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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Choosing the perfect name for your new dog is an exciting milestone. A dog’s name becomes a part of their identity, something you’ll use every day for training, cuddles, and fun adventures. If you’re a new dog owner looking for inspiration, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve compiled a list of the most popular dog names, along with some tips for choosing the perfect name for your furry companion. Plus, discover how you can make their name truly special with personalised dog beds from Lords & Labradors.
Most Popular Dog Names
Here’s a list of top dog names to inspire you, divided by categories to suit every pup:
Popular Male Dog Names
If you’re searching for good names for a male puppy, these timeless choices are crowd favourites:
Teddy
Charlie
Cooper
Buddy
Henry
Milo
Bear
Duke
Finn
Max
These names are not only easy to say but are also some of the most common puppy names for male dogs. They’re perfect for any breed or size.
Popular Female Dog Names
The most popular female dog names often reflect elegance and charm. Here are the top picks:
Bella
Poppy
Daisy
Lucy
Luna
Molly
Lola
Rosie
Roxy
Coco
These names are ideal for female dogs of all breeds and sizes, from tiny Chihuahuas to large Labradors.
Cool Names for Male Dogs
If you want something unique and stylish, these cool names for male dogs might be just what you’re looking for:
Ghost
Jax
Ryder
Blaze
Titan
Maverick
Hunter
Thor
Apollo
Diesel
These good male dog names exude confidence and personality, perfect for pups with a bold attitude.
Unique Female Dog Names
For a female dog with a distinctive personality, consider these less common options:
Nova
Freya
Willow
Maple
Indie
Nala
Sage
Lyra
Skye
Stella
These names are perfect for owners who want their dog to stand out in the crowd.
Tips for Nicknaming Your Dog
Once you’ve chosen your dog’s name, nicknames often come naturally. For instance, "Cooper" might become "Coop," and "Luna" might turn into "Lu-Lu." These nicknames can add a playful, personal touch to your bond with your pet.
Top Tips for Choosing a Dog Name
Picking the right name for your dog isn’t just about creativity; there are practical considerations, too. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Keep it Short and Sweet: Dogs respond better to short names, ideally one or two syllables. Names like "Max" or "Luna" are easier for dogs to recognise.
Avoid Confusion: Choose a name that doesn’t sound like common commands. For example, "Kit" might be confused with "sit."
Make it Personal: Think about your dog’s personality, breed, or unique traits. A playful pup might suit a name like "Buddy," while a regal dog could shine with "Duchess."
Consider Longevity: Choose a name that you’ll love for years to come. Trendy names can be fun, but classic choices often stand the test of time.
Test it Out: Say the name aloud to see how it feels. Does it roll off the tongue easily? Does your dog respond to it?
Celebrate Their Name with a Personalised Dog Bed
Once you’ve picked the perfect name, why not make it official with a personalised dog bed from Lords & Labradors? Our luxury dog beds are available in a range of styles, colours, and sizes, making them the perfect addition to your home. Personalising your dog’s bed with their name not only makes it unique but also adds a charming touch to their sleeping space.
A personalised bed can also help new dogs settle into their environment, creating a cosy and familiar spot for them to relax. Explore our range of personalised dog beds here.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a name for your dog is a special moment that helps build a lifelong bond. Whether you’re drawn to popular dog names, cool names for male dogs, or unique female dog names, the most important thing is finding one that suits your pup’s unique personality.
So, what will you name your new best friend? Let us know over on our socials!
Recommended Vaccinations for Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide
Ensuring your dog receives the appropriate vaccinations is a fundamental aspect of responsible pet ownership. Vaccinations, often referred to as dog immunisations, play a crucial role in safeguarding your canine companion against a variety of serious and potentially fatal diseases. In this expert guide, we'll delve into the essential vaccinations for dogs in the UK, discuss the importance of annual shots for dogs, and address common concerns such as the side effects of puppy vaccinations.
Why Are Dog Vaccinations Important?
Vaccinating your dog is essential for several reasons:
Disease Prevention: Vaccinations protect dogs from contagious diseases that can lead to severe illness or death.
Public Health: Some canine diseases can be transmitted to humans; vaccinations help reduce this risk.
