Our Recent Posts and Updates

Chocolate, while a delightful treat for humans, especially during festive occasions, can be extremely dangerous for dogs. Here’s what you should know and do if your furry friend accidentally consumes chocolate. Why Is Chocolate Dangerous for Dogs? Chocolate contains theobromine, a compound that dogs metabolize much slower than humans. The darker and purer the chocolate, the higher the concentration of theobromine, which can be toxic to your pet. Even small amounts of dark chocolate can pose a serious risk, especially to smaller dogs. Symptoms of Chocolate Poisoning in Dogs Mild Cases: Might cause slight gastrointestinal upset including vomiting or diarrhea. More Serious Cases: Can lead to more severe symptoms such as hyperactivity, rapid heart rate, tremors, seizures, and potentially even death. Immediate Actions to Take Assess the Situation: Try to determine how much chocolate your dog consumed and what type it was (milk, dark, white, etc.). This information is crucial for determining the severity of the poisoning. Contact Your Veterinarian: Quickly call your vet or an emergency pet poison control hotline. They can advise whether you need to induce vomiting or bring your pet in for immediate treatment. Inducing Vomiting: If advised by your veterinarian, you may need to induce vomiting at home. This is typically done using 3% hydrogen peroxide, but it’s crucial to use the correct dosage and follow vet instructions carefully. Not all dogs should be induced to vomit at home, especially dogs that are brachycephalic (like Bulldogs), very young, old, or those with certain health conditions. Veterinary Treatment Inducing Vomiting: Your vet may administer a safe agent like apomorphine to induce vomiting. Activated Charcoal: To prevent further absorption of theobromine, your vet might administer activated charcoal, especially if the chocolate was consumed within the last few hours. Supportive Care: In cases of severe toxicity, supportive treatments such as IV fluids, medications to stabilize heart rate, anti-seizure medications, or sedatives might be necessary. Prevention Tips Secure Your Sweets: Always store chocolate and other sweets out of your dog’s reach. During holidays and family gatherings, be extra vigilant to ensure sweets are not left unattended. Educate Your Family: Make sure everyone in your household understands the dangers of feeding chocolate and other harmful foods to dogs. Chocolate ingestion is an emergency that requires immediate action to prevent serious health consequences. Always keep chocolate securely stored away from pets and educate everyone in your home about the risks. If an accident occurs, quick and informed actions combined with prompt veterinary care can make a crucial difference in your dog's health.

Choosing the right food for your dog can be as complex and varied as human nutrition, with a wide range of options available. However, not all ingredients in dog food contribute positively to your pet's health. Some additives and fillers could even harm your dog, leading to allergies, obesity, and other health issues. Understanding which dog food ingredients to avoid can help you make better choices for your canine companion. Unwanted Ingredients in Dog Food: BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole): A chemical preservative known to have harmful effects on the liver and kidneys and identified as a carcinogen. White Flour: Offers little nutritional value and can cause blood sugar spikes, potentially leading to obesity. Unspecified Meat or Meat Meal: Low-quality meats that might include diseased or expired sources, lacking in nutritional integrity. Artificial Colors and Flavorings: Linked to behavioral issues and allergic reactions, these additives serve more to appeal to pet owners than to meet any nutritional need of the dog. MSG and Similar Flavor Enhancers: Often hidden under various names, these are used to mask the taste of low-quality ingredients. Corn Syrup: A sweetener that can cause blood sugar spikes, leading to potential obesity and diabetes. Farmed Salmon: Lacks the nutritional profile of wild-caught salmon and may contain higher levels of mercury and other toxins. Xylitol: A sweetener toxic to dogs, leading to severe health issues including liver failure and death. Nitrates and Nitrites: Preservatives associated with methemoglobinemia and cancer risks. STPP (Sodium Tripolyphosphate): A chemical with no nutritional value, used as a preservative. Rendered Fats: Can include fats from dubious sources, potentially leading to toxin accumulation. Propylene Glycol: Found in semi-moist dog foods and related to antifreeze, posing a risk even in small quantities. Vegetable Oil: High in omega-6 fatty acids, which can cause inflammation and other health issues. By-Products: Often vague and minimally regulated, providing questionable nutritional value. Navigating the Dog Food Aisle: With an array of dog food choices available, including grain-free, organic, and raw diet options, it's crucial to be informed. This guide on ingredients to avoid simplifies the process, steering you towards healthier choices for your dog. Look for foods that specify their meat sources, avoid unnecessary chemical additives, and prioritize natural, wholesome ingredients to ensure your dog's diet supports their well-being. Choosing the right dog food is a vital part of pet ownership, requiring awareness and consideration of the ingredients that make up your dog's meals. Opting for high-quality, nutritionally dense foods without harmful additives can contribute to a happier, healthier life for your furry friend.

