Blog For Dog Lovers

Just like humans, there are introverted and extroverted dogs. Some enjoy socializing more than others—and that’s all good and fair.

But what if your dog is exhibiting behaviors that go beyond typical introversion? Anti-social behavior such as aggression, lunging on the leash, or avoiding people altogether can negatively affect you and your dog’s life.

In this article, we’ll talk about why your dog might display these anti-social antics and how you can help transform your pooch into a social butterfly.

Why Is My Dog Not Socializing?

Most anti-social behaviors start during your dog’s early puppyhood. This can either be a result of abuse or a lack of proper training. Dogs who have limited access to other people and pets can also develop shy, antisocial characteristics.

Abuse or Mistreatment

Unfortunately, the number one cause of an antisocial dog stems from abuse or mistreatment.

If you adopted your dog from a shelter, there’s a high chance that your new family member is extremely timid—especially if you chose to adopt an adult dog.

Lack of Early Training

Puppies can be raging balls of energy and excitement. They can also be shy and scared. After all, they’re just beginning their lives. And let’s face it—the world is big and scary.

The best way to instill good behavior is by training a puppy when they’re between seven and eight weeks old. Oftentimes, this early training period is missed and can lead to unwanted behaviors. It’s never too late to train a dog, but it gets harder once they reach adulthood.

Being Confined at Home

Many dog owners choose to shelter their canines from other people and animals. However, this is not the way to go about protecting your dog.

Confining your dog at home is a recipe for an anxious, frustrated, and anti-social dog. Your four-legged friend needs room to release his or her energy while learning how to navigate the world by your side.

How Can I Help My Dog Become More Sociable?

Do you recognize antisocial behavior in your dog?

From basic commands to in-depth training, here are a few methods you can harness to help your dog grow into a more sociable pooch.

1. Practice Basic Commands

Commands are confidence boosters for dogs—and who doesn’t love a good boost of confidence? Make sure you’re praising your dog every time he or she sits, stands, or shakes on command. But don’t just limit basic commands to your dog; make it clear to your friends and family that they cannot make any sudden movements toward your dog, as this may increase anxiety.

2. Practice Leash Etiquette

If your dog is walking you rather than you walking him or her, or if your dog is lunging at other pets and people, then it’s time to teach leash etiquette. You’re the leader of the pack, so it’s your job to remain assertive and in charge. Take the lead and invest in a quality harness that won’t jerk or injure your dog’s neck while teaching commands.

3. Introducing to New Dogs

Introductions can be nerve-wracking. A dog dealing with social issues might be scared or hesitant to meet new dogs, so it’s important to introduce them at your dog’s pace. The best way to start is by introducing your dog to dogs you already know and trust. Reward your dog each time they exhibit good behavior.

4. Contact a Professional

Sometimes, the best course of action is the help of a professional. Certified behaviorists will work closely with you and your dog to offer the support they need. Training sessions for remedial socialization usually start with a behavioral assessment followed by a personalized plan.

Our advice? Remain patient with your dog—and yourself.

Make Your Dog’s Tail Wag With The Absorber®

It’s important to remember that your dog has a unique personality, and their level of socialization may not be what you dreamed of. Whatever you do, don’t get discouraged.

It’s your job to love your pup—and one of the best ways to show your love is with a soft and snuggly absorbent towel. The Absorber® is our flagship product that dogs and owners can’t get enough of. It’s quick to dry, handy to store, and takes the dread out of bath time. Grab the towel that keeps your dog happy and comfortable no matter where you go.

Can’t wait to hop into your bed after a long day? Neither can your dog. Many dogs love to cozy up next to their owners by sleeping between their legs or burrowing under the covers. But why do dogs do this? And should you be concerned if your pooch exhibits this behavior every night? 

The short answer is no—but there are a few signs to watch out for.

Why Your Dog Sleeps on Your Legs 

Have you ever wondered why do dogs sleep at your feet? A dog who sleeps on its owner’s legs is a fairly common and innocent behavior. However, this harmless mannerism can be a result of deeper psychological issues. Let’s take a look at the four main reasons why your dog sleeps on your legs.

1. You’re Part of the Pack

The most common reason for your dog sleeping on your feet is that you’re a part of her pack. Dogs are packed animals, meaning they live together for survival and will sleep in groups. 

