• Skip to main content
  • Skip to secondary menu
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • Dog Care 101
    • Choosing A Dog
    • Dog Breed Selector
    • First Days At Home
    • Good Dog Names
    • Potty Training Dogs
    • Puppyproofing & Dog Safety 101
    • Invisible Fence Reviews
    • Dog Ages/Growth Stages
    • Senior Dog Tips
    • Raising Two Dogs
  • Food & Treats
    • Dog Food Kibble
    • Human Foods For Dogs
    • Changing Food & Feeding Tips
    • Homemade Dog Treats
    • Kong Recipes
  • Dog Health
    • Diarrhea Remedy
    • Human Meds For Dogs
    • Dog Skin Issues
    • Flea & Tick Control
    • Vet Tips For Sick Dogs
    • Emergencies & Vet Bills
    • Dog Surgery & Recovery
    • Dog Died …Or Is Dying
  • Tricks & Training
    • Cool Dog Tricks
    • Dog Communication 101
    • DIY Dog Training Tips
    • Behavior Problems
    • Puppy Biting & Chewing
    • Stop Dog Barking
    • Crate Training & Sleeping Advice
  • Dog Cleaning & Grooming
    • Dog Odors & Stains
    • Dog Shedding & Fur
    • Clean & Treat Dog Ears
    • Dog Baths & Deodorizing
    • Dog Nails & Paw Care
    • Teeth & Mouth Issues
    • How To Care For Dog Eyes
  • Toys & Activities
    • Dog Toys, Games & Enrichment
    • DIY Dog Items
    • Places To Go With Dogs
    • Dog Walking Tips & Accessories
    • Car Rides With Your Dog
    • Free And Fun Stuff For Dog Lovers
  • More
    • Electronics & Gadgets
    • Health & Beauty
    • Hobbies & Crafts
    • Home & Garden
    • Jobs & Money
    • Outdoor Fun
    • Travel

First Time Dog Owner Guide

Real People. Real Experiences. Real Helpful.

a Fun Times Guide site

search

  • New? START HERE!
  • DIY Grooming Tutorials
  • Dog Home Remedies
  • DIY Training Tips
  • Dog Food/Treats
  • Out & About w/Dogs
Home » Home & Garden » Fun Dog Stuff

Fun Dog Stuff

This is where we review all the best indestructible dog toys, interactive dog games, long-lasting dog chews, and fun things to do with your dog -- so you'll never have a bored dog on your hands! Dog owners and experts share their all-time favorite dog items and activities -- for yourself, your dog, or to give as a gift for a dog owner. Plus, lots of fun dog travel ideas and places to take your dog -- either on car rides or on dog walks. Finally, our favorite DIY dog stuff and freebies for dog owners! Not sure where to begin? Start here --> Fun Dog Stuff 101.

A List Of The Most Dog Friendly Cities In The U.S. For Your Dog Travel Bucket List!

I’ve researched the cities (and states) which appear on 5 popular lists of dog friendly cities. There are 27 cities in 20 different states represented. I’m going to summarize the findings for you — to help you decide if you might want to move to one of these cities or travel there with your dog!

Dog Motorcycle Riding: Safe vs. Unsafe Options (Plus Our Favorite Motorcycle Gear For Dogs!)

Here are my photos of dogs riding motorcycles… at fast speeds on highways! I never thought I’d see this in person… but I did. If you’re considering riding with your dog on the motorcycle, please also consider a dog motorcycle carrier of some sort, dog goggles, and a dog helmet. Or a motorcycle dog trailer — like my friend uses when motorcycling with her two large dogs! (See pictures here.)

WARNING: 2 Different Types Of Dog Collars Almost Strangled My Dog! Here’s Which Dog Collars Are Safe

Here’s proof that a basic dog collar (and even your dog’s ID tags) can be dangerous, causing your dog to get entangled — even strangled! It happened to me twice with 2 different types of dog collars. See which types of collars they were — and which types of dog collars are safe to use.

Some Legitimate Dog Tax Deductions You Can Actually Take!

These are actual tax deductions, as quoted by people ‘in the know’ who share their advice about tax write-offs, as they relate to dogs. (Including dog foster parents, dog breeders, guard dog owners, Instagram influencers, and more!) Most of us cannot deduct our dogs or any expenses associated with them on our IRS tax returns. But that doesn’t stop people from trying! Lots of funny dog write-off stories here, too.

