Dog Tip of the Day Blog - By Dogster.com

Practice Being Prepared for Critical Situations

Casey Lomonaco (KPA CTP, APDT) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 19:00:03 +0000

Dog management tools like muzzles and crates, along with calmative aids like Through a Dog’s Ear or Thundershirts, can help keep your dog safe — and feeling safe — in stressful situations such as storms, being home alone, or visiting the vet.

To get the most out of these products, make sure to use them often when you are relaxing and having fun with your dog, not just in crisis mode. This way your dog doesn’t start seeing his crate, muzzle, or Thundershirt as a predictor of “bad things happening.”

Casey Lomonaco owns Rewarding Behaviors Dog Training in Binghamton, NY.

You CAN Teach an Old Dog New Tricks

Casey Lomonaco (KPA CTP, APDT) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 19:00:06 +0000

Like dogs of any age, senior dogs need physical exercise tailored to their needs, as well as mental stimulation in the form of training, play, and interactive games. The oldest dog I’ve ever trained was 17 and deaf when we began working together!

Your dog’s advanced age may present new challenges. You may need to train your dog to accept a sling around his rear for assistance up the stairs, or to learn new boundaries as he loses his vision.

A qualified trainer will help you train your dog useful and adorable new behaviors, regardless of your pup’s age!

Casey Lomonaco owns Rewarding Behaviors Dog Training in Binghamton, NY.

There’s More to Exercise Than Leash Walking

Casey Lomonaco (KPA CTP, APDT) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 19:00:03 +0000

Some people put a lot of emphasis on leash walks as the ultimate in exercise for dogs. But with cold weather and icy sidewalks on the way for many Dogsters, poor leash manners can easily put dogs, their people, and even motorists in danger. And even if you enjoy walking your dog, cross-training will allow you to work different doggie muscles and provide health and mental benefits.

Swimming, biking, skijoring, carting, sledding, tug, fetch, running, or backpacking are just a few activities you can enjoy with your dog, depending on his health and your climate. Always check with your vet before introducing a new exercise regimen.

Casey Lomonaco owns Rewarding Behaviors Dog Training in Binghamton, NY.

Crates: Not Just for Puppies Anymore

Casey Lomonaco (KPA CTP, APDT) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 19:00:02 +0000

Many people use crates for housetraining their puppies or keeping younger dogs out of trouble when nobody is home. Often, once a dog is successfully potty trained, the crate ends up on Craigslist or Freecycle, ready for a new home.

Keep in mind that crates are not just for puppies, and that crate training, like all training, is a “use it or lose it” enterprise. Dogs should learn to be crated and practice crating throughout their lives. Even if you don’t need your crate for potty training anymore, you will be glad to have it in case of emergencies.

Casey Lomonaco owns Rewarding Behaviors Dog Training in Binghamton, NY.

Canine Coats: Not Just for Divas

Casey Lomonaco (KPA CTP, APDT) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 19:00:03 +0000

While many people scoff at the idea of doggy attire, there are times when fashion serves a function. If you have a small-breed dog or short-coated dog of any breed, it may be a good idea to have it wear a jacket or coat on walks.

For dogs who tend not to like wearing clothes, a “horse blanket” style that attaches with Velcro at the chest and belly may be better-received than one with leg holes.

Because daytime hours are so short during the winter, consider purchasing a jacket that is bright in color, preferably with reflective strips (or you can purchase reflecting tape) to enhance visibility at night.

Casey Lomonaco owns Rewarding Behaviors Dog Training in Binghamton, NY.

Super-Easy Christmas Cookies for Santa Paws

Helen Fazio — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 19:00:02 +0000

Be ready with these treats when Santa Paws comes down the chimney on December 25.

Mix three small jars of baby food (chicken or beef flavor), 9 tbsp powdered milk, 6 tbsp ground flax seed, and 8 tbsp wheatgerm. Roll into walnut-sized balls and bake on a greased cookie sheet for 10 to 13 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until the bottoms look a little brown. Refrigerate to store.

Remember that these cookies, while healthy, do contribute extra calories. So just one or two a day is enough for Santa’s little helpers.

Helen Fazio and her dog, Raja, are world travelers. Visit their blog and follow them on Twitter.

Last-Minute Gifts for Dog Owners

Helen Fazio — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 19:00:03 +0000

If you still have to do some holiday shopping for the serious dog lovers in your life, here are some last-minute ideas for great presents.

Consider buying them gift certificates to a local pet supply store or prepaid vouchers for miscellaneous services at their vet’s office. You could also put together a gift basket of beauty and health products you know your friend uses.

While dog-oriented gifts may not be right for everyone, those “love me, love my dog” friends and family members will appreciate anything that helps them take care of their pets.

Helen Fazio and her dog, Raja, are world travelers. Visit their blog and follow them on Twitter.

A Dog Is Not a Good Holiday Gift, But …

Helen Fazio — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 19:00:03 +0000

… the promise of getting a dog right after the holidays is a wonderful gift. If you are thinking of getting a dog for someone as a holiday present, why not give a promise instead?

Then, after the chaotic holidays, everybody can go together to pick the perfect dog and bring her to a peaceful, welcoming home where she will be the main event.

Helen Fazio and her dog, Raja, are world travelers. Visit their blog and follow them on Twitter.

Protect Your Christmas Tree from Your Pup

Helen Fazio — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 19:00:03 +0000

If this is your dog’s first Christmas in your home, consider how tempting a holiday tree is. To your furry friend, it looks as if you got an indoor potty just for him. What a great gift!

We’re sure that letting your new pup lift his leg on the tree isn’t part of your plan, so protect this lovely symbol of the season with a ring of large decorative boxes, a mini picket fence, or other aesthetic barricade so nobody gets the wrong idea and nobody else gets mad.

Helen Fazio and her dog, Raja, are world travelers. Visit their blog and follow them on Twitter.

A Recipe for a Happy Hanukkah

Helen Fazio — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 19:00:02 +0000

This year, Hanukkah starts on December 20 at sundown. Here’s a traditional recipe, adapted for dogs. Two small latkes will make your pup feel he is part of the fun. Treats in moderation are the spice of life.

Combine 4 cubed sweet potatoes, 2 eggs, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, and 1 tsp baking powder, and pulse in a blender until thoroughly mixed.

Heat 1/4 cup canola oil in a skillet over medium heat. Scoop up about 1/3 cup of the mixture and shape into a patty. Fry each latke for 2 to 3 minutes per side until brown and crisp, adding more oil as needed. Dab the latkes with a paper towel after cooking and top with a dab of unsweetened applesauce for that authentic touch.

Helen Fazio and her dog, Raja, are world travelers. Visit their blog and follow them on Twitter.