You’re busy and don’t really have enough time to train your dog… or so you think. Did you know you can train your dog in sessions of 5 to 10 minutes?

Short training sessions are great for busy pet parents and they also help dogs. Learning in shorter chunks keeps them motivated and focused. Here’s how to get started…

Choose a time for training
Walk your dog every day? Include a short training activity in one of your daily walks. If you don’t walk your dog, set aside 5 to 10 minutes for a playtime session that will double as training. Daily sessions are best, but if you can’t fit them in, shoot for a few times a week.

One command at a time
Focus on one basic command—sit, stay, come, heel or down—until your dog has mastered it. For example, show your dog the command and what you expect, reward him when he does it correctly and keep reinforcing it. With practice, your dog will start following your commands consistently.

He’ll work for food
When training, remember the reward! Give him a food treat, a favorite toy or your attention. And ensure his motivation is high by training before meal time, when he’s still hungry, or at a time when he craves your attention (after work, for example).

Make it fun
Training should be fun for both you and your dog. This keeps both of you motivated. If you’re too tired, not in the mood or your dog is too distracted, save it for next time. If he’s too energetic, let him run it off before training.

Keep it positive
Keep training positive and reward Fido for a job well done. Remember, his motivation is to please you and get the reward. If he doesn’t perform the command, his “punishment” should be no attention from you (ignore his bad response) and no reward.

The next time you walk or play with your dog, think about the training possibilities. With just a few fun lessons, your dog will start responding to your commands.

For a little help choosing dog treats for training, visit Pet Supermarket.

Your dog’s hearing is one of his strongest senses and should be protected with a weekly ear cleaning.

Breeds with large, floppy ears or dogs that spend time swimming in the summer are especially vulnerable to ear infections. Here are some tips to help you clean this sensitive area:

• Tools you’ll need include an ear cleaning solution and ear cleansing pads or cotton balls. Ear powder is can also help dry the ear and cut odor.
• Gently pull the ear flap up to straighten the ear canal. Drop some ear wash into your dog’s ear and gently massage the base of the ear to work the solution in.
• Your dog will naturally want to shake to clear his ears. Let him shake to loosen the debris, then settle him down again for the cleaning.
• Use a cotton ball or ear cleansing pad to carefully remove wax and debris. Don’t use Q-tips, as they can damage the ear drums if inserted too deeply.
• Once you’ve cleaned your dog’s ears, keep his ear flaps folded back a few minutes to dry. (If he lets you.) A little ear powder will also keep the area dry and reduce odor.

Clean your dog’s ears once a week and take him to the vet if he shows signs of an ear infection. Signs include redness, odor, heavier discharge, ear scratching and rubbing ears on the floor or other surfaces.

Keep those ears clean to avoid costly problems later! Visit your local store or our website for ear cleaning solutions and products.

Here’s something you might not know about your dog: he can lose 50 percent of his muscle or body fat and survive, but losing just 10% of his water weight could be dangerous. Water is easy to overlook, but its importance can’t be understated. Read on for tips on how to keep your dog hydrated.

Signs of dehydration

Your dog may be dehydrated if he:

• Is lethargic or sluggish
• Has sunken eyes
• Shows a loss of appetite
• Has dry, sticky gums
• Seems depressed

Although it isn’t foolproof, one way to check for dehydration is to gently lift the skin on the back of your dog’s neck or between his shoulders. The skin should immediately return to normal. If it keeps a tented shape for a few seconds, he may lack fluids.

Playing in hot weather or a bout of either diarrhea or vomiting can put him in danger of dehydration, so pay attention to the signs. If he shows these symptoms, take your dog to the vet immediately. Dehydration can set in within 18 to 24 hours.

Tips to prevent dehydration

• Your dog should drink at least one ounce of water per pound of body weight every day.
• Clean and refresh your dog’s water bowl daily. Stagnant water can grow bacteria.
• Watch your dog’s water intake by filling his bowl to the same level every day.
• Get a water bowl that is hard to knock over.
• Take water for your dog when you’re traveling or exercising.
• During warmer weather, make sure your dog rests and rehydrates after being outdoors.
• A dog’s breath is six percent moisture, so don’t ignore hydration in colder months.
• Be especially careful if your dog is older, diabetic, pregnant, nursing, has had diarrhea or vomiting, or suffers from an illness.

