One of the main concerns you may have when it comes to interacting with a man’s best friend is the level of risk that might be involved with a particular breed. You may have received conflicting information, or you may not trust the validity of media reports because so many owners have told you about a wide range of experiences.
Well, the truth is that dogs of all types can and will show hostility to strangers, small children, familiar people, and even their owners. This unacceptable behavior stems from a number of factors including poor breeding, training, and treatment, but one of the most influential factors in behavior is its original purpose.
This article contains information about the most aggressive dog breeds. You will find some familiar names on this list, such as the American Pit Bull and Rottweiler, and you may find a few that surprise you, like the Beagle and Dachshund. Remember, there is a difference between being dangerous and displaying aggression.
Large dogs often get a bad rap because when they attack or otherwise act out they tend to do more damage than the smaller ones. Many small ones, especially terriers, were bred to hunt, and in many instances kill, animals larger than themselves. It appears that no matter how far removed from its ancestors, most retain the instinct and urge to do the work for which they were originally intended.
1. Chow Chow
One of the oldest known breeds, the Chow Chow is also considered to be one of the most aggressive. They stand approximately 17 to 20 inches tall and weigh 45 to 70 pounds. Their large size and thick coat made them perfectly suited as guard dogs. Some historians claim that they were originally bred to defend temples in China, Mongolia, and Tibet.
They were also used for hunting, herding, and pulling carts. There are accounts of Chows fighting alongside the Mongolians as they invaded China and Eastern Europe during the Middle Ages. With such a background, it is only natural that the breed still has an aggressive nature.
While not a typically active breed, Chows tend to focus their energy on giving affection to and protecting their owners. They are often referred to as “one-person” dogs who favor one member over others within a multi-person family, and are known to show little tolerance for the rest of the family. They may even perceive play between their owner and another person as a threatening to their owner and attack.
They have little tolerance for those of the same sex, and have been known to attack small dogs, cats and even children. When strangers come near, Chows will go on the defensive, bite with little warning, and sometimes have pressed the fight until the point of death.
Even experienced trainers have reported difficulties when training Chows. Their instinct to dominate clashes against even the most skilled trainers, whose attempts to correct has sometimes resulted in the animal lashing out. While Chows can be trained to become loving and loyal members of the family, they must be handled carefully and with plenty of patience. Learn more about the basic characteristic of the Chows in our article on the breed.
2. German Shepherd
Relative newcomers to the long tradition of breeding herding dogs, German Shepherds first appeared in the early 1900s to herd sheep and since then have taken a variety of roles all around the world. They have served in the military, on police forces, and as key members of search-and-rescue operation teams.
They are also highly regarded as service and therapy dogs, guardians of the home, and a few have even stared on the silver screen. They have been able to fill these important roles in society due to their loyalty and trainability, but at the same time, they also possess a fierceness that must be reckoned with.
Male German Shepherds stand approximately 25 inches tall and weigh around 80 pounds; females are slightly smaller. They are sleek, quick, and have an intimidating appearance. This appearance negatively influences their reputation as an animal that likes to show its dominance, which they will if they are allowed to. This attitude makes it difficult to trust them when other pets or children are around.
They do form strong bonds with their owners, and sometimes the bond is so deep that the dog will develop the inability to tell the difference between threatening and non-threating people or situations. They are known to give plenty of warning, but if the threat is not immediately removed, they will strike.
3. American Pit Bull Terrier
Perhaps the most notorious of all breeds, the American Pit Bull Terrier was bred to bait much larger animals, such as bears and bulls. Butchers would use them to control bulls in the slaughterhouse yards, but once this practice was ruled inhumane, inhumane humans began to use them to fight to the death in illegal matches.
While they have been used for more practical purposes, such as herders and feral pack hunters, they were more often than not bred as for illegal fighting in underground “pits.”
Source: empow-her.com
They are often used as attack dogs, there have even been man accounts of drug dealers training them to be used as a weapon against police during drug raids.
Pit Bulls stand between 18 to 24 inches tall and weigh between 30 to 60 pounds. They are compact animals, with a muscular physique and a very active temperament. If they don’t get enough exercise, they will attempt to burn off their energy by destroying furniture and just about anything else they can get their paws on. They are loyal, great companions, and strive to take part in all family activities; however, no matter how stable they may seem to be within a home, their history of being a fighter will always be lurking beneath. Check out our piece on how to train and raise a Pit Bull to help you manage this dauntless dog.
They typically do not get along with strangers or with strange dogs, and will often see either one as a challenge. They will also rebel against abuse, even if it is the unintentional sort delivered by children. Pit Bulls were bred to be fighters, and because of this, they will not back down from a fight. It’s this fact alone that has given them the reputation of being so vicious. This ill fame has led them to be banned in many areas across the United States and even entire countries.
4. Rottweiler
The Rottweiler has an extensive history as a herding dog, especially large livestock, such as cattle and were also used protect pens and stables from thieves and predators. They were used extensively for protection for merchants throughout the Middle Ages, and were even known to pull carts to market.
In later years, they were repurposed as police and military service dogs, and ultimately as guardians and family companions. But as much distance that has been put between history and the present, Rotties will always have the instinct to protect the territory of their masters. Our piece on the Rottweiler will help you decide if this is the dog for you.
Rottweilers can grow to 27 inches and weigh up to 115 pounds. They are a strong, powerful breed that is well suited to taking on the challenges they were always meant for. They display an air of confidence, and they are patient, usually waiting to see how a particular situation develops before taking action. They are loyal to their owners and seek to please them through guarding perceived territory and warding off intruders.
Rotties have dominance issues that even experienced trainers have difficulty controlling, and they have been known to rebel in response to anger. While there are often reports of them turning on their owners or going after other dogs, they focus most of their aggression toward strangers. If they perceive someone as a threat to owner, territory, or their own dominance, they will not hesitate to attack.
5. Doberman Pinscher
Originally bred by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann in the late 1800s to protect him while collecting taxes in dangerous neighborhoods, Dobies come from a line of mixed-breed shepherds and a number of others. Herr Dobermann’s idea was to create an intelligent, agile, and alert comapnion that would intimidate people out of robbing him, and his efforts became such a success that by the end of the century, Doberman Pinschers were filling roles as guard and police dogs all around the world.
They were even named as the United States Marine Corps official war dog during World War II. Their reputation for being ferocious is certainly warranted, because that is what they were designed to be.
Doberman Pinschers reach up to 28 and weigh between 70 and 75 pounds. Their size makes them perfect for the role for which they were bred, and they have been known to use this size to their advantage by charging fearlessly at threats they sense, often bowling over their targets, or pinning them against objects. If their target fights back, then the potential for it to attack violently greatly increases.
They are loyal to their owners, and make for great companions in that regard, but are known to have trouble discerning the level of a threat from strangers unless they undergo strict training. They are also more likely than most other breeds to attack other dogs. Know more of this dog when you read our article on the Doberman.
6. Beagle
Then modern strain of Beagle dates back to the early 1800s, but centuries before then, its ancestors had been prized scent hounds. The modern ones were primarily trained to run in packs to flush out and track down small game, and are still used for that purpose, although singularly or in pairs.
In some parts of the world, they act as service dogs to sniff out drugs and food items hidden in luggage. Due to their ingrained desire to hunt, they have a tendency to be easily excitable, which can lead to a display of aggression.
Source: zooplus.ie
Beagles are small to medium sized, standing approximately 15 inches and weighing between 18 and 35 pounds. They don’t appear to be hostile, and it may be hard not to think of Snoopy when you hear the name, but Beagles are rated one of the more aggressive breeds. One of the reasons could be that they are difficult to train. They tend to focus on scents, so any number of smells in the area can distract them.
Untrained or poorly trained dogs are usually more possessive than others, and will lash out at anyone who attempts to take something away from them, including game. Many owners have claimed to have possession issues with their Beagles, which is its way of displaying dominance. If this behavior is not corrected swiftly, it will begin to become an even bigger problem. Check out our article on the Beagle to help you understand this breed better.
7. Dachshund
Although there is much debate on the origins of the “sausage dog,” there is strong evidence to suggest that the Dachshund was bred to crawl into badger holes to root out badgers. They were also used to hunt all sorts of game, including fox, boar, and wolverine. To do this, they needed traits such as fearlessness and tenacity, and it appears that they got them in spades.
They can crawl into an animal’s burrow and will not leave until they have pulled it out by their sharp little teeth. Doxies are no longer used for hunting, but on the whole, they still retain much of the aggressiveness required to take on the likes of a badger.
Weiner dogs average about 8 inches tall and weigh about 14 pounds. Their size often gives them a pass for their behavior, but according to recent studies, they show more aggression than any other dog, regardless of size. They are extremely territorial, which not only translates to their homes, but their possessions as well.
They will not hesitate to bite small children if they believe that the child is attempting to take their toys. They are also extremely stubborn, and therefore, difficult to train and even more difficult to control once they have set their mind on something. All in all, Doxies have the ultimate “small dog complex;” they want to dominate as if they are trying to prove a point.
Dachshunds are apt to display aggression toward strangers and other dogs at higher rate than most canines, but they outrank all others when it comes to turning on their owners. There have been numerous accounts of them biting or snapping at their owners, especially when not getting their way. One owner even reported that she had to put down her Doxie because it gnawed off her toe when she was asleep.
8. Chihuahua
There is not much in the way of history behind the Chihuahua to indicate why it is considered one of the most aggressive types of dogs. In fact, it seems that the only real purpose they served was to be raised as food for the Aztecs (though that is debatable). They weigh only 4 pounds, but don’t like to be pushed around.
They can be stubborn and difficult to train, but they are staunchly loyal to their owners and accepting to the presence of other Chihuahuas. As far as strangers are concerned, these tiny powerhouses are quick to bare their teeth, growl, and bark incessantly. They are known to bite strangers, small children, and other dogs that they believe are encroaching on their territory.
Much of the source of aggression may be explained by the fact that people tend to discipline Chihuahuas somewhat differently than they would a larger pet. Owners often allow their dogs to act out aggressively because the behavior is considered “adorable” in such a tiny thing. If it is allowed to act this way, it becomes learned behavior, therefore, it is apt to act out with aggression more often.
9. Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier traces its roots back over 200 years to a time when dogs of all sizes were bred for specific tasks. This breed size was perfect for hunting small game, especially foxes, and their ability to dig, bark, and act aggressively toward the quarry played a huge role in their popularity.
After World War II, fewer people hunted so Jack Russells became family companions instead. While they are now primarily in homes, they retain the high energy level and assertiveness they’ve always had.
Jack Russell Terriers stand a mere 14 inches tall and rarely weigh more than 18 pounds, but their personalities are twice as big. They can be great family companions, even to small children, and will play for as long as they are allowed.
They are easily trained to do tricks and tasks that require a lot of energy, but this is only because it is in their nature to extremely active at all times. They are hunters, and if left alone with nothing to do, they will attempt to hunt. Jack Russells are famous barkers, and often show their teeth to and even bite strangers.
Jack Russells have the distinction of despising the company of other breeds. They view other dogs as invaders into their territory, so when confronted with one they will often go immediately on the attack. They particularly act hostile toward those animals who they know to be aggressive, irrespective of size. Also, they rarely tolerate dogs of the same sex, so it is never wise to leave two males or two females unsupervised.
10. Yorkshire Terrier
Another diminutive member of the terrier group, the Yorkshire Terrier was developed in the mid-1800s to hunt vermin in clothing mills and mines. They were also brought along on hunts to root out the small and medium-sized games from their dens. Yorkies had to be extremely bold to take on such a task, as well as defend themselves against the claws and teeth of badgers and the like.
In the mid to late 1900s, their ability to grow long, silky hair attracted the attention of the upper classes, and soon became a popular lapdogs. Unfortunately, no matter how innocent the brushed hair and bows make them appear they are not as far removed from breaking the necks of rats and battling foxes as many of their owners would like to believe.
Standing approximately 7 inches tall and weighing little more than 7 pounds, full-grown Yorkies may not appear much of a threat to anyone, but they do have an aggressive streak. As terriers, they remain hunters, who will attempt to seek out prey if given the opportunity, and depending on the dog, the size of the target may not matter. They also have a reputation for not getting along with members of their own breed, especially when confronted with those of the same sex.
Owners with multiple Yorkies have reported that their pets developed a pack mentality, one in which the weakest would be singled out for attack and denial of food. They are a territorial lot who will challenge strangers and small children alike with barking and nipping, and sometimes even biting. Owners who do not assert themselves as masters will have a particular challenge attempting to control a Yorkie’s temperament because he will believe that he is the boss.
Don’t Hurry to Judge
Any dog faced with a confusing or threatening situation has the potential to become violently aggressive, but some breeds are more predisposed to carrying out that threat. Training and treatment are key factors in an animal’s temperament, but it is always a good idea to know the history behind a type of dog and what it was bred for before choosing one as a family pet. Another point to consider is the environment in which it will live.
Finally, anyone who interacts with dogs must also remember that they shouldn’t base their judgments about the dangerous animal may pose on its size. Small ones are just as liable to turn on their owners as the large ones, and in cases like the Dachshund, are even more apt to do so.
A dog sleeping bag might sound funny to some but dogs love them! They’re very similar to the sleeping bags made for people and are created from the same materials but they’re scaled down to a comfortable size for dogs.
They provide the perfect nest and are especially great for dogs who enjoy burrowing down under the covers. They also provide a place for a dog to call its own, which is highly recommended to all dog owners.
Dogs should have a bed of some kind for many reasons, not the least of which is because it keeps them from going to sleep in random spots throughout the house like in the middle of a pathway or on the furniture that they know they’re not allowed on.
Why Buy a Sleeping Bag?
Source: k9ofmine.com
Sleeping bags are great for all kinds of dogs. Large or small, furry or hairless, young or old. You should buy a sleeping bag for your dog if you’re in the market for a new bed, you’re going on a camping trip with your dog, or you just want to try something different. For camping tips that you can use, see our article on the do’s and dont’s of backpacking with your canine friend.
Sleeping bags for dogs are certainly different; they’re a unique type of bed with features that you can’t find in anything else. In addition, a bed introduces a routine to your dog’s life and helps him to feel secure, much the same as a crate can be a dog’s safe haven and a beneficial training tool for owners.
It’s useful to know exactly where your dog is at night so you can keep a general eye on him and make sure he’s not up to no good. Many people also have their dog lay on his bed when he’s getting excitable or is in the way when they have guests over.
If you’re looking for a sleeping bag for that purpose you might like the Noblecamper sleeping bag as it’s like a normal dog bed and a sleeping bag in one.
1. Versatility:
One of the best parts about them is that you can use them for many different things, which can’t be said about most other kinds of dog beds. For instance, no need to buy a new one when you want to go camping – simply use the one you already have.
2. Convenience:
Source: rover.com
Most dog beds aren’t easily transportable due to being big, bulky, and heavy. However, sleeping bags can be rolled up to be made smaller, they aren’t awkward to carry and their material is designed to be lightweight so that it dries quickly and can be carried comfortably in a backpack.
