As the summer sun heats up, many pet parents turn to water activities to help their dogs stay cool and have fun. Whether it’s hooking up a splash pad, turning on the backyard sprinkler, or simply filling a dog-friendly kiddie pool, a garden hose is often the go-to tool. But before you let your water-loving pup dive into play, there’s a safety tip every dog parent needs to know: Always check your hose water temperature first. An Overlooked Summer Risk When a garden hose sits out in the sun...| Proud Dog Mom
Proper puppy socialization is crucial for raising a confident, well-adjusted dog. Here are eight effective strategies to help you socialize your new puppy safely and positively.| Proud Dog Mom
Aging is a natural part of life. Unfortunately, it happens a whole lot earlier for canines than it does for humans. Read on to find out when your little one is considered a senior dog and 12 common signs your fur kid is getting up there in years. When Does a Dog Become a Senior? First of all, we can toss the myth that one human year is equivalent to seven canine years. Dogs definitely age at a rate faster than humans, but it’s not as simple as the familiar 1:7 ratio. Actually, in the f...| Proud Dog Mom
Planning a road trip with your canine companion? Whether you’re driving cross-country or just a few hours away to your neighboring state, road trips with dogs require careful planning to ensure your furry family member stays safe and is comfortable. Prioritize Safety with Proper Restraints Do you restrain your dog when you drive? When we hop in the car, we buckle ourselves and our kids without a second thought. But when it comes to our dogs? Most pet parents don’t restrain them—and that...| Proud Dog Mom
Just like people, dogs need daily exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy. But how much is enough? And what types of activities actually count as “exercise”? Whether you’re raising a rowdy puppy, caring for a senior companion, or juggling life with a high-energy breed, finding the right balance is key. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about exercising your dog, from how much is appropriate to different ways to keep your pup active and happy. W...| Proud Dog Mom
Cloudy eyes in dogs can be alarming. Have you noticed your pup’s eyes turning bluish or hazy?Don’t ignore it. While some changes in eye color can be a normal part of aging, others may signal serious health issues. Some could even lead to permanent blindness if left untreated. I’ve broken down five common causes of cloudy or bluish eyes in dogs, from harmless to potentially devastating. Know the signs, take action early, and protect your pup’s vision. Nuclear Sclerosis: A Natural Sign ...| Proud Dog Mom
When most people think about exercising their dog, physical activity comes to mind—long walks, fetch at the park, or a run around the backyard. But did you know that mental stimulation is just as important for your dog’s overall well-being? Dogs are intelligent, curious creatures that crave mental challenges. Without proper enrichment, they can become bored, anxious, and even develop behavioral issues. The good news? Keeping your dog mentally sharp doesn’t require complicated training o...| Proud Dog Mom
Each year, the American Kennel Club releases a list of the most popular dog breeds in the US. The lists are compiled using the registration statistics for the previous year. This is the most current list gathered in 2024, with a short summary for each dog breed. Please note: The AKC only lists purebred dogs on their list, which is why you won’t spot mixed breeds on here. 1. French Bulldog The adorable Frenchie reaches heights between 11–13″ and weighs under 28 pounds. Life expectancy is...| Proud Dog Mom
Bringing a new dog into your life is a big decision, and should never be taken lightly. While it’s easy to fall in love with a puppy’s floppy ears or a rescue dog’s soulful eyes, pet ownership is more than a moment of excitement or a desire for companionship. It’s a long-term commitment. Dogs rely on us for everything—food, exercise, medical care, and companionship. They need us not just when they’re young and cute, but also when they’re older, facing health challenges, or when ...| Proud Dog Mom
As the weather warms up and beautiful flowers begin to bloom, many dog parents are spending more time outdoors with their canine companions. While time spent out in the sun is certainly fun, we must be aware of certain hidden dangers that springtime brings. Whether in your garden, local park, or even inside your home, it’s important to know which flowers and plants pose a risk to your pup. Here’s a guide to common spring plants that are toxic to dogs. 1. Tulips Tulips add a vibrant splash...| Proud Dog Mom