Tag: Dogs

Why did the Dog Cross the Road

Esther’s writing prompt: June 17 : Cross

Click here or here  to join in.

A mini-Australian Shepherd is crossing the street on a crosswalk.
A dog is crossing the road. Created with the help of ChatGPT.

Top Ten Reasons as to why the Dog Crossed the Road

  1. The dog got sick and tired of this side of the street.
  2. The dog wanted to stalk someone on the other side of the road and then not bark at them and get a treat for not barking at people.
  3. Because he wants to chase a cat on the other side of the road.
  4. The dog wanted to smell something on the other side of the road.
  5. A dog is barking at us on the other side of the road, and our dog wants to put him in his place.
  6. There was a scary noise on this side of the road.
  7. Someone the dog knows and love is on the other side of the road.
  8. The dog has to cross the road to get to grandma and grandpas house.
  9. Because someone said let’s cross. Note: our dog Rollo knows the word “cross” very well.
  10. Because someone accidentally said the word “cross”, for example, “After graduating from college, I found myself at the crossroads”. Now we all have to cross the road.

About number 2. Our dog Rollo loves getting close to people and not bark because he knows he will get a treat if he does not bark at people. So sometimes it appears that he wants to stalk people to get a treat. He even spots people half a mile away. However, we do not actually stalk people.

A mini-Australian Shepherd is lying on his side as in front of Bronco as if he wants a belly rub.
Our mini-Australian Shepherd with our Leonberger Bronco who was old at the time.
Rollo is biting a large orange volleyball.
Our mini-Australian Shepherd Rollo rolling a ball.

The danger of dogs crossing the Road

Our dog Rollo loves to cross the street when we are out walking, and we cross the street many times during our walks. He knows the word “cross” because we have taught him this word so that he understands that crossing a street back and forth is a special action that he needs to pay special attention to. We want him to know that when crossing the street, you have to be careful. Ideally, we would like for him to look both ways before he crosses a street, but we are working on this. We have had a bad experience with dogs crossing roads.

WARNING: the paragraphs below are very sad, so if you are sensitive, please skip to “My Other Responses to Esther’s Prompts”.

Close up photo of Baylor’s face.
Our Yellow Labrador Baylor

In December of 2008, we were planning a one-week trip. Baylor our yellow Labrador was maybe twelve years old at this point, and Bronco our Leonberger dog was a year and a half. We also had Baby our German Shepherd and Ryu our Japanese Chin. We needed someone to watch our four dogs while we were gone. Following a recommendation from our veterinarian at the time, we settled for a sitter who would visit the dogs, feed them, and walk them but not stay at our house full-time. This sounded like the best option at the time, but it turned out to be a disaster.

After we left on our trip, we got a phone call from the sitter, who told us that she was taking care of several other dogs in addition to ours and that she did not have time to drive back and forth to our house and attend to our dogs. The fact that she was taking care of several other dogs simultaneously was news to us. She asked if she could take our four dogs to her house. She stated that she had a fence like ours, and by having them at her house she could watch them 100 percent of the time.

We didn’t really like the idea because the dogs had never stayed at someone else’s house before. Moreover, we had never seen her house, and we had no idea how crowded it was with the other dogs there. But it sounded like the best solution under the circumstances, so we reluctantly agreed.

A couple of days later, the dog sitter called us again, but this time she told us that Baylor was missing. He had been barking at night, so she put him out in the backyard. Unfortunately, the gate at her place had been left open, and she didn’t notice that Baylor was gone until early in the morning. She asked us what we thought she should do.

We told her that she had to find him. “Go look for him; put up posters,” we said. She was reluctant to do any of that because she didn’t want to leave the other dogs alone. We told her that it was an emergency and she had to do it. We suggested that she recruit other people to help her. Baylor had to be found.

We were pretty upset about the fact that the sitter had put Baylor out into the backyard in the middle of a cold night and left him there. However, we needed her help, so we kept calm. We enlisted help from family members in Dallas, and I used an online service called My Lost Pet Alert, which sent 2,264 emails to people in our neighborhood that night. It didn’t help that it was cold and sleeting and the streets were icy and dark. Baylor also needed his insulin shot in the morning.

The following afternoon Baylor was found dead two miles from the dog sitter’s place. He had been hit by a car. He was found around midway between her house and our house, so it seemed like he was trying to get home.

Baylor had a very special place in our hearts, and I was devastated. My wife Claudia was crying, and the kids were crying. Not only had we lost a family member in a sudden cruel twist of fate, but his death was also likely an unpleasant one. That it was the result of a dog sitter’s carelessness didn’t make it any better. In fact, it made it worse. It is a traumatic event that none of has yet gotten over.

Baylor crossing the rainbow bridge and it says “you were our favorite Hello and our hardest Goodbye”.
Illustration by Naomi Rosenblatt.

My Other Responses to Esther’s Prompts

Launching A Pet Boarding Business

A professional content writer by the name of Ryan Goodchild contacted me about me posting an  article he had written on launching a pet boarding and pet daycare business. The title of the article is “A Step-by-Step Guide to Launching Your Pet Boarding and Daycare Business”  and you can see the article below. Ryan wrote the article and I provided pictures.

Photos from Pexels.com by Nataliya Vaitkevich, Aishu gowda, Austin Briones, and Blue Bird. At the top left, me with our Leonberger dog Bronco.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Launching Your Pet Boarding and Daycare Business

For local business owners and new pet service entrepreneurs, a pet boarding business opportunity can feel obvious, until the local pet daycare market reveals crowded options in one area and unmet needs in another. The core challenge is separating real community pet care demand from friendly encouragement, so a small business startup in the pet industry doesn’t open to empty spots or unhappy neighbors. The upside is meaningful: reliable support for working families, safer care for pets, and a business built on trust and consistency. Clear demand and clear standards are what turn pet care into a lasting local service.

Ten Leonberger puppies sitting on a sofa. They are brown with black face masks.
Ten Leonberger puppies, about two months old. Shutterstock-ID:561107710 by Akbudak Rimma.

