Some cats can be very vocal about how they feel, so make sure you pay attention when your new addition starts making noise. It could mean something’s wrong (like food stuck). Or, maybe it just means he wants to say hello! Either way, don’t ignore these signs of life — take note of what your feline friend says and does, then act accordingly.

Once you’ve settled into your new role as caregiver, introduce the two animals together. In most cases, this should occur within 24 hours of bringing your kitten or adult cat home after adoption. This gives both the new animal and the old one plenty of time to become familiar with each other before meeting up face-to-face. To keep from overwhelming either one, let your older kitty hang back until she feels like joining her roommate. Then, gradually start introducing them by interacting through a screen, such as using an iPad app.

If you have multiple cats, try keeping them separated during introductions for now. They’ll probably meet later once they’re more accustomed to living together.
Below, we offer tips on how to successfully transition your new cat into his or her new digs.

Introduce yourself – how to introduce a cat to a new home

First thing’s first: You need to tell him who you are. Cats aren’t always great at remembering faces, but you may remember certain traits or habits that your new pet has already displayed. Tell him who you are, along with where you live and why you brought him here. Your voice tone, body language, scent and even clothing style can all affect whether your cat thinks you’re friendly or scary. So approach slowly and talk softly. He might not recognize your name right away, but eventually he’ll learn that you exist and want to interact with you.

Get acquainted with your pet

Cats are notoriously independent creatures, so you won’t be able to do much to teach them anything unless they ask directly. However, you can still show interest in your cat’s day-to-day activities. For example, play fetch with a string or frisbee, use treats to entice him to follow you around the house, or feed him outside of mealtime. Once you establish a routine, your cat will associate those actions with good feelings. When you go shopping, buy fresh water dishes and litter boxes, too. These small details also convey trustworthiness and warmth. And, as long as you treat him well, your cat will likely return the favor.

Keep the introduction short

It takes several minutes for a cat to process information presented visually. Therefore, giving a full rundown of your daily schedule, household rules and personal history can overwhelm a visitor quickly. Instead, limit your explanations to essentials, including where you bought your cat, why you adopted him, your current address, and basic safety precautions. With fewer words, your cat learns faster than if you gave a blow-by-blow account. Of course, include pertinent info such as vaccination records, medical conditions, training history and emergency numbers. If you’re still wondering how to introduce a cat to a new home, keep reading. We’re trucking right along!

Remember to stay relaxed throughout the entire experience. No matter how anxious you may feel, you must control your emotions and maintain your composure. Most importantly, enjoy watching your new family member adapt and grow alongside you.

Be patient and kind at all times – how to introduce a cat to a new home

Cats can sense fear in others because it often comes across as aggression. Even though you may love your cat unconditionally, you must never scare him or allow another person to frighten him. As soon as your cat makes eye contact with someone, look down immediately and remain calm. Don’t yell, squawk or scream. Instead, gently stroke your cat, reassure him, and move toward the source of concern. Do everything calmly and kindly.

That goes double for any children who encounter your cat. Teach kids to respect your pet by encouraging them to speak quietly and staying near them whenever possible. Also, remind them not to touch your cat and to avoid chasing him.

Make sure everyone is comfortable with their roles

Just because your cat belongs to you doesn’t necessarily mean he understands every aspect of being domesticated. Some people like to cuddle their cats, which isn’t really safe due to the risk of disease transmission. Other owners prefer to leave their cat alone in a designated area. Since cats naturally hunt and sleep independently, provide adequate separation between you and yours. A big part of how to introduce your pet to a new home & helping your cat adjust to a new environment is respecting its natural tendencies. While it’s important to bond with your pet, it shouldn’t interfere with its independence.

Give them enough space – introducing a new cat to your home

Your cat needs physical space to roam freely, stretch, climb trees, hide under furniture and other places. Consider placing a scratching post indoors, especially for indoor/outdoor hybrids. Scratching provides cats with outlets for pent-up energy. But it can also cause unsightly bald spots and sores, depending on where they scratch. Plus, it damages furniture, flooring, rugs and clothes. Provide plenty of toys for entertainment and chew sticks for gnawing. The latter helps prevent dental problems. Outdoor cats also require lots of exercise. Ideally, they would spend at least half of daylight hours outdoors enjoying nature. Otherwise, encourage outdoor excursions and watch out for hazards such as cars, dogs and squirrels.

Conclusion – Let them explore on their own terms
Giving your cat free reign over a large portion of your house or yard can seem daunting at first. Allow him to investigate objects, sniff plants and dig holes wherever he pleases. This teaches him that nothing is off limits. Afterward, reward him with praise and affection instead of yanking or swatting at him. Remember, patience is key.

If you have found this article useful, check out more of our animals category.

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The question then becomes how should you handle these situations if someone expresses displeasure at seeing your pup around? Should you try to hide him or her from view whenever necessary? Or should you take steps to make sure everyone loves having your furry friend around? There are many different options available, but figuring out which ones work best for you depends largely upon your personality and preferences. So whether you’re looking for tips on training your pup or just want to learn more about interacting with others, here are five questions commonly asked by those interested in playing with puppies.

How to make dogs like you and your other animals

If you’ve recently acquired a new canine companion, getting them adjusted to life with another animal isn’t always easy. Dogs often have an innate desire to protect themselves, making them prone to territorial aggression toward anything unfamiliar. If you’re still wondering how to make dogs like you, then continue reading. They also tend to become nervous around new animals, particularly smaller ones like cats or rodents. This makes it difficult to train them to accept being handled by anyone besides yourself. To ensure this doesn’t cause problems down the road, first spend time familiarizing your current pet with the newcomer before introducing them to each other. That said, once both pups are comfortable with each other, start slowly by giving the new addition plenty of space during daily interactions. Gradually move closer until you begin handling them simultaneously.

Afterward, continue to reinforce positive behaviors rather than rewarding negative behavior such as growling. Once the transition has gone well enough, introduce the new animal to family members and close friends as well. Over time, your pooch will likely adjust to the presence of strangers without causing any undue stress.

