Canine halitosis, generally known as bad dog breath, is much more common than you might think. Around 80% of dogs over the age of three have periodontal disease, which is the major cause of bad breath in dogs. Fortunately, there are some home remedies that you can do that naturally cure bad dog breath.

Yogurt

Yogurt is a natural, healthy, and nourishing treat for your dog that also helps fight bad breath. When consumed frequently, yogurt and probiotics neutralize hydrogen sulfide, the main cause of halitosis. A probiotic made specifically for dogs can be added to your dog’s regular diet to help balance healthy oral bacteria and maintain fresh breath. See your veterinarian for advice on the best probiotic brand and dosage for your dog.

Coconut Oil

Supplying coconut oil in small, controlled amounts will help you keep your dog’s breath fresh, increase your pet’s metabolism, and encourage regular digestion. Coconut oil is known for its immunity-boosting benefits as well as for enhancing skin and coat health. Moreover, it can be used to combat unpleasant dog breath. Simply add a spoonful of coconut oil to their foods to avoid the potential negative effects of excessive ingestion.

Lemon Juice

In addition to causing bad breath, bacteria in your dog’s mouth can also result in long-term dental problems. Lemon juice’s acidity aids in bacteria neutralization and the prevention of tartar and plaque that can cause bad odors. Add it to your dog’s water, and a few drops of lemon will serve as a natural deodorizer to give them fragrant breath. You can also use apple cider vinegar, which acts similarly to lemon.

Parsley

A variety of vitamins and minerals found in parsley help support kidney health, immunity, and vision. Antioxidant-rich, it can help reduce swelling and pain from inflammatory illnesses like arthritis and other diseases, calm an upset stomach, and ease digestive issues. Additionally, it’s popular for removing stinky breath in both humans and dogs.  It’s cheap and easy to find. Just chop up some parsley leaves and mix them right into your dog’s food for the best results. Make sure to pick the kind with curly leaves. Spring parsley, a member of the carrot family that looks like parsley is toxic to dogs.

More Water!

Dehydration and foul breath are related, so make sure your dog drinks enough fresh water and always carry a portable water bowl with you.

And that’s it! Regular tooth brushing and eating a diet rich in fresh foods are the keys to maintaining good oral health. If you are taking these measures and your dog still consistently has bad breath, be sure to see your veterinarian for a diagnosis.

Like us, tearing or breaking a nail can be quite painful for dogs too. When dogs break their nails, it may be because the nail gets caught on something, like furniture or woody areas, or it may happen when the dog is running around all over the place. 

Keratin makes up the outer layer of a dog’s nail. Since this portion of the nail is dead and hard, dogs don’t feel any pain when it is cut. A fragile cuticle called the “quick” protects the blood vessels and nerves that go through your dog’s nails. This vascular structure, which is primarily found above the nail curve, nourishes your dog’s nails, enabling them to grow and feel different sensations. The “quick,” a source of blood and nerves, is located inside the nail. If your dog’s nail is damaged deep enough to reach the quick, then it will bleed a lot and be painful for them.

When you encounter a broken nail, if the bleeding does not stop or if the injury appears serious, take your dog to the veterinarian. However, if the damage is minor, you might be able to treat it at home.

Here are some tips for treating your dog’s broken nail.

1. Restrain Your Dog

While you attend to the nail, ask someone to hold your pet. Keep in mind that even the most loving animal may bite when it is hurt. The use of a muzzle may prevent harm. Bring your dog’s body close to yours while holding their head away from you to control them. If your dog is a wriggler, ask a friend to hold them while you examine the nail.

2. Control The Bleeding

Do not panic if your dog’s broken nail bleeds heavily, applying pressure to the area should control the bleeding. Apply a styptic pencil, silver nitrate stick, or cauterizing powder to the nail if the bleeding does not stop in 5–10 minutes. Both the pet store and the first-aid section of your local drugstore have these supplies.

3. Remove The Damaged Part

To prevent additional infection, the broken portion of your dog’s nail must be removed if part of the nail is still connected after being torn. Carefully removing the broken or damaged portion of the nail is necessary. Despite the fact that this treatment is frequently unpleasant, it may be completed quickly, and it typically doesn’t require anesthesia; nevertheless, depending on the severity of the pain and the location of the break, sedation is necessary. However, your veterinarian is usually best suited to handle this task. As you make your way to your veterinarian hospital, keep the foot covered in a towel.

Keep your dog’s nails trimmed to prevent the inconvenience of a broken nail. Longer nails are more likely to snap than shorter ones. Ask your veterinarian or a veterinary technician to demonstrate the correct nail trimming, so that you can cut your dog’s nails at home. And if you feel uncomfortable doing it yourself, simply arrange routine appointments at the veterinarian clinic to get your dog’s nails clipped.