If your dog has sustained a wound, it's essential to know how to provide the proper care at home. While minor injuries can often be managed without a trip to the vet, more severe wounds will require professional medical attention. Here’s a guideline to help you navigate through both scenarios. Home Treatable Wounds: Minor scrapes and cuts are generally treatable at home. These can be cleaned with soap and water, followed by the application of a triple antibiotic cream. Keeping the wound clean and applying the cream twice daily can prevent infection and aid in healing. It’s important to observe the wound for any signs of infection, like discharge or excessive pain, which would then require veterinary attention. When to Visit the Vet: Certain wounds require professional intervention: Larger Lacerations: Wounds longer than an inch usually require a vet's attention, potentially needing stitches. Persistent Bleeding: A vet can help stop bleeding, especially if it's from a significant vessel. Severe Injuries: Deep wounds or those causing your dog pain should be evaluated by a professional for potential antibiotics and pain management. Signs of Infection: Discharge, odor, or redness are indicators that your dog needs veterinary care. Impaired Movement: If a wound affects your dog's ability to move, it's time for a vet visit. Uncertainty: When in doubt about the severity of a wound or how to care for it, consult your vet. DIY Care Steps: Stopping Bleeding: Apply pressure to the wound. For minor bleeds, a small amount of styptic powder can help. Cleaning: Rinse the wound with soap and water or a saline solution to remove any debris. Dressing: Apply an antibiotic ointment after drying the wound. Leave the wound exposed, when possible, to expedite healing. Bandaging: Only certain wounds may require bandaging, and it’s important not to wrap too tightly to avoid restricting blood flow. Preventing Licking and Chewing: Dogs often lick their wounds, which can interfere with healing. A cone collar may be necessary to prevent this. Essential Home Care Supplies: Consider keeping a canine first aid kit on hand with these items. Check and refresh supplies regularly to ensure they are effective when needed. Bandages Antibiotic ointment Saline solution or materials for wound cleaning Cone collar Conclusion: While many minor wounds can be safely treated at home, it's crucial to recognize when veterinary attention is needed. By following these guidelines, you can ensure your dog receives the best possible care, whether at home or in a vet's office. Always err on the side of caution and consult your vet if you're unsure about the severity of a wound or how to treat it.

If your dog is displaying signs like sneezing, excessive scratching, or paw licking, they might be reacting to seasonal allergies. Like humans, dogs can't communicate their discomfort from allergens such as pollen, dust, or mold, leaving us to identify and address their symptoms. Recognizing the Symptoms: Skin Irritation: One of the most evident signs of allergies in dogs is skin irritation, leading to scratching, biting, and potentially inflamed skin. Paw Licking: Dogs often lick their paws in response to histamine release caused by allergens, a natural immune response. Hair Loss: Frequent scratching due to itchiness can lead to more hair loss than usual, accompanied by possible dandruff from increased allergy exposure. Ear Infections: Particularly in dogs with floppy ears, symptoms like head shaking and redness inside the ears may indicate an ear infection related to allergies. Respiratory Distress: Though less common, respiratory symptoms such as wheezing or coughing require immediate veterinary attention, as they could signify a severe allergic reaction. Managing Your Dog's Seasonal Allergies: Modify Outdoor Activities: Adjust walking times to avoid peak pollen hours, typically early morning and late afternoon. Consider indoor play options during high allergen seasons. Paw and Fur Care: After walks, gently wipe your dog's paws and coat with hypoallergenic wipes to remove allergens. Pay special attention to cleaning their paws, where allergens often accumulate. Home Environment: Keep your home's air clean by changing air filters regularly and using air conditioners or dehumidifiers to reduce indoor allergens and moisture that can foster mold growth. Bedding Maintenance: Wash your dog's bedding in hot water weekly and consider adding a washable blanket on top for easy allergen removal. Washable toys should also be cleaned regularly. Bathing Routines: For dogs with severe allergies, a bathing routine with hypoallergenic, anti-itch shampoos can provide relief from itchy and dry skin. Dietary Supplements: Incorporating supplements rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids into your dog's diet can help improve their skin health and reduce itchiness. When to Seek Veterinary Care: Persistent scratching or discomfort in your dog should prompt a visit to the vet. Depending on the severity of the allergies, your vet may recommend treatments ranging from over-the-counter solutions to prescription medications. Seasonal allergies can significantly impact your dog's quality of life, but with the right strategies, you can help manage their symptoms and keep them comfortable year-round.

