Paws Up Blog

If every meal you feed your dog uses one of these you’re more likely to have a dog that doesn’t get bored, and of course I’m talking about snuffle mats and enrichment bowls Both snuffle mats and enrichment bowls mimic a dogs natural foraging instincts- which reduces their stress. When a dog doesn’t have anything to do, they get into "stuff". The longer you can keep your dog eating, the less time he has to get into your trash can. They also forces your dog to eat slower, which means less risk of choking, bloat, or digestive issues. Snuffle Mats...

 Do you think that all dog enrichment involves food? While food enrichment is one of the most well known kinds of dog enrichment, there are many ways to enhance the life of your dog without food. First, let’s talk about what enrichment is at its core. It’s a way to increase your dog’s quality of life, by providing stimulating experiences that in essence replicate the experiences they crave instinctually- But what does that MEAN?!? We all know that dogs evolved from wolves and instinctual behaviors like digging, guarding, sniffing, denning, burying things, and rolling in gross things- (ask me about...

If you ever feel guilty about leaving your dog home alone, you are not alone.  I used to feel this way all the time- and Lulu goes most places with me. I would see on the cameras that she would sit by the door waiting for me, and it made me sad. Sometimes she would even get into stuff like the trash and would shred toys. It was clear she was bored, which made me feel even worse. First, remember that dogs live in the moment, and while it’s normal to feel guilty, there are a few quick things you...

Have you ever wondered when it’s time to bring enrichment indoors for your favorite small dog? There are many reasons to bring enrichment indoors- but mainly Challenges from Big Dogs If you have a small dog, you know they face certain challenges that larger dogs don’t- they are more susceptible to injuries from big dogs. They can feel intimidated or threatened by them and playing with bigger dogs can lead to frustration. Sometimes, it truly feels like a big dog world! Bringing enrichment indoors makes a space for super tiny dogs, older dogs, or our shier friends to really explore their...

Dogs lick to show love and care to their people, and often do so to get your attention. When you reciprocate it with petting or other positive affirmations, it reinforces the bond they are trying to create. It releases endorphins which are neurotransmitters that calm dogs down and make them more relaxed- and this, in turn, releases dopamine, which is associated with pleasure.  Essentially your dog emotionally feels better after licking! Licking also enhances a dogs sense of smell, and when you sweat, you emit lots of things dogs love to smell and taste- hence why they love licking your...

Let’s talk about six gifts you can order TODAY for your favorite tiny dog- and I know we all want to support small businesses whenever we can, so you can feel good while you’re pampering your dog. Petique- Dog Strollers For Everyone! Petique makes strollers for dogs of ALL sizes and trust me, you want a high quality stroller with your dogs comfort in mind. Your tiny dog will be able stay out enjoying the world for far longer and it gives them a place to rest when they get tired. Their strollers are designed to be stable, and they...