Few things tug at your heartstrings more than your puppy gazing longingly at your dinner plate. One adorable, pleading look can make you want to give in and share your meal (understandably so, those puppy eyes are powerful!). But before slipping them a bite, it’s important to know what’s safe and what’s not. Puppies are still growing, and while some people food can make healthy treats, others are harmful or even toxic. Knowing what foods puppies can eat helps you give them safe, nutritious treats while avoiding harmful options.
Your pup depends on you to make the right choices. A small “treat” from your plate can either boost their nutrition or send you racing to the vet. Knowing what’s safe and what’s not keeps your puppy healthy while giving you peace of mind.
Puppies can begin sampling small amounts of safe human foods once they’re weaned and fully eating puppy kibble, usually around 8 weeks old. Keep portions tiny and occasional. People food should never replace a balanced puppy diet, but it can be a fun way to add variety. Think of it as a bonus treat, not the main course.
Some people foods are safe and even nutritious for puppies when served properly:
Carrots – Crunchy, low-calorie, and packed with vitamin A. Perfect for teething pups and great for dental health when chewed raw.
Apples (no seeds or core) – A sweet source of vitamins A and C, plus fiber. Slice thinly to avoid choking hazards.
Blueberries – Tiny antioxidant powerhouses that support brain health. A great training treat because of their small size.
Pumpkin (plain, cooked, or canned) – Rich in fiber and gentle on digestion. Helps with both diarrhea and constipation when served in spoonfuls.
Bananas – Loaded with potassium, vitamins, and fiber. Best given in small chunks due to their natural sugar content.
Cooked Chicken or Turkey (plain, no seasoning) – A lean protein that supports growing muscles. Shred into small pieces and avoid skin or fat.
Salmon (cooked, boneless) – High in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote a shiny coat and healthy skin. Never serve raw or with bones.
Plain Rice or Pasta – Bland but filling, and great for soothing an upset stomach. Serve plain, without sauces or butter.
Cheese (low-fat, in moderation) – Pups love cheese, and it can be a good training reward. Stick to small amounts to avoid tummy troubles.
Other foods should never be given to puppies, as they can cause illness or worse:
Chocolate – Contains theobromine, toxic to dogs and especially harmful to puppies. Dark chocolate is the most dangerous.
Grapes and Raisins – Even tiny amounts can cause sudden kidney failure. Best to avoid completely.
Onions, Garlic, and Chives – These damage red blood cells and can lead to anemia. They’re unsafe in any form—raw, cooked, or powdered.
Avocado – Contains persin, which upsets a puppy’s stomach and can be dangerous in large amounts.
Macadamia Nuts – Known to cause weakness, tremors, and vomiting in dogs. Never feed them.
Xylitol (artificial sweetener in gum, candy, and some peanut butters) – Extremely toxic. Even a small lick can cause low blood sugar, seizures, or liver failure.
Alcohol and Caffeine – Both can cause rapid heart rate, seizures, and even death. Never let your pup near coffee, soda, or cocktails.
Fatty or Fried Foods – Can trigger pancreatitis, stomach upset, and long-term weight issues.
Cooked Bones – Dangerous because they splinter and can choke or injure your puppy’s digestive tract.
Sharing meals feels natural to your pup because they see you as family, part of their pack. But the safest way to bond is with approved snacks and nutritious treats.
Knowing which foods are safe (and which are dangerous) is a vital part of raising a healthy pup. By sticking to dog-friendly options and avoiding risky ones, you’ll keep your puppy safe while still making them feel included at the table. After all, a healthy puppy is a happy puppy. And that’s the best treat of all!
Autumn is calling, and it’s not just your closet that’s ready for a seasonal refresh. Cozy knits, plaid scarves, pumpkin patch photo ops… fall is the moment for fashion. And honestly, why should pups miss out? Dressing your furry sidekick in chic, comfortable, and seasonal styles isn’t just cute, it’s practical. With dropping temperatures and plenty of outdoor adventures ahead, your pup deserves to look as fabulous (and as snug) as you do. After all, nothing turns heads faster at the pumpkin patch than a puppy in perfect fall fashion.
