Tasty Treats are Helpful Tools

Think of the last time you got a little treat for yourself. Maybe it was that pair of shoes you’ve been looking at, or maybe it was a slice of chocolate cake–either way, treats for us are often just indulgences. In your dogs’ case, however, treats are so much more than just fun snacks; they’re essential tools for your dog’s training. 

Dog treats come in a variety of types and sizes: some crunchy, some soft, some bite-sized, some long-lasting. No matter what your dog’s favorite flavor is, choosing high-quality treats can make all the difference when it comes to the success of your training program. 

So, how can you use treats to help your dog’s progress?

The Psychology of Positive Reinforcement

As a dog owner, you’re probably familiar with the term “positive reinforcement.” According to the AKC, positive reinforcement uses praise and rewards to encourage desired behaviors. For example, giving your dog a treat for sitting properly encourages that behavior and makes them more likely to do it again in the future. 

Edible treats are among the most effective motivators for dogs. Biologically speaking, the necessity of food has determined many of modern dogs’ drives and behaviors, and thus, receiving food with minimal effort comes across as a huge reward. Once your dogs know that they’ll receive food for repeated good behavior, you’re likely to find that training is a breeze.

Furthermore, rewarding your dog with treats is a great way to build trust between the two of you. Your dog will easily identify you as a provider and a reliable source of healthy snacks; they’ll look forward to training sessions and be eager to continue learning.

Why Healthy Treats Matter

Here at Pawsitively Pure Dog Food, we believe that you CAN teach an old dog new tricks. Training your dog can be a lifelong pursuit, with your dog continuing to learn good behaviors year after year. What’s more, you should continue to positively reinforce learned behaviors over time to ensure your dog is still invested in repeating those good habits. That’s why offering your dog healthy treats is so important. 

• Avoid harmful ingredients. Low-quality, mass-produced dog treats often include a number of preservatives and fillers that can cause health problems over time or if treats are offered too frequently. Such health issues can include weight gain, digestive problems, allergies, and beyond. 

• Bring on the good stuff. On the other hand, healthy, all-natural treats not only avoid the negative health effects, but they can also offer a nutritional boost to your dog’s daily diet. After switching to all-natural dog food and treats, many dog owners notice improved skin and coat, higher energy levels, and improved digestion. Ingredients like blueberries and sweet potatoes are both nutrient dense and delicious!

• Don’t forget about portion control. Being mindful of your dog’s treat intake is important in maintaining their weight. If your training schedule is intensive, it’s a good idea to break treats into smaller pieces to make bite-sized rewards for correct behavior. 

Choosing the Right Treats for Your Training Sessions

When it comes down to it, the right treat for your dog is a matter of taste. Soft, chewy treats are easy for dogs to consume while they’re busy with a new task, but some dogs prefer the crunch of a chicken crisp or a biscuit. It can be a good idea to have a couple different treats on hand to keep your dog from getting bored and losing interest when it’s time for training and rewards. Experiment with different ingredients, textures, and flavors to find out what makes your dog’s tail wag the hardest. 

Now is the perfect time to stock up on some new, healthy treats to help make your dog’s training sessions a breeze. Selecting a treat that’s low on fillers and high on nutritional value not only makes training fun, but also provides your dog with critical nutrients and improves their overall quality of life. Pawsitively Pure Dog Food offers all-natural, soft biscuits and all-meat, crunchy chicken crisps so your dogs have a variety of tasty treats to choose from. Head over to our shop to order yours today.

Who Rescued Whom?

The decision to adopt a dog is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make in your lifetime. After all, you’re expanding your family and welcoming a new member to your pack! However, the thought of adopting a rescue dog may cause some people to hesitate. Many people think that rescue dogs come along with too much damage, from fears to bad behaviors and health issues. Wouldn’t it be easier to just start fresh?

Not at all! Rescue dogs make wonderful companions that offer companionship and unconditional love to their adopted families. You’ll need to prepare your home and your heart equally whether you choose to bring home a rescue dog or buy from a responsible breeder. What’s more, adopting a rescue dog helps give a deserving dog another chance at a happy life!

Why You Should Rescue a Dog

Rescuing a dog can be a rewarding experience for everyone involved. Here are just a few of the reasons why you should rescue your next dog: 

1. You’re saving a life. This one is obvious–it’s an incredible feeling to save a life! Dogs wind up in shelters for myriad reasons, and every dog deserves a chance at a happy, healthy life filled with love. You’ll see in the way your rescue dog “smiles” and wags their tail just how thankful they are that you found them.

