Originally published on ArlNow.com The holidays are a great time for feast and family, but we all know sometimes having visitors can be stressful. The last thing you need is conflict between your dogs and your guests. Here are some tips to keep everyone happy. Exercise: Schedule extra exercise time for the dog BEFORE your… Read more »
I don’t like dogs, what should I do?
Originally published on ArlNow.com This is the dog article for people who don’t like dogs, or are afraid of dogs, or just don’t want to be bothered by a dog at the moment. If you live in greater Arlington, which is very dog-friendly, navigating a walk to the Metro without coming into contact with a… Read more »
Should my dog go to daycare?
Originally published on ArlNow.com Many dog owners want their dogs to go to the dog park or attend daycare. Both are great places for dogs to be social, run and play and expend some of that excess energy. Dog owners are often rewarded within a tired and content dog. But as the owner of two… Read more »
Surviving the “dog days” of summer
Originally published on ArlNow.com Yup, it’s hot. What’s a dog owner to do? Here are some suggestions to stay safe and cool for the next few months. Please tell me you already know not to leave your dog in a hot car? Not with the windows down, not under a tree. The outside temperature should be… Read more »
What to know about tiny dogs
Originally published on ArlNow.com Small dogs are great for urban environments. They are generally easier to exercise than large dogs and take up less space with their small crates and small beds. Small dogs are just as smart and trainable as large dogs. Small dogs get a bad rap because too often owners find it faster… Read more »
Dining out with Fido
Originally published on ArlNow.com One of the best ways to enjoy the warm weather in Arlington is to enjoy a meal outside at one of the many restaurants that offer patio seating. But what about bringing your dog along? Unfortunately, it’s not always a good idea. In most cases, restaurants require that the dog be… Read more »
Moving? Help Fido transition smoothly, too
Moving can be a stressful, challenging time for you, but it can be even worse for your dog. Dogs thrive on routines and stability to feel secure. Moving disrupts both, and removes the familiar. It can seriously unsettle them; however, here are a few helpful hints to help your best pal transition a bit more… Read more »
The truth about being the Pack Leader, Part 2
In my last post I promised to tell you how to be an effective leader without resorting to dominance and intimidation. Quite honestly, Iʼll probably offend some people here, but intimidating animals and using physical dominance is for Neanderthals. And thatʼs probably an insult to Neanderthals. Letʼs examine the facts. Iʼm talking specifically about dogs… Read more »
The truth about being the Pack Leader, Part 1
I learned something last week when I was visiting Wolf Park in Battleground, Indiana. Wolf packs donʼt have pack leaders. Thatʼs right. NO pack leader. As it turns out, the concept of the pack leader was a mistake. A mistake made many years ago by people studying a group of unrelated captive wolves that were… Read more »
Is your dog running your life?
Let’s talk about schedules. Is your dog on YOUR schedule or are you on your DOGS schedule? It is an important question and something you really want to consider when your dog is a puppy. Of course, when you first bring a puppy home, everything MUST revolve around the dog in order to teach the… Read more »
The Why and Why Not of the dog park
So I have been talking a lot about puppy socialization and exercise, and how to accomplish those intertwined goals. Both are critical for the health and well being of your pup and the exercise part can be essential for your sanity! The dog park seems to be the go-to answer for a lot of people,… Read more »