Tips For Indoor Dogs

All dog lovers want their dogs to enjoy the great outdoors as
much as possible. However dog owners who live in the city or in
apartments or condos have found some creative ways to overcome
the problems associated with indoor dogs.

Some of the problems with indoor dogs include teaching your dog
containment training, keeping your dog well fed and happily
busy, as well as providing outlets for nature’s call. Some of
the more frustrating problems include barking when someone
knocks at the door and jumping on expensive furniture.

Luckily there are dog training products that make it easier for
dog owners to train their indoor dogs. According to PetSafe,
stimulation training aids such as pads and collars that use mild
electric stimulation can help teach dogs to avoid expensive
furniture. These products are unpleasant to dogs but are
harmless.

Other products to hit the market include a pheromone line by
Farnam Pet Products that uses a soothing scent that helps calm
dogs and reduce negative behavior.

Dog beds and crates that provide dogs with a “comfort zone” not
only reduce stress for dogs, but also dog owners who are away
for long periods of time. Thermal beds that provide warmth and
comfort are very popular.

Veterinarians suggest crate training for the indoor dog as a
dog’s natural instinct is to find shelter when he hears thunder
or unfamiliar noises. Plus dog’s like to have a place of safety
and privacy when they are scared, tired, or have “just had
enough action for the moment.” Dogs that are introduced to the
crate early often consider their crates their home.

Automatic feeding bowls can also be invaluable making sure that
your dog’s feeding time is never missed so that your dog never
goes hungry. This helps reduce your dog’s stress.

It’s been shown that one of the best ways to improve your dog’s
health is to get him to drink more water. However dogs sometimes
turn their noses up at water that’s been sitting in the water
bowl all day. Enter dog drinking fountains. These fountains are
great as they keep water circulating; most also have a reserve
tank so that you never have to worry about your dog going
without water while you are gone.

Chew toys are a must for the home alone dog. Chew toys and dog
bones are a great way for dogs to keep themselves busy while you
are away. Plus they help keep your dog’s teeth and gums clean.
It’s a good idea to keep several toys out at once for your dog -
the more dog toys your dog has to choose from while you’re away,
the less likely he’ll be to chew on your favorite sofa.