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Chew on This: Remedies for Chewing Dogs and Foods to Keep Out of Reach

Posted on January 23, 2024January 23, 2024 by matt_aldrich

Chewing is an innate and fundamental dog behavior, serving both practical and psychological functions.

On the practical side, it assists in maintaining oral health, aids in the teething process for puppies, and provides mental stimulation. Understanding why dogs chew is critical to managing their behavior and ensuring a healthy relationship between pet and owner.

Excessive chewing often signals unmet needs or underlying issues, such as anxiety, boredom, or nutritional deficiencies.

As responsible pet owners, a key aspect of managing this natural instinct is to provide safe and suitable outlets for chewing. This could include dog-friendly chew toys, chews, or interactive toys that positively stimulate their mental and physical energy.

It’s crucial to remember that a satisfied dog, with its chewing needs met, is often a happier, healthier dog overall. Let’s take a look at some remedies for chewing dogs and foods to keep out of reach.

Homemade Remedies for Chewing Dogs

Creating homemade remedies to deter dogs from chewing inappropriate items can be a cost-effective and safe solution.

Frozen Carrot Sticks

Frozen carrot sticks serve as a great homemade remedy for chewing dogs. Rich in vitamins and fiber, they provide a healthy snack option and an excellent tool for dental health. The hard texture of frozen carrots can effectively scrape off plaque on dogs’ teeth, acting similarly to a natural toothbrush and promoting good oral hygiene.

However, it’s important to ensure portion control when providing your dog with carrot sticks. While they are generally safe, excessive consumption can lead to an upset stomach. Moreover, carrots contain sugar, so overfeeding can potentially contribute to weight gain.

DIY Frozen Banana Bites

When fed in moderation, bananas can offer some nutritional benefits for dogs. Rich in potassium, vitamin B6, and vitamin C, these fruits can support heart and kidney health, boost the immune system, and promote skin and coat health. The high fiber content in bananas can also aid in digestion and help prevent gastrointestinal problems.

Always remember to remove the peel before offering a banana to your dog, as it can be tough for them to digest.

Peanut Butter-Filled Toys

Another homemade remedy to keep dogs from chewing unwanted items is filling their favorite toys with peanut butter.

Peanut butter offers a delicious and irresistible treat for dogs, and the texture can also help massage and clean their teeth while they chew on their toys.

Make sure to opt for natural, unsalted peanut butter without added sugars or xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.

Recommended Commercial Products

Aside from homemade remedies, various commercial products are available to help manage excessive chewing behavior in dogs. These include:

Bitter Apple Spray

Bitter apple spray is a popular remedy for preventing dogs from chewing on furniture, wires, or other household items. This spray contains a bitter taste that most dogs find unappealing, causing them to avoid the sprayed object. It’s important to note that while this product is generally safe for dogs, it may not be effective for all pets.

Interactive Puzzle Toys

Interactive puzzle toys are an excellent way to keep your dog mentally stimulated and prevent boredom-induced chewing. These toys typically require your dog to use problem-solving skills to access a treat hidden inside, providing physical and mental exercise. They can help redirect your dog’s chewing behavior onto a more appropriate outlet while promoting cognitive development.

Edible Dental Chews

Edible dental chews are a popular choice to manage a dog’s chewing behavior and promote oral health. These delicious treats reduce plaque and tartar buildup, freshen breath, and support healthy gums.

Stick to vet-approved brands and options to suit different needs. While dental chews are beneficial, they should complement regular brushing and veterinary checkups. Consult a veterinarian for suitable options and use them in moderation.

Durable Chew Toys

For dogs who love to chew, investing in durable chew toys can save your furniture and belongings from destruction. They are specially designed to withstand aggressive chewing and can provide a safe outlet for your dog’s natural instinct. Choose high-quality, vet-approved options that are appropriate for your dog’s breed and size.

Foods to Keep Out of Reach

While homemade remedies can be a great solution for managing chewing behavior, it’s also important to keep certain foods out of your dog’s reach.

Some common household items that are toxic to dogs and should be avoided include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and macadamia nuts. These foods can cause serious health problems, ranging from gastrointestinal distress to organ failure and even death.

