Score big savings on At Home Christmas decor!

While supplies last, hurry over to At Home where you can score 50% off Christmas Decor – available in stores and online! Plus you can also save 25% on holiday storage items.

Note that while many items are not available for shipping, you may be able to order online for free store pickup. The selection will vary by store.

Check out these At Home Christmas clearance deals…

We’ve got more holly jolly Christmas deals over here…

Stock up on AND-1 socks with this deal!

While supplies last, dash over to Walmart.com where you can snag AND-1 Men’s Low Cut Socks on clearance for just $2.50 (regularly $5)!

These cushioned low-cut socks are made with a soft breathable fabric and have a snug fit that’s perfect for relaxing or hitting the gym.

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Get the best deals on Dr. Teal’s Gift Sets! 

Head on over to Walmart.com where you’ll be able to find great deals on Dr. Teal’s products, including gift sets for just $12.50 (regularly $25)!

Stay stress-free in the new year with these Dr. Teal’s gift sets…

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Head this way for more fabulous clearance deals…

Lowe’s has some awesome deals on Christmas decorations!

Through December 31st or while supplies last, hurry over to Lowes.com where you can score up to 75% off select Christmas Decorations! With prices starting at JUST $1 you don’t want to miss adding a few new decorations to your stash for next year!

Note that some items may be out of stock for select locations or only available for pick-up or delivery from your local Lowe’s stores.

Check out the Lowe’s Christmas Decor deals that caught our eye…

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Now’s your chance to save on Macy’s Christmas decor!

Through January 1st, or while supplies last, hurry over to Macy’s where you can score up to 80% off select Christmas decor, bedding, pajamas, beauty gift sets, & tons more!

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Check out these Macy’s Christmas clearance deals…

More Christmas clearance deals this way!

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Check out all of the deals on Wondershop items at Target!

Head over to Target where you can save up to 50% off thousands of Wondershop Holiday items like wearable blankets, lights, ornament sets, wreaths, pajamas, slippers, and so much more!

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Looking for more early Christmas deals? Head this way…

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Shipping is free on orders of $35 or more. You may also be able to opt for free in-store pickup if items are in stock and available near you.

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Note that this item requires a minimum purchase of $35 or more.

You may be able to opt for free in-store pickup (if available near you). Plus, if you’re a Target Circle Card holder, you’ll save an additional 5% off your purchases!

It’s a common product that gets recommended, but is there any value in bitter sprays as a deterrent to chewing?

If you’re here, you’re probably a new puppy parent (Congrats!) wondering whether bitter sprays will work to help you solve your chewing problem, right? Great! I’m glad to have found you (lovely when the internet does what it’s meant to, right?).

As a professional dog trainer, I see the frustration often “He chews everything! I even tried the anti-chew sprays and (insert issue from frustrated puppy parent here)”

Personally? I never advise my puppy parents to use them – and I know that’s the same for most other professional dog trainers.

So why is that? Let’s dive in and look at the reasons they’re not recommended, and what you can do instead!

How They’re Designed To Work

Bitter sprays are designed to be sprayed on an object or household items that puppy wants to chew, such as your furniture, or your sofa. Such that when your puppy tastes the item, they don’t enjoy the bitter taste and don’t want to taste it again. This, theoretically prevents them from chewing on anything with the spray deterrent.

However… This isn’t the best plan, and here’s why…

(Note: if you do choose to use bitter apple spray, please make sure it doesn’t use essential oils like tea tree oil, make sure it’s an alcohol-free formula, or propylene glycol to ensure you’re not accidentally giving your dog toxic things with your taste deterrents, focus on natural ingredients like lemon juice if you really have to.).

Coachi Tuggi Hide, Great for Interactive Play, Strong & Comfortable, Stretchy Bungee Handle, Reward

This is great for interacting with puppy who wants to play and wants to bite! It allows pup to really engage with you and is perfect for redirecting and even better? The bungee takes your pup’s yank out of it for your shoulders.

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Fluff & Tuff Edsel Elephant

Edsel is a little pricey – but Edsel is the only toy that’s lasted 5 years in my home with 3 large dogs. I don’t let them sit and chomp on him like he’s a bone, but we do play tug and fetch all the time.

He’s the perfect intermediary for a puppy who’s learning what to bite if that puppy likes human skin.

This toy also doesn’t have an obnoxious squeaker! It’s got a squeaker with a much better tone. 

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ChuckIt Balls

Honestly, don’t even buy a different kind of ball, they’re not worth it. These are super bouncy, super durable and don’t get soggy in your pocket when it rains.

They do get drooly? But they make great, long lasting chews too, ironically!

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5 Reasons Professionals Don’t Recommend Anti-Chew Sprays

1 – They don’t teach the right lesson.

Effectively, all a bitter apple spray or chewing deterrent teaches is “If it tastes yucky, don’t chew it”, not necessarily what to chew. So your table legs covered in bitter agents may work but your pup won’t really learn not to chew a table leg. Or, it can mean that when you stop using a spray the chewing starts over. 

