How To Keep Paws In Top Condition Active humans have to upgrade their footwear regularly. But most dogs don’t wear shoes, so how do you keep their feet in top condition? In most cases, the guiding principles are pretty simple and come down to three basic things. 1. Keep their nails trimmed. Nail trimming isn’t…

Understanding Pet Grief No one wants to say goodbye to their dog. Unfortunately, most of us will face this heartbreaking day as pet parents. And, when it does, the grief that comes with it can be almost overwhelming. Grief isn’t something our society talks about very often, especially when it involves a lost pet. However,…

How To Create Engaging Outings for Your Dog Think the only way to tire your dog on a walk is by adding more miles to the outing? We’ve got good news – there are better and easier ways to leave them satisfied. For starters, people often think a daily walk is the best way to…

Measuring Canine Intelligence Have you ever heard those jokes about dogs being smarter than a two-year-old? Before you chuckle and shake your head in disbelief, there’s truth behind it. It’s certainly true that some dogs are smarter than others – some have even learned hundreds of words and math! However, new research methods have allowed…

Break Out the Herding Balls You’ve heard of playing fetch. But did you know there are other ways your dog can get their ball game on? And you don’t need fancy equipment to do it. In fact, you can start with an old soccer or exercise ball! The main thing is choosing a large ball…

What You Should Know Has your dog been drinking more lately? Do they seem ravenous? If they’ve also developed a pot-bellied appearance or started to lose hair, it could be Cushing’s disease. Cushing’s disease is a common disorder in dogs. Other names for this condition include Cushing’s Syndrome, hypercortisolism, and hyperadrenocorticism. It develops when the…

The 411 on Your Dog’s Health We know it’s not a pretty topic, but it still needs to be addressed. Yes, we’re talking about your dog’s poop. And since you’re already picking it up, it’s one of the easiest ways to track your dog’s health. Dog poop is a waste product of digestion. It’s a complex and…

Setting the Tone for Positive Dog Training When you think about dog training, do you approach it as a “command” and “response” exercise? It’s a natural approach, and there are examples of it everywhere. However, there could be a different way that yields better results. A lot has changed with dog training in recent years…

Managing Noise Phobias in Dogs Noise phobias can develop at any age, slowly over time, or seemingly out of nowhere. Regardless, they’re an important issue that you shouldn’t ignore. First, rest easy. It’s very common for dogs fear certain sounds – like thunder and fireworks – and there’s nothing you did wrong as a pet…

DOs and DON’Ts for visiting Dog-Friendly Places Who doesn’t want to take their dog everywhere they go? Fortunately, the list of dog-friendly places keeps growing every day, from big box stores to local coffee shops and breweries. But there’s more to visiting dog-friendly places than meets the eye. We’ve put together a handy guide to…

Hand-Feeding Your Dog When it comes to feeding time, it’s common practice to dump some kibble in a bowl and call it good. While there’s nothing wrong with that approach, there’s also a lot more that you can do with your dog’s kibble. And it doesn’t take tons of extra time. We’re talking about hand-feeding.…

Is Your Dog At Risk? Cataracts are a common problem in humans. But what about dogs? It turns out – yes! However, they’re typically hereditary. Additional causes include injuries to the eye and diseases like diabetes. So, could your dog be at risk? It depends. Cataract Basics A cataract forms when the lens of the…

Understanding Why Can Help Solve the “Problem” Have you ever wondered why some dogs bark more than others? And why is it that some dogs never seem to stop, while others never make a peep? It’s easy to assume it has something to do with training – or the lack thereof. Some even insist it’s…

The Best Road Rules for Safe Travel Nothing beats the call of the open road. For many dogs, that even means a short ride around the block or quick trip out for a Pup Cup. Basically, they love any chance to take in fresh sights and smells – not to mention, spend time with their…

Which Dogs Do You Love Best? If you ask us, every dog is our favorite, whether it’s a specific breed or a mystery mix. That’s one of the things we love most about dogs – they come in too many shapes and sizes to choose from. And that doesn’t even take their different personalities and…

A New Approach To “Resolutions” There’s a reason why New Year’s Resolutions fizzle out, often within days. There’s an irresistible euphoria that comes with the prospect of starting the year with a fresh slate. However, this also causes people to set their sights way too high, which adds up to unrealistic expectations. That’s why we…

Free Pet Food & Supplies There’s a reason why they call it the season of giving – there’s usually a surge in donations between Thanksgiving and New Year’s. This occurs for a variety of reasons. In some cases, certain needs increase during the holidays, while others try to make the most of those end-of-the-year tax…

In the Land of Snow and Ice So far, we’ve been spared the cold winds and deep snows of a true Minnesota winter. But, whether you love El Niño years or loathe them, the season can still cause trouble once we head outdoors. Warmer winter temps often mean a break from serious cold weather gear.…

Tips for a Hair-Free Holiday If you share your home with a dog, you’ve likely encountered a common problem – pet hair. While it’s easy to overlook this issue most of the year, it can add an extra layer of stress to the holiday season. After all, the last thing you want is to offer…

