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Fluffy Dog Names: Charming Names for Cute Dogs

By
Vinko Woodman
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Best Names for Fluffy Dogs

Are you getting a Bichon Frise, a Pomeranian, or a Chow Chow? Is it a Samoyed, a Poodle, or a Bearded Collie? Whatever breed it is, you are now the owner of a fluffy dog, so congratulations!

You probably have a dog bed, food, and other supplies ready, but do you have a dog name yet? We know that choosing a dog name can be very confusing.

There are just so many names; how do you know which one of the fluffy dog names is the best choice for your new friend?

When it comes to fluffy dogs, many owners tend to gravitate towards equally fluffy and cute names like the obvious Fluffy, Snookie, Cutie, Baby, and other sweet variations. However, not all fluffy dogs are cuddly and fluffy.
Fluffy Dog
Bearded collies, for example, are working dogs, and it would be a poor choice to call him Fluffy or Sweetie. Names for dogs should not only be unique, but they should also be dignified as befitting the dog’s status, characteristics, and personality.

If you’re not sure what to call your new ball of fluff, never fear because we have some awesome suggestions for you.

These names go beyond the obvious names for fluffy dogs so that the name you choose is becoming of your dog. But before we lay out our name suggestions, we have a few other suggestions regarding the proper ways to choose a name for a dog that you probably will want to keep in mind as you browse. Read on to see.

How to Name Your Dog

Fluffy dog names don’t have to be sweet and “cloying” all the time. Names for your fluffy dogs can be inspired by his personality, color, gender, or job. But before you start naming your dog, here are a few tips you need to consider.

Avoid Command-Sounding Names

small-fluffy-dog-breeds-shih-tzu

Dogs are often gifted during Christmas. During this time, lots of dogs receive the name Noel or Snow. These are good names. However, they also contain “no” and sound like “go.”

When thinking of a name for your dog, avoid words that sound like commands to avoid confusion. For example, avoid Kit (sit), Neil (heel), Clay (stay), and other similar-sounding words.

2-Syllables

Long words are very exhausting to stay. Let’s say you name your dog King Arthur of Poodleville. It’s not only a mouthful, but it can also be tiring to repeat over and over especially during training. You can give him a long, proper name, and then call him by a nickname. Or, you can give him a name that contains no more than two syllables to make things easier for the both of you.

Individual Names

For instance, your parrot is named Jay and your dog is James. These sounds are too alike and can make training harder for you. The same is true for other members of your household. If your child is named Lucy, you probably shouldn’t name your dog Macy.

Always have different-sounding names if you live in a multi-pet household. Remember, dogs do not really understand what you’re saying; instead they are listening to the sound you’re making. The name should be distinct so that your dog can easily distinguish it from all the other words you’re saying.

Offensive or Provocative Names

fluffy dog breeds

You should also avoid offensive names. Many dog breeds are intelligent so it probably won’t take a lot of training to make them learn their names. Monikers like Stupid or Devil might sound cool at first, but you will probably regret it when you take him to the vet or call out at the dog park. They can also be offensive or provocative to other people. Aside from curse words, other names to avoid include:

  • Killer

  • Ammo

  • Crusher

  • Bomber

  • Beast

  • Trigger

  • Gunner

  • Bouncer

  • Diablo (anything devil or Satan-related)

You should also think about your puppy when he becomes an adult. Giving your pup an offensive name might be cute and funny but it will become degrading when he becomes an adult. Over time you might also get embarrassed by calling him an offensive or provocative name in public.

Popular Names

fluffy dog name

There’s nothing wrong with popular names, except that they’re common. Most of these names are classic and will not go out of style anytime soon, but popular names can create confusion when you’re at a public place like the vet, a dog park, or the street.

Examples of popular names include:

  • Buddy

  • Max

  • Charlie

  • Jake

  • Rocky

  • Jack

  • Toby

  • Bailey

  • Buster

  • Bear (although it would have been perfect for a fluffy breed like a Chow Chow)

  • Bella

  • Lucy

  • Daisy

  • Molly

  • Maggie

  • Chloe

  • Sadie

  • Sophie

  • Lola

  • Roxy

Fluffy Dog Names

A Fluffy Dog

Below are some names that pay homage to your dog’s fluffiness.

We’re going to start with the general ones, so these names don’t really leave much to the imagination (if you want unique and funny names for your fluffy dog, you can move on to the next part), but if you’re looking for cute, immediately-recognizable names for your cuddly best friend, you will probably like these options.

  • Bunny – all that fluff makes them look like overgrown bunnies

  • Cotton

  • Cozy — who wouldn’t like to cozy up with a fluffy dog?

  • Curly – good idea for breeds with curly coats like the poodles

  • Feathers

  • Fleecy

  • Fluffy – obvious choice but still cute

  • Furbaby or Furball

  • Fuzz or Fuzzy Fuzzy Wuzzy

  • Hairy / Harry

  • Lush – for fluffy and lush dogs

  • Nana – the Newfoundland in Peter Pan

  • Polar or Grizzly – good and unique alternative to Bear

  • Puffy or Puffin

  • Ringlet

  • Ruffles or Ruff

  • Shaggy

  • Silky

  • Snuggles – let’s face it, fluffy dogs are snuggly

  • Teddy – they look like teddy bears

  • Velvet – that fluffy coat can be as smooth as velvet

  • Whiskers

  • Woolly

Funny Fluffy Dog Names

Funny Fluffy Dog Names

Playing the name game for dogs is probably one of the few times when you can goof off. This is also a good time to show your creative side.

Here are some funny names to name your fluffy friend.

  • Captain Fluff/General Fluff or any other military rank

  • Charmin – like the toilet paper

  • Chewbacca or Chewie

  • Doogie Schnauzer MD – like the TV show but punny

  • Fluffmeister

  • Fuzzbutt

  • Fuzzeria

  • Governor/Mayor Fluffington or any other political designation

  • Kuma — Japanese for bear

  • Mr/Ms Fluffer Nutter

  • Mr/Ms Softy

  • Sir Fluffs A Lot

  • Woofy

Fluffy White Dog Names

Dogs come in all sizes and colors, but when we think about fluffy dogs, the first one that jumps to mind is probably a dog with a white coat—fluffy like the clouds.

beautiful samoyed dog resting on the ground

Choosing a name by color is actually a popular way of naming a dog, so here are some white fluffy dog names for you.

  • Al Bino — funny and punny white dog name

  • Alabaster – a bit fancy but a good choice for a working dog

  • Angel — a heavenly name for a fluffy pup

  • Blizzard – a great option for a big, strong working dog

  • Bones – simply perfect for dogs

  • Boo – cute and playful

  • Casper – the friendly pup

  • Coconut – because the inside of a coconut is white like your dog’s fur

  • Crystal – beautiful bright glass

  • Diamond – a girl’s best friend, like your dog

  • Dove – beautiful white-colored creatures like your dog

  • Everest – where there’s buckets of snow; also perfect for a big, strong dog

  • Faith – a very pure (and white) sounding name

  • Frosty – a good alternative to Snow or Snowball

  • Gardenia — beautiful white flower native to Africa and Asia

  • Ghost – like Jon Snow’s dog in Game of Thrones

  • Heaven – perhaps the ultimate white dog name

  • Ice – perfect for Huskies with blue eyes

  • Ivory – white material made from elephant tusks

  • January — a cold weather month that features a lot of snow

  • Jasmine – a fragrant white flower

  • Lily – white-flowered plant

  • Lux – for “luxurious”—like your dog’s coat

  • Magnolia – a large, white flowering plant

  • Marshmallow – fluffy and sweet

  • Milky – the perfect way to describe your dog’s coat

  • Nimbus – because some dogs just glow

  • Oleander – shrub that’s white in color

  • Opal – a white and milky-looking gemstone

  • Pearl – sweet name that sums up your dog’s fur

  • Powder – cute name for a cute dog

  • Salt – short and to the point; of course, it doesn’t imply that your dog is salty

  • Sugar – a sweet name for a sweet dog

  • Vanilla – another sweet name

  • Whitey – obvious but succinct

You can also translate “white” to other languages, for example:

  • Bianco or Bianca (Italian)

  • Blanc (French) – for your poodle or Bichon Frise

  • Blanco or Blanca (Spanish)

  • Shiro (Japanese) – for a white Shiba Inu perhaps?

  • Weiß (German) – pronounced like “vice”

Fluffy Black Dog Names

Funny Fluffy Dog Names

Dog coats can be black too.

If you have a fluffy dog with a gorgeous black coat, these black fluffy dog names will go great with them:

  • Ash – great name for a Bearded Collie

  • Bean – think black beans

  • Blackberry – when Blackie just won’t do

  • Carbon – sounds strong and sophisticated

  • Cinder – a good alternative to coal

  • Coal — simple and to the point

  • Coco — delicious and to the point

  • Coffee – for the coffee and dog lover

  • Cola – for the soda and dog lover

  • Cosmo – the stars are bright but the rest of space is black

  • Diesel – sometimes it’s a black column of smoke but it can also be a tough name for a tough dog

  • Dusty – some dust can be black too

  • Ebony – a sophisticated name

  • Eclipse – when the Earth goes dark

  • Elvira- very Goth-sounding

  • Ember – good alternative to Amber especially if your dog is black-colored

  • Espresso – dog owners who love their coffee strong and rich

  • Galaxy – galaxies shine in the darkness

  • Goth – scary name for a big black dog

  • Graphite – sounds strong and enduring

  • Hershey – sweet name for a sweet dog

  • Inky – a more sophisticated form of Blackie

  • Jackal – because Jack is too common

  • Jaguar – strong, black-colored animal

  • Knight — a play on “night”

  • Leopard – a variant to Jaguar

  • Licorice – great alternative to Hershey

  • Midnight – if he has very black fur

  • Moon – a sliver of brightness in the dark

  • Ninja – in the olden days, ninja wore black costumes so they would blend better with the darkness

  • Onyx – like the gemstone

  • Oreo – great alternative to Hershey and Coco

  • Panda – cute and lovable

  • Panther – another strong and black animal

  • Penguin – cute name for a dog

  • Pepper – spicy and strong

  • Pepsi – if you prefer this soda brand

  • Phantom – you will fall in love with him

  • Puma – for fast dogs

  • Raisin – small but healthy snack

  • Raven – dogs can’t fly but their names can

  • Shadow – if you’re looking for something mysterious

  • Shady – for the mischievous pup

  • Smoky – good name for a firehouse dog

  • Spider – scary name to call in a dog park or vet

  • Stallion – confusing but sounds strong

  • Stormy – imagine a black dog with blue or grey-colored eyes

  • Suede – for dogs with smooth fur

  • Tarmac – simple but strong-sounding

  • Thunder – strong-sounding name for a big dog

  • Twilight – a gentler alternative to Thunder

  • Vader – as in Darth Vader

  • Velvet – if it’s smoother than suede

  • Vortex – sophisticated name for a strong dog

  • Zorro – heroic character

You can also translate the word “black” to other languages. Example:

  • Kuro (Japanese)

  • Nero (Italian)

  • Noir (French)

  • Preto (Portuguese)

  • Schwarz (German)

  • Zwart (Dutch) – funny-sounding name for a cute dog

Wrap Up

Dog names are important. Think about it. As humans, we develop a personal attachment to our names. When we hear our name, we instantly think “that’s me.”

While dogs don’t really understand the concept of “owning” their names, they can distinguish their names through the sound you make. Over time, he or she will learn to associate the sound with treats or the good stuff and respond appropriately. This makes dog training easier for you as an owner.

It can take some time for your dog to learn their name. It can also take some time for their personality to show.
If you’re not sure what to call them, experiment with a couple of names before making the final decision. Sometimes it takes a few days before you find a name that is befitting of their character.

In the end, you just have to find a name that you’re happy with. These names are great for fluffy dog breeds like the Pomeranian, Samoyed, Chow Chow, Bichon Frise and the Poodle. However, the alternatives above can also be given to any other dog breeds—even the non-fluffy kind.

What is your fluffy dog’s name? What do you think of our selection? Do you think you will be naming your fluffy dog after any of our suggestions? Tell us by leaving your comments below.

How to Cook Chicken Livers for Dogs: Making Fido a New, Delicious Treat

By
Vinko Woodman
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Cooking Chicken Livers for Dogs

Chicken liver is a highly nutritious and delicious meal for your dog that you can cook up easy. Unfortunately, not many dog owners think about feeding their dog chicken liver because they themselves are not used to eating it.

If you’re one of them, you are seriously missing out because learning how to cook chicken livers for dogs will allow you to come up with a new recipe that Fido and your wallet will surely thank you for.

Even if you are no fan of livers, it is no news that dogs love them. We have yet to see a dog that would not jump at the opportunity to have a taste of this treat. Not only is chicken liver delicious, it is also very good for your dog’s health—especially for his eyesight and to improve the silkiness of his coat.
fresh chicken livers
Some people worry that giving their dog chicken liver might have a bad side-effect. But don’t worry because as long as you cook it well, the chicken liver will only improve your dog’s overall health.

In this piece, we will take you by the hand through the steps that will make you the best chicken liver chef your dog has ever had. We’ve got plenty of recipes you can try.

