Showing posts with label dog training. Show all posts
Showing posts with label dog training. Show all posts

March 25, 2023

To Crate Train or Not to Crate Train Your New Boston Terrier Puppy

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To crate train or not to crate train

Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting and joyful experience. But with that excitement comes a lot of responsibility, including the decision of whether to crate train your new furry friend.

Crate training is a popular method of house training puppies that involves using a crate or cage as a safe space for your puppy to rest and sleep. The idea behind crate training is to teach your puppy that their crate is their own personal space, a place where they feel safe and secure.

But is crate training the right choice for your puppy? Let's explore the pros and cons of crate training to help you make an informed decision.

Pros of Crate Training:

  • Provides a safe and secure space for your puppy to rest and sleep.
  • Helps with potty training by encouraging your puppy to hold their bladder and bowel movements until they are let out of the crate.
  • Helps prevent destructive behavior and keeps your puppy from getting into things they shouldn't be.

Cons of Crate Training:

  • Some people think using a crate is cruel and restricts the dog's freedom.
  • If not done properly, crate training can lead to anxiety and fear in your puppy.
  • It can be difficult to properly time how long your puppy stays in the crate.

If you do decide to crate-train your puppy, it is important to do so properly. Here are some tips for successful crate training:

  • Introduce your puppy to the crate slowly, allowing them to explore it on their own terms.
  • Make the crate comfortable and inviting with a soft bed, toys, and treats.
  • Gradually increase the amount of time your puppy spends in the crate, starting with short intervals and working up to more extended periods.
  • Never use the crate as punishment or for extended periods of time.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to crate-train your new puppy is up to you. It is important to consider your lifestyle, your puppy's personality, and your goals for training before making a decision. With proper training and patience, crate training can be a positive experience for both you and your furry companion.

As breeders of Boston Terriers, we have found that crates work best for us and our lifestyles. The moment a new puppy comes home we start introducing them to their crate. We start out with smaller crates and work out way up to bigger sizes. We also utilize travel crates for safe travel.

If you have decided to utilize a crate when you bring your puppy home we have found that it's best to put them in a travel crate and set it next to your bed at night. They need to smell you and hear you. I have found that if they wake up in the middle of the night it's also easier to take them out immediately or place your fingers inside the crate to help calm them. Most of the time they are just lonely at night and placing your fingers in the grate of the cage is enough to get them to settle down and stop crying.


Is it Safe to Let Your Dog Lick You? Exploring the Benefits and Risks of Dog Saliva

Is it Safe to Let Your Dog Lick You?



Dogs are man's best friend, and they have been a faithful companion for humans for thousands of years. Many dog owners share a close bond with their furry friend, and they may not think twice about letting their dog lick them. However, there has been much debate around whether it is safe to let your dog lick you, with concerns over hygiene, health, and safety. In this article, we will explore the benefits and risks of dog saliva, and whether it is safe to let your dog lick you.

What's in Dog Saliva?

Dog saliva contains a variety of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, some of which can be harmful to humans. Dogs can pick up these microorganisms from their environment, other animals, or through their own saliva. However, it's important to note that not all bacteria are harmful, and some can even be beneficial to human health.

The Benefits of Dog Saliva

While it may seem unhygienic to let your dog lick you, there are some benefits to dog saliva. For example, dog saliva contains enzymes that can help heal wounds and promote skin health. Additionally, some studies have suggested that exposure to dogs and their bacteria can help strengthen the immune system and reduce the risk of allergies and asthma.

The Risks of Dog Saliva

While there are some benefits to dog saliva, there are also risks to consider. One of the main concerns is the transmission of diseases, such as rabies, Lyme disease, and salmonella. In addition, some dogs may carry harmful bacteria in their mouth, such as staphylococcus or MRSA, which can be transmitted through open wounds or mucous membranes.

Factors to Consider

The safety of letting your dog lick you depends on several factors, including your dog's health, your own health, and the context in which the licking occurs. For example, if your dog is up to date on their vaccinations and is not showing any signs of illness, the risk of disease transmission is lower. Similarly, if you have a healthy immune system and no open wounds or cuts, the risk of infection is lower.

Tips for Safe Dog Licking

If you decide to let your dog lick you, there are some precautions you can take to reduce the risk of disease transmission. These include:

  • Washing your hands and any areas that have been licked by your dog
  • Avoiding contact with your dog's saliva if you have open wounds or cuts
  • Training your dog not to lick your face or mouth
  • Regularly cleaning your dog's teeth and gums to reduce the risk of harmful bacteria buildup

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are both benefits and risks to letting your dog lick you. While dog saliva can have some health benefits, there is also a risk of disease transmission and infection. Ultimately, the decision to let your dog lick you is a personal one, and it's important to consider the risks and take precautions to ensure your safety and the safety of your dog.

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One Pup Left!

As of today, August 25, 2024, we have one pup left, a male who we call, Moon. Isn't he cute? He is affectionate, healthy, and playful.  ...