Build Your Pet Boarding Business From Plan to Opening

This roadmap helps you turn a pet boarding and daycare idea into a real opening day plan, with fewer legal, safety, and customer service surprises. It matters because most “small” gaps, like paperwork, intake rules, or staffing, are exactly what shape trust in your community.

  1. Confirm demand and define your offer
    Start with a simple business plan that names who you serve, what problems you solve, and how many pets you can safely handle per day. Talk to local vets, groomers, and pet parents to learn which hours, services, and price points are actually missing. Use what you hear to choose a clear niche, like small-dog daycare, senior pet boarding, or extended-hour drop-offs.
  2. Choose your structure and line up licensing
    Pick a legal setup, register your business, and get an EIN so you can open accounts and hire staff cleanly. A checklist like choosing a business structure can help you decide how to organize liability, taxes, and ownership from day one. Then contact your city or county to confirm permits, zoning, signage rules, and any kennel or animal care licensing requirements.
  3. Set up a safe, workable facility
    Choose a location and layout that supports calm movement, easy cleaning, and separation when needed, such as by size, temperament, or health status. Before you commit, visit the facility you plan to use so you can notice noise, odor control, drainage, entry security, and how pets would flow through the space. Build your setup around safety basics like double-door entry, secure fencing, sanitation stations, and clear emergency exits.
  4. Train your team and lock in operating standards
    Write simple, repeatable rules for supervision, playgroup grouping, feeding, medication, cleaning schedules, and incident reporting. Train staff on body language basics, de-escalation, and how to follow checklists, not memory, during busy rushes. Consistent standards reduce accidents and make your service feel dependable even as you grow.
  5. Create intake procedures and launch marketing
    Set an intake process that protects pets and sets expectations, including vaccination proof, temperament notes, emergency contacts, and a trial day for new clients. Then market what you can deliver consistently: capacity, hours, safety practices, and your booking process, not just cute photos. Ask early customers for reviews, and build referral partnerships with nearby pet professionals so your first month is not a guessing game.
Five Leonbergers lying in the grass. They are wearing hats showing the American flag.
Five Leonbergers including Digory on 4th of July 2023. Photo by my friend Jen O’Keefe.

Build the Business Skills That Keep Pet Care Profitable

Boosting your business acumen can be as practical as earning an online business degree, giving you structured training to support smarter choices as you grow. Earning a business management degree can help build skills in leadership, operations, and project management, the same capabilities you’ll lean on when you’re coordinating people, processes, and services. An online format can make it easier to learn on a flexible schedule while still applying what you study to your business in real time; for additional info, explore the program details.

Our mini-Australian Shepherd puppy Rollo is playing with an orange volleyball on the green grass.
Our mini-Australian Shepherd puppy Rollo playing with an orange ball.

Pet Boarding and Daycare Startup Questions

Q: What licenses or rules do I need before I take my first booking?
A: Start with your city or county business license, zoning approval, and any kennel or animal care permits your state requires. Ask specifically about occupancy limits, noise rules, waste disposal, and vaccination requirements. Create a simple compliance binder with permits, inspection notes, and written policies so you can prove you are operating responsibly.

Q: How much insurance do I really need, and what should it cover?
A: Look for liability coverage that includes animal bailee or care, custody, and control, plus protection for bites, escapes, and property damage. Many sitters benchmark options by noting 78% of members in a major industry survey used one insurer, but the right choice depends on your services and facility. Get quotes from at least three providers and confirm exclusions in writing.

Q: How do I set prices without scaring off new clients?
A: Price around your true costs first: staffing, cleaning, rent, insurance, and supplies, then add a profit margin. A practical reference point is the pricing range $25-$65/day for day boarding, adjusted for your local demand and service level. Offer clear add-ons like medication, late pickup, or enrichment instead of discounting your base care.

Q: Should I hire staff right away, or start solo?
A: Many owners start lean, then hire when supervision and cleaning tasks begin to compete with customer service and sales. If you do hire, prioritize reliability and calm handling skills over pet ownership alone. Use paid working interviews and require proof of any claimed certifications.

Q: How can I prevent fights, illness, or mix-ups between pets?
A: Use temperament screenings, separate play groups by size and energy, and set firm criteria for when a pet must be kenneled or isolated. Require vaccination records, a signed emergency authorization, and clear ID on every collar and kennel. Daily cleaning checklists and incident logs help you spot patterns before they become big problems.

An old lady at the hotel reception. She has a small dog.
From pexels.com cottonbro studio

Open-Ready Startup Checklist

This checklist keeps your launch organized so you can open confidently and care for pets safely. Use it to spot gaps early, avoid last minute scrambles, and create a smooth first impression.

✔ Confirm business license, zoning clearance, and required animal care permits

✔ File insurance policies and document coverage limits, deductibles, and exclusions

✔ Set pricing sheet with add-ons, cancellation terms, and pickup windows

✔ Prepare intake packet with vaccine proof, emergency contacts, and behavior notes

✔ Stock supplies list for cleaning, enrichment, feeding, and first-aid essentials

✔ Create daily routines for sanitation, headcounts, and incident reporting

✔ Verify staff identities, references, and hands-on handling competence

✔ Launch local outreach with a simple website, reviews plan, and referral perk

Seven Leonbergers lying or sitting on the sand on a beach.
Seven Leonbergers at the beach. Photo by my friend Jen O’Keefe.

Turn Your Pet Care Plan Into a Trusted Local Business

Starting a pet boarding and daycare business can feel overwhelming because pets’ safety, regulations, and expectations all land on day one. The path forward is a community-first mindset, use your open-ready checklist, stay consistent, and build trust through clear standards and a customer satisfaction focus. When those pieces are in place, entrepreneurial motivation turns into confidence building for new owners, steady referrals, and long-term growth strategies that make the operation resilient. A calm, prepared launch is the fastest way to earn trust and keep it.

A woman is grooming a small hairy dog.
From pexels.com by Tima Miroshnichenko

Making a Difference for Shelter Pets

A professional content writer by the name of Ryan Goodchild contacted me about me posting an  article he had written on making a big difference for shelter dogs in your community. There are many ways that you can help as described in his article below. His article certainly contains a lot of great advice for all of us. I know that some of my regular readers volunteer at shelters and my gratitude goes out to all of you. You are heroes.