Why Dogs Eat Poop Most dog owners find their four-legged friends utterly irresistible. But that doesn’t mean we love everything they do – especially when it involves things they put in their mouths. If you’ve ever been horrified to see your dog eat poop, you’re not alone. Dogs find a wide range of poop irresistible,…

Scratch Boards to the Rescue! Does the idea of trimming your dog’s nails make you break out in a cold sweat? Do you loathe visits to the groomer because of how your dog carries on? If you answered yes to either of those questions, we’ve got good news for you – there’s another option. And,…

Help During Hardship Each day, many pet owners face a heart-wrenching decision – having to give up their pets because they can no longer care for them. But they may not have to. There are resources that can help in every situation, and they keep getting better with each passing day. In the past, people…

The Most Common Preventable Issues We can’t protect our dogs from everything, no matter how hard we try. But what if there were three very preventable canine diseases you could avoid? And no, it doesn’t take extra money or vet visits – you simply have to watch your dog and take a few proactive steps.…

What You Should Know About “Dog Years” Have you ever heard that one year of a dog’s life equals seven human years? This popular concept has been around since the 1950s, but it’s not entirely correct. In reality, the pace of their development changes over their lifetime, and it varies from dog to dog based…

What Your Dog Is Trying To Tell You Does your dog howl with ambulance sirens? Whenever you practice a musical instrument? Every time the emergency alert system goes off on the first Wednesday of each month? Howling dogs can be cute, funny, worrying, and even annoying. But, like barking, it’s also an important way dogs…

Helping Your Dog Love Grooming Regular grooming is important for maintaining your dog’s health and wellness, even if they don’t require a fancy cut and style. That’s because every dog usually requires the following care: Nail trimming to maintain a natural gait and avoid painful splitting Brushing to stimulate blood circulation and remove dandruff or…

Surviving the Dog Days of Summer Summer is in full swing, but we know there are plenty of hot days ahead. That got us thinking about our Summer Survival Gear. Cause, let’s face it, even if you love it hot, hot, hot, you still have to be prepared when you’re out with your furry friend.…

Best practices If you’re like a lot of pet parents, you probably spend a lot of time and money making sure you feed your dog the very best. In fact, you may look at your dog’s food sometimes and think that they eat better than you. But have you put as much thought into how…

Having Dogs As You Age Getting older isn’t easy. But does it mean you eventually have to give up having a dog? Not necessarily. In fact, having a furry companion can get better with age – and it can be better for you. However, it’s worth having a solid plan in place before jumping in.…

The Power of a Nose When you head outside with your dog, do you find yourself hurrying them along? Getting frustrated by their need to smell everything? It may seem like they’re lollygagging, but they’re actually using their most powerful sense – their sense of smell. Dogs “see” the world very differently than we do.…

Our Favorite Books on Canine Behavior It’s hard to miss how much things have changed in recent decades. Do you remember a time without streaming? Smartphones? The internet? But technology isn’t the only thing that’s changed – so have concepts and attitudes around dog training. In the past, dog training revolved around classic dominance, or…

Fun – and Easy! – Enrichment Ideas It’s no secret that we LOVE providing enrichment activities for our dogs. But we also know it can feel overwhelming when you’re trying to figure out where to start. And how can you keep things fresh and exciting for your dog day after day? That’s why we had…

Why You Should Talk To Your Dog – And How Dogs play an essential role in most of our lives. So much so, we often consider them trusted and much-loved members of the family – even our best friends. Throughout everything, they always seem willing to listen. Which begs the question, do you talk to…

What You Need To Know Canine Influenza Virus (CIV) has been on everyone’s mind this spring, especially at Wagging Tails Pet Resort where your dog’s health and safety is our top priority. As you may know, a CIV outbreak was recently confirmed in Minnesota animal shelters across Hennepin, Anoka, and Washington Counties. These locations are…

Spotting the Signs of Doggy Dementia Dementia is a common problem in humans. It’s so common, people often make jokes about having “senior moments” as they age. Though, dementia and cognitive disorders like Alzheimer’s disease are far more serious than a forgetful moment. They’re also problems that can affect our dogs. Canine cognitive dysfunction, or…

Tips for a PAWfect Checkup When you decide to bring a dog home, it comes with a lot of responsibility. And one of these items that often comes with stress is the regular vet visit. Vet visits can come with numerous challenges for humans and their dogs. Some dogs are less comfortable with strangers, especially…

What To Do When A Dog Attacks Your Dog It can happen in an instant. One moment, you’re enjoying a leisurely walk with your dog. The next, a strange dog comes charging out of nowhere – straight for your dog. These situations are incredibly scary, not to mention potentially dangerous for humans and their dogs.…

Our Favorite Dog Walking Gear For Winter It’s hard to keep up with Minnesota weather sometimes, especially when days start to get longer and hints of spring are in the air. One minute, you’re walking in the rain and the next? You’re doing the Minnesota Shuffle to avoid slipping on ice. This may be a…

Celebrating Valentine’s Day with Your Dog It’s February, which means Valentine’s Day. And for us, that means showering our pooches with even more love than usual. Want to join us? Here are five fun ways to show your dog extra love this Valentine’s Day. 1. Schedule a Doggy Date for a Brewery Dog-friendly patios might…

