Best Dog Potty

Finding the right companion for your home isn’t just about picking up the cutest pooch around or even following your friend’s recommendations. A dog isn’t just a piece of clothing or jewelry you can put away in the closet or a drawer. Dogs are a life-commitment, and thus the decision to own one has to be made with careful thought.

It is often disheartening to see young pups put back up for adoption when the owners decide they can’t take care of them or when they discover how much work it is owning a dog, but it happens every day.

This is why it’s so important to research and discover what dog breed will best suit you and your lifestyle. There are several areas and characteristics to consider before making the ultimate decision, and it will determine how well you and your pup get along, ensuring that you are happy together.

One size does not fit all

In order for your dog to find their own niche in your home, they have to be comfortable. A small domicile like an upstairs apartment may not be the best home for an outdoor loving breed that likes to run rampant constantly (driving the downstairs neighbors crazy).

For the most part, there has to be enough room for the dog to play when they want to. So if space is restricted, search for a breed that’s going to be tiny enough to think your small apartment will take years to explore.

Of course, one must also consider the noise factor. Not all dogs share their thoughts and feelings at the same volume as others. Size doesn’t really matter in this particular situation, since many terrier breeds are renowned for their ability to vocalize their thoughts on any situation. Thus, make sure your new friend isn’t going to keep you and the neighbors up all night.

Then there is the food factor and your budget. Not everyone has a budget big enough to feed Akitas or a Saint Bernard, so you have to ask yourself, Will they eat a lot? Budgets increases are mostly underestimated in dog ownership, especially when considering medical emergencies, habit changes, relocation scenarios, and any unexpected situations that can and will likely happen at some point in both your lives. This is why it’s important to consider the actual and potential costs of having your four-legged companion.

To be fluffy, or not to be

One thing about dogs is that when they’re all cute and fluffy, they seem so much more adorable, which is why puppies are irresistibly fun to play with. But they will eventually grow out of their puppy coat and put on a different coat that will be prone to shedding.

Shedding will mean that your home is going to be covered in loose fur, occasionally a fur ball or two collecting in the kitchen corner, and if you don’t vacuum regularly because your pup likes to attack that noisy thing, you’ll end up with fur in your food.

Not all pups shed the same though. In fact, there are some that are hypo-allergenic and don’t shed at all. Because time isn’t always on your side, it’s important to consider how much time you can spend on your dog’s hygiene (such as regular brushing to keep the fur from flying), your own allergies, and how much you are willing to invest in keeping a tidy home free of fur.

Training

Some breeds are easily trainable than others, while some breeds seem to be better at certain tasks than others. Then there are those that seem to just have a mind of their own. In most cases, high energy breeds such as Border Collies, Blue Heelers (Australian cattle dog), and Australian Shepherds require far more attention to train properly. If you don’t have the time to spend training them in-depth, high energy breeds are more likely to do what they want.

Personality match

Consider what it is that you want out of the relationship you have with your pup. Do you want them for comfort and occasional hugs? Is it for security and peace of mind? Or maybe you want a pup that will go on outdoor adventures and enjoys camping?

Each dog breed tend to have its defining characteristics. Hounds tend to be more oblivious to others and love to keep their nose to the ground.  Cattle dog breeds bond specifically to their adopted family, love the outdoors, and have plenty of energy. Terrier breeds are yappy and independent, love to hang out with their family, but are mischievous at times.

But there is still the individual personality to consider in a friend. Every dog is unique and has their own tale to tell, which defines who they are and how they live their life with you. Take time and make the right decision for you and your new furry friend because it’s one that will affect your happiness together.

Apartment and Condominium Dogs have played a major part in the daily household experience of its owners. Living in a building with several floors and elevators will already make you think twice of keeping a dog at your flat. It will never be similar to keeping a dog in a normal house. There’s no back door you can open to make him go outside and you will always have to strap your apartment and condominium dogs with their leash, and go with them to the ground floor regardless of the current weather outside your apartment. You will have to get used to dealing with elevators, tight pathways, big lobbies and share all these with all the dogs in your condominium. It’s a completely special planet with a totally new group of training requirements.

