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Kradle All Day Calming Bone

Keep your dog busy for an extended period of time with this unique occupying toy.


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for all dog sizes and breeds

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with natural flavoring and NO artificial colors

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Kradle products rely on the blend of nature and science working together. Our BotaniTek™ formulation is the backbone of all our products, developed through proven scientific methodology and exceptionally high standards. BotaniTek™ is a proprietary blend of pure ingredients like GABA, Ashwagandha, Passionflower, and more.

 

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Kradle is giving back to animal shelters everywhere and making adoption easier for all.

The transition from shelter to home is stressful for pets and parents. Shelters, rescues, and pet parents are using Kradle to reduce stress during this time and help dogs adjust to their forever home. Nominate your favorite animal welfare organization to receive free Kradle product and reduce stress in rescue dogs.

Cannabidiol, or CBD for short, is a natural compound found in the hemp plant that has been shown to support health and wellness in both humans and dogs. In this video we break down how CBD is VERY DIFFERENT from THC which can be toxic for dogs.

Cannabidiol, or CBD for short, is a natural compound found in the hemp plant that has been shown to support health and wellness in both humans and dogs. In this video we break down how CBD is VERY DIFFERENT from THC which can be toxic for dogs.

Calming Dog Blog

  • June 11, 2024 Training Tips for Anxious Dogs and Their Owners

    Having an anxious dog can be stressful for both you and your pet. There are a slew of challenges that you might face, including destructive behavior, excessive barking and fear aggression.

    Not only can these issues impact your dog's overall well-being, but they may also prevent you from achieving harmony in your household. 

    To promote better physical and emotional well-being in your pet, it's important to understand how anxiety affects dogs and how you can address it properly. Here's everything you need to know about helping your anxious dog cope better. 

    How to Calm an Anxious Dog 

    First, it's important to recognize the common signs of anxiety in dogs. These may include any of the following: 

    • Trembling 
    • Panting 
    • Pacing back and forth 
    • Excessive drooling 
    • Avoidant behaviors 

    Once you're able to identify these signs, it's time to learn how to train an anxious dog. Creating designated safe spaces with the aid of pheromone diffusers or weighted blankets can help your pet feel more relaxed.

    To boost the effects of these spaces, try to implement relaxation techniques such as gentle massage, soothing music and calming scents like lavender. 

    Dogs also respond well to positive reinforcement. When training an anxious dog, be sure to promote calmness with treats, praise and some of your pet's favorite toys. If your dog continues to struggle, we recommend seeking professional help.

    Consult with a trusted veterinarian or a certified dog behaviorist to receive custom-tailored guidance and support. 

    How to Train a Reactive Dog 

    Reactive dogs tend to respond to stimuli in a way that is disproportionate to the situation. These stimuli can include other dogs, strangers, loud noises or unfamiliar environments. Examples of reactive behavior are lunging, growling, a stiffening body, barking and biting. 

    When learning how to calm an anxious dog, it's important to use desensitization and counterconditioning techniques. These methods gradually expose your dog to triggering stimuli in a controlled environment.

    Through these techniques, you can strategically pair exposure with rewards to improve your dog's emotional response. 

    Another effective strategy for how to train a dog to stop barking is obedience training. Teaching commands like "watch me" or "leave it" can help establish clear communication and boundaries, which is crucial to managing reactive episodes.

    It's crucial to be consistent and patient when learning how to train a reactive dog. By building a structured training plan and establishing regular practice sessions, you can see gradual progress over time. 

    How to Help an Anxious Dog 

    If you're looking to calm your dog's nerves, there are several strategies you can employ. It's important to build trust and confidence through gentle encouragement and positive reinforcement, using rewards and praise to reinforce brave behaviors and boost self-assurance.

    Try to gradually expose your pet to anxiety-inducing stimuli, starting with low-intensity exposure and gradually increasing the challenge level as they grow more comfortable. 