If your dog seems in danger of dehydration and refuses to drink, try giving him watered-down juice (non-citrus juice), chicken or beef broth with low sodium, water with ice in it, or water with a little kibble in it. Non-flavored Pedialyte mixed with equal parts water can also help delay dehydration, although it won’t cure it.

Keep an eye on the H20 to keep your dog happy and hydrated.

It’s a challenge to teach your dog not to pull on his leash when he’s busy exploring the sights, sounds and smells of the outdoors. But it’s possible with consistent training.

The next time Fido pulls ahead to explore, use these techniques to teach him leash manners.

Method 1: Stop and Go

• When your dog starts to pull, stop walking and wait.
• When he stops, praise him then move on.
• Repeat this every time he pulls on the leash and he’ll eventually learn that pulling will keep him from walking.

Method 2: About Face

• With this method, your dog’s pulling will have you making an about face.
• When your dog starts pulling, turn around and walk back from where you came. Let the leash check your dog (gently).
• As your pooch hurries to catch up with you, praise him.
• Once he catches up, turn again and continue walking in the direction you were walking before.
• If he pulls again, turn around and repeat the action. Teach your dog that pulling will have him checked by the leash and will keep him from heading where he wants to go.

Bring out the toys

It may seem contradictory, but exercising your dog before the training walk will help. He’ll be less likely to pull if he isn’t ready to run and full of energy. Overall, keep training sessions short and fun. And remember, consistency is key.

Is a collar or harness better for walking your dog? Despite what you may have seen on TV or on other dogs in the neighborhood, the decision depends on your dog’s training and your goals.

Do you want to train your dog to stop pulling or is he already trained? Is your dog’s breed known for having issues with the spinal column or trachea? Read on for options and tips.

Content with Collars
The most common recommended collars are traditional buckle or snap collars, break-away collars and head collars. (Choke chains and prong collars are best used by owners with dog-training experience.)

The traditional buckle or snap collar is a good everyday collar to hold ID tags. It’s also acceptable for walking your dog on a leash, but consider first if your dog is trained to walk without pulling or if the breed has a potential medical condition.

Benefits of a collar

• Fits your dog’s neck exactly.
• Fairly inexpensive.
• Can be worn all the time.
• Can be used to hold ID tags or rabies tags.
• Safe for most dogs, except small breeds or those with spinal/tracheal issues.

Collar considerations

• Your dog might outgrow it and need a new one.
• It might get caught on something. (Breakaway collars allow a quick release.)
• It won’t curb your dog’s leash pulling without training.
• Not appropriate for walking dogs that are predisposed to…
• Wobbler syndrome (Doberman pinschers, Great Danes and other breeds)
• Spinal cord disorders or Chiari malformation (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and other toy breeds)
• Slipped discs in the spinal column (Dachshunds, French bulldogs)
• Hydrocephalus or water on the brain (toy breeds and dogs with shortened heads)
• Collapsible trachea (Yorkshire terriers and other small breeds)

For big dogs who pull on their leashes, a head collar or head halter is a safe option for training. Similar to a horse halter, it fits over the dog’s head and helps you lead the direction of his forward movement. Although it’s often mistaken for a muzzle, it isn’t. Your dog can still open his mouth, bark and drink. It shouldn’t be used with a retractable leash however, as it may jerk the dog’s head.

Happy with harnesses
You and your dog may be just as happy with a harness for walking. Since it doesn’t apply pressure on the neck or against the trachea, it’s a good option for many dogs, especially puppies, small dogs and toy breeds. While a regular harness is not considered the best choice for training and may even increase leash pulling, a front-clip harness can help in that area as well.

Benefits of a harness

• Safe for dogs predisposed to medical conditions or spinal/tracheal issues.
• Comfortable for most dogs.
• Appropriate for small dogs.

