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Top Tips on How to Stop your dog from stealing food

Written by woofdirect in Dog Behaviour,Tips

If your dog is stealing food from your plate or counter, you can do a few things to stop them, but first, we need to look into why your dog is behaving in this manner.

Why does my dog keep stealing food?

Before you can stop your dog’s food-stealing habits, you need to understand why they’re doing it in the first place.

There are a few reasons why dogs might steal food:

  • They’re hungry and looking for a meal
  • They want your attention and think that taking your food will get it
  • They’re curious and exploring their environment
  • They’re playing games and see food as a toy
  • They’ve been trained to beg or steal food from people

If your dog is stealing food because they’re actually hungry, you’ll need to increase their meals or feed them more often throughout the day. If they’re just looking for attention, try giving them more positive reinforcement when they behave.

How do I stop my dog from being obsessed with food?

If your dog is fixated on food and always seems to be begging or stealing, there are a few things you can do to help them:

1. Make sure they’re getting enough exercise: A tired dog is good. If your pup isn’t getting enough physical activity, they may start looking for ways to burn off energy – like begging for food or stealing it.

2. Distract them with toys and games: Keep your dog’s mind occupied with interactive toys and games. This will help them stay focused on something other than food.

3. Don’t feed them from the table: If you don’t want your dog begging for food, don’t give them any while you’re eating.

Why does my dog act like he’s starving all the time?

If your dog seems to be starving all the time, there could be a few reasons why:

1. They’re not getting enough food: Make sure you’re feeding your dog enough throughout the day. If they’re still acting like they’re starving, talk to your vet about increasing their meals or adding some supplements to their diet.

2. They have a medical condition: If your dog has a medical condition that causes them to feel hungry all the time, like diabetes or hypothyroidism, you’ll need to work with your vet to manage their condition.

3. They’re stressed: Dogs can also become stressed and anxious, leading to them feeling like they’re always hungry. If you think this might

How do I get my dog to stop stealing things?

If your dog is stealing things from around the house – like shoes, socks, or toys – there are a few things you can do to stop them:

1. Keep them busy with interactive toys: Interactive toys, like kong or puzzle feeders, will keep your dog’s mind occupied and help deter them from stealing.

2. Avoid leaving tempting items within reach: If you don’t want your dog stealing your things, make sure to keep them out of reach. Put away any clothes or shoes that might be tempting for your pup, and put away anything else that they could get their paws on.

3. Give them something else to chew on: If your dog is chewing on things because they’re bored or anxious

Should I punish my dog for stealing food?

There is no one right answer to this question, as different people and dog owners may have different opinions on whether it is appropriate to punish a dog for stealing food. Some people may believe that punishing a dog will help them learn not to steal, while others may feel that such actions can actually lead to increased anxiety and stress in the dog. Ultimately, the best course of action will depend on the individual situation and your own personal preferences. If you are struggling with a dog who steals food, it may be helpful to talk to a trainer or behaviour specialist for guidance.

How do I get my dog to stop stealing food from other dogs?

There are a few things you can do to discourage your dog from stealing food from other dogs, including:

1. Providing plenty of exercises and mental stimulation for your dog: A tired dog is less likely to engage in behaviour like stealing food from others.

2. Leashing your dog when around other dogs: If you take your dog out in public or around other dogs, it may be helpful to keep them on a leash so that they don’t have access to food sources belonging to other dogs.

3. Avoid feeding your dog too close to other dogs: Giving your dog their meals away from areas where there are lots of other dogs can also help prevent them from getting into trouble with their neighbours.

12 Ways How To Remain Safe & Calm Around Strange Or Aggressive Dogs

Written by woofdirect in Aggressive Dogs

1. Avoid quick movements or any motion that may startle the dog as it may instigate an attack.

2. Rather than jerking your arm away from a strange dog, stay calm and still while keeping eye contact with the dog until they back off or stop circling you. Keep your arms close to your sides to leave less area for them to target in case they move towards you.

3. If a strange dog approaches you, don’t panic or run away, as this will only incite their aggression further and make them more likely to attack. Instead, remain calm and avoid eye contact with the animal if possible so that they never feel threatened by you.

4. Keep aware of dogs that may be off their leash and approaching you, even if they don’t seem aggressive. It’s always best to err on the side of caution and keep your distance from any dog that isn’t under the direct supervision of its owner.

5. If a dog ever knocks you down, curl up into a ball with your hands over your head and neck to protect yourself as much as possible until the animal backs off or is pulled away by its owner.

6. Never try to pet or play with a dog you don’t know well, no matter how friendly they seem. Dogs can be unpredictable, and even the friendliest ones may bite if they feel threatened or scared.

7. If you are approached by a growling or barking dog, try to remain calm and slowly back away. If the dog charges at you and seems aggressive, call out for help as loudly as possible so that others can come to your aid.