1. The Fall Sweater Edit
From chunky knits to sleek turtlenecks, sweaters are autumn essentials. They provide warmth on crisp walks, prevent chills for smaller or short-haired pups, and look utterly adorable layered with a bandana. Marled greys, pumpkin orange, or rich burgundy are perfect for cozy couch cuddles and apple orchard strolls. Choosing the right fall dog clothes ensures your furry friend stays stylish while staying protected from chilly breezes.
2. Plaid Bandanas
Plaid is practically the official print of fall. A soft flannel bandana is an easy way to give your pup instant autumn style. It’s lightweight, comfy, and a subtle nod to the season. Plus, no one can resist a dog in plaid posing in a leaf pile. It’s fall postcard perfection!
3. Quilted Coats
For pups who like a little sophistication, a quilted jacket is the epitome of country chic. These coats are light enough for active play but insulated enough to block chilly breezes. They pair beautifully with long walks through crunchy leaves or a fireside cuddle afterward.
4. Pumpkin Patch Prints
Pumpkin-themed harnesses, collars, or bow ties make your pup part of the seasonal celebration. These accessories are festive without being fussy, ideal for pups who prefer less clothing but still want to match the fall vibe.
5. Cozy Hoodies
Hoodies keep things casual, comfy, and fun. They’re great for pups who love lounging indoors but need a little extra warmth when heading out. Opt for neutral tones or even witty slogans like “Pumpkin Spice Pup” for that cozy and playful touch.
6. Raincoats for Drizzly Days
Autumn showers happen, and nothing spoils a walk faster than a soggy pup. A waterproof raincoat in a cheerful color keeps your dog dry and stylish. Bonus: it saves you from toweling off a mud-splattered pooch afterward.
7. Protective Booties
Wet leaves, mud, and chilly pavements can be tough on paws. Booties add both flair and function by shielding delicate pads while looking fashion-forward. They’re especially handy for dogs who dislike dirty paws (or for owners who dislike muddy floors!).
8. Seasonal Accessories
Felt hats, pumpkin-colored bows, or autumn-hued harnesses, accessories bring the whole look together. They’re the finishing touch that takes your pup from “cute dog” to “fall fashion icon.” Perfect for family photos or Instagram-ready snaps.
Tips for Dressing Your Pup
Safety Meets Style
Dressing up your fur baby for fall is a lot of fun. But always keep this in mind: Fashion should never come at the expense of your pup’s comfort. Avoid outfits with loose strings, dangling charms, or buttons that could be chewed off. Always supervise your dog in clothing to ensure they don’t get tangled or overheated. Rain gear and sweaters should allow for natural movement, and nothing should interfere with bathroom breaks.
And remember, as adorable as she may look, if your pup shows signs of stress such as scratching, biting at the outfit, or refusing to move, swap for something simpler like a seasonal bandana. Safety and style should always go hand in hand.
This fall, let your pup join you in embracing all things warm, whimsical, and pumpkin-spiced. With the right wardrobe, your furry best friend will not only stay warm but also become the chicest member of your autumn adventures. So dress them right, keep them cozy, and watch every tail wag double as the accessory of the season!
We often think of keeping dogs healthy in terms of food, walks, and vet visits. But a truly thriving dog needs more than physical care. They need experiences that engage their mind and senses. That’s where canine enrichment and mental stimulation come in. These aren’t just buzzwords; they’re essential for a dog’s emotional well-being, preventing boredom-related behaviors and even extending their quality of life.
Canine enrichment refers to activities, environments, and interactions that encourage dogs to use their natural instincts, from sniffing and scavenging to solving problems and exploring new textures. It’s not only about “keeping them busy” but about creating opportunities for curiosity and choice.
Studies show that enrichment improves a dog’s resilience, confidence, and adaptability. By offering variety in sights, smells, sounds, and challenges, enrichment mimics the stimulation dogs would naturally encounter in the wild. Whether it’s hiding treats in the garden or introducing new play equipment, enrichment feeds their senses and instincts.
While enrichment focuses broadly on sensory and instinctual engagement, mental stimulation targets the brain’s need for problem-solving and learning. It’s the canine equivalent of reading a good book or doing a crossword puzzle. Mental challenges help strengthen neural pathways, build memory, and keep aging brains sharper.
For example, teaching a dog a new trick or introducing a puzzle toy engages cognitive skills, focus, and patience. Additionally, research suggests that mentally active dogs are less likely to develop anxiety or destructive habits.