Wolves are historically packed animals and will always assign a pack leader, or alpha. Since dogs descended from wolves, they harbored the same pack mentality. In other words, your canine sees you as the leader of the pack. Consider your dog’s sleeping habits as a way of saying, “I love you, and I want to protect you.”

2. You’re Warm & Cozy

If your dog is constantly sleeping between your legs during the winter months, then chances are they're not warm enough. So what better way to warm up than next to his leader in a cozy bed? 

Your dog is smart and realizes that your body gives off plenty of heat to keep them warm and comfy. But creating a warm space for your dog to go to during frigid weather is important.

3. Your Dog Feels Safe

If your dog is the anxious type during fireworks or severe weather, then seeking comfort by your side will bring them the safety and security they needs.

Many dogs like to be in a confined and contained area when they get anxious—which is why your dog considers sleeping on your legs to be a safe and protected space.

4. Your Dog Has Separation Anxiety

Dogs who get anxious and stressed when left alone have separation anxiety. This condition typically develops when your dog is very young and is common in pups who have been abandoned or surrendered to a shelter. 

If your dog has separation anxiety, then you know how hard it is for them to be away from you. Your dog will sleep with you at night because they don't want to be left alone. If they don't, then they will become fearful of abandonment. 

Separation anxiety can result in destructive behaviors. If your dog is exhibiting signs of separation anxiety, make sure you talk with your vet to rule out any other underlying medical issues.

Giving Your Dog Their Own Sleeping Space

Providing your dog with a safe and comfortable sleeping space to go to is important. If you’re trying to wean your dog away from sleeping on your legs, then train them to lie down in their own bed. 

To do this, don’t reward your dog with pets and affection when they jump on your bed. Instead, redirect their behavior by commanding them to get down. Once your dog is in their bed, give them some well-deserved treats, love, and affection.

Keep Your Dog Comfortable With The Absorber®

Does your wet dog sprint to your bed after a bath? Depending on your canine, bath time can either be relaxing or stressful. Regardless of your dog’s views on the tub, you can keep your dog dry, comfortable, and happy with The Absorber®—an ultra-absorbent towel that takes the dread out of drying. Never let your dog shake their suds off on your sheets again, and dry them the easy way with The Absorber® by Dog Lover’s Towel.

Your dog will always be your fur baby—but what happens when they don’t run to greet you at the door like they used to do?

Dogs are living longer than ever before, but as they age, their needs change. Senior dogs need more exercise, a balanced diet, and supplements to keep them feeling as healthy as they can be. Follow our five tips to keeping your senior dog fit and healthy—so you can make your dog's golden years the greatest years of their life.

How to Keep Your Senior Dog Healthy

1. Fitness For Elderly Dogs

Older dogs may not have as much pep in their step as they used to, but they still need to exercise those muscles to prevent bad posture. Practice commands like “sit” and “come” throughout the day to help keep their minds and bodies as active as possible. This will help your senior dog retain the ability to sit, stand, and stay confident during their old age.

 

2. A Healthy Diet

Implementing a proper diet is important for your dog at any age, but it is especially crucial for seniors dogs. Since elderly dogs tend to have trouble moving, you will want to keep your pet in good shape throughout their golden years. In doing so, you will help them avoid diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, and other harmful health issues that come with age.  

 

3. Joint Supplements 

As dog's age, they are more likely to develop joint problems. There are many supplements on the market for senior dogs, such as glucosamine—a natural compound found in cartilage that surrounds the joints. Glucosamine supplements will help alleviate joint inflammation, resulting in a happier and healthier senior dog. Before you hit the shelves, talk to your veterinarian about choosing the right supplements for your dog.

 

4. Range of Motion Exercises

   The older your dog gets, the more sedentary they become. Range of motion exercises is a great way to combat this. To keep your dog’s joints moving correctly and easily, practice some senior dog-approved exercises. While your dog is laying down, gently bend and extend his or her legs one at a time in sets of five repetitions. Carefully turn your dog over and repeat.

 

5. Daily Massages and Care

Yes—dogs love a good massage too! Take some time out of your day to give your elderly dog the special care and attention he or she deserves. Daily massages help relieve tension and improve their range of motion. Finish up with a soothing bath to alleviate those tired, tight muscles and give your dog a dry with The Absorber® Dog Lover's Towel —a super-absorbent towel designed to get your pooch feeling comfortable again in a snap.

