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10 Tips To Throw A Dog Halloween Party That’s All Treat & No Trick!

Spooky season is here, and there are lots of ways to celebrate. You can curl up on the couch with scary movie marathons while you hug your dog tight. Or a visit to the pumpkin patch with your pooch could be fun. Your dog will be more than happy to sniff out the perfect pick for this year’s jack-o-lantern. And you’ve probably gotten plenty of invitations to Halloween soirees, but who needs loud, packed parties stuffed full of humans when … Read more

11 Easy Ways To Stop Your Dog From Begging

It’s a familiar scene for many dog parents. The table is set, the family is seated, and just as you prepare to take the first bite of a delicious meal, you notice your dog staring longingly at your plate. They may sit unusually still, nudge your leg, whine, paw at you, or even produce an impressive string of drool while waiting for a handout. Begging for food is a common dog behavior, but it is rarely something dogs simply outgrow. … Read more

6 Tips For Making Your Dog’s Kennel Comfy

Your dog’s kennel should be a safe, comfortable space where he goes to relax instead of throwing him inside when it’s time for you to leave him alone. A bare kennel isn’t exactly the most inviting environment for your fur child. Here are 6 tips for making your dog’s kennel a comfy bedroom instead of a bare prison cell. #1 – Make sure it’s big enough Your pup should be able to stand up, turn around, and stretch out comfortably in … Read more

Is Your Dog A Picky Eater? Try These 6 Tips & Tricks

Some dogs come running at the sound of a food bag opening. Others sniff their freshly filled bowl, give you a hopeful look, and walk away as though they’re waiting for the next course. If your dog falls into the second group, mealtime can feel frustrating. You want them to enjoy their food, but you also want to be sure they’re getting the nutrition they need. It’s tempting to keep offering something tastier until they finally take a bite. Before … Read more

You Never Have To Leave Your Dog Home Alone Ever Again

Dog lovers rejoice! A dog’s place in the world is changing. For many people, the days of dogs being a second-class citizen are a fast-fading memory. Our furry friends are becoming more and more welcome in every aspect of our lives. Restaurants, public transportation, parks, and even employers are wagging their tails in excitement and welcoming four-legged guests! The day we’ve all dreamed of is finally here. We never have to leave our BFFs home alone again! Corporate Canines Are … Read more

15 Essential Products To Include In Your Doggy Disaster Preparedness Kit

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Emergencies can strike without warning, and being prepared can make all the difference for you and your furry family members. Dogs are especially vulnerable during natural disasters, fires, and other emergencies. Building a disaster preparedness kit for your dog ensures their safety, comfort, and quick recovery in case of unexpected events. This guide will walk you through … Read more

10 Clever Canine Enrichment Ideas You Can Easily Do At Home

Mental stimulation is essential whether your dog is a high-energy puppy or laid-back older dog. It doesn’t matter if they pick up on training quickly or need a little extra practice to learn new skills. New experiences and learning opportunities will always benefit their well-being. The best part is, canine enrichment doesn’t need to be expensive or hard to organize. Dog owners have put their minds together to come up with clever ways to keep their pups happy, healthy, and … Read more

Amazing Homemade Dog Cookie Recipes

What dog doesn’t love a good dog treat? Exactly! In honor of International Dog Biscuit Day (February 23), we have rounded up some delicious recipes for you to try at home. The great thing about making treats yourself is that you can tweak the recipe as needed for your dog’s allergies or dietary needs. Homemade Dog Cookie Recipes Erica Kei for Fetch! Pet Care’s Funfetti Doggie Donuts Ingredients: 1 cup water ¼ cup coconut oil or olive oil 1 ½ … Read more

Homemade Dog Food: Get Cooking For Your Good Looking Hound

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Dogs enjoy a good meal, and what better way to show your pup love than making him a big bowl of homemade dog food? Especially when it’s prepared by your hands and made in your very own kitchen. But be aware: making homemade dog food isn’t as simple as tossing a T-bone in your pup’s dish and … Read more

5 Epic Ideas to Throw The Perfect Birthday Party For Your Pup

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. What’s the best way to celebrate your dog? Sure, you can take them on long walks and spoil them with belly rubs, but here’s another epic idea: throw a party in their honor! Whether it’s their birthday or Gotcha Day (the anniversary of their adoption), every pup deserves a little celebration. With fun themes, tasty treats, and … Read more

