As a pawrent, you might be wondering if you can train your dog at home or if you'll need to take your furbaby to a professional trainer for obedience training. Although training might seem intimidating, it's something you and your furbaby can accomplish together in your house or yard. All you need is a little know-how and patience and, before long, you and your pup can enjoy the benefits of good behavior.Obedience training is vital to enjoying time with your dog in public, at home, and around people and other animals. With a well-behaved furbaby, you can explore the world together safely and stress-free. A trained puppy is less likely to rocket out of the front door, get into brawls with other pups, or jump up on house guests.So where do you get started? In this post, we'll cover the basics — from what commands you should teach your dog first to puppy-training tips you can use at home.When to Start Training Your Puppy

You want to start training your puppy immediately, or when your puppy is <a href="https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/puppy-training/teach-your-puppy-these-5-basic-commands/" target="_self">at least eight weeks old</a>. Puppies can learn to wear a collar and begin to recognize praise at about 8 weeks and you can start teaching basic commands at 12 weeks. Since most puppies leave their mother when they are <a href="https://www.thelabradorsite.com/when-can-puppies-leave-their-mother/" target="_self">between 7 and 9 weeks old</a>, you'll be able to start training the moment you bring your furbaby home.Your pup needs to learn right away that you are the leader of the pack. If you wait to teach your furbabies when they are older, you might have to break bad habits and show them new ones. It's easier and quicker to teach pups when they are young and malleable. The easiest trick in the book of training your dog is to not reward undesirable behaviors and reward behaviors you like.Steps for Training a Puppy<ol><li>Understand that your furbaby learns through the <a href="https://pets.webmd.com/dogs/guide/dog-training-obedience-training-for-dogs#2" target="_self">consequences of their behavior</a>. If a behavior leads to a tasty treat or a walk in the park, your furbaby will continue the behavior to keep getting rewards. On the other hand, if a behavior results in a lack of a reward, there is less reason to continue the behavior.
Although opinions differ, there is no need to punish your furbaby for bad behavior. Instead, focus on rewarding good behavior. The benefit of a reward-focused approach is your furbaby will be less likely to fear you or others, but still learn to obey the rules.
</li></ol><ol><li>Realize that your furbaby is not acting in mysterious ways. For example, your pup might jump up on you to get attention. To stop this behavior, ignore them when they jump on you. They will soon realize that they do not receive what they want when they jump — no scolding necessary. On the contrary, if you greet your pup with affection when they climb up you the moment you walk through the door, they will continue this behavior.</li></ol>How Long Should You Train Your Puppy Each Day?Imagine a two-year-old baby. You probably would not plan to start teaching them algebra, right? Puppies are no different. They have short attention spans and need to learn basic commands before they can advance to more complex training.Because puppies get distracted easily, try to keep training sessions short but regular. When you're teaching your furbaby new skills, aim to train every single day for <a href="https://pets.webmd.com/dogs/guide/dog-training-obedience-training-for-dogs#5" target="_self">15 minutes or less</a> per session. You might break up 15 minutes of daily training in five-minute sessions each day — it's up to you and what works best for your pup. The key is to keep training short, fun and positive.

There is no set rule on how often to train your furbaby. Instead, aim to train when your puppy seems interested or ready. If they act tired or if there are a lot of distractions in the home, do a training session at a different time. If your pup seems bored or frustrated, end the training session and try again later.Puppy Training Tips at HomeOne benefit of training your puppy at home is you can control the environment and the number of distractions in the room. It's best not to teach new skills when a lot is going on in the house because you want to keep distractions to a minimum. Also, once your puppy gets the hang of a command, make sure to practice commands in different rooms and around different people, so they learn to listen in any situation.Here are a few tips to keep in mind while training your furbaby:Be consistent: To avoid confusing your furbaby and to make training the most effective, make sure you and other family members react to your pup's behavior the same way every time.Be immediate: Dogs can only connect consequences to their behavior if the consequences are immediate. Unlike humans, furbabies do not contemplate punishment days or even hours later. Rewards and consequences must be immediate. So, if your furbaby had an accident in the house while you were away, punishing them much later is meaningless. Instead, focus on training your pup to go potty outside.Be clear: Our language is a foreign language to furbabies, so try to communicate in short, clear words when training. For example, if you are teaching the "sit" command, simply say "sit." Do not say "sit on the floor" or "sit down, Lucky," for example. Keep commands short and sweet.Be patient: Training takes time and effort and you might experience setbacks. Take small steps and wait until your furbaby becomes a master at each baby step before moving on to the next one. If your pup seems stuck learning a new skill, go back to something they know and practice a few times before increasing the level of difficulty. You'll both get there eventually!Most importantly, do not stress out about training. Relax and hang in there! With patience, consistency and practice, your furbaby will learn new commands. Make sure they have plenty of time for play and affection and they'll be eager to learn.Train With Furbo Dog CameraObedience training is necessary to make the most of your relationship with your furbaby. When your pup behaves well, you can do so much more together, from exploring new places to meeting new people and other furbabies. As a result, your puppy will be happier, more relaxed, and healthier than if they were confined to the house due to poor behavior. Also, with obedience training, you'll enjoy greater peace within the home.Teach them while they're young to build a good foundation for life — and keep practicing regularly so they don't forget what they learned. You'll be amazed at what your furbaby can do!<a href="http://furbo.com/furbodogcamera" target="_self">Furbo Dog Camera</a> is here to help you train and make the process fun for both you and your puppy. With Furbo, you can keep an eye on your furbaby when you're at work, out with friends, or anywhere miles away from home. You can watch their behavior from your smartphone to see areas that might need improvement. Similarly, you can reward or comfort your pup while you're away by easily dispensing treats from <a href="https://furbo.com" target="_self">Furbo</a>. All you need to do is press a button on your phone and Furbo will toss a treat to your furbaby following a clicking sound. It's perfect for obedience training! The best part is, you get to watch your pup react to Furbo and catch or chase the treat.Also, you can give commands through the microphone to continue with training sessions at any time of the day, no matter where you are. On lunch break at work? Why not practice sitting with your furbaby to keep them stimulated and engaged throughout the day? They'll look forward to their tasty reward. Let <a href="http://furbo.com/furbodogcamera" target="_self">Furbo Dog Camera</a> help you teach commands and build a deeper bond with your furbaby. Visit <a href="https://furbo.com" target="_self">Furbo</a> online to learn more about the Furbo Dog Camera today!

As a pawrent, you might be wondering if you can train your dog at home or if you'll need to take your furbaby to a professional trainer. Although training might seem intimidating, it's something you and your furbaby can accomplish together in your house or yard. All you need is a little know-how and patience and, before long, you and your pup can enjoy the benefits of good behavior.

Puppy Obedience Training at Home | Steps for Training a Puppy

[en] Puppy Obedience Training at Home | Steps for Training a Puppy

Almost everyone adores dogs and can't wait to take one home — including you! However, it is until you bring your lovely pup home that you realize how much of a troublemaker he can be. The reason why your pup may demonstrate bad behaviors is because you simply did not teach them what’s right and what’s wrong. Don’t worry! Training does not have to be difficult and expensive. In fact, you can easily train your dog at home with a clicker. Training is essential if you and your pup want to co-exist under the same roof peacefully. Read along to find out about how to train your dog with a clicker. What Is Clicker Training?Clicker training teaches dogs how to behave by affecting their memories, perceptions and associations with certain behaviors through connecting them with specific consequences or outcomes. While dog training used to be primarily based on a type of operant conditioning involving negative reinforcement — or punishments for incorrect behaviors — we don't use these unfriendly methods anymore.

Through positive reinforcement, you teach your dog to adopt certain behaviors and let go of others simply by rewarding good behaviors with treats, praise or favorite activities while ignoring the behaviors that aren't so good. Repetition of this reward process gradually teaches your dog which actions will lead to positive outcomes and which will not. Eventually, your pup will act out their bad habits less and less, focusing on the good behaviors that earn rewards.Punishment is no way to encourage your furbaby to learn, listen and become comfortable with you. There's no question that positive reinforcement is the best way to train your dog. In fact, in a recent study on conditioning dogs to perform certain behaviors by providing them with rewards, the dogs <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/canine-corner/201704/is-clicker-training-the-most-effective-way-train-dogs" target="_self">performed the desired action correctly eight out of 10 times</a> following the training. Clicker training works with this concept by attaching a clicking noise to the successful performance of a good behavior, helping your dog associate the habit with a specific, positive outcome.How Does Clicker Training Work for Your Dog?The clicker is a device consisting of a metal strip inside a plastic box. When you press it, the box releases a distinctive clicking noise to draw your dog's attention. While rewarding your pup's good behavior with only a treat or a phrase of praise — like "good dog!" — can be helpful in teaching your dog what actions to perform, the click is much quicker and more noticeable to the dog.

The "click" is not a reward on its own, but by giving treats or praise directly after pressing the clicker, you will teach your furbaby that the sound has a positive meaning. When dogs hear the click, they'll know a reward is coming soon and then associate that reward with the positivity of whatever behavior they've just performed.How to Start Clicker TrainingYou'll love how simple it is to train your dog with a clicker. To develop your dog's understanding of what the clicking sound means, you'll start with an initial training phase and work your way up to teaching specific behaviors.

1. Preparation Start your clicker training in a quiet area with your pup. Try to make sure your dog isn't especially over-stimulated, exhausted or full from a recent meal — the rewards will work best when he's alert and ready for food. Have a big handful of treats nearby to use as clicker rewards.2. Introduction Begin to condition your dog to the clicking noise. Press the clicker and, following the sound, immediately hand your dog a treat. Repeat this action of clicking and rewarding at least five to 10 times to reinforce the positive association in your pooch.3. Evaluation  To test whether your furbaby is used to the meaning of the clicker, try pressing it when they're not paying attention. If they respond quickly, perking up and looking for a treat from you, your dog understands what the click means and is ready for some basic training.4. Direction Start teaching your furbaby some basic commands. When you get your dog to perform the action, follow it with an immediate click, praise and a treat. It's important for you to press the clicker at the precise moment your pup performs the right behavior so that they know the action itself is positive.

Once you've mastered using the clicker, and your dog understands its implications, you can move through basic commands to more advanced training if you desire. All it takes is consistent clicking and the right rewards.

Training does not have to be difficult and expensive. In fact, you can easily train your dog at home with a clicker. Training is essential if you and your pup want to co-exist under the same roof peacefully. Read along to find out about how to train your dog with a clicker

How to Train your Dog With a Clicker

[en] How to Train your Dog With a Clicker

What is clicker training?Clicker training is a simple concept with a long history. Based on a theory called <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operant_conditioning" target="_blank">operant conditioning</a>, clicker training was first tested by animal behaviorists in the early 1940’s. Through careful study pioneering, behaviorist couple, Marian Kruse and Keller Breland found a breakthrough concept with clicker training. Over their lifetimes the two worked with more than 150 different species and close to 15,000 individual animals.Almost five decades would pass before the method truly began to catch on. In the early 1990’s marine mammal trainer Karen Pryor along with partner Gary Wilkes began to popularize the method with dog owners through training seminars. Today clicker training has become the most popular animal training method in the world.Interestingly enough, the clicker training process has actually inspired some of the coolest “Doggy Tech” toys on today’s market. For instance, <a href="http://furbo.com/furbodogcamera" target="_self">Furbo</a>, the treat tossing dog camera actually took input from clicker trainers during the design process. Before a treat is tossed, the system emits a clicker sound, giving dog parents the opportunity to clicker train from their office!Why do you need a clicker to train your dogs?Studies have shown that without the benefits of language animals learn best when they are rewarded during the performance of the desired behavior rather than after completing it. While this seems like a minor difference, the reality is that the more quickly your dog can understand which of her behaviors she is being rewarded for the more enjoyable the experience is for both of you.With basic commands such as “sit” and “stay” it’s fairly simple for her to discern what you want from her. But as the desired behaviors become more complex she is tasked with deciphering a foreign language. For instance, when asked to heel, is she being praised for staying at your side or for coming on command? How long is she expected to maintain the behavior? The quicker she is able to discern this, the better. Clicker training, when done properly, is a simple and district way of telling her, “That’s Right!”

How to clicker trainThough it evolved from some fairly complex research, you don’t need to be intimidated by clicker training; the process is actually quite simple. Below is a quick step-by-step guide that will help you and your pup master the technique, we’ll start with a simple “Sit” command:1. Help her understand the command<ul><li>If she’s not familiar with the “Sit” command this is a quick and easy way to start:</li></ul><ul><li>Get her attention with a sound or treat</li></ul><ul><li>Show the treat while holding it just above her reach</li></ul><ul><li>Wait for her to settle down, say the word “Sit” and then start moving toward her</li></ul><ul><li>These actions will almost always put her into a seated position.</li></ul>2. Just as you see her but hit the ground click and immediately treat.3. Get her to stand and repeat the process.The Do's and Don'ts of Clicker TrainingDo:<ul><li>Watch for a clue that she understands the command and is starting to follow through; experts often say that clicking a split second before she’s completed the task is most effective.</li></ul><ul><li>Keep the mood light and the session fun.</li></ul><ul><li>Limit sessions to 15 minutes. (This can increase or decrease depending on your own pup’s interest level and attention span)</li></ul><ul><li>Begin practice sessions after she’s had a fair amount of exercise; a wound-up dog has trouble concentrating.</li></ul><ul><li>Expect her to experience training regression from time to time. This is a normal part of a dog’s learning process as new behaviors are committed to memory.</li></ul><ul><li>Use tiny treats; pea-sized treats work great as long as they’re something she likes. Too many large treats and you’re risking her waistline!</li></ul><ul><li>Watch a few YouTube videos from various trainers; this will give you insight into how a training session looks.</li></ul>Don’t:<ul><li>Scold her if she makes a mistake, she wants to get it right-make sure you’re not making the session stressful.</li></ul><ul><li>Compare her progress to that of other dogs. Be patient and understand that dogs learn at different paces.</li></ul><ul><li>Keep the session going if one of you is angry or frustrated by the process.</li></ul><ul><li>Repeat the command, if she doesn’t follow through try leading her with the treat. Repeating a command sends the message that her compliance is optional.</li></ul><ul><li>Teach her more than one command until she understands the clicker and what it means.</li></ul><ul><li>Punish or scold her after she hears the clicker noise, it builds a negative association.
Once your pup has mastered some simple commands she’ll begin to understand the meaning of the clicker. This opens the door to a million fun and creative things that you can teach her. We recommend checking out some YouTube videos by <a href="https://https://www.youtube.com/c/zakgeorge" target="_self">Zak George</a>, you’ll be amazed at the things dogs can pull off once they’ve mastered clicker training</li></ul>

Clicker training is a simple concept with a long history. Based on a theory called operant conditioning, clicker training was first tested by animal behaviorists in the early 1940s. Today clicker training has become the most popular animal training method in the world.

