40+ Hacks To Help Make Being A Dog Parent Easier
By Jhoana C
This article was originally published on morehackz
Life with dogs is happier. They don’t judge you, and they can’t wait for you to be home so they can give you all the love you need and play with you. Add to that they make even the saddest days better, and they are loyal. However, these people will also tell you that it’s a big responsibility to care for animals. You need to take it to the vet for regular check-ups, it must be groomed, you need to play with it, and you need to make sure it’s clean. Owning a dog means dealing with dog hair and fur, flea, ticks, dirt, and odor. Fret not; we have compiled hacks that can help you live your best life with Fido.#1 Collect dog urine samples the easy way
At times it’s necessary to collect urine samples from your dog. This usually happens if your dog has health issues and your vet asks you to help out in that area. The task may seem complicated at first, but it doesn’t have to be.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/1-Image-courtesy-of-amazoncom_img_617a84f2f2cf2_img_646b24a4ab750.jpg)
#2 Keep fur off your furniture
Most people allow their pets to hop on their furniture, sit and lie there. This keeps them close to you. However, it also means having their fur all over the couch, which can be difficult to remove. How do you keep your furniture immaculate if you have a pet?![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/2-Image-courtesy-of-hgtvcom_img_617a84f3264ce_img_646b24a569e56.jpg)
#3 Make dry food more palatable
If you have ever owned a dog, you know that there are several types of dog food; kibble or dry dog food, moist food, semi-moist food, and frozen or freeze-dried dog food. Dry dog food can sometimes be difficult for our canines to eat.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/3-Image-courtesy-of-dogsfoodplanetcom_img_617a84f34f368_img_646b24a611640.jpg)
#4 Say goodbye to dog fur
As much as we love the doggos in our lives, we don’t love the messes they leave, including fur that seems to attach itself everywhere. They can find their way to our furniture, our clothes, and even our skin sometimes.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/4-Image-courtesy-of-The-Krazy-Coupon-Lady-lakeappliancerepaircom_img_617a84f37f6fc_img_646b24a6aca88.jpg)
#5 Scratches? No problem
Dogs and cats have claws, and they like to sharpen them on the furniture. So if you let them inside the house, it’s only normal for your wooden furniture to have scratches. Our solution? Take walnut oil and rub it on your wooden pieces.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/5-Image-courtesy-of-Sea-Life-Style_img_617a84f3a24d6_img_646b24a76db17.jpg)
#6 Keep dog food fresh
How do you keep dog food fresh? If we humans don’t like to eat food that’s not fresh, you should keep in mind that dogs are the same. They would rather not eat stale kibble. Once you open a bag of dog food, you should store it properly.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/6-Image-courtesy-of-thegadgetflowcom_img_617a84f3cc695_img_646b24a83260f.jpg)
#7 Remedy for dogs that don’t like brushing
Brushing your dog’s teeth is a necessary part of being a fur parent. Plaque can quickly build up and put your canine at risk of tooth decay, bad breath, and gum disease, and we all know what that means: more expenses and health risks.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/shutterstock_110186090-1024x554_img_646b24a94d50a.jpg)
#8 Dog barriers for safety and cleanliness
For some reason, dogs like to play in kitty litter boxes, which is not good for the rest of the household. It smells, and it’s unsanitary. If this is a common occurrence in your household, there’s something you can do about it.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/8-Image-courtesy-of-bookbroxyz_img_617a84f416d06_img_646b24aad6f2c.jpg)
#9 Pick up stray dog hair
You know pet hair is a big pain when we mention it several times. As much as we’d like to prevent this, we can expect them to cover all surfaces if our pets run around the house. Sometimes, it even lands on our food, but we still love our pets all the same.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/9-Image-courtesy-of-joe-lingeman-apartmenttherapycom_img_617a84f440f06_img_646b24ab99033.jpg)
#10 Baking soda saves the day
Baking soda is a lifesaver. Not only do people use it in the kitchen, but it’s also indispensable when it comes to cleaning. People mix it with water and vinegar to clean tiles, counters, and even microwaves. Who knew it could also be used to clean up pet accidents?![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/10-Image-courtesy-of-homemadesimplecom_img_617a84f4682c5_img_646b24ac5e293.jpg)
#11 Save your dog from stings
