AKC GoodDog!SM Helpline
Fun Facts, Training Tips, and Helpful Resources for your Canine.
What to do When the Bugs Bite your Dog
Summer is a great time to be outside with your canine best friend, but is also the busiest season for bugs. Besides fleas and ticks, mosquitos, bees, wasps and hornets, ants, spiders, scorpions, kissing bugs, and many more that can spoil the fun. Read more about how to keep your pet safe!
Introducing a New Dog to Your Current Dog!
Dogs are social animals and while most enjoy the company of others, some dogs' personalities can clash. That's why when you introduce a new puppy to your dog already at home, be mindful that it can take time! Proper introductions between canines should not be rushed and are very important to keep the peace at home!
Understanding Your Dog’s Sleeping Patterns
It may seem like puppies and dogs don’t sleep much because when awake, since they're so alert when awake! But dogs during all life stages sleep quite a lot more than humans do and understanding their sleeping patterns and needs can make life for them, and their humans, better!
Submissive Behavior: Tips for Managing Submissive Urination
Do you have a leaky puppy? Most puppies lose control of their bladders, at least a little when they get excited. But they usually outgrow it by the time they are adult dogs. It’s called submissive, or excitement, urination, and it isn’t a housetraining failure or training issue...
Marking Behavior: Tips for Managing Marking
Marking is something dogs do to let other dogs know that they’ve been in a particular spot and that it’s now their spot. They may mark lots of things around the house with small amounts of urine. For dogs, this is a perfectly good way to establish ownership, but it is not something...
Dog Dominance: Tips for Curbing “Dominant” Behavior
Dogs are not trying to dominate the world with behaviors that we humans think of as bossy. They don’t plot, hold grudges, or get angry. Your dog is simply trying to do what it takes to get what he wants – attention, food, toys, or to relieve his bladder for instance.
RuffHousing: Tips to Ensure Safe Play Between Humans and Dogs
Your puppy does not mean to hurt you when he nips, but those baby teeth are sharp. But the good news is that there are ways you can play with your new pup that encourage the behavior you want while giving him a healthy outlet for his energy.
Agility? Give it a try!
If you think agility is only for lightning-fast Border Collies, think again. This very popular sport is one that almost any dog and handler team can enjoy. Whether your goal is to compete and earn titles or simply to have fun in the back yard, it’s a fun way to bond with your dog!
Office Dogs: Tips for Bringing Your Dog to Work
Wouldn’t it be great if you and your dog could be together all day, every day? Your dog probably thinks so, and his chance is coming. June 21st is National Take Your Dog to Work Day. If your employer allows you to bring your dog, you’ll want to prepare...
Trick Training: Tips for Teaching Your Dog New Tricks
Don’t let anybody tell you that teaching your dog tricks is a waste of time. Time spent building a special bond with your dog is never wasted. Being basically obedient - knowing sit, down, come, and stay - is certainly important but let’s be honest, kind of boring...
Tips for Keeping Your Dog Safe This Summer
Summer is the time to have outdoor fun with your dog but be mindful of common dangers! From an increased exposure to ticks and other insects, to sunburn, and even heatstroke, all sorts of things can go wrong for your dog in summer. Read more about the following safety concerns to keep in mind this summer!
Help Your Dog Cope with Fireworks!
The Fourth of July comes with fireworks that can be scary for many pets. Fireworks are unique sounds and since they only happen a few times a year your dog may not have many chances to get accustomed to them. Pay attention to schedules of holiday fireworks displays so you can prepare your dog before the ruckus starts!