A sleeping bag like the Pet sleeping bag – large ticks all the boxes and is big enough for a large-sized dog which can sometimes be difficult to find in sleeping bags.
3. One time purchase:
They’re durable and made to last a long time. Like sleeping bags for humans, they last for years so they’re not something you really have to re-purchase unless you need a warmer one.
You can avoid that by buying one that’s warm enough from the start. Consider a cave-type sleeping bag like the L.A.Y. Pet Lifestyle sleeping bag that will allow the dog’s body heat to become trapped inside.
4. Doesn’t fall off:
Source: insider.com
Many dogs are restless sleepers and their movement ends up knocking off the blanket that you’ve draped over your dog. You don’t have to deal with that with a sleeping bag.
Depending on the type of sleeping bag, the dog can crawl in by himself or curl up on top of it.
5. Price tag:
They’re sold at a wide range of prices. They’re very inexpensive on the lower end of the spectrum but on the higher end, there are sleeping bags that are better quality. You have to weigh the pros and cons.
Spend more and have it last longer, or spend less and possibly be unsatisfied with it. However, even the ones on the higher end are still very affordable; sleeping bags are generally no more than $50 to $100.
6. Warmth:
Source: keepdoggiesafe.com
Some dogs can’t produce enough body heat to keep themselves warm, especially breeds which have a low percentage of body fat and very little fur to insulate them such as greyhounds, chihuahuas, and hairless breeds.
These dogs need something to snuggle up in and sleeping bags fit the bill perfectly.
Do You Go Camping?
Source: be.chewy.com
Even if you let your dog sleep in your tent with you he’s going to get a bit chilly sleeping on the bare bottom of the tent so unless you want him trying to steal your sleeping bag, you’re going to have to give him something to lay on. A sleeping bag is simply the most convenient bedding to use for camping trips. If it works well for people, why not use the same thing for dogs? It just makes sense.
There’s a reason why people use sleeping bags themselves when going camping. They’re easy to roll out, they often come with a carry case to prevent the sleeping bag from getting wet when hiking and to make it easy to carry, and they keep you much warmer than blankets do.
Some of them, like the Chuckit Fetch Games travel bed, also repel moisture. One satisfied customer said that despite the inside of the tent and the bottom of the sleeping bag being wet with condensation, the top portion of the sleeping bag stayed dry, and therefore, so did their dog.
They’re not even just good for camping; sleeping bags can also be used for vacations, road trips, hunting trips and overnight stays at the vets. They can be used in virtually any space, from a car to a crate. Wherever your dog fits the sleeping bag will fit too. You can read more about this topic in our complete guide to backpacking with Fido.
How Old Is Your Dog?
Source: firelightcamps.com
Dogs that are older can get cold easily, especially if they’ve lost some weight. Rather than having to provide additional heat you can simply provide a sleeping bag and your dog will be kept warm and toasty with his own body heat. Senior dogs have different needs, so read on caring for your old dog to be better equipped.
It will also give him a nice soft place to rest his aging joints, which is another advantage to a sleeping bag for dogs: they’re great for all kinds of health problems such as dogs that have arthritis, have lost weight due to illness, or are incontinent. You can chose a sleeping bag that specifically meets their needs.
This could be a sleeping bag with extra padding for an arthritic dog, one that has polyfill insulation for an underweight dog or a wipeable and machine washable sleeping bag for dogs that are prone to urinating in their sleep.
If you’re searching for a machine washable sleeping bag that’s also fairly warm and comfortable then you can look at the Chuckit Fetch Games Travel Bed. Many people have reported how easy it is to wash and how much their dog loves it.
Does Your Dog Have Anxiety?
Source: petkeen.com
Beds are important to all dogs but particularly a dog with anxiety. Dogs that are anxious naturally crave a safe, quiet place to rest. The sleeping bag can be placed in a quiet corner of the house and when he’s anxious he can be trained to go to his bed. A sleeping bag for dogs like the Snoozer Luxury Cozy Cave can be a great place for him to go when, for example, there’s a thunderstorm.
Many dogs are terrified of thunderstorms and try to find a place to hide during them. The cave shape of this sleeping bag not only allows him to hide but also keeps him warm at the same time.
Find out how your dog can deal with another kind of worry in our guide on how your dog can cope with separation anxiety.
What Should You Look for?
It’s difficult to know what to look for in a sleeping bag without first considering how your dog likes to sleep, if he gets destructive with beds, and whether he tends to get cold or hot at night. Observe his behavior and base your decisions off those observations so that you know the sleeping bag will be well suited to his particular needs.
If your dog tends to chew on everything, read our tips on how to put an end to destructive chewing before buying a sleeping bag. You also need to know what exactly you’ll be using the sleeping bag for.
This is important as what you should look for largely depends on what you will be using it for. Is it for camping, simply a warm bed for indoor use, or a mixture of both? If you think you’re going to be using it outdoors at all than definitely go with a water-resistant sleeping bag.
Also consider what kind of material it’s made from. It needs to be warm enough to produce enough heat in cold conditions if you’re going to be using it outdoors. If it’s purely for indoor use than you might want to make sure that it’s not going to be too warm.
Although, some owners have found that their dogs like to snuggle back further in the sleeping bag when they’re cold and lay closer to the outside of the sleeping bag when they’re warm so you don’t necessarily have to worry about it being too warm.
Source: thedogclinic.comIt’s just something to keep in mind:
There’s no one size fits all with sleeping bags. It’s best to match the correct size bag to your dog so that it’s just snug enough. Sleeping bags are always labeled as large, medium or small according to which size dog they can accommodate.
Look at the list of materials that it’s made from. You want to make sure it will feel comfortable to your dog and won’t feel too stiff or coarse. The outside layer is generally nylon due to its waterproof qualities, while the inside may be polyfill, cotton or other types of fluffy materials.
Pay particular attention to the base of the sleeping bag. Many people report that the base part of some sleeping bags are too flimsy, thin, overstuffed and otherwise inadequate. According to many reviewers, this is the case with the Trademark Global Plush cave, unfortunately.
A lot of people overestimate how big the cover is. If your dog enjoys burrowing underneath blankets you may want to make sure that the cover will be big enough for him to burrow under completely. That’s the one main criticism with the Sofantex Plush cave sleeping bag.
It gets a lot of praise on Amazon and most dogs seem to love it, but some people feel that the cover looks larger in the picture than it actually is in real life and so they were disappointed when it turned out that their dog couldn’t fit all the way under the covers as they had hoped.
To give you an idea of several real products and how well they are rated you can view the models below.
These are just a small selection of some of the best sleeping bags on the market.
Pet sleeping bag from Mac Sports: This sleeping bag is very flexible; not only is it perfect for camping but it’s also great for using at home for any sized dog. It’s big enough for large dogs but many people use it for their small and medium-sized dogs as well and they haven’t run into any problems doing so. Also, as several reviews point out, it’s both cheaper and of better quality than most other sleeping bags.
Alcott Explorer sleeping bag: All around an excellent sleeping bag and very convenient to use. It’s easy to take care of as it can be rolled up, unzipped, washed and put into its travel bag easily. Convenience ends up being a big factor when it comes time to wash it or when you’re hiking and have to unroll it and roll it back up each day. And as an added bonus, the customer service is said by one customer to be outstanding.
Chuckit Fetch Games travel bed: The Chuckit is extremely soft and comfortable and a lot of reviews focus on both the fact that their dogs love it and on the fact that it’s made of the strongest fabrics. It holds up to a lot of washing and traveling.
Sofantex Plush cave: This is a great product, especially for the fairly low price. It receives numerous 5-star reviews though, so it’s not one of those cheap sleeping bags that’s too small or misshapen for almost any dog to use. One of its best features is that you can unzip it and remove the fabric from the inside so that you can wash it. You can also add more fabric that way if you were so inclined.
Noblecamper 2-in-1 dog bed and sleeping bag: One of the more expensive sleeping bags, but it’s worth it. It’s ideal for extremely cold weather and it’s available in different sizes, so it would probably be your first choice if you were camping at a high elevation or similar. Due to it being specially made for camping, it has all the associated perks such as coming with a carrying case, being lightweight, and having the ability to attach it to a dog’s backpack.
L.A.Y. Pet Lifestyle: This is one of the few sleeping bags that dogs can really properly burrow down into. The large majority of sleeping bags marketed towards small to medium dogs that are barely big enough for a chihuahua are rampant but this sleeping bag offers a refreshing change from that.
What Are the Different Types?
Source: nonstopdogwear.com
There are a lot of makes and models therefore research is necessary to ensure that you’re purchasing the best sleeping bag for your dog. Some dogs have different tastes so you have to be selective when shopping for a sleeping bag for dogs.
For example, maybe he doesn’t like the ‘cave’ type sleeping bags but would appreciate a more traditional kind. Think about how your dog likes to sleep and that should help you make your decision.
Does he like to get under the covers? Perhaps a cave sleeping bag would be ideal then. Or maybe he prefers to stretch out and he gets hot quite easily, do you think a traditional sleeping bag would be better.
Traditional: These look like the typical sleeping bag that you would use yourself for a camping trip but they’re smaller and made with dogs in mind. For example, they might be made to withstand a bit of abuse from dogs that like to scratch at their bed.
Cave: Cave sleeping bags are the ultimate bed for a dog that likes to snuggle. They’re very cozy looking and insulate well.
Dog bed: Dog bed sleeping bags have what looks similar to a dog bed as the base and the sleeping bag part comes over the top of the bed, making a cave-like structure. However, these are different from the cave types of bags because they’re all-in-one, while the dog bed types are two separate pieces. Some dogs don’t like to crawl in them on their own so this kind would be better suited for such dogs.
Overall, choosing a sleeping bag for your dog is fairly straightforward even though it does require a small amount of research to properly choose the right one for your individual dog. It’s always a good idea to know a little bit about what you’re buying for your dog so that you can first ensure that it’s worth the money, and most importantly, that it’s a safe, reputable product.
Bringing a new pup to your home is always a touching experience. Once the pup has become a part of your family, next comes the difficult task of having to pick a catchy term of endearment for them.
You can pick their name from any field of life that you are passionate about, but you’ll want to make sure that the name is recognizable without being too common. Is there really such a name? Plenty—if you decide to go for literary dog names, that is.
The world of literature is enriched with countless terms and characters; pick any name, and chances are people who heard you calling out to your dog will instantly understand where you got the name from.
But because there are so many options, no two dogs in the neighborhood would end up having the same name. Literary dog names also usually sound sophisticated and unique. It could also help you meet new people—those who heard you calling your dog and realized they had the same taste in literature as you.
Are you interested in giving a literary name to your dog? Don’t worry; you would not need to go through a thick bundle of books to narrow down your options to a list of literature-inspired names. Just sit back and relax; we have rounded up a passel of the catchiest and the most practical literary names (both characters and authors) for your bestie.
Literary Dog Names for Females
Source: freepik.com
Straining a vast domain like literature, finding a suitable name for a girl dog is tougher than finding a name for a boy dog. After all, it wasn’t until recently that equal rights for women started to become a highly supported cause.
Back then, it was very, very difficult for women to pick up the pen and become an established author. But that just goes to show how relentless and inspirational these women were. Even when all odds were against them, they did not give up and managed to produce some of the most influential works in the history of humanity.
Here we have compiled a comprehensive list of literary dog names female. Some of these names are inspired by characters in famous literature while others are derived from the authors themselves.
Adela: A character from a novel penned by Dornford
Adelina: From ‘the Young Elites’ by Marie Lu
Agatha: As in Agatha Christie
Aibileen: A name taken from ‘The Help’ by Kathryn Stockett
Alcina: A name used by an Italian poet
Ann: Inspired by a canine known as ‘Little Ann’ from ‘Where the Red Fern Grows’
Anna: ‘Anna Karenina’ by Leo Tolstoy
Aurora: A name inspired by a fairytale
Beatrice: As in ‘Much Ado About Nothing’
Belle: Inspired by Mirabelle (‘The Shopgirl’ by Steve Martin)
Bianca: From ‘The Taming of the Shrew’ by Shakespeare
Bronte: Inspired by Charlotte Bronte, the author of ‘Jane Eyre’
Carrie: A name taken from Stephen King’s novel
Celie: ‘The Color Purple’ by Alice Walker
Cleo/Cleopatra: A beautiful and controversial queen whose name has echoed down the corridors of history and literature countless times
Daisy: Inspired by ‘The Great Gatsby’ by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Dalloway: From ‘Mrs. Dalloway’
Damsel: A poetic term
Desdemona: Othello’s wife in Shakespeare’s play
Dinah: Do you remember the pampered cat from ‘Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland’ by Lewis Carrol? It’s the name of a cat, yes, but it’s not too farfetched to name your canine after her
Eleanor: From ‘Eleanor and Park’
Elinor: Taken from ‘Sense and Sensibility’
Emma: A character in a novel by Jane Austin
Estella: ‘Great Expectations’ by Charles Dickens
Evangeline: A poem by ‘Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’
Francie: Name your cute pup after the lovable Francie Nolan
Galadriel: An elven queen from Tolkien’s ‘Lord of the Rings’
Gretel: Inspired by ‘Hansel and Gretel’
Gwendolyn: A character from one of Oscar Wilde’s plays
Hazel: Inspired by ‘The Fault in Our Stars’
Hermione: A leading character in the ‘Harry Potter Series’
Laika: The first ever animal to orbit our planet. Her journey was depicted in a children’s book called ‘Laika’
Laila: Inspired by ‘A Thousand Splendid Suns’ by Khaled Hosseini
Lassie: One of the most lovable and well-known dog characters—depicted in the novel ‘Lassie Come Home’ written by Eric Knight
Lisbeth: A name taken from ‘The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo’ by Stieg Larsson
Maya: Inspired by the great author ‘Maya Angelou’
Mina: Inspired by Mina Harker of ‘Dracula’
Moxie: From ‘The Subtle Knife’ by Philip Pullman
Nana: Wendy’s dog in ‘Peter Pan’
Ophelia: From ‘Hamlet’
Peggy: From Enid Blyton’s ‘The Secret Island’
Penny: inspired by Enid Blyton’s ‘Cherry Tree Farm’
Perdita: A dog character from ‘101 Dalmatians’
Phoebe: A name taken from JD Salinger’s ‘The Catcher in The Rye’
Pippi: From Astrid Lindgren’s ‘Pippi Longstocking’
Polly: Inspired by Eleanor H. Porter’s ‘Pollyanna’
Posy: From Noel Streatfeild’s ‘Ballet Shoes’
Rosalind: Inspired by ‘As You Like it’
Rowling: The author of the legendary ‘Harry Potter’ series. Give this name to a pup that never gives up until she reaches her goal (and she always does. With a bang)
Scarlett: A female character from ‘Gone with the Wind’
Sheena: Queen of the Jungle
Tess: Thomas Hardy’s ‘Tess of the d’Urbervilles’
Tiggy: Inspired by Sophocles’s ‘Antigone’
Titania: The name of a fairy queen featured in ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ by Shakespeare
Verona: A city mentioned in ‘Romeo and Juliet’
Winnie: Inspired by Natalie Babbitt’s ‘Tuck Everlasting’
Winona: Inspired by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s ‘The Song of Hiawatha’
Zooey: Inspired by JD Salinger’s ‘Franny and Zooey’
Zora: Call her Zora after the author of ‘Their Eyes Were Watching God’
Literary Dog Names for Male
Source: cosmodoggyland.com
The world of literature is brimming with names suitable for a male dog. We have handpicked the best literary dog names male for you.