Clicker Training 101: What Is It and How to Do It?

[en] Clicker Training 101: What Is It and How to Do It?

Most dogs are motivated by food, so naturally, food is a very powerful training tool. We train dogs with food to shape their behaviors and reward them for following simple instructions. Dogs being trained with positive reinforcement techniques naturally learn faster and the training sessions are a lot more fun for them. In this article, we discuss the basics of training your dog with treats and how to get the best out of every training session.Find a high-value treat

It is important that your dog really likes the treats you train him with. Using his normal kibble or dry dog biscuits won't always be effective, as your dog can easily lose interest if he is not crazy about the treats. When choosing a training treat, make sure that it is a little moist and easy to chew and swallow. The treat should be no bigger than the size of a pea. If you buy training treats at your local pet store, you can always break them into smaller pieces. Buying a roll of ham or processed meat is also perfectly fine if your dog really loves it, and they can be easily cut into small pieces. Note that you should subtract the treats from your dog's daily feeding portions as to avoid unnecessary weight gain.The luring techniqueLuring is an essential part of training your dog with treats, as the treat is used to coax your dog into a certain position. For instance, by taking the treat straight down to the ground, your dog will follow your hand and as soon as your dog lies down, the treat can be released. Luring simply means keeping the treat in your hand and moving it where you want your dog to go until he reaches the correct position. For a sit, you would move the treat over your dog's nose which will automatically coax him into a sitting position.

Timing is everythingWhen it comes to rewarding your dog for a certain behavior or action, timing can make the difference between success and failure. It is important to only reward your dog when the instruction has been followed correctly. The reward should be given immediately when the action has been performed. For example, if you teach your dog a basic “sit”, he should be rewarded at the precise moment his bum touched the ground.  Clicker training is also a valuable way to ensure that your timing is spot on. You can read more about clicker training <a href="https://shopus.furbo.com/pages/clicker-dog-training-reinforcement" target="_self">here</a>.  Don't forget to keep the session positive and fun, so praise will also go a long way to ensuring that your dog enjoys the training session.Short training sessionsTraining sessions should not exceed 10 minutes at a time, especially if your dog is still a puppy. Training is mentally challenging for your dog and can tire him out quickly, so after 10-15 minutes they usually lose interest or start making mistakes. It is important to end training sessions on a high note before your dog starts making mistakes. Ending the training session on a high note will go a long way to making sure the information is retained in a positive manner. You can have 3 short training sessions per day, rather than a full 30-minute training session, as this will be way more effective in keeping your dog focused.Remote trainingIf you are not home during the day to have regular training sessions, there are creative ways around this, like the <a href="http://furbo.com/furbodogcamera" target="_self">Furbo Dog Camera</a>. This camera allows you to speak to your dog through a two-way radio, so you can give your dog instructions. The camera dispenses treats, along with a clicking sound which is great for conditioning your dog to respond to the clicker sound upon carrying out the correct command. This product is a great alternative for training your dog even if you are not home. It should be noted that you would not be able to use a lure with this method, so it would mostly be effective to practice tricks your dog already knows.

Fading out the treatsWe don't want our dogs to become dependent on treats before they do something for us. Dogs that have been conditioned to treats, without fading them out eventually, get into the habit of only doing things for treats. There is a simple way that you can condition your dog to be reliable without treats. As soon as your dog is reliable and understands what you need from him with a certain trick like “sit”, you can start rewarding them every second time he gets the command right. This way your dog learns that sometimes his gamble pays off, making him more reliable and cementing the behavior.Do's and Don'tsDo:<ul><li>Always keep training sessions positive.</li></ul><ul><li>Keep training intervals short.</li></ul><ul><li>Make sure your dog is crazy about his training treats.</li></ul><ul><li>Speak clearly when giving an instruction.</li></ul>

Don't:<ul><li>Never use the word “no” during training as this may discourage your dog.</li></ul><ul><li>Don't use any aversive methods during training.</li></ul><ul><li>Don't do training when there are many distractions for your dog.</li></ul>Training can be one of the best ways to bond with your dog, as it strengthens your relationship. Training with positive reinforcement is humane and constructive and a far better way for your dog to retain information. Combine that with treats he loves, and your training sessions can be a walk in the park.

Dogs being trained with positive reinforcement techniques naturally learn faster and the training sessions are a lot more fun for them. In this article, we discuss the basics of training your dog with treats and how to get the best out of every training session.

How to Train Your Dogs with Treats

[en] How to Train Your Dogs with Treats

If you need extra motivation to make sure your dog gets regular exercise during these hot summer days, how about this: did you know that regular exercise improves your dog’s behavior? Exercise is tied to a host of changes in physical and mental health, which is true for both easy exercise (like walking) and more complex exercises (like training). So, what kind of benefits can you expect?Less home destructionSufficient daily exercise keeps your dog from feeling pent-up, that bad feeling that leads to chewed furniture or belongings. It also gives them that nice endorphin flood, like a human’s “runner’s high,” which increases their sense of well-being.

Reduced separation anxietyIf your dog has mild separation anxiety, try giving them a nice big walk before you go out to help with the symptoms. While exercise is not a cure for separation anxiety, it will fatigue the dog, so they will be more prone to rest while you’re out of the home rather than engage in destructive or obsessive behaviors.

Greater friendlinessWhen your dog meets other dogs and humans on their walk, it makes a big difference to their socialization! They need a social life just like we do, and making new friends helps them to build good behavior patterns. They’ll be less likely to sound off at unfamiliar faces, and more likely to approach strangers with a neutral or friendly mindset.

A better relationship with you!When you train your dog with easy tricks like “fetch” or “sit,” it enforces their bond with you and makes them more prone to obedience. It also makes exercise more mentally stimulating for pups, which is great for their mental health. You can even try slightly more difficult tricks, like running around objects: your dog loves pleasing you and getting treats, and they’ll be on their best behavior by the time you both get home.

If you need extra motivation to make sure your dog gets regular exercise during these hot summer days, how about this: did you know that regular exercise improves your dog’s behavior? Exercise is tied to a host of changes in physical and mental health, which is true for both easy exercise and more complex exercises. So, what kind of benefits can you expect?

Exercise Improves Dog Behavior

[en] Exercise Improves Dog Behavior

Before you start on which commands to teach your pup, start by learning how your dog thinks and how to set up a a great training routine.1. Sit

The "sit" command is one of the easiest commands to teach your furbaby and a great starting point. This obedience command comes in handy when you want your pup to calmly take a seat before meals, walks or other exciting occasions. Once they know how to sit, you can move onto other commands that require them to sit first.Here's how to teach your furbaby to take a seat:<ul><li>Hold a treat in front of your puppy's nose.</li></ul><ul><li>Move your hand up so that they follow the treat until they sit.</li></ul><ul><li>Once they sit, say "sit" and give them the treat and praise.</li></ul><ul><li>Repeat these steps a few times every day until your pup has mastered this skill.</li></ul>2. ComeSometimes the leash slips out of your hand or you leave the front door open a tad too long. In this situation, you want your furbaby to return to you when you call their name. Thus, the importance of teaching the "come" command as soon as possible.To teach your furbaby to come, take the following steps:<ul><li>Put a collar and leash on your puppy.</li></ul><ul><li>Squat down to your pup's level and say "come" while gently tugging the leash.</li></ul><ul><li>When they reach you, give them a treat and praise.</li></ul><ul><li>Once your furbaby has the "come" command down while on a leash, you can remove the leash and practice the skill in a safe area.</li></ul>3. StayOnce your furbaby can follow the "sit" command like a pro, you can move on to "stay." Teaching your pup to stay can be useful in all kinds of situations. For example, what if you need to carry a heavy piece of furniture down the stairs? You likely don't want little Rover twirling at your feet while balancing the end of a hundred-pound dresser. Such an instance would be a good time for furbaby to sit, stay and remain calm.Learning to stay requires self-control, so it might be a difficult command to teach a very energetic pup. However, with effort and practice, you can have even the most playful furbaby waiting to get moving again.Here's how to teach the "stay" command:<ul><li>Ask your furbaby to sit.</li></ul><ul><li>Next, show them your open palm and say "stay."</li></ul><ul><li>Take a few steps back.</li></ul><ul><li>If your puppy waits and stays, give them a treat and affection.</li></ul><ul><li>If your puppy does not stay, say "no" and move a few more steps away before trying again.</li></ul><ul><li>Gradually increase the number of steps you take before rewarding your pup.</li></ul><ul><li>Make sure to reward your furbaby every time they stay even if they only remain still for a few seconds. Soon, they will realize that staying results in a treat and behind-the-ear scratching.</li></ul>4. Down

The "down" command can be a trickier training technique because your pup naturally wants to be alert and protect you. When they are down on the floor, they are in a more vulnerable position. However, this command can be useful when visitors stop by or to help your pup keep calm while enjoying a picnic, for example.Here's what to do to teach them how to stay down:<ul><li>Hold a strong-smelling tasty treat in your hand and close your fist.</li></ul><ul><li>Hold the treat up to your furbaby's nose.</li></ul><ul><li>Once your pup sniffs the treat through your closed hand, move your hand to the floor, so they follow the treat.</li></ul><ul><li>Slide the treat on the floor in front of your puppy to prompt them to follow the treat with their body.</li></ul><ul><li>Once your pup is down, say "Down" and give them the treat and praise.</li></ul><ul><li>Repeat this command every day.</li></ul>If your puppy tries to sit up, take your hand away and say "no." Do not push your pup down, but encourage them every step of the way. They'll get there in no time.5. HeelHave you seen other pawrents with their furbabies walking calmly by their side? You've probably also seen puppy parents being whipped around and pulled by the leash as their excited furbaby leads the way. You can avoid the embarrassment of being walked by your pup by teaching them to heel early on or once they are comfortable wearing a leash and collar.Traditionally, "heel" means that the pup <a href="https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/puppy-training/teach-your-puppy-these-5-basic-commands/" target="_self">walks on your left side</a> at knee-level while you loosely hold the leash. Imagine the pleasant strolls you can take with your furbaby once they learn how to heel.Here's how to teach them the heel command:<ul><li>Begin with your pup standing next to you.</li></ul><ul><li>Hold the leash in your left hand and a squeaky toy in your right hand.</li></ul><ul><li>Move your right hand to hold the toy slightly above and in front of your pup's head.</li></ul><ul><li>Prompt your puppy to look at the toy as you say "heel" and step forward.</li></ul><ul><li>Your pup should walk with you as they follow the toy.</li></ul><ul><li>Keep their attention on the toy as you continue to walk.</li></ul><ul><li>If they get distracted, squeeze the toy and praise them once you get their attention again.</li></ul><ul><li>Praise the pup every time they look up at you or "check-in" on you.</li></ul><ul><li>After your furbaby has given you about 20 to 30 seconds of their attention, give them the toy and lots of affection.</li></ul><ul><li>Play and relax a little, then try again.</li></ul>You'll gradually increase the amount of time you walk together during training sessions and, eventually, you will not need to use the toy.Once your puppy knows these basic commands, they'll be better prepared for more advanced training or a training class involving other dogs. Reinforce their training and practice simple Dog commands through a pet camera. This will allow them to learn and engage with you while you’re at work, out with friends or anywhere miles away from home. You can watch their behavior from your smartphone to see areas that might need improvement. Similarly, you can reward or comfort your pup while you're away by easily dispensing treats from <a href="http://furbo.com/furbodogcamera" target="_self">Furbo</a>. All you need to do is press a button on your phone and <a href="http://furbo.com/furbodogcamera" target="_self">Furbo</a> will toss a treat to your furbaby following a clicking sound. It's perfect for training!

There are so many commands and tricks you can teach your pup but starting with these first 5 basic commands will help going out with your doggo and future training easier.

Simple Commands You Should Teach Your Pup

[en] Simple Commands You Should Teach Your Pup

House training is a must if you want to keep your pup happy and your house clean. It's important to establish the basic house rules for your dog so that he knows not to pee and poop around the house. While it may require some patience and love for your pup to understand the rules of the household, it should be one of the first steps in introducing a new furry member to the family. Step 1: Establish a confined living area Believe it or not, dogs are actually instinctively clean animals. Dogs will usually avoid soiling near their personal living space, which can be a crate, a fenced area, or a room. It’s important to set up a personal area for your dog because, like humans, dogs also like having some private “me” time to rest. As soon as your dog identifies the space, you can gradually extend the living area so your dog has a bit more freedom around the house.

Step 2: Establish a potty spot Next, you need to find a consistent spot for your pup to do their business. The bathroom spot can be in a specific area in the house with a pee pad or in a yard. If you have an apartment dog, you’ll most likely have to set out a designated potty area indoors. Make sure the spot is easily accessible because you will have to accompany your pup to the spot during the initial stages of training.Step 3: Accompany your pup to the potty spot Take your pup to the spot at least once every 30 minutes so that he can learn the concept of potty breaks. Remember, every dog is different so you might want to adjust the time of potty breaks accordingly.