2. You’re saving other lives, too. Shelter overpopulation is a serious problem, and animal shelters nationwide are pressed for space to rescue and care for animals in need. By adopting a dog, you’re freeing up a space for another dog that needs help.

3. You’re supporting animal health and protection services. Rescue organizations like Orange County Animal Services do so much for the community at large, offering services like spaying/neutering, microchipping, and beyond. When you adopt from one of these facilities, your money is helping to improve and maintain such programs.

4. You’re gaining a new best friend. Everyone loves love! Your rescue dog will give you just as much love as you give them. What’s not to love about a walking partner, adventure pal, playmate, and snuggle buddy all in one?

How to Make the Right Environment for Your Rescue Dog

Rescue dogs don’t have it easy, and they may be a little skittish at first depending on their histories and how they handled their time at the shelter–which is understandable. If your rescue seems a little nervous or reluctant at first, don’t worry. The commonly cited “3-3-3” rule says that rescue dogs tend to take 3 days to acclimate to their surroundings, 3 weeks to train and learn expectations, and 3 months to embrace routines and increase exposure to new places. Help ease the transition with a few easy preparation tips.

Understand your rescue dog’s background

It’s a great idea to get as much information as you can about your rescue dog from the shelter you’re adopting them from. Learn about their past experiences, potential phobias, health issues, and so on so that you can better understand their current behavioral quirks. 

Be sure to brush up on the common signs of fear and aggression in dogs. It’s important to understand what your new dog is trying to communicate with you through its body language and barking. Always be patient when you’re getting to know each other–if your dog could speak human languages, it would probably make things easier!

Make your home a safe space

Every dog should have a safe, quiet space where they can go when they feel overwhelmed or overstimulated. Crate training is a great way to establish such a space while also being an effective training tool. Don’t forget to add plenty of comfortable blankets, cushions, and toys depending on their preferences. 

Consistency can also help your dog feel safe and secure. Establish a routine as soon as possible; regular walking, feeding, playtime, and quiet time will give your dog a sense of belonging and stability.

Bond with your dog

You and your dog will ease into your relationship–don’t try to rush it at first! Be gentle, patient, and use lots of positive reinforcement to let them know they’re in a safe space. Giving your dog healthy, high-value treats will ensure they look forward to spending time with you.

Training is an excellent bonding activity as it establishes clear communication between you and your canine friend. By giving them clear commands, they’ll learn to read you better and be more confident in their interactions with you. 

And of course, give your dog lots of opportunities for play and both physical and mental exercise. Exercise and mental stimulation help keep your dog healthy, give them the chance to burn off extra energy, and they’re lots of fun!

Consult with your veterinarian

The professionals are here to help you successfully integrate your new dog into your family. You should establish your new dog with your veterinarian as soon as possible to ensure they’re up to date on vaccinations and any health issues are properly managed. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about behavior, acclimation, training, and whatever else is on your mind. 

Plenty of reputable dog training classes are available around Central Florida. Your veterinarian may even be able to give you a trusted recommendation of their own.

The Right Rescue Dog is Waiting For You

The most important thing to keep in mind when you bring home a rescue dog: patience. Your rescue dog has been through a lot; give them patience and be gentle as they get used to their new surroundings and learn how to fit in with your family. 

Make training fun and exciting with all-natural treats, like Pawsitively Pure’s Blueberry and Oat treats or Chicken Crisps. Head over to our online store to shop now!

Make a Splash With Your Furry Friends

The heat is on and summer is officially here in Central Florida, giving us the perfect opportunity to enjoy some fun in the sun with our dogs. There’s nothing better than letting your pup get their paws wet in the pool, at the beach, or wherever you like to swim and play. But before you dive in headfirst, it’s important to understand the risks and safety considerations involved with letting your dog play in any body of water. 

When you have an effective safety protocol at the ready and approach water play time with the proper preparation, you and your dog can have lots of fun while getting in some great exercise time. Keep reading to learn a few simple yet important tips to help keep your dog happy and healthy.

Water Safety for Any Canine Swim Session

While swimming may be fun for lots of dogs, it also comes with a unique set of risks. The following are a few tips to keep in mind before you start doggy paddling.

Teach your dog the basics of swimming

First and foremost: never put your dog in a body of water without proper training and introductions. Contrary to popular belief, not all dogs are born swimmers, and many need at least a few chances to get acclimated to the water before they start swimming in earnest. 

If you have a pool at home, start by letting your dog stand on the steps in the shallow end. You should always start off in the shallow end so it’s easy for your dog to get out if they panic or decide they don’t want to swim. Never force your dog to do more than they’re comfortable with. 