It is indeed a warm and intimate community you are getting into if you have decided to hold residence in an apartment or condo with shared pathways, common lobby and public elevators. You will start to belong in the same community of common spaces even if you have no idea who your neighbors are and do not communicate frequently with them. This given surrounding demands a strong sense of sensitivity toward the desires, requests and ease of the rest of the condo owners. It will be different on how comfortable you are living in a private home as opposed to living in a condo where you have to act accordingly in an apartment.

Below are Top 10 Tips in Keeping Apartment Dogs that are based from real life experiences on keeping a dog in a high-rise condominium. This can further promote openness between the apartment owners and dog owners to allow dogs in their buildings if each homeowner with a dog will abide by the given rules in this list.

1) If you run or walk on streets, make sure to always bring a plastic bag. You may opt to choose a common grassy area when he can potty, maintain it clean by using a plastic bag to clean it up.

2) Never leave your dogs unleashed. Your dogs should always be tied up on their leash most especially when you intend to go to common spaces of your apartment. Even if your dog is trained, never risk leaving him unleashed.

3) Use a short leash on your dog. Keep him close to you when you go through the pathways and lobby of your condominium.

4) Never let your dog have that chance of running up to someone. A lot of people are still not keen on dogs around them. If there was a person intending to pet your dog, make him sit first before you let your neighbor touch him. Just ensure that your dog is on sitting position the whole meet. Others may just walk straight to your dog without asking permission. By having a short leash, you can easily control your dog’s actions toward the person.

5) Whatever the size of your dog, never let him jump on strangers. Train your dog to sit before you pet and praise him. Dogs that are rowdy and jump on people may cause a lot of trouble.

6) Train your dog not to growl when you’re in the shared area of your apartment. Dogs are capable of barking very loud regardless of their size when situated inside any closed building. Unforeseen circumstances may arise causing him to be surprised and bark endlessly. By teaching him not to bark when you command similar to training him to speak only when you command.

7) Maintain control in any given situation. If you come across a neighbor inside your condo, make the dog’s leash short and close to you. Have him lie or sit down once the other dog pass through, most especially if your dog is larger.

8 ) It is best that you do not initiate introducing your dog to another dog. If unavoidable, make the bigger dog lie or sit down while the smaller dog comes near. Even if both dogs are sanitized, you still have to be very cautious most especially with two male dogs. There will be a lot of barking and roaring if one of them feels more overbearing.

9) Always stand toward the back when you ride the elevator with your dog. Practice him to just sit next to you and make him keep his eyes on you during the elevator ride. Your dog should only get up and exit the elevator once he gets a signal from you.

10) Potty train your dog indoors. You can start this off by setting a schedule for your dog’s potty times. You have to remember that establishing a schedule is one of the main key you have to be consistent about. It is also essential that you reward your dog for a job well done by praising him. Find the most suitable potty area that is easily accessible and make sure to mark it. The potty area should not be just near your carpeted floors inside your house. It may be on near the dirty kitchen or somewhere that does not have any carpet.

These rules in keeping apartment dogs should be applied even when you are alone with your dog. Your dog will get to learn this as part of his normal behavior if you always make it under your control when he is inside the condominium premises. Your dog will not just associate this when he is surrounded by other people.

Keeping up with your pet supplies can be just another thing you don’t want to have to remember. After a long day at work and going to the store, the last thing you want to do is have to go “to the store” again. Consider home delivery of your pet supplies!

Spring break is one of the long-awaited holidays that give you the opportunity to get away from your daily surroundings. For countless students, this often is a time to pack up the bags and hit the road in search of a great vacation destination. However, for recent dog owners, this holiday can pose an issue when it comes to house-breaking. For a dog, the break will change their lifestyle drastically, affecting their daily habits and being a little confusing to the owner.

