If you’ve ever watched puppies play together, then you know that biting and nipping are all part of the fun. Chewing and biting help growing puppies investigate the world around them and also help relieve sore gums when teething. However, while mouthing on your hand might have been funny when your little one was a ball of fluff, it’s no joking matter as he gets older. Those razor-sharp puppy teeth can really hurt. If you’re tired of living with broken skin and painful bruises, you’re probably wondering just when do puppies stop biting?

Do puppies grow out of biting and nipping?

While chewing everything in sight may decrease after your puppy is done teething (which can take anywhere from four to six months) they don’t naturally grow out of biting. The more a puppy is allowed to clamp down on your skin, the more he’ll continue to do it. As a responsible pet parent, it’s your job to teach your dog appropriate behavior.

What is not normal puppy behavior?

How to train a puppy to stop biting and nipping

While biting is a normal part of being a puppy, the sooner you train your puppy, the easier it will be to teach him not to bite you. These tips can help you get started.

Teach bite inhibition first

While the ultimate goal is to stop a puppy from biting or nipping humans when playing, an important first step is to teach bite inhibition, say training experts at the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Your puppy is going to mouth, and that’s natural. But you want him to learn to be gentle. Puppies need to learn to control the strength of their jaws so that as adults, if they ever bite out of fear or pain, they will have learned not to bite hard.

A puppy first learns to be gentle from his mom and littermates. For instance, if a puppy bites too hard when playing, his sibling will yelp in protest or his mom will intervene to stop the roughhousing. Puppies have to learn these lessons all over again when interacting with their human pack.

The ASPCA recommends drawing on the techniques used between littermates when teaching your dog to be gentle. So, if your puppy bites too hard on your skin, use a high-pitched “ouch” to interrupt the behavior. As soon as your puppy stops biting, give him praise and a treat. Some dogs may get more excited when you yelp. In this case, when your dog bites down too hard, just get up and walk away.

Use redirection to stop biting

Your ultimate goal is to train your puppy that teeth don’t belong on human skin, and redirection is a great way to do this. When your growing puppy starts to mouth or bite down on your hand, immediately redirect him to a tug toy or favorite chew bone. According to ASPCA experts, the goal is that your dog will “start to anticipate and look for a toy when he feels like mouthing or biting you.”

Some breeds, such as border collies and Shetland sheepdogs, have strong herding instincts and may nip at ankles to “herd” human family members as they move around the house. If you live with an ankle nipper, keep his favorite toy in your pocket. When your dog attacks your ankles, stop walking and wave the toy in his direction. Once your pup grabs the toy, praise him and move on. Keep repeating this exercise until you can walk around the house without being attacked by puppy teeth.

Teach puppies that when biting starts, playtime ends

Puppy time-outs are a great way to teach your four-legged youngster that when he bites or nips, the game is over. Since puppies live to play, they catch on pretty quickly. Time-out can mean that you quietly leave the room (be sure it’s puppy-proof when leaving your dog alone), or you can gently pick up the puppy and put him in his enclosure or a small gated room. Leave him alone for 30 to 60 seconds, and then calmly resume playing. Keep repeating this exercise until the puppy gets the message.

Toys provide something acceptable to chew on

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), during a puppy’s period of rapid development, which is from 2 to 10 months old, it’s important to give him appropriate toys. These toys can help with the discomfort of teething. They also help with training and provide mental stimulation. Be sure to choose a toy or bone best suited to your dog’s size and personality. The AKC offers a great roundup of the best toys for puppies.

With consistent positive motivation training, most puppies will learn to play without biting and nipping humans. If, despite your best efforts, your dog still bites and you’re concerned that he’s getting aggressive, then it’s time to call in a behaviorist to design a training program for your dog. The sooner you work on the problem, the happier you and your dog will be as he transitions into adulthood.

Let’s be honest: No matter how much we love our fur babies, living with a dog that’s a whiner can drive you crazy. Whining can be irritating, heartbreaking, and even anxiety-inducing for owners. Whether it’s distracting you from work, making you sad to leave the house, or making you worry that something is wrong with your dog, figuring out why your dog is whining and what you can do about it is important.

No matter how disruptive it is, always remember that whining is a form of communication for our dogs, say training experts at the ASPCA. The key is to properly interpret the noise and figure out how to work with her on it; to try to answer the question, “Why is my dog whining?”

Whining may seem like a random behavior, but it has causes

Although it may seem like your dog is whining for no good reason, that’s not usually the case. They’re trying to tell you something! The best way to make the whining stop is to figure out what exactly your dog is trying to tell you. Let’s explore some of the most common reasons dogs whine.

Your dog might be whining because she wants or is looking for something

Ever had your dog whine when her favorite ball rolled under furniture and out of reach? You stoop down, retrieve the ball, and throw it back to her, and the whining immediately stops. Or maybe your dog looks up at you and whines when you’re relaxing on the couch. You instinctively scoot over and invite her to jump up. Before long, she’s fast asleep cuddled up beside you on the sofa. These are the moments in everyday life when your dog uses whining to tell you what she wants.

Your dog is excited, and she may express that through whining

Grabbing your coat or putting on your shoes can be enough to make some dogs whine. They think: It’s walk time! Naturally, they are excited to head out on an adventure. You can stop excitement whining with positive-motivation training. When your dog whines, give a “quiet” command and follow up with praise and a treat as soon as the whining stops. Begin this training in the house and then follow up on the way to your destination. Like any dog training, it’ll take practice and time — but it’ll be worth it.

Fear can cause a dog to whine, whimper, or even bark

Some dogs whine when they are scared or anxious. If this is the case, you might notice pacing, trembling, or panting, according to experts at the American Kennel Club (AKC). In this case, you’ll need to figure out what’s scaring your dog and how to make her feel more comfortable.