Harness considerations
Keep in mind that if your dog isn’t trained to walk without pulling, a regular harness won’t help and may even increase the problem. One option for training is a front-clip harness or no-pull harness. Because they clip in front and restrict full extension of the front legs, they’re designed to discourage pulling. This a short-term training tool, however. Once your dog is trained, switch to a regular harness or collar.

For more advice or to check the fit on a dog collar or harness, visit your local store and ask an associate for help.

When you think of a happy dog, you might imagine one with his tail wagging. But a wagging tail isn’t always a sign of canine happiness. It could also be a sign of nervousness or aggression.

Your dog’s body language offers various clues as to whether or not he’s comfortable with a situation. By learning some of these often subtle signs, you can react when your dog is feeling fearful or aggressive.

Signs of a happy dog

These are the signs of a dog that is happy and relaxed:

• His eyes have their normal shape and look soft, with no whites showing.
• His body is loose with a wagging tail or he’s wiggling all over.
• His mouth is closed or slightly open and relaxed. The corners of his mouth might be turned up slightly.
• His ears are in their neutral, natural position or up. Mild curiosity might have his ears perking forward.

Get to know your dog’s signs

Your dog’s signs might vary slightly, as each breed has different neutral positions for tails and ears. For example, an Akita might hold his tail higher than a Greyhound or a Collie. Get to know your dog’s natural body language and it’ll be easy to notice when he’s suddenly tense or fearful.

Signs of discomfort or distress

These signs are often signals of discomfort, nervousness or distress:

• The body is tense or stiff. His fur might be raised.
• His tail wags in a way that is stiff and higher or lower than his neutral position.
• His eyes are rounder with whites showing.
• He avoids eye contact or looks away from something that bothers him.
• His mouth is closed.
• His ears are pulled back or lowered.

When you notice these signs, stop to see what’s disturbing your dog and try to move him away or redirect his attention. By learning your dog’s body language, you’ll be able to keep him safe and can react to avoid harmful situations.

When it’s cold outside, it’s time to help your pet to fight the winter blues. Help him avoid canine boredom and you’ll avoid the behavior that usually comes with it, including chewing, digging and barking. Keep your dog active and mentally stimulated instead with these tips.

Play indoor games

• Hide and seek: Your dog may enjoy a game of hide-and-seek, as long as he’s always “it” and has to find you. This would be a good time to teach him to “stay” while you hide around the house, then call him to search for you. You can also play with a family member and take turns holding the dog while the other person hides.
• Scavenger hunt: Play hide and seek with a favorite toy or treat instead. If your dog isn’t used to playing, start with simple hiding places in plain sight at first, then increase the difficulty. Here’s a video on how to teach your dog to search at home.
• Fetch or catch: Depending on the size of your dog and your home, a game of indoor catch with a soft ball or toy can also be fun.

Train Fido to sit and stay

• Now’s the time to start the dog training you’ve been meaning to do. Keep the sessions short and have a few soft treats handy to reward his good work. Before you know it, he’ll be responding to your commands and will be well trained for those summer romps in the dog park. See this video for tips.

Bring out the toys

• Interactive toys: What’s play time without a few toys? Interactive dog toys like treat balls, games and puzzles will keep him entertained.
• Toys suitable for your dog’s size: From stuffing-free plush toys to rubberized toys and chew toys, find the best options for your dog’s temperament and size. Also, rotate the toys into use, so he doesn’t tire of them as quickly.

While you’re keeping him active, remember to keep Fido safe from the cold as well! Place his dog bed away from doorways or drafts. In very cold temperatures, have him wear a sweater outdoors, especially if he has short hair or clipped fur.

Festivities and family gatherings make our holidays bright. But as you decorate for the occasion, be mindful of pet hazards to ensure the “most wonderful time of the year” is safe for your dog.

Here are a few dos and don’ts for pet-friendly holiday décor.

Do light up your holiday safely
If menorahs, twinkling tree lights or holiday candles are part of your holiday tradition, be aware of the potential dangers involved. Keep open flames to a minimum as you wouldn’t want your dog’s wagging tale to start a fire! Also cover or tape down electrical cords and lights that are within chewable reach of your canine’s teeth.

