One day we left the door to our lounge open when we went out for an hour and came home to a scene of destruction. The dog had now just destroyed the Christmas tree, but also ripped up all the wrapped presents underneath it. 

We will never make that mistake again. 

But aside from making sure you keep the door closed so your dog cannot get into your lounge, they are other ways you can protect a Christmas tree from a dog. Here’s what you need to do to make sure you can protect your Christmas tree from the dog.

How to keep dog away from a Christmas tree

As with anything like this, prevention is key. We found that by taking a few simple precautions, we avoided the destruction of our Christmas tree in subsequent years. It certainly made for a less stressful festive season from that point on!

With that in mind, the first thing to do is to put things around the Christmas tree to keep pets away.

1. Fit a pet or baby gate to the door

The first thing I did was use a baby gate, it’s by far the easiest ways to keep a dog away from your Christmas tree. You can buy them on Amazon. 

As you can imagine, this will limit your dog’s access to the room where you have your Christmas tree and stop them destroying the tree and any presents underneath it. It also means you don’t have to have doors in your home completely shut over Christmas, and your dog isn’t completely banned from the family festivities.

Here’s how it worked to keep our dogs away from our Christmas tree.

2. Create an alternative barrier

If you don’t want to exclude your dog from the room during Christmas, then perhaps consider creating a physical barrier around the Christmas tree. You can do with a variety of methods including the baby gates I mentioned before, cardboard boxes, or even a kid’s playpen. 

My friend used a playpen barrier (view on Amazon) to protect their Christmas tree from the dog and it worked well for them, but as you can imagine, did look a bit weird. Perhaps it’s the best method for smaller dogs when you aren’t there to supervise their access to the tree.

Depending on how big your room is, it could provide a large enough area for your dog to still move around in, but should act to keep them far enough to stop them from destroying the Christmas tree.

3. Use a spray deterrent

Spray deterrents will stop some dogs from destroying Christmas trees, but not all as some seem to completely ignore the smell. But it’s worth a try if you don’t want to use a physical barrier. There are many different pet-safe sprays on Amazon that are designed to keep dogs away from certain areas. 

I read a blog post by someone who had tried it with great success, but my suspicion is that it could be hit and miss. 

Online comments suggest that a citrus-scented spray works well for some people. Dogs are said to dislike the smell of citrus, so it could be an effective way to discourage dog from getting too close to Christmas tree.

I like the smell of citrus, so might be quite a nice scent to have in your home over the festive period!

Dogs love to chew things that they shouldn’t, and Christmas trees are no exception. If the physical barrier suggestions don’t work, or you don’t want to use them, then I suggest working on the actual tree itself – here are more tips for protecting a Christmas tree from a dog. 

4. Covering the tree’s base

Your dog might want to get at the bark at the base of the Christmas tree, so cover it over with a tree skirt or other decorative covering. This might then discourage your dog from chewing on the tree’s bark or drinking water in the stand. 

Electrical wires can also be very hazardous, so make sure to secure or put wires and cords out of reach. You need to stop your dog from chewing on them and causing a potential fire hazard. 

5. Securing the Christmas tree stand

You might try everything you can to keep your dog from destroying the Christmas tree, but they may still get to it when your back is turned. There’s always this risk, so to stop the tree from falling and being chewed further, secure and anchor it in the stand. Bigger dogs can easily knock over a Christmas tree if it’s not properly secured. 

The best tree stand will have a wide base and can be filled with water or sand to weigh it down. Water is best, as it will keep the tree hydrated and healthy throughout the festive season. You might also want to consider securing the tree to the wall or ceiling with fishing line or wire for added stability.

Another thing to consider is effective training. Whether you have time to train your dog to not get at the Christmas tree, or rip up the presents is another matter, but if you have the lead-time, it’s the best way to protect the tree.

Here’s what you can do.

6. Training your dog to obey commands

For full disclosure, a lot of the time, my dog doesn’t listen to me, especially once he has that look in his eye which tells me it’s “fun time”. But if your pet is better behaved and more receptive than mine, then training your dog is the best way to keep your Christmas tree safe as you don’t need to buy anything or put barriers in place. 

Start by teaching your dog the most basic commands such as “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it.” These commands can be used to keep your dog away from the Christmas tree and prevent hopefully stop them from chewing on ornaments, branches, or tearing wrapping paper off presents.

As with any form of dog training, positive reinforcement is key. 

When your dog obeys a command or behaves well around the tree, reward them with a treat or praise. This will reinforce good behavior and encourage your dog to continue behaving well.

Hopefully!

And lastly, you can help prevent damage to your tree at Christmas by how to choose a tree in the first place. Here are my tips… 

7. Prevent damage by choosing the right Christmas tree 

When you choose your Christmas tree, think about how the tree might cope with your dog’s unwanted attention. A tree with sturdy branches that can hold ornaments and decorations without easily breaking off will be best… obviously.

But more importantly, think about the size of your tree in relation to your dog’s size. If you have a larger dog, a smaller tree will be easier to tip over. 

The bottom line is this… no method is fool proof, and you may need to try a combination of these methods to keep your dog away from damaging your Christmas tree. 

Before you go, I’d also like to explain why dogs and Christmas trees aren’t the best combination. Understanding these reasons will further help you protect the tree. 

Why dogs and Christmas trees aren’t great together 

I’ve found that there are many reasons why having a dog and a Christmas tree in the same room are more likely than not going to end badly.

Firstly, dogs are naturally curious, and a Christmas tree is full of shiny objects and interesting smells. It’s no wonder that your dog can’t stop themselves from exploring the tree and all its decorations. 

Unfortunately, this can lead to broken ornaments, tangled lights, and even toppled trees. In the worst case scenario, your dog might get hurt, and not just from a tree falling over.

Christmas tree decorations can be very dangerous. Some have sharp pieces when broken, and tinsel can also cause serious digestive issues if swallowed (which hopefully will pass through their system). Similarly, ornaments made of glass or other fragile materials can cut a dog’s paws.

The tree could also damage your home. If your dog does manage to knock it over, it might damage to furniture, walls, and other objects – and damage the presents underneath.

Can you have a Christmas tree with a dog?

Of course, you can but as a dog owner myself, I know just how curious and mischievous dogs can be, especially around the festive period when there’s so much excitement to be had. One of the biggest challenges is protecting our Christmas trees from our beloved pets so I hope my tips have been useful to you.

You might also like…

• How much chocolate can harm a dog
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Dogs eat underwear for a variety of reasons. They are not discerning with respect to food, some are greedy, and others practice this behaviour as a step up the social ladder. The mischievous ones think it is a game and a source of endless amusement. 

Besides the indignation and the loss of valuable lingerie, eating underwear does not indicate that your dog has a medical problem However, it can present a real danger to your pet. Most times it is ejected from its body but there is the possibility it could cause a blockage which calls for urgent medical intervention.  

Dogs’ culinary habits including eating underwear and socks

“The dog ate my homework” is a universally acceptable excuse. It is feasible that your dog could eat a paper exercise, an art project, and increasingly in modern times, a memory stick. 

The Veterinary Practice News runs the annual ‘They Ate What?!’ x-ray competition. The subjects of these x-rays have eaten panties, bikini tops, hair clips and telephone cords, and much more. In one year, the runner-up ate 43 socks.  

Dogs eating underwear does not appear to be a challenge to most of them, and some only have a problem when they have consumed half a laundry basket or a pair of extra-large bloomers. 

Dogs will take your undergarments and socks off the floor, steal them from the washing line, and even out of your drawers. Your detergent is not as much of a deterrent as you would hope.  

Reasons why dogs eat underwear and socks

1. Dogs, especially pups, like chewing fabric

We buy our pets stuffed toys and watch with amusement, as they tear them apart. This behaviour easily transfers to underwear. Your pet will be particularly drawn to the elastic because it is chewy. 

2. Your dog may be hungry

Some dogs have endless appetites. They will consume anything that will temporarily quell the gnawing hunger pangs in their gut. 

3. They have a taste for underwear

As demonstrated by the sock thief mentioned above, some dogs acquire a taste for a certain delicacy and will indulge themselves at every opportunity. 