When you take your dog to the potty spot, avoid moving around too much as your dog would be distracted from the task at hand. Try to stay still, and silent, and wait patiently for your pup to go potty. Wait for about 5 to 10 minutes and see if your dog has finished pottying. Don’t worry if your dog does not go potty within 10 minutes. Simply bring your pup back to the confined living area and wait for another 10 minutes. Having a small record of when your pup goes pottying would help the house training process. Once you get a hang of your pup’s behavior, it would be easier to bring your dog out at certain times. Step 4: Praise and rewardPositive reinforcement will be your best friend when you’re trying to house-train your pup. Dogs are more likely to quickly learn about the concept of “potty” when there’s a reward at the end. Praise and give your pup a small treat every time he potties at the potty spot. In addition to giving praise and dog treats, you can also reward your dog with some free time outside of the confined area. By allowing your dog free time and playtime after pottying, you’re establishing the concept that pottying will lead to more fun. Therefore, your pup would be more willing to potty at the designated potty spot!

Your dog might get anxious if you lead him right back to the confined area after pottying. The anxiousness might then develop into poor dog behaviors such as barking, whining, and defecating in the confined living space. Step 5: Build the habit Repeat steps 3 and 4 throughout the day when you are at home. Once your dog consistently goes potty at the designated potty spot, you can slowly give your dog access to more areas in the house. It’s important to slowly introduce your dog to other spaces in the house so he can build a cognitive connection between the house and his personal living space. Dogs don’t like to defecate in their personal living area. Supervise your dog at all times and try to make sure that your dog’s bladder is completely empty before you allow him access to other spaces in the house.

Expect accidents  It might take a few days or weeks for your dog to be fully house-trained so anticipate many accidents. If you catch your dog in the act, interrupt your pup by making a startling noise and take them to the potty spot immediately. After they finish pottying at the correct spot, reward them and go back to clean up the space. Never punish your pup if you find a soiled area in the house because your dog may not understand the reason for your anger. When you punish your dog for accidents, he might get scared of pottying in your presence and would not want to defecate in the potty area anymore.

Additional tips for house training your pup <ul><li>Take your dog to the potty area after eating. Set out a consistent feeding schedule to find the pattern of your dog’s potty patterns before and after each meal. </li></ul><ul><li>Keep your pup on a leash if you’re taking them outside for potty breaks, even if it’s just in your backyard.</li></ul><ul><li>Watch for signs that your dog needs to go potty, such as circling, squatting, sniffing, and restlessness. Take your dog to the potty spot immediately when your dog demonstrates any of those “suspicious” behaviors. </li></ul><ul><li>Don’t change the potty spot once you’ve established it to avoid confusion for your pup.</li></ul>House training doesn’t have to be a difficult process. Just remember to stay consistent with the potty breaks, monitor your dog’s behavior closely, and positively reinforce with rewards!

House training is a must if you want to keep your pup happy and your house clean. While it may require some patience and love for your pup to understand the rules of the household, it should be one of the first steps in introducing a new furry member to the family. 

How to House Train Your Dog

[en] How to House Train Your Dog

Peace of Mind: Know What Your Cat Does When You're AwayOne of the biggest advantages of a cat camera is the peace of mind it brings. Whether you're at work or on vacation, you can check in on your cat remotely and see how they're doing. From observing their playtime antics to ensuring they're safe and comfortable, a cat camera gives you valuable insights into your cat's behavior and well-being.

Behavior Monitoring: Understand Your Cat BetterCats are mysterious being, and their behavior can sometimes be a puzzle for us all. A cat camera allows you to observe their actions, interactions, and daily routines. You can identify any unusual behavior patterns, monitor their eating and drinking habits, and even discover their favorite hiding spots. This valuable information can help you provide better care and address any potential health or behavioral issues promptly.

Bonding and Entertainment: Interactive Fun for You and Your CatSome cat cameras come with interactive features that can enhance your bond with your furry companion. You can remotely engage in play sessions, or toys to keep your cat entertained and stimulated. It's an excellent way to combat boredom and ensure your cat gets the mental and physical exercise they need, even when you're not physically present.

Home Security: Added Protection for Your Living SpaceBeyond monitoring your cat, certain cat cameras offer home security features. They can act as surveillance devices, providing an additional layer of protection for your living space. With motion detection and live streaming capabilities, you can receive alerts and check the camera feed to ensure everything is in order, giving you peace of mind when it comes to the safety of your home.Considerations:While cat cameras offer numerous benefits, it's essential to consider a few factors before making a decision:1. Cost: Cat cameras come in a range of prices, from budget-friendly options to more advanced models. Consider your budget and the features you require to find the right fit.2. Setup and Maintenance: Some cat cameras may require technical knowledge for setup and ongoing maintenance. Ensure you're comfortable with the installation process and any associated subscription or app fees.3. Privacy Concerns: Cat cameras involve recording and transmitting footage, which raises privacy concerns. Ensure you choose a reputable brand that prioritizes data security and offers encrypted connections.

A cat camera can be a valuable tool for cat parents, offering peace of mind, behavior monitoring, interactive fun, and even home security benefits. By understanding the advantages and considering factors such as cost, setup, and privacy, you can determine if a cat camera is worth it for you. Whether you're a concerned cat parent or simply want to stay connected with your furbabies, a cat camera might just be the purrfect addition to your home.

Curiosity may have killed the cat, but as cat owners, we're constantly curious about what our furry friends are up to when we're not around. That's where cat cameras come into play. These nifty devices allow us to keep an eye on our feline companions even when we're not at home. But are cat cameras really worth the investment? Here are a few benefits and considerations of using a cat camera, to help you decide if it's the right choice for you and your purrfect pal.

Is a Cat Camera Worth It?

[en] Is a Cat Camera Worth It?

It’s often that we hear people compare the experience of raising a puppy with raising a baby. While the experience might differ, most puppy owners can assure you that raising a puppy is definitely a job that will test your patience. When left unchecked, your puppy can be a destruction machine that will chew up everything from your new sneakers to the trash bags by the kitchen. Puppies need constant attention from their owners to play, run, and cuddle. Not to mention their needs for walks and baths. While you won’t need to feed them every few hours or change their diapers like a baby, your puppy will take up a large portion of your time. However, to keep your dog safe and happy with delicious treats and fun toys, you’ll need to go to work and earn money. This brings us to the ultimate question: can I leave my puppy at home alone? Three Stages of Puppy Development Before you even consider taking on a puppy or leaving your new furry family member at home alone, you need to realize that not all puppies are the same. Just like the young of any species, they have different stages of development, and these stages can affect when they’re ready to be left on their own:<ul><li>8-10 weeks old.
These puppies are babies and might be newly weaned. You cannot leave them at home alone or for extended periods of time. At this age, your furbaby needs lots of companionships and will get very distressed if you leave them for too long. In addition, your pup will not understand the meaning of potty training yet so you will need to closely monitor and take them out for potty breaks. We recommend that you take some time off work or have someone care for your new pup when you’re away. </li></ul><ul><li>10-12 weeks old.
Your furbaby is getting bigger, but at this age may still be having accidents and cannot be left alone for hours. Socialization is still something you need to address, and you will need to make sure your puppy is let out to use the washroom or has someplace to go inside. At this age, pups are still exploring the world around them, so it’s important that if they’re being left at home alone, they are monitored and have someone helping them if needed.</li></ul><ul><li>3+ Months old
At this age, puppies can go longer without having to go to the washroom. However, they may still bark when you’re away and as they get larger, they may be biting more or be leaping out of any puppy enclosure you’ve set up at home! Monitoring remains important for these reasons. </li></ul>

Keep in mind that age is not the only factor to consider. If the puppy has been abused or abandoned before, he or she may have a hard time accepting new hoomans. If you’re just introducing a puppy to your home for the first time, there is an adjustment period to consider. Lastly, some breeds are just more nervous than others and may do worse when left alone for hours every day. For instance, labradors, terriers may experience more separation anxiety than other breeds. Related Post: <a href="https://shopus.furbo.com/blogs/knowledge/whos-a-good-dog-9-best-home-alone-dog-breeds" target="_self">Who's a Good Dog! 9 Best "Home Alone" Dog Breeds</a>We understand that working from home is not a viable solution for everyone and you don’t always get to take time off for your new furbaby. That’s why we compiled a short list of tips for new pawrents to raise a puppy while working full time. <h3>With a puppy in the house, you will need to adjust your lifestyle to the attention demands.</h3> 5 tips for new puppy pawrents1. Create a puppy plan Learning how to raise a puppy when you work is a big undertaking, so write down a concrete plan for yourself before you get your dog. Before you start, address some key questions like how you can puppy-proof your home, and what you can do in case of emergencies. Consider what needs to happen, hour by hour, every minute you’re away. Anticipate and create contingency and emergency plans so you know exactly what to do if your pup is distressed, sick, or not adapting well.2. Set a regular routineDogs of all ages like a predictable schedule and puppies in particular need stability. The fewer surprises, the better. Try to keep mealtimes, walks and bedtime consistent, and try to drop in at least once a day while you’re working. You also may want to consider investing in a system like <a href="https://furbo.com/furbodogcamera" target="_self">Furbo</a>; it’s popular with working puppy parents because it allows users to see, talk, and even throw an occasional treat for their furry friend. 3. Make some adjustments to your social life You’re also going to have to make some sacrifices. If you work full time, you will need to make more time to spend at home or with your puppy. It may mean giving up some social time or even vacations while you and your furry family member adjust to each other and it may mean spending less time on errands and other tasks you can’t complete with your dog, so you have more time to bond.

4. Call in the Pros  Make sure you know the name of a reputable dog sitter or kennel. While this is an expensive option for every day at work, having someone to call is important if you need to travel for work or will be putting in extra hours during the holidays. Also be sure to get your puppy to the vet and a trainer as soon as possible. Your vet can offer important insight into whether your furbaby is ready to be left alone and whether there are any medical conditions which could make alone time more dangerous. A trainer can help you start training your pup, so they can start learning all those good habits to make them less scared of being alone!5. Ask for helpDon’t be embarrassed to get other people involved in raising your pup. Recruit friends, family and neighbors to help out by dropping by or by letting you know when your pup is barking at home. Raising a pup is a big job, so you’re going to need some help!

Puppies need constant attention from their owners to play, run, and cuddle. However, to keep your dog safe and happy with delicious treats and fun toys, you’ll need to go to work and earn money. This brings us to the ultimate question: can I leave my puppy at home alone? 

Can I Leave My Puppy At Home Alone?

[en] Can I Leave My Puppy At Home Alone?

No matter at what stage of life your pup is at, there comes a time when they can’t be with you 24/7. Especially as we head back to the workplace, it’s essential to start your dog with small periods of being alone by themselves. In our second training blog series accompanied by Zak George, we’ll discuss how to start training your dog to be comfortable at home by themselves.

<ul><li>Ease them into it. Before leaving your dog at home for long periods of time, start with shorter intervals while you’re still at home with them!
</li></ul><ul><li>Get their excess energy out: Depending on your dog’s age, this could mean variable levels of exercise, but if they have lots of energy, this can cause some stress when they are left alone.
</li></ul><ul><li>Pick a room or area in your house to leave them alone while you’re still at home. This can be a guest room, bathroom, or a crate. (If you are crate training, start with your pup’s crate open, and reward their calm behavior.)
</li></ul><ul><li>Once your dog is calm, leave the room, and watch them through your Furbo app. Go ahead and use the treat tossing feature once they are calm. 
</li></ul><ul><li>If you want to crate train your dog while you’re out of the home, try starting with them sleeping in their crates. Even if you plan to have your pup sleep in their own bed or in your bedroom, getting them calm in their crate is key!</li></ul>

While you’re home with your pup, use Furbo and its smart alerts to see what your dog is up to. Some of the smart alerts include crying, howling, and continuous barking, which let you know whether your dog is calm or not Once your dog is quiet, toss them a treat! Zak says that the ideal timing for rewarding behavior is once your dog lets themselves calm down on their own. If your dog’s crying or barking continues, Zak advises that you check to make sure they don’t need another bathroom break.After your pup has the basics down, try leaving them for longer periods of time. You can check in on them anytime through your phone, and even get snapshots of their activity sent to your Apple Watch.Furbo Dog Nanny will alert you of dog activity including chewing, going to the bathroom, and running. With these alerts, you won’t miss a beat! Looking to keep up with them? Shop Furbo Dog Nanny <a href="https://furbo.com/us/products/furbo-dog-nanny" target="_blank">Now</a>.

In this series, we partnered with trainer Zak George on How to Train Your Dog to Love Furbo. We'll discuss his recommeded training methods and how your can incorporate Furbo into your dog's routine, to reduce separation anxiety and have your dog be comfortable and relaxed when you're not home!

How to Train Your Dog to Love Furbo: At Home Training

[en] How to Train Your Dog to Love Furbo: At Home Training

Leaving a puppy alone while at work is no fun for anyone—neither you nor your furbaby. However, it may be necessary if you need to work to pay the bills and the dog food. If you’re working full time with a puppy, there are a few things you’ll want to do to when you’re trying to make it all work:<ul><li>House-train your puppy</li></ul><ul><li>Leave your puppy with dog-appropriate socialization</li></ul><ul><li>Spend some time making sure your furbaby is socialized</li></ul><ul><li>Monitor your puppy and interact with them with Furbo Dog Camera</li></ul><ul><li>Create a separate space</li></ul><ul><li>Get the professionals involved</li></ul><ul><li>Get ready for accidents</li></ul><ul><li>Have a puppy plan</li></ul>Can You Leave Your Dog at Home While at Work?