The photo tile above includes five photos of dogs in shelter. The photos are from pexels.com and the photographers are Laura Beauty Designer, lair arce, halilibrahimxq, 12photography and A P E R T U R E.

I should say that Leonberger dogs, the main topic of this blog, rarely end up in shelters and the reason for that is that Leonberger owners tend to be responsible dog owners and perhaps more importantly, it is difficult to get a Leonberger from a breeder that is not LCA certified. LCA is the acronym for the Leonberger Club of America. LCA requires breeders to take the dog back if anything goes wrong and they also keep an eye on Leonberger owners. If you mistreat a Leonberger, or sell or donate one in an unauthorized way, you can never own a Leonberger again. You have to sign a contract before you can buy a Leonberger. Below is a photo of a group of Leonbergers.

Five Leonbergers lying in the grass. They are wearing hats showing the American flag.
Five Leonbergers including Digory on 4th of July 2023. Photo by my friend Jen O’Keefe.

Our first two family dogs, a Labrador and a German Shepherd, came from a shelter via our niece and my wife’s sister. Their photo is below.

Our yellow Lab Baylor is sitting on the left. Our brown-black German Shepherd Baby is sitting on the right.
Our Labrador Baylor and German Shepherd Baby. They were both rescues.

The title of Ryan’s article is “How Anyone Can Make a Big Difference for Shelter Pets in Their Community”. While Ryan did all the writing, I added some photos. See below.

How Anyone Can Make a Big Difference for Shelter Pets in Their Community

Busy parents juggling work and school schedules, apartment renters with limited space, and local business owners trying to stay afloat often care deeply about animals but feel unsure how to create real animal welfare impact. Community needs are big, yet time, money, and energy are tight, and it can feel like only experts can move the needle. In reality, community support for shelter pets is the backbone of local rescues, from volunteering at shelters to helping more families feel confident about rescue pet adoption. Small, consistent involvement changes outcomes for animals waiting today.

Understanding the Three Ways to Help Shelter Pets

Most people make the biggest difference when they pick a help style that matches their real life. A simple framework covers almost every option: donate time through specific shelter volunteer roles, offer space by fostering, or give money to fund care and services. Think of it as choosing the lever you can pull consistently.

This matters because shelters run on steady support, not one-time bursts. Time keeps daily routines moving, space reduces crowding and stress, and money covers essentials like food, medical care, and outreach. The scale adds up fast when many people contribute in small ways: one volunteer community donated 211,307 hours of service.

Picture a typical week: you cannot adopt, but you can walk dogs on Saturdays, foster during a quieter month, or set up a $10 monthly gift. Fostering works because fostering is a temporary arrangement that moves an animal into a calmer home environment.

Clear, shareable graphics make those adoption and donation asks easier for your network to act on.

The illustrations show a woman holding a puppy in the middle, and volunteers grooming, bathing, walking and feeding dogs.
Dogs and volunteers at abandoned dog shelters. flat design style minimal vector illustration. Shutterstock asset id: 1817304344 by miniwide

Create Scroll-Stopping Adoption and Fundraiser Graphics in Minutes

Once you know whether you’re giving time, space, or money, one of the fastest ways to amplify that help is to make adoptable pets and urgent needs stand out online.

Volunteers can use free online tools to create eye-catching graphics that showcase adoptable pets and support fundraising, think social media posts, adoption flyers, or promotional materials for an upcoming event. Clear, shareable visuals can help more people notice a pet’s face and key details as they scroll, or understand what a donation drive is for at a glance. With an AI tool like Adobe Firefly’s AI graphic design generator, you don’t need design experience: you describe what you need (for example, an adoption post for a specific dog or a fundraiser graphic for medical costs), and the tool generates a customized visual you can share.

From there, you can pick from more high-impact actions that fit your schedule, skills, and comfort level.

Choose High-Impact Actions to Support Local Rescues

Pick two or three actions you can sustain, and do them consistently. Shelters and rescues run on tight timelines, so reliable help (even small) often beats one big burst.

  1. Foster with a clear “lane” (weekend, medical, or shy pets): Ask the rescue which foster type is most urgent, then choose one that matches your schedule, like a 72-hour “decompression foster,” a two-week post-surgery foster, or a quieter home for a fearful dog or cat. Get expectations in writing: who provides food, crates, meds, and vet care, plus a backup plan if you travel. Fostering shelter pets frees kennel space and gives the rescue better notes, photos, and behavior insights to share.
  2. Volunteer at animal shelters in one repeatable shift: Instead of “whenever,” pick a predictable slot like every other Saturday morning. Offer a specific role that reduces staff load: laundry, dishes, kennel reset, enrichment stuffing (Kongs/snuffle mats), dog walking, cat socialization, or adoption desk support. Consistency builds trust, which often unlocks higher-impact tasks like handling fearful animals, transport, or mentoring new volunteers.
  3. Run a targeted pet supply drive (one list, one week, one drop-off point): Start by asking for a “Top 10 Most Needed” list and preferred brands/sizes, then set a tight window (5–7 days) so donations arrive when they’re needed. Make it easy: one drop-off location, clear hours, and a single photo graphic showing exact items, your quick adoption/fundraiser design skills are perfect here. Add a goal tracker (“20 cans of kitten food” or “15 slip leads”) and post one daily update.
  4. Donate strategically, not randomly: Unrestricted monthly gifts help organizations plan medical care and staffing, and even $10–$25/month is meaningful when it’s reliable. It makes a difference: animal and environment donations make up 3% of all donations, so steady support can close real gaps. If you prefer “restricted” giving, fund a specific line item the rescue requests, spay/neuter vouchers, heartworm treatment, or emergency boarding.
  5. Become the “story + visuals” helper for one adoptable pet at a time: Offer to take 10 phone photos in good window light, capture a 15-second walking video, and write a short bio using a simple template: what the pet loves, what they’re learning, and the best home fit. Turn it into a clean graphic for social media (same colors, big readable text, one clear call-to-action) so volunteers can post fast without reinventing the wheel. This supports adoptions and fundraising without requiring you to handle animals.
  6. Advocate locally with one concrete ask: Start small: request pet-friendly rental policies at your workplace housing program, ask your city council to fund shelter improvements, or push for accessible spay/neuter and microchip clinics. Show up once: attend a meeting, bring a one-page summary, and share a few rescue-approved graphics to help neighbors understand the issue quickly. Community advocacy for animals works best when it’s specific, respectful, and focused on solutions.