Canine enrichment isn’t just a pastime; it’s essential for your dog’s health and development. Regular mental stimulation sharpens the brain, promotes problem-solving, and lowers the risk of cognitive decline. Research shows that dogs who enjoy daily enrichment have less stress, better emotional balance, and improved learning skills. Mental workouts can also be as tiring as physical ones, helping to burn off excess energy in a healthy way.
Boredom often leads to unwanted behaviors like barking, chewing, digging, or hyperactivity. Enrichment activities channel natural instincts, such as sniffing, chasing, foraging, into productive outlets, preventing frustration-based misbehavior. Dogs are natural problem-solvers and hunters; giving them engaging tasks redirects their energy toward rewarding experiences that strengthen the human-animal bond.
Enrichment also supports emotional resilience and overall well-being. Interactive games, puzzle toys, and scent work keep minds active while reducing anxiety, especially in high-energy or easily stressed breeds. Paired with physical exercise, these challenges improve heart health, muscle tone, and coordination. Just as people thrive with mental and physical engagement, dogs need both to lead balanced, confident, and happy lives.
Replace a standard food bowl with puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing toys. These make your dog work for their meal, turning eating into a problem-solving exercise. It encourages focus and slows down fast eaters, aiding digestion.
Let your dog dictate the pace and sniff everything. Sniffing engages their olfactory senses (dogs have up to 300 million scent receptors!) and offers rich mental stimulation far beyond a standard brisk walk.
Teach commands beyond “sit” and “stay,” like “spin,” “find it,” or “put away toys.” Learning keeps their brain active and strengthens your bond through positive reinforcement.
Hide treats, toys, or even yourself in another room and let your dog find them. This taps into their hunting instincts and problem-solving abilities.
Fill a box with safe objects of varying textures, smells, and shapes such as crumpled paper, tennis balls, or cloth. Let them dig, sniff, and explore freely.
Scatter kibble in the grass or around the house. This encourages foraging, which is a deeply satisfying and natural behavior for them, and makes mealtimes more engaging.
Try agility, scent work, or rally obedience. These structured activities challenge both mind and body while promoting focus and coordination.
Instead of leaving all toys out at once, rotate them weekly. The novelty keeps your dog’s interest high and prevents boredom.
Canine enrichment and mental stimulation are not luxuries. They’re fundamental to a dog’s health and happiness. By weaving these activities into daily life, you’re not just preventing boredom; you’re nurturing a confident, curious, and content companion.
Every sniff, puzzle, and challenge is an investment in your dog’s well-being, and in the joy they bring to your life.
Bringing home a new puppy isn’t just about cuddles and Instagram-worthy moments. It’s the start of a relationship that’s part joy, part challenge, and entirely life-changing. From the moment those tiny paws step into your home, your dog is learning. Learning about you, about the world, and about how they fit into it. That’s where training becomes more than just a task, but the foundation for a happy, confident, and well-adjusted canine companion.
Training isn’t just about “sit” and “stay.” It’s about building trust, creating boundaries, and helping your dog thrive in everyday life. A well-trained dog is safer, easier to manage, and more confident. Early training reduces unwanted behaviors like jumping, chewing, and barking. It also fosters a stronger bond, as your dog learns to look to you for guidance.
The best time to start training is as early as eight weeks old. At this age, puppies are like sponges, keen to absorb new experiences and cues. Keep lessons short, fun, and positive, as young pups tire quickly. A calm, distraction-free environment works best in the beginning, but gradually introducing mild distractions will help them generalize their skills to the wider world. Socialization, exposure to different environments, and consistency from all household members will also accelerate learning.
1. Border Collie
Characteristics: Intelligent, energetic, and focused.
Why They’re Easy to Train: Border Collies are often called the “Einsteins” of the dog world. They thrive on mental stimulation and love having a job to do. Their strong work ethic and quick learning make them excel at obedience and agility training.
2. Poodle
Characteristics: Smart, versatile, and eager to please.
Why They’re Easy to Train: Poodles, whether toy, miniature, or standard, combine intelligence with a cooperative temperament. They respond quickly to training and excel in advanced tricks and competitive sports.
3. German Shepherd
Characteristics: Loyal, alert, and confident.
Why They’re Easy to Train: Often used in police and service work, German Shepherds are driven, obedient, and quick to learn complex commands when given clear, consistent guidance.