Leaving your dog 

First of all, you have to ask yourself what the best choice is going to be for your dog. Not all spring break destinations are dog-friendly, so leaving your dog at home during spring break may be your only choice. You can’t leave your dog at home unattended all week, so with whom can you trust this responsibility? Who do you both trust? Are they constantly available? Do they know what to do? If you plan to leave your dog with someone, you’re going to need to be well-organized before you go.

For a dog, this is a very sensitive time during their life. It means that they’re going to be developing the majority of their habits, and it’s up to you to set them up correctly. Discuss training methods with your select puppy-sitter. This includes potty locations, feeding schedules, and exercises. Having the right tools for the job will be necessary, and in this situation an indoor dog litter box can prove to be invaluable to your goal. Though your dog shouldn’t be left unattended to, you want to provide the opportunity for them to go whenever they need to.

Taking them with you

But, what if you’re taking the dog with you? Training on the move can be just as difficult, especially since the travelling can alter your dog’s perception of potty locations, sleeping areas, and habits. Because of all the potential new sights and sounds, the situation can result in various scenarios, from generating a scary atmosphere, to getting them over-excited and less controllable during the training process.

Preparing your dog training supplies is going to be your first step here. What will you need? What’s your strategy? Crating is often very convenient in this scenario, since it will double as a safety location for your dog and be portable during the travels. A crate also provides your dog with a comfort zone that never changes, where they can return to and feel secure wherever they are. Additionally, a dog-kit will be important as well. It should contain food, treats, water (with a portable container), enzyme cleaners in case of accidents, and a medical kit.

Because changing location can be confusing for a dog at this stage, it’s imperative that you designate a familiar potty location. By using something familiar that they can respond to anywhere they go, it will make transitioning back to their home environment much easier.

Going on vacation during spring break can pose some issues with your dog’s housetraining strategy, but as long as you plan carefully and know what to expect, both you and the dog will be able to enjoy the experience.

Keeping up with your pet supplies can be just another thing you don’t want to have to remember. After a long day at work and going to the store, the last thing you want to do is have to go “to the store” again. Consider home delivery of your pet supplies!

There are various models of dog litter boxes available, and with more owners turning to them, it may be time to consider one for your dog. But you might be asking yourself: Why would I need a dog litter box? But the answer isn’t just for you- it’s an answer that your dog has probably already been hinting about.

The pup’s comfort

Comfort is the number one aspect you should look to provide for the dog. The outdoor atmosphere can be a little unpredictable, leaving your dog drenched (and a little smelly) in the rainy season, with baking paws on hot cement during sunny days, or even freezing during a winter snow flurry. While the outdoors can be a great place for you and the pup to play, not every day is ideal for your dog’s paws. So consider the fact that with an indoor litter box, your pup won’t have to navigate the extremes to take care of their daily business.

In most scenarios, the weather isn’t the only outdoor annoyance. During the training process, dogs can quickly become distracted by neighboring dogs barking at them, a cat running through the yard, or even the sound of thunder in the distance. These can hinder the training process, which will translate to you putting in more time in the process, time that may not be available.

The dog will not hold it in all day while you’re away at work. Though we love them, it isn’t possible to spend every waking moment with them. So while we’re away, your pup doesn’t have the opportunity to potty when they need to. With an indoor dog litter box, their potty needs will be addressed more conveniently, and you won’t have to rush back home during the lunch hour break to let them out before they make a mess inside.

As a dog gets older, they’re ability to hold it in becomes affected and some may even lose complete control. Combined with other symptoms of aging, such as arthritis, the journey outside can be very uncomfortable.

Convenience for you too

What if you live in the city? You often have to navigate numerous flights of stairs just to let your dog potty, and in extreme weather, this can become quite the hassle. Basically, dog litter boxes are great for those that don’t have quick access to a yard. Some can even be placed outdoors such as a patio or balcony. Safety at night is another concern, especially for those that live in urban areas. If your dog suddenly has the urge at midnight, you don’t have to get dressed and take your dog out into a dimly lit area.