While some canine pets ingest their tablets with dinner as needed, the majority usually require some encouragement. You are not alone in this predicament. A time will come when you have to feed your dog a pill, and they’re not going to like it. Here are some tips to help you solve this problem! Try it out and let us know what you think!

Mix With Foods

Hiding a medicine in a tasty food is one of the best methods to convince a dog to take the pill. The secret is to get your pet so excited about the food that he consumes it rapidly, along with the medicine. If all goes according to plan, your dog won’t be able to chew on the tablet or taste its bitterness when he swallows it. Here are a few of the best foods that you can use:

Peanut Butter

Peanut butter is an excellent option when it comes to canines’ favorite snacks. Because it’s sticky, you can conceal a pill inside a ball or dollop of delicious peanut butter. Put a pill in a gooey dollop of peanut butter on a spoon and give it to your pet to lick off. Alternatively, you might shape some peanut butter into a tiny ball, add the pill, and give it to your pet as a treat. Before you give peanut butter, check to see if it contains xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is poisonous to dogs.

Liverwurst

Many dogs find the flavor of liverwurst to be appealing. Its soft meat also makes it simple to roll into a ball and place the pill in the center. Many dog owners attest that their pet will gladly eat any recommended medication that is concealed inside the liverwurst. Additionally, liverwurst was considered by vets as a high-quality canine treat.

Cheese

To reduce calories and sodium for your pet, choose part-skim, soft, low-sodium mozzarella string cheese. You may roll some cheese into a ball and place the pill in the middle. The majority of capsules and pills fit easily inside a tiny piece of this cheese. Alternatively, if it does not slide easily, warm the cheese in your hands and shape it around the medication. You may roll some cheese into a ball and place the pill in the middle.

Pill Pockets

Along with food, there are also readily accessible easy-to-use snacks called pill pockets that come with a hole that is ideal for concealing medication. Pill pockets, which come in a variety of tastes, are frequently more nutritionally balanced and contain less sugar and sodium than regular food. Before purchasing, read the label carefully. Some products are intended specifically for dogs while others are made only for cats. If your pet is obese, look for a calorie-conserving brand. Remember that this approach functions best with dogs who take treats without chewing. The components in pill pockets may cause problems for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies, so if your canine companion has had trouble with food in the past, talk to your veterinarian.

Use A Yummy Tasting Pill

Ask your veterinarian if it is possible to compound your pet’s medicine so that it has a more appetizing flavor. Ask them to recommend you to an animal-focused compounding pharmacy in your area if your vet is unable to complete the request.  For example, ask for tuna flavored in the liquid antibiotic for your cat. Your pet might believe that the medicine he is being given is a special treat because of its delicious tuna flavor.

There you have it! What do you think of all these?

Coming home to wooden furniture or wood trim that has been chewed on by dogs or that has even been partially destroyed is a common occurrence for dog owners. So why do dogs like to chew on wood? 

It’s a simple fact that dogs chew on wood because they enjoy chewing on different objects. That presents a problem because it might have significant effects. Splinters from wood can cause severe injury by becoming lodged in the mouth and esophagus. Dogs chewing on wood, for whatever reason, cause more harm than just damage to the house. And like with anything you don’t want them to eat, keeping it out of your dog’s reach is the key to preventing them from eating wood.

Take Early Measures

Once the chewing habit has begun, it could take some time for your dog to break the habit. Pick up and store any loose branches, twigs, or other non-edible objects in the yard that your dog might have turned to chewing on when no one is around as a preventative measure. In addition to continuous training and supervision, you might want to keep your dog out of rooms in the house where he could hurt himself or your valuables. When no one is home to oversee him, put up barriers or keep him in his crate. Make your anxious pet a secure crate where he can feel at ease and at home while you’re away to prevent him from chewing.

Get An Alternative

Chew toys are likely to be a favorite among dogs who enjoy destructive gnawing. It might be challenging to get a dog to quit chewing on wood furniture but chew toys will likely be the most fun solution. As much as possible, stay away from dangerous toys like genuine bones, which can splinter and hurt a dog’s jaws, throat, and stomach. To prevent your dog from choking, stay away from small-sized toys. Instead, choose toys made from materials that are meant to withstand the strong chewing of a dog.

Reduce Boredom

And if you suspect that your dog is chewing only out of boredom, frustration or separation anxiety, it may be appropriate for your dog to have some other type of entertainment and stimulation. Since dogs are very social animals, you should also provide him chances to interact with people and other animals. You can ask a family member to play with, walk, and socialize your dog if necessary, or you can hire a pet sitter.

Dog Chewing Deterrent

To prevent dogs from chewing on hardwood furniture or wood trim, apply a chewing deterrent like bitter apple spray. Some dogs will go in the opposite way just because of how bitter these substances taste. By combining vinegar and apple cider, you can create your own deterrent by spraying it on the wooden objects you want your dog to avoid. Just keep in mind that behavior modification would make deterrents more effective. You can also use lemon, lime, orange and bitter essential oils. But other dogs seem to have acquired the bitter taste. Therefore, it will depend on your own dog.