As adventurous and curious as they are, dogs get into serious accidents, such as getting stung by bees, other insects or bitten by feral animals. This can be very painful, but you can help alleviate your dog’s pain by picking out the stinger.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/shutterstock_1089594122-1024x683_img_646b24ad86992.jpg)
#12 Put some bandana on that dog
Hunting is a fun activity for humans and dogs, but it can be dangerous if you and your dog are not wearing the proper outfits. You would not want someone to mistake either of you for another animal. There’s an excellent way for you and your dog to stick out.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/12-Image-courtesy-of-puppybandanacouk_img_617a84f4b8f23_img_646b24aed3bca.jpg)
#13 No petting of strange dogs
Most dogs are adorable, and children love them. Kids like to pet dogs even if it is not familiar to them, which can lead to accidents. In the US alone, more than 4 million dog bites are reported every year.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/13-Image-courtesy-of-spcabcca_img_617a84f4e5d10_img_646b24afb69fe.jpg)
#14 Window squeegees to get rid of fur from the carpet
If you get tons of dog hair lodged in your carpet, don’t despair because you’re certainly not alone. This is a universal fluffy pet owner problem, and for many of us, it’s a daily battle. Window squeegees are here to the rescue.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/14-Image-courtesy-of-rosie-bagshaw-housebeautifulcom_img_617a84f5140fd_img_646b24b13ad1f.jpg)
#15 Get rid of drool marks
Dogs drool, and it’s something we can’t prevent. The only problem with the dog drool is that it often and stains on clothes and furniture. Although there are some steps you can take to minimize drooling, you should also know how to clean the marks it can leave behind.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/15-Image-courtesy-of-homesteadycom_img_617a84f54b7c1_img_646b24b24b76e.jpg)
#16 Play catch with popcorn
Dogs like to play catch and fetch because it is a doggie instinct. Several dogs were bred specifically to retrieve items for their humans. This is why even now, you see many dogs love chasing after different things, picking them up with their mouths, and bringing them back to their humans.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/shutterstock_1665986524-1024x683_img_646b24b2d93f1.jpg)
#17 Treat your dogs to veggies and fruits
When doggie treats are mentioned, most people don’t think of fruits and vegetables. People often think of doggie biscuits and rawhide bones. Most people do not know that some types of produce can be given to dogs as training treats.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/images_easyblog_articles_7339_image14-min_img_617a84f5bf513_img_646b24b4a820b.jpg)
#18 Don’t let your carpet smell bad
Fur, dog hair, stains, drool marks, and odor is part and parcel of having an adorable and loving dog in your home. But you don’t have to just have to let things go. There are other options besides just to grin and bear it.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/shutterstock_1505715803-1024x768_img_646b24b5545b7.jpg)
#19 Kiddie pool converted to a doggie pool
Kiddie pools are not just for children. Trust us on this! Kiddie pools also entertain dogs and puppies. Some dog breeds enjoy the water more than others, such as the Boykin Spaniel, English Setter, German Shepherd, and American Water Spaniel.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/19-Image-courtesy-of-BKiddie-puppyleaks_img_617a84f5ece5b_img_646b24b6efd4c.jpg)
#20 Prevent dog hair from clogging the drain
This isn’t the first time we have mentioned dog hair, and we’re telling you now that this won’t be the last. Fur is a common problem, and there are plenty of remedies for them. Bathing your dog is essential if you want them to stay clean and healthy.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/shutterstock_668558857-1024x694_img_646b24b792b8c.jpg)
#21 Make them come back to you
Training your dog can be a challenge. You can make it fun, though, for both you and for your beloved canine. Instructing dogs to obey the “come here” command is one of the basics that every dog must learn.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/shutterstock_1312978130-1024x627_img_646b24b90d218.jpg)
#22 Prevent pulling on the leash
Dogs like to pull on their leashes, but some seem to do it more frequently than others. If this constantly happens to you, you can try a harness that clips in the front. Why? Because harnesses that clip on the back tend to encourage pulling.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/22-Image-courtesy-of-juliusk9couk-1024x767_img_617a84f626a1c_img_646b24ba3d8f8.jpg)
#23 Prevent dog nails from bleeding
The most common cause of nail bleeds in dogs is trimming, when toenails are cut at the soft tissue found at the base of the dog’s toenail. To prevent this, you need to be careful not to cut your dog’s nails too short next time.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/shutterstock_765763654-1024x576_img_646b24bbe6b47.jpg)
