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Reviewing popular dog products.
Browse our list of some of the dog toys and tools that we've discovered, tried out, and shared our thoughts on!
iFetch Frenzy
✔️ Helps burn physical energy
✔️ Helps burn mental energy
The iFetch Frenzy is a dog toy that does a lot of the leg work (or arm work in this case) for you!
The iFetch is an automatic ball launcher that you can set up and teach your dog to use so that he/she has easy, ongoing access to a fun game of fetch.
Highly energetic dogs can definitely benefit from and enjoy this additional outlet for their physical stimulation (and mental, in the early days of this toy as they figure out just how it works).
As someone who has used this toy and works with a large number of dogs who have additional energy they’d love to burn, I do recommend this toy.
However.. just like with any, engaging dog toy (or any type of highly engaging activity), there are a few things you will want to keep in mind when using it.
1. Preventing an obsession. Dogs, especially young ones can easily form an obsession with this type of toy if it’s one they can access at any time, particularly when they’re already feeling very energized and excited. Therefore it’s important that your dog is at all times well socialized with this toy, in a way where he/she gets to interact with it in different ways.
Such as by eating food around it (snuffling, using their nose) and resting close to it. Doing so will prevent an obsession with the toy and the excitement it can bring. Toys can and should also be associated with relaxation and calmness. That way your dog has a few different ways of being and feeling around it, to prevent an obsession.
2. It doesn’t replace time with you. Activities and time with your are more important than anything else in your dog’s life, and although an automated toy like the iFetch can buy you a bit of time when you’re busy, it will never be as good and as fruitful and time and other enrichment activities that you can do together.
You want to make sure that any activity similar to this one is only a small part of the games and things you do together, as this can also help prevent any kind of obsession and further strengthen your bond around toys, people, and other environments.
3. It doesn’t meet all of your dog’s physical needs. The game of fetch in general is really only one of the few types of exercises you should be doing with your dog. Walking, jogging, running, chasing, tugging, crawling, jumping and many other types of activities are key when raising a dog.
So make sure that if you love playing fetch with your dog and are considering getting an iFetch, you’ve got all the other areas, and more, covered!
Recommended! 8/10
Agility Equipment
✔️ Builds on you & your dog's existing bond
✔️ Useful both indoors & outdoors
Got a really smart and energetic dog?
Agility equipment is one of the easiest ways to turn your home or backyard into the most fun and engaging environment for you and your dog!
You can keep the exercises light and easy, as you and your dog learn to work together to accomplish your goals, while further strengthening your bond and focus together.
Definitely recommend! 10/10
Brick Food Puzzle
✔️ Helps prevent boredom
✔️ Slows down eating
✔️ Burns mental energy
As one of the easiest puzzles out there, it's perfect for puppies and beginners. Supervised play is recommended. If your dog resorts to chewing, switch to a more physical game/activity before trying again.
Strongly recommend it! 9.8/10
Casino Food Puzzle
✔️ Helps prevent boredom
✔️ Slows down eating
✔️ Burns mental energy
Similar to other food puzzles, but a bit more advanced as it contains an optional added level of difficulty that allows you to lock the little drawers your dog will need to open to get the treats out. This food puzzle will require that your dog uses both his nose and paws to unlock and open each drawer.
Supervised play is recommended. If your dog resorts to chewing, switch to a more physical game/activity before trying again.
Strongly recommend it! 10/10
Cat Bell
✔️ Makes it easy for you to know when your puppy is waking up/getting up
There's nothing better for a pup than feeling like his/her needs are met before they even ask for it!
A cat bell is a great tool that you can use that lets you know when your puppy is waking up or getting up from their bed, which can then help you prevent unknown potty training accidents or a pup that's getting bored!
Useful for households with young puppies or small dogs! 10/10
Chew Toys
Make sure that you leave out only a couple of chew toys for your dog to chew on, but store the others away, so that when you rotate them, your dog will feel more interested in them. Here are some of the main benefits of chew toys:
Dental Health: Chew toys can help maintain good oral hygiene for dogs. The act of chewing on these toys can help reduce plaque buildup and tartar formation by mechanically cleaning the teeth. Some chew toys are designed with textured surfaces or ridges that can aid in cleaning teeth and massaging gums, promoting better overall dental health.