4. Golden Retriever
Characteristics: Friendly, patient, and people-oriented.
Why They’re Easy to Train: Goldens are natural pleasers. They respond well to positive reinforcement and are calm enough to focus, making them great family dogs.
5. Labrador Retriever
Characteristics: Outgoing, playful, and adaptable.
Why They’re Easy to Train: Labs are motivated by both food and praise, making them quick learners. They excel in service work and family settings alike.
6. Doberman Pinscher
Characteristics: Fearless, loyal, and intelligent.
Why They’re Easy to Train: Dobermans bond closely with their owners, which fuels their eagerness to follow commands and protect their household.
7. Papillon
Characteristics: Alert, lively, and curious.
Why They’re Easy to Train: Don’t let their size fool you! Papillons are fast learners and excel in agility sports thanks to their sharp minds.
8. Shetland Sheepdog
Characteristics: Gentle, intelligent, and responsive.
Why They’re Easy to Train: Shelties thrive in structured environments and pick up commands quickly due to their herding instincts.
9. Rottweiler
Characteristics: Confident, protective, and devoted.
Why They’re Easy to Train: With early socialization, Rottweilers respond well to clear, firm, yet positive training, excelling in obedience work.
10. Bichon Frise
Characteristics: Playful, charming, and social.
Why They’re Easy to Train: Bichons are people-oriented and eager for attention. Their happy disposition means they respond well to gentle, positive reinforcement and thrive in interactive training sessions.
Quick Training Tips for Success
Choosing a trainable breed can make life easier, but every dog has the potential to be a star student with the right guidance. Start early, stay consistent, and remember that training isn’t just about commands. It’s about creating a lifelong partnership built on trust, respect, and a whole lot of tail wags. So grab those treats, cue “sit,” and let the sweet, unforgettable journey begin, one wag at a time.
Ah, puppy zoomies. The adorable, chaotic, slightly perplexing and undeniably entertaining puppy trademark. When your pup suddenly dashes ’round the lawn like a rocket-fueled blur, you know you’re in for legendary times. These bursts of energy are more than just super cute; they can also actually reveal your fur baby’s summer vibe. Understanding your puppy’s zoomie style can help you match their energy, leading to an epic sun-soaked season together!
Puppy Zoomie Style: Quick sprints around the sprinkler peppered with some belly-flop dives
Summer Vibe: Clearly, your pup was made for the water. Splash Seekers enjoy puddles to pounce in or even a backyard hose party. These fur babies thrive beachside, poolside, or chasing ripples at the lake. Don’t forget to bring a towel with you!
Puppy Zoomie Style: Runs with purpose, often towards their leash or the car
Summer Vibe: This fur baby is always on adventure mode. Trail Blazers are all about road trips, weekend on the mountains, and sniff-worthy trails. Give ’em the right gear and pack the right snacks, and they will happily hike for hours. Just say GO and they’re already on a mad dash out the front door.
Puppy Zoomie Style: Speedy figur-eights, wild spins, and lawn-leaping shenanigans
Summer Vibe: Oh, this one’s a furry little social butterfly! Backyard Acrobats bring playful energy to every celebration, picnic, or outdoor BBQ. Blow some bubbles to go along with their bubbly personality, or set up a mini agility course. They’ll steal the limelight, most definitely (and maybe a hotdog or two).
Puppy Zoomie Style: Leisurely jogs capped off with theatrical grass flops
Summer Vibe: Cool and quiet, your puppy is the very embodiment of chic nonchalance. Chill Chasers are all about shaded patches of lawn and frozen treats, thankyouverymuch. Not one for chaos, they’ll politely attend your sunny gathering and then doze off like it’s their full-time job. No rushing for this one; things are much cooler at their easygoing pace.
Puppy Zoomie Style: Explosive, erratic, and cutely captivating
Summer Vibe: This puppy is, quite simply, pure joy in motion. Fireworks adore spontaneous park runs, surprise outings, and chasing butterflies in the garden. These fur babies are your sparkly reminder to enjoy each moment and be absolutely present. And also maybe to puppy-proof the lawn furniture, yes?
Whatever your puppy’s zoomie style may be, their summertime personality shines brightest when doing what they love. Stock your fridge with frozen treats, grab that leash, and map out a summer that is just as tail-waggingly fun, free, and joyful as they are!