Fortunately, this laundry cycles effortlessly through most dogs without incident but one poor canine needed surgery to remove eight pairs of panties from its stomach. It is not known whether these were consumed in one sitting, or over a period of time. 

4. Many dogs routinely eat bodily waste

They will eat their own and others’ poop, seemingly with relish. Not to be indelicate but after 24 hours or more on your nether regions, your underpants assume more than a whiff of human waste. This is like caviar to your dog. 

5. Perhaps your dog thinks it is protecting you

In the wild, healthy wolves and dogs will clean up after the young and the sick in their pack. This practice eliminates any odours that will lead predators to the vulnerable animals in the den. 

6. Dogs are primarily carnivorous hunter gatherers

If your underwear has traces of blood, it will trigger their primeval instincts, and they will devour it or lick at it. This is particularly true of panties worn during a menstrual cycle. 

Scavengers will dig a meat wrapper and tampons out of the garbage with equal relish. The latter are dangerous as they absorb moisture and will swell inside your dog’s digestive system. The foreign object will most likely need to be removed by a vet.    

7. Dogs perceive the world through their noses

Humans have about 50 million olfactory sensors in their nostrils, while dogs have six times as many. The part of their brain that is dedicated to the sense of smell is 40 times larger than ours. 

Human bras, bikinis and boxer shorts host a smorgasbord of tastes and smells. They are worn near our glands which constantly emit hormones, pheromones, and other secretions. For a dog, sniffing them is like attending a banquet or reading a dictionary. 

8. Because they smell of you, your underwear is of great value to your dog

By eating them, dogs identifying with their owners. By their way of thinking, this consumption elevates their status.   

9. For similar reasons, your dog will want to smell like you

They will seemingly play with their find, toss it up in the air, and roll in it. You have a high position in the pack hierarchy and by smelling like you, they will rise through the ranks. 

If you have more than one dog, they may devise a game of mutual amusement, with the undergarment as the trophy.  

10. Because you made it a fun game

If, even once, you have participated in this game by trying to retrieve your underwear, by chasing excitedly after your dog, you have a problem. You have increased the value of the prize. Your dog will repeat this behaviour every time it has the opportunity and will taunt you with them. 

11. Your pet may seek out your underwear because it misses you

And wants to be near something that reminds them of you. This does not prevent them from devouring the object of their affection. 

What happens if your dog eats underwear 

The consequences of their actions, depend on the size of the dog involved, and the size of the knickers swallowed. Evidence has shown that some dogs only have problems when they have consumed a drawer full.   

Underwear is not generally made of food grade fabric so there could be four possible outcomes. 

1. The garment will come out the front end. Often your dog will have to regurgitate or vomit out a foreign object. Hopefully, this is a case. If not you should try to help the dog by inducing vomiting. 
2. If the offending article does not get ejected immediately, you will have to wait 2-3 days to see if it emerges out the back end of the dog. In many cases, it will come out whole as the fabric is not digestible.  
3. Your dog could experience a partial blockage of its digestive system. Gas and small amounts of waste will be excreted. This condition could cause vomiting or diarrhea. If the condition persists, your dog will need medical attention. 
4. Your dog is in trouble if it has a solid blockage. It will show one or more of a range of symptoms, including repetitive vomiting, bloating, dehydration and obvious signs of pain. Also look for signs of lethargy and obvious weakness. Your dog will need to see a vet urgently. 

How to stop your dog from eating your underwear

Do not leave clothes lying on the floor or anywhere that your dog can get hold of it. Train all the people in your household, old enough to be compliant, to do the same. 

Some dogs have a penchant for clean underwear. Make sure you guard it while it is drying and in the ‘to be folded’ basket.  

If your dog is left alone for any length of time, and has separation anxiety, leave it with something that smells like you. This will comfort your dog and lessen your clothing bill.

Ensure that your dog has enough to eat. If it is not easily satisfied, have it checked for parasites or metabolic problems.    

Give your dog’s toys and games to occupy them mentally so that they do not go looking for trouble, or what they would call entertainment. 

Exercise your dog regularly so that it does not look for unsavoury outlets for its excess energy. 

If your dog does seize your underwear, react calmly, and issue a stern ‘GIVE IT’ or ‘DROP IT!’ command. Under no circumstances make a game of it. Do not pursue the dog or dogs. 

If the deed has already been done, you need to induce vomiting. Learn how to do so before your intervention is needed. 

You might also like…

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So, why does your dog yawn when you cuddle or pet them? 

Most of the time, yawning when being petted or cuddled is a dog’s way of communicating. If your dog often yawns whenever you pet or cuddle them, it could mean many things: they are overexcited, tired, confused, stressed out, relaxed, or uncomfortable, among other reasons.

There’s more you need to know. Continue reading as I take you through all the possible reasons behind your dog’s yawning habit during a petting or cuddling session. 

Dog yawning explained: 8 surprising reasons why your dog yawns when you pet or cuddle them

As a dog owner, you’ll agree that nothing quite beats the feeling of cuddling with your dog or showing them affection by petting them.

And even during these intimate moments, our dogs still manage to pull odd surprises — like letting out a loud yawn suddenly.

If you often experience this with your dog, you’re not alone. A lot of dog parents are far too familiar with that awkward moment when their dog randomly yawns while being petted or cuddled. It’s a common dog behavior since dogs can’t speak to tell us what they feel.

Yawning is one of the few ways that dogs verbalize their thoughts. 

Why does my dog yawn when I cuddle him?

So, if your dog yawns when you pet or cuddle them, they are trying to tell you something. The big question is, what exactly? Let’s see:

1. Your dog is excited

Yawning when excited is unheard of in the human world. To us, yawning is associated with the not–so–pleasant reasons — hunger, boredom, and fatigue.

But in the dog world, things are different. Yawning due to excitement is a real thing. 

Nothing matters more to your dog than spending quality time with their favorite human — you! It makes them super excited because they know they have your full attention.

So when you pet or cuddle your dog, and they yawn, it could simply be because they’re excited.  

They’re basically saying, “I’m happy to be right next to you, only that that I can’t jump in excitement since this a chilled moment!” 

And so you know, petting a dog triggers their brain to release the “happiness hormone”, oxytocin, the same hormone that flood’s a mother dog and newborn puppy’s body during breastfeeding (it strengthens the mother-puppy bond). 

2. They love how relaxing the petting or cuddling feels

When you get cozy with your dog or stroke them in their favorite spots, this puts them in a relaxed state of mind. Your dog may yawn to indicate that whatever you’re doing is calming, and they wouldn’t have it any other way. 

Besides the yawning, you might notice your dog gently closing their eyes and panting softly.

3. They are stressed out

If your dog had a stressful experience right before you started to pet or cuddle with them, it’s likely that they will still be in an anxious state of mind throughout the petting or cuddling session.

Dogs tend to yawn when stressed. And often, this stress-triggered yawn is accompanied by signs like excessive lip licking, wide eyes, flattened ears, and drooling.  

Stress-triggered yawns in dogs are a bit prolonged and happen repeatedly.

Your dog’s stress could also be due to your petting style. Petting your dog vigorously can overstimulate them (the pleasure becomes unbearable), making them nervous. 

If you’re not gentle while petting or cuddling your dog, they may yawn out of nervousness.

4. Your dog is exhausted

Like humans, dogs sometimes yawn to indicate how tired they are. 

If your dog has had a long day running around, the yawns they let out as you stroke or cuddle with them may signal they are fatigued and want to switch to resting mode. 

The petting or cuddles creates the perfect mood for them to take the much-needed nap.

5. They are confused

Scolded your dog then went ahead to pet or cuddle them a few moments later? 

Your sudden change of heart will confuse your dog, which can make them yawn. It’s common for dogs to yawn when they are trying to make sense of something. 

In most cases, your dog’s “confusion yawn” will be followed by a slight head tilt — you’ll likely notice this if you’re petting your dog when they’re standing, facing you.

6. The petting or cuddling makes them uncomfortable

Yawning is sometimes a dog’s way of letting you know they want out of an uncomfortable situation.

While most dogs enjoy cuddling or being petted, some can only tolerate this affectionate gesture for a short while — especially if you aren’t doing it right.

If you’re petting your dog the wrong way — for instance, reaching for their face and petting them roughly — they could get quite uncomfortable and a little tense.  