Training

Chew toys by themselves don’t usually solve a chewing issue. You must also work on your pet’s training. Until you are certain that the chewing is under control, you must keep an eye on your dog. Negative reinforcement should never be used, as it is ineffective. Don’t chastise or chase your dog when they start chewing; instead, use fundamental dog training methods. When he stops chewing, give him rewards, pats, or compliments instead. Continue doing this until your dog realizes that chewing won’t get him any rewards.

In a pinch, you can make your own dog anti-anxiety wrap using a long bandage. If a long bandage isn’t available, an old stretchy t-shirt cut into strips can work, too.

Because extreme fear and anxiety can lead to serious health complications including heart attack, stroke, and seizures, if your dog is exhibiting signs including panic, increased heart rate, panting excessively, crying, and is inconsolable, it’s important to try to calm him as quickly as possible.

The video below demonstrates how to use a long bandage to create an effective temporary anxiety wrap at home.

The Dogington Post is reader-supported. That means, if you make a purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

If your dog becomes nervous, fearful, or panicked during loud events like thunderstorms or fireworks, there are a few things you can do to help him remain calm.

1. Shower him with love and positive attention. A common misconception exists that says giving attention to your dog when he’s afraid will only reinforce that fear. This is absolutely false! In fact, the opposite is true. Your dog depends on you for guidance and direction.

Ignoring your dog or forcing him to deal with his fear alone will not teach him anything. Never, ever punish a dog for being afraid. This will only serve to make him even more fearful.

So, if you know that the loud noise of a thunderstorm or fireworks celebration makes your pooch anxious, providing lots of love and affection in a calm, happy manner will show him that you’re there and will keep him safe. Pet, cuddle, and massage your dog in an attempt to keep him calm and content. Eventually, he should begin to associate the scary noises with something good – positive attention and love – and will react less fearfully.

2. Play some music. Aside from helping to mask the noise of thunder or fireworks, certain types of music have been scientifically proven to calm nervous or fearful dogs. Through a Dog’s Ear is a series of music CDs created especially for dogs dealing with a variety of anxieties. (Works great for dogs with separation anxiety, too!)

3. Try a Thundershirt or Anxiety Wrap. While they may look like just a tight-fitting shirt for your dog, anxiety wraps or Thundershirts, when properly fitted, are designed to apply gentle, even pressure to certain pressure points in the body that instantly calm your dog. Pet parents dealing with all sorts of anxieties in their dogs swear by the wraps for their ability to instantly provide comfort to a frightened pup. (In a pinch, try this DIY anxiety wrap using a scarf or ace banadage)

4. Divert your dog’s attention. Pull out some of her favorite toys and have a fun play session with your pooch. An entertaining play time will help keep your dog distracted until the source of her anxiety  is over. Plus, she’ll begin to associate the scary sounds with fun play time and, over time, will become less fearful.

5. Provide him a safe haven. If your pooch runs to a particular area in your house each time the thunder cracks, make that spot a comfy place for him. Put his blanket and favorite toy there, provide a favorite long-lasting chew or treat, provide “white noise” like soft music or a television, and allow him to stay in that spot until he finally feels okay coming out. Many dogs find great comfort inside of a crate or kennel during times of stress.

When your dog is in a fearful state, never, ever, force him to do something he isn’t comfortable with. For example, giving your dog a bath or trimming his nails would best be suited for another time. Coupling something he doesn’t like along with the thunderstorm or fireworks will strengthen that fear.

Experiment with using more than one of these techniques in combination with another. No single method works for every dog and the ultimate goal is for your unique pup to feel calm and comfortable.

Other Things to Try

1. Desensitization. There are times when it’s possible to alleviate your dog’s fears by playing thunderstorm sounds when it’s not storming outside. Find a CD or download thunderstorm or fireworks sound clips to use. Play at a low volume at first while comforting your dog with pleasant stimuli such as pettings and treats. Do this for only a few minutes each day over several weeks, slowly increasing the volume until you can play the sounds at their natural noise level while your dog remains content and calm. The gradual exposure to the source of his fear, combined with pleasant stimuli like petting or playing, will eventually reduce Fido’s anxiety about it. Fortunately, this technique works very well for many pets.
   
2. Medication and Natural Therapies. A dog owner is never thrilled with the necessity to use drugs in relieving their pooch’s fears. But, remember for those extreme cases, medicating your dog to keep him calm can be better for his health and well-being than not treating his condition. Talk to your vet about anxiety medications for your dog. Now for milder cases, you can try lavender oil or flower extracts to help appease your pooch. Many dogs also respond well to special pheromone collars, sprays, or diffusers designed to calm anxiety. And others respond very well to CBD oil or treats.
   