Not to mention that your puppy (like all dogs!) has a biological need to chew, especially when they’re teething, it’s why dog chews are such a big market. 

2 – Its rarely effective

Whether your dog just licks off the dog “anti chew” sprays (yep, it happens!) or they just keep chewing through it, roughly 67% of dog parents find anti-chew sprays totally ineffective. The bittering agent is something some dogs actually enjoy, and can encourage chewing. Whilst it’s designed to be an unpleasant taste, it’s not always the case for all dogs! And many more dogs actually just don’t care, as our poll shows.

3 – It’s technically punishment

Believe it or not, when it comes to operant conditioning, bitter apple sprays or chew deterrents are actually classified as positive punishment (the application of an undesired sensation for an undesired behavior), I.e. your puppy creates a negative association with inappropriate items. And whilst this may seem like an effective way to communicate… it really isn’t quite as effective as you might think.

In the professional world, we’ve known for a long time that punishment is not needed in dog training! 

4 – Puppies Explore With Their Mouth

It’s a pretty important socialization exercise, exploring the world, and to start creating that to become a punishing experience is kind of like if we started randomly electrifying things in a clothes store? 

In one way, you’re meant to explore, but in another, you’re likely going to get worried that if you touch that sweater you love, it would become a concern you might get zapped… A slightly extreme example, but you get the idea.

5 – They Can Just Find A New Spot

If you don’t cover various surfaces that have a similar mouth feel, you may not have the best results, as dog owners will often miss a puppy’s desired areas, meaning puppy will just find themselves a spot that’s not the treated or affected area, that little inconspicuous area that you didn’t even think of. 

What To Do Instead

So when we’re looking to move away from deterrent sprays, or we’re looking to avoid them entirely, what do we do? 

Step 1 – Manage Access

To effectively train your puppy not to indulge in destructive chewing, it’s paramount to manage their access to surfaces and items they might be tempted to chew on. Begin by puppy-proofing your home; this involves removing items like shoes, children’s toys, and personal belongings from your puppy’s reach. It’s also crucial to secure loose wires and power cables from our furry friends to prevent them from becoming chew targets. 

Providing a puppy-safe zone (like a play pen or crate) is another effective strategy, where you designate a specific area of your home that’s safe for your puppy to explore without getting into trouble.

Yak Cheese

These chews are really interesting, they last for ages, and dogs tend to love them.

We love these as a special treat, we don’t give them often, but they really do help relax dogs and bring them to a stage I call “Chew drunk”, because chewing releases endorphins for dogs and soothes them. So these are a wonderful choice.

(Warning, watch your pup the first few times, strong chewers or greedy guts can be tempted to chomp it into a few pieces and just swallow it down)

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Bully Sticks

These are another single ingredient chew that’s bound to keep puppy focused and entertained. Whilst chews are never a replacement for a play session, this one comes close because of just how darn tasty they are! 

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Chew Root

These are root chunks from some heavy duty trees, and they crumble as opposed to splinter, so totally safe to ingest – which is awesome if you have a little pup who just can’t leave the wooden furniture alone.

Redirect puppy to this, and you’ll see puppy focus on the permitted chew, as opposed to the illegal chew, and it’ll give pup the texture they’re craving!

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Step 2 – Redirect to appropriate chew toys

Then it’s supervision. Supervision and training play vital roles in this process. Keeping a close eye on your puppy allows you to intervene if they start showing interest in inappropriate objects. 

The biggest and most important part of this is to select an appropriate thing to redirect to. 

Such as, if your dog is chewing your wooden sideboard, redirecting pup to a nylabone? Isn’t really going to work. However, a chew root would be perfect. Appropriate toys and ideally natural chews with non-toxic ingredients is much more preferable to electrical cords! 

The idea here is very much to match the texture as closely as possible. It’s much like if you’re craving chocolate cake, if someone tells you to eat a cucumber? It’s probably not going to do the same thing, and you’ll still want chocolate cake.

This part is allowing the chewing that puppy wants (so it’s inherently rewarding) and teaching them the appropriate things to chew. This way we’re ensuring pup is experiencing positive reinforcement. 

Step 3 – Repeat & Be Patient

Next, keep going. Do it, do it again and again. 

It’s not easy to keep up your patience, and I know the puppy phase demands so very much of it – but keep going and redirect. This is honestly the most important step, and it needs to be done slowly and consistently.

Step 4 – Give Freedom Slowly

As time goes by, you’ll give your pup more freedom. Which means you may not be monitoring them quite as much when they’re learning. 

For this, much like with all of those teaching puppy to be confident alone and crate training, you start with small periods that they’re likely to get right, i.e. whilst you’re cooking perhaps! Or whilst you’re watching TV… So you’re present, but not paying attention 100%. 

Then maybe build to more space, such as whilst you’re off in the bathroom, or whilst you pop to the store! It’s all about small steps and managing that exposure. 

Q – What do I do if I My Puppy Starts Chewing Again?

