But what are the specifics? What do potential users need to know? Here, The Dog-G8 Co answers the five most common questions posed by our audience:
1. Will my dog jump over the Dog-G8?
2. How robust is this gate?
3. What are the size options for the Dog-G8?
4. How do I install the Dog-G8?
5. How can I easily let people in when the Dog-G8 is in use?
In conclusion, the Dog-G8 isn't just any ordinary gate; it's peace of mind in a world where our furry friends sometimes get a tad too excited. By addressing the above concerns, we hope you feel as confident in our product as we do. Safe homes make happy dogs, and happy dogs make happy owners. Choose safety, choose Dog-G8.
]]>So, with that in mind, we're going to share some dog-friendly festive recipes so you can treat your pup to a safe and delicious Christmas feast!
Common Christmas foods which are toxic to dogs
At Christmas, we all love to indulge in a bit of a constant feast of delicious treats, but the following foods are ones that you need to avoid your dog tucking into.
Keep those mince pies and Christmas puds high up and out of reach of enquiring paws. We don't want your pup to miss out on a bit of joyful indulgence though, so here are some homemade festive dog treat recipes you can give your dog.
Recipes for homemade Christmas dog biscuits
Biscuits can of course be enjoyed by our pups year-round, but with a festive cookie cutter, these easy recipes can be given a sprinkle of Christmas magic.
No bake pumpkin and 'Nuts for Pets' peanut butter baubles
Ingredients: 1/4 cup of 'Nuts for Pets' Peanut butter (Palm oil, xylitol and sugar free), 1/3 cup of canned or pureed pumpkin (you can substitute with sweet potato), 1 cup of rolled oats
Simply mix all these ingredients in a bowl, and roll into balls….. or baubles!
You can pop these in the fridge to set but they really are as straight forward and easy as that.
Super simple 'Nuts for Pets' peanut butter and banana biscuits
Ingredients: 1/4 cup of 'Nuts for Pets' peanut butter (Palm oil, Xylitol and sugar free), 2 small ripe bananas, 1 cup of rolled oats
Method: Preheat your oven to Gas Mark 4/ 175 degrees. Mash the banana, fold in the peanut butter and stir in the oats, then roll out the dough and cut your biscuits.
Lay on a baking sheet and pop in the oven for 12 minutes or until golden brown.
Leave to cool and enjoy! These biscuits are human and dog friendly!
Carrot and apple dog biscuits
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cup of grated carrot, 1 grated peeled apple (apple seeds can be toxic so make sure you remove the core), 1 1/4 cup rolled oats, 2 eggs
Method: Preheat your oven to Gas Mark 4/ 175 degrees. Mix together your carrots, oats, and apple in a bowl. Then whisk your eggs in a separate bowl and combine.
Once mixed, pour your batter into small sections or around 1/2 inch thick on your baking sheet and flatten.
Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes and leave to cool.
Cranberry Christmas cookies for dogs
Ingredients: 2 eggs, 1.5 cups of all purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of coconut oil, 3-4 tablespoons of coconut flour, 1/2 cup dried cranberries
Method: Preheat oven to gas mark 3 / 165 degrees. Mix your coconut oil, cranberries and all purpose flour together in a bowl. Whisk your eggs in a separate bowl and then combine to make your dough.
Add in your coconut flour a bit at a time until your dough is a good consistency and not too sticky.
Roll out your dough and cut with your festive cookie cutter, and lay on your baking paper. Pop in the oven for 15 minutes or until crisp and then leave to cool.
Festive Kong and Lickimat recipes
All of these yummy recipes can be stuffed into your dog's Kong or spread on their Lickimat for a festive treat to keep them busy for a while.
The dog's Christmas dinner
If you're wondering what you can give your dog for Christmas dinner, then look no further! You can buy special pre-made doggy Crimbo dinners, or you can portion up a bit of the leftovers and share.
Suggested Ingredients: Turkey (or whichever meat you enjoy at Christmas), carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, and parsnip.
Steer clear of high salt gravy or sugary cranberry sauce, but simply mash up the dog-friendly ingredients from your Christmas dinner and pop them in a Kong or Lickimat to give your dog a taste of Christmas.
Pumpkin, apple and banana surprise
Ingredients: One apple, one banana, and a couple of spoons of canned pumpkin
Core the apple to remove the pips and then grate. Mash the banana and pumpkin and mix together for a festive doggy puree to spread on their Lickimat or pop in their Kong.
Turkey and pumpkin delight
Ingredients: Leftover Christmas Turkey, mashed pumpkin or sweet potato, grated cheese
Simply mash together some leftover turkey and some mashed pumpkin or sweet potato and grate a little cheese in a bowl. Mix well and stuff your Kong or spread on your dog's Lickimat.
So there you have it, seven simple recipes to make your dog's tail wag this Christmas. We'd love to see your pups enjoying their festive treats so, please do hop over to our socials and share your dog's tucking into their festive feasts.
From all of us at Pets, Homes and Gardens, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
]]>Dogs are creatures of routine, and they feed off of our emotions. You can’t avoid a bit of stress and upheaval when moving house, but with a little forethought, you can make the experience more tolerable for you and your dog!
Let’s explore what you can do before, during and after moving house to make things easier on your dog.