    Dogs thrive on routine, so create a schedule for your pup that fosters predictability and security. Try to stick to consistent meal times, exercise schedules and relaxation periods to reduce uncertainty and anxiety.

    It's also helpful to encourage mental and physical stimulation through enrichment activities such as puzzles, interactive games and scent work to engage your dog's mind and body. 

    If you're still wondering how to help an anxious dog, make sure to address any underlying medical issues promptly with trusted veterinary care. All physical health concerns should be properly managed to prevent your dog's anxiety symptoms from escalating. 

    How Long Does it Take to Train a Dog? 

    There are a number of factors that influence the duration of training, including breed characteristics, age, temperament, past experiences and your own commitment to training.

    The key is to set realistic expectations and goals based on your dog's skills and progress. Remember that every dog learns at their own pace and may require different amounts of time to master certain skills. 

    It's vital to establish consistency in your training methods and routines. By emphasizing the importance of regular practice sessions and clear communication, you can help reinforce desired behaviors and minimize confusion.

    Dogs also respond well to rewards, so don't forget to celebrate their progress and milestones along the way. Recognizing small achievements helps keep up their morale and enthusiasm for continued learning. 

    If you're wondering, "How long does it take to train a dog?" it's important to keep in mind that training is an ongoing process that evolves over time. There are always new opportunities for ongoing skill development and refinement throughout your dog's life. 

    How to Train a Dog with Separation Anxiety 

    To train a dog with separation anxiety, know how to identify common symptoms, such as excessive vocalization, destructive behavior, house soiling and attempts to escape when left alone.

    An effective strategy is to gradually desensitize your dog to being alone. Start off slowly with short absences and, as time goes by, increase the duration to build your pet's tolerance to separation. 

    A helpful tip is to establish a departure routine to minimize stress. Be sure to incorporate activities that signal the impending departure, such as picking up your keys or putting on your shoes, to help your dog adjust.

    When you're not around, find ways to provide mental and physical stimulation, such as interactive toys, food puzzles or comforting items that have your scent. These subtle reminders of your presence will keep your dog occupied and alleviate boredom and anxiety. 

    In the event of severe separation anxiety, it's a good idea to seek professional guidance. Schedule a consultation with a veterinarian or animal behaviorist to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your dog's specific needs. 

    Help Your Dog Overcome Anxiety 

    Properly addressing anxiety in your dog is crucial to their overall well-being. Remember to be patient, persistent and compassionate in your efforts to help your anxious dog overcome their fears and lead a fulfilling life.

    With dedication, understanding and the appropriate training techniques, anxious dogs can learn to cope with their stress and thrive in loving, supportive environments. 

     

  • June 11, 2024 Why Dogs Run Away and How to Prevent it

    Dogs are curious, adventurous creatures by nature. Whether they're chasing a squirrel or sniffing their surroundings, our furry friends are constantly taking in new information about their environment. In some cases, though, their adventurous nature can put them in harm's way. If you've ever wondered, "Why did my dog run away?" you're not alone. 

    In this guide, we'll help you understand why dogs have the urge to roam and teach you helpful tips for keeping your pet safe and sound. Here are the answers to all of your questions, like "Why do dogs run away?" and what you can do to prevent it. 

    Understanding Why Dogs Run Away 

    There are many possible reasons why a dog might run off. We'll explore some of the most common reasons to help you better understand your dog's behavior. 

    Instinctual Behaviors 

    Dogs are highly driven by instinct. As innate hunters, they will often entertain themselves by exploring new territory and seeking out prey. Moreover, if your pet isn't spayed or neutered, they might run off in search of a potential mate. 

    Boredom and Lack of Stimulation 

    Dogs have a strong need for mental and physical activity, and if they aren't getting the stimulation they need, they tend to seek it out themselves. This can lead your dog astray in search of excitement and novelty. 

    Fear and Anxiety 

    If your dog is faced with a stressful or scary situation, they might run away to escape it. A common trigger for many dogs is loud noises. If you're asking yourself, "Why did my dog run away?" It might be because they heard a sudden, loud noise and felt the need to distance themselves from it. 