If it’s loud noises, such as fireworks or thunder, providing your dog with a safe space like a crate or basement room without windows may work. Playing soft background music can also help mask the scary sounds. Some dogs get comfort from chewing on a bone or interacting with a puzzle toy, too. Of course, the solution depends on what the trigger is!

Separation anxiety is a very real problem for some dogs, and it may result in whining

If your dog starts to whine, pace, or drool when you’re about to leave the house, she may suffer from separation anxiety. According to the AKC, around 14% of dogs suffer from this disorder. Since the symptoms of separation anxiety could also be the signs of other health issues, experts advise taking your dog for a checkup. If there’s no medical issue, follow these tips to help relieve your dog’s anxiety when home alone.

• The goal is to make going and coming from the house as uneventful as possible. That means no long goodbyes. Just give your dog a treat and leave. Returning should also be no big deal, so ignore your dog until she calms down. We know – it’s hard
• Playing soft music and providing chew toys can help some dogs relax when alone.
• Use sit, down, and stay exercises to help your dog get comfortable in a room by herself even when the family is home.
• In severe cases, calming supplements or medication may be needed.

Attention-seeking whining is easy to accidentally reinforce

We all know this one. Many needy dogs use whining to get their owner’s attention. Often that results in extra petting, playtime, or a treat, so they continue to do it. Whenever you give in to an attention whine, you’re using positive reinforcement, even though you don’t want to. Instead, wait for a break in the whine and then reward with a pat or a snack.

How will I know if my dog is whining because of pain?

Whining could be a sign that your dog is in pain. For example, if your dog whines while climbing the stairs or when trying to jump on the couch, she may have joint pain due to arthritis. If you suspect your dog is in pain, it’s important to have her checked out. Your veterinarian can prescribe medication to manage the pain and may also suggest an exercise or massage routine to make your pup more comfortable.

Should I be concerned if my dog is whining in her sleep?

It might seem unusual, or even concerning, to hear a pup whining in their sleep, but as Sandra C. Mitchell, DVM, DABVP ensures, it’s not usually something to worry about. In fact, they’re likely just dreaming! Just as people do, dogs cycle through REM sleep and non-REM sleep, though dreaming and movement are associated with the REM level of sleep.

As Dr. Mitchell explains, dogs could be dreaming about anything, from running in the park to howling alongside a wolf pack. If anything about their sleep vocalizations seems concerning to you — or if this is a sudden and new behavior — it’s never a bad idea to check in with your veterinarian.

Should you ignore a whining dog?

If your dog is whining just to get your attention, ignoring her is the best way to stop the behavior, training experts say. When the whining starts, avoid eye contact by turning away from your dog. Don’t touch or speak to her, and that includes no scolding — she just sees that as a form of attention. Be sure to reinforce positive behavior by rewarding your dog for being quiet.

Do dogs whine less as they get older?

Many dogs will whine less during adulthood than they did as puppies, but this partially depends on you! Puppies need extra support and attention, so they whine frequently. As they age and become more independent, many dogs will whine less often. Training your dog to whine less through rewarding them for being quiet and ignoring their whining is an important part of this process, though. You may also see a return to more frequent whining in elderly dogs. Arthritis and other health conditions, needing more frequent bathroom breaks, or just feeling bad and wanting extra love can all cause elderly dogs to whine more often, even if you’ve previously trained them not to whine.

If your adult dog has successfully used attention-seeking whining to train you, it’s going to take time and patience to break that habit. After all, you’ve played a role by unintentionally rewarding the behavior, and now it’s up to you to teach your dog a different way. By being consistent with your training, you will soon be spending quality quiet time with your best furry friend.

Having newborn puppies around can be such a gift, but there’s also a lot of work involved. You need to keep their enclosure clean, make sure they’re fed, and stay on top of their health in a multitude of ways. Luckily, we’re here to help you navigate your newborn puppies’ feeding routine.

Whenever possible, newborn puppies should consume their mother’s nutrient-rich milk, which helps protect them from illness while their immune systems develop. It’s the perfect food for them! However, it’s not always possible for a mama dog to feed her litter all by herself.

Perhaps Mom doesn’t produce enough milk, the milk is infected, or the puppies have unfortunately become orphaned. In these scenarios, pet parents have to step in to help feed the babies around the clock. To ensure your pups are getting adequate nutrition, it’s important to follow a puppy feeding chart or guide from a trusted veterinary resource.

How to tell if nursing puppies are getting enough to eat from Mom

Veterinary experts say that newborn puppies should gain 5% to 10% of their body weight daily — doubling their body weight in their first week. Jerry Klein, the chief veterinary officer at the American Kennel Club (AKC), recommends using a baby scale to monitor the weight gain of each puppy over time. Puppies should first be weighed at birth and again at 12 hours, 24 hours, 48 hours, 3 days, 5 days, and 7 days. If everything is going well, all puppies should show a gradual weight gain.

When newborns cry during or after nursing, though, it may very well mean that they aren’t getting enough milk. Alternatively, mom’s milk could be infected, or it might indicate that they are sick. If this behavior is sudden or excessive, it requires an emergency vet visit for Mom, baby, and littermates.

How often do newborn puppies eat when nursed by Mom?

Newborn puppies typically nurse from their mom about every two hours. As they grow older, the time between nursing increases, and by four or five weeks — or even as early as three — Mom starts weaning her puppies. You’ll have to step in to make up the difference and start introducing some puppy chow “gruel” mixtures to help them transition from milk to solid foods.