The indoor dog litter boxes come in various sizes and applications, so picking one out for your pup takes some serious consideration. But once you do decide on one, your dog will love you for making their potty experience that much easier. And consider this, you’ve got one inside, so why shouldn’t your dog have one too?

Keeping up with your pet supplies can be just another thing you don’t want to have to remember. After a long day at work and going to the store, the last thing you want to do is have to go “to the store” again. Consider home delivery of your pet supplies!

We can’t always be there to let our dog out to potty, which is why there are so many different choices when it comes to indoor potty solutions. Dog grass litter boxes come in a range of different types that appeal to certain situations and needs of both owner and pets alike.

Among these is the Pet Patio Potty, designed by Doggy Solutions. This rather interesting approach has a range of different abilities and applications for your specific doggy needs.

To start with, this particular unit offers various different size options. There are applications for toy, small, medium, large, and very large, the biggest of which offers almost nine square feet of space. You can choose any size unit for any size dog you might have.

A low-profile design, it comes in two models, one which is composed of high-density polyurethane that would be great for an outdoor patio application and the other is tiger wood for a more indoor appeal. You can choose between style and durability for your basic construct, which tends to appeal to a broader audience.

Additionally, for dogs up to the large size, they offer an optional canopy (sorry, but the extra-large doesn’t offer any shade). For the males, they also offer side panels to prevent splatter, but they do cost a little more.

As for the cleanup, the unit actually utilizes litter to absorb any liquids. Rather than the more common basin-styled approach, the Pet Patio Potty incorporates two different types of cleanup abilities. Though effective, the cleanup process tends to be longer and more tedious. You’ll also have to purchase plastic liners and litter regularly which can prove to be un-economical.

The overall layout of the unit is quite unique. The potty comes in sections rather than covering one whole area. The larger potty units are more like several little potties compiled together, allowing you to clean up certain spots rather than the entire unit.

The prices are a little less economical. Starting at around two hundred dollars for the smaller sizes, the large size with all the amenities ends up being around eight hundred. But, when considering the craftsmanship and durability, you will get what you pay for.

The Pet Patio Potty is definitely a new and unique approach to indoor litter box technique. It may appeal to some while others favor a simpler and more economical approach. But in the end, it always comes down to what your dog needs for their potty solution.

Keeping up with your pet supplies can be just another thing you don’t want to have to remember. After a long day at work and going to the store, the last thing you want to do is have to go “to the store” again. Consider home delivery of your pet supplies!

Grass litter boxes have become a popular addition to many dog owner homes throughout the world. This is perhaps because there are so many different grass litter box designs available on the market. Some designs are versatile while others appeal specifically to certain dogs.

In order to appeal to certain dogs, the Porch Potty has proven to be one of the best designs for smaller dog breeds and even young puppies.

The unit is conveniently designed for your smaller dog by utilizing a low barrier. This, combined with four square feet of potty area, provide the needed circling and eliminating area that your small dog needs. This combination provides plenty of reservoir room but is still low enough so that a smaller dog can easily get on the potty unity to take care of their needs.

For convenient maintenance, the deluxe versions of the Porch Potty utilize a sprinkler system that keeps the grass fresh and clean while washing any excess debris down into the large reservoir. This is great for dog owners that work long hours and aren’t able to clean their dog’s potty every time it has been used.

Take into consideration the safety and needs of your smaller dog. Extreme weather can prove a hazard for any creature, but when it comes to hot patios and soggy grass, smaller dogs are often a little more susceptible to the extremes. An indoor potty unit also helps eliminate the risk of dog theft, which has become an increasingly large problem in recent years. Smaller dogs are easily stolen and often make easy targets for thieves.

The advantage of the Porch Potty is that your small dog doesn’t have to go outside or face the weather to go potty. No more singed paws or a dog that ends up soaking wet and tracking mud back into the home. Additionally, the Porch Potty can also be placed outdoors, such as in a shaded and sheltered patio area. This provides a versatile selection for your dog so that they can have plenty of choices for their potty needs. Of course, when used indoors, you can sleep in without worrying about waking up with any accidents to clean.