Before you even consider taking on a puppy or leaving your new furry family member at home alone, you need to realize that not all puppies are the same. Just like the young of any species, they have different stages of development, and these stages can affect when they’re ready to be left on their own:<ul><li>Puppies between 8-10 weeks. These puppies are babies and might be newly weaned. You cannot leave them on their own for extended periods of time, especially since at this age they’re likely being introduced to your home for the first time. At this age, your fur baby needs lots of companionship and socialization and will get very distressed when left for periods of time. You’re going to have to take some time off or have someone care for your new friend while you’re at work. Your new pup will need to be taken out to use the washroom often, too</li></ul><ul><li>Puppies between 10-12 weeks. Your dog is getting bigger, but at this age may still be having accidents and cannot be left alone for hours. Socialization is still something you need to address, and you will need to make sure your puppy is let out to use the washroom or has some place to go inside. At this age, pups are still exploring the world around them, so it’s important that if they’re being left alone, they are monitored and have someone helping them if needed.</li></ul><ul><li>Puppies older than three months old. At this age, puppies can go longer without having to go to the washroom. However, they may still bark when you’re away and as they get larger, they may be biting more or may be leaping out of any enclosure you’ve set up at home! Monitoring remains important for these reasons.</li></ul>Age is not the only factor to consider, either. If the dog has been abused or has been adopted and may have been mistreated or abandoned before, he or she may be especially vulnerable. If you’re just introducing a puppy to your home for the first time, there is an adjustment period to consider. Also, some breeds are just more nervous than others and may do worse when left alone for hours every day. Labradors, terriers and other breeds, for instance, may experience more separation anxiety.Related Post: <a href="https://furbo-global.myshopify.com/shopus.furbo.com/blogs/knowledge/10-dog-breeds-that-dont-tolerate-being-left-alone" target="_self">10 Dog Breeds That Don't Tolerate Being Left Alone</a>When wondering what to do with your puppy while you’re at work, you might also want to take a closer look at your own job situation. For example, how long is your commute? Even if you only work six hours a day, if you work far away, you may be adding two or more hours to the time your dog is home alone. Do you work long hours, including weekends? If so, that may add some challenges to raising a puppy while working. The same is true if you work irregular hours or shift hours. Your schedule may change and the switching may confuse your pup. If you’re on call a lot and need to spend even more time away from your newest family member, the sudden changes in your schedule can be hard on your pup and can make it more difficult to arrange a dog sitter or doggie day care.  These are all considerations to think about before you get a puppy.What to Do With Your Puppy When You’re at Work All DayPuppyhood is one of the most challenging times for dog parents. You’re adjusting to the new demands on your attention; your puppy is trying to acclimate to a brand new and somewhat alien environment…it’s exciting, it’s fun and it’s exhausting. Couple these changes with the fact that you are raising a puppy when you work full time and it can start to seem overwhelming.Related Post: <a href="https://shopus.furbo.com/blogs/knowledge/whos-a-good-dog-9-best-home-alone-dog-breeds" target="_self">Who's a Good Dog! 9 Best "Home Alone" Dog Breeds</a>Fortunately working full time and raising a puppy is a well-travelled road and there is plenty of advice available from those who have walked in your shoes. First, let’s cover the basics:1) Take a look at your work situation

Can you telecommute? Can you take some time off when your puppy first comes into your life? Can you cut back on hours or have someone else cover you for a bit? Review all your options to see whether you can’t spend more time at home with your newest family member, especially at the start.When you first get your puppy, try to get some time off so you can bond and spend time together. You’ll also want to create a system where you don’t leave your puppy alone all at once. Spend the first few days at home with your new family member and introduce “alone” time gradually. Head out for a few minutes, then an hour and then longer. Don’t just get a puppy and leave them alone for a few hours right away. At the very least, get your puppy on a weekend so you have some time together. If you can’t get time away from work, get a friend or family member to spend extended periods of time with your pup in your home at first, until your new furry pal gets used to longer periods alone.2) Create a space for your puppyOne of the most important things that a new puppy parent can do is to provide him with a sense of security. This starts with giving him his own space, around 6X4 feet is ideal. Many people use a <a href="https://www.boulderhumane.org/content/confinement-area-your-pups-playpen" target="_self">puppy-pen </a>but you can use a small room, like your bathroom, as well. If possible, it’s best to give him a space that you can gradually expand, an area that will be his for the long term. The space should have a comfortable bed, a few toys and something with your scent on it — old clothing works great.Pups tend to like den-like environments, so a cozy, smaller space is best. If you’re wondering how to potty train a puppy when you work, building a good space for your pup can help since dogs will avoid going to the bathroom near their dens or home spaces.3) Set a regular routineDogs of all ages like a predictable schedule and puppies in particular need stability. The fewer surprises, the better. Try to keep mealtimes, walks and bedtime consistent, and try to drop in at least once a day while you’re working. You also may want to consider investing in a system like <a href="https://furbo.com/us" target="_self">Furbo</a>; it’s popular with working puppy parents because it allows you to see him, speak to him and even throw him an occasional treat!4) Leaving your puppy alone during the day

The general consensus for leaving a puppy alone during the day is one hour for every month, a two-month-old puppy will rarely be capable of holding his bladder for more than two hours, a three-month-old for three…etc. This is a generalization but it’s a good starting point to help you build your new dog-friendly schedule. Puppy pads are a common back-up plan for new puppy parents and it won’t hurt to lay some down in his area. Just don’t be too surprised if your puppy sees them as a <a href="https://www.rover.com/blog/why-dogs-shred-paper/" target="_self">fun thing to shred</a> rather than a place to relieve himself!Related Post: <a href="https://shopus.furbo.com/blogs/knowledge/secret-life-of-dogs-7-things-dog-does-when-they-are-home-alone" target="_self">Secret Life of Dogs — 7 Things Dog Does When They Are Home Alone</a>5) Be sure to call in the prosMake sure you know the name of a reputable dog sitter or kennel. While this is an expensive option for every day at work, having someone to call is important if you need to travel for work or will be putting in extra hours during the holidays. In addition, be sure to get your puppy to the vet and a trainer as soon as possible. Your vet can offer important insight into whether your furbaby is ready to be left alone and whether there are any medical conditions which could make alone time more dangerous. A trainer can help you start training your pup, so they can start learning all those good habits to make them less scared of being alone!In addition to calling in the pros, don’t be afraid to recruit friends, family and neighbors to help by dropping by or letting you know when your pup is barking. Raising a pup is a big job, so you’re going to need some help!6) Monitor your puppyEven if your dog is old enough to be left alone, make sure you can <a href="https://furbo.com/us" target="_self">monitor them easily</a>. What if your pup has separation anxiety, a barking problem or runs into trouble while you’re away? Of course, you want your fur baby safe and you need peace of mind so you can focus on work.

Furbo is a two-way communication system for your dog to help you monitor your pup. Just plug it in and through your home Internet connection, it will allow you to communicate with your dog from any mobile device. Use the free app to check in your dog at any time of the day or night. The HD, night vision camera lets you see clearly and a dog alert notification system allows you to get an alert whenever your dog barks, so you can keep track of barking and be alerted if your pup is in distress.If you do notice your pup in distress or barking, Furbo has a two-way communication system so that you can speak to your fur baby. You can give voice commands or soothe. You can even take photos and video if you need to discuss a specific behavior with a trainer or vet. Furbo also has a treat dispensing system, so you can reward good behavior or just spoil your furriest family member. The free app lets you control the video, photos and dispenser, so you can use these features anywhere where you have access to your phone. Furbo makes a clicking noise before dispensing a treat, making it ideal for use with clicker training.7) House train a puppy when you work full timeSmall things count during your puppy’s first few months and good housetraining is really just a set of small calculated steps. In other words, don’t get caught up searching for new theories on how to housetrain your puppy! When you work full time, your schedule will dictate the rules.Related post: <a href="https://shopus.furbo.com/blogs/dog-camera/5-types-of-dog-owners-who-need-a-dog-camera-the-most" target="_self">5 Types of Dog Owners Who Need A Dog Camera the Most</a>First and foremost plan to get up a minimum of a ½ hour before you did in your pre-puppy days, this will give you a chance to take him on a quick walk and then get in a little bit of that oh-so-essential playtime. You’ll need to save a few extra minutes for a last potty break once you’re ready to leave for the morning as well.When housetraining your puppy, make sure you get someone to drop in during the day to help your dog out. Many pup owners who work full time also use paper training or pads so their dog has somewhere to go during the day. Even with this method, you will likely need to have someone stopping by from time to time until your dog can hold on a little longer. Just remember that puppies have little bladders and younger dogs will not be able to “hold it” more than an hour or two at first.8) Leave quietly in the mornings

Next is an often neglected but always crucial step in housetraining — Leave quietly without making any lavish displays of affection. Challenging I know, but the less emphasis placed on your departures and arrivals the happier and better adjusted your puppy will be. It’s a life-long habit that you should try to form early as it not only cuts down on accidents it cuts down on separation anxiety, which is the most common root of behavioral disorders in dogs.9) Keep your pup busyA bored pup can easily become distressed on their own, especially since their biggest source of entertainment and fun (you!) isn’t around. Leave out puzzles, toys and other things to keep your puppy busy. A treat which is frozen and requires your puppy to work for a snack can be a good way to distract them for hours. Consider having a special treat they love only available when you leave, so your dog associates something positive with the time you’re away. If you’re wondering how to keep puppy busy while at work, there are tons of dog toys you can look at online and at pet stores.10) Address problem barkingSmall dogs can make really big noise. Not only is it distracting for neighbors but you don’t want your pup crying, wailing, barking and crying in distress for hours. One problem is that you might not know because you’re not home. Furbo has a <a href="https://shopus.furbo.com/pages/dog-barking-alerts" target="_self">bark alert system</a> which lets you know when your puppy is barking. With technology designed to filter out normal noise, the risk of false alerts is lower.If barking is an issue, you can do a few things. First, teach your puppy the commands for “speak” and “quiet.” Use the speak command to let them make some noise when it’s appropriate. Then, practice the “quiet” command when you’re not there. Start by doing whatever it is you do when you leave. Grab your keys, run the coffee maker and put on your shoes. Give the “quiet” command when you leave and either press the elevator button or close the outer door to stimulate the conditions of you leaving.Wait a minute and listen for barking with Furbo. If your pup can’t resist barking, rap on your door and repeat the “quiet” command. If your fur baby was good, come “back home” and heap praise on them. Do this repeatedly, with a few hours in between sessions, gradually extending the amount of time you give before you return home and reinforce good behavior.

Teaching your dog the quiet command ensures your pup knows what’s expected of him or her. If barking continues to be a problem, you may want to consult with a trainer or vet for more personalized help.11) Make your puppy more comfortable aloneLeave a shirt or pillow with your scent on it with your pup so they can enjoy some comfort from it. Create a cozy environment for your pup, with a soft bed and comfortable temperatures. Some furry buddies, especially younger ones, may like having a TV or radio on when you leave while others prefer silence. Get to know what your dog prefers and try to offer them the right environment.12) Give your puppy attention and a chance to cut loose when you get homeWhat you do when you’re home is just as important as what you do before and during your work day to make sure your furry family member is okay with being left alone. When you come home, praise your pup, take them out for a walk and heap them with praise. Give them love and be sure to spend time with them. We probably don’t have to tell you that.But the time you have at home is also time you can spend training the “quiet” command and other commands so your pup is ready to be quiet when you’re gone. Extra time and love can also help make up for the time spent alone, so even if you bring work home it’s important to set aside some time for training as well as fun.Be sure to spend plenty of time socializing your puppy, too. Time spent with other dogs and in dog parks can help you dog adapt better to time alone. A poorly-socialized dog who spends all his or her time alone may be more prone to problem barking and anxiety, so make sure your fur baby has an active social life!13) Consider reducing distractions and options for mischief when you’re goneSmall puppies can get worked up about anything, from mail delivery to someone ringing the doorbell to a leaf scuttling across the patio. These noises can be either really exciting for your furry family member or really scary! For younger pups, consider reducing stimulation by placing them in a quieter part of the house and blocking some of the things they can see or hear with heavy curtains. This can help keep your puppy from getting too worked up.

14) Create a puppy planLearning how to raise a puppy when you work is a big undertaking, so write down a concrete plan for yourself before you get your dog. What can you do to make the home environment more conducive for your pup? How can you puppy-proof your home? What dangers exist in your home you’ll have to handle before bringing your furbaby home? What can you do in case of emergencies, such as when you notice on Furbo your dog is barking? Who can you get to help you with your new pup? Where are some nearby good walking places? What do you need to get your puppy set up? What will you do if your schedule changes or you need to work late?Answer on paper and spend some time really contemplating these questions. Consider what needs to happen, hour by hour, every minute you’re away. How can you handle any noise typical on your street? You may not think anything of the noise of garbage trucks on your street, for example, but they can be terrifying for your puppy. Anticipate and create contingency as well as emergency plans so you know exactly what to do if your pup is distressed, sick or not adapting well.15) Address separation anxiety

If your puppy barks constantly, takes part in chewing or has lots of accidents only when you’re gone or these behaviors get a lot worse when you’re gone, your dog might have separation anxiety. It’s important to notice these symptoms and address them right away, before they get worse and your dog goes through unnecessary days or weeks of pain.Having someone check in on your pup can reduce separation anxiety, as can dog sitter services. Another option is to monitor your dog via Furbo. You can not only check in on your furry friend, but you can talk to them and even dispense treats, so your dog does not feel as alone between the time you leave and the time you get back. It can help reduce the sting of being left alone.Related Post: <a href="https://furbo-global.myshopify.com/shopus.furbo.com/blogs/training/5-tips-to-help-dogs-separation-anxiety" target="_self">5 Tips to Help Your Dog's Separation Anxiety</a>16) Make some adjustments in your lifeIt is possible to learn how to take care of a dog when you’re not home, but it’s also lots of work. You will need to make some sacrifices. This may mean creating a plan and leaning on friends and family for help or it may mean paying for dog sitting or a pro. It will mean committing to monitoring your puppy and being ready to step in if something goes amiss.You’re also going to have to make some sacrifices. If you work full time, you will need to make more time to spend at home or with your puppy. It may mean giving up some social time or even vacations while you and your furry family member adjust to each other and it may mean spending less time on errands and other tasks you can’t complete with your dog, so you have more time to bond.17) Keep training goingWhile it’s very possible to learn how to take care of a puppy when you work, one thing many fur parents worry about is interrupting training. Puppy months are some of the best times for training your fur baby, and your furry friend has lots to learn. To keep training going, aim for having lots of little training sessions. Train for a few minutes in the morning and a few at night. <a href="https://shopus.furbo.com/pages/clicker-dog-training-reinforcement" target="_self">Use Furbo to train</a> for a few minutes during the day and use weekends for obedience classes or more intensive training.18) Tire them out

Puppies are high-energy bundles, and they’re less likely to take out all that energy on your furniture if you take them out and exercise them rigorously and often. Take your dog for a walk and spend some time playing in the morning, before you leave for work. Spend time after work exercising and playing. Not only is play stimulating for puppies, but it tires them out so they spend more of the quiet work day napping. Naps are ideal during the work day, because they mean your furry friend isn’t distressed and isn’t barking. 19) Anticipate accidentsAccidents will happen often, particularly in the first six to eight weeks. It is also fairly common for puppies to experience periods of <a href="http://servicedogcentral.org/content/node/497" target="_self">regression</a> in their house training when they are <a href="http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/wild/pet-talk/articles/how-long-is-too-long-to-leave-your-dog-alone/" target="_self">left alone</a> on a regular basis. Planning for these things helps reduce the stress level for you and your puppy and is an essential part of learning how to raise a puppy while working. Keep your cleaning supplies well-stocked and remember that most puppies will have a natural desire to avoid soiling their own areas, but a tiny bladder can only last for so long!Get Ready for Puppy!How you raise your puppy when you work full time can have a major impact on quality of life for both of you, it pays to start things off right. Learning how to house train a puppy when you work full time can how to care for your new family addition is no small task, but it’s well worth it.

