Tips for Training and Keeping Your Active Chewer Busy

For many dogs, a few vigorous walks a day can help to keep them satisfied and prevent their destructive nature from peaking its ugly head out. But for some dogs, especially puppies, simply walking them just isn't enough to deter their instinctive nature to chew and destroy. We all know how frustrating it can be to try to stay patient after watching time and again your beloved new puppy destroy yet another pair of shoes. That's why this week, the PetCot Company is sharing with you a few tips for training and keeping your active chewer busy.

Kennel While You're Away
If you've got a stress-induced or bored chewer, perhaps it's in your (and their) best interest to keep them kenneled while you're away and unable to supervise. Start off by making sure they relate their kennel as a safe zone and not just a place for discipline. If you only use the kennel when they're being bad, they'll have negative feelings toward the kennel and you may have a very difficult time getting them to willingly go to their kennel, which could cause a whole new set of problems in itself. So use the kennel often, even while you're home, so they don't relate it as a bad experience and become comfortable spending time in it. By kenneling your dog while you're not there to supervise, you'll avoid destruction of your home and personal items, but you'll also avoid your dog chewing up something that could be harmful to their health.

Give Them Ways to Release Energy
Not only should you take your dog on walks to let out some of their pent up energy, but you should also provide them with ways to continue to release energy when they're in the house. Some great ways to do this are to create fun games that make them work for treats. As an example, you can hide treats around your home and send your beloved fur baby on a scavenger hunt to find them. You may have to lead them to the hiding spots the first few times you do this, but they'll catch on quickly and soon enough you'll be finding new hiding spots to challenge them! You can also give them durable toys to chew on that'll keep their interest for hours, such as Kongs filled with treats or peanut butter. Or go big and create a designated sand pit in the backyard that they can dig in. Whatever you choose to do, make sure that it'll keep your dog's interest, and routinely change it up to keep them from getting bored.

Teach Your Dog Right From Wrong
While it may not seem like it at first, dogs (even easily distracted puppies) love to please. So, how are you going to teach your dog right from wrong? Well, with consistency and patience, of course! But seriously. The trick is to SHOW your dog what is okay for them to chew on. How you can do this is anytime your dog is chewing on something they shouldn't be, take it away and firmly tell them "NO". Then immediately offer them something they CAN chew on. Once they take it, praise them! It's really that simple. By staying consistent and patient, your smart little pooch will quickly catch on that there are certain things they are okay chewing on, and will avoid the rest.

We hope that these tips will serve you well in the task of training and keeping your active chewer busy. Just remember, consistency and patience is the most important part of training any dog. And of course, for those destructive dukes in your life, make sure you've got a comfy place for them to rest their heads after you wear them out. Get a durable dog bed from PetCot. Our beds are one of the most durable on the market. If, however, your chewer does do damage to our premium raised beds, we offer affordable, easy to install replacement parts. Just replace the part - not the whole bed! Visit our website to order yours today!

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Basic Grooming Needs for Your Pet

Every day you perform basic grooming needs for yourself, from applying makeup, taking a shower, brushing your teeth, using deodorant, trimming your nails - the list is endless! You perform these tasks so that you look good when you go out in public, and even just looking good for yourself! Just like you need these things done, your pet needs a few basic grooming procedures performed. They may not need them every single day, but they do need to be done on a routine basis. Here are a few things you can remember to do for your pet to keep them looking their best!

BATHING

Sometimes your cat or dog may be leery of bathing, and if so, that's okay! There are a few steps you can take to help ease them into it - even if they're just baby steps. Start by preparing the bathing area with all of the supplies you'll need beforehand. You'll want to have the tub or basin filled with lukewarm water, a cup to pour water over them or a spray nozzle, and pet shampoo/conditioner. Every pet is different, so handle the bathing uniquely for them. Some pets like the tub already filled and ready to go when they jump in, others like to get into an empty tub and have you fill it. This will be about learning what they need individually, and taking it slow if they're leery. If it's warm outside you can always consider doing it outdoors with a hose or kiddy pool, especially if you have a larger dog. Bathing is an important step in pet grooming because it keeps their skin and hair clear of debris, and can help keep your house cleaner too!

