With the days getting shorter and the weather colder, most of us are spending more time inside. Combined with the COVID-19 lockdowns in some areas, it's really hard to get outside these days. As dog owners, these circumstances have us spending more time than ever with our precious pets. Everyone, pets included, is getting a major case of cabin fever. Over time, this is going to encourage bad behavior to get exercise and attention. To help you get through this, we have compiled a few ways to get your dog active and off his cuddler dog bed. Each is designed to provide safe, fun interaction for both of you.

Find the Treat

Training and just-for-fun aren't the only reasons to give your dog a treat. Instead of asking him to eat the treat out of your hand, try hiding it. This technique is simple: take a small number of treats, then hide them in different places around the room. Once the treats have been hidden, encourage your dog to find the treats. You can do this a few different ways. If your dog is trained to "find it," consider using that command to coax him away from the cuddler dog bed. Tossing one of the treats in front of him before the "find it" will get the game going.

Another way to start "find the treat" is by showing your dog the first treat in the game. Then, put the treat somewhere that he must get up and find it. In this case, he sees the treat and watches you place it somewhere. Don't be silent about your activities: it's important that Fido sees you hide the treat, and you do need to encourage him to go find the treat.

Once the first treat has been found, be sure to praise your dog. Positive feedback is just as important for him psychologically as a yummy treat. Want him to find another one? Use the "find it" command again, or encourage him by moving in the direction of your first treat. Then, step back and let that doggy nose do its magic. After finding all the food, he will have worked off some puppy energy and be ready to curl up on the rug or cuddler dog bed.

Tug of War

Just like people, dogs like to burn off some steam. And as with children, playing rough can be beneficial so long as there are ground rules. According to many veterinarians, tug of war is a safe game so long as a few basic rules are followed. In fact, this kind of game helps build the relationship between you and your dog.

Playing this game safely is relatively simple. First, make sure that you are the party that starts the game. Because this is a rough game, you don't want to reciprocate when the dog brings his favorite tug toy over and demands playtime. Rather, you can either put the toy back down or redirect his puppy's attention. You must always be in control

Secondly, be sure to teach your dog to only touch the toy. When this rule is violated, let go of the toy and quit playing. If it's an accident, you might resume play, but after a couple of violations, it's time to quit for the day. Finally, they need to learn how to drop the toy when you ask. Once the game is over, it's over. Fortunately, if you've done this right, then your dog will be worn out and ready for snuggles or his cuddler dog bed.

Hide and Seek

Dogs are a lot like children: they're curious, focused on their pet parents, and easy to please. They also have excellent senses of smell and hearing, which is why hide and seek is a lot of fun for them. With dogs, the main challenge is getting your furbaby to stay in one place long enough for you to hide from him. Once you get that mastered, having him find you and deliver a face-licking is lots of fun.

One way to deal with the "stay put" factor is to make the game a family affair. Whether you have another adult around or just the kids, these other family members can take turns spending time with the doggie. During that time, the designated person can hide from the dog. Another way to get your dog to stay still until called is by commanding them to "stay." If your pet is well enough trained to stay when you're out of sight, take advantage. Hide and seek is a great way to get him off that cuddler dog bed by yourself. Just have him stay, and then find a nice place to hide. Ideally, this will be in another room.

No matter how you keep your furry friend out of the way, it will eventually be time to get found. This is relatively easy: typically, calling his name and asking him to "come" will be all it takes. Your dog's senses of hearing and smell will soon lead him right to you. Just make sure that he can hear well enough from wherever you hide. Finally, reward him with lots of petting and maybe a treat.

Bring the Toy

Most people think of "fetch" as an outdoor game. However, with modifications, this can be played even in a small apartment. This game is simple. First, get anything fragile out of the way, or use a stuffed toy that can't break anything. Next, toss the toys into corners of the room, and encourage your dog to bring it to you. Experts recommend doing this in a carpeted area to reduce the risk of injury. An added bonus: this game burns off a lot more energy for him than it does for you. Giving him attention is important, and it keeps his weight under control. Best of all, it makes him more ready for cuddles or time in his calming dog bed.