Because when your puppy’s happy, summer’s even more cheery!
Chic and functional puppy accessories equals sunshine, staycations, and style for our fur babies. Summer is officially in full swing, and we’ve swapped out our cozy knits for sunnies and sandals. Just like us, our pups deserve the right puppy accessories to strut their stuff. Slaying the sizzling season is on the agenda, and your pup can be every inch as fashion-forward – and functionally prepped! – as we are.
The best stylish puppy accessories for summertime keep them looking tres chic AND keep them safe, cool, and comfy while turning heads. From goggles to paw balms and more, here’s a rundown of ten must-have puppy accessories for the ultimate hot weather wardrobe that blends function and fashion!
These bandanas absolutely scream summer, and they help beat the heat. They’re made from gel-filled or moisture-wicking fabric. Soak in water, wring out, tie on, and voila! These puppy accessories are max chill and max chic.
Absolutely adorable, we know. They’re also incredibly helpful in protecting your fur baby’s peepers from dust, wind, and UV rays. A must, especially if your pup loves to stick their head out the car window. Oh, and it makes for great Instagram content too!
Warmer temps mean swapping out bulky and stuffy gear for lightweight, breathable harnesses. These reduce overheating and come in a wide array of stylish designs, from color-blocked pastels to tropical prints.
Straw hat = summertime. Did you know that there are puppy versions that come with ear holes and adjustable straps to stay secure and totally comfy? And doggy visors are just the thing for sportier types who prefer a more laid-back aesthetic.
Alright, so these are not puppy accessories per se, but totally essential. Surfaces can get hot, and you wouldn’t want your pup’s paw pads to suffer. Keep paws soft, protected, and Insta-ready with a soothing, non-toxic balm.
Functional and fashionable, these cooling vests help lower your puppy’s body temperature. Just soak in water and let your fur baby rock ’em during outdoor adventures for a chill vibe under the sun. Plus, they look pretty sleek.
Flamingos, surfboard, or surfboard prints embody the season’s tropical vibe and elevate your puppy’s everyday walk attire. These fun designs make any puppy accessory pop, and they also bring out your pup’s personality.
Puppies can get tired very fast in the heat. When the walking gets ruff, a ventilated puppy backpack or breathable mesh carrier tote lets you carry them in a comfy and stylish fashion.
Hydration is key — but make it fashion. Make sure your pup stays stylishly hydrated with sleek, collapsible travel bottles designed for dogs. They even come in pastels or vibrant colors to match your summer palette.
Pool time is fun time for pups. If your fur baby’s all about making waves this season, a life jacket is vital. Skip the boring, basic ones and go for fashionable colors and sleek fits. Jazz things up with mermaid tails or shark fins or whatever fits your fancy!
This season, don’t let your fur baby miss out on the fashion fun while out in the sun. The right puppy accessories can elevate style and keep your four-legged bestie safe and cool. After all, the dog days of summer gets even better with a splash of glam.
Undoubtedly, all puppies charm us with their big eyes and clumsy paws. However, beyond this universal cuteness lies something truly special. Specifically, we find those unique, quirky aspects of puppy behavior that, essentially, make your puppy, well, yours. Therefore, does your furry friend perform a particular move, perhaps a ‘signature’ flourish that always makes you smile?
First, we aren’t just talking about learned commands such as ‘sit’ or ‘stay’. Instead, puppies often invent their own signature moves or quirks. For example, specifically consider that funny head tilt right when the treat bag rustles, or the way they furiously shake only the squeaky hedgehog toy. Alternatively, perhaps your pup lets out that dramatic, world-weary sigh just before flopping down for a nap.
Furthermore, similarly, maybe your puppy reserves a specific wiggle-butt dance only for dinnertime, twists into a hilarious pretzel sleeping position, or even uses that one distinct yip meaning ‘play with me NOW!’ Indeed, these examples showcase endearing puppy behavior that ultimately defines their budding personality.
So, why focus on these funny little quirks? Primarily because they offer glimpses into your puppy’s unique character! Thus, celebrating these habits helps us understand and appreciate their individual puppy behavior. In turn, we see them as the unique beings they are, certainly not just generic balls of fluff.
Moreover, additionally, these signature moves often bring unexpected laughter into our day and also remind us not to take every aspect of puppy behavior too seriously. Plus, noticing these specific details actively strengthens our bond. Essentially, we’re truly seeing and appreciating them for exactly who they are.