In the lead up to moving day, you will have the joyous task of clearing out and packing up all of your belongings ready for the big day. All of these changes can be unsettling for your dog so try to keep your dog’s daily routine as close to normal as possible. If you don’t have time for your usual long dog walk, then even a walk around the block is better than skipping it altogether.
Moving day can be chaotic and stressful - for humans and dogs! You won’t be able to focus much attention on your dog as you’re loading the removal van and packing up those final items. If possible, it’s best to have your dog stay with a friend or family member for the day to keep them safe and limit the stress for everyone!
Alternatively, you can book your dog to stay with a friendly pet sitter for the day.
If your dog can stay with someone familiar, then you won’t have to worry about your dog escaping with all the comings and goings or getting stressed out before they even arrive in their new home.
If you can’t leave your dog with anyone on moving day, then it’s a good idea to set your dog up in one room with a stuffed Kong or chew, their bed and a bowl of water. Make sure everybody knows your dog is in this room and not to open the door to prevent your dog from escaping.
Ensure your dog is wearing a collar and tag with your new address and telephone number.
When you first bring your dog into your new home, let them have a good sniff around and explore. Then, unpack your dog’s bed, bowls and toys, so they have familiar items available to ease the transition.
Don’t let your dog off lead in your new garden until you’ve done a safety check to ensure there are no escape routes.
It might take 2-3 weeks for your dog to feel settled in your new home. This depends largely on your dog’s personality. Some dogs will feel immediately at ease, and others may take a little longer to feel at home.
Keep as much of your dog’s routine the same as possible in the early weeks in your new home.
As much as it’s tempting to wash everything or get a new dog bed for your new abode, your dog can be comforted by familiar things and scents. So leave it a few weeks before you wash or replace your dog’s bed. Little things like this can go a long way to helping your dog feel secure.
Helping your dog to adjust to their new home takes patience, forethought and understanding. We know that moving house is a big change, so try to keep as much as you can similar to life before the move.
Be sensitive to the fact that your dog may be feeling a little unsure, and try to give your dog reassurance and comfort while they settle in.
Give your dog’s microchip company a call and update your details. If your dog does go missing, then it’s vital your contact details are up-to-date for a swift reunion.
Familiarity is comforting. Fancy new bowls and beds can wait until your dog feels at home.
These are the little things that make a difference to your dog feeling a sense of security and predictability. Yes, the area and home are different but your dog still has his favourite people and fun activities that make him feel at ease.
There’s a theme here, isn’t there?! If your dog has always slept in your room, now is not the time to change that! If your dog was never allowed upstairs, this is also not the time to change the rules unless they’re going to stick! Be consistent and considerate, and your dog will settle.
Your dog may feel unsettled at night initially. If your dog doesn’t usually sleep with you, then be prepared to set up on the sofa for a night or two until your dog feels at ease in their new home.
Your dog may be used to spending time alone normally, but exercise a little discretion when leaving your dog alone in the first couple of days and weeks in your new home. Just like with a puppy, build up your time away gradually and take your cues from your dog on how comfortable they are.
Check the parameters and fencing of your new garden to ensure that it’s dog-proof before letting your dog off lead. Have a look to make sure all the flowers and plants in your garden are also dog safe.
Hopefully, you did this in the lead up to your move, but if life was frantically busy and you forgot, don’t worry! This is a reminder to get your dog registered with a vet in your new area. If you’re unsure who to choose, then local Facebook groups can be a great place to get recommendations.
Novelty can be unnerving for your dog, and you’re likely to have deliveries and post galore in the early weeks in your new home. The last thing we want is your dog bolting out the front door in a panic. Fitting a dog gate to your front door is simple, and it will keep your dog safely contained inside your home.
Part of the fun of moving house is discovering all the new local places to visit. Have fun exploring with your dog and sniff out the best walking spots, dog-friendly cafes and pet shops!
If your dog isn’t used to walking in new places, then it’s best to keep them on the lead until you’re confident that they’ll stay close and come back when called.
Familiarise yourself with where the roads are on any new walks, and be cautious until you have the lay of the land.
That’s it! Hopefully, now you’re feeling super prepared and ready to help your dog adjust to life in their new house. Happy exploring!
If you enjoyed this, then you might like to discover the ten genius (and surprising ways) a dog gate can help to keep your dog safe. Will you be adding a dog gate to your new home?
]]>Every summer, we see many campaigns to remind dog owners not to leave dogs in hot cars. But did you know that 70% of dogs suffering from a heat-related illness like heat stroke have been exercising in hot weather?
The best thing you can do for your dog to keep them safe in hot weather is to keep them at home.
So let’s look at some top tips to keep your dog cool inside the house, as well as some tasty treats that will help keep your dog hydrated.
Many dog owners feel bad about not taking their dog for a walk every day, but the fact is, sometimes it’s just far too hot and not worth the risk.
Once the temperature hits 24°c, you need to be cautious about walking your dog.
If you feel you must walk your dog, then do so early or late at night, but always do a pavement check first.
Hold your palm on the pavement for 7 seconds, and if it’s too hot for you, then it’s far too hot for your dog’s sensitive paw pads.