How often should you feed a newborn puppy? It depends on their age

When Mom’s milk supply isn’t adequate to support the healthy growth of her puppies, VCA veterinary experts recommend supplemental feedings one to six times per day. Newborn orphaned puppies who are less than 2 weeks old should be fed every three to four hours, while 2- to 4-week-old puppies will do well being fed every six to eight hours. Don’t forget — feedings need to be equally spaced over the span of 24 hours.

What to feed newborn puppies without their mom’s support

Veterinarians say that the best replacement milk for puppies is commercial puppy milk formula. Best Friends Animal Society recommends the Esbliac puppy milk replacer when feeding orphaned puppies or those who need extra support. Experts say that any puppy milk replacer should contain optimal levels of omega-3 fatty acid and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), a nutrient that is important for the development of their brains and eyes. Containers will come with feeding instructions, so be sure to follow these carefully. Just as with newborn babies, the temperature of the milk can be tested on your forearm before feeding. You want it about the same temperature as your skin or only slightly warmer. Otherwise, they’ll burn their little tongues trying to slurp it down.

As you nourish your newborn, be aware that overfeeding may put your puppy at risk of aspiration, vomiting, diarrhea, and gas build-up in the stomach and intestines. To ensure this doesn’t happen, Maddie’s Fund provides a helpful newborn puppy feeding chart broken down by calorie requirements and formula measurements based on the puppy’s weight.

How to bottle-feed a newborn puppy 

1. A puppy nursing bottle is the best way to feed your bundle of joy. The size of the hole in the nipple is crucial to successful bottle feeding, according to experts at Best Friends. To check this, turn the bottle upside down and gently squeeze: If the milk drips freely, the hole is too large. That means the puppy could take in too much and risk inhaling it into their lungs. If the hole is too small, the puppy has to work too hard to get nourishment and may refuse to nurse. You’ll know that the hole is the proper size when the milk comes out one drop at a time.
2. Puppies shouldn’t be fed on their backs because they don’t have a well-developed gag reflex, and there’s a danger that fluid may go down their windpipe and enter their lungs. Instead, place the puppy on their stomach with their head level as if they were nursing from their mom.
3. Open the puppy’s mouth gently with one finger and place the tip of the nipple on their tongue. If the puppy doesn’t eat, try stroking the pup. Tilt the bottle up slightly to prevent your puppy from inhaling too much air. Do not force the puppy to nurse, or allow them to nurse too fast.
4. After each feeding, you’ll have to burp them by holding them against your shoulder and gently patting their back.

According to the AKC, some orphan puppies take a little time to get the knack for the sucking part of feeding. If a pup doesn’t drink from the bottle, though, you’ll need to work with a veterinarian to tube feed and get him started.

In addition, for the first two weeks, orphan pups should be stimulated to urinate and defecate after each meal. This is done by rubbing the area between the back legs with a warm, wet cotton ball. This action mimics the licking mom does to make her puppies go potty.

When do puppies start transitioning to solid food?

When pups are with their mom, they may start the process of weaning — or transitioning from milk to solid food — as early as 3 to 4 weeks of age. Mom will start to refuse feedings around this time since this is the stage in development when puppies’ teeth start to grow in.

As Teresa Manucy, DVM, explains on PetMD, bottle-fed puppies can also start switching to solids around this time. By 8 to 10 weeks, however, the puppies should be fully weaned. At this time, they’ll be eating puppy food instead of milk replacer.

What do puppies eat while weaning from milk or formula to solid food?

During the few weeks your puppies are weaning, you’ll be making changes to their diet as they adjust. This is crucial to their success, as puppies aren’t born knowing how to lap or eat right away.

You can begin by mixing puppy milk replacer and puppy food to create an easy-to-consume gruel. You’ll want to offer this mixture to the pups while they’re separated from Mom to minimize any distraction or confusion. Still, you will need to dip a finger in the food and touch their noses with it at first to help them get used to the licking — or lapping — motion of their tongue. They’ll lick the food off of their face and ideally become interested in the gruel sitting in front of them. It may take a few days for pups to get the hang of this, but they’ll be lapping up their meals before you know it!

After they’ve mastered that stage, you’ll want to use less milk replacer in the puppy food over time. This way, their food will get slightly more solid with each meal, and they’ll get the chance to practice chewing motions. By the 8 -10 week mark, puppies should be eating exclusively puppy food, though wet food or watered-down puppy kibble are always options for those who are still getting the hang of eating.

While caring for newborns is certainly a time-consuming job and a lot of work, it’s also incredibly rewarding for any dog owner. Nothing will bring you more joy and satisfaction than watching those fur babies thriving under your loving care. If Mom is in the picture, she’ll be so grateful, too!

Fall is such a fun and inspirational time of year. Nature offers up some awesome colors as leaves turn from lush green to stunning shades of red, yellow, and orange. Farm fields are dotted with orange pumpkins, and people and pets get to dress up for Halloween. It’s the perfect season for taking photos of your pet. We scoured social media. Here are our favorite autumn Instagram pet photos.

Dogs falling for autumn on Instagram

These pups have an extra pep in their steps as the seasons change. They’re dressing up, winding down, and taking scenic routes.

All smiles

“Suns out, tongues out” clearly isn’t just a summer thing. No fall sweaters are needed for these two pro-leaf peepers.

Remi: Adventure Dog

The fall leaves provide the perfect backdrop for this image of Remi posing on a bridge in the Boyce Thompson Arboretum, Arizona. Described as a “bad***, road-tripping Australian shepherd,” Remi enjoys exploring the great outdoors. He has enjoyed many fun adventures in Arizona, including hiking in Gold Canyon, swimming in the Salt River, and paddle boating on Canyon Lake.