Ready to get playing? Check out our selection of toys, and then see if your pup would like a new cuddler dog bed to relax in.

No matter what part of the United States you’re in, one thing is clear: Americans love pets. Dog lovers are particularly enthusiastic about their furry companions. Many of us spend hundreds, even thousands, of dollars caring for our companion. Medical bills, food, toys, and a soothing bed all cost money. No matter what kind of dog we own, everyone agrees that it’s money well spent. With that said, some types of dogs are more popular than others. Preferences are based on a variety of factors, from personality to size and ease of care. Let’s look at a few of the top choices, based on a survey by Rover.com.

6. Yorkshire Terrier

Also known as the “Yorkie,” these are small dogs that weigh only seven pounds as adults. For that reason, you can sometimes see Yorkies being tucked into ladies’ handbags, carriers, and even pockets. Walk into a big city supermarket, and there is a good chance you will see one of these little characters carefully evading the “no dogs” sign.

Why are Yorkies so popular? Well, for one thing, they’re small and friendly dogs that adapt well to apartment life. However, size isn’t the only thing that goes for the Yorkshire Terrier. Their need for exercise is easily dealt with through a daily walk and some indoor games. After that, they’re quite happy to retreat to a soothing dog bed or enjoy cuddle time with their parents. Yorkies like kids, so they do reasonably well in a family setting, but they also excel as pets for working professionals or the elderly.

5. Golden Retriever

Growing families that have access to a back yard or dog park love the Golden Retriever. These dogs were originally bred for hunting, and as a result, they have a higher level of energy. Sporting a long coat and happy expression, goldens adore children and other pets even when their soothing dog bed gets invaded. They will stand guard for your family and home.

Besides serving as a family pet, golden retrievers are wonderful exercise companions. Adult households will sometimes take them for long walks, bike rides, or other sporting events. Before spending the night on a soothing dog bed, a golden retriever will need to be worn out. However, that isn’t to say that they dislike cuddle time. Rather, goldens are known for being incredibly friendly and patient.

4. German Shepherd

These large dogs are known for police work, and as a result, they often get a bad rap. After all, who can blame people for associating barking police dogs with their family pet counterparts? Yet, there’s another reason why German Shepherds have a fearsome reputation: they are fiercely loyal to their families and can be somewhat aloof with strangers.  As confident dogs, they won’t easily back down from a threat. For families that want a nice guardian for kids, this is an asset. At the same time, they do well with children who are part of their families.

German Shepherds are high energy dogs, so they’ll need a fenced-in yard, long walks, or dog park access. Families and adult households alike love this breed because they won’t hesitate to leave their soothing dog bed or doghouse to protect their people. At the same time, a GSD is gentle and kind when the situation allows it. Due to their high intelligence level, they are great for use as service dogs. Since they can adapt to family life, retired police dogs often live out their days as pets. Maybe that’s why they are so popular.

3. Chihuahua

According to the American Kennel Club, the Chihuahua is the smallest dog breed around. However, that’s not to say that they are retiring cuddle bugs. In fact, Chihuahua dogs are known for being spirited, even high strung. Although they can be picked up and held, these little toys need to be carefully trained. Otherwise, they will use their charming demeanor and feisty personalities to get whatever they want out of their owners. Even the finest soothing dog bed might not be enough to calm them.

One of the best things about Chihuahuas is that they’re excellent companions if you live in an apartment. So long as you train them not to bark excessively, these tiny dogs do a good job of entertaining themselves all day while mom and dad are working. At the same time, they tend to still have the energy for puppy games and some lap-sitting after work. Like Yorkies, Chihuahuas get taken everywhere in handbags before sleeping in their fur dog bed every night. Experts don’t normally recommend these puppies for children.