Make Your Own Safer Dog Treats With A Dehydrator

Dehydrated Dog Treats

I have never used a dehydrator for anything, but with all the scares and recalls on dog treats, I started to wonder if dehydrated dog treats were the way to go. But I had a couple of questions: how easy is it to use? Will it really save me money? When I got the Excalibur 5-tray Dehydrator, I was nervous. It looked big and complicated and I wondered if I could burn my house down with it. But as it … Read more

How To Make Sure Your Pet Stays Safe In The Event Of A Fire

A house fire can happen to anyone, and the results are always devastating. While there is no way to plan for every possible scenario, and tragedies can occur even when we plan, the better prepared you are, the better chance your family members (two- and four-legged) have of getting out safely. We put together the following tips to help your pets survive a fire. Start With A Plan You need to have a plan of action in case a fire … Read more

How To Introduce A Dog To A Cat

There are people proud to call themselves Team Dog and others firmly on the feline side of things, but the world doesn’t have to be split into dog people and cat people. In fact, if you’re an animal lover, you probably appreciate the jolly innocence of dogs just as much as a cat’s independent charm. You love them both, and you want both your dog and your cat to live peacefully by your side. But before you all live happily … Read more

Is Your Dog An Escape Artist? Try These Tips To Keep Them Home Safe

Between all the digging, jumping, climbing, and lock picking, your clever pup makes even Houdini look like an amateur escape artist. While some dogs are content to stay in one place, there are others who are determined to find new and mysterious ways to break the confines of their territory.   A part of you can’t help but be impressed with your dog’s ingenuity at getting free, but frequently escaping the safe borders of the yard puts them in serious … Read more

7 Tips & Tricks For Managing That Funky Dog Smell

Dogs don’t sweat like humans, but they do perspire—releasing natural oils and chemical scents that contribute to their signature “dog smell.” While some canine odor is completely normal, excessive funkiness can be a sign of underlying issues like skin conditions, ear infections, dental problems, or lack of proper grooming. If your pup has received a clean bill of health from the vet and a fresh scrub from the groomer but still smells a little off, you might just be more … Read more

DIY Dog House Ideas For Crafty (And Not-So-Crafty) Dog Lovers

There’s something truly special about creating something with your own two hands—especially when it’s a cozy new home for your favorite furry friend. A handmade gift isn’t just thoughtful; it’s one-of-a-kind, crafted with love (and maybe a little sawdust). We’ve rounded up a list of DIY dog houses that range from beginner-friendly to bougie and bespoke—because every dog deserves a den that fits their vibe. Just a heads-up: safety comes first! If power tools aren’t your thing, don’t be shy—grab … Read more

Need Help Paying For Your Pet’s Vet Bills? These Programs Can Help

No matter their personal or financial status, all pet parents share a common trait: deep, unconditional love for their animal companions. When disaster strikes and you find yourself unable to provide your fur friend with the veterinary care she desperately needs, there are grant programs out there that may be able to help. Please note that the organizations below are unique in the services and funding options they offer. Each has its own set of rules and guidelines to determine … Read more

Share Thanksgiving Dinner With Your Dog (Recipes Included!)

It might seem a bit unconventional, but since most of us consider our dogs part of the family, why not make a meal they can enjoy right alongside you this holiday? Celebrity Pet Chef Lisa Hennessy has simple tips and recipes to help you create a wonderful Thanksgiving meal for you and your dog. “We don’t recommend sharing rolls, stuffing or other Thanksgiving menu items that contain grains or gluten with our dogs as their systems can’t really process these ingredients,” advises … Read more

5 Common Mistakes New Puppy Owners Make

When the introduction is over, it’s time to get down to the nitty-gritty parts of raising your new puppy. You’ll smile at the sound of puppy paws scampering through the house and your heart will burst with joy the first time they crawl into your lap for a snuggle, but the reality of owning a puppy isn’t always so sweet. It’s a big job, and new puppy owners aren’t expected to get everything right on the first try. Doing what’s … Read more

A Room-By-Room Guide To Dog-Proofing Your House

Many pup parents learn through experience that having a dog is a lot like having small children. They’re cute and fun to play with, but they also manage to get themselves into messy and potentially dangerous situations. Puppies are especially known for their mischievous ways, but dogs of all ages can have a talent for getting into trouble. Sometimes it’s your favorite pair of shoes that’s at stake, but your dog’s curious nature can also put their health at risk. … Read more

10 Ways To Exercise Your Dog Indoors

Sometimes going for a long walk or a trip to the park just isn’t possible. When you are sick, snowed in, or the temperature skyrockets, finding ways to exercise your dog indoors takes a bit of creativity. The next time you find yourselves trapped inside, keep your pooch from going stir-crazy with one – or more – of these fun indoor activities. 1. Treadmill Some dogs need more than just a leisurely stroll to stay happy, fit and healthy. Dog … Read more

