Every dog deserves a chance at a loving home regardless of breed or appearance. By addressing breed discrimination, understanding the factors influencing extended shelter stays, and implementing practical solutions, we can begin to help all dogs find their forever homes! Continue Reading >
If you love dogs, but they make you sneeze, read on! While all dogs produce some allergens, some have nonshedding coats and are considered more hypoallergenic! Life with a furry friend might be within reach! Continue Reading >
By taking advantage of the warmer spring weather, you can help your dog develop important skills and behaviors that will deepen your bond and make them a better-behaved companion! Continue Reading >
It's important to be vigilant and keep your dog away from any areas or items that could be harmful. Accidental poisoning can happen in an instant, but with a few simple precautions, we can prevent it from happening to our four-legged friends. Continue Reading >
Knowing first aid basics will allow you to provide immediate care to your dog in case of an emergency. By properly administering first aid, you can save your dog's life and prevent further injury! Continue Reading >
As you build your plan to make personal progress in 2023, factor in some resolutions for your dog ownership. Investing time and energy in your animal will undoubtedly also benefit your overall well-being in the coming year! Continue Reading >
Well-meaning gift-givers don’t always think past the exciting moment of watching someone they love open a box to find a puppy with a red bow tied around its neck! Every year, many animals wind up at local animal shelters as the holiday decorations are taken down. Continue Reading >
Almost half the dogs trained to assist people with disabilities don’t graduate or go on to work in the service dog field. The silver lining is these awesome dogs who “fail” to become service dogs almost always go up for adoption! Continue Reading >
Just like people, dogs use verbal and nonverbal means to communicate. Barking is the most commonly displayed means of canine communication, so it is a good idea to try to learn what your dog is trying to say when he barks! Continue Reading >
Several shelters in Hawaii offer the chance for tourists to take a shelter dog for the best day of their lives. These animals spend much of their pre-adoption lives in a kennel, so this chance to get outside is a dream come true for them! Continue Reading >
As dogs age, they tend to develop lumps and bumps... learn why and what to do when you find them on your senior dog. Continue Reading >
Learn the difference between an emotional support animal and a service animal! Continue Reading >
Dog ownership can run a hefty pricetag. Use this guide to save money where possible! Knowing you have the resources to pay for your pet’s needs will be a relief for you -- and even allow you to splurge on a fun toy for him every now and then! Continue Reading >
Most experts agree that dogs need about 40 nutrients in their diets in varying amounts depending on factors like age and activity level. These nutrients include proteins, carbohydrates, fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. But beyond that, finding the right food for your pet can be a daunting task. Continue Reading >
The witching hour is a time each day when a puppy goes outright insane. Running haphazardly, jumping on furniture, biting any surface that gets in its way, and uncontrollable energy -- sound familiar? Read on! Continue Reading >
January 24 is National Change Pet's Life Day. A day set aside to raise awareness for shelter dogs in need, even those who can't adopt or foster can take steps to enrich the life of their dog. Continue Reading >
Waggle is committed to eradicating economic euthanasia and they are having unprecedented success… by saving one beloved pet at a time. Continue Reading >
We always prefer to take our dogs with us when we travel, but for the times we can't, read our tips to help you find the right care for your dog! Continue Reading >
Autumn means cooler temperatures, new sights and smells, and longer cuddles! Help your dog stay healthy so can make the most of all that fall brings! Continue Reading >
Often dogs have a hard time transitioning once summer is over. Help your dog as the kids head back to school with these helpful hints! Continue Reading >
One happy story of a senior dog's reintroduction to her long-forgotten crate. Continue Reading >
National Feed A Rescue Pet Week is here and organizers are looking for donations from animal lovers like you to help shelters meet the needs of the homeless pets in their care! Continue Reading >
Follow these steps to help create a harmonious relationship between your cat and dog. Continue Reading >
Read our guide to learn how YOU can make a difference for animals in your community! Continue Reading >
Protect and promote your dog's oral health by following these helpful tips. Continue Reading >
Did you know dogs can get a sunburn? Learn how to keep your dog safe from summertime hazards so you can both have a happy Memorial Day weekend! Continue Reading >
