A cat has been his brother's greatest protector since the two were rescued together as tiny kittens. Saku and Suke (formerly Wellie and Wally)Frankie @frankies_fostersTwo kittens were brought to Best Friends Animal Society in Los Angeles after being rescued from a harsh life outdoors.One of them had a severely infected eye, and his tabby brother clung to his side the entire time. In just four weeks of their lives, they had already faced more challenges than most.No one could have known then that these two, named Suke and Saku (formerly Wally and Wellie), would share a bond so strong it was unlike anything their foster mom had seen before. Frankie @frankies_fostersFrankie, a devoted fosterer, welcomed the pair into her home. She gently cleaned the flea dirt from their coats and settled them into a cozy space filled with soft blankets and toys.Suke, the little house panther, refused to let his ruptured eye hold him back. With his brother always nearby, he played, explored, and ate with enthusiasm. Before long, the room was filled with the steady rhythm of their purrs. Frankie @frankies_fostersAt first, Saku tucked himself behind Suke, but once he realized they were safe, his true personality emerged. He became an affectionate cuddle bug, lavishing his brother with endless hugs. "They've always been affectionate with each other," Frankie told Love Meow.However, after Suke's eye surgery, Saku's protective instincts grew even stronger. "I catch them cuddling now more than ever." Frankie @frankies_fostersSaku fully stepped into the role of protector and caretaker, curling up beside his brother while he slept in a cone and wrapping his arms around him. Suke took great comfort in his brother's presence, soothed by the healing vibration of his purrs.It was as if Saku knew exactly what his brother needed. He rarely left his side. Frankie @frankies_fostersFor a week following the surgery, Saku showered Suke with nonstop cuddles. Together, they produced some of the loudest purrs Frankie had heard in all her years of fostering. They were happiest whenever they were together.When it came time for adoption, Frankie knew these two were a package deal. Frankie @frankies_fosters"I could not bear the thought of these two bonded brothers being separated."Though they went through several meet-and-greets without success, Frankie never lost hope. Then one day, she received an application from Glynnis, who fell in love with the feline brothers and knew they belonged together. Glynnis @gloriette80"She saw the beauty in these perfectly imperfect boys, recognizing them for exactly who they are."Suke and Saku moved into their new home and settled in immediately. They explored every nook and cranny and claimed their human's bed as their own. With plenty of lounging options, they still insisted on sharing one chair, one hammock, and one basket, even after outgrowing them. Glynnis @gloriette80They've grown into handsome cats, and their baby blues have turned amber. But some things have never changed. "Saku continues in his caretaking ways," Glynnis shared.Throughout their journey, Saku stayed close, gentle, and watchful. The love between them was deep and unwavering. Glynnis @gloriette80Now, their mom wakes up to them cuddled on her pillow, purring into her ears. "Without exaggeration, I can say that these two babies saved me."Suke and Saku are living their very best life together, as it was always meant to be. Glynnis @gloriette80Share this story with your friends. More on Frankie's fosters on Instagram @frankies_fosters, and more on Suke and Saku @gloriette80. Thanks to Best Friends in L.A. @bfas_la.Related story: Man Goes to Adopt a Kitten But Ends Up Bringing Home Another Cat Too, Turns Out It's the Best Decision

German Shepherd Lab mix puppies combine intelligence, loyalty, and boundless energy into one remarkable companion. If youre searching for a German Shepherd Lab mix puppy for adoption, youre likely drawn to their friendly nature and trainable temperament.At DogingtonPost, weve put together everything you need to know about finding, preparing for, and welcoming one of these dogs into your home. From locating reputable sources to setting up your space, this guide covers the practical steps that matter most.What to Expect From a German Shepherd Lab MixGerman Shepherd Lab mix puppies inherit traits from two of the most popular dog breeds in America, creating dogs that are intelligent, food-motivated, and genuinely eager to please. These puppies typically display the German Shepherds protective instincts combined with the Labradors outgoing friendliness, meaning you get a dog that bonds intensely with family while remaining approachable with strangers. The