Take it back a step or two, watch a little more and maybe find an interim step that can bridge the gap at which puppy didn’t succeed. Regression is totally normal and just a simple part of learning to live with a puppy!

Q – What About Teaching “Drop” or “Leave it”?

The problem with these cues is that they act after the fact. I.e. you have to let puppy do the wrong thing before you can give a new cue. So, truly, this is violating one of the core rules of dog training (truthfully, life…) a pinch of prevention is worth a pound of cure. You also then are exposing the pup to potential resource guarding issues and potentially consuming something unhealthy – and we always try to prevent potential risks, right? So focus on preventing rather than a remedy cue. 

​Q – The Chewing Only Happens When I’m Out Of The House Though?

We do have to take a little investigating to see if this is an anxious response to your not being home, this may be separation anxiety, it may just be that they’ve been given too much freedom too quickly. 

But if you’re ever unsure, make sure to reach out to a professional trainer, separation anxiety specialist, behaviourist or vet behaviorist. (N.b. Not your regular practice vet!)

Remember, Humane Is Always The Best Approach!

Choosing a kind and positive approach to train puppies is definitely the way to go. It’s all about building that special bond of trust and understanding with your furry friend, which in turn makes training stick for the long haul. 

Using rewards and praise helps puppies learn what behaviors you like, making them more eager to please and repeat those good actions. As opposed to dog chew deterrents that offer a “quick fix” for a new puppy owner. This foul-tasting spray is just not needed, and don’t believe the marketing! There is no such thing as effective anti-chew sprays!

Positive reinforcement, as a whole method, is super important for their mental and emotional health, steering clear of stress, discomfort, confusion and fear. It essentially guides them gently as they grow, helping them become confident, well-behaved dogs without the negative vibes that harsh training can bring. In a nutshell, keeping it positive not only makes training more enjoyable but also strengthens that adorable bond between you and your puppy.

If you need help avoiding chew deterrent spray, and want a trainer’s help? Get in touch! I have tonnes of ways to help.

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Author, Ali Smith

Ali Smith is a professional, qualified, and multi-award winning trainer is the founder of rebarkable. She has always believed animals deserve kindness and champions force free methods. Believing that dog guardians will all choose the kindest options if proper information is provided, she aims to help all dog guardians who need it and make dog training as accessible as possible

Ali lives win Maryland, US with her husband and her three dogs.

Two puppies, or one? It’s a big question, right? I know it’s something most of my clients talk about, debate and discuss with me.

I know what you’re saying, well, honestly, how much more work can a second dog or puppy be, if I’m already getting one?

The allure of bringing not just one, but two puppies into your home is undeniably strong – it’s something my husband got suckered into too (before me!). The image of twin bundles of joy, with their soft pink puppy pads and that irresistible puppy breath, playing and growing together, can capture the heart of any person looking at puppies!

However, I want to tell you that this romanticized idea often overshadows the reality and multitude of considerations that come with the decision. After all, who wouldn’t want double the cuddles, double the love, and those inseparable best friend moments between sibling dogs? 

The popularity of adopting two puppies from the same litter or young pups of similar ages from different litters at the same time has sparked lively discussions among new and seasoned pet owners alike, as well as amongst trainers.

It’s a topic brimming with anecdotal evidence and expert advice, each swaying the scales in opposite directions. While the thought of raising two puppies conjures images of doubled joy, it’s crucial to delve deeper into what this commitment truly entails. 

It’s not merely a question of whether it’s a good idea but understanding the full spectrum of what having two new family members at the same time means for both the human and canine members of the household.

So, let me guide you, as an award-winning dog trainer with personal experience raising littermate Coonhounds, I possess deep, practical insights into simultaneously training two puppies. My recognized expertise and success in fostering good manners and strong bonds make me uniquely qualified to offer valuable advice on managing and training sibling puppies efficiently.

Understanding the Commitment

Raising a single puppy is a significant time commitment that involves consistent training sessions, veterinary care, and socialization experiences to ensure a well-adjusted adult dog. A new puppy owner must dedicate much time to positive reinforcement training, ensuring the young pup develops good behaviours while navigating the world. The cost of food, vet care, and essentials like dog treats and training classes also must be factored into the equation.

When you decide to add a second puppy to the mix, this dedication and responsibility don’t just add up—they multiply.

Each puppy has its own puppy personality, individual identity, and specific learning pace – i.e. just because they’re siblings does not mean they will respond the same. And this is the biggest error I see. “Well Mabel learnt this way, Why isn’t Murphy?”, because we need to adapt and apply they across both puppies which is way harder than it sounds!

They may require separate crates and even separate rooms for effective training and to prevent potential behavioral problems, such as separation anxiety and sibling rivalry. Training two dogs bond with their human family while maintaining a healthy happy home is double the hard work that should not be underestimated.

With two puppies, new puppy owners face the reality of twice the training time, double the cost of food and vet care, and managing different levels of energy. This great idea, romanticized by the image of inseparable best friends, quickly reveals itself as a lot of work, calling for a massive time commitment—the best intentions need to be backed by readiness to manage such a demanding endeavor effectively.

