Man’s Best Friend: Exploring Dogs with the Best Temperament

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If you’re looking for a new family friend lets explore dogs with the best temperament. Dogs have rightfully earned the title of “man’s best friend” for their unwavering loyalty, companionship, and, of course, their temperament. While all dogs have unique personalities, some breeds are renowned for their exceptional temperament, making them beloved family pets, therapy dogs, and loyal companions. In this article we’ll explore some of the top dog breeds known for their friendly, gentle, and affectionate disposition.

Golden Retriever: It’s no surprise that Golden Retrievers often top the list of dogs with the best temperament. Known for their friendly and outgoing nature, Golden Retrievers are not only intelligent and easy to train but also incredibly gentle and patient, especially with children. Their playful demeanor and willingness to please make them excellent family pets and therapy dogs. Whether they’re retrieving a ball or offering a comforting cuddle, Golden Retrievers embody the epitome of a loyal and loving companion.

Labrador Retriever: Labrador Retrievers, affectionately known as Labs, are another breed celebrated for their excellent temperament.

Friendly, outgoing, and endlessly affectionate, Labs are renowned for their gentle and patient demeanor, making them fantastic companions for families with children and other pets. Their eagerness to please and adaptable nature also make them well-suited for various roles, including service dogs, therapy dogs, and search and rescue dogs. Whether they’re retrieving game in the field or lounging on the couch, Labs exude warmth and companionship wherever they go.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a small breed with a big heart and an equally big personality. Known for their affectionate and gentle nature, Cavaliers thrive on human companionship and are happiest when curled up in their owner’s lap. They’re excellent with children and other pets, thanks to their friendly and sociable disposition. Cavaliers are also known for their adaptability, making them well-suited for various living situations, from apartments to large family homes. With their expressive eyes and loving demeanor, Cavaliers steal the hearts of everyone they meet.

Bichon Frise: The Bichon Frise is a delightful little dog with a temperament to match its charming appearance. Affectionate, playful, and endlessly cheerful, Bichons are known for their friendly and outgoing nature. They thrive on human companionship and love nothing more than spending time with their family, whether it’s playing games or simply cuddling on the couch. Bichons are also highly adaptable and get along well with children and other pets, making them excellent family pets. With their sunny disposition and loving personality, Bichons bring joy and laughter wherever they go.

Dogs enrich our lives in countless ways, but those with the best temperament have a special place in our hearts. Whether it’s the friendly and outgoing Golden Retriever, the gentle and patient Labrador Retriever, the affectionate and sociable Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, or the cheerful and playful Bichon Frise, these breeds embody the epitome of a loyal and loving companion. With their unwavering devotion and infectious happiness, dogs with the best temperament remind us why they truly deserve the title of “man’s best friend.”

At DogFence we have worked with customers with all breeds and sizes of dog and are happy to talk to you if you are looking at adding a dog to your household and are concerned about how to keep them safe. We can put you in touch with customers with the same breed who I’m sure would be happy to answer your questions.

Call us today on 01628 476475 or email us @info@dogfence.co.uk

Adorable Cavalier King Charles Spaniel - Dogs with the Best Temperament

Adorable Cavalier King Charles Spaniel – Dogs with the Best Temperament

New Puppy

Keeping Your New Puppy Safe: Essential Tips

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Welcoming a new puppy into your life is an incredibly exciting experience. From their adorable antics to their boundless energy, puppies bring immense joy and love into our homes. However, along with all the fun comes the responsibility of ensuring their safety and well-being. Just like caring for a child, safeguarding your puppy requires careful attention and planning. Here are some essential tips to help you keep your new furry friend safe:

Puppy-Proof Your Home and Garden: Puppies are naturally curious and love to explore their surroundings. Before bringing your puppy home, take the time to puppy-proof your living space. Remove any small objects that could be swallowed, secure electrical cords and outlets, and block off any hazardous areas. Think like a puppy and get down on their level to identify potential dangers.

Outside Space: Look around your garden and check for escape routes. Do you need to secure the rear garden only? What happens if someone leave the front door open? If you are unable to dog proof your garden have you considered an electronic pet fence? DogFence offer an safe, affordable and effective method of pet protection. Get a free quote today

Supervise Outdoor Time: When it comes to outdoor adventures, supervision is key. Always keep your puppy on a leash when outside, especially in unfamiliar environments. Watch out for potential hazards such as toxic plants, sharp objects, and other animals. Consider using a harness for added security and control.

Invest in Quality Supplies: From food and water bowls to a comfortable bed and appropriate toys, invest in high-quality supplies for your puppy. Opt for products that are durable, non-toxic, and specifically designed for puppies. Avoid items with small parts that could be chewed off and ingested.

