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Cat Care
Feature article behaviour and appearance
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Managing Clingy Cats: Do I Have a Velcro Kitty?
Learn reasons why some cats are excessively clingy, how you can help curtail this behavior, and considerations when potentially adopting a Velcro kitty.
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Can Cats See TV?
Do cats actually watch TV when they're chilling out on the couch with you? Learn more about how cats engage with and react to electronic screens.
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Do Cats Understand Words?
Discover interesting information about whether you cat actually understands your words and if it's important to actually talk to your feline friend.
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Why Do Cats Bite While Playing?
Learn what's behind your cat's playful biting, whether it's a cause for concern, and how to curtail it if they get a little too rough.
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Cat Aggression: How to Calm Them Down
Learn how to identify causes of aggression in your cat, how you can help calm them down or diffuse an aggressive situation, and when a vet visit is needed.
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Do Cats Understand Mirrors?
Do cats understand mirrors? Find out what science can to tell us and how cats perceive their own reflections.
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Top 3 Funny Cat Quirks You Should Know
Crazy cat behaviors have gone viral all over the internet, so we decided to dig a bit deeper and explain why cats exhibit these 3 behaviors. Read more.
Feature article breed
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Russian Blue Cat: Facts and Personality Traits | Hill's Pet
Discover the gentle and loving personality of the Russian blue cat. Learn its royal history and find out why it can be a great addition to your family.
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Siamese Cat Breed - Facts & Personality Traits | Hill's Pet
Learn about the Siamese cat including physical and personality traits, history, and living with one at home.
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Bombay Cat Breed - Facts & Personality Traits | Hill's Pet
Learn more about your Bombay cat and read about it's various physical characteristics and personality traits.
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Persian Cat Breed - Facts & Personality Traits | Hill's Pet
Better understand your Persian housecat by learning more about it's physical characteristics and personality traits.
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Balinese Cat Breed - Facts & Personality Traits | Hill's Pet
Learn about the Balinese cat breed including physical and personality traits, history, and living with one at home.
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Abyssinian Cat Breed - Information and Personality Traits | Hill's Pet
Among the most popular cat breeds, the Abyssinian is easy to care for, and a joy to have in your home. They’re affectionate cats and love both people and other animals.
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Birman Cat Breed - Facts & Personality Traits | Hill's Pet
Find out everything you need to know about the Birman cat breed including personality traits, physical characteristics, and breed origins.
Feature article health care
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How to Identify & Remove a Tick From a Cat
Worried that your cat may have come in contact with ticks? Learn how to identify a tick bite and steps for safely removing a tick from your cat.
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Cat Ear Infections: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment & Prevention
Learn about common causes, signs & symptoms, and treatment of a cat ear infection, as well as tips for how to prevent them from happening.
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Skin Lumps on a Cat: Types, Causes & Treatment
Learn about types of skin lumps that can occur on a cat, why they happen, what each type means (i.e. fluid filled, etc.), and how they are treated.
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Cat Leukemia: Symptoms, Testing and Prevention
Learn important information about cat leukemia, including how it spreads, common symptoms, testing & diagnosis info, treatments and prevention options.
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My Cat Ate String: Dangers, What to Do & Treatments
Discover health issues that can occur if your cat eats string, what you should do if you're sure they did, and possible treatments your vet might suggest.
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Why Is My Cat Peeing Blood?
Learn causes & symptoms associated with blood in cat urine, including underlying urinary tract problems or issues like FLUTD, as well as treatment options.
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Can Cats Get the Flu or a Cold?
Learn how flu & cold viruses can affect your cat, what signs & symptoms to look for, and what the prevention & treatment options are.
Feature article new pet parent
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Tips for Socialising Your Kitten with People & Other Pets
Socializing your kitten ensures she becomes a cat that relates well to people and is a friend and companion.
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Leaving a Cat Home Alone: How Long is Safe?
Concerned about leaving a cat home alone? Considering if she's a kitten or senior cat and her relationship with you can help you decide how long is safe.
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Adopting an Adult Cat | Hill's Pet
Understand how adopting an adult cat from a shelter is different than adopting a cat, and what to expect when you bring her home for the first time.
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The pick of the litter | Hill's Pet
Bringing how a kitten is a long-term commitment. Learn how to make the right choice when picking one out of a litter.