The Pros of Raising Two Puppies Together

Raising two puppies together offers several compelling advantages that can enhance both the pets’ and owners’ lives:

• Companionship: Puppies provide each other with constant friendship, which is crucial for their emotional and social development. This built-in buddy system ensures they always have a companion for play and comfort.
• Mutual Socialization: Each puppy serves as a social learning tool for the other, teaching vital communication skills like understanding body language and bite inhibition during play. This interaction is key to raising sociable and well-adjusted dogs.
• Ease in Training: Some training aspects, such as crate training and housebreaking, might be smoother with two puppies. They often emulate each other’s behavior, which can lead to faster and more effective learning outcomes.
• Management of Biting: Puppies naturally learn to manage bite pressure during their playtime, which can be easier than human intervention alone. This presence of a sibling helps develop this critical skill organically.
• Cost Efficiency: Initially, costs for two puppies might seem higher, but shared expenses like toys, bulk food purchases, and certain training classes can lead to overall savings.
• Time Efficiency: While two puppies require attention, they also entertain each other. This companionship can free up owner time, reducing the need for constant engagement and providing more flexibility in daily routines.

By recognizing these benefits, potential pet owners can appreciate not only the increased responsibilities but also the enhanced joys and practical advantages of raising two puppies together. This decision leads to a richer environment where both companionship and learning thrive, amplifying the rewards of pet ownership.

The Problems With Raising Two Puppies Together

Raising two puppies at the same time may appear to provide twice the joy and fun, but it’s not without significant challenges that prospective owners must consider:

1. Littermate Syndrome: This is perhaps the most daunting challenge when raising two puppies, particularly from the same litter. Littermate syndrome can lead to behavioral issues as the puppies become overly dependent on each other, potentially leading to severe separation anxiety when apart. This dependency can hinder individual development and make it difficult for each puppy to bond properly with humans.
2. Divided Attention: Each puppy has its own unique personality and needs, requiring individualized attention and training. Balancing these needs can be challenging, as one puppy might monopolise the owner’s attention, leaving the other less interacted with and potentially lagging in social and behavioral development.
3. Increased Costs: While there might be some shared expenses, the reality is that costs are generally higher for two puppies. Double the food, double the veterinary bills, double the accessories such as crates and beds, and often, higher costs for boarding or daycare. Each puppy may also require individual training classes, further increasing expenses.
4. Complex Training Needs: Training two puppies simultaneously does not necessarily mean the training efforts overlap efficiently. Each puppy may learn at a different pace, require different training techniques, or even develop different responses to the same training methods. Managing two separate training schedules can become complex and time-consuming.
5. Behavioral Differences: Even the best plans for synchronicity can falter due to inherent behavioral differences between the puppies. What works in training one puppy might completely backfire with the other, complicating the training process and requiring more nuanced approaches that can split an owner’s focus and resources.
6. Potential for Competitive Behavior: As puppies grow, especially if they are of similar age and size, there can be an escalation in competitive behavior over resources such as food, toys, and even human affection. This can lead to aggressive interactions and establish a challenging dynamic to manage as they mature.
7. Time Management Issues: The time commitment for properly raising and training two puppies should not be underestimated. Each puppy deserves as much individual attention, training, and care as they would if raised separately, which can be incredibly time-consuming for any pet owner.

Prospective owners must carefully weigh these challenges against the potential benefits, recognizing that raising two puppies requires a substantial amount of effort, patience, and resources to ensure both pets grow into well-adjusted, happy adult dogs.

Tips for Managing Two Puppies

Successfully raising and training two puppies at the same time is a substantial commitment that can yield immense rewards with the right approach. Here are some essential tips to help you navigate the challenges and ensure both puppies grow up well-adjusted and thoroughly trained:

1. Separate Yet Together: Allocate individual time for each puppy for training, walks, and bonding. This helps to reduce over-dependence on each other, minimizing the risk of littermate syndrome, and fosters a stronger human-pet bond with each puppy. However, also ensure they have quality time together so they can enjoy their companionship.
2. Simultaneous but Distinct Training: Train the puppies simultaneously but in separate sessions. This ensures that they learn to listen and respond to you without the distraction or influence of their sibling. It can also help cater to their individual learning paces and styles.
3. Socialization: Make a concerted effort to socialize the puppies separately. This encourages them to become confident and well-adjusted individuals. Expose them to various environments, sounds, people, and other dogs to enhance their adaptability and reduce anxiety or fear in new situations.
4. Consistent Rules and Boundaries: Establish and maintain consistent rules, boundaries, and routines for both puppies. This consistency is crucial for their training and overall behavior, providing a sense of security and helping prevent confusion or rivalry.
5. Encourage Independence: To combat potential issues of over-dependence, encourage independence in each puppy by offering separate safe spaces like crates or beds. This promotes solo relaxation and comfort without the other’s presence, which is essential for their emotional growth.
6. Seek Professional Help: Consider hiring a professional dog trainer who has experience with multiple puppies. They can provide tailored guidance and strategies to address the unique challenges of raising two puppies together effectively.
7. Financial and Time Planning: Be realistic and prepared for the financial and time commitments. Double the pets means double the food, training, healthcare, and possibly even professional grooming costs. It also means dedicating enough time for each puppy’s training, exercise, and care needs.
8. Individual Veterinary Care: Ensure each puppy receives individualized healthcare to address their specific needs and monitor any health concerns that may arise.
9. Patience and Consistency: Above all, patience and consistency are key. Raising two puppies is demanding and can test your limits. However, maintaining a calm, consistent approach to training and care can lead to a rewarding outcome for both you and your puppies.