If you’re unsure what fits your time, budget, allergies, or experience, choose the smallest version of one idea and build from there, doing the “right-size” help consistently is what changes outcomes.

A woman with at least five dogs. She is caressing them.
Animal shelter volunteer takes care of dogs. Animal volunteer takes care of homeless animals. Shutterstock asset id: 2390820575 by andysavchenko

Shelter Pet Support: Questions People Ask Most

A few quick answers can make starting feel a lot easier.

Q: How do I help if I only have an hour or two a week?
A: Choose one small, repeatable job and stick to it, like laundry, enrichment prep, or photo posting. Many people give time in bite-size chunks, and 63 million people volunteer, so shelters are used to scheduling around real life.

Q: What if I show up to volunteer and the tasks feel boring or awkward?
A: That is normal, especially at first. Many roles are repetitive, dry, and unremarkable tasks that still protect animal health and keep operations moving. Ask for a clear checklist so you can be helpful even when you do not feel “plugged in” yet.

Q: Can I foster if I have pets, kids, or allergies at home?
A: Often yes, if you choose the right match and set boundaries. Request a foster that fits your household, confirm separation options, and get medical and behavior expectations in writing before pickup.

Q: How do I know my donation is actually used well?
A: Ask what their most urgent need is this month and whether they can share a simple breakdown of spending or program outcomes. If you want tighter accountability, fund a specific item they request and ask for a receipt or confirmation note.

Q: What should I avoid when adopting so I do not end up returning the pet?
A: Do a lifestyle match first: time alone, energy level, grooming, and realistic training needs. Ask about decompression time, medical history, and a support plan, and start with a slower transition rather than a packed social calendar.

Small, steady help adds up faster than you think for the pets counting on it.

Choose One Small Commitment That Helps Shelter Pets Thrive

Shelters are stretched thin, and it’s easy to care deeply yet feel unsure where help truly lands. The way forward is a steady, community-minded approach: choose practical roles, communicate clearly, and keep support consistent so good intentions become real relief. When that mindset sticks, making a difference for shelter pets looks like fuller foster networks, stronger outcomes from encouraging pet adoption, and volunteer impact stories that motivate others to join in. One reliable helper can change the daily reality for dozens of animals. Pick one next step today, sign up for a shift, submit a foster application, or set a small recurring donation, and put it on the calendar. Ongoing support for animal welfare builds the stability that lets pets and rescues recover, connect, and thrive.

A woman in a red sweater feeding a beagle in a cage.
Woman feeds a dog at an animal shelter for adoption at a rescue center. Wellness, charity, and youth and women volunteering with an adoptive dog and pet at the local kennel. Shutterstock asset id: 2428340131 by Yiistocking

Including Your Leonberger in Your Wedding

A professional content writer by the name of Ryan Goodchild contacted me about publishing a Leonberger related post on my Leonberger blog, which I am certainly happy to assist with. The title is “How to Include Your Leonberger in Your Wedding Day with Ease and Joy”. See the article article below. While Ryan did all the writing, I added photos of our Leonberger as well as a few Leonberger stock photos.

The photo tile above includes a photo of me and my wife cutting a wedding cake and a photo of our son and daughter in-laws wedding party. There are two photos of our Leonberger Bronco. One from when he was a three months old puppy and one from when he was 12 years old. There is a shutter stock photo ID:731020957  by Peter Josto, a photo of a woman and her Leonberger dog, asset id: 1741753382 by Elena Podrezenko, and a another photo showing a Leonberger puppy with flowers, asset id: 561113224 by Akbudak Rimma.

How to Include Your Leonberger in Your Wedding Day with Ease and Joy

Leonberger owners planning to include dogs in weddings often feel pulled between the deep emotional bond with dogs and the reality of managing a gentle giant in a busy, unpredictable setting. Wedding festivities with pets can be loud, crowded, and full of unfamiliar smells and schedules, which can raise anxiety and create safety concerns for guests and for large dog breeds at events. Add shedding, heat tolerance, and stamina to the mix, and even well-trained dogs can struggle if expectations aren’t clear. With the right mindset, couples can protect comfort and health while making room for meaningful moments with their Leonberger.

Leonberger dogs in field of purple flowers saying hello to each other.
Shutterstock asset id: Shutterstock 450770140 by everydoghasastory

Quick Summary: Leonberger-Friendly Wedding Planning

  • Plan a dog-friendly role that fits your Leonberger’s temperament, energy, and comfort in crowds.
  • Choose simple, theme-matching accessories that stay comfortable and safe for a large breed.
  • Confirm venue rules and set up a calm, shaded rest area with water and a trusted handler.
  • Prepare for photos by timing sessions well and using familiar cues for calm, cooperative portraits.

Pick Your Pup’s Role: Ring Bearer, Flower Dog, or Photo Star

Leonbergers can be surprisingly steady “wedding teammates” when their job matches their temperament, coat needs, and stamina. Use the musts you already planned, venue safety, a quiet break space, hydration, and a realistic timeline, to choose a role that feels joyful, not stressful.