Chocolate

Chocolate is a well-known hazard for dogs due to a toxic component called theobromine. Dogs cannot metabolize theobromine as efficiently as humans, leading to toxic accumulation in their system.

The darker the chocolate, the higher the concentration of theobromine, making it more dangerous. Ingesting chocolate can lead to various health issues in dogs, ranging from mild to severe.

Symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, seizures, and in severe cases, it can even be fatal. If you suspect your dog has ingested chocolate, it’s crucial to contact a veterinarian immediately. Always store chocolate in safe, unreachable places and educate everyone in the household about the dangers of feeding chocolate to dogs.

Grapes and Raisins

Grapes and raisins are notably toxic to dogs, with the potential to cause acute and potentially irreversible kidney damage. Grapes contain tartaric acid, and dogs are unable to process it.

The initial symptoms of grape or raisin toxicity in dogs may appear within a few hours of ingestion and include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, and lethargy. As the condition progresses, dogs may exhibit signs of dehydration, increased thirst and urination, or decreased urination in advanced cases. The progression of these symptoms may lead to kidney failure, which can be life-threatening.

Onions and Garlic

Onions and garlic are among the foods that should be kept away from dogs due to their toxic nature. These foods, belonging to the Allium family, contain organosulfides, compounds that can cause damage to a dog’s red blood cells, leading to a condition known as hemolytic anemia.

This condition can cause a range of symptoms, such as lethargy, weakness, discolored urine, and an increased heart rate.

It’s important to note that cooking doesn’t reduce the toxicity of these foods, so whether raw, cooked, or powdered, onions and garlic should be kept out of your dog’s diet. If you suspect your pet has consumed either of these substances, immediate veterinary care is essential.

Training and Behavioral Considerations

Training and socialization play crucial roles in managing a dog’s chewing behavior. Proper training, which includes teaching your dog what items are acceptable to chew, can significantly decrease unwanted chewing. This might involve redirecting their attention to suitable chew toys whenever they are interested in inappropriate items.

Socializing your dog with other animals and various environments can also help reduce excessive chewing. Socialization can help alleviate anxiety and boredom, two common triggers of inappropriate chewing. A well-socialized dog is typically more balanced and less likely to engage in destructive habits such as excessive chewing.

Remember, patience is key when training and socializing your dog. Positive reinforcement works best, so be sure to reward your dog when they chew on appropriate items. Consistency in training, combined with various suitable chew toys, can greatly improve your dog’s behavior over time, reducing the chances of them resorting to destructive chewing.

Finding the Right Solution

It’s important to remember that every dog is unique, and what may work for one pet may not be as effective for another. Be patient when trying different solutions and consult a veterinarian or professional trainer if necessary.

With proper care, training, and the right tools, you can successfully manage your dog’s chewing behavior and provide them with a safe outlet for their

Potty Training Your Puppy: Essential Tips for New Dog Owners

Posted on January 23, 2024 by matt_aldrich

Sure, those adorable puppy eyes and fluffy tails are irresistible, but remember, with great cuteness comes great responsibility. And that includes the not-so-glamorous but oh-so-essential task of potty training your pup!

House training is one of the first steps toward molding a happy, healthy, and well-behaved canine. It gives your puppy a sense of security, a safe haven they can call their own.

Not to mention, it’s a lifesaver for maintaining the cleanliness of your home (and your sanity!).

So let’s dive into some essential tips for new dog owners to ensure a smooth and successful potty training experience!

Understanding Potty Training

While potty training is necessary for your puppy’s development, it can also be challenging and frustrating.

Especially when you first start, it can seem like an impossible task, but with the right approach and some patience, your pup will soon learn the ropes.

We’ve gone through the process hundreds of times over the years, and while it’s different for every pup, keeping some key points in mind can help make the journey smoother.

Timing and Frequency

Puppies have small bladders and high metabolisms, so they must go to the bathroom more frequently than adult dogs. This can be challenging if you’re not home to allow them access to their potty area throughout the day.

Having a strict schedule for potty breaks and keeping track of your pup’s water intake can help you predict when they’ll need to go. In general, puppies need to relieve themselves:

After sleeping
After eating or drinking
After playing or being active

Reading Your Dog’s Signals

Your puppy will typically display certain behaviors when they need to go.

