Blog

Do dogs like elevated beds?

Do you have a hard time keeping your dog off the furniture?

If so, maybe you should consider buying them an elevated dog bed.

Elevated beds are becoming increasingly popular among pet owners because they provide dogs with a comfortable place to rest that is also off the ground.

Elevated dog beds can be a great option for your dog if he or she suffers from joint pain, has trouble getting onto traditional dog beds, or likes to feel high off the ground. They provide dogs with a sense of security and comfort and can help to improve the health and wellbeing of your dog.

Are elevated dog beds good for dogs?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as there are pros and cons associated with elevated dog beds.

On the one hand, elevated dog beds may be good for dogs who have trouble getting onto traditional pet beds or who experience joint pain.

These types of beds offer a raised surface that helps to reduce pressure on joints, making them a good option for older dogs or those with mobility issues.

You can find some elevated beds that are comparable to human mattresses in terms of comfort and style.

On the other hand, some elevated dog beds can also be less stable than traditional pet beds and some dogs may not like being raised up off the ground.

[amazon table=”17834″]

What are the benefits of raised dog beds?

There are several benefits associated with raised dog beds, including:

1. They provide dogs with a sense of security and comfort.

2. They can help to improve the health and wellbeing of your dog.

3. They may be good for dogs who have trouble getting onto traditional pet beds or who experience joint pain.

4. They offer a raised surface that helps to reduce pressure on joints, making them a good option for older dogs or those with mobility issues.

5. You can find some elevated beds that are comparable to human mattresses in terms of comfort and style.

6. Some raised dog beds also come with built-in storage, making them a convenient and practical option.

7. An elevated dog bed is easier to clean around.

8. These types of beds help dogs to stay cooler due to better airflow.

Are elevated beds good for older dogs?

Elevated dog beds can be a good option for older dogs, as they help to reduce pressure on joints and improve overall comfort.

Many older dogs experience joint pain or mobility issues, which can make using traditional pet beds difficult.

Traditional dog beds are normally on the floor and the act of getting up and down from the ground can place extra stress and strain on joints which can be difficult for an older dog.

An elevated dog bed removes much of this difficulty as the bed is at an easy to access level for the dog.

Are elevated dog beds good for arthritis?

Yes, elevated dog beds can be good for dogs with arthritis.

Arthritis is a common condition in dogs that causes inflammation and pain in the joints.

Dogs with arthritis often have difficulty getting onto traditional pet beds as the act of getting up and down can be painful.

When considering this type of bed for an arthritic dog you need to make sure that your dog can get in and out of bed without having to climb or jump – actions which could aggravate his condition.

A raised bed keeps your dog off the floor

Dogs can sleep for as much as 20 hours a day and a good comfortable raised bed will keep your dog off the hard floor.

A raised bed will protect your dog from hard surfaces and can provide support for common health problems that can occur in most dogs:

Arthritis

Muscle or back issues

Hip problems

Soft tissue injuries

Joint aches and pain

A supportive, raised bed can provide a dog with the care and comfort that they need to stay healthy.

How to choose an elevated dog bed

When choosing an elevated dog bed, there are several factors to consider:

1. Size and weight capacity. Make sure that the bed you choose is the right size for your dog, as well as having sufficient weight capacity to support his body weight.

2. Style and comfort. Elevated dog beds come in a variety of styles, so you should choose one that your dog will find comfortable and supportive.

3. Ease of cleaning. Some elevated beds are easier to clean around than others, so make sure to choose an option that is easy to keep clean and free from bacteria.

4. Cost. Elevated dog beds typically range in price from around £30 to over £200, depending on the brand and size you choose.

5. Additional features. Some elevated beds also include storage or other convenience features that can make them a good choice for your home.

The Veehoo Chew Proof Elevated Dog Bed

[amazon box=”B08GLWNWLB” template=”horizontal” description=” “]

This chew proof elevated dog bed is perfect for keeping your pet off the ground and comfortable.

The rust resistant aluminium frame is easy to clean and easy to assemble, and the durable mesh fabric is resistant to chewing and scratching.

The unique design is also lightweight and easy to move, and the non-skid feet keep the bed in place.

Choose from four sizes to find the perfect fit for your pet.

Lionto covered raised dog bed

[amazon box=”B08DRL29P5″ template=”horizontal” description=” “]

This sturdy, water repellent dog bed is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.

The easy-to-assemble roll-up roof and removable plastic feet make it easy to keep your pet comfortable indoors or out, while the heavy-duty Oxford fabric ensures durability.

Available in three sizes to suit animals of 30 to 50 kg, this bed is a great choice for any pet.

KOPEKS Elevated Bed with Mattress for Dogs

[amazon box=”B08CZYNP87″ template=”horizontal” description=” “]

This elevated design is perfect for keeping your dog dry, cool, and comfortable.

The water-resistant cover can be easily washed, and the sturdy frame is made out of steel with a powder-coated finish.

Plus, the included 10 cms High Grade Cold support foam mattress provides superior comfort.

PawHut Large Elevated Dog bed

[amazon box=”B01MTJRYGZ” template=”horizontal” description=” “]

PawHut’s Large Elevated Pet Bed is designed to provide a comfortable, cool and relaxing place for your pet.