Do you think your dog has shown you all of his love before? Wait till you unlock the floodgates of reserved love when the little ball of fur tastes this delicacy you’re about to make.

Why You Should Serve Chicken Liver to Your Dog

For those who think they already have enough treats for their dogs, it is perhaps necessary that we take a quick detour to let you know the numerous benefits of giving your dog chicken liver:

  • Chicken liver is very rich in amino acids and high-quality proteins.
  • Chicken liver is a good source of Vitamin B Complex.
  • There is a rich collection of fat-soluble vitamins (Vitamin A, D, E, and K) in chicken liver.
  • Chicken liver contains minerals in abundance. Some of these are zinc, copper, and iron.
  • Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are easily obtainable from chicken liver. These will improve the shininess of your dog’s coat.
  • Serving chicken liver to your dog will help improve his eyesight due to the high Vitamin A content.
  • Chicken liver can increase the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. This translates to your dog coming out stronger and with higher levels of endurance.

The question you should be asking yourself right now is why you haven’t started serving liver to your dog yet. Lack the expertise or know-how needed to pull this off? Let’s get started with the tips and tricks then.

How to Serve Liver to Your Dog

There is no hard and fast rule about how chicken liver should be served to a dog. Some dogs prefer it one way, while other dogs would opt for another cooking method instead.

Image showing a woman holding a bowl full of raw-organ-meat-dog-food

Although, one thing is clear. It is best if you don’t serve the chicken liver raw. If you absolutely have to for one reason or another, make sure that the liver you’re serving is from a very trusted source and that your dog is used to eating raw food. Even then, there is a small margin for error.

That is why we advise that you serve chicken liver to your dog cooked instead. Aside from the fact that you will be eliminating the risk of pathogenic infections, you will also be dulling their natural predatory instinct instead of promoting it. Raw meat can cause a conflict of domestic and wild instincts in a dog.

So if you’re ready to get cooking, make sure you’ve got some raw chicken livers at hand. If possible, get livers from free-range chickens. These chickens tend to have livers with higher nutritional benefits.

Likewise, there is a good chance that these chickens had been exposed to a lesser amount of toxins and chemicals. If you’ve got the livers ready, let’s move on to the recipes:

Recipe 1 – Chicken Liver Meat Meal

For this recipe, you will need:

  • Chicken livers
  • A medium-sized pot
  • A plate
  • A small bowl

# Step 1: Washing

It doesn’t matter whether you got the livers from a grocery store or a nearby farm—you should still wash the livers. Put all of them (or those you want to cook all at once) into a small bowl and run cool water over it.

Image showing Healthy Chicken Liver

You will instantly notice some coloration and debris floating in the water. Rinse thoroughly—about once or twice—to get rid of them. When the water runs clear, you can move on to the next step.

# Step 2: Prep

Place the pieces of chicken liver that you have rinsed into a clean pot. Add some cool water. You should pour about 1 inch of water for every 10 pieces of liver that you have in the pot.

# Step 3: Cooking

Turn your gas stove to high heat and let it take the water to boiling temperature. When the water has boiled, you can then turn down the heat a little bit. Put in the liver and allow them to simmer. Leave it for about 15 minutes before you turn off the gas stove.

Your dog will typically eat the chicken liver as it is, but if you are feeling adventurous, you can try adding some seasoning to improve the taste and smell of what you’re cooking. So that you don’t destroy the natural essence, it is best if your seasoning is vegetables-inspired. Carrots, bell peppers, cabbages, and other related vegetables will do.

Note that if they are not tender after said 15 minutes, you can leave them on the stove for a little longer. The same goes for if they get tender faster than stated, at which point you should turn off the gas stove.

# Step 4: Post-Cooking

Take the pot away from the heat and drain the excess water into a sink. Remove the pieces of liver from the pot onto a plate and allow them to cool. Your pooch must have been watching you while you’ve been shuffling to get their treat done.

The scent would have reached his nose, and he would like nothing more than to sink his teeth into your juicy cooking. So, what are you waiting for?

Recipe 2 – Chicken Liver Cookies

For this recipe, you will need:

  • Flour
  • Cornmeal
  • Powdered milk
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt
  • Egg
  • Vegetable oil
  • Water
  • Chicken livers
  • A medium-sized pot
  • A bowl/container

# Step 1: Prep

Here, you’ll have to repeat Step 1 and 2 from the Recipe 1 we have explained above.

# Step 2: Processing

Boil as many pieces of the liver as you want. Once they are done, put them in a food processor. Puree the chicken livers with a little bit of oil.

Chicken and Liver Dog Cookies

After that, freeze the pureed chicken livers, preferably in half-cup portions.

# Step 3: Make the Dough

Measure two cups of the flour, a three-quarter cup of cornmeal, and half a tablespoon of garlic powder. Put them in a bowl. Add another half-cup of powdered milk, six tablespoons of vegetable oil, and a tablespoon of salt to taste. Break an egg into the mixture.

So that the mixture doesn’t get too thick, throw in half a cup of water (or broth to make it even tastier).

Image showing a man doing a dough

To the already-existent mixture, pour in some of the pureed chicken liver. For the exact measurements we have recommended, half a cup of the pureed chicken liver will be enough. Knead these for about 5 minutes till you start to have an even dough. Put it in the fridge to chill for an hour, or preferably, overnight.

# Step 4: Baking

Roll the dough and cut it according to whatever shape you want. Place the cut shapes on a cookie sheet and then, in an oven, set the temperature to 350-degree Celsius or 662-degree Fahrenheit and watch the batch bake.

Depending on your preference as to the crunchiness of the cookies, you should allow it to bake for 30 minutes more or less.

# Step 5: Post-Cooking

Retrieve the batches as soon as they are done and send in some more till you have baked them all.

After cooling, you can immediately serve them to your dog and/or store them in an air-tight container for later.

Recipe 3 – Chicken Liver-Shaped Biscuits

For this recipe, you will need:

  • Chicken Livers (1 pound)
  • Chicken (1 pound)
  • Eggs (3 pieces)

# Step 1: Washing

Once again, follow the set of instructions in the first recipe. However, this time, limit your doings to only the first point (washing). Wash the chicken meat too since we will be adding them to this recipe.

# Step 2: Processing

Put your chicken in a blender or a food processor. Break all three eggs and pour them into the blender too. Blend the entire mixture for a while, but make sure it doesn’t turn into fine liquid. It should still be rather rough.

Pour the livers into the semi-blended mixture and keep blending. Let this go on until you have something that looks like malt.

# Step 3: Baking

Turn on the heat in the oven. Pre-heat it to about 230 degrees Celsius or 446-degree Fahrenheit. Apply a light grease to your oven’s cookie sheets, or just use parchment paper instead if that’s available.

Pour the mixture from your blender into the center of the greased cookie sheet (or parchment paper) then start baking it. After about one hour of baking, retrieve the mixture. Note that at this point, it would still be all gooey and sticky, but it would have started the solidification process.

With a knife or a spatula, cut specific shapes that you fancy into the dough. Turn it into smaller pieces to ensure all sides of the biscuits get baked evenly when you finally bring them out.

Don’t forget to flip the biscuits too so that one side doesn’t get all the brown, or worse, black. Allow to bake for one more hour, or till the treats get evenly browned—whichever happens first.

# Step 4: Post-Cooking

Turn off the heat but allow the treats to stay in the oven for several more hours so they can cool before you start serving or refrigerating them at all. Store the excess chicken liver treat in an air-tight container for your dog. Each batch you make should be able to last about two weeks in the refrigerator.

Serving Chicken Liver to Your Dog

Serving Chicken Liver to Your Dog

Essentially, you can serve all of the treats you have just made to your dog at once. But as we have explained in each recipe above, these treats should last quite a while in the fridge. They can be also used as training treats for your dog if you want to.

Or, instead of serving it as a standalone treat, you can equally consider mixing it up with some of their regular food. Just like the way you’d enjoy your rice with side dishes, so would your dog.

Also, you could just serve these treats as a supplement to your dog’s meals. In a week, you should serve your dog cooked chicken livers no more than 3 to 5 times. Although, bigger dogs can take them at a slightly higher frequency, so 5 to 7 times per week will not be bad for them.

The point is, giving them too much will do more harm than good. Due to the high concentration of vitamin A in livers, your dog is prone to overdosing if they eat it too much. That can lead to conditions such as bone deformity, limping (caused by bone spurs on the spine and legs), and muscle weakness.

Likewise, chicken liver is high in fat and can contribute to issues of weight in your dog. That is not to mention the stomach problems that could arise from the high fatty content we previously talked about. As a precaution, make sure you never fry the liver you are going to give to your dog. They don’t need the excess grease.

Don’t worry, though. The risks we mentioned above are very unlikely scenarios. All of these can be prevented if you are serving your dog the right amount of liver. You can also talk to your vet to know how much your dog can consume before you set out with giving him this treat at all

Wrap Up

We have addressed what makes liver a viable option for your dog. If you’d like to try your hand at cooking some of the recipes we’ve explained above, we believe you now have all you need to get started. It really is a very simple and nutritious dish. Your dog will definitely understand the extra effort you have put in for their sake and will love you all the more.

Did you find our article useful? Do you plan to try any of our recipes? Of course, we would also like to hear from you—especially if you have a secret family recipe on cooking chicken livers for your dog. Even if you don’t, don’t hesitate to share your experiences with the community.

Top 10 Most Affectionate Dog Breeds – Find a Loving Canine

By
Marija Jovanovic
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Most Affectionate and Loving Dog Breeds

When it comes to finding a new canine best friend you are probably wondering how to make sure you choose one of the most affectionate dog breeds. Some breeds such as the Labrador are highly known for being a wonderful and loving dog breed, while say a pitbull is unfortunately known for being aggressive. While in the pitbull’s case, a lot of it has to do with poor breeding, raising, and lots of bad media, the Labradors case is simple: they truly are a loving breed.

If you have recently been considering bringing a new puppy or dog into your home you should do a little bit of research first. Stop for a while and take into consideration your lifestyle when choosing a specific breed.

Some need big yards and just can’t handle small apartment living, while others are happy with a couple of daily walks and the occasional trip to the dog park. If you are not an extremely active person, then you won’t want an extremely active dog like a Dalmatian, but rather more of a couch potato like perhaps a bulldog.

No matter what your living situation or activity levels are, chances are you are going to be looking for an extremely lovely dog. So here’s a list of the top 10 most affectionate dog breeds!

Irish Wolfhound #10

If you don’t mind the large size, the Irish Wolfhound is a very affectionate breed to consider bringing home. They really do think they are a lap dog regardless of size. They will often want to lay their head in your lap or lean up against your legs or on your feet when everyone is relaxing. These dogs do not need a lot of early socialization around people – but they do for being around other animals.

They are happy to be around most humans, (though occasionally there is one who is timid and needs socialization) but when it comes to cats, squirrels and other small animals that move quickly they are likely to want to chase and pounce.

Irish-Wolfhound

The Irish Wolfhound is also a dog that can live in many environments. Now while I will not suggest bringing one into a small apartment, most suburban homes will keep this hound just as happy as living out in the countryside. When it comes to exercise, they don’t need a ton of time to run, but they do need sufficient exercise to stay healthy.

An hour walk every day and a couple chances to run off his energy in a large yard or dog park should keep your Irish Wolfhound happy. These dogs are also known for being a little bit clumsy, so if you have a lot of breakables in your home, this may not be the dog for you. But if you are looking to bring home a gentle giant and you are prepared to go for a decent walk every day you might be very well suited for this breed.

You can learn more about this great breed in our article on the Wolfhound.

Dalmatian #9

I bet every time you watched 101 Dalmatians as a little kid you begged and begged your parents for one of the adorable spotted puppies. Dalmatians are a very affectionate breed most of the time. They thrive on being a part of the family and don’t do well when they are left alone for too long.

They are hyperactive dogs and they need lots of exercises. If your family likes to take bike rides together, your dal will happily run alongside you the whole way. This dog was bred as a working dog and is prepared to run for hours on end. If you cannot supply at least close to this level of exercise time for your dog, you should consider a different breed.

Dalmatian

Unfortunately, the affectionate side of the breed was lost in some bloodlines due to the boom in demand for Dalmatians every time the Disney movie is re-released. This has led to a lot of aggressive dogs that should not (and normally would not have) been bred. When you go shopping for a dal your best bet is to find a registered breeder that knows the health history of the dog’s bloodlines.

You should have a full list of questions about temperament and health when you visit a breeder to be sure you are getting the healthiest puppy possible. When it comes to training, these dogs can be very independent and stubborn. That is not to say that the breed is untrainable, simply that it takes a little more effort, time and patience to train with positive methods.

If you are prepared to go on some long runs or bike rides with your Dalmatian and are ready to get lots of love and affection in return, then head off to do some more research about health questions to ask your breeder!

You can find out what else this breed has to offer by reading up on the Dalmatian.

Bloodhound #8

If you are looking for a larger dog, then you might want to consider a Bloodhound. These dogs are extremely loyal and loving towards their people. Though originally bred for hunting game, many of these dogs are now family pets. If your family likes to go on hiking trips, camping or are generally outdoorsy then a Bloodhound could be a great option for your family pet.