8. If you encounter a stray dog that seems friendly, keep your distance and avoid making eye contact with the animal as this may make them feel threatened.

9. If several dogs ever surround you at once, try to remain calm and stay still while they sniff or circle around you. This will help to show them that you aren’t a threat and they should leave you alone.

10. Practice recognizing the signs of an aggressive dog before it becomes a problem – growling, baring teeth, barking excessively, or lunging towards people are all things to be wary of in case the dog is about to attack.

11. Never go near an injured animal without first consulting a professional for advice on what actions to take. Dogs in pain may be more aggressive than usual and could lash out if you approach them without caution.

13. Always be aware of your surroundings when walking or running, especially in areas where loose dogs may be roaming around. If you see a dog approaching you, make yourself as small as possible by crouching down and averting your gaze until the animal passes by.

Following these tips will help ensure that you remain safe and calm around strange or aggressive dogs. Remember, always err on the side of caution when interacting with animals you don’t know well, and never hesitate to call for help if you feel threatened.

How To Help Your Dog’s Storm Phobias

Written by woofdirect in Dog Anxiety

Many dogs that fear storm activity also fear other sharp percussive noises, such as gunfire, exploding balloons, or low-frequency sounds from a sound system capable of rattling the windows. These can be tested and used with a routine which involves a single hand clap, followed immediately by praise and the introduction of some toy or other stimulus the dog associated with happiness. Because storm noises originate outdoors, any attempts to simulate storm noises or different loud sounds should originate there.

These staged performances should be repeated until the dog acts happy in response to loud noises, without using the above routine. After this stage, it is still advisable to follow the same steps required for dogs that do not respond to staged percussion. If gunfire is used in these sessions, the shells used must be hand-loaded, low-powder blanks. The gun should be fired outdoors into thick, soft material, such as an old pillow. Only adults experienced with firearms should be involved. Also, neighbours should be forewarned of training sessions.

If the dog does not respond to attempts at recreating storm sounds, the solution becomes more complex, as one cannot conjure up storms at will. 

Be prepared scan the weather forecast

However, one can observe the weather forecasts and prepare at least 3-4 hours before a storm is due. This long lead time is necessary because many phobic dogs begin to show anxiety as falling barometric pressure indicates impending storms. In these situations, the training routine must be applied at the first sign of stress in the dog and then reapplied until the dog shows positive behaviour instead of the former anxiety, without any need for the routine.

Sedatives 

If the owner cannot be present to apply these procedures before and during storms, sedatives and tranquillizers may be used to reduce the dog’s anxiety. However, without behavioural therapy, such drugs have not been effective over the long term. 

Desensitizing With Sound and Light:

For years trainers have tried using recordings of thunder, coupled with flashing strobe lights, without success. Though several authorities have recommended playing low-level thunder recordings and gradually increasing the volume as the dog accommodates it, others in this field have not been successful with this technique. This is probably because of 2 factors unique to storms. First is the lack of barometric pressure changes. The second is the lack of the intense (to the dog) percussive effects of low-volume thunder recordings.

A Nipping/Biting Puppy And How To Prevent It

Written by woofdirect in Puppy,Training

If your puppy has a problem with nipping or biting, you can use some techniques that will change the behaviour and help prevent it. There are a couple of different ways to accomplish this, and it may take a little time and patience from you, but most dogs respond well once they’ve been taught what is expected of them.

One way to handle this issue is by teaching your puppy bite inhibition. This involves letting out a short yelp whenever he bites to tell him that his teeth hurt. Over time, he’ll learn not to nip because it hurts too much for you. Another technique is to redirect his attention onto something else when he tries to bite – such as giving him a chew toy – so that he learns that nipping isn’t acceptable.

With consistent training and patience, your puppy will eventually learn what is and isn’t appropriate behaviour. If he continues to struggle with nipping or biting, you may want to consult a professional trainer or behaviourist for additional help.

Puppy younger than 16 weeks

If your puppy is younger than 16 weeks and is constantly nipping, it’s normal behaviour – young puppies mouth a lot. They mouth when playing; they also mouth to communicate their needs. 

If your puppy starts mouthing, ask yourself these questions: 

  • Is he hungry or thirsty? 
  • Does he need to eliminate it? 
  • Is he sleepy? 
  • Does he need to play? 

Remember, puppies nip when they feel needy (like a baby cries). If your puppy does not let up, ask yourself if he wants something, like an outing, exercise, or a drink. The following things can help you control mouthing and nipping:

1. If your puppy does not need anything and he still will not quit, crate or isolate him with a favourite bone. Do not scold your puppy as you isolate her. Calmly place the puppy in her area.

2. Whenever your puppy licks you, say “Kisses” and praise her warmly. Encourage licking by slathering your hands with a frozen stick of butter.