American Kennel Club ranks both parent breeds in the top five most popular breeds, and their offspring reflect this widespread appeal for good reason. Your puppy will learn commands quickly, respond well to positive reinforcement, and form strong attachments within weeks of arriving home. These dogs thrive on interaction and become destructive when bored or isolated, so mental stimulation matters as much as physical exercise.Size and Physical DevelopmentGerman Shepherd Lab mixes typically weigh between 55 and 80 pounds at full maturity, with males generally larger than females. These medium-to-large dogs reach their adult height around 12 to 18 months, though they continue filling out until age three. Coat colors vary widely, ranging from solid black to yellow, chocolate, or mixed patterns inherited from either parent. Their ears may stand upright like a German Shepherds or fold slightly like a Labs (and this variation appears even within the same litter). Plan for grooming commitment, as both parent breeds shed moderately year-round and heavily during spring and fall shedding seasons.Energy and Exercise RealityThese puppies require a minimum of 90 minutes of structured exercise daily once fully grown, and this need appears early. A 12-week-old puppy already demands multiple play sessions and frequent outdoor time, not just bathroom breaks. Veterinarians recommend avoiding high-impact exercise like jumping or running on hard surfaces until growth plates close around 18 months, so swimming and controlled walks become your best options for young puppies. Without adequate outlets, these dogs develop behavioral problems including excessive barking, destructive chewing, and jumping on family members. Off-leash recall training becomes non-negotiable given their prey drive and tendency to chase, so start this training immediately and never assume your puppy will reliably return when called without consistent practice.Preparing for Training SuccessYour German Shepherd Lab mix puppy arrives with natural intelligence and food motivation that make training straightforward, but only if you establish structure from day one. These dogs respond exceptionally well to positive reinforcement methods (treats, praise, and play work best), and they learn faster than many other breeds. Consistency matters more than intensity-short, frequent training sessions of 5 to 10 minutes work better than longer sporadic efforts. Socialization during the critical window between 3 and 16 weeks shapes how your puppy interacts with people, other dogs, and new environments for life. This breeds protective nature means early exposure to various situations prevents fear-based aggression later.Where to Find German Shepherd Lab Mix PuppiesLocal Animal SheltersLocal animal shelters house thousands of mixed-breed puppies, and German Shepherd Lab mixes appear regularly in facilities across the country. The Petfinder database lists over 11,000 shelters and rescues, making it your fastest way to search by breed and location without manually calling dozens of organizations. Most shelters charge adoption fees between $75 and $300, which typically includes vaccinations, spaying or neutering, and microchipping.Contact your nearest shelter directly and ask staff to notify you when German Shepherd Lab mix puppies arrive, since the best dogs disappear within days of listing. Shelters rarely advertise puppies in advance, so building relationships with staff members gives you access to animals before they hit the website. This approach works better than online searches because shelter employees know which dogs match your lifestyle and can honestly discuss behavioral challenges that dont appear in photos.Breed-Specific Rescue OrganizationsBreed-specific rescue organizations focus exclusively on German Shepherds or Labradors, and many accept mixed-breed dogs from either lineage. These groups employ volunteers with deep knowledge of breed temperament and health issues, so they provide far more detailed information than general shelters about what youre adopting. Search online for German Shepherd rescue groups and Labrador rescue organizations in your state, then contact multiple groups since they often maintain waiting lists and share available puppies across their networks.Evaluating Breeders CarefullyReputable breeders exist but require serious scrutiny. If you choose a breeder, verify they conduct hip and elbow evaluations on both parents through the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, request health guarantees in writing, and visit their facility in person.Never purchase from breeders who wont let you meet the parents or who ship puppies before eight weeks