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  • High-quality kibble for dogs and cats | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    Is kibble good for dogs and cats? Understand the difference between low-quality and premium dry pet food, plus tips for choosing healthy, nutrient-rich options.

    Dry pet food, or kibble, has long been a go-to diet for many dogs and cats. It’s affordable, long-lasting, and easy to serve — just measure, scoop, and pour. No wonder a 2024 Nextin Research study found that over half of us choose it for our animals. The question is, is kibble good for dogs and cats? Or are we sacrificing their health and well-being for the sake of convenience? 

    It depends. Many of the dry pet foods lining shelves at the grocery store aren’t very healthy. They’re packed with fillers, excess carbohydrates, and artificial additives that can actually harm a dog or cat’s health over time. Fortunately, a growing number of premium pet food companies are raising the bar on kibble by raising their standards. Instead of focusing only on convenience, they create high-quality kibble with superior nutrients. These nutrients help support your dog or cat’s health and longevity. 

    What’s the problem with cheap kibble? 

    Low-end kibble often contains fillers like wheat, corn, soy, or rice. All are high in carbohydrates. This approach fails to meet the dietary requirements of dogs and cats. Our feline friends in particular are carnivorous and need meat-based protein to thrive. Dogs are more omnivorous but still need a protein-rich, nutrient-dense diet.

    Cheap kibble also tends to contain too much salt. “Low-quality pet foods often have excessive sodium and imbalanced minerals, which can increase the risk of diseases, including liver damage and urinary tract infections (UTIs),” says food scientist Bryan Quoc Le, PhD. “Over time, feeding these diets can reduce quality of life and lifespan due to inadequate nutrition and elevated exposure to harmful substances.”

    Along with carb-dense fillers and sodium, many low-grade kibbles include by-products, rendered fats, artificial colors, and preservatives. These ingredients can lead to obesity, diabetes, poor coat condition, digestive issues, and periodontal disease, as well as chronic inflammation.

    How are premium pet food companies redefining kibble? 

    Pet food companies know convenience is a top priority in today’s busy world. Premium kibble brands also use convenience as a foundation for their dog and cat diets, but their main focus is to create nutritious kibble with balanced ingredients and better cooking methods. Let’s take a closer look at how they accomplish this:

    • They use higher-quality proteins

    This means no unnamed meat by-products or meals, which are highly processed. Instead, premium pet food companies use fresh meat, such as chicken, beef, fish, lamb, or turkey, as the first ingredient in their dry foods. Some even use specialty proteins such as duck or venison, which give dog and cat parents different options if their animals are intolerant to certain proteins. Real named meat ingredients provide a source of protein that supports the immune system, muscle function, and overall health.

    • Their diets include whole foods 

    Premium kibble brands use whole foods instead of synthetic vitamins and minerals. This ensures your dog or cat gets the nutrition they need. Ingredients such as sweet potatoes, lentils, peas, spinach, blueberries, and flaxseed provide a source of nutrients, antioxidants, and fiber. This helps keep your animal’s digestive system working smoothly and also offers joint and immune support. In addition, their skin and coat will be soft and healthy! 

    • They choose low-glycemic carbohydrates

    To form dog and cat food into kibble, some carbs are needed. However, not all carbs are created equal. Low-glycemic carbs like chickpeas or oats help keep blood sugar stable. This reduces the risk of diabetes, obesity, and inflammation. These complex carbs also help prevent overeating, and keep your dog or cat satisfied longer thanks to the slower, more sustainable release of energy they provide.

    • Their cooking methods utilize lower temperatures 

    Manufacturers make low-quality kibble with a process called extrusion. It’s a high-heat process that destroys nutrients and alters proteins. This makes the food more shelf stable – but also less nutritious and harder for a dog or cat to digest. Premium pet food companies use low-temperature cooking methods, such as cold-pressing and oven-baking, when making dry food. Lower cooking temperatures preserve the ingredients — and the flavor. 

    Is high-quality dry pet food easy to find? 

    Yes! More and more pet food companies are responding to consumer demand for better quality kibble diets for their animals. This means healthy, nutritious dry foods for dogs and cats are much easer to find than they used to be. 

    Among these companies is NutriSource. They dedicate their efforts to providing a balanced meal profile to its customers. Their formula supports gut health, skin, coat, and immune function by focusing on bioavailable nutrients as well as prebiotics and probiotics, nourishing both cats and dogs from the inside out. NutriSource grinds their meat, mills their own grain, and cooks it all up at low temperatures to preserve nutrient and flavor profiles. 

