There are a lot of things experienced dog owners do that new owners would never think of, even if it’s a simple task that makes everyone’s lives significantly easier. Dog ownership and care hacks come naturally to some, but others could use a little help. So here we’ve compiled a list of 12 genius hacks you can’t live without!
#1 – Use A Shower Caddy For Dog Supplies
Whether you want to keep grooming supplies or just basic dog care needs all in one place, hanging a shower caddy to stick all your dog-related items in is an excellent idea to stay organized! You can put it wherever you want and fill it with just about everything you need.
#2 – Remove Pet Hair From Carpet With A Squeegee
We can vacuum as much as we want, but stubborn dog hair seems to stay in the carpet no matter what kind of serious machinery we use. But just a couple of run-overs with a squeegee and you’ll be surprised how much hair you actually can remove from your carpet and rugs. Definitely worth doing!
#3 – Can’t Brush Teeth? Put Toothpaste On A Chew Bone
Some dogs won’t tolerate their teeth being brushed at all and for those stubborn pups we suggest taking a Nylabone or other tough chew toy and putting tasty dog-friendly toothpaste on that. When your dog chews the toy, it’ll brush their teeth for you!
#4 – Sprinkle Fresh Parsley On Food For Fresher Breath
Does your dog have stinky breath? Alright, what dog doesn’t have stinky breath? Some are worse than others and for those with exceptionally foul-smelling mouths, you can try adding some fresh parsley to their meals. Parsley is perfectly healthy for dogs and can significantly cut down on odors.
#5 – Put A Ball In Your Dog’s Food If They Eat Too Fast
There are many expensive food bowls and contraptions for dogs that eat too fast. Eating too fast can be a serious problem, as you may know, but you don’t necessarily have to drop the big bucks on special products. Many owners have found that adding a ball to their dogs food bowl during mealtime significantly slowed down their eating!
#6 – For A Sick Dog, Flavor Water With Low-Sodium Chicken Broth
Dehydration is a huge problem for sick dogs and many refuse to drink water. For these pups, try offering some low-sodium, warm chicken broth. The broth will taste extra delicious and is also full of healthy electrolytes and fluid to bring your pup’s health back where it should be. Just remember only to give low-sodium, because too much salt is bad for our dogs.
#7 – Make A Dog-Walking Station
Many of us have multiple dogs and need a little help getting things organized, so keeping our most-used walking essentials in one spot can be greatly beneficial. Hanging your leashes, collars, harnesses, poop bags and whatever else you need on a shelf or leash rack near your entryway can be a great time-saver and is super convenient. Photo credit: Achieving Creative Order
#8 – Use A Diaper Pail For An Odorless Poop Can
Let’s face it, many of us loath dumping scooped poop into a poop can or throwing it into our regular trash. For those that want to cut down on the smell and keep our garbage cans cleaner, using a diaper pail is an excellent idea. Not only do they mask the odor completely, they’re perfectly sized and can be put anywhere you need them to!
Related: 12 Best Diapers for Dogs
#9 – Put Vaseline On Paws To Protect Them During Winter
Snow and ice can be tough on our pup’s paws, but rubbing Vaseline on their pads and between their toes is an excellent way to keep the snow from getting stuck in their feet.
#10 – Use Dryer Sheets For Static Electricity During Storms
Not only are thunderstorms terrifying for many pets, but the static electricity can also cause some discomfort as well. Rub your pup down with a dryer sheet or two and the static electricity will be removed and your pooch will feel much more normal.
#11 – Apply Baking Soda Paste For Bee Stings
Mix baking soda with water to create a thick paste that can be applied to bee or other insect stings. The paste is cool and comforting and will help reduce inflammation and pain. If you can’t find the stinger to remove it before applying the paste, the dried paste will often pull it out for you.
#12 – Feed Pumpkin For Upset Tummies
Canned pumpkin (just plain pumpkin – not pumpkin pie filling) is an excellent aid for getting your pup’s digestive tract back in order. Whether your pooch is suffering from loose stools or constipation, raw pumpkin will help firm and loosen them up to bring everything back to normal.
Toledo, United States.