Dog hair all over the place? Shedding is a natural occurrence in almost every dog. Learn how to help manage your dog's coat! Continue Reading >
Eliminating the 'shelter' from the shelter system through fostering is a new focus for rescue organizations serving the homeless pet population. Continue Reading >
Some chemicals in fertilizers and mulch can make your dog sick if ingested. Know what to look out for - and when to contact your veterinarian! Continue Reading >
You and your dog can visit the National Parks and even become part of the team working to protect our country's natural resources! Continue Reading >
Are you in San Francisco and want to get out and about with your dog? Here are some awesome spots to check out with your four-legged friend! Continue Reading >
Spring cleaning is great for your home, but can be dangerous to your dog! Thankfully, there are now more options than ever for cleaning with pet-friendly products. Continue Reading >
Senior dogs make amazing companions and have a lot of love left to give. Check out these reasons why you should consider adopting an older pup! Continue Reading >
Our author's comprehensive review of the BARK brand of dog toys for you and your dog! Continue Reading >
The French Bulldog is becoming more and more popular because of its small size and adorable characteristics! Continue Reading >
Celebrate St. Patrick's day with your dog, support shelter dogs in need, and feel the luck of the Irish! Continue Reading >
Dog bites can be dangerous, scary and stressful. Learn what to do if your dog bites someone. Continue Reading >
Reflecting on reflective gear! Up your visibility game during early morning and late-night walks with your pup so that you both stay safe. Continue Reading >
When temperatures drop, dogs need special care. Follow these tips and ideas to keep your dog safe from frostbite, hypothermia and other weather-related injuries this winter! Continue Reading >
Adopting a pet does so much good! Bringing an animal home with you from a shelter saves a life, gives hope to other homeless pets, and brings joy to your world! Continue Reading >
Maintaining the health of your dog's teeth is super important to ensuring he lives a long and healthy life! Continue Reading >
Maximize sharing your small apartment space with your pup with these 5 great tips! Continue Reading >
Learn to care for your dog in the best possible way with our suggestions for the 5 best pet-care apps! Continue Reading >
All Hail, our new Dogs-In-Chief! Meet Major, President Biden's German Shepherd... the first ever shelter dog to live in the White House! Continue Reading >
All dogs can be house trained if you have the following simple ingredients: patience, consistency and a positive attitude! Continue Reading >
Training you dog can be time consuming and tedious! Set the conditions for success by following these 6 suggestions. Continue Reading >
As exciting as it is for humans, New Year's Eve can be scary and stressful for our dogs! Make sure your four-legged-friend is safe and happy during your celebration. Continue Reading >
The holidays are here and there is no better way to spread joy and love by helping dogs in need! Give, Foster or Adopt! Continue Reading >
Learn the story of Pero, and amazing sheepdog and his 240 mile journey! How do dogs find their way home? Continue Reading >
Colby has been in our family for almost a decade... it is important to let her know how loved and appreciated she is, just for being her! Continue Reading >
Does your dog suffer from allegies? Learn how to use an Elimination Diet to determine if ingredients in his food are making him itch. Continue Reading >
Helping your dog overcome his or her aggressive tendencies is an important step toward a healthy relationship with your pet. Here is one owner's story of how she helped his furry friend! Continue Reading >
Start your dog off on the path to a long and happy life with the basics... good food, good health and good behavior! Continue Reading >
Help your new dog feel comfortable, safe and loved! Learn how to make the transition to your home an easy one for your new family member. Continue Reading >
Share some screen time with your dog this Thanksgiving. Watch the National Dog Show and give thanks for all dogs - purebred and mixed-breed! Continue Reading >
Finding it difficult to get to they gym this fall? Work out with your pup! Your health, well being, and your dog, will thank you! Continue Reading >
Autumn is a great time to be a dog! Be a good caretaker and know what dangers to be on the lookout for during the fall months to keep fido safe. Continue Reading >
When you are ready to add a dog to your family, consider the temperment of the dog and the lifestyle of your family before choosing your fur-ever friend! Continue Reading >
Thinking about giving your dog a sibling? Be sure to take several factors into account before bringing home a second dog! Continue Reading >
Addressing the issue of behavior, taking into account both nature and the environment (nurture) of rescue dogs. Learn why you must train based on your dog’s responses to cues, regardless of background and upbringing. Continue Reading >