He has boundless energy, he will play for hours and hours and he needs plenty of space to run, so living in a home with a yard is a must. When these dogs are not properly exercised, they can become destructive, so making sure they get a chance to run off all their energy is not optional if you want to keep your things nice.

Bloodhound

As a part of the hound breed, there is no way around two of the Bloodhounds (and any hounds) biggest downfall: their nose and the baying. All hounds have an incredible sense of smell and instincts to track that they simply cannot ignore. A hound will follow a scent for miles with no regard to carefully crossing busy roads. This has led to lots of unfortunate accidents involving hounds so if you get one, be sure to have a solid fence they will not be able to dig under!

As for the baying, all hounds howl and there is not much you can do about it. They are adorable when they are little and some still have their moments in adulthood – but your neighbors may not think so. This often makes a bloodhound or any type of hound a bad choice for apartment living unless you can train them to stop right away on command (and you are around often enough for this to help).

Mastiff #7

When it comes to the Mastiff, people might be a little put off by an intimidating size, but really they are lazy cuddle machines. That is not to say they don’t need exercise because they do – but as your mastiff gets older, he may be less and less excited about getting out for a walk. Really, these dogs just want to be home and around their owners.

Mastiff-puppies

They love to please and they would happily be a lap dog if you let them. Watch out for some drool though, these dogs are quite known for it and he’s likely to want to give you a doggy kiss! One of the benefits to these dogs is you have the large, intimidating body of a watchdog in a breed that is far more likely to roll his eyes at the intruder or jump on him in excitement.

These dogs are relatively low maintenance as they have a short and sleek coat. You will be able to get by with weekly brushings and bi-weekly or monthly baths depending on how much time is spent outside during the week! The ease of taking care of your mastiffs coat does come at a price – such a large dog can really pack away the food, so expect to go through quite a bit!

Along with the hefty appetite, these dogs are also not the easiest to train. Still with some time and patience and positive training methods, you will have a well behaved dog! Positive training sessions are actually great bonding time and it will bring you and your dog closer together in a relationship where your dog respects you as the pack leader.

Interested in bringing one home? You should definitely read up on the Mastiff first before you do.

Collie #6

The Collie is a very sensitive and loving breed of dog who craves human attention. These dogs can quickly become unhappy if left alone or away from their family for too long at a time. They enjoy being a part of the family and crave attention.

This makes them one of the best family breeds of dogs as well as one of the most affectionate breeds of dog around. They often do well with other humans and other family pets – the only thing you may need to watch out for is they can be somewhat territorial around other dogs of the same gender.

Collie

These dogs require a positive training technique – loud and angry voices can make them very scared and skittish which can lead to problems in any dog breed. They don’t need the excessive exercise that other dogs in their size group may require, though they do still need a decent walk a couple of times a day. There are not too many downsides of owning a collie considering their kind and gentle nature towards humans and other animals alike.

The biggest downfall to a collie (and this only applies to the rough collie) is the long fur that needs to be groomed often to be kept in nice shape. Their long hair will shed in large amounts no matter what time of the year it is and even daily brushing will not prevent this.

Daily brushing is on the other hand necessary in order to keep the collie’s fur from matting (creating knots that grow into themselves creating a tangled mess of fur). If you have the patience to train and brush this sensitive but loving breed, they will be your best friend for years to come.

Great Dane #5

These dogs really are best described as a gentle giant. They are very family and people oriented and just like the collies they expect socialization with their people regularly and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for too long at a time.

Great Danes may be a little intimidating because of their size but most of the time these dogs are just big goof-balls wanting to play. They may excitedly jump at someone or bark to let you know that there is someone at the door, but in all honesty they are more likely to bring in their tennis ball than anything else.

Great-Dane

For such a large breed they really only need moderate exercise like a lengthy walk a couple of times a day – on the other hand they are still very large dogs and don’t do that well in apartment living type situations. If you are looking for a dog that would love to cuddle and lick your face but that really stands out in a crowd, a Great Dane is a great pet to choose. He is loyal, noble and loving regardless of his gigantic size.

On the other hand you can end up dealing with a hard-headed pup so obedience classes are necessary to make sure that you have a happy, respectful and obedient Great Dane. These dogs are also slow to mature so be prepared for you overly large dog to have the same attitude as a young pup for up to three years or so. Really though, a Great Dane is a loving family member that you will be glad you spent the time to train properly!

This breed can be a lot of work, so know what you’re getting into by reading about the Great Dane.

Boxer #4

If you are looking for a happy-go-lucky kind of dog the then Boxer might be just the breed you are looking for. They are always happy to see their human family but they are also prone to jumping around and on people so that is something you need to watch out for if you have young children.

These dogs were bred as a working breed but their activity level can vary greatly, some being more on the couch potato side and some who need more than the average amount of exercise to be kept happy and from being destructive.

Boxer-dog

When you are considering a boxer you should know that they do not do well in warmer climates and can easily suffer from heat stroke. This means in more tropical climates you will want to consider another breed or be prepared to take very early and late walks to avoid your dog overheating.

They are a mid-sized to large breed and they are not really the best of watch dogs. Some boxers will greet guests enthusiastically and others will be more reserved but aggression is rare. (Even though they will bark – a lot – to let you know that someone is at the door!)

This breed does well with other pets and other dogs alike, though they may have a tendency to chase smaller animals. While in adulthood he will be hyperactive and ready for action but towards the end you will notice your dog finally starting to mellow out some. If you are prepared to have a new best friend that will happily greet you at the door whenever you come home and does not suffer from separation anxiety then a boxer is a great decision.

Bulldog #3

Considering a bulldog as one of the most affectionate breeds should be a no-brainer. These dogs are very loving and sweet but beware of food! Bulldogs should be fed separately from other pets and away from children who might try to get near them as they are very possessive over their food.

On the other hand, this is an advantage to those trying to train a bulldog as food motivation will get you farther than any punishment training might! These dogs are a rather stubborn breed so patience will be required while training them.

When it comes to having a watch-dog, you are probably on the wrong track with a bulldog and should go for a more outspoken breed because bulldogs hardly ever bark. They are known to be a bit of a couch potato too, which means they don’t need extensive amounts of exercise in order to keep them from being destructive.

Really a decent walk in the morning and the evening is enough to keep this breed happy all the time – and sometimes they may not even feel like doing that much! (still, it is necessary to keep them at an optimum healthy weight.)

American-Bulldog

If you are prepared to spend some money on a dog from a good breeder and some obedience classes, the bulldog will be a great companion for many families. They are great with small children because they are sturdy and able to handle a small child’s play. This affectionate and relatively lazy breed does well in both large homes and apartment living making him a great option for many families.

If you’ve been interested in bringing one home to the family, you’d best be prepared by checking out our article on the Bulldog.

Golden Retriever #2

A Golden Retriever is one of the most even tempered dogs you can get for your family (along with the Labrador, which we will discuss below). These dogs are very much a family dog – if you ever watched Full House in the 90’s you will recognize their dog Comet as one of these amazing dogs.

They are always welcoming you upon arrival with a happy wagging tail, possible jumping around and barking. Their barking is hardly ever threatening, meaning these dogs do not make the best watchdogs around, but if you are looking for affectionate you might have found a “golden” mine.

These dogs are relatively easy to train, though you will still want to take obedience classes to learn to control walking on leash and jumping habits. These dogs get along with pretty much everyone, your neighbor, your kids, you cat and yes, even the mail man!

A Golden is a prime family pet with a long beautiful coat that needs regular brushing and bathing to keep clean and tangle free. They are really just “big pups” for most of their lives, so be prepared for a puppy mentality for quite a while.

Golden-Retriever

With a few walks throughout the day, a trip to the dog park to run and play once or twice a week these dogs can adjust to almost any lifestyle, even apartments. On the other hand they do have a tendency to chew and play with their mouths, which means you should always have a good supply of chew toys and raw hide bones on hand!

They will leave your shoes alone if you give them something they want more! All in all, this breed is a wonderfully affectionate family breed.

Labrador Retriever #1

The number one affectionate breed of dog has got to be the Labrador. Just like the Goldens these dogs are very loving and affectionate towards just about everyone they meet. They don’t make great watch dogs, but they do make a great companion pet which is why they are often used as guide and therapy dogs.

The Labrador does need a decent amount of exercise and they love to fetch things due to their nature – they were bred as a hunting dog. They do great in any type of living situation as long as they get a couple of long walks every day and chances to run and play during the week. (If you can take them swimming, all the better!)

Labrador-Retriever1

If you are looking for a dog that will gladly stay by your side through thick and thin and give you all the love you expect out of a dog, the Lab is your breed! These dogs can get pretty large but as long as you don’t live in a size-restricted community, this breed is the best dog for families with children of all ages.

The lab will keep his spirited puppy attitude late into life which can be fun and adorable but can also require quite a bit of patience on the owners end. With some obedience classes and patience though you will have the best behaved dog on the block!

When you start looking for a dog to bring home to your family, make sure you do your research. If you want to bring home a puppy then you should highly consider going to a reputable breeder and preparing yourself with any health questions pertaining to the breed. If the breeder doesn’t want you to bring a vet or won’t answer your questions, go somewhere else! (Even if they have the best price!)

When it comes to buying a puppy you should rather pay more for a dog in good health than pay a cheaper, pet store price and get a sick pup from a puppy mill.

Which-dog-breed-is-right-for-me

If you are not sure that your family has time to devote training a young pup, consider going to your local rescue and bringing home an adult dog. In many cases this works out well for the family, the dog is already trained and the people at the rescue will have a good idea of his or her personality already.

Top 40 Dachshund Names: Short and Sweet

By
Vinko Woodman
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Most Popular Dachshund Names

Now that you have picked out your Dachshund and brought your new friend home, it is time to give them a good name. A name is something that reflects our personality. It says a lot about who we are.

That’s why you shouldn’t name your dog at random. You’ll have to carefully take into account your dog’s characteristics and try to match them with a comprehensive list of Dachshund names to see if there’s any that suits them perfectly.

That said, figuring out where to begin can be difficult. You’ve probably just adopted the dog very recently, so chances are, you still haven’t spent enough time with them to have their personality all figured out.

Dachshund Puppies

Thankfully, you can name them based on other things, such as their coloring, their gender, or your own aspiration. Naming them after something or someone you want them to grow up to resemble is also a great idea.

Still stuck on what Dachshund name you want? Look no further as we have compiled all the best Dachshund dog names for you to look over. We have everything from ordinary to extraordinary names. There is bound to be the right name for you and your Dachshund on this page.

Famous Dachshund Dogs Owned by Celebrities

The Dachshund is a popular dog. Their unusual body shape and endearing personality has earned them the love of many, and yes, that includes the high society.

If you are looking for some famous Dachshund dog names for your male or female Doxies, you could check out the below list. All the names below are inspired by celebrity Dachshund dogs.

  • Amos: Andy Warhol.
  • August: E.B. White.
  • Boodgie: David Hockney.
  • Bulle: Jасԛuеѕ Cоuѕtеаu.
  • Boy: Queen Victoria.
  • Charlie: John Wayne.
  • Clyde: Wayne Gretzky.
  • Cilly: Max Schmeling.
  • Commissioner: Carole Lombard & Clark Gable.
  • Dunker: John F. Kennedy.
  • Dash: Mary Tyler Moore.
  • Deckel: Queen Victoria.
  • Eva: Dita Von Teese.
  • Fred: E.B. White.
  • Faussete: Napoleon Bonaparte.
  • Girlie: Brooke Astor.
  • Grеnоuіllе: Napoleon Bonaparte.
  • Greta: Dita Von Teese
  • Helena: William Randolph Hearst.
  • Hexl: Kaiser Wilhelm II.
  • Jed: P.G. Wodehouse.
  • Loeki: Napoleon.
  • Lump: Pablo Picasso.
  • Louie: Adele.
  • Maria: Marlon Brando.
  • Minnie: E.B. White.
  • Ozzy: George Harrison.
  • Robinson: Dorothy Parker.
  • Rommel: Mark Badgley.
  • Rome: Ingrid Bergman.
  • Skip: Teddy Roosevelt.
  • St. tropez: Brigitte Bardo.
  • Stanley: David Hockney.
  • Senta: Kaiser Wilhelm II.
  • Whiskey: James Mischka.
  • Wadl: Kaiser Wilhelm II.
  • Wаldі: The first-ever mascot of the Olympics held in Munich 1972.

Adorable Dachshund Dogs on Instagram

Dachshund on Instagram

Dachshund is a popular breed, and they are even popular on the Internet. If you are looking for some cool and recognizable Dachshund dog names for your Wiener puppies, you could consider drawing inspiration from these Instagram celebrity Dachshund dogs.

