This weeks edition of Dog Owner News

Author

Phil
October 25, 2024

In partnership with

Help offset rising pet care costs

  • Veterinary costs are up 60% over the past decade.

  • Pet insurance could provide up to 90% reimbursement.

  • View Money’s top pet insurance picks here.

Hi , and welcome to this weeks edition of Dog Owner News , brought to you in association with Money Pet Insurance, make sure you check out their comprehensive policies and get a quote to see if you could save some money and get better cover for your dog.

I hope you enjoy this edition and if you have any comments or suggestions for future editions we would love to hear from you . 🐾❤️.

You can let me know what your thoughts are about this weeks edition by using the poll at the bottom of the edition.

You can also check out all previous editions by heading over to: dogownernews.com

Phil , Founder, Dog Owner News

 Dog Thoughts

"To my human: my favorite part of the day is when you come home. Now, where’s my treat for being so patient?"

Training & Behaviour

The Power of Clicker Training: Why It Works and How to Use It Effectively

Clicker training has become a popular and effective method for teaching dogs new behaviors and reinforcing good habits. It’s rooted in positive reinforcement, which means rewarding your dog for doing something right rather than punishing them for doing something wrong. The clicker itself is a small handheld device that makes a distinct "click" sound when pressed, marking the exact moment your dog performs the desired behavior. When paired with a reward (usually a treat), the click becomes a powerful communication tool.

If you're curious about whether clicker training is right for you and your dog, here’s an in-depth look at the benefits and how to use this technique effectively.

Benefits of Clicker Training

1. Clear and Consistent Communication

One of the biggest advantages of clicker training is that it allows for precise timing, which is critical when teaching your dog new behaviors. The click sound acts as a marker to tell your dog exactly what they did right at the moment it happened. This removes any confusion and helps your dog understand which behavior earned them a reward. For instance, if you're teaching your dog to sit, you can click the moment their bottom touches the ground, marking that specific action.

2. Builds Positive Associations

Clicker training is based on positive reinforcement, which creates a strong bond between you and your dog. Since the clicker is always followed by a reward, your dog will quickly associate the sound with something good. Over time, this builds enthusiasm for training sessions and keeps your dog motivated to learn. The clicker becomes a promise of a reward, encouraging your dog to repeat behaviors that trigger the click.

3. Speeds Up Learning

The clarity and precision of the clicker help speed up your dog's learning process. Unlike verbal cues that can vary in tone or be delayed, the clicker provides an immediate, consistent signal that your dog can quickly associate with positive outcomes. This makes it easier for them to grasp new commands and skills in less time.

4. Reduces Frustration for You and Your Dog

Training can sometimes be frustrating when your dog doesn't understand what you're asking of them. With clicker training, the click acts as a clear "yes" that eliminates guesswork. Your dog learns to connect the dots faster, and you avoid the frustration of repeating commands or dealing with unwanted behaviors.

5. Useful for a Wide Range of Behaviors

Clicker training isn't just for teaching basic commands like "sit" or "stay." It can also be used to shape more complex behaviors, such as agility tricks, retrieving objects, or even addressing problem behaviors like excessive barking or jumping. The versatility of clicker training makes it a useful tool in nearly any training situation.

How to Use Clicker Training Effectively

Now that you understand the benefits of clicker training, let’s walk through how to use it effectively with your dog.

Step 1: Charge the Clicker

Before you start using the clicker for training, your dog needs to understand that the click means a reward is coming. To do this, you’ll need to "charge" the clicker. Begin by pressing the clicker and immediately giving your dog a treat. Repeat this several times in a row—click, treat, click, treat. Over a few sessions, your dog will start to understand that the clicker sound means something good is coming their way.

Step 2: Introduce a New Behavior

Once your dog associates the clicker with rewards, you can begin using it to teach new behaviors. Let’s use "sit" as an example. Get your dog’s attention and wait for them to sit naturally. As soon as their bottom touches the ground, click the clicker and follow up with a treat. The click marks the exact moment they performed the desired behavior.

After a few repetitions, your dog will start to associate sitting with the click and the reward. Once they’re consistently offering the behavior, you can introduce the verbal cue "sit" before they perform the action.

Step 3: Reinforce Behavior with the Clicker

Every time your dog performs the behavior you’re teaching, click and reward. The more you practice, the more your dog will connect the behavior with the click and the treat. Remember, timing is everything: click the moment your dog does the right action, not afterward.

Step 4: Fade the Clicker Over Time

Once your dog has mastered a behavior and responds reliably to your verbal cue, you can gradually reduce the use of the clicker. Start by clicking less frequently for behaviors they’ve learned well, while still rewarding them with treats or praise. Eventually, you can phase out the clicker altogether and rely on verbal praise and treats to reinforce good behavior.

