As rewarding as it is to be a first-time dog owner, the responsibility can also come with some apprehension. After all, your pup relies on you for nearly everything—from understanding basic commands and good manners to effectively training them so that they are happy and safe in their environment.
Don't worry; being a newbie isn't anything to be ashamed of. We understand how overwhelming it can feel when bringing home your puppy or rescue pet. That's why we've put together this list of fun tips that will help lay the perfect foundation for success. So grab your leash (and some treats!), and let us show you how easy it is to become a master trainer.
Before you start barking commands at your furry friend, it's important to prep for training. And no, we're not just talking about throwing a few treats in your pocket. Start off by getting to know your pup's breed and individual needs. Every dog is different, and you should treat them that way.
Once you've got that down, it's time to create a motivating environment for your pooch to learn. Make sure your home is distraction-free (bye-bye TV time), and consider investing in some training tools like clickers or target sticks. Trust us; some preparation goes a long way in taming your wild child.
Who says you can't teach an old dog new tricks? With positive reinforcement training methods, you can teach any pup a new trick or two (or three or four).
The key is to reward good behavior and avoid punishing bad behavior. Think of it like this: how motivated would you be to keep working if your boss only criticized you when you did something wrong? But if your boss praised you when you did something right, you'd feel pretty good, right? The same goes for your furry friend.
Positive reinforcement techniques, like clicker training and treats, make learning a fun and rewarding experience for your dog. So, let's skip the punishment and start praising.
Picture this: you're out for a walk with your furry friend when, suddenly, a squirrel darts across your path. Your dog takes off in hot pursuit, and chaos ensues. But what if you could prevent this disaster with just a few basic commands? Sit, stay, and come are essential commands every dog should learn. But how do you teach them?
Start by getting your dog's attention with an exciting noise or word, like "woohoo." or "banana." Then, show them what you want them to do, like sitting or staying. Repeat the command consistently until they start to catch on. And most importantly, keep up with regular training sessions to reinforce their new skills. With a bit of patience and lots of repetition, your dog will be a well-behaved and obedient companion in no time.
Ah, socialization and exposure. Two things that are just as important for your furry friend as belly rubs and treats.
Socializing your dog with people, other animals, and different environments can make a world of difference in their behavior and confidence. But don't just throw them into the deep end of the dog park. It's essential to make those experiences safe and positive. A couple of ways to do so are to give treats and praise and to start with short exposure times and gradually increase them.
As for exposure to different situations and stimuli, it's not just for the thrill of seeing your pup react to a traffic cone. It can benefit them in the long run, helping them become more adaptable and less fearful. Throw on their favorite bandana and stroll through various neighborhoods, and introduce them to different sounds and textures. They'll be one well-rounded pup in no time.
Ah, the joys of being a first-time dog owner. That cute little ball of fur you brought home has become a terror, with chewing, jumping, and barking becoming the norm. Fear not, my fellow pup parent. Managing and correcting these naughty behaviors can be a breeze with some patience and a lot of consistency.
Provide plenty of toys to distract your doggo from nibbling on your favorite shoes. For jumping, teach them the "off" command and praise and reward them when they keep all four paws on the ground. And for barking, try to identify the trigger and redirect their attention to something else, like their favorite toy or treat.
Remember, it may take some time, but with a positive attitude and a lot of patience, your pup will be on its way to being a well-behaved canine companion.
As any pet owner knows, there's no greater feeling than the unbreakable bond between you and your furry best friend. Building a strong connection with your dog through training is vital to creating a lasting and fulfilling relationship.
Positive communication, trust, and understanding are essential in developing a bond that will make even the most challenging days manageable. And let's not forget; training can be fun too.
Regular playtime and quality time together are great ways to strengthen the bond with your pet. So, grab a tennis ball or their favorite toy and get ready to spend some quality time building that special connection with your pup. Trust us, the slobbery kisses and wagging tails will be well worth the effort.
Let's face it—our furry friends can be a handful. They may chew up our favorite shoes, bark at the mailman like he's an intruder, or even wet the rug when they're feeling extra spiteful. While some dogs may simply need a bit of obedience training, others require more specialized attention. So when is it time to throw in the towel and call in the big guns?
