We love our pets, and it’s understandable that we want to show our love through food. But this can lead to some unwanted pounds packing on to our pets. If some extra weight snuck up on your dog recently, some adjustments may be necessary.
Here are some common mistakes pet parents make when it comes to keeping their dogs healthy, and how you can help your pup get back to an ideal weight.

1. You're ‘Guestimating’ How Much to FeedMeasuring your pet’s food is the first step to make sure they are getting the right amount.

“When I ask pet parents how much they feed, most have no idea,” says Dr. Judy Morgan, DVM. “When I use a measuring cup and actually show them what 1 cup of food looks like, they are amazed.”

If you're using an old cup, fistful, or bowl to scoop out the food, Dr. Morgan suggests switching to a measuring cup before you make any other changes. Read the bag to find out how much you should be feeding your dog based on their ideal weight, or ask your vet if you're not sure. Then use a proper measuring cup so you can feed the correct amount every time.

Leaving food out all day can also lead to overeating. If you're gone for long periods of time during the day, consider using a portion control programmable feeder, like the Patpet automatic pet feeder, so your dog still has access to food—but only in the right amounts.

2. Forgetting To Count Treats as Calories
Some store-bought dog treats can be very high in calories, so just a few treats can cause weight gain.

“I routinely see treats, especially dog biscuits, make up more than one-third of a dog’s overall daily caloric needs,” says Dr. Justin Shmalberg, DVM. And pet parents don’t always remember to subtract those calories from how much food they’re feeding.

It’s also important to be mindful of how many extra treats your dog might be getting during training. Treats are a great way to provide your dog with positive reinforcement, but even little training treats can add up quickly.

In general, you don’t want more than 10% of a pet’s daily calories coming from treats. And those treat calories must be accounted for in your daily calorie targets, says Dr. Shmalberg.

“You can use a bigger treat so long as you break it up and you are aware of the overall number of calories in each treat, so you can keep track of what you’re feeding,” he says.
When choosing treats, Dr. Morgan says to read labels to find a treat that's low in calories.

3. Your Dog Isn’t Getting Enough Exercise
Exercise can take many forms, from walking to jogging to playing fetch or Frisbee in the backyard. Exercise is an important part of a dog’s physical and mental health. Many problems, including weight gain, can occur if a pet is not getting enough exercise.  
For many pet parents, walking is the easiest and most reliable way to exercise their pup, and most dogs do well with a daily 20- to 30-minute walk. 

Remember: While exercise can help keep you and your pup lean, it’s not always enough to combat extra weight your pet is already carrying. Work with your veterinarian to craft the right exercise and weight loss plan for your pet.

4. Not Feeding the Best Food for Your Dog
Finding the right food for your pet can be tricky, and it’s always recommended to consult your vet to help you choose the best dog food. However, a good rule of thumb is to look for a well-balanced, high-quality dog food approved by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

You should also feed your dog according to their life stage: puppy, adult, or senior.
If your pet needs to lose a moderate or significant amount of weight, over-the-counter weight loss diets or “light” options and exercise may not be enough. In those cases, veterinary diets may be needed to help your pup shed the pounds. 

Veterinary weight loss diets are backed by research studies and proven to help pets lose weight. Some common veterinary diets to discuss with your vet include Hill’s® Metabolic, which works with your pet’s individual metabolism to help them lose weight, and Royal Canin® Satiety, which helps dogs feel fuller and participate in less begging behavior.

5. Feeding Table Scraps
Table scraps and human food are, as a general rule, high in calories and fat. In addition to causing clinical signs like vomiting and diarrhea, which can progress to gastroenteritis or pancreatitis, eating human food can contribute significantly to a dog’s weight problem. 
​
Commercially available pet food diets are balanced for dogs and better choice to keep them happy and healthy. 
By Diana Bocco

The start of a new year is the perfect time for reflection and goal-setting—and not just for us. This year, try setting resolutions for your pets.

Making New Year’s resolutions with your pet’s health and happiness in mind improves their life in the process. You don’t need to do anything drastic—many pet-centered resolutions are about making small, meaningful changes that add up to a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life.
Here are 10 easy resolutions that can help make 2025 even brighter for you and your pet.