Build Your Dog A Snow Maze It’s no secret that we’ve had a lot of snow this winter. And, as seasoned Minnesotans, we know that there could be a lot more on the horizon before we welcome spring again. But if the thought of more snow has you down, we’ve got the PAWfect remedy: building…

Shaking Up Mealtime Sometimes, the winter months can feel long, even if you and your dog love spending time outdoors. But what if we told you that you can shake things up when cabin fever sets in, and it doesn’t take a big budget or huge time commitment? In fact, you probably have exactly what…

Keeping Dogs Warm During Winter The holidays may be over, but it’s never too late to spoil your pup – especially since Santa Paws told us so many dogs were on his “nice list” this year! And what better excuse than keeping them warm and toasty all winter long? This week, we’re looking at some…

Celebrating the Season at WTPR We had so much fun celebrating with you and your dogs at our two open houses this month! We also heard from Santa Paws himself that all of your dogs made it on his “nice” list this year! Need a dose of holiday spirit? Check out our Santa Paws Photo…

Gifts for You AND Your Dog Who says you can’t have the best of both worlds? Why not find the perfect gift that you and your dog can enjoy! We’ve talked about gadgets before, but the options out there keep getting better and better. Whether you want a health tracker, GPS locator, or a little…

Sweet Potato “Cookies” Think that treats from your kitchen have to cost a fortune or cause a lot of fuss? We’ve got good news for you – these “cookies” take one ingredient, and your dog is going to love them. In fact, we find many dogs prefer these treats to store-bought items, and they’re a…

Easy Grooming Recipes Homemade gifts are always a fun project, whether you make them for your own dog or a fellow dog-lover! This year, we have some PAWfect gift ideas you can whip up for your pooch – and you don’t have to worry about their waistline in the process! We love these recipes from…

“Listening” To What Your Dog Is Telling You If you follow our blog, you know we’re big fans of training. It’s hard to argue with something that can take as little as five minutes a day but still builds a stronger and more positive relationship with our four-legged friends. However, we realized there was one…

CUTS FOR THE CURE October is here, and that means CUTS FOR THE CURE! For more than 10 years, Wagging Tails Pet Resort has proudly spent the month of October raising money to fight cancer in humans and dogs. As part of this FUNdraiser, we donate 10% of October Canine Spa sales to Susan G.…

Alternatives to the “Cone of Shame” Whether your dog has a planned surgery on the horizon, an impromptu injury, or hot spots and seasonal allergies, there’s one image that often comes to mind: the plastic “cone of shame.” Technically, these doggy devices are known as Elizabethan collars, and they do a great job keeping dogs…

How to Help Your Dog In an ideal world, we could take our dogs anywhere and everywhere we wanted. Unfortunately, that just isn’t the case – and it’s not something that would be in the best interests of every dog, either. Instead, there are times when we have to leave our dogs at home, whether…

Finding Ways to Coexist It probably doesn’t come as a surprise that digging is a natural instinct for dogs. It’s also worth remembering that not all dogs find as much joy from this behavior as others. However, whether your dog has peppered your backyard with holes or simply digs in the garden from time to…

The Importance of Consistent Cues During Training Nothing is more frustrating than a dog who doesn’t listen. Except, have you ever stopped to think that may not be the problem? It’s no secret that dogs and humans speak different languages, which is where training comes to the rescue. Training gives us the opportunity to teach…

Try These Tips First things first; it’s okay if your dog is truly disinterested in toys. It doesn’t make them any less fun – or any less of a dog – if they don’t love a squeaky, ball, or Frisbee. However, your dog could still like toys, even if they don’t see seem hog wild about…

How to Keep Your Dog Fit & Healthy It’s no secret that obesity is a serious problem in the United States. But humans aren’t the only ones carrying more weight than they should – our pets are too. Studies show that nearly 60% of cats and dogs are either overweight or obese. While you may…

Tips for Restricted Activity Nothing sends a shudder down a dog owner’s spine like the words “restricted activity,” especially when they have a gregarious canine or enthusiastic puppy. After all, how can you burn off all that energy without physical activity? We’ve got good news for you – you can! While dogs often need physical…

What’s the Best Option for Your Dog? Have you ever found yourself confused over the best tools for walking your dog? In the past, people simply clipped a leash to their dog’s collar before heading out the door. But, over the years, more advanced options continued to surface to solve a variety of issues. Now,…

What You Need to Know to Protect Your Dog When you think of ticks, is Lyme the first – and only – disease that comes to mind? While it is certainly cause for concern, especially in Minnesota, Lyme is only one of many illnesses your dog can contract. It’s also the most straightforward in dogs…

Easy Ways to Teach Your Dog to Control Their Impulses Have you ever struggled to resist the urge to eat one more cookie? Or buy that extra pair of shoes that you really don’t need? As adults, we can often control these impulses. But these skills aren’t something we were born with, and neither are…

DIY Snuffle Mats It’s a good time to be a dog parent – everywhere you look, there are fun and innovative ways to help your four-legged friend live their best life. And we’ve got good news for you. You can bring many of these exciting activities into your own home without breaking the bank. The…