Consider seeking a professional dog trainer or behaviorist if you're dealing with significant behavioral issues or your pup isn't responding to standard training techniques. When finding a trainer, be sure to research and seek out someone qualified and well-regarded in your area. With the right help, your doggo can be on their way to becoming a better-behaved and happier pup.
Well, folks, we've reached the end of this exciting dog training journey. If you're a first-time owner, don't worry, we've got your back. Check out our other great articles for dog parents.
Remember to be patient, consistent, and always keep a positive attitude. You're creating a foundation that will keep you and your doggo happy for years to come. So go forth and train those pups. And to the rest of our seasoned owners, don’t forget to check out our range of bandanas and other essentials to keep those tails waggin'.
]]>First and foremost, CONGRATULATIONS to you and your new rescue! Bringing home a dog for the first time is exciting and nerve racking. There is so much that goes into rescuing a dog. From finding the right shelter to finding the right dog to all the background and home checks. The rescue process can be daunting, but your job is not done once that approval letter comes through. There is a whole new world coming your way once you bring your new pup into your home.
There’s another element of anxiety that unfolds when you’re bringing home a rescue dog. Rescue dogs come in many different forms. Some have been born into a shelter and are adopted quickly as puppies, others have been surrendered and have spent a long time in the shelter. Others have been abused or experienced real trauma. Understanding your dog’s situation before bringing them into your home will help you properly prepare for your pet’s wants and needs. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when bringing a rescue dog home.
One of the most important tips for new dog owners is to have a vet lined up before you bring your pet home, and remember that you need to take your pet to the vet on a regular basis. The vet should see your dog within the first few days you bring him or her home. This is so the vet can give your pup a health check and discuss ongoing physicals and shot schedules. It’s also a good time to ask any burning questions you have about dog ownership. Things they will discuss with you are:
A mistake new dog owners often make is they wait until the day they get their dog to pick up the necessary supplies. We understand how exciting it is to bring your new friend home for the first time, but taking him or her to the pet store to pick out supplies right away can cause unneeded anxiety for the both of you. Consider having all of the essentials well in advance of your new arrival.
These items include:
Food: There are so many foods on the market, and while some may claim to be better than others, it's important to establish how much you’re willing to spend on dog food, and look at reviews and testimonials to make sure you’re feeding something nutritious and affordable. Check out this article about the best dog foods of 2021 to help guide you on what to feed your dog.
Treats: Treats are great for helping break the ice with your new pup, and rewarding for good behavior. Make sure whatever treats you buy are the correct size for your pup.
Bowls: While bowls may seem like a no brainer, this item is something new pet owners often find themselves having to run to the pet store last minute for. It’s best to have a few sets for when you throw them in the dishwasher.
Beds: Beds can be expensive, and if you have a dog that is a chewer, certain beds with a lot of stuffing might not be the best option. Blankets work just fine and can be used for dogs that are likely going to grow quickly in the first year of life. Whether you use blankets or a bed, it's important for your dog to feel like this item is theirs. Especially with anxious dogs, having a bed in a quiet place is calming, and allows them to leave and be alone.
Crate: If you’re choosing to crate train or put your dog in the crate when you leave the home, you’ll want to make sure you have a crate that is safe for your pet. Wire crates are safe for puppies or dogs that like to chew. It's also a good option to have a crate if your dog or puppy is still potty training. The crate should be large enough for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
Toys: Having a few different types of toys and bones available is important because your dog will likely take to some toys better than others. Also some dogs are bigger chewers than others. For non-chewers, check out our assortment of squeaky toys that are adorable and affordable.
Leash: While your dog might not know how to walk on a leash right away, it's a good idea to have a leash on hand in case you need to keep them close by while out in public. Steer clear of flexi leashes if you can - they can make it difficult to control your dog in situations when you need to react quickly, and can even cause harm to you and your dog if they try to pull away too quickly.