Tips for Success with Clicker Training

  • Be Consistent: Consistency is key to successful clicker training. Always click for the correct behavior, and be sure to follow up with a reward every time, especially in the beginning stages.

  • Use High-Value Rewards: Dogs are more likely to work hard for something they love. Use high-value treats, like small pieces of chicken or cheese, to keep them motivated during training.

  • Keep Sessions Short: Dogs learn best in short, focused training sessions. Aim for 5-10 minutes of training at a time, multiple times a day. This prevents your dog from becoming overwhelmed or bored.

  • Click Only Once: One of the most important rules of clicker training is to click once per correct behavior. Multiple clicks can confuse your dog. Remember, the click is just a marker—it’s the treats and praise that follow that reinforce the behavior.

Conclusion

Clicker training is an effective, positive, and versatile tool for teaching dogs new behaviors and reinforcing good habits. By providing clear communication, reducing frustration, and speeding up learning, it strengthens the bond between you and your dog. With consistent practice and the right rewards, you’ll see remarkable progress in your dog’s ability to learn and follow commands.

So grab your clicker, some tasty treats, and get ready to enjoy the rewards of this proven training technique!

Exercise & Entertainment

The Benefits of Using a LickiMat for Your Dog

If you're looking for a simple yet effective way to enrich your dog’s daily routine, reduce their anxiety, or simply provide some fun, look no further than the LickiMat. This popular slow-feeding tool has become a go-to for dog owners because of its calming effects and ability to keep dogs entertained.

A LickiMat is a flat, textured mat that you can spread with soft treats like peanut butter or yogurt. It encourages your dog to lick, which not only keeps them occupied but also offers several health and behavioral benefits.

Let’s explore the key advantages of using a LickiMat for your furry friend, and some practical tips for making the most of this versatile product.

1. Promotes Calm and Reduces Anxiety

One of the biggest benefits of using a LickiMat is its ability to soothe and calm dogs. Licking is an instinctive behavior for dogs that releases endorphins, promoting relaxation and helping them feel more secure. The repetitive action of licking the mat can be a great way to reduce stress, especially in situations that may normally cause anxiety, such as during thunderstorms, vet visits, or when left alone at home.

Tip: Use the LickiMat to distract your dog during stressful events like grooming sessions, baths, or even fireworks. Spread their favorite soft treat on the mat before the event starts, and let them focus on licking away while the anxiety-inducing activity unfolds.

2. Encourages Slow Eating and Improves Digestion

Many dogs have a tendency to gulp down their food too quickly, which can lead to indigestion, bloating, and even serious issues like gastric torsion. The LickiMat’s textured surface forces your dog to slow down while eating. By spreading their meal or treats thinly over the mat, they have to work harder and lick slower to access all the food.

This slow feeding method not only improves digestion but can also prevent overeating by giving your dog’s brain time to register that they’re full.

Tip: If your dog tends to eat their food too quickly, use the LickiMat as a way to slow them down during mealtime. Spread their wet food or mix dry kibble with something sticky like mashed banana or sweet potato puree for a nutritious and extended meal experience.

3. Provides Mental Stimulation

A bored dog is often a destructive dog. Licking a LickiMat requires focus and effort, which engages your dog’s brain and provides mental stimulation. Keeping your dog mentally stimulated helps reduce boredom and can prevent undesirable behaviors like excessive barking, chewing, or digging.

Tip: Change up what you spread on the LickiMat to keep things interesting for your dog. In addition to peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free), try low-fat cream cheese, plain yogurt, or canned pumpkin. You can even freeze the mat with the toppings to make it last longer!

4. Helps Clean Teeth and Freshen Breath

The licking action on a LickiMat stimulates saliva production, which is beneficial for your dog’s oral health. Saliva helps remove particles from the teeth and gums, and the textured mat can gently scrape away food debris as your dog licks, potentially reducing plaque buildup.

Tip: For a more dental-focused treat, spread a dog-safe toothpaste over the LickiMat and let your pup clean their teeth naturally. This can be especially useful for dogs who aren’t fond of traditional tooth-brushing.

5. Great for Weight Management

For dogs on a diet or prone to weight gain, a LickiMat is an excellent tool for feeding controlled portions. Because your dog has to spend more time working for their food, they’re less likely to feel deprived. The slow pace and small portions help them feel satisfied without consuming too many calories.

Tip: To help with weight management, opt for low-calorie spreads like pureed vegetables, or mix kibble with water and freeze it on the mat for a low-calorie treat that keeps your dog entertained for longer.