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Nobody likes to get old—and neither does your dog. However, you can bring out the puppy in your old pooch again by giving them the love and care they deserve. By using The Absorber®, you can keep your dog comfortable and happy during their senior years. Its convenient design comes in handy at home or on the go, and its cooling properties keep your senior dog from overheating on those hot summer days. 

Give your senior dog the gift of The Absorber® and shop now.

You’ve read the books. You’ve made the lists. You’ve purchased the gear. Preparing for a new baby is an exciting time, but it’s also a lot of work—and it might cause some confusion for your dog. A new baby will unquestionably come with imminent changes, but there are a few steps you can take to make introducing your dog to your new baby a little easier. 

Introducing Your Dog to Your Baby

Dogs are creatures of habit, so once routines start to change, your fur baby will start to notice. This is actually a great time to start implementing changes to your dog’s routine to get her used to a new schedule before your baby arrives. Here are a few tips you can follow before and after your delivery.

Two Weeks Before Your Baby’s Arrival

Your due date is fast approaching, and you’re probably starting to experience the pre-delivery jitters. The thing is, your dog can pick up on your emotions. According to recent research, studies have shown that dogs can recognize different emotions just by looking at their human’s facial expressions. So if you’re feeling anxious, stressed, and downright panicky, your dog may start acting out.

This is a great time to give your dog extra cuddles and attention. While you’re at it, you can start meal prepping your dog’s food into his correctly portioned servings for your designated dog sitter. Make sure all important information is written down in an easily accessible notepad.

The Day You Bring Your Baby Home

Here come the wiggles! Your dog missed you a lot, but what he doesn’t realize is that you are carrying precious cargo. Make sure you have your partner hold your baby while you greet your other “baby.” Wait until your dog has calmed down before letting your pooch sniff his new sibling. 

Again, dogs read emotions, and now there is a tiny human in the mix of things. Let him get a feel for the new member of the family and reward him with a treat for being so kind and careful with the baby. 

The Day After You Bring Your Baby Home…

…and the day after that, and so forth. 

Yes, it will take some time for your dog to realize that this will be the new normal. And that’s okay. Your dog’s world has changed significantly, so don’t be surprised if it takes some time for your dog to get accustomed to its new life. Make sure you involve your dog in all baby-related activities and remember to separate the dog’s toys from your baby’s toys. Eventually, both of your babies will become the best of friends.

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If dogs and babies have one thing in common, it’s that they can be very, very messy. Whether you're cleaning up your baby’s spills or drying off your dog after bath time, The Absorber® is a necessary tool for your linen closet. Messes don’t have to be a hassle to clean up. The Absorber® is a super-absorbent towel that is versatile, convenient, and takes the dread out of drying.

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So you’re a new dog parent. You’ve done all the research, purchased the right food, and aced the potty training process (albeit, with a few accidents). Then before you know it, you’re hit with a new challenge—leaving your puppy home alone for the first time. 

As a new dog parent, it’s natural to worry—but don’t worry too hard. Whether you’re headed to work or going out for a dinner date, we’ll walk you through our top six tips to ensure your puppy will be safe and sound while you’re away.

How Long Can I Leave My Puppy Alone?

Before we get into the tips, there’s one thing you should know—a puppy can’t be left alone for more than two hours at a time. Once your fur baby grows into an adult dog, he or she can stay home anywhere between four and six hours. Until then, you’ll want to make sure either you or someone else can stop by to check on your puppy.

The reason behind the two-hour time frame isn’t necessarily because of accidents, but rather because puppies can develop separation anxiety. Puppies are still growing, so prolonged time alone can result in anxiety issues. Try to put yourself in your puppy's paws—you are their whole world. So when you’re away for too long, it’s natural for them to get anxious. That being said, every dog is different and you must also consider his or her breed and health. 

Now, let’s get into the tips.

1. Choose the Right Dog Breed

Some dog breeds are better at managing time alone than others. Surely you’ve done your research, but it is pertinent to understand your puppy’s characteristics. 

Some breeds need more attention and socialization than others, which will directly affect the way your dog responds to time alone. A few dog breeds that best manage time alone include the French Bulldog, the Maltese, and the Basset Hound.

2. Training Your Puppy to Be Home Alone

You’ve been training your puppy since you brought him home—but the training doesn’t stop at potty breaks. From the moment you bring your new puppy home, you need to start teaching him that it’s okay to be home alone. That way, he’ll understand that he’s safe and secure and that you will always return.