Finding the ideal dog for a family with children involves three crucial factors: temperament, size, and energy level. Understanding these aspects can help ensure a harmonious match between your new pet and your family dynamics. Key Considerations: Temperament: Look for a dog with a personality that meshes well with your family's lifestyle. A gentle and calm demeanor is often ideal for families with young children. Size: While size alone doesn't determine a good fit, it should be considered alongside temperament and energy. Smaller, calmer dogs might be easier for young children to interact with, whereas larger, more boisterous dogs might suit more active families but require careful supervision to prevent accidental injuries during play. Energy Level: Match the dog's energy to your family's lifestyle. Active families might find a high-energy dog a delightful companion, while families with a more laid-back lifestyle might prefer a dog with lower energy needs. Top Dog Breeds for Families with Children: Golden Retriever: Known for their patience, intelligence, and loyalty. They are playful and require regular exercise, making them great companions for active children. Beagle: Gentle, loving, and full of energy, Beagles thrive in active families and enjoy being the center of attention. Labrador Retriever: A popular choice due to their playful nature, reliability, and intelligence. Labs are versatile, getting along well with other pets and people, though they do need plenty of exercises. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: A wonderful option for more relaxed households. These dogs are incredibly friendly, enjoy companionship, and adapt well to various living situations. Poodle (Miniature): Highly trainable and athletic with a friendly disposition. Poodles are adaptable, bonding well with the entire family. Vizsla: Known for their affectionate nature and loyalty. Vizslas are energetic and do best with older children, offering obedience and close companionship. Havanese: Smart and sociable, Havanese dogs excel in families, craving attention and the opportunity to perform tricks. Integrating a New Dog into Your Home: Adjustment time is normal for any new pet. Establishing a routine is crucial for helping your dog acclimate to its new environment. Consistent schedules for play, relaxation, and bonding time can foster a sense of security. Regular exercise and socialization are also key to a well-adjusted pet. For those looking for assistance in training their new family member, reaching out to professional dog training services like Best By Farr Dog Training can be beneficial. They offer guidance and training to help your dog become a well-mannered and cherished part of the family. Selecting the right dog for your family is a rewarding process that can lead to years of joy and companionship. Consider these factors and breeds as a starting point in your journey to finding the perfect canine addition to your family.

Choosing the right veterinarian is a crucial decision for your dog's health and well-being. A vet is not just a healthcare provider but a partner in your pet's life journey, managing everything from routine check-ups to more complex medical issues. Here's a guide to help you find the perfect vet: Leverage Personal Referrals: Start by consulting friends and family who own pets. Inquire about their experiences, both routine and complex, with their veterinarians. Personal experiences can offer genuine insights into the vet's competence and the overall satisfaction with the services provided. Visit Multiple Clinics: Schedule appointments with different vets. Pay attention to: First Impressions: Note the cleanliness of the facility and the friendliness of the staff. Capability and Services: Determine if they can handle serious issues, their approach to emergency care, and the range of services offered. Availability: Check the number of veterinarians on staff and the ease of scheduling appointments. Financial Aspects: Understand their fee structure and ask about payment plans for extensive treatments. Preventative Care: Explore their approach to preventative care and any special packages or plans they offer. Diagnostic Services: Check what diagnostics they offer on-site and what requires referral. Certifications: Check for notable accreditations like AAHA (American Animal Hospital Association) and whether the practice is Fear Free certified, ensuring the staff is trained to handle pets in a way that minimizes fear, stress, and anxiety. Assess Your Comfort Level: During your visits, engage with the veterinarians and staff to gauge: Experience and Expertise: Ask about their years of practice, educational background, and any specializations. Compatibility with Your Schedule: Ensure their working hours align with yours. Interaction with Your Pet: Observe how they interact with your dog. Are they patient and caring? Communication: Assess how well they address your concerns, the thoroughness of their responses, and whether their communication style makes you feel at ease. Selecting the right veterinarian is about finding a balance between professional expertise, facility quality, and a compassionate, understanding approach to both pet and owner. Taking the time to follow these steps ensures that your pet receives the best possible care throughout their life.