Establish a Safe Space: Create a designated safe space for your puppy where they can relax and feel secure. This could be a crate, playpen, or gated area in your home. Make sure the space is free from hazards and equipped with cozy bedding and water.

Provide Proper Identification: Ensure your puppy has proper identification in case they get lost. Micro chipping is a safe and effective way to ensure your pet can be identified if they stray from home. Additionally, make sure your puppy wears a collar with tags containing your contact information.

Monitor Their Health: Keep a close eye on your puppy’s health and behavior. Look out for signs of illness or injury, such as lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in appetite. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for monitoring your puppy’s growth and addressing any health concerns.

Provide Proper Nutrition: Feed your puppy a balanced diet formulated specifically for their age, size, and breed. Avoid giving them human food, which can be harmful to their health. Make sure they have access to fresh water at all times to stay hydrated.

Teach Basic Commands: Training your puppy not only helps with obedience but also contributes to their safety. Teach them basic commands such as “sit,” “stay,” and “come” to help prevent accidents and keep them out of harm’s way. These basic commands are essential if you are considering using an electronic pet fence. Our Dog fences are suitable for puppies from 3 – 4 months provided they have received basic obedience training.

Offer Plenty of Love and Attention: Above all, shower your puppy with love and attention. A happy and well-loved puppy is more likely to feel secure and content, reducing the likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors.

Bringing a new puppy into your home is a big responsibility, but with proper care and attention, you can ensure they have a safe and happy start in life. By following these tips and providing a nurturing environment, you’ll be laying the foundation for a lifelong bond filled with love and companionship.

If you would like to know how we can keep your puppy safe in your garden or paddocks call us today 01628 476475 for a chat and an online survey.

Click here for a quote

Understanding Why Dogs Escape Gardens and the Benefits of Pet Containment Systems

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invisible dog fence to stop dog going through gateUnderstanding Why Dogs Escape Gardens and the Benefits of Pet Containment Systems

Dogs are known for their playful and adventurous nature, often seeking opportunities to explore the world beyond the confines of their homes. One common concern for pet owners is the occasional escape of their furry companions from the safety of their gardens. In this blog, we’ll delve into the reasons behind a dog’s tendency to escape and explore the benefits of installing a pet containment system.

Reasons Dogs Escape Gardens:

  1. Curiosity and Exploration: Dogs are naturally curious animals, and their desire to explore can drive them to find ways to escape. The world beyond the garden fence is full of enticing scents, sounds, and sights that captivate their attention.
  2. Loneliness and Boredom: Dogs, especially those left alone for extended periods, may attempt to escape due to loneliness and boredom. Seeking companionship or engaging in playful activities with neighbouring dogs can be a powerful motivator.
  3. Territorial Instincts: Some dogs have strong territorial instincts, prompting them to patrol and mark their territory. If they sense intruders or other animals nearby, they might try to escape to defend their perceived territory.
  4. Desire for Social Interaction: Dogs are social animals and may escape to seek interaction with other dogs, animals, or even humans. The lure of socializing beyond the confines of the garden can be tempting.
  5. Hunting Instincts: Certain breeds have a strong hunting instinct, and the allure of chasing after small animals or birds outside the garden can lead them to escape in pursuit of their natural instincts.

Benefits of Pet Containment Systems:

  1. Enhanced Safety: Pet containment systems, such as invisible dog fences or secure enclosures, provide a safe environment for dogs. This ensures that they remain within designated boundaries, reducing the risk of accidents, injuries, or encounters with potential dangers.
  2. Prevention of Straying: Containment systems act as a conditioned barrier, ensuring that dogs do not wander into neighboring properties or busy streets. This helps avoid conflicts with other animals, traffic accidents, or confrontations with unfamiliar territory.
  3. Peace of Mind for Owners: Installing a pet containment system gives pet owners peace of mind, knowing that their dogs are secure and protected. It eliminates the constant worry of their furry friends escaping and facing potential hazards.
  4. Training and Behavioral Improvement: Invisible fence systems contribute to better behavior by discouraging escape attempts. Over time, dogs learn to associate the boundaries with safety, leading to improved obedience and reduced attempts to escape.
  5. Customisable Solutions: Pet containment systems are customisable to fit various landscapes, size of properties and differing dog personalities. Through the buried wires, these systems can be tailored to the specific needs of each pet and garden layout.

Conclusion:

Understanding the reasons behind a dog’s escape can empower pet owners to address these issues effectively. Installing a pet containment system not only enhances the safety of dogs but also promotes a harmonious relationship between pets and their owners, allowing both to enjoy a secure and enriching environment.

