Happy Dog, Happy Owner: The Incredible Benefits of Dog Daycare

Thinking about putting your dog into daycare? If not, you should! There are so many good reasons to. Here are some of the incredible benefits of dog daycare.

We care a lot about the furry friends we call pets, to the tune of $202.6 billion, in fact. Yep, that’s how big the pet care market is estimated to be by 2025. Within in this large market lies perhaps your biggest expense: doggie daycare.

But is it worth the expense? When it comes to taking care of your pets while on vacation, there is no better option. Keeping reading to learn about the benefits of dog daycare.

Socialization

Perhaps the chief benefit of taking your dog to daycare as opposed to letting them sit alone at home is that they get to hang out with other dogs. As we know, dogs are pack animals, and without proper and frequent socialization they could become anti-social, which can lead to aggressiveness or doggie depression.

At doggie daycare, your pup will be able to frolick with dogs of all stripes in spaces designed just for them.

Exercise

If you’re a busy dog owner and your dog is the only one in your household, getting them exercise may prove difficult. After all, a dog can only chase its own tail for so long before getting bored. Even a walk hardly burns off a dog’s energetic intensity.

At daycare, your dog can get some high-intensity playtime with other dogs and people there to attend to their every need.

Training From Professionals

They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but a dog of any age can learn something new, especially at a daycare staffed by consummate professionals. Whether your dog needs basic potty training, a course in obedience, or to learn social cues from other dogs, we can provide your dog the instruction he or she needs.

The alternative is that your dog stays at home, unstimulated and bored. So why take advantage of your time away for your dogs benefit?

Stress Relief

Perhaps the best benefit of dog daycare of all is stress relief, for both you and your dog. Owning a dog is like having a child, and sending your dog to daycare is like sending your puppy off to your mother’s house for the weekend. Your dog gets to see a new environment and you get a much-needed vacation.

Daycare also relieves you of the guilt way too many dog owners have about the quality of their care. By sending your pup off to daycare, you no longer have to feel bad about how little exercise or attention they’re getting. You’ll know they’re healthy and happy in the loving arms of professionals.

Now That You Know the Benefits of Dog Daycare…

Do you think you’ll board your dog for your next trip away or even a more regular basis? Hopefully, we’ve convinced you of the benefits of dog daycare. Whether your dog needs socialization, training, or just a watchful eye, we’ve got you covered.

If you’re interested in our programs or our rates, be sure to contact us.

5 Tips for How to Train Puppies During Their First Week Home

The first week home with your new puppy is critical to establish a good relationship. Here are 5 tips for how to train puppies during their first week home.

You brought home a new little furry best friend. And while that wet nose and puppy dog breath have captured your heart, it’s time to get down to training business.

That’s because it’s never too early to train a puppy. In fact, the earlier you can you get him into a routine and establish good behaviors, the better for everyone involved.

But if you don’t know the first thing about how to train puppies, it can be an overwhelming experience.

Not to fear. Let’s look at 5 tips to help you get your new puppy trained during their first week at home.

1. Set up a Schedule

Dogs are very much creatures of habit. And training a new puppy in a structured environment will help them thrive.

By doing the same things at the same time daily, your new puppy will quickly pick up on the household routine.

A schedule will allow your puppy to settle into their new environment. Plus, it will aid your potty-training efforts by conditioning their internal plumbing to know when it’s time to “go.”

2. Reward Good Behavior

Puppies love having a shower of praise. And all your furry best friend wants to do is please you. So when you reward good behavior, it’s going to be something they want to continue doing.

This positive reinforcement can include giving them toys, their favorite treats, extra petting, and lots of love.

Letting them know when they get something right instills the correct actions in their minds. And the good behavior will soon become their normal behavior.

3. Give Your Puppy Space of Their Own

When introduced into a new home, it’s important to give your puppy a space of their own.

Whether that be in a crate or using baby gates to keep them confined to a certain area of the house. It gives your new puppy a sense of security and a place to relax.

But it can also be an invaluable training tool. It helps with potty-training because they won’t want to soil the place they sleep. And it keeps them out of trouble when you’re not able to keep an eye on them.

4. Be a Consistent Leader

Think of your puppy as a small child. Puppies don’t know the difference between right and wrong. So it’s vital to stay patient, keep your training consistent, and show them who’s in charge.

By being confident and consistent, your puppy will soon see you as a pack leader. Something they naturally want to follow.

If you’re too mushy and don’t establish solid boundaries early, that’s when bad habits and naughty behavior begin to form.

5. Keep It Positive

It’s never a good idea to scold your puppy during training. This can create negative feelings around the task that can be hard to overcome. Or it might confuse your puppy since they don’t understand cause and effect as we do.

Instead, continue to reward good behavior with praise and turn your back to silently ignore the bad.

For example, if they run ahead while you’re leash training, stop all movement and stand still until they stop. If they bite too hard while playing, drop what you’re doing, yell “Ouch!” and ignore them.