Keira

Just look at how Keira’s stunning coat blends so well with nature in this fall shot. This girl happily poses for the camera because she always gets a treat after. Expect to smile and laugh out loud as you browse images of this “goofy girl” sporting a flannel shirt as she poses in front of a farmer’s truck, drying off in her robe after a swim, and looking adorable in a crown of flowers in celebration of Easter.

Ziggy

Fall leaves make a wonderful carpet for this handsome Australian shepherd. Visit Ziggy’s account to track his life from puppyhood. He was such a little fluff ball. It looks like this boy loves swimming, hanging at the beach, chasing sticks, and eating ice cream.

Dipper

It wouldn’t be a fall photo roundup without a Halloween shot. Dipper was dressed as a “sexy pumpkin” in this shot, and we think he nailed it. This mixed-breed cutie is described as “just a pup, living life, chewing snacks, and taking naps.” There are more than 1,000 uplifting photos of Dipper hanging out with friends and family. Looks like this pup has one amazing life.

Don’t count out these ‘Halloween’-ready cats

Dogs don’t get to have all the fun. These pretty kitties are taking fall fun to new heights — literally — and adding to the family decor.

Pawfuramily

Dogs aren’t the only pets to enjoy cool autumn breezes. Just look at this stunning photo of Ollie the cat going along for a fall hike. The orange on her coat perfectly matches those spectacular leaves. Scroll through this account to enjoy hundreds of photos of Ollie and her doggie friends, including some amazing seasonal shots. It’s so awesome that Ollie gets to enjoy the great outdoors along with her canine siblings.

Scouts Family Adventures

What a terrific shot of Scout lounging in a tree under fall leaves and a beautiful blue sky. This handsome kitty was just 2 days old when his family found him under a bush. According to Scout’s parents, he has turned out to be a “crazy, sassy, and amazing cat.” Climbing trees seems to be one of his favorite pastimes.

The Bento Box Cats

Maki looks adorable posing in the middle of his mom’s fall decor. Scroll through his account to check out photos of this kitty looking dapper in a bow tie, showing off a cool bandana, and relaxing in his treehouse. Seems like Maki enjoys posing for the camera.

What are good fall captions?

An adorable fall Instagram photo of you and a pet really says it all — there’s no need for a caption. Still, it’s fun to include one, and the opportunities for creative, punny autumn Instagram captions are endless. A few favorite fall Instagram captions include:

• Happy fall, ya’ll
• Leaf peeping with my peep (and pup)
• Pumpkin spice and everything nice
• Sweater weather (bonus weather if your pet is in a sweater, too)
• Cozy season (perfect for snuggling with my best dog/cat)
• Falling in love with this dog/cat
• Meet the cutest pumpkin in our patch
• This little one is as sweet as apple pie
• Sweater weather is better together
• You’re the pick of the patch

While it’s fun to include our pets in seasonal photoshoots, remember that not all our animal friends enjoy the experience. Never force your pet to pose or wear a costume if it upsets him. However, if you’re lucky enough to have a dog or cat who enjoys the attention, then let the clicking begin. Fall Instagram and seasonal photos of our pets make terrific keepsakes.

With cooler fall temperatures just around the corner, pet parents dream of taking their dogs on long outdoor adventures. Some might even be planning pet-friendly getaways. Autumn is certainly a wonderful time to get outside and enjoy nature, and where better to do this than in a U.S. national park? Many of these wonderful parks are pet-friendly. Here we highlight four national parks that are incredible in the fall and perfect for both of you.

Are dogs allowed in national parks?

• Bag your pet’s waste
• Always leash your pet
• Respect wildlife
• Know where you can go

The goal here isn’t to limit your ability to enjoy nature alongside your best hiking companion but to keep everyone safe, including the animals who live there year-round.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Fall is the perfect time to visit Acadia National Park. The weather in the park in early September is lovely, with daytime temperatures in the low 70s, perfect for hiking with your dog. While this park attracts millions of visitors every year, the crowds thin out in the fall, making it a more enjoyable experience. The fall foliage is spectacular, and according to the National Park Service (NPS), the best “leaf peeping” dates typically fall between October 13 and 22, although this can change slightly from year to year.

About the park

Acadia National Park shelters the natural beauty of the highest rocky headlands along the Atlantic coastline of the U.S. Visitors can enjoy 27 miles of historic motor roads, 158 miles of hiking trails, and 45 miles of carriage roads.

Pet policy

While many areas of the park don’t allow pets, 100 miles of hiking trails and 45 miles of carriage roads are open to dogs. You can also do day hikes with your dog on Isle au Haut, a community off the coast of Maine and part of the national park. Pets ride for free on the ferry to the island. Once there, you and your dog can have fun exploring the island’s beautiful forests and pathways.

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

October is a terrific time to visit Shenandoah National Park, with its more than 500 miles of hiking trails. Fall visitors can drive along the park’s Skyline Drive and stop off to take in the awe-inspiring colors from several vantage points. Pet parents and dogs will have fun exploring the network of hiking trails and be rewarded with cascading waterfalls and gorgeous panoramic views.

About the park

Shenandoah National Park extends along the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia and encompasses nearly 200,000 acres of protected lands.

Pet policy

Of the 500 miles of hiking trails in this park, less than 20 miles are off-limits to pets. That leaves lots of trails for you and your dog to explore. Dogs are allowed in most places in the park and there are pet-friendly rooms available in the lodges within the preservation.   

Congaree National Park, South Carolina

This wonderful park is located in the midlands region of South Carolina. It has a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and warm, wet summers. The National Park Service highly recommends visiting Congaree National Park from September through November when the average daily temperatures are in the low 70s and there’s low humidity. The flies also are not a problem in the fall, making it a great time to visit with your dog. Fall colors peak here between October and early November.