Following these tips can offer a roadmap to raising two happy, healthy, and well-behaved dogs. While the journey might be challenging, the bond and joy that two dogs can bring into a home are immeasurable.

Financial Preparedness

1. Can you afford the initial costs? Consider adoption fees, initial veterinary care, vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and basic supplies.
2. Are you prepared for ongoing expenses for two? This includes food, pet insurance, routine vet visits, grooming, and unexpected health issues.
3. Can you budget for separate training classes? Professional training can be crucial and might be needed individually.

Time and Energy Availability

4. Do you have the time to devote to training two puppies separately? They’ll need individual attention to ensure they bond with you and not just each other.
5. Can you manage separate socialization schedules? This is vital for their independent growth and confidence.
6. Are you ready for the increased energy levels of two puppies? Consider if you can meet their exercise needs without burning out.

Living Situation

7. Is your living environment suitable for two dogs? Space is a factor, as two dogs need enough room to play and have separate resting areas if need be.
8. Does your current lifestyle accommodate two dogs? Travel, work hours, and your social life can all impact your ability to care for two puppies.
9. Are there breed or size considerations based on your living situation? Some breeds may not be well-suited to smaller spaces or close living quarters with neighbors.

Long-Term Commitment

10. Are you prepared for the long-term commitment of caring for two dogs? Dogs can live for many years, and your responsibilities will evolve as they age.
11. How will your future plans affect your ability to care for two dogs? Consider moves, potential family changes, and other life events.

Emotional and Behavioral Management

12. Are you prepared to handle potential behavioral issues, including littermate syndrome? Research and understand the risks and signs.
13. Do you have a plan for if one puppy develops behavioral issues? Consider how you’ll address this without neglecting the other puppy.

Support System

14. Do you have a support system in place? Look into pet sitters, dog walkers, and family or friends who can help out.
15. Can you afford professional help if needed? This might include trainers, behaviorists, or pet care professionals to assist in their upbringing.

Health and Emergency Preparedness

16. Are you prepared for a health emergency? Having a plan and the financial means to address sudden health issues is vital.
17. Do you know how to choose a vet that’s right for two puppies? Consider a vet’s experience with multiple pets and their policies.

Is Two Really Better Than One?

Raising two puppies simultaneously is a considerable commitment that requires careful planning and thought. Before making this big decision, prospective pet owners should thoroughly assess their financial capacity, time availability, living situation, long-term commitment readiness, behavioral management strategies, and support systems. It’s essential to also think about space requirements, the breed and size of the puppies, and future life changes that could affect the ability to care for two dogs.

Each aspect of this decision, from financial implications to daily logistics, plays a crucial role in ensuring that you can provide a healthy, happy, and nurturing environment for two growing puppies. Remember, the goal is not just to double the joy and companionship but also to manage double the responsibility effectively.

If you’re considering this option but are still unsure or overwhelmed by the details, I’m here to help. Book a consultation with me to discuss your specific situation, explore your options, and decide confidently whether adopting two puppies is right for you. Together, we can ensure that you’re fully prepared for the joys and challenges of raising two puppies. Don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance on this rewarding journey.

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Author, Ali Smith

Ali Smith is a professional, qualified, and multi-award winning trainer is the founder of rebarkable. She has always believed animals deserve kindness and champions force free methods. Believing that dog guardians will all choose the kindest options if proper information is provided, she aims to help all dog guardians who need it and make dog training as accessible as possible

Ali lives win Maryland, US with her husband and her three dogs.

The Jack russell was one of the more popular breeds amongst those searching for small dog breeds, however, as the search for hypoallergenic dogs has become more and more popular, the jack russell breed has been seeking its hypo-allergenic counterpart.

The Jack Russell Terrier is a phenomenal little breed. They’re celebrated for its exuberance, intellect, and warmth, has captured the affection of countless pet enthusiasts worldwide. Yet, for individuals grappling with allergies, the dream of pet ownership often feels just out of reach.

Luckily, there are solutions for this predicament. Creative breeders are cross breeding some Jack Russell Terrier mixes with hypoallergenic dogs such as Poodles, Bichon Frises, Havanese, and Maltese. These hybrid dogs are crafted to embody the Jack Russell Terrier’s lively spirit alongside the hypoallergenic coats of their diverse parent breeds, positioning them as ideal companions for those battling pet allergies.