Feature article nutrition and feeding
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Cats & Tuna: Is it Safe for Them?
While cats can have a strong attraction to tuna, learn details on whether tuna offers proper nutrition and is safe for them to eat.
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Can Cats Eat Cheese?
The slight crinkle of a cheese wrapper can send cats flying into the kitchen in search of the salty treat, but can cats eat cheese? Here's the scoop on whether cats and cheese are a good combination.
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Meal Feeding vs. Free Feeding Cats: What's Best?
Learn about the 3 common ways you can feed your cat as well as the advantages and disadvantages for each.
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Is Chocolate Bad for Cats?
Chocolate is known to be poisonous for dogs, but it can also be toxic for cats. Learn why chocolate is bad for cats & what to do if she's eaten it.
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How a Cat’s nutritional needs differ from ours?
Puppy, kitten and pet dieting, cat nutrition and dog nutrition information from Hill's Pet
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The right food for your kitten
Learn how to identify the kitten food that best aligns with her nutritional needs, keeping her active and healthy as she grows into an adult cat.
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How a mature cat’s nutritional needs differ from ours? | Hill's Pet
Puppy, kitten and pet dieting, cat nutrition and dog nutrition information from Hill's Pet
Feature article play and exercise
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Cat Food Puzzles: How They Benefit Your Cat
Cat food puzzles let your feline channel their hunter-gatherer side and can also help with weight management. Learn about different types & benefits.
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How to Put On a Cat Harness
Discover which harness style is best for your feline friend and learn how to put on a cat harness. Take your kitty for a stroll knowing they're secure.
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How to Make DIY Cat Shelves
As a pet parent, you already know that cats rule the household, so why not give them a high perch from which to survey their land? DIY cat shelves are an excellent way to customize your kitty's kingdom, and there are so many cat wall ideas that you can use to create their dream domain.
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5 New Fun Things to Do With Your Cat
Looking for way to enrich playtime for your kitty? Discover fun new cat activities, such as cat apps, that can keep your furry friend occupied for hours.
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Walking a Cat: Should You Take Your Kitty for a Stroll?
Wondering if your can take your cat for a walk? Learn how to decide if she's suitable for the outdoors and an effective method for taking her on a stroll.
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Playing with Your Cat on a Budget: 7 Totally Free Games
Check out these seven cheap and easy games to play with cats, often using items you already have around the house.
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Overweight Cat? Slim Down with These Activities
Learn how meal planning, exercise and activity can help your overweight cat get to a healthy and happy weight.
Feature article routine care
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Types of Cat Litter & How to Choose the Right One
Sift through our guide to learn about the many different types of cat litter and how to choose the best one for your feline friend.
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How to Clean Cats Ears: A Comprehensive Guide
Learn helpful tips for cleaning your cat's ears, from the supplies you'll need to step-by-step instructions on how to clean them safely and easily.
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Keeping Your Cat Hydrated if She's Not Drinking Water
Learn why your cat is drinking less water than she used to, how much she should be drinking, and how to recognize and prevent her from getting dehydrated.
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Senior Cat Problems: What You Should Know About Aging Cats
Learn the signs of aging in cats and common senior cat health problems, as well as their special needs and how to care for aging & senior cats.
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A Guide to Trimming Cat Claws
Learn helpful tips for trimming your cat's claws, including nail clippers you'll need and how short you should trim their claws
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Managing Cats Around Your Smaller Pets
Learn helpful tips for introducing your cat to other small pets, such as birds and fish, and how to protect them from your curious feline.
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DIY Cat Stain & Odor Remover That Actually Works
Learn how to make your own DIY cat stain remover, as well as how to remove cat odors from your home.
Feature article tools and resources
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A Guide for Choosing the Best Cat Carrier
With so many options, finding the best cat carrier for your furry friend can feel overwhelming. Should it be soft-sided or hard-sided and top-loading or front-loading? And what's the best cat carrier for difficult cats?
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Tips for Creating Your Cat's Own Social Media Account | Hill's Pet
Are you that person who floods your connections' news feeds with photos of your cat on social media?
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Cat Life Hacks: Making Life Easier for You and Your Cat
Has your cat care routine gotten stale? Spice it up with these helpful cat life hacks, including tips to help manage cat hair, scratching & litter boxes.
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Fun DIY Beds for Your Cat
Learn how to create four different DIY cat beds that will provide your furry friend with a cozy space of her own & won't break your bank!