Chemicals often found in Halloween candy can be deadly for dogs. Learn what to keep your furry friend far away from, and what to do if he ingests something dangerous! Continue Reading >
Training your dog to navigate agility challenges is a great way to increase and improve your communication with your dog! Make sure he is ready for his first competition. Continue Reading >
One dog owner's story of how her dog's poop helped her veterinarian identify the causes for Lulu's illness. Continue Reading >
Often, signs of separation anxiety in dogs are misinterpreted as misbehavior. Figure out if your dog is in a state of panic and how to help him when you leave the house! Continue Reading >
Have you and your dog mastered the elusive art of recall? You can work to train your dog to always return to you when off leash! Continue Reading >
The canine flu poses a low threat to people, but can make your dog seriously sick. These tips can help keep your dog healthy through any dog flu outbreaks! Continue Reading >
Herding dogs are some of the smartest, loyalest dogs you'll ever meet. With a bit of understanding on your part - and the right levels of activity - your working dog can live happily in the city, even withouth a herd of livestock to tend! Continue Reading >
When you have decided you want to adopt or buy any pet, it is vital to make decisions with your head AND your heart. Continue Reading >
Dogs are just as much part of your family as your other family members. There’s no denying they show you love, you may just not realize it until the signs are pointed out to you! Continue Reading >
The intelligence of a pedigree is generally measured in one of two ways: the ability to follow new commands and their ability to perform them at least 9 times out of 10. Continue Reading >
When done properly, crating can be a very good experience for your dog. Continue Reading >
Giving your pet a luxurious life doesn’t have to be time-consuming, and you can provide for your pet even if you’re short on time. Continue Reading >
While some types of aggression can be reduced and sometimes cured, pet parents should never let down their guard. Continue Reading >
Thinking of traveling but can’t bear to leave your furry friend behind? You don’t have to! With these simple tips, you can ensure that your dog is along for the ride. Continue Reading >
No matter what behavioral problems you face with your dog, positive reinforcement training reshapes your dog’s behavior using kindness and praise. Continue Reading >
“Fighting like cats and dogs.” The old saying has some truth behind it, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Continue Reading >
There was a very special dog named Cocoa who always seemed to understand what I was feeling and was always there for me. Continue Reading >
Dogs, like humans, can develop allergies to things in their environment and to their food. They can even experience seasonal allergies! Continue Reading >
A dog is for life . . . not just for Christmas, according to an old saying Continue Reading >
You’re a responsible pet owner and your dog rocks, of course. With some training, you can get the AKC to back you up on that . . . and you get a title to brag about! Continue Reading >
When choosing to own a dog, you are choosing to positively impact your life by gaining a priceless bond, and you will find yourself wondering how you ever lived without a four-legged, furry friend. Continue Reading >
Traveling on vacation can be an enriching experience, especially if you get to enjoy a location you’ve never been to before. Yet, leaving our beloved dogs behind can be difficult at the best of times, let alone for a week or more. If you’ve been thinking of taking your pooch on a trip with you, here is how you can avoid any travel mishaps. Continue Reading >
You’re bringing home a new best friend. No, it’s not a new roommate or a friend from work or college. Instead, you’ve found one with four legs and covered in fur. Continue Reading >
Your house is on the market, and you are hoping for plenty of showings. Cleaning and preparing the house is probably the first thing on your mind. However, you also need to start thinking about your dog. If you have one or more dogs in your household, you are in good company. Continue Reading >
Much like humans, getting your dog to exercise is necessary for their health. Your dog may get bored of just roaming the yard around your house. You may want to consider taking him on an adventure, such as hiking. Going hiking can provide several benefits - Here are some of those benefits. Continue Reading >
Who among us hasn’t wished that our dog could talk to us? The truth is, however, our dogs communicate with us every single day. Their body language speaks volumes about their moods, their needs, and how they feel about you, their owner. Continue Reading >
For many dog owners, going out in public with their pooch is inevitable. They take their pups to restaurants and on trips, allowing them to be a part of the family every day. In many cases, these dogs become comfortable enough with their excursions to get socialized, meaning they can easily handle being around people and other dogs. Some pets, however, need a little training before they’re ready to hang out in public spaces, both for their comfort and everyone’s safety. Continue Reading >