Most dogs don’t enjoy being petted on the face since it feels like you’re hovering over them,  invading their personal space. 

If your dog isn’t too impressed with your petting style, they will probably yawn to say they’ve had enough and want you to back off. You might even see them duck their head and lick their lips to show you how uncomfortable they are.

The same goes for cuddling. As much as dogs agree to cuddle with us, it doesn’t mean they are glad to do it whenever we want. 

In other words, the desire to cuddle isn’t always mutual. It’s more like a sacrificed dog at times make to please us. 

Cuddling isn’t part of a dog’s natural love language. They know how to shower us with slobbery kisses since it comes naturally to them — but not cuddling. 

The main reason why most dogs dislike cuddles is because of how immobilized and confined they feel when you’ve got your arms wrapped tightly around them.

If your dog isn’t feeling the cuddling session, they may yawn a few times to signal you to stop.

7. You’ve yawned, so they yawn back

Ever heard of how contagious yawns are? That you’re likely to yawn if someone next to you yawns? 

As it turns out, this strange “contagious yawning” phenomenon doesn’t only apply to humans. Dogs can also yawn when another dog or human next to them yawns.

A 2013 study by a group of researchers from the University of Tokyo revealed that dogs are more likely to yawn when someone they’re emotionally bonded to also yawns.  

Another study by the university of Portugal involving about 29 dogs found that 12 out of these 29 dogs yawned when they listened to a recording of their owner yawning.  

Going by these two interesting studies, there’s no doubt that dogs can yawn in response to their owner’s yawn. If you’ve noticed your dog often yawns right after you do the same when petting or cuddling them, there’s a good chance it’s all a contagious yawn.

8. Your dog might be experiencing discomfort

In rare occasions, yawning in dogs could signal an underlying health condition. 

If you realize your dog is yawning excessively and even exhibiting symptoms like frequent burping and whimpering during the petting or cuddling session, they might be in pain.

It’s best to talk to your vet if you suspect your dog yawns too much when you pet or cuddle them and displays worrying symptoms while at it.

FAQs on canine yawning

Why does my dog lick his lips and yawn when I pet him?

As mentioned earlier, it could be that your dog is stressed about something or uncomfortable with how you are petting him.

Why does my dog yawn when we’re cuddling?

There are a couple of potential reasons why this happens. Your dog could be yawning because you’ve yawned (contagious yawning), they’re tired, uncomfortable, excited, confused, or feeling relaxed.  

You might also like…

• Why your dog like to sigh a lot
• Why dogs grind their teeth
• Why dogs like to eat your underwear

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Best mental stimulation toys for dogs

With so many options out there, we’ve rounded up the six best mental stimulation toys available, so you can discover the joy and relief of having a mentally stimulated dog:

1. Kong Classic Toy

The Kong classic (view on Amazon) is a very popular mental stimulation toy and for all the right reasons. This snowman-shaped rubber toy serves double duty: it acts as an entertaining treat-dispensing toy and a highly durable chew toy for aggressive chewers or dogs struggling with anxiety.

The Kong classic puts your dog’s mind to work as they figure out how to obtain every piece of the stuffed goodie. 

This toy has a hollow cavity where you simply stuff the dog treat, hand the Kong to your dog, and watch them get busy for hours on end! 

From peanut butter to canned dog food, mashed bananas, and plain pumpkin, the list of things you can use to fill up the Kong is endless. 

By the time your dog is done getting all that yummy stuff hidden in the Kong, they’ll be too mentally exhausted to cause a fracas.

In addition to its highly durable material, the Kong classic is also easy to clean. You can toss it in the dishwasher or handwash it by soaking it in hot, soapy water.   

Handy Hint: No mental stimulation toy — even the toughest ones like the Kong — is completely indestructible. Always keep an eye on your dog as they use the Kong classic (or any other mentally stimulating toy for dogs). They can choke if they ingest a detached piece of the toy.

Also, remember to replace the Kong when you notice any wear and tear. 

2. Hide-A-Squirrel Dog Puzzle Toy

Dogs love to tap on their preying instincts. The hide-a-squirrel puzzle toy (view on Amazon) is designed to awaken your dog’s natural hunting instincts. This mental stimulation toy for dogs comes as a soft tree trunk (with holes) together with small, squeaky, plush squirrels. 

You simply hide the squirrels in the trunk’s holes and throw the trunk to your dog — they will burrow their paw and gnaw at the stuffed squirrels until they finally retrieve them one by one! 

This toy can keep your dog engaged for hours as they try to solve the “missing squirrels” mystery. Talk of hours of mental enrichment! 

For extra motivation, you can toss in a few kibble pieces in the trunk so they can fall out as your dog tries to pull his newly found plush friends. 

The hide-a-squirrel-toy is available in different sizes. You can get your dog one that’s big or small enough for them.

3. Hide N’ Slide Puzzle Toy

Want a toy that will grab your dog’s attention for long and activate their dormant problem-solving skills? A hide n’ slide puzzle toy (view on Amazon) will do. This mental stimulation toy presents dogs with a certain level of difficulty — a fun one, of course.  

It’s suitable for any dog and is designed to make your dog figure out the secret behind the puzzle. Fitted with circular compartments to hide kibble and other tasty treats, your dog will have a blast each time they play with it.  

They will need to slide the tightly fitted knobs and twist the small doors to unlock the compartments and find the treat. This toy has a non-slip base, so it will remain in its position as your dog gets busy with it. 

Your dog may not immediately understand how the puzzle work, that’s why it’s often recommended to guide your dog as they use this hide n’ slide puzzle toy for the first time. But once they understand what they need to slide and twist, they will be hooked!

This toy has a “pure wood” look. But it’s made of a uniquely durable wood-plastic composite material. The hide n’ slide puzzle toy is also easy to clean — you simply hand wash it in warm, soapy water.

4. Wobble Bowl Treat Puzzle Toy

Another fantastic mental stimulation toy for dogs is the wobble bowl treat puzzle toy (view on Amazon). This toy, suitable for all dogs, is fitted with a maze-like feature inside. The treat pieces you scatter in the bowl will move along the maze. 

Your dog must push the bowl back and forth (with their paw or nose) until the treat falls through the dispensing holes on the sides. This sturdy puzzle toy has a non-slip rubber bottom to ensure it doesn’t skid off as your dog paws at it.  

The wobble bowl puzzle toy will keep your dog guessing which side the treat will fall from, when it will fall out and how to make it fall out much quicker— mental exercise couldn’t get any better!  

The transparent lid will motivate your dog to stay engaged and get all the treat pieces they see in the bowl. 

This puzzle toy is also easy to clean. You only need to hand wash it with warm, soapy water, let it air dry, and Tada! It will be ready for your dog’s next puzzle adventure!

5. Snuffle Mat

Dogs are naturally food-driven and will do anything to find a treat — even if it means spending hours sniffing and searching for pieces of kibble trapped in a mat. And that’s where the snuffle mat (view on Amazon) shines. Think of it as your dog’s treasure hunt mat. 

A snuffle mat is an interactive toy designed to mimic lush grass, which often awakens a dog’s foraging instincts. Your dog will burrow their snout on the snuffle mat like there’s no tomorrow!

It’s made of densely packed thick strands of soft-yet-durable material, between which you can hide tiny treat pieces. The fabric isn’t abrasive to a dog’s nose.

By encouraging your dog to keenly use their powerful sense of smell to sniff out the treat crumbles, this easy-to-use mat will keep your dog’s brain active for a while. 

Remember, your dog’s nose and brain work hand in hand to analyze scents. As your dog put’s their sniffing powers to use, this will tire them out mentally.  

The mat is machine washable. But it helps to air dry it afterwards to keep funny odors away and prolong it’s lifespan. It’s also easy to store the snuffle mat since all that’s needed is to fold it. 

Dog Brick Interactive Treat Puzzle Toy

The dog brick puzzle toy (view on Amazon) will bring out the genius side of your dog you never knew existed. It has several compartments where you can hide your dog’s treats for them to find. Your dog has to flip, slide or lift the lid in a particular compartment to get their treat reward. 

From the sound of it, you can already tell it’s a toy your dog will be glued to for a while as they put their problem-solving skills to use. 

