Family Paws provides specialized programs and support for new and expecting parents with dogs. They support families with children and dogs through educational programs so that they may establish and grow the bonds for happy and safe relationships together.
One of the best things about puppies is how curious they are. We love watching them
encountering new situations each day and helping them navigate through them. However, the
downside is that puppies explore the world through their mouths! This can lead to some less
than desirable bites to your hands, clothes, and household items. While we do not want to
discourage a puppy’s inclination to try new things, we do want to let them know the best way
to go about it. Let’s explore ways to help our puppies use their mouths appropriately and
encourage time to settle.
Socialization is the process of exposing your puppy gently and positively to new experiences, as well as learning to give and take social cues from dogs and people. It is so much more than just exposure or having your puppy play with other puppies! We want to socialize our puppies to new sights, smells, sounds, terrain, people, dogs, cats, squirrels, weather, body handling, and coping with stress.
There are two important steps to housetrain a puppy (or dog): prevent accidents and provide rewards for going outside. This guide explains how to get started.
Whether you have a new furry addition to your family, or a pet who has been with you for some time, it’s important to be able to recognize signals that your dog is fearful of someone or something.
Introducing a dog to a baby can be a difficult task when you are already tired and
emotionally drained. The key is preparation. You need to decide well ahead of time how your
dog’s routines will change—one of the biggest concerns will be who will be in charge of what
tasks, including exercise. Babies and dogs can and do live in harmony, but it takes some
training.
Many dogs enjoy having a canine friend at home. However, bringing a new dog into your home to meet your resident dogs can be a tense time. Use the following
guide for initial introductions to your dogs, and any new friends’ and family members’ dogs your dogs will
be spending time with.
While “fighting like cats and dogs” may be a common phrase, it doesn’t have to be! Introducing your new cat or dog to your resident cat or dog can be successful with a strategic plan and a bit of patience.
A dog's adolescence (also known as the teen years) lasts from about 6 months to about 2 years. It is a period of significant growth and development. Learn how to best support your dog through this life stage.
An international registry of certified therapy dog teams that provides testing, certification, registration and support for members who volunteer with their dogs in animal-assisted activities.
Find out if your dog is a good fit.
Learn what the benefits are to having one.
A guide to everything you need to know.