    CHARM is another company that specializes in nutritious premium dry food recipes for dogs and cats. Their diets incorporate a variety of high-quality ingredients, including meats such as chicken, duck and salmon, along with vegetables like peas, sweet potatoes and apples. They also feature functional superfoods for an extra health boost – e.g. Reishi and Turkey Tail mushrooms, turmeric, cranberries and blueberries. 

    Many stores now carry high-quality kibble for dogs and cats. You can choose one that fits your animal’s needs without losing the convenience of shelf-stable, easy-to-serve food. If you’re overwhelmed by all the options, consult your holistic or integrative veterinarian for advice and guidance on the diet that best suits your animal companion. They can help you narrow down your choices.

    Thanks to higher-quality ingredients and more thoughtful manufacturing and cooking processes, premium pet food companies have transformed dry pet food. Now you can find comfort in giving your dog or cat the nutrients they need to live a long and healthy life, without sacrificing convenience.

    7 things to look for when buying kibble for your dog or cat

    1. Real meat: The first ingredient should be a real, named, whole meat, such as chicken, turkey, beef, lamb, etc. 
    2. No to few fillers: Avoid foods with corn, wheat or soy high on the ingredients list.
    3. Complex carbohydrates: Opt for products that use sweet potatoes, lentils or oats, rather than rice or corn.
    4. No synthetic additives: Look for natural colors, flavors, preservatives, and natural sources of vitamins and minerals.
    5. Probiotics and prebiotics: These help support gut and immune health.
    6. Omega-3 fatty acids: Fish or flaxseed oil helps lead to better skin and coat condition, as well as joint and cognitive health. 
    7. Brand transparency: Choose pet food companies that are transparent about their sourcing, cooking processes, and ingredient quality.

     


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    Laurie Riihimaki is a full-time freelance writer and editor covering a range of topics from animals and holistic medicine to fitness and personal development. Her theatre background in Boston, London, and New York City have helped her create a fun voice that she utilizes in her writing. When not writing for work, Laurie puts time into developing novels, poetry, and personal essays. And when she isn’t writing, she is directing, acting, painting, exploring nature, reading, or spending time with her family and dog.

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    Laurie Riihimaki

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  • How to support dog rescues | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    Find out how dog rescues work and the many ways you can support their lifesaving efforts — from fostering to fundraising.

    Dog rescues play a vital role in the animal community. They help transition dogs from dangerous situations to “fur-ever” homes. Read on for details on how to support dog rescues, and what they do to save and find home for canines in need.

    Do rescue organizations differ from shelters?

    Unlike a shelter, most dog rescue organizations don’t have a physical location. Volunteer networks typically make up rescues. These networks nurture dogs in temporary foster homes while working to find permanent homes for them. 

    While many shelters have adopted a no-kill policy, some still euthanize animals due to overcrowding. They may also deem some animals unadoptable due to health or behavioral issues. A rescue focuses on saving the life of every dog wherever possible.

    Note: Both rescues and shelters depend on volunteers and donations to continue operating.  

    Where do all the rescued dogs go? 

    After removing a dog from danger, the rescue organization arranges accommodations for her – usually a temporary foster home.

    Foster volunteers play a key bridging role in saving canine lives. They give dogs a safe place to stay. They also help rehabilitate canine houseguests with physical or behavioral challenges. These challenges could be physical, like parasites or mange, or behavioral issues such as biting or house-soiling. 

    Rescues also provide temperament testing. This helps identify each dog’s issues, personality traits, and ideal placement — such as homes with cats, kids, or other dogs. This is not a quick and easy process. Dogs often feel overwhelmed during transitions. As a result, temperament tests may not fully reflect how they’ll interact with other animals.

    Note: A dog usually reveals her true temperament only after weeks or months of adjustment.

    “A dog doesn’t show his true personality until he’s been given time to decompress,” says Amy Powell, CPDT. “A dog’s behavior can be misinterpreted as docile when he is actually scared out of his mind and stunned into passivity. 

    “As the dog starts to feel more secure, he will begin to claim territory in his surroundings, and undesirable behaviors may begin to appear.” Amy compares this to “a shy child visiting a stranger’s home, who later turns into a wild child the moment he feels comfortable.”

    Fostering arrangements can last months or even years, depending on how much support a dog needs.

    How can I volunteer for a dog rescue?

    The first step is to find a reputable rescue. If you’re looking for quick indicators, however, there unfortunately are none. No association currently certifies or accredits dog rescues. That means you’ll need to do your own research.