Certain breeds are at higher risk of overheating. This includes brachycephalic breeds like pugs, bulldogs, and boxers. Dogs with a lot of fur like Golden Retrievers and Chow Chows are also at a higher risk of suffering heatstroke in warm weather.
Dogs with dark coloured fur are at a higher risk of overheating, as are dogs who are overweight or dogs suffering from heart or breathing conditions.
You can read the full study on factors that increase the risk of heatstroke in dogs here.
It’s safe to say the best thing to do is to be cautious and keep your dog at home in hot weather. Here are 9 top tips to keep your dog cool and comfortable in the house.
1. Keep curtains closed
Keeping your curtains closed will stop the sun from beaming in and heating the room up.
2. Use cool mats or wet towels for your dog to lie on
Some dogs love cool mats, and some will avoid them due to the feeling of the surface. If your dog doesn’t take to a cool mat, then simply wet a towel and lie it on the floor. It’s free and very effective!
3. Take up rugs to expose tiled or wooden flooring, which is cooler for your dog to lie on
Bare tiles and wooden flooring are much cooler on your dog’s tum than a rug. Roll the rugs up for the day and let your dog choose their favourite spot!
4. Refresh water regularly
Warm water isn’t very appealing, so refresh your dog’s water more often and consider topping up with a couple of ice cubes to keep water cold. If you’re out for longer periods, then you could get a doggy water fountain that keeps the water fresh all day long!
If your dog isn’t drinking enough, then consider topping up their kibble with water, giving treats like watermelon, cucumber, or using some of the hydrating treat ideas below.
5. Doggy paddling pool
If your dog enjoys water, then a dog paddling pool is a lot of fun. Opt for a paddling pool with rigid sides rather than an inflatable, and it’ll last a lot longer!
6. Encourage your dog to stay indoors
Some dogs are just desperate to get out into the garden for a sunbathe. You can use a Dog G8 to keep your back door open for air circulation with your dog safely indoors.
7. Use a fan or air-conditioning unit to promote cool air circulation
It’s best to choose a bladeless fan if your dog will be left unattended with it. Curious dogs may try to give the fan a lick or an investigating paw which could cause injury.
Air-con can also be a great way to keep a room very cool during the peak summer months. Lee Jackson Air-Conditioning Ltd have put their own blog together discussing all things Air-Con & Pets - https://www.leejacksonac.co.uk/blog/air-conditioning-and-pets/
8. Play nose games
If you’re worried about your dog getting bored at home all day, then consider playing some nose games with your dog. Sniffing for treats or to find their toys is a low-energy activity that stimulates your dog’s brain and tires them mentally.
A good nose game video is here: https://youtu.be/pTYZ_cenuWw
9. Train new tricks or behaviours
You could use this opportunity to work on training behaviours that are useful on walks, like the sit-stay shown below by Kikopup. Or you could choose to do some fun trick training, teaching things like rollover or leg weaves!
A good video to learn simple new tricks is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ksBLKi6lj1s
On hot days we humans often reach for a refreshing iced drink or an ice cream to help us stay hydrated and to cool us down.
There are lots of fun and easy treats that you can offer your dog in hot weather, which will help keep them hydrated.
6 Low effort healthy frozen treats for dogs
For most of these, you can use either Lickimats, Kongs, or ice cube molds. Simply fill with the ingredients and pop in the freezer ahead of time.
One of the wonderful things about sharing our lives with dogs is the glorious walks we share together. The hot weather never lasts long here in the UK, so you’ll be back out adventuring together soon enough. In the meantime, we hope we’ve given you some ideas to stay cool at home with your dog when temperatures heat up.
We’d love to hear how your dogs enjoy staying cool at home. Please do tag us on Facebook with pics of your fabulous pups indulging in some home comforts.
]]>Packing up for a motorhome adventure on the road with your hound is the ultimutt dream for most of us. The wind in your hair (or fur!), tunes turned up, and nothing but the open road ahead and a world of opportunity.
Our top tips are here to help you take care of the practicalities so you can crack on with enjoying your epic adventures together.
It’s a legal offence in the UK to drive with a dog on board without having them suitably restrained. This is for your dog’s safety, your safety, and for your passengers.
In the event of a sudden stop or an accident, if your dog isn’t securely restrained, they can become like a flying missile within your vehicle.
You also run the risk of your dog bolting if emergency services need to attend. Flashing lights, the shock of the incident, and the commotion outside would likely result in most dogs feeling scared and ready to make a dash for it.
You could use a dog travel harness, a crate, or a seatbelt accessory. There are a range of crash-tested travel products for dogs on the market which are the ultimate in pet travel safety.
If you’re going to be on the road for a long stretch, then it’s a good idea to stop every 2-3 hours for a toilet break and a leg stretch…. For both dogs and humans.
Ideally, you don’t want to be leaving your dog unattended in the vehicle, so if you’re travelling with company, then we’d recommend taking it in turns to access the services.
Leaving your dog alone in your vehicle puts them at a greater risk of dog theft and, of course, of overheating in hot temperatures.
You’ll likely want to follow a variation of what you do at home. If your dog(s) are allowed on the bed for a snuggle fest at night, then there’s no reason not to continue this routine on the road.
If you prefer your dog to sleep in their own bed, then bring it along with you for your trip. You can pop it on one of the seats or the floor if there is space.