 

 

Labrador wearing an electric dog fence collar - these collars are also called containment fences

Why Dog Fences Are Exempt from the UK Ban?

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Why Dog Fences Are Exempt from the UK electric collar ban Ensuring Safe and Happy Pups!

There seems to be a lot of confusion as to whether dog fences are banned in the UK. There is no UK ban on the use or ownership of invisible dog fences. This blog should hopefully help with any confusion over why dog fences are exempt from the UK Electric Collar Ban.

Background into the “Electric Collar Ban”

In the United Kingdom, there has been a growing concern about the safety and welfare of pets, particularly dogs. In response to this concern, the government introduced a ban on certain dog training tools and equipment. However, amidst this prohibition, one item remains exempt – dog fences. In this blog, we will explore why dog fences are exempt from the UK ban and the importance of using them responsibly to ensure the well-being of our furry companions.

Understanding the UK Ban

The UK government’s ban, introduced in 2018 under the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations, targeted a range of training aids, including electronic collars, prong collars, and spray collars. The primary objective of this ban was to prevent the potential misuse and abuse of such tools, which could cause harm or distress to dogs.

In August 2018 the Government announced: “We received 7334 responses to this consultation. We’ve analysed the responses and decided to amend the Animal Welfare Act 2006 to ban the use of hand-held remote controlled e-collar devices. We do not intend to ban the use of invisible fencing containment systems”. 

The Exemption of Dog Fences

Amidst the controversy surrounding the ban, dog fences, often referred to as “invisible” or “electric” fences, were conspicuously absent from the list of prohibited items. This exclusion is rooted in the belief that when used responsibly and with the welfare of the dog in mind, these fences can be effective tools for keeping dogs safe and providing them with the freedom to roam within defined boundaries.

springer spaniel running with dog fence flags in background

Springer springing

Why Dog Fences Are Exempt

  1. Safety First: Unlike some of the banned training tools, electric dog fences are designed with safety as a top priority. They use mild static corrections or audible warnings to deter dogs from crossing the set boundaries, without causing physical harm or pain. When compared to other training aids, such as shock collars, these fences are generally considered less invasive.
  2. Freedom with Boundaries: Dog owners appreciate the freedom that electric fences provide to their pets. They can explore their designated area while avoiding potential hazards like busy roads or unfriendly wildlife. This increased freedom contributes positively to a dog’s physical and mental well-being.
  3. Responsible Use: The exemption of dog fences underscores the importance of responsible use. Dog owners are encouraged to follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturers and seek professional guidance on their installation and usage. When used appropriately, electric fences can offer a safe and humane solution for managing a dog’s outdoor activities.
  4. Encourages Responsible Pet Ownership: Electric fences promote responsible pet ownership by allowing dogs to enjoy the outdoors while ensuring they stay within a controlled area. This can be especially beneficial for working individuals or those with busy schedules, as it allows their dogs to get exercise and fresh air even when they can’t be present.

Conclusion

The exemption of dog fences from the UK electric collar ban on certain dog training tools reflects the government’s understanding of the importance of responsible pet ownership. When used properly and with the dog’s welfare in mind, electric fences can provide dogs with the freedom to roam safely within their boundaries. However, it is crucial for dog owners to be educated about the correct usage and installation of these fences, as well as to seek professional advice if necessary.

Ultimately, the exemption of dog fences encourages responsible ownership, ensuring that our furry friends can enjoy the outdoors while staying safe and secure. It is a reminder that, as pet owners, our primary responsibility is to provide for the well-being of our beloved companions.

Keeping your Pets Safe from Theft

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Help Prevent Dog TheftPet thefts have been an ongoing problem for a while now, however we have seen a dramatic increase within the past couple of years.

In 2020, when lockdown started for us all, there was a massive increase in demand of people wanting pets to keep them company. Due to this increase in demand for puppies and kittens, it caused the cost of buying these pets go through the roof! However people are desperate and will pay anything for what they want.

After the massive spike in price for pets, this caused the inevitable of dog and cat theft to increase. It was reported that Dog Thefts in 2020 increased by 250%

Why are pets stolen? –

Dogs can be stolen for many reasons, here are a few:

  • Dognappers will steal a dog and then return it to the owners in exchange for the reward
  • Other Dog Nappers use Blackmail towards the dogs owners by saying they will get the dog back if they pay a ransom.
  • Dognappers can steal dogs to sell them on
  • Female dogs can be stolen to be bred from year after year, this way the dog napper can continuously make money.

The theft of a pet is a devastating time for the owners and not a time that anyone would ever want to experience. Here are a few tips on how you can keep your pet safe from theft –

Keep an eye at all times –

The most important thing you can do is keep an eye on your dog or cat at all times. If you are out in public make sure you know where they are at all times and if they cannot be trusted off the lead then don’t risk it.