Legal Requirements: Certain vaccinations are required by law, especially if you plan to travel with your dog.
Core Vaccinations for Dogs in the UK
In the UK, there are core vaccines that are highly recommended for all dogs due to the prevalence and severity of the diseases they prevent. So, what vaccinations do dogs need in the UK?
Canine Distemper Virus: A highly contagious disease affecting the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems.
Canine Parvovirus: A severe viral disease causing gastrointestinal illness in puppies and young dogs.
Infectious Canine Hepatitis (Adenovirus): Affects the liver, kidneys, and eyes.
Leptospirosis: A bacterial infection that can affect both dogs and humans.
These dog vaccinations are typically administered as a combined injection, often referred to as the DHP vaccine.
Non-Core Vaccinations
Depending on your dog's lifestyle and environment, additional dog injections may be recommended:
Kennel Cough (Bordetella bronchiseptica and Canine Parainfluenza Virus): Advised if your dog frequently interacts with other dogs, especially in kennels or dog parks.
Rabies: Mandatory if you're planning to travel abroad with your dog.
Puppy Vaccination Schedule
Starting vaccinations at the right age is crucial for effective immunity.
First Set of Vaccinations: Puppies should receive their first dog jabs at around 6-8 weeks of age. Puppies are often given their first vaccination whilst they're still with their breeder before they come home, check with your breeder when you're buying a puppy as to their vaccination status and make sure you bring home any vaccination records.
Second Set: A follow-up injection is given at 10-12 weeks.
Booster: An additional booster may be administered at 16 weeks depending on the brand of vaccine your vet has used.
It's important to adhere to this schedule to ensure your puppy develops strong immunity against these diseases.
Do Dogs Need Annual Vaccinations?
A common question among pet owners is, "Do dogs need annual vaccinations?" The answer is generally yes. After the initial puppy vaccinations, dogs require annual shots to maintain their immunity.
Annual Boosters: These are essential to reinforce your dog's immunity against diseases.
Health Check-ups: Annual visits allow the vet to perform a full health assessment.
Skipping annual dog injections can leave your pet vulnerable to diseases, so maintaining a regular vaccination schedule is highly recommended.
Cost of Boosters for Dogs
Understanding the cost of boosters for dogs helps in planning your pet care budget.
Average Cost: In the UK, booster vaccinations can range from £30 to £60.
Factors Influencing Cost: The price may vary depending on the veterinary practice and the specific vaccines required.
Wondering how much are boosters for dogs? It's best to consult your local vet for precise pricing. Some vets offer a pet plan which is a monthly payment that usually covers your dog’s annual vaccination and their flea and worming medication and often can work out cheaper than paying for them individually. Sometimes the pet plan will also have other benefits like discounts off the shop at your vets or a free 6 monthly health check up for your dog so it’s definitely worth checking with your vet to see what their pet plan covers.
Side Effects of Puppy Vaccinations in the UK
While vaccinations are generally safe, some puppies may experience mild side effects.
Common Side Effects: Lethargy, slight fever, and soreness at the injection site.
Serious Reactions: Rarely, allergic reactions can occur, characterised by swelling, vomiting, or difficulty breathing.
If you notice any severe side effects of puppy vaccinations, contact your vet immediately.
What Are Dogs Vaccinated Against?
To summarise, what are dogs vaccinated against in the UK?
Core Diseases: Distemper, Parvovirus, Hepatitis, and Leptospirosis.
Non-Core Diseases: Kennel Cough and Rabies (if necessary).
These vaccinations are critical in protecting your dog from debilitating diseases.
Tips for a Smooth Vaccination Experience
Stay Calm: Dogs can sense your anxiety; staying relaxed helps keep them calm.
Post-Vaccination Care: Monitor your dog for any adverse reactions after the dog injection.
Keep Records: Maintain a vaccination record for reference and future appointments.
Conclusion
Vaccinations are a vital component of your dog's overall health care plan. Regular dogs annual injections not only protect your pet but also contribute to the wellbeing of the canine community by preventing disease outbreaks. Consult your veterinarian to establish a vaccination schedule tailored to your dog's specific needs.