The Scoop on Biodegradable Poop Bags We know – no one wants to talk about poop. But, whether you like it or not, it’s part of the furry package when you have a dog in your life. Picking up after your dog is an important part of pet ownership. Still, it’s easy to hope the…

How to Spot a Problem Did you know that knee problems are the most common injury and the most common leg-related health condition dogs face? While it’s true that some breeds have hereditary or genetic predispositions that increase their chances of this common issue, dogs of all ages, shapes, and sizes are at risk of…

Excitement Barking in Dogs Excitement can be a good thing. After all, who doesn’t love the energy that comes with unbridled enthusiasm? Unfortunately, that can also lead to some less enjoyable behaviors. While a human might run around screaming in delight when excited, dogs often turn to their own form of vocalization – barking. We’ve…

It Takes More Than Practice We all want our dogs to come when called, no matter what. In fact, it’s a skill that can even save their life if they’re heading straight toward something dangerous. However, no matter how much we want a solid recall every time, it can remain just out of reach. But…

The Coolest Dog Product You’ve Probably Never Heard Of You know how much we love enrichment at Wagging Tails. And while we can make sure your dog gets plenty of it at The Resort, we know that sometimes it can be a struggle at home, especially after a long day. That’s why we love sharing…

What To Do When Things Go Wrong Accidents happen, but that doesn’t make them any less scary – especially when they’re potentially dangerous. It may not seem like a big deal for a dog to eat a chicken bone. However, they’re particularly risky for dogs to consume when cooked. The cooking process makes bones brittle,…

Winter Hazards Anyone who has spent a winter in Minnesota knows they can be tough. But, whether you love the snow or hate it, it’s important to know the dangers it can pose to your dog. Frostbite The most obvious cold-weather danger for dogs and humans alike is hypothermia and frostbite. These problems occur when…

Our Favorite Winter Tips Staying active in winter can be tricky, especially when you live in Minnesota. But there are ways to keep your dog happy and healthy, even when the bitter windchills blow. Get ready; we rounded up our favorite winter tips to keep you covered all season long. Winter Weather Gear Think you…

The Best Dog Beds Believe it or not, dogs sleep a lot. In fact, they usually spend 12-14 hours a day dozing. So why not give them the gift of a great night’s – or day’s – sleep this holiday season? If you ask us, a dog can never have too many beds. A good…

Giving Thanks Nothing makes a person more thankful than being surrounded by so many wonderful people – and that’s exactly how we feel about you. You may be clients, but we consider you friends. Like everyone, we’ve found ourselves continuing to evolve and shift with the world around us. And there’s been a lot to…

Gaining a Deeper Understanding of a Beneficial Tool Muzzles have a bad reputation, and we totally get it. After all, the whole point of a muzzle is to keep a dog from biting. However, that’s also what makes it such a valuable tool for all dogs, whether they have a bite history or not. Why…

Putting Your Dog at Ease Does the sound of thunder or fireworks send your dog into hiding? Do you dread the first Wednesday of the month because the sirens wail – and so does your dog? While many dogs howl along with sirens, others end up in a panic. Noise phobia is a common problem…

Fighting Cancer in Dogs & Humans Can you believe this year marks our 11th annual CUTS FOR THE CURE fundraiser? We can’t either! Each October, WTPR joins the fight to end cancer in dogs and humans – and you can help! Just make an appointment in the Canine Spa for any service, from nail grinds…

Pet Insurance Basics Health insurance comes in handy for humans, but do our pets need it too? Like so many things in life, there’s no right or wrong answer to this question. However, having a general understanding of how pet insurance works can help you decide if it’s worth exploring further. How Pet Insurance Works…

10 Tips for a Perfect Trip Did someone say “vacation”? Whether you’re traveling near or far, sharing adventures with your dog brings the fun to a whole new level. Of course, it also calls for additional planning to ensure everyone has a good time. Here’s the top 10 things we recommend doing to ensure your…

Two Games to Play with Your Dog Do you have a shy or fearful dog? Believe it or not, these are common behaviors. That’s because dogs can lack confidence, just like people do. Dogs can be fearful for several reasons, ranging from genetic predisposition to experiences – or lack of experiences – during critical stages…

Dog Books for Young Adults Is there anything better than a good book? How about a good book that features a dog! This week, we’re sharing five of our favorite books for young adults – or those who are young at heart! – who love dogs as much as we do. Because of Winn-Dixie by…

5 Ways to Beat the Heat It’s no secret that we’ve had one steamy summer this year in Minnesota. And, as we reach the mid-point of the season, it doesn’t look like there’s any end in sight. But have no fear – there are still ways you can beat the heat in the weeks to…

Getting to the Heart of the “Problem” It probably goes without saying that we all want a dog who sounds the alarm at the first sign of danger. But what if your dog sounds the alarm about everything? Or, worse yet, for no obvious reason at all? The truth is, it’s perfectly normal for dogs…

Putting It All Together In Part One of this series, we talked about the steps you should take to set your dog up for success when you leave home. This week, we wanted to focus on real-life strategies to make your outings more enjoyable for everyone. Pick the Right Tools Whether you’re heading into the…