When at home ensure to keep your pets on your property and not to let them wander around the neighbourhood.

Do not leave your pet in your car –

Dogs that are left in the car with the windows down, are a sitting target for thieves. The windows can be forced open or the thief can reach into the car and grab the pet, it only takes a few seconds!

Secure your Garden –

Before letting your dog or cat out into the garden, ensure that it is all secured. It is worth checking the fences for gaps and even installing gates to ensure they are contained. You do not want them escaping or even worse, someone entering your garden.

How our systems can help –

Our DogFence Systems allow to keep your pet safely contained within your property while allowing them freedom. We supply systems to secure your garden and to stop your pets escaping, this allows you to keep your pets safe from falling into the wrong hands!

Our website supplies you with all the information you need for our different DogFence Containment Systems.

When shopping, don’t leave your dog outside –

Seeing dogs outside shops has been common for a long time but now that the numbers of dog thefts have risen it is best to refrain from doing so. If you have to take your dog to the shops, take someone with you so they can wait outside with your dog.

Collars, Tags and Microchips –Dog Tag

The Control of Dogs Order 1992 mandates that any dog in a public place must wear a collar with the name and address (including postcode) of the owner engraved into a tag. The owners telephone number is optional but advisable. Do not put your dogs name on the tag, as someone attempting to steal your dog can use that to call them over.

Report any incidents –

If you see any suspicious behavior or people coming up to you and asking strange questions about your dog, report it. You could prevent an incident happening.

Keep your documents safe –

Ensure to keep all your dog’s insurance and important documents somewhere safe. That way you can easily access them in an emergency.

Check up on Dog Walkers or Sitters –

If you are looking for a Dog Walker or a Dog Sitter, ensure you do your research, try to find out if they are registered with any bodies or have any qualifications.

Fit Alarms, Bells or Camera Doorbells –

Dog Recall

Have alarms or bells installed at your property, to warn you of any intruders. A doorbell with a camera would also be a good investment, both of these can potentially warn off thieves.

Train Excellent Recall –

Take the time to train your dog to come back to your on command. This will help you if you need to get them to come back to your quickly. It also means they are less likely to run off on walks and in a public place.

 

Here is a list of places / contact information if you need to report something –

 

 

 

Keeping your pets safe at Christmas

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Keeping your pets safe at ChristmasDog and cat eating christmas foods they shouldn't. Keeping your pets safe at Christmas

Christmas is just around the corner, the excitement is building, not just for us but for our pets too. Decorations to play with and wrapping paper to hide in the opportunities are endless! Here we are to provide you with ways to keep yourselves and your pets safe during the festive period.

Christmas Food

Some Christmas foods can be a nice treat for our beloved pets but certain foods can also be quite dangerous to them. Here is a list of what you pets should and shouldn’t eat this Christmas.

Should:

  • Turkey. Only boneless, skinless, white meat as the darker parts of meat can be too rich for them
  • Cranberry sauce. It must be pure cranberry sauce with no added sugars or sweeteners.
  • Vegetables. Small amounts of carrots, peas, Brussel sprouts and parsnips are a nice treat for our pets. Avoid adding butter, seasoning and bulb vegetables, such as onions and leeks.
  • Potatoes. Potatoes are fine for your pets to eat in small quantities, they contain quite a lot of starch so too many potatoes can be hard for them to digest. Mashed, boiled or roasted potatoes are fine, as long as they are not mixed with anything else, such as butter or salt.

Shouldn’t:

  • Turkey or chicken skin and bones. Bones are seen as a choking hazard for our pets so they should be avoided. The skin on the turkey and the chicken is also way too fatty for our dogs to consume.
  • Gravy. Gravy is extremely high in fat and salt.
  • Stuffing. Stuffing usually contains onions, herbs and spices which should be avoided by our pets at all costs as it can cause stomach upsets.
  • Pigs in blankets. These may seem like the perfect treat for our furry friends but they contain way too much fat and salt for our dogs to consume.
  • Onions. Onions contain two compounds called disulfides and thiosulphates which can be toxic for cats and dogs to ingest.
  • Grapes, Raisins, Currants and Sultanas. All of these are toxic to your pet and you should seek help from a vet if your pet was to accidently eat one of these foods. (Christmas pudding cake is full of raisins, currants and sultanas)
  • Chocolate. A lot of us already know chocolate is dangerous to our pets but if you didn’t already, it contains theobromine which can be fatal to pets, even in the smallest of doses
  • Nuts. Any type of nut is toxic for our pets, so its best to avoid these altogether.
  • Candy canes. These are full of sugar and sweeteners and aren’t suitable for a treat for your pet on Christmas day.