Some of these names are inspired by literary characters while others by real-life authors. Without further ado, let’s take a look at our collection.
Achilles: Trojan War Hero from Homer’s ‘The Iliad’
Aesop: The name of a famous fable writer
Ahab: Inspired by Captain Ahab from ‘Moby Dick’
Amory: From ‘This Side of Paradise’
Anton: The inspiration for this name is ‘No Country for Old Men’ by Cormac McCarthy
Aragorn: Try this name for a brave pup, or one that’s good at tracking and hunting
Argos: The faithful dog of Odysseus from Homer’s ‘The Odyssey’
Arya: Inspired by Arya Bark
Aslan: A name taken from ‘The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe’ by C.S. Lewis
Atticus: From ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’
Atwood: ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’
Augustus: From ‘The Fault in Our Stars’
Balrog: From ‘Lord of the Rings’
Bandit: Derived from ‘Smokey and the Bandit’
Banga: From ‘Master and Margarita’
Bingley: The inspiration is ‘Mr. Bingley’ from ‘Pride and Prejudice’
Blanche: From ‘A Streetcar Named Desire’
Bobby: A dog character that starred in a heart-wrenching story of a canine’s faithfulness for his deceased owner; depicted in ‘The Tale of Greyfriars Bobby’ penned by a Scottish author in 1912
Bodger: A canine character from Sheila Burnford’s novel ‘The Incredible Journey’
Bozo: Inspired by ‘Know-Nothing Bozo’ from The Non-Wonder Dog
Bram: Inspired by ‘Dracula’
Browning: How about using this name for a pup with a brown coat?
Buck: The touching story of a dog who got stolen in the ‘Call of the Wild’
Bull’s Eye: A feared canine character from Charles Dicken’s ‘Oliver Twist’
Butts: As in ‘Doctor Butts’
Byron: Lord Byron
Caddie: Pick this name if you believe your pup to be as brave as Caddie Compson
Carl: This name is inspired by a picture book known as ‘Good Dog, Carl’
Cash: From ‘As I Lay Dying’ by William Faulkner
Clifford: Try this name for a large dog breed with red hair
Cujo: A dreadful canine from Stephen King’s 1981 novel ‘Cujo’
Dallas: From ‘The Outsiders’
Dan: A short name inspired by ‘Old Dan’ from ‘Where the Red Fern Grows’
Dante: ‘Divine Comedy’
Darcy: Every pet parent believes their doggy to be as handsome as Mr. Darcy from Pride and Prejudice’
Diogenes: A dog in Dicken’s ‘Dombey and Son’
Dodger: ‘Oliver Twist’
Dorian: The name is derived from ‘The Picture of Dorian Gray’ by Oscar Wilde
Edmond: A name derived from ‘The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe’
Elf: A good name for a small dog
Fang: A suitable name for a heavyset dog. The name comes from the ‘Harry Potter’ series
Findus: A name taken from a children’s book
Fluffy: Hagrid’s three-headed dog
Flyte: A name inspired by ‘Sebastian Flyte’
Gale: From ‘The Hunger Games’ by Suzanne Collins
Gamgee: Samwise Gamgee from ‘Lord of the Rings’
Gaspode: Taken from ‘Discworld’
Gatsby: Of course, the name is inspired by ‘The Great Gatsby’
George: An Irish Playwright
Gimli: How about trying this name for a small dog?
Gladstone: This name is taken from ‘Sherlock Holmes’
Godot: Inspired by the literary piece ‘Waiting for the Godot’
Hank: A crime fighter pup from John Erickson’s book
Holden: A name inspired by ‘The Catcher in the Rye’ by J.D. Salinger
Homer: A Greek writer
Howl: A name derived from ‘Wizard Howl’ in ‘Howl’s Moving Castle’
Huck: Tom Sawyer
Huckleberry: Finn
Ishmael: From Moby Dick
Jasper: Name him Jasper after the author Jasper Fforde
Jip: A lovable, loyal, yet irritating pooch from Charles Dicken’s ‘David Copperfield’
Kazak: Check this name out. It’s taken from ‘The Sirens of Titan’ by Kurt Vonnegut, Jr.’
Lestat: A character from Anne Rice
Louis: A character from Anne Rice
Lumos: The name of a light spell in Harry Potter
Lysander: A catchy name inspired by a Shakespearean character
Maurice: A name inspired by ‘The Amazing Maurice and his Educated Rodents’ by Terry Pratchett
Micah: Inspired by ‘Liar’ by Justine Larbalestier
Mouse: A funny name from ‘The Dresden Files’ by Jim Butcher
Mutt: A cuddly companion from the literary piece, ‘The Dog Who Wouldn’t Be’
Pongo: A fictional dog from the children’s book, ‘101 Dalmatians.’ Try this name for your Dalmatian
Quixote: A name inspired by ‘Don Quixote’
Rin Tin Tin: A dog from ‘Rin Tin Tin: The Life and the Legend,’ by Susan Orlean
Romeo: A name suitable for a romantic pup
Rowan: A character from Anne Rice’s novel
Rumi: The name of a poet
Sam: An Irish playwright
Santiago: A suitable name for a heavyset dog; the inspiration behind the name is ‘The Alchemist’ by Paulo Coelho
Sebastian: Inspired by ‘Sebastian Flyte’
Sherlock: What could be a better name for your smart dog?
Sirius: A dog from ‘Harry Potter’ who is actually his godfather
Snowy: A cute name for a dog with white hair; the inspiration behind the name is the famous doggy companion of Tintin in ‘The Adventures of Tintin’
Tennyson: The poet
Terrain: Prince Terrain from ‘Bridge to Terabithia’ by Katherine Peterson
Thoreau: Henry David Thoreau
Tock: Inspired by ‘The Phantom Tollbooth’
Tolkien: The author of the ‘Lord of the Rings’ trilogy; one of the most revered male authors of all time
Took: Try this hobbit’s name for your inquisitive small pup
Toto: What could be a more suitable name for a cute, tiny black dog? Just as in ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’
Tybalt: Go Shakespearean with this name!
Winfield: A name from ‘The Grapes of Wrath’
Wishbone: The wonder dog
Wrap Up
Picking a dog moniker from a domain as vast as literature seems quite easy. Literature provides countless naming options; these names are all pretty recognizable, but not all of them are commonly used. It’s your choice whether to pick the name of a very popular character that everyone is naming their pet after or a less common but no less recognizable name that makes calling out to your dog at a crowded dog park a simple task.
Most of the literary names (especially the old ones) are heavy and impractical (e.g., Rosencrantz, Guildenstern, and many others in the same vein). Before settling for a name, make sure it is epigrammatic and allows your tongue to roll it easily.
A dog lying on the floor with three books in front of him
Remember, you’re going to utter your dog’s name many, many times. So make sure it is easy to say. Hopefully, this article has made the task of finding a distinctive literary name for your new furry friend a tad easier.
Training your dog is essential. It’s one of the most basic ways to show just how much you love and care. You can choose to work with one or you can choose to train your dog on your own. It will all depend on the kind of lifestyle you have, your energy, and your schedule. To help you determine if training on your own is best for you, we’d share answers to the most frequently asked dog training questions.
Understanding them will help you see the importance and particulars of training. Some owners even hire expert trainers like DogBehaviouristLondon, who can dedicate time, effort, and energy to solely training their beloved dogs.
What are the main benefits of dog training?
Source: pexels.com
The following are the main benefits that you and your dog will enjoy during and after dog training:
Stronger bond between you and your dog – training will allow you to spend more time with your dog. This in turn will allow you to know more about your dog. You will also allow your dog to get to know you more. You will be able to share positive experiences that will improve your overall wellness. It will also improve yours.
Your dog will be more confident – your pet will have a good sense of self as your training will make them understand that they can do good things. This will be the case if you will use positive reinforcement.
Your dog will be more sociable – training will teach boundaries. Knowing about boundaries is the key to making any pet become sociable. A well-trained dog is a prerequisite for making the most of doggy day-care and dog boarding services which make life more convenient for dog owners.
You and your dog will effectively have additional safety precautions – training will allow you to make your dog be extra sensitive to cues. It will also improve your listening skills. It will be easier for you to get your attention when in public.
It will be easier for experts to train your pet- this will be the case if you’d choose to train your dog on your own initially. As they will already be familiar with your training methods, they will find it easier to work with experts.
How do I teach my dog to sit, stay, and come?
Source: pexels.com
Sit: Start by having your dog sit before offering a treat. Once your dog is sitting, give them a treat and praise them. If your dog does not sit when commanded to do so, begin again by having them sit before offering a treat. Repeat these steps until your dog reliably sits when asked.
Stay: To teach your dog to stay, start by providing them with a toy or bone that they can play with while you are training. When commanded to stay, have your dog put the toy or bone away in an approved spot and give them a treat. If your dog fails to obey the command, start over again by giving them a toy or bone before issuing the stay command. Repeat these steps until your dog reliably stays in one spot when asked.
Come: To teach your dog to come when called, have them sit near you with their leash in hand. Instruct them to “come” by pulling on the leash gently enough so that they walk towards you but do not let go of the leash. Once they are close enough, give them a reward (such as a treat or pet). Continue training this way until your dog comes whenever called.
Will training improve my dog’s behaviour?
Pet’s don’t naturally know how to behave “well” when around humans. What you call ‘bad behaviour’ is more or less natural behavior that dogs are not fully aware of. This is where dog training can greatly help. For starters, your pet is not behaving badly, they are just behaving like dogs. training will not make them behave better, but it will make them assimilate better with your lifestyle. In training, they will learn to use their noses, mouths, and paws in such a way that is not chaotic. Their training will teach them things that are okay to do and things that are not okay to do. This, in turn, will result in having a kind of behavior that suits your lifestyle.
What is the most recommended method of training?
Source: pexels.com
There are numerous kinds of methods that you can use when training your pet. The following are the most popular ones:
Scientific training
Positive reinforcement
Electronic training
Clicker training
Relationship-Based Training
Mirror Training or Model-Rival Training
Dominance or Alpha Training
Experts highly recommend the use of positive reinforcement. It is highly recommended because it does not require extensive professional training. Any owner can do it without the help of experts. It simply involves that act of consistent giving of rewards every time a dog will do something “right” or “correct.” This in turn will lead to training to always do the right thing and exhibit the preferred behavior.
When can I start training a new puppy?
It is never too early to start training a puppy. You can start training your puppy as soon as you bring them home. For best results, it’s best to start training once your puppy is fully vaccinated. But such can be too late for some as it is best when a puppy is trained when 6 – 16 weeks old as this is its period of significant brain development. Such can be utilized to easily assimilate a puppy to all aspects of your lifestyle. During this stage, it’s best if your puppy could begin doing the following already:
Meet new dogs
Meet new people
Meet new cats
Go to different locations
You can make it easier for you and your puppy if you’d enroll your puppy in a socialization class. Young dogs enter their adolescent phase when they are 8 – 18 months old. This period requires a different kind of training as this is considered their “teenage years.”
Can I still train an old dog?
Source: pexels.com
Yes! No dog is too old to undergo training. The saying that you can’t teach any new tricks is totally untrue! People who adopt rescue dogs know this for a fact. Even old rescues can very well be trained to allow for easy household assimilation. You can teach any age just about any kind of trick or command. You just have to be realistic though and know that it will take time, patience, and solid dedication. You should never lose hope as it is very possible! Old ones can easily undergo the following training:
If you’re considering dog training, it’s important to know the answers to some frequently asked questions. We’ve addressed a few of the most common queries about dog training and provided you with tips on how to get started. Armed with this information, you’ll be well on your way to becoming an effective dog trainer!
Any dog owner wants to have a healthy pup that is full of energy, has a good muscle tone, vibrant and thick fur and that will live a long, happy life. In order to achieve that, the food ingested by dogs plays one of the main roles.
The chosen food should provide enough nutrients and the necessary energy needed for the pet’s body to function properly. In dogs, the energy requirements differ depending on breed, lifestyle, and activity level, so making a list of top dog foods that apply to every dog is almost impossible.
Therefore, a pup’s diet must be in harmony with its development stage, physiological or pathological condition, and so on.
In general, you can feed your dog with homemade food, dry food, semi-moist food, or canned food. The supermarkets and the pet shops are crammed with many types of dog food that can be both good and bad.
Their labels are confusing since they use all kinds of terms such as holistic, organic, or super-premium when describing their products. This situation makes it difficult for a regular person who does not research for hours to pick the best food for his/her puppy to eat.
It could even be overwhelming for certain people to read all the labels and finally take a decision. There is also special food for small and large dogs, for dogs that need to lose weight, for active dogs or for lazy dogs. There are a few guidelines that can be followed by new owners when they are trying to buy the right food for their dogs.
Must-Have Ingredients & Top 10 Dog Food Brands
Source: thedailymeal.com
What does healthy food mean when it comes to feeding your puppy? It means that it should contain all the ingredients that ensure the most basic nutritional needs of a dog, a good source of protein, adequate fats, fibers, and moisture.
The ingredients from dog food are different depending on the manufacturer and the brand, but regardless of their provenience, they should meet certain standards.
Still, any dog food should contain proteins, amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients important for the proper development of a dog. Depending on the producer, dog food may contain animal and vegetal proteins, grains, and other carbohydrates as well.
The top 10 dog foods by the brand are as follows:
Dry foods
Canned foods
1
Acana
Animonda
2
Bosch
Happy Dog
3
Eukanuba
Herrmanns Bio
4
Hill’s
Hill’s
5
Hill’s Prescription Diet Canine
Lukullus
6
Purina Pro Plan
Rinti
7
Royal Canin Breed
Rocco
8
Royal Canin Size
Royal Canin
9
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet
Schesir
10
Taste of the Wild
Terra Canis
The aforementioned classification is made based on data merging from different lists that include opinions from veterinarians and pet owners.
Acana – is produced with fresh ingredients that come from a Canadian region named Alberta. This is a family business that has especially conceived recipes, which meet the food requirements of any type of dog, based on the canine carnivorous nature. It has received several international awards for its excellent quality.
Bosch – produces healthy dog food that also offers complete and balanced nutrition of the highest quality. It is especially mixed in order to meet the needs of different dog breeds.
Eukanuba – is a premium dog food that contains all the needed nutrients for a canine. Their food does not contain flavors, artificial colors, or artificial preservatives.
