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Pets

The Perfect Pet

A lot of dog training books and websites promise to teach you how to train “the perfect pet” or “the perfect dog,” but that’s just not going to happen. Your dog will never be perfect and it’s better to understand that from the start. Much like your children, spouse, friends, and boss, your dog will […]

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Pets

Good Enough Pet Care

My life is exploding and my dogs haven’t been on a walk in 2 weeks. This is temporary and they’re just going to have to suffer with me. Sometimes you aren’t going to be the ideal pet parent and that’s okay. 

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Pets

Reading Your Dog’s Poop

Most dog owners spend a lot of time picking up poop, but not a lot of time thinking about it. It’s gross, but you should really be paying attention to your dog’s business. Knowing what’s normal will help you spot potential health conditions before they become serious. 

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Pets

Completely Practical Dog Clothes 

It’s very common to scoff at the idea of clothes for dogs, but even the cutest outfit can sometimes be very practical. Even some vets will say that dogs should never wear clothes, but I’m all for what makes your dog most comfortable. 

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Pets

Canine Manipulation Styles 

If you know dogs you know that they’ll quickly figure out where you’re vulnerable. They know exactly how to get the most attention, treats and toys out of their target human. Different dogs have different preferred styles to achieve maximum spoiling.

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Pets

Nearly Free Anxiety Solutions For Your Dog

Sometimes your dog’s anxiety is serious and requires regular medication or professional training but if you’re just trying to get past a little pacing during specific events there are some cheap solutions you can try. Some of these could also supplement treatment for more serious anxiety. 

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Pets

Your Puppy Will Grow Up

Normally, when people remind you that your puppy will grow up, they’re talking about the fact that your dog won’t be an adorable three-month-old forever. This post is all about the in-between stage. Your dog is still mentally a puppy, but he’s close to his adult size and full of doofy energy and enthusiasm for […]

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Pets

Dogs and Street Harassment 

BarkPost recently ran an article about street harassment while walking dogs and the writer’s experience was so different from mine, I wanted to talk more about it and get more input from our readers. 

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Pets

Crate Not Required

For some dogs and some situations, crates are perfect, but they aren’t appropriate for everyone or every dog.  There are many options that work just as well, or better, depending on what you and your dog need. 

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Pets

Defeating the Undercoat

Summer is here, and if you’ve got a fluffy dog they probably already hate the weather and you’re wondering how to help them. Depending on the type of coat they have, shaving may be a bad answer.

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Pets

Pros and Cons of Multiple Dogs

Most dog lovers will at least consider having more than one dog at a time. Best dog buddies can be wonderful companions, but they can also exponentially increase your dog troubles. This is the good and the bad.

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Pets

Reinforcing Good Recall

Many people have trouble training good recall in their dogs because they don’t know how to offer the rewards their dog wants off leash. Trying to compete with squirrels and geese and other dogs with dry dog treats isn’t going to work with even the most food-motivated dog, but lots of owners don’t know what […]

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Pets

 Antlers For Your Dog? 

Antlers can be fabulous long lasting chews for your dog, but like every dog toy or chew, they can also cause problems. 

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Pets

Tick Safety For Dogs

Spring is glorious and all the icky creepy crawlies are out enjoying it. Most pet owners are already worried about fleas and mosquitoes, but ticks should probably be higher on your list. 

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Pets

Getting Your Dog Through Surgery

Hopefully you have a great relationship with a vet you love, and they’ll guide you through everything you need to know. This is mostly a guide to what you should expect from your vet, and how to advocate for your dog and manage your stress if necessary.