3. Animal Behaviorist. Even if you find relief using one or more of the methods above, an animal behaviorist may be able to provide additional insight into your fearful dog’s behavior and how to best deal with it. Your veterinarian, an animal behaviorist, even a dog trainer may have specialized training in managing this kind of canine behavior.

This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking them, we may get a small commission. The Dogington Post is dedicated to finding the best products for dogs and we will never recommend a product that we don’t love and use with our own fur-family. All images and names which are not the property of The Dogington Post are the property of their respective owners.

Share this article with other dog lovers – Pin it!

Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a type of depression that commonly occurs in humans, especially in the winter months when we spend less time outdoors, have minimal access to bright, sunny days, and have fewer hours of daylight each day. While the disorder commonly causes depression-like symptoms in humans, evidence suggests that dogs, too, are affected by the lack of sunlight this time of year.

The dark, gloomy days and longer, colder nights of winter can cause dogs to develop Seasonal Affective Disorder, just like humans. In dogs, symptoms include lethargy, neediness, behavioral changes such as aggression and inappropriate pottying, and a general feeling of “blah.” In extreme or extended cases, even hair loss can occur.

A survey by the British veterinary organization, PDSA found that 1 in 3 dog owners notice their pet becoming less playful and appearing down or depressed during dreary winter months. Some symptoms that may indicate your furriest family member is experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder include:

• Aggressive behavior or soiling inappropriately
• Clawing at furniture
• Demanding more attention or appearing withdrawn
• Frequent barking
• Lethargy – sleeping more than usual
• Less interest in going for walks or playing
• Reduced appetite and weight loss

So, how do you combat Seasonal Affective Disorder in your dog? The same way some humans find relief – with artificial sunlight! Light boxes commonly used by humans for SAD have been found to be effective in treating dogs, too. The premise behind the light box is that it fills a room with artificial sunlight to help balance the body’s production of melatonin, thus keeping sleep cycles and moods in check.

Light boxes vary in size and price, but are typically used for 30-45 minutes each day for optimal results.

In addition to light therapy, providing your dog with mental stimulation (for example, fun training exercises, brain games, treat puzzles, or scent games) can work very well toward building his confidence and lifting his spirits until the sun is shining again.

Does your dog experience Seasonal Affective Disorder? What types of changes do you notice in your pet?

Many cleaning products are known to be a common source of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which can be dangerous to both humans and animals. That said, you’ll want to think twice before you use a traditional cleaner to rid your house of dog smells. 

To help you deodorize your house safely, below TurboTenant has outlined some effective natural cleaning solutions using dog-safe essential oils.

1. Dog Odor Freshener

When your furry friend fills the house with their unwanted smells, this pet odor freshener can come in handy. All you need to create this recipe is the following:

• 12 drops of lavender essential oil
• 2 cups of water
• 3 tablespoons of rubbing alcohol
• 1 spray bottle

Once you’ve gathered these ingredients, all you have to do is mix them in your spray bottle and spritz the necessary smelly surfaces. Don’t be afraid to spray your solution liberally for those tougher-to-get-at smells. 

Furthermore, if your dog’s bed is in need of a cleaning, there’s a simple solution. Just powder baking soda onto the bed and let it sit for a decent amount of time. Afterward, vacuum up the baking soda and your pet’s bed should be good as new. 

2. Carpet Refresher Solution

Sometimes, your carpet can house the worst pet odors. Especially if your new puppy made an accident, you’ll want to bring out the big guns. In this case, this carpet refresher solution is the way to go.

For this cleaning recipe you will need:

• 1 cup of baking soda
• 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon
• 1 shaker container – an empty and cleaned parmesan cheese container works great!

Mix your ingredients together in your shaker and you will have a powdery solution that can negate any annoying carpet smell.  Simply sprinkle your cleaning remedy onto the carpet, let it sit for about an hour, vacuum it up, and your carpet will smell like snickerdoodles — perfect for the holiday season.

3. Simmer Pot Air Freshener

After you’ve finished cleaning any smelly messes, an air freshener can be the perfect way to fill your home with new, pleasant aromas. Ditch the common plug-in fresheners and try this natural simmer pot recipe to push out old pet smells in no time at all. All you need for this recipe is:

• 1 sliced orange
• 1 sliced lemon
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4 whole cloves

Toss your ingredients into a pot on the stove, fill the pot about halfway with water, and heat the mixture on a low setting. Let your solution sit for the day and add more water as needed. As the ingredients cook, your house will be filled with a pleasant, seasonal aroma.

While our furry friends can bring unwanted smells into the house, there are natural solutions to deodorize your room. Using the above recipes, you can keep your house smelling good while keeping you and your pets safe from harmful chemicals found in traditional cleaners. For more natural deodorizing remedies, check out this infographic below.