of age (these are immediate red flags for puppy mills). Ask breeders for references from previous buyers and contact at least three of them about their experience and their dogs health outcomes at three years old. A breeder who hesitates to provide references or limits your facility visits signals problems worth avoiding.Moving Forward With Your SearchYour search strategy should combine multiple sources rather than relying on a single option. Start with local shelters and breed-specific rescues simultaneously, as this parallel approach increases your chances of finding the right puppy faster. Once youve identified potential puppies or breeders, the next step involves preparing your home to welcome your new family member.Setting Up Your Home for a German Shepherd Lab Mix PuppyEssential Supplies and EquipmentYour German Shepherd Lab mix puppy needs specific equipment before arrival, and skipping items creates unnecessary stress for both dog and owner. Purchase a crate sized for adult weight (typically 42 to 48 inches long), food and water bowls, a collar and leash, grooming supplies including a slicker brush and nail clippers, and toys designed for medium-to-large dogs. These puppies destroy cheap toys within hours, so invest in Kong Extreme Black toys or similar durable options rated for power chewers. Youll need enzymatic cleaner specifically formulated for pet urine since standard cleaners wont eliminate scent markers that encourage repeat accidents. A baby gate system costs $40 to $80 but prevents your puppy from accessing stairs or unsupervised areas where injuries happen. Skip the fancy dog bed initially; puppies have weak bladder control until 16 weeks old, so use washable pee pads and accept that accidents will happen regardless of training effort. Food selection matters immediately-ask your adoption source what brand they feed, then maintain that diet for at least two weeks before transitioning to your preferred option, since sudden diet changes cause digestive upset.Creating a Safe Home LayoutYour home layout determines training success more than any single tool. German Shepherd Lab mixes have high prey drive, so secure any small pet enclosures and remove toxic plants like lilies, sago palms, and chocolate from accessible areas. These puppies jump on furniture at eight weeks old, so establish boundaries immediately by preventing access to couches or beds rather than correcting the behavior after it starts. Set up a designated potty spot in your yard and take your puppy there immediately after waking, after meals, and after play sessions-most puppies need outdoor breaks every two to three hours until 16 weeks of age.Socialization and Early TrainingSocialization requires controlled exposure to different environments, sounds, and people during weeks 3 through 16, so plan weekly visits to pet-friendly stores, different neighborhoods, and quiet parks. These experiences prevent fear-based behavior that becomes difficult to reverse after 16 weeks. Enroll in a positive reinforcement puppy class within the first two weeks of adoption; instructors teach you how to prevent jumping, mouthing, and other behaviors that escalate without intervention. Your puppy learns commands faster in structured classes than from home study alone, and the investment typically costs $150 to $250 for six to eight weeks of instruction.Final ThoughtsAdopting a German Shepherd/Lab mix puppy for adoption represents a significant commitment, but the rewards justify the effort. These dogs deliver intelligence, loyalty, and affection that strengthen family bonds over their 10 to 12-year lifespan. Success depends on three foundational elements: finding your puppy through shelters, rescues, or vetted breeders; preparing your home with proper supplies and safe spaces; and committing to consistent training and socialization from day one.The practical reality of German Shepherd Lab mixes means accepting their exercise demands and shedding patterns while appreciating their eagerness to learn and their genuine desire to be part of family activities. These puppies thrive when you provide structure, mental stimulation, and clear boundaries. Your investment in puppy classes, quality toys, and enzymatic cleaners pays dividends through faster training progress and fewer behavioral problems down the road.Contact shelters and rescues in your area, gather supplies, and set a timeline for bringing your puppy home. Prepare your household layout, arrange puppy training classes, and establish relationships with a veterinarian before arrival. Visit DogingtonPost for ongoing guidance on puppy care, training techniques, and health management as your German Shepherd Lab mix grows.