Hill’s Science Plan – is qualitative dog food. In case your doggy gets sick, Hill’s offers a large variety of products with therapeutic roles from their Prescription Diet range. It includes a wide range of very tasty dry food that has an adjutant role in a variety of health problems such as urinary infections, skin problems, obesity, or kidney problems.
Purina – the dog food from Purina contains turkey, lamb, and chicken and beef meat too. Meat is basically the most important ingredient in their recipes. It is highly nutritional, tasty and healthy as well.
Royal Canin – provides food for every dog size and breed. Their recipes differ according to the needs of young, small, old or huge dogs. They also have a therapeutic range of products.
Taste of the Wild – is made in the United States of America. It is a tasty dry food for dogs that does not contain cereal and it was conceived for all dogs, regardless of their breed or age.
Animonda – is a quality food based on the nutritional needs of dogs. It stands for quality, suitable recipes and natural ingredients.
Happy Dog – this brand offers healthy dog foods that meet every individual need that dog is known to have. It contains no artificial preservatives or chemical additives and it is prepared without soy.
Herrmanns Bio – this dog food is exceptionally made out of organic ingredients. This applies to both meat and vegetables, as well as to rice. It is a gastronomic delight for all dogs, especially for the sensitive ones.
Lukullus – this brand of dog food is based on carefully chosen ingredients mixed in perfect proportions. It offers an authentic taste and ensures all the nutritional requirements of a dog.
Rinti – the canned food from Rinti is fitted to your pup’s needs. It is made out of pieces of pure meat and it is delicious. It is based on a natural recipe.
Rocco – is a type of canned food that promises to provide everything that your dog needs in terms of nutrition. It has no chemical additives and contains whole pieces of meat.
Schesir – a combination of tuna and poultry, Schesir is a great choice when it comes to canned food for doggies.
Terra Canis – this food is prepared in Bavaria. It is based on a simple recipe, but it is quite appreciated and was also rewarded with prizes throughout the years.
Deciphering Dog Food Labels
On average, a dog should have a diet containing 50% vegetables, 40% meat and 10% grain. Adult dogs require a minimum of 18% proteins in case of dry food and the little ones require at least 22%.
Also, every dog needs to eat a certain quantity of fat, depending on their activity level. Approximately 4% of a pup’s diet must be constituted of fibers. In order to compare different dog food, you should read their labels.
Deciphering dog food labels is not the easiest thing out there, but it is a great and effective way to determine whether or not the product is worthy of purchase and to be fed to your dog. With a little practice, you can find a highly digestible product that does not contain unwanted ingredients. The ingredients are listed in order of weight.
The following indicators should be included on dog food labels: minimum amount of protein, minimum amount of fat, maximum amount of fibers and maximum humidity level. One trick that the producers use, is to divide one ingredient in its components, making it look like it is actually found in a lesser quantity than it really is.
Dog food made in America should also meet certain federal regulations to ensure that the ingredients aren’t dangerous to your dog. You can read what those are in our article about what makes good dog food.
You can find chicken listed first, followed by corn flour, corn gluten, and corn bran. This might make you believe that chicken is the main ingredient, but the corn ingredients might exceed the chicken weight.
Look for natural and organic ingredients. A package of dog food that has the word “natural” written on it is not necessarily 100% natural. Avoid products that have corn, cornmeal, soy, and wheat in their composition. These are hard to digest for dogs and they can cause allergies. Instead, choose products that contain barley, oats, millet, and brown rice.
Depending on your doggy’s ability to digest, check the protein’s digestibility. This means that you should choose fish because it can be digested easily. For example, muscles and organs are hard to digest. You can do the same with carbohydrates. In addition, avoid anything with preservatives, additives, or any other parts of an animal that is not raw meat.
Choosing Between Canned or Dry Dog Food
Canned food is really appreciated by most dogs because it is very tasty. However, a huge disadvantage of canned food is that it alters quickly after it is opened. It can be kept in a cool place, but no owner would want to feed his/her dog with something that is not fresh.
This type of food is highly beneficial for dogs that suffer from urinary tract problems. Also, it is ideal for obese or fat dogs because it has a larger volume, therefore the dog will consume less. However, it is quite rich in fats and low in carbohydrates.
Semi-moist food contains humectants such as sugar, so read the label carefully if your dog has weight problems before you feed it with something totally inappropriate. On another train of thought, canned food contains less amount of starch than dry food does.
Starch is known to contribute to weight gain to both human and puppies, so that is a positive aspect. Last but not least, canned food for dogs is easier to eat for puppies that have dental problems and that cannot chew properly.
If you’d like to find out which brands are the best for your pup, please read our article on the best brands of canned dog food available.
Dry dog food is a commercial product that can satisfy the nutritional needs of dogs. It is presented in an easily digestible form. The final composition of this food is the result of intensive research lead by numerous nutritionists and vets.
This is why this type of food can ensure your pup’s nutritional needs with minimal effort from your side. It can be kept for a long time without having alteration issues and, also, it is the only type of dog food that can be consumed at discretion because the danger of alteration does not exist.
This way of feeding is chosen by newly dog owners because it is useful for their growth and in case of absence from home. However, next to every bowl of dry food there has to be another bowl with plenty of fresh water to avoid dehydration.
Another advantage of dry food for dogs is that it helps maintain dental health thanks to the abrasive action and slows down the formation of dental plaque and tartar on the puppy’s teeth.
Although there are considerable differences between canned and dry dog food, you don’t always have to choose between them. Experts believe that the most balanced diet for a puppy can be achieved by combining these two types of food. A mixed diet is considered to be the healthiest one. Also, you can add supplements to your doggy’s meals.
These should not be given randomly though. Only a vet can recommend the right ones depending on your pet’s individual characteristics, which should also be established by a specialist. There are bones with calcium at any pet shop that you can buy safely for your dog to chew on.
Different Types of Food for Young and Adults Dogs
Your dog’s type is an essential selection criterion and it is always correlated with the age of the animal. Along the way, while your puppy grows and develops, its type of food changes as well. Not only the type of food must be different, but the amount ingested must be changed too.
According to this type of categorization, there are four main sorts of food, as it follows: starter, junior, adult and senior.
The starter food type is a variant designed for younger pups that have up to two months. The nutritional needs of a very young specimen are different from those of an adult. This is because a young body needs a higher amount of vitamins and proteins in order to develop.
In most cases, the starter food type is recommended for pregnant females to provide the necessary nutrients during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Such food is characterized by a soft texture, easily digestible and which contains a double or a triple amount of protein compared with any conventional food for adult dogs. It has the advantage that it can be later used as complementary food.
The food for junior dogs is recommended to weaned puppies, aged up to 1 year, and for pregnant females too. Also, newly mothers can rebuild their body weight after a prolonged breastfeeding period by eating this type of food.
When it comes to the intake of nutrients, this product is similar with the starter one. This is because the doggy still needs extra vitamins and proteins to develop in a harmonious manner. It comes in the form of canned food and dry food, which can be used complementary, as recommended by the veterinarian.
The food especially conceived for adult dogs is recommended to be consumed by doggies with ages between 1 and 7 years. This sort is not as rich in proteins as the other ones, but it retains the necessary input in order to keep any dog healthy and to provide enough energy throughout the day. Both canned and dry adult food can be used according to the dog’s preferences and requirements.
Senior dogs have special food at their disposal too. After 7 years of life, a dog’s metabolism tends to change, so it needs another sort of food. Basically, its body begins the aging process and requires the correct dose of nutrients that keep it balanced. This type of food is found canned and dry. A sedentary and a very active senior dog must be fed differently.
A healthy puppy is a happy puppy that looks gorgeous. The way a dog’s fur looks and a dog’s level of energy is closely related to what that dog eats. You can make your doggy jump of joy if you give it the best food there is and if you do not forget that it needs change, so its food must be changed as well.
The best brands and the best combinations are not easy to identify, but as long as you keep in mind all the guidelines listed above, you will be able to always make the right choices for your lovely companion to be healthy, look beautiful, and to feel the best way possible as well.
Try not to get tricked by labels that are meant to deceive you or to look for dog food that is cheap. In the long run, you will spend more with a dog that has not been eating healthy than with a dog that has. Always choose to pay more when it comes to dog food. You can save money in other domains of your life that do not regard the health of your gentle, friendly, and loyal animal.
As a last resort solution, you can cook for your puppy, but how to cook for it might require too much energy from your side and more money too. Also, the risk of not doing it right is higher than you might think. However, we do have a handful of great recipes you could consider trying out, so take a look at our article on recipes for homemade dog food.
Your animal’s health is the most important aspect, so whatever you do for your doggy should be done in order to achieve a 100% health certificate.
Salmon is a fantastic alternative to animal sources of protein, such as chicken or beef. This fish provides an adequate protein intake but contains much less saturated fat, making it a perfect source of protein for maintaining your dog’s optimal body weight.
White dog food with salmon is packed with vitamins A, PP, B7 (H), C, D, E, B12, as well as valuable omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, and contains a number of trace minerals, such as zinc, selenium, magnesium, and phosphorus. The protein is easily digestible and provides a longer feeling of fullness.
Grain-Free Diet for Digestive Health
Grain-free dry food is recommended for dogs for several reasons.
First, because of the development of food intolerances or the presence of allergic reactions to the components of the food containing grains. Some dogs have intolerances or allergic reactions to wheat, corn, or soy. Grain-free dog nutrition eliminates these ingredients, which can help reduce the risk of food allergies or intolerances. These types of foods are also recommended for animals with the following characteristics:
Grain sensitivity – The digestive system of some pets is characterized by sensitivity to cereal crops. This characteristic manifests itself in the form of eating disorders, digestive problems, skin problems, and other symptoms. Grain-free foods are a kind of alternative that allows you to eliminate grain components from your pet’s diet.
Improved digestive health – Some dogs’ digestive systems can better digest and assimilate grain-free ingredients, such as meat, fish, fruits, and vegetables. Grain-free foods can promote better digestion and nutrient absorption, improving overall well-being.
Weight control and health – Grain-free foods, especially those that are high in protein and low in carbs, can help control your pet’s weight and maintain better health. This is especially important for dogs that are prone to being overweight or have trouble breaking down carbs.
The health of pets depends a lot on dog nutrition — foods that meet the needs of pets and give them the strength and energy to live an active life.
Choosing the Right Grain-Free Salmon Formula
High-quality animal protein is a key component for perfect coat maintenance and physical health. This is the building material for any tissues in the dog’s body. Veterinarians say that salmon meat is the best in terms of health benefits. Food with such ingredients is a good choice for pet owners who notice that their pet suffers from skin issues.
Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids which are good for the skin and coat. It also doesn’t accumulate mercury and other heavy metals from the environment.
Salmon is rich in vitamins and minerals. Due to salmon oil, the coat discoloration is eliminated, and your pet’s coat will become healthy, silky, and shiny. The result will be even more noticeable with quality dog food as it contains RCE ‘(Red Coat Enhancer Balanced Amino Acid Complex) that helps protect and enhance the natural pigmentation of the brown and red coats.
Additionally, your dog will benefit from other advantages of this food, including:
Optimal digestion – It contains easily digestible proteins and prebiotics.
High-quality product – This food is prepared based on fresh ingredients.
Functional nutrition – It satisfies the individual dietary needs of your dog.
What’s more, this food contains a number of vitamins, including:
Zinc for a better metabolism;
Calcium and magnesium for the health of bones, teeth, and muscles;
Iron for respiratory and musculoskeletal system stabilization.
Dry food gets high quality due to modern technologies in product manufacturing. Each product is subjected to mandatory analysis at all stages, according to the requirements of production control.
The balance of natural ingredients, proteins, fats, and nutrients is the concept of all the brand’s foods and the key to the health and longevity of your pet.
However, the grain-free concept is still new, and some pet owners believe that if a food is grain-free, it doesn’t have enough carbs. But that’s not true. These brands prove that by offering grain-free alternatives for a healthy pet diet, and you can find out more about it by visiting the page.
Understanding the Role of Carbohydrates in Grain-Free Diets
While grain-free dog food eliminates grains, it does not mean a lack of carbohydrates. Instead, these diets often incorporate alternative carbohydrate sources like sweet potatoes, peas, and lentils. These alternatives provide essential energy, dietary fiber, and various nutrients. They also have a lower glycemic index compared to traditional grains, which can be beneficial for dogs with specific health needs, such as diabetes or weight management.
Salmon: A Sustainable and Safe Protein Source
Salmon, as used in dog food, is not only beneficial for your dog’s health but also a sustainable choice. Responsibly sourced salmon ensures minimal environmental impact and maintains biodiversity. Moreover, unlike some other fish, salmon is less prone to accumulating harmful substances like mercury, making it a safer protein source for your pet.
Addressing Common Myths About Grain-Free Diets
There are misconceptions about grain-free diets that need clarification. One common myth is that grain-free diets are inherently unbalanced. However, brands like these ensure a balanced nutritional profile by carefully selecting and combining various ingredients.
Another myth is that grain-free diets are only for dogs with allergies. While they are beneficial for such dogs, these diets can also offer general health benefits for all dogs, especially in terms of digestive health and energy levels.
The Importance of Transitioning to Grain-Free Diets Properly
Switching your dog to a grain-free diet should be a gradual process. Abrupt changes in diet can cause digestive upset. Start by mixing the grain-free food with your dog’s current food, gradually increasing the proportion over a week or two. This allows your dog’s digestive system to adjust to the new food composition.
Personalized Nutrition: Tailoring Diet to Your Dog’s Needs
Every dog is unique, and their dietary needs can vary based on age, breed, activity level, and health conditions. While grain-free salmon-based food is generally beneficial, it’s important to consider your dog’s specific needs. Consultation with a veterinarian can help determine the most appropriate diet plan for your dog, ensuring they receive the right balance of nutrients for their individual health requirements.
Long-Term Health Benefits of Grain-Free Salmon Diets
Adopting a grain-free salmon diet for your dog can have long-term health benefits. Apart from maintaining a healthy weight and improved coat condition, such diets can contribute to better heart health, reduced inflammation, and enhanced immune response. The combination of high-quality proteins, essential fatty acids, and carefully selected carbohydrates can support overall health and potentially extend your pet’s lifespan.
Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to Dog Nutrition
In conclusion, choosing a grain-free salmon-based diet offerings can provide a multitude of benefits for your dog. It’s not just about avoiding grains; it’s about offering a balanced, nutrient-rich diet that caters to your pet’s overall well-being.
Remember, a healthy diet is just one aspect of your pet’s care. Regular exercise, routine veterinary check-ups, and lots of love are equally important in ensuring a happy, healthy life for your furry friend.
The curious and inquisitive nature of a dog is what gives them adventurer-like qualities. But sometimes, their love to explore things may land them in great trouble. There are many cases where dogs somehow end up with foreign objects lodged in their throat or windpipe.
Choking and unable to breathe, this could be a life-threatening situation that requires immediate aiding techniques like CPR and the Heimlich maneuver. Unfortunately, most pet owners don’t know how to give a dog the Heimlich maneuver.