Therefore, take a closer look today! What signature move does your puppy perform? Perhaps it’s a goofy grin, a peculiar pounce, or even a special snuggle technique? In conclusion, ultimately, recognizing and cherishing these adorable quirks forms part of understanding the full spectrum of puppy behavior as well as the joy of puppy parenthood. Indeed, they represent the secret ingredients that truly make your bond one-of-a-kind.
Bringing a new puppy home is incredibly exciting, but we know the thought of training can sometimes feel overwhelming amidst the fun. If you’re wondering about the best approach to train your puppy, forget outdated methods relying on force or intimidation.
Positive reinforcement training (+R) stands out as the kindest, most effective method, widely recommended by veterinary behaviorists and certified professional dog trainers. Let’s explore why this science-backed method works wonders and how you can confidently start using its power today.
So, what makes positive reinforcement so effective and the preferred method for professionals? It focuses scientifically on rewarding the behaviors you want to see more of. When your puppy performs a desired action — like sitting politely or coming when called — you immediately add something they value (a reward).
This simple exchange does several powerful things, aligning with principles supported by leading organizations like the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB):
Ready to train your puppy using this positive power? Starting is simpler than you might think, even if you’re a first-time puppy owner:
Positive reinforcement training is more than just teaching commands; it’s the most effective and kind way to train your puppy and build a lifelong foundation of trust, communication, and joy. Be patient — learning takes time. Stay consistent — everyone in the household should ideally use the same positive methods. Celebrate the small successes along the way!
While +R is powerful for everyday training, if you encounter significant behavior challenges (like fear, anxiety, or aggression), consulting a certified professional dog trainer (like a CPDT-KA) or a veterinary behaviorist (DACVB) is always recommended. By embracing positive reinforcement as you train your puppy, you’re choosing a path that nurtures a confident, happy, and well-behaved companion.
Have you ever wondered what’s going on inside your puppy’s mind? From their playful zoomies to their curious head tilts, puppies have a fascinating way of experiencing the world. While we don’t speak the same language, science has given us insights into how puppies think, feel, and communicate. Puppy behavior isn’t much of a secret than you’d expect!
In this blog, we’ll explore the secret life of puppies—decoding their thoughts, emotions, and general puppy behavior so you can better understand and bond with your furry friend.
Puppies’ thoughts revolve around three main things: food, play, and connection.
Even well-fed puppies display scavenging behaviors—it’s instinct!
Puppies experience their surroundings in fascinating ways.
Your puppy is always communicating, even when they aren’t barking.
Yes! Puppies dream just like humans. Ever noticed your pup twitching or making little noises while sleeping? That’s a sign they’re in REM sleep, the dreaming stage.
Puppies don’t just love us because we feed them—they form genuine emotional bonds.
Puppies are fascinating, intelligent, and deeply emotional creatures. Understanding their unique way of experiencing the world can help you build a stronger connection with them.
Puppy facts can be pretty surprising especially when you realize just how clever those cute, cuddly furballs really are. Sure, they might chew your shoes or fall asleep in their food bowls, but behind those floppy ears is a fast-learning brain. So… are you smarter than a puppy? Let’s find out with 7 fun facts that might just blow your mind.
By the time they’re just a few months old, puppies can already learn over 100 words. Some smarty-paws have even learned up to 200! That’s basically toddler-level vocabulary. So if you think your pup doesn’t understand you… they might just be ignoring you.
That’s right puppies (and dogs in general) have up to 300 million smell receptors in their noses. Humans? A measly 5 million. So when your puppy sniffs every inch of the sidewalk like they’re solving a mystery, they kind of are.
Many people wait too long to start training, but here’s one of the coolest puppy facts: puppies are like little sponges around 8 weeks. They can learn simple commands, routines, and potty training super quickly—as long as you’re consistent (and have treats ready).
Ever seen your puppy twitching, whining, or doing little running motions in their sleep? That’s because they’re dreaming! Puppies spend more time in REM sleep than adult dogs, which means more adorable dream adventures.
Puppies have literally evolved to give humans “puppy dog eyes.” It’s not just a coincidence they’ve developed special facial muscles to raise their eyebrows and melt our hearts. It’s science… and manipulation, in the cutest form.