BRUSHING

When you brush your pet, you're removing dirt and loose hair from their coat. This prevents mats and tangles, but can also help keep your house cleaner as well. Every dog will need a different brushing schedule based on the coat they have. If they have a long coat, you want to brush them at least every week, while if they have a longer coat you can get away with brushing it every few weeks. There are several different types of brushes you can choose from, and it's all based on your pet's comfort level with them. If your pet sees a groomer, you can try to choose a brush like theirs so that they are more comfortable with brushing no matter where they are.

TOOTH BRUSHING

Oral hygiene is just as important for your pet as it is for you. While it may take a few weeks to get your pet warmed up to the idea of brushing their teeth, it is possible and important. More than 85 percent of cats and dogs over four years old are affected by periodontal disease. You can also purchase special toys that are made to "floss" your pet's teeth, and treats that help with dental hygiene.

TRIMMING

If your dog's nails click on the floor as they walk, or if you press on the toe so that the nail extends fully and it curves beyond the bottom of the toe pad it is too long. Nail trimming can seem like an intense process, but sometimes you just need to take it slow. Many people take their dogs to a groomer to have this done, but if you are worried that it might be too much for your pet to take in, you can do it in the comfort of your own home. 

CARING FOR YOUR PET IN ALL-WAYS

At the PetCot Company, we take your pet's health serious in all ways, from grooming to sleeping. Our pet beds help with your grooming needs because they don't allow for any bugs to create a home in them. You can count on our premium pet beds to remain clean and sanitary, which helps you with all of the grooming. Plus, the added comfort of a raised pet bed means that your pet's joints are always being supported accurately. We want to help you care for your pet in every way possible, from grooming to using the best pet bed. Visit our website to learn more about our PetCots!

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5 Ways to be a Responsible Dog Owner

A dog's loyalty, devotion, and unconditional love is an unmatched reward that dog owners are so privileged to experience. But owning a dog isn't just a privilege. It's a huge responsibility. They require time, care, and undivided attention. If you're considering taking a dog in, you need to seriously consider the commitment that dog ownership takes. If you already have a dog, are you doing what you need to do to fulfill your obligations as a pet owner? This week, we're sharing with you 5 very important ways to ensure that you're being a responsible dog owner - take a look:

1. Be a Canine Ambassador
One irresponsible dog owner in town can make life difficult for dog owners all over. So, as a dog owner, you are responsible not only for your own dog's well being, but for the status of dogs everywhere. Having a friendly, clean, well-mannered dog reflects positively on the species and may help protect our rights to own companion animals. So when you are out with your dog, be respectful of local animals laws and of your neighbors, and make sure to pick up after your pet during walks. 

2. Promote a Healthy Lifestyle for Your Dog
Part of responsible dog ownership is to ensure a healthy lifestyle. There's a lot you must do to maintain your dog's health. First of all, it's important to schedule routine check ups with your veterinarian to keep track of your dog's health and keep up with vaccinations to prevent disease and illness. You also need to maintain your dog's hygiene to avoid ticks, fleas, and parasites. We offer easy-to-clean premium raised dog beds that help to prevent bacteria buildup and parasites. Groom and clip their nails routinely to avoid fur matting or injury. Feed your dog a well-balanced healthy diet to promote healthy weight, and exercise him regularly.

3. Keep Your Dog Safe and Secure
It's important to think about the safety of your dog BEFORE it's too late. Attach an identification tag with updated contact information to their collar. Microchipping is a method of permanently identifying your dog, and can be invaluable in recovering your dog should he become lost. Make arrangements for your dog's care when you go away. Enlist a family member or friend to take care of your dog in the event of a sudden illness, hospitalization or other emergency. 

