Care guides
How-tos and explainers for everyday life with a dog, written from veterinary and behavior sources.
Safety
Halloween Safety Tips for Dogs: Candy, Costumes and Doorbells
Keep your dog safe this Halloween: which candy is dangerous, how to handle trick-or-treaters, costume checks and what t…
Lifestyle
How Much Exercise Does a Dog Need? By Age, Size and Breed
No single number fits every dog. Here is how age, breed, size and health change how much exercise your dog needs, and h…
Grooming
How to Brush Your Dog's Teeth Safely, Step by Step
Brush with a pet toothpaste, never human toothpaste. A gentle step-by-step method, how often to brush, VOHC-accepted pr…
Training
How to Crate Train a Puppy, Step by Step
Crate training works when the crate feels like a safe den, not a punishment. Here is a gradual plan, from sizing to nig…
Nutrition
How to Tell If Your Dog Is Overweight: The Body Condition Score
Use the 9-point body condition score and three quick checks, ribs, waist and belly tuck, to see if your dog is overweig…
Puppies
Puppy First Week Checklist: What to Do Before and After Homecoming
A practical checklist for your puppy's first week at home: supplies, puppy-proofing, the first vet visit, routines, toi…