1. Prioritize Preventive Care
​Use the new year as a reminder to book an annual (or biannual) wellness exam, discuss dental cleanings, and make sure your pet’s parasite prevention is up to date.
“Regular vet checkups help detect potential health issues before they become emergencies,” says Veronica Villanueva, DVM, medical director of VEG Anaheim Hills in Anaheim, California. “And staying on top of vaccinations and parasite control prevents illnesses and infections.”
But preventative care doesn’t just take place at the vet clinic. At-home practices like brushing your dog’s or cat’s teeth are the best way to prevent health issues, such as dental disease, from developing.
The same goes for year-round parasite prevention to protect pets from fleas, ticks, and heartworms. Talk to your vet about the best flea and tick medication for your cat or dog.

2. Exercise More
Exercise is key to your pet’s physical and mental well-being. For dogs, going on walks every day, playing games of fetch, or trying a new canine sport are all great ways for them to get more exercise.
Exercise also benefits cats. Playing with your cat using feather wands or string toys mimics a cat’s natural hunting instincts, giving them both physical exercise and mental stimulation. You can even train your kitty to walk outside on a harness and leash, or invest in a cat exercise wheel, which is similar to a wheel hamsters or mice use.

3. Upgrade Enrichment Time
Exercise and enrichment are closely related, and enrichment isn’t just about keeping your pet busy—it’s about proper mental stimulation and encouraging natural behaviors.
Improving enrichment can be as easy as incorporating slow feeders or puzzle toys into your pet’s mealtime routine, says pet trainer Susan Nilson, PCBC-A.
“These tools engage your dog's thinking brain by making them work for their food,” she says. “When dogs focus on solving mental challenges, they're less likely to feel scared, stressed, or anxious.”

For our feline friends, cat trees, scratching posts, and window perches provide outlets for energy and mental stimulation.
“Research tells us that most cats naturally gravitate toward vertical scratching options,” Nilson says. “But some cats prefer horizontal or diagonal scratching options, often with softer materials like cardboard or carpet.” Cat parents may need to do some trial and error to see which type of pet furniture their kitty prefers.
For multi-cat households, Nilson says a multi-level cat tree is well worth the investment. It adds vertical space and provides enough scratching real estate and resting options for everyone.


4. Add More Toys to the Mix
Toys are vital for your pet’s mental and physical well-being, and a well-chosen selection can transform your pet’s daily routine. 
For cats, toys that mimic prey behaviors, like wands and motorized toys, are particularly beneficial. “Give your cat an outlet for their natural predatory instincts by providing toys that match their unique hunting style,” says Nilson. Playing with these can keep cats sharp, content, and less prone to boredom-related issues, such as pacing, excessive meowing, and biting.
Dogs also benefit from a diverse toy selection. Try having a mix of durable chew toys, squeaky plushes, and treat-dispensing puzzles to keep your pup on their toes. These encourage problem-solving and prevent boredom, especially for high-energy breeds.
Rotate your pet’s toys every so often to keep your pet interested and engaged.


5. Improve Their Nutrition
A well-balanced diet is a top priority for your pet’s overall health, and not all pet foods are created equal.
Depending on your pet’s age, lifestyle, and health, their diet may change over the years. Senior pets may benefit from food tailored to joint health, while younger active pups may need a higher calorie content to keep up their energy levels.
Your vet is your best resource when choosing food for your dog or cat.

6. Stay On Top of Grooming
Regular grooming maintains your pet's health—not just their appearance.
Brushing your dog or cat’s coat helps promote natural oils, reduces shedding, and prevents mats from forming. And while cats are excellent self-groomers, longhaired breeds may still need help keeping their coats tangle-free. Grooming also helps prevent hairballs in cats.
Bathing is another important aspect of grooming, though the frequency depends on your pet's breed, lifestyle, health, and coat type. Dogs that love romping through muddy fields may need regular baths, while cats may only get an occasional wipe-down.
Don’t forget areas like nails, ears, and teeth, which have their own maintenance needs.

7. Prepare for Emergencies
Emergencies are unpredictable, but being prepared can make a huge difference in how you handle them. Dr. Villanueva says it’s important to have a plan.
“This can include making a pet first aid kit, familiarizing yourself with nearby emergency veterinary hospitals, and having an evacuation plan in case of natural disasters or accidents,” she says. 
Your pet emergency plan should also include your pet’s medical records, vaccination history, and microchip information. Make sure to keep your vet’s contact information handy, too, in case your pet becomes hurt or sick.