3. Withhold your attention when your puppy nips softly. Keep your hand still; withdrawing your hand is an invitation to play and bite harder.

4. If your puppy starts biting down hard, turn quickly, say “Ep, Ep!” and glare into her eyes for two seconds; then go back to your routine. If she persists, try spritzing yourself with Bitter Apple or affix a leash onto your puppy so that you can tug the lead sharply to the side. If necessary, place her in a quiet area to cool off.

Puppy older than 16 weeks

If you have a puppy who still nips when he is older than 16 weeks, you need to start curbing it now. Although nipping will continue, you need to clarify that it is unacceptable. 

Following are a few tips to help you:

1. Stop all challenge games. These games teach dogs to clamp down hard on any object – a leash, the laundry, your shirt, or even your skin – and challenge. These games include wrestling, tug-of-war, chasing your dog around, and teasing. When you engage in these activities, you’re sending the wrong message.

2. Discourage all nipping, whether a bite on your arm or a nibble on your finger. Teeth do not belong on human skin, period.

3. Purchase a few weapons in defence, such as Mouth Spray, Bitter Apple spray, or a long-distance squirt gun. Never stare at your pup while you spritz or spray her; doing so turns an unpleasant result into an aggressive interaction.

4. Leave a leash on your puppy so you have something to direct her with and can avoid physical confrontation. If your dog’s not wearing the Teaching Lead, place a short lead onto her buckle collar.

5. If your puppy begins to mouth, turn to him, use a lead or collar to snap her head from your body, or spritz the region he is nipping with a spray. Do not glare at him; otherwise, he will perceive your actions as aggressive play.

Conclusion

If he continues to nip, ask yourself these questions: 

  • Do I look convincing? 
  • Am I snapping or pulling? (Pulling encourages play.) 
  • Is my dog taking me seriously? 
  •  You may need more training before you earn his respect.

When is the best time to feed puppies?

Written by woofdirect in Puppy,Feeding

Puppies should be fed three to four times a day until they are about six weeks old. After that, your puppy slowly transitions to two meals a day. Keep in mind that puppies have small stomachs and need to eat more frequently than adult dogs. Feels like a lot of work? It is worth it!

A regular feeding schedule will help your puppy develop good eating habits and prevent begging behaviour.

What time should I feed my puppy at night?

The best time to feed your puppy at night is an hour or two before bedtime. This will give them time to digest their food and avoid waking them up at the night.

Six to Twelve Weeks

Puppies need to be fed three to four times a day until they are about six weeks old. This is because they have small stomachs and need to eat more frequently than adult dogs.

Once your puppy reaches six weeks old, you can begin to transition them to two meals a day. 

Three to Six Months

Once your puppy is six months old, it can be transitioned to two meals a day. If you find that your puppy is still begging for food or acting ravenous between meals, you may need to continue feeding them three times a day.

Six to 12 Months

By the time your puppy is six to twelve months old, it should be eating two meals a day. If they are still begging for food or acting ravenous between meals, you may need to continue feeding them three times a day.

When should you switch from puppy to adult food?

The transition from puppy to adult food can be gradual or sudden, depending on the dog. Some dogs do well switching suddenly, while others do better gradually transitioning over the course of a few weeks. If you are not sure how your dog will respond, it is best to transition them to avoid stomach upset slowly.

How much should you feed your puppy?

The amount you feed your puppy will depend on their age, activity level, and metabolism. Puppies typically eat 3-4 meals per day, while adult dogs typically eat 1-2 meals per day. The best way to determine how much to feed your puppy is to consult with your veterinarian. They can help you create a feeding schedule that will keep your puppy healthy and satisfied.

Regardless of when you choose to feed your puppy, it is important to be consistent with their feeding schedule and stick to the same routine each day. This will help them develop good eating habits and prevent begging behaviour. With time, patience, and proper nutrition, your puppy will grow into a happy

Conclusion

Puppies should be fed three to four times a day until they are about six weeks old. After that, they can be slowly transitioned to two meals a day. The best time to feed your puppy at night is an hour or two before bedtime. This will give them time to digest their food and avoid waking you up in the middle of the night.

As your puppy grows and matures, their diet and feeding schedule will likely change as well. Over the course of their first year, you may need to transition from three meals a day to two meals a day, or from one large meal per day to two smaller meals. In general, it is best to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet and feeding schedule for your puppy. With time, consistency, and proper nutrition, your puppy will develop into a happy and healthy adult dog!

Over 100 French bulldog names: lovely and elegant dog ideas

Written by woofdirect in Dog Names

If you love French Bulldogs, you’re not alone! Frenchies are the most popular dogs in Los Angeles, San Francisco and New York. These stocky puppies are excellent companions for individuals and families and are extremely affectionate and sociable. They will keep you alert with your playful personalities. But no matter where you live, your dog deserves a unique name.