Dogs rely heavily on human cues to help understand what’s going on around them. As a result, it’s important to give clear signals regarding dangerous or potentially harmful situations. When approached by someone unexpected, barking or snarling at the intruder sends a message that something bad is happening. However, doing this too much could lead to aggressive behavior later. Instead, use simple words or short phrases to communicate danger instead. For example, “Be careful! Stay away!” or “Leave now!” Avoid using harsh commands such as “sit” or “stay” since this reinforces unwanted habits such as chewing shoes or digging holes. Rather, encourage quick obedience through praise and reward-based methods. Over time, these human cues will resonate and you begin to see how to get dogs to like you. 

Can you get older dogs to like you? 

In general, older dogs are better suited to socialize with younger ones due to their experience navigating the world. But there are still several things to keep in mind when choosing between an oldie and a youngster. First off, don’t choose dogs based solely on age unless you intend to show them off competitively (i.e., professional sporting events). While it may seem unfair to pit a senior against an adolescent, it works in favor of the older animal because its knowledge of the rules helps avoid conflict.

Younger dogs are less able to interpret subtle changes in body language, leading to misunderstandings that would otherwise never occur. In fact, studies have even shown that younger children respond positively to interaction with older adults thanks to their increased patience and understanding.

Additionally, consider factors including energy levels, size differences, temperament, and breed type when learning how to get dogs to like you. Some breeds are naturally calmer than others, meaning that they’ll adapt better to living alongside youngsters. On top of all that, larger dogs simply aren’t as friendly towards small kids as smaller ones are towards large ones.

Finally, remember that no matter what species they belong to, puppies need lots of attention, affection, and stimulation to thrive. Just because they’re young doesn’t mean they won’t require constant care and supervision. Fortunately, there are numerous interactive activities parents can engage in with infants and toddlers that can provide similar benefits to those gained from proper bonding with pets.

How to get dogs to like you by playing games with puppies

While most games serve only to entertain, certain games are designed specifically to develop skills and abilities within specific areas of interest. One popular option among dog owners is Frisbee fetch. Similar to humans throwing discs back and forth, dogs chase after floating discs thrown by their masters. The goal is to get the disc far enough away that the next throw lands beyond reach, requiring greater exertion to retrieve. Eventually, players progress onto chasing objects placed farther away. Another fun option involves tossing a ball inside plastic bottles attached to strings. Your pooch must successfully grab hold of the bottle cap to remove the stopper and release the ball inside. These types of games offer exercise, mental engagement, and physical activity in equal measure. Other favorites include tugging, running races, catch, and agility competitions. Check out local parks, playgrounds, and community centers to see what kinds of games are offered near you.

Adopting a puppy or rehomed dog

For starters, if you already own a dog, check out our adoption section. It offers extensive listings of adoptable pets across multiple categories, complete with photos and detailed descriptions. Additionally, Dogster provides links to thousands of adoption agencies throughout North America where you can search for potential matches. Lastly, Facebook Marketplace allows pet lovers to connect directly with sellers and buyers alike.

You can browse hundreds of classified ads posted by individuals seeking companionship, breeding stock, or purebreds. Users can rate posts according to suitability, location, price range, etc. All pages are moderated by third party volunteers and approved users, ensuring safety and trustworthiness of participants.

According to recent estimates, roughly 70 percent of households in the U.S. have owned a dog at least once. With millions of happy endings to share, why shouldn’t you enjoy quality time with yours?

Animals live in the moment – they cannot reflect on past mistakes nor plan ahead for future opportunities. Even though the odds are stacked against them, it takes great effort and resources to improve their chances of survival. By providing shelter, food, water, medical treatment, education, and love, you open up doors to countless experiences that allow them to flourish.

The post How to make dogs like you – Puppies & You! appeared first on We Love Our Pets.

Your dog’s diet is a fundamental aspect and we must be very careful with what our furry ones eat. You may be surprised to learn that even common vegetables cannot be fed to dogs. A common vegetable, such as onion, can damage the digestive system or that many dogs are lactose intolerant. Yes, to milk!

Metabolism is the main reason why some human foods should not be used to feed dogs. Even if they are delicious and your pet begs you for a bite. That is because their process of breaking down food into energy is not the same as ours.

Upcoming is a list of foods that are toxic to dogs. These foods should not be eaten by a dog. These foods could affect them to a lesser extent, always depending on their medical history, weight, and general health.

15 Prohibited Dog Foods

Alcohol

Although more than once we have spilled beer or wine on the ground. Afterward, our dog has gone from curious to taste alcoholic beverages to sick. Food products containing alcohol can cause intoxication, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased coordination, central nervous system failures, shortness of breath, tremors and even death.

Chocolate, coffee, and caffeine

These products contain substances called methylxanthines, which are found in cocoa beans. When ingested by pets, methylxanthines can cause vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst and urination, hyperactivity, heart rhythm disturbances, and convulsions. In the worst-case scenarios, even death has occurred.

It is important to know that the darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is for our pets; in addition, the amount of chocolate capable of producing intoxication varies depending on the size of the dog, age and health status.

Citrus

The stems, leaves, husks, fruits, and seeds of citrus plants contain varying amounts of limonene, linalool, oil extracts and chemicals called psoralenes that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and damage to the central nervous system without being ingested in significant amounts.

In small doses it is not likely that there will be problems beyond a minor stomach upset, but why take the risk and give them foods not to feed to dogs?

Dairy – milk & milk-based products

Milk and other dairy products are not deadly food for our pets, but they can cause diarrhea, gas, vomiting and digestive discomfort.

This is because many dogs – like many humans – are lactose intolerant and are unable to digest and assimilate such products.

Nuts

Nuts, such as almonds, pistachios, and macadamia nuts, contain high amounts of oils and fats that can cause vomiting, diarrhea and, in the worst case, pancreatitis.

Onion

Whether dry, raw, cooked or powdered, onion is one of the most dangerous dog foods banned when consumed in large quantities. The explanation is not simple, but it is mainly due to thiosulfate, a toxic ingredient that attacks red blood cells and causes hemolytic anemia.

Fortunately, if onion intake is not very high, the number of red cells in the blood will return to normal within a short time. Still, it is preferable to avoid.

Garlic

Garlic is part of the same onion family, so it also contains thiosulfate and can cause hemolytic anemia. However, the concentration is much lower and this can only occur when the dog ingests excessive amounts. After all, too much is harmful.