Additionally, there are many professional dog swim classes available to pet parents who want their dogs to have the best training possible. Our friends at Dip’n Dogs offer swim lessons for beginners, as well as hydrotherapy and fitness classes for dogs of all skill levels. 

Whether or not you want to make swimming a regular activity for your dog, it’s a great idea to give them lessons if you have a pool at home. Giving your dog confidence in the water can help save their life in an emergency!

Ensure water conditions are safe

Not all bodies of water are safe for swimming in. Lakes and ponds, in particular, can be home to deadly bacteria that can quickly cause your dog to fall ill or worse. Strong ocean tides can easily overwhelm even the most confident of swimmers, and consuming an excessive amount of saltwater can cause serious health issues in dogs. Always double check the water conditions before you set your play date.

Never leave your dog unattended

No matter how experienced your dog is with swimming, don’t leave them unattended while they play. Make sure you’re close by and free from distractions as you monitor your dog’s behavior and actions in the water. If possible, swim by their side–it’s a great bonding activity and also ensures you’re nearby to help if the need arises.

Plan for breaks

It can be easy to lose track of time when we’re having fun, but it’s important to let your dog take regular breaks during play time. They’ll need to be able to comfortably relieve themselves from time to time. Additionally, swimming expends more energy than the usual activities of running and walking, so they’ll probably get tired more quickly than you expect. 

Always have fresh water nearby

Don’t drink the pool water (or the ocean water, or the river water)! After expending all that energy, your dog is going to need to refuel and refresh with a drink of water. Your dog may be tempted to drink the water around them when they’re thirsty, but of course, that’s not healthy. Be sure to set out a bowl of fresh, cool water in an easily accessible area for your dog to rehydrate.

Teach your dog how to enter and exit the water

Knowing how to safely enter and exit the pool, ocean, or lake is just as important as knowing how to swim. In a pool, you should familiarize your dog with using the stairs. At the beach, make sure there are no rocky drops past the shoreline, and ensure the surf isn’t too rough before you allow your dog to make their way into the water. In other bodies of water, like rivers and lakes, make sure your dog has a slope or a sturdy foothold where they can easily exit as needed. 

Always clean up afterwards

Don’t let that water sit on your dog’s skin and fur after your swim session is over. Chlorine in pools can irritate and dry the skin and fur. Natural bodies of water can have toxins and microorganisms that want to cling to your dog. Always be sure to rinse and thoroughly wash and dry your dog after you’re done swimming. Use a gentle shampoo and be sure to clean around ears and folds!

Why Swimming is a Great Activity for Your Dog

When you’re safe and prepared, swimming is an excellent physical activity for dogs of all ages. It’s truly a full-body workout, more than playing fetch or jogging, and is great for the respiratory and circulatory systems. It’s a great exercise option for elderly and overweight dogs since it’s low impact and offers some additional buoyancy. Another benefit for elderly dogs is that cool water can be therapeutic on sore, arthritic joints. Overall, it’s one of our favorite ways to give our dogs some quality play time, and it’s even more fun when we can enjoy it together!

Keep High-Value Treats on Hand for Swim Training

Getting your dog comfortable and confident in their swimming abilities can take some time. Be sure to offer your dog some high-value treats for being brave and learning new skills! Our all-natural chicken crisps are the perfect reward for a hardworking dog. Visit our online store or stop by our booth at the Lake Mary, Winter Park, and Maitland Farmers Markets almost every weekend! 

Your Dog is the Perfect At-Home Coworker

If you’re one of the many people who work from home, you know how special it is to have your dog by your side while you complete your daily tasks. Although occasionally distracting, dogs are great coworkers: They offer you a source of comfort and support when you’re stressed, they encourage you to take regular breaks away from your desk, and they never have an issue with what you have for lunch. Your dog appreciates your constant companionship, too! You know they’d never pass up the opportunity to spend more time with you (and all those extra belly rubs are an excellent bonus). 

But many companies are starting to encourage their employees to return to the office. This can be a difficult transition for you and your dog alike–you’ll both need to get used to new routines and a change in surroundings. If you’ve been called back to the office, it’s important that you help your dog adjust to the situation as much as possible. 

Dogs Thrive on Routines

Dogs are at their best when they’re able to follow a consistent routine. Giving them set times to eat, walk, play, and sleep helps them to be at their best behavior; they gain a great deal of calmness and confidence in themselves when they’re able to regularly practice daily tasks and commands. 