This elevated bed can be used indoors or outdoors, on any surface that you want to protect from dirt and bugs.

The pet bed comes with a durable metal frame that provides sturdy support, while the mesh cover keeps your pet cool during hot days.

The bed is easy to clean with soap and water.

What are elevated beds for dogs, and why should I consider using one?
Elevated beds for dogs are raised platforms designed specifically for dogs to rest and sleep on. They are typically made of durable materials like metal or high-quality fabric stretched over a frame.
Elevating the bed off the ground provides several benefits for dogs.
Firstly, it helps to keep them cool by allowing air circulation underneath, which is especially useful during hot weather.
Secondly, it offers joint support, relieving pressure on their joints and muscles, making it ideal for older dogs or those with arthritis or joint issues.
Lastly, elevated beds can help keep dogs clean by reducing contact with dirt, insects, and potential allergens.
How do I choose the right elevated bed for my dog?
When selecting an elevated bed for your dog, there are a few factors to consider.
First, choose the appropriate size. The bed should be large enough for your dog to comfortably stretch out and lie down. Consider the weight capacity as well, ensuring that the bed can safely support your dog’s weight.
Next, assess the durability and quality of the materials used. Look for sturdy frames and durable fabrics that can withstand your dog’s activity level. Additionally, consider the bed’s ease of cleaning, as dogs can track dirt, shed fur, or have accidents. Look for removable, washable covers or beds that are easy to wipe clean.
Lastly, take into account your dog’s specific needs. If your dog is older or has joint issues, opt for a bed with orthopedic features or extra cushioning.

Final Words

Overall, raised dog beds offer a number of benefits for dogs and their owners.

They can help to improve the health and wellbeing of your dog, as well as providing increased comfort, style, and convenience.

When choosing an elevated dog bed, make sure to consider the size and weight capacity of the bed, as well as the style, comfort, and ease of cleaning.

Finally, don’t forget to factor in the cost of the bed and any additional features that you may want.
How do you train a dog for beginners?
Owning a dog can be a wonderful experience, but it’s important to remember that dogs are animals and need to be trained. If you’re new to dog ownership, here are some tips on how to train your dog.

As a beginner you’ll find dog training to be an experience for both you and your dog. It’s important to be consistent and to take your time when training, there is no rush and dog training should be an enjoyable activity.

Dogs need routine and stability in their lives, so start by establishing rules and limits.

Decide what behaviours are allowed and not allowed, and enforce these consistently.

Be sure to praise your dog when they obey commands, and provide positive reinforcement when they display good behaviour.

Dogs also need plenty of exercise; make sure you take your dog for walks or playtime outdoors daily, this will help him to understand the world around him as well as burning off excesses of energy.

There are some basic commands that all dogs should know

Training your dog doesn’t have to be hard – with patience and consistency, you’ll have a well-behaved pup in no time.

Where to begin with dog training

One of the first things that you should think about is your understanding of dogs.

If you’ve never had a dog before then, before you get one, I suggest that you do some reading about your choice of breed, the type of activities that it does ( if it’s a working dog ) and simply try to learn as much as possible.

Consider some books or other reading about dogs in general, how they think and behave.

Two good publications that I own and recommend which, in my view at least make interesting and informed reading are ‘Inside of a Dog’ by Alexandra Horowitz and ‘Be the Pack Leader’ by Cesar Milan.

[amazon box=”1849835675″ template=”horizontal”]

Both are experienced dog ‘people’ and you’ll gain a good insight into dog behaviour from both books.

It’s always a good strategy to have some idea of what you might be ‘up against’ and I recommend both books as good sources of information.

Dog training classes

These can be a good way to develop your confidence and knowledge of dog training.

Many new dog owners use puppy training classes as a way to introduce their dogs to others, to develop the puppy’s social skills and to improve their dog training and understanding.

Dog training classes are useful for beginners

If you are a complete novice ( and everyone has been at some point) then you will benefit from these types of classes, even if you only attend for a short time.

Try to find classes that are run by experienced dog trainers that have a good reputation – your vet is often a good source of information and may be in a position to advise on local classes.

What are the basic commands for dog training?

There are three basic commands that all dogs should be familiar with regardless of breed or whether they are working dogs or not.

None of these commands are complicated but they do require time and consistency to develop, but, you’ll be pleased to know that the process is easy to follow.

Sit – I’ve an article on getting your dog to sit that you can read here. The way that we teach this is at mealtimes which makes it truly easy for you and for the dog.

Take a look at the article to see how we do it.

Sit is an important command that is easy to teach to a dog

Coming when called – This is an important command for your dog to understand and the earlier in his life that we work on this the better.

You’ll want your dog to come back when you call his name or whistle him and I’ve a comprehensive article that can help you with this training that you’ll find here.

Stay – At times you will need your dog to wait or stay until you tell him to move.

This could be when you are taking his lead off ( or putting it back on ), it could be when he is walking to heel and you need to stop, or you could need to do something such as fasten your shoelace, so you need him to wait.

You can learn more about this aspect of training in my post at this link.

Keep your training sessions short and fun

In my experience, I’ve found that it is best to keep your training sessions short and fun for both you and your dog.