Your puppy will soon learn praise is better than being ignored and correct the behavior.

The Most Important How to Train Puppies Tip: Enjoy It

Puppies are a lot of work. There’s no doubt about that. But they’re also so much fun!

When learning how to train puppies, the most important aspect is to enjoy it. Your new little furry friend will appreciate it and enjoy it as much as you do!

Need help training your new puppy? Contact us today to learn more about our classes and private lessons!

Our number one concern is client satisfaction.  They will deliver results… they guarantee it!  Whether you are looking to have your dog obey commands or just behave at home, Baxter’s K9 Complex offers several different programs to suit your needs. They offer a Free Dog Training Evaluation… Give us a Call today.

They offer the following Dog Training programs in St Louis County:

They hold hour and a half puppy training classes at our St Louis County facility.  Their puppy preschool is designed to teach your puppy a potty training schedule, housebreaking skills, and set a foundation for general dog obedience.

Puppy Management- The puppy management program is for puppies 5 months or younger.  Puppy management consists of three one on one private training sessions with both the puppy and the owner designed to train the puppy in general obedience and awareness.

Private Lessons- Private dog training lessons are focused on whatever it is you would like to train your dog to do.  They offer private dog training lesson at either your home or our St Louis County facility… whichever you prefer.   Dogs of all ages and breeds are welcome.

Board & Train– Board and Train dog training requires your dog to stay at our facility.  These programs will put your dog on the fast track to total off leash command.  Board and Train packages include two private sessions, and lifetime access to group training classes.

Ultimate Training- Ultimate training is, well their ultimate dog training package.  Would you like your dog to listen to your commands even when company is around?  This package is for you.  Included is a minimum of three private dog training sessions, unlimited group classes, and preparation for Canine Good Citizens tests.

Day Training- Perfect for busy dog owners.  The day training program consists of three days where you drop off and pick up your dog in the same day.  When you pick up your dog, they will have a private training session.  They also throw in lifetime group classes.

Pudgy Pooch Camp- Is your dog looking a little chubby?  The Pudgy Pooch camp will whip them into shape.  The Pudgy Pooch Camp is a two weeks stay at our facility filled with walks, playtime in our dog park, healthy diet, and a take home schedule upon completion.  You dog will look and feel better after.

Advanced Training- The advanced training are training programs for dog looking to acquire a certain skill such as scent detection, service dog certifications or personal protection… please call regarding these programs.

At Baxter’s K9 Complex, our number one priority is client satisfaction.  They deliver results, guaranteed!  Whether you are looking to have your dog obey commands or just behave at home, they can help you out at Baxter’s K9 Complex.  Give us a call today for a FREE Dog Training Evaluation.

The trainers work with clients through the following dog training programs:

Puppy Preschool (For puppies 7-12 weeks)- Their hour and a half Saturday morning puppy training classes are held at our St Charles County training facility and are designed to raise a puppy to be well socialized.  The goal of the puppy training program is teach your puppy potty training and housebreaking as well as an intro to dog obedience and overall awareness.

Puppy Management- Three one on one private puppy training sessions for puppies 5 months or younger.  Both the owner and the puppy will be trained to set a solid foundation for obedience.

Private Lessons- Private dog training sessions are available for dogs of any age or breed.  These private sessions will be focused on whatever you would like to train your dog.  They are flexible in offering the private dog training sessions at your home or our St Charles dog training facility.

Board & Train- Board and Train dog training programs require your dog to stay at our St Charles facility. These programs are ideal for owners who wish to achieve the best results from dog training.  They include two private dog training sessions with both the dog and owner with our board and train package.  They also include lifetime access to their group training classes.

Ultimate Training- Looking for ultimate, no leash control of your dog even when company is around?  Their ultimate dog training program is the answer.  The Ultimate Training package includes a minimum of three private training lessons, unlimited group classes, and preparation for Canine Good Citizens tests.

Day Training- Day Training dog training consists of three days of dog training where you drop off and pick up your dog the same day.  Private lessons will be held each day with the dog and owner at the pick time.  Include lifetime group classes with the Day Training programs.

Pudgy Pooch Camp- Is your dog looking ummm… a little fat?  This is not good for their health.  The Pudgy Pooch Camp is a two week stay at the St Charles facility filled with walks, playtime in our dog park, and a healthy diet.  They offer before and after photos, an “at home” schedule to follow, and most importantly a healthier dog by the conclusion of this program.

Advanced Training-  The advanced dog training programs are designed to train dogs advanced skills such as canine sports (like Baxter), search and rescue, scent detection, service dog certifications, personal protection, and police K9.

Baxter’s K9 Complex will be offering the following services:

Whether your dog needs a nail trim, a bath, or a complete de-shedding we have you covered. When your dog comes for Day-Camp or Boarding, you can schedule our grooming services to be done before pick up and they will go home looking and smelling beautifully! Appointments are available 7 days a week. Call or email to schedule a grooming appointment during your next visit!