Why do you need to learn it? When faced with such an undesirable situation, you can’t just sit and wait for veterinary assistance. It is your time to act immediately. Knowing how to perform the Heimlich maneuver will allow you to save your dog’s life where it would have been lost otherwise.
If you don’t know how to perform it, no need to worry since we are here to guide you. Once you’re done with this article, you will have mastered different ways to perform it effectively—theoretically, of course (you’ll still need to apply these theories into actual practice to truly master them). Scroll through our step-by-step guide to release your furry friend from a choking nightmare.
How Do You Know Whether Your Dog Needs Help?
Source: unsplash.comDogs are always up to eating weird things. And it is very common for them to get some stuff caught in their mouth or windpipe. Pieces of sticks, toys, balls, rawhide, cloths, and bones are the most common culprits in such cases. So how would you accurately determine whether he needs your intervention or not?
As long as your dog is coughing, it can be categorized as safe and he should be given a chance to dislodge the object himself (best case scenario). Wait for a bit — if your dog succeeds, that is great.
After that, you should give him a reassuring pat on his head. But if he fails to dislodge the object on his own and the trouble continues, he needs your help. The situations when you must intervene include:
When your pooch is choking but not coughing
When your furry friend is facing difficulty in inhaling and exhaling
When your dog seems panicked
When your dog is pawing at his face continuously
If your pooch only coughs occasionally—especially with gaps during which you find him doing OK—that means he is not choking. This could be a normal cough or throat infection. You can still check on him for your satisfaction or if you’re worried about some other health issues.
Steps to Relieve Your Dog From Choking
Once you have set your mind to helping your choking friend, the following are the basic steps that you must attempt:
Step 1: Confirm it!
Step 2: Back Blow Method
Step 3: Gravity Method
Step 4: Different Heimlich Maneuver Methods According to the Dog’s Size
Step One: Confirm It!
Obviously, the pooch can’t say what he is going through. It is necessary to confirm whether the dog is really choking or not yourself. As mentioned above, the most common signs that a dog shows in such cases include—retching, hacking, pawing at his mouth, gasping, and producing a severe cough with bulging eyes.
To check the problem, the first and the most challenging thing to do is to open your pup’s mouth and look for the obstruction. We know that this dog is your most trustworthy companion, but in a situation like this, dogs may act frantically and you can get bitten. Following are some tips to help you get out of this predicament with your dog and yourself intact:
Don’t do it alone! You must have another fellow assisting you.
Arrange a flashlight to check dog’s mouth and throat.
Use both of your hands to open the pooch’s mouth while your fellow holds the flashlight and take a look inside.
Accurate hands positioning is crucial to avoid a dog’s bite. Hold the top canine teeth with a strong grip with one hand. Then use the other hand to open the mouth. This is the most recommended method for saving yourself from getting bitten.
Pull down your pet’s tongue to get a clearer view in the throat.
In case you spot the foreign object inside, try to get it out manually (with your fingers). If you can’t reach it, you can use the flat side of the spoon to bring it closer.
Removing the foreign object involves the risk of pushing the obstruction deep inside the trachea, which might cause severe damage to the internal tissues in dog’s throat.
Remove the object only if it feels like it is coming off easily. If it feels stuck, do not use force.
Step Two: Back Blow Method
Before you apply the Heimlich maneuver, try the back blowing method first. Sometimes, simply following this method helps in excreting the object.
Give your furry pet about five solid blows between his shoulder blades. If your dog coughs out the foreign object, then problem solved. If your dog does not, then it’s time to attempt some other measures.
Step Three: Gravity Method
Yet another effective method you may try is the gravity method. Simply raise your canine’s hind legs in the air. The legs should be higher than his head. This is usually an effective method. Gravity force will usually kick in and help the object gets expelled conveniently. However, if this method isn’t enough either, then it’s time to attempt the Heimlich maneuver.
Step Four: Heimlich Maneuver Methods According to the Dog’s Size
Source: akc.org
Heimlich maneuver techniques vary with the dog’s size as there is one technique for small dogs and another for medium to large-sized breeds.
1. The technique for Medium-sized Dogs
This technique involves the use of force against the ribs. Pressure should be generated around the lower ribs area to dislodge the stuck object from the trachea. Hands are placed below the last rib and you should squeeze in an inward to upward movement.
One thing you need to be aware of: pet owners with less or no prior experience might cause injury to their dog’s ribs by pressing excessively. Unlike human ribs, a dog’s ribs are softer and more flexible. So, you have to be extra careful while performing this technique.
2. The technique for Larger Breeds
For dogs that are bigger in size, the Heimlich maneuver can be tried in different ways. If you don’t get the desired results from one, try the other. Check out the most common positions used for de-choking medium to large sized dogs:
Kneel down behind your pet (if he is heavy to lift) and wrap your arms around the dog’s waist in a standing position. Use some force to press below the ribcage.
Secondly, kneel down in the same position and use your fist to thrust forward and upwards on the lower abdominal area. Hopefully, a few quick and forced thrusts would help in dislodging the obstruction. Remove the object with your finger instantly when expelled.
Get your dog in a laid down position (preferably with a pillow under his hindquarters) on his right side. Put some pressure on his abdomen area with your hands giving upward thrusts. Doing this would force the air into the lungs to move into the esophagus. Once you’re done, you are quite likely to see the object expelled.
Get your dog laid flat on his stomach. Use your palms to press on the area around the shoulder blades. Keep on repeating the same action for about 5 times.
You can try an upside-down position as well. The dog’s back should be against your chest. Wrap your arms below the ribcage and clasp your hands strongly. Use your arms to give some quick and sharp pushes to remove the debris.
3. The technique for Small Breeds
If your dog is small, the above methods may be a bit too extreme. Small sized dogs are actually easier to handle in such situations.
Simply follow these steps:
Get the small dog in your lap and hold its back against your chest with one hand.
Use the other hand’s fist to perform quick thrusting movements (four to five times) in an upward and inward direction right below its abdomen or at the end of its sternum.
Once you are done with that, sweep your fingers across his mouth and look for the object in the airway. If the object is dislodged, remove it using your hand.
In case the obstruction is still not dislodged, lift your small-sized dog with his hind legs. Suspend him in the air and sway him for a few times and then check again for the foreign object.
Things to Remember!
Source: bowwowlabs.com
We have mentioned a number of methods to dislodge the obstruction. If you do not get success with one technique, try the other. Keep on repeating them till the problem is solved.
In some extreme choking cases, the dog might lay unconscious. How would you give the Heimlich maneuver to an unconscious dog? Lay him down on his right side and opt for CPR (blowing air in the dog’s nose about 5 times, with his mouth closed) till the breathing is restored. To remove the obstruction, CPR and the thrusting of the abdomen go side by side. Keep on recovering his breath (with CPR or artificial respiration) and thrusting his abdomen till the foreign object comes out.
Remember, CPR is recommended only when your dog does not have a pulse.
You must know how to check a dog’s pulse. While you would typically check a human’s pulse by pressing your fingers onto the skin of their neck or wrist, for a dog the easiest way to check it is by going for the inner thigh—on the hind leg and almost at the spot where the leg meets the body.
If you find it hard to detect the pulse in an aforementioned way, check his heartbeat
In case you have found the pulse but your dog is not breathing, avoid CPR and go for the artificial respiration method instead.
A dog’s throat consists of small and delicate bones that function to support the dog’s tongue. Make sure you are not mistaking these bones as the obstruction. Accidental pulling on any of these bones may cause severe oral injury.
It is really important for pet parents to keep calm while facing it all.
Keep your dog calm as well. If the dog gets agitated and out of control, cool him down by pouring cold water on his belly, feet, and ears.
Is It Necessary to Visit a Veterinarian?
Whether you are successful or not at dislodging the foreign object, you can’t deny the role of a veterinarian. You must visit the expert in both cases. If the Heimlich maneuver technique does not work for your pet, call the vet’s office to arrange immediate medical assistance.
Even if you have dislodged the obstruction successfully, you must still visit your vet for additional guidance. A vet would look for some injury or damage to the dog’s throat and guide you accordingly.
Tips to Prevent Such Situations
Prevention is the best solution for such cases. There are a lot of practices that can save your pet from such a painful experience, like:
Make sure you are not offering fish or poultry with the bones still mixed into your dog.
Not every object is suitable for your pup. It is recommended that you give him toys that are designed specifically for dogs.
Chews, large food chunks (gristle), and dog T-bones are some of the items that must be avoided for dogs.
Last but surely not least, always keep an eye on your dog. Supervise your pooch to see what he is chewing on.
Wrap Up
Dealing with a choking pet is a heart-breaking and tough situation. But the sooner you act, the better it will be for your dog (and for you obviously).
We hope the aforementioned tips, techniques, and suggestions would be helpful for you in getting your pet out of trouble. One last thing that we would like to suggest is to look for some pet first-aid courses in your city. As a vet may not always be present to help you, a properly trained pet owner can sometimes be the only one who can save their pet from any kind of tragedy.
Toys help a dog avoid boredom while exercising its mind. However, it is not necessary for you to spend a lot of money on toys for your dog because you can make several ones in very simple ways and with minimum expenses. Most DIY dog toys are easy to create, cheap, and do not require too much time either.
Luckily, by using a little imagination and a few objects that you have lying around the house you will keep your dog entertained. Your dog does not care if you buy a designer toy or if you make one yourself. In addition, you could create such toys for your friends’ dogs, not just for yours.
The most important thing for a dog is to play and interact, not the price of its toys or their colors. The main criterion you should have in mind when creating toys is to be safe for your four-legged friend. Depending on how destructive your dog is, you should avoid stuffing the toys with materials that it could swallow. You could save around $9 just by investing 5 minutes of your time in order to make a toy based on a tied rope.
As for materials, try to select the softest things, made from a mixture of cotton and hemp, as they are less likely to contain indigestible fibers. For example, strips of fleece are ideal in order to manufacture certain dog toys.
14 Ideas for Dog Toys You Can Make at Home
1. Dog Toy With a Tennis Ball and a Sock
A sock and a tennis ball are enough in order to create a toy for your dog, which it can bite and chase around the house. An old tennis ball and an old sock that you have around the house are the main materials that you need.
You must insert the ball inside the sock and then make a knot to prevent the ball from sliding out. It is really important for both the ball and the sock to be clean because your dog might associate them with other people if that’s the smell they’re carrying.
You can use this toy to play fetch, or you can pick a long sock for it and tease your dog while you hold one end and it is chasing the other.
2. Dog Toy With a Tennis Ball and Rope
An alternative to the previous toy is one with a tennis ball and rope, which requires a process that is a little more elaborate, but not hard to achieve.
The idea is to incorporate a thick rope that cannot be destroyed easily by your dog inside the tennis ball. The procedure is as follows: you should cut the tennis ball at 2 opposite ends using a cutter. The incision should be as wide as the rope is.
Then, you should insert the rope through one hole and push it out through the other hole. So, the rope should go through the 2 openings. Next, you should tie knots on both sides of the ball, leaving the string of rope longer at one of the ends. This is because you can grab that end and play with your dog, moving the ball wherever you want without being too close to your dog.
3. Dog Toy With a Tennis Ball and Treats
Source: dog-eh.com
Another use of a tennis ball to make a dog toy is simpler than the one mentioned previously. You still need a cutter to make an incision into the ball, horizontally, in the middle. This incision should be approximately 2 inches long.
It should provide enough room for you to put dog treats inside it. Your dog will struggle to get the treats out and eat them, so this toy will keep any dog occupied for as long as there is food inside it.
When it is finished, you can always add more. If the tennis ball deteriorates in time, then you can repeat the steps. It is unlikely for a dog to get bored trying to obtain food from it. This is also an inexpensive toy.
4. Dog Toy With a Plastic Bottle
This is a dog toy designed to keep it occupied. The main quest for your dog would be to get treats out of the bottle. Therefore, you can take a regular water bottle and start cutting holes inside it, which are big enough for the treats to come out, but tight enough for the dog to put in a little effort in order to take them out. You can simply take the cap off and introduce the treats, but then you must put it back on and let your dog do everything else.
Remember to take off the label from the bottle. Your dog might choke on it. This toy is also great for mind training. Your dog will try to get the food out using multiple methods. It might end up even crushing the food into smaller pieces in order to get it out easily. It really depends on its skills.
5. Dog Toy With a Plastic Bottle and Rope
Source: k9ofmine.com
This toy is just a variation of the one above. Since the example above is not an interactive dog toy, you can make it interactive by adding rope to it, which allows you to take control of the bottle and make your dog’s quest even harder to complete.
Your dog’s mission would still be to take the food out of the bottle and eat it, but not before being able to grab it and hold it long enough in order to achieve its purpose. You should tease your dog for a while, but occasionally you should let it take a treat to keep it interested.
6. Dog Toy With a Plastic Bottle and a Sock
This dog toy has no connection with the other 2 bottle examples. Besides the fact that you can hide treats inside a bottle and that is appealing to your dog, you should also know that the sound a plastic bottle makes is also appealing to it.
Therefore, you need a plastic bottle and a longer sock, preferably a knee-high sock. Take of the air out of the bottle, flatten it, put the cap back, and then insert it inside the sock. Tie a knot at the end of the bottle and voila! This dog toy is ready in a couple of minutes, entertaining and completely free of charge if you think about it.
7. Dog Toy With Kitchen Glove and Socks
Source: toozey.com
Dogs love to chew things, especially if they are teething. Plush toys for dogs may be cute, but their filling can get out and your dog might choke on them or swallow them. So, these toys are not safe enough. A much better option is to make an organic toy that your dog can chew without having to worry about chemical ingredients or choking hazards.
Take a kitchen glove that is made of environmentally friendly materials, such as organic cotton, and fill it with old socks. Another idea for the fill could be pieces of an old cotton or hemp shirt. Next, you can sew the open end and introduce your dog to its new enjoyable toy.
8. Dog Toy With a Stick and Treats
Source: sales.sp.gov.br
What dog does not like to play fetch and receive treats? Based on that, a few people came up with a toy for dogs that allows them to eat as many treats as they want if they work for them.
If your dog is used to you throwing a stick and it getting it back for you, but you want it to be more enthusiastic and run more, then you can tie a few treats on that stick in order to motivate it. This is a great toy to capture the attention of your dog in a productive way.
For example, when a dog is doing something naughty and it does not come to you when you ask it to, then you can lure it with the stick that has treats hanging from it. Your dog will definitely run towards you in this case.
9. Dog Toy With a Cardboard Box and Treats
Source: akc.org
You surely have a cardboard box at home that you do not use. What you need to do, is to put some treats on the floor and cover them with a cardboard box. It should draw the attention of your dog and it should stimulate its mind, its smell, its creativity, and its instincts before it figures out what needs to be done.
If you have more than one box, the game becomes more fun. You can let your dog shred the cardboard box, but if you see it chewing on the box, then you should take it away. If your dog does not seem interested at first, then you should show it and move it in order to draw its attention.