Christmas Trees, Decorations and Household Items

Plants to avoid to keep your pets safe:

Christmas food isn’t the only hazard for pets around the house during the Festive period, most household items can be dangerous too. Holly, Ivy, Cat in Christmas Tree, keeping your pet safeMistletoe, Poinsettias and Lilies are toxic so avoid these to keep your pets safe.

Christmas trees and decorations:

Christmas trees are another hazard for our pets as our pets may be tempted to play with the decorations that hang from the tree.

If you tend to buy a real Christmas tree, yes they smell and look lovely but they can be troublesome for our pets. The oils in the fir tree can be mildly toxic, causing stomach upsets. The needles themselves can get stuck in your pets paws or throat so it is best to regularly sweep up the needles and keep the door shut to the room with the Christmas tree, when you are out.

When decorating the Christmas tree, strings of lights are a popular decoration to put onto the tree. However your pets may be tempted to chew these lights if they are dangling or swinging low. A good way to solve this is by placing them out of reach or keeping an eye on your pet when they are in the room and making sure they are not left along with the Christmas tree.

 

Wrapping Paper

When wrapping Christmas presents, your pets may become over intrigued with what you are doing and they may want to start playing with wrapping paper or the ribbon. Keep your pets away when wrapping to prevent them running off with your wrapping utensils! If swallowed these can cause more problems than just a wrapping headache.

Cold Weather

As the snow falls (hopefully) and the temperature drops, we need to ensure our pets all have a warm place to sleep especially if they have been out in the elements exploring for a while.

Antifreeze is also used a lot by us during the colder months but did you know, the smell of antifreeze is extremely alluring to our pets. However it is hugely toxic and can also be fatal, so be careful not to spill any on the ground. Keep bottles out of reach as even the smallest drop can be dangerous.

Puuy in the snow keep them safe at christmas

 

For more information – please visit:

https://www.heart.co.uk/christmas/unsafe-christmas-foods-for-dogs/

https://www.medivet.co.uk/pet-care/pet-advice/keeping-your-pet-safe-at-christmas/#:~:text=Baubles%20and%20Christmas%20tree%20decorations&text=Avoid%20hanging%20decorations%20on%20the,re%20highly%20toxic%20to%20pets.

https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/seasonal/christmas/petsafe

 

By following these Christmas tips you can ensure you have a safe and wonderful festive season with your furry friends.

From all of us here at DogFence – Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!

How to Stop Your Dog Chewing Furniture

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Dog Chewed Sofa

How to stop your dog chewing furniture

 

Why do dogs chew furniture?

At DogFence we specialize in keeping your dogs (and cats) safe within the garden, however, there may be areas of the house that you want to keep off-limits from your pets? Customers will often ask how can I stop my dog chewing the furniture or going upstairs? Perhaps you want to keep the dog out of a room or away from the rubbish bin. A white sofa and a muddy dog do not always mix well and it’s important to understand what triggers these behaviours to find the right solution to alter the behaviour.

Chewing is a completely normal and natural behaviour in dogs, they will use their mouths to explore the world around them in the same way we use our hands. Chewing will accomplish a number of things for a dog no matter what the age. In young puppies, destructive chewing will generally be a way to relieve pain from any teeth that may be coming through. For older, more mature dogs, it’s nature’s way of keeping jaws strong and teeth clean. Chewing will also combat:

  • Boredom
  • Mild anxiety
  • Frustration

While chewing behaviour is normal, dogs sometimes direct their chewing towards inappropriate items such as your beloved furniture. Dogs need to be taught in a gentle manner what is acceptable to chew and what isn’t.

Need to understand your dog and why they destructive chew 

Adult dogs may engage in destructive chewing for any number of reasons. In order to deal with the behaviour, you must first determine why your dog is chewing—and remember, they are not doing it to spite you. Possible reasons for destructive chewing include:

  • They weren’t taught, as a puppy, what is okay to chew and what isn’t.
  • That they are bored
  • That they may suffer from separation anxiety
  • That their behaviour is fear-related.
  • That they want attention.

Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety is a condition in which the dog will exhibit stress and behavioural problems when separated from their owner. When a dog is experiencing separation anxiety they try and find ways to relieve the stress they are experiencing, such as chewing on many different household items they can get their paws on! They will also display other signs, such as:

  • Whining
  • Barking
  • Pacing back and forth
  • Restlessness
  • Urination
  • Defecation

Fabric Sucking

Some dogs will tend to lick, suck and chew at certain fabrics. Experts believe that this behaviuoral problem stems from the puppy being weaned too early (before seven or eight weeks). If a dog’s fabric sucking behaviour has been ongoing for a lengthy period of time then it will be difficult to distract him when he attempts to engage in it, this means that the behavioural problem has become compulsive. If you think this behaviour has become compulsive it may be worth contacting a balanced dog trainer for assistance. The IACP have a list of trainers and should be able to put you in touch with a trainer in your area.