How To Help Your Newly Adopted Rescue Dog Settle In

The day a rescue dog gets adopted is the day they say “goodbye” to life in the shelter. They say “hello” to people who love them and want to share their comfortable home, and many would assume that it’s the best day of the dog’s life. It’s a day that will change their life forever, but for some pups, the feeling of being overwhelmed may cloud everything else. Whether you know your new dog’s history or not, there’s no doubt … Read more

7 Things Every Pet Parent Should Know About Dog Food Labels

Nutrition and ingredient labels can be confusing enough on “human foods,” but trying to read them on your dog’s kibble bag — marketing ploys included — it can be downright cryptic! What’s more, certain terminology can be very misleading, with words defined by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) that may not mean exactly what you think. This is incredibly frustrating for pet parents who only want to give pooches the healthiest food they can find for their budget. … Read more

5 Ways To Help Dogs Face Their Fears

We may feel powerless when our pup trembles during thunderstorms or at the sight of another dog, but it’s up to us to help our dogs overcome their fear. Regardless of what they’re afraid of, their feelings should always be taken seriously. It could seem silly and unfounded or result from a traumatic experience. The point is, fear keeps your pet from living a happy and fulfilled life. As their owner, caregiver, and protector, you can take steps to help … Read more

Common Puppy Scams And How To Avoid Them When Choosing Your Next Pet

Over twenty million people in the United States have viewed the COVID-19 pandemic as an opportunity to bless their households with the presence of a new furry family member. And while many people chose to adopt a new companion from their local shelter, others turned to the internet in search of a qualified breeder. While this type of search was an easy and effective route for some, many others were scammed out of their hard-earned money by individuals posing as … Read more

The Super Simple DIY Towel Trick That Will Keep Your Hungry Pup Happy

We love spoiling our dogs with toys, but shopping for a picky dog can be hit-and-miss. Some toys sit unused at the bottom of the toy bin and others last only a few moments before they’re strewn around your house. Your pup needs the entertainment and exercise, but we don’t always want to rush out the moment they get bored or tear apart the toys they already have. This super cool, quick, simple, and safe DIY trick is proof that … Read more

Landlord Doesn’t Allow Pets? This Might Win Them Over

They say moving is one of the most stressful of life’s events. Well, that’s made even more difficult by homes and apartments that don’t allow animals. What are you supposed to do if your new building won’t let your pup live with you? Many renters have a tough time finding places that will accommodate them and their best friends. Fortunately, some persistence and due diligence can help change a landlord’s mind when it comes to banning animals. Most Renters Have … Read more

18 Adorable Dog-O-Lanterns To Inspire You This October

The leaves have changed colors and grocery stores have started putting bins full of pumpkins outside. That means it’s carving season! I don’t know about you all, but I’m ready to move past the standard jack-o-lantern face look this year. This year it’s going to be about carving a dog-o-lantern. I found a bunch of really cool dog pumpkin carving designs from around the web. They range from simple to detailed, but one of these may just help you with … Read more

5 Mistakes Most Owners Make (And 1 You Probably Are Too)

Whether you’re new to raising a dog or if you’ve been doing it for years, you’ve probably made plenty of mistakes. A dog is so much more than just a cute companion because they have a lot of specific needs. Many dog lovers make the same mistakes as they raise their pups, but it’s never too late to make a change for the better. It’s okay to make mistakes and learn from them as you get to know your dog. … Read more

Your Dog Will Thank You For These Amazing Homemade Chicken Jello Snacks

If you love cooking for your family members, your dog should be no exception. It’s easy to pick out cute treats near the checkout aisle at the pet store, but you can have more fun making fresh treats for your dog at home. We’ve got a recipe for homemade Chicken-Flavored Jello treats your dog will go nuts for, and you probably already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen. These doggie snacks can be made with just a few … Read more

16 Dog Friendly Houseplants to Add Color to Your Home This Summer

Having live plants in your home not only adds beauty and a nature to your interior, it can make your home a healthier environment. Plants purify the air inside your house as they take in CO2 and “breathe” out pure oxygen. What many dog moms don’t realize is that many houseplants are toxic to dogs. In an effort to make your home more inviting and healthy, you could be introducing a toxin to your fur baby. We know you don’t … Read more