In fact, Animal Wellness magazine insists that garlic in small amounts is ideal for combating intestinal parasites in dogs and other conditions.

Forms of certain raw meats and raw eggs.

Raw meat, just like raw eggs, may contain bacteria such as salmonella or E. Coli, which cause harm to both domestic animals and humans. These are among the top misconceptions in regards to foods not to feed to dogs.

Can you feed dogs raw hamburger meat?

The short answer is no, you should not feed your dogs raw hamburger meat. Feeding your dog raw hamburger meat puts your doggo at the risk of getting salmonella poisoning. Salmonella is a bacterial contamination that happens when an animal eats raw or uncooked meats or other dairy products.

In addition, avidine (an enzyme found in raw eggs) decreases the absorption of vitamin B and can lead to problems in the coat and skin.

Salt and salty snacks

Just as in humans, the consumption of large amounts of salt can lead to electrolyte imbalance, dehydration, and even poisoning.

The main signs that a dog has consumed too many salty foods are excessive thirst and urination; in worse cases, they may experience vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, elevated body temperature, or convulsions. If you’re concerned about these ailments plaguing your doggo, keep reading which foods not to feed to dogs.

Chewing gum, jelly beans and sweets

Many chewing gum, jelly beans, candy, and other sweets contain xylitol, a substance that is used as an artificial sweetener in many products and which, while not harmful to humans, is harmful to dogs even in small amounts. We know it’s fun to eat candy & sweets. It may be fun to even eat them with our animals, but it is among the most common foods not to feed to dogs.

Xylitol can cause insulin release and lead to liver failure and hypoglycemia (decreased sugar levels).

Depending on the breed, this artificial sweetener can also cause serious liver damage. Signs of xylitol poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, lack of coordination, tremors, and seizures.

Yeast

The problem with yeast for dogs is that it can generate gases that accumulate in the digestive system. In mild cases, this can be very painful and cause the stomach to swell.

While in more severe cases, excess yeast can cause the stomach and intestines to rupture.

Grapes and raisins – also are food not to feed to dogs

According to PetMD, small amounts of grapes can cause acute renal failure in small or sensitive dogs. And although the toxic responsible for these effects are still unknown, it is believed to be due to a toxin that can cause severe liver damage.

The usual symptoms of grape poisoning are thirst, followed by polydipsia (meaning the dog drinks large amounts of water), excessive urination, diarrhea, apathy, vomiting, and loss of appetite.

There are certain breeds of dogs that are not affected at all by eating grapes. However, it is better to prevent than to regret preventing our pets from eating them.

Tobacco

Tobacco is one of the most toxic animal foods banned; in fact, the effects of nicotine on dogs are much worse than on humans.

Nicotine can cause digestive damage to pets, as well as damage to the nervous system, increase heart rate and, in the worst case, cause death.

Potatoes

Be very careful when peeling potatoes or if they are too accessible in the pantry, as their consumption can cause hypersalivation, vomiting, diarrhea, gastrointestinal disorders, behavioral changes, muscle weakness, and heart problems.

Avocado or avocado

Avocado is one of the most toxic foods for dogs. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), avocado leaves, fruit, seeds, and bark contain a toxic called persin, which is harmless to humans, but toxic to animals if consumed in large quantities.

Some of the side effects that can be caused by eating avocados in puppies include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, shortness of breath, and increased heart rate.

In conclusion – Please be safe with foods you’re feeding your animals

As you can see, although many of these banned dog foods are delicious for humans, they can cause serious health problems, so if you notice that your pet has ingested a toxic substance, consult your veterinarian immediately.

If you enjoyed reading about what foods not to feed to dogs, consider reading up on the different types of dog breeds.

The post 15 foods not to feed to dogs appeared first on We Love Our Pets.

We refer here to repeated sneezes, not just those sporadic ones that happen from time to time. While these repeated spasms can be normal body reflexes that have nothing wrong with them, you have to be attentive to certain special situations.

Let us then begin to explore the world of a dog sneezing to learn how to detect when it may be a symptom of a disease.

My dog sneezes a lot. Should I worry?

In principle, sneezing is nothing more than a reflex of the body and is completely normal. It is a spasmodic-type reaction, totally involuntary that consists of expelling air explosively through the nose and mouth.

The cause, in general, is some irritation of the nasal mucosa. Therefore, it is always important to be aware of an episode of sneezing. As a general rule, we must tell you that a healthy dog does not sneeze repeatedly. So, if yours does, it’s the first warning sign.

The main key to getting these episodes interpreted is to look at the duration and cause. If your dog sneezes many times, but in a single series and doesn’t repeat it later, it’s probably because of something he smelled and not much else. For example, if you’ve seen it near a plant, a flower or the soil you’ve recently washed with a chemical.

Now, if your dog sneezes many times together and these situations are repeated in the day, you must be very attentive. Especially if you see blood or mucus in his nose. In these cases, they are usually indications of some other pathology.

Why do dogs sneeze?

A dog sneezing is normal and the dog can be sneezing for a variety of reasons. However, it should be noted that they are much less frequent than in humans. This is due to the fact that, in us, they can originate in environmental causes that we usually face, such as allergies, rhinitis, etc.

Dogs do not sneeze frequently and do not sneeze because of allergies or colds. In general allergies in dogs are manifested through the skin, very different than in humans. However, there are several causes that can cause a dog to sneeze a lot and we will see below.

Causes of sneezing in dogs

Sneezing in dogs can occur for a variety of reasons. Let’s take a look at the most frequent ones.

Strangers prowling your nose.

Foreign bodies can, many times, enter the nose of the dog for various reasons, especially when outdoors, but can also happen indoors. When this happens, the organism will try to defend itself and generate reflex sneezes until the annoying stranger disappears.

If your dog has been outdoors smelling or has run a long time out, it may be that some foreign body is lodged in his nose and frequent sneezing only means the need to expel him. In these cases, you should make sure that they stop after a couple of times and that the dog does not continue to show discomfort. A dog sneezing can also alone be caused by discomfort.