It’s worth bringing some spare blankets with you just in case your dog suffers from any car sickness or finds something incredibly special to roll in!
Dogs certainly help us find the joy in life, and being together exploring new places is a wonderful experience you’ll cherish forever. Ideally, you’ll find dog friendly everything in the place you visit, so you won’t have to worry about leaving your dog alone in your motorhome or caravan while you go out to eat or explore.
You can find some fabulous dog friendly spots to try across the UK here.
The hustle and bustle of a campsite or all the interesting smells of a rural escape if you’re wild camping can be very tempting for our dogs. They want to relax at your side, but the lure of all the novelty that lays outside is too much to resist at times.
On those warm summer days and evenings (is that wishful thinking?!), you may want to keep the door to your caravan or motorhome open. A Dog-G8 Motorhome can easily be attached to the entrance to keep your dog safely within while you let the cool air breeze circulate.
When you want to spend an evening just gazing at the stars or relaxing by the campfire, it pays to be prepared. This is the perfect time to give your dog a stuffed Kong, a snuffle mat, or a long-lasting chew to help them wind down after a day filled with fun.
Liver paste, squeezy cheese, and xylitol-free peanut butter are all small yet very tasty fillers for your Kongs and interactive feeders. They don’t take up much room, but they take a while to devour! Meaning silent stargazing for you… Ok, there may be a few enthusiastic slurps!
In terms of chews, the low odour might be preferable given you are sharing a small space with your dog! Himalayan yak chews are a winning choice since they last a while and are completely pong-free! Wahoo!
And for your dog’s snuffle mat, you can simply sprinkle some grated cheese, leftovers, or crumbly dog biscuits for some quiet sniffy time.
Windbreakers are a brilliant visual barrier to give you some privacy but also to block your dog’s view on a campsite!
If your dog is a bit of a barker or feels the need to guard their surroundings, then creating a private little screened area around your motorhome or caravan can really help your dog to relax.
Your new neighbours will thank you for it!
In the excitement to head off on a great motorhome adventure with your dog, it can be easy to leave the boring yet essential stuff at home.
Make sure you bring along your dog’s tag, any medicine they may need, insurance records, and microchip details. It’s also a good plan to pack more of your dog’s food than you think you’ll need, so you don’t need to go scouting around town hunting for your dog’s favourite chow!
Of course, we hope that your trip will go smoothly but should something happen, it’s a lot less stressful if you have everything you could need to hand. Your dog’s tag should have your phone number on it, and having your dog’s microchip details to hand means it’s easy to alert the relevant people in the event your dog goes off for a wander or gets lost.
And that’s it. Happy travels. Have a whale of a time adventuring with your best friend. It’s what dreams are made of.
We’d love to hear all about your travels. Drop us a comment below or share your dog’s on tour pics with us on social media. Find us on Facebook here.
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However, if you have a puppy who is not used to visitors or a dog who gets incredibly excited, nervous or even aggressive, this happy event can be somewhat tainted with nerves.
You want everyone to feel relaxed and to be able to enjoy spending time together, so we’ve put together 8 ways to help your dog get used to visitors so that everyone can have a lovely time.
8 ways to help your dog get used to visitors
1.Talk to your guest(s) in advance
Everyone feels more comfortable when they know what to expect and when they have an opportunity to share their worries and feelings.
If your impending guest is scared of dogs, then you can reassure them that you have management tools in place so that everyone is looked after. Alternatively, if you have a dog lover coming to visit who cannot wait to mollycoddle your dog and that’s your dog’s idea of hell, then talk about it beforehand!
Hope for the best, prepare for the worst.
2. Prepare your dog in advance of visitors
To help your dog to settle when new people come to visit it’s a good idea to have a safe space that your dog can happily settle in, away from the excitement.
Giving your dog a good walk beforehand will help him/her to relax, since they will have burned off any excess energy. A tired dog will find it easier to switch off and relax in their safe space.
Try and get your dog used to spending short periods of time alone in their quiet place so that it’s a normal event. This means one less ‘new’ thing for your dog when visitors come round.
3. Use a dog gate or barrier
Training new behaviours and habits take time.
It’s a good idea to have a physical barrier that reduces the risk of any unwanted physical contact between your visitor and your dog. Our Dog-G8 can be used either as a door gate for your dog or as a room divider to allow you to create a physical barrier which still allows your dog to see what’s going on.
Be gentle with yourself. Success takes time.
4. Create a happy distance
We’re all pretty accustomed to the fact that increased distance means increased safety.
If your dog is super keen to greet your visitor or to ward them off, then tossing some treats away from where you are will encourage your dog to accept some distance. Choose a high value treat that your dog can’t resist and slowly toss the treats farther and farther away.
If your guest isn’t scared of dogs and if your dog isn’t scared of them then you could invite your guest to partake in a little treat tossing!
5. Give your dog something to do
Your dog may find it hard to quietly settle with the excitement of new people coming into your home.
Delicious long-lasting chews and enrichment toys like Kongs and Lickimats can help your dog to calm down and relax. By giving your dog another focus, you are helping him/her to slowly switch off, while the buzz of something new dies down.
You can’t do big things if you’re distracted by small things.
