Are you the proud new parent of a puppy? Are you thinking, “Help! My Puppy Won’t Stop Chewing!”? We understand all the obstacles that are involved with settling in a new pup and thought we’d discuss the common issue of chewing. It’s important to understand what the root cause of the chewing is; not only do teething puppies chew, but older dogs suffering from separation anxiety can also pick up this bad habit. Here we discuss a few ideas to help with the problem…
1. Puppy Teethers
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It is important to provide your new pup with a good quality puppy teether that will help with the teething process. Playtime will also keep your pup entertained and help with their development and learning.
2. Dog Repellant Spray
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A dog repellant spray is a good option for both puppies and adult dogs. Our Get Off Spray can be used on any soft furnishings or other areas of the house that you wish to deter them from. Not only good for chewing, but helps train pets not to foul indoors or other areas too.
3. Dog Chew Toys
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It may be that your adult dog has a tendency to chew, in which case a good quality chew toy is a must. The Classic Kong is one of the most popular options, they even have an extreme version for heavy duty chewers, but we also love the Gnosher toys which are flavoured like chicken and bacon so will keep your puppy entertained for hours. Chew toys will help keep your puppy out of mischief and stop them from chewing your soft furnishings.
4. Give Them Plenty of Exercise
The cause of your pup’s chewing habits may well be boredom. Provide them plenty of dogs toys to play with and give them lots of exercises to keep their minds active. Exercise produces endorphins in your dog which will help calm them.
5. Make Sure it isn’t a Case of Separation Anxiety
Chewing and other destructive behaviours can be a sign of more serious problems. If you suspect your pup’s behaviour is due to separation anxiety, you should make an appointment to see your vet.
Whatever the problem, there is always an answer. It’s important not to panic; all dogs will have a tendency to chew at some point. It’s just a matter of finding the root cause and training as required. Provide plenty of toys and activities for your dogs to keep their minds active and you shouldn’t have too many problems.
If you have any further questions about this or any other topic, do get in touch. We are always happy to help as best we can.
Are you the proud new parent of a puppy? Are you thinking, “Help! My Puppy Won’t Stop Chewing!”? We understand all the obstacles that are involved with settling in a new pup and thought we’d discuss the common issue of chewing. It’s important to understand what the root cause of the chewing is; not only do teething puppies chew, but older dogs suffering from separation anxiety can also pick up this bad habit. Here we discuss a few ideas to help with the problem…
1. Puppy Teethers
It is important to provide your new pup with a good quality puppy teether that will help with the teething process. Playtime will also keep your pup entertained and help with their development and learning.
2. Dog Repellant Spray
A dog repellant spray is a good option for both puppies and adult dogs. Our Get Off Spray can be used on any soft furnishings or other areas of the house that you wish to deter them from. Not only good for chewing, but helps train pets not to foul indoors or other areas too.
3. Dog Chew Toys
It may be that your adult dog has a tendency to chew, in which case a good quality chew toy is a must. The Classic Kong is one of the most popular options, they even have an extreme version for heavy duty chewers, but we also love the Gnosher toys which are flavoured like chicken and bacon so will keep your puppy entertained for hours. Chew toys will help keep your puppy out of mischief and stop them from chewing your soft furnishings.
4. Give Them Plenty of Exercise
The cause of your pup’s chewing habits may well be boredom. Provide them plenty of dogs toys to play with and give them lots of exercises to keep their minds active. Exercise produces endorphins in your dog which will help calm them.
5. Make Sure it isn’t a Case of Separation Anxiety
Chewing and other destructive behaviours can be a sign of more serious problems. If you suspect your pup’s behaviour is due to separation anxiety, you should make an appointment to see your vet.
Whatever the problem, there is always an answer. It’s important not to panic; all dogs will have a tendency to chew at some point. It’s just a matter of finding the root cause and training as required. Provide plenty of toys and activities for your dogs to keep their minds active and you shouldn’t have too many problems.
If you have any further questions about this or any other topic, do get in touch. We are always happy to help as best we can.
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We are well into the Autumn season; summer has passed, and the red leaves are falling. This only means one thing; Guy Fawkes night is just around the corner and not long after is Guy Fawkes Night. Whilst we’re enjoying a pumpkin spice latté and deciding where to go and watch the fireworks, we mustn’t forget the furry members of the family. However, the lead up to Bonfire Night can be difficult season for many dogs.
All the uproarious blasts and blazes made by fireworks and bonfires can be terrifying for them, making them stressed and anxious, possibly putting their wellbeing in danger. It is important to consider your canines best interests on Bonfire Night – especially if it's their first one.