Be a Good Leader The pandemic may have turned our lives upside down, but there were some good things that came out of it – like a surge in dog adoptions. People also flocked outdoors in droves, exploring areas near and far from home. The result? Lots of people enjoying time outside with their dogs!…

Pool Days Are Back! It’s everyone’s favorite time of year, especially the dogs! It’s time to bring the pools back out! This year from May through August on Tuesdays and Thursdays (weather permitting), all dogs attending “Playday” doggy daycare sessions are welcome to join us for POOL DAYS! During POOL DAYS, dogs can play from…

When to Call Your Vet We’ve talked before about dogs tilting their heads and how it improves their listening skills. While this is an adorable characteristic that can amp up the canine cuteness factor even more, it can also be a sign of a medical problem. But how do you know? One of the first…

15 Ways to Celebrate Your Dog in May! We know what you’re thinking: Isn’t every day made for celebrating your dog? YES! But now you have the perfect excuse to kick it up a notch because May is National Pet Month! Here are 15 fun ways to honor your dog and the joy they bring…

The Benefits of Trading Teaching a dog to share may seem like a silly idea. However, this skill can help avoid frustrating and even potentially dangerous situations. Have you ever had a moment where your dog grab something only to refuse to give it up? Now imagine if it was something harmful. Not only can…

Canine Cancer Basics, Types, and Signs No one wants to learn that their dog has cancer. That’s why we raise money every October during Cuts for the Cure for the Canine Cancer Foundation. Unfortunately, cancer is a real problem, and 50% of dogs over age 10 will have the disease at some point. These numbers…

Making Your Own Long-Lasting Chew What if we told you that one of the easiest ways to keep a dog busy, mentally engaged, and satisfy their urge to chew involved their own food? That’s right! You don’t have to entice them with treats or their favorite chewy – you just make them work for their…

Our Top 5 Favorite Animated Movies with Dogs We can’t resist a movie featuring a dog. And that goes double when it’s animated! When we need a little romance, we cook up a pot of spaghetti and cue up Lady and the Tramp. When we need some laughter and inspiration – and a good cry…

Building a Strong Bond with Your Dog It’s easy to fall in love with your dog the first time you meet them. But a bond is something that grows and deepens over time. Unlike love alone, having a bond with your dog is all about a strong connection. It’s far more than loyalty or obedience;…

Flirt Poles Basics Does your dog have energy to burn? Do they love the thrill of the chase? It could be time to introduce them to a flirt pole. Intrigued? These toys tend to be less known to dog owners than the usual balls and plushes, but they come with numerous benefits that benefit a…

Getting Your Dog to Love Wearing Boots Anyone who’s lived through a Minnesota winter knows that it can get really cold here. Fortunately, we’ve also gotten pretty good at thriving in it by dressing right – and let’s hear it for battery-powered, heated gloves! While most of us will happily lace up a pair of…

Keeping Your Dog Comfortable in Winter Has your dog seemed a little slower than usual lately? Do they seem to have more trouble getting to their feet after laying down? They could have osteoarthritis in their knees or spine. Additional signs of osteoarthritis include: Appearing sore first thing in the morning Having problems with stairs…

Healthy Recipes to Get Your Dog’s Tail Wagging It’s tempting to spoil our dogs with tasty treats, especially during the holiday season. So why not whip up a batch yourself using healthy, wholesome ingredients? Making healthy dog treats can be as simple or complex as you want. But the best part? You can use leftovers…

Our Heartfelt Thanks We think it’s safe to say that 2020 has been challenging for all of us. So, as we move into the holiday season, we felt it was more important than ever to count our blessings this year. First, we want to thank all of you for your ongoing support. It hasn’t been…

Deciphering the Canine Head Tilt You probably already know that dogs can hear way better than humans – sometimes even hundreds of times better. They’re especially good at detecting high-pitched sounds and frequencies, which helped their early ancestors find prey in the wild. However, a dog’s directional hearing isn’t as good. Human ears are designed…

Five Safety Tips for Your Dog It may not be a normal Halloween, but that doesn’t mean there won’t be celebrating! Because of that, we thought it would be helpful to share five friendly reminders to keep your dog safe during your spooktacular festivities. 1. Don’t Share Candy Even if you only have treats for…

Common Problems and How to Avoid Them We spend a lot of time thinking about our own skin. What kind of soap should we use? Which lotion will work best during the long, dry winter months? It turns out that dogs can have skin problems too, but we often ignore them. Here are a few…

When to Say Goodbye Pet owners are similar to the animals they love so much – no two are exactly alike. But, despite our differences, most of us will share the sorrow of saying goodbye to a beloved pet. What makes this even more difficult is that our pets can’t tell us what hurts or…

The Eyes Have It Making direct eye contact is an important part of human communication. But, in the dog world, it’s considered quite rude, threatening, and confrontational. That’s why you should always avoid staring down at a dog when meeting for the first time. Even with these differences between dog-to-dog and dog-to-human interactions, dogs still…

Parasites and Prevention We know, we know; no one wants to talk about parasites! But our beloved dogs love putting things in their mouths, whether it’s stealing a slurp of water from a puddle, chewing a stick they find in the yard, or eating things that seem potentially harmless, like grass. Unfortunately, these habits also…

