HE PROTECC,
HE ATTACC...

He not scared, til the punkin talks back.

TRICK TREAT OR TREAT,
SMELL MY PAW,
GIMME SUMTHING GOOD TO GNAW,
IF YOU DON'T, I WON'T CARE,
I'LL STILL FOLLOW YOU EVERYWHERE.

🎃Happy Howl-o-ween, dear dog lovers! October’s newsletter is packed with treats for both you and your furry friends. Are you among the 20% of pet dog owners that will be dressing up their pooch this year for Halloween? We're here for it! Nearly a billion dollars will be spent this Halloween on costumes for our doggos, but beware... ghosts, goblins and chocolate aren't the only things that can haunt poor Bowser if you're not watchful. We cover all the ghastly details in this year's

HOWL-O-WEEN EDIT. 🧟‍♀️

Plus, we’ve got a handy checklist to make welcoming a new dog into your home a breeze, along with tricks to keep them engaged and enriched. We're also spotlighting a fascinating dog-themed documentary and some fantastic reading recommendations.

Ps. More of the last-minute type? Here are some easy DIY dog costume ideas for your pup! 👻

GET YOUR PAWS ON THIS

WONDER 101

#DOGLIFE

Simple Tricks to Make Your Dog Happier, Smarter & Less Bored: Part ☝️

If you're a veteran WDU newsletter-getter surely you know by now how important enrichment is to our pet dogs. If you're new here (Welcome!) we'll just put it this way: Enrichment is vital to your dog's health and wellbeing...and that's putting it lightly. Science has proven time and time again just how important it is to the lives of our dogs. Here are more than a few ways to engage your dog (PSST! We're sending out more next month in Part 2!)

COASTAL CRUSADES

If you're lucky enough to live on the coast, there's no better activity than a beach romp. Lots of smells to smell and feels to feel.

HOME IMPROVEMENT ENRICHMENT 

Work on leash reactivity at Home Depot, it’s a great environment that’s safe and pet-friendly.

TAKE YOUR DOG TO WORK DAY

Dog-friendly offices are all the rage! Bring Fido in and see how much more your boss likes you when they're around.

SURPRISE WALKS 

These days we all hate a drop-in guest...but your dog doesn't! Occasional drop-in visits from a pet sitter or dog walker, give your dog the opportunity for an extra play session midday.

DOGGY DAYCARE

For bored or restless dogs, daycare can be a good option. Even if it’s not every day, it gives your dog something to look forward to during the week.

PUZZLE TOYS

These are super-popular and there are many types to choose from. Fantastic for dogs that are constantly busy and need a job between meals.

HIDE & SEEK

Ask your dog to stay, and then run and hide before calling them. This also builds a strong recall! Give the good treats when your dog finds you.

FAST FACTS

Dear Google,
What are the most popular dog searches?

QUICK TIPS

When your hot dog is more of a halloweenie

Sure, dressing up your pup for the 'Gram is all fun and Likes, but let's not forget that is all secondary to how Fido feels. Some dogs just aren't into Halloween, and forcing your floof could be more harmful than fun for the animal. Lucky for you, we're here to help you put the Happy back in Happy Halloween.

#1 DON'T DRESS THEM UP

Here's a novel idea: if your dog doesn't like to be dressed up: don't dress them up. Pin bat wings to the wall and have them sit in front of them or use props to get cute photos instead. People will be amazed at your creativity and most importantly your pup will appreciate that you took their feelings into consideration.

#2 SPEND THEIR ENERGY

Get their energy spent before the trick-or-treaters come out. The best way to ensure your dog isn’t going crazy all night is to get that crazy out during the day. Go for a long walk, play fetch, hide kibble in the grass and let them sniff for it.

#3 UNPLUG YOUR DOORBELL

If your dog goes ape💩 at the sound of the doorbell, why torture him? Hang a sign asking people not to ring it, or unplug it entirely. Sit outside and greet the kids or watch by the window so you can open the door before they have to ring or knock.

#4 DOGS DON'T RECOGNIZE COSTUMES

While it may smell like you under that bedazzled pleather Elvis number you're sporting this fright night, your hounddog may not recognize you and get confused. So don't get upset with them when they got you singin' the blues.

#5 GIVE THEM SOMETHING TO DO

You know us - we're all about the enrichment around here. Keep your dog busy with puzzles, toys, long-lasting treats or other enrichment games that keeps them distracted and happy.

ETCETERA

BEFORE WE GO [GO]

"Living with a dog is 90% following each other around, watching each other go potty and wondering what the other has in their mouth." --Anon

Did someone forward you this email? Be sure to thank them & then click here to subscribe. 

@wonderdoguniversity

WWW.WONDERDOGUNIVERSITY.COM