At Lords & Labradors, we are committed to the health and happiness of your pets. From essential health care products to luxury dog beds, we offer everything you need to keep your furry friend in top condition.
Bringing a new puppy home is an exciting time filled with cuddles, playtime, and the promise of a loyal companion. However, the early days can be challenging—especially when it comes to teaching them good toilet habits. Whether you’re wondering how to potty train a puppy or looking for strategies to make the process smoother, you’ve come to the right place. Below, we’ll explore everything you need to know about potty training your puppy, from choosing a puppy pad to establishing a consistent routine.
Setting the Stage for Success
Creating a Designated Area
One of the first steps in dog potty training is designating an area where your puppy feels comfortable doing their business. This can be indoors, using a puppy pad, or outdoors in a quiet corner of your garden. The key is consistency. Puppies thrive when they understand exactly where they’re meant to go. If you decide to start indoors, place your Lords & Labradors puppy pads in a particular spot and guide your puppy there whenever they show signs of needing to relieve themselves.
A Quick Tip: If you’re thinking about how to train a puppy to pee outside, gradually move the puppy pad closer to the door until it’s eventually outside. This will help your puppy associate the outdoors with toilet time.
Essential Tools
Lords & Labradors Puppy Pads - Investing in high-quality puppy pads is a must. They help keep your floors clean and are especially useful if you live in a flat or don’t have immediate outdoor access. Explore our puppy pads here.
Coachi Toilet Training Bells A useful accessory for toilet training dogs is a set of Coachi toilet training bells. You can hang them on or near your door. Each time you head outside with your puppy, encourage them to nudge or paw at the bells. Before long, they’ll associate ringing the bells with going outside to do their business.
Puppy Training Treats - You will want to positively reinforce good behaviour with your puppy and so having plenty of training treats on hand for when they go to the toilet outside is a good idea. We love the Innocent Hound puppy training treats and so do our pups!
Establishing a Routine
Consistency is Key
When considering how do you house train a puppy, consistency is your best friend. Set regular times for meals, water breaks, and toilet outings. Puppies generally need to relieve themselves after waking up, after meals, and after play sessions. Having a predictable schedule makes it much easier to anticipate when they need to go, reducing the number of accidents indoors.
Night-Time Toilet Training
Puppy night time toilet training can be challenging, but it’s an essential part of how to potty train a dog. Place your puppy in a crate or secure area overnight—somewhere they feel cosy and safe. Most puppies will naturally dislike soiling their sleeping area, which encourages them to wait until they’re taken outside. Set an alarm to let them out once or twice during the night (depending on their age) so they can do their business.
Recognising Signs & Signals
Spotting the Hints
Learning how do you toilet train your puppy effectively means understanding your puppy’s body language. Most puppies will sniff the ground, circle around, or whine when they need the toilet. The more you notice these cues, the quicker you can guide them to the correct spot—be it a puppy pad or the garden. Early intervention goes a long way.
Using Bells for Communication
The toilet training bells can be a real game-changer. Many owners who are curious about how do you train a puppy to pee outside use bells as a clear signal. Each time you take your puppy to the garden, gently use their paw or nose to jingle the bell. Reward them with praise or a small treat. With consistency, you might find your puppy taking the lead and ringing the bells whenever they want to go outside.
Reward-Based Training
Positive Reinforcement
When toilet training dogs, it’s important to adopt a gentle approach. Positive reinforcement—praise and treats—works wonders. Every successful outdoor wee or poo deserves a small, tasty reward and lots of enthusiastic praise. This creates a strong association in your puppy’s mind: going in the right spot leads to good things.
Avoid Punishment: Never scold or punish your puppy for accidents. They’re still learning, and negative reinforcement can lead to confusion or fear. Instead, calmly clean up and focus on positive training strategies.
Using Treats Wisely
Treats should be small and given immediately after your puppy gets it right. If you wait too long, they might not make the connection between the action and the reward. Keep treats handy wherever you are: near the back door, in your pocket, or next to your puppy pad station. This is especially important if you’re focusing on how to potty train a dog in various household spots.
Moving from Pads to Outdoors
Transition Steps
If you began with indoor dog potty training, you might reach a point where you’re wondering how do you house train a puppy to go completely outdoors. The transition can be done gradually:
Shift the Pad: Move the puppy pad closer to the door every few days, so your puppy starts associating the door with toilet time.