  1. Match the role to your Leonberger’s comfort level: Start by choosing the easiest job your dog can succeed at, then upgrade only if practice is smooth. A confident, people-friendly Leo may love a short aisle walk, while a more sensitive dog might shine as a “photo star” during a calm pre-ceremony session. A simple gut-check is whether your dog can stay relaxed around applause, rustling fabric, and hugs; a pet’s personality should guide how “public” their role is.
  2. Choose Leonberger-friendly wedding attire that won’t mat or overheat: For big-coated dogs, prioritize soft, wide straps and minimal layers: a lightweight bow tie on a breakaway collar, a bandana that sits above the shoulder coat, or a floral collar made with faux flowers and soft backing. Avoid tight elastic, scratchy tulle, or anything that compresses the ruff, those can tangle and create hot spots. Do a 10-minute dress rehearsal at home, then brush out the coat immediately after to prevent matting.
  3. Try a harness-based ring bearer setup (safe and photogenic): Skip anything that dangles near paws or swings into the chest. Use a well-fitted Y-front harness and attach a small, closed pouch (or lightweight ring box) to the top strap so it stays stable; keep the real rings with your best human. Practice a 20–30 second “walk, stop, sit” routine in the harness so your Leonberger learns the exact aisle pace you want.
  4. Make “flower dog” realistic with a basket-free plan: Many Leonbergers dislike carrying objects when excited, and baskets can bump the chest and restrict stride. Instead, attach a mini pouch of petals to the harness and have an attendant sprinkle petals just ahead of you, or cue your dog to “touch” a decorated sign at the aisle entrance for the same effect. This keeps the job simple while still delivering that flower-dog moment.
  5. Plan a photo-star schedule that respects coat, drool, and downtime: Leonbergers often photograph best in shorter bursts: aim for two 5–8 minute sets, one before guests arrive and one at golden hour, rather than one long session. Pack a “quick reset kit” from your musts list: towel, drool cloth, slicker brush, water, and high-value treats. Ask your photographer for a few action prompts (walk toward the camera, sit-and-stay, “look” cue) so your dog isn’t stuck holding a pose too long.
  6. Assign a dedicated handler and a clean exit route: Your dog should have one familiar adult who isn’t in the wedding party, someone who knows their cues, can spot stress signals, and can leave early without disrupting the flow. Rehearse the entrance and exit route once at the venue, including the potty spot and the quiet break space, so your Leonberger never has to “guess” what’s next.

When your dog’s role is simple, comfortable, and well-rehearsed, it’s easier to troubleshoot the real-life questions, like crowd anxiety, heat management, and what a truly pet-safe venue needs to have.

Puppy Leonberger in front of white background. The puppy is wearing flowers.
Leonberger puppy being the flower dog. Shutterstock Asset id: 2154719621 by cynoclub.

Wedding Day Q&A for Leonberger Parents

Got a few last-minute worries? You’re not alone.

Q: What are some safe and comfortable outfit ideas for dressing my Leonberger for a wedding?
A: Choose minimal, breathable pieces that will not pinch the ruff or trap heat, like a lightweight bandana or soft bow tie on a breakaway collar. Skip tight elastic, scratchy fabrics, and anything that rubs under the armpits. Do a short trial run, then brush the coat to prevent friction mats.

Q: How can I keep my Leonberger calm and happy during the busy wedding day?
A: Build predictability: a quiet retreat spot, regular water breaks, and a handler who can step out before your dog hits their limit. A fear-free approach focuses on helping your pet feel safe, predictable, and understood, which is exactly the goal on a high-energy day. Watch for early stress signals like yawning, lip-licking, or scanning the room, and take a quick decompression break.

Q: What are creative ways to include my Leonberger in wedding photos and invitations?
A: Plan a calm “portrait window” before guests arrive, then capture a second short session later when your dog is refreshed. For invitations and signage, use one clean photo and a simple icon version for small prints, then export everything into a single print-ready PDF using an image-to-PDF converter, including converting PNGs to PDFs online.

Q: How do I prepare the wedding venue to ensure it’s pet-friendly and suitable for my Leonberger?
A: Confirm shade or indoor cooling, a non-slip path, and a low-traffic potty area away from food service. Ask about noise peaks, crowd flow, and any off-limits rooms so your Leonberger is never surprised. Because pet anxiety claims nationwide are up 93% since 2019, it’s smart to plan for lower stimulation, not just “allowing dogs.”

Q: What support can help me plan, including my Leonberger in wedding festivities, without feeling overwhelmed?
A: Assign one dedicated dog handler and give them a simple checklist: arrival time, potty plan, water schedule, photo times, and an exit cue. Do one venue walk-through together, then keep your dog’s “job” short and winnable. If you’re making printed signs, batch your images and notes into one shared folder so decisions do not snowball.

A calm plan creates the joyful Leonberger memories you’ll actually want to relive.

Five Leonbergers wearing patriotic hats lying on grass by a lake.
This photo was provided by Jen O’Keefe, Urgent Animal Care of Arlington. From left to right; Obi, Delfi, Aslan, Gryphon, Digory.

Plan a Smooth Wedding Role for Your Leonberger

Here’s how to move from plan to action.

This process helps you include your Leonberger in the celebration while protecting their comfort, body safety, and stress level. Because Leonbergers are powerful, sensitive, and heat-prone under that gorgeous coat, a few rehearsals and clear logistics prevent overwhelm for both dog and humans.

  1. Step 1: Choose one short “job” and rehearse it. Start with a single, easy role such as walking down the aisle with a handler, a quick greeting, or a photo cameo. Practice in 3 to 5-minute sessions in different places so your Leonberger learns the pattern, not just the location. End each run with a calm reward so the wedding task feels predictable and winnable.
  2. Step 2: Run an outfit and gear test at home. Try the bandana, bow tie, harness, or leash during a normal walk, then check for rubbing under the front legs and around the ruff. Confirm your dog can pant freely, drink water, and lie down comfortably, since those are key stress relievers on a busy day. If anything causes scratching, head-shaking, or stiffness, simplify the outfit.
  3. Step 3: Assign a dedicated pet-wrangler and share the schedule. Pick one person whose only responsibility is your dog, since you will be busy and emotions run high, and assign a pet handler who can advocate for breaks. Give them a simple timeline with arrival, potty, water, photos, ceremony, and your dog’s planned exit. Include your Leonberger’s “no thanks” signals so the handler can step away early, not after your dog is over threshold.
  4. Step 4: Build large-dog safety protocols into every location change. Walk the exact routes your Leonberger will take, and remove slipping hazards like polished floors, loose rugs, and tight corners where guests may crowd in for petting. Confirm who opens doors, who holds the leash, and where your dog waits so nobody grabs the collar or leans over their head. Keep greetings brief and one-at-a-time to reduce jumping risk and prevent stress stacking.
  5. Step 5: Schedule enrichment breaks to reset body and brain. Plan short “off-stage” pauses every 45 to 90 minutes for water, sniffing, and a chew or lick mat in a quiet spot. A few minutes of decompression lowers arousal and helps your Leonberger return to the group with better manners and a softer expression. If you can, arrive early so your dog can take a slow sniff-walk before the energy spikes.