The Porch Potty is the ideal solution for smaller dogs. Providing both a location to potty and a safe haven that prevents them from having to face outdoor element extremes, it is designed to make everyone’s life a little more convenient.

Keeping up with your pet supplies can be just another thing you don’t want to have to remember. After a long day at work and going to the store, the last thing you want to do is have to go “to the store” again. Consider home delivery of your pet supplies!

Grass litter boxes have begun utilizing different forms of synthetic grass because of its renowned longevity. But, everything will eventually wear out, because that is just the nature of time and use. The question any dog owner may be asking is when synthetic grass should be replaced.

Real grass patches are often replaced every six months, which means that synthetic grass should definitely expect a much longer lifespan in comparison. But, that may not always be the case. There are a few factors to consider when judging your grass and what condition it is currently in.

Perhaps the most wear and tear actually occurs during the cleaning process. Use expectancy depends on how often you clean the grass and in what ways, such as machine washing. Hand washing and rinsing tends to extend the use you will get out of synthetic grass because it isn’t as rough on the material.

It also depends on what types of cleaners you use. Ammonia and other harsh cleaning products like detergent will get the dirt out, but will also damage the material. Stick to enzyme based cleaners to ensure longevity.

Also consider how often your synthetic grass gets used. How many different dogs use it? Use will play a factor in how long your grass will last, so take wear and tear into consideration.

Of course, you must also take into account who the maker is. Most manufacturers will have a recommended date, such as every two or three years. Like anything manufactured, there are different qualities of material that are delivered, so one manufacturer’s product may far outlast another’s.

Signs that your synthetic grass is “wilting”: 

Replacement time is often caused by the loss of grass blades. You may notice some falling out, especially if you’re using a washing machine to clean it. A few blades lost on occasion, especially when a mat is brand new, is normal. But if you notice balding spots, it’s time to start considering a new mat.

Look for frilling of the blades. Since most are fibrous, they will begin to fray at the ends, which means that the anti-absorbent coatings are wearing off.  As far as scent goes, if the grass begins to develop a pungent smell that doesn’t go away when you wash it, it may be time to throw it out.

Depending on how you take care of it and how often it’s used, synthetic grass can last many years with the proper care. But, you will eventually need to replace it so that your dog will always have a fresh clean place to potty.

Keeping up with your pet supplies can be just another thing you don’t want to have to remember. After a long day at work and going to the store, the last thing you want to do is have to go “to the store” again. Consider home delivery of your pet supplies!

Many vacationers are going to be traveling this summer. Some may fly while others will be loading up their cars and headed down the road. For the most part, vacation gives people a chance to visit their family and friends who live long distances away, not only because they miss them but because it gives them a taste of something different for a change.

So, what happens when the new addition to your family is going to be tagging along this summer? Housetraining may not be complete or they may not be familiar on how to act in someone else’s home. That means you’re going to have to prepare yourself and your dog for appropriate guest behavior during your upcoming stay.

When staying in a new location, it’s crucial that you know the difference between marking and potty accidents or mistakes. A young dog in a new location may feel naturally inclined to claim their territory. If your dog isn’t fixed, keep in mind that they may just be marking territory. It may be necessary to limit available space and freedom when you aren’t there to watch them.

Understand if your host also has their own pets, there may be target spots in the home that have previously been soiled. This can drive your dog to potty in areas where they detect a hint of a scent, even if it is an old residue.

Remember that certain ammonia based cleaners can be an attractant to a young dog, which may result in accidents within your host’s home. Always carry enzyme based cleaners along with you, just in case there is an accident. It’s important to not only protect your host’s home and articles, but also prevent any unnecessary accidents from happening by properly cleaning any mistakes.

You should also consider using a familiar potty location, such as a grass litter box. This familiarity will help provide the ideal location for a traveling dog to continue potty training. It’s the best solution, especially if you have to limited available space for your dog to have access to when they need to take care of business.