These might include sniffing around, pacing, and circling. If you’ve ever seen your puppy’s “dance,” you’ll know exactly what we’re talking about! In their minds, they are alerting you that they need to go outside.

That’s why it’s crucial to pay attention and understand their cues. Acting on these signals and getting them outside in time will help prevent accidents and build trust between you and your pup while you are house training.

Accidents Inside the House

Despite your best efforts, accidents will happen. It’s completely normal and an expected part of the learning process for your puppy.

As they explore and grow, they may have occasional mishaps. It’s important to handle these situations calmly and with patience. Instead of punishing, which can create fear and confusion, focus on positive reinforcement and gentle guidance.

Doing so will help your puppy understand the correct behavior and reinforce a loving and supportive bond.

Regression

Sometimes, a puppy that has been successfully potty trained will start having accidents again. This can be due to various reasons, such as environmental changes, stress, or medical issues.

Pay careful attention to your pup’s behavior and seek help from a veterinarian if needed. Remember, house training is an ongoing process, and it’s normal for dogs to have occasional setbacks. They are like toddlers in this way, so don’t get discouraged!

Consistency

If you only take one thing away from this article, let it be the importance of consistency.

Sticking to a schedule and approach is crucial for success regarding potty training. It takes time and effort, but in the long run, it will pay off. Puppies need structure and routine to learn and thrive. By being consistent with their training, you’ll be setting them up for a lifetime of good behavior and habits.

Regular feeding, drinking, and elimination schedules are key to successful potty training. However, achieving this consistency can be challenging, especially with the demands of work, family, and other responsibilities.

Understanding these common potty training challenges can help you prepare and handle them better. Remember, patience and consistency are key in this process. It might take time, but with perseverance, your puppy will eventually get the hang of it.

Crate and Potty Training Go Hand in Hand

We know it can seem like a lot to manage, but crate and potty training work together. Using the crate as a tool for potty training, you can set your pup up for success.

Many people have negative associations with crate training, but it can be a positive and effective method when done correctly.

A crate provides your puppy with space and a safe place to relax, sleep, and feel secure. It also serves as a potty training aid because dogs are naturally clean animals and don’t like to soil their living area.

Using the crate as part of your potty training routine, teach your puppy to hold their bladder and eliminate only when outside.

It’s essential to introduce the crate gradually and make it a positive experience for your pup.

Start by leaving the door open and placing treats inside so they associate the crate with good things. As they become more comfortable, you can close the door temporarily.

It’s also crucial to never use the crate as a punishment. This will only create negative associations and make it more challenging to potty train your puppy.

Remember, consistency and patience are key in all aspects of potty training, including crate training.

What to Expect with Potty Training a Puppy

When it comes to training puppies, it’s important to remember that each pup is unique. While some may catch on quickly, others may require more time and patience.

Incorporating the crate into your training routine can be highly beneficial regardless of pace. Not only does it help establish good habits, but it also reinforces positive behaviors, creating a solid foundation for your furry friend’s development and growth.

So, embrace the process and enjoy the journey of nurturing your pup into a well-behaved and happy companion.

Getting Started with Puppy Potty Training

If you’re struggling with potty training or unsure how to incorporate the crate into your routine, don’t hesitate to seek advice from a professional dog trainer or veterinarian. They can provide personalized guidance and support to help you and your pup on your journey.

Potty training is just one small part of raising a happy and well-behaved dog. With love, patience, and consistency, you can overcome any challenges and create a strong bond with your furry friend that will last for years to come.

So don’t give up; keep trying, and your puppy will soon be potty trained and ready for any adventure that comes their way.

Happy training!

Mastering Crate Training: A Comprehensive Guide for a Happy Pup

Posted on January 23, 2024January 23, 2024 by matt_aldrich

Crate training your pup can feel like convincing a toddler that broccoli is more delicious than ice cream!

And yet, despite the initial resistance, crate training plays an essential role in your puppy’s development. It can provide a haven for your furry friend, assist in house training, and help prevent destructive behaviors.