8. Pet-Proof Your Home
Making your home safe and comfortable for your pets is part of being a responsible pet parent.
“Take time to assess your living space for any potential hazards, such as toxic foods, choking hazards, or other items that could be dangerous if ingested,” Dr. Villanueva says. Safely storing these items can help prevent accidents and give you peace of mind.
Beyond safety, your home should also cater to your pet’s comfort. Cats, for example, often feel more secure when they have spaces to retreat to and relax, like covered beds.
Nilson suggests optimizing litter boxes for your cat’s comfort, too. “The right litter box makes a huge difference in your cat's comfort and willingness to use it consistently,” she says. Litter boxes should be at least 1.5 times your cat's length. For multi-cat households, Nilson says to follow the golden rule: one box per cat, plus an extra. 
Dogs also need their own safe, comfortable spaces. A designated dog bed or dog crate can act as a personal “safe zone” where they can decompress. Maybe use the new year as an excuse to update or add to their bedding.

9. Adjust for Your Pet’s Age
Senior pets have unique needs that change as they age. Adjustments like orthopedic bedding, ramps for furniture, or low-entry litter boxes can make life easier for older pets.
Older pets also benefit from more frequent veterinary checkups to watch for age-related conditions, including arthritis, dental disease, or cognitive issues.
And though aging pets may slow down, don’t let that fool you—they still need enrichment and bonding time with their humans. Spend time with them doing gentle activities, like leisurely walks or easy play sessions that aren’t too hard on older joints, to keep their minds sharp and spirits high.

10. Advocate for Your Pets
Your pet can’t tell you if something is wrong. They rely on you to be their voice, and that responsibility goes beyond their basic care.
Whether you’re visiting the vet, looking into dietary concerns, or dealing with behavior problems, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Trust your instincts. If something’s off with your furry friend, you’re often the first to notice.

WRITTEN BY
Emily Johnson
Freelance Writer

The holidays are a time for food, friends, family, and fun. What’s not to like? Sadly, for many of our clients’ pets the holidays just mean fear, anxiety, and stress.
Starting with Halloween and continuing through December and the New Year, the holidays we love bring a lot of changes to the environment and our schedules, changes that can lead to distress for pets.
Following is a list of just a few holiday associated triggers that might cause fear, anxiety, or stress (FAS) in pets:

• Increased number of visitors in the home
• Decorations that change the appearance of the home and result in furniture being moved around
• Fireworks
• Travel or boarding
• Changes in work schedules

As your clients’ trusted pet care provider, you can help ease and prevent that FAS from taking hold at this happy time of year by sharing these dos and don’ts:

• Do try to make a safe place for your dog either in a room, crate or x pen, where they can safely be away from all the hustle and bustle associated with family gatherings or noisy events such as fireworks.  Unless they suffer from separation anxiety, most dogs appreciate the opportunity to be away from the chaos.
• Do be certain that their safe place is a place that the dog loves to go willingly, not a place that they have to be forced to go.
• Do make sure that the safe place is in a quiet area of the home and that it contains a comfortable bed and a few toys.
• When confining the dog to their safe place, and as long as the dog isn’t likely to eat his toy or become possessive when other pets are around, do leave a very special long-lasting treat such as a stuffed Kong or other food puzzle toy.
• Do leave a fan, music, or white noise of some type playing to help mask the scary sounds. This is especially helpful if the dog is afraid of fireworks or other noises.
• Don’t ever use the safe place as a place to punish the dog!
• Do remember that many cats will also prefer confinement to a single room away from all of the excitement. Prepare a room ahead of time with their litter box, food, water, scratching post, etc. and allow them to become familiar with it before confining them there.
• Don’t allow children or other guests to disturb the dog or cat while confined to their safe place.
• Do plug in an ADAPTIL® diffuser for the dog or FELIWAY® Classic diffuser for the cat several days in advance of any holiday events. These pheromones are a safe, natural means of communicating to dogs and cats. They send a calming message that has been shown to decrease signs of fear and anxiety in a variety of different situations.
• If you have a multi species household, do know that a recent study has demonstrated that both ADAPTIL® and Feliway® MultiCat can effectively reduce undesirable interactions (e.g. chasing, growling) and increase desirable interactions (e.g. sleeping together, grooming each other) between dogs and cats living in the same household.
• If your dog likes to be a part of the action, do watch them closely to be sure that they are not becoming overwhelmed and anxious.
• Do ask your visitors not to pursue your dog or cat if they are walking away.
• Do discourage visitors from luring your pet to take treats directly from their hands. If the dog is at all uncomfortable about approaching strangers, this can be very stressful and can result in a bite!
• Do ask visitors to toss your dog his own food treats if they wish to make friends, not human food that might cause an upset tummy.