One of the most annoying things about internet cookies and algorithms is that once you look at one post, youre inundated with ads and suggestions about that topic. This also happens to be one of the best things about cookies and algorithms, particularly when one is in the habit of looking at heroic tales about pets. If this sounds like you, then no doubt you have, or soon will, come across some videos of a truly remarkable man and his quest to rescue cats that have found themselves stranded in trees, unwilling or unable to descend to safety.You might be forgiven for thinking that this is usually the purview of first responders, but these days it is very rare for firefighters to come to the aid of a wayward feline, with the red tape of safety risks, liability considerations, and resource limitations blocking the way. You might also believe that if a cat climbs up a tree, they should be able to climb back down, but this is not always the case.Climbing up is quite a natural behavior for cats, but their confidence on the way down tends to be somewhat shaky. As they ascend, they have more control over their speed and trajectory, while the descent is inherently more dangerous, with gravity and daunting heights making the way down much trickier to navigate. And while it may seem counterintuitive, cats that are experiencing difficulty amongst the branches of a tall tree will often panic and climb further up.While it is true that many cats do eventually find their way back onto solid ground, sadly, there are those that fall, leading to injury or death, and others that perish amongst the boughs, something Duane Hook of Columbus, Ohio, dedicates his life to preventing.Back in 2010, Duane was slogging away as a factory worker when he got a Halloween call for help that would change the trajectory of his life. Seeing the joy in the faces of the children below as he returned their marooned moggie to safety, Duane knew that his first rescue would not be his last.Duanes very first tree rescue, October 28, 2010A nature enthusiast and adventurer, Duane has combined his love of climbing with his love of animals to rescue hundreds of cats over the years, with his gentle approach and incredible skill gaining him thousands of online followers, and a constant flow of calls for his help. Using photos of the cat in situ to organize his equipment and plan his approach, Duane tries to be prepared for anything, including a panicked jump or fall, with those positioned below with a sheet to catch any falling felines, something that, fortunately, rarely occurs.Armed with plenty of treats and his calm nature, Duane always tries to coax the cats to come to him voluntarily, though not all of his quarry are happy to see him! With a swift manoeuvre that borders on sleight of hand, he quickly transfers the wayward kitty into his nifty cat bag to ensure both their safety and his as they head back down to earth.Some rescues are straightforward, but most have their own unique challenges, and no two are ever the same. Take Bailey, for instance, who spent three days in a silver maple with no hope of getting down on her own. This tree was traversed twice by powerlines, meaning Duane needed to employ some tricky rope positioning to avoid electrocution, in addition to the standard perils of a treetop rescue.Duane has even been called out to rescue cats that are not in need of help, like the adventurous cat named Pepper, who had reportedly been stranded in a tree for over a month! He evaded rescue attempts by hiding in the hollows of the silver maple, seeming to disappear within the trunk of the mighty tree. After spending hours failing to capture this kitty, Duane returned to the property just in time to watch his target casually trot from beneath the front porch of the house and into his favorite hidey hole amongst the branches, perfectly content to climb up and down as he pleased!Some cats are not so pleased to see their rescuer, while others, like Pepper, dont need rescuing at all!Of course, not all stories have such happy endings, and as one heartbreaking video shows, the assumption that a cat will eventually find their own way out of a tree can have deadly consequences.Fortunately for cat lovers, Duane is one of many brave arborists who donate their time and expertise to reuniting stranded cats with distraught families, and he does so without charging a fee.Being able to help people and their animals enriches my life, says Duane, and while his generosity is something to be admired, we would encourage anyone in receipt of his, or other rescuers efforts, to consider making a donation to their cause.Most importantly, Duane wants people to be aware of who to call if they find a tree-bound cat in need of assistance, and in the US, your first point of contact should be catinatreerescue.com.You can also follow Duanes adventures on Instagram (duane.hook) and TikTok (getmeowttahere).We will be talking to Duane on an upcoming episode of the brand new podcast Chatty Cattys, so be sure to subscribe!All images courtesy of Duane HookRelated Reads:Good News for Big Cats: Snow Leopards Get a New HomeCONSUMER ALERT; Give Carefully This Holiday SeasonDid You Know? Our breaking news articles are featured in our weekly emails. Dont miss out on the latest and sign up for our newsletter below!