Fun Ways To Cure Cabin Fever When You’re Stuck Inside AND You Have Dogs (25 Useful Things I’ve Been Doing With My Dogs While We’re Stuck At Home!)

When I’m stuck at home and experiencing cabin fever for whatever reason AND my dogs are there with me, I find myself searching for ways to do these 2 things: save money and get organized! Specifically, I’m always on the hunt to find new ways to save money on stuff for the dog (dog treats, dog food, dog toys, dog beds, dog grooming items, etc). And I’m also looking for clever ways to re-organize all of the dog’s gear and supplies (like I way I organized all of the dog treats and dog food in our house). Today I’m going to share with you some fun ways to do BOTH of those things while spending good quality time with your dog at the same time!

Top 5 Dog Balls: My Dogs Like Splash Bombs Best (See Why + 4 Other Dog Balls We Like!)

Some say that the best dog toy in the world is a tennis ball. Others think Kong toys are best. I have a hard time arguing against either of those, but in our house of many dogs, the best balls for dogs are clearly Splash Bombs! Followed by Zogoflex durable dog balls, Kong LARGE tennis balls, the Wicked Ball, and the Omega Tricky Treat Ball. See why these are our top 5 picks for best dog balls!

I’ve Tried A LOT Of Different Interactive Dog Toys To Prevent My Dogs From Getting Bored… Wicked Ball Is The Best So Far!

The Wicked Ball dog toy is one of the best interactive dog toys I’ve ever seen. It’s 100% automatic – it rolls and moves all by itself and even turns itself ON and OFF! It’s great for preventing dog boredom and entertaining your dog when you’re not home. See why my dogs like it so much…

Tug-A-Jug Is A Multi-Sensory, Multi-Faceted Interactive Dog Treat Toy That’s Dog Mom Approved!

Does your dog like to play with water bottles or plastic 2-liter bottles?Mine does. Now there’s a REAL dog toy that is similar to a 2-liter bottle… but safer, and lots more fun for the dog. It’s called the Tug-A-Jug interactive toy for dogs. It a multi-sensory toy that dispenses treats as your dog plays with it.

Best Gifts For Dog Lovers: 30+ Dog Gifts For Dog Owners That I Use… And My Dogs Love!

Looking for the best dog gifts for yourself or a fellow dog lover? Here are 30+ clever gifts for dog owners. Helpful dog Christmas gifts they’ll really use! I know, because I’ve had dogs all my life, and I actually use every single one of these items and my dogs like ’em too.

Need A Dog Car Seat Protector? I Have 3 Dogs – Here’s My Review Of The 3-In-1 iBuddy Dog Car Hammock, Dog Cargo Cover & Dog Cargo Kennel

We have 3 dogs and 2 vehicles. I use the 3-in-1 iBuddy dog cargo cover / dog car hammock to protect the inside of our SUV from dog fur, dog drool, and dog toenail marks. See how I also use this dog seat protector as a cargo kennel — and why I love it!

Would You Marry Your Dog? Lots Of People Do! Here’s How To Marry Your Pet

Do you love your dog?… Do you love your dog enough to marry him — or her? Lots of people have married their pets… here’s the latest buzz about pet weddings.

DIY Dog Bed Ideas: See How I Made XL Orthopedic Dog Beds For Our 2 Large Dogs & Created A Simple Dog Mudroom Space

Thinking of getting an orthopedic dog bed for your furbaby? I made my own no-sew cheap dog beds from memory foam for about half the price of buying new extra large dog beds. See how we created a separate dog mudroom area in our house (to keep the dirt and mud to a minimum inside) and how we made DIY dog beds ourselves to keep them comfortable in their new space.

6 Funny Dog Halloween Costumes You Can Make With Little Or No Sewing

Even if you don’t have any sewing skills (like me) here are 6 funny dog Halloween costumes you can make at home with very little effort. See photos + video tutorials

Homemade Brain Games For Dogs (If You Don’t Use It, You Lose It!)

How do you mentally stimulate a dog? Here are fun ways to challenge dogs and keep them from getting bored! Homemade brain games for dogs + DIY dog games and activities for backyard fun.

Dog Birthday Parties: Unique Ideas For Hosting A DIY Dog Birthday Party

I was surprised to learn how many dog owners celebrate the birthdays of their beloved pets by throwing Dog Birthday Parties and serving Dog Birthday Cakes. Here are the fun facts… Plus all the details for you to have your very own Dog Birthday Party!