About the park

According to the NPS, Congaree National Park is the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern U.S. Because the majority of the park lies within a floodplain, the terrain is generally flat with only slight elevation changes. So, hiking here won’t be too strenuous for you or your dog.

Pet policy

Congaree National Park welcomes pets. Dogs are allowed on all trails, including the boardwalk and in the campgrounds.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

This national park is home to lots of deciduous forest, making for a spectacular color display in the fall. Typically, the last two weeks of October are when you’ll enjoy the gorgeous reds, oranges, and yellows in Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

About this park

This might be one of the lesser-known national parks in the U.S., but it’s a valuable refuge for native plants and wildlife. The Cuyahoga River winds through this park that includes deep forests, rolling hills, and open farmlands. It’s also home to the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail that takes visitors along the same path mules walked to tow canal boats loaded with goods and passengers.

Pet policy

Dogs are allowed on more than 100 miles of hiking trails as well as on the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail.

It’s an honor, not a privilege, to visit U.S. national parks with our dogs. These parks have strict rules to ensure the preservation of the natural environment. It’s important that pet parents obey these rules, which include keeping dogs on a 6-foot leash at all times, picking up poop, and steering clear of areas that are designated as off-limits to pets. By respecting park rangers and other visitors, everyone, including our pets, can continue to enjoy some of the most beautiful U.S. national parks.

Overdrive was only a 2-month-old kitten when he hid inside the engine compartment of a car parked at a rest stop in Arizona. The unsuspecting tourists who owned the car were alarmed when 200 miles later, they stopped at a restaurant in Utah and heard desperate meows coming from under the hood of their car. The tiny buff-colored tabby was successfully rescued and taken to the nearby Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. Although traumatized by the experience, he miraculously didn’t sustain any injuries. He’s just one of numerous cats in car engines that have survived.

Every year, there are stories of cats getting trapped in vehicle engine compartments. Once a car engine starts, things can quickly take a turn for the worse for a cat hiding under the hood, say veterinary experts at the Chastain Veterinary Medical Group in Texas. The sudden vibration and roar of the car’s engine can cause a stowaway cat to jump or fall into the fan or fan belt and pulleys. The results are often disastrous for the cat, causing trauma, lacerations, and on occasion, death.

A March 2021 Wigan Today article reported that a cat became stuck in an engine’s camshaft when the car was turned on. Firefighters had to cut the cat from the engine, and he lost his tail and a leg. People magazine recounted the story of  Cindy Lou, a 2-year-old Maine Coon who climbed inside the engine compartment of a car in December 2020. She was wedged between two hot metal plates near the fan belts, and part of her fused skin had to be removed to rescue her.  

Why do cats hide in car engines?

According to experts at Embrace Pet Insurance, cats and kittens, especially strays, will seek out shelter in colder months and are frequently attracted to the warmth of engines in recently driven cars. When cars are left on streets, driveways, or even easily accessible garages, cats will often sit between the engine and the hood, which provides relief from harsh weather or protection from predators. Animal behaviorists say cats are also attracted to a vehicle’s engine bay because it offers a dark, quiet place to nap.

You would think that if a cat could climb inside the engine compartment of a car, he would also be able to find his way out. However, when frightened or startled, cats may squeeze into even tighter spaces and end up trapped. If you discover a cat in this situation, call the local police or fire department for help. It’s not unusual for a mechanic to be called in to assist in freeing trapped cats from under car hoods.

How can I prevent my cat from climbing into a car engine?

The best way to keep your cat from climbing into a car engine is to prevent him from roaming free. Experts at the Humane Society of the United States say indoor cats live longer and tend to be healthier. In addition, keeping your pet as an inside kitty prevents predators, injuries, parasites, and communicable diseases from the great outdoors. If you live with a cat who’s always asking to go out, access to a patio or a walk around the neighborhood in a harness and leash can give him a safe way to hang outside.

If your cat is allowed out, here are tips to keep him away from your car’s engine:

• Whenever possible, park your car inside an enclosed garage.
• Place a high-quality car cover over your vehicle to help keep your cat from getting to the engine compartment.
• Sprinkle cayenne pepper on the ground around your car. It may take a few days, but cayenne pepper has worked to keep cats away from cars.
• Try a commercial spray such as Nature’s Mace Cat Repellent. Like cayenne pepper, this deterrent can be sprayed around the car to keep cats away.
• Use a motion sensor alarm such as the Tattle Tale Sonic Pet Training Vibration Alarm to discourage your cat from going under the hood of your car.

Keep in mind that while you can take steps to deter your cat from climbing into the engine compartment of your car, he can still hide under the hood of a vehicle in the neighborhood. That’s what happened to Simon, a big orange tabby featured in a KCRA 3 story. He went for a 13-mile ride before the driver realized there was a cat stuck in the engine block. Luckily, Simon wasn’t injured, and thanks to his microchip, was safely reunited with his family.

How do I know if my cat is in my car engine?

Overall, you’ll probably have the best luck by implementing preventative measures and then trying to scare off any especially clever cats who make it into the engine, anyway. If you find a repeat offender every morning, you can also put in other deterrents to the general area. Consider speaking to his owner too and coming up with a join solution. The steps here will only take a few minutes and can save a cat’s life.

If you’ve ever tossed and turned because your neighbor’s pooch barked all night, then you know how incredibly frustrating a noisy dog can be. Don’t let your pup be “that” dog in your community. While it’s perfectly natural for Fido to bark occasionally, excessive barking at unreasonable hours or for long periods is unneighborly.

Experts at the American Kennel Club (AKC) say that preventing nuisance barking should be a top priority for responsible pet parents. If you live with a loud four-legger that barks nonstop, take steps now to resolve the problem before your neighbor complains (or you lose your mind).

What dog breed is noisy?