Dangerous, Potentially Deadly Houseplants Your Dog Should Avoid

Most dog people know that some outdoor plants like oleander and sago palms are toxic to dogs. What you may not realize is that there are tons of household plants that are dangerous, or even deadly, to dogs. Knowledge is power and having an awareness of plants that can be toxic, or even fatal, to your best friend is the key to preventing close calls with your dog’s life. Hart Nursery in Cape Town recently warned their followers of the … Read more

7 Simple Ways to Make Your Dog Smarter

Have you met “The Smartest Dog in the World”? In 2014, 60 Minutes introduced the world to Chaser, a border collie with a vocabulary of more than one thousands words. Woah.Wouldn’t it be fantastic if your dog knew the difference between your shoes and boots and could bring them on command? You may not have the time (or patience) to teach your dog a thousand words. That’s okay. There are easy ways to increase your dog’s intelligence and decrease boredom … Read more

The Top 5 Mistakes Owners Make With Their Dog’s Toys

Buying dog toys seems super simple. You pick out something, remove packaging, give it to your dog and you’re done. But managing your dog’s playtime, including which toys you choose for him, can directly affect his quality of life – and yours! If you’re making any of the following common dog toy mistakes, know that changing up even one of these things can make a big difference for you both.  1. Not Replacing Worn-Out Toys We don’t ask our dogs … Read more

Can’t Pay for Your Pet’s Care? These 12 Programs Can Help

We all want the best for our pets, but life sometimes gets in the way. When there is a sudden illness or accident, it can leave us facing large vet bills we weren’t expecting. A job loss can make it hard to feed ourselves and our beloved pets, and having to move can leave you wondering how you’re going to take your pets with you. Luckily, there are resources out there to help you through hard times. So if you’re … Read more

5 Pet Toxins To Watch Out For In Your Household Cleaner

When we clean our homes, we assume we’re making it safer for our loved ones. By getting rid of the microscopic viruses and bacteria that hang around our homes, we’re keeping a clean, healthy environment. But what we use when we clean can have negative effects on our pets’ health if we’re not careful. You wouldn’t leave open containers where your dog could drink them, but those same chemicals can still be harmful to your pets once they’re out of … Read more

5 Important Steps To Take When You Witness Animal Cruelty

animal cruelty

Adopting, volunteering, and donating are all part of being an animal advocate, but there’s another important piece of that puzzle. Dogs rely on compassionate people to speak up for them. They need neighbors, friends, and random strangers to recognize the signs of trouble and do something about it. Whether it’s a case of neglect or physical abuse, what you decide to do when you witness animal cruelty matters. Reporting animal cruelty saves lives, and no one should ever turn their … Read more

7 Ways To Make Sure You Never Lose Your Dog Again

lose your dog

One second your dog is by your side, and the next, you see her turn tail and sprint in the other direction. Or maybe you let her into the yard for a bathroom break, and now she’s nowhere to be found. It takes only one second, only one small mistake, to lose your dog. It’s a situation that can quickly turn dangerous, and every second she’s missing, you don’t know if she’s hurt, afraid, hungry, or in trouble. It’s up … Read more

11 Ways To Entertain Your Dog While You’re At Work

entertain your dog

Working dog moms and dads hustle every day to provide for their pups. Unfortunately, that means leaving those adorable balls of fur home alone for most of the day. The guilt is real, and few bosses accept, “But my dog is sad!” as an excuse to take the day off. Some dogs handle the lonely work week better than others, but that doesn’t make leaving any easier. What does make it easier is knowing you’re doing everything you can to make … Read more

Introducing Your Dog To Guests: How To Keep Everyone Calm And Comfortable

dog to guests

Depending on your dog’s personality, the arrival of house guests could mean a few different things. First, for the nervous dog, strangers in the house could send your pup straight to his favorite hiding spot under the bed. For protective pups, there’s the risk of confusing friend for foe. And finally, our easily excitable tail-waggers can’t help but cause chaos during already hectic visits. Regardless of the category, your four-legged family member falls into, introducing your dog to guests doesn’t … Read more

10 Things To Think About Before Bringing Home A Big Dog

big dog

Bringing home a dog—regardless of size—will always take planning and forethought. There are toys to buy, a house to dog-proof, and sorting through potential vets can be a job within itself. Your new family member will always require special attention and care, but there’s no denying the fact a 120-pound Newfoundland is not the same as a 12-pound Chihuahua. The more dog you have, the more there is to think about. Great Danes, Mastiffs, German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers—if you can’t … Read more

