PA Dog Rescue | Category Archives: General Education

Tips on Raising a Golden Retriever Puppy

Planning to bring home a golden retriever puppy? If you have made this decision, then it is great to know essential tips on raising a golden retriever puppy. First, before you bring the puppy home, you need to make some decisions. These include where do you want to get the puppy from, how to choose the right and name suggestions.

Golden retriever puppies are adorable and interesting to live with. However, they need a lot of work to raise. This guide will help you understand more about raising, training and tips to keep your dog healthy.

Think About Safety

Before you bring your puppy home, ensure that the place is safe for them as they may get troubled in their new home. The danger your puppy might land into are like chewing on chords or glass pieces and other items that are unnecessary. In case there are other dogs, make sure you separate them as they may start bullying the puppy. Let there be supervision whenever they are together.

Conducive Sleeping Environment

Dogs also need enough time to sleep, in a conducive environment too. Some people choose to sleep with their dogs while other may get a room strictly for their puppies. Puppies may also be crate trained.

Always use a large crate so as to give enough space for your dog. There is also an option for buying your golden retriever puppy a dog bed and train him on how to use it.

Food and Water Bowls

The bowls need to be clean throughout to avoid instances of food contamination for the dog. Ensure you buy bowls of a good material, those that do not break easily. Puppies are so playful and you might find them carrying the dishes around when they are empty.

The bowls should be resistant to breaking and should not be chewable. The water bowls should contain clean water all the time. You may at times find dog fur in the water and you need to remove it and replace the water with clean one.

Containing Your Dog

In as much as your puppy will be in your yard, you need to contain him elsewhere to avoid unnecessary movements. You may do so by constructing a fence, mostly an invisible one. Alternatively, you may choose to tether your puppy. They should not be left on their own in open for longer periods.

Use of A Leash and Collar or Harness

Training your golden retriever puppy is something gradual and this means that it will take some time for it to adapt to its new environment. Your puppy need to learn how to comfortably walk in a leash without really choking itself.

Buckle collars and martingale collars are the best options for your dog as they enhance comfort in your dog. Try getting your puppy a harness too. It reduces the pressure put to your dog on the neck by the collars. A harness will also prevent pulling.

Groom Your Dog

Your golden retriever puppy needs to be well groomed throughout. Some of the grooming supplies include a dog brush for brushing its fur, dog nail clippers to keep its nails well-trimmed and dog shampoo to wash it.

Dog Food

It is wise if you seek advice from a vet for the best food for golden retriever. When you are switching the diet, do it gradually to reduce the risk of it getting allergies and stomach upsets. Start by giving it puppy food and as it grows keep changing until it gets to feed on adult food.

Only Give Enough Food

Your golden retriever is at a risk of being obese as they love eating a lot. The food your puppy consumes should be proportional to its age and weight. If your puppy is below 6 months, ensure you feed it for three times in a day and if it is elder than that, feed it twice a day. Make sure there is consistency in the time of feeding.

Occasionally Treat Your Dog

Your golden retriever needs to be treated once in a while. You may choose to add some dog biscuits or cookies in the meal. This will help in making the training easy for you. You are also free to mix extras in your dog food so as to add and improve the taste of their food.

Some of the things you might add include chicken breast that is plainly cooked, canned pumpkin, canned dog food and plain yoghurt among others. Be sure to continue with this habit as the dog may not want to eat plain food once it gets used to foods with flavors.

Pet Your Puppy and Avoid His Face

Dogs do not like their face touched. You should also not put your face in front of the dog’s face. Whenever it starts yawning and licking its lips, it means that you are too close and you need to move a bit. Whenever you are petting it, always pat gently on his side. The pats should also be gentle.

Engage Your Golden Retriever Using Dog Toys

You may toss a ball and let your puppy retrieve it. This is the point you teach and train your dog on how to obey commands. Some commands your dog should know include ‘come’, ‘sit down’, ‘all done’, among others.

Conclusion

Golden retriever puppies are interesting to deal with. All you need to do is to understand them and give them the best care ever. Always ensure that they are in a good and safe environment. The environment should also be free from any form of dirt and contamination. Ensure you give the right food to your puppy and this should continue even as it advances in to adulthood.

Train your dog on the skills you want him to learn. Ensure the commands you give to your dog are well spelt out to enhance understanding. Keep your dog active by playing with it or providing it with play toys to free boredom.

How To Prepare For The New Puppy In Your Life

So you’re getting a puppy – how exciting! Getting a new puppy is a time of real excitement for you and your family.

You have researched the breed you’re getting, or secured an adoption at a rescue centre, waited weeks that can seem like years, and finally you can bring your puppy home.

