than one so you can switch out while they’re being washed from all of the slobber on them after playtime sessions. Try giving different types every day/week depending on how quickly they go through each toy before getting bored.

Bedding and Litter Box

Another key point to keep in mind is the fact that dogs are not naturally very clean animals. They do not have a fastidious nature, preferring instead to roll around and rub against things they find interesting or tasty-smelling. If you want your dog’s bedding area indoors be sure it has been washed regularly with unscented laundry detergent using warm water. This will help ensure that there are no odors which might tempt your pup into making some changes of its own! Also, if possible provide more than one place for him to sleep so he can choose between sleeping on his old recliner or his new couch cushion.

Be sure you don’t use perfumed pet litter products as these scents can make your dog sick. If you need to use scented products in your litter box, try mixing it with unscented litter or by using an automated catbox that cleans itself for odor control. The last thing to remember is that dogs are creatures of habit and will instinctively seek out places they feel safe when nature calls. Providing a small area near where he eats his meals might be the best option if he lacks access to outdoor space or prefers not to go outside during bad weather. Keep this part of their crate clean at all times so accidents don’t happen!

Dogs are known for being very social creatures. They love to be around people and other animals, so if you want your dog to have a great time when they stay at home while you’re away it is important that the environment in which they are staying is one that welcomes them with open arms!

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Potty training your dog or cat is one of the more difficult aspects of being a pet parent. You’ll experience ups and downs, and plenty of accidents along the way, so buckle up!

To make your training efforts a bit easier, we’ve compiled a list of tips from some of the most knowledgeable leaders in the pet care and training space. Here’s what you should know before getting started.

Figure Out the Fundamentals

Even if you have minimal experience training pets, you’ll have an intuitive idea of what works for training a dog or cat to use the bathroom properly.

“To some degree, the potty training process is not unlike the ones we use for children when they reach a certain age,” said Tim Mitchum, President of WINPRO. “Use the same spot, repeat the same key words, and be consistent for weeks or months before it clicks.”

It’s true – the best trainers in the world can’t make a dog learn any faster than they are willing or able to learn. Time is the main factor when it comes to house training or any other aspect of dog ownership.

“Don’t treat this like a race against the clock, because that will inevitably lead to frustration and end up hampering your training progress,” said Derin Oyekan, Co-Founder of Reel Paper. “Take as much time as you need, even if it’s longer than you were told to expect.”

If you’re ever unsure about the basics of pet potty training, just remind yourself of the same mantras taught in every dog book and training program.

“There are no shortcuts here, just consistency and repetition,” said Adam Reed, CEO of Crown and Paw. “Create a vocabulary that you can use over and over, so that you make the message very clear, and don’t waver in your assertiveness. The process will test your patience but it’s worth it down the road.”

Offer Plenty of Encouragement

Your pet is just learning the ropes of life and getting comfortable with his or her surroundings. Positive reinforcement is the key to ensuring they are well adjusted as they potty train and grow.

“Use your voice, your expressions, your hand motions, and everything in your toolbox to incentivize your dog properly during the housebreaking process,” said Michael Waxman, Co-Founder and CEO of Sundays for Dogs. “They are highly intuitive and they know when you’re happy or upset about their behavior, so use this to your advantage.”

Young pets – puppies in particular – have tons of energy, but not as much mental stamina as you might expect. Avoid overtraining in these early months and allow them to relax as well.

“Mental exercise tires a dog physically more than physical exercise does,” says Dr. Ian Dunbar, Founder of Dunbar Academy. “Give them breaks and praise for when they do something right.”

Stay on Schedule

When in doubt, refer back to your schedule and let time do the work. As they say, 90% of the work is showing up and following through each day.

“Walk the dog about 15-30 minutes after every meal. Always praise the dog for going outside. Never ever use hitting or yelling if the dog has an accident in the house. Now, as far as behavior training, you will need to follow a schedule to make sure neither you nor the pup gets too tired or frustrated.” – Author and Trainer Cynthia Lynden

Keep them Motivated

For a young dog, the right incentives are everything. Give them as much guidance as possible, motivate them appropriately, and be careful with any form of negative reinforcement.