While many people love putting holiday costumes on their dogs and cats, do be cautious about this! Most dogs and cats do not like having clothing placed on them. Watch body language closely and if your pet is stiff, avoids eye contact, or looks at all anxious or tense, promptly remove the costume.
Do make plans ahead of time for where your pet will be when you have visitors, and don’t force them into any situations where they appear at all uncomfortable.
With some planning and  a little help from ADAPTIL and FELIWAY, every pet can have a Happy Holiday season!
This article was reviewed/edited by board-certified veterinary behaviorist Dr. Kenneth Martin and/or veterinary technician specialist in behavior Debbie Martin, LVT.
 This article was brought to you in collaboration with our friends at Ceva.

When chilly temperatures set in, don’t overlook the importance of keeping your dog safe and comfortable. Even with a furry coat, dogs still need help keeping warm in winter.

Of course, some dog breeds are better suited to cold weather, like those with a double coat that provides insulation against the elements. However, other dog breeds can’t tolerate the cold because of their coat type, size, body structure, or other characteristics.

Here are the dog breeds that are most vulnerable to cold weather conditions.
1. Chinese Crested

These petite and fine-boned dogs won’t tolerate cold temperatures well and should wear a dog coat outside when the temperature drops. Chinese Cresteds can benefit from wearing a light layer of doggy clothing inside, too, if your home is drafty.

2. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are prone to getting cold quickly. Maturing to a weight of less than 6 pounds, these pups are well suited for the warm climate of their Mexican homeland.

Chihuahuas can lose body heat rapidly when the temperature plummets, so it’s important to minimize cold weather exposure. Fortunately, the small size of this breed makes it easy for them to exercise indoors.

3. Basenji
Hailing from Africa, the short-haired Basenji is best known for their coiled tail and unique yodel. These dogs are athletic and energetic, making outdoor activities like running, hiking, and agility excellent ways to challenge their mind and body.

But very cold weather can put a damper on these outdoor activities, and the Basenji’s short, fine coat won’t insulate the dog against freezing temperatures for very long.

4. French Bulldog
Frenchies don’t do well with hot weather because of their short muzzle, which makes it harder for them to regulate their body temperature. But this flat-faced dog breed can’t tolerate cold weather very well, either.

That’s because French Bulldogs have a short, thin coat that doesn’t provide much insulation when the temperature drops. A dog sweater or jacket can provide some protection, but it’s best to avoid prolonged outdoor activities with a Frenchie in extreme weather, whether hot or cold.

5. Greyhound
Capable of blazing fast speeds, the Greyhound has a lean physique with very little body fat and a very thin coat that allows for rapid heat dissipation. While these features make these dogs track stars, they’re less suited for cold weather conditions.

Keep outdoor exposure brief when temperatures are below freezing, and don’t be surprised if your Greyhound needs a layer of clothing to stay warm.

6. Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound looks like a petite version of the Greyhound, and the two breeds share many physical characteristics, including a slender body and a short, thin coat. Based on those factors, this toy breed doesn’t fare well in cold weather and must be protected from freezing temperatures outside and drafty conditions inside.

Italian Greyhounds are known to be affectionate lap dogs, so don’t be surprised if they snuggle up to you even more when the weather turns chilly. 

7. Whippet
The lanky Whippet is built for speed and is closely related to the Greyhound. The breed has a short coat, thin skin, and very little body fat, so there’s not much to insulate against cold weather.
When the weather takes a turn, Whippets need protection from the elements, including warm clothing and perhaps even doggy boots to protect their paw pads from ice.

