The Modern Bark | Dog Training Tips

Outward Hound Denver Urban Backpack Backpacks for dogs are becoming increasingly popular. For neighborhood walks, backpacks provide a sense of purpose, and encourage dogs to focus on the task at hand, expending more energy on their walks than they would without a backpack.   As an added benefit, dog packs can have a calming effect on dogs with fear aggression. They work much the same way the ThunderShirt does, by wrapping the upper body and applying the same soothing pressure to the dog's torso. For those who love to camp and bring their best friend along for the hike, backpacks allow your dog to carry his own weight.  Water, food, bowls and treats can be easily stored in the saddlebags.  If you are new to hiking with your dog, prepare him for long excursions by starting out on short walks with an empty pack, gradually increasing the load. Whether you are looking for a backpack for light excursions or long treks, there are several features you...

Dog houses have long graced the backyards of homes, as well as various institutions requiring the outdoor kenneling of dogs that are employed in protection of property.  Whether you are seeking protection from arctic blasts or the sun's rays on hot sunny days, we have the best of breed shelters for your canine companion, complete with the pros and cons of each solution.  Fanciful Dog House at Ightham Mote Image Courtesy of Oast House Archive Tips For Purchasing the Right Dog House for Your Dog For a weatherproof dog house, choose one with a roof that overhangs the entrance to prevent rain from pouring in. Vinyl flaps can be installed on most dog houses for added protection and warmth in the winter, however they restrict the flow of air during warm months.   To prevent flooding of the interior, select a dog house that has feet to raise it off of the ground or plan to put a pallet underneath it. Plastic dog houses are easier to keep sanitary, ho...

Sad Lucy on her first day home from the shelter, hiding under the coffee table.  Photo by Tim Dawson Helping Rescue Dogs Adjust to Their New Families While many rescue and shelter dogs are ready to adjust to their new family lives, others can be anxious or fearful of their new environment and family members. The constant changes in their circumstances leading up to adoption are often bewildering, and can make an otherwise laid-back and eager-to-please dog, cautious or even suspicious of its new surroundings. These tips from top obedience trainers can help ease your new canine family member's transition into his new lifestyle, and quickly build bonds of trust between you and your new best friend. How to Approach Your Rescue Dog When Petting Him Research shows that dogs that are highly stimuli-reactive and those with fear aggression are most likely to bite their owners if startled when they are approached.  Before petting your new dog, first say his name, and be su...