When your dog barks at night

The first step in solving nighttime barking is to figure out why it’s happening. Here are some reasons why dogs may bark at night.

1. Barking when unsupervised

One of the most common reasons for dogs to bark at night is because they’re left outside alone. When nocturnal critters come out to play, dogs go on high alert and the barking starts.

What you can do: Training experts say dogs should not be allowed to stay outside all night. It’s difficult for dogs to relax with all the nighttime sounds. Instead, keep your dog safely indoors when it’s time for bed. Consider restricting her to one room while she’s sleeping. To cut down on outside noise, choose an interior room away from a busy street or the backyard.

2. Barking to raise an alarm

While we may welcome our dog alerting us when someone’s at the door, it’s a nuisance if she barks at every outdoor sound or movement. This is especially true when you live in a neighborhood where homes are close together or in an apartment building and expect some noise.

What you can do: Use positive motivation training to desensitize your dog to outside stimuli. When she barks at an outside sound, wait for her to stop and immediately give her a high-quality treat and tell her “good quiet.” Do this consistently, and she will start to connect silence with a reward.

3. Your dog may be lonely

Dogs who are left alone for long hours during the day may be craving attention. Once the family retires for the night, a lonely dog could bark when she’s separated from her pack again.

What you can do: Once you return home, be sure to spend quality time with your furry friend. Take her for a long walk and play her favorite games. At bedtime, consider letting your dog sleep in your room with you.

4. When senior dogs bark at night

Your senior dog may be suffering from dog dementia, also known as canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD). According to veterinary experts, dogs who suffer from CCD may sleep less and bark or howl at night.

What you can do: If you suspect your senior is suffering from CCD, talk to your veterinarian about medications and strategies that can help your buddy relax at night.

Barking when home alone

Many pet parents aren’t aware that their dogs are barking incessantly when home alone until someone complains. Boredom, restlessness, fear, and separation anxiety are all common reasons for dogs to bark when alone, say experts at the AKC. Lack of exercise and socialization can contribute to problem behaviors as well, including inappropriate barking, writes veterinarian Debra Horwitz in a VCA Hospitals article. Here are steps you can take to help your dog relax when alone.

• Take your beastie for a long walk before you leave for the day.
• Provide a puzzle toy to entertain her.
• Hire a dog walker to take your dog out during the day.
• Leave classical music or the radio on for background noise.

If you’re not sure why your dog is barking, you can use a monitoring camera such as the Petcube Cam Wi-Fi pet camera to observe her behavior when alone. This might give you clues as to what’s setting off the barking and help you devise a solution. If you suspect separation anxiety, speak with your veterinarian about anxiety medication.

Barking at the neighbors

Your neighbors can’t enjoy their yard if your dog’s barking nonstop every time she sees them outside. There are steps you can take to restore peace. First, stop allowing your dog unsupervised time in the yard when she can engage in this unwanted behavior. Next, redirect your dog away from inappropriate barking by rewarding her with treats for sitting or lying down and focusing on you. She will soon learn that when she doesn’t bark outside, she gets a reward.

Barking when out on a walk

If your pup engages in leash-reactivity barking, she’s probably been labeled the “out of control” dog that everyone avoids. While it’s easy to get frustrated with this behavior, you need to remain calm, figure out what’s causing the behavior, and come up with a positive solution. According to training experts, there are many reasons for leash-reactivity barking including fear, aggression, and frustration. This can be a difficult behavior to fix and it’s best to enlist the help of a positive-motivation trainer to develop a training routine.

If your dog’s barking has been out of control for a while, it will take time and patience to break the habit. Reasonable neighbors will be more understanding when they see you working to solve the problem. Be consistent with the training, and the nuisance barking will eventually stop and peace will be restored to your home and community.

The joys of having a new dog can come with many challenges, but there’s even more to learn when you bring home a puppy. Learning how to house-train a puppy isn’t always simple, and some breeds are easier to train than others.

Even though Chihuahuas are as tiny and as cute as can be, they are known for being difficult to potty train just like Bichon Frises. The American Kennel Club (AKC) describes Chihuahuas as “tiny dogs with huge personalities,” and this often includes a stubborn streak. As you can imagine, this can complicate house-training efforts.

Reasons Chihuahuas can be difficult to house-train

In addition to being stubborn, there are numerous other reasons why Chihuahuas can be harder to potty train than other breeds. Understanding these hurdles can help when it comes to training your tiny dog.

Small dogs’ accidents can easily go undetected

Part of learning how to house-train a puppy is catching your dog in the act. When you do see your puppy peeing indoors, you should immediately redirect him to the appropriate place to potty. However, small dogs can easily slip out of sight, meaning their accidents frequently go undetected. When this happens, pet parents miss a valuable teaching moment. Additionally, accidents aren’t cleaned up immediately, encouraging the dog to eliminate in the same spot again.

Small dogs can get away with small accidents

Because tiny dogs have tiny accidents that are easy to clean up, some pet parents are more forgiving. However, according to the AKC, the quicker you teach your puppy that there is an “approved place to potty and that some places are off-limits,” the sooner you’ll have a fully housebroken dog.

Some dogs have trouble transitioning from pee pads

According to Veterinarian Elizabeth Robertson and the National Canine Research Association of America, some Chihuahuas trained to use pee pads may have difficulty transitioning to doing their business outside. This is because they are used to just going on the pad whenever they need to, and it takes time to learn that they have to alert pet parents when they need to go outside. One thing to try is taking a soiled pee pad to the outdoor space. When they use the potty pad outside, make sure to praise your dog and repeat the process.