When your Leonberger knows the routine and has real breaks, joy looks effortless and feels safe.

Creating Calm, Joyful Wedding Moments With Your Leonberger

Weddings are busy and sensory-rich, and it’s easy for a big-hearted Leonberger to get overwhelmed or under-managed in the excitement. A comfort-first plan, clear roles, thoughtful pacing, and responsible dog care at celebrations keep the day joyful while enhancing weddings with pets in a way that truly fits your dog. When that mindset leads, celebrating Leonbergers on special days becomes safer, smoother, and more meaningful, creating lasting memories with wedding dogs that everyone can cherish. Choose one job your Leonberger can enjoy, and let comfort set the pace. Pick one meaningful role your dog already excels at and commit to that single assignment for the day. That’s how the positive impacts of pets at weddings support connection and well-being long after the last dance.

Letting Your Dog Drive the Car

Esther’s writing prompt: February 11 : Drive

Click here or here  to join in.

A photo of a Leonberger puppy wearing a red scarf.
This is a photo of our Leonberger Bronco when he was three months old.
Our Leonberger dog is standing on a red leather sofa, and he is leaning over to give me a hug.
Bronco our Leonberger dog was a very affectionate dog.
On the left is our yellow Labrador Baylor and on the right is our brown and black German Shepherd. They are both lying down and looking into the camera.
Our Labrador Baylor and our German Shepherd Baby. Photo taken at the same time as the top photo above. However, we couldn’t get Bronco to sit still between Baylor and Baby.
Bronco is standing at the kitchen entrance, and our new little dark brown and white puppy is sitting in front of him.
In this photo our Leonberger dog Bronco is eleven and a half years old, and we had acquired a new puppy, a mini-Australian Shepherd by the name Rollo.

One thing all our dogs loved was going for a car ride. The big dogs loved sticking their heads out the window and feeling the wind in their faces. The little dogs loved going places. And they all loved looking at the passing scenery. Oh, the things you can see when you’re “ridin’ in the car, car,” as the Woody Guthrie song goes!

There were some sights that got the dogs especially excited. They would bark if they saw people working on roofs or riding bicycles, for example. They would become even more animated if we got close to a dog park or a McDonald’s drive-through window. (That might have been because sometimes we bought them snacks at the McDonald’s drive-through.)

One time when I was taking Bronco, Baylor, and Baby to the dog park, a car passing me slowed down and started driving right next to me. I looked over, slightly annoyed, and saw that the people in the car were pointing at us and laughing. I was thinking, “What is their problem?” Then I glanced back at the dogs and realized that we did look funny. Bronco was sitting in the front passenger seat with his head close to the roof, looking majestic. Baylor and Baby were sitting in their own seats in the back. They probably looked like human passengers from a distance, but as the people in the car got closer, they realized that the heads weren’t human heads but dogs’ heads and burst out laughing.

I can add that most of the time we put the dogs in the back of our van or SUV but since they preferred to sit on a seat like humans do, we started letting them sit on the seats. If you let them sit on the seats you need to attach them to the car seat latch using dog safety restraint (dog seat belt). Sometimes, the dogs wanted to drive but it is difficult to get a driver license for a dog in Texas. In the picture below Rollo did not really drive the car. I used that photo for an April 1st joke.

Our mini-Australian Shepherd Rollo is driving a car. He is coming back from a visit to grandma and grandpa.

From Pete Springer (see comments) I got this YouTube video featuring 13 funny and cute Subaru commericals showing dogs driving cars.

My Other Responses to Esther’s Prompts

Is it difficult to get a dog driver license where you live ?

Caring for Aging Leonbergers

Photo of a Leonberger lying on a leather sofa with my book leaning towards his chest.
An old Canadian Leonberger called Mak with my book The Life and Times of Le Bronco von der Löwenhöhle. Photo by Debbie Ireland.
Like most very large dogs Leonbergers don’t live very long. Our Leonberger Bronco got his Grey-Muzzle award from the Leonberger Health Foundation International for reaching the age of 12 years old and thus giving hope for a longer life to all Leonbergers.

This is a guest post written by Ryan Goodchild. He emailed me asking me if he could publish this post regarding caring for aging Leonberger. I said yes. I am very grateful to Ryan for his contribution. I added the photos. See his post below.

Caring for Aging Leonbergers: Gentle Stewardship for a Noble Breed

Leonbergers are among the most majestic of dogs, gentle giants with deep eyes and a noble temperament. Yet as they age, their impressive size can make the journey into senior years more complex. Providing attentive, structured care can extend both their lifespan and their sense of ease.

Key Takeways

  • Large breeds like Leonbergers face an earlier onset of joint and heart issues; early detection matters.
  • Routine, low-impact exercise sustains mobility without strain.
  • Dietary adjustments can prevent unnecessary weight gain and inflammation.
  • Organized health tracking improves coordination with veterinarians.
  • Emotional stability and routine help aging Leonbergers thrive.
The photo shows an old Leonberger dog lying on green grass. He is looking into the camera.
Bronco our Leonberger dog is taking a rest during a walk. He is twelve and a half years old.

Movement, Moderation, and Mindful Play

As Leonbergers age, mobility becomes one of the first visible signs of change. These dogs are stoic by nature, and they’ll often mask discomfort until it’s advanced. Structured daily activity, rather than long or sporadic walks, helps maintain joint lubrication and muscle tone. Before implementing the list below, remember: consistency outperforms intensity in senior dogs.

