Chewing is completely natural for dogs. It’s how they explore the world, relieve tension, keep themselves busy and even cope with teething. In many cases, the issue isn’t “bad behavior” — it’s a lack of safe, interesting things to chew.
Why dogs chew things
There isn’t just one reason. Here are the most common ones:
1. Teething
During teething, gums can feel sore and itchy. The urge to chew increases.
What helps:
safe chew toys
teething toys designed for puppies
Tip: rotate toys regularly to keep your dog interested.
2. Boredom and lack of stimulation
If a dog has nothing to do, they will find their own entertainment — furniture, shoes, remotes or boxes.
Ask yourself honestly:
Is my dog getting enough walks?
Do we have regular playtime or training?
If the answer is no, it’s time to add more variety to your dog’s day.
3. Stress or anxiety
Dogs often chew to cope with stress — for example, when left alone, during a move, with loud noises or changes in routine.
What matters here:
identify the source of stress
create a stable, predictable routine
seek professional help if anxiety is significant
How to fix the problem
1. Remove temptation
This is the fastest way to reduce damage.
2. Offer a better option
Your dog needs something they are allowed to chew.
3. Reward the right choice
If your dog picks their own toy, praise them, offer a treat or start a short play session.
4. Increase physical activity
After a proper walk, training session or active play, the urge to chew on random items usually drops.
5. Do not punish after the fact
If you find something damaged later, punishment will not help.
When you may need extra help
Consider professional support if your dog:
chews constantly and obsessively
injures their teeth or gums
eats non-food items
destroys things in panic when left alone
In these cases, it’s best to consult a veterinarian or a qualified behavior specialist.
Chewing is not your dog “getting back at you.” It’s a sign of a need that isn’t being met. Once you understand the reason and offer a better outlet, the behavior usually becomes much less of a problem.
A comfortable walk starts with the right leash and harness. The gear you choose affects your dog’s comfort, your control and overall safety. Poorly fitted or low-quality equipment can restrict movement, cause discomfort or fail at the worst possible moment.
Types of leashes
The right leash depends on your dog’s size and how you usually walk them.
1. Standard leash
A simple, reliable option for everyday use. Works well for most dogs. In the city, a length of about 1.2 to 2 meters is usually ideal.
Best for: daily walks, training, vet visits.
2. Retractable leash
Gives your dog more freedom to roam, but offers less control and can create sudden pulling. It’s also less durable due to the internal mechanism.
Best for: calm dogs in safe, open areas.
3. Long line
Typically 3 to 10 meters long. Great for training and outdoor walks where your dog can have more space without being fully off-leash.
Best for: training, recall practice, and outdoor walks where your dog can have more freedom without being fully off-leash.
Leash materials
Nylon — lightweight, affordable, easy to clean
Leather — durable, long-lasting, softens over time
Canvas / webbing — strong and reliable, good for larger dogs
Rubberized — better grip, especially in wet conditions
What to check before buying
the clip opens easily but stays securely fastened
stitching is strong and even
the handle feels comfortable in your hand
the leash weight matches your dog’s size
Collar or harness?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer.
A collar and leash is a classic setup that works well for calm dogs who don’t pull and respond reliably to commands.
If your dog tends to lunge forward, coughs when the leash tightens or has a sensitive neck, a harness is usually the more comfortable option. It distributes pressure across the body instead of the neck.
How to choose a harness
A harness should fit snugly without putting pressure on the body. A good design allows free movement and does not rub the skin.
Types of harnesses
1. Y-shaped harness
Straps run across the chest and between the front legs, leaving the shoulders free. This design does not put pressure on the neck and allows natural movement, making it a great choice for active daily walks.
Key points:
proper adjustment is important to avoid rubbing under the legs
if too loose, the dog may slip out
2. Vest-style harness
A softer, wider design, often used for small dogs. The fabric sits gently against the body and reduces pressure from straps.
Key points:
may feel warmer in hot weather
make sure it doesn’t rub or stay damp
3. No-pull harness
Features a front clip on the chest to help reduce pulling. It gently redirects the dog when they pull forward, making walks easier with strong or untrained dogs.
Key points:
does not replace proper leash training
may shift to the side if not fitted correctly
choose a model that does not restrict front leg movement
How to choose the right size
It’s best to take measurements and compare them to the brand’s size chart.
What to measure
You’ll usually need:
chest girth — the widest part of the body, just behind the front legs
neck girth — at the base of the neck where the harness sits
Sometimes it also helps to know your dog’s back length and weight.
What to do next
Each brand has its own sizing. You can usually find it on the packaging, product page or label.