It only takes a little guidance from you to help your dog master the basic idea of how to kickstart their treat-hunting mission on the dog brick toy.  

This highly entertaining puzzle toy is great for dogs of all ages, sizes, and abilities. It’s made of durable, food-safe plastic, easy to wash up, allows you to adjust the level of challenge, and can accommodate both wet and try treats. 

Final thought…

Are you among the many dog owners who believe you must physically tire out your beloved dog to enjoy peace at home? And by peace, I mean a dog who’s not running around chewing stuff, barking endlessly, digging unsightly holes in the yard, and all that crazy stuff? 

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but physical exercise alone doesn’t cut it.

If mental stimulation isn’t part of your dog’s daily routine just as physical activity is, chances are, you’ll witness their destructive side a little too often.

Mental stimulation helps a dog release pent-up energy. The icing on the cake? It sharpens their cognitive abilities and improves their mental health.

You might also like…

• How dogs can improve their owner’s mental health
• Why some dogs get hyper at night
• Why your dog is suddenly stealing your underwear

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Shih Tzu puppies, adults, and seniors have different development and nutritional needs. For this reason, it’s important to settle for the best dog foods ideal for your Shi Tzu’s age across their life span.

Shih Tzus are also prone to certain health problems, picky eating habits, sensitive stomachs, and food allergies, all of which can be avoided or managed through proper nutrition.

Given the wide range of dog foods available today, it can be difficult to decide which one’s the best dog food for your Shih Tzu. To help you out, I’ve narrowed down the most nutritious dog foods that will keep your Shih Tzu’s tail wagging for longer! 

8 of the Best dog foods for Shih Tzus

Be sure to consult with your vet before introducing your Shih Tzu to any dog food on this list.

1. Best dog food for an adult Shih Tzu in general

Your adult Shih Tzu needs a nutritionally balanced adult dog food specially formulated for small breeds like Shih Tzus. 

We recommend: Nutro Ultra Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food

This adult dry dog food is carefully made for small dog breeds. Its high protein content from three sources: chicken, salmon, and lamb. This will help strengthen your Shih Tzu’s muscles. 

It contains different healthy whole grains loaded with fatty acids to keep your Shih Tzu’s skin and coat healthy. 

This trusted dry dog food also has fruits and veggies packed with antioxidants and vitamins that work together to boost your Shih Tzu’s immune system, strengthen their vision, and improve their heart health.   

2. Best wet food for a Shih Tzu

There’s no better way to give your Shih Tzu a hydration boost and lure them into eating than feeding them wet food. The extra moisture, rich aroma, and appetite-stimulating taste of wet food make this type of food a worthy choice for your Shih Tzu. 

We recommend: Merrick’s lil’ Plates Small Breed Wet Dog Food

This grain-free wet food, free from artificial flavors and gluten ingredients like wheat, is formulated for complete nutrition. 

It features a savory gravy and chicken, turkey, or beef as the top ingredient to help your Shi Tzu build healthy muscle and boost their energy levels throughout the day.  

Merrick’s wet food is full of essential nutrients that promote overall health, probiotics that improve digestion, and a high number of fatty acids to keep your dog’s skin and hair healthy for the long term. 

3. Best dog food for a Shih Tzu Puppy

Puppyhood is a crucial stage of life for a Shih Tzu puppy as they have several development needs that can only be met through proper nutrition. 

A Shih Tzu puppy needs the right set of nutrients and ingredients that will work for their growing needs and delicate stomach, not against. 

We recommend: Blue Buffalo Formula Small Breed Dry Dog Food

This reputable puppy food is specially made for small-breed puppies. It has quality, digestible proteins that are easy on the stomach and will help your Shih Tzu puppy build strong muscle.  

It also contains essential vitamins and minerals like calcium to support healthy bones, teeth, and joint development in Shih Tzu puppies.

This puppy food contains arachidonic acid (ARA) and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), vital fatty acids found in a dog’s breast milk that promote healthy brain and eye development in puppies. 

These omega fatty acids will also keep your Shih Tzu’s skin healthy and coat luscious. The antioxidants in this food will protect your Shih Tzu puppy against sickness by supporting their immune system functioning.  

On top of all the nutritional value, your Shih Tzu puppy will find the kibble easy to munch and the flavor irresistible. 

4. Best dog food for an elderly and senior Shih Tzu

An elderly Shih Tzu must be on a diet specially crafted to address the unique nutritional needs of senior dogs. This will ensure they remain in their best health as they age.

We recommend: The Blue Buffalo life protection Formula Senior Small Breed Dog Food

Starting with chicken as the top ingredient, this senior dry dog food for small breeds is packed with high-quality proteins to help your senior Shi Tzu maintain a healthy muscle mass in their golden years. 

One of the most common problems that elderly dogs, including senior Shih Tzus, is the loss of muscle mass. 

The best dog food for senior Shi Tzus will be enhanced with garden veggies, antioxidant-rich fruits, and digestible grains. This offers your elderly Shi Tzu a balanced combination of essential vitamins and nutrients. 

It has chondroitin and glucosamine to boost your senior Shi Tzu’s joint health, taurine to strengthen their cardiovascular functions, and essential vitamins to improve their immunity.

It’s also loaded with L-carnitine, an amino acid that supports healthy metabolism, and probiotics to improve your senior Shih Tzu’s digestive health.  

5. Best dog food for a fussy Shih Tzu

Having a Shih Tzu that turns their nose away each time they get to the bowl can be frustratig. 

We recommend: Ollie Fresh Dog food

This is suitable for both adult Shih Tzus and puppies who are picky eaters. It’s a unique fresh wet food, available as a subscription-only meal plan for your dog, includes a combination of meat protein, nutritious veggies, and more nutrient-rich ingredients slow-cooked to retain flavor and texture. 

The pairing of various food items that have different textures and flavors makes the Ollie Fresh Food a fantastic choice for Shih Tzus who are picky eaters. 

Ollie’s high-quality recipe formulations are developed by veterinary nutritionists, so you’re sure your Shi Tzu will get the right nutrients from this delicious dog food. 

This freshly cooked food is customized according to your Shih Tzu’s age, weight, and other crucial factors.  

6. Best dog food for a Shih Tzu that needs to gain weight

If your Shih Tzu is struggling with low weight, they will need food high in protein and healthy fats to help them bulk up. 

We recommend: Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Dog Food

It’s formulated with a much higher amount of quality proteins and healthy fats.to ensure your dog only adds healthy weight. As always, make sure to chat with your vet before putting your Shi Tzu on a weight gain diet plan.  

7. Best dog food for a Shi Tzu with an upset stomach

It can be a worrying time if your Shih Tzu is experiencing an upset tummy or sensitive stomach. Fortunately, the right homemade diet can help ease the discomfort while providing them nutrition during this vulnerable period. 

We recommend: A bland homemade diet 

The best bland foods to give your sick Shih Tzu are mashed sweet potatoes, shredded chicken, plain pureed pumpkin, boiled plain white rice cooked into a mash, overcooked oatmeal, mashed bananas, and warm, unseasoned bone broth. 

These foods are easily digestible, soothe the digestive system, and contain ingredients that will restore your dog’s poop to a firm state (if they also have diarrhea).

8. Best dog food for a Shih Tzu with allergies

If your Shi Tzu suffers from allergies, it’s best to stick to a grain-free food with limited ingredients that still provides superior nutrition.  

We recommend: Blue Basics Limited-Ingredient Grain-Free

This grain-free dry dog food is specifically formulated for allergy-prone small dog breeds like your Shi Tzu. It’s made of only high-quality protein to minimize the likelihood of allergic reactions from different protein sources. 

It’s also crafted with a few simple but nutritious ingredients (eight in total, including the main ingredient, lamb meat). These carefully selected minimal ingredients lower the possibility of allergic reactions.  

The food doesn’t have fillers like soy protein, corn, wheat, or artificial preservatives and flavors that cause allergic reactions. It’s enhanced with antioxidants, omega fatty acids, and probiotics to support your Shi Tzu’s immune system, digestive health, and skin health. 

Plus, it has the perfect balance of proteins and digestible carbs to meet your Shih Tzu’s energy needs.