    Check the rescue’s website. Ask for recommendations from other foster parents or ask the rescue for references. Screen rescues just as carefully as they should screen you. (If the rescue isn’t screening you, look for one that will.)

    Note: Be aware that some scammers pose as dog rescues and learn to recognize the red flags. 

    A good rescue will provide dog-centered support for its volunteers. Look specifically for these characteristics:

    • Solid volunteer network in place
    • Careful screening of prospective foster parents and adoptive families
    • An emphasis on the overall safety and well-being of the dogs 
    • Temperament testing to correctly match dogs with foster parents
    • A veterinarian who covers medical costs
    • Dog trainers to assist with behavioral issues
    • A policy to return dogs who don’t fit well with their foster families
    • Organized adoption events to help permanently re-home dogs
    • Equipment and supplies (if available) – e.g. humane collar, leash, crate, food, etc. 

    Note: You can donate any of the items listed above, if you choose this method of support over volunteering. 

    Avoid rescues with muddled paperwork or those looking for quick fixes. A good rescue will be particular about the homes where they place dogs. If a rescue doesn’t consider the dog’s long-term well-being, it’s not the right fit.

    What are some other roles rescue volunteers can perform? 

    Although foster parents serve a critical role in the dog rescue community, there are many other ways you can help:

    • Transport dogs from bad situations to safety
    • Dog-sit or dog-walk
    • Locate and connect foster families with adoption events
    • Coordinate an adoption event or staff a table
    • Educate the public
    • Donate funds or supplies 
    • Become part of a rescue dog’s marketing team
      • Write an attractive bio for the dog
      • Take a perfect photo to accompany the bio
      • Place ads for the dog’s bio
      • Find and attend adoption events
    • Be part of the adoptive family screening team
      • Screen applications
      • Perform background checks
      • Check references, including former veterinarians
      • Give phone interviews
      • Perform home visits
    • Be part of a buddy system (see sidebar on page xx) 

    Volunteering, donating, or adopting – exploring how to support dog rescues is very rewarding. Just be sure to do your research. Work only with rescues that prioritize the long-term health, happiness, and safety of their dogs. 

    Where do rescues find dogs?

    Rescue groups save dogs from six main sources:

    1. High-kill shelters
    2. Hoarding situations
    3. Rural areas
    4. Unwanted senior dogs 
    5. Owner surrenders
    6. Foreign imports

    Rescue groups build relationships with dog suppliers. They often persuade or pay them to surrender unwanted dogs. For example, Beth Buchter and Kathy Styer of Leo’s Helping Paws Rescue, based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, formed relationships with Amish and Mennonite puppy mill owners who discard unsold puppies.

    The rescue often transports 30 to 40 dogs at once, but they can’t save them all. “It’s hard to leave behind those the puppy mills aren’t done with yet,” says Kathy. “There are never enough resources to care for the numbers you want to care for.”

    What’s a dog rescue buddy system?

    Some rescues build community networks that act as support groups. This buddy system can help answer any questions foster and adoptive parents will undoubtedly have about their new canine family members.

    A buddy system helps educate new dog parents. It gives them someone to call for advice — and could mean the difference between a dog being returned or finding a “furr-ever” home. 


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    Gina Napoli

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  • Are dogs replacing children? | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    Are dogs replacing children in modern society? In many countries, the number of dogs has surged so dramatically that it now surpasses the number of children. Some view this as a clear sign people are choosing dogs over parenthood. But researchers remain uncertain — deeper social and cultural factors may be driving the trend. 

    Professor Enikő Kubinyi, who leads the Department of Ethology at Eötvös Loránd University, recently proposed a groundbreaking theory, published in the journal Current Directions in Psychological Science. According to her, there is a connection between dog guardianship and declining birth rates — but not in the way we might think.

    Many people consider their dogs family members, and some even place them above human relationships. A recent Hungarian study revealed that 19% of childless individuals, and even 10% of parents, value their dogs at least partially more than any human. 

    “Some say dogs are the new children, while others find this idea outrageous,” says Kubinyi. “Some studies suggest dog owners hold more negative views of motherhood. Mothers who own dogs may find parenting more burdensome, which could reduce their willingness to have more children.”

    The opposing argument is that dog guardianship might actually increase human fertility rates. “Families with children are more likely to have dogs, and some couples see their dogs as a ‘practice child’, a preparatory step toward starting a family,” says Kubinyi. 