However, you will need to get prepared for bringing your new best friend into your home, and hopefully this article can help you with that.

Let’s have a look at some of the things you will need.

Puppy Food

Whether your puppy has been in a home environment for the first few weeks of its life, or in a shelter, he or she will have been fed on one particular food.

It is usually better to keep them on this food for at least a few days after arriving home. Coming into a new home, although very exciting for both you and your puppy, is also a huge change for the puppy. So, it’s best to try and keep the transition as smooth as possible at first.

You should be told what food he or she has been eating, so that you can purchase a small amount of the same. It may be that you like the food they are on, in which case you don’t need to change it, but if you do want to change it, it’s best to leave them on the same food for a week, and then do a slow transition of food over 7-10 days. Start with a large amount of their original food, say 90% and 10% of the new food, and gradually decrease the original food and increase the new until they are completely changed over.

Doing it this way will get your puppy used to the taste, and hopefully avoid any gastrointestinal upsets from changing a food too quickly.

A complete puppy food is always best, as these have the correct amount and balance of nutrients, but be aware that if you have a large breed, such as a Great Dane you will need a large breed puppy food as their bones grow at different rates. Your vet is the best person to advise you.

You will also need bowls for the food and water. Heavier bowls are better, as it makes it more difficult for your puppy to knock over.

A Comfy Bed

There are many different options of dog beds out there, and it can be difficult to know what is the best bed for a puppy.

You may need to upgrade the beds as your puppy grows, as a puppy bed may quickly become too small.

Ideally, for a puppy you need a bed that is chew proof. Puppies love to chew, and the last thing you want is to come down in the morning to a shredded bed with filling scattered everywhere.

Puppies do have accidents, so a bed with a removable covering to make for easy washing will make your life so much easier.

Puppies will often miss their littermates for a few days, so having a bed with raised sides that they can curl up in will often make them feel comforted.

Somewhere To Sleep

Of course, your puppy will need somewhere to sleep. It is best to get them into good habits straight away, and many people choose to crate train their dog.

Crate training involves having a crate in their sleeping area, and the goal is to use this as a positive space that they feel secure in. They can then be secured in the crate at night so that they feel safe, and you know that they won’t be chewing anything valuable or dangerous such as electrical wires.

Crates should be big enough for your dog to stand up in and turn around with ease, and you may need to buy a bigger crate as your puppy grows.

As the puppy learns that the crate is their sleeping space, they don’t like to soil the area, so it can be useful to help with house training.

The crate can also be taken with you if you’re traveling, or staying somewhere else, then your dog will feel safe in it’s own surroundings, and you can put their favourite bed in it.

Things To Chew And Play With

Puppies love to chew. It’s their way of exploring the new world around them, however there are things that we don’t want them to get their teeth on, whether it’s because they are your favourite pair of slippers, or because it’s something that could do them harm.

There are many chew toys available, it’s best to aim for the ones specifically aimed at puppies, as their teeth are slightly more delicate than their adult counterparts.

Toys are also a must, puppies have seemingly endless energy, and play is a large part of their learning curve, have different types of toys available until you know what your puppy likes.

Always check toys for signs of wear and tear, and never leave them alone with any of these things.

A Collar And Lead

A collar and lead is a must for a dog, for when you can start taking them on walks.

Identification will depend on where you live, in some places all dogs must be microchipped – which is a permanent form of identification and highly recommended, and in others a dog must wear a collar with a tag on at all times.

So double check the laws in your state or country.

Book A Visit To The Vet

A vet visit is a must, usually a week after you’ve got your puppy and they’ve had time to settle in.

Your vet can check your puppy over, and also this will get the puppy used to going to the vet, and make positive associations.

The vet will then vaccinate and treat your puppy for fleas and worms, and can answer any questions you may have.

Getting a puppy is a very exciting time, and with a little bit of pre-planning, you should be well prepared. Have fun!

What Are The Most Dog-Friendly Cities In The US In 2020?

If you’re a proud dog owner, you know that having a pet comes with fun and love. However, it also comes with some challenges, especially if you plan on moving to a big city or getting your first pup. If you want to find out which factors contribute to a dog-friendly city, what you can do to help, and what are the most dog-friendly cities in the country, keep on reading!

What makes a dog-friendly city?

Let’s start from a quick recap of aspects that can make it or break it for all the dog lovers. These include, but are not limited to, shelters, homes, parks, and businesses.

Shelters should be warm, safe, and encouraging adoptions. What’s more, cities should have community programs that humanely address the overpopulation of dogs, as well as partnerships with individuals and organizations working to prevent homelessness.

