Good Boy! How to Reward Your Pet Without Treats

Girl and her dog walking in a parkMost pet owners are guilty of falling back on treats as the “old, reliable” way to appease their pets. Granted, treats are an easy solution, especially when pressed for time. However, because it’s important to reward your pet for good behaviour (especially during training), it’s easy to see how a few treats here and there can quickly become a big problem.

With more than 50% of all pets being overweight or obese, resisting this old standby may save your pet from the health problems associated with weight gain and obesity. Thankfully, there are many ways to express your affection without the use of food or treats. Continue…

Dog Socialization: More Than Just a Day at the Park

Several pitbull puppiesOne of the most important aspects of raising a well-behaved, happy, and confident dog lies in effective dog socialization. It’s the key to how your pooch relates to other people and the world around him or her.

Dog socialization also ensures the safety of your dog and those he encounters. In fact, dogs who tend to have behavioural problems often have never been socialized or trained. Because socialization can be complex, we want to take a moment to answer common questions and address any confusion around this integral component of dog ownership. Continue…

It’s Elementary, Dear Watson: The Importance of Training Your Pet

Cute Staffordshire Bull Terrier puppy training on a red leash.Understanding an untrained dog’s behaviour requires some extensive deductive reasoning. Although your dog might jump on visitors or mangle your bathmat, he or she truly does want to please you. That’s why training your pet is so important. This is the best way to achieve better behavior, strengthen the bond with your pet, and make your home a more enjoyable place to live. Continue…