If you notice that he continues to sneeze, scratches his nose, has some kind of swelling or even bleeding, it may not be able to remove the discomfort on its own. Many times, the veterinarian is the one who must perform the extraction. That is why a prompt visit is advisable and will aid you in figuring out why a dog is sneezing.

The famous “mites”

You’ve probably heard of these microorganisms. They are very, very small arachnids that inhabit both terrestrial and aquatic environments. The most commonly known are those living in household dust.

These small intruders can reach the dog’s nose and lodge there, causing sneezing. They can even generate secretions and even blood. Your dog is exposed to mites, for example, when it comes in contact with the nose of another infected dog or when digging the earth.

If this is the case, your trusted professional will be able to determine it with only a sample of mucus seen under a microscope.

Can a dog have an infection? If so, what types of infections are there?

Aspergillosis
It is very rare (practically impossible) for a dog to sneeze from a cold or upper respiratory infection. But, there are some very particular fungi, the “aspergillus” that generate an infection known as aspergillosis that causes sneezing in dogs.

This infection can only be contracted by direct contact with the fungus that usually lives among piles of straw or grass cut, also in fertilizers or any decaying vegetation.

Dental infections

Some teeth of dogs (the third premolar, to be more precise), has its roots neighboring the nostrils. Therefore, it is possible that an infection of this tooth or a nearby one, generates sneezing or even nasal secretions. Small dogs have this happen every so often.

This is one of the reasons why it is so important to prevent these diseases by frequently caring for and brushing the teeth of your beloved partner.

In both cases, as in any infection, it is important to go to the vet. Surely an indication of antibiotics may be the solution. Remember that in these treatments probiotics can be an excellent complement.

Irritants can also cause a dog to sneeze

Irritants

Have you gone from going on the subway and that a very perfumed lady comes up to you and gives you many, many, desire to sneeze? Tell me you do… We all do. And not only with perfumes, but with cleaning articles, deodorants or even in front of the smoke when a person is smoking near us. This can also be one of the reasons that you’re dealing with a dog sneezing.

Well, dogs have exactly the same thing. That’s why they can sneeze like us. But in these cases, you should verify that it’s just a series of sneezes at the time you’re in contact with the irritant.

If they are repeated over time, the cause must be different. Unless the irritant has permanence, such as a floor cleaner, for example.

This is why special cosmetics for dogs are so important. Above all, those frequently used as dog shampoos. They do not include irritating fragrances that may bother them.  

Special case: Brachycephalic breeds

Branch… What? Even if you don’t know the word, you probably know those funny and nice flat-nosed races like the Pekingese and the Bulldog. These are the brachiocephalic races.

These particular dogs (also some cats of similar characteristics) have their nasal passages very short or compressed. This makes them more sensitive to exposure to irritants. They may even sneeze at an upper respiratory infection, which is very rare in dogs.

Nasal Tumors

Some breeds of dogs with long noses, such as a collie or greyhound, may have nasal tumors caused, according to research, by contact with smoke and other environmental aggressors.

In general, it is very difficult to diagnose these types of tumors. Although they do not usually metastasize, they can be quite invasive and obstruct the nasal passages, causing sneezing and chronic secretions.

Sometimes when owners say, “My dog has mucus and sneezes a lot,” and no apparent reason is found, the cause may be a tumor. So it’s important that if it happens to your dog, discuss it with your trusted professional.

Is your dog overly excited?

Excessive emotion

The last cause of a dog sneezing that we will treat, is much nicer than the previous ones. It’s about those dogs, especially the small breed, that when they get very excited, sneeze… Yes, sneeze!

In these cases, nothing to worry about, they do it for happiness and, although they can be repeated, they only manifest themselves in punctual situations of extreme joy.

Reverse sneeze

Dogs, unlike humans, have another kind of sneeze, the inverse sneeze. Instead of expelling air, they bring it in. The reasons for this reflex are usually the same, something that bothers or obstructs the nostrils.

In these cases, you must be calm because it is normal in dogs, but it is important to be attentive, as in normal sneezing, if it is repeated frequently.

What does a dog sneezing mean?

As we have seen, sneezing can be something eventual and without any harm to the dog. But there are cases where they are a symptom of more complex problems. That is why any repeated episode of sneezing should be observed and controlled.

Now, there are certain specific alarm factors that you should pay special attention to. In any of the following situations, we advise you to act in one way only, visiting your vet for a professional diagnosis:

1. My dog sneezes a lot and often.
2. A runny nose has been plaguing my dog for weeks.
3. My dog’s nose has bled.

Conclusion

We began this article with the doubt that many dog owners said: “My dog won’t stop sneezing. Is it bad? What should I do?”. We hope that the information we presented above assisted you in figuring out the root cause of a dog sneezing. Whether it’s your dog or a close family members’ dog, you’re now going into the situation more informed.

Sporadic sneezing (normal or inverse) is not a cause for concern. But repeated and frequent sneezes are. In general, they are warning us that our dog may suffer from some of the diseases we are talking about.

Therefore, it is recommended to take a day to observe your dog and, if it repeats episodes, visit the veterinarian who will be able to diagnose the problem and offer you a suitable solution for each situation.

If you’ve found our article on a dog sneezing informational & helpful, then feel free to check out our animals section!

The post What does A dog sneezing mean? appeared first on We Love Our Pets.

That’s why, as we’ve been through this situation before, we thought we’d write this article with some tips that, if you apply them properly, will be infallible to achieve your goal.

The formula is quite simple. You must prepare your plan, implement it with great precision and patience until you obtain a yes and then commit to everything you have promised to do with your family and also with your new friend. Are you ready to become a dog’s best friend?  You’ll soon know how.

Make a plan that leaves nothing to chance

Our parents are usually busy with daily activities and when we try to suggest (even if it’s a minimum, very minimum) interest in a pet, they tend to dismiss the proposal almost without thinking about it. 

In order to do this, they often try to make you “step on the stick”. In other words, they want to show you that you’re not ready yet and that you won’t be able to commit yourself to the work and dedication that a dog needs. And since they don’t have the time to do it for you, your proposal weakens and never comes to fruition. We’d be willing to bet that you didn’t think that buying a dog would be this complicated. Read on, grasshopper.