DIY Dog Tie-Out For Multiple Dogs: A Simple Solution To Keep 1 Or More Dogs In A Yard Without A Fence

Have a dog (or multiple dogs), but don’t have a fenced-in yard for them to run and play in? Then you’ll enjoy these DIY dog tie-out ideas. See the overhead dog trolley system that worked for our 2 dogs.

Dog Travel Tips + Clever Dog Car Accessories You Might Not Think Of!

I have 2 large dogs and they pretty much go wherever I go! I’ve whittled down my list of dog travel necessities to 7 dog car safety items and 7 clever dog travel accessories — the most important things to pack for dog car travel, plus a few clever dog car accessories that you probably haven’t thought of. These are the items that we take along whenever we’re traveling with our dogs in the car. Perhaps you’ll find them useful as well!

Off Leash Dog Parks: What You Need To Know About Them (Especially Beau’s Dream Dog Park At Buchanan Park In Lancaster, PA)

See why I think Beau’s Dream Dog Park at Buchanan Park is the best off leash dog park in Lancaster PA. If you’ve never been, you’re missing out! These are my must-know tips for enjoying this beautiful dog park — and what you can expect before you go to this Beneful dog park for the first time.

Got A Bored Dog? Top 8 Interactive Dog Toys To Keep Dogs Super Busy And Having Fun

Interactive dog toys (or enrichment dog toys) provide a challenge for your dog. Their unique features keep your dog interested & having fun for hours! These are the best ones to start with — use them to gauge your dog’s interest and chewing behaviors before you buy a bunch of toys for your bored dog.

The Best Dog Training Collars And Dog Training Leads For Your New Puppy

Got a new puppy? Then you’ll need the right dog training equipment — like a puppy training collar (or dog harness) and a dog lead — to start teaching your dog how to walk on a leash. Here’s how to choose the best dog training collar and dog training leads for leash walking.

Dog Toy Color: Here’s The Best Color For Dog Toys Based On Science (Dog Color Vision Facts)

Can dogs see color? YES! Are dogs color blind? NO! However, since dogs see color differently from the way we humans see color, it’s important to consider dog color vision whenever you’re buying dog toys. The best color for dog toys is blue or yellow. The dog toy color to avoid is red, orange or green.

Want To Be A Dog Sitter? Here’s How To Get Started Dog Sitting For Extra Money

Did you realize that you can make over $500 a month dog sitting? As a pet sitter in Seattle, I’ve learned a few things along the way to make dog sitting more profitable and fun. Here are my best tips on how to start offering dog sitting services on the side to make extra money.

Superbowl Fun For Dogs & Non-Football Fans: It’s Called Puppy Bowl! Here Are Some Fun DIY Puppy Party Ideas

Before, during, and after the Super Bowl, I usually channel-surf over to Animal Planet to watch the Puppy Bowl on TV – with my dog. Here’s how to host a fun party for dogs, kids & adults to watch the Puppy Bowl – from decorations and activities, to menu items and dog-friendly treats.

Cute Puppy Pictures – Bet You Haven’t Seen Puppy Photos Cuter Than These!

Check out this collection of newborn and tiny puppy pictures. They’re from a bunch of different dog breeds, but they’re all of the ‘cute & cuddly’ variety. Cute puppy pics to make you smile…

How To Draw A Dog

Here’s how to draw a dog – it’s quick and easy! Start with an oval shape drawn on paper, then follow these steps to draw a fun dog face or an entire dog’s body. Try it yourself! We’ve got easy-to-follow videos so you can watch each of the steps, as they’re done.

Wish List Donations For Dogs & Cats In Animal Shelters: What Non-Profits REALLY Need

Love dogs? Want to do something to help abandoned animals and pet care facilities in your area? See what’s on the wish list at your local animal shelter.

Cujo Leash: One Of The Best Shock Absorbing Leashes For Dogs That Pull

This is one of the best leashes for dogs – especially for big dogs AND for dogs that pull – because of the shock-absorbing features that are built-in.

Best Cars For Dog Owners + Features To Look For In A Dog-Friendly Vehicle

Dogmobiles: An up-to-date list of the best cars for dog owners. Plus some things that you should look for in a vehicle that your dog will be riding in.

Funny Dog Snow Videos: Dogs Body Sliding Down Snowy Hills!

In case you were wondering if dogs like snow or not, these dogs prove that snow can provide hours of fun. You will love this video showing 2 dogs skiing down the hill… again… and again!