“There are techniques and even more techniques for potty training. Most involve taking your furry friend out every two hours, and to the same spot each time. But, let’s not forget rewarding your pet for actually going to the bathroom as you’ve indicated. This can be a healthy treat or a quick run around the block – whatever provides that motivation that they need to keep up the good habits! Never punish your pet for getting it wrong; it will have the opposite effect. Keep incentivizing and rewarding them when they do well.”– Marc Atiyeh, CEO of Pawp

Focus on the Next Goal

Successfully potty training your pet is certainly a victory worth celebrating, but as soon as that mission is accomplished, be sure to continue your training in other areas to stay focused on the road ahead.

“Avoid getting too comfortable once you’ve reached your house training goal, because pets need continuous training and reminders to stay well behaved in these early years,” said Lauren Kleinman, Co-Founder of The Quality Edit. “Have your next objectives planned out and jump right into it, because momentum is everything when it comes to training.”

When training pets, the work is never over!

Still, you deserve a pat on the back for potty training your dog or cat, and will enjoy the rest of the journey with more peace of mind.

The post How to Properly Train Your Pet to be Potty Trained appeared first on Top Dreamer.

It’s the perfect opportunity to head out on the road with your four-legged friend and spend time enjoying each other’s company and come up with different fun activities to do together.

Your pet is as much a part of the family as anyone else and it’s a given that it wants to join in on the fun. A holiday together promises relaxation and adventure for both the family and the animal. 

However, in this article, we list certain tips to keep in mind so that the holiday will be memorable for everyone involved.

Don’t Forget About Insurance 

Image: Sabri Tuzcu from Unsplash

There is a lot to think about for the trip to be safe for the pet. Taking out a pet insurance policy can be very useful, giving you peace of mind. 

If the question –‘what is pet insurance good for’ crosses your mind repeatedly, the simplest answer would be that it’s the ultimate way to provide security for your furry companion in case of unpleasant surprises such as accidents or illness like kennel cough. It helps reduce the cost of pet care as a result of medications, veterinary visits, treatments, surgeries, and possible hospital stays.

Don’t Neglect The Pet’s Health

Throughout the year, you need to take care of your pet’s health, but even more so during vacations. You should bring everything you need to administer first aid, from compresses and bandages to a pet booster seat. There are also first aid kits specifically designed for travel.

Before leaving, check that your pet’s vaccination register is up to date and get all the necessary shots for the country you’d be traveling to. To avoid inconvenience and have a pleasant holiday, especially during a stay abroad, it may be wise to treat your dog against parasites.

If you’re unsure about anything before you go away with your pet, you should consult your veterinarian. They will give you good advice on how to keep your cat or dog calm during the trip and make sure that the pet is healthy enough for longer journeys. Pack extra medicine, if your pet needs it, to avoid being left without while you are traveling.

Finally, do not forget to put your dog’s health record book in your suitcase. It will be helpful during an urgent examination with a veterinarian.

Don’t Change Its Eating Habits

If people can adapt to new situations, especially during holidays, this is not necessarily the case for your loving pet. A change of place or diet can be alarming and affect its health.

If your pet is fed with special food, it’s necessary to maintain the same animal feed for it to stay well. During the holiday, it’s also preferable to feed your pet at the same time as you have been doing for the entire year.

If you plan to travel with your pet, invest in folding travel bowls. These provide your pet with food and water at any time without taking up too much space.

Remember To Calm Your Pet

You should also consider taking your pet’s basket or blanket to remind it of a familiar odor as it will calm it down.

A warm and lightweight pet blanket is a practical option for both indoor and outdoor uses. It will be a plus if the blanket has a moisture-resistant function.

Bring objects familiar to the animal that it will appreciate and make it calm and reassured. For example, you can bring toys that you use regularly at home which will help the pet feel at ease, comfortable and remind it of daily life making it feel safe.

Keep in mind that many vacation spots and public places require dogs to be kept on a leash so don’t forget all the important accessories for walking your pet: a leash, harness, collar with a tag that contains your contact information.

If you’re out and about during the summer, especially somewhere where it’s sizzling hot, try to have the air conditioning on, at least part of the time so that your pet does not overheat.  

A very important thing to remember, especially in summer, is that you should never leave your cat or dog alone in the car. The temperature can reach dangerously high levels in a very short time, so think about the animal’s life and health and take no unnecessary risks.

Final Thoughts

Instead of it being cooped up in a kennel, of course, you want to take your pet along with you on your holiday.

Before leaving, find the perfect pet-friendly holiday spot, obtain proper pet insurance, bring a first-aid kit in case of an emergency, and make sure to stick to the pet’s daily routine as best you can.

All of this will help make the summer experience unforgettable for everyone.

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