It will be essential that you take the time to think very well about your strategy and develop an effective “attack” plan. Especially if this is not your first attempt. Take a pencil and paper that we will tell you everything you must take into account to achieve it.

1. Think about which dog will be the most suitable.

Remember that we have one clear objective: to convince your parents to allow you to have a dog. And one of the pillars of your strategy is to be well prepared. That means thinking through everything you’ll be asked beforehand and responding by demonstrating that you’re more than ready to take care of this new member of the family.

At this point, you’ll need to start by defining whether you want your parents to buy you a dog or whether you’d rather convince them to adopt one.

Buying a dog

To place an order based on the purchase option, you must be very, very sure that your parents have the monetary possibility to do so.

In this case, you should investigate the best breeds for your family. You should, for example, think about the space you will have in your house for the new member. If you live in an apartment, then you should choose a small breed, for example.

It will also be important to consider if the dog will lose a lot of hair, in order to have an answer ready when your mother consults you. If your main concern is how to convince your mother to have a dog, think as much as you can about dog hygiene habits and housekeeping (related to the dog, of course) and the ways in which you will handle it. That way, you’ll add up a lot of points, believe us.

It will also be good to think about the amount of food your new friend will need and the budget it means for your family. Buying a dog also consists of buying for the dog as well. It might be a good idea to think about ways to contribute to these expenses, such as doing small weekend jobs or saving chores at home, such as mowing the lawn rather than a gardener, for example.

Adopt a dog

This can be an excellent strategy for convincing your parents to say yes. Not only will you be helping a dog find a home, but you won’t be generating expenses for the family, at least in the purchase.

In addition, you can opt for buying a dog that is slightly older, avoiding all the possible arguments that mom or dad has to tell you about the excessive bites and tears that all little ones enjoy doing.

If you choose adoption, then look for the different protectors nearby and find out the requirements to be prepared when telling your family. Another great argument you can use is that dogs from shelters are often spayed or neutered, which is often very well seen by dads’ eyes.

This is not only because they won’t have to take care of the matter, but also because they won’t run the risk of dominance behaviors, rules and potential pregnancies in the female, among other issues. Don’t forget that in these cases, your new dog will need special food for neutered dogs. Keep it in mind in your budget in case it is more expensive than the regular one.

Special collections for a puppy dog

Whether you’re buying a dog or adopting one if your idea is to go for a puppy, investigate the full implications of the teaching period. Show your parents that you know the work to be done and have ideas on how you’ll do it. A handbook detailing how to raise a puppy can be very helpful.

Extra Tip: think you’ll respond if your parents indicate that the breed you’ve chosen isn’t the right one. Make a plan B for those cases!

2. Prepare a list of all the benefits your new friend will bring to you and your family.

A good approach to starting this part is to list all the things your parents scold you about from time to time. Do you spend too much time in front of the TV or computer? Do you play too little outdoors? Don’t you get enough physical activity? Do you get bored quickly with your games? Do you spend too much time with friends away from home?

This is the best opportunity for a successful approach. Show them that with your new friend you win because you will be entertained, accompanied and enjoy your free time and family more. Emphasize here that your parents will also win because you will start doing all the things they ask you to do every day.

3. Contemplate all the tasks that the care of your new partner will include and plan how you will carry them out.

Prepare a worksheet with all the tasks you will have to do for your new friend and think about when you could do them. In the afternoon? In the morning? On your way out of school? Show your parents that you are responsible and that you have thought about everything seriously.

Some tasks to keep in mind:

1. Walks (essential, several times a day).
2. The food.
3. Bathrooms.
4. Take care of removing excess hair.
5. Visits to the veterinarian.
6. Games.

These are the most common, but if you really want to impress them, think beyond. Talk to them about more specific care such as brushing teeth, cleaning ears, getting supplements such as feeders, mattresses or even talking to them about good, cheap food or how you can keep them free of fleas and ticks.

Don’t forget to consider a small budget with the first expenses such as vaccines, sterilizations, first medical consultation, among others.

If you need help from your parents for some tasks or expenses, just ask for it. If it is a task, suggest a time to do it together (the weekend may be ideal). This way you will show them that you have even thought about the help this adventure will require and that means only one thing: commitment.

Implement your plan even before your dog gets home

If you have not yet obtained that long-awaited Yes! then you can keep insisting but without using words. What is that like? Simple, show your commitment, responsibility, and interest with deeds. Buying a dog for your home is a huge commitment and you’ll need to prove that you’re committed to taking care of a living thing.

If, for example, you’ve thought about mowing the lawn to save on the gardener and with that buy your future friend’s food, start doing it. Ask your father for permission and do it on weekends, with constancy and showing good performance.

If you have the possibility to take care of a pet (the dog would be ideal, but also worth a cat, for example …) of a friend or family member who is going on a trip, commit yourself and show how you would do in your daily life.

Keep an eye on everything you’ve raised with your family and, with gestures and actions, show them that you’re capable of taking it forward.

Conclusions

We know how hard it can be to figure out how you can talk your parents into buying a dog. We’ve had to go through it ourselves, both with unfavorable and successful attempts. That’s why we believe that the main thing is that you really take your desire seriously and work on yourself first.

Study everything you can to know the needs of your future dog. Think about how to achieve various ways of satisfying them, always trying to solve most of them yourself. Don’t rush, go easy and take plenty of time to put together your plan.

When you are sure (sure, sure, very sure…) that everything is contemplated, talk to your parents. You can try to introduce the subject little by little with little insinuations until you find the best moment to make the complete proposal.

Show that all your words are serious. Do it with actions. Don’t give up on a first negative answer, keep acting and demonstrating your intention and responsibility.

If you’re really wondering how to get your parents to buy you a dog, here are almost all the answers. Go ahead, my friend! You’re very close to getting it.

If this article helped you, take a look at our article about the best quiet dog breeds!

The post Buying A Dog – A 2019 Guide For Teens appeared first on We Love Our Pets.

Consider this when your oversized Great Dane is tripping over his ankles and biting at your hand, growling. Once you’re done giggling at his antics, remember he is going to be one hundred and twenty pounds one day and that bite is going to land your four-year-old in the emergency room. Be assured, training a seven-pound pup with few biases is child’s play compared to training a seventy-pound dog who is already set in his ways. 