With the right approach, you can transform crate time from feeling like a ‘canine jail cell’ into a ‘cozy doggie den.’

Let’s explore effective and humane crate training techniques to help your pup view their crate as a secure and welcoming space rather than a dreaded confinement.

What is Crate Training for Puppies?

Crate training for puppies involves acclimating your young dog to accepting a crate as a safe, familiar place. This training method utilizes a puppy’s instincts – considering their crate a place for sleep, refuge, and protection from potential danger.

The importance of crate training stems from its multiple benefits.

First, it assists in house training, as puppies are less likely to soil their sleeping quarters.

Additionally, it keeps puppies from destructive chewing or other mischief when they can’t be supervised.

Crate training can help reduce separation anxiety by establishing the crate as a secure and comfortable environment, making it easier for your pup to stay calm while you’re away.

In essence, crate training aims to make your pup feel secure, assist in behavior management, and facilitate a safe space for your puppy within your home.

Choosing the Right Crate

Selecting the optimal crate for your pup involves several key considerations.

Sizing and Space Considerations

The crate should be large enough for your pup to stand up without crouching and turn around comfortably. However, it shouldn’t be so spacious that your dog can designate one corner for sleeping and another for eliminating waste.

If you’re crate training a puppy, remember that they will grow quickly. Consider a crate with a divider panel. This feature allows you to adjust the size of the crate as your pup grows.

Material and Durability

Consider the material of the crate and how durable it is, especially if you have an aggressive chewer or a larger breed dog. Wire crates provide excellent ventilation and visibility, but plastic crates may be better for dogs that tend to chew or scratch.

Additionally, ensure the crate is easy to clean in case of accidents or spills.

Location

Choose a location for your pup’s crate that is calm, quiet, and away from high-traffic areas. This will help create a peaceful environment within the crate and prevent unnecessary distractions.

Avoid placing the crate near drafty areas or in direct sunlight, as these can affect your pup’s comfort and safety.

Introduction to the Crate

Introducing your puppy to their crate is a crucial step, and it should be done gradually to ensure they associate the crate with positive experiences.

The First Introduction

Start by placing the crate in a central area where your puppy spends a lot of time. Leave the crate door open and let your puppy explore it freely. Reward any interest in the crate with verbal praise and treats, but remember to let them explore at their own pace without forcing them in.

Making it Comfortable

Add soft blankets and your puppy’s favorite toys to make the crate comfortable and inviting. You could also include a piece of clothing that smells like you, as this can provide comfort and help soothe any separation anxiety.

Feeding in the Crate

Feeding meals inside the crate can help establish a positive association with the crate. Initially, place the food near the door of the crate and gradually move it further back as your puppy grows more comfortable.

Gradual Increments

Once your puppy is comfortable eating inside the crate, you can close the door for short periods. Gradually increase the time the door is closed, ensuring your puppy is calm and content.

Remember, the crate should never be used for punishment, and your puppy should always have a positive experience while inside. With patience and persistence, they will see their crate as a haven where they can relax and feel secure.

Specific Crate Training Tips for the Best Experience

Crate training a puppy is like teaching someone to swim or ride a bike. It can take some time and effort, but everyone is happier once they get the hang of it.

Here are a few tips to ensure the best crate training experience for both you and your pup:

Scheduled Feeding and Potty Breaks

Puppies thrive with routine, and this is especially true for crate training. Set a regular feeding schedule for your pup, followed by scheduled potty breaks outside. This will help establish a consistent routine and prevent unnecessary accidents.

Gradual Alone Time

As your puppy becomes comfortable in the crate with the door closed, leave them alone for short periods. Begin with just a few minutes and gradually increase the time as your puppy becomes more comfortable.

Plenty of Exercise and Mental Stimulation

A tired puppy is a calm puppy, so provide plenty of exercise opportunities for your pup. Additionally, mental stimulation like puzzle toys or training activities can help prevent boredom and destructive behavior while in the crate.

Never Use the Crate as Punishment

Always use positive reinforcement through praise and treats. Never use punishment or force to get your puppy into the crate, as this will create a negative association with the crate.

Similarly, if your puppy does something they aren’t supposed to, don’t use the crate as a form of time-out. This will only confuse your puppy and make them less likely to see the crate as a safe and comfortable space.

