Here at Everypaw, we're all about making life a little simpler for pet owners and finding new ways to keep your furry friends happy, healthy, and safe. So, why buy when you can make these items from the stuff you've already got lying around at home?
Dog ownership can be expensive. From toys, leads and accessories to brushes and shampoo, it all adds up.
Ready to get handy? Check out our favourite super-easy DIY projects, from how to make your own dog bed to DIY doggy shampoo and upcycled toys and games.
More DIY Hacks for Dog Owners
Because 6 hacks probably isn't enough to cover most areas of dog ownership, why don't we give you some more?! From grooming to training and from pups to older pups (because they're still a puppy really, right?!)
Dog Grooming Hacks
Of course, you're already familiar with the baby shampoo at bath time hack. But did you also know about these doozies:
- Squeegee: Ok, not so much a "grooming" hack, but if their hair gets everywhere after a good brush, then a squeegee is great for removing dog hair from areas like furniture, car seats or rugs and carpets.
- DIY toothbrush: Struggling to get your pooch's gnarly gnashers clean? Try spreading a little doggie toothpaste on their favourite toy and let them clean while they play.
- Peanut butter bath: No, we don't mean bathing them in nutty butter. If you struggle to keep your pooch still while washing them, try spreading a little peanut butter on the side of the bath. They can lick while you wash.
Dog Training Hacks
We've got more training hacks than spraying the furniture with a magic solution to stop them from chewing.
- End with familiarity: Always end your training sessions with an activity or task that your bestie knows. This means your sessions can end on a happy note while enhancing positive recognition.
- Tier your treats: When they complete a known behaviour, such as sitting when asked (for example), give them a lower-tier treat - maybe a piece of their dry food. Then, when learning new skills, give them exciting treats like a piece of sausage, etc.
- Use your voice: Dogs are sensitive to your tone of voice. Keep it light or happy, and they'll know they're being good. Equally, get stern when checking naughtiness - but remember to stay calm, and there's no need to shout.
Hacks for Puppies
Life hacks for dog owners start being useful from the moment you get your new bundle of fun home. Here are some tips to help with the more chaotic years of pup management.
- Clock and scarf: Wrapping a small clock in an item of your clothing will help soothe your pup at night. The ticking replicates mum's heartbeat while the clothing smells like you to create positive recognition.
- Music maestro! Music can be great for relaxing your anxious new pup. Playing some classical music or talk radio can help keep them calm when you need to nip out. But it's best to wait until they're between 8 and 12 weeks before leaving them alone.
- More than food bowls: Instead of giving your pup all their food in a bowl, think about adding some to the inside of their hollow chew toys or in a food puzzle toy. This will engage their brain and keep them entertained while you get on with something else.
Hacks for Older Dogs
As your pooch gets older, they may run into more health challenges. That's where two things can come in handy: 1. pet insurance for older dogs and 2. a plan to get them to take their meds (hence the pill pockets hack).
But here are some more ways you can help make your experienced pup's life easier as they strut into their golden years.
- Elevated bowls: Increasing the level of your pup's water bowls and food will help take some of the strain away from their neck when it's time for a sip or snack.
- Night lights: Motion sensor lights might be a good idea for older pups who struggle to see in darker environments. Place them near their food or water bowls to help reduce anxiety and confusion.
- Toddler mattresses: A great and inexpensive option for giving your pooch more support when sleeping or lying down.
Weather-related Hacks
Thick fur and an energetic nature typically mean that your pup needs some help staying cool during the hot summer months. Here are some fun (and tasty) things to try:
- Frozen treats: Dogs can chow down on tasty, healthy treats like carrots, peas, peppers, bananas, raspberries or sweetcorn. So, why not freeze them in the summer for a lip-smacking icy treat?
- Cooling mats: Don't go spending loads of money (unless you want to, that is). Just dampen a towel and place it on the floor for them.
- Paddling pools: That's right, your fur babies will love splashing in the cool water as much as your human babies.
Everypaw Dog Insurance
Everypaw's Dog Insurance comes with 24/7 unlimited access to vets and vet nurses that can help with your pet's health, care, nutrition and behaviour. So you can rest assured your pup will be well looked after.