Dog Houses 101: How To Choose The Best Dog House… Or Build Your Own

build-a-dog-house

Whether you buy a dog house or build a dog house, there are lots of types, sizes & styles to choose from. Dog house ideas from practical, to fun, to fancy!

Dog Sunglasses: Are They Really A Necessity? Or Just A Fashion Statement?

dog-goggles-car-ride

Just about every day you’ll see a car going down the road with a dog’s head sticking out of the window. My dogs do it too. With all the bugs, dirt, and debris flying through the air, imagine the damage if your poor dog should get hit in the eye by something. Doggie sunglasses (or doggie goggles) can be quite useful when it comes to protecting your dog’s eyes! Here’s what you need to know.

Create Professional Dog Business Cards… In Minutes!

dog-business-cards-bone

No, these aren’t business cards for your dog. (Well, I guess they could be if you wanted them to be — if your dog is that popular at the dog park!) These are business cards for dog lovers. I can think of lots of ways that these cards could be useful.

Pictures Of Dogs Wearing Fun Bling: Dog Necklaces & Dog Bandanas

Curious dog wearing a pink bandanna. photo by wolfsavard on Flickr

I don’t usually put doggie bling like dog clothing & accessories on my dog. But we recently got a dog bandana as a hand-me-down from someone on Freecycle. And I have to be honest, I didn’t realize just how practical doggie neckwear could be! I’m a huge fan of dog bandanas. Here are fun photos of dogs wearing bandanas and necklaces.

Amazing Videos Of Dogs In Slow Motion!

Following are some of the best videos that feature dogs being dogs… all in slow motion! You’ll see dogs drinking, running, jumping, playing, catching, eating, bathing, and more in slow motion video.

Dog Humor – How Many Dogs Does It Take To Change A Lightbulb?

Here’s how the personalities of various dog breeds are drastically different from one another. See how each breed of dog would respond to the question, ‘How many dogs does it take to change a light bulb?’

Found A Dog? Here’s What To Do When You Find A Stray Dog

Found dog sign. photo by by Hotash on Flickr

Your first inclination may be to take a stray dog inside your home to immediately give him food and shelter. But that’s not always the safest option. Here’s what you SHOULD do if you find a stray dog.

The Best Stuffed Dog Toy (…In The Eyes Of My Dog)

Does your dog behave differently with one particular toy than all the rest? Does your dog have a ‘pacifier’ — one specific toy that seems to calm him better than others?

Hunting Dog Training 101: Basic Tips For Training Hunting Dogs

If you think that you will eventually want your dog to be a hunting dog, here are some very basic tips to get started with hunting dog training.

Video Of The Spinning Dog ~ This Dog Chases Cars… With A Twist!

As this video shows, instead of chasing cars, this dog spins in circles every time a fast-moving car goes by! Tucker is a Border Collie who’s known as the spinning dog. He’s a celebrity in Prince Edward Island.

How To Build A Dog Ramp Yourself

My Dachshund recently had back surgery, so I needed a dog ramp — instead of doggie steps — as a way for her to get up on my bed. Most of the dog ramps I found online where very expensive and the height didn’t match up with my bed height. So I made my own. Here’s how…

How I Made A Dog Crate Table For My Dachshund From An Old Piece Of Furniture

There are furniture type dog kennels (like these dog crate tables), but they are expensive! So I started looking at my own pieces of furniture to see what I could modify to make my own dog crate table. Here’s how I built a dog crate table for my dog, Lucy…

Dog Camping Tips ~ How To Prepare If You’re Going Camping With Dogs

Getting ready to take your dog camping with you? Camping with dogs can be a lot of fun as long as you are prepared. Here’s what you need to know.

Dog Hot Car Laws + What You Should Do If You See A Dog Left In A Hot Car

dogs-in-hot-cars

Please don’t leave your dog in the car on a warm day — even if the windows are rolled down! And if you happen to see that someone has left their dog inside a hot car, here’s what you should do. Dog hot car laws aren’t clear, but these tips will help!

What To Expect The First Time You Try Doggie Daycare Instead Of Leaving Your Dog Home Alone

Most people who have children have probably taken their kids to some form of daycare. Have you ever thought about taking your dog to daycare? Doggie daycare is a place that your dog can go to have fun during the day and not be stuck at home alone. It’s more than just pet sitting.

5 Tips Before You Go To An Off Leash Dog Park For The First Time

If this is your first time visiting an off leash dog park, these are the things you should know ahead of time.