Anxiety and Boredom Relief: Dogs, especially when left alone, can experience anxiety and boredom. Chew toys provide a constructive outlet for their energy and anxiety. Chewing is a natural behaviour for dogs and can help alleviate stress by releasing calming endorphins. It can also prevent destructive behaviours like chewing on furniture or shoes that can occur due to boredom or separation anxiety.
Jaw Strength and Muscle Tone: Regular chewing on appropriate chew toys can help strengthen a dog's jaw muscles and improve overall muscle tone in their mouth. This can be particularly beneficial for growing puppies as well as older dogs that might experience some muscle loss due to aging.
Bonding and Playtime: Playing with chew toys can also serve as a bonding activity between dogs and their owners. Tug-of-war toys or interactive toys that encourage play can strengthen the bond and communication between humans and their furry friends. Sharing playtime helps build trust and companionship.
Sensory Stimulation: Many chew toys are designed with different textures, colours, and even scents to provide sensory stimulation for dogs. Exploring these sensory features through chewing can engage a dog's senses and provide mental enrichment beyond just physical and mental exercise.
Cooling Mats
✔️ Helps your dog cool off during warm weather or after physical games and exercises
✔️ Feeling cool will allow your dog to more easily be able to rest/sleep
Place the cooling mat inside your freezer and bring it out whenever you think your dog might be feeling a bit too warm, especially during summer, and particularly if you have a medium/long-haired breed.
Most useful for highly active dogs, and medium and long-haired breeds. 9.5/10
Crate Cover
✔️ Darkens crate area & minimizes noise, helping your dog sleep better/for longer
✔️ Similar to a den-like environment
Crate covers are amazing for dogs to be able to have their own den-like room that will encourage better and longer sleep!
Puppies will have an easier time sleeping in a setup that is darker and cooler, so a crate cover can be a great tool to help encourage your puppy to want to spend time in it!
Must-have! 10/10
Dog Bed
After you get your dog a new bed, if the previous one is being replaced because of destructive behaviour, you can help keep the new bed in shape by ensuring that your dog has access to it mainly when he's tired so that he is most likely to rest, but also provide him with a chewing alternative that is otherwise not available.
My previous dog Mila adored her dog bed! It wasn't just a place to sleep, it was her cozy haven, especially after long walks. Every night, she'd settle onto it at the exact same time. Her bed was where we got together for a bit, and where she would leave a few of her favourite toys.
Dog Water Bottle
✔️ Serves as an additional treat and reward that you provide for your dog
✔️ Provides you with an extra opportunity to engage with your dog while monitoring their water intake
There are never too many instances where you can take a moment to reconnect with your dog and share a treat together.
This treat in this instance is water and if you have a puppy, you can use this water bottle to keep track of their daily intake, to better prevent unwanted potty training accidents.
Must-have! 10/10
Doggy Car Seats
Explore and try a few different options, suitable for your dog's size.
The most important element will be to make sure that you socialize your dog with it, especially inside the car so that he feels comfortable when driving.
Car seats offer several primary benefits for dogs, especially for small breeds. These specialized seats are designed to enhance the safety and comfort of your furry friend while on the road. Here are some of the key advantages of using dog car seats for small dogs:
Safety: One of the most important benefits of using a dog car seat is the improved safety it provides. Small dogs are more vulnerable to injury during car rides due to their size and the potential for them to be thrown around in the event of sudden stops or collisions. A dog car seat helps secure your pet in place, reducing the risk of injury and keeping them safe in case of an accident.
Restrained Movement: Dogs can be curious and restless during car rides, which can be distracting for the driver and potentially dangerous. Dog car seats often come with harnesses or restraints that keep your small dog securely in place, preventing them from roaming around the vehicle and interfering with your driving.
Comfort: Dog car seats are designed with your pet's comfort in mind. They typically feature padded interiors, soft materials, and ergonomic designs that provide a cozy and cushioned space for your small dog to sit or lie down during the ride. This can make the journey more enjoyable for your pet, reducing anxiety and stress.
