All About Dogs - curated newsletter.

Information is crucial if you want a healthy, happy dog who is engaged in what is going on around him - and a pleasure to have around. All About Dogs is a weekly newsletter, but once a month a curated newsletter contains links to articles relevant to dog owners.??

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This week we look at five issues dog owners may struggle with:??

When is your dog overweight, and how can you prevent him from becoming obese? Dogs bark – but when it becomes an issue you must deal with it. How can a reactive dog be taught to calm down? When the puppy is no longer cute, you have to deal with the adolescent dog... And what you should know before you take your dog to a dog park.??

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The overweight Dog.?

An overweight or obese dog can develop health problems and die relatively young. However, Buddy the Labrador simply doesn’t know when he must stop eating! It's the dog owner’s responsibility to ensure that the dog remains at a healthy weight. Read about the risk factors of obesity and the ideal weight for your dog.?

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The Barking Dog.?

A dog’s bark is his way to communicate, warn, get attention, express pleasure or displeasure. But incessant barking – particularly if it’s for no discernable reason, can be a huge frustration for owners and neighbors. It's not an easy issue to deal with. Why does your dog bark? How can you stop or control it? Help is at hand!?

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The Reactive Dog?

A calm dog is easy to have around! Other dogs and people don’t upset her, she just goes her own way. But ... when a dog reacts (sometimes aggressively) to other dogs or people it can be a big problem, an embarrassment, and can curtail the dog’s movements. There are people who walk their dogs only late at night when there are no other dogs around. However, before it gets to that, there are ways you can socialize your rather ‘unsociable’ dog.???

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The Adolescent Dog.?

Yes, dogs also go through adolescence. when your dog becomes ‘naughty’ or unmanageable, she?needs understanding and patience. Unfortunately, adolescent dogs are often surrendered by their owners. Owners need help during this stage of the dog’s life.? Although positive reinforcement training is usually used, it is limited. Canine Cognitive Behavioral Training (CCBT) is gaining popularity and harnesses the cognitive skills of the dog. A qualified person can help your dog grow into the wonderful dog he was meant to be. Don't give up on him!??

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Dogs and Dog parks.?

A dog park can be a wonderful place to take your dog, particularly when there are few other open spaces where you can exercise and socialize him. But?when dogs of different ages and breeds get together it can lead to all kinds of issues. You and your dog’s safety, as well as that of other owners and dogs, are hugely important. Before you take your dog to a dog park, there are several things to know and keep in mind.??

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A happy, well-behaved, and healthy dog doesn’t just happen – it needs time, patience, involvement, and understanding. When your dog has an issue, it is best to get information to help you deal with it. Even find professional help, if necessary. Remember. it's a dog you’re dealing with and you’re his owner and the human that she looks up to.?

As a dog owner, are there specific issues you struggle with? Let us know in the comments.