Puppies are likely to be more scared than they have ever been, due to the unfamiliar and potentially frightening sounds and sights. But there are ways to introduce them to fireworks before November 5th and prepare them. We thought we’d give you our tops tips for keeping your pets safe and calm at this noisy time of year, as well as recommending our top calming products.
Why are dogs scared on bonfire night?
Bonfire Night can be a troubling time for many dogs. With the constant loud bangs and bright flashes, it is understandable why some dogs can be so frightened by the evening. Here are some of the main reasons why dogs are likely to be scared because of fireworks:
Loud explosive noises – Dogs have an extremely acute sense of hearing, much more so than humans. The loud bangs and crackles that fireworks bring are even louder to your pup and likely to be extremely alarming!
Bright flashes – Fireworks also make bright flashes at a usually dark time of day. This is unfamiliar to dogs and they may become scared at this.
Can make your dog feel trapped – Fireworks are a difficult thing to escape, especially on Bonfire Night. Your dog may be likely to try to run away or hide, however they will struggle to escape them and may feel frightened or anxious.
A feeling of the unknown and unpredictability – Bonfire Night to your dog, is just another, normal evening. The unpredictability of bangs and flashes is likely to cause restlessness and potentially act out of character.
Can you get a puppy used to fireworks?
The best time to get your dog used to fireworks is when they are a puppy – as a dog who has already experienced a bonfire night in their life may already be frightened by the loud sounds and bright flashes. Preparing your pup begins now – you can start by turning up the noise on the television to gradually ease them into louder noises and bangs, especially during action scenes with frequent loud bangs. Once your pup is more used to that try recordings of firework displays to prepare them for the real thing. However, if your pet suffers from noise phobia or is quite anxious, the proposed preparation may worsen their situation.
What to do with dogs on bonfire night
When dogs feel scared or anxious, they will look to find a space where they can try to relax and feel comfortable. The place they choose will likely be a dark place with one entrance to hide away from the loud bangs from fireworks. At Lords & Labradors, we understand that sometimes your dog will feel scared, especially on Bonfire Night! This is one of many reasons why we recommend a Lords & Labradors Crate Set for your pup! It provides the perfect escape and hiding place for them to find comfort and shelter when they are feeling anxious or scared.
How to keep a puppy calm during fireworks?
The loud noises and bright flashes that fireworks bring can be an anxious time for anyone – so put yourself in your puppies’ position, scared will likely be an understatement. There are ways in which you can distract and calm your dog through their fears:
Distraction from the loud noises via radio or TV – this can soften the loud bangs of the fireworks which should soften the fright for your pup.
Anti-anxiety kits and products for dogs – here at L&L we understand that your dog may, from time to time, struggle with high levels of anxiety or fright. We offer a range of products perfect for situations such as Bonfire Night, where your dog or puppy is likely to be scared.
Do not tell your dog off – it is important not to scare or upset your dog further than they already are. Try to act as normal as possible, sending your pup positive signals in the process by acting calm and happy.
Do not take your dog to a firework display – Even if you think your dog will not be phased by fireworks or a bonfire, is it really worth taking the risk. A loud noise or bright flash could be enough to spook them into running away from you in a panic.
Ensure they don’t have access to leave the front door – sounds a straightforward thing to say to some dog owners, but the strange noises and flashes of light that bonfire night brings could be enough to scare your dog into bolting to escape via the front door. If you need to open your front door, we advise shutting your dog in another room whilst doing so to ensure the highest level of safety.
How to help a puppy when fireworks are going off
Preparing your Dog for Guy Fawkes Night is difficult. The unfamiliarity of the evening could cause high levels of stress and anxiety for your four-legged friend. However, there are some ways in which you can best prepare to try and make the evening as stress free for your canine:
Walk in advance – Walking your dog in advance will ensure they have ample opportunity to relieve themselves before becoming scared by fireworks. Tiring them out may also help them relax more later in the evening.
Feed in advance – Feeding your dog before any expected fireworks would be advised, as an anxious or scared dog may not want to eat.
Ensure their water bowl is filled – Anxious dogs are likely to pant, drool and generally be thirstier. Regular checking their water bowl will ensure they have a drink available. It may be worth encouraging them to drink throughout the evening as they may forget due to fear.
Shut curtains and blinds – This will ensure any bright flashes are minimalised which could lead to scaring your pup.