If you’re working full time with a puppy, there are a few things you’ll want to do to when you’re trying to make it all work. Check out our expert guide!

19 Expert Tips for Raising a Puppy While Working

[en] 19 Expert Tips for Raising a Puppy While Working

Now that you’ve practiced leaving your dog alone while you’re there, it’s time to practice letting your dog be home by themselves for a little bit longer.In the next part of our training series, we’ll focus on the best ways to train your dog outside of the house to let them know that being home alone is ok!

Here are some tips from Zak George to keeping your dog happy and relaxed while you’re gone:<ul><li>Stay quiet and calm. When you leave, try not to make a fuss or get your dog excited. The less of a big deal it is when you leave, the more likely they are to remain calm.
</li></ul><ul><li>Leave them with a chew or another favorite toy. If your pup has their mind occupied and their paws busy, they’ll barely even notice you’re gone!
</li></ul><ul><li>Toss treats, then leave. Using the Furbo app, you can distract your pup with a reward through the Furbo app. Creating a routine like a treat before you leave will let your dog know what to expect.
</li></ul><ul><li>One signal of distress can be barking, or continuous barking. Furbo’s barking alert can let you know if your dog is making noise, and even detects if your pup is crying, howling, or continuous barking. You can customize Furbo’s noise sensitivity levels and what kind of alerts you get sent to get the best experience personalized for you and your furbaby.
</li></ul><ul><li>In the previous blog, Zak suggested trying to let your dog calm down on their own before intervening. If they relax after a few barks, you can reward them with treat toss!
</li></ul><ul><li>If they are continuously barking or crying, it may be time to incorporate another one of Furbo’s tools, the 2-way audio feature! Not only can you hear them, you can talk to them! In the video, Zak instructs his dog Inertia to lie down, then rewards her behavior with a treat!
</li></ul><ul><li>Using the 2-way audio feature is a great way to calm your dog down. Your voice is familiar to them and lets them know you’re thinking about them.</li></ul>

Once your dog is comfortable and relaxed in their designated space, you can start leaving them for short periods of time, and work your way up to longer durations. There are other alerts Furbo has designed for an extra sense of security. These include fire and carbon monoxide alerts, as well as person alerts. Furbo is your “second set of eyes” for when you’re not home, and gives you ultimate peace of mind that your dog is safe and happy. Ready to set your pup up for success? Learn more about <a href="https://furbo.com/us/products/furbo-dog-nanny" target="_self">Furbo.</a>

How to Train Your Dog to Love Furbo: Home Alone

[en] How to Train Your Dog to Love Furbo: Home Alone

Training is a great activity for both the owner and their dog! The process of dog training helps curb bad dog behaviors and facilitates communication between owner and dog.   One of the most common ways dogs are trained is through positive reinforcement, a method that uses rewards to encourage a certain dog's behavior. Since dogs will repeat behaviors that get them what they want, positive reinforcement can help your dog recognize certain actions that will lead to the things they want like praise, affection, and treats. So where does clicker training fit into all this?

What is clicker training? A clicker is a tool that makes positive reinforcement training more efficient for your dog. Usually, without a clicker, the trainer would reward the dog with a piece of treat or some sort of affection so the dog knows that the action is desired. With a clicker, the trainer can easily mark when the dog is doing a correct action so the dog will associate the sound with certain dog behaviors. For instance, if you are training your dog to raise a paw, you would click the clicker every time your dog raises its paw. A dog clicker can help make positive reinforcement training more efficient A dog clicker is usually a small plastic device that will make a distinctive clicking sound when pressed. However, the sound of a clicker is just a marker that your dog uses to distinguish the desirable actions. Therefore, you can easily substitute the clicker with an audio cue like snapping your fingers, clicking your tongue, or making a specific sound like “ch”. The purpose of a plastic clicker is so that you can have a unique audio cue that is used only during training. The marker should only be used during dog training or else it may confuse your dog.

Introducing your dog to clicker training Before you start using a dog clicker to train your dog, you will need to first introduce this new audio device to your dog. Here are a few steps to guide your dog in clicker training:<ol><li>Take your dog to a quiet room with no distractions and prepare a good amount of bite-sized treats. </li></ol><ol><li>Click the clicker once and feed your dog a small piece of treat. This is so your dog can slowly understand that the clicking sound will lead to something good. Repeat the process multiple times </li></ol><ol><li>Repeat the process multiple times until your dog recognizes that the clicking sound predicts the coming of a treat or reward. </li></ol>Partial rewards during clicker training Theoretically, the sound of a clicker is the “reward” during training as your dog uses the sound to distinguish if the action was done correctly. However, if your dog is completely new to clicker training, you will need to use food or other sorts of rewards as a guide so they understand how to follow the clicker.

Usually, clicker training is done with food rewards on the side. When a dog demonstrates correct dog behavior, the trainer will make a click and offer a treat to the dog. However, <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10071-020-01425-9" target="_self">a recent study</a> showed that partial rewarding does not improve training efficacy, and can induce frustration in dogs. Since all dogs learn differently, you might need a few tries to test out if your dog learns best with partial rewards or just with the clicker. Either way, remember to treat your dog with lots of love, praise, and affection after each training session. When to use the clicker Clickers can be used during dog training as a lure to bring about positive dog behavior. The clicker can also be used to capture good dog behavior at any time. Capturing dog behavior means that you are not actively luring your dog into doing a certain action. Instead of a short intensive training session, you are allowing your dog to show the desired behavior naturally. When your dog does an action that you want them to repeat, click the clicker as a reward.

For example, if you see your dog lying down next to your feet naturally and you want to reinforce that behavior, use the dog clicker and toss a small treat. Your sudden movement will most likely lead to excitement from your dog so you’ll have to wait until your dog shows the same movement naturally again. Although capturing dog behavior will take more time and effort, it can still be fun and rewarding for both you and your pup!Training your dog remotely If you and your dog both love training sessions, you might want to check out the <a href="https://furbo.com/furbodogcamera" target="_self">Furbo Dog Camera</a>! Furbo is not only a camera that monitors your dog, but it also has a treat dispenser that allows you to toss treats at your dog remotely. Before a treat is tossed, <a href="https://furbo.com" target="_self">Furbo</a> will make a “clicking” sound similar to your dog training clicker. With Furbo, you can gather your dog’s attention with multiple clicker options. The best part about Furbo is that you can train your dog at any time, and any place. With <a href="https://furbo.com/furbodogcamera" target="_self">Furbo</a>, you can clicker train your dog even if you’re in a different city! The clicker not only gets the attention of your dog when a treat is tossed but also reinforces positive dog behavior.

Training can be a fun and engaging activity to bond with your pup. Throughout the training session, you are not only correcting bad dog behaviors but introducing good ones to your dog. Whether you use treats or clickers as reinforcement, the most important thing is to be safe and have fun during your dog training session.

One of the most common ways dogs are trained is through positive reinforcement, a method that uses rewards to encourage a certain dog's behavior. Positive reinforcement can help your dog recognize certain actions that will lead to the things they want like praise, affection, and treats. So where does clicker training fit into all this? 

Clicker Training Basics

[en] Clicker Training Basics

Have you ever wondered what your dog was thinking about? Or heard your dog barking and wondered what it could mean? What if there was a way to communicate with your furbaby so you never had to wonder?Dogs are able to understand the human language when we create associations with things or activities and express themselves in the ways they know how; barking, whining, growling, sighing, and more. By creating associations with activities and a communication tool, we can create a way to communicate with our dogs in daily life.Christina Hunger MA, CCC-SLP, a San Diego based speech-language pathologist, has trained her furbaby, Stella, to communicate through talking buttons. Here is a video of Stella showing off her skills:

How to Teach Your Dog to Use Communication Buttons:1. Gather SuppliesTo start your training you will need the proper tools including recordable buttons, reward treats, and any props that you want to teach buttons for (tug toy, ball, food bowl). Recordable buttons/answer buzzers / talking buttons are available on Amazon or other websites, it will be useful to find buttons with non-slip grips on the bottom.

2. Talk to Your DogAs you go about daily life, talk to your dog using simple phrases and words. Be sure to decide on a single word for each activity or association, rather than mixing similar words. For example, at dinner time be sure to use the same word such as “eat,” “food,” “num nums,” rather than a combination of all of them. Repetition is key! Repeat the same word over and over while creating associations with activities or things. When your dog responds to your cue word by looking at the item, doing the activity, or other indicators, you can also reinforce it with “good food” or “yes food.”

3. Introduce the ButtonsStarting with one or two buttons, introduce the buttons when you talk to your pup. Verbally say the cue words, and press the buttons repetitively every time your dog does the activity.  Here are some examples of instances to get started: play, walk, park, eat, water, treat, bed, potty, and outside. Every pup is different, some may start to make the associations within one to two days, while others may require 3 weeks. The most important thing to remember is to repeat the button pressing consistently.4. Teach Button PressingSome dogs may begin pushing the button themselves by copying your actions, while others will stand by the button and bark at you. To create the final association between wanting the activity and pressing the button, you will need to teach the pawing action. This is easier if your dog already knows how to “shake” or “paw” in your palm. You can start by holding the button in your hand and pressing their paws to the button, and over time move the button to the ground and signal to press by pointing at it. When your dog starts to press the button, be sure to instantly thank them with praise and treats. Also, be sure to place buttons in the same place rather than moving them around, so they can remember which button means what.

Have you ever wondered what your dog was thinking about? Dogs are able to understand the human language when we create associations with things or activities and express themselves in the ways they know how; barking, whining, growling, sighing, and more. By creating associations with activities and a communication tool, we can create a way to communicate with our dogs in daily life.

How to Teach Your Dog to Communicate with Buttons

[en] How to Teach Your Dog to Communicate with Buttons

Dog tricks are more than simple commands such as sit, come, stay, and lay down. You might have seen those adorable videos of dogs shaking paws with their owners or rolling around to play dead. Believe it or not, your dog can do it too! Dog tricks are not only fun and cool entertainment, but they are also a great way to stimulate your dog’s cognitive abilities. By putting out commands and conducting positive reinforcement, you can better improve your communication with your dog through the teaching of dog tricks. In addition to communication, dog trick training can also help curb some dog behavior issues such as excess barking. If you have a dog-training clicker at home, it would make trick training much easier. If not, it is perfectly fine to train your dog with just some delicious treats. Here are 5 fun and easy dog tricks you can teach your dog today!

Shake paws Shake paws is one of the oldest tricks in the book but it’ll never get old. The key to teaching your dog how to shake their paws on command is to first guide your dog’s paw in a hand-shaking position so your dog can get used to the motion. Then, put a small dog treat in your closed fist and offer it to your dog. Dogs would naturally paw at you if they want something from you. Since they cannot access the treat in your closed fist, they would paw at your hand. It might take your dog a few sniffs and licks at first, but once your dog starts pawing, release the treat and praise your dog. Repeat the motion a few times as you slowly phase out the treat with affection as a reward instead. Before you know it, your dog will be greeting your guests with perfectly mannered pawshakes.

Bark on command Have you ever seen a dog that can speak? While most pawrents train their dog to stop barking, training your dog to bark on command is another way to cure barking as a dog behavior issue. The first step in this trick is to get your dog to bark. Use a stimulation that your dog often barks at, like the sound of a doorbell. When your dog barks at the sound, present your good dog with a small treat and say a special keyword like “speak” or “bark”. Repeat the process a few times until your dog responds to your keyword instead of the stimulation. If your dog barks when you say the keyword, give them a big reward!

Kiss Teaching your dog how to kiss your cheeks is definitely one of the cutest tricks you can teach your dog. Although not everyone enjoys the slobbery mess, this dog trick works particularly well with children. First, put a small dab of peanut butter on your cheek and kneel down to your dog’s level. Give a command word such as “kiss” and let your dog lick the peanut butter off your cheeks. Repeat the command a few times and slowly decrease the amount of peanut butter that’s given. Before you know it, your dog will be giving out free kisses on demand!

Spin Around Spinning is another easy trick you can teach your dog with just a handful of dog treats. You would need to first teach your dog how to do a basic spin using treats as a guide. Hold a treat in your fist and slowly move the treat around your dog. Your dog should follow the treat and move in a circular motion. Once your dog completes an entire circular movement, say a cue of your choice such as “spin” and give your dog the treat. You will most likely need to repeat the movement multiple times to build the cognitive connection between the action “spin” and the word “spin” in your dog’s brain. Once your dog is comfortable with the movement, try saying the cue and see if your dog responds by spinning in a circle. Prepare lots of patience and love as your dog learns this super adorable trick. Roll overIf you want your dog to learn how to play dead, the first step is to learn how to roll over on command. This dog trick will be easier to teach if your dog already knows how to lay down on command. You will need your dog to be in a down position to start off the trick. Hold a dog treat in your fist and place it near the side of your dog’s head, close enough that your dog can smell the yummy treat. Slowly move your fist from the side of your dog’s head to the shoulder so your dog will naturally roll flat on their side. At this point, you want to give your dog a treat first as a reward for completing half of the trick. Keep moving the treat from the shoulder of your pup to the backbone which will lead to a natural roll-over movement. Give your dog another piece of treat and say the action cue of choice. Repeat the action until the treat is not needed and your dog will respond to the cue with the “rollover” action. This dog trick is slightly harder and will require more practice for your pooch to master it completely.