This way he knows that there are always benefits from spending time with you and will want to learn what you have to teach him.

Training sessions should be short and fun

If your dog becomes bored or frustrated at any point during the training session then it’s probably time to stop.

You can always try again later or the next day, but if he seems unhappy with what is happening then it will only lead to him disliking training and that is not something that you want.

Be consistent in your commands

One of the most important things in dog training is to be consistent in your commands and this will pay off in the long run.

If you use different words or phrases to mean the same thing on a daily basis then your dog will become confused and you’ll struggle to progress with his training.

You might think that using ‘sit’ as opposed to ‘down’ is not important, but it is so make sure that you are using the same words every day.

Ensure that your dog can concentrate on you when training

Your dog will need to be able to focus his attention on you in order to follow a command and progress with his training.

Keep your dog’s attention focussed on you

You may think this sounds like an easy task, but for dogs it is not always simple and can be mentally draining if it goes on for too long.

Always try to do your training away from any distractions such as other dogs, people and wildlife.

Be patient and positive with your dog

One of the most important things in any type of training is to be patient and to remain positive with your dog.

You can never expect him to learn new skills if you get frustrated or angry with him as he will pick up on this negativity and become reluctant to work with you.

Try to stay calm, patient, and positive at all times to ensure that your dog enjoys his training and wants to learn.

Keep things positive when dog training

If he is struggling then call it a day and do something that he understands and knows or just let him play for a short time before you go home.

Always end your training sessions on a positive note.

Never punish your dog for making a mistake

One of the worst things that you can do during training is to punish your dog for making a mistake.

This will only lead to him becoming scared or anxious and he will be less likely to want to work with you in the future.

If he does something wrong then simply correct him with a firm voice and move on.

Despite what some people may say dogs are not naughty and simply do not understand the difference between right and wrong so, if your dog does something incorrectly he’s not being bad, he just doesn’t ‘get it’ yet.

Do not dwell on the mistake or make a big deal out of it as this will only serve to upset your dog.

Use treats as rewards during training

One of the best ways to motivate your dog during training is to use treats as rewards for good behaviour.

Use dog treats to reward your dog

You should only give him a treat when he does something that you have asked him to do such as sitting or lying down or coming back when you’ve called him.

Make sure that your dog is always rewarded when training

When you are doing training with your dog it is important that he always knows that there is a reward at the end of it.

If he can see or hear what will happen then this will help to motivate him and ensure that he always wants to work with you.

Make sure that whatever reward you use is something different and exciting each time to keep your dog interested and wanting to learn more.

Understand that there are different types of dog training

When you choose to train your dog there will be different methods available to help you achieve this.

The most common ones are: * Indoor/outdoor * Private * Group * Residential * With or without a trainer

If you are unsure which type of training is the best fit for your dog, then speak to an expert who can offer advice and guidance.

Keep in mind though that each method will have its own pros and cons so you need to be sure that you fully understand what these are before making a decision.

Don’t train when tired or unwell

This rule applies to both you and your dog.

If you are feeling off colour or worn out then training will be a chore – and the same is true for your dog.

Take a break from training if you or the dog are unwell

Take a break and just go for a walk, or just rest up.

Your dog’s training won’t suffer and the rest will do both of you some good.

Pick things up again when you have recovered.

Don’t press on regardless

If things aren’t going well and your dog seems to be struggling with his training then it’s time to take a break and stop.

Have a few days off, just go for some walks with your dog, perhaps to a few different places ( I find that the beach is a great place if you can get there ) and give him a chance to recharge and regain his confidence.

Final Words

Training your dog is one of the best things that you can do for him as it will help to build a strong bond between you, improve his behaviour and obedience, and give him the skills that he needs to be a happy and well-adjusted dog.

No matter what method of training you choose, always remember to be patient, positive, and consistent with your dog to ensure that he enjoys his training and learns the skills that you are teaching him.

Read Next
How hard is dog training?

Is training a dog hard? Well, that depends on how you look at it.

Certainly, there is a lot of work that goes into successfully training a dog.

But if you’re patient, and take things one step at a time, you’ll be successful.

And the payoff is definitely worth it – a well-trained dog adds companionship and security to your life.

Dog training can be easy or difficult and it’s really the owner’s attitude that makes the difference. With consistency and patience most dogs can be trained to a reasonable standard which will result in a well behaved individual.

What is the hardest part of dog training?

The hardest part of dog training is often just getting started.

It can be difficult to find the time and patience to train your dog consistently.

But once you get into a good routine, the rest will fall into place. The key is to be consistent with your commands and rewards, so that your dog knows what to expect.

Are you up to training a dog?

This is a question that you need to answer honestly. If your children are out of control or feral then are you really going to be capable of taking on a different species for training?

Sort your family out before you get a dog

If you are lacking in basic common sense then can you honestly expect to be able to train a dog if you are unable to find your own way from A to B?

Are you prepared to put in the time and effort to learn more about dogs, their behaviour, how they think and the various approaches to training?

Do you want a well mannered and behaved dog or is it just a fashion accessory to keep up with the neighbours? ( If the latter then you really shouldn’t have a dog at all).

Let’s face it. If the dog is just another toy like the 4 wheel drive and flat screen TV or if it is some sort of status symbol, or if you’re kids are the blight of the neighbourhood, then, you’ve got little chance of training a dog.