Choosing a name is not always easy, in fact, sometimes it seems that there is more pressure to choose the right one than to raise a dog! Remember that you have our help and your puppy will love whatever you choose. If you’re still finding it difficult to decide – we have some tips below to help you figure out the perfect name! In addition, there will always be cute nicknames that most of us end up using in place of our original choice anyway! But where do you start?

That’s where this list comes in! Read on to find more than 100 French Bulldog names, ranging from cute to funny and famous. Whether your Frenchman is a boy or a girl, we help you.

French Female Bulldog Names

Penelope

Holly

Rosie

Anna

Moon

Caroline

Hazel

Corinne

Claire

Daniele

Betsy

Soul

Maggie

Pearl

Chelsea

Piper

Clementine

Cent

Paula

Izzy

Eloise

Sophie

Bridget

Brie

Coconut

Fiona

Marie

Cleo

Susan

Alice

June

Beatriz

Sam

Men’s French Bulldog Names

Pierre

Louie

Ernest

Giles

Charlie

Gaston

Jack

Henry

Gus

Lawrence

Rocky

Alfie

Simon

Wolfgang

James

Marley

Companion

Dexter

Preston

Stitch

Gizmo

Cooper

Bentley

Frankie

Maximus

Fitz

Fergus

Oscar

Jasper

Bruno

Andrew

Kirby

Of

To torture

Charles

Ernie

Leopold

Companion

Brody

Hugo

Ace

Others

George

Winston

Mercury

Sinclair

Damian

Silver

Graham

Otis

Corky

Chewie

Cute names of French bulldogs

With their soft little bodies and mischievous smiles, we know that all French Bulldogs are cute. Combining them with a name as adorable as they are may be the option you are looking for!

Cup of tea

Duchess

Peanut

Side

Blue

Lolly

Raspberry

Poppie

Bunny boy

Beautiful

Squash

Teddy bear

Cookie

Sweetness

Romeo

Daisy

Lightning flash

Boyfriends

Stitch

Fritter

Darling

Spitz

Taffy

Peach

Funny names of French bulldog

Nothing compares to adding a little humour to your dog’s name! This will make you smile even more every time you call him. If you suspect a funny name as an official nickname, maybe one of the following names is suitable as your nickname, you call it only when there are no other people around.

Spock

Helmet

Brutus

Picasso

Fonzie

Moose

Kittens

Cheese

Thor

Dijon

Yoda

Skinflint

Pluto

Petunia

To bear

Grapefruit

Jupiter

Squirt

Famous names of French bulldogs

French people are especially popular among celebrities. Here are some of the best known French Bulldogs (and their famous owners):

Asia, Koji and Gustavo

Lady Gaga has three French Bulldogs – and they are all famous on Instagram.

Peaches.

Hilary Duff’s adorable Frenchie has an equally adorable name. In addition, Peaches is the sister of Hilary’s late French Bulldog Beau.

Hobbs

The Rock, also known as Dwayne Johnson, has a French sweet named Hobbs. Tragically, Hobbs’ brother, a Frenchman named Brutus, died after eating a poisonous mushroom.

Brulee Cream and Bête Noire

Martha Stewart’s French have properly French names. One of them is particularly intelligent: Bête Noire means implication!

Pepper

Reese Witherspoon is not just a fan of French Bulldogs. Along with her Frenchie, Pepper, she has a Bulldog named Lou and a Labrador named Hank.

From there

Hugh Jackman named his Frenchman in honour of his son’s favourite artist, Salvador Dalí!

Finding the right name for your French bulldog

With so many excellent options, we hope you found a name as special as French Bulldog. Whether your dog is stylish, cute or goofy, he deserves the perfect name. Therefore, take the time before choosing the definitive name of the French Bulldog for your loyal and adorable dog. And if you can’t decide, why not give your Frenchman the name of a famous dog?

Useful tips for choosing a good name:

If you love more than one name on our list or discover that there is none catching your attention, we have three important tips that will help you narrow your search:

Keep names of one or two syllables. This will not only help in your training, because your puppy will understand the name faster, but will also sound great. Although Princess McPebble may be a very beautiful formal name, it is a little complicated and can even confuse her puppy. We suggest you reduce it to Pebble!

Test the name in different colours. You will want to choose a name that works for all facets of your puppies’ lives. It should be severe for when your puppy needs to be corrected, but cosy and warm because he is being a good boy or girl! Dash and Rose are excellent names that clearly distinguish tones.

Stay away from names that can be confused with commands. Choosing a name that closely resembles sitting or coming can be incredibly confusing for your puppy. Above all, avoid words that sound like walking, because your puppy will be eager to take a walk every time you call his name.