10. Dog Toy With a Scarf and 3 Tennis Balls
Source: mymodernmet.com
Go through your old wardrobe and find a scarf that you no longer use, but which is made out of a resistant material, such as cotton. If you have more options, choose the longer one. Make a knot at one end and then place one of the tennis balls inside the material.
Wrap the tennis ball nicely and then tie another knot. Repeat these steps with all 3 tennis balls. It is this simple to make an entertaining toy for your dog. You do not even have to sew anything if the scarf you chose is large enough to comprise all 3 tennis balls.
11. Dog Toy With Fleece Material
Source: dalmatiandiy.com
This dog toy is ideally made out of fleece material. You might have some old sweatpants or pajamas made out of this type of material. The variations of braiding and making toys with fleece are numerous.
For example, you can cut 3 even pieces of fleece, tie a knot at one end and then braid them until you reach the other end, where you should tie another knot. This is the simple version of the rope toy made out of fleece. The size of this toy should be according to the size of your dog. In addition, you can combine multiple such fleece ropes into different shapes and offer variety to your pooch.
12. Dog Toy With Textiles Shaped Like a Bone
Source: bhg.com
In order to make this toy, you need the following materials: denim pieces or other resistant fabric, rice or pieces of cloth for the filling, scissors, needle,s and thread. First, you should draw and cut a pattern shaped like a bone on a sheet of paper.
Next, you should use that piece of paper directly on the fabric and cut around it. You should cut 2 pieces for one bone or many more if you plan on making more. Sew the 2 pieces together and leave an opening for the stuffing. Once you stuff it good, you can sew that end as well. For this toy, you should either sew it very well or use big pieces of material for the stuffing.
13. Dog Toy With Cardboard Tube, Yarn, and Metal Bell
Source: dogingtonpost.com
This dog toy is suited for crafty ones. What you need for it are 1 cardboard tube (you can use the one from toilet paper), yarn, a knitting hook, and 1 metal bell. For this design, you should know how to knit.
Basically, you should knit a piece of material that can fit a cardboard tube and also add a loose end. The metal bell should be attached to the loose end. Also, it must be big enough for the dog not to swallow it. This toy is entertaining because of its tubular shape, textured material, and bell, which makes a noise that dogs like.
14. Dog Toy With Water Bottles, Treats, and Wooden Frame
Source: patchpuppy.com
This toy for your dog is so great that you should start building one right now. This accessory is fitted for every dog, regardless of its size. It consists of 3 plastic water bottles with a metal rod going through them.
These implements are placed on a wooden frame, before being filled with dog food or dog biscuits. Dogs seem to have a lot of fun with this toy, especially because they get rewards. This is like a game for them and they might keep playing for hours.
Anyone can craft such a toy, with a little skill and determination. All you need are some plastic water bottles and a few wooden panels in order to build it. Your dog will have an awesome time putting its mind at work.
General Considerations About Making Dog Toys
A great way to get rid of rags or old jeans is the production of homemade toys for dogs. Before you use any material, be sure to wash it well with another type of detergent besides the one you normally use.
Because the dog can associate smells, it might want to chew on something else smelling the same, which can be, for example, your clothes. This aspect cannot be emphasized enough when it comes to handmade dog toys. The 14 examples above are just guidelines for any dog owner. However, you can set your imagination free and create your own designs.
The simplest toys for dogs to play with are made of fleece or used shirts. These toys do not even need sewing. You can simply tie as many knots as necessary to keep them together. This does not mean that you cannot use the sewing machine to create complex designs.
As long as you follow some simple safety rules, you can manufacture numerous types of toys. In addition, you could combine different fabrics with toys that make a sound when they are bitten by a dog. Those are not as cheap as tennis balls are, but if you really want to spoil your dog, then you can try them.
Cloth, canvas or other durable fabrics can be used to create simple toys in different shapes and sizes. Using 2 layers of any material will make any toy more durable. As for the fillers, they should not harm the dog in any way. Do not use foam, polyester or small pieces of cotton. Instead, go for linen, denim, wool and fleece.
Old socks and sleeves can be used to cover plastic bottles and then given to the dog. The reason why a plastic bottle should be covered with a type of material is that the dog might swallow pieces of plastic after chewing on the bottle for too long. That would definitely not be a good thing to happen because those plastic pieces have sharp edges, which can damage a dog’s esophagus and other organs part of its digestive system. In addition, you could fill that bottle with objects that make noises when the dog plays with the toy.
However, the objects should not be small because the dog might swallow them when it damages the bottle, fact which will eventually happen if it keeps playing with it for a long time.
Ideally, a dog should have 3 or 4 toys to play with. In addition to entertaining them and amuse them, these toys should also be fitted to their skills. For example, terrier dogs have more fun by playing with a certain type of toys that are not so appreciated by shepherd dogs. This happens because terrier dogs like to run and hunt things, while shepherd dogs do not have those instincts.
Every dog breed belongs to a certain group, according to their natural instincts and training. There are hunting dogs, guard dogs, surveillance dogs and so on. You should know what type of dog you have and create a toy for it. This way you save money even if you fail and your dog is not very attracted by a particular toy.
Tips for Making Dog Toys
The caution comes first! The toy that you manufacture at home must be, above all, safe for your canine friend. Avoid synthetic fibers, small objects, or stuffing that might choke the dog.
Always supervise your dog when it plays with cloth, plastic, or other objects that may become dangerous. Do not leave it unattended if you know what it does involves certain risks. This applies to the cardboard box toy too.
Always wash the materials you use for making dog toys. It is very important for the materials, not the carry the smell of another person.
Adding treats to a toy makes it multiple times more interesting than not having anything inside them. Food motivates dogs to play longer until they achieve their purpose.
Quality dog toys are important, so manufacture them as good as you can, without skipping steps that might improve their quality.
Here are some useful videos that show you how to manufacture a few dog toys at home.
In these videos you can see more details on how to make dog toys:
And a really cool food dispenser made for a larger dog. Check it out now!
Conclusions for Your Crafty Side
As seen, you do not need too many skills or to be creative in order to make toys for your dog. In order to save money and invest energy and time in your dog, you can manufacture a few toys that are very entertaining for them and that does not cost anything.
Instead of throwing away old shirts, clothes made of fleece, or something as common as water bottles, you could use them to make your dog happy and surprise it as soon as possible.
Considering that dogs destroy their toys, you might get used to making more and more toys. There are countless sources of inspiration and step-by-step instructions when it comes to crafting. In addition, remember that handmade toys are more valuable than the ones purchased from stores. They are also perfect as a gift, so do not hesitate to make some for others and surprise both the dog and its owner in a pleasant way.
The Maltipoo is not exactly classified as a dog breed as they are what is called a designer dog. Designer dogs are the result of breeding between two breeds for a specific reason.
The Maltipoo is the result of a breeding between the Maltese and a Miniature or Toy Poodle, to create a small breed of hypoallergenic dogs.
Dog group:
Mixed breed
Height:
8-14 inches tall at the shoulder
Weight:
5-15 lb
Life span:
On average 10-15 years.
There is an ongoing argument in the dog community about whether there is such a thing as a hypoallergenic dog. All dogs produce dander and saliva, which is where the allergens are found. However, for the sake of argument, the Maltipoos are considered to be hypoallergenic as they don’t shed much.
This means they would make good companions for people with allergies or asthma. It is important to remember that allergies can build over time, and the only way to truly test if one is allergic is to spend time with the breed.
The Maltipoo breed started gaining popularity in the last 10-20 years for its puppy looks and charm. It is impossible not to smile looking at a Maltipoo and their happy-go-lucky attitude bought them many fans. Their puppy looks will last well into their teens. In general, this breed is a fun-loving, people-adoring ball of fur.
The Maltipoos are playful and affectionate. They love being around their people, love playing in the yard or going for a walk, and after a long day, curl up for a cuddle. They are very eager to please which makes them very easy to train. Maltipoos are very easy-going which makes them perfect for the timid or inexperienced owner.
The breed is highly adaptable and would do well in an apartment as long as they get sufficient exercise. They will love country living just as much, as long as they have their family by their side.
They make a great addition to any home, from active families to seniors as they adjust well to any company. They also get along great with other dogs, cats, and other pets.
The Maltipoos are a vocal breed and need to be taught what to bark at and what to let go.
Main Highlights
Source: dailypaws.com
The Maltipoo makes a great companion for people with allergies and Asthma as they shed very little and don’t produce much dander.
The Maltipoo is not considered to be an actual breed, they are classified as a designer dog.
They are the result of a breeding between the Maltese and a Toy or a Miniature Poodle.
Known to be a barker and needs some training on barking etiquette.
The Maltipoos are a fairly recent type of dogs that started gaining popularity in the last two decades.
They make good apartment dogs as long as they are sufficiently exercised.
The Maltipoos make excellent therapy dogs.
They were specifically designed to be a small loyal companion for people with Allergies and Asthma.
They love their families and being apart from them for long periods of time can make them depressed to the point of harming themselves.
They are a perfect first dog for the novice or timid owner.
1. Breed History
Source: mydoodlemaltipoos.com
The breed is a fairly recent one and started gaining popularity only in the last two decades or so. They originated in the United States and, as mentioned, they were bred in order to create a hypoallergenic small dog breed.
When you go looking for such an individual, you will find out that there are 2 different varieties: the 1st and 2nd generation. And, even though they may sound the same, there are differences between the 1st generation and 2nd generation of Maltipoos:
1st generation is the result of a breeding between a Maltese and a Poodle
2nd generation is the result of a breeding between two Maltipoos.
2. Size
The size of the Maltipoo depends on the size of the Poodle parent. For instance, breeding with a Toy Poodle will result in a smaller Maltipoo, than if bred with a Miniature Poodle.
Generally, they measure about 8-14 inches tall at the shoulder, weighing 5-15 lb. The females, as with most other breeds, are smaller.
3. Personality and Character
Source: empow-her.com
The Maltipoos are an adorable breed as they maintain their puppy looks and antics well into their senior years.
They need daily exercise, but they are not very demanding on what kind of exercise. They enjoy daily walks, games, fetch, and romping around in the yard. The breed is extremely eager to please, which makes them very easy to train.
They do very well with positive reinforcement training with plenty of treats, kind words, and games. Any harsh training or treatment will deeply offend the Maltipoos.
They are very vocal and need to be taught that there is a time and a place for it. There is a difference of opinion on whether they make good watchdogs. Some believe they are excellent watch dogs due to their vocal nature — they will alert you about everything and anything.
Others claim they are not great watchdogs as, even though they are vocal, they are not backyard dogs. They tend to get depressed if they are separated from their people for extended periods of time. Another reason for them not being effective watchdogs is because they love everyone. They are big fans of people and might befriend an unwanted intruder instead of alerting the owner to them.
They are not a demanding breed and do well in an apartment or a house. Maltipoos make a great addition both for young families or older folks but are better suited for families with older children or children that know the proper approach and handling of a dog. Being small, the Maltipoos are more sensitive and fragile than other breeds.
The Maltipoos make a great first dog but they are a risk of developing the small dog syndrome-like most other small breeds. It is a behavioral condition that is developed by the small dog when their handler lets them get away with the leader of the pack behavior. The dog might develop aggressive tendencies and bad habits as a result.
In general, they make very good companions as they are very gentle and affectionate. They get along with everyone, including other dogs, cats, and other pets.
4. Health and Potential Problems
Source: empow-her.com
Being a popular designer breed, the Maltipoos caught the attention of irresponsible breeders who have no regard for the puppies’ well-being or temperament. It is especially important to make sure you buy or adopt your dog or puppy from a respectful and responsible breeder or shelter that understands and loves the breed.
Most responsible breeders will also make sure the puppy or the dog has received a clean bill of health from a vet. Never purchase a dog or a puppy from a puppy mill!
With Maltipoos, the most often encountered diseases are:
Slipped stifles – A common problem in small breeds, it is caused when the calf, knee cap, and thigh bone don’t align properly. It can cause lameness and potentially develop into Arthritis. Severe cases can be surgically corrected.
Epilepsy – A disorder found both in dogs and humans. There is no known cure but it can be successfully managed with medications.
Portosystemic shunt – A disorder that causes an abnormal flow of blood between the body and the liver. Symptoms may be low blood sugar, poor balance, stunted growth, urinary tract problems, and lack of apatite. Severe cases can be treated with dietary adjustments or surgery.
White Shaker Syndrome – A disorder that causes a lack of coordination, body tremors, and rapid eye movement. Symptoms start showing up in puppies at 6 months to 3 years old when the dog is exposed to extreme episodes of stress or excitement.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy – An eye disorder that causes a slow deterioration of the retina, and may cause limited vision or blindness.
Legg-Calve-Pethes Disease – Common disorder among the small toy breeds. The blood flow decreases to the head of the rear leg bone that connects to the pelvis. As a result, the bone begins to disintegrate. Severe cases are usually treated by surgery.
With a proper diet, plenty of exercise, and regular visits to the vet, your loyal companion will remain by your side for years to come.
5. Care Features
Source: blog.myollie.com
The Maltipoos generally have a friendly disposition. They get along great with most people, no matter the age. Babies to seniors will be best friends with other dogs, cats, and other pets as well.
They love their people and suffer greatly when they are left by themselves for long periods of time. In fact, they could get very depressed to the point of causing harm to themselves by chewing on their skin and pulling out their own fur.
They are very easy to train as they are highly intelligent and eager to please. They do well with positive reinforcement, praise, fun games, and treats. Any harsh treatment or training will cause the Maltipoo to shut down.
They need to be properly exercised and provided with plenty of mental stimulation, as they can become quite destructive when they are bored. The spunky breed enjoys exercise, they like games, daily walks, and a romp in the yard. Of course, they are just as content to cuddle in your lap after a long day.
Their high adaptability and size make them suitable for apartment living as long as they get sufficient exercise. Also, you can have such a dog in the countryside as long as it has access to a yard.
The Maltipoos don’t really care what they do as long as they are part of the pack and can spend their days besides their humans. They definitely are not backyard dogs; in fact, nothing would upset them more than being separated from their families.
As with other breeds, puppies need to be socialized early to grow up a well-rounded dogs. They should be introduced to different people, children, dogs, cats, environments, and scenarios early. It is recommended to sign them up for puppy kindergarten, where they will have the opportunity to be introduced properly to their new world and everything in it.
Crate training is also highly recommended, to get the dog used to being on its own. However, you should never use the crate for punishment! Crate training is designed to help house train the puppies, as well as give the dog a special space where they can retire when they are tired.
When done correctly, crate training will also help the dogs get accustomed to spending time on their own without being destructive. They will become confident that even if the owner leaves, they will come back.
6. Feeding Schedule
Source: pumpkin.care
Due to their slight frame, the Maltipoos are more prone to obesity than larger breeds. They need a high-quality diet and plenty of daily exercises to help manage their weight.