When you no longer work from home, you’re creating a huge change in your dog’s regular routine. Keep reading to learn five great techniques you can use to help make the transition much less stressful for your dog. 

Gradually Increase the Amount of Time You Spend Out of the House

If you suddenly switch from staying at home 24/7 to being gone for more than eight hours a day, there’s a good chance your dog will struggle and even experience some form of separation anxiety. If it’s possible, take a couple of weeks before your official back-to-the-office date and gradually increase the amount of time you spend away from home and your dog. 

As you go through this process, make sure you establish patterns that you’ll be carrying out before you leave and after you return from work. For example, start each morning by taking your dog for a walk and feeding them breakfast at a specific time; when you return, you can dedicate a few minutes to playing with their favorite toy or spending some time in the backyard. Whatever routine you choose, just be sure it’s as consistent as possible.

Give Your Dog as Much Exercise as Possible

Going for a long walk first thing in the morning, or before your shift begins, is a great way to tire your dog out so they’ll have the opportunity to sleep through your absence. All exercise can help boost your dog’s endorphins and increase their sense of independence. Furthermore, exercising together–whether you go on a trail run or play Frisbee in the backyard–is the perfect way to bond with your dog and let them know just how much you care about them. They’ll be at ease when you leave for the day, knowing that they’ll get to enjoy another great play session as soon as you return. 

Create a Safe Space for Your Dog

By now, your dog should have at least one safe, comfortable space to call their own in your home. If you’ve been working from home for some time, one of their safe spaces is probably somewhere in your office–I know I have a dog bed ready in the corner of my own home office. When you’re away from your dog for longer periods of time, they’ll need some extra comfort and reassurance, so be sure to put a piece of clothing or a stuffed animal that smells like you somewhere they can easily access it. 

Crate training can be extremely helpful in situations like these. Not only does a crate offer your dog a safe and comfortable place in which to retreat, but it can also help protect your home from any damage that could be caused by anxious and destructive behavior. Some dogs tend to chew or scratch when they’re home alone to help soothe the anxiety they’re experiencing. Crating is a great solution to this issue, but if you do decide to crate your dog while you’re away, it’s crucial that you ensure they have access to food, water, and a place or opportunity to potty.

Desensitize Your Dog to the Cues That Indicate You’re Leaving

Do you ever get the feeling that your dog can tell when you’re about to leave? Well, they can! Your dog can associate cues like putting on shoes or packing a backpack with you leaving the house. Some dogs can even determine if you’ll be away for a long time based on what your routine is before you leave. 

To help combat the nervousness your dog may experience when you take these actions, go through your leaving routine without actually leaving. For instance, if you put on your shoes and grab a backpack but don’t leave the house, you’ll weaken your dog’s association of these actions with you leaving the house. When you actually do leave, they won’t be starting the day with anxiety through the roof. 

Give Your Dog Puzzle Toys

Offering your dog mental stimulation is a great way to keep them distracted and wear them out. Whether you give them a Kong stuffed with treats or a puzzle filled with hidden goodies, they’ll be so focused on getting those tasty morsels that they won’t be as prone to anxiety. 

A word of caution before you go this route: you should never leave your dog unsupervised with a toy they could choke on. Make sure you do a trial run with your toys before you set them out to entertain your dog; and if you know your dog to be a chewer, it may be best to avoid giving them such toys while you’re not at home. A soft snuffle mat would be a great choice as it doesn’t have small parts that could be hazardous to your pup. 

Above All, Be Patient With Your Dog

Just as it will take you some time to adjust to your new routine, it will also take some time to adjust to being away from you for longer periods. Transitions are never easy, so be patient with your dog and offer them plenty of high-reward treats for good behavior. Pawsitively Pure offers delicious, healthy dog treats for dogs of every age and life stage. Browse our online store or send us a message to learn more!

Enjoy the Dog Days of Summer With Your Dog

Taking a road trip is the quintessential summer vacation. You load up the car with necessities, a handful of snacks, and a map (or just your smartphone nowadays), and you find adventure wherever the road takes you. Want to know what makes a road trip even better? Taking your dog with you!

Your dog can be the ultimate adventure partner when you’re ready to hit the road. Whether you’re hiking and camping or you’d rather stay somewhere with room service, Central Florida is home to plenty of awesome destinations that you and your dog can enjoy together. Many such locations are less than a day’s drive away from the Orlando area.

Should I Take My Dog on a Road Trip?

Every dog has a unique personality, just like the humans who love them. While some children enjoy camping trips with their parents and siblings, others would prefer to stay in the comfort of their homes. In much the same way, be sure your dog’s temperament is suited to the activities you intend to enjoy on your road trip.