8. Pug
The Pug is a popular flat-faced dog breed, but that short muzzle makes the breed more susceptible to breathing issues and prone to overheating. But cold weather outings also need to be kept short, as Pugs have a short coat that doesn’t provide much protection against the cold.

Because Pugs aren’t known for being overly energetic, a short burst of indoor play during inclement weather is usually OK.

9. Yorkshire Terrier
A Yorkshire Terrier is a pint-sized companion that weighs less than 10 pounds but has a big personality. Their spirited and energetic nature makes these dogs naturally curious and up for adventure, but their small size means they shouldn’t be exposed to cold temperatures for very long, or they could be at risk for hypothermia. 

10. Miniature Pinscher
The small size and short coat of the Miniature Pinscher mean this breed can’t tolerate cold weather very well at all. Reaching no more than about 12 inches tall and 10 pounds in weight, these small dogs are prone to losing body heat rapidly—especially with just a smooth, thin coat of hair covering their body.
​
When the weather turns cold, you’ll need to rely on interactive indoor activities to tire out a Min Pin’s body and mind.

WRITTEN BY
Erica Puisis
Freelance Writer

 Hi Liz,

Did you know that dogs and cats can develop diabetes just like humans? In fact, November is designated as Pet Diabetes Month to help raise awareness that, while diabetes may not be "curable," with early detection (through regular wellness bloodwork) and care, many pets with diabetes can live a good quality of life with you. With this in mind, we want to share with you signs of diabetes, so you know what to look out for in your pets. 

Is my pet predisposed to diabetes? 

Pets with obesity, overactive thyroid, pancreatitis, and Cushing’s Disease are more likely to develop diabetes, and this risk increases with age—especially when cats reach the age of 6 and older and dogs 7 years and up.  
Early signs that could be indicative of diabetes:

• Increased urination
• Excessive drinking
• Weight loss
• Appetite changes (i.e., eating more or less food)
• Cloudy eyes (dogs only)
• Chronic or recurring infections, especially skin and urinary infections

If you notice any of these changes in your pet, please make an appointment [MSAH} and we will evaluate what’s going on. If diabetes has developed, there are many ways we can care for your pet together that is manageable for both of you and keeps them happy. 

For more information about diabetes in pets, check out "How to Care for a Diabetic Pet” from Happy Healthy Pets.

With cancer in dogs and cats, early detection and treatment are critical. By detecting cancer early, you can work with your veterinarian to increase the chance of cure or remission.

But noticing the subtle signs of cancer early enough can be difficult if you don’t know what you are looking for, and sometimes the signs can be so subtle that pet parents may mistake them as a normal part of aging.

Talk to your veterinarian if you notice any of the following subtle signs of cancer in your pet. If the cause is cancer, you can catch it early and start a treatment plan.

1. Weight LossUnexplained weight loss in dogs and cats—especially when a pet isn’t on a calorie-restricted diet—can be a sign of cancer. While some cancers can cause quick and dramatic weight loss that is hard to miss, it’s more common that the weight loss is gradual over time. It can be so gradual that, initially, it goes unnoticed by the pet parent.

Sometimes, weight loss isn’t even noticed until the pet is taken to the veterinarian and the change in weight only becomes obvious when compared to historical weight measurements.

If a pet is losing weight even though they’re eating normally, then the top diseases to consider are diabetes mellitus, conditions that affect the digestive tract’s ability to digest and absorb nutrients, hyperthyroidism (more common in cats), and cancer.

2. Lumps and BumpsWhile lumps, bumps, and other skin changes are easier to notice on short-haired dogs or cats, many times they go unnoticed on long-haired pets.

Pet parents will also often postpone a veterinary visit if a lump is small; however, you cannot determine if a skin lump is cancerous based on the size. Even the smallest skin lumps can be cancerous.

Tumors of the mammary chain—also known as breast cancer—are often missed by pet owners. Female dogs and cats most commonly develop breast cancer when they were not spayed early in life.
Dogs and cats are also subject to cancers of the gastrointestinal system, vascular system, liver, kidneys, urinary bladder, endocrine glands, immune system, lymphatic system, and reproductive organs. These cancers may cause fluid to accumulate or masses to form in the belly. If your pet is large or overweight, you may not notice any changes until they become life-threatening.
Another place where lumps and bumps can be hidden is in the mouth. Dogs and cats can get oral tumors on the gums, palate, or tongue. Tumors under the tongue are very hard to find—unless you are looking for them!