6. Doorbell training
Oh, the doorbell. The great big catalyst for an explosion of excitement or nerves for so many dogs.
This will take some time but if you train your dog to accept the doorbell as nothing but a boring sound then it will pay off in spades in the long run. You can do this by practising when nobody is coming to the door to slowly desensitise your dog to the novelty factor of the doorbell.
This video by Kikopup outlines how to doorbell train effectively.
7. Meet outside first
The novelty of meeting someone new can be easier for your dog to process outside of the home.
With all of the smells and other novelties of being outdoors it’s easier for your dog to disengage from the exciting new person who just showed up. You could meet for a dog walk before coming home or even outside the front of your house for a bit of a sniff before you all come inside.
This one can also help you get that much needed exercise for your dog ticked off prior to your guests visiting.
8. Encouraging calm
If your dog is a huge people lover, and your guest(s) are dog fanatics then you can find yourself in the position where your dog is suddenly going completely bananas.
Or, perhaps when your dog was a puppy, your visitors were happy for them to jump up and lick their face. Only now your pup is fully grown, it’s not quite so cute.
It’s completely ok for you to gently explain to your guests that you don’t want to encourage jumping up, or leaping into laps, or whatever your house rules are.
Teaching these behaviours takes time and commitment and you don’t want them all unravelled in one epic fun fest. Use your crate or safety gate and some yummy chews to give everyone some space to calm down.
These are some simple tips to help your dog get used to visitors and are intended for assisting with mild niggles which occur when you have guests coming into your home.
There is no substitute for working with a professional and experienced dog trainer, particularly if there is fear or aggression involved.
If in doubt, separate your dog and your visiting humans and seek out some professional help to get you all moving forwards on positive paws.
A dog safety gate can be a useful tool to have in many different circumstances, it’s a pretty versatile dog product that makes a happy life with your dog much easier.
]]>For professional dog day cares and boarding establishments, security and dog safety have always been a high priority. A quick install dog door gate can deliver enormous peace of mind and is an easy way to add an extra layer of protection.
In the UK, you have to be licensed by your local council to provide doggy day care and dog boarding services, and one of the criteria is to provide a premises that is secure and escape-proof.
Dog-G8 is an indispensable piece of kit to add an extra layer of security to your dog day care or boarding facility, which will satisfy your licensing officer, your clients, and, most importantly, keep the dogs in your care safe.
Keep dogs safe at your dog day care or boarding premises with a dog door gate
There's a lot that goes into running a professional dog day care or boarding facility. As devoted animal lovers, business owners often look for the best equipment to help keep the dogs in their care protected.
You'll be using pet-safe cleaning products, ensuring the dogs in attendance are vaccinated and in good health and that they're happy and content in each other's company.
In addition to the healthcare measures you put in place, you'll also be thinking about what safety and security procedures you can use to separate dogs when necessary and crucially to stop an opportunist dog from escaping.
Our Dog-G8 is a unique dog safety gate that allows you to open a door with a barrier in place to prevent entry or exit. The concertina-style gate means that it neatly folds up when not in use and opens smoothly whenever the door is opened.
Using a Dog-G8 adds an extra security level to your dog day care or boarding premises, helping you to reduce the risk of escape, avoiding any chancer mishaps!
Dog Boarding and Day care Regulations
On October 18th, 2018, the Animal Activities Licensing Regulation came into force, requiring all dog day care and boarding facilities to obtain a license by law.
Applications are assessed by licensing inspectors from your local borough council, and they evaluate your dog day care or home boarding facility based on many factors. You need to implement adequate record-keeping, address health and safety protocols, complete risk assessments, adhere to dog-to-human ratios that are set, and ensure the dogs in your care are appropriately exercised and enriched when they're in your care.
One of the requirements to obtain a day care or boarding license is to have at least two physical barriers between a dog and any entrance or exit to the property. This can be achieved using doors or dog gates, and the purpose is to reduce the risk of a dog escaping your premises.
It only takes a second for a dog to slip out whilst you're taking a delivery or welcoming a client in, having a two-pronged approach to address this not only keeps the dogs safe, but it gives you peace of mind.
A Dog-G8 is an easy-to-install and affordable method that you can implement in minutes to increase safety and security for the dogs in your care.
Coupled with other practical protocols, you can satisfy your licensing officer's requirements and demonstrate a serious commitment to safeguarding all the dogs you look after.
"We bought the Dog-G8 as we needed a safe way to open the outdoor gate to customers, without our Diddy dogs escaping. The Dog-G8 solved our safety issues and is so easy to install too.
Even our licensing inspector approved of the Dog-G8."
Jill Loomes (5* licensed dog day care and boarder in Fareham)
Pet safety barrier for dog groomers, trainer, and pet professionals
As well as dog day care and boarding establishments, we have had dog trainers and groomers praise the benefits of our dog door gate. If you have dogs on your premises and are likely to have surprise arrivals at the door, then a dog gate is a really easy and valuable safety barrier to have in place.
"Very handy for our dog training premises to prevent people who drop by on the off chance of speaking to us from just walking in during a training session or class and a dog racing out the door!"