    Seeking Companionship 

    Just like humans, dogs are social creatures. If they feel lonely or isolated, they might wander off in search of a companion. If you're wondering, "Why does my dog keep running away from home?" It's crucial to ensure that you're meeting their social needs. 

     

     

    Identifying Common Triggers 

    To better manage your dog's tendency to run off, it's important to answer the question, "Why do dogs run away?" Here are some of their most common triggers. 

    Loud Noises and Fireworks 

    Dogs are extremely sensitive to loud noises. According to research, dogs can hear sounds up to four times farther away than humans can. Sudden noises, such as fireworks going off, can trigger a startling reaction in your pet, leading them to believe they're in danger. 

    Unfamiliar Environments 

    Dogs are highly perceptive, a quality that makes them very attuned to their surroundings. If they find themselves in a new place, their heightened senses will pick up on it immediately. As a natural explorer, your dog will take the opportunity to explore the unfamiliar setting in its entirety. 

    Lack of Supervision 

    While it's important to let your dog enjoy some freedom, you should never let them too far out of your sight. In many cases, an owner's dog keeps running away simply because they failed to keep an eye on them. It's crucial to supervise your pet and limit their opportunities for escape, such as access to open doors. 

    Changes in Routine 

    As creatures of habit, dogs tend to react poorly to any changes in their normal routine. Even seemingly minor disruptions can create a stress response in your pet. Once your dog has settled into a routine, it's important to do your best to maintain it. 

    Preventive Measures Through Training 

    Here are some helpful tips for training your dog to prevent them from running off unexpectedly. 

    Recall Training 

    Teaching your dog a reliable "come" command can help significantly. Be sure to use this command repeatedly with your pet. Once you've learned how to train a dog not to run away, you can rely on them to come to you when needed. 

    Boundary Training 

    Setting boundaries is crucial to your dog's safety and well-being. In addition to establishing clear boundaries, be sure to reinforce them consistently. This will help solidify them in your dog's mind. 

    Socialization 

    While it's important to set boundaries for your dog, you shouldn't close them off from the world, either. Allowing your pet to socialize with other dogs can help them build confidence and trust in their peers. 

    Desensitization Techniques 

    Desensitization refers to the process of repeatedly exposing your dog to a trigger until they no longer react to it. When done in a safe, familiar environment, desensitization techniques can help minimize fear and stress while promoting comfort and happiness. 

     

    Securing Your Home and Environment 

    It's important to do your part to keep your dog safe in and around your house. Here are some guidelines for properly securing your home and environment. 

    Proper Fencing 

    The boundaries you set for your dog should be as secure as possible. Because many dogs can't help but wander off, we recommend installing sturdy fencing around your property. 

    Supervision and Confinement 

    Spending time outdoors is crucial to your dog's well-being. That said, never let them outside unsupervised. Keep a watchful eye on your pet at all times while they explore the outdoors and don't stray too far away from them. 

    Identification Methods 

    If your dog running off has become a repeated problem, come up with a way to reliably identify them. Microchipping and ID tags are just a couple of ways to keep your pup accounted for. If you're wondering, "If a dog runs away will they come back?" using ID methods can help ensure that they do. 

    Environmental Enrichment 

    Because boredom is a common reason that dogs run off, be sure to keep them mentally stimulated at home. Play games with them and talk to them throughout the day to keep them engaged. 

    Addressing Underlying Behavioral Issues 

    The answer to the question, "Why does my dog keep running away from home?" may be due to underlying behavioral problems. Common issues include: 

    • Separation anxiety 
    • Territorial behavior 
    • Attention-seeking behaviors 
    • Health considerations 

    Consult your dog's vet to get to the root of these behavioral concerns. 