Can a dog train itself?

Yes, but it won’t be trained in the way that you expect it to be.

Dogs are clever animals and without guidance and parental input from their owners, they will develop lots of bad habits and learn all sorts of tricks that they really shouldn’t.

Just like unsupervised children, a dog will ‘teach itself’ how to behave, and, just like unsupervised kids, he will, in all likelihood become a nuisance.

Can another dog train a dog?

This is even better than the previous paragraph.

Older dogs will happily teach youngsters the bad tricks

Yes, an older dog will teach a younger dog all of the bad habits, naughty tricks and pretty much everything else that it has learned will be passed onto it’s young counterpart.

What should you do before training a dog?

Before you begin training your dog, there are some important things that you need to do first.

The most important thing is to get familiar with the basics of dog training.

This will involve learning about proper nutrition, exercise and socialization, as well as understanding how to establish rules and boundaries for your dog.

You should also consult with an experienced dog trainer or behaviourist who can give you personalized advice and guidance for training your specific pet.

Consistency makes dog training easier

Improving your knowledge of dog training makes it easier

Before you even get a dog take time to learn more about the breed that you want and the aspects of training.

There are lots of breed specific books and other publications available that can take you through the various characteristics.

Additionally there are lots of resources around dog training, for certain types of dogs through to more generic training.

[content-egg module=Amazon template=item_simple]

If you want to take away some of the difficulties of dog training then you are going to have to do some homework and learn how to do it.

Dog owners are often the hardest part of dog training

Dog training is not a weird type of science and anyone with a reasonable level of intelligence should be able to train a dog to be a well mannered individual.

The biggest and most difficult hurdle in training dogs is often the owner themselves.

Many people want a well trained dog but are unwilling to put in the work that is required.

If you really want a dog that will behave then you need to be prepared to do what it takes to train him properly.

Be a responsible dog owner and do things with your pet to understand him

This means being consistent, providing regular and appropriate rewards, using positive reinforcement and most importantly of all having the patience to see it through.

Once you have your dog appropriately trained, you will benefit from a close and rewarding relationship with your pet for many years to come.

Final Words

If you are serious about training your dog and want to be able to enjoy all of the benefits that come from owning a well behaved and obedient pet, then you need to be prepared to put in some time and effort.

There is no magic formula or quick fix when it comes to dog training – it takes dedication, commitment, and patience.

However, the rewards of owning a well-trained dog are more than worth the investment.

Read Next
When can you stop training a dog?
Training a dog is an important part of owning one.

It helps create a bond between the dog and owner, and can make life easier for both of them.

But at some point, you have to stop training a dog – even if he seems like he could use more work. So when is that point?

There is really no such thing as a fully trained dog, there is always scope for more advanced exercises that can be introduced to working dogs and pets. For most dogs training normally stops when the dog becomes older and is less capable and willing to carry on with the activities.

When should you think about stopping training?

There are some signs that it may be time to stop training a dog.

If your dog is showing signs of fatigue or seems unwilling or unable to continue, then this could be an indication that he has reached his limits.

Additionally, if you feel like your training sessions are no longer fun for either yourself or your dog, it might also be time to call it quits.

If your dog is suffering from an ailment that might prevent him from enjoying or participating in training then this too could be a sign that it is time to stop.

There is always a way to enjoy some training

Is there a need to stop training a dog?

Just as with people, as your dog gets older he will begin to find some activities more demanding.

He will be at greater risk of injury and will take longer to recover, both from the exercises and from injury ( if he sustains one ).

So, you will need to adapt your training to compensate for your dog’s capacity.

[content-egg-block template=top_listing]

You’ll need to consider what you can and cannot do with your dog and whether he enjoys it and make allowances within your training to accommodate him.

At some point your dog will need to ‘retire’ from training but this doesn’t necessarily mean that you can’t do some of the things that he enjoys, for example retrieving or hunting – you just can’t be as demanding as perhaps you were when he was younger.

Dog training never ends

A responsible dog owner will always be aware of their dog, how he reacts and whether he seems to be enjoying what he is doing.

Adapt your dog training so it’s inline with your dog’s abilities

The mental and physical aspects of training are great for dogs and most breeds love the input, challenges and the engagement with their owners.

As a dog owner, rather than thinking about whether training stops and when this should be, try to think about how you can adapt training for your older dog.

With puppies training is more about play and development than formal exercises and expectations because we make allowances for his age and understanding.

With older dogs you should adopt a similar approach, make allowances for his age and mobility so that he can continue to enjoy exploring and learning with you.

Final Words

While it can be hard to stop training a dog, there are many reasons why you may need to do so.

Whether your dog is getting older and less able to participate in certain activities, or if he is simply no longer having fun during training sessions, you should always listen to what your dog is telling you and act accordingly.

There is no need to feel guilty about stopping training – your dog will still love you just as much, and you can always find other ways to bond and have fun together.

Read Next
When training a dog what does heel mean?
Dogs need to be trained to heel for a variety of reasons.

For one, it can keep them safe when walking on busy streets.

It also helps prevent dogs from pulling on the lead and straining their necks.