The big day is here! Your new puppy, the latest addition to your family, is about to arrive. As a loving and responsible pet owner, it's crucial to prepare your home and yard to ensure the safety and well-being of this playful little explorer. Let's go through the essential steps of puppy-proofing to make your home a safe haven for your furry friend.

The journey of puppy parenthood comes with the inevitable challenge of toilet training. While it might feel like an uphill battle at times, rest assured you're not alone. Here are our top tips to make the process smoother: Be Proactive: Anticipate your puppy's needs and take them outside at specific times, such as before bedtime, upon waking, after naps, after meals, after play sessions, and upon returning home. Designated “Business” Area: Consistency is key. Always take your puppy to the same spot to reinforce the toileting association. For apartment dwellers, consider creating a designated area with a box of turf or sand on your patio. Verbal Cues: Introduce verbal cues like "go pee," "potty time," or "quick quick" during toileting. This creates an association, helping your puppy understand when it's time to go. Remember to praise your puppy AFTER they've finished toileting. Establish a 'Zen Den': Provide a comfortable space, like a crate or pen, where your puppy can sleep. Puppies are less likely to soil where they sleep, helping prevent accidents. Patience is Key: Expect mistakes and respond with patience. Use your hands for praise only, avoiding punishments like rubbing their nose in it. If accidents occur, clean thoroughly to eliminate odors that might confuse your puppy. Consistency is Crucial: The more consistent you are, the quicker your puppy will learn. Minimize the chances of mistakes to facilitate the learning process. Control Access: Strategically place fresh water or food in areas where you want to discourage toileting. Puppies typically avoid toileting where they eat, drink, or sleep . Need more help with Puppy Toilet Training or other Puppy related training topics? We've got your back. Contact Best By Farr Dog Training to learn more about our Puppy Programs .

Has your dog ever pulled you off your feet during a walk? If so, you're not alone. But wouldn't it be wonderful if your dog learned to follow you willingly, even without a leash? It's important to understand that when your dog pulls on the leash, they aren't being combative; in fact, they genuinely want to please you. When your dog believes it’s their duty to encounter any dangers before you do, they control the walk. By demonstrating clear communication, embodying the strong leader your dog needs, and building trust, you can encourage your furry friend to relax and take cues from you, regardless of the situations you encounter. Here are some quick tips to help curb leash-pulling behavior in your dog: Initiate the Walk with Leadership: Start each walk by having your dog come to you, emphasizing that you are the leader. Have them wait calmly, either sitting or standing, as you attach the leash. Control the Door: Don't allow your dog to rush out the door or get ahead of you. A well-trained dog will stay beside or slightly behind you, enhancing their comfort and confidence during the walk. Maintain Focus: Keep your dog's attention on you to prevent distractions and potential dangers. Employ techniques that work for your pet to ensure their focus remains on your commands. Avoid Distractions: Don't let your distractions compromise your role as the leader. Walk confidently, keep your dog close, and prevent them from dragging or pulling on the lead, especially if you're using a retractable leash. Business First: Allow your dog a few minutes to attend to their business before starting the actual walk. Discourage unnecessary territory marking and keep them focused on the walk ahead. Leash Safety: Only unleash your dog in designated leash-free areas for everyone's safety, including your furry friend's. Take regular walks with your pup, ideally on a daily basis. These walks aren't just about exercise and fresh air; they offer an opportunity to build and reinforce the kind of relationship you desire with your dog. Valuable basics such as walking to heel, responding to commands, and maintaining proper gate/door manners can be honed during these outings. If you find your walks still frustrating, Best By Farr Dog Training is ready to assist you on your journey to enjoyable and stress-free walks with your furry companion. Reach out today for a free phone consultation.

Your dog is like a cherished family member, and just like any child, they deserve some festive surprises during the holiday season. If you're on the hunt for the perfect gifts for your pet, consider these ideas that will surely bring holiday joy to your furry companion. Treats: Much like candy for kids, dogs eagerly anticipate their special treats during the holidays. Choose a variety of treats tailored to your dog's preferences, ensuring a tasty and festive treat that adds a dash of joy to their holiday celebrations. A New Leash and Collar: Step up your dog's style and safety with a snazzy new collar and a matching leash. A well-fitted collar provides a secure spot for ID tags and is comfortable for your dog to always wear. This gift not only enhances your pet's fashion game but also ensures their safety during walks and training sessions. Toys with a Twist: Transform playtime into a captivating adventure with innovative and challenging dog toys. Challenging toys serves dual purposes by not only entertaining your dog but also engaging their mind. Perfect for those post-holiday moments when your furry friends may find themselves home alone, these toys offer hours of entertainment. Choose toys tailored to your dog's size and chewing strength, some even come with treats to fill the compartments so they’re ready to use right out the box. Training Sessions: Training sessions can kickstart the New Year with positive habits. Invest in the invaluable gift of training to ensure your dog learns to follow commands, promoting safety and happiness. Trained dogs are not only a joy to be around but also foster a stronger bond with their owners. Make this holiday season extraordinary for your pet with these thoughtful gift ideas. Contact Best By Farr Dog Training to ditch disobedience and learn more about our dog training services.