Maltipoos will benefit from 0.5-1.5 cups of high-quality dry dog food a day divided into 2 meals. Pet stores offer a wide variety of dog food, but make sure to pick high-quality, grain and fillers-free, high in meat protein dog food.
7. Coat, Color, and Grooming
The Maltipoos’ coat can be fluffy and soft, medium or long, wavy or curly. Common colors are black, tan, grey, silver, and white or cream. Due to their coat, they are not weather-resistant, and can’t tolerate extreme heat or cold.
They need daily brushing to avoid tangles and mats and must be taken to a professional groomer to clip the coat 1-2 times a year.
The Maltipoos are considered a good companion to people with allergies and Asthma as they shed very little and don’t produce much dander.
8. Children And Other Pets Compatibility
The Maltipoos are very gentle and affectionate with children. They might be better suited to a home with older children or children, as the breed is very fragile.
As with any other breed, playtime between children and animals should be supervised by an adult at all times and children must be taught to approach animals with the respect and space they require. Any tail or ear pulling should be discouraged immediately.
This jolly breed also gets along with cats and other dogs, as well as other family pets, and will make a great addition to any family.
The Maltipoos are friendly balls of fur, they love their families, and love spending time with their pack. They also make great therapy dogs due to their intelligence and sensitivity. They are very easy to train as they are eager to please and are very sensitive to their owners’ wants and needs.
One thing to be aware of is that as with most small breeds, the Maltipoos can develop the small dog syndrome which may lead to an aggressive individual instead of a cute fur ball.
Dogs bark for so many reasons and if you are a dog owner, you have to deal with barking from your dog from time to time.
Barking can be a bad habit in your dog when it becomes incessant and baseless as this could cause you some issues with your neighbors and residents of the neighborhood.
If your dog is used to incessant and baseless barking, then you need to get the best bark collars for big dogs or the size that best suits your dog.
There are several bark collars available in the market to help you discourage your dog from this kind of behavior.
The bark collar helps effectively train your dog from this habit, even when you are not there to tell your dog to stop barking.
Some dogs don’t even stop barking on command by their owner, and if you fall into this category, the best dog collars can help curb this. Dog collar is safe and efficient when used correctly.
Bigger dogs are known to bark louder than small dogs, and most times the small dogs bark more than the big dogs. The bigger your dog is the louder the barking.
It is to be noted that the intensity of your dog barking also depends on the breed of your dog. The Great Dane is known to bark more than any of the other breeds, and the shepherd, collies, Komondors are known to bark persistently.
Incessant barking can be disturbing and a serious problem to every dog owner, and lieu of this, it is essential that a solution is proffered to this problem.
This article has been carefully written through studies and research and the top products that will help you effectively train your dog have been reviewed to help train your dog of this unruly behavior effectively.
Also read: Best Dog Harness for Labrador
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Bark Collar
Different bark dog collars are sold in the market and most of them don’t either live to expectations, don’t stand the test of time or perform their required function. It is very important, you understand that there are some factors that need to be considered when making the decision to buy the best dog bark collar. Some of the important factors are:
Effective Training modes: It is very important that the dog collar is effective and have good and effective training modes which are the beep or sound, vibrates and static shock. These features should work effectively without issues so as to effectively train your dog.
Easy to Recharge and Long-lasting battery: The collar must be very easy to charge and must have a charge time of at most 2-3 hours and effectively last for 10-15 days of constant usage. This will enable you to use your collar without having to worry.
Suitable for all dog sizes: The collar must be suitable, in the sense that the straps must be adjustable so as to be fit for dogs of other sizes.
Waterproof – The collar must be waterproof so that you can train and control your dog at any time, even in wet conditions.
What you need to know about dog bark collar
Source: mypetguru.com
Every dog owner at one point or the other will have to deal with annoying barking from your dog. Dogs bark louder than themselves, depending on the breed of dog. Bark collars are specially designed with features such as the beep, vibration, and shock and sometimes in some collars the light mode are designed to help effectively to control your dog from barking.
Dog bark collars are efficient, safe to use and they will in no way cause harm to your dog. Most dogs immediately respond to the dog bark collar because sooner or later they will realize the device triggers when they bark, and because of this, in no time they already understand the message you are passing.
Top Bark Collars for Large Dogs
1. PetYeah Dog Bark Collars – Adjustable Sensitivity and Intensity Modes
Special Features: Water-resistant, Adjustable and reflective nylon collar, intelligent identification chip, rechargeable.
PetYeah Dog Bark Collars is the best dog collar for big dogs. This dog bark collar is designed to help you improve your dog behavior in the home or when you are outside. The PetYeah collar is designed with anti-barking modes which will help effectively train your dog to behave in the home or when you are outside the home.
When the device is in the beep and vibration mode, the indicator turns green and then the device beeps for 3 seconds and afterwards vibrates for 3 seconds. This feature is triggered as long as barking is detected irrespective of the number of times your dog barks.
It is designed with a microprogramming system that helps the device effectively distinguish between sounds. When the device is in the Beep+Vibration+shock, the indicator turns red and the vibration and shock become intense until your dog stops barking for 30 seconds.
The device has a smart test mode which allows you to test if the device is working correctly. All you just need do is to adjust the sensitivity level to 0 and it automatically enters the test mode. This allows you to test the device by blowing or shouting into the microphone. If the device makes a beep sound, vibrates and then shock, then the device works fine.
The device is designed with an intelligent identification chip that filters unwanted sounds and helps prevent false triggering of the device. This dog barking collar is designed with an adjustable and reflective strap that is made of nylon. The reflective strap helps keep your dog safe at night. The device charges for 2-3 hours and it can last for up to 10 days of use.
It is designed with an IP67 waterproof level design which makes it possible for you to have a bath, swim with your dog etc. without damage to the device.
Pros
Works effectively
Waterproof
Easy to use
Good battery life
Does not cause discomfort to your dog
Cons
Sometimes has a selective response to dog barking.
2. Bark Collar Newest Upgrade Version No Bark Collar Rechargeable Anti-bark Collar with Beep Vibration
Special Features: Waterproof, Adjustable nylon collar, Triggering senor for false triggering, 2 training mode and 5 sensitivity level adjustable, Humane intelligent protection, 2 training modes.
Dogs bark can be very hurtful and disturbing to the neighborhood, which is why you have to purchase the best Bark collar that can prevent your dog from unnecessary and disturbing barking. This dog collar has been designed to guide against this effect.
The dog bark collar is designed with 2 training modes and 5 sensitivity levels. The training modes are Beep+Vibration+Static shock and Beep Vibration. These modes are effective, and it helps train your dog to stop barking incessantly or unnecessarily.
It is expedient that you select the most suitable model for your dog and choose the level you wish freely to suit your control need.
The humane intelligent protection mode is designed to protect your dog. The shock mode does not trigger at the first bark, and if the bark occurs in 30 seconds, the shock mode is triggered. If the shock mode is activated 7 times, the device is deactivated for the safety and security of your dog.
This dog anti bark collar is designed with the newest microprocessor Qualcomm technology controlled bark detection. The shock is gentle and safe to your dog and it will in no way harm your dog. The collar triggering sensor detects, filters, and then activates when your dog barks.
It activates when your dog barks are within the range of 1000-2000 kHz. Issues of dog collar activating when other dog barks, dog shakes etc. have been effectively solved and the collar will no longer activate in this case
The collar is waterproof and also rechargeable. The collar is designed with IP67 waterproof material which gives the collar its waterproof ability. The rechargeable charges fully in 1-2 hours and lasts for 1 day of regular usage.
Pros
Effective anti-bark dog collar
Easy to use
Charges fast
Collar last long
Vibration is strong
Cons
The shock feature does not work when the battery is low
3. TBI Pro Rechargeable Bark Collar
Special Features: Advanced Intelligent Chip, Adjustable effective modes, Automatic Protection, Strong waterproof Capabilities.
The incessant and disturbing barking of your dog can be a big problem for you and sometimes you might have run out of options in getting the best dog bark collar that is effective and help solve this problem.
The TBI 2019 collar is suitable for small, medium and large dogs. The collar helps effectively limit excessive barking problems without causing any harm to your dog using the modes of training: the beep, vibration and shock.
The TBI dog collar is designed with the newest and effective features that will suit your needs. The collar uses the intelligent feature to automatically guide against incessant and unnecessary barking.
The digital display helps display the vibration and shock levels. The modes are flexible and give room for adjustability of the collar. You can choose between 1-7 levels of adjustable sensitivity depending on the need.
The bark detection system uses a microcontroller controller controlled recognition technology which effectively differentiates your dog bark from other noises around and effectively stops your dog from barking in at least one minute. The collar is rechargeable and it works for 14 days stretch with constant usage.
The collar automatically deactivates itself when triggered 7 times in a minute and it effectively resumes work after the deactivation. This collar is designed with the IPx7 material which makes the collar water-resistant and safe to use under any condition.
The collar is designed with a protective strip that ensures that your dog is safe and sound at all times and makes your dog visible at all times even in poor visibility conditions. The dog collar works effectively and does not only stop your dog from barking but also trains it from unruly and wanted behaviors such as picking garbage, peeing in the middle of the road, etc.
4. Bark Collar- Humane Dog Bark Collar – Anti Barking Collar Small Dogs Medium Large Dogs
Special Features: Fast charge, Water-resistant, Suitable for all types of dogs, sound, vibration and shock collar.
There is nothing as annoying as excessive barking from your dog, and this can be a serious problem that requires an urgent solution as soon as possible.
The bark collar is suitable for all types of dogs; small medium and large dogs. The bark collar is effective and 80-85 percent of dogs have successfully been trained to stop barking using this training collar.
This collar effectively detects the vibration in the throat of your dog and reacts to it immediately depending on the settings. The sound, vibration and electrostatic shock are the ways by which you can effectively and efficiently train your dog. These features do not cause discomfort of any kind to your dog.
It is very important that you ensure that your dog gets used to it for at least 2-3 hours and the dog collar should be at the middle of your dog’s neck and it is fastened tightly. The collar is effective and durable and it lasts for 2 years of constant use.
The anti-bark collar is a humane bark collar with a strong and durable buckle that is in compliance with the ECA safety requirements, which means that your dog is safe and sound at all times.
The fast charge feature enables you to charge the collar for an hour using the USB cable with your computer, car charger, adapter, phone charger, etc.
Pros
Effective
Safe to use
Fast charge feature
Durable
Good quality
Cons
The straps are not reflective
5. DogRook Dog Bark Collar – Humane Anti Barking Training Collar
Special Features: Adjustable anti-bark collar, humane correction, 7 Adjustable sensitive level, Simple control 2 buttons.
There is nothing as annoying as a dog barking in the middle of the night and in doing this disturbs your night rest. Excessive yapping, barking etc. needs to be curbed in your dog and you definitely don’t want to hurt your dog when doing this.
The DogRook dog bark collar is an effective means of controlling excessive barking and also training your dog against barking when not necessary. This collar is designed with a user-friendly interface which makes it very easy to use and effective in training your dog.
The dog collar has two buttons that can be used to control the sensitivity of the collar from levels 1-7. It is to be noted by you, that the louder your dog barks the lower the level that is required.
This collar has 7 safe vibrations and sound level which is safe and will not in a way be harmful to your dog. It is easier to use and it will help effectively solve your dog’s excessive barking behavior.
It has an adjustable and reflective nylon strap which is adjustable and also ensures that your dog stays visible in dark. The barking control collar is good and suitable for dogs weighing between 11-110lbs.
The DogRook Company is concerned with your priority as a dog owner and this dog collar comes with a year warranty and a 100 percent service is guaranteed to you as a customer.
To make the collar last longer, it is provided with 2 extra batteries and 2 colored covers. The dog collar is effective, safe to use and will help effectively solve dog barking issues.
Pros
Durable
Effective dog collar
Easy to use
One year warranty
Cons
Sometimes does not come up when the dog whines
Final verdict: Best bark collars for big dogs
The PetYeah Dog Bark Collar is our choice because it stands out amongst all other products. It has an indicator for each mode which makes it easier to know the mode applied. It is waterproof, has a test mode and other exciting features which makes it easier and stress-free to train and get rid of your dog barking unnecessarily. It effectively filters noise and differentiates between noise and your dog bark
The TBI Pro Rechargeable Bark Collar came in close to the Pet yeah with its incredible 2 training mode with 1-7 levels. It is effective, waterproof and it will help curb the problem of incessant barking from your dog. It has a good noise filter technology which makes it easier for it to differentiate your dog bark from other afar.
Check out these models also:
Related articles:
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.
One of the oldest known breeds, the Chow Chow is also considered to be one of the most aggressive. They stand approximately 17 to 20 inches tall and weigh 45 to 70 pounds. Their large size and thick coat made them perfectly suited as guard dogs. Some historians claim that they were originally bred to defend temples in China, Mongolia, and Tibet.
They were also used for hunting, herding, and pulling carts. There are accounts of Chows fighting alongside the Mongolians as they invaded China and Eastern Europe during the Middle Ages. With such a background, it is only natural that the breed still has an aggressive nature.
While not a typically active breed, Chows tend to focus their energy on giving affection to and protecting their owners. They are often referred to as “one-person” dogs who favor one member over others within a multi-person family, and are known to show little tolerance for the rest of the family. They may even perceive play between their owner and another person as a threatening to their owner and attack.
They have little tolerance for those of the same sex, and have been known to attack small dogs, cats and even children. When strangers come near, Chows will go on the defensive, bite with little warning, and sometimes have pressed the fight until the point of death.
Even experienced trainers have reported difficulties when training Chows. Their instinct to dominate clashes against even the most skilled trainers, whose attempts to correct has sometimes resulted in the animal lashing out. While Chows can be trained to become loving and loyal members of the family, they must be handled carefully and with plenty of patience. Learn more about the basic characteristic of the Chows in our article on the breed.
Male German Shepherds stand approximately 25 inches tall and weigh around 80 pounds; females are slightly smaller. They are sleek, quick, and have an intimidating appearance. This appearance negatively influences their reputation as an animal that likes to show its dominance, which they will if they are allowed to. This attitude makes it difficult to trust them when other pets or children are around.
They do form strong bonds with their owners, and sometimes the bond is so deep that the dog will develop the inability to tell the difference between threatening and non-threating people or situations. They are known to give plenty of warning, but if the threat is not immediately removed, they will strike.
Rottweilers can grow to 27 inches and weigh up to 115 pounds. They are a strong, powerful breed that is well suited to taking on the challenges they were always meant for. They display an air of confidence, and they are patient, usually waiting to see how a particular situation develops before taking action. They are loyal to their owners and seek to please them through guarding perceived territory and warding off intruders.
Rotties have dominance issues that even experienced trainers have difficulty controlling, and they have been known to rebel in response to anger. While there are often reports of them turning on their owners or going after other dogs, they focus most of their aggression toward strangers. If they perceive someone as a threat to owner, territory, or their own dominance, they will not hesitate to attack.