Enjoyed this article? Pin it!

Packed with amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, when used as a supplement to your dog’s diet, bone broth:
• promotes a healthy digestive system
• detoxifies the liver
• promotes healthy joint function, and
• encourages picky, sick, or elderly dogs to eat.

This homemade bone broth recipe is slow-cooked over low heat, increasing nutrient density and bioavailability.

You’ll need:

– Large Crockpot/Slow Cooker

– Bones – cooked or raw, organic & grass-fed whenever possible
 *Our favorite bones for broth include: marrow bones, joint bones (with cartilage), duck/turkey    
  necks, chicken frames, and even chicken feet – but ANY bones will do!

– Raw Apple Cider Vinegar – 1 tablespoon per gallon

– Optional Add-Ins: Fresh herbs or veggies (kale, kelp, medicinal mushrooms, broccoli, parsley, oregano, turmeric, etc)

Instructions:

1. Fill large crockpot with bones.

2. Add water to pot until bones are completely covered, plus an additional 2-3 inches of water.

3. Add raw apple cider vinegar to the pot.

4. Turn crockpot on to HIGH for 1 hour, then reduce heat to LOW and let simmer for 24-hours.

5. Strain out all bones and meat, leaving only broth in the pot.

6. Add optional ingredients (herbs, vegetables, turmeric, etc) to the broth.

7. Turn off heat and let broth cool completely, then refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours. After refrigeration, your bone broth may develop a thin layer of white fat on top. Just break the fat “crust” apart and discard. Bone broth below the fat layer will have a jelly-like consistency.

8. Spoon out and serve as needed.

Feel free to experiment with different types of bones – you can even toss in bones leftover from your own meals – and healthy, dog-safe herbs and vegetables each time you cook up a new batch.

This bone broth recipe can be kept in refrigerator for up to 5 days or can be frozen for several months.

Love this recipe? Pin it!

To ease anxiety and help dogs relax naturally, pet owners have the option to administer the natural compound, CBD. A common player in the health and wellness field recently, CBD is a powerful oil that helps reduce anxiety and stress in pets to keep them calm and feeling themselves. In fact, when administered in its pure state, a World Health Organization report states CBD is actually safe and well-tolerated by animals.

Like all mammals, dogs have an endocannabinoid system, which works in conjunction with CBD to provide various helping qualities. However, it can be hard to trust a new product and wellness area you don’t really know too much about – especially when it comes to a pet. So, it’s important to learn all the ins and outs of CBD for pets from the founder of CBD naturals company Bear Necessities Co., Halee Kalevitch, in order to make an educated choice.

First and foremost, understand that the dosage amount depends on the individual dog. Make note of the size, diet, age, activity, etc. since these variables have an impact on his or her ability to absorb the compound at different rates. To get the clearest answer you can consult a veterinarian for accurate numbers, but it is worth noting that there is no known way for a dog (or human) overdose from CBD – and this includes death.

With Independence Day coming up, the most prevalent questions about CBD and administering it to pets are answered below in time for the celebrations ahead. 

Should I start dosing my dogs in advance of July 4th, or should I give them the tincture that day?

It is best to begin dosing gradually to help keep your furry friend’s anxiety level low then administer additional doses on the big day. Think of CBD as a natural Xanax for dogs, but unlike a Xanax, your dog is still there mentally and emotionally.

Does it make a difference if it’s given with or without food?

For the fastest absorption rate, it is best to administer a CBD tincture sublingually without food. This method helps deliver the compound to the bloodstream faster, thus helping with anxiety and other ailments quicker. To ensure quick delivery and accurate potency, simply put the dose amount directly in their mouth. Be sure to wait a few minutes before giving them water or food to allow for maximum absorption.

For pickier dogs, administering CBD tincture by adding it to their food is fine, but note that it takes longer to show effects, and potency can drop. When CBD is absorbed through the stomach and digestive system the compound has a lot more to fight through because of the variables in consumption. However, it is a great way to help aid in digestion, and if this is the only way your dog will take it, adding an extra half dose helps.

What should I look for when buying CBD for my pets?

There are a lot of new CBD products on the market that target pet owners, so it is important to understand key aspects to look for. The biggest thing to look for is HEMP OIL vs HEMP CBD OIL. When a product says “hemp CBD oil”, it means that the product comes from a hemp cannabis plant that has CBD in it. When the product says “hemp oil” that means the product comes from a hemp cannabis plant that may not have any CBD in it.

Think of it this way, say you ordered a dozen red roses for Mother’s Day because it is your mom’s favorite color. However, when the bouquet arrived you discovered yellow roses. Yes, they are still roses but they are not red- the specific aspect of the rose you wanted. This is a big issue surrounding the CBD market because people are trying to get a quick buck by using cheap hemp oil that has a cute look and flashy words but none of the CBD you are hoping for. 