A cat showed up in a garden and stuck around until a kind person noticed him, changing his life forever. KenzoChatonsOrphelinsMontrealA white cat wandered into the garden of a family who regularly cared for neighborhood strays, drawn by the scent of food left outside.Starved and exhausted, he settled into a quiet corner and decided to stay. Soon, the family noticed the newcomer and approached to see if he was friendly. To their surprise, he showed no fear and walked right up to them for attention.It was immediately clear that he needed help and was ready for a fresh start. He wandered into a family's garden one day and decided to stayChatonsOrphelinsMontrealThe family quickly realized the cat was injured and walking with a limp. Despite everything he'd been through, he remained affectionate and trusting. As freezing temperatures set in, concern for his safety grew.After what was likely a long and lonely life on the streets, the cat spent his final night outdoors before a local rescuer arrived to bring him to safety. He walked right up to his finder for attentionChatonsOrphelinsMontrealChatons Orphelins Montreal, a volunteer-run rescue, welcomed the cat into their care and named him Kenzo. For the first time in a long while, he was safe and warm. "He has heterochromia, two different-colored eyes," the rescue shared.Kenzo was treated for an eye infection and placed in a foster home, where he could finally begin to heal. Kenzo was finally safeChatonsOrphelinsMontreal"For the first few days, he was scared and unsure of all the changes. He stayed hidden, spending most of his time resting and rebuilding strength. Once he realized he was safe, he quickly came out of his shell."His striking blue-and-amber eyes cleared up, and his injured leg healed beautifully. As his health returned, he started to feel like himself again. He quickly turned into a love bugChatonsOrphelinsMontreal"When he trusts someone, he purrs instantly. He's a big cat with the heart of a teddy bear. He adores attention, loves cuddles, and never says no to food."He flopped onto his side and stretched his toes contentedly, loving his new life filled with endless cuddles. ChatonsOrphelinsMontrealFor most of his life, Kenzo wandered the streets, surviving one day at a time. Now, those struggles are behind him. He seems grateful to have a roof over his head and kind humans who make sure he's fed and loved every day."He always wants to be close to his people, ready for affection at any moment." He has heterochromia - two different-colored eyesChatonsOrphelinsMontrealWhen Christmas rolled around, Kenzo fully embraced the holiday spirit, lounging beside his humans near the Christmas tree. He never missed an opportunity for cuddles, and the room hummed with his soothing purrs.Though he can be shy around strangers, once he feels safe, he transforms into a nonstop purring machine. ChatonsOrphelinsMontrealWhenever he's in the mood for affection, he closes his eyes, rolls onto his back, or stretches his legs in pure bliss, floating on cloud nine as his people shower him with love.The days of hunger, cold, and loneliness are long gone. Now, he rests peacefully with a full belly, knowing he will never be without love again. ChatonsOrphelinsMontreal"This big cat with different-colored eyes was incredibly lucky to be rescued from a life of hardship. He's thriving and ready to find his forever family, who will cherish him for the rest of his life." ChatonsOrphelinsMontrealShare this story with your friends. More on Kenzo and Chatons Orphelins Montreal on Instagram and Facebook.Related story: Cat Makes Guy His Forever Human By Standing on Him After Waiting Nearly Half a Year for a Home

Dog training success hinges on having the right tools. At DogingtonPost, weve found that quality equipment makes the difference between frustration and progress.This guide covers the essential dog obedience utility articles every trainer needs. From collars and leashes to treats and toys, well show you exactly what works and why.Dog Training Collars and LeashesStart With the Right Collar for Your Dogs AgeStarting with the wrong collar derails training before it begins. Flat collars work best for puppies under sixteen weeks old because theyre gentle on developing necks and allow you to build foundation work without unnecessary pressure. Once your dog masters basic sits and recalls, a martingale collar becomes valuable for dogs with narrow heads or those prone to slipping. Martingales apply gentle pressure around the neck when the dog pulls, creating feedback without choking. For serious obedience work targeting AKC Utility tests, many handlers prefer limited-slip collars that offer more control during precision exercises like the Signal Exercise or Scent Discrimination work. The American Kennel Club doesnt restrict collar types in Utility competition, but handlers consistently report better results with collars that provide clear communication without pain. Avoid chain choke collars entirely-they damage your dogs trust and create unnecessary risk during training sessions.Choose Leash Length Based on Your Training PhaseA six-foot leash is