Remember, every dog responds differently to learning and training. Trick training has so many benefits for both you and your dog. Trick training through positive reinforcement is not only a great exercise for your dog, but also helps strengthen the communication you have with your lovely pooch! Prepare some yummy dog treats, patience, and love before your training session. The most important goal is to have fun with your dog!

Dog tricks are more than simple commands such as sit, come, stay, and lay down. You might have seen those adorable videos of dogs shaking paws with their owners or rolling around to play dead. Believe it or not, your dog can do it too! Here are 5 fun and easy dog tricks you can teach your dog today! 

Fun and Easy Tricks To Teach Your Dog

[en] Fun and Easy Tricks To Teach Your Dog

It’s happened to most of us. We come home, and the dog has shredded our couch pillows, shoes, or worse. But it’s important to remember that dogs don’t usually exhibit destructive behavior just to act out - it’s usually part of extreme anxiety.One Furbo user witnessed this when her pup, Leo, got caught on camera:

"Our Leo ate our couch, my plants, basically all of our furniture and jumped on our counter. His breed is very destructive when they are alone and we have been working on his separation anxiety. He’s only a year old, but boy does he make a mess! <a href="http://furbo.com/furbodogcamera" target="_self">Furbo</a> has caught all of these moments for us! Our Leo jumped on the counter and grabbed a knife out of the sink. We were able to talk to him through the <a href="http://furbo.com/furbodogcamera" target="_self">Furbo</a> and eventually he lost interest, we left work to make sure everyone was ok!"Fortunately, Leo wasn’t hurt by the knife, and you can follow his adventures on Instagram at @theofficialleotheleonberger. But this is a great example of what separation anxiety can lead dogs to do. Separation anxiety may cause:<ul><li>Chewing</li></ul><ul><li>Unwanted barking and howling</li></ul><ul><li>Digging or scratching at doors</li></ul><ul><li>Destruction of property</li></ul>If you see your pup exhibiting these behaviors, he likely has separation anxiety. Speak to your vet about training methods, and even the possibility of medication if needed. And of course, keeping a <a href="http://furbo.com/furbodogcamera" target="_self">Furbo</a> in the house allows you to speak to your dog, calm him, and throw him treats - a great way to let him know he’s not alone.

It’s happened to most of us. We come home, and the dog has shredded our couch pillows, shoes, or worse. But it’s important to remember that dogs don’t usually exhibit destructive behavior just to act out - it’s usually part of extreme anxiety.

Why Is Your Dog Destructive?

[en] Why Is Your Dog Destructive?

We wish we could take our furry best friends with us wherever we go, but sometimes we unfortunately have to leave them home alone. And when we do, they can unleash all sorts of chaos! These hilarious <a href="https://furbo.com/blog/en/article/what-sorts-of-mischief-is-your-pup-up-to-at-home" target="_self">mischievous dog moments</a> get #CaughtOnFurbo, and we can have hours of fun watching them. But in reality, this behavior might cause some damage, so you´ll need to know how to keep mischievous dogs safe. According to our survey of Furbo pawrents, a whopping 85% of home-alone accidents stem directly from the dog’s behavior. Only 15% pertain to house-related hazards such as fires or carbon monoxide leaks. Incidents involving chewing or escaping are the most common, followed closely by health issues like ingesting toxic substances or choking on inedible items. Almost one third of accidents have to do with some form of property damage, like smashing breakable objects. Even the sweetest, most innocent <a href="https://furbo.com/blog/en/article/vet-the-most-common-home-alone-accidents-for-younger-dogs" target="_self">young pups can get in a lot of trouble</a> when you’re away.With so much that could go wrong, leaving your mischievous pup home alone can be stressful, to say the least. The good news: by taking the right steps, you can minimize the risks to both your pets and your house. We’ve put together 5 tips to keep mischievous dogs safe and happy while you’re away. <h2>1. Cut Out Counter Surfing</h2>It’s no secret that dogs will do anything for food — even scale the kitchen counter! But the tasty scraps they find all the way up there could poison them. In fact, some of our favorite foods, like chocolate, avocados, raisins, etc. are actually highly toxic to dogs. ⚠️Your mischievous pup can also stumble across other dangerous discoveries on their counter-surfing expeditions: knives, breakable glassware, and even <a href="https://furbo.com/blog/en/article/furbo-saves-two-dogs-from-kitchen-fire" target="_self">the knobs on your kitchen stove</a>!

The simplest way to keep your mischievous explorer out of trouble? <a href="https://furbo.com/blog/en/article/no-more-counter-surfing" target="_self">Keep your counters sparkling clean</a>, and store food out of sniffing range. Install dog-proof cabinet locks to keep your nosy buddies out of your treat stash. But you should also have a backup strategy: enable your <a href="https://furbo.com/us/products/furbo-360-dog-camera" target="_self">Furbo 360° Dog Camera's</a> Dog Activity Alerts, and then use the two-way audio feature to stop counter surfers in their tracks. <h2>2. Pup-Proof Your Dog’s Space</h2>Dogs will investigate anything that intrigues them. That’s why it’s important to designate a pup-safe area in your home. Keep it free of breakables, cleaning supplies, and other chemicals. Remember to remove common choking hazards like dirty laundry and garbage, and put away dangerous “chew toys” like electrical cords and poisonous potted plants. And before you leave the house, you can use a baby gate to keep your puppy in its spot and block off access to the rest of the house. And don’t forget to secure any potential escape routes with dog-proof locks.

But sometimes, doggos channel their inner Olympic athletes and hop right over the fence! What can you do to keep them away from danger as they roam freely in the house? Furbo’s Dog Activity Alert and Auto Dog Tracking feature can help keep mischievous dogs safe —  you can scope out the situation, see what your furbabies are up to, and address any problems right away.<h2>3. Address Separation Anxiety</h2>Your dog’s seemingly mischievous behavior, like chewing on furniture or trying to escape, could actually <a href="https://furbo.com/blog/en/article/why-is-your-dog-destructive" target="_self">be a sign of separation anxiety</a>. Although separation anxiety is most common in dogs who have experienced abandonment, it can affect any pup. And when dogs don’t understand that their hoomans will come back home, they can resort to excessive barking, tearing up their surroundings, or even trying to “break free”.Fortunately, canine separation anxiety is solvable. To start, try giving your dog a special treat right before you leave, and keep some calming music playing in the background. Switching to a <a href="https://furbo.com/blog/en/article/dietary-remedies-to-soothe-your-dog-s-anxiety" target="_self">balanced diet</a> might also boost your mischievous pup’s relaxing serotonin levels, so they’re not as destructive anymore.

You can also invest in a dog monitor like Furbo, so you can stay connected with your pup no matter where you are. Our real-time Continuous Barking Alert and Chewing Alert will notify you when your precious pup is feeling anxious, so you can comfort them with your soothing tone and toss them their favorite treats. 	<h2>4. Keep Your Dog Busy</h2>Dogs are little geniuses and need mental stimulation… and if you don’t provide them with enough, safe options, they’ll invent their own fun. A bored dog can quickly turn into a destructive dog! So how can you keep your dog entertained even when you’re not there?

You can engage your dog’s problem-solving skills with an interactive puzzle toy or flip board, or even set up a scavenger hunt by hiding treats around the house. If you have a knack for crafts, you can make some DIY dog toys that you know your puppy will enjoy. You can also set up a cozy bed near a window, so your pup can take up a people-watching hobby to pass the time. Another fun way to entertain your dog is the Treat Toss feature on the Furbo Dog Camera. Whenever you see your pup is getting a bit antsy, you can initiate a long-distance training session — simply toss treats to your dogs as a reward for good behavior. And that’s the best way to keep your mischievous dogs safe! <h2>5. Keep ‘Em Moving</h2>Just like people, dogs can get restless (and unhealthy) without adequate physical activity, so try planning an exercise session before you leave your dog home alone! Long walks, playtime, or a trip to the dog park can both tire dogs out (in a good way!) and boost their sense of well-being. Sleepy puppers are much less prone to dangerous or destructive behaviors. And your well-exercised furbabies can curl up and drift off to dreamland while you’re gone, instead of channeling pent-up energy into rooting through the garbage can or shredding your sofa cushions.

If naptime ends before you get home, your <a href="https://furbo.com/us/products/furbo-360-dog-camera" target="_self">Furbo 360° Dog Camera</a> will send you a Dog Activity Alert, so you can distract your mischief-seeking pup and keep them out of trouble!

Sometimes, even the most well-trained dogs manage to find trouble. By implementing these expert tips, you can reduce the risk of coming home to a destroyed house — or, worse, an injured pet. With Furbo 360° Dog Camera's monitoring capabilities, interactive features, and real-time smart alerts, you can find out exactly what’s going on while you’re away, and address dangerous situations before it’s too late.<a href="https://furbo.com/us/products/furbo-360-dog-camera" target="_self">Keep your mischievous dogs safe</a> and out of trouble with Furbo!#TrainingTips #DogSafety

Are your pets safe at home alone? They can be!

5 Ways to Keep Mischievous Dogs Safe

[en] 5 Ways to Keep Mischievous Dogs Safe

Are you worried that every time you leave the house, your dog will start barking really loud and bother all your neighbors?There is always a reason why your dog is barking. Before things get worse, you must take action and help you furbaby. Here are four reasons and solutions to help you prevent your dog from excessive barking:Related Post: <a href="https://shopus.furbo.com/blogs/knowledge/10-breeds-that-bark-the-most" target="_self">Your Neighbor's Nightmare! 10 Breeds That Bark the Most</a>1. Separation AnxietyWhen your doggie is home alone for many hours, he or she gets really stressed and anxious. It was the same feeling when we were kids, we didn't want to go to school because we can't be with mommy. So we start crying. The same way your doggie starts barking because he or she is away from you.

Suggestion: Every time we leave the house, we make a "big scene," telling our dog how much we will miss them, and accentuating the fact that we are leaving the house. Your dog's instinct is to be by your side. But, your dog needs to realize that he will be safe at home even without you. We recommend taking a walk twice a day to release their energy.

Related Post:<a href="https://shopus.furbo.com/blogs/training/5-tips-to-help-dogs-separation-anxiety" target="_self"> 5 Tips to Help Your Dog’s Separation Anxiety</a>2. Your dog feels lonely and boredOur dogs spend most of their time waiting for us at home alone. They miss us so much, so they bark as loud as they can to call us back home. Imagine what they feel every time you leave, they have no clue where you are going.

Suggestion: Challenge your dog mentally and physically, so he or she can rest when you leave home. You can get dog puzzles, and leave some treats around the house, that way your dog keeps busy finding the "gifts." It's all about making your dog happy even when you are not home.

Related Post:　<a href="https://shopus.furbo.com/blogs/knowledge/dog-depression-cause-symptom-treatment" target="_self">Dog Depression - Cause, Symptom, and Treatment</a>3. Your dog is very territorial and possessiveSome dogs are very sensitive to any noise they hear near their "territory." Any small sound, from the postman to just a neighbor passing by, your dog lets them know they are not welcome here. Your dog is always at your rescue, isn't that adorable?Suggestion: When you are home, if you notice your dog barking at any sound coming from outside, you must stop your dog and reward him or her with treats once they listen to you. Your dog will slowly associate this event with something positive and will eventually stop barking. The warrior in them needs some rest too!

4. Your dog is afraidIs your dog afraid of thunderstorms, earthquakes, or fireworks? Imagine when your dog is home alone, they can't be by your side, so their only solution is to start barking because they are scared. Don't blame them, we all cry sometimes when we are afraid.Suggestion: Try the "systematic desensitization” technique. Record the scary sound on your phone and play it to your doggie. Start with the volume low, and reward your dog with treats, when your dog is not afraid of that sound. Then increase the volume. Repeat this until your dog is no longer scared of the thunder sound. Take it easy on your dog; it is all about healing them and their feelings.

Now you understand some of the reasons why your dog barks a lot, but when you are not home, how do you know if your dog is barking?

Through Furbo Dog Camera, you will know when your dog is barking right away! Furbo will send you a notification to your phone, and you can check on your dog immediately. You can start talking to your dog and calm him or her down. Being there for your dog in moments of stress will help your dog realize he or she is never alone!<a href="https://furbo.com/us/pages/designed-for-dogs" target="_self">Find out why Furbo is designed for dogs>></a>Related Post:<a href="https://shopus.furbo.com/blogs/training/how-to-raise-a-puppy-when-you-work-full-time" target="_self">How to Raise a Puppy When You Work Full Time</a><a href="https://shopus.furbo.com/blogs/dog-camera/how-a-pet-camera-can-ease-your-pain" target="_self">How a Pet Camera Can Ease Your Pain</a>

Are you worried that your dog will start barking when you leave the house? Here are 4 reasons & solutions to prevent your dog from excessive barking.

Do You Know How to Get Your Dog to Stop Barking?

[en] Do You Know How to Get Your Dog to Stop Barking?

1. Reducing Separation Anxiety and Loneliness:Cat cameras alleviate separation anxiety and feelings of loneliness that cats may experience when they are home alone. By watching your cat through the pet camera and speaking to them with 2-way audio, you can provide reassurance and a sense of companionship. This constant connection helps them feel less anxious and more secure, enhancing their mental well-being.

2. Monitoring Behavior and Health:Cat cameras offer valuable insights into your cat's behavior and health. By observing their activities and routines remotely, you can detect changes that might indicate potential health issues. Take notes to monitor your cat’s behavior and well-being, you can keep track of their eating habits, litter box usage, or unusual behaviors. These observations can assist you in identifying early signs of illness and seeking timely veterinary care.

3. Encouraging Mental Stimulation and Play:Mental stimulation is crucial for a cat's overall happiness and mental health. Cat cameras provide opportunities for interactive play, even when you're not physically present. Some pet cameras feature built-in laser pointers or interactive toys that you can control remotely, allowing you to engage your cat in stimulating activities. This helps prevent boredom, destructive behavior and promotes a more enriched and active lifestyle.