     

     

    Keep Your Dog Safe and Healthy 

    Having your dog run off can be scary, but there are ways to manage this common issue. Understanding your dog's needs, implementing proactive measures and fostering trust can help ensure a fulfilling life for your beloved companion. 

     

  • June 11, 2024 Dental Care Dos and Don'ts Keeping Your Dog's Smile Healthy

    When you think about keeping your dog healthy, their teeth likely aren't the first thing you consider, but oral care is incredibly important for dogs. In fact, studies show that as many as 80% of dogs will have symptoms of gum disease by the time they're two years old, and without treatment, this condition can lead to serious problems with other parts of dog's bodies. 

    The good news is that you can take steps to support oral health for your dog. In this guide, we'll share tips on dental hygiene for dogs and answer common questions like "How often should you brush your dogs teeth?" so you'll have the information you need to make good decisions for your fur baby. 

    Understanding Canine Dental Health 

    Just like people, dogs need regular dental care. When they eat food, particles stick to the surface of their teeth and get caught along the gums. If it doesn't get removed, it can mix with saliva and bacteria in the mouth to form sticky plaque. Over time, that plaque can harden into tartar, which can cause unhealthy dog teeth. Dogs can develop cavities and suffer from toothaches and even tooth loss due to poor oral health. 

    The bacteria present in plaque can also lead to inflammation of the gums or periodontal disease. Research shows that untreated gum disease can allow bacteria to enter a dog's bloodstream, posing a risk for serious systemic infections and problems with the heart and other organs. 

    By prioritizing your dog's oral health, you can greatly reduce the risk of oral health and general health problems. 

    Getting Started: Introducing Teeth Cleaning 

    Brushing dogs' teeth is generally the best way to clean dogs' teeth. Starting when your dog is a puppy can make it easier for you to bring oral care into their daily routine. However, it's never too late to start brushing with a dog teeth cleaner. Here's a quick guide to how to brush dog teeth: 

    1. Select a Toothbrush and Toothpaste

    Before you can begin brushing, you'll need a toothbrush and toothpaste. For dogs under 30 pounds, try a finger toothbrush with small bristles. An angled brush with a handle is better for bigger dogs. 

    For toothpaste, purchase a product made specifically for dogs. Human toothpaste ingredients may not be safe for your pooch. Select a flavor that your dog likes, such as peanut butter or poultry. 

    1. Get into Position

    To keep your dog comfortable throughout cleaning, get down to their eye level. Hovering over them may make them feel anxious. Choose a quiet, comfortable spot that your dog is familiar with for brushing. 

    1. Start with a Touch

    Before you begin brushing, prepare your dog by opening their mouth and running your finger along their upper teeth and gums. You may need to try this a few times before your dog stays calm. Be patient and don't attempt to go to the next step until your dog is comfortable with you touching their teeth. 

    1. Let Them Taste the Toothpaste

    Place a little toothpaste on your finger and let your dog lick it off. If they like the flavor, they're bound to want more and be more willing to comply with brushing. 

    1. Touch with the Brush

    Apply toothpaste to the brush and then place it against their upper gum line, holding it at a 45-degree angle. As with Step 3, your dog may not tolerate this step. If not, stop for now and try again later. Only continue when your dog remains calm during the initial touch. 

    1. Brush in a Circular Motion

    Once your dog is ready for you to proceed, start brushing, keeping the brush at a 45-degree angle and making circular motions. Start on the back teeth that are more prone to plaque and maintain a light touch to prevent irritation. Stop if your dog becomes stressed or begins to struggle. 

    1. Build up to 2 Minutes of Brushing

    Ideally, you want to brush your dog's teeth for a total of 2 minutes and clean all of their upper and lower teeth. However, it will likely take time for your dog to stay still for this long. Follow their lead and gradually lengthen brushing sessions. 

    1. Reward with a Treat

    No matter how long your dog lets you brush, reward them at the end with a treat. Choose a dental care treat to support oral hygiene, such as Kradle Sleepy CleanZzz. Our dog chews work like other dog teeth cleaning chews but also contain our BotaniTek blend of natural, premium, human-grade ingredients that help to soothe your pet naturally. 