    “Women also tend to find men with dogs more attractive, which could increase the chances of fatherhood,” she adds. According to this view, dogs aren’t replacing children — they’re adding dogs before starting a family.

    Dogs also act as a kind of ‘social glue,’ helping build human relationships. For example, walking a dog increases opportunities for social interaction. Thus, dogs may play an important role in creating social networks among people. 

    “The number of children is not declining because the number of dogs is increasing, but the same trend lies behind both phenomena: the transformation of social networks,” says Kubinyi. 

    “The caregiving instinct and the need for social support are part of our genetic wiring. But these drives have shifted toward companion animals, partly because human relationships are often damaged or absent.”says Kubinyi. “Dog ownership is a wonderful thing when it connects people rathern 

    “We need to strengthen family-based social support systems and reduce social isolation,” isolates them.”


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    Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.

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    Animal Wellness

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  • DIY doggy pouch for hiking and walks | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    Make your own DIY doggy pouch for summer walks and hikes! Carry treats, water, first aid, and more with ease. Keep your pup safe, hydrated, and happy on every adventure.

    Treats, check. Water, check. Insect repellent, check. A leash alone isn’t enough to keep your dog safe and stress-free on summer walks and hikes. A DIY doggy pouch helps you carry essentials hands-free, keeping your outings more comfortable.

    Assembling your doggy pouch

    Start by purchasing a miniature, lightweight backpack with long straps that rests comfortably on your back. Then fill it with the following items:

    1. Treats: Pack a small bag or container of high-quality treats for training purposes and reinforcing good behavior. Treats also provide protein-rich snacks for long walks or hikes. 
    2. Water: Clean fresh water is essential for keeping your dog (and you!) hydrated. “Water would be the most important thing [to take] on a hot day,” says veterinarian Dr. Mark Stair.
    3. Collapsible bowl: Lightweight and easy to pack, a collapsible bowl is important for giving your dog water while on the trail.
    4. Dog brush and comb: Pack a long-bristled slicker brush. It can detangle your dog’s hair if he runs into a patch of burrs or picks up twigs or leaves in his coat. A comb helps remove all the debris. 
    5. Pop bags and disposable wipes: It’s important to always clean up after your dog, so Dr. Stair advises adding poop bags to your doggy pouch. “And, of course, you’ll need something to pick up the stools with,” he adds. Personal experience tells me to always double bag. Include disposable wipes to clean up messy dogs.
    6. Tick remover: Since tick-borne diseases are an issue in many areas, remove these pests as soon as they attach to your dog. I carry a key-sized tick remover tool in my doggy pouch.
    7. Insect repellent: Bring a natural insect repellent made for dogs to keep bugs (including ticks!) at bay.
    8. Moisturizer: Add a gentle moisturizer made from natural ingredients for your dog’s paws or snout – this is a great item to have on hand for dry or windy days.
    9. Sunscreen: Protect your dog’s nose from those UV rays by carrying a tube of natural pet sunscreen. 
    10. EpiPen/first aid kit: Dr. Stair notes that dogs often eat random things off the ground. They also occasionally suffer bee stings, or accidentally get injured. It’s a good idea to have an EpiPen in your doggy pouch in case of allergic reactions. And include a basic first aid kit for scrapes, cuts or bites.
    11. Pheromone oil: If your dog gets agitated or overexcited around other dogs or wildlife, pack pheromone oil to help him stay calm. “It mimics the pheromone the mother dog gives off when she has her puppies, and makes dogs feel secure,” says Dr. Stair. 
    12.  Sentimental item: Some dogs form strong attachments to certain items and carry them as a “security blanket.” “My daughter’s dog likes to carry a hat around,” says Dr. Stair. Save a place in your doggy pouch for one of these items.
    13. Number for poison control: Store a poison control phone number in your doggy pouch and on your cellphone (e.g. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435). “If you were told to make your dog vomit, you would usually use hydrogen peroxide,” adds Dr. Stair. So, carry a small bottle of the latter as well. 

    Whether you’re visiting the local park or hitting a forest trail, a well-stocked DIY doggy pouch ensures your dog’s safety and comfort. It also gives you peace of mind so you can relax and enjoy your hikes and walks together. 

    Advantages of a doggy pouch

    A doggy pouch offers a couple of important benefits.