In the United States, where dog ownership is a cherished tradition, the American Kennel Club acknowledges the importance of hypoallergenic dog breeds for households with allergy concerns. These mixed breeds, including the popular Jack-a-poo and the energetic Jack Chi (which is not hypoallergenic by the way!), offer a fusion of small size, high energy levels, and low shedding coats, making them an excellent choice for living spaces that demand a clean, allergen-reduced environment. Regular grooming, alongside the use of a good bristle brush and an air purifier, can further mitigate the effects of dog hair and dander, ensuring a healthier living situation for sensitive immune systems.

What Are Hypoallergenic Dogs?

Hypoallergenic refers to a dog who doesn’t shed fur, such as the poodle, the havanese, the maltese as well as several others, and they’re often referred to as doodles (a portmanteau from poodle) or designer dogs.

They’re a great option for allergy sufferers who want dogs, however, it should be noted that “hypoallergenic” doesn’t mean allergy free as dogs will always carry some dander, dirt and usually pollen. Not to mention that a lot of allergens come from a dog’s saliva.

Choosing Your Hypoallergenic Jack Russell Mix

Be aware that the Jack Russell is a high energy little breed that comes personality-packed, and full of flavour. Terrier habits are pretty tough! They tend to be mouthy, very high prey drive and not necessarily that easy to train.

So when you’re selecting a hypoallergenic mix, do be aware that if you’re looking for a cute, and cuddly dog, a dog cross bred from a Jack Russell may not be that.

The Most Common Hypoallergenic Jack Russell Mixes 

1 – Jack Russell Terrier and Poodle Mix

Often called a Jackapoo, Jackadoodle or poojack (yeah, it’s unfortunate!), these mixes are the cross breed of the Poodle’s intelligence and hypoallergenic coat with the Jack Russell Terrier’s boundless energy and adventurous spirit.

It’s good to note that depending on the generation of your hybrid dog will depend on how ‘reliable’ the outcome of the litter is in terms of their temperament, health and coat (honestly, a good breeder is a lot of the work when it comes to puppies!).

In terms of size, the Jackapoo can vary greatly depending on which sized poodle was used in the breeding. Standard poodles will create a bigger variation.

Beyond their cute faces, Jackapoos tend to be vivacious personalities. Given they come from two working breeds, they require a lot of exercise and training to channel their high energy levels positively, and usually must be taught how to relax.

They thrive on mental stimulation and physical activity, making them an excellent choice for active individuals or families that can provide them with the engagement they crave. This need for activity should be met with regular walks, playtime, and, where possible, agility training, which not only keeps them physically fit but also sharpens their minds. 

Despite the potential for health problems common to both purebred dogs and hybrid breeds, responsible breeders can often mitigate these risks by ensuring healthy parentage and providing early health screenings for conditions like patellar luxation or hereditary heart issues.

As such, sourcing a Jackapoo from a reputable dog breeder is the best way to ensure that you’re bringing a healthy, happy, and well-adjusted puppy into your home. Their playful dog demeanor and readiness to bond make them a good option for those seeking a pet that will integrate well into their lives, offering endless affection and companionship for long periods.

2 – Jack Russell Terrier and Bichon Frise Mix

This variety can vary a lot less than the poodle mix as the Bichon Frise is a small dog breed and similar in size to the jack russell terrier, which means that the consistency in size will be greater than that of the Jackapoo above.

Bichon frise are also athletic in their nature, so you are likely to get another “high drive” and highly intelligent dog, which means training, enrichment and giving them all the tools to cope with our modern world will be immensely important as they are often predisposed to anxiety and intense desires to chase.

3 – Jack Russell Terrier and Havanese Mix

Affectionately known as a Jackanese, this cross breed combines the vivaciousness of a Jack Russell Terrier and the affectionate nature of a Havanese. Because of the severe differences in nature of these two dogs, you do tend to find a large variation in their personality and can swing greatly from the fiesty terrier to the more docile lapdog – and unfortunately there is minimal way to tell whilst they’re puppies.

If you’re looking at the Jackanese, you’d be looking at being ready for anything from the jack russell to the havanese and anything in between. For this reason, it’s really tough for me to guide on this little mixed breed.

4 – Jack Russell Terrier and Maltese Mix

The Jack Russell Terrier and Maltese mix, commonly known as the Jacktese or Malti-Jack, is a small-to-medium-sized crossbreed that marries the spirited personality of the Jack Russell with the graceful charm of the Maltese.

Again, with this cross you’re likely to find younger generations (f1) of Malti-jack’s to have large variations in their personality as you’re crossing an active and tenacious dog with a high prey drive to a lapdog whose sole purpose is to be a glamorous companion.

But If You Want a Hypoallergenic Dog Similar to Jack Russells, Consider These:

This section would introduce readers to other hypoallergenic breeds that share similarities with the Jack Russell Terrier in terms of size, energy level, or temperament, including:

Miniature Schnauzer: Renowned for its intelligence, spirited nature, and hypoallergenic coat.