Puppies can actually pick up on your emotions especially fear, stress, and happiness through scent and tone. That’s why they always seem to know when you need a cuddle (or when to run away from your angry voice).
By five months old, a puppy’s brain is nearly full-grown. That means the early weeks are critical for socialization, learning, and setting good habits. Basically, your goofy little fluffball is way smarter than they let on.
So… Are You Smarter Than a Puppy?
Maybe! But puppies are definitely not just cute they’re clever, emotional, and constantly learning. The more you understand how their little brains work, the easier it is to train, bond, and raise a happy, healthy dog.
Now go impress your friends with your new puppy knowledge and give your pup a treat for being the furry genius they are.
If you’ve got a puppy in the house, you’ve probably already learned one thing—nothing is safe from those tiny, razor-sharp teeth! Puppy teething can turn almost anything into a chew toy. Shoes, chair legs, and couch pillows are all fair game. A teething pup will chew whatever they can get their teeth on. But don’t worry; this phase won’t last forever. With a little patience and plenty of chew toys, you and your pup will get through it with minimal damage.
Puppies go through puppy teething just like human babies. It’s not exactly a comfortable experience. As their new teeth come in, their gums can feel sore. Chewing helps relieve that discomfort. But chewing isn’t just about puppy teething. Puppies are also little explorers. They use their mouths to understand the world around them. Sometimes, they’re just bored and looking for something fun to do. Unfortunately, that “fun” often involves your favorite sneakers.
Got a teething pup at home? What’s been their favorite thing to chew? Hopefully, not your furniture! Share your puppy stories—we’d love to hear them!
Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting and life-changing experience. It’s a time filled with joy, but it also comes with responsibility. The first few days are crucial in setting up your puppy for a happy and well-adjusted life. Knowing what to do first can make the transition smoother for both you and your new furry companion.
Before your puppy even arrives, it’s important to have a designated area ready. This space should be quiet, secure, and free of any hazards. A crate or a small gated area can provide a safe place for your puppy to rest and adjust. Make sure to include a comfortable bed, water, and some chew toys to help them settle in. Puppies are naturally curious, so remove anything that could be dangerous, such as electrical cords, toxic plants, or small objects they might swallow.
Once your puppy arrives, allow them to explore their new environment at their own pace. Keep interactions calm and gentle to avoid overwhelming them. Show them their designated space and let them sniff around. Keep the initial introduction to a few rooms rather than giving them full access to the entire house right away. This helps prevent overstimulation and makes house training easier.
Dogs thrive on consistency, and starting a routine from day one will help your puppy feel secure. Set a schedule for feeding, potty breaks, playtime, and sleep. Take your puppy outside frequently, especially after eating, drinking, or waking up, to encourage proper house training. Keeping a regular routine will make it easier for them to learn expectations and settle into their new life.
One of the most important first steps is scheduling a vet appointment within the first few days of bringing your puppy home. A thorough check-up ensures your puppy is healthy and up to date on vaccinations. Your vet can also provide guidance on proper nutrition, flea and tick prevention, and general puppy care. If you haven’t already, ask about microchipping and discuss a deworming schedule if necessary.
Early socialization is key to raising a well-behaved and confident dog. Start exposing your puppy to different sights, sounds, and experiences in a positive and controlled manner. Introduce them to new people, other friendly dogs, and various environments while keeping the experiences stress-free.
Training should also begin immediately, even if it’s just basic commands like sit, stay, and come. Positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise, works best to encourage good behavior. Crate training and leash training should also start early to help your puppy develop good habits.
Feeding your puppy a high-quality, age-appropriate diet is essential for their growth and development. If you’re unsure which food is best, consult your vet for recommendations. Stick to a consistent feeding schedule and avoid giving table scraps or unhealthy treats that could upset their stomach. Always provide fresh water and monitor their eating habits to ensure they are getting the right nutrition.
Bringing home a puppy is a big adjustment for both of you. There will be accidents, chewed furniture, and restless nights, but patience and consistency will go a long way. Building trust and forming a strong bond takes time, so enjoy the process and celebrate small victories along the way. The love and companionship your puppy will bring into your life will make all the effort worthwhile.
By taking these steps from the very beginning, you’ll create a foundation for a happy, healthy, and well-adjusted dog. Your puppy depends on you for guidance, so making the right choices early on will set them up for success in their new home.