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Based on that, I wanted to explain what states it is illegal to dye your dog, and also some tips if you really feel you want to do it – but please don’t, I think it’s cruel. 

So, in what states is it illegal to dye your dog? 

Most states have no law on dog owners dyeing their dog’s fur and hair. Only a few states make it illegal to dye your dog. These include Florida, South Carolina, Maine, and Colorado. According to these states, dyeing a dog is a punishable offense as it’s an act of animal cruelty.

Keep reading as I tell you all about the anti-dyeing laws put in place by these states, including what punishment awaits you if you’re found guilty of dyeing your dog.

Dye them not: Why it’s illegal to dye your dog in these states 

I’ve seen it all. 

Some rocking bright rainbow colors on their fur. Others hot pink or purple. Then there are those uniquely groomed and dyed to look like certain wild animals or popular TV characters (hey there, Pikachu!)

We all view our dogs as special creatures who deserve to be pampered in whichever ways we see fit. After all, we own them. 

From dressing them in ridiculous costumes to switching up their basic appearance with an eye-catchy dye, any adventurous dog parent would want their dog to stand out from the crowd.

Not all dog parents dye their dogs to make a striking fashion statement, though. 

Some do it purely for safety purposes. Thieves don’t target dyed dogs that much, as the colorful fur gives dogs a bold identifiable feature that deters the bad guys.

If you’re thinking of dyeing your dog — be it for beauty or safety reasons — the laws in your state will determine whether you can carry on with your decision or hold that thought forever. 

Yes, dyeing a dog is unacceptable in some states. States that it’s illegal to dye a dog are:

• Florida
• South Carolina
• Maine
• Colorado

According to the laws in these states, dyeing your dog falls under animal cruelty because it doesn’t benefit a dog’s overall well-being in any way. Rather, it comes with several physical and psychological risks. For instance:

• Most dogs have sensitive skin: A dog can develop a serious allergic skin reaction to the dye used — even if the dye is deemed “pet-safe.”
• Dyeing interferes with a dog’s natural appearance: A dog can become super anxious if they sniff a strange smell on its body or sees a reflection of their unnatural look. 
• The risk of painful ear infections: A lot of water is used to rinse the excess dye for that final perfectly-colored look. During rinsing, the dye-contaminated water can end up trapped in your dog’s ears, leading to infections.
• Dyeing affects how a dog interacts with other dogs: Dogs form friendships with one another through sniffing and mastering each other’s natural body scent. A dyed dog may face social rejection from the rest because they smell “unnatural.” And as a result of the rejection, they might become psychologically distressed.
• A dog can accidentally lick off the dye: (including the pet-safe ones) during the dyeing process, which can cause unpleasant symptoms such as nausea or an upset stomach.
• Dyeing is often a lengthy process: Letting your dog sit for hours on end might subject them to unnecessary discomfort.
• If you own a shy dog: dyeing their fur will put them in the spotlight as they walk in public. The sudden unending attention could easily stress them out.

What the law in South Carolina says 

According to the law in South Carolina, it’s illegal to dye any animal, including a dog. 

It’s also unlawful to bring a dog dyed from elsewhere into the state. In other words, if you’ve colored your dog in a state with no anti-dyeing laws, you should remove the dye if you intend to move or visit South Carolina.

If a South Carolina law enforcement officer finds you with a dyed dog, they will arrest you for committing a misdemeanor crime. This offense is punished by up to 30 days of jail time or a fine amounting to $200. 

Is it illegal to dye a dog in Florida?

Florida prohibits dyeing any kind of animal — including dogs. And similar to South Carolina, you shouldn’t bring a dyed dog into Florida. 

Owning a dyed dog is treated as a second-degree misdemeanor. If convicted, you will be punished by either paying a $500 fine or being imprisoned for not more than 60 days.

What the law in Maine says

The state law in Maine considers it illegal for anyone to display, sell or give away a dyed dog. The “display” aspect simply means you can’t show up with a dyed dog in public. 

However, this law doesn’t apply to owners who’ve been legally authorized to use their dogs for hunting or exhibition competitions. And even in this case, you must have the relevant documentation proving your dog’s dyed look has been legally acknowledged.

If you dye your dog for any other reasons other than for the legally acknowledged hunting or exhibition purposes, you’ll be charged with committing a civil violation. 

Dyeing your dog in Maine won’t attract jail time but a fine of up to $100.  

What the law in Colorado says

Colorado has a tough animal cruelty law that considers it unlawful for dog parents to have dyed dogs. It’s a misdemeanor offense that can attract a jail sentence or a staggering $1,000 fine.  

And so you know how serious Colorado’s anti-dyeing dog laws are, a salon owner in Colorado was once slapped with a $1000 fine for dyeing her poodle pink. 

Here’s the shocking part. 

The whole dyeing idea was aimed at raising awareness of breast cancer among her customers. Plus, she used organic beetroot juice to color her poodle. 

So even if you’re dyeing your dog for a good cause and using non-toxic products while at it, In Colorado, your good intentions can still win you a trip to the courthouse.

If you’re going to dye your dog, do it the safe way

Besides the states mentioned above, you’ll likely not run into legal issues if you choose to dye your dog’s hair in other states. 

But if you’re going to hop onto the dyeing dog trend, you better proceed with caution. 

For starters, you should never color your dog using dyes formulated for humans. Human dye has toxic chemical ingredients, which, if they penetrate your dog’s body through the pores, can kill your dog or put them through a near-death experience. 

Your dog can also lick off the dye’s harsh chemicals and develop internal burns, among other life-threatening symptoms.

If the human dye side effects kick in, it will take lots of pain medications, safe scab removal efforts, IV fluids, and special care for your dog to make a miracle recovery. 

You should only use dog-safe dyes, food colors, or natural plant-based dyes to color your dog. But it’s worth mentioning even the commercial “dog-safe” dyes on the market aren’t 100% safe. 

You must also do a patch test before covering your dog’s entire body with the non-toxic dye.

While the decision to color your lovely dog is entirely up to you, it’s best to think through the potential psychological and physical health risks involved.

FAQs on dying dog fur

Is dyeing dogs illegal in Florida?

Yes, that’s right. Dyeing your dog in Florida is illegal as it endangers the dog’s welfare.

Are you allowed to dye your dog?

This depends on the state you live in. Most states have no laws prohibiting dog owners from dyeing their dogs. But it’s illegal in states like Florida, Maine, Colorado, and South Carolina.

Can you dye your dog’s hair in Colorado?

No, you can’t. As mentioned earlier, Colorado has a law stating that it’s illegal for dog parents to dye their dogs fur.

Can I tie-dye my dog?

As noted earlier, you can dye your dog only if it’s legal in your state. You should also use dog-safe dyes and avoid human dyes completely. 

But I don’t recommend it for the reasons I’ve outlined, legal or not.

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Their energy levels drop, health problems like dental and digestion issues pop up, and their interest in dry food and water goes down. 

One of the key pillars to a healthy, happy life for aging dogs is a nutritionally complete and balanced senior wet dog food.

It’s so important to make sure you choose the best wet dog food for a senior dog. It’s even more important if your senior dog has a sensitive stomach, arthritis, no teeth, kidney problems, or needs to gain weight. 

Best wet dog foods for senior dogs

To help you make an informed choice, I’ve compiled mty top picks of the best wet dog foods for seniors on the market today. As a rule, always consult your vet before putting your dog on any senior-specific diet.  

1. Best wet dog food for senior dogs overall

Your senior dog’s wet food must be specially formulated to meet the nutritional needs of elderly dogs. It should contain all the essential vitamins and minerals that support healthy aging.

We recommend: Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Senior Chicken Dinner

This wet dog food contains a high-quality digestible protein as the top ingredient — chicken. The protein content will help your dog maintain muscle mass throughout their senior years. Dogs tend to lose muscle mass as they age.  

It has a low-calorie formulation, which is a great thing since senior dogs are less active and can gain weight if they eat foods with high-calorie content. This food’s perfect balance of proteins and fats makes it ideal for aging dogs.

Blue Buffalo’s wet dog food also contains a delicious blend of nutritious veggies like carrots, fiber-rich wholesome grains such as brown rice, antioxidant-rich fruits like blueberries, and enhanced with essential minerals and vitamins. 