Final Thoughts

The LickiMat is a versatile, low-cost tool that provides multiple benefits for dogs of all sizes and breeds. Whether you want to calm an anxious dog, slow down their eating, or simply offer a fun activity that also promotes good oral health, a LickiMat is a great addition to your dog’s routine. With the right toppings and occasional freezing, this simple mat can offer hours of enrichment while supporting your dog’s physical and mental well-being.

Investing in a LickiMat not only keeps your dog happy and engaged but also promotes healthier habits that lead to a more balanced life for your beloved canine companion.

Check out some great ones here: LickiMats

Nutrition & Diet

Top 5 Things to Focus On When Choosing the Best Diet for Your Dog’s Health

As a dog owner, choosing the right diet for your canine companion is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for their overall health and well-being. A proper diet supports your dog’s energy, immune system, coat health, digestion, and even mental sharpness. With so many food options and nutrition trends available, it can be overwhelming to figure out what’s best. To make things easier, here are the top five factors you should focus on when deciding on your dog’s diet to ensure they live a long, healthy, and happy life.

1. Balanced Nutrients

The foundation of a healthy diet for any dog is ensuring it meets their nutritional needs. Dogs require a balance of six essential nutrients: protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and water. Each of these plays a critical role in your dog’s health:

  • Protein: This is crucial for muscle maintenance and tissue repair. Look for quality animal-based proteins, such as chicken, beef, or fish, as these provide essential amino acids that plant-based proteins often lack.

  • Fat: Healthy fats provide energy and support skin and coat health. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are especially important for reducing inflammation and promoting heart and brain health.

  • Carbohydrates: Though not strictly essential, carbohydrates are a good source of energy and fiber, helping with digestion and overall stamina. Whole grains like brown rice or oats, and vegetables like sweet potatoes, are great carbohydrate sources.

  • Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamins like A, D, and E, as well as minerals such as calcium and phosphorus, are essential for your dog’s bones, teeth, and immune function. Commercial dog foods are often fortified with these nutrients to meet daily requirements.

When choosing dog food, whether it’s kibble, canned, or homemade, ensure that it is labeled as “complete and balanced” by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). This means the food has been formulated to meet your dog’s nutritional requirements.

2. Life Stage and Size Appropriateness

Just like humans, dogs have different nutritional needs depending on their age, size, and breed. A one-size-fits-all diet isn’t ideal.

  • Puppies: Puppies need more calories, protein, and specific nutrients like calcium and phosphorus for healthy growth and bone development. Puppy-specific foods are formulated to meet these needs.

  • Adult Dogs: Adult dogs require maintenance diets with the right balance of energy and nutrients to support their active lifestyle. Avoid overfeeding, as obesity can lead to various health problems.

  • Senior Dogs: Older dogs may need diets lower in calories but higher in fiber, and possibly with joint-supporting nutrients like glucosamine and chondroitin. Some may also benefit from higher protein levels to maintain muscle mass.

  • Breed and Size-Specific Needs: Large-breed dogs, like Great Danes or Labradors, may need diets with controlled levels of calcium to prevent rapid bone growth, while small breeds might require more calorie-dense foods due to their higher metabolisms.

Tailoring your dog’s diet to their life stage and size ensures they get the right nutrients for their particular developmental stage and physical requirements.

3. Quality of Ingredients

When reading a dog food label, pay close attention to the quality of the ingredients. Look for foods that list whole, recognizable ingredients like real meat (e.g., chicken, beef, salmon) as the first ingredient, not by-products or fillers. Avoid foods with vague terms like “meat meal” or “animal digest,” as these could come from less desirable sources.

Some key tips include:

  • Opt for whole grains over processed ones, like brown rice instead of corn.

  • Look for healthy fats such as fish oil, which is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, rather than generic “animal fat.”

  • Avoid artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors. Instead, look for natural preservatives like vitamin E (tocopherols) and rosemary extract.

High-quality ingredients mean your dog is getting the nutrients they need without unnecessary fillers, which can cause digestive issues or allergies.

4. Allergies and Food Sensitivities

Some dogs are prone to food allergies or sensitivities, which can manifest as skin issues, ear infections, or gastrointestinal problems like diarrhea and vomiting. Common allergens for dogs include beef, dairy, chicken, wheat, and soy.

If you suspect your dog has a food allergy, work with your veterinarian to conduct an elimination diet or try a limited-ingredient diet (LID) that contains fewer potential allergens. Alternatively, novel protein sources like duck, lamb, or venison can help alleviate allergic reactions. Grain-free diets are often considered for dogs with sensitivities to gluten or grains, but it's essential to consult your vet before switching to grain-free, as these diets are not always necessary and can lack certain nutrients.