Don’t expose Fido to holiday edibles
The many wonderful foods that make the holidays special for us can cause gastrointestinal distress for your dog. Be careful with edible tree decorations, gingerbread houses, candy canes and other decorative goodies as well. Even items that aren’t hazardous might cause vomiting, which won’t add to your holiday décor! Get your dog a holiday dog treat instead.

Do keep holiday gifts at a safe distance
Brightly colored packages can be tempting curiosities for your dog, but their ribbons and bows can cause choking. Your dog’s sensitive nose will also help him sniff out wrapped boxes of candy or chocolate. Since these gifts can be harmful if ingested, keep them out of reach-except for your dog’s gift of course!

Overall, it’s not hard to make your holiday at home safe and enjoyable for both human and canine family members. Add to your dog-friendly festivities with chew toys and dog treats from Pet Supermarket.

Does your dog use his ultimate canine weapons at dinner time? You know the ones we mean: the big puppy eyes, pleading bark and hopeful tail wag.

What about the sad doggy face that induces guilt and has you thinking just a little bit of the chicken off your plate wouldn’t hurt?

Those weapons are pretty powerful! But if you can resist a moment longer, we can give you good reasons why you should give him dog treats instead of table scraps.

Why you shouldn’t feed your dog table scraps:

You’re rewarding bad behavior
One or two times might not seem like much at first, but once your dog gets used to begging for (and getting) that extra goodie, it can become ingrained behavior. This can lead to barking or whining when he doesn’t get a scrap, not to mention begging from your guests.

They affect his diet and good nutrition
Table scraps don’t meet the needs of a good diet and your dog will miss the vitamins and minerals he needs to stay healthy. Quality dog treats meet his needs best and should be the first choice.

They might lead to a health disaster
Did you know table scraps are the leading cause of digestive tract disorders? Our rich, fatty foods can lead to pancreatitis, colitis and diverticulitis. They can also cause gas, bad breath, loose stools and vomiting.

You’re creating a food thief
Once you’ve opened the door to table scraps, anything is game. Your dog might reach for food in the trash, on the table, on the counter or elsewhere. His search could lead him to harmful foods as well, like chocolate.

The next time you see those sad puppy eyes, resist! Give him a healthy dog treat instead. Read on for a reminder of why they’re a better choice.

• Dog treats are more nutritious and have fewer calories.
• Dental treats can help with tartar, plaque and bad breath.
• Soft treats make great rewards and promote good behavior in training.
• Special treats offer extra healthy additives, such as Glucosamine or Omega 3.

Remember, even healthy dog treats should be used in moderation.

It will soon be time for costumes, tricks and treats! We wish everyone a howling good time this Halloween and offer these safety tips to keep in mind.

Halloween treats
All of the candy, chocolate and sugary treats can be tempting to Fido, but keep them away from him. Items like chocolate and candy sweetened with xylitol can be harmful. Your dog or cat doesn’t have to miss out on the Halloween fun though. Just give them special treats or toys of the pet variety.

Doggy-proof décor
Is the pumpkin-carving tradition alive and well at your home? If so, use a non-flammable light rather than a candle for your jack-o-lantern. You don’t want your curious dog or cat to get singed or start a fire. Beware also of using fake webs, small plastic spiders and other decorations that can be easily chewed or ingested.

Trick-or-treating guests
Part of the fun on Halloween is opening the door to trick-or-treaters in cute costumes, but these visitors can cause stress for your pets. If your dog or cat isn’t very social, keep them in a separate room until trick-or-treating time is over. Also, be sure your pets are wearing ID in case they do manage to dart out the door. This is one holiday when all pets should be kept indoors.

Pet costumes
You might like the idea of a doggy superhero or a canine Yoda, but how well will your dog handle the costume? Make sure it doesn’t impede your pet’s movement or cause undue stress. Otherwise, consider a costume with a light cape or a simple design. Even a bandana can add a festive touch.

From cowboys to hot dogs, we have a variety of costumes at Pet Supermarket. Take your pick and visit us on Halloween day for a pet treat! Have a safe holiday!