One way to start training your puppy is by leaving the house and immediately coming back. This teaches him that being alone is normal. As time goes on, gradually increase your time outside—and don’t forget to give him a treat before you leave

3. Have a Routine

Just like humans, dogs are creatures of habit. Dogs need a consistent routine that they can rely on, such as when they can expect to be fed and exercised. Implementing a routine will not only help your dog feel more comfortable, but it will also give her the tools to handle any unexpected events that may come her way.

A routine can help your dog distribute her energy throughout the day. If your dog knows she’s going out for a run later, then she’ll be much less likely to be rambunctious while you’re away.

4. Exercise Is Key

A great way to regulate your dog’s at-home activity is to take him out for a walk before you go. If you’re leaving for work, make sure to get a good walk around the block in before you go. And if your puppy is still learning the ins and outs of proper waking etiquette, then this is an excellent time to practice. 

As we’ve mentioned, every dog is different. You need to factor in your dog’s age, breed, and health to craft the right exercise schedule. However, it is agreed upon that dogs need exercise and mental stimulation to keep them from developing behavioral problems. Humans need regular exercise too, so walking your dog ensures that you and your pooch get your daily steps in

5. Get a Comfy Dog Bed

Who doesn’t love to lounge around in a soft, comfortable bed? Your dog certainly loves it. When you leave your dog home, the most important thing you can do is to create a safe and comfortable area to which she has unlimited access. This area should have food, water, toys, and an ultra-comfy doggie bed.

You should also dog-proof areas that are off-limits. As a new dog owner, you probably have a few baby gates already set up. These are perfect for blocking off any dog-free areas of your home. Consider covers for electrical outlets and power strips as well. You can also practice crate training, which acts as a safe, small place for your dog to go to during the day.

6. Keep Your Dog Entertained

A bored dog is an unhappy dog. Make sure you’re mentally stimulating your pup with fun toys to play with. Some great options include puzzles, food dispensers, and chew toys. Chew toys are excellent, especially if your puppy is still teething. The last thing you want to find is everything ripped to shreds the second you walk in the door. 

Keeping the television on, playing classical music on repeat, and getting your dog a buddy can all help alleviate your dog’s boredom.

What Happens if I Work Long Hours? 

Many of us have nine-to-five jobs. So what do you do if you have to work eight hours a day? If you have a long lunch and home isn’t too far away, you should make a stop at home to check on your dog. Otherwise, you can seek extra help in the form of dog walkers, doggie daycare, and pet sitters. 

Whatever route you choose, you can take comfort in knowing that there is an animal-lover out there willing to help you and your puppy along.

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As a puppy parent, you know how often messes happen. Maybe your puppy ended up getting into something he shouldn’t have while you were out and now it’s time for the dreaded bath. Whether or not your dog likes bath time, make sure you’re prepared with The Absorber®—a super-absorbent towel that allows you to dry your pup faster than ever, so he can get back to his tail-wagging adventures. 

Taking your dog for a hike is a great way for both of you to get exercise, enjoy natural scenery, and have fun together. To ensure a safe, enjoyable experience, it’s important to be prepared before going on any trails. Take a few minutes to review The Dog Lover's Towel's top five dog hiking tips.

Choose a dog-friendly trail

Review any dog-specific rules for the trail(s) you plan to hike. Some trails require things like keeping your dog on a leash at all times or keeping them off certain parts of the trail. To protect your dog and show courtesy to fellow hikers, abide by these trail rules.
When you find a dog-friendly trail, make sure it’s safe for your pup. Avoid trails with rocky terrain or steep hills, as these can cause your dog unnecessary physical strain.

Assess your dog’s health

Before hopping on a trail with your furry friend, make sure he’s up for the task. Just because a trail is dog-friendly doesn’t mean it’s safe for your pup. Since every dog is different, consider these factors to determine your dog’s hiking abilities.

• Age: Puppies and senior dogs are more prone to injuries and heat exhaustion. Take them on trails that are relatively short and flat.

• Size: Smaller dogs take longer to cover the same distance as medium to large-sized dogs. Choose shorter trails for them so they don’t overexert themselves on a longer trail.

• Training level: Have you taken your dog on hiking trails before? Is your dog in good enough shape to hike a particular trail?

• Health conditions: Does your dog have any health conditions or breed-related hindrances that would adversely affect her ability to complete a trail hike safely?