When humans experience back pain, they will often see a chiropractor, but did you know that there are chiropractors that will treat your pet too? Yes, animal chiropractic is a real veterinary practice that is backed by the Animal Veterinary Chiropractic Association (AVCA). Many pet owners are sold on chiropractic – and it isn’t necessarily new. Continue Reading >
I vaguely remember this incident from the time when I was a toddler. I felt a gentle tug at my skirt while I was loitering in the corridors of our old Assam-type* house. I looked down to find a tiny snout peeking out through an opening in a wooden box, biting at the flowy material. It was a German Spitz that my uncle had brought along on his trip home. Continue Reading >
Imagine you are sitting on your couch, but are really craving a soda or a water. Wouldn’t it be nice to just be able to send your dog to go retrieve you something to quench your thirst? Or what about those large grocery hauls? Wouldn’t your furry companion be the perfect extra set of hands to help you carry those bags into the house? Lots of these types of tasks are teachable to any dog with the proper foundation and motivation. But how do you even get started in teaching something more complex like this? Learning and understanding the concept of backchaining can be a very helpful theoretical foundation to assist you in teaching these behaviors. Continue Reading >
It's often said dog is Man’s best friend. Through ups and down, through highs and lows, a dog will sense your feelings and be with you, faithfully and unconditionally. I've never known what it is to have a pet dog, neither the pros nor cons that come with it, if any. This is just a personal story on how I overcame my fear for dogs. Continue Reading >
As a whole, many of the dogs that I see come in for training arrive on my doorstep due to unsavory behaviors that a client is trying to train out of their dog. Many of these behaviors revolve around fear or aggression, such as reactivity. Removing undesirable behaviors from a dog’s natural set of responses can prove to be a challenging task - it does not happen immediately, and it requires some systematic work to help a dog to replace a poor behavior pattern with something that is more desirable. Continue Reading >
Canine obesity is a significant problem in the United states. An estimated 54% of dogs are obese or overweight. An obese dog is an unhealthy dog, a ticking time bomb. It is a suffering animal, often enduring great pain and has a shortened life span to look forward to. The problem is, many owners don’t acknowledge that there is a problem or don’t understand they are subjecting their dog to very serious health risks. Continue Reading >
Before we adopted dogs into their modern, cushy lifestyle, they used their many natural skills in the pursuit of food. We also used dogs for work, such as herding, hunting, and search and rescue. Continue Reading >
New dog owner here, and I am going to talk about poop. Or what happened to make me completely obsessed with my dog’s business. Continue Reading >
Previously, we discussed how to begin to build a recall with your dog. While for many dogs those steps help to build a reliable recall, some dogs are more easily distracted and will need some additional work to help further proof this behavior. Nothing beats the guidance of a one-on-one trainer, but below you will find some skills to practice to help build motivation for the recall. Continue Reading >
“Little Big Mouth.” That’s what one of our neighbors nicknamed our undersized English Setter Mix, who’s real name is Payton. The nom de guerre is well deserved though. Payton barely passed the 26 lb mark and everyone thinks she’s a puppy by her high energy levels, LOUD BORKS, and small stature. In reality though she’s somewhere between 8-10 years old and has recently been diagnosed with colon cancer. Continue Reading >
Many humans mistakenly believe that dogs get plenty of exercise by running around the backyard chasing whatever bounces into their boundaries. But nothing could be further from the truth, and the majority of activities dogs do on their own are in short bursts and don’t offer any real benefits. Dogs, like humans, thrive when their bodies stay in motion. Young dogs, especially, need regular exercise to expend pent-up energy. And when you exercise with your dog, you create a bond and establish patterns of good behavior. Continue Reading >
Everyone has that dream of being able to take their pup off leash at a park or the beach, but that dream can frequently turn into a nightmare if your dog does not have a reliable recall. Because the outside world can be SO stimulating for most dogs, this can be a very difficult command to build since distractions are more than prevalent. Fundamental skills should be developed to help build consistency for a solid recall. Continue Reading >
Sign up for monthly news from Barkswell.