Whether you’re staying for a few days or an extended period, it’s important to remember that both you and your dog are guests at a loved one’s place this summer. So, it’s up to you as your dog’s owner and loving trainer to ensure that they are on their best behavior.

Keeping up with your pet supplies can be just another thing you don’t want to have to remember. After a long day at work and going to the store, the last thing you want to do is have to go “to the store” again. Consider home delivery of your pet supplies!

As the need to adapt to different living situations becomes increasingly important to owners and their dogs, the need to provide adequate potty methods has become a demand that many companies and individuals work to satisfy. Needless to say, eliminating in the yard is no longer an option you have to choose.

There are many different brands, but two basic types of litter box. One uses grass products while the other uses litter. Litter training your dog isn’t as easy as telling them to potty in a certain place, especially since a dog doesn’t really feel instinctive about using a litter box. Because of this, you have to work with them and teach them that this is the place to go.

The first step to litter training is choosing a box that will comfortably accommodate your dog. You’ll want to choose one that offers plenty of space to enter and turn around in, especially since dogs like to circle and sniff before they go. Some litter boxes have tops, but aren’t very appealing to your dog’s need for a little fresh air.

The next thing you’ll want to do is work on providing incentives to your dog to use the potty. Potty pads and newspaper sprayed with an incentive spray works well to start the process. After they’ve begun using it, you can add the litter. Another choice is to use grass sod to start with, since it is naturally appealing, and then moving on to litter at a later time.

Litter choices are various, and there are some designed with dogs specifically in mind. It is possible to use cat litters as well, which are normally far less expensive. But, also keep in mind that litter contains a powerful absorbent compound, especially concentrated in the litters that clump together. If your dog consumes large amounts of litter, you’ll want to stop using it immediately, since it can cause anything from upset stomach to dehydration and intestinal trauma. As a solution, you can substitute litter with newspapers, potty pads, or even chippings that will work to absorb both smell and liquid.

Teaching your dog to use a litter box is a growing trend, especially for those living in multi-story apartment buildings in big cities. It’s not always safe or convenient to find a grassy spot in the middle of town in the middle of the night. With the right tools and a few techniques, you can set your dog up with some convenient indoor plumbing that will save you time and probably be a little easier on their paws.

Busy and hectic schedules often leave us little time to spend at home with our dogs. We have to work, travel, and even cook for our families, reducing the amount of time we can spend for other things.

A busy schedule often means that we don’t always have the time it takes to properly potty train our dogs. This process is a tedious one, often dependent on our ability to control our dog’s environment, prevent inappropriate behavior and enforce positive action. Unfortunately, we don’t always have the opportunity to follow our dogs around and solidify these kinds of quality potty habits.

So, it’s up to every dog owner to work with their dog, even when you’re not there. The first thing to consider is that a free-roaming dog will do whatever they want. So, you need to develop a learning platform by making them earn their right to roam freely in your home. Limiting space to certain areas is best, and crates are ideal for this situation, although they alone will not do the work of a caring owner.

Dogs have the natural instinct to resist using isolated areas, like their crate, because it is considered their den. Here, they sleep, play, and eat, meaning they won’t want to potty there. But if you leave them there too long, they’re going to do what comes naturally, which will eventually develop into a bad habit. You still have to manage offering a convenient potty area that they can have access to. Scheduling their mealtimes and potty times will give you a reasonable time frame in which you’ll need to be sure your dog will be able to gain access to a designated potty zone.

To help out with a busy schedule, grass litter boxes are ideal for a busy schedule. This will give your dog a safe location where they can take care of business, even when you’re stuck at the office. Keep in mind that a dog won’t want to potty near an eating or sleeping area, so it’s important to isolate a litter box in a separate area where your dog will be able to distinguish the difference.

Potty training your dog while juggling a hectic schedule is a talent on its own. With the fast paced workings of the business world, time is a luxury we seldom have. But, you can take steps that will ensure your dog is in an environment that is set up for success.