2. Labrador Retriever

Known for being enthusiastic about life, the Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular family pets. While they do OK with single people, they are poor choices for apartment life. You can take a lab on long walks, to the dog park, and on numerous outdoor activities. Lab owners are often active people, but they also love the friendly nature of these dogs. Many labs we’ve met will come right up to a new person and demand to be petted.

Due to their happy-go-lucky nature and trainability, labs are an instant favorite. The one thing you must be careful of is their destructive nature when bored. For that reason, it’s important to ensure labs get plenty of exercises and mental stimulation. Do you really want to come home and see they’ve torn up that soothing dog bed?

1. Mixed Breed

Here at Best Friends by Sheri, we are glad that Rover included the fabulous mixed breed category in their survey. After all, mixed-breed dogs or “mutts” come in all shapes, sizes, and personalities. If you want to “adopt, not shop,” there are lots of mutts available at most local shelters. Instead of worrying about the specific breed you want, pick a dog that appeals to you with Those Puppy Eyes. If their personality is a good fit for your home, go for it. Then, as the adoption application is pending, you can check out our assortment of toys and dog beds. You’ll need a few before fido comes home.

Bringing home a puppy is exciting. You have likely already purchased all the necessary accessories – collar, leash, deep-dish Sherpa cuddler dog bed, coordinating food and water bowls, food, treats, and an assortment of doggie clothing for every occasion. It looks like you might have forgotten a couple of things, like a crate and puppy pads.

We might as well clear the air now – puppies potty. They have tiny little bladders that cannot be expected to hold urine for extended periods. As a general rule, you can assume the number of months in age is the number of hours the puppy can “hold it.” This rule can be considered accurate until the age of nine to 12 months.

So, how can you effectively potty train your puppy?

Routine is Everything

Like infants and young toddlers, your puppy will do better on a regular schedule. Creating a schedule isn’t as hard as you might think; it just requires consistency. What can you do to help make the training process go smoothly?

Take Your Puppy Outside Frequently

In the beginning, it is recommended that you take your puppy outside at least every two hours. Some equate an activity transition to a perfect opportunity for pottying. You can also designate an indoor spot for a puppy pad if they have a sudden urge and can’t get outside in time.

Each time you take them outside, go to the same spot in the yard. Use this opportunity to use key phrases that may be used later to remind them what to do. You can use a long walk as a reward for a good potty.

Reward Your Puppy

Using positive reinforcement teaches your puppy that when they use the potty outside, they get rewarded. Rewards for a puppy are different than the rewards a human would expect. Actions like energetic praise, a fun toy, or great tasting treats are all the motivation it takes. Take care not to reward them too soon, let them finish, or else they may become distracted and not finish doing their business.

Regulate Food and Water

What goes in must come out. A regular feeding schedule for a puppy should include feedings three to four times per day. Feeding them at the same times each day means that you will soon be able to predict the schedule they need to go outside.

It would be best if you took your puppy’s water bowl away about two to two and a half hours before bedtime. This action will help reduce the urgency for your puppy to go potty during the night. Having a puppy pad inside the crate can teach them that they can use it in an emergency. Make sure there is plenty of room in the crate to accommodate a pet bed and the pad, distinguishing one from the other.

Create a Bedtime Routine

To further ensure your puppy makes it through the night accident free, taking them out before bedtime can help. After your puppy does their business, put them in their crate with the anti-anxiety bed you have purchased for them.

Turn off the lights and be as quiet as possible, keeping the excitement level to a minimum. These actions will signal to your puppy that it is time to go to sleep.

Puppy Piddle Happens

You can’t expect that your puppy will never have an accident inside your home – that is an unrealistic puppy potty training goal. Having the puppy pad in a designated area may help eliminate consistent accidents, but they will happen.