This powerful combination will improve your senior dog’s digestion, add a youthful shine to their coat, and boost their heart health and immune system.

The food is packed with glucosamine and chondroitin supplements to help your aging dog maintain healthy bones and joints. It lacks artificial additives for the sake of senior dogs’ sensitive stomachs.

2. Best wet dog food for senior dog who are fussy eaters

It’s common for senior dogs to get finicky during meal times, especially if the food in question is dry food. One good reason for this is that their sense of smell and taste declines as they age.  

A high-quality senior wet dog food with flavorful ingredients and a savory aroma will rekindle your senior dog’s interest in food while providing them with the nutrients they need to stay healthy in their golden years.

We recommend: Nutro Ultra Senior Grain-Free Soft Wet Dog Food

This grain-free wet dog food features the perfect pairing of lamb, chicken, and fish to stimulate the appetite of the pickiest eaters. 

Besides the rich meaty flavors served in gravy, this food also contains real pieces of veggies and fruits like dried apples and dried carrots to make it more appetizing. 

It’s loaded with essential minerals and vitamins to ensure your senior dog gets maximum nutritional value from this mouthwatering meal.

In addition, this wet food doesn’t have any artificial flavors, preservatives, or allergy-triggering ingredients like soy or wheat, so it’s great for fussy senior dogs with food sensitivities.

3. Best wet dog food for a senior dog that needs to gain weight

Senior dogs are more prone to adding weight because of their slowed metabolism and less activity. But it’s not unusual for some to experience the opposite — losing weight. 

If your aging dog is underweight, a high-quality wet food that’s higher in protein will help them pack on pounds the healthy way.

We recommend: Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Senior Wet Dog Food

This wet dog food is ideal for underweight seniors as it’s specially formulated to support lean muscle development in aging dogs. 

It contains a healthy amount of fats and a more generous amount of protein derived from real turkey and chicken to promote healthy weight gain.

This chicken and turkey recipe is also enriched with veggies and fruits loaded with essential nutrients and antioxidants to ensure your senior dog’s nutritional needs are met even as they gain some pounds.  

It’s important to involve your vet before making any diet changes to help bulk up your aging dog.

Weight loss in older dogs can be due to several reasons, including medical issues. If there’s an underlying health problem behind your aging dog’s weight loss, putting them on a weight gain-friendly senior diet may not yield results if the health issue isn’t addressed.

4. Best wet dog food for a senior dog with a sensitive stomach

Most dogs develop sensitive stomachs when they reach their senior years. This happens because of the natural age-related body changes that occur when dogs get older.  

For instance, the muscles in their digestive tract tire more quickly, so food breakdown may not always be a smooth process.  

Old age interferes with many bodily functions in dogs, including digestion. Your senior dog’s digestive system won’t digest foods as efficiently as it did when your dog was much younger. 

Because of these digestive system changes, upset stomach issues are often common in aging dogs. If your senior dog is down with a stomachache, there are certain home-cooked foods that will help settle the discomfort.

We recommend: A bland diet.

A bland diet will help calm your senior dog’s irritated tummy and give it a chance to heal. This diet is a temporary fix — it’s only meant to replace your senior dog’s regular diet temporarily until they start to get better. 

A bland diet consists of foods such as:

• Plain bone broth
• Plain white rice boiled to a mushy consistency 
• Plain pureed pumpkin 
• Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes 
• Mashed bananas 
• Boiled shredded chicken breast (with no skin) combined with overcooked rice
• Overcooked oatmeal 
• Boiled plain ground beef  

These bland foods are great for upset stomachs because they are low in fat and won’t irritate your senior dog’s already distressed stomach. 

Some, like plain pureed pumpkin, contain fiber to help restore your dog’s bowel movement to normal (if they have diarrhea alongside stomach discomfort). 

Also, the mushy consistency of these foods makes them highly digestible and easy for your aging dog to chew and swallow.  

These foods also provide your senior dog with a much-needed nutritional boost. You shouldn’t add any salt, butter, or seasoning to these bland foods — they should be plain.

5. Best wet dog food for a senior dog with allergies

A senior dog suffering from allergies will do well with wet dog food that has a few ingredients and contains no grains. 

By settling for a grain-free wet dog food containing a low number of ingredients, you’ll avoid exposing your senior dog to common allergy triggers.

We recommend: Buffalo Basics Grain-Free Turkey & Potato Senior Wet Dog Food

This limited-ingredient wet food is specially formulated for allergy-prone senior dogs.  It’s made of a single protein source (turkey) and therefore lacks proteins such as beef or chicken, which are often considered potential triggers of allergic reactions. 

It contains a few nutritious ingredients (only seven) to minimize food allergies — turkey, potatoes, pumpkin, flaxseed, cranberries, fish oil, and blueberries. The presence of easily digestible carbohydrates like potatoes helps promote gentle digestion.

The ingredients in this wet food are rich in omega fatty acids, antioxidants, and essential minerals to support your aging dog’s immune system, skin health, and heart health. 

Finally, this wet food is free from common food allergens such as soy protein, gluten, corn, and artificial flavors. 

Final thoughts…

In conclusion, wet food’s strong aroma appeals to a senior dog’s sense of smell, reviving their enthusiasm for food. The high moisture content in wet food helps keep our gray-muzzled companions hydrated, and the food’s softness makes chewing and digestion less of a nightmare. 

The best senior wet dog food should have a nutrient composition crafted to cater to the unique dietary and health needs of dogs in their senior life stage.

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So, can you bury your dog in the backyard? 

Yes, you can bury your dog in the yard if it’s legal to do so in your area. But you must adhere to all the pet backyard burial guidelines in place. And even if it’s legal, laying your dog to rest in the yard isn’t a great idea due to the many risks involved.

Continue reading to discover more about the legal aspect of pet backyard burials, including what rules you must follow. I’ll also talk about the risk of burying your dog in the backyard and why it’s wise to consider other options.

Thinking of burying your dog in the yard? Here’s what you should know first   

We all think of dogs as more than just mere pets we own. 

They are special members of our families who enrich our lives in many ways. When death strikes, most dog owners often consider the backyard as the perfect spot to give their dog a befitting send-off. 

Besides backyard burials being convenient and economical, it’s comforting to bury them in a place they once loved and feel their presence nearby.

If you wish to bury your dog in the yard, the main thing that will determine whether you can or can’t is what the laws in your area say. 

But is it the safest choice, though? Not at all. I’ll get to this in a bit.

The legality of burying your dog in the backyard

In some places, laying your dog to rest in the yard is unlawful since it endangers public health. 

Los Angeles, for instance, has a law stating that it’s illegal for anyone to bury an animal anywhere else other than in an established cemetery (or cremation, for pet owners)

The good news, most municipalities have no laws against burying your dog in the backyard. 

You can check with your local animal control authorities or consult your vet to know whether it’s legally okay to lay your dog to rest in the yard.

And even if it’s acceptable in your area, there are strict rules and guidelines that you must follow. These rules exist to safeguard public health and the environment. 

These are also put in place because most utility lines run underground, and you can accidentally hit one when digging your dog’s burial site. 

The last thing you’d want during this grieving period is to get in trouble with your local utility regulators for causing utility system damage.

Some of the common rules and guidelines for pet yard burials include:

• The grave site must be at least three feet deep to prevent the possibility of other pets or animals scavenging your dog’s body. Here’s why you need to dig that deep in more detail… your yard shouldn’t be near a water source.
• Once you bury your dog, you should cover their remains using about two feet of soil.  
• You must confirm that there are no utility lines passing through your backyard. Usually, the authorities you engage regarding your burial plans make arrangements for utility system checks in your yard, so you’d know the safest spot for your dog’s grave.
• You can only bury your dog in the yard if you own the land. If you’ve rented, there’s little chance you’ll be allowed to do so — especially if your landlord doesn’t consent.
• Your yard shouldn’t be prone to flooding. If you still bury your dog knowing your yard has flooding issues, their remains may resurface.  

Another thing you need to know is that if you opt to bury your dog in the yard, you should do so sooner than later. Most local regulations say this must be done within 24 to 48 hours after your dog’s passing. 

But if you can lay your dog to rest a few hours after they pass, the better. A dead dog’s body may start to smell less than 12 hours after their death.