Another important aspect to consider is laboratory testing. Look at the label and on the website of the brand, you’re looking to buy to see if they’re open about the testing of their CBD. Reputable companies will have the results available for you to look at, so you can feel confident in your purchase.

Just like humans, dogs do best with consistency, and CBD provides the foundation for this in otherwise stressful and anxiety-driven situations. This 4th of July, be sure to take your dog’s anxiety into consideration and start looking for a pet tincture that is right for yours.

Not only are these pesky, winged biters annoying, they can lead to a slew of complications ranging from itchy bites and hot spots, to heartworm disease and West Nile Virus, and more.

Unfortunately, many of the effective pesticides and mosquito repellents we use to protect ourselves are highly toxic, even deadly, to our furriest family members. Luckily, it’s easy to safely and naturally repel mosquitoes from your yard with a little creative landscaping using these 6 dog-safe plants that naturally repel mosquitoes – and other pests, too!

Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

This hardy, easy-to-grow plant is more than just a tasty addition to your favorite recipes – it naturally deters mosquitoes, too! Unlike most other insect-repelling herbs, basil doesn’t have to be crushed or ground in order to release the scent and oils that keep mosquitoes at bay. There are a wide variety of basil plants, all of which provide some relief from the flying pests, but lemon basil and cinnamon basil are the most effective. Bonus: Basil plants naturally repel house flies, too!

#	Preview	Product	Price
1		Bonnie Plants Sweet Basil Live Herb Plants - 4 Pack, Warm Season Annual, Italian & Asian Dishes	$25.76	Buy on Amazon
2		Holy Basil Live Plant, (Ocimum tenuiflorum) 2.5 inch Pot - Tulsi - Temperate Basil - Annual - Sweet...	$24.00	Buy on Amazon
3		Click and Grow Smart Garden Basil Plant Pods, 3-Pack	$12.99	Buy on Amazon

#	Preview	Product	Price
1		Zen Basil Seeds | Edible Basil Seeds USDA Organic, Kosher, Non-GMO, lectin Free, Gluten Free, Plant...	$19.99	Buy on Amazon
2		Sow Right Seeds - Genovese Sweet Basil Seed for Planting - Non-GMO Heirloom Packet with Instructions...	$4.84	Buy on Amazon
3		Rani Tukmaria (Natural Holy Basil Seeds) 1.38lbs (22oz) 624g Used for Falooda / Sabja Dessert, Spice...	$14.99	Buy on Amazon

Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

We all know cats (and some dogs!) love catnip. But, mosquitoes absolutely hate it! Some studies have actually shown catnip to be several times more effective at repelling mosquitoes than DEET, a potentially dangerous chemical used in many bug repellents. Catnip is easy to grow and can be planted in pots strategically placed around the yard and seating areas to keep bugs at bay. Just remember, while you’re repelling mosquitoes, you might be attracting the neighborhood cats…

#	Preview	Product	Price
1		Bonnie Plants Catnip Live Herb Plants - 4 Pack, Pet Friendly, Grows Great In Containers, Fresh For...		Buy on Amazon
2		Live Catnip - Nepeta (4 Plants Per Pack) - Reduces Cat Stress and Anxiety - 8" Tall by 4" Wide in 1...	$24.75	Buy on Amazon

#	Preview	Product	Price
1		NatureZ Edge Catnip Seeds for Planting, 1700+ Herb Seeds, Indoor or Outdoor Growing, Your Cat Will...	$4.99	Buy on Amazon
2		Survival Garden Seeds Cat Collection Seed Vault - Non-GMO Heirloom Seeds for Planting - Catnip and 2...	$8.99	Buy on Amazon
3		Cat Grass, Cat Grass for Indoor Cats, Cat Grass Seeds, Catnip Seeds, Cat Plant, Organic Cat Grass,...	$7.99	Buy on Amazon

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

In addition to being a beautiful, colorful, and fragrant addition to your garden, mosquitoes despise the calming, fresh scent of lavender. Lavender can be planted in your garden, right in the ground, or grown in pots on your deck, porch, or windowsill, both indoors and out for a splash of color, a fresh, calming fragrance, and to keep those tiny vampires away from you and your pets.

Although Lavander does contain the noxious compound linalool, it is in low enough concentrations to consider the plant non-toxic. In other words, your pet would need to devour a huge quantity of lavender plants for problems to arise.