What to do if your puppy does their business indoors:

• If you happen to catch them during the act, interrupt them. You can do this by making a noise that startles the puppy (try to avoid scaring your puppy) or use the phrase you use when you take them out to signal to them that they should be doing that outside. If the puppy finishes in the outdoor spot, make sure to praise them for it.

• Punishment voids the success of positive reinforcement. If you didn’t catch them in the act, clean up the mess and move on.

• Ensure you clean any area where your puppy has pottied using specially made cleaners to eliminate the odors. A puppy is motivated to use the same spot again if it continues to smell like a toilet.

Using your routine and supervising your puppy can help minimize the number of accidents you find in your home. Having a place to eat, a place to potty, and a dog bed for sleeping helps your puppy distinguish the home’s different areas.

Puppy Potty Training in Three Days

What if we told you that there was a way to potty train your puppy in three days? It is possible to accomplish with a little bit of determination and a whole lot of patience. Having puppy treats on hand doesn’t hurt the situation either! Using a three-day weekend to potty train your puppy will require a lot of dedication and determination but can be accomplished.

Keep Your Puppy Constantly Supervised

This may go without saying, but it doesn’t hurt to have a reminder. Think of your puppy like you would a newborn baby. If they need to nap in the pet bed you purchased, you can put them in a puppy playpen or a crate. These are also solutions if you can’t constantly keep your eye on them. Please don’t keep them confined for too long, or you may be dealing with a lot larger mess to deal with.

Commit to Frequent Outdoor Visits

The key to success in a three-day potty goal is repetition and consistency. It may seem like too much to take your puppy out to potty every hour. Still, the more opportunities you have to praise them for the right behavior, the less likely they will be to have accidents. Your puppy will learn quicker with more frequent positive reinforcement.

Signs Your Puppy Has to Go

Puppies need to relieve themselves more frequently than older dogs. They have tiny bladders and haven’t learned to be able to “hold it.” You can often assume that your puppy needs to potty:

• When waking up in the morning

• Before they go to sleep at night

• After playing inside

• After spending time in a crate or confined space

• When waking up from a nap in their dog bed

• After chewing on a bone or toy

• After eating

• After drinking

As you take them out after each of these instances, you can observe how they act. Some of the early warning signs that your puppy may need to potty are circling, sniffing, whining, or scratching. The best way to stop an accident before it happens is to learn your puppy’s body language. They will give you clues or try to tell you when they need to potty, especially if they associate pottying with their “special spot” in the backyard.

Patience is Golden

Puppies and older dogs alike are sensitive to your emotions and moods. If you are anxious, they are anxious (use an anti-anxiety bed for an overly anxious dog), and so on. If you want to help your puppy transition and train, you have to be patient and enthusiastic.

Try to put yourself in your puppy’s paws. They are in a new place, with new people, and have no clue what to do or where to do it. Keeping this in the back of your mind can help promote a more peaceful and patient situation for your puppy, leading to potty success.

You may want to consider your puppy’s breed, too. For example, if you have a retriever, they may see a game where they have to retrieve items more rewarding than a food treat. You want to use your puppy’s natural instincts and characteristics to aid in the potty training process.

Don’t Give Up

The worst thing you can do when trying to train your puppy to potty outside is give up. Best Friends by Sheri has the toys and accessories you need to help create a positive reward system for your puppy. You can also find the perfect dog bed for your new furry friend.

Your puppy is learning you just as much as you are learning them. The entire process is a learning opportunity for both of you. If you are patient with your puppy, your puppy will be patient with you (after the initial bounds of excitement).

When you use the techniques we have shared with you, it is possible to potty train your puppy in an efficient way. Remember that routine and frequent visits outside help build the foundation of keeping accidents to a minimum, but that they will happen. Also, make sure that you are using only positive reinforcement and praise when potty training your puppy. No one said you couldn’t treat yourself, too, when you maintain a certain level of patience during this project. Make it a celebration for you and your puppy. The bigger it is, the more likely they are to remember that the act of pottying can be associated with positive feelings!