Decoding Your Dog by How They Sleep It may seem surprising, but most healthy adult dogs sleep anywhere from 12 to 14 hours each day. But what do their sleeping positions mean, and how can you help them get the best sleep possible? Here are a few of the most common sleeping positions in dogs.…

Teaching Your Dog “Settle” Do you ever feel stressed out? This deeply wired, biological response helps us survive potentially dangerous situations. While it’s completely normal to feel some stress from time to time, living with high levels can lead to a host of other problems, and the same is true in dogs. Unfortunately, it’s quite…

Fostering Positive Relationships Between Kids and Dogs We agree completely: Kids and dogs make the cutest couples! Unfortunately, they can also have negative and even dangerous exchanges. Approximately 42% of dog bites in the United States involve people 14 or younger. This statistic may be scary, but a large percentage of these bites are relatively…

Teaching Your Dog to Play Fetch We know what you’re thinking: Teach your dog to play fetch? Don’t they naturally love chasing and retrieving balls or frisbees? Actually, no, they don’t! Even though some dogs instinctively love to play fetch, others need a little help discovering the joys of the game. Whether you have a…

Preparing Your Dog to Be Left Alone The COVID-19 pandemic may have disrupted the entire world, but one good thing came of it: We were able to spend more time with our beloved dogs. There’s also been a surge in pet adoptions as more and more people welcomed four-legged companions into their lives. But what…

Dear Wagging Tails Pack, Just a reminder that — effective today (Sunday, March 22, 2020) — we are temporarily suspending most of our services to reduce personal interactions at WTPR. You can still rely on us for Overnight (boarding) reservations. However, we have also decided to consolidate our two locations and are temporarily closing our…

Dear Wagging Tails Pack, The guidelines surrounding COVID-19 are constantly evolving. Since our last communication, there’s still no evidence that dogs can become sick with COVID-19 or infect humans. However, in light of recent recommendations, we have decided to take additional steps for the safety of you and our staff. Service and Policy Updates As…

How We’re Flattening the Curve Dear Wagging Tails Pack, As dog lovers, we have been closely following official updates about COVID-19 and pets. We’re happy to report that, at this time, there’s no evidence that dogs can either infect humans or become sick with COVID-19. You can read more by visiting this page from the…

How to Introduce Cats and Dogs You’ve probably heard the old adage “they fight like cats and dogs.” But would you believe it if we said many cats and dogs CAN co-exist? Better yet, sometimes, they even become friends! While not all cats and dogs are destined to be besties, you can help create domestic…

What You Need to Know We were saddened to see the recent Facebook update from Safe Hands Rescue that there had been an unexpected death in their family because of xylitol. This tragedy served as an important reminder that many dog lovers are unaware of the life-threatening effects that this sugar-free sweetener has on dogs.…

Love Letters to Our Dogs Is Back! Dear Wagging Tails Pack, Sure, most people celebrate Valentine’s Day with romantic dinners, flowers, and candy. But at WTPR, we prefer showering the dogs in our lives with love and affection! This week, we’re back with our favorite annual celebration: Love Letters to Our Dogs. If this is…

Why You Should Clean Up After Your Dog We totally agree; picking up smelly piles of poo isn’t one of the high points of dog ownership. But this unsavory task is more important than you realize, and not just because of common courtesy or the law. At least 40% of people walking their dog in…

Tips to Keep Your Dog Happy and Healthy They say a tired dog is a happy dog. But what’s the best way to exercise your dog so they can reach the perfect state of doggy bliss? The answer may surprise you. First, there’s no “one size fits all” answer when it comes to dogs and…

Looking Back on 2019 It’s hard to believe that it’s almost time to ring in the new year. But, before we sit down to outline our goals and resolutions for the new year, we wanted to celebrate a few of our 2019 accomplishments. Our first year as owners of WTPR were busy, and we’ve felt…

Top Gifts for Dogs It’s never too early to start shopping for that special someone in your life, especially when it’s your dog! If you’re looking for the perfect way to stuff their stockings, our holiday gift guide will have you ready for the HOWLidays in no time! New Collar & ID. Help your dog…

A Thanksgiving Thank You It’s hard to believe that a year has already passed since we took ownership of Wagging Tails Pet Resort. It’s been an exciting time in our lives, and we’re grateful to have shared it with you. As previous customers and lifelong dog lovers, we consider ourselves lucky to be part of…

Saluting Our Veterans In honor Veterans Day, we want to thank the men, women, and dogs who have served in the armed services. Veterans Day was first established in 1919 at the end of World War I and was originally known as Armistice Day. This war was considered “the war to end all wars,” and…

Nighttime Safety Tips It’s that time of year again: The days are getting shorter, the nights are getting longer, and we’re all waiting for the snow to fly. But you don’t have to let the early evenings and cold weather put a damper on your daily walks with your dog. We’ve talked about winter safety…

Commonly Asked Questions Thinking of getting a dog but worried about finding a good fit for your family? Trying to find ways to help homeless dogs in need? Fostering could be the perfect solution. You’ve probably heard of fostering in the past, but it can be hard to figure out how to get started. Here…