Joe Nutkins KC Accredited Dog Trainer
Reassurance for your clients
Ultimately, aside from the licensing implications, any measures or protocols you can put in place to reassure your clients of their dog's safety when in your care are worthwhile. It’s also a relief for you to know that you’ve covered all bases. There is nothing more valuable than peace of mind when caring for other people’s pets.
Making the decision to entrust your beloved dog to someone else's care is a huge deal, and every step you can take to show forethought and risk management helps you show clients how hard you work to provide the highest levels of care.
Browse our unique dog door gates here and enjoy the sense of calm that added security delivers.
]]>Dog-G8 is designed as a management tool to keep your dog safely where they belong. We are often asked whether a dog can jump our Dog-G8 and the simple answer is, no, not at the front door.
When you are opening a front door, after a day at work or to the courier, you are always in attendance to give commands to stop any potential jumping. We're yet to have a single reported case of jumping over the gate when mounted to the front door.
What your dog will like about your Dog-G8?
Your dog can see right through the Dog-G8, which can relieve any curiosity and frustrations that may arise about what's on the other side. Since your dog can see clearly, they generally feel less excluded from the action, which reduces the risk of them attempting to jump the gate.
Many clients have told us that the gate's design offering such a clear view has resulted in their dog being much calmer about any separation.
Having a physical barrier that doesn't block your dog's visibility works far better for most dogs than being shut behind a solid door.
How tall and strong is Dog-G8?
Our pet safety gate is 88cm tall, made from mild-steel, and finished with a Chrome plate.
We have trialed the dog gate with up to 30kg of force, and it held up. So even if your hound gives it quite some gusto, the gate will withstand this.
We have tested Dog-G8 with many large breeds ranging from Mastiffs to Bernese to Pointers and German Shepherds. None of whom have managed to break through or jump the gate. It really is a lot more robust and durable than it looks.
We are working on bringing out a taller version in 2023 and it will be ready for Summer.
Why does a dog jump a dog gate?
If you're worried that your dog may try to jump your dog gate, let's explore what their motivations might be, so you can decide whether our Dog-G8 will be a good fit for you.
5 Common reasons dogs jump up or try to escape
If your dog is suffering from any of the above, please seek the help of a positive dog trainer or behaviorist to help you. A safety gate is a great way to keep your dog protected while you make progress.
You can pair Dog-G8 with other happy things for your dog to help them enjoy their gate. For example, some enrichment activities like stuffed Kongs, long-lasting chews, and snuffle mats can really help your dog to build a positive association with being behind the gate.
We love hearing your Dog-G8 tales. Please do get in touch and let us know what your dog made of theirs!
]]>According to Life Time Pet Cover, the most popular dog breeds in 2020 include French Bulldogs, Dachshunds, Pugs, Shih Tzus and Beagles, all of which are considered ' chrondrodystrophic,' or short-legged breeds who are genetically more likely to suffer from IVDD.
What is Intervertebral disk disease (IVDD)?
IVDD is a degenerative disease that dogs with little legs and long backs can be prone to. It's the most common spinal injury seen in dogs and can result in pain, reduced mobility, and in the most extreme cases, paralysis.
Intervertebral discs act like shock absorbers. The gradual degeneration of these discs can result in a reduced capacity to absorb shock leading to disc herniation and spinal cord compression in some cases.
Chrondrodystrophic is the term used to describe dog breeds that typically have short legs compared to their bodies.
A list of 12 short-legged dog breeds prone to IVDD
Some breeds that are not chrondrodystrophic are also commonly affected by IVDD, such as German Shepherds and Labradors.
6 tips to reduce the risk of IVDD in dogs with little legs, and long backs
Treatment of IVDD can be expensive, and while it cannot be completely prevented in part due to genetic predispositions, there are some lifestyle adaptations you can make to reduce the risks of your dog suffering from IVDD.
Maintain a healthy weight
It's important for all dogs to maintain a healthy weight. The impact of carrying additional weight around can make your dog more susceptible to back issues, joint issues, and many other health conditions.
Your vet can tell you what your dog's ideal weight should be; keep an eye on your dog's weight, and if in doubt, pop into your vets for a quick weigh in.
Measuring and monitoring your dog's daily food allowance will help you to stay ahead of the curve here. Please take a look at the feeding guidelines on your dog's food and remember that the recommended daily allowance should be for your dog's target weight rather than their current weight. It's usually the daily allowance listed rather than per meal, so divide by two to prevent your dog from piling on the pounds!
Exercise caution with high impact activities
Your dog needs to be allowed to be a dog, but taking small steps to avoid your pup landing wrong when leaping off the sofa or taking a tumble when unsupervised on the stairs is a good idea.
Using a ramp to help your dog get safely on and off the sofa or bed and a stair gate to stop your dog bolting up and down the stairs are simple adjustments you can make at home to prevent accidental tumbles.
Management when your dog is left alone to prevent accidents and injury
Our dogs can really enjoy getting up to a bit of mischief when nobody's looking! Before leaving your dog alone, it is a good idea to risk assess the space they will be in for any potential areas where trouble could occur.
If your dog is crate trained and content to spend time in their crate for a while, this is one option. Or, you may choose a room divider or dog gate to give your dog free access to a safe space when alone.