By the way, the latter is difficult but not impossible but that will be covered in another section. 

Here are the basic commands that should be taught from training day one. Be aware, the smallest breed of dog can cause the worst kind of damage. Aggressiveness and biting must be deterred early on because they are issues that are increasingly difficult to rectify over time. 

“The word “NO” is very important

If you are already a parent, this is likely the most used word in your vocabulary. If not, it will be in a very short period of time. This is the first lesson in dog ownership 101. NO. Say it. NO. Say it firmly. Say it with authority but do NOT raise your voice. Say it calmly. Practice it in front of the mirror. 

Do you believe yourself when you say no? Does the cat? Does your significant other? If not, then be sure your dog will not either and he will walk all over your commands with muddy paws and a snarl.  When you are certain that you have a solid grasp of the word, you may try it on Rover, and then proceed to follow the rest of the steps on our dog training commands list

If you have to chase him around screaming “NO! NO! NO!” you’re not doing it right. An authoritative command should stop him in his tracks. In fact, if you have to repeat yourself more than twice, you need to work on your delivery. Who knew such a small word could be such a big pain? Keep reading our dog training commands list to find out more training commands.

The “Sit” command

This is a very basic and standard command in dog training. The best way to achieve the sit position is like this: 

1. Get your pet’s attention and retrieve a treat while they watch you take it from the sacred spot.2. Have them follow you into another room while you hold the treat in your hand. Keep it in your palm and keep your palm at your dog’s nose level so he follows the scent. 
   
2. Have them follow you into another room while you hold the treat in your hand. Keep it in your palm and keep your palm at your dog’s nose level so he follows the scent.
   
3. Stop abruptly and face him. This will catch him off guard and his instinct will be to sit automatically. 
   
4. If he does sit at that point, say “SIT” immediately and give him a treat right away. It is important that you label the command so he understands it when you use it.
   
5. If he does not sit and just backs up, draw closer to him, pulling the treat up toward your face. He will want to see where it is going so he will look up also.
   That action will force him to sit down as a result because his body is too stout to allow for his head to go back without being in the seated position. As his bum hits the ground, say “SIT” and reward him immediately.
   
6. Repeat this exercise five to six times per session.

The “stay” command

Another very important and minimal command to know, “STAY” becomes a key in more advanced training as well. But first things first.  

1. Some people prefer to have mastered having their pet sit before teaching them to “STAY” but they aren’t necessarily hand-in-hand commands. It is just as easy to teach “STAY” from a standing position as it is from a sitting. That being said, sitting dogs tend to be more patient than ones standing and waiting for a treat. Regardless, starting your pooch in one of those stances, ensure you have a treat where they can smell it. Now say “stay.” 

2. Keep your index finger up and stare your pet in the eye. 

3. Say “NO” if she goes to move in any way. 

4. Have them hold the position for three seconds before giving them the treat. 

5. After you have practiced successfully for three seconds, move onto five seconds, then ten seconds.

6. After you have skillfully completed ten seconds, you now need to leave the room. This is considerably more challenging a task because she will try to follow you. Simply walk her back to the original room, say “STAY” and have her stay while you are still there.

7. Then go to leave, stop at the doorway and say “STAY” (again, with the index finger, maintaining eye contact). 

8. If she moves at any point, reposition her back to the same spot and try again. Leaving the room will take more time and effort than the initial “STAY” command.

The “Go” command

This becomes crucial at critical moments. Your dog must be able to respond to “GO” without question or hesitation. It is a command used strictly for potentially dangerous situations for him or others and is one of the most important steps in this dog training commands list.

Training for this command can’t be done half-heartedly. If there is one order he must understand without question, it is this one. How to achieve this:  

1. Arm yourself with a generous stash of treats. This may take a while. 

2. Show your dog a treat and with his eyes on the treat, throw it ten feet from where you are standing. 

3. As he goes for it, say “GO” while pointing in the direction of the treat. Repeat this exercise five or six times. 

4. Then, make the motion that you are throwing the treat but do not. Again, say 

“GO” and point as he runs for the treat. When he can’t find it, he will come back, looking sheepish. Do this again. Most dogs won’t fall for this more than three or four times. When he refuses to go for the fake throw, forsake the pretend the throwing motion and simply say “GO” while pointing. 

5. You may need to practice this several times before he clues into what you are asking. As soon as he does, reward him instantly and praise him well. Again, repeat this five or six times per session. 

The “come” command

More than likely, this is the easiest thing you will ever teach your dog. Generally speaking, he wants to be near you. He’s like your shadow anyway so getting him to respond is not that difficult. It is even more simple if he has learned “GO” first because that is the only really difficult aspect of this command – getting him to leave you alone.  

1. Contrary to the other lessons in our dog training commands list, wait until your pooch is off distracted by something else. It works best if you have another person help you with this. Have someone throw the ball with him in the living room while you situate yourself in the kitchen. 

2. In a loud voice say “COME.” Of course, he will likely not respond because it is a new word and he does not know what is expected of him. 

3. Reach for the treats and make a lot of noise opening the bag while again saying “COME.” 

4. He will race into the kitchen like a bat out of hell. Praise him and hand him the treat. Then order him to “GO.” He may resist, which is normal, but if he has been properly trained in “GO” he will eventually skulk off. He likely won’t go very far.

5. Once he is out of view, say “COME” again and rattle the treat bag. He’ll appear in seconds. 

6. Repeat this a few times even though it’s hardly necessary. You had him basically off the bat.  

The “drop it/leave it” command

She loves that stuffed bunny rabbit. She loves it so much, she has disemboweled its cotton insides. And now you’re going to test her love for you by taking it from her. This is clearly important for moments when she is gnawing on your favorite sneakers or going after your newborn’s rattle. She needs to understand that she does not own anything – it all belongs to you.  

1. Use it as one of her dearest playthings. 

2. Put her on a leash. A leash gives you control of the situation in case she gets a little bit too possessive. 

3. Give her the toy and let her get good and riled up with it. Once she is in a frenzy, reach down, snatch it from her and say “DROP IT” or “LEAVE IT.” Depending on her personality she may either look up at you with a baleful expression or she may instinctively snap at you. 