In this blog post, we’ll explain what heel means and how to train your dog to do it.

We’ll also highlight some tips and tricks that will make the process easier for both you and your dog.

In general, heel means that your dog stays close to you and follows your lead while walking. It’s an important command to learn for both safety and training purposes and helps you to walk your dog in a controlled manner.

What are the benefits of teaching a dog to heel?

There are a number of benefits to teaching your dog to walk to heel and these include:

Being able to have your dog off the lead but under control – this can be useful if you are in an area where putting the lead on could be dangerous or troublesome – such as in thick cover for example.

Walking to heel reduces the chances of your dog pulling on his lead which could injure him or you.

Leads are not natural for dogs and being able to walk freely, under control, is a much more pleasurable experience for your pet.

It helps your dog to stay safe

If you are shooting, hunting or working your dog in another environment then having a dog that will walk to heel is valuable, particularly if you need to carry things as part of the activity.

Walking to heel can help your dog to develop patience and can reduce the risk of your dog breaking free and chasing things.

How do you teach a dog to heel?

The first thing that you need to decide is which side you want him to heel to.

For most people this will be the left hand side, but it really doesn’t matter which side you select.

Put your dog on his lead and sit him down on the side that you have chosen for the heel work.

Use the sit command or hup whichever word you use and keep the lead loose.

Start to walk with your dog next to you and, the instant that he begins to move ahead make a swift turn in the opposite direction, giving the command heel while, at the same time, patting the outside of your leg that is next to the dog.

Your dog will walk calmly off and on the lead

So, if your dog is on your left you would turn to the right when he starts to move ahead, patting your left leg, if he is walking on your right then you would turn to the left while patting your right leg.

The idea is that as your dog starts to pull ahead, the swift turn will turn him making him move closer to your leg and, as you give the heel command at the same time, he’ll begin to associate this with the closeness to you.

Using treats to help to teach heel

Edible treats are often used by dog trainers when teaching the heel command and it’s a good idea to have some in your pocket when doing this.

With a treat in your hand, as you make the turn, as soon as your dog comes in close, repeat the heel command and give him one of the treats.

Heel work stops your dog from pulling your arms out

Moving on with heel training

Sit your dog down next to you on the side that he is walking to heel and remove the lead.

As you set off walking, give the command heel and pat your leg, your dog should be reasonably close if you’ve done the previous activity.

Make a turn, pat your leg, reward the dog.

Turn in the opposite direction so that you are turning into the dog, all being well, he’ll understand what you need.

Continuing with heel work

Heel work can be exhausting for a dog because it’s mentally challenging for most, so don’t overdo it.

You will want to get to a stage where your dog will walk to heel next to you whenever you ask him to and the most productive way to develop this is to do short exercises, combined with treats, that are ended with some fun activity, such as playing fetch, hunting or just running freely.

Heel work can make ‘pack management’ much easier

Other tips for successful heel work

If you find that your dog is getting distracted or starting to pull ahead, then stop walking and wait until he settles down.

If he starts to move away from you again, repeat the turn so that he comes in close and then start out again.

Remember that your dog will need a lot of consistency with the command so make sure you are consistent with your praise and the way that you bring him in close to your leg.

Progressing with heel work

If you live in a rural area or your dog will be used in activities such as shooting, then you’ll need him to be ready and able to walk to heel around a variety of distractions.

Things such as sheep, pheasants and rabbits offer masses of temptation to a dog ( particularly rabbits) and you’ll need him to stay in control when faced with these distractions.

You will need to introduce your dog to these carefully and in short periods.

It is always a good idea, in the early stages, to keep him on his lead ( even if he heels well ), particularly if he has had minimal exposure to the temptation.

If he does try to make a break and chase, then you already have him under control, you can repeat and reinforce the heel command rather than running the risk of disobeying and having to run after him.

A well trained Springer spaniel walking to heel

Looking to the future

As your dog continues to progress with the heel command, you’ll need to start increasing the length of time that he has to stay in control before giving him a reward.

This transition from treat based training will be tough for some dogs but it is an important part of progressing his training and ensuring that he obeys your command without fail.

Try to make the transition slowly, by increasing the time ever so slightly each day until you are able to move on for longer periods without treating him.

If he does start to try and pull ahead or disobey, go back a step and repeat that activity for a little while before progressing again.

As your dog gets better at heel work, you may also want to start introducing distractions.

Walk him across a field, close to a sheep or through a wooded area and see how he does.

If he does well, then start increasing the length of time until you can take him for nice long walks without any issues.

Your dog should be able to walk to heel easily, even around the most tempting of distractions.

Whenever you see him start to get distracted or pull ahead, give your command and bring him close again, reinforcing with a treat if necessary.

Learning how to achieve this will be tough work but it is also incredibly rewarding for both you and your dog.

A note on spaniels and heel work

If you are a spaniel owner then heel work is one of the very last activities that you should teach.

It can be tricky to get a spaniel to walk to heel as all he wants to do is hunt, and, if you are training your spaniel for work or competition, then too much heel work can dent his confidence.

As a rule I am happy if my spaniels are within a couple of yards of me when I tell them to heel, I’m not interested, nor would I expect them to heel in the same way that a Labrador or no slip retriever does.