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Five tips to stop cats from scratching up the furniture | Hill's Pet
Learn how to build an easy, homemade DIY cat scratching post using items around your house! She'll get exercise and you won't get a ruined staircase.
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Common Cat Myths & Misconceptions: Get the Feline Facts - Hill's Pet
Learn about common cat myths and misconceptions. With all the misinformation available online about cats, it's time you got the true feline facts.
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Caring for your kitten's new teeth | Hill's Pet
Puppy, kitten and pet dieting, cat nutrition and dog nutrition information from Hill's Pet
Feature article training
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Toilet training your kitten | Hill's Pet
Use these easy-to-follow do's and don'ts while training your kitten to use the litter box with the best success.
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Are cats trainable? | Hill's Pet
With proper understanding and patience, cats can be trained. Learn how to properly train your new cat or kitten with these easy-to-follow tips.
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Sharing a Bed with Your Cat: Steps for Success
The personality of your cat is probably the most important part of whether a human-feline sleeping arrangement will work.
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Cat and baby | Hill's Pet
Learn how your cat's behavior might change if you bring a newborn baby into the home and how you can keep both baby and cat safe.
Dog Care
Feature article behaviour and appearance
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What's My Dog Doing When I'm Not Home?
Who knows what dogs do when you're not home? Here are some of the most common activities your pet will take part in while you're away.
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Dog Breeds That Don't Shed: A Guide for People with Allergies
Learn tips for allergy sufferers that are interested in adopting a dog, including information about top non-shedding dog breeds that might be a good fit.
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Why Is My Dog Shaking? 6 Common Causes for the Shivers
If you're noticed your dog shaking and shivering, you're probably wondering if there is something wrong. Learn common reasons why and what you can do.
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Why Is My Dog Eating Dirt?
Dogs eating dirt: it can be a random occurrence or a regular thing, so learn what to do if you notice this behavior and if you should visit the vet.
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Why Do Dogs Like Belly Rubs? (And What If My Dog Doesn't?)
Why do dogs like belly rubs? Learn what your dog is really telling you when he wants a belly rub (and why other dogs may not want one).
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Stress in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms & Finding Relief
Learn how to recognize symptoms of stress in your dog, what common situations can cause high anxiety and tips for helping your pup relax.
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Small Dog Breeds: What You Need to Know
Thinking of getting a small dog? Learn the pros & cons of small dog breeds, such as food & living space specifics, to decide if they're a good fit for you.
Feature article breed
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Boxer Dog Breed - Information about Boxer Dogs | Hill's Pet
An intelligent, loyal pet, the boxer has a high need for companionship and exercise. They are not happy when regularly left home alone.
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Labrador Retriever Dog Breed - Information about Labrador Retriever Dogs | Hill's Pet
The Labrador possesses numerous endearing traits —- intelligence, easy to train and being an excellent family companion. Labrador retrievers are sturdy, solid dogs. Find more dog breeds and dog care information at Hillspet.co.za
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Doberman Dog Breed - Information and Personality Traits | Hill's Pet
Doberman pinschers are powerful, energetic dogs that need plenty of exercise. If not exercised, they are likely to become irritable or even aggressive. Find more dog breeds and dog care information at Hillspet.co.za.
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Jack Russell Terrier Dog Breed - Information about Jack Russell Terrier Dogs | Hill's Pet
Consider the personality traits of the Jack Russell terrier as this breed is not for everyone. The breed has a compact, muscular body. Find more dog breeds and dog care information at Hillspet.co.za
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Afghan Hound Dog Breed - Information about Afghan Hound Dogs | Hill's Pet
An independent, strong-willed dog, the Afghan can be downright standoffish, but also quiet and clownish when the mood strikes. The male Afghan hound stands some 27 inches tall, the female about 25 inches. Afghans generally weigh between 50 and 60 pounds
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Airedale Terrier Dog Breed - Information about Airedale Terrier Dogs | Hill's Pet
An intelligent, tough dog, the Airedale terrier tolerates pets it grows up with and generally gets along well with other dogs and children.
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English Setter Dog Breed - Facts and Traits | Hill's Pet
Considered an alert dog and a protector of the family, the English setter is quite friendly, gentle and mild-mannered, but needs regular interaction with people and brisk daily walks. Find more dog breeds and dog care information at Hillspet.co.za.