Our Dog-G8 Plus is a brilliant and very adaptable dog gate which can be used to either section off a part of a room to ensure your pup is safely enclosed or can be used in doorways so your pet can't escape!
Regular exercise
Regular physical exercise is an essential part of our dog's lives. Getting out each day to smell the fresh air, check doggy pee-mail, stretch their limbs, and enjoy a varied environment not only contributes to your dog's physical health but their mental health too.
Regular exercise will also help your dog maintain a healthy weight and keep their muscles in good tone.
While your dog is a young puppy, the amount of exercise they have each day should be restricted to approx five minutes per month of age. While their bones and joints are developing, they are soft and supple and more prone to injury or wear and tear that could lead to future injuries.
Embrace the use of rugs and non-slip mats in your home
Having rugs down and non-slip mats in your home can reduce the likelihood of slipping or landing on a hard floor. Having these down next to your dog's bed and beside the sofa or ramp if you're using one will lessen the possibility of slipping when your dog moves gets up and down.
Raised food and water bowls
Choosing a raised or elevated dog bowl for your pup can help your dog be more comfortable when eating and drinking. Having a bowl that your dog doesn't need to stretch down to is better for their posture, which supports good back health. Popping your dog's bowl on a non-slip mat can also be beneficial and make feeding time easier for your dog.
Signs and symptoms that your dog may be suffering with IVDD
Pain in the back or neck is the most common indication that your dog may be suffering from IVDD. However, signs of pain in our dogs can often be subtle, so be mindful of your dog's 'normal' and pay attention to any changes to that.
If your dog usually enjoys a good fuss, for example, but is shying away from touch or offering you their tummy as opposed to their back, then it may be worth investigating.
Dogs that are in pain may also be more sound sensitive, so increased barking can be an indication of pain.
Your dog may present with an abnormal gait or posture, an arched back, panting, sleeping more, finding it harder to settle, difficulty jumping or going up and downstairs. In cases of acute pain, your dog may yelp, shiver, or show difficulty walking and going to the toilet.
If you are ever concerned about a change in your dog's behaviour, activity, or mood, then there is no substitute for a check-up with your vet.
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With fewer guests visiting, things may be a smidge easier for your dog this year. However, there will still be those overwhelming smells of festive food, the excitement of Christmas morning, and hopefully a visitor or two swinging by. Even if only for a mulled drink in the garden and distanced present exchange.
Helping your puppy during present time on Christmas morning
With so many new puppies across the UK set to enjoy their first Christmas with their family, you may be wondering how they will cope with the mania of presents and wrapping paper everywhere.
We are encouraged to practice enrichment with our dogs and puppies, which is fantastic for them but often involves giving them boxes to break their way into and shred.
So your puppy would be forgiven for not understanding that all those beautiful boxes under the tree are not, in fact, for him!
To make things easier for your puppy during the present opening on Christmas morning, it is a good idea to prepare some extra special treats to keep them occupied.
Here are three simple solutions to keep your puppy busy on the big day.
Helping your dog to resist the temptation to paw their way through the Christmas feast
At this time of year, most homes are teaming with food, treats, and Christmas delights. Most of us humans graze our way through the season, ready to make New Year's resolutions to shift that Christmas weight gain!
This can be a tempting time for even dogs that have the ultimutt self-control. Take special care of your mince pies, chocolate boxes, and Christmas puds, as raisins, currants, grapes, and chocolate are toxic for dogs.
Keep them up high in cupboards, and be sure not to leave any on low hanging plates for your pup to swipe when you have your post-feast snooze.
Try and avoid leaving your Christmas tipple on low surfaces too, as alcohol is also toxic for dogs. A half-full glass of Bailey's popped on the floor might be just a little too inviting to ignore!
Make sure to let your guests know these rules too. They would hate to inadvertently give your dog something which could make them ill. Nobody wants an emergency vet visit on Christmas day.
Helping your dog manage the excitement or stress of Christmas guests
Whether your dog is one who gets incredibly overexcited whenever someone comes to visit, or it sends them into a bundle of nerves, it's useful to set your dog up with a quiet space of their own.
If your dog is crate trained and happy to spend time in there, then it's a good idea to give them regular breaks throughout the day or when guests first arrive, and excitement is high.
If your dog isn't keen on the idea of a crate or if you'd rather they have a bit more space, then a Dog-G8 can be a useful tool to help keep them safely contained in their own area. It is simple to put up and take down, so if you only need it occasionally, then it can be easily removed from the brackets and stored away until next time.
A nice selection of special chews or interactive feeding toys is useful to help your dog settle in their space and to relieve the guilt of separating them for a while! If you freeze a Kong or Lickimat, then they will last even longer.
If your dog struggles to settle with the household's noise, then white noise is a great way to drown out the excitement to help calm your dog.
Christmas visitors of the four legged variety
When family and friends swing by at Christmas, sometimes this means visiting dogs too. If the dogs haven't met before, it can be a good idea to meet for a short walk around the block first, so they can meet outside the home before coming in together.
This just helps relieve any initial surprise or heightened excitement or stress that could arrive with a visiting friend to be. It also allows you to assess if they get on before bringing them into the hustle and bustle of the home.
If you're in the position of having two dogs (or more) who don't get on very well in the home this Christmas, then setting them up with their own areas is vital. Make sure that everyone in the house is aware of the situation to avoid any unexpected surprises.