  • Blue
  • Bear
  • Comet
  • Cocoa
  • Daisy
  • Diesel
  • Dobby
  • Eggo
  • Emma
  • Frank
  • Mia
  • Nutmeg
  • Nate
  • Peanut
  • Princess Lilo
  • Pepperoni
  • Rosie
  • Slinky
  • Snoop
  • Scrappy Doo
  • Twix
  • Tank
  • Tex

Our Favorite Dachshund Names for Your Wieners

Dachshund Names

The Dachshund has unique appearance. It is a short-legged, long-bodied hound-type dog breed. When coming up with wiener dog names, you can choose a name based on these characteristics. Here comes our favorite section of Dachshund dog names; they are suitable for both male or female Wieners.
  • Beau: French for «handsome; admirer; sweetheart.» Its use as a given name is probably due to the character of Beau Wilks in Margaret Mitchell’s «Gone with the Wind.»
  • Betsy: A short form of Elizabeth. It means «God’s promise.» It’s a short and sweet name that’s perfect for a country Dachshund.
  • Bruno: German for “brown.” Dachshunds tend to sport a gorgeous black coat that has shades of brown in it when the sunlight hits it just the right way.
  • Briley: Briar wood. Also a throwback to the Dachshund’s gorgeous coat.
  • Cody: Irish for “a helper.” It’s a short and sweet name with a meaning that suits the excitable and eager Dachshund.
  • Daisy: Henry James named the typical American girl in Europe as Daisy Miller in his story. Dachshunds are so popular in both the US and Europe that this name suits them perfectly.
  • Doxie: It’s a nickname commonly used when referring to a Dachshund.
  • Dolce: Because Dachshunds are always so “sweet.”
  • Ernie: “Earnest, serious.” Does this sound like your Dachshund?
  • Gingerbread: Another nod to the Dachshund’s beautiful dark-colored coat. Can also refer to their sweet personality, with just a hint of spice in it.
  • Herman: It refers to a man who serves in the army in German. Although your Dachshund may not be a warfare dog, there’s no harm in respecting his heritage.
  • Hermes: A Greek god associated with speed and good luck. Dachshunds may have short legs, but they can be quite fast on their feet.
  • Lucy: Latin for “light” The Dachshund’s cheery attitude never fails to bring light into our lives.
  • Oscar: “Friend of the deer.” Short as they may be, the Dachshund was bred as a hunting dog. Their main target might have been the badger, but they can track down deers too.
  • Otto: German for “wealth.”
  • Sarah: “Princess.” In the bible, Sarah was exceptionally beautiful even into her older years. The Dachshund is a breed that retains their youthful energy well into their old age.
  • Schnitzel: Germanic delicacy. A thin slice of veal or other light meat, coated in breadcrumbs and fried.
  • Tootsie: “A girl or a young woman.” It sounds cute and fitting for your Dachshund, doesn’t it?
  • Wiggles: Dachshunds are so short that when they wag their tail hard enough, it looks like their entire rear is wiggling.

A Complete Collection of Dachshund Dog Names

Dachshund Dog Names

Couldn’t find a name that sounds right from the lists above? No worries; you’ll definitely find it here, in this complete and exhaustive list of good Dachshund names. Good Dachshund names don’t have to focus on the dog’s sausage shape.

They can reflect their unique spirit, cool attitude, or beautiful coat pattern. The list below contains both female Dachshund names and male Dachshund names.

Name Meaning Gender Origin
Abby Father is rejoicing Female Hebrew
Adelina Noble, kind Female Germanic
Aimee Dearly beloved Female English
Alicia Noble, kind Female Germanic
Allie The greatest Female English
Alysia Of noble kind Female French
Amisha Truthful Female Indian
Amy Loved Female French
Angel Messenger Unisex Greek
Angus One choice Male Gaelic
Anissa Grace Female Hebrew
Annie Grace Female Hebrew
Antonia Beyond praise Female Latin
Archie Bold Male English
Arlen Land with hares Male English
Armando Man in the army Male Germanic
Arnold Powerful eagle Male Germanic
Aron Mountain Male Hebrew
Ashwin Of great wealth Male Sanskrit
Axel Father of peace Male Hebrew
Bambi Little girl Female Italian
Barry Spear Male Gaelic
Beau Handsome Male French
Bella My God is a vow Female Hebrew
Bentley Clearing Male English
Bernie Brave Male German
Beryl Blue-green Male Greek
Billy Will, desire, helmet, protection Male Germanic
Binky Field of Beans Unisex English
Biscuit Sweet food Unisex English
Blackie Black creature Unisex English
Blaze Stutters Unisex English
Bo Respected Female French
Bogey Bow strength Unisex French
Bonnie Pretty Female English
Boomer Sluice gate Male German
Bram The father of many nations Male Hebrew
Brandy The beverage Female English
Brenda Sword Female Norse
Brock Badger Male English
Brownie Moist chocolate cake with nuts Unisex English
Buddy Herald Male English
Bullet Bullet Unisex English
Bunny Rabbit Female English
Buster American name Male American English
Cali Most beautiful Female English
Callie Most beautiful Female Greek
Caradoc Beloved Female Welsh
Carl Man Male German
Cash Money Unisex English
Chaos For energetiс dogs Unisex Greek
Charisma Charming Female English
Charlie Free man Unisex Germanic
Chewie Does your dog constantly chew on something? Unisex English
Chico Boy Male Spanish
Chili Sauce Unisex English
Christie Follower of Christ Female Latin
Cinnamon Spice Unisex English
Coco Pet name Unisex French
Conan Little wolfhound Male Gaelic
Conway Hound of the plain Male English
Cookie Sweet food Unisex English
Corby Dark Unisex Latin
Crackers Salty snacks Unisex English
Crash For crazy dogs Unisex English
Cupid God of sexual love Unisex Latin
Cutie Cute Female English
Dakota The allies Female Native American
Dale Dweller of the valley Male English
Dalila Gentleness Female Swahili
Darice Wise Female English
Dean Valley Male English
Dempsey Proud, haughty Male Gaelic
Dena Slender Female Hebrew
Diamond Precious gemstone Unisex English
Dick Strong, short for Richard Male English
Dieter People army Male Germanic
Digger If your dog likes digging Male English
Dixie Strong power Male English
Donatello Given by God Unisex Latin
Dottie Gift of God Unisex Greek
Duchess From the Aristocrats Unisex English
Dudley Wood or clearing Male English
Duke Leader Male English
Duncan Brown chief Male Gaelic
Edward Wealth protector Male English
Eli Ascend Male Hebrew
Elke Noble, kind Female Germanic
Elle She Female French
Elsa My God is a vow Female Hebrew
Emma All-containing Female German
Errol Wandering Male Latin
Esteban Crown Male Greek
Etienne Crown Male Greek
Ezra Aid Male Hebrew
Felix Happy Male Latin
Festus Holiday Unisex Latin
Flash If you dog is extremely fast Unisex English
Flora Flower Female Latin
Florida Blooming Female English
Fluffy For long-haired dogs Female English
Foxy For orange dogs Unisex English
Frank Javelin Male Germanic
Freckles Dotted with small brownish spots Unisex English
Fritz Peaceful ruler Male German
Gail Father is rejoicing Female Hebrew
Gaspar Treasure keeper Male Persian
Gavin White hawk of battle Male Welsh
George Earth worker Male Greek
Gilbert Bright oath Male Germanic
Gilligan Lad Unisex Gaelic
Ginger Spring-like Female Latin
Ginny Maiden Female Latin
Girlie Girl Female English
Girly Girl Female Hebrew
Goliath Passage Unisex Hebrew
Goober Southern US term for peanut. Also chocolate-covered peanuts Unisex English
Gracie Goodwill Female Latin
Greta Pearl Female Greek
Gretchen Pearl Female Greek
Harley Hare clearing Male English
Harry Home ruler Male Germanic
Hedwig Battle Female Germanic
Heidi Noble one Female Germanic
Helga Holy Female German
Hermione Travel Female Greek
Hugo Mind, heart, or spirit Male Germanic
Immanuel God is with us Male Hebrew
Jack God is gracious Male Hebrew
Jaeger Huntsman Male German
Jake Supplanted Male Hebrew
James Supplanter Male Hebrew
Jarvis Spear servant Male Germanic
Oliver Elf army Male French
Oreo Chocolate cookie Unisex English
Orville Gold town Male French
Oscar Divine spear Male English
Otis One who hears well Male Greek
Padfoot AfterSirius Black from Harry Potter Unisex English
Pauline Small Female Latin
Peanut Peanut Unisex English
Peewee Small Unisex Hebrew
Pepper Piper Female French
Petunia Flower name Female English
Pixie A fairy-like creature. Playful and mischievous Female English
Poco Little Unisex English
Popcorn Popcorn Unisex English
Poppy Flower Female English
Precious Dear Female English
Pretzel German cnack Male German
Sunflower Sunflower Unisex Hebrew
Sunny Sunny Male English
Sunshine Sunshine Unisex English
Sweetie Sweetheart Unisex English
Sydney Wide meadow Female English
Tamara Palm tree Female Hebrew
Tavis Twin Male Aramaic
Ted Gift of God Male Greek
Teddy Gift of God Male Greek
Toby God is good Unisex Hebrew
Tootsie A girl or a young woman Unisex English
Torrey Conqueror Male Latin
Trevor Large settlement Male Welsh
Tulip Flower Unisex Hebrew
Velvet Soft Female English
Vicki Conqueror Female Latin
Vienna White Female English
Vivienne Alive Female Latin
Wilfredo A wish for peace Male English
Willie Will, desire, helmet, protection Male Germanic
Winston Joy Male English
Wyanet Beautiful Female Native American
Zene Rose Unisex English
Zoe Life Female Greek
Zoey Life Female Greek

Wrap Up

Wonderful dogs like the Dachshund deserve wonderful names. Compared to other dogs, it’s actually quite easy to find a fitting name for a Dachshund because they have many unique traits that will surely make the name game easier for you.

You can either pick a name that highlights their short legs, their sausage-shaped body, or their shiny coat.

Many of the names we’ve included in the lists above were inspired by such one-of-a-kind characteristic, but you don’t have to limit your imagination. How about giving them a name that underlines their floppy ears? If you’re not one to be concerned about outward appearances, how about naming them after their excitable and exuberant nature?

You can also name them after their surprisingly solid hunting skills. Don’t let others look down on your dog. Just because they don’t look like they can run fast, doesn’t mean they really can’t. Dachshunds are skilled hunters.

They are hard to beat when it comes to flushing out badgers in the wild. In an urban setting, that ability translates to a rodent-free house. Quite the amazing dogs, aren’t they?

What kind of personality or other unique traits does your Dachshund have? Which one of the many awe-inspiring aspects of your dog do you choose to focus on?

Let us know which name you ultimately decided on in the comments box below! If we missed any good names, don’t hesitate to let us know. Your opinion matters to us.

When Should A Dog Wear A Harness Coat – 2022 Guide

By
Hemun Bobana
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Source: wezshop.com

Whether dog owners want to keep their dogs warm or protect them from the rain, it can be hard finding a dog coat that will allow them to wear both a coat and harness at once.

With so many different coats and harnesses on the market today, we’re here to help you determine if your pet can wear a harness and a coat together.

Can Dogs Wear Harness And Coat Together?

Source: pawability.com

So long as they harness the D-ring and coat hole line up, a dog can wear both. However, if the dog coat’s harness hole is not in the right place, it may be challenging to get him into their harness, or you might have trouble getting them out of a saddle with a poorly placed ring to leash/hole mismatch.

Despite the fur, some dogs feel cold in the winter. A coat can help keep him comfortable while walking in cold weather, but there are some things to consider when choosing a coat for your pet.

Dogs with short fur should wear coats outside during extreme temperatures or other harsh conditions such as heavy rain, ice and snow.

A good fit is essential for the harness they may wear, so your dog can’t back out of it or get its legs stuck in the coat. A harness is now a popular choice because it distributes the pressure of a leash across their chest instead of just around their neck. Many people now need coats to work alongside a dog harness.

Which Waterproof Dog Coat With Harness Hole Should You Choose?

Choosing the right coat depends on your and your dog’s weather requirements. If your dog is only going to be outside for short periods, then a simple one should do. However, if your dog will be outside in the cold and wet for long periods, then an insulated jacket or outer shell with fleece lining would work best.

Qualities Of A Good Harness Coat

Source: thedogoutdoors.com

When buying a coat for your pet, it is vital to be well informed to make the right decision. The item you choose should fit them perfectly, so they will be comfortable and happy wearing them. On your part, it should be easy to use.

Here are things to look for when purchasing harness coats:

1. The Right Size

Dog coats come in different sizes for different breeds. Preferably, the coat you buy should fit your dog’s head. So, before buying, you should take measurements of your pet accurately. You can check the measurement guide for specific sizes.

2. Premium Fabric

You are buying something for your loyal walking companion, so you should not select a garment made of substandard fabrics. Ideally, the coat’s liners should be made of comfortable material, such as the Thermodynamic Spacer Fabric. The outer fabric should be waterproof to ensure your furry friends stay dry even if it rains. Of course, the material should be durable to last long.

3. Reflective Trim

Choosing a coat with reflective trim is best, especially when you take your furry friends for nighttime walks. Making them wear such a coat is another way to keep them safe.

4. Machine-Washable Material

No matter how behaved your pet is, the garment they wear when going outside will become dirty. Nonetheless, you can keep their coats looking their best by washing them regularly. Choose those that are made of machine-washable material.

Purchasing the best dog harness coat for your companion for your next walks is an intelligent idea!

Get the best harness coats for dogs right here at thenewyorkdogshop.com.

How Important It Is To Train Your Dogs To Walk On A Lead?