5. Portion Control and Calorie Intake

One of the biggest contributors to health issues in dogs is overfeeding. Obesity is a common problem and can lead to serious conditions like diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and a shorter lifespan. Feeding your dog the appropriate portion size based on their weight, age, and activity level is critical for maintaining a healthy weight.

  • Always follow the feeding guidelines on the dog food packaging, but adjust based on your dog’s energy levels and physical condition. Some dogs may need more or less than the recommended amount.

  • Incorporate healthy treats into your dog’s diet but be mindful that these should only make up about 10% of their daily caloric intake.

  • If you’re unsure about portion control, ask your veterinarian for guidance. They can help calculate the proper calorie intake for your dog based on factors like their breed, metabolism, and activity level.

Conclusion

Choosing the right diet for your dog is essential for their health and happiness. By focusing on balanced nutrients, selecting food that’s appropriate for their life stage and size, emphasizing high-quality ingredients, being mindful of food allergies, and controlling portions, you’ll set your dog up for a long and healthy life. Always consult your veterinarian before making any major changes to your dog’s diet, and remember that what you feed them directly impacts their well-being, energy, and longevity.

The Quirky Personalities of 3 Popular Dog Breeds

Dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and—most importantly—attitudes. If you’ve ever spent time with different breeds, you know each one brings its own unique personality quirks. Let’s take a humorous look at the characteristics of three popular dog breeds and why they might just be the perfect (or most perplexing) companions.

Labrador Retriever: The Overachiever of Affection

Meet the Labrador Retriever, the poster child for "Can I help?" Labradors don’t just love you—they adore you. Need space? Not with a Lab around. They'll happily invade your personal bubble while knocking over your drink with their ever-wagging tail. Labs have mastered the art of enthusiastic participation in all aspects of life: they’ll retrieve your shoes (even if you didn’t ask), slobber on your guests, and act like every walk is their first ever. It’s like having a furry life coach who’s overly optimistic about everything. Want to sit on the couch alone? Too bad—the Lab is coming with a tennis ball and a face that screams, "Throw it one more time!" No matter how many times you throw it, they’ll never tire—and you’ll never escape their unyielding devotion.

French Bulldog: The Couch Potato Diva

If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if a loaf of bread had opinions, look no further than the French Bulldog. These stocky little divas are equal parts snuggly couch potato and attitude on four legs. They may be small, but Frenchies come with a big sense of entitlement. Expect your Frenchie to give you the side-eye when you ask them to move from their spot on the couch. They’ve got a snort for every occasion and will likely fall asleep mid-strut around the living room, only to wake up offended that you didn’t offer them a snack while they napped. Exercise? Please. They’ll do a couple of zoomies around the yard and then demand a nap, preferably on your lap—even if you had other plans. You’re not living with a Frenchie; you’re merely an accessory in their kingdom of comfort.

Border Collie: The Brainiac with Boundary Issues

Have you ever felt like you weren’t living up to your full potential? Don’t worry—a Border Collie will remind you. These brainy overachievers are basically dogs with the soul of a Type-A human who’s had too much caffeine. They will herd anything—sheep, children, other pets, you—because someone has to keep things in order around here. With a Border Collie, you’ll never sit still; they’ll be staring at you with an intensity that says, "Get up, human, we have work to do!" And by work, they mean endless games of fetch or agility courses that you didn’t realize were part of your daily routine. They’ll outsmart you in every way, learning commands before you even finish teaching them. If they had thumbs, they’d probably run your household more efficiently than you ever could. The real question is: who’s training whom?

Conclusion

Whether you’re living with a lovable Lab, a Frenchie with flair, or a brilliant but bossy Border Collie, one thing’s for sure: life is never boring. Each breed brings its own hilarity, quirks, and unique charm into your home. So buckle up, laugh often, and try to keep up with the comedy show your dog is undoubtedly starring in every day!

If you have any stories about your dog that you would like to share or a video of your dog we would love to hear from you , simply email: [email protected]

Video of the week

Click the image below for dogs making some hilarious faces

Great supplier of quality poop bags which you can order in bulk and will support a great cause as well. You can find out more by clicking on the image or link below.

I hope you enjoyed this weeks edition, you can also check out all previous editions by heading over to: dogownernews.com

Remember to install our new Free mobile app so you can get dog owner news delivered directly to your mobile each week. If you head over to dogownernews.com  simply click on the menu ( 3 bars) on top right of the screen and select the install app option from the dropdown and follow the prompts. In a few moments you’ll be all set up.

Have a brilliant week of adventures with your dog , see you next week!

 Phil