Don’t take it personally but do be on guard. It is her nature to protect what’s in her mouth. If she nips or bites at you, quickly jerk sideways on the leash to refocus her attention. Have her sit and if she obeys, reward her. 

If she struggles, wait. Continue to jar the leash in short, fast motions when she does unwanted behavior (whining, attempting to jump, etc.) and once she relaxes, feed her a treat.  Do NOT pull her upward, only to the side toward you. Do not hold pressure on the leash – just a series of quick, abrupt jerks. 

4. Give her the toy again (once she is calm). Again, snatch it while saying “LEAVE IT” or “DROP IT.” Repeat this as many times as it takes for her not to be surprised by you removing it from her jaws. Of course, give her treat rewards every time. 

5. Finally, simply say “DROP IT” or “LEAVE IT.” If she does not respond by letting the object go, physically remove it from her mouth. Repeat the first four steps again a few times and try again.  

That’s the last step in our dog training commands list. We hope to have helped you!

Final thoughts

Keeping the commands short and sweet is also a good idea. Using too many words will upset his attention span. Repetition and consistency are what training is based upon and also what our dog training commands list focuses on.
If you find yourself getting impatient at any point (at any time) you need to stop the training, take a deep breath and try again at another time when you are relaxed and looking forward to it. 
You will not do yourself or your dog any good while trying to continue in a frustrating state. In fact, he will be less apt to follow your direction if he senses tense energy from you or he will accept the lessons but by associating the exercise with negativity. Either way, it will be counterproductive for everyone involved.

Has this article helped you? If so, try taking a look at our article regarding different types of dog breeds.

The post Dog Training Commands List – The Essentials appeared first on We Love Our Pets.

How useful are cat collars exactly?

If you need to find your cat, you just log into the proprietary console for cat collars with GPS, push the button, and sometimes you can get a ring like a lost phone(which actually would be a radio frequency that then plays an audio signal, nothing to do with GPS), but you can use a cat collar with GPS to find the cat’s exact location down to the exact house.

This can be useful if you have children and they like to move your cats around, or maybe even letting some hyperactive kids borrow your precious feline, and they lose it! Well, with cat collars with GPS, that scenario is no longer possible in any sense, you’re immune from any type of petty theft if you have an expensive breed and or just beautiful cat. Some people will rob people for cats, as there are million-dollar cat breeds, so it’s important to have proper security and or insurance for the cat, and that starts with a cat collar with GPS.

Is your cat too vivacious & playful?

Everyone loves playful cats, but playful cats are adventurous cats, and sometimes the adventure can turn out less than desirable for your cat, so certainly you should use a cat collar with GPS for your playful feline. Certain breeds exhibit traits, much like dogs or any other type of mammalian species, characteristic of their own temperament/where the breed came from in the world, and in what environments it evolved into. One of the most playful breeds is the Manx cat. Hailing from the British Isles, and they have one characteristic that freak some people out.

They’ve been mistaken for raccoons or other small rodents, but they have no tail, likely as a result of genetic selection and ‘prize feline’ culture that was existent throughout most of middle-aged Europe and especially Asia.

Helping you keep track of your cats

The Manx cat has characteristic happiness and charisma, it’s vivacious jumping can light up anyone’s day, they must have been very well-groomed and played with since their breed is so playful. When a Manx cat is this playful, they’re liable to be lost, which you fix with cat collars with GPS.

A common Ashera cat can go up to an eighth of a million dollars, so you definitely want GPS to know where that is, or a Bengal cat at a cool twenty-five thousand dollars, or a Savannah cat at double that, and real security first starts with cat collars with GPS. Of course, you should be a cautious cat owner, don’t brag if you have rare/exotic pets unless you trust the people around you, ETC.

Final Thoughts

For the most part, every cat should have a cat collar with GPS, it’s extremely inexpensive technology at this point, and it makes it very easy to find your cat, whether it’s expensive to your pocketbook or your emotions.

Was this article informative and fun to read? Do you love speaking to your pets? Learn to understand your cats meows here!

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When selecting a canine best friend, you definitely have to take heed to your own personality traits. If you’re a social, playful person, you need a dog of the same social cloth, and if you’re a quiet loner who needs solace, you need that as well. Dogs are just as varied as people, coming from literally all different continents, and we’re here to help you select through different types of dog breeds.

Different types of dog breeds – Social or Quiet?

A social, outgoing person will want a dog type that leans toward confidence, a dog that can lead you on adventures or obediently follow you. These kinds of dogs are usually prone toward high energy, running and swimming type activities, most are good with kids. Most dogs can be “good with kids”, just some are better. If a dog breed is considered “bad with kids”, they have lazy owners who cannot meet the attention requirements of the temperament of the dog. Here are some awesome examples of outgoing dogs for an outgoing personality

Golden Retrievers are kind of well, the golden standard for personability in dogs, and for good reason. These dogs are known to be loyal, calm and chilled out in their temperament, even at young ages(although all puppies can be rambunctious). Golden Retrievers are certainly quite intelligent as well and it leads a bit to their stoic kindness. They’re a great breed for families, as most people know, as they’re not aggressive and very intelligent and understanding, especially of small children. They are also very loving which can teach you or your dog the value of a loyal animal.

Looking for a lovable, heavy dog?

Collies are also a great example of a confident, personable dog. They are average around 60 pounds, so not too big, but definitely not too small! Their personalities make them one of the most popular breeds in modern times, although they hail from Scotland and are Sheep Dogs. This quality of intelligence to be able to command things also allows it to be subservient to its master, it understands the hierarchy of the world and its place within it.

They’re instantly recognizable by their “bearded” shaggy look, usually with a short white undercoat that’s prominent. There are many variations of coat for Collies. They’re extremely easy to train compared to most dogs. They need to be cleaned/groomed fairly regularly to ensure that their coat stays fresh, but they don’t become matted in their coat without it.

Poodle – the ideally confident dog

Looking for different types of dog breeds? A poodle is a fantastic choice for a dog with confidence and a personality, they’re also fairly trendy right now so you can find all sorts of exotic breeds and hybrids such as Golden Doodles (Golden Retrievers/Poodle Minis), which have the calmest temperament I’ve ever witnessed in a dog.