#	Preview	Product	Price
1		Live Aromatic and Edible Herb - Lavender (4 Per Pack), Natural Sleep Enhancer, 6" Tall by 4" Wide in...	$23.26	Buy on Amazon
2		Mona Lavender Plant Live - Plectranthus - Live Flower Plant - Overall Size 22" to 24" - Tropical...	$49.99	Buy on Amazon

#	Preview	Product	Price
1		Seed Packet - Lavender 'English'	$3.99	Buy on Amazon
2		English Lavender Seeds Pack 2.5 G - Over 2,200 Non-GMO Heirloom Lavender Seeds for Planting Herbs in...	$6.49	Buy on Amazon
3		Munstead Lavender Seed for Planting - 1 Packet with Instructions to Plant & Grow Compact Dwarf...	$3.99	Buy on Amazon

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

Lemon Balm, also known as horsemint, is another hardy, easy-to-grow plant that naturally repels mosquitoes. Thriving well in both sunny spots or in the shade, this plant gives off a strong scent similar to citronella that mosquitoes despise. Grow it in a pot and place in the center of your patio table, beside entryways, or around the yard to keep the area clear of mosquitoes. And, best of all, while mosquitoes can’t stand Lemon balm, bees and butterflies don’t mind it at all!

#	Preview	Product	Price
1		Bonnie Plants Lemon Balm Live Herb Plants - 4 Pack, Perennial In Zones 5 to 9, For Lemon Flavor In A...	$24.14	Buy on Amazon
2		Live Aromatic and Edible Herb - Lemon Balm (4 Per Pack), Naturally Reduces Stress and Improves Air...	$23.59	Buy on Amazon

#	Preview	Product	Price
1		HOME GROWN Lemon Balm Seed Pack - 403 Non-GMO Heirloom Herbal Tea Seeds - Lemon Balm Seeds for...	$5.24	Buy on Amazon
2		Back to the Roots - 100% Organic Seed Packet - Lemon Balm 140mg		Buy on Amazon
3		Sow Right Seeds - Lemon Balm Seeds for Planting - Non-GMO Heirloom Packet with Instructions - Easy...	$4.80	Buy on Amazon

Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Because of its strong, minty aroma, many insects, including mosquitoes, steer clear of peppermint plants. However, because these plants tend to grow aggressively, you may prefer planting them in pots and strategically placing them around sitting areas, on windowsills, and near entryways, rather than planting in the ground. Plus, while they’re non-toxic to dogs, many enjoy the taste and smell and will nibble or roll around in them, killing the plant.

Bonus: Use the leaves to add flavor to teas and other delicious minty recipes!

#	Preview	Product	Price
1		Bonnie Plants Peppermint Live Edible Aromatic Herb Plant - 4 Pack, Pet Friendly, Low Light, Part...	$25.18	Buy on Amazon
2		Back to the Roots Mint 'Peppermint' Seed Packet, 125mg, Green	$2.98	Buy on Amazon

#	Preview	Product	Price
1		Back to the Roots Mint 'Peppermint' Seed Packet, 125mg, Green	$2.98	Buy on Amazon
2		Seedboy Organic Mint Herb Seeds for Indoor Gardening or Planting Outdoors, Non-GMO and USDA...		Buy on Amazon
3		Gardeners Basics, Peppermint Seeds for Planting is A Heirloom, Open-Pollinated, Non-GMO Herb...	$4.85	Buy on Amazon

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Another pet-safe option for naturally repelling fleas, that’s also useful in the kitchen, is rosemary. Unpleasant to both mosquitoes and other flying insects, rosemary is quite versatile.

Plant in pots protect your herb garden from insects, or use around the perimeter of your yard to keep insects away while at the same time attracting butterflies.

#	Preview	Product	Price
1		Bonnie Plants Rosemary Live Edible Aromatic Herb Plant - 4 Pack, Perennial In Zones 8 to 10, Great...	$22.33	Buy on Amazon
2		Live Aromatic and Edible Herb - Rosemary (4 Per Pack), Naturally Improves Breathing and Air Quality,...	$24.40	Buy on Amazon
3		American Plant Exchange Live Tuscan Blue Rosemary Plant with Fragrant Blue and Violet Flowers,...	$23.90	Buy on Amazon

#	Preview	Product	Price
1		Seed Packet - Rosemary	$2.98	Buy on Amazon
2		Seedboy Organic Rosemary Herb Seeds for Indoor Gardening or Planting Outdoors, Non-GMO and USDA...	$4.95	Buy on Amazon
3		HOME GROWN Rosemary Seeds Pack - 300 High Germinating Non-GMO Heirloom Herb Seeds for Planting in...	$6.99	Buy on Amazon

Plants to avoid:

The plants listed above aren’t the only ones that naturally repel mosquitoes – but they ARE the plants that are both effective against insects AND safe for dogs. Always remember when designing your garden to be mindful of plants which may be toxic for your fur-family. Citronella, while highly effective against mosquitoes, is deadly to dogs, as are Geraniums, certain varieties of Marigolds, and Garlic plants.

For more information about landscaping – especially with dogs in mind, check out this PAW-some article on Dogscaping!

Unless you’re the proud parent to a rare hairless breed, you’ve dealt with dog hair at least a time or two. As much as we love our fuzzy little bundles of joy, dog owners can all agree, the one thing we don’t love is that hair – EVERYWHERE!