Sizes are often listed as XS, S, M, L, XL or in centimeters.
Important: a size M in one brand may not match a size M in another, so do not rely on the letter alone.
If your dog falls between two sizes, it is usually better to choose the larger one — especially if the harness is adjustable.
For example, if your dog’s chest measures 52 cm and the chart shows:
S — 40–50 cm
M — 50–60 cm
Choose M if there is room for adjustment.
Check the fit after buying
Once the harness is on, make sure it:
does not hang loosely
does not dig into the body
does not rub under the legs
does not restrict movement
A simple rule: you should be able to fit two fingers between the strap and your dog’s body.
Common mistakes
buying without taking measurements
using a leash that is too thin for a large dog or too heavy for a small one
choosing a harness that rubs under the legs
picking a harness that is too loose and easy to escape from
The right gear is one that feels comfortable for your dog — and gives you confidence and control during every walk.
Dog clothing is not necessary for every pet or every situation. For some dogs, it helps make walks more comfortable, while for others it may be unnecessary. The key is to match the clothing to the weather and your dog’s comfort.
When clothing is actually needed
Clothing is most useful for:
small dogs
short-haired breeds
dogs without an undercoat
senior dogs
puppies
dogs after a short haircut
rainy, snowy, windy or cold weather
For example, breeds like Chihuahuas, Italian Greyhounds, Chinese Cresteds, Toy Terriers and Miniature Pinschers often benefit from clothing.
When you can skip it
Many dogs with thick coats and dense undercoats (such as Huskies, Malamutes, Samoyeds and Newfoundlands) are comfortable without extra layers in mild weather. That said, even these breeds may benefit from a raincoat or protection from mud.
How to choose dog clothing
1. By season
rainy fall — a lightweight raincoat or waterproof layer
winter — insulated options with wind and water protection
spring — lighter protection from damp weather and wind
2. By fit
Good clothing should:
not rub or irritate
not restrict movement
stay in place without twisting
not put pressure on the neck, chest or underarms
allow your dog to go to the bathroom comfortably
If your dog moves stiffly, freezes or keeps trying to remove the clothing, it’s a sign the fit isn’t right.
3. By material
Pay attention to:
outer fabric suitable for the weather
soft inner lining
strong stitching
easy-to-use fasteners
machine-washable materials
How to take measurements
You will usually need three measurements:
back length (from the base of the neck to the base of the tail)
chest girth (the widest part of the body)
neck girth
Always compare your measurements with the brand’s size chart, as sizing can vary between manufacturers.
How to get your dog used to clothing
If your dog has never worn clothes before, take it step by step:
let them sniff the item first
try it on briefly at home
praise and reward
gradually increase wearing time
Common mistakes
guessing the size instead of measuring
choosing heavy or stiff fabrics
overheating the dog
leaving clothing wet after walks
Clothing only helps when it actually makes your dog more comfortable and protects them from the weather. If it fits well, doesn’t restrict movement and matches the season, it’s doing its job.
Dog care is not just about feeding and walks. To keep your dog comfortable day to day, it helps to have a basic set of grooming and hygiene essentials at home.
You don’t need to buy everything at once or go for a full setup right away. It’s better to start with a practical core kit and add more as needed.
Basic dog grooming checklist
1. Coat care
Important:different coat types require different tools.
For short-haired breeds(such as Labrador Retrievers, Beagles, Pugs, Dobermans):
grooming glove
fine-tooth comb
brush for short coats
deshedding tool (for some coat types)
For medium-haired breeds(such as Huskies or Corgis):
grooming glove
comb with mixed tooth lengths
deshedding tool
slicker brush
dematting tool (if needed)
For long-haired breeds(such as Shih Tzus, Collies, Maltese and others), a more complete set is needed:
grooming glove
wide-tooth comb
fine-tooth comb
deshedding tool
slicker brush
dematting tool
scissors
Dogs with wire-haired breeds do not have an undercoat, so deshedding tools and slicker brushes are not used. A suitable brush and a stripping comb are usually enough.
2. Bathing and hygiene
dog shampoo
a separate towel
wipes or soft cloths for cleaning paws
conditioner (if needed)
Human shampoos are not suitable for dogs.
3. Paws and nails
nail clippers in the right size
nail file (optional)
paw balm or protective treatment
Common mistakes
buying random products without considering the dog’s size
using human products instead of dog-specific ones
choosing cheap tools that are uncomfortable to use
buying too many items instead of starting with a basic set
not replacing consumables on time
Good care is not about having a lot of tools, but about choosing the right ones. A simple, practical set that fits your dog and is used regularly is more than enough.