Crating as a Bedtime Routine

Using the crate as part of your puppy’s bedtime routine can help establish security and relaxation. Place them in the crate with their favorite toy or blanket, and turn off the lights for a good night’s sleep.

How to Handle Crying and Whining

We know it can be tough to hear your puppy crying or whining when in the crate but remember that this is a natural response for puppies who are still getting used to their new environment.

Here are a few things you can do to help alleviate the crying and make the crate training experience more positive:

Distractions

Try using toys as distractions when placing your puppy in the crate, especially if they show signs of distress. Chew or puzzle toys can provide a positive outlet for anxious energy.

Understanding Your Puppy’s Vocalizations

Puppies use vocalizations to communicate different needs and emotions. Whining can indicate separation anxiety, while crying may indicate that your puppy needs to go potty.

It’s essential to pay attention to the nuance in their vocalizations and respond accordingly. Running and rescuing your pup whenever they cry can be tempting, but this may reinforce the behavior and make crate training more challenging.

Crate Training Challenges

While crate training is essential, it must be said there will be challenges.

But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. You can help your puppy see their crate as a safe and comfortable space with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement.

Here are some common challenges you may encounter and how to handle them:

Accidents in the Crate

Accidents in the crate may occur, especially if your puppy is still potty training. If this happens, clean up the mess without making a fuss or punishing your puppy. Instead, take them outside immediately and reward them for going potty in the appropriate spot.

Escaping or Destructive Behavior

Some puppies may try to escape their crate or engage in destructive behaviors like chewing on the crate bars. If this happens, it’s crucial to address the underlying cause. Your puppy may be bored, anxious, or have too much energy to burn.

In these cases, provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation outside the crate. You can also try covering the crate with a blanket to create a more den-like environment for your pup.

It’s Okay to Ask for Help

Crate training may not come naturally to every puppy, and that’s okay. If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out for help from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist.

They can assess the situation and provide personalized advice to make crate training more manageable. Remember, every puppy is different, and finding a method that works best for you and your furry friend is essential. Happy crate training!

You might even consider enrolling your puppy in training before they get to your home. At Majestic Manor Goldens, we offer various training options to prepare your puppy for crate training and other essential skills. Don’t hesitate to ask us for more information or recommendations!

Consistency is the Key to Puppy Crate Training

Remember, consistency and patience are essential when it comes to crate training. With the right approach, your puppy will learn to see their crate as a safe and comfortable space, making you and your pup happier in the long run.

So, be consistent, and don’t give up! Your puppy will thank you for it with a lifetime of good behavior and love. Remember these tips; soon enough, your pup will be crate-trained like a pro. Happy training!

How to Socialize Your English Cream Golden Retriever Puppy

Posted on October 10, 2023April 23, 2024 by Jon

Welcoming an adorable English Cream Golden Retriever puppy into your home can be overwhelming, especially when you’re wondering how to best raise them into well-rounded adults. One of the most crucial aspects of raising a healthy, well-adjusted dog is proper socialization. Socializing your puppy is not only about teaching them to be friendly but also helps them develop confidence and adaptability in various environments and situations. Failing to properly socialize a puppy can result in a timid or aggressive adult dog, which ultimately diminishes their quality of life.

At Majestic Manor Goldens, our mission is to provide families with healthy and great-tempered English Cream Golden Retrievers that will shower their homes with love, licks, and loyalty. As a family-run, premiere breeder of these beautiful dogs, we know the importance of effective socialization, and we’re here to offer guidance at every stage of your puppy’s journey.

In this blog post, we will walk you through the necessary steps to successfully socialize your English Cream Golden Retriever puppy. We’ll explore the dos and don’ts of introducing your pup to new experiences, people, and other animals, as well as share expert tips to ensure a smooth and positive socialization process for you and your four-legged friend.

brown and white long coated dog on green grass field during daytime

The Importance of Early Socialization

The critical socialization window for puppies is between 3 and 14 weeks of age. During this period, puppies are most receptive to new experiences and can more easily form positive associations with their environment. Although socialization can still be effective after this window has passed, it often requires more time and patience. Therefore, it’s crucial to start socializing your English Cream Golden Retriever puppy as soon as it’s safe to do so, ideally after they’ve received their first round of vaccinations.