Source: fleecedogharnesses.co.uk

Training your pet to go out on regular walks is more than just letting them have potty breaks. It also helps with their behavioral training, allows them to socialize with other dogs and people, and strengthens your bond. Of course, it also serves as a means of physical exercise and mental stimulation.

Keep in mind that a sedentary pet can gain weight quickly, putting them at risk of developing certain health conditions, such as hormonal problems, skin disease, and heat intolerance, as well as more severe conditions, such as cardio-respiratory disorders, tracheal collapse, and cancer. According to the Kennel Club, obesity is one of the most common nutritional disorders in idle dogs.

Even if your pet is active inside your home, they need another outlet to release its pent-up energy. Taking him out for regular walks will not only help prevent unnecessary weight gain but also keep them from getting bored, which may result in unfavorable behaviors, like chewing on furniture and excessive barking.

Besides, a well-exercised—and tired—dog is scientifically observed to be calmer and more behaved.

Other Ways To Keep Your Dogs Entirely Healthy

Source: fleecedogharnesses.co.uk

While it is essential, training your pet to go on regular walks is not enough to keep them entirely healthy. You should also know what type of food you should give them—those that will be safe for them and, at the same time, delicious. Like people, dogs can also suffer from allergies that cause itchy skin, hot spots, and even vomiting.

A good example of foods that are always safe for your furry friends are the vegan dog food brands you will find on the market today. Not only that patronizing these products show how you care for your dogs, but it also allows you to support the cause against animal cruelty.

Conclusion

So, can your pet wear a coat and harness together? The answer is yes! The key to ensuring this works out well for your furry friends is to ensure that the coat’s hole lines up with where on their harness you attach their leash. Choosing the right jacket is where it all begins. This way, when they pull against it while walking around outside, there won’t be any tension pulling on them from behind, which could cause discomfort. Have fun dressing up your pup for the winter!

Mastering Off-Leash Walking: A Guide to Training Your Dog

By
Hemun Bobana
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When it comes to enjoying outdoor adventures with your canine friend, nothing compares to the thrill and joy of off-leash walking. This rewarding experience fosters trust, strengthens your bond, and enhances your dog’s confidence. However, training your dog to walk off-leash is a task that demands patience, consistency, and a clear understanding of canine behavior.

This article will guide you through the process, focusing on safety, obedience, and positive reinforcement.

1. Understanding Your Dog’s Personality

Every dog is unique, with its personality and characteristics, shaped by genetics and experiences. While certain breeds are naturally more independent – such as Maltese – or have a higher prey drive – such as Miniature Dachshunds – individual differences can be significant.

Understanding your dog’s personality is paramount to the training process. Does your dog tend to be reactive, easily distracted, or stubborn? Or are they generally obedient, focused, and eager to please? By answering these questions, you can tailor your training approach to your dog’s specific needs, making the process smoother and more effective.

2. Establishing Basic Obedience

Before you can trust your dog to walk off-leash, they must have a solid foundation of basic obedience commands. This includes ‘sit,’ ‘stay,’ ‘come,’ ‘heel,’ and ‘leave it.’ These commands are essential for managing your dog’s behavior and ensuring their safety. Training should be a daily routine, incorporating these commands into various aspects of your dog’s life. Consistency is key. Remember, a dog that does not obey while on a leash will likely not obey when off-leash.

3. Building a Strong Recall

A robust recall command is arguably the most important aspect of off-leash training. It is your lifeline to your dog, ensuring you can regain control in potentially dangerous situations. Training for recall should start in a controlled, enclosed space. Use a cheerful, excited tone and reward your dog enthusiastically when they come to you. Slowly introduce distractions, increasing the difficulty level as your dog masters each stage.

4. The Power of Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement plays a pivotal role in dog training. By rewarding your dog immediately after they perform the desired action, you help them associate that action with something positive. These rewards can be anything your dog loves – treats, toys, praise, or playtime.

As your dog progresses in their training, try to make rewards less predictable to maintain their interest and motivation. This means you don’t give a treat every time but rather on a variable schedule. This approach keeps your dog guessing and encourages them to perform the command in hope of a reward.

5. Gradual Transition to Off-Leash

Transitioning from on-leash to off-leash walking should be a gradual process. Start by practicing in a safe, enclosed area where your dog cannot run off. Initially, keep the training sessions short, gradually increasing their length as your dog gains confidence and demonstrates consistent obedience. Using a long lead can be a helpful intermediate step, giving your dog a sense of freedom while you maintain control.

6. Safety Measures

Safety should always be your top priority when training your dog to walk off-leash. Ensure your dog’s vaccinations and identification tags are up to date. Always carry a leash with you, even if you plan to walk your dog off-leash. And remember to respect local laws and regulations, only allowing your dog off-leash in designated areas.

7. Dealing with Distractions

The world is full of distractions that can capture your dog’s attention. From squirrels and birds to other dogs and interesting smells, you need to train your dog to stay focused on you despite these distractions. Start by introducing distractions in a controlled environment and reward your dog for maintaining focus on you. Over time, gradually increase the level of distractions.

8. Consistency and Patience

Training a dog to walk off-leash is a process that requires patience and consistency. You’ll likely face setbacks along the way, but it’s important to stay patient and persistent. Keep training sessions positive and end on a high note to keep your dog motivated.

9. The Importance of Socialization

A well-socialized dog is generally more confident, relaxed, and better behaved. Exposing your dog to a variety of environments, people, and other animals from a young age can significantly improve their ability to cope with new situations. This is especially important for off-leash walking, where encounters with other dogs and people are likely.

A properly socialized dog is less likely to behave aggressively or fearfully, which can reduce potential problems when walking off-leash. Remember, socialization should be a positive experience. Never force your dog into situations that make them uncomfortable. Instead, gradually expose them to new experiences, always ensuring they feel safe.

10. Practicing Off-Leash Skills

Once your dog is consistently obeying commands in a controlled environment, start practicing in a variety of settings. Begin in quiet, enclosed areas and gradually progress to places with more distractions. Always ensure that the area is safe for off-leash activity and that it is allowed by local laws.

During these practice sessions, work on strengthening your dog’s recall, heel, and stay commands. Reward your dog generously for obeying these commands in the face of distractions.

11. Understanding and Responding to Your Dog’s Body Language

Dogs communicate largely through body language, so learning to understand what your dog is saying is key to successful off-leash walking. By observing your dog’s body language, you can identify when they’re feeling nervous, excited, or distracted and respond accordingly.

If your dog’s body stiffens, their ears perk up, or they fixate on something, they might be about to bolt. In such cases, calling your dog back and putting them on a leash can prevent potential problems. With time and practice, you’ll become adept at reading your dog’s signals and managing their behavior accordingly.

12. Continued Training and Reinforcement

Training your dog to walk off-leash isn’t a one-and-done deal; it’s an ongoing process. Even after your dog has mastered off-leash walking, continue practicing the skills regularly to keep them fresh in your dog’s mind.

Remember, every dog is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. Tailor your training to suit your dog’s personality and learning style, and be patient. With time, consistency, and positive reinforcement, your dog can learn to walk off-leash safely and reliably, enhancing the quality of both your lives.

In Conclusion

The joy of exploring the great outdoors with your faithful companion by your side, unrestrained and content, is well worth the effort invested in off-leash training. It’s a journey that strengthens the bond between you and your dog, fostering mutual trust and respect. Off-leash walking provides your dog with mental stimulation and physical exercise, contributing to a happier, healthier life. Remember, the key to successful off-leash walking lies in patience, consistent training, and a positive attitude.

20+ Chinese Dog Names: For Shar-Pei, Shi Tzu, and Many Other Dog Breeds

By
Vinko Woodman
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Most Popular Chinese Dog Names

Chinese dog breeds are ever so popular these days. Known for their intelligence, cuteness, and loyalty, it’s no wonder why they are the darling of many dog-loving families.

While you have every right to give them common western dog names, we do think it’s a great idea to respect their heritage by giving them Chinese dog names.

The Chinese have over 5000 years of heritage, and their names can symbolize virtue, serenity, and ancient treasures. Your dog will no doubt feel happy about being given such a formidable name.

Also, Chinese names still sound unique in the US, and many dog owners want a unique name for their pet. Having a unique name has many advantages.
For one, your dog will easily recognize the name, so calling them in a crowded dog park is not a problem. It is also a good way to become popular with other dog owners since many of them will be asking you what the name means.
Your dog will have an easier time remembering his name, and people will also find it easier to remember you and your dog.

Image showing a Japanese Chin dog walking on grass

Finding a good Chinese name for your dog can be hard. Their names are very diverse due to the Mandarin and Cantonese dialects, different dynasties, and religions.

Fortunately, we have tips on how you can find inspiration for your Chinese dog name. Read on to discover some of the best suggestions on Chinese dog names.

How to Name Your Dog

Your dog’s name actually says a lot more about you than your dog. Deciding to give your dog a Chinese name could mean that you are Chinese, love the culture, or just want something unique to call an equally unique pup.

chinese crested dog

Either way, we believe that you’re on the right track. Chinese names for dogs are not only suitable for Chinese breeds like the Chow Chow, Shi Tzu, or Shar Pei. You can also give them to dogs of all breeds simply because it is easy to call or it is perfect for your dog.

If you don’t have a list of potential names to give to your new best friends, consider these Chinese names that sound new and exotic to western ears. But before you do, here are some tips you need to consider on how to name your dog.

How Does It Sound?

Although more common nowadays, Chinese names still sound weird for many of us who live in the US. When giving your dog a Chinese name, consider how it sounds when you say it in public.

Chinese names have different meanings—which is probably why you gave them to your dog. However, most people probably don’t know what they mean and could get confused or might take offense to your dog’s name.

Wang, for example, is a very popular Chinese name for males and females. Dong is also another popular option for males. The first example means royal or imperial while the second one means “born in the east.” These are perfectly respectable Chinese names. However; some people might find them offensive.

Chinese Dogs

Other people will also be confused with names like Bimming (male, meaning “as clear as jade”) since it sounds like beaming or Ah (unisex, meaning “little one”), Ju (female, meaning “daisy flower”), and Chin (unisex, meaning “golden”). In this connection, it is also better to avoid names that sound like standard commands. Since you’re in the west, chances are you will be speaking to your dog in English and commands will be in this language.

Names like Bo (unisex, meaning “wave-like”) and Ho (male, meaning “good”) are good options but sound like no. Wei (unisex) is another popular Chinese name especially in China because it means “power” or “greatness.” However, it sounds very close to “stay” and you don’t want to confuse your dog.

You should also consider saying no to Ya (female) even though it means “elegant” or “graceful” because it sounds very close to yeah. Your dog (and other people) will be confused since they will have no idea whether you are calling their names or giving a command.

Distinctive

When it comes to dog names, we want something unique and distinctive. We want our dog to recognize their name immediately when they are called. There’s nothing wrong with naming your dog Jack or Buster since they are popular. However, the popularity is also a downside because there are lots of other dogs that have this name.

Chinese names are more unique in the States since not many people will choose this type of name for their pets. Still, you will want to avoid generic names like Gou (Chinese word for “dog).

Not only does it sound silly to the Chinese, but it also sounds like “go,” the command. Also, names like Li Na (female, meaning “elegant”) and Li Wei (male, meaning “great”) are some of the most popular Chinese names, so perhaps avoid those names especially if you live in China.

From Puppyhood to Adulthood

For dog owners that got their dog during puppyhood, it can be very hard to imagine your pet all grown up, especially if he’s all cuddly and cute right now. But dogs do grow up, and it’s probably better if you choose a name that suits him even during his senior years.

female-pure-breed-chinese-crested-dog

For example, it is quite easy to call your puppy Baobao as it means baby in Chinese. But this name is not fitting especially if he is a grown-up or works as a bomb-sniffing German shepherd.

It is important that you give your dog dignity even if not all people know the meaning of the name.  Other names or words to avoid include Ke Ai (cute), General Tso (the deep fried dish), and Mei Mei (sister).

Chinese Dog Names by Gender

One of the easiest ways to choose a name for your dog is by gender. Chinese female dog names are beautiful-sounding and often associated with nature. On the other hand, Chinese male dog names give off a feeling of power and authority.

Chinese Female Dog Names

If your dog is female, here are some great ideas on how to name your pet.

  • Ai – meaning “loving.”

  • Chun Hua – means “spring flower.”

  • Chynna – is an obvious Chinese name but comes with an unconventional spelling. It means “fine porcelain.”

  • Dong Mei – means “winter plum.”

  • Fang – means “fragrant.”

  • Hua – pronounced h-waa. It means “flower.”

  • Jia — meaning “beautiful.”

  • Jun – is a great name for a dog because it means “truthful and obedient”; all good qualities for your pets.

  • Lee – is very common especially in the States but you should still consider it because in Chinese it means “plum.”

  • Lian – means “dainty and delicate.” Great option for teacup dogs like the Pomeranian, Yorkies, Maltese, Toy Poodles, and Shih Tzus.

  • Lin – is for “beautiful jade.”

  • Luliv – meaning “dewy jasmine.”

  • Mei- (not to be confused with Mei Mei) is a good alternative for the conventional May or Mae. In Chinese, it means “beautiful flower” or “gorgeous.”