Feature article health care
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Common Dog Surgery Questions: Procedures, Anaesthesia, Rehab & More
The idea of surgery on a dog may be scary, but it can have potentially life-saving effects. Learn some common questions pet parents have about surgeries.
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Distemper in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
Learn important information pet parents should know about distemper in dogs, including symptoms, how it's diagnosed, treatment options & how to prevent it.
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Is My Dog Sick? How Can I Tell?
If your dog is behaving strangely and you suspect something is wrong, learn some common behaviors they may be exhibiting to show they're not feeling well.
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How to Give a Dog a Pill: Helpful Tips & Methods
While getting a dog to take a pill can be tricky, learn valuable tips for helping them to take pills, liquids and other medications without a fuss.
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Is Hand Sanitizer Bad for Dogs? (& What to Do if They Eat it)
Learn whether hand sanitizer can be toxic for your dog, including potentially harmful ingredients that can be bad, and what to do if they've eaten it.
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Is My Dog Too Skinny?
Is my dog too skinny? Answering this question can not only help you decide whether you might be over or underfeeding your dog; it can also tell you whether your pet might need to be seen by the veterinarian.
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What Should I Do for a Dog with a Splinter?
Can dogs get splinters? Even though their paw pads are pretty tough, they can still be penetrated by thorns and splinters of wood, glass, metal or any other hard, sharp material. Dogs may be so focused on sniffing, playing or chasing a ball that they might not see sharp hazards that can end up as a splinter in a dog's paw.
Feature article new pet parent
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3 Steps to Prepare Your Apartment For a Dog
Learn tips to think about if you're considering a dog for apartment living, including ideal breeds/characteristics & how to make your space dog-friendly.
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Puppies don't come with a set of instructions
Ensure that you're meeting all of your new puppy's needs by learning typical puppy behaviors in the home.
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What to Expect When Adopting a Three-Legged Pet
Learn common concerns from pet parents considering adopting a three-legged pet, including info about mobility, preparing your home, & long-term care.
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Helping a New Dog's Anxiety After Coming Home
Anxiety can be a problem for dogs, especially ones new to your family. Learn how common anxiety symptoms like diarrhea can happen & how to help them relax.
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Letting Your Dog Sleep in the Bed
Learn about the different things you should consider before letting your dog sleep in your bed with you.
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Raising a Puppy: What You Need to Know
Learn tips for choosing the best dog breed for your children and family, considering things like breed size, energy level, temperament and age.
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Reasons to Adopt a Senior Dog
Adopting a senior dog from a rescue shelter might seem like more work than reward, but it actually lets you better choose a dog for your lifestyle.
Feature article nutrition and feeding
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How and when to feed your Dog?
It's important to feed your dog the right amount of food at proper intervals. Find out what feeding method is best for your dog.
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Human Foods That Are Dangerous for Your Dog
Read to learn about 5 human foods that are toxic to dogs. Learn their effects on a dog's health and what to do if they accidentally eat one of these foods.
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A few ground rules
Learn how to help your puppy learn good behaviors by starting with proper table manners. Follow these helpful feeding tips.
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Feeding your puppy
Find the ideal feeding plan for your puppy with Hill's Pet puppy foods
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The risks of excessive salt intake
Understand the importance of salt in your dog's diet, as well as the risks associated with excessive salt intake.
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Balanced Dog Foods & When to Change Them
Nutrition is one of the most important components of keeping your dog healthy, so choosing a well-balanced dog food full of nutrients is key. Learn more.
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Tips & Methods for Switching Dog Foods
As your puppy grows, its nutritional needs will change. Learn how to properly transition your dog to a new dog food at each stage of life.
Feature article play and exercise
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A Quick and Easy Guide to Cleaning Dog Toys
Discover tips for cleaning your dog's favorite toys (both plush & chew toys) and why keeping them clean can be important for their health.
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3 Ideas for Exercising Older Dogs
Exercising older dogs is the best way to ensure their health, happiness and longevity. Here are three ways to get your pet exercise as they age.
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How to Keep Dogs Safe (and Cool) in Summer Weather
Learning how to keep a dog cool in summer will ensure that they're enjoying the warmer weather just as much as you — safely! Let's take a look at some health tips, fun things to do with your dog in the summer and celebration ideas.