#24 No need to buy a pet bed
Dog beds run the whole gamut, from simple and cheap to luxurious and ridiculously priced. If money is not an issue for you, you can get the most stylish, comfortable, and expensive type, but don’t worry if you don’t have a lot of money.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/24-Image-courtesy-of-cozybuddybedscom_img_617a84f690384_img_646b24bd3db05.jpg)
#25 For the biters
If you have a dog that loves to rip up every stuffed animal or toy or finds joy in destroying everything in its tracks, then this next dog hack is for you. Believe us. This toy is not going to deteriorate any time soon.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/doghack_img_646b24be286f2.png)
#26 Packing tape for loose pet fur
Here we go again with pet fur solutions. You’ll be hearing more about it throughout this list because it is the bane of a dog owners’ existences. Furniture and clothes attract and pick up dog hair and fur like crazy.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/26-Image-courtesy-of-todayshomeownercom-1_img_617a84f6ae8af_img_646b24c07c8f2.jpg)
#27 Winter protection for doggos
Winter can be harsh, not only on humans but also on dogs, especially for those who don’t have extra thick fur. Most veterinarians would recommend getting a good paw balm but if you’ve forgotten to do so, do not worry.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/shutterstock_729159472-1024x683_img_646b24c10941a.jpg)
#28 Simple but fun toys for your dog
Toys for dogs and other pets can be costly, but they are necessary if you want to keep them entertained and want them to have something to spend their energy on and keep them busy. But you don’t need to spend so much money on toys.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/28-Image-courtesy-of-corinne-sulivan-popsugarcom_img_617a84f6d477a_img_646b24c23f832.jpg)
#29 Water bowls made with love
Another essential when you have pets in the home is to get a durable water bowl made with dog-friendly materials to ensure that your pet has sufficient hydration throughout the day. However, if you bought a bowl that requires frequent refilling, you might need a better one.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/29-Image-courtesy-of-makezinecom_img_617a84f7088d0_img_646b24c2e5d22.jpg)
#30 Chasing bubbles
No, we don’t want Adele’s “Chasing Pavements.” We would rather go with chasing bubbles because it sounds more fun and entertaining. This is what you should teach your dogs to do instead of treating other stuff in the house as prey.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/shutterstock_485282986-1024x683_img_646b24c3c10b5.jpg)
#31 Support your arthritic dog
Arthritis is the inflammation of the joints and is a common issue for dogs, too, not just humans. There are many ways to make arthritic dogs comfortable such as massage and exercise, controlling your dog’s weight and diet, as well as consulting your vet for possible treatments.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/31-Image-courtesy-of-pinterest-mybrownnewfiescom_img_617a84f72902d_img_646b24c73883f.jpg)
#32 Keep your dog entertained with a stuffed Kong
Sometimes keeping your dog entertained can be difficult. The good news is a stuffed Kong can help you with this and keep their attention for some time. Dog Kongs are easily found in pet stores, and if you already have one at home, so much the better.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/32-Image-courtesy-of-Nicole-Cosgrove-doggiedesignercom_img_617a84f74fd06_img_646b24c92c84a.jpg)
#33 Brush your dog’s teeth regularly
Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly can help you avoid expensive dental visits, as well as medical treatments. They say that an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure, and that is certainly true when it comes to your dog’s health.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/shutterstock_276552596-1024x678_img_646b24ca230b4.jpg)
#34 Make simple dog treats
Yes, having a dog as a pet can be expensive, especially if you’re not into DIY-ing stuff. But the thing is, instead of buying a lot of doggie things, you can make them on your own, with the help of videos and step-by-step instructions on the Internet. It doesn’t have to be annoying!![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/34-Image-courtesy-of-diyprojectscom_img_617a84f76e689_img_646b24ccce72d.jpg)
#35 Use old clothes wisely
Old clothes may no longer look nice and may not be worn out of the house, but they still have plenty of purposes. They can be used as rags to clean and wipe stuff dry with. They can be used to clean the car and can also be used as rugs for dirty shoes.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/35-Image-courtesy-of-dalmatiandiycom-1_img_617a84f79923f_img_646b24ce08c75.jpg)