4 effective ways to house-train your Chihuahua

Constantly supervise your puppy to avoid undetected accidents

Constant supervision is key when housebreaking your puppy, say experts at the Chihuahua Club of America (CCA). Small puppies are like babies and frequently eliminate with little or no warning. You can never let your puppy roam unsupervised around your home.

“Prevention, supervision, and rewarding the desired behavior are the way to train your puppy,” according to the CCA.

Confine your puppy in a crate or pen when you can’t supervise them

When you can’t watch your puppy, he needs to be confined in an exercise pen or puppy-sized crate. Provide him with a bed at one end and a pee pad or newspaper at the other. Puppies don’t want to soil where they sleep, so they will naturally use the pad or newspapers when they need to. When training your puppy to go outside, you can take some poop or a piece of soiled newspaper to the desired outdoor spot. The smell will help him understand that he is supposed to do his business there.

Create a potty break schedule to keep your pup on a routine

Puppies do best on a regular schedule. This schedule teaches them that there are separate times to eat, to play, and to do their business. Feeding your puppy at the same times each day will make it more likely that he’ll eliminate at consistent times as well, making housebreaking easier.

When setting up a housebreaking routine, you’ll need to monitor daily events and your puppy’s daily habits. With a very young puppy, AKC experts say you can expect to take potty breaks around these times of day:

• First thing in the morning
• Last thing at night
• After playing indoors
• After spending time in a crate
• Upon waking up from a nap
• After chewing a toy or bone
• After eating
• After drinking

This schedule can be overwhelming early on, but by being consistent, your dog can be successfully housebroken.

Focus on praising your puppy for getting it right

You should expect that your dog will have a few accidents during housebreaking. After all, that is how they’ll learn! How you react to these accidents will play a big role in successfully house-training your dog, so follow these tips when accidents happen:

• Don’t overact if you catch your dog eliminating in the house. Simply interrupt the behavior with an “oops” or “no” and immediately take him outside to the correct bathroom spot. If he finishes his business there, praise him and give him a treat. Continue reinforcing correct behavior by rewarding your puppy every time he eliminates outside.
• If you find a soiled area in the house, don’t punish your dog. Yelling or doing something as cruel as rubbing his nose in it will only scare your dog and make him afraid to do his business in front of you. Instead, clean the area thoroughly with an odor-neutralizing product such as No Go or Nature’s Miracle. This will prevent your pup from potentially marking the same spot if they detect the scent of urine.

When trouble with potty training could mean a visit to the veterinarian

If your dog seems to be regressing in his training, don’t always assume it’s a behavioral issue. Of course, puppies will still have accidents while they’re getting used to a regular potty schedule, but an extended issue could be a potential sign of a problem. In rare cases, puppies may suffer from a spinal concern or genetic abnormality that complicates things. Fortunately, you should have several pre-set veterinary appointments to get your puppy vaccinated where you can bring up your concerns.

Accidents in an otherwise house-trained dog could mean there’s a health issue, such as a bladder infection or urinary tract infection. Robertson urges pet parents to visit the vet if they notice blood in the urine, straining when eliminating, or urine that dribbles out when a dog isn’t actively urinating.

If you’re just training a Chihuahua who isn’t used to proper potty training, you’ll just need to be patient and gentle. The same goes for learning how to potty train a puppy! If you remain vigilant in supervising your puppy, avoiding punishment, and rewarding him for desired behavior, you will eventually enjoy an accident-free home.

It will take time and patience to break their digging habit, but many dogs can learn to rein in the impulse. Read on to learn how to stop a dog from digging, so you can get your yard looking nice again.

To learn how to stop your dog from digging, you need to know what's causing them to dig

Dogs dig holes for many reasons, and canine training experts say figuring out what’s motivating your pooch can help get to the root of the problem.

Let’s look at the most common reasons dogs dig and what you can do to stop it.

Step 1: Provide a sandbox.

Some dog breeds are natural-born diggers. After all, digging is an instinctual behavior that goes back to our dogs’ wild ancestors. Many hunting dogs, such as beagles, terriers, and dachshunds were bred to dig prey out of their dens.

Behaviorists at the Humane Society of the United States recommend providing a sandbox to meet your dog’s digging needs. Bury a bone in the sand to attract them to their new playground, if needed.

Step 2: Redirect your dog to cooler spots in the yard on really hot days.

Does your dog tend to dig holes during the summer months and then lie in the hollow they've made? Smart boy! The earth under the surface is much cooler and probably feels refreshing to your dog.

Redirecting your dog to shady spots in the yard, such as under a tree, can give them an alternative way to cool off. Don't forget to praise your dog when they stay there! You might also consider an all-weather-protection doghouse if your furry friend tends to spend a lot of time outside. In extreme temperatures, of course, your dog should stay indoors.

Step 3: Keep your dog from trying to escape.

Some dogs dig holes under the fence to escape. This could be in pursuit of wildlife or a neighborhood pet but can also happen if a dog is bored.

Attach chicken wire to the base of the fence to stop escape digging. To avoid this problem altogether, never leave your dog alone in the yard for long periods. It’s also important to provide mental stimulation by walking your dog at least twice a day.

Step 4: Prevent your dog from taking toys into the yard.

In the wild, wolves bury food they can’t eat immediately to protect it from scavengers. Dogs inherited this behavior, and some will bury toys or bones in the yard.

Limit the number of toys or bones you give your dog, so they won’t have extras to hide. Don’t let your dog take toys into the yard, and if they chew on a bone outside, remove it when they lose interest, so they don’t have an opportunity to bury it.

Step 5: Keep your dog mentally stimulated.

Many dogs dig just because they enjoy it. Digging turns up interesting smells and offers mental stimulation. This will often happen in places where you’ve recently been gardening.

In addition to long walks, training experts recommend playing ball or Frisbee or enrolling in training classes to provide mental stimulation.