If your dog gets uncomfortable during car rides, a road trip will not be a good fit for them. If your dog is sick or injured, they should stay at home to rest and recover. Additionally, if your dog doesn’t deal well with crowds, you won’t want to bring them with you to a popular destination. Some dogs enjoy being out at dog-friendly restaurants while others prefer exploring quiet trails. You know your dog better than anyone else does; use your common sense and don’t force them into a situation that will be too overwhelming. 

What Supplies Will You Need on Your Dog-Friendly Road Trip?

Adequate preparation is the best tool to help you ensure you and your dog will have a great time on your vacation. When you’re packing for your dog, be sure to bring:

• Plenty of food and fresh drinking water and appropriate dishes. You’ll want to make sure you bring along a sufficient amount of food to keep your dog fed for the duration of your trip, with a little extra just to be safe. Additionally, make sure you take along a few jugs of drinking water so your dog can stay safely hydrated. If you feed your dog fresh food, make sure you have a reliable way to keep your food chilled, whether you will have a refrigerator at your destination or you intend to maintain it in a cooler.

• Lots of high-reward treats! If your dog is being introduced to a new environment, you want to make sure you can reward them for good behavior in unfamiliar situations. Bring along plenty of healthy, natural dog treats to reinforce their training and encourage them to play and explore safely.

• Leash, collar/harness, and ID tags. Your dog’s safety should be your top priority on your road trip. Make sure you have appropriate collars or harnesses and leashes so you can make sure your dog’s exploration is controlled and easily monitored. Also, even if you have your dog microchipped–which you should–be sure to attach an updated ID tag to their collar to ensure they can be returned to you quickly and safely should they wander.

• First aid kit and vet records. Accidents happen. If your dog has a medical emergency, you want to make sure you can address it from your current location instead of having to drive all the way back home. Make sure you have a complete first aid kit so that you can patch up minor cuts, scratches, and bug bites right away. In case you run into a more serious issue, it’s a good idea to have their veterinary records handy. 

• Toys and comfort items. Even the most adventurous dog can become overwhelmed in a new setting. Be sure to bring along some of your dog’s favorite toys and any blankets, pillows, or comfort items they use to self-soothe. Whether you’re staying in a hotel or camping in the wilderness, you’ll want to set up a safe space for them to call their home away from home.

Where Are the Best Dog-Friendly Road Trips in Central Florida? 

Many major destinations around the state of Florida are considered dog friendly! Here are a few selections to choose from based on your personal preferences:

Beach Destinations

Key West is known for being a dog-friendly destination, and the Key West Dog Beach is a great place to start. After some fun in the sun, you and your dog can cool off at one of several nearby dog-friendly restaurants and bars. Many hotels and rentals in the area are dog-friendly and even geared toward dog lovers. 

If you’d rather head north, Jacksonville also has several great dog-friendly beaches to choose from. Just be sure to check the calendar before you hit the sand with your furry friend: dogs are generally not allowed on the beach during turtle nesting season. 

City Destinations

Vacations with dogs don’t just have to be outdoorsy! Many cities are becoming increasingly dog friendly, with resorts, parks, and activity centers for dogs of all ages and breeds. If you prefer a staycation, Orlando is a wonderfully dog-friendly city. Enjoy a latte with your dog at Cups and Pups, or take them out for a tail-waggin’ good time at Pups Pub. There are plenty of parks around the city where you can enjoy a stroll and a sniff. 

West Palm is also becoming one of the most dog-friendly destinations in the state. Most notably, the luxury Ben Hotel even offers dog-friendly room service! With so many restaurants and boutiques named after the owners’ dogs around the city center, it should come as no surprise that our furry friends are highly celebrated there. 

Adventure Destinations

Sniffing out new trails? Your options are abundant! Head to St. Augustine to explore the oldest city in the United States. The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park is dog-friendly and gives you the option to explore real Florida history. The area is known for being welcoming to dogs and their humans. 

Lake Louisa State Park in Clermont has luxury “glamping” accommodations that are dog-friendly and give you easy access to some incredible hiking trails, canoeing and paddleboarding sites, and nature watching opportunities. This is a great option for anyone looking to experience a variety of adventures all in one place!

Take a Trip You and Your Dog Will Never Forget

We’ve only just started to scratch the surface of all the wonderful places throughout Florida where you can take a great road trip with your dog. When you’re ready to stock up on extra dog food and treats for the road, head over to our shop and order a few of your dog’s favorites. We can’t wait to hear about all of your amazing adventures together!