Miniature Poodle: Distinguished by its hypoallergenic coat, high intelligence, and affectionate personality.

Lakeland Terrier: Known for its hypoallergenic coat, this breed shares the terrier spirit and is a great option for those seeking a smaller, energetic dog.

Bedlington Terrier: With its unique appearance and hypoallergenic wooly coat, the Bedlington Terrier is a perfect blend of companionship for allergy sufferers looking for a terrier-like pet.

But they’re not the only ones… There are lots of hypoallergenic dog breeds!

A Note About Hybrid Dogs

Where there is no breed standard for these hybrids, consequently, they can have a spectrum of behaviors and appearances anywhere from the Jack Russel side, to the mixed side. Which means that their temperament and needs can be very hard to predict. Sometimes this can take new jack russell mix guardians by surprise, where they’re expecting a gorgeous, teddy bear and an intelligent dog, and an awesome family pet! 

Which they may be. 

However, they may also get the undesirable qualities of either of the breeds, 

So, whatever you do, don’t take these for purebred dogs, don’t assume they’re responsibly bred. Be critical of your breeder, expect health testing! Expect to see, and interact with the parents and ensure that they’re a sociable dog, ideally titled dogs, compliant, biddable, and that they truly will be good family pets.

Care and Consideration for Your Hypoallergenic Terrier Mix

Caring for a hypoallergenic mix is usually complex, as their coats can be anything from the terrier to their mix — which means you’re very likely going to need your dog professionally groomed every 4-6 weeks to prevent coat problems like matting.

Conclusion

Like all dogs, these gorgeous Jack Russell mixes come with their negatives and positives! So, in this exploration of dog breeds that you’re currently on, I’d strongly suggest talking to someone to help you pick a suitable breed that has a great understanding of dogs in general – a great trainer (like myself!)

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Author, Ali Smith

Ali Smith is a professional, qualified, and multi-award winning trainer is the founder of rebarkable. She has always believed animals deserve kindness and champions force free methods. Believing that dog guardians will all choose the kindest options if proper information is provided, she aims to help all dog guardians who need it and make dog training as accessible as possible

Ali lives win Maryland, US with her husband and her three dogs.

Toilet training is complicated, and one of the questions I get quite often as a puppy expert, is “When should I start toilet training?”.

Honestly, it’s asked of me so much.

And I get it! There’s so much information out there, and all your friends, family, your breeder, your vet, etc all have an opinion, and they don’t agree.

This process isn’t just about avoiding accidents; it’s about teaching good behavior and establishing routines that will benefit your puppy for years to come. But fear not! Let’s sift through the information overload and lay out the best practices for successful potty training.

Luckily, toilet training (at it’s core) is very simple. The key to successful potty training lies in consistency, patience, and understanding your puppy’s needs. Every puppy is unique, and factors like age, breed, and health can influence their potty training journey. By setting realistic expectations and following a structured approach tailored to your puppy’s age and abilities, you can create an ideal environment for potty training success. With dedication and perseverance, both you and your puppy can navigate this important milestone with ease and confidence.

The Best Age to Start Potty Training

Ideal age: 6-16 weeks

But, as soon as possible if you are outside of this window!

Dog trainers (like me) and vets agree that the best time to start potty training your puppy is between 6 to 16 weeks of age – yes, ideally this process starts with your breeder. During this period, puppies are more receptive to learning new behaviors and routines! It’s also known as the “Critical Phase” of socialization and learning.

Ideally, we want to avail of that window of time to start their training generally. And, seen as toilet training is one of the few skills that you truly need to be successful living with your dog, it’s one we should really put as a priority.

Understanding Puppy Development

Understanding the various stages of puppy development is crucial for successful potty training. Puppies undergo significant changes in their bladder control as they grow. Since their digestive systems are still maturing, timing is essential for effective potty training.

Young puppies, especially those under six months of age, have limited bladder control and require frequent potty breaks throughout the day. This means pet owners must be vigilant and ready to take their puppies outside or to their designated potty area regularly, or find friends or professionals who are willing to support this endeavour.

As puppies transition into older dogs, their bladder control improves, allowing them to hold it for longer periods. However, it’s still crucial to provide them with plenty of opportunities to relieve themselves, especially after meals and before bedtime.

Preparing for Potty Training

Setting up your home for successful potty training is crucial, especially for a young puppy. Begin by creating a safe space where accidents can be minimized. My favourite is a combination of a crate and a play pen, but you can also use baby gates to block off areas where your puppy shouldn’t roam freely, reducing the risk of accidents occurring in the wrong place.

Then, all you have to do is watch puppy.

Designating specific potty spots both indoors and outdoors is essential for effective potty training. Indoors, you can use potty pads to provide a designated area for your puppy to relieve themselves. Outdoors, choose a consistent spot where you want your puppy to go potty and take them there regularly. Stock up on necessary supplies such as puppy pads, potty bells, and plenty of treats for positive reinforcement. These tools will help reinforce good behavior and make the training process smoother for both you and your puppy.