4. Strengthening Bonding and Socialization:Maintaining a strong bond with your cat is essential for their emotional well-being. Cat cameras enable you to interact with your pet in real-time through two-way audio communication, treat tossing, and interactive play-time. You can connect with your cat regardless of your physical location, to provide comfort and reinforce your bond with them. Enhancing their socialization skills and create a sense of community through positive interactions.

5. Enhancing Home Security:Cat cameras may also offer an added layer of home security, ensuring your cat's safety and well-being. With motion detection and realtime alert features, you’d receive notifications when there is unusual activity in your home. This not only protects your furry friend but also provides peace of mind, knowing that you can keep a watchful eye on your cat and your living space, even when you're away.

Cat cameras, or pet cameras, provide a multitude of benefits that significantly contribute to enhancing your cat's quality of life. From reducing anxiety and loneliness to monitoring behavior and promoting mental stimulation, these devices play a crucial role in supporting your cat's mental health and well-being. Additionally, they strengthen the bond between you and your feline companion and offer added home security. By investing in a cat camera, you can provide your cat with a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life.

Cat cameras, also known as pet cameras, have become increasingly popular among pet owners, offering a unique way to monitor and interact with your fur babies when you are away from home. Beyond convenience, these devices provide significant benefits for your cat's mental health and keep them safe and happy at home. Here are some advantages of cat cameras and how they contribute to enhancing your cat's quality of life.

The Benefits of Cat Cameras: Enhancing Your Cat's Quality of Life

[en] The Benefits of Cat Cameras: Enhancing Your Cat's Quality of Life

This is the time of year when many dog parents start to notice an increase in their pup's desire to dig. So why do dogs dig and how can we stop it? Let’s start with the why.Why Do Dogs Dig?

In the summer month even dogs that don’t typically dig will often take up the habit, it’s an age-old mammalian way to cool off and your fur kid’s instincts may be kicking in. <a href="https://www.bear.org/website/bear-pages/black-bear/hibernation/20-digging-a-den.html%20" target="_blank">Even bears do</a> it! Try hanging out in a fur suit on an 85-degree day, your aversion to lying in a cool pit of dirt will probably disappear pretty fast too!Since dogs don’t have the ability to effectively cool themselves, it’s important to figure out if your dog is actually overheating. On days that stretch above the mid 80’s, it’s good practice to primarily keep her inside during the hottest hours, typically around 12 pm to 6 pm.Digging is Fun<pre><a id='ubaiC5CaQzJp1wHvpAo41g' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/200406967-001' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'ubaiC5CaQzJp1wHvpAo41g',sig:'zCjQhOQQlPwj0TJl7jaDRRQeFWGL0aF8ZVNVmxeJpug=',w:'507px',h:'338px',items:'200406967-001',caption: true ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></pre>It’s great exercise, and as long as it hasn’t become an obsessive behavior it relieves stress as well. If your dog loves to dig and you have space, consider giving her a “<a href="https://astayinthecountry.com/blog/doggie-landscaping-creating-dig-pit-dog/" target="_blank">digging pit</a>”. This is a growing trend in landscaping that many dog families are adopting, and can be an effective way to keep her from digging in undesirable areas.Related Post: <a href="https://shopus.furbo.com/blogs/knowledge/the-ultimate-destroyers-top-10-naughtiest-dog-breeds" target="_self">The Ultimate Destroyers: Top 10 Naughtiest Dog Breeds</a>Treasure

A great deal of digging is done in either the pursuit or the concealing of precious possessions, like half-eaten bones or eviscerated stuffed toys. This is her strategy for safe keeping and it’s so deeply rooted in her DNA that ending the practice can be like trying to stop the incoming tide. Her desire to find or conceal treasure is another great reason to designate a place where it’s okay to dig.The other treasure can often be underground rodents; even a dog that has zero chance of ever catching a prey animal sometimes can’t resist the urge to hunt.She’s Bored or LonelyDigging somewhere she’s not supposed to be a great way to get your attention! Think of a kid lying on the floor in a full tantrum, sure it’s negative attention, but it’s still attention.

Related Post: <a href="https://shopus.furbo.com/blogs/knowledge/dog-depression-cause-symptom-treatment" target="_self">Dog Depression - Cause, Symptom, and Treatment</a>She has an Escape Plan

This is the not-so-cute side of why dogs dig, it’s not unusual for a bored or curious dog to figure out that they can dig underneath your fence. In fact, a sly dog can be so good at concealing their plan that their family has no idea an exit tunnel is underway until they come out to find that their fur baby has already fled the coop.She’s Denning<pre><a id='GoT9_0tcQZlPFaHbTpxT6w' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/539661511' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'GoT9_0tcQZlPFaHbTpxT6w',sig:'u7cL6smIxB8XMx0Rqmk6p5epsPssBAUBx9vK_5xDUVA=',w:'507px',h:'337px',items:'539661511',caption: true ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></pre>Why do dogs dig holes in the ground? This is a close relative of digging pits to lie in, another throwback from their lupine DNA, pregnant <a href="http://wolfpark.org/animals/info/wolves/" target="_blank">wolves</a> always find a den before giving birth and the instinct to be protected in a hollow or an underground cave is stronger in some dogs than in others. Digging holes in the ground can make a dog feel protected.How to Stop Your Dog From Digging? Some Experts TipsPlenty of Exercise and LoveThere are many ways to entertain your dog even if you’re not physically with her. Hire a walker, take her to daycare or consider picking up an interactive camera like <a href="https://furbo.com/furbodogcamera" target="_self">Furbo</a>. <a href="https://furbo.com/furbodogcamera" target="_self">Furbo</a> gives you a full view of what she’s up to while you’re away and when you sense she’s getting lonely you can actually speak to her, comfort her, and even toss her a few treats.Fence off The AreaSometimes it’s enough to just enclose the “forbidden” area with some fencing. If not, some experts suggest stringing some strong twine across the top of the fencing to create a roof, just make sure it’s spaced widely enough that your flowers and plants have room to grow. Typically it becomes too much of an effort for her when this is done and she’ll find something else to do.Give Her a Digging Pit<pre><a id='Nn3E0JGgSMtCA30Kj8_nGA' class='gie-single' href='http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/548743761' target='_blank' style='color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;'>Embed from Getty Images</a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'Nn3E0JGgSMtCA30Kj8_nGA',sig:'mQkjQXO23eO2JuL8qSLf-okM5W0i2KOs-X1dOO9y8eg=',w:'508px',h:'339px',items:'548743761',caption: true ,tld:'com',is360: false })});</script><script src='//embed-cdn.gettyimages.com/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async></script></pre>As we mentioned giving your fur baby a place to dig and offering praise when she does can be the best solution for everyone. My malamute has a space filled with loose sand, she loves to dig it out and actually waits for us to fill it back in so she can restart the process. It’s fun to watch and it seems to make her happy!Bury Some Chicken WireIt can be a solution when you’re wondering how to keep your dog from digging under a fence. This deters most dogs and it’s probably a good idea if you have a potential escapee on your hands. You can also line the parameter of your fence with some large rocks. Checking the fenced area for budding tunnels is a good practice too. Keeping your dog from digging under a fence is definitely a safety issue that should be dealt with quickly.If you still can’t figure out why your dog is digging and you’ve done what you can to stop it consider calling in a trainer. Good trainers have a knack for understanding the root of dog behavior issues and an outside opinion can be just what you need.
Related Post:<a href="https://shopus.furbo.com/blogs/training/how-to-keep-your-dog-safe-when-home-alone" target="_self">How to Keep Your Dog Safe When Home Alone</a>
<a href="https://shopus.furbo.com/blogs/dog-camera/how-a-pet-camera-can-ease-your-pain" target="_self">How a Pet Camera Can Ease Your Pain</a>

This is the time of year when many dog parents start to notice an increase in their pup's desire to dig. So why do dogs dig and how can we stop it? Let’s start with the why.

Why Dogs Dig and How to Stop It

[en] Why Dogs Dig and How to Stop It

Everybody loves rewards, whether that is a holiday, a nice dinner, or something as simple as the cashback you get from using a certain credit card. Similarly, dogs provide unconditional love toward humans so it is only fair that we provide them with rewards for good dog behavior. Positive reinforcement is one of the easiest ways you can train your dog at home. You can reward your dog every time he or she does something right, which encourages that kind of good dog behavior. While positive reinforcement is not too difficult to implement, there are still a few things to look out for when training your dog's behavior through rewards. Types of Reward Food and affection are two things that dogs love the most. Rewards during training can be anything from a delicious treat to a special toy; or anything your dog loves. Although there are multiple ways you can reward your dog for being a good dog, the most common approach is with treats. Dog treats are easily accessible, affordable, and efficient, which makes them a great tool during training.

How Often Should I Reward My Dog? When training a dog with rewards, the reward should be given immediately after your dog demonstrates good dog behavior. Positive reinforcement works because your dog will associate the reward with the action. For example, if you are trying to train your dog to sit still, be sure to give a reward immediately after your dog conducts the right movement. If the reward is given at the end of the session, your dog wouldn’t be able to understand which action is good and which action is bad. The point of training with rewards is so your dog can form the cognitive connection between the behavior and the reward.

How Many Rewards Can I Give to My Dog? When giving your dog rewards, you need to be careful with the timing and amount of reward given. Training should be conducted during a short and fun session so your dog has a good time learning. The short session also limits the number of treats you give to your dog. It’s often that owners overfeed their dogs with treats which can cause unhealthy weight gain. To fix this, dog parents need to first be conscious of the time and amount of treats the dog is receiving. Secondly, dog parents can either break the treat into smaller pieces during training or choose a low-calorie dog treat alternative.

Reward Your Dog Remotely No matter how much we love our dogs there will be times when you need to leave them at home alone. Separation anxiety is one of the most common conditions dogs face when they are left at home alone. Some symptoms include barking, howling, pacing, destructive dog behavior, coprophagia, and accidents. To curb separation anxiety, many dog owners will purchase dog cameras so they can keep an eye on their dogs while they are away. <a href="https://furbo.com/furbodogcamera" target="_self">Furbo Dog Camera</a> is a monitoring device that allows owners to see, talk and play with their pets remotely. Through the Furbo APP, users can see and speak to their dogs to soothe separation anxiety. What is special about <a href="https://furbo.com/furbodogcamera" target="_self">Furbo Dog Camera</a> is the remote treat toss feature that allows you to reward your dog even if you’re not home! For instance, if you receive a barking alert from your Furbo APP that your dog is constantly barking, you can use the <a href="https://furbo.com/furbodogcamera" target="_self">Furbo Dog Camera</a> to speak to your dog. If your dog obeys the commands you give to stop barking, you can then reward your dog through a quick treat toss.

While there are many ways you can train your dog, rewards are often the easiest and most effective method to start with. Don’t hesitate to give your dog praise and rewards to motivate them in good dog behavior!

 Positive reinforcement is one of the easiest ways you can train your dog at home. While positive reinforcement is not too difficult to implement, there are still a few things to look out for when training your dog's behavior through rewards. 

How to Train Your Dog With Rewards

[en] How to Train Your Dog With Rewards

So you’ve got your paws on a Furbo, great! Furbo is designed to give you peace of mind and keep your dog safe and happy while you’re at home. One of the most engaging features is Furbo’s Treat Toss, which allows you to toss a treat and reward your dog from wherever you are. Since Furbo is a new device in your home, it may take a bit of getting used to for your dog. Once they learn, though, your pup will love it!Zak George, expert dog trainer, has a step-by-step guide to acclimate your pup to their new favorite device.

<ul><li>Start with placing your Furbo where it’ll usually live. The treats that work best with Furbo are dry, firm, round treats. Here are our <a href="https://furbo.com/blog/en/article/best-treats-to-use-with-furbo" target="_self">recommendations</a> if you’re not sure what to use.
</li></ul><ul><li>Once you’ve got your Furbo stationed, Zak George suggests associating the sound Furbo makes with treat time! The sound Furbo uses emulates a squeaky toy, but you can also record your own sound through the app. You can record up to six seconds, so try saying your dog’s name, or simply ‘treat’!
</li></ul><ul><li>To follow Zak’s instructions, open the Furbo app and swipe the screen to play the treat tossing sound - but don’t load treats in the Furbo. 
</li></ul><ul><li>Once your dog hears the sound, give them a treat manually. Repeat this until you can sense that your dog recognizes the sound. In Zak’s video,we can see his dog Inertia perk her head up and expect a treat once she hears the sound a few times.
</li></ul><ul><li>Once your dog is used to the sound, load up your Furbo with treats! Zak mixes up some treats for variety, to keep his dog interested.
</li></ul><ul><li>Depending on the size of your treats, Furbo can sometimes shoot out one treat, or multiple treats! Zak says this is known as ‘variable reinforcement,’ which keeps them engaged over time. 
</li></ul>

There are so many uses for Furbo’s treat-tossing feature. You can check in on your pup throughout the day, and let them know you’re thinking of them. Additionally, if you have Furbo Dog Nanny, you can get alerts for different behaviors. These include crying, howling, continuous barking, and activity. If your pup needs a distraction or some comfort, treats can provide that!Now that your dog is accustomed to the treat-tossing feature, check out our second post in this series for how to train your dog to be comfortable when they’re home alone.Want to get Furbo Dog Nanny to keep up with your pup from afar? <a href="https://furbo.com/us/products/furbo-dog-nanny" target="_blank">Shop Now. </a>

How to Train Your Dog to Love  Furbo: Treat Tossing

[en] How to Train Your Dog to Love  Furbo: Treat Tossing

There is no better feeling than bringing a new puppy home and knowing that you will give it the best care, attention and love. Soon, the two of you will form a bond like no other. Puppies are an absolute joy to have in your home. For working moms, the unfortunate part is that we cannot be with them 24/7 and that we have to leave them alone when we go to work. It is heartbreaking watching your little puppy stay behind with sad eyes as you leave. Fortunately, there are a few things we can do in order to train our pups to be left home alone without causing much distress. In fact, we can train our puppies to look forward to us leaving by putting a few, or all of the following measures in place.<h2>1. Start training your puppy to be alone at short intervals</h2>