If you are looking for comfortable leashes that make it easy to safely go on a stroll with your pet, check out our assortment of beautiful hand-died cotton and nylon rope leashes for your pet.
Collar: Many pet owners have strong feelings about the type of collar their dogs wear. Whatever you choose, make sure it's something that is safe for your pet and you’re comfortable using.
Aside from getting the necessary supplies, make sure to have your home puppy and dog proofed ahead of time. Some helpful puppy and dog proofing tips include:
As much as you want to be around your new dog the first 24 hours, recognize when they just want to be alone, and make sure they have a safe place, away from the noise to retire. This could be inside a kennel or in a quiet room away from the living space. Anything that gives your pet a place to call their own. This is a good opportunity for some one-on-one bonding time, but be sure to keep kids and other pets away from this area for the first few days.
Many new pet owners are so excited to take their new pet to the pet store or the neighborhood dog park, but this can be extremely stressful for your dog. Take them home right away and wait to take them on errands until they have grown comfortable with you and your family. It’s important to remember that the first few days and weeks, regardless of if you’ve adopted a puppy or an adult dog, are completely different from what they have known in the past. They are likely scared and unsure of this new situation.
Introducing your pet to your kids, other family members and other pets can sometimes cause additional stress on you and your new addition. This might need to take place in phases, and remember to take these introductions slow.
Introducing Kids: Ideally, your children will have been a part of the adoption process when working through a rescue. If not, there’s no need to worry. Here are a few tips to help you introduce your pet to your kids:
For more tips on introducing your kids to your new rescue, check out these 10 tips for introducing your new dog to children.
Introducing other family members: For family members that are living outside the home, it might be best to wait a few days before introducing new friends and family members. Since the dog is still learning to cope in its new surroundings, introducing new people too soon could cause anxiety and stress. Introduce new people slowly, and in small groups.
Introducing other pets: Many new pet owners make the mistake of introducing new pets too quickly, causing fights, added stress, and a harder time helping the new dog to adapt to your home. If possible, keep your new pet separate from the other pets in the house. When you do introduce them, do it slowly and in short increments. This process might take months before your new pet and your other pets get along perfectly on their own. If you are having issues with this process, it's important to consult with your vet before making any decisions to rehome or return your pet. Your vet will have additional steps you can take to make this process more successful.
Showing your dog around the yard will help them adapt to their new surroundings in a comfortable and controlled way. If possible, do this on a leash. If you have a designated potty area, show them to this area and reward them for doing their business in the designated spot. If you plan to put in an underground fence, it will be important to show them the fence line for the first several weeks, and use colored flags to mark the territory they are required to stay in.
Establishing where your pet is allowed to go within your home as well as any other rules you want to enforce going forward is important to start the first day you bring them home. There is nothing wrong with establishing these rules right off the bat. Be consistent with the words you and your family members use in certain situations. The commands don’t need to be harsh, but they do need to be consistent. Simple rules like this are important to establish right away.
Here are a couple examples of rules you might want to establish from day one:
Beginning a training class, even a puppy class for puppies, is important for many reasons:
Most puppies can begin a training class in the first few months, and even adult dogs can go to their first training class as adults. The biggest advice when it comes to training is to find a method you and your dog are comfortable with. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, and ask around to friends and family to find the training classes they recommend.
Rescuing a dog is an important job, but it’s no easy feat in many cases. Understand that your pet may have been through some trauma. In these situations, seeking help from vets and other experts might be the best opportunity to learn what to do and what not to do. Many rescues also have staff that are willing to discuss helpful ways to go about training and working with traumatized dogs. Whether you adopt a puppy, an adult dog, or a traumatized dog, patience is needed to remain in control and provide your new pet with the stability and love they desperately need.
Bringing home a rescued dog is an incredibly rewarding experience. As adopted dogs can add so much love in your life. We hope that this step-by-step guide helps your furry companion to easily adjust to your new home.
For extra activities and adventures that you and your new rescue can enjoy, check out 8 Glamorous Spots to Go Glamping With Dogs & 10 Pet-Friendly Hotels That Dogs and Humans Will Love.