the standard for obedience training because it provides enough length for your dog to move naturally while keeping you in control during Heel work and Recall drills. Longer leashes like fifteen or thirty-footers belong only in open fields where you practice distance work or build a reliable recall in low-distraction environments. Long lines excel for teaching Recall because your dog cant escape, and you can reward immediately when they come. Cotton and leather leashes last longer than nylon-leather specifically develops a comfortable grip over time and doesnt create rope burn if your dog suddenly bolts. Nylon works fine for everyday walks but deteriorates faster under consistent training pressure. Width matters too: half-inch leashes distribute pressure evenly across your hand, while thin quarter-inch leashes cut into your palm during Heel corrections or when your dog pulls hard. Most professional trainers stock both six-foot and fifteen-foot options because different training phases demand different tools.Proper Fit Prevents Injury and Maintains FocusA collar thats too loose slips off during training, while one too tight restricts breathing and causes neck strain. Your collar should allow two fingers to slide comfortably between the collar and your dogs neck-this is the standard safety guideline. Check the fit weekly because puppies grow rapidly, and adult dogs can gain weight seasonally. Inspect leather collars monthly for cracks or deterioration; a broken collar during an AKC Utility test means automatic disqualification. Stainless steel hardware resists rust better than painted metal, so it lasts through repeated wet training sessions. Replace any leash showing fraying, tears, or weak stitching immediately because equipment failure during Directed Retrieve or Moving Stand work creates dangerous situations. Proper fit removes distractions-your dog focuses on commands instead of an uncomfortable collar, and you maintain confident control without worrying about equipment failure.Rewards and Motivation Come NextWith your collar and leash properly fitted, youre ready to introduce the treats and reward systems that drive real progress in obedience training.Training Treats and Reward SystemsHigh-Value Treats Drive Real ProgressHigh-value treats are non-negotiable for obedience work, and most handlers waste money on mediocre options that fail to motivate their dogs. Soft, smelly treats work better than hard kibble because your dog consumes them in under two seconds, allowing rapid repetition during Sit, Recall, and Heel drills. Freeze-dried liver, chicken, and beef treats from brands like KONG and Ray Allen Manufacturing deliver intense smell that captures attention even in distracting environments where your dog trains for AKC Utility tests. Size matters significantly: treats should be pea-sized or smaller so your dog focuses on the command, not chewing. During the Signal Exercise or Scent Discrimination work, large treats create delays that break your training rhythm. Many handlers rotate three to five different treat types weekly because dogs habituate to the same flavor, and novelty maintains motivation. Cheese works exceptionally well for Recall training because the smell travels farther than most treats, making it ideal for long-line work in open fields.Avoid Treats That Disrupt Training and HealthChoose healthy, dog-safe treats like small pieces of carrot or apple for rewards during training sessions. Track your treat spending: serious obedience competitors spend between thirty and sixty dollars monthly on training treats alone, depending on training frequency and dog size. This investment pays off through faster learning and consistent performance in the ring.Clicker Training Marks Success InstantlyClicker training tools accelerate learning because they mark the exact moment your dog performs correctly, creating instant clarity about what earned the reward. The clicker sound is consistent and distinct from your voice, so your dog learns faster than with verbal markers like Yes that vary in tone and timing. Start clicker training during foundation work with Sit and Recall because these exercises teach your dog that the click means a treat arrives within one second. Press the clicker immediately when your dogs rear hits the ground during Sit practice, then deliver the treat before your dog stands again. For Recall, click the instant your dogs eyes lock on you or their front paws move toward you, not when they arrive. This timing precision prevents your dog from learning to come partway and stop. Professional trainers universally recommend stainless steel clickers over plastic because they produce a sharper, more audible sound that carries across training fields.Treat Pouches and Feeding AdjustmentsTreat pouches from J&J Dog Supplies or 5.11 Tactical keep treats accessible without fumbling through pockets, allowing you to click and reward within the critical one-second window. Reduce your dogs regular meal portions by approximately fifteen to twenty percent on heavy training days when you use fifty or more treats. A seventy-pound dog eating two cups of kibble daily