If you’re not sure what trails your dog can handle, start small and gradually work your way up. This will protect you and your dog and help build endurance.

Check the forecast

To avoid poor weather conditions while hiking with your dog, check the weather forecast before heading out on the trails. This will protect you and your dog from potentially dangerous weather conditions and keep you from taking a muddy dog home.

Pack the essentials

Check out our beginner’s guide to know what to bring the next time you hike with your dog.

Must-Have Dog Hiking Gear

• Water and water bowl
• Food and snacks
• Poop bags
• Updated ID tags
• Dog first aid kit

Optional

• Cleaning supplies
• Toys
• Dog booties
• Insulated or cooling outerwear
• Extra leash
• Dog saddle

Leave no waste behind

Pick up after yourself and your dog. After hiking a trail, it should be as clean as—if not cleaner than—how you found it. This includes properly disposing of any trash and dog waste along the way.

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Bathing your dog is the first thing you should do after returning home from a hike. For an easy dog bathing experience, you need a super-absorbent, quick-drying dog towel. By picking up 50% more water on contact than competing products, The Absorber® is the market’s #1 dog drying towel. Take the dread out of drying with The Absorber® Dog Lover’s Towel.

Whether you’re a new dog owner or a seasoned veteran, we all can benefit from tips and tricks about how to clean our furry friends paws after they’ve gotten into some mud outside. While you can’t control the elements, you can implement some basic techniques and know how to stop muddy dog paws on your belongings.

If you want to keep your dog clean while protecting your belongings from getting dirty, take a look at our 5 ways to clean dog paws guide below. 

5 Ways To Keep Dog Paws Clean 

We’ve put together a list of five ways you can keep your dog’s paws clean. One option might work better for your lifestyle, or maybe you’ll implement all five to cover your bases. Either way, check out this helpful guide to keep your pup and your stuff mud-free. 

1. Avoid Muddy Areas

The easiest way to prevent your dog from getting muddy paws is to avoid muddy areas altogether. Whether it’s your backyard or a park down the street, keep your pup away after it has rained or you’ve had the sprinklers on. Now you don’t have to stress about your dog wreaking havoc in your home after playing outside. 

2. Keep a Towel by the Door

If your dirty dogs with muddy paws only get a little bit dirty while playing outside, wiping off their paws with a towel might just do the trick. Have your dog sit on a towel or mat when they come inside, and make sure you’re thorough in cleaning their paws. 

3. Set Up a Wash Station 

Maybe your dog sneaked outside while you weren’t looking, or you had a YOLO moment and let them have fun playing in the rain for the heck of it. Whatever the case may be, setting up a wash station by the back door is a life-saver when facing muddy dog paws. 

You can make it fancy with a grooming bath and blow dryer, or you can keep it simple with some soap, a floor drain, and towels for drying. 

4. Stock Your Vehicle With Wipes 

But what if you’re on the go when your dog gets dirty? It’s always a good idea to keep cleaning wipes on hand for when this (inevitably) happens. The last thing you want is dirty paw marks on your cloth or leather seats. 

A potential second line of defense is to get protective rubber mats or car seat covers to catch any water, dirt, or mud left on your dog. 

5. Train Your Pup 

The best thing you can do to deal with muddy dog paws is to teach your pup some basic commands—like “sit,” “stay,” and “lie down.” It takes some time and energy, but training your dog to follow these commands will protect your belongings from getting messy. 

Try The Absorber®

If you’re looking for a super-absorbent, machine washable dog-drying towel to clean up your messy pup, try The Absorber® from CleanTools. With its sponge-like pore structure that absorbs 50% more water than cotton or microfiber towels, this product outperforms every competitor on the market. It also comes in three different sizes, making it the perfect drying product for any sized dog. Get yourself The Absorber® and take the hassle out of drying. 

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Does your dog avoid baths at all costs? You’re not the only pet parent struggling with this. Fortunately, we’ve figured out the most effective ways to bathe your dog. 

Listed below are three essential tips for mastering bath time with your canine. Let’s learn how to get your dog to like baths.

Why Do Dogs Hate Baths?

For starters who often asks “do dogs like baths?”, dogs don’t hate baths. Baths do, however, go against your pup’s wolf instinct to carry the scent of its surroundings for successful hunting. As much as it annoys their owners, dogs love rolling around in the dirt and mud.