  • Short, frequent walks instead of long treks
  • Gentle swimming or hydrotherapy to maintain strength
  • Orthopedic support beds to reduce pressure on hips
  • Warm-ups and cool-downs before and after activity
  • Avoid stairs and slippery floors
A photo of our Leonberger lying on our green lawn. There are trees and bushes in the background.
Our Leonberger Bronco taking a resting in the grass in our backyard.

The Nutrition Shift: Balancing Strength and Weight

Proper nutrition is the most controllable lever for supporting your Leonberger’s aging body. Senior diets should favor lean protein, omega fatty acids, and joint-supportive ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin. Maintaining a stable weight relieves stress on the joints and heart, critical in large breeds prone to orthopedic and cardiac issues.

Before introducing supplements or new foods, ask your vet for metabolic screening. Senior metabolism slows down, and caloric needs can drop by 20–30%.

Our Leonberger dog Bronco is standing in front of me and looking straight into the camera. I am sitting down.
Our old Leonberger dog Bronco is coming up to me. Maybe it is dinner time.

Organized Health Tracking for Long-Term Comfort

Keeping your Leonberger’s medical and health information in one place transforms how you coordinate care, especially across multiple veterinarians or specialists. When you can easily review past test results, medication schedules, or dietary shifts, you reduce oversight risks and improve continuity of care. Centralized documentation also helps detect subtle changes over time, like gradual increases in kidney markers or weight fluctuations.

For this reason, an online PDF platform like this is worth a look.It offers practical tools to manage your pet’s documents in PDF form, and you can even convert, compress, edit, rotate, or reorder files. Keeping your records as PDFs ensures they’re universally accessible and easily shareable with any vet clinic.

Old Leonberger with a grey muzzle lying on the ground and looking into the camera.
Old Leonberger. Notice the gray muzzle. Stock Photo ID: 1844035084 by Daniel Lesk.

Create a Home Environment That Supports Aging

Leonbergers are emotional creatures, they notice routine disruptions and physical discomforts more than we realize. Making environmental adjustments will enhance both safety and serenity. Here’s a simple how-to checklist to start with:

➢ Schedule consistent feeding, exercise, and sleep times.

➢ Install nonslip rugs or mats along walking paths.

➢ Keep water bowls elevated to reduce neck strain.

➢ Adjust room temperatures; older dogs chill more easily.

➢Use gentle lighting to help those with fading vision.

➢ Offer mental enrichment through scent games or puzzle toys.

Two Leonbergers standing next to each other and wearing party headwear typical for a carnival.
Digory and Obi two aging Leonbergers. Notice the grey muzzles. Photo by Jen O’Keefe.

Early Detection Through Routine Screening

Veterinary visits every six months (instead of annually) are invaluable in the senior stage. They allow for the timely detection of thyroid imbalances, early arthritis, and cardiomyopathy, all common in Leonbergers. Blood pressure checks, urinalysis, and cardiac ultrasounds should be part of your preventive plan. Here’s a quick comparison of recommended tests for senior Leonbergers:

Test TypeFrequencyPurpose
Bloodwork & UrinalysisEvery 6 monthsDetect organ stress or metabolic changes
Orthopedic ExamYearlyIdentify joint deterioration early
EchocardiogramEvery 12–18 monthsScreen for dilated cardiomyopathy
Dental CleaningEvery 6–9 monthsPrevent systemic inflammation
Weight & Body ConditionMonthly at homeTrack obesity risk
A photo of our old Leonberger lying on the sidewalk.
Our Leonberger Bronco taking a break during a walk. He is old for a Leonberger. He is 12 years old and 10 months.

Emotional Presence: The Subtle Form of Care

Leonbergers thrive on companionship. As they age, separation anxiety or confusion can intensify, especially if cognitive decline begins. Maintain a calm household rhythm, avoid sudden relocations, and keep them close to family life. The reassurance of your presence often does more for their comfort than any supplement or therapy.

FAQ

  1. How often should I adjust my Leonberger’s diet as they age?
    Most dogs benefit from a nutritional review every 6–9 months, as caloric and protein needs change. Work with your vet to adjust based on body condition and lab values. Small, incremental changes prevent digestive upset and weight swings.
  2. What’s the right exercise level for an elderly Leonberger?
    Aim for multiple 10–15 minute walks daily and low-impact play. Overexertion accelerates joint wear, while too little activity causes stiffness and muscle loss. Observe recovery time after walks as your guide.
  3. Can joint supplements really help?
    Yes, glucosamine, MSM, and omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation and pain when used consistently. Results may take 4–8 weeks, so track improvements patiently. Always choose vet-approved formulations designed for large breeds.
  4. How do I recognize signs of cognitive decline?
    Look for pacing, confusion, or nighttime restlessness. These signs can mimic anxiety but often stem from age-related cognitive dysfunction. Specialized diets and enrichment can help slow progression.
  5. Is it okay to groom my senior Leonberger as before?
    Grooming is still essential, but adjust for comfort. Shorter sessions with frequent breaks reduce fatigue and stress. Keep nails trimmed to prevent balance issues and discomfort.
  6. When is it time to consider palliative or hospice care?
    When daily mobility, appetite, and emotional engagement decline significantly despite treatment, it may be time to focus on comfort. A quality-of-life assessment from your vet can guide compassionate decisions. The goal shifts from curing to easing.
The photo shows the face of Leonberger lying down.
Closeup of old Leonberger Stock Photo ID: 1942925251 by Wirestock Creators.

Conclusion

Caring for an aging Leonberger is both an art and an act of devotion. It’s about more than prolonging life, it’s about enriching every moment your dog still wants to share. With consistent monitoring, gentle activity, and a serene home rhythm, your Leonberger can continue to live with grace, dignity, and the steady comfort of your presence.

Dogs Are Family

Esther’s writing prompt: December 24th: Family

Click here or here  to join in.

With this post I wanted to remind everyone that dogs are family, and we should not forget that during the holidays, you should give them extra cuddles and some presents and let them participate in the festivities if possible.