Reduced Motion Sickness: Some small dogs are prone to motion sickness while travelling in a car. A raised dog car seat allows them to see outside more easily, which can help alleviate motion sickness by providing them with a better view and reducing disorientation.
Prevent Distractions: Unrestrained pets can be distracting to drivers, leading to accidents or unsafe driving conditions. A dog car seat keeps your pet in one place, minimizing distractions and allowing you to focus on the road.
Prevent Damage to the Car Interior: Dogs, especially those that are anxious or unfamiliar with car rides, might scratch or damage the car's interior out of nervousness. A dog car seat provides a designated area for your pet, reducing the likelihood of damage to your car's upholstery or surfaces.
Elevated View: Many dog car seats are designed to elevate your pet, allowing them to have a better view of their surroundings. This can make the journey more enjoyable for your small dog, as they can see outside and feel more engaged with the environment.
Compliance with Regulations: In some areas, it's a legal requirement to properly restrain pets while driving. Using a dog car seat that complies with these regulations helps you avoid potential fines and legal issues.
Easy Cleaning: Dog car seats often come with removable and washable covers, making it convenient to clean up any messes or pet hair that accumulates during the ride.
Bonding and Comfort: Being close to you while driving can provide comfort to your small dog and strengthen the bond between you two. A dog car seat allows your pet to remain close without interfering with your driving.
When choosing a dog car seat, make sure to select one that is appropriate for your pet's size, weight, and needs. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines for installation and use to ensure maximum safety and benefits for your small dog.
Doggy Stairs
Your little one's knees and joints are super important and sensitive, at any age. But luckily doggy stairs can ensure that your pooch doesn't have to put unnecessary pressure when jumping down to get down from furniture.
Here's a list of benefits of doggy stairs, particularly for small dogs/breeds:
1. Joint Health: Small dogs are prone to joint issues, such as arthritis and hip dysplasia. Jumping on and off furniture can put unnecessary stress on their joints, exacerbating these problems. Dog stairs provide a gradual and supportive way for them to reach elevated surfaces, reducing the impact on their joints.
2. Injury Prevention: Jumping from heights can lead to injuries like sprains, strains, and even fractures in small dogs. Dog stairs offer a controlled and safe means of ascent and descent, minimizing the risk of accidents and injuries.
3. Spinal Health: Repeated jumping can strain a dog's spine, especially in breeds with long backs like Dachshunds. Dog stairs ensure that your pet maintains a more natural alignment while moving between different surfaces, promoting spinal health.
4. Weight Management: Small dogs are prone to obesity, which can worsen joint and mobility issues. Encouraging them to use stairs rather than jump can help manage their weight by reducing the impact on their joints and promoting regular, controlled exercise.
5. Aging Support: As dogs age, their mobility and agility can decline. Dog stairs become particularly beneficial for senior dogs that may struggle with jumping due to arthritis, muscle weakness, or other age-related conditions.
6. Dental Health: Some small dogs are predisposed to dental issues. Using dog stairs reduces the risk of dental problems caused by hard landings that can damage teeth or gums.
7. Confidence and Independence: Small dogs might hesitate to jump from high surfaces due to fear of falling or getting hurt. Having access to stairs can boost their confidence and encourage them to explore and move around independently.
8. Comfort and Quality of Life: Small dogs often enjoy being close to their owners on beds or couches. Providing them with an accessible way to join you enhances their comfort and overall quality of life.
9. Preventing Behavioral Issues: If a small dog struggles to get on and off furniture, they might become anxious or frustrated. This can potentially lead to behavioural problems. Dog stairs can mitigate these issues and contribute to a calmer and happier pet.
10. Long-Term Benefits: Using dog stairs as a preventive measure can contribute to your pet's overall well-being throughout their life, potentially reducing the need for costly veterinary visits and treatments related to joint or mobility problems.
It's important to introduce your small dog to the stairs gradually and positively, using treats and encouragement. Make sure the stairs are appropriately sized, stable, and positioned securely against the furniture. Regularly cleaning the stairs and monitoring your dog's mobility and comfort level will ensure they continue to experience the benefits of using them. Always consult your veterinarian for specific advice tailored to your dog's individual needs.
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