  • Meiying – means “beautiful flower.”

  • Mingmei – this name is pronounced “ming-mii” and means “bright and beautiful girl”; the perfect name for a bright and beautiful dog.

  • Nuan — pronounced as noo-wan, means “affectionate.”

  • Nuwa – pronounced as noo-wa, means “mother-goddess.”

  • Shu – means warm-hearted.

  • Sying — pronounced as sing. It means “star.”

  • Wenyan — it means “refined and virtuous.”

  • Xiaolian – pronounced “zee-ow-lee-an.” It means little lotus.

  • Xue- pronounced as “sheh or shweh,” meaning “snow”

  • Yenay – pronounced as “yee-nae” meaning “she who loves.” Good option for strong and loyal dogs.

  • Yue – pronounced “yoo-way,” meaning “moon.”

  • Yuming – meaning jade brightness

  • Zhen — meaning “chaste.”

  • Zhenzhen — it means precious

  • Zi — is for beautiful

Chinese Male Dog Names

There are actually more males compared to females in China. This means that you have a lot of names to choose from if your dog is male.

A dog resting and breathing fresh air outside

Here are some great choices for your best friend.

  • Chanming – it means “forever bright.”

  • Chaoxiang – it means “expecting a fortune.”

  • Chen — very popular because it means “great.”

  • Chen Gong – it means “success.”

  • Cheung – it means “good luck.”

  • Dao – it means “knife” or “sword.”

  • Dingxiang – meaning “stability and fortune.”

  • Dishi – it means “man of virtue.”

  • Fu – it means “wealthy.”

  • Fu Han – it means “broad-minded.”

  • Heng – “eternal,” because best friends are forever.

  • Huan – it means “happiness.”

  • Hui — pronounced as “who-wee,” meaning “splendor.”

  • Ji — meaning “lucky.”

  • Jian min – “one who serves (the people)”; a.k.a. good boys

  • Junjie – means “handsome and outstanding.”

  • Lei — means “thunder.”

  • Liang – meaning “good, excellent.”

  • Liko – pronounced as “lee-kow,” meaning protected by Buddha.

  • Ling – means “compassion” or “understanding.”

  • Lok – another word that means “happiness.”

  • Longwei – it means ”the greatness of a dragon.”

  • Ming-Hua – it means “brilliant, elite.”

  • Ping- it means “stable.”

  • Quan — it means “fresh water spring.”

  • Quon – meaning “bright.”

  • Ru — “scholar,” for smarty pants pets.

  • Weisheng – meaning “greatness is born.”

  • Weizhe — meaning “great sage.”

  • Xin — pronounced as “shin,” meaning “new.”

  • Yongrui — means “forever lucky.”

Chinese Dog Names by Personality

If choosing through gender sounds too easy, you can take your time to observe your pooch and find names that best describe their personality.

Chinese Dogs Names

For example, the name Yen is for females and means “yearning.” This can be a good name for pets that are always missing or pining for you.

Check out these great inspirations.

  • Ah lam (female) — meaning “peace”

  • Ai (female) – means “loving”

  • An (unisex) – means “peace” or “peaceful”

  • Bing (male) – means “soldier”

  • Chong (male)– meaning “powerful”

  • Chung (male) – “wise one”

  • Cong (male) — means “intelligent”

  • Gan (male) – means “bold” or “brave”

  • Han (male) – another name for brave dogs

  • Hao (male) – for smart and clever dogs

  • Hong Li (male)- for dogs with great strength

  • Hui (female) — meaning “kind”

  • Huiqing (female) – pronounced as “hwee-king,” meaning kind and affectionate

  • Huizhong (female) pronounced as “wee-jhong,” meaning “wise and loyal,” a.k.a good girls

  • Jiao (female) — means “charming”

  • Jie-Rui (male) – “quick-minded”

  • Kai (male) – “victorious”

  • Ken-Zhi (male) — means “earnest”

  • Kuai (male) – pronounced as “koo-eye,” meaning “quick, fast, or clever”

  • Minzhe (male) — means “sensitive and wise”

  • Qiao (female) — means “skillful”

  • Quiang (male) –pronounced as “kee-yang,” means “strong”

  • Shilin (male) — intellectual or really smart doggies

  • Shu (female) – for kind and gentle girls

  • Xueyou (male) – pronounced as “zhe-yoo,” means studious and friendly, for dogs that graduated with top honors

  • Ying (female) — means “clever”

  • Yingzie (male) — means “brave and heroic”

Chinese Dog Names by Size

Dogs come in all shapes and sizes. You don’t have to be literal and call them Da, meaning “large,” or Xiao for “small.”

Here are some great alternatives.

  • Gang (male) – meaning “strength.”

  • Jian (male) — healthy, not necessarily fat

  • Ming-tun (male) — means ”intelligent or heavy”

  • Shan (male) – meaning “mountain”

  • Xiaobo (male) — meaning “little wrestler”

Chinese Dog Names by Color

Dogs are black, white, brown, spotty, and a range of other beautiful colors.

Chinese Native Dog

Here are great options for finding names based on their coat and fur.

  • Bai (unisex) — pronounced as “bye,” meaning white

  • Cai (female) – “colorful”; good option for merle-coated dogs

  • Chang (unisex) – “sunlight”; good name for tan-colored dogs

  • Dai (female) – pronounced as “dye,” meaning “dark”

  • Daiyu (female) — meaning “black jade”

  • Hong (unisex) – “rainbow”; nice choice for merle-coated dogs

  • Huang (male) – “yellow”

  • Jin (male) — meaning “gold”; nice option for tan-coated dogs or golden retrievers

  • Liang (male) — means “bright”

  • Manchu (male) — means “pure”; good for solid colored dogs

  • Qiu (unisex) – pronounced as “cue,” meaning autumn for dogs with reddish coats

  • Quing (female) – pronounced as “king,” means dark blue. Can be an oxymoron for light-colored coats or fur

  • Shu (female) — pronounced as “shoo,” meaning “fair”

  • Shun (female) — pronounced as “shoon,” meaning smooth

  • Tao (female) – “peach.” We know there are no peach-colored dogs, but the name sounds nice and rolls off the tongue easily

  • Xue (female) — pronounced as “zoo-weh,” means snow

  • Yang (female) – “sun”; good name for golden retrievers

  • Yu (female) — means “jade”

Chinese Dog Names Inspired by Towns or Cities

Another way to give your dog a Chinese name is to choose a town or a city in China. The top 7 most popular are: Beijing (formerly Peking), Shanghai (China’s largest city), Hongkong (Xianggang in Chinese, a unique alternative), Guangzhou (Canton), Taipei, Macau, and Lhasa.

Chinese Dog Breeds

If these names sound too popular or too obvious, you can try cities that are spectacular but not too popular.

  • Xi’an – pronounced as “zee-yan.” This city is known as the “Window to China’s Ancient Civilization.” Xi’an is blessed with a great number of precious relics and historical sites.

  • Guilin – has marvelous limestone scenery and is known as one of the most beautiful places on earth.

  • Hangzhou – as declared by Marco Polo, Hangzhou is the most beautiful city in the whole wide world.

  • Chengdu –the hometown of the Giant Panda, an animal most associated with China.

  • Suzhou – is famous for its traditional Chinese gardens and water towns. This is a great place to go if you want to see traditional Chinese villages.

Wrap Up

Thanks to migration, foreign-sounding names are becoming more common stateside. The Chinese, for example, are some of the most well-represented minorities in the United States.

While some of them have English or American names, there are still many of them who use Chinese names themselves or to name their pets. Although they are common in the States, Chinese names still sound exotic and unique—which is why many dog owners are giving Chinese dog names to their pets.

If you’re thinking about Chinese names, certain names like Mai, Chen, Ling, or Yang readily come to mind.
However, there are many other names besides these popular choices. Try to find unique names that are not run-of-the-mill so that your dog can have a name that is all their own. Remember, the more unique the name, the less chance that there would be another dog running to you when you call.

Chinese names often have other meanings besides those listed above; one Chinese word can have many different meanings depending on how it is pronounced or written.

If you’re thinking about picking a Chinese name for your dog, do a little research first to make sure that the name is fitting for your pet. Don’t forget to consider how it sounds to other people since you do not want to upset or alarm them.

Most Loyal Dog Breeds: 10 Amazing Breeds to Count On

By
Vinko Woodman
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Most Loyal Dog Breeds

Dogs are generally man’s best friends as they are among the most faithful and most trusted companions. They offer unconditional love to their owners and to their entire family as well.

We all know that the dog was the first domesticated animal by man. It protects people, offers companionship and affection for more than 15 thousand years. Sociability, attachment, defense and loyalty are just some of these quadruped qualities.

At present, there are around 500 dog breeds in the entire world, and their evolution is still in progress.

Today we’re going to talk about most loyal dog breeds out there so you know what sort of companion you’ll get in your house.

Among the most loyal breeds there are dogs like Akita Inu, Rough Collie, Kuvasz, Beagle, Yorkshire Terrier, German Shepherd, Saint Bernard, Brittany, Golden Retriever and American Staffordshire Terrier.

Dog love

The particular types of dogs listed here are always ready to go to the end of the world and back for their owners. They are always willing to help and they offer unconditional love.

Their purpose is to protect the persons who take care of them and stand by their side regardless of how inconvenient it might be. Besides being loyal, these canine specimens are also obedient and intelligent.

It is even said that they have an extraordinary ability when it comes to understanding their owners. But we shouldn’t generalize things as each breed is impressive in its own way.

Dog Breeds That Offer Unconditional Love

Even if dogs are usually loyal, there are 10 most loyal breeds worthy of your attention. As it follows, you will learn more about each breed and in case you don’t have a dog, you can think of getting one according to their most compatible features.

These dogs’ high level of loyalty is a result of the many changes they went through over time. There are countless stories involving representatives of any of these 10 dog breeds that make amazing things for their owners. Akita Inu is especially known thanks to the highly emotional movie “Hachi: A Dog’s Tale”.

1. Akita Inu

History and origins: Japanese history describes the ancestors of Akita Inu as one of the oldest breeds in the area. They are the Matagi breed. The Akita dogs from our days are originated from the island of Honshu that encompasses a region called Akita, thus the name of the breed. DNA tests have shown that this breed is one of the oldest domesticated one.

They are, genetically speaking, the closest ones to wolves. During World War II, a considerable amount of Akita dogs were murdered for their fur (it was used for making military clothes) and some of them died of hunger. However, during the years after the war, several dedicated breeders have contributed to their multiplication.

Some American soldiers who fell in love with this type of dog breed brought a few specimens back in the US. Of course, there is a difference between Akita Inu and American Akita. Those born and raised in America have suffered some modifications due to several crossings with other dog breeds.

Akita Inu

Personality traits: Dogs belonging to the Akita breed are very intelligent, fearless and spontaneous. They are very loyal to their owners and quite aloof and wary of strangers. They are sometimes aggressive with people they do not know.

Moreover, they are very protective when it comes to family, territory and their food. If they are not familiarized with other dogs and other pets in general, they tend to react aggressively towards them when they grow up. Even if they don’t bark a lot, they are very good guard dogs. Not recommended for inactive people, Akita dogs get bored easily and can produce damage if they are not kept busy.

To learn more about this breed, check out our article on the Akita Inu.

2. Rough Collie

History and origins: Rough Collie is originated from the border area of England and Scotland. The “collie” denomination is usually used for dogs that come from Scotland, but this particular breed is more spread in England than it is in Scotland.

They were made for guarding and guiding flocks, but in time they were domesticated further and they became much more than useful for just one purpose. During the last 2 or 3 centuries, this dog breed went through numerous transformations that are different depending on the area where they were born and where they had to adapt in order to live.

Rough Collie

Personality traits: Rough Collie is a dog with a high intelligence level, sensitivity, gentleness, sweetness and, above all, loyalty. It gets along just fine with other pets and it is friendly with other dogs too. This canine specimen was used for guiding flocks, so it needs to be properly trained in order to ameliorate their leadership instincts.

Faithful, playful, obedient and protective of family members, the representatives of this breed behave really well around children. They have a peculiar sense of direction and they are full of energy.

Moreover, they are not aggressive, but they can feel people who emanate negative energy. The importance of having a single owner is mandatory in the case of a Rough Collie. Otherwise, it tends to become stubborn and indolent. They adapt easily when there is an authoritative figure in their lives.

3. Kuvasz

History and origins: Kuvasz is not a well-known dog breed, but it is a very loyal one. In Hungary, they are renowned for being exceptional guard dogs. However, their origins are not well-established. Specialists who have conducted researches about Kuvasz dogs think they were brought from Asia by the nomadic tribes.

During the time when King Mathias I was in charge, he had a loft of Kuvasz dogs. This is how appreciated they were back then. Things have not changed too much since. This dog breed is not as popular as the others, but it is mentioned on every list containing loyal dogs.

Kuvasz puppy

Personality traits: The dogs from the Kuvasz breed are intelligent, lively, balanced and sensitive. They only bark when they are forced by circumstances. Strong and brave too, they used to defend flocks from wolves and bears. In general, their most striking feature is loyalty.