    1. Gives you better control of your dog: My high-energy Husky/Akita mix, Luna, is too strong for me to manage without both hands. I needed something I could carry on my back so my hands were free if I needed them. 
    2. Allows you to comfortably carry everything you need: A doggy pouch can accommodate items you might otherwise have to leave at home. For example, I take Luna’s tiny stuffed green Brontosaurus on walks because it helps her calm down. I also carry moisturizer for windy days.

    Start by purchasing a miniature, lightweight backpack with long straps that rests comfortably on your back.

    Pack a long-bristled slicker brush to detangle your dog’s hair if he runs into a patch of burrs.


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    Makenzi Walsh

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  • Holistic Health Care Promises a Longer, Healthier Life for Your Furry Companion | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    Caring for a beloved companion involves more than just routine check-ups. Holistic animal care offers a perspective that emphasizes overall approach to the health and happiness of your furry friend. You have the power to enhance your furry friend’s quality of life.

    Embracing Holistic Treatments

    Holistic treatments provide a comprehensive approach to health. Acupuncture, for instance, promotes healing by stimulating specific points on the body. Many caregivers have reported remarkable improvements in their dog or cat’s mobility and energy levels after acupuncture sessions. Similarly, incorporating antioxidants into your furry friend’s diet can combat oxidative stress. This simple dietary adjustment supports overall health and boosts the immune system.

    The Role of Emotional Well-Being

    Don’t overlook emotional health. Stress can lead to behavioral issues and physical ailments. Create a calm environment by engaging in regular play, mindfulness exercises, and providing a safe space. Aromatherapy can also soothe anxiety. Essential oils like lavender offer comfort, promoting relaxation during stressful moments.

    Nutrition as a Foundation

    Nutrition serves as the cornerstone of holistic care. Transition to high-quality, balanced food rich in whole ingredients. Explore options that include omega-3 fatty acids, which support skin health and reduce inflammation. Regularly consult with a nutritionist to ensure dietary needs are met, especially as your furry companion ages.

    Preventive Health Measures

    Prevention is key to longevity. Schedule regular wellness exams to catch any potential issues early. Dental care, and parasite prevention should remain a priority. Incorporating regular exercise into your furry friend’s routine also strengthens muscles and promotes mental stimulation. Engage in activities like agility training or scent work to keep your furry companion active and happy.

    Building a Community of Care

    Sharing experiences fosters a supportive community. Connecting with others who embrace holistic animal care can provide fresh insights and encouragement. Online forums and local groups often share success stories, tips, and resources. This camaraderie enriches the journey of caring for your furry friend.

    Holistic care transforms the way you approach your furry companion’s health. Blending traditional methods with alternative therapies paves the way for a longer, more fulfilling life. Take this opportunity to learn more about how you can better care for your darling furbeings. You can study on your own or enroll in courses. Your commitment will enhance your furry friend’s well-being.

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    Animal Wellness

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  • Creating a peaceful crate environment for your dog | Animal Wellness Magazine

    Creating a peaceful crate environment for your dog | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    Many dogs fear their crates because they associate them with negative experiences. Find out how to turn your dog’s crate into a peaceful, Zen-like environment she’ll love to spend time in. 

     

    Crate training to create a tranquil retreat for your dog. is a valuable tool for shaping a well-behaved and happy dog. Not only can it help manage your dog during crazy family times, but it also provides her with a safe place in a variety of situations, from veterinary visits to traveling. When approached thoughtfully, creating a peaceful crate environment becomes more than just a confinement space; it transforms into a tranquil retreat where your dog seeks solace and relaxation. Let’s look at how you can turn your own dog’s crate into a “Zen zone.”

     

    Choosing the right crate for a peaceful environment

     

    Size

    The first step to creating a peaceful crate environment for your dog is to select the right size of crate for her. A crate should offer enough room for her to stand, turn around, and stretch out in comfortably. Avoid crates that will force your pup to sleep in awkward positions. Think comfort. 

    Conversely, an extra-large crate with lots of empty space inside may lead to your dog to urinate or defecate in the corner, inadvertently encouraging undesirable elimination habits. 

    Tip: Consider crates with dividers that allow for adjustments as your dog grows.

     

    Style and material

    Once you’ve determined the appropriate crate size for your dog, consider the different styles and materials available. Each offers unique benefits and drawbacks. 