Plus, it’s best to use biodegradable materials to wrap your dog’s body — not plastic bags. 

Things like newspapers, your dog’s favorite blanket, a cardboard box, or a towel work well since they break down much faster than plastic bags.

Why burying your dog in the yard isn’t a great idea

Laying your dog to rest in the yard seems like the perfect send-off. But there are many risks involved for you, your pets, your neighbors and their pets, and other people at large. 

Your beloved dog may also not get a chance to rest peacefully as they deserve. Here’s what’s wrong with dog backyard burials:

The risk of bacterial contamination

It takes several months or even years for a dog’s body to decompose properly. As their body rots, it releases harmful bacteria that contaminate groundwater and the soils around your yard.

You can get seriously sick if you come into contact with these bacteria-filled soils.  

Exhumation is a possibility 

Even when you’ve buried your dog deep in the soil, other pets may get a whiff of the remains thanks to their sharp sense of smell.  Waking up to the exhumed body of your dog isn’t something you’d want to experience.  

The risk of poisoning

If your dog was treated with strong drugs before death — like chemotherapy medications — any animal that scavenges on your dog’s chemical-contaminated body could end up poisoned.

Disease transmission

If your dog of a contagious illness, other pets and wild animals that unearth these remains will contract the disease.

Disturbance by natural disasters

In case of a disaster like heavy floods, some of your dog’s remains may resurface and even be swept over to your neighbor’s property. 

You’ll not only deal with unpleasant odors but also risk getting diseases as flies feeding on the remains find their way into your home.

Second round of heartbreak  

If you bury your dog on rented property and have to move permanently for one reason or another, you may have difficulty coping with the fact that you will never visit your dog’s backyard grave as often as you wish.

Better alternatives to a backyard dog burial 

If burying your dog in the yard isn’t possible due to legal reasons or simply because you don’t feel like dealing with too many local regulations follow-ups during this difficult time, don’t fret. 

There are other ways to memorize your dog’s life, or other things like cremation, burying them in a designated cemetery, or donating their body for research. 

Your vet can guide you on how to go about each of these options.

Cremation

Cremation allows you to stay with your dog’s ashy remains for as long as you wish or scatter them in your preferred spot. 

You’ll have peace of mind knowing their body won’t be “disturbed” by other animals or heavy rains, as with backyard burials.

Cemetery burial

Burying them in a cemetery is another great option since you’ll be sure your dog will rest peacefully in a secure place without any disturbance.  

And even if you move from your home, you won’t have to worry about not being able to visit your dog’s grave site. You can visit the cemetery whenever you want.

Donating their body 

You can also honor your dog’s life by donating their body to a veterinary research institution.  

Students and researchers will use your dog’s donated remains to study and advance the cause of improving dog health. You’ll be at ease knowing your dog has left behind a meaningful legacy. 

FAQs on burying a dog in your backyard

What’s the best thing to bury a dog in?

As mentioned earlier, you should wrap their body using a biodegradable material like newspapers, a cardboard box, their favorite towel, or a blanket.

How long can I wait before I bury my dog?

It’s best to bury your dog a few hours after they’ve passed on — particularly if you intend to bury them in the yard. 

A dog’s dead body may start to emit a foul smell even before the lapse of 12 hours after death.

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So, can blind dogs be left alone? 

The short answer to this question is yes, you can leave a blind dog home alone. But only if they have fully familiarized themselves with your house’s layout. Most importantly, you must take certain safety precautions before leaving your blind dog alone.  

Keep reading as I touch on everything you need to know before leaving your blind dog alone, including the lifestyle changes and safety measures to consider. 

Leaving a blind dog home alone? Dos and don’ts to keep in mind

Almost every dog owner will tell you that it’s hard not to feel terrible for leaving their dog home alone. But you’ll agree there’s a special type of guilt and worry that comes with the thought of having to leave a blind dog on their own.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed with worries as a blind dog owner — and understandably so.  After all, blind dogs have unique challenges compared to sighted dogs. But that doesn’t mean they cannot lead happy lives.

Truth is, you can leave a blind dog alone for a safe duration. Their strong sense of smell, hearing, and touch will help them have an easy time alone. 

But you must ensure they are familiar with your home’s layout before leaving them alone. This is achievable through repeated house tours. Keep them on a leash, and consider getting them a blind dog Halo (view on Amazon) for these tours.

Handy Hint: Here is a list of other products to buy for a blind dog to help them navigate life safely.

It can take a few days or weeks of several house tours for a blind dog to develop a mental map of your home and walk around confidently without assistance. 

The most obvious sign your dog is ready to be left alone is when they don’t bump into objects around the house. 

Besides that, there are lifestyle changes and safety measures you should consider before leaving your blind dog on their own. Among them:

1. Take time to blind dog-proof your house

The only way to keep your dog safe when you leave them alone is to blind dog-proof your home. To avoid accidents when you’re away, ensure your home if safe for your dog: For instance:

• Remove vases and ornaments from top surfaces to ensure your dog doesn’t knock them over and hurt themselves.
• Ensure there are no sharp objects on the floor or electrical wires hanging loosely around the house.
• Cover sharp furniture edges with soft padding, so your dog doesn’t hit themselves when walking around.
• Place a dog gate on areas your dog shouldn’t access—for example, the stairway. 
• Block narrow spaces where your dog can easily get stuck. For example, a space between the couch and wall that’s big enough for your dog’s head to squeeze through.  

2. Confine your dog in one room (and keep their space cozy)

Rather than letting your blind dog roam around the house alone when you’re gone, let them stay in a specific room — preferably the living room. 

This is a great idea as it will prevent them from getting into an accident in case you missed eliminating a certain hazard in a particular room. Keep the doors to other rooms closed.

And while in the living room, create a cozy space for them. 

Place their bed somewhere in a corner and put their favorite toys and blanket there. You can also throw in one of your old t-shirts, as your scent will help your dog relax when you’re away.

3. Introduce “alone time” gradually

For the sake of your blind dog’s peace of mind, give them time to get used to your absence by leaving them home alone for a few minutes at first. Not hours. 

For instance, start by leaving them alone in the living room with their favorite toys for about ten minutes as you do your business in another room. Then, transition to leaving them alone as you run a quick errand. 

When your dog gets used to your brief sessions of absence, it will be easier for them not to notice when you’ve been gone for a few hours — as long as they are comfortable and relaxed.

4. Keep your furniture’s position intact

Blind dogs are incredibly good at mastering their home’s layout and not bump into stuff, provided the layout remains constant. 

When you leave your blind dog alone, make sure every piece of furniture is at its usual spot. 

5. Leave their food bowl near their cozy spot

Before you head out, ensure your blind dog’s food and water bowl are easily accessible. 

The best thing to do is place their food and water bowl next to their cozy spot. This will save them the trouble of wondering when you will return to feed them.

6. Invest in scented, treat-stuffed, and sound-making toys

Since your dog no longer has their sight, get them a variety of toys that will excite their sense of smell, touch, and hearing. These toys will keep them preoccupied when you’re away.

7. Don’t switch off the radio

Leaving the radio or TV on as soothing music plays will ensure your blind dog isn’t overwhelmed by your absence. 

Remember, only stick to a soothing music playlist. There’s showing that dogs find soft rock and reggae calming. 

8. Try not to overdo the goodbyes

Similar to a sighted dog, a blind dog can also get anxious if you leave immediately after showering them with too many goodbye hugs and kisses. 

Your blind dog has to learn that you leaving and coming back is completely normal, not something extraordinary. For this reason, avoid making it obvious that you’re heading out since they will have a hard time coping with your departure. 

You can throw them their favorite noise-making or scented toy to distract them as you leave.

Handy Hint: Here’s the best wet food choices for older dogs.

9. Don’t be gone for too long

Experts say an adult dog shouldn’t be left alone for more than 6-8 hours. This also applies to blind dogs. 

If you know you’ll be gone for many hours during the day, make arrangements to ensure there’s someone trustworthy who can stop by and spend some time with your dog. It can be a friend, neighbor, or certified pet sitter.  

10. Cater to their potty needs

If your blind dog often does their potty business indoors, remember to place their indoor dog toilet next to their cozy spot before you leave. The familiar urine smells will help them know where their potty area is at. 