Training plays a crucial role in shaping your dog's behavior to align with your expectations, but can it truly alter the very essence of your furry friend's personality? Let's delve into the dynamics of training and its impact on your dog's unique character. If your dog boasts a lively and exuberant personality, you might wonder whether training will dampen that spirited essence. Contrary to common misconceptions, training is not about suppressing your dog's vibrant personality but rather about refining their behavior to align with your expectations. While training can address certain behavioral issues, it doesn't fundamentally reshape your pet's inherent personality. Here's a closer look at the dynamics of training and its interaction with your dog's unique traits. Personality vs. Behavior: It's essential to distinguish between personality and behavior when contemplating the effects of training. Training primarily addresses and corrects specific behaviors. Your dog's personality, intrinsic to their character, may contribute to certain behaviors, but training doesn't undergo a radical transformation of who they are. For instance, an untrained dog may express excitement by jumping up when you return home. Training intervenes to modify this behavior (jumping up), allowing your dog's enthusiasm to shine through in a more acceptable manner. Craving Discipline: Even the most spirited dogs inherently crave order and discipline. They thrive when guided by a pack leader who sets behavioral expectations. When a clear leader is absent, dogs can become anxious, leading to the manifestation of problematic behaviors. Training serves a crucial role in establishing you as the pack leader, providing a sense of security and stability for your pet. Through training, dogs understand the boundaries and expectations, allowing them to revel in their natural exuberance without the stress of undesirable behavior. Discipline Doesn’t Have to be Harsh: It's a common misconception that discipline, synonymous with training, must be harsh. Dogs respond favorably to gentle correction, persistent efforts, and abundant positive reinforcement. Techniques such as hitting or yelling only confuse and frighten dogs. Instead, employing patience, clear commands, and praise forms the foundation of effective training, preserving your pet's charming personality. Training becomes a collaborative effort, fostering a positive environment that enhances your dog's well-being. In conclusion, while training refines behavior and instills discipline, it respects and preserves the unique personality that defines your dog. Training becomes a collaborative effort, fostering a positive environment that enhances your dog's well-being. Contact Best By Farr Dog Training to ditch disobedience and learn more about our dog training services.

Thanksgiving is a time of gratitude and togetherness, and it's only natural to want to share the joy with your four-legged family member. However, while your pup may hold a special place in your heart, not all Thanksgiving foods should find their way into their bowl. The team at Best By Farr Dog Training is here to guide you on the dog-friendly delights of Thanksgiving, the ones to avoid, and even a special homemade treat for your furry best friend to enjoy.

As a responsible dog owner, you're likely aware that selecting the right collar or harness for your furry companion is a crucial decision. Whether it's time to get your puppy their first collar or replace an old one, understanding the differences between collars and harnesses and how they suit different dogs and situations is essential. In this article, we'll explore the pros and cons of both dog collars and dog harnesses to help you make an informed choice.

We are thrilled to share some exciting news with all our dog-loving friends and clients: Best By Farr Dog Training is expanding, and we are proud to announce the opening of our new location in Wake Forest, North Carolina! For years, we have been dedicated to helping dog owners in Arizona build stronger bonds with their furry companions and transform their dogs into well-behaved and confident pets. Now, with our new location, we can extend our expertise and training programs to the wonderful community of Wake Forest and the surrounding areas. What can you expect from Best By Farr Dog Training in Wake Forest? The same exceptional quality of service, highly qualified trainers, and commitment to creating harmonious relationships between dogs and their owners. Whether you have a rambunctious puppy in need of early training, a dog with behavioral challenges requiring behavior modification, or if you simply want to enhance your dog's obedience skills, we have the right program for you. We're excited to be a part of the Wake Forest dog-loving community and look forward to helping more dogs and their owners experience the joy of a well-trained and happy canine companion.