They only become violent if a kid is attacked or if something happens to children that they like to be around and play with. A Kuvasz dog might develop a dominant character towards other dogs or other pets if it is kept away from them during its early years of life. Its devotion to family is indisputable and it is reserved towards strangers.

You can learn more about this great breed by reading this article on the Kuvasz.

4. Beagle

History and origins: Dogs of the same size and with the same role as the modern Beagle were found in ancient Greece, during the 5th century BC. They were brought to Rome and then imported to the British Isles. During the 18th century, 2 breeds were used for hunting rabbits, namely the Southern Hound and the North Country Beagle. As soon as fox hunting became more popular, the aforementioned breeds had to be replaced with a faster one.

Therefore, in 1830, a priest founded the first group of modern Beagles in Essex, Britain. The Beagle Club was founded 60 years later, when the Royal family was interested in improving this breed.

The middle of the 19th century marks the time when the first Beagle puppies were sent to the US. In 1884, the American Kennel Club didn’t hesitate to recognize this dog breed. In Old English, the word “beag” meant “small”, so that’s why this small sized dog is called like this.

Beagle loyal dog

Personality traits: Beagle dogs have a balanced temperament and disposition. They are rarely aggressive or timid. They become friends with strangers fairly easy and they begin to enjoy their company fast. This is why some Beagle dogs are not so great at keeping a household safe.

However, nothing can beat their loyalty, especially if they are trained properly and their stubbornness and determination are eliminated. They cannot stay focused for too long, but when they receive treats, they seem to get better at it.

The fact that they are really friendly with children makes this dog breed to be so popular. A Beagle can get strongly attached to a person and it can suffer immensely if something happens to that person, it goes away or dies.

5. Yorkshire Terrier

History and origins: In the mid-1800s, numerous workers from Scotland migrated in the north part of England and they brought with them several varieties of terriers to hunt rats. There is few data about the first Yorkshire Terrier. It is said that this breed has appeared thanks to a selective mating with the ones brought from Scotland.

In time, the breeders of Yorkshire Terriers began to participate in different contests with these special dogs. The first star of this breed was a male named Huddersfiel Ben. Most of the current breed standards were established with Ben as an ideal example.

Yorkshire Terrier

Personality traits: This little quadruped is very smart and snappy. Part of a big family of terriers, a Yorkshire is fearless, fact which makes it prone to becoming aggressive with other dogs regardless of their size. Since its intelligence level is situated above average, it can be easily trained.

However, it does not lack a fair share of stubbornness and disobedience. Very good for guarding their owners, it is alert and always ready to announce the fact that a stranger is approaching.

When it is threated or disturbed, it tends to bite. This habit can be repressed with just a few training sessions. Although they are loyal and affectionate, Yorkshire terriers are not recommended for families with small children.

To see if this breed is right for you, check out info on the Yorkshire Terrier.

6. German Shepherd

History and origins: This is a dog breed among the best known and widespread dog breeds in the world. It is Germany’s national dog breed. It dates thousands of years ago and it has a long line of ancestors, starting with the Persian Shepherd. Based on its vague similarity with a wolf, it is also known as a wolf dog.

This breed was brought to its current shape at the end of the 19th century. It is the only dog breed that has an organization in Germany, called WUSV with over half a million members from 60 different countries. They try to deal with the health and personality problems that a German Shepherd might develop.

German Shepherd

Personality traits: A German Shepherd is an active dog with a lively temperament. It is mentally balanced, intelligent, agile and watchful. Particularly brave, it is firm, strong and resistant. Its sense of smell is really good and it is always ready to fight.

It adapts easily to any unforeseen circumstances thanks to its responsible and independent nature. Faithful, affectionate and playful with its owner and the owner’s family, a German Shepherd loves children and gets along well with them. It treats other animals and people it doesn’t know with indifference for as long as they show no signs of aggression.

7. Saint Bernard

History and origins: Saint Bernard is one of the most popular dog breeds too. Its ancestors are the Tibetan Mastiffs. It was brought to Switzerland by Roman colonists who used it to guard property.

The Saint Bernard known today was obtained by several crosses with dogs from the Alps. In the 18th century it was trained and taught to rescue people from avalanches. The monks from the Saint Bernard shelter were the ones who trained it, thus its name.

There are records of over 2 thousand people that were rescued by these dogs. For example, there was a dog named Barry, who has saved no less than 40 lives during its 12 years of life. As a sign of respect, a statue of Barry is now on display in the National Museum of Science and History in Bern. It is a dog breed prevalent in both Europe and North America.

Saint Bernard

Personality traits: A Saint Bernard is an intelligent canine specimen with a strong sense of direction and sense of smell. It is also quiet, calm and playful. It does not bark much. Devoted and affectionate with family, friendly with children and strangers, a Saint Bernard will only bark to announce someone’s arrival, not in an aggressive way.

It has no trouble with other animals from a household or with other dogs for that matter. It is known to be loyal to just one master, but to also help members of the family if and when they are in need.

8. Brittany

History and origins: Once called Brittany Spaniel, Brittany is a dog breed named after a region from France. The history of Brittany is not known entirely. It is believed to date back more than one thousand years.

The first evidence of its existence appeared sometime during the 17th century, in a painting. The main purpose for creating this canine specimen was most probably hunting.

The French peasants needed a dog that could bring them the hunted birds that fell on the ground. Therefore, it needed to be very agile. In 1934, Brittany was recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club.

Brittany with owner

Personality traits: Brittany is a very energetic and athletic dog of medium size that is known for its enthusiasm and joy. It can be considered hyperactive by some people who don’t have a high level of energy. It is a great family friend and loyal too.

Moreover, it can be easily trained because it is very sensitive and if its owner just gives it a stern look, it will most probably obey. Dogs from this breed kept their hunting instincts, so they are great to play with when it comes to bringing something back to their owner such as a toy or a real hunted prey.

9. Golden Retriever

History and origins: Golden Retrievers were bred for the first time in a town called Cannich, located near Lake Affric, in Scotland. For many years there has been a controversy regarding the breeds that were crossed in order to obtain the Golden Retriever as we know it.

Among the top myths about the origin of these amazing dogs is referring to the fact that Golden Retrievers come from a mix of sheepdogs that were introduced in Britain by a Russian circus troupe.

The development of firearms from the 19th century also required the services of dogs that would bring the gunned prey. After training the representatives of this breed to recover birds, they were also trained to hunt rabbits and foxes too.

The first Golden Retriever puppies resulted from crossing a yellow, long-haired, male retriever with a short-haired Tweed Water Spaniel female. In our days, the Tweed Water Spaniel is extinct, but it was very popular in the mid-1800s.

The modern Golden Retriever has evolved from a crossbreeding program, which also included dogs belonging to breeds such as Irish Setter, Bloodhound and Newfoundland. The British Kennel Club accepted this breed in 1903.

Golden Retriever

Personality traits: The temperament of a Golden Retriever is exactly what made this dog breed so popular. They don’t get attached to just one person and they get along well with family members and strangers as well.

This feature makes them less recommended for security purposes. Manifestations of violence against people or animals are unacceptable for Golden Retrievers. It is not at all characteristic to them.

They are shy or nervous, but never violent. They constantly seek the contentment of their owners. In addition, they are known for their patience with children. A Golden Retriever can focus well on various tasks, working to exhaustion. So, the owners of these dogs should be careful not to abuse them by giving them too many chores.

10. American Staffordshire Terrier

History and origins: The American Staffordshire Terrier is a dog breed with ancestors in England, but which was developed independently on the American continent for more than 60 years until the American Kennel Club changed its name.

It has the same descendent as the American Pit Bull Terrier. It is the result of crosses between Bulldogs and various Terriers, such as the White English Terrier, the Black and Tan Terrier and the Fox Terrier.

At the end of the 19th century, Staffordshire Bull Terriers were brought to the US by colonists. The American Staffordshire Terrier from our days is heavier and it has a more massive body than the English one.

American Staffordshire Terrier

Personality traits: The American Staffordshire Terrier is energetic, brave, loyal, attentive, noisy, stubborn and dominant. It is very devoted to its owner and the owner’s family. Moreover, it is friendly and gentle with children and can be a good family member. It is aggressive with other dogs of the same sex.

In fact, most dogs from this breed get along just with specimens of the opposite sex. It accepts cats and other animals that usually live in a household, but only if they are introduced to them at a young age. Training an American Staffordshire Terrier is not very complicated.

Conclusion

As seen, these dogs belonging to different breeds went through numerous changes over time. A result of crossbreeding, all these 10 breeds are considered to be the most loyal ones. There are countless reasons that determined them to develop in such a positive way and perceive their owners as the most important persons in their lives.

Some of these pooches really need an owner because otherwise they would become hard to manage and they would have no one to please and no one to care for them deeply. If loyalty is what you are looking for in a dog, you can just take a look at the other characteristics these 10 canine specimens have and choose one accordingly.

Getting an Akita Inu just because you liked the movie is not a good idea unless you think your personality and lifestyle matches the one this dog has.

However, if you have a kid who really wants a specific dog from this list, you should not hesitate to fulfill his or her wish if you can take care of it properly, ensuring enough space, attention and healthy food for it. Dogs have a lot to offer to people, but people should keep in mind that dogs have special needs too that must be fulfilled.

When to Put Your Dog Down: Is It Really the Time?

By
Vinko Woodman
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Putting Down Your Pet

There is absolutely no doubt that our dogs are a part of the family and loved just as much as anyone in our families. We love them, care for them, feed them and take them to the vets when they are sick; we are responsible for them.

Unfortunately, though that responsibility is not all fun and games and there may come a day when you have to make difficult decisions regarding your pet pooch. You may have to decide when to put your dog down.

The decision of when to put a dog to sleep is probably one of the hardest calls a dog owner may ever have to make. It is littered with dilemmas and unanswerable questions and there is never a right or wrong answer.

Dog-euthanasia

It boils down to a personal matter for each pet and owner. As an owner we know our dogs best and since our dogs cannot speak up for themselves we have a duty to do what is best for them.

Reasons You May Have to Make This Difficult Decision

These include:

  • Rabies
  • Parvovirus
  • Distemper
  • Cancer
  • Accidents
  • Old Age (related conditions)
  • Genetic diseases (related conditions)

It should be noted that with rabies there really is no other decision to make. Other than euthanasia as the death of your pet is unavoidable.

Making the Decision With a Plan in Place

When first getting a dog you need to remember that the chances of that dog outliving you are incredibly slim. You need to be ready and aware that one day you may have to make the decision of whether to put your dog to sleep or not. You may find if it comes to that time, that having a plan already in place will help you make that incredibly difficult step.

Putting together that plan is simple; list every scenario you can think of where you may have to make the decision of whether to put your dog to sleep or not. For example:

  1. List five things that your dog loves to do such as fetching, greeting, chasing, performing tricks and running then decide;
    • If your dog becomes incapable of doing all of or some of his favorite things will you put him/her to sleep?
    • If he still enjoys all his favorite things but only 30-50% of the time will you put him / her to sleep?
  1. If your dog suffers an accident where the long term recovery is less than certain will you put your dog through the possible surgeries, therapy and recovery time that may be needed?

Putting a plan like this into place will help you immeasurably if you ever have to face the question of whether to put your dog down. Whilst your dog is healthy and happy you will think much clearer about the decisions you should make.

Making the Decision With No Plan in Place

If you do not have a plan in place or find yourself backtracking on any plans you made then consider the following.

Dog at vet - euthanasia

It is inevitable that the decision of whether to put your dog to sleep or not will be made in conjunction with your vet. Chances are that you have consulted your vet about the ailment which your dog is suffering and that he or she will have given you a prognosis.

Consulting With Your Vet

Talking to your vet about your dog’s medical condition can give you a clearer picture on his / her outlook in the long term. They can also advise you on the levels of pain your dog may be feeling. Your vet however cannot tell you whether it is time to put your dog to sleep or not, they can only advise.

Six Questions to Ask Yourself

Answering the following questions could help you to decide if the time has come to put your dog to sleep:

  1. Is your dog’s appetite suffering?
  2. Has he / she stopped enjoying life?
  3. Has your dog stopped doing some or all of his / her favourite things?
  4. Do the painful days with your dog outnumber the happy days?
  5. Does your dog seem unhappy more often than he / she is happy?
  6. Does your dog look distressed or uncomfortable most of the time?

If you have answered yes to some or all of the above questions it is probably time you start to consider that your dog’s quality of life is not what it should be.

Further Thought

If you know that your dog’s quality of life is not what it should be then you need to think further about what the best next step would be. Think about how your dog might be feeling; is he in pain or unhappy? It may help to know that a dogs organ system works pretty much like ours so it is likely that they feel the same pain as we do when they begin to fail.

Does your dog have a terminal illness? It may be kinder if they do to put them to sleep sooner rather than later. Most people believe it is better to put your dog to sleep a day too early than a day too late.

Will further treatment improve your dog’s quality of life or just help maintain a poor quality of life? Your vet will be able to help answer this question but it needs to be noted that just because you can prolong your dog’s life does not mean you should.

Can you afford treatment? This may seem a mercenary train of thought but it does need to be considered. Medications and treatments for illnesses your dog may suffer can be highly expensive. If you have pet insurance this will certainly help but remember not all insurance covers all types of treatment.

