I've got a couple of these from Petco when I've seen them on sale/clearance. They've each got a couple of small punctures but are basically still brand new after a couple weeks of use (so far).
Our dog behaviorist suggested this:
PetSafe Busy Buddy Kibble Nibble... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001F0RRUA?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
And I was apprehensive because I make my own wet dog food for our guy. So I freeze it into kibble size pieces, takes him 45 minutes to eat. The best part of it is that the only way to chill him out is by making him think..Training, etc. Physical exercise is child's play for him. He needs a mental challenge and this item has been a game changer! Too bad I was too stubborn to try it until now! (She suggested it in February)
I use the Furbliss brush weekly and it helps. It is usually worse between seasons.
One thing that helped with the shedding (and the dog sneezing a lot and chewing his paws) was that we found out he was allergic to chicken. Apparently about 20% of dogs are, and it is in everything. Now he is on a limited ingredient pet food and treats and is doing great.
Ruffwear makes them, but I went for the cheaper version and it’s held up for two years https://www.amazon.com/SGODA-Cooling-Harness-Cooler-Jacket/dp/B071DRLGX4/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?adgrpid=55866044397&gclid=Cj0KCQjw1ZeUBhDyARIsAOzAqQI--RzcuKnIYlL0X23UKk1grYf728I1-mNPNhQz1znapWBJr8mQjOUaAjB8EALw_wcB&hvadid=274754392969&hvdev=m&...
We use a mit that has silicone brush on the palm. Kind of like this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008W8INEC/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_F0FFR33ENF6ZZ6MGR8MG
There are quite a few out there, I'm sure they're all pretty decent. The metal bristle ones just aren't very effective for short haired dogs. Probably don't feel very good on their skin either.
Yes. This book has been my go to. I’ve read lots of different books and this one resonated with me the most.
I’ve done lots of research and have asked many different folks and they will all tell you their way is the right way. You have to find what works for you and your dog.
I’ve only had my GSP for like 6 weeks now? I also have a lab - he is 5 years old. The GSP is incredibly bullheaded, stubborn, and much smarter than the lab.
Crate training was such an issue. High rewards, feed him in his crate, lots of frozen Kong’s, consistent praise for going in the crate.
I’ve also clicker trained my GSP and it’s been going great. I’d recommend Standing Stone Kennels on YouTube.
Good luck!
I'm not the OP, but I have the below one from Kurgo in large for my 68 pound male. Used in Minnesota since January of 2017, and fits like a glove. Very happy with it. https://www.amazon.com/Kurgo-Reversible-Weather-Water-resistant-Reflective/dp/B00H67VYE6/ref=sr\_1\_3?dchild=1&keywords=kurgo+coat&qid=1632752626&sr=8-3
Haha good lookin' pups for sure!
Quick tip for your girl in heat: Buy these washable diapers and line them with pads from your local Dollar Tree or Dollar General. I typically cut the pads in half before sticking them to the diapers, which obviously makes the boxes last longer. Waaay cheaper than buying throw away pads.
Enjoy your pups!
This is the one I've used and recommended to others for at-home use, which comes with a removable panel that you can adjust as your pup grows:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000QFT1R2/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Perfect size for shorthairs.
Sparkfire Pet IQ Intelligent Toy Slow Feeder Smart Dog Puzzle Toys, Puppy Treat Dispenser Interactive Dog Toys for Training Treats Improve Dog's IQ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08L4QQRGN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_G288Fb1TEEQJZ