    Maintaining Oral Health in Dogs 

    Once your dog is cooperative when brushing, it's important to keep up with regular cleaning. So, just how often should you brush your dog's teeth? Like people, dogs benefit from twice-daily brushing. However, this might not be possible with all dogs. Strive for at least three cleanings per week initially, and once you get to that point, increase the frequency from there. 

    In addition to regular brushing, follow these tips to support ongoing oral health: 

    • See your vet regularly: Visit your veterinarian as frequently as recommended, so that they can keep an eye on your dog's oral health. Your vet can also give you advice on how to select the best toothbrush, the best toothpaste and the best chews for dogs teeth based on their age and breed. 
    • Keep an eye out for oral care problems: Monitor your dog for signs of oral health problems, such as bad breath, gum inflammation and bleeding, excessive drooling, missing or loose teeth, reduced appetite and eating on only one side of their mouth. See the vet promptly if you spot any of these warning signs. 
    • Choose food wisely: A healthy diet is essential to oral health. Ask your vet what food is best for your pooch to ensure that they get the vitamins and minerals they need for strong teeth and healthy gums. 
    • Use their urge to chew to your advantage: Dogs love to chew, so give them a healthy way to indulge that urge with teeth-cleaning toys, bones and treats. 

    How Kradle Can Help 

    Proper dental hygiene is an important part of keeping your dog happy and healthy. By following the dog teeth cleaning and dental care tips outlined above, you can support your pooch's oral health through every stage of life. As you stock up on oral care essentials for your dog, check out our full line of Kradle products for dental hygiene and calming stress and anxiousness. 

  • June 11, 2024 Sun's Out, Paws Out: Essential Warm Weather Safety Tips for Your Pup

    With its long days and warm weather, summer brings opportunities for you and your pup to enjoy plenty of time outdoors, but with that fun in the sun comes some risks for your pooch, such as heatstroke, heat exhaustion and dehydration. Fortunately, you can take steps to protect your dog. Read on for our top canine summer safety tips!  

    Understanding the Risks 

    During the summer, temperatures climb and the sun's rays are more intense, and these two factors combined can lead to health risks, such as: 

    • Heat exhaustion: When a dog's body temperature rises too high, they may develop heat exhaustion, a condition marked by excessive panting, nose dryness, fatigue, excessive drooling, gum discoloration and reduced urination. 
    • Heatstroke: Untreated, heat exhaustion can develop into heatstroke, which causes more severe symptoms and can also lead to disorientation, confusion, seizures and even death. 
    • Dehydration: If a dog loses too much fluid from sweat, they can become dehydrated. Signs of the condition include panting, a dry nose, dry gums, excessive thirst and decreased appetite. If you find yourself wondering "do dogs eat less in summer?" give your pooch more water, as lack of appetite may also indicate dehydration. 
    • Sunburn: The answer to "Do dogs get sunburn?" is "Yes!" Like humans, dogs can develop skin redness and inflammation due to the effects of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. 

    Preventative Measures 

    To reduce the risks of summertime health problems, follow these tips. 

    Prioritize Hydration 

    Ensuring that your pup gets plenty of water throughout the summer can reduce the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. To encourage them to drink: 

    • Place bowls throughout your house and yard 
    • Refill bowls daily with fresh water 
    • Include moisture-laden wet food in their diet 
    • Add a drop of low-sodium beef or chicken broth to enhance the taste 
    • Bring a travel bowl with you to hydrate on the go or teach your dog to drink from a water bottle 

    Give Them Shade and Shelter 

    Keeping dogs cool in summer can help to keep their body temperature within safe range, and shade and shelter can make conditions cooler outside. You can create shady spots with: 

    • Freestanding patio umbrellas 
    • Sun shades 
    • Fabric awnings 
    • Pergolas 
    • Ventilated doghouses 
    • Covered crates 