Additionally, your dog’s reluctance to be bathed may originate from unfamiliarity. Most pet owners hate giving baths as much as their dogs like getting them. If your dog hasn’t had a bath in a while, he could be hesitant to revisit the activity. 

3 Tips to Help Your Dog Enjoy Bathtime

Tip #1— Start Young

As early as possible, let your pup stand in a puddle of water. This will help expand their idea of water. Not only do you drink it, but you can also be in it! 

You can do this with an adopted pup as well. As soon as you establish trust with your new companion, reintroduce him to water. Observe their comfort level in and around the water. Depending on their reaction,  you may need to adjust your tactics or use their favorite snack as bribery. 

" Tip: Take your dog for a walk when it’s raining, let him stand on the first step of a pool, or have playtime in the wet sand of a beach. Water is all around us. The sooner your dog recognizes it is nothing to fear, the smoother bathtime will be. "

Tip #2— Train in the Bathroom

After a nice long walk, take your canine to the bathroom and instruct him to sit. Reward the action with a treat and walk your dog back out of the bathroom. Repeat this action a few times, instructing your dog to do commands he’s familiar with.  

Then walk your dog to the bathtub and instruct your dog to jump in. This might take a few tries, but be patient. Once your dog does it or attempts to, reward the action and walk him back out of the bathroom. Repeat this training until your dog is comfortable entering the empty bathtub. Training in the bathroom helps your dog relax in a place he once avoided. 

" Tip: Treat the bathroom like any other room in your home. Allow your pup to walk in and out of the area and get comfortable. You can also turn the shower on during training to help your pup get used to the loud noise. " 

Tip #3— Change Your Attitude 

Dogs are very sensitive to changes in body language, energy, and mood. If you have a negative attitude when trying to introduce baths, they will immediately fight the activity. After all, why should your dog do something you don’t even want to do? 

Take a deep breath and relax before giving your pup a bath. Keep your attitude upbeat and positive. You’d be surprised to know how impactful small changes can be.  

Helpful Things to Keep in Mind: 

Have patience: Nothing happens overnight. It may take a few weeks for your dog to get comfortable with the bathing process.

Find their motivation: Bribery goes a long way. Discover what your dog is motivated by and use that as a reward. 

Don’t force it: Dragging your dog into the bathtub will solidify it as a negative space in the future.

Make it fun: Talk to your dog when giving him a bath. Tell him that he’s doing a good job and give him kisses. 

Make Bathtime a Funtime 

After your pup is thoroughly washed, dry him from head to tail with The Absorber® Dog Lover's Towel. This all-purpose doggy PVC cloth is more gentle and efficient than any other cotton towel on the market. Dry those hard-to-reach places in a sitch and get back to playtime with your furry companion. 

Chestnuts roasting on an open fire, your dog putting his ice-cold nose on you! This season brings tons of interesting sights and smells that are sure to send your canine into overdrive. We know you love your fur baby more than anything, but visiting family and friends may not be aware of dog holiday food safety. 

To ensure happy holidays for your two-legged and four-legged family, we’ve listed a few tips for pet owners to keep in mind. 

Tip #1: Avoid Holiday Plants

Everyone loves mistletoe—except your dog. Along with holly and poinsettias, mistletoe can cause life-threatening health issues to your pets. Surprised? You’re not the only one. Unfortunately, lots of plant-loving pet owners learn this the hard way. If eaten, popular seasonal botanicals can impact your pup’s digestion and make him sick. 

Tip: If guests do bring any plants into your home, hang them up or place them outside your front door to ensure pet safety.

Tip #2: Be Mindful of Holiday Decorations

From edible tree ornaments like candy canes to festive candles, holiday decorations can be dangerous to small and large pets. To minimize your chances of visiting an emergency room this season, keep all decor and edible ornaments away from your four-legged companions. 

Tip: Place candy canes on higher surfaces, away from your furry friend’s curious nose. Also, try not to leave lit candles near the edge of a table— your dog’s wagging tail may accidentally bump it.

Wrapping paper, while not hazardous to your pet, can make quite a mess. Avoid unnecessary holiday cleanup by properly storing or discarding holiday paper immediately after unwrapping. To your furry friend, ribbons, bows, and boxes all look like new toys. If your dog or pet gets ahold of something he shouldn’t have. Pet owners should replace this with one of their chew toys.