Doberman Pinschers reach up to 28 and weigh between 70 and 75 pounds. Their size makes them perfect for the role for which they were bred, and they have been known to use this size to their advantage by charging fearlessly at threats they sense, often bowling over their targets, or pinning them against objects. If their target fights back, then the potential for it to attack violently greatly increases.
They are loyal to their owners, and make for great companions in that regard, but are known to have trouble discerning the level of a threat from strangers unless they undergo strict training. They are also more likely than most other breeds to attack other dogs. Know more of this dog when you read our article on the Doberman.
Dachshunds are apt to display aggression toward strangers and other dogs at higher rate than most canines, but they outrank all others when it comes to turning on their owners. There have been numerous accounts of them biting or snapping at their owners, especially when not getting their way. One owner even reported that she had to put down her Doxie because it gnawed off her toe when she was asleep.
Much of the source of aggression may be explained by the fact that people tend to discipline Chihuahuas somewhat differently than they would a larger pet. Owners often allow their dogs to act out aggressively because the behavior is considered “adorable” in such a tiny thing. If it is allowed to act this way, it becomes learned behavior, therefore, it is apt to act out with aggression more often.
Jack Russell Terriers stand a mere 14 inches tall and rarely weigh more than 18 pounds, but their personalities are twice as big. They can be great family companions, even to small children, and will play for as long as they are allowed.
They are easily trained to do tricks and tasks that require a lot of energy, but this is only because it is in their nature to extremely active at all times. They are hunters, and if left alone with nothing to do, they will attempt to hunt. Jack Russells are famous barkers, and often show their teeth to and even bite strangers.
Jack Russells have the distinction of despising the company of other breeds. They view other dogs as invaders into their territory, so when confronted with one they will often go immediately on the attack. They particularly act hostile toward those animals who they know to be aggressive, irrespective of size. Also, they rarely tolerate dogs of the same sex, so it is never wise to leave two males or two females unsupervised.
Standing approximately 7 inches tall and weighing little more than 7 pounds, full-grown Yorkies may not appear much of a threat to anyone, but they do have an aggressive streak. As terriers, they remain hunters, who will attempt to seek out prey if given the opportunity, and depending on the dog, the size of the target may not matter. They also have a reputation for not getting along with members of their own breed, especially when confronted with those of the same sex.
Owners with multiple Yorkies have reported that their pets developed a pack mentality, one in which the weakest would be singled out for attack and denial of food. They are a territorial lot who will challenge strangers and small children alike with barking and nipping, and sometimes even biting. Owners who do not assert themselves as masters will have a particular challenge attempting to control a Yorkie’s temperament because he will believe that he is the boss.
The following indicators should be included on dog food labels: minimum amount of protein, minimum amount of fat, maximum amount of fibers and maximum humidity level. One trick that the producers use, is to divide one ingredient in its components, making it look like it is actually found in a lesser quantity than it really is.
Dog food made in America should also meet certain federal regulations to ensure that the ingredients aren’t dangerous to your dog. You can read what those are in our article about what makes good dog food.
You can find chicken listed first, followed by corn flour, corn gluten, and corn bran. This might make you believe that chicken is the main ingredient, but the corn ingredients might exceed the chicken weight.
Look for natural and organic ingredients. A package of dog food that has the word “natural” written on it is not necessarily 100% natural. Avoid products that have corn, cornmeal, soy, and wheat in their composition. These are hard to digest for dogs and they can cause allergies. Instead, choose products that contain barley, oats, millet, and brown rice.
Depending on your doggy’s ability to digest, check the protein’s digestibility. This means that you should choose fish because it can be digested easily. For example, muscles and organs are hard to digest. You can do the same with carbohydrates. In addition, avoid anything with preservatives, additives, or any other parts of an animal that is not raw meat.
Dry dog food is a commercial product that can satisfy the nutritional needs of dogs. It is presented in an easily digestible form. The final composition of this food is the result of intensive research lead by numerous nutritionists and vets.
This is why this type of food can ensure your pup’s nutritional needs with minimal effort from your side. It can be kept for a long time without having alteration issues and, also, it is the only type of dog food that can be consumed at discretion because the danger of alteration does not exist.
This way of feeding is chosen by newly dog owners because it is useful for their growth and in case of absence from home. However, next to every bowl of dry food there has to be another bowl with plenty of fresh water to avoid dehydration.
Another advantage of dry food for dogs is that it helps maintain dental health thanks to the abrasive action and slows down the formation of dental plaque and tartar on the puppy’s teeth.
Although there are considerable differences between canned and dry dog food, you don’t always have to choose between them. Experts believe that the most balanced diet for a puppy can be achieved by combining these two types of food. A mixed diet is considered to be the healthiest one. Also, you can add supplements to your doggy’s meals.
These should not be given randomly though. Only a vet can recommend the right ones depending on your pet’s individual characteristics, which should also be established by a specialist. There are bones with calcium at any pet shop that you can buy safely for your dog to chew on.
The food for junior dogs is recommended to weaned puppies, aged up to 1 year, and for pregnant females too. Also, newly mothers can rebuild their body weight after a prolonged breastfeeding period by eating this type of food.
When it comes to the intake of nutrients, this product is similar with the starter one. This is because the doggy still needs extra vitamins and proteins to develop in a harmonious manner. It comes in the form of canned food and dry food, which can be used complementary, as recommended by the veterinarian.
The food especially conceived for adult dogs is recommended to be consumed by doggies with ages between 1 and 7 years. This sort is not as rich in proteins as the other ones, but it retains the necessary input in order to keep any dog healthy and to provide enough energy throughout the day. Both canned and dry adult food can be used according to the dog’s preferences and requirements.
Senior dogs have special food at their disposal too. After 7 years of life, a dog’s metabolism tends to change, so it needs another sort of food. Basically, its body begins the aging process and requires the correct dose of nutrients that keep it balanced. This type of food is found canned and dry. A sedentary and a very active senior dog must be fed differently.
A healthy puppy is a happy puppy that looks gorgeous. The way a dog’s fur looks and a dog’s level of energy is closely related to what that dog eats. You can make your doggy jump of joy if you give it the best food there is and if you do not forget that it needs change, so its food must be changed as well.
The best brands and the best combinations are not easy to identify, but as long as you keep in mind all the guidelines listed above, you will be able to always make the right choices for your lovely companion to be healthy, look beautiful, and to feel the best way possible as well.
Try not to get tricked by labels that are meant to deceive you or to look for dog food that is cheap. In the long run, you will spend more with a dog that has not been eating healthy than with a dog that has. Always choose to pay more when it comes to dog food. You can save money in other domains of your life that do not regard the health of your gentle, friendly, and loyal animal.
As a last resort solution, you can cook for your puppy, but how to cook for it might require too much energy from your side and more money too. Also, the risk of not doing it right is higher than you might think. However, we do have a handful of great recipes you could consider trying out, so take a look at our article on 
Grain-free dry food is recommended for dogs for several reasons.
First, because of the development of food intolerances or the presence of allergic reactions to the components of the food containing grains. Some dogs have intolerances or allergic reactions to wheat, corn, or soy. Grain-free dog nutrition eliminates these ingredients, which can help reduce the risk of food allergies or intolerances. These types of foods are also recommended for animals with the following characteristics:
High-quality animal protein is a key component for perfect coat maintenance and physical health. This is the building material for any tissues in the dog’s body. Veterinarians say that salmon meat is the best in terms of health benefits. Food with such ingredients is a good choice for pet owners who notice that their pet suffers from 
While grain-free dog food eliminates grains, it does not mean a lack of carbohydrates. Instead, these diets often incorporate alternative carbohydrate sources like sweet potatoes, peas, and lentils. These alternatives provide essential energy, dietary fiber, and various nutrients. They also have a lower glycemic index compared to traditional grains, which can be beneficial for dogs with specific health needs, such as diabetes or 
Every dog is unique, and their dietary needs can vary based on age, breed, activity level, and health conditions. While grain-free salmon-based food is generally beneficial, it’s important to consider your dog’s specific needs. Consultation with a veterinarian can help determine the most appropriate diet plan for your dog, ensuring they receive the right balance of nutrients for their individual health requirements.
If you don’t know how to perform it, no need to worry since we are here to guide you. Once you’re done with this article, you will have mastered different ways to perform it effectively—theoretically, of course (you’ll still need to apply these theories into actual practice to truly master them). Scroll through our step-by-step guide to release your furry friend from a choking nightmare.
Give your furry pet about five solid blows between his shoulder blades. If your dog coughs out the foreign object, then problem solved. If your dog does not, then it’s time to attempt some other measures.
A sock and a tennis ball are enough in order to create a toy for your dog, which it can bite and chase around the house. An old tennis ball and an old sock that you have around the house are the main materials that you need.
You must insert the ball inside the sock and then make a knot to prevent the ball from sliding out. It is really important for both the ball and the sock to be clean because your dog might associate them with other people if that’s the smell they’re carrying.
You can use this toy to play fetch, or you can pick a long sock for it and tease your dog while you hold one end and it is chasing the other.
An alternative to the previous toy is one with a tennis ball and rope, which requires a process that is a little more elaborate, but not hard to achieve.
The idea is to incorporate a thick rope that cannot be destroyed easily by your dog inside the tennis ball. The procedure is as follows: you should cut the tennis ball at 2 opposite ends using a cutter. The incision should be as wide as the rope is.
Then, you should insert the rope through one hole and push it out through the other hole. So, the rope should go through the 2 openings. Next, you should tie knots on both sides of the ball, leaving the string of rope longer at one of the ends. This is because you can grab that end and play with your dog, moving the ball wherever you want without being too close to your dog.
This is a dog toy designed to keep it occupied. The main quest for your dog would be to get treats out of the bottle. Therefore, you can take a regular water bottle and start cutting holes inside it, which are big enough for the treats to come out, but tight enough for the dog to put in a little effort in order to take them out. You can simply take the cap off and introduce the treats, but then you must put it back on and let your dog do everything else.
Remember to take off the label from the bottle. Your dog might choke on it. This toy is also great for mind training. Your dog will try to get the food out using multiple methods. It might end up even crushing the food into smaller pieces in order to get it out easily. It really depends on its skills.
This dog toy has no connection with the other 2 bottle examples. Besides the fact that you can hide treats inside a bottle and that is appealing to your dog, you should also know that the sound a plastic bottle makes is also appealing to it.
Therefore, you need a plastic bottle and a longer sock, preferably a knee-high sock. Take of the air out of the bottle, flatten it, put the cap back, and then insert it inside the sock. Tie a knot at the end of the bottle and voila! This dog toy is ready in a couple of minutes, entertaining and completely free of charge if you think about it.
There is an ongoing argument in the dog community about whether there is such a thing as a hypoallergenic dog. All dogs produce dander and saliva, which is where the allergens are found. However, for the sake of argument, the Maltipoos are considered to be hypoallergenic as they don’t shed much.
This means they would make good companions for 
The Maltipoos are very gentle and affectionate with children. They might be better suited to a home with older children or children, as the breed is very fragile.
As with any other breed, playtime between children and animals should be supervised by an adult at all times and children must be taught to approach animals with the respect and space they require. Any tail or ear pulling should be discouraged immediately.
This jolly breed also gets along with cats and other dogs, as well as other family pets, and will make a great addition to any family.
The Maltipoos are friendly balls of fur, they love their families, and love spending time with their pack. They also make great therapy dogs due to their intelligence and sensitivity. They are very easy to train as they are eager to please and are very sensitive to their owners’ wants and needs.
One thing to be aware of is that as with most small breeds, the Maltipoos can develop the small dog syndrome which may lead to an aggressive individual instead of a cute fur ball. 
Different bark dog collars are sold in the market and most of them don’t either live to expectations, don’t stand the test of time or perform their required function. It is very important, you understand that there are some factors that need to be considered when making the decision to buy the best dog bark collar. Some of the important factors are:
Effective Training modes: It is very important that the dog collar is effective and have good and effective training modes which are the beep or sound, vibrates and static shock. These features should work effectively without issues so as to effectively train your dog.
Easy to Recharge and Long-lasting battery: The collar must be very easy to charge and must have a charge time of at most 2-3 hours and effectively last for 10-15 days of constant usage. This will enable you to use your collar without having to worry.
Suitable for all dog sizes: The collar must be suitable, in the sense that the straps must be adjustable so as to be fit for dogs of other sizes.
Waterproof – The collar must be waterproof so that you can train and control your dog at any time, even in wet conditions.
Dogs bark can be very hurtful and disturbing to the neighborhood, which is why you have to purchase the best Bark collar that can prevent your dog from unnecessary and disturbing barking. This dog collar has been designed to guide against this effect.
The dog bark collar is designed with 2 training modes and 5 sensitivity levels. The training modes are Beep+Vibration+Static shock and Beep Vibration. These modes are effective, and it helps train your dog to stop barking incessantly or unnecessarily.
It is expedient that you select the most suitable model for your dog and choose the level you wish freely to suit your control need.
The humane intelligent protection mode is designed to protect your dog. The shock mode does not trigger at the first bark, and if the bark occurs in 30 seconds, the shock mode is triggered. If the shock mode is activated 7 times, the device is deactivated for the safety and security of your dog.
This dog anti bark collar is designed with the newest microprocessor Qualcomm technology controlled bark detection. The shock is gentle and safe to your dog and it will in no way harm your dog. The collar triggering sensor detects, filters, and then activates when your dog barks.
It activates when your dog barks are within the range of 1000-2000 kHz. Issues of dog collar activating when other dog barks, dog shakes etc. have been effectively solved and the collar will no longer activate in this case
The collar is waterproof and also rechargeable. The collar is designed with IP67 waterproof material which gives the collar its waterproof ability. The rechargeable charges fully in 1-2 hours and lasts for 1 day of regular usage.
The incessant and disturbing barking of your dog can be a big problem for you and sometimes you might have run out of options in getting the best dog bark collar that is effective and help solve this problem.
The TBI 2019 collar is suitable for small, medium and large dogs. The collar helps effectively limit excessive barking problems without causing any harm to your dog using the modes of training: the beep, vibration and shock.
The TBI dog collar is designed with the newest and effective features that will suit your needs. The collar uses the intelligent feature to automatically guide against incessant and unnecessary barking.
The digital display helps display the vibration and shock levels. The modes are flexible and give room for adjustability of the collar. You can choose between 1-7 levels of adjustable sensitivity depending on the need.
The bark detection system uses a microcontroller controller controlled recognition technology which effectively differentiates your dog bark from other noises around and effectively stops your dog from barking in at least one minute. The collar is rechargeable and it works for 14 days stretch with constant usage.
The collar automatically deactivates itself when triggered 7 times in a minute and it effectively resumes work after the deactivation. This collar is designed with the IPx7 material which makes the collar water-resistant and safe to use under any condition.
The collar is designed with a protective strip that ensures that your dog is safe and sound at all times and makes your dog visible at all times even in poor visibility conditions. The dog collar works effectively and does not only stop your dog from barking but also trains it from unruly and wanted behaviors such as picking garbage, peeing in the middle of the road, etc.
