Pet Gear Encyclopedia
Every guide we have written, organized by the problem you are trying to solve, plus straight answers to the questions people actually argue about. Nothing here is written to sell you something. Several of these answers tell you not to buy.
The questions people argue about
Do no-pull harnesses hurt a dog's shoulders?
Harnesses with a strap across the shoulder joint measurably restrict shoulder extension. For a normal-pace daily walk the effect is small; for a dog that runs or is recovering from injury, use a Y-front harness that leaves the shoulder free, and fit the chest strap behind the front legs, not across the point of the shoulder.
Are calming beds a scam?
The bed is real and many dogs love the walls. The anxiety claim has no controlled evidence behind it. Buy a calming bed as a comfortable bed. Treat anxiety with a veterinarian or a certified behaviorist.
Is a dog car seat safe in a crash?
No, unless it has been independently crash-tested, and almost none have. Booster beds contain and comfort a dog; the belt slots hold the bed, not the dog. For crash protection use a harness or crate certified by the Center for Pet Safety.
Do slow feeders prevent bloat?
They slow eating, and fast eating is one risk factor among several for bloat in deep-chested breeds. No bowl has been shown to prevent bloat. Slower eating is still worth having.
Do pet fountains cause urinary infections?
A neglected fountain can, because the pump keeps water warm and moving and biofilm grows fast. Change water every two to three days and clean the pump weekly, and a fountain is cleaner than a bowl that sits all week.
Does an orthopedic bed fix arthritis?
Nothing you buy fixes arthritis. A firm supportive surface keeps hips and elbows off the floor overnight, which is why arthritic dogs get up more easily from one. Pain itself is a veterinary conversation.
Is a prong collar faster than a harness for pulling?
Faster at suppressing, yes, through discomfort, with evidence of higher stress and in some dogs more reactivity. A front-clip harness plus consistent training is a week or two slower and carries no such risk.
Can I give my dog ibuprofen for joint pain?
No. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are toxic to dogs. Only pain medication prescribed by a veterinarian for that dog.
Does dry food clean teeth?
Barely. Ordinary kibble shatters on contact. Brushing and veterinary cleanings clean teeth; dental-specific diets have some evidence; regular dry food is not dental care.
Why do dogs escape harnesses?
The neck loop was too loose or the design has a low neckline. Step-in harnesses are the easiest to back out of. Fit the neck with two fingers of slack, and if your dog has ever escaped gear, choose a harness with an independently adjustable neck strap.
Stop Pulling
- How do I stop my dog pulling on the leash, the right way?
- Which five techniques actually stop pulling?
- How do I choose a harness for my dog's breed and build?
- What does a safe dog walk actually require?
- How do I make walks more than exercise?
- What gear does each season really call for?
- How do I walk two or more dogs at once?
Tool: the Harness Fit Engine sizes from chest and neck measurements and tells you when none of ours fits.
Better Sleep and Comfort
- Do calming dog beds really work? What the evidence says
- Do senior dogs really need an orthopedic bed?
- How do I choose and size a dog bed?
- How do I clean a dog bed properly?
- Why does my dog sleep so much, and when should I worry?
Support Older Pets
- Ramp or stairs: which is right for my dog?
- What are the signs my dog is getting older?
- How do I manage arthritis in my dog?
- How do I keep a senior dog active without hurting them?
- Is my senior dog getting dementia?
- What does an older dog or cat actually need?
Travel Safer
Feed Smarter
- Are automatic pet feeders worth it?
- Does my cat need a water fountain, and how do I choose one?
- How much should I feed my dog?
- Do slow feeder bowls really work?
- Dry food or wet food: which is better?
Cleaner Home
- How do I keep a home clean with pets?
- Which pet hair removers actually work?
- How do I reduce cat shedding?
Something missing? Email info@apexflowlabs.com with the question. If it is a real question, it gets a real answer here.