Double check the security of your garden – Letting your dog out to relieve themselves whilst fireworks are going off may be necessary, especially for puppies. Making your garden secure will ensure your dog can not escape in an attempt to run away from the loud explosions and bright flashes.
Anti-anxiety and calming products – At Lords & Labradors we understand that your dog may need something extra to support them through scary and anxious moments. Our range of anti-anxiety and calming products ensure that your dog will be calmer through traumatic evenings such as Bonfire Night.
Time to check your dog's microchipping details?
The Autumn can bring a variety of occasions that can spook your canine friend, especially Halloween and Bonfire Night. It makes early October the perfect time to check you dogs microchip details, and ensure they are wearing their collar with ID tag as often as possible. Loud noises and unfamiliar sights that occasions like Bonfire Night bring (with fireworks) are likely to be things that could spook your pup into attempting to run away. We know that the last thing any pet owner wants to do is lose their pet – but ensuring that their details are up to date will best prepare you for that worst case scenario and help you find them just in case they do go missing!
Top Dog Calming Products To Use On Bonfire Night
Woof & Brew Anxious Hound Herbal Tonic - This healthy tonic for dogs is a great daily supplement for anxious or nervous dogs and is ideal to give them before stressful situations such as fireworks. It's a special blend, rich in vitamins and minerals, best served over food or in their water. Each bottle has approximately 60 servings (please read the label for serving details).
Beaphar Cani Comfort Collars - The Beaphar CaniComfort Collars are great at relaxing your dog, they use pheromone technology to help calm your dog. Pheremones are one of the ways dogs communicate, the Dog Appeasing Pheromone (DAP) is naturally produced by mums when they are feeding their puppies. These collars contain a replica of the DAP which is familiar to all dogs so are instantly calming for all dogs. The collars are effective for up to four weeks so are perfect for over the Halloween and Bonfire festivities. The collar can have effects in as little as 15 minutes but we recommend putting it on a day or two before Halloween in case anyone has any early fireworks go off, simply fit the collar around your dog’s neck, fasten and cut off the excess. Perfect for calming and providing reassurance to your dog in what can be a scary time of year for our four-legged-friends.
Calming Anti-Anxiety Donut Beds - Here at Lords & Labradors we design our products specifically with your dog’s needs in mind, our faux-fur donut beds are perfect for reducing your dog’s anxiety. The plump soft walls of the donut beds have been designed to cocoon your dog to sleep and help calm them. They come in the softest faux-fur fabric so are perfect for snuggling in.
Pet Remedy All-in-one Calming Kit - There are a number of different options in the Pet remedy range including plug-in diffusers and room sprays. Pet Remedy contains a host of natural oils that de-stress and calm nervous pets. Our favourite product is the All-in-One Calming Kit that includes a room spray, plug-in diffuser and calming wipes. All the things you could need to help keep your pet calm through the celebrations.
We hope you enjoy the festivities of the season. If you have a pet and you're concerned about their anxiety levels, don't panic! Try one of the solutions above and do your best to keep them feeling secure.
If you have any questions about this article, or any other topic, do get in touch. You can chat to us via the Chat link on the bottom right hand side of our website, email sales@lordsandlabradors.co.uk or call us on 01790 720900.
How to Get Your Puppy to Sleep Through the Night: A Comprehensive Guide
Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting and joyous occasion. However, the first few nights can be a challenging time for both you and your furry friend. Puppies are known for their boundless energy and curiosity, which can make it difficult for them to settle down and sleep through the night. But fear not! With the right strategies and a little patience, you can help your puppy establish a healthy sleep routine. In this guide, we'll explore effective techniques to ensure your puppy gets a restful night's sleep, allowing you to do the same.
Understanding Your Puppy's Sleep Patterns
Before we dive into the tips and tricks for a peaceful night's sleep, it's crucial to understand your puppy's natural sleep patterns. Puppies, like human infants, have shorter sleep cycles and may wake up more frequently during the night. This behaviour is entirely normal and usually diminishes as your puppy grows older. On average, puppies need about 18 to 20 hours of sleep per day, but they'll sleep in shorter bursts throughout the day and night.
Establishing a Bedtime Routine
Consistency is key when it comes to getting your puppy to sleep through the night. Creating a bedtime routine can help signal to your puppy that it's time to wind down and rest. Here's a simple routine you can follow:
Set a regular bedtime: Choose a specific time for your puppy's bedtime and stick to it as closely as possible. This consistency will help regulate their internal clock.
Toilet break: Before heading to bed, take your puppy outside for a bathroom break. This helps reduce the chances of nighttime accidents.
