39 Dog Care Tips - Part 3/4

20. Have patience with them

It can be challenging when your dog acts out or isn’t picking up on a new training technique, but with some grace and patience, they’ll be more likely to continue trying. If you’re feeling frustrated, take a break from training and consider consulting your vet or local training professional. Dogs are very good at reading our body language and won’t respond well to training if you are tense or angry.

21. Hang out with them while they eat

Dogs are by nature pack animals and you’re their pack. Stay near them when they eat and make this an ongoing communal act. Picky eaters might also show more interest in their food when they see you take an interest.

22. Applaud your pet when they successfully relieve themselves outside

Potty training can be difficult, especially with stubborn dog breeds. Applaud and cheer your dog on when they go outside and do their business every time and they’ll eagerly continue this behavior until it becomes a habit. For dogs who are learning to be house-trained, bring treats outside with you and immediately reward your dog after they finish peeing or pooping somewhere you approve of. If you do this every time, and take your puppy out frequently enough (including after every meal, after every drink of water, and at least every 4-6 hours) house breaking will be significantly easier.

touching dog ears

23. Make training a game

Switch up the treats, rewards, and praise. If they view training as a game, rather than something they are scolded during, they will have more fun and you’ll see better results. You may also find that your dog responds better to different types of rewards through this process. When training, always reward positive behavior with treats, a clicker, pets, and/or verbal praise and simply ignore bad behavior. They will learn if they want a reward they must do what you’ve asked of them.

24. Consistent training is key

Decide what the “house rules” for your dog are and stick with them! Will your dog be allowed on furniture, in all parts of the house, or around the family during dinnertime? Stick with the same training commands and rules while training your dog to prevent confusion. Make sure all members of your family are on the same page and agree to consistently abide by the rules to avoid confusing your pup or perpetuating bad behavior.

25. Immediately correct bad behavior

Dogs have a short memory and if you scold them for doing something wrong five minutes later, they will not correlate the scolding with the bad behavior. Reprimand them only if you catch them in the act. On the other hand, always give your dog positive feedback and rewards right away for good behavior to encourage the repetition of this behavior.

Winter Care Tips

26. Moisturize your dog’s paws

Cold weather can cause your dog’s paws to crack due to the dry air. Try moisturizing your dog’s paws with pad moisturizer products topically to relieve the discomfort especially if they seem raw or painful after your pup has been outside.

27. Limit their time outside

Dogs are susceptible to getting frostbite, especially in their paws, ears, and tails. Even dogs with thick fur coats should not be left outside for long periods of time in chilly weather. When you start to feel chilled, take your dog inside with you because they are probably feeling cold as well.

28. Beware of ice and winter salt

Both ice and winter salt on sidewalks can cause your dog’s paw pads to develop cracks or burns. Wipe your dog’s paws off after any venture outside and watch to make sure they don’t try to eat salt off the ground or lick it off their paws. If this is causing your dog consistent discomfort, consider investing in a pair of dog booties to protect the sensitive skin on their feet. They also make pet safe salt for drive and walkways that you can use around your home. Pet safe salt is non-toxic to pets feet and not harmful if they accidentally eat any of the salt.

29. Consider getting your dog a sweater

Many dogs have thick coats to keep them warm outside even in the coldest months, but not all of our pups have enough fur to brave the cold. Any dog can get hypothermia, and depending on where you live, and your dog’s breed, your dog may benefit from a coat or sweater during the winter. Some early signs of hypothermia that would indicate your dog might benefit from an extra layer of insolation include shivering, rapid breathing, ears and feet being cold to the touch, increased urination, and hair standing on end. Many dogs love winter coats or sweaters; they’ll look cute and have even more protection for wintery playtime.