Dogs are great. There is almost nothing like the love and loyalty and joy that comes with canine companionship. What is better than a dog?

How about two dogs? Or three dogs?

What about more dogs?

At some point every pet parent begins to ask themselves that most important of questions…Should I get another dog?

That is quite a question. And don’t believe for one second that there is only one right answer. Like many questions when it comes to pet parenting, it all depends. On you. On your home....

Dogs need exercise.

That’s a simple fact of canine life.

The amount varies from one breed to another with some breeds needing a ton more than others. But no matter the breed, a daily walk is good for both you and your pet.

A recent study found that dog owners added an average of 3 miles and 22 minutes to their daily walk average. The health benefits are quite real.

But lacing up your shoes, putting a leash on your dog, and pounding the pavement consistently can be tough, especially if you ha...

Few things can be as exciting as bringing a new pet into your home.

But the experience can also lead to worry, especially if you are dealing with a dog that hasn’t been trained. Whether you’re adopting a puppy or a dog with a few years under his collar, there will be an adjustment period. Dogs can be curious. And that can lead to mischief. And that can uncover hazards and potential dangers throughout your home.

As a responsible pet owner, you want to prepare and create a safe haven for your ne...

I get this question from everybody when they find out I train dogs at a canine center:

"Is doggie daycare right for my dog?"

As the owner of Dog Gone Smart, one of the first doggie daycare centers in the USA, you might imagine I would tell everybody that sending your dog to doggie daycare is the perfect place for all dogs.

Well, this may shock you; I do not think Doggie Daycare and free play boarding facilities are the “right” choice for all dogs.

Many dogs love the dog-to-dog interaction at...

It can be tough not to shower your dog in treats and extra food. They give you so much love and affection, and nothing gets that tail wagging like something yummy. But more than half of all dogs in the U.S. are overweight or obese, and if your dog is among that statistic, there’s a reason your vet may suggest you cut back a little.

We have some tips for getting the weight off, as well as details on the health risks those extra pounds bring.

Is Your Pet Overweight?

The first thing you should d...

Just setting down a water bowl for your pets may not be enough, especially in the summertime. If you take your dog for long walks or have a strenuous play session, your pet may need even more. You’ll probably notice your dog heads straight to the water bowl after dinner or a salty treat.

Don’t count on your pet to know exactly how much hydration he needs, though. As a general rule, dogs should have one ounce of water per pound of body weight each day. But you can supplement the daily water bowl...

The warm weather months serve as a stark reminder that hydration is essential. If you’ve spent any time outdoors in hundred-degree temperatures, you’ve probably personally experienced the side effects of dehydration: nausea, weakness, and headaches, among others.

But what about your dogs?

Your pet experiences those hundred-degree temperatures alongside you. Even worse, many dogs are covered in at least a light coat of fur. It’s important to have water handy for your pet at all times, but how d...

Cancer is a serious health risk for older dogs, with about half of all dogs over the age of 10 predicted to develop cancer. If you have a senior dog in your life, you may read that statistic and immediately worry. But don’t. Recognizing the risk means you can do something to help out your furry friend.

As with humans, early detection is key to helping your dog survive cancer. There are a few things you can do, as a pet parent, to keep an eye out for cancer risk and head straight to the doctor i...

When the weather cooperates, a trip to the park is a great way for your dog to get some exercise and burn off all that excess energy. But the weather doesn’t always cooperate. When it’s rainy or chilly outside, your dog may still crave that exercise—not to mention some fun bonding time with his humans.

The good news is, there are plenty of games you can play indoors that will keep your dog engaged while also helping him get a little exercise and mental stimulation. Mental stimulation requiring ...

Few things can be as scary or emotionally unsettling as a missing dog. Not only does it put your pet at risk of harm, but you’ll likely fear that you won’t be able to find him again. If your dog gets out repeatedly, you may find neighbors start to complain and local animal control could even get involved.

But keeping a dog on your property can be a challenge, especially if you have a new puppy. Young puppies should never be outside without your close supervision. For older puppies and adult dog...