#36 Frozen dog treats which your doggo will love
Frozen dog treats are great for hot summer days. While we humans can keep ourselves cool by eating ice cream and drinking cold juice, your furry friend can’t do the same. But you can keep them cool too by giving them frozen dog treats.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/36-Image-courtesy-of-Rachel-Long-petdoorscom_img_617a84f7eab9f_img_646b24cf51653.jpg)
#37 Make your dog Find the Treats
Life need not be boring for you or your dog. Inject some fun into your games and make games exciting for the both of you by hiding treats throughout the house and teaching your dog how to find them.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/37-Image-courtesy-of-businessinsidermx_img_617a84f8163fc_img_646b24cfe42f1.jpg)
#38 Ticks
Most dogs get ticks because they go outdoors, walking through areas with tall grass and trees. The thing is, you can’t keep canines locked indoors because it will affect them emotionally and physically. They have to be allowed to let out and enjoy the outdoors.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/shutterstock_589541093-1024x576_img_646b24d1773d1.jpg)
#39 Opt for a homemade flirt pole
Also called a flirt stick, the flirt pole is a piece of exercise equipment meant for dogs. Once it’s moved about, it entices the dog to chase the fast-moving lure that’s attached to it. It helps improve their skills and gives them the workout they need.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/39-Image-courtesy-of-rovercom_img_617a84f862aec_img_646b24d2e5960.jpg)
#40 Get your dog to take his medicine
Dogs can be very clever, and most of the time, they know when you’re trying to get them to take their medicine. They seem to have a sixth sense about those things, and the moment they realize you’re concealing pills in their food, they’ll stop eating.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/40-Image-courtesy-of-365daysofbakingandmorecom_img_617a84f888f39_img_646b24d3911ba.jpg)
#41 Entertain your dog with stuffed animals
The majority of dogs seem to be smitten with stuffed animal toys. They sleep with it, snuggle with it, and nibble on it. What makes them so appealing that dogs just can’t seem to get enough of them? They carry them around and are so protective of them.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/shutterstock_1820769470-1024x683_img_646b24d49b3a1.jpg)
#42 DIY digging box
Dig, dig, dig. Is that all your dog seems to do? It’s only normal for dogs to dig because to them, it’s a fun activity, and it helps relieve stress. The most active diggers are often dogs who suffer from boredom or separation anxiety.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/42-Image-courtesy-of-pinterest-pawcastleco_img_617a84f8c1be7_img_646b24d710014.jpg)
#43 Easy way to check for fleas
What do pet owners dread most about the summer months? Fleas constantly figure on the top five answers. These tiny, dark brown insects prefer high temperature and humidity levels, and to some dogs, they are more than just a summer problem.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/43-Image-courteys-of-pinterest-EVmore-Elektrikli-Arabalar_img_617a84f8dfcb3_img_646b24d80d196.jpg)
#44 Tug of war with Fido
A game of tug can be fun, physically tiring, but also mentally stimulating. And no, don’t believe what they say. It doesn’t cause aggression in dogs. If you’re searching for an activity to add to your best friend’s routine, a game of tug is a perfect choice.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/44-Image-courtesy-of-puppyleakscom_img_617a84f91448d_img_646b24d8a2bcd.jpg)
#45 Keep your dog interested by switching its toys
Dogs are just like humans; they also get bored, especially when exposed to the same things every single day. They may love their new toy for a week, but the more they keep using it, the faster they become bored.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/shutterstock_1256513359-1024x683_img_646b24d968c25.jpg)
#46 Floating platform for dogs in the pool
Ah, the joys of summer. Who doesn’t love those awesome weeks we all spend relaxing and getting some much-needed time in the sun? One of the most beloved pastimes over summer has to be taking dips in the pool. Unfortunately for some dogs, they can’t join in on the fun since they can’t swim.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/doghacks-1_img_646b24db14317.png)
#47 Prevent injury with toenail grips
Remember all those scenes we used to watch on Tom & Jerry and Scooby-Doo when the animal characters would sometimes look like they were running on the spot because of the slippery floor? Well, that actually happens in real life too.![](https://funcatz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/toegrips-dog-nail-grips_img_65295a806ba26.jpg)