More and more pet owners are turning to natural, home-cooked meals for their pets so they can monitor what goes into their diets. Even if you’re super diligent about not giving your pet human food, the chance that they grab something off the floor while you're cooking, or get into the garbage when you leave the house is high, especially with puppies. If you’re a dog owner that likes to give your pet treats from the table, it's critical to have an understanding of safe human foods for dogs.
In most homes, dog parents tend to be lax about what foods they give their furry friend. Our dogs can hear you peeling a banana or opening the peanut butter jar. As soon as they hear those sounds they come running, wagging their tails and stare at you with the most adorable eyes you’ve ever seen; who can relate?
Turns out, some human food can actually be good for your dog to eat. So, whether you’ve got a strict, no human food policy or not, here are some foods to be aware of when you have dogs in your home.
Some of these foods have been on the list for years, so you might not be super surprised by them. Others may get you thinking twice about feeding Fido anything and everything he wants. It is important to remember that weight matters when it comes to dogs ingesting toxic foods. If your dog is larger than 20 lbs, and ingests one chocolate chip, or a piece of onion, there is likely no reason to panic. For smaller dogs, 20 lbs and under, a small amount of any of these foods could be very dangerous.
While chocolate is the key to a girl’s heart, the same can’t be said about chocolate for dogs. Giving your dog chocolate is a well-known no-no, but some chocolate is worse than others. Be extra careful of dark chocolate and unsweetened chocolate baking chips.
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener found in sugar-free gum, some sugarless candy, and many toothpastes. Xylitol is incredibly toxic to dogs, and even small amounts of Xylitol can cause liver failure. For more information, read this article by the VCA Hospital about Xylitol and its negative effects on dogs.
Onions and garlic contain allium, which is also found in leeks, scallions, chives and shallots. A small piece of onion you drop on the floor is most definitely not something to cause alarm, but if your pet eats a large amount of onions or garlic, this could cause damage to red blood, which results in those cells not being able to carry oxygen through the body.
While avocados are one of the trendiest foods on the market today, they are extremely poisonous to your dog. The fruit, pit, skin, and the leaves contain persin, which is a fungicidal toxin that can cause death in dogs. It’s really important not to feed your dog avocados.
Researchers are still unsure as to what substance is responsible for toxic reactions in dogs, however, grapes and raisins are known to cause kidney failure in dogs. Keep these fruits well out of reach from your pup.
According to the ASPCA, even a small amount of macadamia nuts can cause vomiting, hyperthermia, depressions and weakness in dogs. Most often, these effects appear within 12 hours of ingestion.
Dogs are more susceptible to the effects of caffeine than humans are. Coffee grounds, tea, soda, or diet pills all contain large amounts of caffeine that can be toxic to dogs if consumed.
Most mild mushrooms are toxic. While there are specific mushrooms that will likely not hurt your pup, it's better to stay away from these edible fungi all together. If mushrooms are a vegetable you often have in your home, read more about which mushrooms could cause harm to your dog.
Many dogs are lactose intolerant. While ice cream may not be toxic, it contains a lot of sugar and it's not good for dogs. Many restaurants and grocery stores sell ice cream specifically made just for dogs.
There is a big difference between the hard bones you buy at the store, and a bone from a steak. Bones can cause choking or major blockages in a dog's digestive system if they swallow it. Fat trimmings from both cooked and uncooked meat can cause pancreatitis. It's best to take the garbage outside right away if you’re throwing bones and fat trimmings in there.
Cherries, apple seeds, peach pits, and other fruits with seeds and pits can be extremely dangerous for your dog to consume. The fleshy part of cherries and peaches are completely fine, but the pits and seeds contain cyanide, and can cause major issues internally. Some signs of cyanide poisoning are dilated pupils, difficulty breathing and red gums.
As dog owners, we know that scary feeling when your dog grabs something unexpectedly from the floor while you're cooking, or gets into the garbage when you leave the house. Did they eat something poisonous? How much of it did they actually eat? These situations can be super scary. If you are worried that your dog ingested a large amount of anything on the list above, call your local or emergency vet right away for further guidance.