Hunger

A dog on a calorie-restricted diet might chew and destroy objects in an attempt to find additional sources of nutrition. Dogs usually direct this kind of chewing toward objects or furniture which may smell like food.

 

Indoor Dog Fence to Stop Dog Chewing Furniture

The new B.O.B for 2020

Dog chewing solutions

 

DogFence Indoor Solutions

At DogFence we offer an indoor product (B.O.B – Battery Operated Boundary) to stop your dog from chewing your favourite rug, sofa or even jumping on the beds! Our indoor system can be moved from room to room and is completely wireless and re-chargeable. The B.O.B can be discreetly placed underneath the objects you don’t want your dog near so its virtually impossible to see, the unit can also be used for all breed of dogs and cats and they can be purchased as an addition to your existing outdoor fence or as a complete indoor solution (Dog Fence Collar Required).

Learn more about our indoor solutions here: https://dogfence.co.uk/indoor-dog-wireless-dog-fence/

Also feel free to read our blog all about our indoor dog fence system: https://dogfence.co.uk/posts/

Puppy Teething

Much like human infants, puppies go through a stage when they lose their baby teeth and experience pain as their adult teeth come through, because of this the intensified chewing phase usually ends by six months of age.

Some solutions for puppies who are teething and tending to chew the furniture, are:

  • Giving the puppy ice cubes
  • Dog toys that can be frozen
  • Frozen wet cloths to chew

Giving the puppy something cold to chew will help relieve and numb the pain from the teeth that are coming through. Gentle guidance can be given to teach the puppy on appropriate and inappropriate things to chew.

Supervise your dog until they learn the house rules.

Keep the dog with you on their leash in the house so they can’t make a mistake out of your sight. Confine them when you’re unable to keep an eye on them. Choose a “safe place” that’s dog-proof, and provide fresh water and “safe” toys.

Give your dog plenty of people-time.

Your dog won’t know how to behave if you don’t teach them alternatives to inappropriate behaviour, and they can’t learn these when they are in the yard by themselves. Be patient with your dog you cant rush them into learning what’s right and wrong as you will confuse them.

 Give your dog plenty of physical and mental exercise.Dog getting exercise on outdoor dog fence

If you do catch your dog chewing on something they shouldn’t, such as the sofa, don’t interrupt them with a loud noise, instead offer them an acceptable chew toy instead and then praise them for taking the chew toy in their mouth.

Your dog may be bored if they are not getting enough physical exercise and as a result of this they will try to find something to amuse themselves or fight the boredom, such as chewing your beloved furniture! The amount of exercise should be based on their age, health and breed characteristics.

Make items unpleasant to your dog.

A spray can be used on items, such as furniture, to prevent your dog from wanting to chew.

Don’t chase your dog

Do not chase your dog! If you chase them you are giving the dog what it wants. Instead call them and wait for them to come to you and give them a treat.

Have realistic expectations.

At some point your dog will inevitably chew up something you value; this is often part of the transition to a new home. Your dog needs time to learn the house rules and you need to remember to take precautions and keep things out of their reach.

Different Toys and chews to give to your dog that is chewing your furniture

Most people tend to get dog toys and chews confused, so here is a list differencing the different toys and chews.

ToysElephant dog toy

Dog toys are easily destroyed and are NOT designed to be chewed. The owner should always pick up the toy at the end of a game and put out of the dogs reach, this will therefore save you money because the toys last much longer – you will also avoid the need to take your dog to the vet because of a blockage caused by swallowing toys. Do not leave them for your dog to chew once the game has finished.

Chews

Chews should be given when a dog is settling down for a quiet time, either in your presence or alone. Unlike toys, chews are designed for nibbling and gnawing and are essential if you want a dog to chew acceptable items instead of your furniture. Examples of chews include rask, chew stick, dental rawhide, pressed hide, large and medium Kong’s, and activity balls.

Kong’sKong puppy chews

All dogs like to play on their own sometimes, so it is important to leave at least one “safe” toy down for them to play with at any time. An excellent choice for this purpose is a chew toy such as a Kong (available from most pet shops). This is a firm rubber toy, hollow on the inside and which can withstand lots of chewing. Kong toys can be filled with biscuits or a special treat to keep the dog occupied for some time. Kong’s are also good at stimulating play and chase behaviour since they bounce unpredictably in different directions when thrown.