Other helpful tips:

• Don’t let your dog or pet drink tree water
• Store excess extension cords
• Unplug lights when not in use

Tip #3: Don’t Leave Snacks & Treats

Under normal conditions, your dog knows not to take food from the table. But the holidays are full of so many mouthwatering snacks, can you really blame them for wanting a taste? Pet owners prevent your pet from ingesting something harmful to their body or health by removing them from the room before you begin eating. 

In addition, lots of holiday sweets are made with chocolate, which can be extremely dangerous to dogs. Inform your guests not to leave food or drinks unattended, and not to feed your pet table food without your permission. 

What Can My Dog Eat During the Holidays?

Dogs love the flavor and variety of people-food, but we suggest eliminating it during the holidays to prevent allergy-related accidents and unforeseen digestive issues. You can make dog holiday food and treats, but make sure your guests know table food is off-limits. 

Tip: While you and your family are chowing down, make sure your pet can too! Top your dog’s normal food with delicious turkey broth. It’s a pet-friendly holiday treat your pup is sure to love. 

Practice Holiday Pet Safety

Puffy coats, rain boots, and gloves, oh my! As the temperature shifts from sunny and 75 to 40 and freezing, make sure you’re taking the proper precautions for you and your best friend. To help make the transition to the winter months as smooth (and warm) as possible, we gathered a few tips every pet parent should practice. Check out our five essential dog winter safety tips. 

1. Leash Your Pets

Most pet parents don’t realize the incredible risk cold weather poses to their fur babies. Dog safety in the winter can save you and your pet from stressful moments. Snowfall, for instance, can mask hazardous areas and create a dangerous situation for you and your pet. To minimize your risk, be sure to keep your pet leashed during walks. This is especially when in a familiar area. Snow covers scents and decreases visibility; if your pup gets spooked, she may run away. 

Leashing your dog also prevents them from:

• Running into traffic
• Scaring a passerby
• Falling through ice
• Getting lost

2. Keep Pets Comfortable

Pets who are advanced in age or have medical issues should only be walked for short periods of time. Cold weather tends to aggravate or worsen joint issues. Prevent your dog from enduring extreme discomfort by limiting outdoor time to 15 or 20 minutes. 

Other cold-weather safety recommendations that keep your pet comfortable include:

• Moving their bed away from drafty areas
• Using a space heater
• Limiting jumps, use of stairs

Although signs and symptoms will vary, most dogs with  arthritis exhibit one or more of the following: 

• Changes in behavior 
• Limps when walking
• Stiff movements
• Licks joints constantly
• Avoids climbing

If you suspect our pet may have joint issues, contact your veterinarian. 

3. Avoid Bathing Your Pet

Due to the dry and cool winter air, your pup’s skin needs oils more than any other time of year. Lack of these essential oils will cause your dog to have dry, flaky skin. If your must clean your dog, limit air drying after baths. Instead, use The Absorber® Dog Lover's Towel. This unique cloth dries dogs more efficiently than cotton and microfiber towels. It’s the best way to keep your pet comfortable, happy, and warm.

4. Know Your Pet’s Limits

You know your pet better than anyone. Be mindful of your breed, comfort level, and tolerance of certain environments. 

Short hair dogs: Usually have a harder time adjusting to cold weather. 

Long hair dogs: May be able to withstand cold temperatures, but that doesn’t mean they should.

Indoor dogs: Typically have soft paws and are more likely to react to ice and snow.

Outdoor dogs: Shouldn’t be left outside during the winter. Freezing temperatures can cause a series of physical issues. 

Other cold winter safety tips include: 

• Apply petroleum jelly to paw pads 
• Use booties to prevent injury
• Don’t leave your pet outdoors or in a car

5. Beware of Chemicals

Snow and salt can erode your pet’s paws. Not to mention, antifreeze and other chemicals applied during the winter months are harmful to your dog’s health. After each trip outdoors, wipe down your dog’s legs and paws with a gentle but super-absorbent Dog Lover's Towel. You’ll be able to safely capture toxic chemicals before your dog licks them off her fur or paws.

Prioritize Your Pet’s Cold Weather Safety 

Don’t let the winter months wreak havoc on your pets. Keep them warm and safe all season long with our five essential winter tips. Remember, your dogs are sensitive to changes in temperature like you. If you’re cold, so are they—which is why prioritizing dog safety in the winter is important. Use precaution when walking your pet and always wipe in between their paws with The Absorber®.​​​​ We have a range of sizes to accommodate every dog in your life.