The Secret Behind Your Dog’s Ears Does your dog have perky, upright ears? Or do they hang down in an endearing, droopy flop? It turns out there’s a reason why some dogs have erect ears and others don’t. Charles Darwin even wondered over this difference 150 years ago when he wrote On the Origin of…

Minnesota Working Dogs We often think of Labor Day as the end of summer and our last chance to get to the Minnesota State Fair for cheese curds and mini donuts. But, it’s actually a day set aside to celebrate American workers. In honor of the 125th anniversary of this national holiday, we thought it…

Our Favorite Dog-Friendly Fall Activities Summer may be winding down, but that doesn’t mean the fun is over. It’s only just beginning! With cooler weather heading our way, that can only mean one thing: Getting outdoors. And what could be better than enjoying a fun, fall activity with your dog? Here’s what made our top…

Understanding the Risks & Identifying the Signs Kennel cough, also known as Bordetella, is a highly contagious dog virus. Similar to a cold or virus in humans, dogs with kennel cough typically recover without treatment, but some dogs are at higher risk. It is important to know the symptoms so you can help reduce the…

Help Them Gain More Confidence It’s easy to assume that all dogs love everyone and everything. Why wouldn’t they? They’re dogs! But many dogs are actually shy or frightened of some people, things like loud noises, and certain situations. Recognizing a Shy or Fearful Dog There are different ways to identify shy or fearful dogs…

Understanding the Risks & Identifying the Signs Heart disease has been making local and national headlines lately. But this time, it’s because of concern over the sharp increase of dogs with a particular form of heart disease called dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Some dog breeds have higher rates of heart disease. However, recent findings from the…

The Modern Dog Whether you like it or not, technology is here to stay. And we couldn’t be happier because of all the ways it’s made things better for dogs! We’ve already written about how smartphones can do more than take pictures of your dogs and highlighted five of our favorite apps for dog lovers.…

Plunging into Summer We’re happy to announce that POOL DAYS are back! This year from May 16 through August (weather permitting), all dogs attending “Playday” doggy daycare sessions are welcome to join us for POOL DAYS on Tuesdays and Thursdays! We offer POOL DAYS at both of our locations from at 8am until 2pm to…

Setting Your Dog Up for Success It can be exciting welcoming someone new into your household. But, whether it’s a baby or an adult, it can be a stressful time for your resident animals. Not only are there new sights, sounds, and smells for them to get used to, but new additions can also throw…

Understanding Your Dog’s Exercise Needs It seems like an easy question when it comes to whether a dog needs a walk every day or not. But the answer isn’t always cut and dry. Daily walks do more than provide your dog with physical exercise. They also serve as an enrichment activity that exposes them to…

Dog Bereavement The worst part of having a dog is saying goodbye. Whether the “time was right” or occurred suddenly, their loss can trigger intense emotions that are hard to handle. Sometimes, we can even be surprised by how much we hurt. People don’t spend a lot of time talking about pet grief, but it…

Tools to Help with Leash Training Spring is in the air, and more people are hitting the pavement with their dogs to enjoy it. But nothing derails an afternoon walk like a dog dragging you down the street and refusing to listen. When it comes to leash training, it’s important to remember that it takes…

Does Knowing Your Dog’s Breed Matter? Dogs come in all shapes and sizes. There are purebreds, designer breeds, mix breeds, and those that are hairy and hypoallergenic. All of this variety makes it easy to find the perfect companion for each and every household. In recent years, there’s been increased demand for doggy DNA testing…

How to Keep Your Dog Healthy It’s hard to know when your dog is feeling their best, but there are easy ways to keep them happy and healthy. This checklist will help you take the right steps to keep your best friend in top form. Watch what they eat With so many foods available for…

Fun Ways to Play Indoors It can be hard to entertain your dog when the winter winds blow and it’s too cold to be outside. But that doesn’t mean they don’t need exercise or enrichment. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to exercise your dog indoors to keep you both happy…

Fun Ways to Play Indoors It can be hard to entertain your dog when the winter winds blow and it’s too cold to be outside. But that doesn’t mean they don’t need exercise or enrichment. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to exercise your dog indoors to keep you both happy…

Resolutions for You and Your Dog You aren’t the only one who can benefit from New Year’s resolutions. They can also be a great opportunity to find fun and fresh activities to enhance your relationship with your dog! To help get you started, we’ve come up with our top five New Year’s resolutions that include…

Celebrate the Season by Making Paw Prints! You don’t have to be Martha Stewart to make an ornament that’s worthy of hanging on a Christmas tree or giving is a gift. One of our favorite ways to trim our Christmas tree is with paw print ornaments. Whether you have a new puppy in the house…

A Time for Giving Thanks This is a special Thanksgiving for us because it’s our first year celebrating as owners of our favorite dog resort: Wagging Tails. As Wagging Tails customers and lifelong dog lovers, we jumped at the chance to bring our love of animals to the facility we have enjoyed being a part…

Foods That Can Be Dangerous for Dogs Halloween is right around the corner and the holiday season isn’t far behind! As we move into this decadent time of year that practically bursts at the seams with delicious candies and treats, we thought it would be helpful to share a reminder about common foods that can be…