Effective Sept 30, 2017, K9 Klips is no longer offering services at Baxter’s K9 Complex.

Baxter’s K9 Complex will be offering the following services:

Whether your dog needs a nail trim, a bath, or a complete de-shedding we have you covered. When your dog comes for Day-Camp or Boarding, you can schedule our grooming services to be done before pick up and they will go home looking and smelling beautifully! Appointments are available 7 days a week. Call or email to schedule a grooming appointment during your next visit!

We are pleased to announce Jessica Zitzner, K9 Klips, has joined the Baxter’s K9 Complex team as  the Canine Cosmetologist.

Jessica graduated from Twin Cities School of Pet Grooming in 1997. After graduating, she was hired as a groomer for Pet Food Warehouse. Within 6 months Jessica was promoted to the head groomer position. In 1997, Jessica  opened her own salon in Wisconsin.  After a very successful 19 years, Jessica and her family decided to move to the warmer Saint Louis area. Jessica is excited to join the Baxter’s family and can’t wait to meet everyone. Jessica hopes to have great long term relationship with everyone and their best fur friends!!

When your dog comes for daycare, day camp or boarding, your scheduled grooming needs will be provided before you arrive to pick up your pet. So easy and convenient. One stop and your pet has an enriching enjoyable day and will look and smell beautiful when it leaves.

To reach Jessica directly – Call 314-576-4110.

Secure and Comfortable

If you feel guilty about leaving your dog home alone all day, dog boarding will relieve your stress. You will no longer have to worry about your dog acting out while unsupervised. Dog boarding provides them with exercise, anxiety from being alone, and socialization with other dogs. At “Baxter’s K9 Complex” their expert staff will attend to your dogs every need. They will have access to an indoor dog park and multiple activities. Your dog will be on his or her own little vacation full of fun and exercise. Their staff also keeps you informed on whether something special has happened with your dog. You can feel assured that they know exactly what to do in any circumstance. “Baxter’s K9 Complex” goal is to make you feel like your dog is being taken care of by a friend or relative. Their staff gives undivided attention to your dog to make them feel right at home. They ask all pet owners to provide medical documentation indicating that your dog is up to date on their vaccinations. This way you wont have to worry about the other friends your dog will be making.

Additional Benefits

It’s a good idea to tour the facility your dog will being stay at before hand, giving you peace of mind that they will be safe. “Baxter’s K9 Complex” has a 7,000 square foot indoor dog park, including wall-to-wall turf, ramps, and tubes so they can enjoy unlimited playtime. This sounds way better than being stuck in a kennel all day. Smaller dogs also have their very own play area, this way your little one won’t get trampled over. Some people say dog boarding even helped changed their social behavior. Your dog will leave feeling confident, with new friends, and usually worn out from playing so hard.

Affordable and Flexible

Dog Boarding Prices at “Baxter’s K9 Complex” range from $36 (all-inclusive) or for an additional dog $30 per night. Their drop off and pick up times are Mon-Fri 7:00am to 6:00pm, Sat & Sun 8:00am to 4:00pm and check out is 12:00pm.

If you have any more concerns or want to find out more about Dog Boarding, visit Baxter’s K9 Complex’s Dog Boarding link. Also, review their blogs for a few tips on getting your pup ready for their home away from home.

Have you ever thought about adopting a new four-legged family member to make for a happier dog? Give your dog the company they need… I mean what could be better than adopting a new pooch! Check out the list of tips below for successfully handling more than one dog.

• Before you commit, make sure you are fully prepared to add double the work to your daily routine and that you are financially ready. This means extra grooming, exercise, food, bedding, training etc.
• When choosing a dog it is best to have the opposite sex. They are more successful pairs with better behavior.
• Be mindful of your dogs feelings and age. If you have an older dog already they may not be fond of the new puppy running around their home. Introduce them outside of the home first and let them get use to each other. Also let the new puppy explore the home without the other dog inside. When they are finally in the house together bring them around each other in a neutral room where the dogs don’t typically hang out. Soon they will be best buds running around and playing together.
• If your dogs cant seem to get along, ask a professional trainer to observe their behavior.
• Remember that getting a new dog doesn’t mean that they will take care of each other now. You still have the care-taker title. Before leaving your pets for the day, take them out for a walk/jog. Getting energy out will keep them from getting bored and taking it out on your favorite shoes or having a wrestling match.
• Both dogs should have the same routine. They should have the same potty breaks, eating time and sleeping schedule so you aren’t running in all different directions.
• When you come home from a long day away, keep them active before dinner. Play fetch, go for a swim, or keep them occupied with a toy. This way they will be ready for sleep after dinner time.
• Bond with each of your dogs and never leave the other one out.

If you are thinking about adding a new tail-wagging friend to your family, feel free to ask Baxter’s any questions you have at (636) 939-3000.