Head Outside: Once the pad is right by the door, place it outside in the garden. Soon enough, your puppy will understand that the garden is the new ‘toilet spot.’
Remove the Pad: After a few days of successful outdoor trips, you can remove the pad. At this stage, your puppy should be comfortable relieving themselves on grass or a suitable outdoor surface. You’ll have successfully learned how to potty train a puppy to go outside!
Handling Accidents
Even if you’re well into the process of potty training your puppy, accidents will inevitably happen—especially during the transition. Clean up thoroughly using an enzyme-based cleaner to remove any lingering odour. This prevents your puppy from repeatedly going in the same spot indoors.
How to Train a Puppy to Poop Outside
If you’re thinking, “How to train a puppy to poop outside?” rest assured that the strategy is similar to teaching them to wee outdoors. Keep a close eye on them after meals or when they show signs of needing a number two. Quickly guide them to the spot you’ve chosen—ideally, a quiet corner of your garden. Offer a treat and praise once they’ve finished.
One of our puppies would spin in frantic circles before ‘doing his business.’ Recognising that sign made it much easier to hurry him outdoors. It really is a matter of keen observation and quick action.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Regression in Training
Puppies and potty training can sometimes take a step backwards. This often happens if you’ve changed your schedule, moved house, or introduced a new pet. If your puppy regresses, simply revisit the basics: consistent routine, frequent outings, and plenty of praise.
Distracted Puppies
If your puppy is having too much fun playing outside, they might forget to do their business. Keep a calm environment during toilet breaks. Minimising distractions helps them focus on the task at hand.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to potty train a puppy is a journey, not a destination. Expect a few bumps along the way, but remember that patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement go a long way. Whether you start with an indoor puppy pad or head straight outdoors, having the right tools makes the process smoother. Shop all of our puppy training essentials here.
Ultimately, potty training your puppy is about building trust. Each successful toilet trip reinforces the bond between you and your pet, paving the way for a happy and harmonious life together. So, stay patient, keep a keen eye on your puppy’s signals, and celebrate every milestone—big or small. In no time, you’ll have a fully house-trained companion who knows exactly where to go, day or night!
Getting a puppy is an exciting milestone, but it’s also a decision that comes with significant responsibility. Before you bring a bundle of furry joy into your life, it’s essential to make sure you’re truly ready for the commitment. From preparing your home to understanding the emotional impact, let’s explore everything you need to know about getting a puppy.
The Emotional Impact of Getting a Puppy
Welcoming a puppy into your life is an incredibly rewarding experience, but it’s not without its challenges. Many new owners experience something called the “puppy blues,” a sense of overwhelm that comes with the drastic changes a puppy brings to daily routines. Puppies require constant care, training, and supervision, especially in the first few months. It’s natural to feel regret or doubt during this adjustment period. You’re not alone if you’ve ever thought, “Did I make the right decision?”
To combat these feelings, set realistic expectations and remind yourself that the challenging phase is temporary. Puppies grow and learn quickly, especially with consistent training and patience. Lean on resources like our blog on Top 10 Tips First-Time Dog Owners Wish They'd Known for guidance and reassurance.
Is It Better to Get a Puppy or an Older Dog?
One of the first questions to ask yourself is whether you’re ready for the high-energy demands of a puppy or if an older dog might be a better fit. Puppies require house training, socialisation, and plenty of time and energy. On the other hand, older dogs can come with some training and may have a calmer demeanour, making them ideal for families or individuals with busier schedules. However, it’s important to consider if you are rescuing a dog the behavioural challenges that may come with this and the time and work you will need to overcome these.
If you decide on a puppy, remember that their first 16 weeks are crucial for socialisation. Some people worry about whether 16 weeks is too old to get a puppy, but the answer depends on the care and exposure the puppy has had up to that point. A well-cared-for 16-week-old puppy can still adapt beautifully to your home with proper training and love.
Preparing Your Home for a Puppy
Preparation is key when getting a puppy for the first time. Puppies are curious and mischievous, so ensuring your home is safe and equipped with the right essentials will make the transition smoother for both you and your new companion.