    • Wire crates: These are light, easy to collapse, and offer great ventilation, which makes them perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. However, you have to be careful your dog won’t chew the wire or get stuck in it. Strange things can and do happen.
    • Plastic crates: These create a cozy, den-like environment that many dogs find comforting. The downside is they don’t offer a lot of ventilation.
    • Wooden crates: If you’re looking for something stylish, wooden crates are a great option. They blend into your home decor. However, your dog may find the wood appealing to chew on.
    • Mesh fabric crates: These are perfect for on-the-go situations. Their lightweight design makes them perfect for travel or outdoor adventures. Just be aware they may not be as durable as other crate options, and some dogs may be able to chew through the fabric or even roll across the ground in them!
    • X-pen playpen style: An alternative to traditional crates, X-pen playpens provide a larger enclosed area for your dog to play and relax in. They give your dog extra room to move around in while keeping her safe and secure. However, as mentioned earlier, too much space may prompt the dog to eliminate in the playpen. 

    Tip: The right crate style will vary, depending on what your dog prefers and requires. You may find yourself purchasing a few different styles to meet different needs.

     

    Situating your dog’s crate 

    The right crate placement can make all the difference in the world for your dog. 

    • Ideally, a tranquil retreat should be in a quiet, low-traffic area of your home where your dog can relax undisturbed. 
    • Avoid noisy or busy locations, such as the kitchen or laundry room. 
    • Conversely, don’t put the crate someplace where your dog will feel isolated from the family. An area adjacent to the living room of home office might be a good choice, as long as those rooms aren’t too chaotic.
    • It’s a good idea to make sure there aren’t any windows nearby that your dog can look out of. It might seem like a nice idea, but seeing something outside the window can get your dog worked up. 

    Tip: Having a crate in the bedroom at night can help promote a sense of security and comfort in many dogs.  

     

    Inside the crate

    Creating a peaceful crate environment for your dog takes careful planning and consideration. Creating a Zen-like experience includes a serene sleeping environment. Start by lining the crate with a soft, washable fleece blanket or crate mat. In puppies, bedding can encourage chewing, so introduce it slowly and supervise your pup closely. Skip the toys unless you’re there to keep an eye on your dog.

     

    Teaching your dog to love the crate 

    This takes patience and a positive attitude. Start by making the crate a fun and inviting space. Leave the door open and place treats and toys inside the crate for your dog to find. Let her sniff around and discover the crate at her own pace. When you notice her inside, toss a few bonus treats in for her as a reward.

    As your dog becomes more comfortable with her crate, gradually increase the amount of time she spends inside it. Start with short periods and gradually extend the duration, always ensuring your dog associates the crate with a positive experience.  

    Another way to build on the “Zen zone” feel of your dog’s crate is by gently placing her inside it while she’s napping, leaving the door open. (This obviously works better for smaller dogs that are easy to lift!). This allows her to experience the crate in a relaxed state and associate it with rest and comfort.

    Tip: Never force your dog into her crate, or use it as a form of punishment. This creates negative associations and will make her fear the crate. 

    Focus on making your dog’s crate a cozy retreat where she can feel secure and relaxed. With time and regular practice, she’ll come to see her crate as a relaxing oasis, her very own “Zen zone”.

     

    Setting the mood

    Creating a tranquil environment within and around your dog’s crate is essential for promoting relaxation. Ensure the room temperature is comfortable, and choose gentle lamps or nightlights to set a calming mood. Play calming music designed for dogs to promote peaceful rest. White noise machines can also mask distracting sounds and create a quiet environment.

     

    Don’t leave your dog in her crate for long periods

    It’s important to use caution when it comes to crate time for your dog. Although the crate should offer security, it’s vital you use it wisely. Extended periods alone in the crate can affect your dog’s socialization, physical activity levels, and mental health. 

    Dogs are social animals and thrive on interaction with their humans. Being confined to a crate for long periods of time can leave them feeling lonely and isolated. Dogs also need regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and content. Without it, they may develop behaviors such as excessive barking or destructive chewing. 

    So it’s necessary to strike a balance between crate time, and time spent outside the crate engaging in social activities and physical exercise. Make sure your dog receives regular walks, playtime, and training sessions in her daily routine to keep her mentally and physically fulfilled. And always remember to provide plenty of love, attention, and companionship to help her thrive emotionally.


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    Tonya Wilhelm is a dog training and cat care specialist who has traveled the US promoting positive ways of preventing and managing behavior issues with a holistic approach. Named one of the top ten dog trainers in the US, she has helped thousands build happy relationships with their dogs with humane, positive training methods. She wrote Proactive Puppy Care, and other books. Tonya offers group and private dog training classes, provides training and behavior services via phone and online, and does workshops at pet expos (raisingyourpetsnaturally.com).

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    Tonya Wilhelm

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