Quiet playtime: Engage in calm and quiet play with your puppy before bedtime. Avoid overly stimulating activities that could leave them too excited to sleep. Snuffling or puzzle toys are great ways to wear their brains out without getting them too excited.
Create a comfortable sleeping area: Ensure your puppy has a comfortable and safe sleeping space. A crate can be an excellent choice, as it provides a sense of security. We recommend setting your puppies crate up with one of our Cosy & Calming puppy crate beds filling half the space and then a piece of vet bed or a puppy pad on the other half.
Dim the lights: As bedtime approaches, dim the lights in the room to signal to your puppy that it's time to sleep.
The Power of Exercise
A tired puppy is more likely to sleep soundly through the night. Make sure your puppy gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation during the day. Long walks, playtime, and puzzle toys can help tire them out, making it easier for them to settle down at night.
Watch the Water and Food
Limit your puppy's water and food intake in the evening to reduce the likelihood of nighttime toilet breaks. However, ensure they have access to fresh water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
Nighttime Comfort
To make your puppy's sleeping area as inviting as possible, consider the following:
Soft bedding: Provide comfortable bedding inside your puppy's crate or designated sleeping area. Our crate sets are perfect for creating your puppies dream sleep sanctuary.
White noise: Some puppies find white noise or soft background music soothing. You can use a white noise machine or a calming playlist to create a peaceful ambiance.
Puppy-safe toys: This will depend on your puppy but you could try including a few quiet, puppy-safe toys in the sleeping area to keep your puppy occupied if they wake up during the night, however you may find that this just excited your puppy too much when they’re supposed to be sleeping.
Handling Nighttime Wake-Ups
Even with the best efforts, your puppy may still wake up during the night. When this happens:
Stay calm: Avoid getting frustrated or upset. Remember that your puppy is still learning.
Quietly address their needs: If your puppy needs to go potty, take them out to their designated spot, but do so quietly and without playing or engaging in stimulating activities.
Avoid excessive attention: Minimise interaction during nighttime wake-ups to prevent reinforcing the idea that waking up at night is playtime.
Gradual Adjustments
As your puppy grows, their ability to sleep through the night will improve. Be patient and understanding during the early months, and gradually, you'll find that your puppy needs fewer nighttime wake-ups.
Helping Older Dogs Sleep Through the Night
If you have an older dog that's struggling with nighttime sleep, consider factors like comfort, pain, or anxiety. Consult with your veterinarian to address any potential underlying issues that might be affecting your dog's sleep.
In conclusion, getting your puppy to sleep through the night requires consistency, patience, and a well-structured routine. Understanding your puppy's natural sleep patterns and providing a comfortable sleeping environment are essential steps in this process. With time and the right approach, you can help your puppy develop healthy sleep habits, ensuring peaceful nights for both you and your four-legged companion. Sweet dreams to you and your furry friend!
Us humans are creatures of habits, you may not realise you have a ‘bedtime routine’, but you most likely do, which helps wind you down from the day and settle you to a good night’s sleep. Whether this be brushing your teeth and climbing into your softest bedsheets, or reading a few pages of your book, it’s important to create the perfect bedtime routine, so it’s not surprising our puppy’s need a routine too to help them wind down from the day and recognise when ‘bedtime’ also means ‘sleep time’. Here, we have compiled a helpful guide to creating your puppy’s bedtime routine to ensure you both get the best night sleep.
Puppy Bedtime Routine
Your puppy may need encouragement to go to sleep, they should eventually settle when they’re tired enough, so you may need to play with them or take them for a walk earlier in the evening to tire them out. Try to start your ‘wind down time’ around 30 minutes before their scheduled bedtime. From this time, avoid playing with them or have them interacting with any stimulating toys that will keep them alert. You may need to separate them from events that would excite them (like bath time if you have children who love to squeal and splash) and giving them a simple chew toy may a better toy to leave them with.
Take your puppy out to the toilet just before you’re going to put them to bed. Ensure it is long enough for them to relieve themselves properly before settling down for the night.
Puppy Sleep Routine
Once they’ve been to the toilet and settled for the night, choose them a comfortable place to sleep; this may be their bed, in a playpen or a crate. Create the space for your puppy to feel cosy and so they associate relaxing in this space. Ensure the bed is in a low-traffic area of your home so they’ll be undisturbed. Avoid putting any toys in your puppy’s sleep area as you may find they opt for ‘play time’ over ‘sleep time’.