Activity balls

These are toys in which you can place small pieces of dry food inside (such as a portion of the dog’s daily food ration or mixer), the dog has to roll the ball around to get the food to drop out of the holes, because of this it keeps the dog occupied for quite some time.

For more information visit the Blue cross’ website and have a look at some of their articles as they can be very helpful https://www.bluecross.org.uk/pet-advice/how-control-dogs-chewing

What NOT to Do

  • Do not show your dog the damage he did and spank, scold or punish him after the fact. He cannot connect your punishment with some behaviour he did hours or even minutes ago.
  • Do not use duct tape to hold your dog’s mouth closed around a chewed object for any length of time. This is inhumane, will teach your dog nothing, and dogs have died from this procedure.
  • Do not tie a damaged object to your dog. This is inhumane and will teach your dog nothing.
  • Do not leave your dog in a crate for lengthy periods of time (more than six hours) to prevent chewing.
  • Do not muzzle your dog to prevent chewing.

Why not check out our web site or give us a call today to talk about our indoor dog fences. 01628 476475 or click here

 

 

Lowering Your Carbon Pawprint

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Lowering Your Carbon Pawprint: How to be a more Eco-Friendly Dog Owner

When people talk about being more “environmentally friendly” they might consider using public transport to get to work, making sure that the lights are turned off or conscientiously splitting rubbish and recycling.

But how many people think about their canine’s carbon pawprint? Humans produce “over 300 million tons of plastic every year” and “the largest market for plastics is as a packaging material with this market accounting for nearly half of all plastic waste that is generated globally.”

With an estimated 9 million dogs in the UK, there are a lot of bowls to fill and a lot of packaging to be binned. Add to that poo bags, dogs toys and treats packaging, and our canine companions can be contributing high volumes to the excess of plastic waste which the world struggles to recycle, inevitably ending up in landfill or in our precious oceans.

So, what can you do, as an eco-conscious dog owner, to help reduce the carbon paw-print of your furry family member?

Dinner time!

Did you know… “Fewer than 1 in 20,000 food pouches are recycled… making them more of a burden than single-use coffee cups”?

Within the pet food industry, there are several food packaging options, some more recyclable than others.  Black plastic trays, for example, are more likely to end up incinerated or in landfill as automated recycling facilities find it hard to distinguish black from other colours.  Cans and jars have high carbon emissions through their sourcing and production – plus the only elements that can come from a renewable source is their label.

A more environmentally friendly option would be to consider a carton packaging. These innovative packs are more commonly associated with dairy products and chopped tomatoes than with wet dog food and treats, but some manufacturers are persevering with this type of packaging as they are fully recyclable and keep the food fresh and protected without the need for nasty preservatives.

Made primarily from FSCTM cardboard, cartons start from responsibly managed forests and then end up being turned into roof tiles and toilet rolls at the end of their life cycle.

Consider the origin.

There are still a small number of British dog food manufacturers – which are more than just a brand. Some source produce from within the UK, whereas others get their ingredients from the UK and abroad. By being a UK based manufacturer, they will use less fuel miles from the fields to the factory. Other brands have their food manufactured abroad, thus increasing fuel miles dramatically, and raising your canine’s carbon footprint.

 Toys

Have you ever thought about making your own dog toys? Be imaginative with fabrics – an old tea towel, t-shirt or blanket makes a sturdy plaything.  Add in a knot for interest, or alternatively you can plait or weave some fabric and hide treats for extra brain exercise!

If you don’t want to make your own, consider choosing toys that are biodegradable or from environmentally conscious companies.

Walkies!

Whilst it is lovely to get in the car and drive to a beautiful countryside location or beach, it is more environmentally friendly to walk straight from the front door.  Make use of your surroundings, go on an adventure, and see what you can find locally to your home. There may be many undiscovered places that you and your dog can enjoy together without the need to get in the car.

Poop…!

Dog mess is a huge problem – the need to pick it up and the need to not use plastic bags have to be equally balanced. A labrador could potentially use over 10,200 poo bags during their lifetime.  There are, however, other options that avoid the use of plastic bags, whilst still cleaning up after your dog.

The easiest solution would be to consider bio-degradable bags. Readily available and easy to purchase as an alternative to plastic, this is a relatively simple switch. You could think about a compost bin at home – although hygiene would need to be a consideration, or a pet poop wormery as more environmentally friendly options.

So, consider making these small steps to make a big difference for all our canine companions to be more environmentally savvy, and begin your journey to a greener world.

dog fencing options

Affordable dog fencing – what are the options?