Getting a Puppy Checklist:
Dog Crate: A crate is an invaluable training tool that provides a safe space for your puppy to rest and helps with house training. We recommend a durable and appropriately sized crate, such as our heavy duty deluxe dog crates. If you want more information on crate training check out our Complete Dog Crate Guide, which has all of our Pet Experts tips and tricks getting the perfect crate set up as well as crate training your puppy.
Puppy Playpen: Playpens are ideal for keeping your puppy secure while giving them space to move around. They’re perfect for moments when you can’t keep an eye on your pup. Our play pens can attach to your pups crate too acting as a crate expansion pack, perfect for giving them a little more freedom!
Puppy Bed: A cosy bed is a must-have for ensuring your puppy feels comfortable and secure. Our Cosy & Calming puppy crate beds work perfectly as both a crate bed or a standalone bed. Alternatively our Grow With Me Puppy Beds are perfect for pups who love to curl up and be cocooned to sleep.
Toys: Puppies need mental stimulation and chewing outlets. Invest in a variety of toys, including chew toys, plush toys, and interactive puzzles. Shop our range of puppy toys here to keep your pup busy.
Food and Water Bowls: Opt for non-slip, easy-to-clean bowls. Consider investing in a slow feeder bowl if your puppy eats really quick, it will slow them down aiding better digestion.
Collar, Lead, and Harness: Start with a soft, adjustable collar, harness and a lightweight lead. A harness which is adjustable on both the neck and chest is ideal for growing puppies, we love both the Cocopup harnesses and the Ruffwear harnesses for this.
Training Pads: Accidents are inevitable. Puppy training pads help with house training in the early days.
Grooming Supplies: Puppies need regular grooming. A gentle puppy shampoo, brush, and nail clippers should be part of your kit. Our PetPlex puppy purifier collection is a great starting point for your puppy, it’s gentle on their skin and smells like baby powder which we just love.
Visit our website to shop for these puppy essentials and more. A well-prepared home sets the foundation for a smoother transition.
The Pros and Cons of Getting a Puppy
Pros:
Unmatched Bond: Raising a puppy from the start builds a deep bond that lasts a lifetime.
Training Control: You can shape their behaviour and habits from a young age.
Energy and Playfulness: Puppies bring joy and energy into your life, making them ideal for active families.
Cons:
Time Commitment: Puppies require round-the-clock care in the early months.
Financial Costs: From initial vaccinations to food and supplies, puppies can be expensive. Learn more about the cost of owning a dog to prepare your budget.
Emotional Strain: The adjustment period can be challenging, and you may experience moments of doubt.
By weighing the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle.
What to Do When You Get a Puppy
Once your puppy arrives, the first few weeks are crucial for establishing routines and building trust. Here are some key steps to follow:
House Training: Use positive reinforcement to teach your puppy where to go to the toilet. Be patient and consistent. Try taking them outside every hour in those first couple of weeks until they go to the toilet to help teach them where to go.
Socialisation: Expose your puppy to various environments, people, and other animals during the early weeks to build confidence. Just make sure they have their vaccines before introducing them to other dogs.
Vet Visits: Schedule vaccinations, deworming, and a general health checkup with your vet. Also check that your puppy’s microchip details are up to date, your vet should be able to check this for you.
Establish Routines: Set regular schedules for feeding, playtime, and training to help your puppy adjust to their new home.
Training Basics: Start with simple commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come”, as well as teaching your puppy their name. Consistent, reward-based training is key to success. If you are a first time dog owner you may benefit from some puppy classes, as much as these are to help train your puppy they are also to give you the confidence and tools to be a good dog owners and can be really beneficial.
Final Thoughts: Are You Ready?
Getting a puppy is a life-changing decision that brings immense joy and love but also requires significant time, effort, and resources. By considering the emotional and practical aspects, preparing your home, and equipping yourself with the right tools, you can set yourself and your puppy up for success.
If you’re still unsure, check out our puppy section on our Information Hub for further insights from our Pet Experts. And remember, Lords & Labradors is here to support you every step of the way with premium products and expert advice. Shop all of your puppy essentials here at Lords & Labradors.