There are many fruits that are safe for your pet to consume, and many treats you can make at home containing fruit. Remember to remove pits and seeds from any fruit before giving it to your dog:
Many pet food companies use vegetables in their recipes because it adds vitamins and minerals that meats and grains just don’t provide. Here are some safe vegetables for your pet to eat:
For more information about feeding your dog fruits and vegetables, check out this article by the AKC about the best vegetables to feed your dog, and why!
Owning a dog is one of the most rewarding and fun experiences in life. There’s so much joy they bring to our lives, and all we want for our furry friends is to keep them happy and safe. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when preparing food or leaving your dog home alone.
Dogs love to wander and explore new places. If you aren’t planning on kenneling your dog when you leave, try and confine them to a safe place with minimal chewing opportunities.
If you are cooking with meats, bones or any of the foods on the list from above, consider taking the garbage outside when you’re done so there’s no chance of your pup getting into it when you leave the room.
It’s so frustrating when you’re tripping over your pup while you’re trying to prepare dinner. And trying to arm wrestle them when something hits the floor is no fun! Consider establishing a routine for your pup when you’re cooking so they aren’t tempted to body slam into your legs to grab that piece of food before it hits the floor.
]]>This summer, don't plan the same old hotel and beach getaway you do every year—why not try something new? Where luxury meets the great outdoors is where you'll find the ultimate glamping experience. Glamping is the camping trend your discerning dog will love. These glamping destinations are a far cry from the build-it-yourself tent in a bag. These glampsites offer amenities like comfortable king beds, ensuite bathroom facilities and stunning views. When you're glamping, there's no tent to pitch.
From full-on glamping sites to grounds with contemporary resort amenities, we'll guarantee you'll sleep soundly at these luxury glamping destinations.
Photo by Dunton River Camp
Nestled in the stunning San Juan Mountains of the famous Colorado Rockies, Dunton River Camp at Cresto Ranch offers guests an authentic Colorado glamping experience in a majestic alpine setting. The eight beautifully furnished luxe African safari-inspired tents are complete with a gas stove, luxurious ensuite bathroom, private lounging porch and thoughtful decor elements that fuse the rugged with the refined. All tents are equipped with their own mountain bikes for exploring 1,600 miles of back country trails. Those seeking relaxed resort amenities can head over to the resort’s sister property, Dunton Hot Springs, a perfectly restored 19th-century ghost town, to enjoy the natural hot springs, get a massage at the spa, hang out in the saloon, go to the gym or attend a yoga class.
Photo by Mendocino Grove
With breathtaking natural beauty all around, guests can enjoy a modern and authentic camping experience with comfortable sleeping arrangements and an array of deluxe amenities in the coastal woods of Mendocino. Enjoy all the romance of camping without the hassle of tent wrangling and gear. Mendocino Grove redefines the whole glamping experience with roomy tents, comfy beds, crisp white linens, down comforters and hot showers stocked with towels and EO Marin bath products. Mendocino Grove is so dog-friendly, they even have their own dog-washing station. This secluded historic property is located on 37 acres of woodland and a five minute walk to the charming town of Mendocino, a picturesque destination with stunning ocean views, gorgeous beaches and rivers, unique boutiques, art galleries and much more.
Photo by Under Canvas Zion
Nestled in red-rock desert just outside Utah’s magical Zion National Park, Under Canvas Zion offers an extraordinary lodging experience just as beautiful as the park itself. This glamping camp is located on 196 acres with close access to incredible trails, off-the-beaten-path adventures and stunning natural views that make Zion so famous. The Stargazer luxury tent offers a viewing window above the king bed and is extra beautiful at night. Enjoy a private ensuite bathroom, wood-burning stove and private deck in your desert oasis. Under Canvas Zion is perfect for couples looking for an elevated glamping trip. Join a yoga or pilates class or hike one of the many trails surrounded by views of soaring sandstone cliffs and spectacular natural wonders.