Here are some of our favorite tried and true methods for removing dog hair from just about anywhere.

On the Furniture:
Dogs are a part of the family. So, naturally, they lounge on the sofa, share our beds and blankets, and sometimes claim our favorite chair as their own. It is called “fur”-niture, after all!

When you find more fur than furniture, use these clever tips to remove hair from fabrics and upholstery:

– For a small area or for quick hair clean-up, a swipe with a slightly wet hand will often do the trick. Have you ever pet your dog after washing your hands only to end up with a fistful of fur? Same concept!

– For larger areas of furniture, a latex glove that’s slightly damp will do the trick. Just make sure your upholstery won’t be damaged if it gets a tiny bit wet. If your sofa is suede, try using a dry glove instead. Just rinse the glove under running water when you’re done!

– If you don’t have any gloves (or are allergic to rubber or latex) a barely damp sponge will do the trick – the only downside is that they’re not so easy to clean after you’re done.

– If your upholstered furniture is particularly stubborn at trapping dog hair, either rub the area with a fabric softener dryer sheet or spray the furniture with a mixture of water and fabric softener before wiping with a gloved hand or sponge.

– To remove hair from bedding, pillows, or cushion covers that can be unzipped and removed, toss them in the dryer along with 2 clean, unused tennis balls. The tennis balls will help remove trapped hair and can be reused about 20 times before they stop working. (When they’re no longer effective in the dryer, pass them on to your dog for a fun game of fetch!)

On the Floors:
If you’ve got shedding dogs and hard or bare floors, chances are you’ve seen a fur-tumbleweed roll by or found a fur-bunny hiding in a corner or under the bed. To effectively control dog hair on wood, laminate, or tile floors, sweep frequently using a microfiber or electrostatic dry mop to trap hair instead of a vacuum that tends to blow the hair around.

If your floors are carpeted, you’ll want a vacuum cleaner that’s especially designed for picking up pet hair. These vacuums are less likely to clog and often include special filters to reduce dander in the air. As a bonus, these vacuums often come with an attachment for cleaning upholstery, too.

For particularly pesky pet hair, a rubber brush or squeegee will lift out hairs when dragged across a carpet or rug. For a small area rug or in corners where your vacuum can’t reach, rub a pumice stone across carpeted surfaces and watch as it collects hair like a magnet.

On Your Clothes:
Have you ever left home only to arrive at your destination and looked down to find yourself absolutely covered in dog hair? Has anyone ever asked if your t-shirt was actually an angora sweater?

While it’s worth a few dog hairs to get in a good cuddle with your dog before leaving the house, here are a few tricks for keeping those rogue hairs at bay:

– Keep several lint rollers strategically placed around your home, office, and car.

– Use dryer balls. Grand Fusion’s Pet Hair Remover Dryer Balls are soft foam balls that are gentle on your clothes, but attract lint and pet hair like a magnet. Just toss in the dryer on laundry day. They really work!

– In a pinch, find a source of water (yes, even a few drops from a bottled water will work), very slightly wet your hands and rub your clothing from top to bottom to remove pet hair.

– For lots of hair, toss the clothes in a dryer for a few minutes along with a dryer sheet.

On the Dog:
One of the most important steps to keeping control of the fur means starting at the source – your dog. While many pet parents give their dogs seasonal haircuts, sometimes shaving the fur very close to the skin to minimize shedding, this practice isn’t recommended, especially for thick-haired, double-coated dogs (yes, the same dogs responsible for the worst shedding!).

Buy Dog Grooming Supplies Today – Shop over 1,000 Brands at Chewy!

Although shaving your dog will drastically reduce shedding, your dog’s coat is designed to keep him cool in warm weather and warm in cool weather. Shaving him could permanently destroy his natural thermal defenses.

Instead, try the following preventive measures to minimize loose dog hair in the home:

– Brush your dog often, at least twice a week during heaving shedding seasons. Not only will she love the attention, brushing away loose hair means less of it ends up on you, on the sofa, in your bed, and… well, you get the idea. Find a brush that’s designed for your dog’s specific coat type and, if possible, brush outdoors. If you don’t mind a little fur in the backyard for a few days, leave it! Birds love dog hair as a soft, warm lining for nests. 

– Try a shed-control shampoo. While there’s unfortunately no magical shampoo that will stop shedding altogether, these shampoos are formulated to boost skin and coat health, thereby reducing the amount of hair lost.

– Keep your dog free of fleas, protected from bug bites, and away from allergens that irritate the skin and lead to scratching (and shedding!).

– Feed a high quality, appropriate diet. The healthier your dog is in general, the healthier his skin and coat will be.

Do you have any tips and tricks for readers hoping to reduce the amount of stray dog hair in their lives? Please, share your experiences in a comment below!

Save this guide for later… Pin it!