Poodles are ancient German dogs that are so old we don’t know how they got with us humans, but they did, and they’re the smartest ones who did. This intelligence can be accompanied with a little bit of pomp, but they’re worth it. They can definitely be a bit yappy and territorial if not trained to not be so.

A breed many people may not associate with confidence and person-ability is the Greyhound. They’re very gentle creatures and can be OK with being by themselves, although they love people. They are a symbol of speed in the world, so you have to be careful in training them that they will not run too far or have a proper leash. These dogs are a sign of regality the world over with French and English nobility using them as hunting dogs, so they are very ‘classy’ minded and thus very acclimated to any habitat that is comfortable to them.

They are of course very powerful hound dogs though. They make EXCELLENT companions as they like to accomplish activities WITH you rather than as a gesture FOR you like most dogs like to give presents, Greyhounds like to get presents WITH you.

Conclusion – the type of dog you choose depends on your personality

Many, many dogs in the world were evolved to be best friends with humans just like you, so really don’t be afraid to go to your local pound and check out any dog you might like! All dogs are good inherently, it just takes time and love to train them.

Looking for a quiet dog? Check out our informational piece on quiet dogs!

The post Different types of dog breeds for different personalities appeared first on We Love Our Pets.

If that’s not compelling enough of a reason to love cats as the best pet on the planet – just admit it! – and that they’re worth understanding how to communicate with. Speaking to cats through meows isn’t as crazy of a concept as you would think if you’re new to being a cat owner and this is a foreign concept, or you simply haven’t connected properly with your cat to interpret its meowing. 

Listening & Speaking to Cats: What Does Their Meowing Mean?

While cats will use the devices and senses of facial expressions, scent, touch, and other body language in order to speak to cats around them, besides their mother – you’re the only one your cat is going to be meowing to. When just kittens, they give out tiny little meows to get their mother’s attention but drop the meowing as they grow.

Reason for Meowing: Speaking to Cats by Identifying Their Meows 

When your cat is meowing to you, it’s like it is doing the same thing because it must try to communicate with somehow, but the better you are at being receptive to what your cats’ meows indicate, you’ll have a better and easier time with speaking to cats with meows.  If you take a look at different reasons why a cat may be meowing at you, you’ll be able to very easily gain a grasp and better-applied understanding of speaking to cats. 

What is Your Cat Meowing?

Pain or hurt. Your cat’s meows can sometimes mean that they’re trying to tell you that there’s something wrong with them illness wise or if they’re in pain. They will meow in excess and repeatedly, and if your cat begins to suddenly meow in excess and doesn’t stop, you should take them to see a vet.

Hello. Cats love greetings. One of their favorite ways to do so is with a nice, big meow, although every cat hi’s are all a bit different from one to the next. The feeling is a really big feeling of appreciation and bond between cat and owner. Speaking to cats starts with these simple meow greetings. 

Feed me. Your cat will often resort to a meow or two to let you know that they’re hungry. A low toned and bit drawn out meow, can sometimes help you identify the meow sound and what your cat is trying to tell you and if so, that it is probably hungry. Cats have no problem communicating this one to you and will sometimes learn how to use meowing against you to get want they want – mostly food.

In conclusion: Cats Have Emotions, just like you.

Stressed Out, Man. Your cat has emotions too. Serious ones. Just like you and me. After all, that’s why you’re here – to learn how to literally get in tune with your cat the best with how to learn to effectively be speaking to cats through meowing. Cats will give meows out and act much more vocal when they’re stressed and are prone to having anxiety.

Keeping your cats calm after any large noises or disrupt in your household can help build more trust and bond between your cat when they come out of their hiding to meow and let you know they need your comfort. 

Are you looking to make a difference? Check out Cats Vets!

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As a cat owner, or nearly any pet owner for that matter, you’ll eventually find yourself asking – how can I understand what my cat is thinking? You can bridge your understanding on speaking to cats by ultimately understanding their body language. It’s usually a dead giveaway, anyways!

Body Language is the Lingo When Speaking to Cats 

There’s plenty of messages, meaning, and feeling that a cat can convey but it’s up to us to pick up on it if we want to understand their feelings even further or in day to day encounters with speaking to cats and listening to what their body language is saying.

Some of the cat expressions that are used as signals of a sort to convey that message include body posture, vocalizations, eyes, and many other facial expressions. Often times the signals are there for cats to communicate that they are uncomfortable or scared, or utilize their expressions to avoid confrontation altogether that may be unwelcome at the time. 

Understanding the body language of speaking to cats, and how you can easily go on to decipher between the different postures, just takes some patience and paying attention in order to prevent any potential harm or aggression to or from your cat, and overall, have a grasp on when they are showing you extra or stronger emotions. 

How Cats Speak With Belly Body Language 

If you’re a cat owner then you’ve probably found yourself in a familiar scenario: when your cat seems to happily roll over and expose its belly like a dog. But the twist is that almost always, your friendly little feline pet is suddenly meeting you with aggression when you go to pet its belly. This is because your cat is extremely relaxed when they stretch out and roll over to rest like this and show off their comfortability. Cats can sometimes show their defense or fright through this maneuver if they find it difficult to be put in a position it can’t escape, and rubbing them when they’re overturned can do that.

Speak to Cats with Eyes and Blinking

The “fluttering blink” is a clear indication of communication from your cat. You’re one step away from speaking to cats by paying attention to their eye expressions. If your cat is slowly blinking, then you should know that your cat is indicating it’s around someone it trusts a lot. Cats will tend to blink slowly or close its eyes only when in the presence of someone they trust a lot.

Speaking to Cats and What the Halloween Tail Pose Means

You can look to some pretty clear places to get answers from attempting to speak to your cat through body language. One of the most common things to pay close attention to is the tail of your cat. When it is up in the air or held upright, this indicates confidence.

On the other hand, curled tails on human legs and laps mean utmost friendliness. However, if their own tails are tucked between their legs, this could mean they are feeling anxious or insecure. Finally, the classic Halloween pose with a very upright tail can be a straight giveaway for defensive or aggressive cat behavior, and you should avoid this cat if so.  

If this article has interested you, feel free to check out our section on dogs, cats, or even birds! Cheers!

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