How To Do Loose Leash Walking With Your Dog & Put An End To Pulling Once And For All!

When walking your dog on a leash, do you keep the leash tight? Most people do. However, once you decide to give loose leash walking a try, I’m confident that you’ll find loose leash walking is MUCH more comfortable — and enjoyable — for both you and your dog!

Want Better Dog Photos? The Best Dog Photography Tips For Dog Owners

Dog photography takes time and patience, but even amateur photographers like you and me who simply want to take better pictures of our dogs can do these simple things to improve our dog photos.

Warning: Dog Tennis Ball Dangers!

Most people are not aware of the fact that tennis balls can actually be dangerous to dogs. The danger is that when playing fetch with your dog, the ball could get stuck in your dog’s throat when he catches it.

Interesting Dog & People Similarities

It’s amazing how many dog & people similarities really do exist. That’s right, for many of the things that we do as humans, there’s an equivalent behavior in the dog world. Here are lots of interesting similarities between dogs and people.

A Massive Collection Of Famous Dogs, Hero Dogs & Celebrity Dog Owners

Here’s a growing collection of photos and fun facts about the most famous dogs in the world — from TV & movies, sports mascot dogs, canine military mascots, dogs who saved lives or made a difference in this world, dogs of U.S. presidents, celebrity dog owners, and more!

  • Go to page 1
  • Go to page 2
  • Go to page 3
  • Interim pages omitted …
  • Go to page 5
  • Go to Next Page »

Primary Sidebar

About Me

LynnetteI like to help Dog Parents find unique ways to do things that will save time & money -- so I write about "outside the box" Dog Tips and Dog Hacks that most wouldn't think of. I’m a lifelong dog owner -- currently have 2 mixed breed Golden Aussies that we found abandoned on the side of the road as puppies. I've always trained my own dogs and help friends train theirs, as well. Professionally, I worked at a vet and have several friends who are veterinarians -- whom I consult with regularly. (And just because I love animals so much, I also worked at a Zoo for awhile!) I've been sharing my best ideas with others by blogging full-time since 1998 (the same year that Google started... and before the days of Facebook and YouTube). My daily motivation is to help first-time dog owners be better prepared from the first day your new puppy enters your home. I like to help dog owners understand what's 'normal' and what you can expect in terms of living with and training your dog -- how to get through the ups & downs of potty training, chewing, teaching commands, getting your dog to listen, and everything else that takes place during that hectic first year! When I'm not training, walking, grooming, or making homemade treats for my dogs, you will find me at the corner of Good News & Fun Times as publisher of The Fun Times Guide (32 fun & helpful websites). To date, I've written over 500 articles for dog owners on this site! Many of them have upwards of 200K shares.

Lynnette: View My Blog Posts

Top Searches

Adopting/Rescuing A Dog Canine Cancer Tips Celebrity Dog Owners Chewing & Destructive Behavior Cleaning & Odor Tips For Dog Owners Clothing Shoes Hats & Accessories For Dogs Costs & Expenses For Dog Owners Death And Dying In Dogs Diarrhea In Dogs & Poop Issues DIY Dog Stuff Dog Allergies & Skin Issues Dog Behavior Issues Dog Breeds Dog Food Brands & Human Foods For Dogs Dog Games & Activities Dog Gear & Necessities Dog Grooming Tips Dog Injuries & Emergencies Dog Toys & Dog Chews Dog Tricks To Try Eye Issues With Dogs Feeding Tips For Dogs Fun Stuff For Dog Owners Holiday Dog Tips Home Remedies & Alternative Medicine For Dogs Humanizing Dogs Humor About Dogs Indoor Fun With Dogs Kong Dog Toys & Kong Recipes Labrador Retriever Dogs New Dog Owner Tips Old Dogs / Senior Dogs Outdoor Fun With Dogs Peeing And Housebreaking Tips Pet Hair And Shedding Pet Warnings And Dangers Pictures Of Dogs Reviews Of Dog Products Summer Fun For Dogs Travel Dog Tips Treats & Snacks For Dogs Veterinarian And Expert Dog Tips Videos Of Dogs Vomiting Dogs / When To Induce Vomiting Walking Tips & Leashes For Dogs

Footer

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • RSS
  • Twitter
  • YouTube
Fun Times Guide logo
Shop Our Favorite Items

Copyright © 2004-2021 The Fun Times Guide | Privacy Policy | About | Contact | Sitemap