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Affordable dog fencing

When it comes to affordable dog fencing there aren’t many options as fencing is actually quite expensive.  As with everything you get what you pay for and it depends on whether you want to get your hands dirty. Naturally, these fencing options are based on how large an area you need to fence. The landscape that you need to fence. And also the breed of the dog that requires the dog fencing!

Dog fencing for small areas

If you are looking to fence a small back garden then it is likely that you already have a fence or wall but it isn’t meeting your needs. Watch your dog and see if he is using something to climb up and scrabble over or is he climbing or digging. Consider installing trellis above your fence. This can be bought from any good DIY store and is relatively quick to install. If you have a digger add a concrete footer below your fence by pouring concrete along the edge of the fence and sinking the bottom of the fence into the concrete before it dries.  This is naturally a labour intensive job but should do the trick!

dog fencing using trellis on wall

Trellis placed on top of wall

If you are not sure where he is getting out then one of our DIY dog fences is going to be the cheapest way forward. These fences are under £250.00 and will cover a small urban garden. If you compare the price of re-fencing a complete rear garden versus adding an electronic dog fence the dog fence will win on price all day long!

For small gardens with low fences, you may be able to upgrade your fence to a close board fence. These fences start at around £38.00 per metre fully installed. You will need to check that you can install a fence of this height before ripping out the old fence.

Rural gardens and small paddocks

It goes without saying that dog fencing for rural areas can be a headache. Not only are you trying to stop your dog going out but the local wildlife is busy pushing its way in. If you have an issue with rabbits and small dogs then this could be a good option for you but it is not the cheapest! Rabbit fencing starts at approx £130.00 per 50m without installation! If you are covering a 1-acre site this will cost in the region of £690.00 just for the galvanised mesh without any posts of labour. Also unless it is extremely well-installed rabbit fencing can be damaged by larger mammals such as Badgers, Muntjack and larger Deer.

dog fencing for rabbits

Rabbit fence used as dog fencing

If you have hedges or areas with no existing fences then the cheapest form of fencing will be either a stock fence or an electronic dog fence. If you have horses or livestock then you will need to look at stock fencing options. Of course, if it is only a dog or a cat that needs containing then an electronic dog fence is by far the cheapest option.

Our DIY dog fence can be expanded up to an acre for an additional £100.00 and a Professionally Installed dog fence will cost in the region of £1000.00 depending on the location and number of dogs. This would work out more cost-effective than the galvanized or stock fencing and would also protect the driveways. Installing gates can also be very costly and of course, this relies on people shutting the gate when they come or go! Our Professionally installed fences have a lifetime warranty on the hardware and a containment promise for the dog.

Large estates and difficult terrains

If it aesthetics then Estate fencing is most certainly the winner but you will need deep pockets to install this timeless classic! At around £80.00 per 2m panel + installation, it will very soon add up, especially on the large country estate! Again, you will need to think about gates and this type of fencing is not dog secure. Other popular types of fencing are post and rail with stock fencing below or chain link fencing. Chain link fencing is probably the cheapest starting from around £2500 for 1 acre + installation. Whereas if you are looking at fencing 10 acres using our Performance Series on a 10-acre site the cost would be circa £1800.00 including installation & training.

dog fencing used as estate fencing

Estate fencing

Riverbanks and Undulating Terrain

If your property goes down to the river you may be able to install a small picket fence. These will not stop all dogs as they tend to only be a 90 cm – 100cm high. Prices for Picket fencing start at around £12.00 per metre plus installation.  Alternatively, you can use our dog fence to run along the boundary. This will keep your dog out of the river without disrupting the view. If you have very undulating terrain then you will probably need to install a stock fence but there would be a hefty surge-charge to install this! Again, an invisible fence can be installed for a fraction of the cost.  The trencher used to install the invisible dog fence is extremely adaptable and be operated in both steep and undulating terrain. Images of the dog fence trencher can be seen on our installation & training page.

dog fencing by river using picket fence

Picket fence along river bank

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dog Fencing price summary

Based on an acre (and excluding gates)

    • Electronic dog fence (1 dog fully installed – covers gateways as well) – from £3.50 per metre installed.
    • Stock Fencing (no gates) – from £7.00 per metre installed
    • Rabbit Fencing (no gates) – from £8.00 per metre installed
    • Stock Fencing with post and rail (no gates) – from £12.00 per metre
    • Picket fencing (no gate) – from £20.00 per metre
    • Close board fence (no gate) – from £35.00 per metre installed
    • Estate fencing (no gate) from £40.00 per metre installed

Prices have been based on submissions from Companies in Berkshire (2019). Prices are based on properties in the local area and are a guide.

If you have been searching for dog fencing options then read our testimonials on our Trust Pilot reviews. If you would like more information or prices call us today on 03450 623623 or complete our quote form.