When it comes to homes, finding a landlord who’s willing to accept pets can be a daunting task. That’s one of the reasons why many dogs end up homeless and abandoned. Dog-friendly cities should enable pet ownership and have open housing policies.

Moving on to parks, dog-friendly cities create a safe environment for dogs and their owners. Not only should dogs have parks and walking trails, but also the authorities should not forget about pet waste stations. Green spaces and dog-friendly amenities are always appreciated, especially when you can relax with your dog in an active, healthy, and clean way.

So, what about dog-friendly businesses? Those that make it easy for pet owners also make them feel welcome. Dog-friendly businesses can easily communicate their pet policy by putting stickers in the windows. What’s more, cities with pet-friendly businesses, including stores and restaurants, attract both tourists and locals alike, who feel welcome and included in communities’ social life.

What can you do to help?

In case you like the more hands-on approach, there are things you can do to make your city more dog-friendly. To begin with, you can donate dog food and other supplies to your local animal shelter. Petfoodreviews.online looks at Acana for dogs, and you can find other reviews that may help make your decision about what kind of dog food you could buy for your four-legged friend and those in need. If you have time, you can volunteer at your local shelter. What’s more, you can adopt a dog rather than buy it from a breeder or run a foster home. If you have an allergy and you think you’ll never find hypoallergenic dogs for adoption, you may be surprised! Additionally, you can get involved in pet-related activities and events in your community. Acting together with other like-minded people can result in something incredible for your city and the dogs living there.

Now, let’s move on to our list of the most dog-friendly cities in the US!

Seattle, Washington

In Seattle, one of the most dog-friendly cities in the US, there are reportedly more dogs than children. Tourists and locals alike can visit dog-friendly hotels and restaurants, take their four-legged friends on Elliot Bay cruise, or even use dog-friendly kayak, paddleboard, and canoe rentals. What’s more, if you see posters or ads in the gist of “dog gone Seattle,” you can be almost sure the owners are going to find their lost pet. King County animal shelter, as well as other animal shelters in the area, offer great conditions for lost or abandoned animals. What’s more, they have clear and friendly pet adoption procedures that can help you find your friend in no time.

San Diego, California

San Diego may be one of the most unique cities on our list. It’s probably the only place where you can take your dog surfing. Restaurants are very dog-friendly, with many of them offering patios where pups can sit with their owners. If you haven’t had enough fun, go to a dog park or visit a dog boutique. What’s more, there are numerous dog-themed events in San Diego, including the annual Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon, or Paw-micon, the canine equivalent of San Diego’s Comic-Con.

Portland, Oregon

Portland has the most dog parks per capita in the country – 33! The city also has its own social network for dog lovers. You’ll be able to attend plenty of meetups for fans of a specific breed or even take part in the original Fences for Fido Fence Building Event. Additionally, if you like going to pubs, you can take your dog with you.

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is considered to be extremely dog-friendly for a number of reasons. Let’s start by pointing out that dogs on a walk can stop and drink, as most bars and restaurants leave big water bowls outside. What’s more, you and your dog will never get bored in the city because there are up to 20 off-leash dog parks. Additionally, Montrose Dog Beach in Chicago is a famous location for dogs and their owners and boasts stellar reviews from those who have been there.

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston is known for being dog-friendly mainly because of many beautiful parks and walking trails. Not only can you walk your dog, but also you can learn about the city and do a little sightseeing. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can take your pup on a subway ride during off-peak hours or on a Boston Harbor cruise. Moreover, some local bars offer “Yappy Hours” for the patrons to bring their dogs and grab a pint. To top it all off, there are plenty of dog-friendly apartments and neighborhoods, so you won’t have to worry about moving in with your furry friend.

The bottom line

Being a dog owner is fun, and it’s an experience like none other. However, it also requires tons of responsibility and commitment. Whether you own a dog or you want to have one (or more!) in the future, make sure you get yourself familiar with all the requirements and potential limitations. However, if you do your research thoroughly and you’re attentive to your dog’s needs, you’ll gain an amazing friend and companion.

Budget-Friendly and Pet-Friendly: Keeping Your Home Spic and Span

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You love your dog, and you love a clean home—and you may think you have to choose one or the other. Keep up with all the pet hair, dander and allergens may seem like a difficult and expensive daily mountain to climb, but you can succeed at both keeping your home clean and staying on budget. Here are a few of the most time- and cost-consuming cleaning challenges pet owners face, along with some clever, cost-effective solutions to them.

