How to take care of a puppy can be full of activity — people coming and going, kids running around, appliances humming, and music playing. While your puppy might seem fine amid all the noise, they actually need a calm spot to escape the hustle and bustle. Provide them with a quiet sanctuary, such as a crate, kennel, or cozy bed, where they can unwind and feel secure.

At first, your puppy might see this as a form of separation, but over time they’ll come to love their personal space. This not only helps them develop independence but also prevents over-attachment. As tempting as it may be, try not to shower them with constant attention — giving your pup a little space helps them grow into a confident, well-adjusted dog.

Puppy training tips to using food rewards in training — whether you’re teaching “down,” “heel,” “sit,” or “stay” — it’s important to ensure your puppy can perform the behavior without relying on treats, especially during the early learning stages. Your puppy is still young and just beginning to understand what rewards mean and how effort leads to earning them. A good way to check their understanding is to ask your puppy to sit in a different setting, without using food or the training routine they’re used to. If they respond correctly, that’s a sign your puppy truly understands the command.

How to train a dog at home — begin by gradually introducing distractions while practising the ‘settle’ command in slightly busier environments. You can also ask a friend to help by walking past or doing mild activities nearby, eventually progressing to more engaging actions like sweeping or skipping. If your dog becomes restless or stands up, don’t scold or give attention; simply wait for them to calm down before offering a reward. If they struggle to relax, move farther away from the distraction or make it less stimulating. Once your dog understands the main goal of staying calm, practise in different places with varying levels of activity. Try not to give constant instructions — the purpose is for your dog to learn independently how to relax and remain calm. This helps them develop self-control and the ability to settle on their own.

Best dog food for puppies, we’ve narrowed it down to 11 top-rated products that meet AAFCO standards and cater to a variety of puppy needs. Want to learn more? Explore our detailed guide on puppy nutrition, the different types of dog food, and feeding portions. Or continue reading for our expert-recommended picks.

Always consult your veterinarian before making a final choice to ensure the food suits your pup’s specific health requirements. During the first few weeks, puppies rely solely on their mother’s milk (or a vet-approved puppy formula). Around 3 to 4 weeks of age, you can begin introducing solid food.

For puppies under two months, this Royal Canin formula is an excellent option. It features extra-small kibble designed for tiny mouths and contains essential nutrients like antioxidants to boost immunity, prebiotics for digestion, and omega fatty acids for healthy brain development. Initially, mix the kibble with water to soften it for easier chewing. By 4 to 7 weeks, your puppy can transition to eating it dry. If you prefer combining wet and dry feeding, the brand also offers a mousse version tailored for young puppies.

Best dog food for sensitive stomach  You can create a customized meal plan that’s tailored to your pet’s specific dietary needs, considering factors like breed, age, weight, and activity level. The brand also adjusts portion sizes to align with your pet’s size and weight goals, helping to prevent food waste.

Just Food For Dogs provides a diverse range of protein options, including white fish and venison. “Novel protein sources can help minimize inflammation and support better digestion,” explains veterinarian Dr. Alex Crow. These fresh wet foods are ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs who need alternatives to common proteins such as chicken or beef. The fresh-frozen meals also deliver a delicious flavor and texture that even fussy eaters will enjoy—making mealtime easier and more enjoyable. (For an extra boost of aroma, you can gently microwave thawed food right before serving.)

Dog grooming tips at home can easily snag, break, and cause discomfort for your dog. While regular walks and play can naturally wear them down, most dogs still need a proper nail trim about once a month. If your pup isn’t used to having their paws touched—a key part of early socialization—this process might take some patience. Stay relaxed, as dogs can pick up on your emotions, and tension can make them anxious. For smaller breeds, hold them with their paws facing away from you during trimming, and for larger dogs, it’s best to have them lie comfortably on the floor. Having someone assist by offering treats can make the experience smoother and less stressful for your furry friend.

How to stop a dog from barking is a natural instinct for most dogs. However, excessive barking can sometimes become troublesome and irritating. Many owners attempt to quiet their dogs using methods that don’t fix the underlying issue—such as shouting, reinforcing bad behavior, or using inconsistent discipline.

To find a lasting solution, it’s essential to identify why your dog is barking. If boredom is the cause, giving your dog more mental or physical stimulation may help. On the other hand, if the barking stems from separation anxiety, a different strategy is needed. While some cases can be solved with simple adjustments, dogs that bark out of habit often require a more tailored approach. Fortunately, trainers and canine behavior experts offer several effective methods to help curb your dog’s barking.

How to potty train a dog can prepare your dog for success by creating a house-training plan before bringing them home. Experts suggest several effective potty-training methods, including indoor training with pads or paper, using a litter box, or crate training. Each approach can be successful but requires the right supplies and a consistent routine. Crate training is one of the most popular methods and works well for many dogs, though it might not suit every dog or household. The time it takes to potty train a dog depends on factors such as their age, size, learning ability, and how consistently you train them. Some dogs may grasp the concept within a few weeks, while others need more time. Typically, with steady, patient training, most dogs become fully house-trained within 4 to 6 months, though some may take up to a year. Smaller breeds or dogs previously kept in cages may require extra time. With regular practice, patience, and plenty of positive reinforcement, your dog will eventually master this essential skill.

Dog care essentials checklist  Providing your dog with a diet that is fresh, raw, living, and suited to their species is one of the best ways to support their long-term health and protect them from illness. Just like people, each dog is unique, with nutritional requirements that vary depending on their breed, size, age, and overall health. That’s why it’s important to research and speak with a veterinarian to identify the most suitable diet for your furry friend. For more guidance, check out our previous blog post, The Importance of Feeding Your Pet a Species-Appropriate Diet, which explains the benefits of raw and fresh foods and how to select the right nutrition for your dog.

Maintaining a consistent exercise routine is equally important. This could be a daily morning walk, an evening play session, or other activities that suit your dog’s abilities and energy level. Consistency is key, but you may need to adjust routines with changing seasons—for instance, opting for early morning or late evening walks during hot summer days to prevent overheating.

How to introduce a new pet to your home If dogs show signs of aggression, tension, or freeze as if preparing to attack, separate them immediately. If any dog becomes upset during interactions, give them a break by keeping them apart. For the first few days, it’s often necessary to house pets separately to allow them to adjust to each other gradually. This approach is completely normal, and it’s important to remember that building a harmonious relationship between pets takes time. Once there have been a few successful, calm encounters, you can attempt a supervised interaction in a controlled space. Repeated, slow introductions can help foster a positive relationship between your existing pets and the new addition, ensuring everyone feels comfortable in the household.

Introducing a cat may require even more patience, especially if the cat has had limited exposure to other animals during its early life. To maintain your pet’s mental well-being and a positive environment, a proper introduction is crucial. Start by setting up a separate room for the new cat with its own litter box, food bowls, and toys. Keep the cat isolated from other household pets initially so it can get familiar with its new surroundings.