And if your dog often potty’s outside, hang a wind chime on the door where their dog door or “pet flap” has been cut out. 

The wind chime will alert them where the door is as they head back to the house. 

Also, inspect your dog’s outdoor potty spot before leaving to ensure there are no holes or sharp twigs lying around. 

11. Exercise your dog beforehand

If you’re planning to leave your blind dog alone for a while, consider taking them for a walk before you go. That stroll will tire them out, and they will want to rest when you’re away. 

12. Set up a pet camera

Monitoring your dog through a pet cam (view Furbos on Amazon) will help you pay attention to some of the things your blind dog struggles with when alone. 

That way, you can make the necessary adjustments next time. 

FAQs on leaving blind dogs home alone

Can I leave a blind dog alone?

As noted earlier, a blind dog can be left alone if they’re fully familiar with the home’s layout. And after you’ve taken the necessary safety precautions.

How do you live with a blind dog?

The most important thing is to make certain lifestyle and safety changes in your home to help them adjust to your home environment as a blind dog. 

Do dogs that go blind get depressed?

It’s common for some dogs to sink into depression when they lose their vision.

You might also like…

• Products that all blind dogs need
• How to meet a dog for the first time
• When to consider getting a second dog

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The post Can Blind Dogs Be Left Alone? appeared first on DoggySaurus.

If you’re new to the world of living with a blind dog, I’ve put together a list of essential products for blind dogs that will help them function more normally and live their best life. All can be purchased on Amazon.

7 Products for blind dogs

1. Muffins Blind Dog Halo

A blind dog can easily bump into stuff and hurt themselves if they have no idea where obstacles are. That’s where the Muffin’s Halo (view on Amazon) can help. 

This ring-like device, which comes in a harness that comfortably wraps around the dog’s neck, is pretty much a blind dog’s walking stick. It helps them move around comfortably without crashing into things… making it one of the best things for blind dogs I can recommend.

The Halo is positioned along your dog’s eye level and stretches slightly past the tip of their nose. 

It also has a stiff-yet-comfortable backboard that firmly holds the Halo in place, so it won’t fall forward when your dog is busy sniffing the ground. 

This backboard sits behind a dog’s neck and extends a bit beyond their shoulders. 

When your blind dog wears the Halo, you won’t have to worry about them hitting their face and shoulders on hard surfaces.

Moreover, this innovative device is a fantastic confidence booster for blind dogs. Having a Halo product for a blind dog lets them walk without fear, knowing they got something to alert them of an obstacle ahead as they walk. 

2. Blind Dog Vest Harness

Caring for a blind dog requires you to protect them from situations that can shake their confidence. This can include being approached and petted by strangers in public without warning.

Since they can’t see, blind dogs get easily startled (and even snap) if a stranger touches them out of nowhere. This can make them fearful of public places.

A blind dog harness product (view on Amazon) ensures your dog doesn’t have to deal with such unwelcome surprises when out and about with you in public.  

This vest harness has labels on the front and sides clearly stating your dog is blind. It will alert people about your dog’s condition so that they can respect your dog’s space — no matter how irresistibly gorgeous your dog is.

The vest harness is light and comfortable for your dog to wear. It’s padded to prevent your dog’s skin from chaffing from wearing the vest too often. It also has adjustable straps to make it fit your dog perfectly. 

Not to mention, this water-proof harness comes with metal loops to attach your dog’s leash making it one of the best things you can buy to help a blind dog.

3. A Drinking Water Fountain

Just like sighted dogs, blind dogs also need to stay hydrated. But because of their condition, it can be hard for them to find their water source if the water is silently sitting in a bowl.

When a dog loses their vision, their sense of hearing and smell will be more enhanced to compensate for the lack of sight.

A water fountain like the Drinkwell fountain (view on Amazon) is a terrific product for a blind dog as it taps on their hearing senses. The trickling fresh-water noise from the fountain will make it easier for your blind dog to locate their water source.

This fountain is highly durable and can serve you for years if taken good care of. It comes with a carbon filter and plastic pre-filter that removes impurities from your dog’s water.  

The fountain’s capacity can hold water that will last your dog several days, so your dog won’t miss the water’s trickling sound. 

And as much as it is strong enough to remain in place in case your dog accidentally knocks it, it’s often advisable to place a non-slip mat underneath any pet water fountain.

4. Blind Dog ID Tag

Like every other blind dog owner, you’d want to sleep soundly at night knowing your dog could be traced back to you in the event they go missing. 

Getting a blind dog ID tag (view on Amazon) is one of the best things for a blind dog and a great way to ensure your blind dog’s safety. This aluminum-made tag, which has a strong polymer coating, displays a readable printed text of your dog’s disability.

The best part? It’s a two-sided custom tag. 

In other words, you can customize the tag’s color (and message font) at the front as well engrave your contact details and other personalized text on the back of the tag. 

The engraved information will never fade away, thanks to the protective polymer coating.   

This ID tag has a split ring for easy attachment to your dog’s collar or harness. It also isn’t heavy on the neck despite being made of a highly durable metal (aluminum).

5. A GPS Dog tracker

By far one of the best products for blind dogs is this life-saving device as far as your pet’s safety is concerned. 

It’s not unusual for blind dogs to wander away from home.  If this ever happens to your dog, a GPS dog tracker (view on Amazon) will help you track and find them much faster. 

You simply attach this small, water-proof device to your dog’s harness or collar, link it to your phone, and that’s it! You will be able to track your dog’s real-time location through your phone. 

You may be tempted to try other affordable Bluetooth trackers, but their lower accuracy and limited range won’t help that much if your blind dog wanders away to a far location. 

With a GPS dog tracker, you’re guaranteed accurate location alerts and the advantage of unlimited range.

6. The Talking Babble Ball

There’s no greater joy than watching your blind dog having mad fun with a toy without you directing them to it or throwing it at them.  

Imagine a toy that talks to your dog, makes different exciting animal sounds when touched or in motion, keeps your dog entertained for hours on end, and makes them feel as though they have a real playmate who’s always ready to play? 

You will find all those amazing toy qualities in the Babble Ball (view on Amazon).

With this battery-powered toy, your blind dog can kiss boredom goodbye. Something as simple as walking past the toy, breathing on it, or touching it is enough to set the ball in motion. 

Your dog will enjoy chasing after it in an open space, which is also a great way for them to exercise. Talk of healthy fun!  

7. Snuffle Mat

The last of my things for a blind dog is this mat. Just as with sighted dogs, mental stimulation is necessary for every blind dog. 

Anything that excites your blind dog’s sense of smell will draw their interest since they rely heavily on this sense to explore their sightless world.

The Snuffle Mat (view on Amazon) is more like a “work-to-eat” dog toy that seeks to keep your dog mentally stimulated. Yes, sniffing repeatedly across the mat to find hidden treat crumbles is “work.” 

Blind dogs enjoy this “work” more since it engages their sense of smell — that’s why they love using snuffle mats. 

As your dog sniffs across the mat, their brain will be working to analyze the interesting treat smells on the mat. That’s mental stimulation for you! 

A snuffle mat seems like a pretty basic interactive toy, but it will take your blind dog’s mental stimulation to a whole new level. These snuffle mat-sponsered mental workouts will ensure your blind dog isn’t a victim of prolonged boredom and anxiety.

Final thoughts… 

No one’s said it’s easy-peasy. But no one said it’s the hardest thing ever, either. I’m talking about caring for a blind dog. Sight is an important sense for dogs, no doubt. But being born blind or developing blindness later in life doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s the end for your dog.

It’s easy to assume that when your dog goes blind, they’ll go from terrorizing squirrels in the yard to spending their days sitting miserably in a corner and not making the most out of life. In this modern day and age? 

No way.

And did I mention how incredibly resilient dogs are? A blind dog will quickly rise above their visual disability if they’ve got all the love and support they need.

And that can include making sure they have all the things a blind dog needs.

I hope the list helps!

You might also like…

• How to tell if your dog is going blind
• Blind dogs can be very happy in life!
• Can blind dogs be left home alone

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The post Products for Blind Dogs (7 Best Things) appeared first on DoggySaurus.