    Adjust Their Exercise Routine 

    Staying active is important for your dog's health all year long, but it's important that you make smart decisions about their exercise routine during hot weather. When dogs exercise, their body temperature naturally climbs. On the hottest days, this can raise the risks of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. To keep them moving safely, follow these tips: 

    • Offer your dog water frequently before, during and after exercise 
    • Opt for low-impact activities like walking or swimming rather than vigorous outdoor play 
    • Time outdoor exercise for early in the morning or in the evening when temperatures are lower 
    • Look out for signs of heat exhaustion like panting or fatigue and stop exercising promptly if you spot them 
    • Choose shady locations like tree-lined parks for walks 
    • After returning indoors, give your dog cool damp towels or an ice pack wrapped in a towel to lie on top of 

    Use Protective Gear 

    Protective gear and products can help protect your dog from summer health risks. Consider investing in: 

    • Dog shoes for summer: Keep their pads safe on hot sand, sidewalks, roads and driveways with a pair of dog booties for summer. 
    • Cooling gear: Made from special fabric, cooling vests and bandannas for dogs promote airflow and draw heat away from the skin to help regulate your dog's body temperature on the go. 
    • Dog sunscreen: Applying sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside can help prevent dog sunburn symptoms. Look for a dog-safe product that is waterproof, unscented and has an SPF of at least 30. Reapply once every 2 hours or more frequently if your dog gets wet. 
    • Collars and harnesses: During the summer months, switch to a collar and harness made of breathable materials to help your dog stay cool. 

    Keep Your Home Cool 

    Maintaining a cool environment indoors is equally important to helping your dog keep their cool outside. To do so, follow these tips: 

    • Run your air conditioner, if you have one 
    • If you only have AC in certain rooms, relocate your dog's bed, bowls and toys to one of them 
    • Use fans to keep air circulating 
    • Switch to breathable cotton bedding and beds for your dog during the summer months 
    • Install room-darkening blinds or curtains and/or thermal window films to keep your home cooler 
    • Don't keep your dog's bed or bowls near appliances and electronics that give off heat, such as the stove, the dryer or a large screen television 

    Practice Car Safety 

    Taking your dog along for a summer drive can be tons of fun, but keep these safety tips in mind: 

    • Keep windows closed and the air conditioning running when weather is hot 
    • Apply sunscreen to your dog if you'll be driving with the windows down 
    • Never leave your dog in the car on a summer day, even for a few minutes 
    • Stop frequently for water breaks when on long car trips 

    Adjust Your Grooming and Care Routine 

    With changes in the weather come changes in your dog's grooming needs, such as: 

    • Manage summer shedding: Many people wonder, "Why is my dog shedding so much in the summer?" when the season arrives. The reason is that many breeds lose their winter undercoats to prepare for the season. Brushing your dog regularly can help control the process. 
    • Prepare for post-summer shedding: The answer to "When do dogs shed summer coats?" varies, but most dogs will shed from September through November." Keep up with brushing even as the season ends. 
    • Talk to your vet about trimming: Some breeds benefit from a summer trim for body temperature regulation, but others don't. Your vet can provide you with advice about whether to head to the groomer for a warm-weather haircut. 
    • Keep their pads protected: Apply a dog-friendly moisturizer to their pads daily and check for signs of burns on a regular basis. 
    • Respond to sunburn: If your pooch does end up with a sunburn, using cool compresses can help relieve discomfort. Your vet can provide you with additional tips on how to treat dog sunburn. 

    Get Ready for Safe Summer Fun 

    Now that you know how to keep dogs cool in summer weather and understand how modifying your dog's grooming and care routine for the warm months can help keep them happy and healthy, you're ready to enjoy the season. Incorporate as many of the above tips as you can and ask your vet for more advice on summertime dog care. In preparation for the season, shop the collection of Kradle products. We have solutions for everything from separation anxiety to long summer car trips. 

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