4. Train Your Dog Even After Pup Stage
Teach your dog basic commands such as sit, stay, come and down. Training your dog will not only make your life easier, but can also keep your dog safe and well. Obedience classes can be a great experience for you and your dog. Not only will it give you a chance to get help with training, but it provides the perfect opportunity to socialize your dog. The more your dog learns of the world, the more comfortable he will be in it. By continuing to train your dog even after the puppy stage, you'll help your dog to remain a well-mannered member of society. Our pet care products are great for training!

5. Show Your Pooch Lots of Love

You are the center of your dog's world. You may be tired after a long day at work, but your dog has spent the day anxiously awaiting your return. Reward that loyalty with your time. Dogs love to play. Set aside time each day for play sessions. Take your dog on frequent walks. Give your dog treats. Scratch your dog's belly often. Include your dog in family activities. Make sure your dog has a cozy place to rest, such as a PetCot dog bed. Whatever it is you choose to do, you'll be showing your pooch just how much you love him by giving him your undivided attention, and that's all he really wants.

Owning a dog is a great privilege, as well as a great responsibility. And it's something that should not be taken lightly or without serious consideration. So, if you're a pet owner looking for ways to give back for all of the love and happiness your dog gives you, or if you don't have a dog but are considering getting one, we hope that these tips will help to serve you well.

A happy pet makes a happy owner, and a comfortable pet is a happy pet. Are you ready to see why purchasing a PetCot bed will be the last premium pet bed you have to purchase? You can visit our website to view all of the different sizes and colors we have available, and before you know it, it will be shipped to your door!

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A Healthy Balanced Diet Equals A Healthy Pet!

Your furry friend works hard to keep up with you! They run and play, nap and cuddle, and for all of that, they need the right nutrition to make sure they can continue to do all of these things. Whether you have a cat or dog, there are specific foods that your pet needs at different stages of their life so they can continue to live up to all of their potential. Here at the PetCot company, we realize the value of having the right tools, whether that's a raised pet bed or a delicious and nutritious dog food. Here are a few ways you can make sure you're getting the right food for your pet.

If you have any concerns about your pet's eating habits, what they should or shouldn't eat, or the quantity or quality - please consult your veterinarian for more information.

Consider Their Stage of Life

It's important to realize that your pet's stage of life can influence the types of food they need. While a young pet will need plenty of proteins and vitamins so they can build a strong frame as they grow, an older pet may need something that helps support their aging body and is easily digestible. Pet food isn't a one size fits all.

Look At The Ingredients

If you aren't sure what type of food to get, you can always start by looking at the ingredients on the bag. They will be in order of quantity used, so you'll want to see some form of meat or fish as the first or second item on the list. You'll also want to find appropriate amounts of protein, carbohydrates, fiber and fats in a pet food.

While there are some who choose to get a grain free or gluten free dog food, keep in mind that there are studies saying that your pet isn't allergic to gluten. If you have any concerns about your pets allergies or diet you'll want to talk to your veterinarian. They can run tests on your furry friend to find out exactly what is happening in their body, and choose a food that works with them.

Compare the Guaranteed Analysis

The Guaranteed Analysis can be found on the back of your pet food bag. The chart lists the percentages of the different ingredients contained in the food, but you have to remember that the numbers are on an "as fed" basis and they don't take into account the amount of moisture in the food. Because different foods have different moisture levels, you'll want to determine the actual levels of moisture by converting wet food to Dry Matter.

Take Time Switching Food

Once you've compared the foods and you're ready to make the switch, remember that it's important to make a slow transition between the new food and the old. There are normal bacteria in your dog's digestive system that allow them to digest their food, and when you suddenly change it on them, they can have adverse effects, and it can be harder for them to transition.

One Transition That Doesn't Take Long At All

Did you know, there's one transition that you probably won't have to go through slowly with your pet? When you bring a PetCot home, many pets fall in love with it immediately, and don't need a transition period to get used to it! Throw a few toys on it, add their favorite blanket, and they are generally hooked to their new favorite premium pet bed. And the best part, is you can plan ahead with this by getting a bed that your pup will grow into. We know you care for every aspect of your pet, so from food to bedding, PetCot is here to make sure you have what you need to love your pet longer! Visit our website to check out our products, and find the best one for you!

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