Cuts for the Cure is Back! It’s October 1, which can only mean one thing: CUTS FOR THE CURE! Most of us have been touched by cancer, either by a personal diagnosis or through our friends, family, or pets. As our CUTS FOR THE CURE fundraiser kicks off its eighth consecutive year, we’re more excited…

Things We Can Learn from Dogs National Dog Week was founded in 1928 by World War I veteran, ordained minister, and dog-lover Captain William Judy. As a prolific writer and publisher of “Dog World” magazine, Captain Judy devoted his entire life to introducing Americans to a progressive new way of thinking about their dogs. He…

Helping Your Dog Mind Their Manners When it comes to our dogs, it’s easy to assume that everyone loves them as much as we do. But, unfortunately, that isn’t always the case – especially if your dog doesn’t have the best manners. To help your dog put their best paw forward when they interact with…

The Benefits of Bringing an Adult Dog Home When you want to welcome a new addition into your family, it can be hard to resist the fluffy cuteness of a puppy. But, there are several advantages to bringing an adult dog home with you instead. A dog can need a new home for a variety…

Helping Your Dog Deal with Scary Noises Dogs can develop a fear of loud noises at any age. Even if thunderstorms never bothered your dog in the past, fear and unease can mysteriously occur when you least expect it. Sometimes the source of your dog’s newfound fear isn’t a surprise – like a neighbor setting…

5 Fun Ways to Celebrate with Your Dog If you ask us, the Fourth of July officially marks the start of summer. With only two months left before fall returns, we want you to make the most of it! This week we’re here with fun ideas to help you make the most of the season…

Making the Car Safer for You and Your Dog It may seem like a good idea to drive with your dog on your lap — or let them ride shotgun — but that can lead to distracted driving and accidents. And, in newer cars, you run the risk of an airbag deploying which could cause…

Keeping Your Dog Safe in the Land of 10,000 Lakes If POOL DAYS have wet your dog’s appetite for swimming adventures, we’ve got a few tips and tricks to get you ready for the beach this summer! Not all dogs are good swimmers. In fact, some dogs aren’t built for it! If your dog has…

With the Return of Pool Days! Spring is back which means it’s time to reopen the pools for summer! This year from May 22 through August (weather permitting), dogs attending “Playday” doggy daycare sessions can join us on Tuesdays and Thursdays for POOL DAYS! Pool play at both of our locations begins at 8am and…

Five Books That Highlight the Connection Between Dogs and Wellness We couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate our love of dogs this month than sharing a list of our favorite books highlighting the powerful dogs play in our lives. These books have something for every dog lover, whether you’re looking for heartwarming images,…

The Most Popular Dogs Names of 2017 When it comes to naming your dog, it can be hard to know where to start. Last year, Rover.com’s survey on the most popular dog names of 2016 revealed a lot about us as dog owners. Human names were on the rise, and dogs named after popular TV…

Christmas Dreams DO Come True We love the magic of the holiday season. Ornaments have been hung on our Giving Tree with care, our suites are filled with happy dogs who had a visit from Santa, and our bellies are full of treats from our Wagging Tails family. It’s hard to believe that another year…

Cuts for the Cure It’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and we’re back with CUTS FOR THE CURE! Because of its devastating reach, cancer has touched all of our lives either through a personal diagnosis or by way of family, friends, or our pets. Now in its fifth year, our CUTS FOR THE CURE fundraiser is…

Top 10 Dog Myths Debunked This week we’re sniffing out the answers to some of the most popular myths surrounding dogs! Dog mouths are cleaner than human mouths. Sure, the dog-specific germs that dogs have in their mouths are harmless, but not everything they put in it is – including rainwater, grass, and poop. A…

Understanding Dog Body Language Have you ever wondered what your dog was trying to tell you? We may not speak the same language, but dogs are expressive animals that give clues to how they’re feeling all the time. Eyes, lips, ears, tails, fur, and posture all offer insight into a dog’s present state. On their…

The Importance of Supervision As cute as it can be to watch dogs play together, they don’t always know their own boundaries. And, similar to humans, not all dogs get along! Unlike visits to the dog park where owners are responsible for supervising doggy play sessions themselves, our Play Coaches are trained to recognize dog…

The Benefits of Playgroups for Dogs Playtime is important for a dog’s health. Not only is play a great way to exercise her body and mind, it also reduces boredom, frustration, and problem behavior. When it comes to play, each dog’s unique personality should be taken into consideration. Some animals love lively games of fetch…

Caring for Senior Dogs Senior pets are special companions: serene, soulful, and set in their ways. Their pace may slow and they nap a little more, but their lust for life remains just as strong. Generally speaking, many veterinarians consider a dog to be a senior when they reach 7 or 8 years of age,…

What is Heartworm? Most pet owners in Minnesota have heard the word “heartworm” and know they should protect their dogs against it, but do we actually know what it is? Heartworm is a potentially deadly disease spread by the mosquito. Many animals can contract heartworm including wolves, coyotes, foxes, and cats, but dogs are considered…