Ready To Introduce A Dog To Baby? These 8 Tips Will Help

introduce a dog to baby

Your fur baby is used to being the center of attention, but that’s all going to change once he meets the family’s newest bundle of joy. His unique personality will play a big role in how he reacts to having a human sibling, and now’s the time to start thinking about their introduction. Some dogs are nervous and afraid of tiny humans, and others are overly excited about meeting a new friend. Either way, how you introduce a dog to … Read more

9 Best Homemade Dog Treats For Spoiling Your Pup

Nothing beats homemade treats, whether you’re talking about human treats or dog treats. You know exactly what ingredients are being used, you can customize recipes, and you add the one ingredient you won’t find baked into a store bought treat – love. We’ve scoured the internet and found the best homemade dog treat recipes you can use to spoil your pup. #1 – Glazed Pumpkin and Peanut Butter Biscuits Your pup will drool over these glazed biscuits and you’ll be … Read more

9 Expert Tips To Make Nail Trims Easier On Your Dog

During my career as a veterinary technician, clients often asked me for advice on performing successful nail trims at home. The process of trimming dog nails is actually quite simple. Most people just need help getting their pups to cooperate! Luckily, even dogs that despise the clippers can become acclimated to the process, or at least learn to tolerate it. Below are 9 tricks for making nail trims go smoothly – even on dogs with black nails or furry paws. If … Read more

11 Tips To Help You Find Your Lost Dog Faster

The first 24 hours after a dog goes missing are crucial, but luckily the odds are in your favor. A survey conducted by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals found that 93% of lost dogs return home safely! In addition to creating fliers and scouring the neighborhood, these 11 tips will help bring your missing pooch home faster. 1. Bring along a taste of home. Most lost pups are found within 20 minutes during a regular neighborhood search. As soon as … Read more

Does Your Dog Eat Too Fast? Here Are 7 Ways To Slow Them Down

If your dog can finish an entire meal in less time than it takes you to say, “Bailey, slow down!” you have a chow hound on your hands. These are the dogs that inhale their food without bothering to chew or even check what they’re eating. Labs are notorious chow hounds, but they come in all sizes, breeds, and personalities. Gulping food in record time is an impressive skill in some circles, but eating too fast is a serious problem … Read more

7 Things In Your Backyard That Could Be Deadly For Dogs

Your backyard is where your dog is free to run around and soak up the sun, but it’s your job to make sure that happy place doesn’t end up being a dangerous place. You’ll need to look at your yard with a critical eye to spot the things that might get a curious sniffer or mischievous mind into trouble. Most of the things on this list are everyday items you probably have in your yard right now. They’re safe when … Read more

Red Roof Inn: Where Your Dog Stays–For Free!

*Sponsored Content* With summer fast approaching, many of us our itching to hit the road. And if you’re a doting dog parent you’re planning on bringing Fido along for the ride, right? But where to stay?…Well, Red Roof Inn has a pawesome deal for you — and just in time for upcoming getaway. Not all hotels are pet-friendly, and many claim to be… but their policies aren’t always crystal clear and disguised with hidden fees. Bottomline: you may not always … Read more

The Thoughtful, Personal Quick Gift Any Dog-Person Will Love!

There’s an unspoken adult rule about giving handmade gifts. After a certain age they just don’t wow like they once did. Unless you’re a professional artist, it’s best to leave the glittery macaroni necklaces, and glue-soaked popsicle stick frames to the kids and out of your office’s secret Santa exchange. Unless you really like hearing an underwhelmed “Oh… thanks.” Forget the rules, because there are occasions when a well-thought-out, handmade card can still really tug on the heartstrings. The crafty … Read more

8 Ways To Make Your Rescue Dog As Comfortable As Ever

The word “comfort” conjures images of a big, cozy bed on a late Sunday morning. Feeling relaxed in your environment, however, is about more than fluffy pillows and a fleece blanket. It’s the feeling of both safety and confidence. It’s knowing that wherever you are and whomever you’re with, you’re secure, satisfied, and feeling happily at home. Rescue dogs—regardless of their background—deserve homes where their comfort is a priority. After life in a shelter and overcoming whatever past experience earned … Read more

3 Strategies For Safely Catching A Loose Dog

Whether it’s your dog that slipped their leash or a stray running through traffic, catching a loose dog is never as easy as it sounds. Your first instinct is to give chase, but that rush of energy is rarely the right move. Dogs that are afraid, skittish, or simply overly excited will do everything they can to elude your grasp—even when that means putting themselves in danger. If you want to bring your flighty pup back home safely, you’ll have … Read more