Don’t overdo heel work with spaniels

Don’t overdo heel work with spaniels, if you do then, I assure you, you will face problems with his hunting in the future.

Final Words

Heel work may look easy but for your dog, it’s a boring activity and one that he will find difficult to understand.

Remember that your dog wants to run and use his nose and walking to heel is completely counterintuitive to those aims, so be prepared.

You will need to take things slowly and carefully and be consistent.

Read Next
How to Groom Your Puppy At Home Easily

Grooming your dog should be a good experience for you and your puppy and this article will help you to learn how to groom your puppy at home easily.

Taking care of a puppy can be a challenge for most dog owners and, if you’ve never had a dog before, then it is important for you to learn as much as you can. Grooming is one area of care that is important.

Grooming does not necessarily need to be a challenge

The importance of puppy grooming

Bringing home a cute little puppy may be one of the memorable moments of your life.

But the hardest thing is, taking proper care of it. If you’ve no previous experience of handling a dog, then it is going to be a challenging task for you.

However, it doesn’t mean that only the experienced persons have the exclusive rights to own a pet, if you know the technicalities and procedures of proper puppy grooming, you could also become an ideal pet parent and live a happy life with your canine.

Quite similar to human babies, small puppies are developing dogs that need careful care and attention.

If not looked after properly, a puppy could become unwell or suffer another health complaint.

Your cute and cuddly ball of fluff requires physical maintenance to look, feel and remain healthy.

Nurturing your puppy also makes the bonding between both of you even stronger.

Your puppy starts to recognize you and you become a special person in his life.

And this friendship will go on and on.

Regular grooming of your puppy enables you to identify early any health-related issue or abnormalities, so that you can take preventive steps at the right time before it becomes severe.

Keep your puppy as clean as you can

Your puppy will get dirty as he plays but he should live in a clean environment.

His dog bed should be comfortable and you should keep it clean with clean blankets and bedding.

Dog beds should be cleaned regularly and the area that your puppy lives in should also be kept clean and tidy.

If he has any accidents, and puppies do, then the mess should be cleaned up immediately to prevent any risk of disease or spreading around of the mess.

Make every effort to keep your dog’s surroundings clean, this will make life better for him and also for you.

There are plenty of dog specific cleaning products available to help you safely and easily keep things clean.

[content-egg module=Awin template=item_simple]

Prepare your puppy for grooming

Your puppy will probably not like bath time or brushing straightaway and may try to wriggle away or nip at the brush

This is perfectly normal and you just need to go slowly and gently and remember that he is a baby.

It is important to introduce him with the cleaning process early as puppies learn best aged between 7 to 16 weeks, but you should do this gradually and not too often.

Do keep in mind that you are not thrusting your pet in a bathing tub straight away.

Make him accustomed with the different cleaning process gradually and introduce him with clippers, combs, nail trimmers, brushes and other cleaning products slowly.

Patience is the key to success when it comes to grooming your dog.

Bathing your puppy

Your shouldn’t be trying to bath your puppy before he is at least ten weeks old and rea he should be older and had his vaccinations. Normally after 12 weeks

If you need to bath him before this time then we’d advise that you talk to your vet and ask for the best option to prevent your puppy from becoming unwell.

Should your puppy get really mucky then wiping him down with a damp cloth is the safest option when he is very young.

Don’t be tempted ot bath your dog too often. Some people say that you can bath him every week, but really this is not sensible, you will remove valuable oils from his coat and could irritate his skin and damage his coat.

Only ever use lukewarm water and a shampoo that is suitable for puppies or dogs. Wet the coat thoroughly and massage the shampoo into his coat, avoiding the face.

Handheld showers that you use in the bath are ideal.

Rinse him off and gently towel off the excess water. Don’t try to completely dry him as you will force water into his inner coat which serves to keep him warm and rarely gets dirty.

Let him dry as naturally as possible.

It is a good idea to try and pick a warm day for dog bathing as he can go out into the sunshine afterwards.

Don’t be surprised if your dog gets the ‘zoomies’ after he has been washed, it’s a common side effect, and most dogs will run around for a while afterwards.

Recommended puppy grooming

[amazon table=”1269″]

Brushing your puppy

You should start brushing your puppy when he is young and maintain a regular routine, a normal hairbrush will do the job but a dog brush is better.

Most dog brushes are double sided with a soft brush on one side and a harder brush, used for removing dead hair, on the other.

Use the harder brush first to remove any debris and dead hair and then finish with the soft sided brush.

Your puppy’s nails

If you keep your puppy well exercised, and you should, then his nails will not need clipping very often, they will wear down naturally as he runs around.

Clipping a dog’s nails is within the ability of a dog owner but you will need proper clippers such as these that are on sale on Amazon.

You need to make sure that you only cut the dead nail ( just like your fingernails) and, if you are in any doubt then ask our vet to show you how.

Conclusion

It’s possible to groom your to puppy at home easily and with practice and a regular routine your dog will learn to enjoy his pampering sessions.

It is a great way to develop that bond with a dog and grooming should become an important part of your activities together.

Read Next
The Bearded Collie – what you need to know
The Bearded Collie is an intelligent herding dog with a shaggy coat and beard and an outgoing, energetic character.