should drop to one and a half cups if training sessions involve extensive treat rewards. Weigh your dog monthly during training seasons because excessive treats cause rapid weight gain that compromises performance in Directed Jumping or Moving Stand exercises where your dog must move with precision.Your treat system now supports rapid learning, but interactive toys amplify that progress by building engagement and mental sharpness.Training Toys That Build Real Obedience SkillsFetch Toys Maintain Drive Between Precision DrillsFetch toys serve a dual purpose in obedience training that most handlers overlook. During foundation work with Sit and Recall, fetch toys maintain your dogs drive and engagement between treat-based repetitions, preventing fatigue from constant food rewards. Tennis balls work adequately, but RuffWear and KONG produce durable fetch toys that survive hundreds of throws without falling apart or leaving rubber debris in your training field. The key is using fetch as a break between precision drills, not as a replacement for them. Throw the toy after your dog completes five perfect Recalls or Sits, allowing them to burn energy while you reset for the next training block. This pattern prevents treat saturation and keeps your dogs motivation sharp across longer training sessions.Fetch Toys Strengthen Position Work for Utility TestsFor dogs training toward AKC Utility tests, fetch toys become especially valuable during the Moving Stand exercise because your dog learns to hold position while you move away, then explodes into action when released. Rotate between two or three different fetch toys weekly because dogs habituate to the same toy, and novelty maintains excitement. Avoid oversized toys that encourage aggressive mouthing, which transfers bad habits into your Scent Discrimination work where your dog must hold articles without damaging them.Puzzle Toys Build Mental ResiliencePuzzle toys force your dog to problem-solve independently, strengthening mental resilience during exercises like Scent Discrimination where your dog must locate the correct article among decoys. Rotate puzzle toys into training days at a ratio of one puzzle session per three precision training days, using them as mental conditioning rather than primary training tools. This approach prevents your dog from relying solely on handler direction and builds confidence in independent decision-making.Tug Toys Channel Drive Into Controlled IntensityTug toys build bond intensity and jaw strength that translates directly to solid article retrieval during Directed Retrieve and Scent Discrimination exercises. Controlled tug sessions where you initiate and end the game establish handler leadership without aggression, creating a dog that respects your authority while maintaining confidence. Use tug toys from Ray Allen Manufacturing or J&J Dog Supplies for thirty seconds immediately after completing difficult exercises like Directed Jumping, rewarding effort and intensity. Many handlers mistakenly avoid tug work believing it creates aggression, but structured tug sessions with clear start and stop cues actually improve obedience by channeling drive productively (this is especially true for high-drive dogs that need outlets for their natural intensity).Storage Prevents Anticipation During TrainingKeep all toys in a separate bag away from your training area so your dog doesnt anticipate toys during precision work, maintaining focus on commands and treats as the primary rewards during Utility training. This separation creates clear boundaries between reward types and prevents your dog from fixating on toys when you need their attention on handler cues.Final ThoughtsQuality dog obedience utility articles form the backbone of consistent training progress, and the equipment you select directly impacts your dogs performance and safety. A properly fitted flat collar paired with a six-foot leash provides the control your foundation work demands, while freeze-dried treats and a reliable clicker create the clarity your dog needs to understand what earns rewards. Fetch toys, puzzle toys, and tug toys build the drive and resilience that separate dogs performing basic obedience from those ready for AKC Utility competition.The investment in quality gear pays dividends across years of training, as stainless steel hardware resists rust, leather leashes develop comfortable grip, and durable toys from trusted brands like KONG and Ray Allen Manufacturing survive hundreds of training sessions without failure. Start by selecting a flat collar and six-foot leash appropriate for your dogs age and size, then add freeze-dried treats and a clicker to your training kit. Introduce fetch toys for engagement breaks, puzzle toys for mental conditioning, and tug toys for controlled intensity work, storing everything separately so your dog doesnt anticipate rewards during precision drills.At DogingtonPost, we believe that responsible dog ownership includes investing in equipment that supports both safety and success. Your dogs obedience journey starts with these essential tools and your commitment to consistent, patient training.