Step 6: Limit access to diggable areas of the yard.

For some dogs, having a designated place to dig or a cooler spot to rest may not be enough. Old habits die hard, after all! To prevent your pup from going back to digging in a spot you don't want them to dig, make sure to cut off their access to that area or keep them under constant supervision.

Can you use cayenne pepper in your yard to stop your dog from digging?

According to the American Kennel Club, some have considered sprinkling cayenne pepper where their dog digs. While cayenne pepper may not be harmful to your dog when swallowed, it can irritate their eyes. This could be a problem if your dog touches their face or eyes with their paws after digging in an area that’s been sprayed, so it’s safest to avoid using cayenne pepper as a deterrent.

What can you use to stop your dog from digging?

If you need an extra hand keeping your dog from digging, you can use commercial products or make spray at home. However, keep in mind that what works for one dog might not deter another. Always check with your veterinarian before using a new product.

Experts at Garden Season suggest making natural homemade sprays with citronella oil, apple cider vinegar, or citrus fruit to deter dogs from digging. If you prefer to go the commercial route, though, you can choose from several repellents. Here are three products that use natural ingredients:

NaturVet Off Limits Training Spray is a combination of herbal extracts, including clove, garlic, and thyme.

Pet Organics No Dig! includes citronella oil, lemongrass, geranium, clove oil, and thyme oil.

Bonide – Go Away! Rabbit, Dog, and Cat Repellent uses granules instead of spray, with natural ingredients including cinnamon and thyme oils.

How to correct digging when you catch your dog in the act

Helping your furry friend replace their digging behavior with something more acceptable can be a challenging process, but there are effective ways to correct and redirect the problem.

Step 1: The Humane Society of the United States recommends creating a loud noise as an interruption.

Step 2: Immediately tell your dog "no dig." This will help them understand associate the behavior with the consequence, especially if they already know "no" through obedience training.

Step 3: Then, immediately remove your dog from the situation. You can either bring them to somewhere where digging is allowed (such as a sand box) or by bringing them to an area where they can't dig.

Whatever product you choose, be prepared to use it in combination with behavior modification. It will take patience and persistence to break your dog’s digging habit. If you’ve tried everything and your dog is still digging holes in the yard, you may have no choice but to stay out there with your pet. The good news is that gives you additional time to play or just relax with your buddy. And that’s definitely a win-win for both of you.

Some dogs love their toys so much it can lead to toy aggression. But what happens if your dog doesn’t like toys? As it turns out, it could be a sign of a troubling problem. We’re here to help you get to the bottom of your dog’s disinterest in toys.

Why dogs may not be interested in playing with toys

Certified canine behaviorist and trainer Russell Hartstein of FunPawCare in Los Angeles says clients often reach out to him concerned that their dogs won’t play with toys. There could be many reasons for this, says the trainer, including:

• Boredom and depression: This often happens when a dog is forced to spend long hours alone.
• Your dog doesn’t know how to play: Dogs need to be motivated to play with their toys.
• Your dog needs a play buddy: It’s hard to play games such as tug of war or chase without a friend.
• They are stressed and afraid: This may be true of dogs rescued from an abusive situation and can’t relax enough to enjoy interacting with toys.
• There could be a health issue: Older pets might be experiencing canine cognitive dysfunction or have arthritis pain. Your dog may have a problem in their mouth, such as tooth decay or gum disease, that makes it uncomfortable to play with toys.
• The toys aren’t interesting enough: Dogs get bored quickly. To keep things interesting, toys need to be swapped out every day.

What to do for a dog that doesn’t like toys

According to animal behaviorist and dog trainer Kyle Kittleson, one of the main reasons that dogs aren’t interested in playing with toys is that they don’t find the toys motivating. Pay attention to what naturally motivates your dog, whether that’s roughhousing, treats, or playing chase, and choose toys that match those tendencies.

Dog toys break down into the following categories:

• Tug of war: Use rope toys or rubber rings, for example, the Tonka Tread Chew Tug.
• Chase and retrieve: Use balls or Frisbees, such as the ChuckIt! Paraflight Flyer.
• Hide and seek: Use toys with cavities for hiding treats, for example, the Kong Classic Dog Toy.
• Pounce and shake: Use squeaky toys to encourage this type of play, such as the popular Lamb Chop from Mulitpet.

Veterinarian Karen Becker advises using toys carefully to ensure your dog’s safety. Your pooch’s temperament, size, and age should all be considered when choosing the safest toys for your pet.

How can I get my dog to like toys?

Some dogs need to be taught to like their toys. Kittleson recommends positive reinforcement training using these steps:

1. Hold a toy in one hand and a treat in the other. Encourage your dog to touch the toy and once they do, get excited and give them a treat. Repeat this exercise until your dog is consistently touching the toy for a treat.
2. The next step is to put the toy on the floor and encourage your dog to touch it. As soon as they touch the toy, get excited and give them a treat.
3. If at any point your dog picks up the toy in their mouth, raise your excitement level and give them additional treats. The goal is that your dog learns that playing with their toy leads to a yummy reward. Eventually, your encouragement and time spent together will be enough to keep your dog engaged in playing and you won’t need to use treats.

Another easy way to teach your dog to play with toys is to encourage playtime before feeding them a meal, says Kittleson. In this case, dogs look forward to playing with their toys because it’s always followed by food.

Finally, if your dog does start to show interest in toys, be aware that their preferences may change depending on their age, say experts at the American Kennel Club. Teething puppies might enjoy biting down on rubbery chew toys while adults may prefer chasing Frisbees, and senior dogs might opt for softer plush toys. It’s such fun when you find a toy that gets your dog excited, and playing together is a great way to bond with your buddy.