Photo by Big Cedar Lodge
Big Cedar Lodge's glampsite tents are located in Missouri's Ozark Mountains and sit along the 43,000-acre Table Rock Lake. With breathtaking views, each glamping tent opens up to the lakeside for an unforgettable experience. The 40 luxury camping accommodations may have a canvas tent exterior, but when you walk inside you'll find wood floors, heating and cooling available and a king bed with a chandelier hanging above. Each unit has its very own private stone patio area with a fire pit and outdoor tub for you to enjoy. You'll have access to a serene infinity pool overlooking the lake with picturesque views of the Ozark Mountains, and you'll also be able to take advantage of the 65-foot yacht on the property, Lady Liberty.
Photo by The Ranch at Rock Creek
Visit The Ranch at Rock Creek and stay in one of the all-inclusive glamping canvas cabins for a unique luxury camping trip in Montana. The canvas cabins are individually furnished in a rustic camp style, featuring private baths, comfortable beds with luxurious bedding and the creek running just outside your front door. The activities offered can keep you busy for days if not weeks. You can choose to spend your days fly-fishing, horseback riding, mountain biking, sporting clays, hiking, rope courses and the list goes on. End your day at the Granite Spa, which offers a wide selection of spa treatments and private yoga lessons overlooking tranquil scenery. Trust us, the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star services and amenities enrich the experience, making it the ultimate luxury glamping experience.
Photo by Ventana Big Sur
For any of you familiar with Big Sur, you’ve probably heard of the iconic 5-star luxury resort, Ventana Resort, with stylish rustic decor in the most gorgeous, Big Sur setting. So it only makes sense that Ventana has launched their very own glampsites. Ventana Big Sur offers a luxury resort meets glamping experience overlooking the dramatic California coastline. Big Sur is a majestic place providing a different way to connect with the great outdoors. The camp sites are tucked away for a truly immersive natural experience. Sleep on a custom-designed plush mattress with luxury hotel linens in one of their 15 safari-style canvas tents. You’ll experience the full splendor of Big Sur, while still relishing all the amenities and services of a world-class glamping resort.
Photo by Collective Hill Country
Collective Hill Country is located just 45 minutes from Austin and one hour from San Antonio, outside the charming town of Wimberley, Texas. The 225-acre ranch brings to life an authentic Texas flavor while providing guests with modern comforts. The sustainable, eco-friendly ranch is set alongside the Blanco River, and includes an organic working farm. Like the company's other locations in Vail, Colorado; Hudson, New York; and Big Sky, Montana, Collective Hill Country is comprised of 12 luxury canvas tents. Each tent has a king bed with the option to add cots for children, a wood burning stove, and a private bathroom. In addition to many onsite activities including an onsite spa, horseback riding and outdoor adventures, there are plenty of wineries, art galleries, and musical venues nearby to experience the town like a local. Enjoy food prepared by local chefs and evenings filled with campfires and s'mores.
Photo by Firelight Camps
Located in Upstate New York, Firelight Camps is where one goes to experience a revitalizing, comfortable, and stylish glamping destination. The camp features an on-site spa and wellness center and each tent comes with a balcony with an outdoor seating area. This trendy campsite is perfect for a weekend escape with some friends or a romantic city getaway. There are a number of outdoor activities to pass the time, including hiking through one of the Finger Lakes iconic gorges and cascading waterfalls. For those looking to take it up a notch, dive deeper into the forest with a Wild Foraging Hike - a hands-on adventure with local experts where you'll learn to identify and harvest a variety of wild Northeastern plants. The Finger Lakes offers many places to explore beyond the camp, including wineries, farms, restaurants, trails, lakes, art, music and theater.
Glamping gives adventure travelers the comforts of a safe retreat and the special amenities of a luxury hotel in some of the most remote and breathtaking areas. This new trend of luxury properties meets the great outdoors provides guests with the highest standards in personalized service and world-class luxury, while still allowing opportunities for wilderness adventures and a connection with nature. These experiences offer a retreat from the noise of modern life and a a cozy way to have a memorable, experiential vacation. All you have to do is relax and enjoy the unique experiences provided by these luxury glamping destinations.
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