When you bring your puppy home for the first time, try to schedule it over a weekend. The reason for this is to make sure that your puppy settles in well, and that you can start training him to be home alone at short intervals. Puppies need up to 18 hours of sleep per day, so leaving them alone for an hour or two at a time should not be too difficult. Avoid taking your puppy with you everywhere you go in the beginning, as tempting as it may be. If your puppy becomes your second little shadow, it could be the start of over-attachment, which is not always a good thing. If your puppy becomes over-attached to you, it could make it more difficult for him to be left alone and that can later develop into separation anxiety. Teach your puppy from the start that you are not always going to be by his side by leaving him alone at short intervals.<h2> 2. Show your puppy that it is fun without you</h2>

When you leave your puppy alone, make sure that he has something to do. Something fun of course! You can purchase some dog puzzle toys in order to keep him busy and stimulated. These toys most often dispense treats when rolled around or if a hatch is lifted. You can Google how to make your own DIY puzzle toys for your puppy as an alternative and inexpensive solution.Dogs in the wild would spend a lot of their day searching for food. Try to simulate this for your puppy by hiding treats in the garden and around the house so he can happily sniff out treats while you are away. You can also get him some chew toys, chew treats or a frozen Kong toy stuffed with yummy treats! The key is to give this to your dog just before you leave the house. This way, he will associate you leaving as a positive experience. Essentially you teach him that good things happen when you leave.<h2>3. Crate train your puppy</h2>

They key to crate training your puppy, is to make the crate the most wonderful place on earth! You can do that by making the crate a positive experience! Give your puppy yummy things to chew while he is in the crate. Ensure that you give him lots of affection and praise when he is in the crate and never put your puppy in the crate to punish him. Leave the crate door open at the beginning, so your puppy can go in at out as it pleases, without feeling trapped. Once your puppy is comfortable with his crate, and it gets affection and treats whenever it goes inside, you can start closing the door for 10 – 15 minutes at a time. You can start increasing the time it is left in the crate gradually.<h2>4. Keep your comings and goings low-key</h2>

Don't make a fuss when you leave. If you feel sorry for your puppy and keep making the situation sad, your puppy will pick up on that. Simply keep it positive, give your puppy a chew toy and say “See you later buddy! Be good!”Don't make a fuss when you return either. Your puppy is already excited to see you, if you increase that excitement by making too much of a fuss, you may be teaching your puppy bad habits. Some puppies get so excited when their owners return home that they urinate, jump up excessively or make loud howling and barking sounds, which may drive you, your guest or neighbors crazy eventually. Calmly greet your puppy, no matter how excited you are to see him. You have the rest of the evening to show him how happy you are to be home and spend some much needed quality time together.<h2>5. Be present, even when you are not</h2>

This statement may seem confusing, but there is actually a way to be with your puppy even if you are at work. You could invest in a dog monitor or dog camera like <a href="http://furbo.com/furbodogcamera" target="_self">Furbo Dog Camera</a>. This allows you to check on your puppy from the office and give you peace of mind. The big plus is that you can talk to your pup every now and again via two-way audio. It makes a big difference to your dog knowing that you are present, even if it is not in the flesh. This camera is specially designed for dogs so it allows you to dispense treats remotely. It even has a barking alarm that will notify you when your dog is barking so you can talk to him to settle him down. Another way to be “present” is to put one of your t-shirts or old shoes on your puppy's bed so he can smell you close by. This has shown to be a comfort to some pups.

By following these simple strategies, your puppy should adjust to being left alone while you are at work in no time. These little bundles of joy are very adaptable and they mostly accept their daily routines without much fuss. As long as you make sure that your puppy has something to do, something to chew, and a comfy place to sleep, he should be happy to have the house all to himself.

There are a few things we can do in order to train our pups to be left home alone without causing much distress.

5 Steps to Train Your Puppy to Be Home Alone

[en] 5 Steps to Train Your Puppy to Be Home Alone

Winter is the most warm-hearted season of them all. Sometimes we forget how cold it really is outside. Families and furbabies get together to celebrate love and being together! When we go out for a stroll,  our furbabies must be kept cozy. Here are seven tips on how to keep your dog comfy warm this winter:1.Their hair is their best friendDuring the summer your dog needs constant grooming because it's too hot. It is a different story when winter is coming!! We have to make sure our furbabies stay warm and don't get sick. If your dog can grow long hair, let it grow. Their extra fur will keep them safe from being chilly.

2. Keep bath time shortGiving your dog a bath is a lot of fun! During these holidays wait until his or her hair completely dries out before going outside. Their hair can dry slower in the winter time. Imagine walking with your hair wet outside; you can get sick so much faster! Catching a cold is never exciting.

3. Careful with your furbaby's pawsSome dogs have long hair between their paws. Make sure that you cut the extra hair, the snow and ice can get stuck and hurt their little poofy paws. If not, it will make it really uncomfortable for them to walk in the snow.

4. Wipe your furbabies pawsThere is a lot of salt and other chemicals on the floor during winter time. These can all hurt your dog's paws; please wash them carefully when you come back home. Your doggie will be free from all the strange chemicals.

5. Use bootsThe best way to avoid the paw problems mentioned is to get snow boots or little balloons. Your dog can be more comfortable walking in the snow and ice! The first time they wear the boots might make them look really funny, but they will be happy the floor doesn't hurt their paws anymore.6. Dress warmIf you have a small dog or a short-haired dog especially, it will make a big difference to get them a coat. Just like us we need coats and sweaters to stay warm in the freezing winter. Of course, big dogs and long-haired dogs like staying stylish with jackets too. Extra coziness never hurts!7. Lots of loveThere's nothing more exciting and peaceful than being surrounded by your family's love. Keep your doggie close to you this holiday and give them a lot of hugs and kisses! They always return all your affection.

When you are away, you can see if your doggie spends most of its time with its favorite blanket or tries to escape upstairs to your warm bed. Having a pet camera helps watch over your dog, making sure everything is ok while you are away. <a href="https://furbo.com/furbodogcamera" target="_self">Furbo Dog Camera</a> gives pawrents around the world peace of mind.

Winter is the most warm-hearted season of them all. Sometimes we forget how cold it really is outside. Families and furbabies get together to celebrate love and being together! When we go out for a stroll,  our furbabies must be kept cozy. Here are seven tips on how to keep your dog comfy warm this winter:

Winter is here! 7 Tips to Keep Your Dog Warm This Winter!

[en] Winter is here! 7 Tips to Keep Your Dog Warm This Winter!

Pawrents of big dogs - or even a tricky small pup! - often struggle with keeping them away from the kitchen counter. This is especially important to address, because our delicious food (like chocolate) may be poison to dogs. Recently, <a href="http://furbo.com/furbodogcamera" target="_self">Furbo </a>owner Eva L. caught her big guy shamelessly cruising the kitchen counter, live and on camera!

Now that Eva has proof of her pup’s mischief, what can she do about it? Try these tips if your dog is a counter-surfer:<ul><li>Keep counters free of both food and food scraps (counters have to be sparkling clean)</li></ul><ul><li>Teach your pup a simple command, such as “off” (note: this will only work if you catch your dog in the act)</li></ul><ul><li>Check out an indoor pet barrier, such as the PetSafe Pawz Away barrier, that works with a short-range radio signal</li></ul><ul><li>Crate train (the dog will learn to stay in their crate while you’re cooking or preparing food)</li></ul>

And of course, <a href="http://furbo.com/furbodogcamera" target="_self">Furbo’s</a> here to catch your dog’s motions in the kitchen - or anywhere else in the house. Check out how else Furbo is able to <a href="https://furbo.com/us/products/furbo-dog-nanny" target="_self">keep track of your dog’s behavior</a>!

Parents of big dogs often struggle with keeping them away from the kitchen counter. This is especially important to address, because our delicious food may be poison to dogs. Furbo has some tips to help keep dogs safe.

No More Counter Surfing!

[en] No More Counter Surfing!

Summer is an amazing time for both pups and their humans. There is so much to do, and your dog will probably be as happy as can be to join you in all your fun summer activities. But if you have a fluffy pooch covered in fur, you may be concerned about them overheating. Although dogs have natural ways to cool down, like panting, you still need to protect your pet when temperatures soar.Some of the fluffiest dogs are those who originally come from cooler climates and have lovely double coats of fur. You can recognize them by the thick tufts of hair they shed when the weather warms up in the springtime. This includes your:<ul><li>Aussies</li></ul><ul><li>Collies</li></ul><ul><li>German Shepherds</li></ul><ul><li>Golden Retrievers</li></ul><ul><li>Huskies</li></ul><ul><li>Malamutes</li></ul><ul><li>Sheepdogs</li></ul><ul><li>Pomeranians</li></ul><ul><li>Mastiffs</li></ul><ul><li>Spitz</li></ul><ul><li>Terrier types</li></ul><ul><li>Among many others</li></ul>As the weather starts heating up, here are some tips on how to keep your fluffy pet cool:1. Grooming AdviceYou may think that shaving your thick-haired furbaby is the best way to keep them cool. But actually, their fur is a sort of natural insulation for those hot summer months. As they shed their thick, winter undercoat, the topcoat remains. It allows fresh air to reach your dog's skin, while at the same time protecting them from the elements like harmful UV rays and bug bites.There are some grooming habits, however, that will help you keep your pup cool:<ul><li>As your dog sheds, brush them every day to help them drop their fluffy undercoat</li></ul><ul><li>Shave or trim your dog if their fur is one inch or longer or if they have a single layer coat</li></ul><ul><li>Keep your dog's fur-free from mats and knots</li></ul><ul><li>Check for hot spots, or skin irritation caused by the heat, and treat as necessary</li></ul>2. Water, Water and More WaterA dog's mouth is the main place they regulate body temperature. That's why when your dog gets overheated, they pant. You can help keep them cool by offering lots of water. Bring a collapsible dog bowl on your walks or during any outdoor adventures. If you notice your dog is still hot at home, add ice cubes for a refreshing drink.3. Take a Dip

Summer is the perfect time to take your dog for a swim. Whether it's a lake or the beach, your dog will love a refreshing cool down and the fun exercise. Even if you're not near a body of water, you may want to consider getting them a kiddie pool for your backyard. And if all else fails, bring out the hose for some fun in the water.4. Choose Your Exercise Times WiselyWhen it's a hot and humid afternoon, your pup is bound to get as hot as you are. If you're going to take your dog out for a run or playtime at the dog park, consider the early or later hours of the day. Not only will it be cooler, but there will be less chance of your pooch burning its paws on the hot asphalt.5. Make Sure There's Shade

If you are going out with your dog during the day or if you have a backyard for your pup to play in, make sure there's plenty of shade. This will allow your doggie to cool off if they need a break. Trees will do, but if you don't have any, maybe invest in a shade screen or put up a tarp. Dog houses don't allow airflow and can become stifling during the hottest part of the day.6. Keep Your Home CoolEven if you're not home, you may want to keep the A/C on or a fan running for your dog. If they seem to be overheated, allow them access to your home's tile or wood floors. Hot dogs love to rest their bellies on these cool surfaces.7. Make Some Chilly TreatsWho doesn't love a frigid treat on a hot day? Dogs enjoy cooling down with a chilly treat as much as we do. There are tons of frozen goodies they'll love. Pup ice pops, ice cubes with doggie treats inside and even frozen green beans make a delicious chilly snack. You can even fill and freeze their favorite chew toy with peanut butter.

If you're worried about leaving your dog alone at home on a hot summer day, then you need <a href="http://furbo.com/furbodogcamera" target="_self">Furbo Dog Camera</a>. Our interactive cameras allow you to spy on your pup all day to make sure they're safe. But what's better is that Furbo is completely interactive. You can see them on your smartphone and say hello using two-way audio. It even comes with a treat dispenser so your dog can enjoy a yummy snack. For your own peace of mind, purchase our <a href="http://furbo.com/furbodogcamera" target="_self">Furbo Dog Camera</a> today.

If you have a fluffy pooch covered in fur, you may be concerned about them overheating in hot weather. As the weather starts heating up, here are some tips on how to keep your fluffy pet cool:

Hot Weather Tips: How to Cool Down a Fluffy Dog

[en] Hot Weather Tips: How to Cool Down a Fluffy Dog

The Humane Society says that about 40% of dog households have more than one dog, and the majority of those dog owners (28%) have two dogs. That’s entirely understandable because dog people simply love dogs. After all, what’s not to love? Kisses, wagging tails, and cuddles from our furbabies are very hard to resist. And if it’s great to have one dog, wouldn’t two be twice as wonderful? You may think so, but what does your dog think?Here are 5 tips for introducing a new dog to an existing dog household, and 5 more on what to do if your pups just aren’t getting along.Bringing A New Dog Home

Suppose your husband (or wife) told you I love you so much that I think having two wives (or husbands) would be even better! You probably wouldn’t be so enthusiastic about the addition to your family, would you? That’s kind of what it’s like for our current furbabies when we decide to add to our canine family members. Even if Fido’s an outgoing dog, bringing a new dog home can still get his nose out of joint. Here’s what to do to make the transition from single dog family to multi-dog family a pleasant and successful one.Related Post: <a href="https://shopus.furbo.com/blogs/knowledge/new-puppy-checklist-10-must-haves-for-your-new-puppy" target="_self">New Puppy Checklist! 10 Must-Haves for Your New Puppy</a>1. First impressions are important

A friend or other family member is needed for this crucial first step, each of you handling a different dog. You’ll want to introduce the dogs to each other in a neutral territory, so choose a place your existing dog doesn’t normally walk or play, such as a dog park you haven’t visited before. When Fido doesn’t think he has to protect his territory, he’s more apt to welcome the advances of a new dog. Don’t introduce a new dog in the current dog’s home!2. Take a long walk together

Keeping the humans between the dogs on a long walk after their time together in a dog park is the next step to creating a successful multi-dog family. With both dogs on leash and with people forming a barrier between them, they have the chance to get used to each other’s company without stress.3. Home, sweet homeAfter the walk, it’s time to introduce the new dog to his new home. The order in which you enter the house is very important. People go first, current dog goes next, and new dog takes up the rear. This creates an atmosphere of invitation rather than invasion.4. Establishing who is the boss

Thinking to get a paw brother for your dog? Here are the 10 things you need to know before having two dogs.