3. Changes in CoatA normal, healthy pet has a glossy, full coat. Changes in the coat can indicate cancer, such as:

• Hair loss
• Brittle or dry hair
• Excessive dandruff or scaling
• Skin infections that don’t respond well to treatment
• Excessive shedding

Skin cancers can directly affect a pet’s coat, but so can cancer elsewhere in the body. For example, cancers of the endocrine system, such as tumors on the pituitary, thyroid, or adrenal glands, can all cause changes in your pet’s coat.

Overgrooming, no grooming, or excessive licking at a body part can also be subtle signs of cancer in both dogs and cats. If a body part is painful due to cancer, a dog may excessively lick that area, which can cause brown lick stains and hair loss.

If a cat feels sick or is in pain, they may not groom enough or at all, which can lead to a matted, unkempt coat. Alternatively, cats are also known to overgroom and pull out hair in response to stress or pain.

4. Changes in Appetite
An increased or decreased appetite can be subtle signs of cancer in dogs and cats. If a pet is feeling yucky or is in pain, then they may not want to eat. Conversely, other cancers can cause a pet to eat more than normal. Some cancers consume a lot of calories, which will increase a pet’s appetite (if they are feeling well enough to eat).

Certain types of aggressive, malignant cancers can cause a pet to eat normal or more than normal amounts of food and still lose weight. And benign tumors of the adrenal or pituitary glands can cause a condition called Cushing’s disease that leads to hormonal changes and an increased appetite.

5. Changes in Urination or Bowel MovementsChanges in your pet’s bathroom schedule are worthy of note when it comes to early detection. Different types of cancer can cause changes in your pet’s potty habits, from an increased need for potty time to constipation.
For example:

• Cancer of the gastrointestinal system can cause diarrhea and/or constipation.
• Cancer of the adrenal gland, pituitary gland, thyroid gland, liver, or kidneys can increase thirst in dogs and cats and lead to an increased need to urinate. 
• Cancer of the urinary system can increase the urge to pee but sometimes obstruct the urethra, which makes it difficult to urinate. So, pets with urinary cancer may have to pee frequently, have accidents inside the house, or seem to strain when urinating.

6. Changes in BehaviorA change in behavior can also be a subtle sign of brain cancer, metabolic changes associated with cancer, or cancer pain. This includes:

• A lack of energy or lack of interest in the things that used to bring your pet joy
• Accidents in the house
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Pacing
• Increased aggression or clinginess
• Seizures or tremors can also be a sign of cancer, and unless you witness them, they can be missed by pet parents. Some signs that may indicate a pet has experienced a seizure include loss of balance, twitching, excessive drooling, and temporary blindness.

7. CoughingCancer can cause dogs and cats to cough, so any dog or cat that develops a persistent cough needs to be seen by a veterinarian. A persistent cough can be a potential sign of a tumor pressing on an airway, fluid in or around the lungs, or lung tumors.

Persistent coughing can also be a sign of other pet health issues, so if your pet has a cough they cannot seem to kick, it’s always best to take them to their veterinarian.

How You Can Help Detect Cancer in Pets EarlyVeterinarians are trained to notice any abnormalities in your dog or cat, and a veterinary examination is your best weapon against cancer.

However, most pets only see their veterinarian once or twice a year. So, it’s helpful if you play an active role in monitoring your pet’s health as well. As a pet parent, you see your pet every day, which means you can keep a look out for these potential subtle signs of cancer.

To do at-home checks, you can run your hands over your pet to feel for any lumps or bumps and visually inspect your pet. Don’t forget to inspect the nipples and surrounding tissues in female dogs and cats for any changes, lumps, or bumps.

Feel your pet’s rib cage for any signs of weight gain or loss, or better yet, weigh them monthly and keep a log so you can notice trends early. Look in your pet’s mouth and check their teeth and gums. Hold a treat out, and let your pet lick the treat while you visually inspect the top and bottom of the tongue.

Pet guardians know their pets best, and by conducting these monthly at-home inspections, you may be more likely to catch subtle signs of cancer early enough to make a difference.
WRITTEN BY
Sarah Wooten, DVMVeterinarian
Dr. Sarah Wooten graduated from UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine in 2002. A member of the American Society of Veterinary Journalists,...

