Give the Dog a Bone…

A bone is and always will be a special treat in your dog’s eyes. They love bones, big beef bones. You can pick them up at the grocery store when you do your grocery shopping.

Not only does your pet feel extra loved, but the bonus is that while he is chewing and gnawing on the bone, his teeth are getting pearly white.

There are a few precautions to take to ensure that only enjoyment comes from this treat and not a trip to the vet’s office.

Safe bones for your dog:

• Edible bones: hollow, non-weight bearing bones of birds that is soft and pliable. They do not contain marrow and can be crushed in a meat grinder
• Recreational Bones: big chucks of beef or bison femur or hip bone filled with marrow.

Bone Safety:

• Feed them the bone in their crate, outside, or somewhere the bone will not make a mess
• Supervise your pet while he is working on the bone
•  Separate dogs in a multi-dog home

Avoid giving bones to dogs that…

• Have had dental work done (restorative)
• Are susceptible to pancreatitis
• Could possibly attempt to swallow hole
• May be able to bite it in half

When you give your dog a bone, LEAVE HIM ALONE!

Dogs can get very possessive about their bones. Bones are one of those things that will make a dog growl when you try and take it away from him. Bones are a very special treat and your dog wants to enjoy that treat in a relaxing place where he can truly enjoy it.

Possible Dangers include

•  Broken teeth
•  Mouth or tongue injury
• Gets stuck in dogs esophagus, windpipe, or intestine
• Peritonitis
• Constipation due to bone fragments

Good Dog!

Sit, Stay, Laydown…Good dog!

• A well trained dog does not bother your guests.
• A well trained dog does not come when called.
• A well trained dog does not pull the leash. 
• A well trained dog does not jump on people.
• A well trained dog does not beg at the table.
• A well trained dog does listen to commands when given.
• A well trained dog does go to their spot and chill out.
• A well trained dog does walk on a loose leash.
• A well trained dog does welcome guests without harassing.

An untrained dog has less privileges and interactions with your family. When friends come over to visit, your dog is ushered into his cage or another room to avoid jumping. When the family is having dinner, back to the cage he is sent to avoid begging.  He is only allowed off leash in the backyard, anywhere else he will run and you will have to chase him down.

Dogs are social animals. They love to interact with their family members on a regular basis. Depriving your dog of regular family time is one of the cruelest forms of punishment. Spending quality time with your dog training him to be the beloved family member you brought him home to be is best for the family.

Remember sit, stay, and down are the building blocks for a well-trained dog!