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5 Ideas for Indoor Exercise for Dogs
Learn how to keep your dog moving with some indoor exercise tips. If you're stuck inside, help them beat cabin fever and keep their body and mind active.
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Hiring a Dog Walker: Is It the Right Decision for You?
Learn how dog walkers can be a great way to get your dog proper exercise, especially if your busy schedule or physical limitations don't allow it.
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Building a Dog Park in Your Own Backyard
Learn how to create your own backyard dog park, possibly with materials you already have, so that your dog can enjoy the benefits of a dog park at home.
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How to Repurpose Old Kids' Toys Into Toys for Your Pup
Check out these five easy ideas for turning old and outsized kid & baby stuff into DIY dog toys that your pup will love.
Feature article routine care
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Safety Tips for Dogs & Open Car Windows
Your dog may love to stick his head out of an open car window, but learn why this behavior can be dangerous and how to keep your pooch safe on car rides.
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How Often Should You Bathe Your Dog?
You know that bathing your dog is important, but how often should you do it? Learn the right dog bath frequency, based on their breed, lifestyle & health.
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How to Make Vet Visits Less Scary for Your Dog
Is your dog scared of vet appointments? Learn tips for calming his anxiety and taking the stress out of his trip to the veterinarian.
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Clipping Dog Nails for Puppy Pedicures
Learn the basics for safely trimming your dog's nails at home, including tools you'll need and the technique for making trimming painless and easy.
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How to Clean Dog Ears
Learn the proper technique and supplies you can use to clean your dog's ears, including some tips to make it as smooth as possible for him.
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Help, my Pet has an Upset Stomach!
Learn what causes that wet dog smell, and what you can do to help reduce it overtaking your car, as well as how to get rid of it.
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Tips for Taking Your Dog on a Vacation
Learn why a dog-friendly vacation can be one of the most rewarding experiences you ever have together, and how to make the best of it.
Feature article tools and resources
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How to Get Dog Pee Smell Out of Carpet
Discover the best tips & tricks for removing pee stains and odor from carpet, including stains that are recent vs. those that have set in for some time.
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Finding A Lost Dog: What Should You Do?
Learn what to do if you find a lost dog, including important considerations for approaching the dog and how to keep both you and the dog safe.
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5 Signs You Have a Spoiled Dog
Most pet parents spoil their pets in their own way, whether with paw pedicures, extra cuddles or extra treats. And having a spoiled dog isn't necessarily a bad thing — it's a sign that you love your pet. It only becomes a problem if it starts to affect their health, their behaviour or your wallet.
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Common Dog Sayings and Their Origins
We've all heard — and said — the many dog sayings like, "dog days of summer" or "barking up the wrong tree." What do they mean and where do they come from?
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Dealing With a Dog Peeing on the Lawn
Discover why dead spots in your green lawn could be caused by dog urine, and learn steps you can take for getting your lawn (& dog) back into shape.
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People with allergies and dogs
Learn how you can still enjoy the benefits of a canine companion despite dog allergies. Discover how you can help manage your allergies around dogs.
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Common Mistakes Dog Owners Shouldn't Make | Hill's Pet
Learn about some of the most common mistakes dog owners make, and what you should do instead to provide the best care for your dog.
Feature article training
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Training Tips: Dog Impulse Control
Discover strategies for teaching your dog impulse control, including training them not to rush the door and how to curtail food grabbing.
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Teaching an Old Dog New Tricks: A Guide for Senior Training
Is teaching an old dog new tricks really impossible? Discover the truth about this cliche and learn tips for successfully training your senior dog.
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The Science Behind a Dog IQ Test
Curious to know how smart your dog is? Learn about the different types of dog intelligence and see how trainable he is with an IQ test.
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How to Make Your Own Dog Obstacle Course
Learn how to make a DIY dog obstacle course at home with items you already own. Follow these instructions and you & your pup will be training in no time!
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5 Helpful Tips for Training a Puppy | Hills Pet
Learn some effective ways to train your puppy, including home, group, and professional training, with these five helpful tips.
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Teaching Your Puppy: Obedience Training Basics
Learn more about properly obedience training your puppy or new dog. Understand your puppy's body language, barking, and whining.
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Steps to Successfully House Train Your Puppy
Learn about the rules for house training your puppy, preventing your puppy from starting any bad habits, how to keep a schedule and rewarding good behavior.