This is a highly intelligent breed that has a pleasant and playful temperament that makes it ideal as a working dog or family companion and pet. The Bearded Collie has high energy levels and loves training and activities that are both physically and mentally challenging.

The Bearded Collie is one of the younger breeds of working dogs

History of the Bearded Collie

When compared to other breeds of dogs the Bearded Collie is a relatively young member of the pack as it did not really become a breed until the mid 1940’s and only became popular during the latter half of the twentieth century.

Although the use of shaggy sheep dog type animals has been popular for in excess of 500 years, for herding livestock, the Bearded Collie, as a breed, was not recognised until 1959.

Bearded Collie temperament

Bearded Collies make excellent pets and companions for families and individuals that are able to meet their high energy and intelligence levels.

The breed enjoys an active life and can often be found in agility competitions and similar events which challenge him both physically and mentally.

This intelligent breed can be independent giving it excellent problem solving abilities and with it’s bouncy and fun character the Bearded Collie can be a source of good entertainment for the right type of owners.

[amazon box=”1090625804″ template=”horizontal”]

What do Bearded Collies do?

Versions of Bearded Collies were used extensively for the herding and management of livestock in highland Scotland for many years.

Eventually the breed was replaced by the very capable Border Collie, a dog that has excellent herding ability and levels of intelligence.

Nowadays, the Bearded Collie is predominantly a pet, providing families with good companionship and doggy entertainment as he uses his problem solving skills and intelligence with his family.

The breed is also a regular sight at dog agility competitions and other dog events.

Are Bearded Collies easy to train?

Like most working dogs the Bearded Collie likes to have something to do and enjoys training.

It’s not necessary to have a flock of sheep, however, to keep the dog occupied and there are many activities that you and your family can do with your dog to keep him happy.

As an intelligent breed they adapt to training easily and are keen to learn new skills. These could be anything from retrieving, agility work, dog shows and other activities that involve physical and mental stimulation.

Do Bearded Collies shed hair?

Yes, the breed has a long, thick and shaggy coat and does shed a lot of hair.

It is important that you adopt a regular schedule of grooming with Bearded Collies to prevent their coat from becoming tangled and matted and to remove dead hair.

Many owners take their dogs to professional dog groomers several times a year to ensure that their coats remain in the best condition.

Spring time grooming is important to remove the excess winter coat.

Can Bearded Collies swim?

Bearded Collies are capable swimmers and, like most dog breeds, will swim if they have to.

This does not mean that swimming is an activity that they seek out and enjoy as. perhaps, a spaniel might.

Beardies have long, thick coats that get heavy when they are wet and this could possibly be one reason why swimming is not a favourite activity of the breed.

Most Bearded Collies simply like to paddle around in the shallows, splashing and barking and generally having fun.

As individuals, however, there is always an exception and dogs that have been brought up near to the beach or a river may have swimming at the top of their ‘favourite things to do as a dog’ list.

Final Words

The Bearded Collie is an intelligent dog that loves both mental and physical challenges.

With a great personality and temperament this is a great dog for an active family.

The breed enjoys the outdoors and makes a good companion for children or those that lead an outdoor and fresh air lifestyle.

Read Next
The Italian Spinone a great family dog
The Italian Spinone is a well built gundog with powerful muscles and limbs that make it suitable for almost any type of country when working.

As a breed, the Italian Spinone is an excellent family dog and a great companion for those that have the time and energy to provide him with good levels of exercise and training. As a gundog the Spinone is great for agility, dog sports, hunting and all other high energy dog activities. They also love camping and exploring the great outdoors.

The Italian Spinone

History of the Italian Spinone

The Italian Spinone originated in the Bresse district of France and eventually spread to Piedmont in Northern Italy.

The Spinone is a cross of a variety of dogs that include the French Griffon and the Barbet ( a large, strong and woolly looking French dog ).

For many years the Spinone was the most important hunting dog in Italy and during the second world war it was used to hunt and track enemies as well as carrying food and other supplies.

A cheeky characterful gundog

Italian Spinone temperament

The Italian Spinone is no different from the more well known gundog breeds, in that he is a high energy, intelligent and well balanced breed.

This dog gets along well with people and other family pets and enjoys the company of his humans.

As a gundog he has masses of energy and enjoys getting outside, exploring and finding scents that he can follow and chase down, satisfying his desire to track and find things.

A high energy breed originally bred to hunt game

Like all high energy breeds he can get frustrated if his desire to exercise and learn are not being fulfilled and this can be expressed in destructive or attention seeking behaviours – but this is common in all dog breeds that need regular exercise and training input.

The Spinone makes a great family dog and companion for anyone that enjoys walking and outdoor activities.

[amazon box=”1852790849″ template=”horizontal”]

What do Italian Spinones do?

The Italian Spinone was originally bred as a shooting and hunting dog in the course of finding and hunting waterfowl, such as ducks and geese.

Spinones are powerful and capable swimmers which lends them perfectly to this type of work.

Nowadays the breed is a rare sight in shooting and hunting environments but this is not due to any deficits or loss of ability and has more to do with the more popular spaniel and retriever breeds.

An adventure loving dog

The Spinone is more often a pet dog and can be seen sometimes in agility and other competitions.