Turning the lights out may be a ‘sure sign’ of bedtime, and a habit your puppy will get used to, to feel settled and to recognise the significance of ‘bedtime’. Try to limit the amount of times you switch the lights on and off, so your pup knows once the lights are out – it is sleeping time.
If your puppy is struggling to settle why not try one of our crate covers. They're perfect for popping over your puppies crate so it's dark for them and you can roll the doors down to help signal that it's 'sleep time' to get them in a good routine.
Good Bedtime for Puppy
Your pup’s bedtime will often be determined by your own routines and plans and will vary depending on the level of exercise your puppy gets and the lifestyle they live with you. Your puppy will generally need about 12 hours of sleep a night, so this may change their bedtime with your morning routines too. Remember your pup needs to sleep throughout the day too!
Usually, your puppy should go to bed around 2 hours before you head to bed, it might be useful to take your puppy to the toilet just as you’re heading to bed, so they’ve had another toilet break opportunity, which may help them last longer throughout the night. As tempting as it may seem, try not to let your dog sleep on you on an evening and encourage them sleeping in their bed.
Balancing the activity of your pup and how much sleep they need takes time, but you’ll soon learn your puppy’s routine as they learn yours which will make for a seamless night’s sleep!
How To Get Your Puppy Or Dog To Sleep Alone: Expert Tips And Techniques
Getting your puppy, or even your adult dog, to sleep alone at night is a crucial milestone in their training. Whether you've just welcomed a new furry family member or are struggling with an existing canine companion who insists on sleeping in your bed, this guide will provide you with expert tips and techniques to teach your pet to sleep independently. Say goodbye to sleepless nights and hello to a well-rested, happy pup.
Start Early: Puppy Sleep Training
If you have a puppy, it's essential to establish good sleep habits from the beginning. Puppies, like babies, need structure and routine. Start by creating a designated sleeping area for your puppy, preferably in a quiet and dark part of your home. Use a comfortable crate or a cosy dog bed to make them feel secure.
Crate Training
Crate training is a highly effective method to teach your puppy or dog to sleep alone. Dogs have a natural denning instinct, and a crate mimics this instinct, providing a safe and secure space for your pet. Here's how to use crate training for better sleep:
Introduce the crate gradually: Let your pup explore the crate with positive associations, such as treats and toys.
Create a comfortable space: Add soft bedding and a favourite toy to make the crate inviting. Our crate sets are great for creating a cosy den, we've written a guide with everything you need to know about setting up your dog or puppies dream crate.
Gradual confinement: Begin with short intervals and gradually increase the time your pup spends in the crate. We recommend using positive reinforcement training methods, every time your pup goes in their crate give them a treat and some praise so they being to associate the crate as being a positive space.
Consistency: Maintain a consistent bedtime routine, putting your pup in the crate at the same time each night.
Avoid punishment: Never use the crate as a form of punishment. It should always be a positive and safe space.
Positive Reinforcement
Reward-based training is a powerful tool in teaching your dog to sleep alone. Use treats, praise, and affection to reinforce good behavior. Here's how to apply positive reinforcement:
Bedtime treats: Give your pup a special treat or toy that they only get at bedtime.
Praise calm behaviour: Whenever your dog settles down in their designated sleeping area, offer praise and affection.
Ignore whining: If your pup whines or cries, wait for a moment of quiet, then reward them with attention.
Gradual Transition
For dogs accustomed to sleeping in your bed, transitioning them to sleep alone can take time. Make the change gradually by following these steps:
Start with the crate: Begin by having your dog sleep in their crate beside your bed.
Move the crate: Gradually move the crate farther from your bed over several nights.
Encourage independence: Eventually, your dog should be comfortable sleeping alone in their crate or designated sleeping area.
Exercise and Mental Stimulation
A tired dog is more likely to sleep soundly through the night. Ensure your pup gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation during the day. A tired dog is less likely to be restless at night, making the transition to sleeping alone smoother.
Interactive puzzle toys are great for wearing your dog's mind out before bed, we love the Nina Ottosson toys for this!
Consistency Is Key
Consistency is the cornerstone of successful dog training. Stick to a routine and reinforce positive behaviour consistently. Dogs thrive on predictability, and a consistent sleep routine will help them feel secure and comfortable in their sleeping space.Training your dog or puppy to sleep alone is a process that requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. By following these expert tips and techniques, you can help your canine companion develop good sleep habits, ensuring both you and your furry friend enjoy peaceful nights.
Remember, every dog is unique, so tailor your approach to suit your pet's individual needs. With time and dedication, you'll have a well-rested and contented pup who sleeps soundly on their own.
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