Managing hair, dander and other allergens

One of the number one cleaning complaints most pet owners have is a daily build up of hair. Shedding is more pronounced during some seasons than during others, but ultimately, cleaning dog hair is a year-round job, and that can get expensive. You can prevent the piling-up pet hair from breaking your budget by:

Changing your air filter regularly. A clean air filter will prevent hair and allergens from being circulated throughout the home. It’s a simple, $5 solution that makes a huge impact. You should change out your air filter every 2-3 months, but if you have pets, you may want to consider increasing the frequency. Ordering them in bulk means you pay more upfront, but will save more in the long run.
Keeping your dog groomed. Brushing your dog outside once a week can do wonders for keeping pet hair out of your home. If you want to really eliminate hair and the dander that causes stuffy noses and swollen eyes, take your pup to a groomer. You can score groomer deals by checking out businesses offering coupons and discounts on websites like Groupon.

Laundering clothes, bedding, rugs and furniture

You love your dog, but you may not always love the way he smells. And if you allow your dog on furniture, that means you will need to add more to your daily laundry list than just your clothes. When cleaning on a budget, keep these tips in mind:

The cost of additional laundry detergent, air fresheners, carpet cleaning products and wood floor cleaners can really add up. Stock up and save big by hunting down online coupon codes and cashback offers for your cleaning supplies.
Use a subscription service on websites like Amazon so you never run out of supplies. Amazon’s “Subscribe and Save” feature often reduces the cost of items when you sign up for a subscription.

Cleaning up after indoor bathroom accidents

If you have a young pup who isn’t house trained yet, now is the time to train him—your home’s cleanliness depends on it! A dog training collar can be a helpful tool in this endeavor if Fido seems reluctant to obey, and while it’s an added expense, you’ll save money in the long run by not having to replace carpeting or furniture he messes on.

Of course, even if your dog is housebroken, chances are accidents are going to happen. Maybe you got held up at work too long or your pup, scared of a loud thunderstorm, had an accident in the house. In those situations, you need to act fast in order to make sure urine stains don’t settle into hardwood floors and carpet. There are some easy, budget-friendly ways you can manage your dog’s indoor accidents:

Instead of purchasing expensive odor-eliminating cleaning products, stick with distilled white vinegar. A capful in a quart of water can both disinfect and eliminate odors.

Keep your dog confined to a safe space with tile floor when you aren’t at home. Make sure the space is large and comfortable, and be sure to give your dog access to a bed, blankets, toys and water so he feels safe, secure and entertained.
Remove rugs and mats from areas where your dog frequently has accidents. For example, if Fido has occasional accidents in the bathroom during a thunderstorm, keep the bathroom mats picked up unless someone is in there.

You don’t have to choose between your pet and a clean home. You can have both—and at a fraction of the cost you might think. With a little online research, you can find great deals to keep your home fresh and clean with a pet.

Article written by Jessica Brody

Introduce Dogs to Each Other

The way you introduce dogs to each other is very important. Every dog is different. Here are some guidelines to follow to increase the chances of a successful meet. In order to prevent issues between your current and new dogs, there are some safety steps you should follow when first introducing the dogs.

Introduce dogs in a neutral place. Do not bring the new dog into your home right away. Find a tree, park, or pet store to introduce your dogs. Find neutral grounds where one dog will not feel dominant. The car is not a neutral place to have both dogs meet for the first time.
If you introduce dogs together at the adoption location, have separate cages in the car or bring two cars.
Make sure both dogs are on leashes, but keep them loose. A tight leash increases the possibility of confrontation.
Start by walking single file to get them use to seeing each other.
Then walk the dogs side by side with your own body in the middle. Avoid having the two dogs meet face to face as this is considered poor manners for dogs.
Allow the dogs to sniff each others behinds. This is their way of getting to know each other.
Watch their body language. Check to see if the tail has a loose wag and the movements are relaxed. If the tail and the ears are straight and the dog seems tense, pull them apart. Also, look at the mouth. Look at the teeth and listen for growling.
Do not force any interaction between the dogs. It will happen naturally.
As they sniff each other, make sure you tell them that they are doing a good job.

Now that you know how to introduce dogs, you should follow some safety tips in the home for the first few weeks. It is better to go slow through these stages. Taking your time now can mean a happier co-existence later.

Keep an eye on the dogs as much as possible. Make sure they are interacting well.
Clean up after your dogs. Toys can cause problems. If your dog plays with toys, put them away after use to prevent arguments over the toys.
Give the dogs their own water and food bowls.
When you are not home, keep the dogs in separate areas or crate the new dog in an area where your current dog cannot access.
Allow the new dog to explore the home without the old dog present.