The easiest solution here is to let them out to spend time with everyone and for toilet breaks in rotation. That way, both dogs will get some nice, relaxed time with the family without anyone having to worry about the stress of having two unhappy dogs in the same space.
Children and dogs at Christmas
If you have visiting children at Christmas and they're not used to dogs or vice versa, then a little preparation is a good idea.
Kids are brilliant at leaving crumbs and dropping their snacks, so be mindful if they have any chocolate or raisin infused treats to keep your pup safely away until they've finished and you've swept up the leftovers!
If your dog is particularly bouncy or enthusiastic, then it's worthwhile popping them in their safe space until they're a bit calmer so that everybody can settle before introductions.
Children, especially toddlers and young kids, can be very unpredictable for dogs. On a regular day, they are little bundles of excitement, sudden movements, and perhaps the odd epic meltdown. At Christmas, this steps up a few notches!
This can be a lot for dogs to cope with, so keep an eye on your pet, and if things are getting a little much, then settle him in his safe space with a nice relaxing chew or a puzzle toy for a break.
Prepare for the comings and goings of guests
The last thing anyone wants over the festive period is for your dog to escape and go off on their own little adventure.
Ensure that everyone in the home is mindful when letting guests in or leaving the house to keep your dog safely indoors.
A Dog-G8 is a great tool to remind the humans in the house to be careful when opening the front door and keeps your dog safely contained too. It gives you the opportunity to pop your dog on the lead or in another room before opening the gate to avoid any opportunist escapades.
Simply having a wonderful Christmas time
With a little preparation, Christmas with your dog and guests should be simply wonderful. We hope these tips have given you some ideas to help make sure your Christmas is hitch-free and enjoyable for everyone.
All of us at Dog-G8 wish you a very Merry Christmas and a brilliant New Year ahead.
]]>As more and more of us turn to internet shopping for all of our needs, wants, and must-haves, the knocks at the front door continue to soar too. While that ring on the doorbell with yet another parcel may make our endorphins rush with excitement, that very same sound can also get our dog's adrenaline rushing and their tails in a spin.
When someone arrives at the door, some dogs are incredibly excited, some bark up a storm, and some dogs charge the door wishing to see off that repeated intruder invading their territory with packages, parcels, and letters!
Whichever emotion your dog feels when a visitor arrives at the front door, there are some simple steps you can take to protect your postie and delivery people from your dog.
How many posties are bitten by dogs?
On average, there are five Royal Mail posties attacked everyday in the UK, with 47% taking place at the front door. If you include all the other delivery drivers such as DPD, Amazon, Hermes, and your food shop deliveries, those statistics are likely to be much higher.
The best solution is to take preventative measures, allowing everyone to relax a little and enjoy those special arrivals!
Let's look at six simple steps you can take to protect your postie and keep your pup happy too.
1. Have a stash of treats at the ready
There is nothing better than helping your dog to associate events, which may make them nervous, with something positive. If you keep a nice little jar of delicious goodies near the front door, then you can make every delivery a happy event for your pup.
2. Install a letterbox cage
A letterbox cage not only protects your posties fingers, but it also keeps your letters in one piece. If your dog shreds up mail, then this is a great answer, and your postie will be just as grateful as you are!
3. Make sure your garden is secure
If your dog spends time in your front or back garden unattended, then it's worth regularly checking that the area is still secure. If your pup is particularly keen on greeting visitors, then the arrival of a delivery could be just the trigger to encourage their escape!
4. Install an external letterbox
If the ring of the doorbell stresses your dog, then installing an outside letterbox is a great way to lessen the number of callers to your door. Of course, not all of your deliveries can be left here, but a reduction in instances will be positive for your dog.
5. Consider a smart doorbell
Smart or video doorbells connect to your phone and alert you when someone approaches your front door. For many dogs, the sound of the traditional doorbell invokes a bit of a barking frenzy, so having the notification go to your phone instead can prevent that initial flurry of energy and gives you a chance to toss those treats.
6. Install a Dog-G8
Our Dog-G8 is a brilliant solution that allows you to safely open the front door to take deliveries, with no concerns that your dog can escape. Acting as a safety barrier, our Dog-G8 offers excellent peace of mind to you and your postie or delivery driver while keeping your dog safely indoors!
Even if your dog is completely nonplussed by your visitors comings and goings, implementing some of these protection measures can go a long way to giving comfort to the people arriving at your door. And extra security for you and your dog can only be a positive thing.
What happens if my dog bites someone?
In 2014 the Dangerous Dogs Act was amended to extend prosecutions for dogs being deemed dangerously out of control to include incidents on private property. Since this change in the law, if your dog bites or seriously injures someone on your property, you could be imprisoned for up to five years. Even if a dog does not bite, but an individual feels threatened or scared that they may do so, the law still applies.
Prevention is better than cure
At Dog-G8, we're passionate about dog welfare and the safety of our dogs. Whether you share your home with a fluffy Pom or a majestic Golden Retriever, our Dog-G8 can help to keep your pup and your postie safe.
A big thumbs up from all of us at Dog-G8 to our posties and delivery drivers for everything they do for us all. Thank you!