Feeling safe is an essential need for every living creature, just like having access to clean water and food. While humans can choose to retreat to a quite place, install security cameras and alarm systems when they’re scared, dogs doesn’t have that choice. That’s why creating a safe and quiet place for your dog is vital for your dog’s physical and mental health.

What Does Safe Mean For Dogs?
Safe means being “protected from or not exposed to danger or risk: not likely to be harmed” per Merriam-Webster dictionary. This means a dog learns to feel safe and secure when they are away from scary things, such as other dogs, visiting guests, repairmen, children or loud sounds.

Choosing A Safe Place
This step is critical and depends on your dog’s needs. It’s best to choose a bedroom that’s easily closed off by a secure door. By far, choosing the master bedroom works best as it smells like the dog’s pet parents. Also, your dog can practice nightly and enjoy sleeping in the room with her pet parents, which is another great way to teach your dog that this room is safe, relaxing and comfortable.

Creating A Safe Space
Once a bedroom has been located, it’s time to set up the room to address your dog’s needs.

• Your dog should have access to a very comfortable bed and water bowl.
• To drown out noises, place a white noise machine or large box fan (used on medium to high volume) near the door or windows. White noise drowns out construction, thunderstorm, visitors talking loudly, barking dogs or any other scary noises from stressing your dog.
• Tightly close drapes and blinds to prevent sounds (such as construction) or shadows (from people or dogs walking by) from distracting of scarring your dog.
• If a dog is afraid of lightening, turn on a light to prevent prevent lightening flashes from lighting up the bedroom.
• Plug in or regularly spray a calming pheromone (such as Adaptial) in the room.
• Essential oils are very calming to for dogs, try adding 2-3 drops of a dog safe essential oil into a diffuser in a far corner of the room.

Teaching Your Dog To Enjoy Their New Space
Before placing your dog into her safe place when visitors arrive, you should plant to spend 2 weeks teaching your dog that her safe place is truly safe.

1. Grab high value treats, such as string cheese. Walk to your dog’s safe place and toss food inside the room. Do this 10 times (don’t close the door yet) twice a day. Practice this for two days
2. Using high value treats, toss a large chunk of cheese or several small peas size pieces inside the room. When your dog goes inside to eat the treats, close the door for one second, then open the door. Dog this 10 times twice a day. Practice this for 2 days.
3. Follow step 2 but increase the time that the door is closed. Start with 2 seconds and slowly add 1-2 seconds per training session. If your dog should scratch at the door or whine, take a step back and decrease the duration of the door closed. Practice 10-20 times and twice a day.
4. When your quietly dog can stay behind the door for 5 minutes, give your dog a yummy food filled Kong toy. Do this everything you place your dog inside her safe place.
5. Now turn on the sound machine and essential oil diffuser and toss your dog a food stuffed toy every time she goes into her safe place.
6. Slow increase the time.

When To Use Your Dog’s Safe Place?
Place your dog into her space place whenever she needs it. Most dogs enjoy lounging in their safe place during dinner and birthday parties, when guests visit, when strangers arrive, during thunderstorms or during construction. Let your dog chose to go to her safe place whenever she needs it.

Many dogs dislike lots of commotion or loud parties, they would rather relax in their safe place. Additionally, you never know if your dog will eat something or get out the front door. When in doubt, keep your dog safe in her safe room.

Safe Place For Multiple Dogs?
It’s best to keep dogs separate in their safe space. When unpredicted scary things appear, many dogs may become so stressed and take their frustration out on the other dog. Plus, it’s never safe to have two dogs in a room with food stuffed Kongs. Place each dog in a crate or behind a secure barrier when unsupervised. If housemate dogs have squabbled in the best, it may be best to give them their own safe room (two different rooms with securely closed doors)

Which Dogs Should Have A Safe Place? All dogs should have a safe place.
​Most dogs enjoy their crate it it’s not located near high traffic areas, near windows or doors. Ideally, a dog’s crate should be placed into a bedroom that has a door, which can be closed. This prevents someone or something walking near or toward a dog, when they are crated.

If you have any questions about creating or teaching your dog to enjoy a safe space, please contact us.  ​https://positivepooch.net/