Why do dogs dig in their beds? Dogs scratch, chew and dig in their beds for several reasons. Some breeds have been bred to be instinctive diggers, like terriers and some hunting dogs. Others are just enjoying themselves! Dogs dig in their beds to explore, hide food or toys or get comfortable. But they also …
Life with an aggressive puppy can be very stressful. Signs new puppy owners think might show aggression include biting, nipping, stiff posture, growling, snarling, lip curling, humping, resource guarding and eye rolling. But not all of these are signs of puppy aggression, some are actually part of normal puppy play. Contents Why is my puppy …
I have bred a few litters of puppies over the years, and I’ve always marvelled at the speed and complexity of puppy development. So when my last litter of Labrador puppies arrived, I decided to record their progress as they grew. Today I’ll share what I found with you, including pictures of them from those …
The best chocolate Lab names can celebrate your cute new puppy’s beautiful brown coat. I do love a name that is reminiscent of a candy bar, or my favorite chocolately drinks. But you might also like to pick something that is a bit more unique. Today I’ll share some awesome themed lists with top ideas …
Our family has come up with a lot of Labrador names over the years. From the puppies of my childhood to the companions that shadow me every day as an adult, Labs just as much a part of my life as anything every has been. Which whilst lovely, has the added benefit of meaning I’ve …
Golden Retriever vs Labrador breed traits are surprisingly similar. Both dogs are family friendly, active, intelligent and affectionate. But there are some ways to tell the two sweet natured, floppy eared, webbed pawed dogs apart. Golden Retriever grooming is a bigger deal, with their longer coats, though both breeds are high shedders, and neither is …
The gorgeous black Lab is one of the most recognizable and popular dogs in the world. From sporting hunting roots to roles in the community such as support, service and therapy dog work, their intelligence and willingness to please really sets them apart from the pack. And they have now split into two types, the …
We have named a few beautiful black Labs over the years, and they all followed a theme of being classic and human style. Our Labradors have included a Ted, Jake, Tess, Rachel and Daisy. But coming up with black Lab names doesn’t have to just be a case of diving into traditional ideas. You can …
We have raised a lot of puppies over the years, and finding a name is always surprisingly tricky and can be quite contentious when you share your home with other humans. Everyone wants a say, and not all opinions are equal! When there are some many fabulous female dog names out there, narrowing them down …
The best dog nail clippers are easy to use, last a long time and help to reduce the chances of cutting the quick. You can get models with sensors, barriers or alternatively use a file or grinding device that gives you extra control and fine movement. Today I’ll share the nail clipping devices I’ve had …
More than just a chew toy, the best interactive dog toys are designed to enrich your dog’s life. They include balls, treat dispensers and puzzles. The best ones move around, setting off your dog’s natural instincts and instantly attracting and holding their attention. My strong preference is for those that are durable, easy to clean …
Sometimes Labradors need to be helped, but there are things my dog won’t let me do without training. They may need their nails clipping, to have drops put in their ears. They might have to have a bandage changed, a tooth examined, or a leg, or even a lump. You know how it is. But …
I’ve lived with a lot of Labs over the years from puppies into adulthood, and there are some things that every one of them has in common when it came to bed time. They leave fur everywhere, they chew the corners, they rub against the sides, and they occasionally spontaneously take their bed or blankets …
A black spot on a dog’s tongue is often nothing to worry about. A single flat dark patch or several freckle like splatters of black, are common in some breeds. These spots are normally just a part of the coloring or pigmentation that they were born with. Just like the shade of their fur, paws, …
The best dog crates are sturdy, durable and come in a range of sizes and shapes. You’re able to find one that fits your dog’s build, breed and the space in your home or vehicle that they need to fit into. I have used a variety of dog crates over the years and my firm …
Dogs run away from their owners for a variety of reasons, but almost all of them can be summarized in the same way. They do it because the motivation to be with you isn’t as great as the motivation to be somewhere else. This doesn’t mean they don’t love you, or want to spend time …
Games aren’t just a great way of entertaining bored dogs. They exercise their bodies and brains, and even teaching your kids to play safely with their big, bouncy friend. Today I’ll share the best games to play with your dog. These activities will build a more positive structure to the way you interact with each …
The best chew toys for puppies are tough, safe and non-toxic. They have enough give to protect your puppy’s teeth, but are strong enough not to break down into smaller pieces your pup could swallow. And the best of all have an added interest factor to help make them more attractive to your teething pup, …
Indestructible dog beds are designed to stand up to aggressive chewing, scratching and shaking. They are strong, durable and tough, yet still give your dog a comfortable night’s sleep. And ideally are washable too! My favorite beds in terms of destruction resistance are the raised or elevated dog beds. The metal frame and tightly stretched …
To stop a dog from chewing you need to understand what is motivating them. Although mouthing and gnawing is normal, especially in Labradors, it can last for much longer than early puppyhood teething. Destructive chewing is best avoided by reducing boredom, treating any anxiety problems, providing appropriate toys, and preventing very young dogs from having …
All dogs can get over-excited, or upset at times, whether they are puppies or adults. So knowing how to calm a dog can be a big help to any dog parent. If you feel like you’re living at the mercy of a hyper puppy, take comfort in the fact that dogs learn fast. Most young …
The best raised dog beds are light, easy to lift and construct. Their structure is durable, strong and resistant to chewing too. They have a metal frame with a tough suspended waterproof fabric cover. The way your dog lays down is much more like a human hammock than a bed, which helps to keep your …
Raw feeding for dogs is a carnivorous, naturally based diet centred on whole animal feeding, from the meat to the bone. Yet it is also a surprisingly controversial topic. I have been feeding my Labs, Spaniels and Terriers a raw diet for years now, and as yet i’ve not suffered the broken teeth or impaction …
Labradors shed a lot, especially at when the seasons change. But dealing with your Labrador shedding is not as bad as you might think, if you have the right tools and a good routine in place. I quickly brush my Labs once a week with a slicker or pin brush, and then give them a …
Dog pools are a natural, healthy and fresh way to keep your pup cool in the hot summer months. The best dog pools are relatively small, shallow enough to play in but not so deep as to risk an accident. And they have incredibly durable walls. They are easy for your pup to climb in …
All dogs need grooming, but you’d be forgiven at first glance for thinking grooming your Labrador will be a quick job. After all, Labradors have a wonderfully easy looking coat. It is short, dense and very waterproof. No tangles to comb out of ears, or fur balls to gather around their legs. But Labradors shed …
Dog recall training is the process of getting your dog to return to your side when you call their name or blow a whistle. But the process is helped a lot if you have a dog that doesn’t run away as soon as you let them off leash. Racing off into the distance, so far …
Labs sleep a lot, and although all new dog owners expect puppies to nap frequently, they are often surprised by how much adult dogs sleep during the day too. Young puppies can sleep for up to 20 hours a day, but grownup pups aren’t that far behind with an average of around 12 hours of …
Every puppy I have crate trained has loved their cosy den. They voluntarily go there to sleep, chew a toy or simply have a little respite from the rest of the bustling household. It provides your puppy a peaceful haven where he can’t be stepped on or poked, and gives your children a break from …
It is absolutely possible to train a dog to come when you call every single time. It’s not a quick process and you will need to work at it, but I believe that any dog owner can achieve the perfect recall given time and the right instructions. Which is what I’m going to share with …