Is your dog so old or ill that he / she has lost most of his / her bodily functions? Just like humans most dogs would be mortified to lose control of their bodily functions. This may not be a painful effect of illness or age for a dog but it is a mental wellbeing one.

Is it in your dog’s best interest to extend his / her life, or are you extending his / her life for yourself? Many people say that you will know when it is time to put your dog to sleep. This however is not at all true, our heads may say it is time when it is but our hearts will not. At this point you really need to examine your own motives. The responsibility for your choice lies with you and you alone.

Put simply will you be able to live with yourself if you make your dog suffer for one minute longer than they need to, just because you were selfish and didn’t want to let them go? This may seem harsh and it is but it is also very true in some cases. We may think we are extending our dogs lives for the right reasons but sometimes we are just kidding ourselves.

Framed dog and message

It may also be that your dog is giving out mixed signals which confuse you as to what the right decision is. For example your dog may be suffering from severe arthritis but seem happy and hearty even if his / her joints have given out. These are the hardest decisions of all to make, your pet is still bright and alert and their organs are fine. However is the inability to walk a good quality of life? Only you can make that decision.

What to Expect When Putting Your Dog to Sleep

One of the concerns that you may have when making the decision of whether to put your dog to sleep or not is what to expect if you do. Inevitably it will be one of the most upsetting days of your life losing your beloved dog and does not need to be made more distressing by anticipating the worst, or not knowing what is going to happen.

Making an Appointment

Once the decision has been made you will need to make an appointment for your dog to be euthanized. Speak to the receptionist about this and ensure they book you in when the vet has plenty of time so you will not be rushed saying goodbye.

Note that in some cases it may not be possible to come back with your dog but be more humane to put your dog to sleep at the time of a consultation with your vet.

Saying goodbye

Reasons for this could your dog is in insufferable pain or perhaps they have been in surgery and it would be more humane to let them go whilst under anaesthetic.

Accompanying Your Dog

It is a personal choice whether to be with your dog or not when they are put to sleep. Some owners cannot bear the thought of watching their dog slip away, whilst others cannot bear the thought of letting them go without their presence. It is a decision that you need to think through very carefully as you do not want to regret that decision afterwards.

If you are concerned that your emotional state when attending the appointment may upset your dog you can request sedation which will help them remain calmer. A request for sedation could also be helpful if you have a dog that does not like or becomes distressed at vet appointments under normal circumstances.

If the actual process of putting your dog to sleep is what concerns you about being with your dog or not then rest assured it is not as horrific as you may be thinking or imagining.

Putting Your Dog to Sleep

In order to put your dog to sleep the vet must first gain access to a vein, usually in your dog’s leg. When doing this your vet will usually invite you to hold your dog in order to keep them calm and to keep you close to your dog. The actual injection is painless and usually only takes 6 – 12 seconds to work.

Passing away dog

As your dog passes away he / she will take a deeper breath then begin to grow weaker, finally lapsing into what looks like a deep sleep. It may take a few more breaths before your dog passes away and movement ceases.

When Your Dog Has Passed Away

After your dog has passed away the vet and nurses will leave you to have some time with your pet if that is what you desire. Take all the time you need to say your goodbyes and do not be afraid to cry.

You may think people will feel you’re daft or silly to be crying over your dog but believe it or not the vets and staff will also be upset by your dogs passing, and completely understand what you are going through. Just because they work in these situations regularly does not mean they have hearts of stone.

What Happens Next

You will have been asked when you made the appointment what you would like for your dog after euthanasia. Some people choose to take their dogs home and bury them somewhere special or in the garden. If this is what you have chosen your vets will crate your dog and return him/her to you.

If you have chosen cremation your dog will be sent to the place of your choice and his / her ashes returned to you as previously arranged. You can arrange when cremating your dog to have special items with them. This may be a poem, a favorite toy or even a rose.

Dog tribute

When making arrangements for your dog after euthanasia remember that he or she is your dog and that whatever you want is the right thing. If you choose to keep some fur or to have the ashes returned to you it is your choice and no one else’s.

Dealing With the Grief

Remembering that your dog is a part of your family, it is perfectly feasible and acceptable that you will grieve for them, just like you would a human member of your family.

It is however likely that few people will understand the grief you are feeling at losing your dog. You may find this time filled with a very lonely and private grief.

The last thing you should be doing at this time is chastising yourself for feeling so strongly about losing your pet. Your grief is valid and you should give yourself all the time you need to grieve. You may even find it helpful to contact a grief support group or counselor to help you deal with the loss.

Grief support group

The truth is sometimes it is clear that you should let your dog go, you just know its time. However sometimes it isn’t clear cut and a lot of soul searching is required as to what is best for your dog. When trying to make the decision it may help to remember the following:

  • Vets are trained to save lives – they can only delay not prevent the inevitable
  • Just because you can prolong your dog’s life it doesn’t mean you should
  • Choosing euthanasia is not playing God, it is doing the humane thing
  • The suffering of your dog is paramount and should be the first consideration
  • It is better to put your dog to sleep a day too early than a day to late

When to put your dog down is unquestionably one of the hardest decisions you will ever have to make but you have done the best by him or her all their life, and now is the time to still do the same.

How to Raise a Pitbull: Tips From One Owner to Another

By
Vinko Woodman
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Raising a Pit bull

This article will provide advice on how to raise a pitbull right and prove the stereotype wrong. Over the years, the American Pitbull Terrier has gained a bad reputation as a naturally aggressive breed of dog.

This mostly comes from the fact that before the dogs were ever brought to America they were bred to fight bulls and once bull baiting became illegal, they were sent to fight one another. The thing is, these dogs only fought to please their masters, really. They are no more aggressive than any other breed of dog when they receive the proper training.

When you are considering different aspects of training your pitbull you should always keep in mind how to train your pitbull with positive training techniques.

Little pitbull

No matter what sort of dog you are raising, if you train them to fear you through punishment they are far more likely to become aggressive than if they are trained in a positive atmosphere.

House Training

There are many different theories on the best way to potty train any dog, but especially your pitbull. They do tend to be more stubborn than some other breeds which can make this process much more difficult. Some people find it perfectly fine to correct the pup, letting him know what he did wrong, by rubbing their face in it, yelling or hitting the pup after it has an accident.

This is only going to create an image of fear attached to you in this dogs eyes! There are much more productive ways to go about potty training.

Pit Bull infographic

While accidents will be inevitable, you should always do your best to prepare for them. Excessive sniffing is usually a way to tell if your pup is looking for a place to “go”. If you notice this you should take the pup outside immediately and wait for him to do their business.

If it’s been 5-10 minutes and they haven’t, then bring them back inside for now but keep an eye out for them! The best way to prevent accidents is to be attentive until your pup learns to let you know they need to go out.

Remember, house training should happen young – usually within a week of bringing a puppy home if you got them as soon as they were old enough to be placed with a family. At the same time, you cannot expect this to be an easy adjustment for your pup, it is a completely new idea to them and they need time to learn!

A few tips for potty training your pitbull pup:

  • Take them out at least once an hour.
  • Take them out on a leash for the first week or so.
  • Take them to the same spot (this is more for convenience, it will become habit and you won’t have “piles” around your yard).
  • Don’t let them play and run around until “business has been taken care of” (this reinforces the reason for going outside in the first place!)

Be consistent – take the pup out regularly, whether or not they actually go, they will eventually get the idea. If you’d like to learn a bit more, check out this article on how to potty train your puppy.

Pitbulls are nice infographic

When you are considering trying to cut down on accidents you should also remember to take them out about 20 minutes after they eat (or if you notice them drink a ton of water!).

Yes, it’s a lot of work – but your puppy will learn in time and soon enough you won’t have to worry about accidents and messes. When you know you have to be gone for extended periods, leave your pup in a wire kennel so that they cannot make a mess on your floors! Make sure you take them out first thing in the morning and last thing before bed.

Socialize Your Pup

When it comes to raising your pitbull to be good around people, crowds, other animals, etc. it is important that you socialize your dog properly.

The absolute best thing you can do is start as early as possible when it comes to socialization – this is not to say a fully grown pitbull cannot be trained to change his behaviors, it is just going to take a lot more time, patience and hard work between you and your dog to make it happen. The sooner a dog is socialized the easier they will learn and react to new things.

When you are socializing your dog you should always remain in control of the situation – have your dog on a leash and next to you. This way you can intervene before any bad behavior starts. If you have already taught your dog to respond immediately to his name, even better.

Raise a Pitbull

This way if you notice your dog start to growl at a person or animal when they shouldn’t be, you can snap their attention back to you. This is a good time to try and keep treats on you as well, to reward them for giving you their attention so promptly.

Start slow, introduce your pup to a few friends you’re having over or take him to visit a family member. This way your dog can slowly adjust to being around people other than you (and any immediate family living in the house).

You are essentially letting your dog experience the world when socializing and this is how they will see the world from now on – so do your best to make every experience a positive one.

If you have other pets in the home, introduce your new pup to them one by one. Perhaps only allow your dog to be in one room for the first couple of days and have gradual face to face meetings with other animals.

Keep treats nearby for distractions (for both pets!) that way if one starts to show signs of aggression you can distract them temporarily. A few meetings like this and they are usually willing to accept that they are going to be living together and after a while there may great friendship.

Also, be sure to stay on the lookout for signs of dog aggression. If you’re not sure what those are, first check out our handy guide on the signs and methods of dealing with dog aggression.

Another note – in the process of trying to make all early socialization a positive experience, try to avoid dog parks right off the bat. Instead, take your dog to puppy kindergarten! This is not only a great training tool for many, many dog owners, but it also gives your dog a chance to be around other dogs – but not dozens all at once which can be overwhelming.

If you want your dog to be comfortable around more people than just your family then this is also very helpful – as well as taking your dog with you to cafes or similar places where there is outdoor seating and you are allowed to bring your dog. Just remember to keep them leashed and close to you at all times!

Use Positive Methods

I cannot stress enough that you should always consider using positive training methods when training your pitbull. You may have heard before that they are stubborn and you cannot teach them anything without beating it into them. This is 100% wrong. Any breed of dog can be trained through positive training methods. The most important thing you need to remember is that it is going to take lots of time and lots of patience. This is a learning process for your dog – so make it as fun and stimulating as you would want school to be for your children!

Pitbull training

It may sound crazy, but honestly, if you give it a shot you will see – consistency is key and your pitbull will learn! It may take longer than you were hoping for, but your dog will be better behaved than you would ever have imagined.

The reason for this? He loves you and only wants to make you happy. This is true with many breeds of dog, which is why it positive training methods work so well across the board!

A great example of positive training is to either use a handful of kibbles (that way you can’t overdo it with the treats!) or go with some sort of other reward like toys or praise (though most find kibbles work best) and ask your dog to sit. If he sits, then reward him with a treat, praise or whatever the reward may be.

Do this 10 times over – the same exact routine. By the time you go for that 11th shot, he will probably sit even if you don’t give him the treat! Especially if you use praise and a brief moment of affection along with the treat to show him he did good.

This is going to be a process for both you and your pitbull, but don’t give up! In the end, the bond you will share with your dog will be much stronger than that of someone who goes with a different training method.

Your dog will learn to respect you with your consistency against bad behavior – but try putting them in their kennel for a bit or taking away a toy if they were playing too rough inside and broke something. They will usually pick up on the connection rather quickly and you never had to hit your dog once!

Common Training Mistakes

When it comes to training a pitbull you may think you will never get through, but it could simply be that you are taking the wrong approach. A few of the most common mistakes when training a pitbull include:

  • Not being patient enough.
  • Not being consistent enough.
  • Using negative training methods.
  • The lack of an open mind.

Basically, training your pitbull is going to as difficult as you want it to be. You have to prepare yourself mentally for the fact that it is going to be a lot of hard work. But in the end, you will be much happier and so will your dog!

You will respect each other and have a bond stronger than if you had been handed an already well-mannered dog. When it comes down to it, the more effort, love and time you put into your dog’s training, the better they will be! After all, they just want to make us happy.

Not being consistent is another downfall that many dog owners have. The thing is, your dog loves routine. He knows when you’re going to feed him every day, when you’re going on a walk, when you leave for work and when you should return home.

They also rely on you for consistency not only in routine but in actions – if they were not allowed to dig in the yard one day, but another you just decide not to care, they will never learn not to do it! They learn just like we do, trial and error, cause and effect.

The last big problem when it comes to training your pitbull is the fact that people are very closed minded. If only people would accept that just like we all learn differently, so do dogs!

When one technique might be perfect for one breed, another may be a total different story. If one technique doesn’t work after a couple weeks, then try something new! There is no limit to what you can teach your dog to do when you have an open mind and positive training techniques!

Pit training

In the end, raising a pitbull is not that much different than raising any other breed of dog. You just need to remember to be consistent and take your time. Your dog will learn – but it’s up to you to give him the chance to learn in a positive environment.

Don’t give up because you hit a few snags in the road! You and your dog will both be better off for it in the long run when you take your time to train and socialize your dog properly.

Take the time to train your pitbull properly and encourage anyone you know to raise them with confidence and positive training techniques and help break the negative labels that are put to these beautiful dogs!

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