Proper Exposure to New Environments

Introducing your English Cream Golden Retriever puppy to various environments is critical for their development. This encourages adaptability and ensures they feel comfortable in diverse situations. Here are some tips for providing your pup with enriching experiences:

Start at Home: Before venturing into the great outdoors, familiarize your puppy with their immediate surroundings. Guide them through different rooms, allowing exploration and interaction with various household items, sounds, and scents.
Gradually Increase Complexity: Begin with calmer settings, such as parks and quiet streets, before exposing your pup to busier environments like pet-friendly stores, and bustling city centers. Observing your puppy’s body language can help you gauge their comfort level and readiness for more complex situations.
Add Variety: Regularly expose your puppy to different surfaces, such as grass, concrete, wood, and gravel, to familiarize them with various textures underfoot. Also, encourage your puppy to experience different sounds and sights, such as passing cars, bicycles, and pedestrians.

Meeting New People and Animals

Developing positive associations with various people and animals helps ensure your English Cream Golden Retriever becomes a friendly and confident companion. Keep these tips in mind when introducing your puppy to others:

Encourage Calm Interactions: Ensure that initial meetings with people and animals are calm and controlled. People should approach your puppy gently, offering treats or affection as rewards for positive behavior. Avoid overwhelming your puppy with excessively enthusiastic greetings, as this can lead to fear or anxiety.
Offer Praise and Rewards: Provide your puppy with verbal praise, treats, and affection when they interact positively with new acquaintances. This reinforces desirable behavior and helps build positive associations with meeting new beings.
Include a Range of Individuals: Introduce your puppy to people of various ages, ethnicities, and abilities, as well as dogs of different breeds, sizes, and temperaments. Teaching your puppy that the world is full of diverse beings will contribute significantly to their overall understanding and social confidence.

Handling Fearful Situations

It’s important to recognize that your English Cream Golden Retriever puppy may exhibit signs of fear or anxiety during the socialization process. Here’s how to handle these situations:

Be Patient and Encouraging: If your puppy seems hesitant or scared, remain calm and supportive. Encourage them with a gentle voice or comforting pats, but avoid forcing them into situations they clearly aren’t comfortable with.
Use Desensitization and Counter-Conditioning Techniques: Gradually expose your puppy to the perceived threat from a safe distance while providing rewards for remaining calm. This can help your pup develop positive associations with the formerly frightening situation.
Consult with a Professional: If your puppy’s fear appears to be unmanageable or worsening despite your efforts, consult with a veterinary behaviorist or certified professional dog trainer. They can provide personalized guidance and strategies to help your pup overcome their anxieties.

Common Socialization Mistakes to Avoid

Finally, to ensure success in your puppy’s socialization journey, avoid these common mistakes:

Skipping the Critical Socialization Window: As mentioned earlier, puppies are most receptive to new experiences between 3 and 14 weeks of age. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to provide your English Cream Golden Retriever with essential early life experiences.
Overwhelming Your Puppy: While it’s crucial to expose your puppy to a variety of situations, people, and animals, it’s essential to gradually introduce new experiences. Pay attention to your puppy’s body language and comfort levels, and avoid pushing them beyond their limits.
Neglecting Ongoing Socialization: While early socialization is crucial, it’s not the end of your puppy’s social skills development. Continue providing exposure to new experiences, people, and animals throughout their life, ensuring they remain adaptable and well-rounded citizens.

Conclusion

Socializing your English Cream Golden Retriever puppy is a vital aspect of raising a well-adjusted, friendly, and confident adult dog. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you’re setting the stage for a successful and enjoyable companionship with your furry family member. Remember to start early, gradually introduce new experiences, and always pay attention to your puppy’s comfort and reactions. By doing so, you’ll help your beloved English Cream Golden Retriever reach their fullest potential as a loving, well-mannered, and joyful canine companion.

Majestic Manor Goldens is a premiere English Cream Retriever breeder. We take pride in raising healthy and great-tempered dogs. Contact us now for more details.