Welcome to our Ask Dr. Paola series, where every Monday we bring expert advice straight from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) to help our readers better understand their cats health and well-being. Whether youre a new pet parent or a seasoned cat lover, Dr. Paola is here to provide answers to your most pressing questions. From nutrition tips and preventive care to troubleshooting common behavioral issues, Dr. Paola is ready to offer insights that will keep your kitty happy, healthy, and feline fine. Stay tuned for expert guidance on a range of topics that matter most to you and your cat, so you can make informed decisions and provide the best possible care for your furry companion. Have a question? Send it in here!Help! How Do I Keep My Cats Eyes Clean?My 11-year-old rescue cat is an orange female. Weve shared a home for the past 7 years. For the past year, I have noticed that Harmony is no longer keeping the inside corners of her eyes clean. When I see those dried blackish scab-like things in the corners of her eyes, I try to remove them with my fingernail and a wet washcloth. Im afraid that if I dont remove them, they will fall into her eyes, but I am also concerned that I might scratch her. What is causing the eye dirt, and what is the best way to help her keep her eyes clean?- DonnaHello Donna,Harmony sounds like such a special companion, and it is completely understandable to worry when you notice changes around her eyes. The dark, dried material you are seeing is usually a mix of tears and surface debris that oxidizes as it dries. As some cats age, they may groom this area a bit less, and small shifts in the tear film can allow discharge to accumulate. While this can be a normal age-related change, it is still important to watch for redness, persistent moisture, or increased blinking because these signs can indicate irritation or another underlying issue.To keep Harmony comfortable, a gentle cleaning routine is much safer than trying to lift the debris with your fingernail. Using a sterile, preservative-free saline solution made for the eyes, moisten a soft cotton pad and rest it on the inner corner for a few seconds to soften the material. This makes it easy to wipe away without causing friction. If the buildup becomes more frequent or you begin noticing changes in her tearing or comfort, these are changes that should be reported to her veterinarian. For now, regular cleaning with saline is a kind and effective way to protect her sensitive eye tissues. I hope this helps!Best, Dr. PaolaIf you'd like to talk with a vet, like Dr. Paola or one of our other expert veterinarians, you can head over to PangoVet. It's our online service where you can talk with a vet online and get the advice you need for your cat all at an affordable price! Catster reader exclusive deal: Save 65% on your first call, use code ASKDRPCATSTER65 at checkout.Help! My Cats Tooth Fell Out!My cat Evie is 17, and all around doing well. She goes to the vet annually, but we try to help her at home as much as we can in between the checkups. Yesterday, one of her teeth fell out a tiny front one, but it was super surprising. What should we do??? CeciliaDear Cecilia.I can imagine how unsettling it was to find that tiny tooth, especially when Evie has been doing so well. In senior cats, a tooth falling out on its own is considered a clinically important change because a healthy tooth, even a small incisor, does not simply loosen and drop. Conditions such as advanced periodontal disease, tooth resorption, oral tumors, trauma, or systemic issues affecting bone and gum health are all documented causes in veterinary dentistry. Cats are remarkably skilled at hiding oral discomfort, so even if she is eating and acting normally, she may still be experiencing changes that deserve prompt attention.At this point, a veterinary evaluation is the appropriate next step so her mouth can be examined carefully and the clinician can determine whether imaging or treatment is needed. This supports her overall well-being and helps prevent the quiet progression of oral disease, which is unfortunately very common in senior cats.Kind regards, Dr. PaolaHelp! My Cats Has One Pupil That Dilates Bigger Than the Other!My cat Trixie has one pupil that dilates quite big and the other only a little bit. Shes 2 years old. Seems like she can see no problem. Should we take her to be seen by the vet or watch out for other signs/symptoms? JacksonHey Jackson,Noticing one pupil larger than the other can be alarming, and you are right to pay close attention. Uneven pupil size, called anisocoria, can appear harmless at first, yet in veterinary medicine, it is treated as an important clinical sign because it can be linked to conditions involving the eye itself or the nervous system. Even when a young cat like Trixie seems to see normally, underlying issues such as ocular inflammation, retinal disease, or neurologic changes can be present without obvious discomfort.Because the eyes are so delicate and the causes of anisocoria vary widely, this is not something to watch and wait. Her eyes need to be examined with proper equipment and lighting. Early assessment helps protect her vision and ensures that anything needing treatment is identified promptly. You are doing the right thing by taking this seriously, and with timely attention, most causes can be addressed in a way that keeps Trixie comfortable and safe. Dr. PaolaThis article is a part of our weekly Ask Dr. Paola series Read last weeks questions here: December 15, 2025 Find the full list of past articles here Click here to submit a question Sign up for our weekly newsletter below to get Dr. Paolas advice sent straight to your inbox.