In the past the Spinone has also been used as a tracking dog and to carry goods during wartime periods.

Do Italian Spinones smell?

There is no escaping the fact that all dogs smell, some more than others. Spinones are no exception and, if you get one of the breed, then be ready for that doggy smell.

As a lover of the outdoors, a Spinone will get wet, muddy and will no doubt find the smelly, rolling stuff that he will roll in to get all over his coat.

The best way to describe the Spinone is that he suffers from ‘shaggy dog syndrome’ meaning that his coat will get full of mud, leaves, grass, poo and goodness knows what else.

Wet gundog smell is normal with this shaggy haired dog

Be ready for the smell of wet gundog, in the car, house, kennel and for clothes and dog bedding that have that undeniable dog odour.

Do Italian Spinones shed?

Italian Spinones have lots of hair which has to go somewhere when it expires. Spinones do shed although this is often not as prolific as other breeds.

The hair of a Spinone is quite wiry, similiar to that of a terrier so levels of shedding are less than those of other gundog breeds that have softer coats.

That said the Spinone has lots of hair, including a beard, and lots of hair typically means a fair amount of shedding.

With regular grooming however, you should be able to reduce the levels of shedding which will help to keep your home and car in better condition.

[amazon box=”B086G5KGCV” template=”horizontal” description=”

Italian Spinone intelligence

The Italian Spinone is a classic gundog with a good natured outlook on life and a pleasant and outgoing attitude.

Like all gundogs the Spinone can be independent and strong willed with a stubborn side to his character which, at times, can make for some interesting moments.

As an intelligent breed keeping your Spinone occupied through play and training will help to channel his energy in a productive manner.

[amazon bestseller=”italian spinone” items=”3″ template=”table”]

Final Words

The Spinone is an intelligent dog with a fun character and a great love of the outdoors.

A likeable dog the Italian Spinone makes a great pet as he loves family life and is great with children.

For the house proud, however, his tendency to get wet and muddy might be off putting.

Read Next
The German Shorthaired Pointer
The German Shorthaired Pointer is a fast and powerful dog, bred for hunting birds on high ground it is classed as a ‘bird dog’.

This breed, as it’s name suggests, originates in Germany and was bred for hunting. The German Shorthaired Pointer is a large dog with a racy style making for a strong and powerful dog that can negotiate tricky ground in a fast and controlled manner.

German Shorthaired Pointer – fit, intelligent bird dogs

History of the German Shorthaired Pointer

The true origin of the German Shorthaired Pointer is not known but it is believed to have originated in Germany where it was used for hunting purposes.

It is suspected that the GSP is a blend of the Spanish Pointer, English Foxhound and various German dogs that were potentially crossbred tracking dogs.

The breed did not become recognised as a breed until 1951 in the UK.

A classic gundog breed

German Shorthaired Pointer temperament

The German Shorthaired Pointer is a typical gundog breed, great with families yet high energy and intelligent.

This large, bouncy dog is friendly and boisterous yet is easy to train and keen to learn. The breed is good with children but care should be taken as it is a big, playful dog that can be a bit physical at times.

They love being with people and are good with other dogs and pets but they must get plenty of free running exercise which allows them to chase their noses and stretch their long, active legs.

[amazon box=”1910915165″ template=”horizontal”]

What do German Shorthaired Pointers do?

German Shorthaired Pointers are used as shooting and hunting dogs who specialise in moorland work seeking out upland birds such as grouse and partridge.

A wide hunting dog, working in a similar way to the Setters, the GSP is a hardworking, fit and competent companion for the shooter and family alike.

The GSP is a hardworking bird dog

Like the rest of the gundog breeds the German Shorthaired Pointer is an intelligent dog that enjoys training and is amenable to learning new skills and tricks.

German Shorthaired Pointers health

Most German Shorthaired Pointers are tough, fit and healthy dogs and, provided that they are fed a good quality food and get plenty of free running exercise, this dog is unlikely to have any major health issues.

One of the main risks with a GSP, as with any active, high energy dog, is the risk of injury while out running or working.

Cuts, scrapes and muscle injuries can occur in dogs when they are actively charging around and care should be taken to check the dog over carefully after outings to check for any signs of injury.

German Shorthaired Pointers intelligence

The German Shorthaired Pointer is an intelligent breed that enjoys training and really needs some form of training input.

A dog that gets little exercise or input from it’s owner will seem to be hyperactive and will be frustrated at the lack of stimulation. This could lead to destructive or attention seeking behaviours.

This is not a dog for a family of couch potatoes that do not do any outdoor activities and an inactive GSP will find ways to entertain himself which can include escaping and disappearing to get the exercise that he craves.

Do German Shorthaired Pointers shed?

Although this breed has a short coat they do shed at certain times of the year, but this is much less than other, longer coated breeds.

An owner that adopts a regular brushing schedule will ensure that any shedding of hair is kept to a minimum.

Ears and paws should be brushed after outings to make sure that they are free from thorns and other debris.

A fit and healthy breed that enjoys the outdoor life

Final Words

If you want a lively, clever dog that enjoys fun, training and being outdoors, then go for a GSP.

They make great family dogs, are great with children and will play and enjoy games with young members of the family.

Read Next