As your puppy grows, continue to adjust your home setup to accommodate their changing needs. Gradually increase their freedom around the house as they demonstrate reliability in their potty routine. Remember, potty training takes time and patience. By setting up your home appropriately and providing consistent guidance, you’ll help your puppy develop good bathroom habits that will last a lifetime!

Step-by-Step Guide to Potty Training Your Puppy

STEP 1

Minimise potential for accidents, when pup is awake you need to be watching them, and if they’re asleep, this is a great time for you to get things done.

STEP 2

Take pup out at the following times;

• After sleeping
• After playing
• After eating
• After drinking

Then ensure regular toilet breaks are offered when awake and that we watch puppy thoroughly for signs like

1. Lots of sniffing
2. Circling
3. Abrupt changes in behavior (e.g. switching from playing to sniffing quickly)
4. Pacing
5. Attention seeking
6. Squatting

Which all may indicate that puppy will need or want to go to the toilet. This, however, is all unique to your puppy, and your puppy will require you to be observant and notice those signals.

STEP 3

Reward really well for going to the bathroom outside!

IF YOU’RE STRUGGLING TO GET PUPPY TO USE THE BATHROOM OUTDOORS

• Try hyping them up – putting energy into their movement can stimulate the bowels.
• Try again in 5 mins
• If you give up and go in, watch them as soon as you come in!

IF PUPPY MAKES A MISTAKE…

Beyond this, mistakes are human error, we made the rules that indoors isn’t ok to pee/poop in, we’re teaching the rules, and our student doesn’t speak English and has a significantly lower IQ than we do. So if slip ups happen? Clean it up.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Accidents inside the house are inevitable during the potty training process. Despite your best efforts, puppies, especially those under six months of age, are still learning to control their bladders. Understand that they’re not being disobedient intentionally.

Instead of getting frustrated, stay patient and focus on guiding them towards the right behavior. Remember, puppies are den animals, and they naturally avoid soiling their sleeping areas. Utilize this instinct by providing a designated potty spot that’s easily accessible, whether it’s in the laundry room or a specific area with free access.

Remember, you do not need to punish your puppy for mistakes. Instead, learn from it, increase your observation and win the next battle!

Consistency is key in puppy training, so stick to your routine and offer plenty of praise when they get it right.

However, if accidents persist despite your efforts, it’s essential to consider potential medical issues like urinary tract infections. Consulting your veterinarian can rule out any underlying conditions affecting your puppy’s ability to control their bladder.

By staying consistent with your training routine and providing plenty of positive reinforcement, you’ll set your puppy up for potty training success. Remember that every puppy is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Be patient and adaptable, trying different methods and adjusting your approach as needed. With time and perseverance, your puppy will learn to potty in the appropriate places, making your life as a pet owner much easier.

Final Tips and Best Practices

1. The first step is understanding your puppy’s developmental stages, recognizing their need for frequent bathroom breaks. From around 6 weeks of age, begin introducing them to the right place for potty time, whether it’s outdoors or on designated pee pads indoors. 
2. Keep a close eye on their behavior and schedule, setting them up for success by providing plenty of opportunities to relieve themselves in the correct spot.
3. Next, be patient and consistent with your training efforts. Encourage good behavior by offering lots of praise and rewards every time your puppy goes potty in the designated area. 
4. Maintain a regular schedule for bathroom breaks, especially after meals and before bedtime. 
5. As your puppy grows older, gradually increase their freedom around the house, but continue to monitor them closely to prevent potty accidents. Remember, staying vigilant and consistent is the best way to reinforce good habits and establish a reliable potty routine.
6. Lastly, don’t forget to take a deep breath and remain calm through any challenges that arise. Potty training can be frustrating at times, but maintaining a positive attitude is key. 
7. If accidents occur, clean them up promptly and avoid punishing your puppy. Instead, redirect them to the right place and continue to provide gentle guidance.

With patience, consistency, and plenty of praise, your puppy will learn to potty in the appropriate places and grow into a well-trained adult dog.

Puppy Toilet Training Do’s & Don’ts – 15 Quick Tips To Help Your Puppy Ace It!

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Conclusion

Watch your puppy, listen to your puppy, and learn from your puppy.

Toilet training feels like an unending process, but I promise, if you keep going, if you keep on the positive reinforcement methods? It’ll all fall into place. You just have to be relax, take the process step by step, and you’ll have your pup potty trained real quick!

If you want more help with raising your puppy? Pupdates is perfect for you!

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• X
• Pinterest
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Author, Ali Smith

Ali Smith is a professional, qualified, and multi-award winning trainer is the founder of rebarkable. She has always believed animals deserve kindness and champions force free methods. Believing that dog guardians will all choose the kindest options if proper information is provided, she aims to help all dog guardians who need it and make dog training as accessible as possible

Ali lives win Maryland, US with her husband and her three dogs.