Our Latest Trip to Baltimore

First, I wanted to say a few words about the latest addition to our family, our first grandson Jack. Our oldest son Jacob and his wife Ashley live in Baltimore, Maryland, and their son Jack is three months old. We’ve visited him a few times since his birth and these pictures are from our latest visit about a week ago. Jack is a healthy and happy baby who does a lot of cooing. See the photos below and the short video.

A photo of a three months old baby sitting in the corner of a sofa.
Jack in the sofa. Three months old.
A photo of the three of us sitting in the sofa. Baby Jack is sitting on the right. He is wearing a Pajamas.
My wife Claudia is on the left, I am in the middle and Jack is on the right.

Our Dogs Are Family

I did not grow up with dogs, and I was not even particularly fond of them, and then when we got our first family dog, the yellow Labrador Baylor, I really got to know and love dogs, and it changed my life. Now, I think I love dogs more than people. Well, at least I have learned that dogs are wonderful people. They always come with us to gatherings whenever possible and they got along very well. Our latest dog Rollo loved his sister Daisy and his big brother Bronco but he has a hard time tolerating any other dogs.

My wife, opening the trunk of our red van as Baylor, our Labrador is preparing to jump.
My wife Claudia and our first family dog the Labrador Baylor. This was back in the day. Our niece gave us Baylor because she was going to college. In turn she had gotten him from a shelter. He was a mix, one quarter Rhodesian Ridgeback and three quarters Yellow Labrador. He was able to jump up into the trunk of our van. Baylor was my first dog (not my wife’s first dog), and he taught me a lot about being a dog parent.
The photo shows a yellow labrador swimming in the middle of an Olympic sized pool.
Our Labrador Baylor is swimming in Claudia’s parents pool. He loved swimming, and he loved that pool and swam in it a lot.
A dark brown and black German Shepherd walking around in a dog park.
Our German Shepherd Baby at the dog park.
Two dogs looking into the camera. An old yellow Labrador on the left and the dark brown and black German Shepherd on the right.
Our Labrador Baylor and our German Shepherd Baby. Baylor was older in this picture. We had just gotten our Leonberger Bronco.
The photo shows a Leonberger puppy wearing a red scarf. He is looking into the camera.
This is our Leonberger Bronco (Le Bronco von der Löwenhöhle) at three months old.
Three dogs sitting on the floor, a Leonberger, a Japanese Chin and a Pug.
Our Leonberger Bronco (Le Bronco von der Löwenhöhle), our Japanese Chin Ryu, and our Pug Daisy in the front right.
Three dogs running. On the left and unknown dog, in the middle a yellow Lab and on the right a Japanese Chin.
At the White Rock Lake dog park. Baylor our Labrador in the middle. He was old in this photo. Our Japanese Chin Ryu on the right.
The photo shows a Pug in the front left and a black and white Japanese Chin in the back to the right.
Our Pug Daisy and our Japanese Chin Ryu.
Our Japanese Chin Ryu is licking our beige pug Daisy’s ear. She is sitting in front of a vent.
Our Pug Daisy often sat in front of vents when she was cold. Daisy and our Japanese Chin Ryu were very close, like a couple. Daisy was obviously grieving when Ryu died, from cancer a bit early at only ten years old. Bronco was grieving as well.
Daisy our beige pug is lying over the back of our beige leather sofa.
Daisy is exhausted after doing nothing for a whole day.
The photos show a cage containing two dogs, a black and white mini-Australian Shepherd and an English Bulldog.
In December of 2018 we picked up our mini-Australian Shepherd Rollo. His friend was an English Bulldog.
The photo shows a mini-Australian Shepherd puppy on the floor and behind him is our big Leonberger Bronco.
Our Leonberger Bronco is welcoming Rollo.
The photo shows a young mini-Australian Shepherd puppy and beige pug on a black spotted blanket.
Our pug Daisy and Rollo are saying hello.
The photo shows a dark brown and white mini-Australian Shepherd puppy sitting on a beige tile floor.
Our mini-Australian Shepherd puppy Rollo at 3 months old.
The photos show a mini-Australian Shepherd puppy play fully lying on his side in front of our Leonberger Bronco.
Our mini-Australian Shepherd puppy Rollo and our Leonberger Bronco.
The photo shows a mini-Australian Shepherd standing on a chair and having his front paws on the table.
Our mini-Australian Shepherd Rollo at the table on his seventh birthday. This is a more recent picture, from October of this year.

My Other Responses to Esther’s Prompts

Happy Holidays Everyone

Moving With Your Dog to a New State

This is a guest post written by Ryan Goodchild. He emailed me asking me if he could publish his post regarding moving with dogs on my blog . I said yes. See below.

Our black and white Japanese Chin Ryu is sitting next to our Pug Daisy in a red suitcase.
Moving and travelling can be a challenge to dogs.

Ryan Goodchild’s Post on Moving with Your Dog to a New State:  A Real-World Guide for a Calm Transition

Moving is a big deal, and if you have a dog, it’s a whole new level of logistics and emotion. Dogs don’t understand the concept of relocation. They just know something’s changing. Your goal is to make that change feel safe, predictable, and full of the familiar.

What You’ll Learn

  • How to prepare your dog before, during, and after a move
  • What records and updates you’ll need
  • How to digitize your dog’s important documents
  • Ways to reduce stress, for both of you
  • A quick, clear checklist to keep everything on track

Prepare Your Dog for Change

Start weeks before moving day. Dogs pick up on routine changes quickly — packing, new smells, boxes everywhere. Keep walks and meals on schedule, even as your home shifts around them.

Schedule a vet visit about a month before the move. Request updated vaccination records, refill any medications, and ask for a general health certificate if you’ll be crossing state lines. This document isn’t always mandatory, but it can be helpful for emergencies or travel checks.

Keep Your Dog’s Records Safe and Organized

When you relocate, having instant access to your dog’s medical and identification records can save a lot of stress. Scan everything, like vaccination forms, microchip details, prescriptions, and your vet’s contact information, so you have them in one place.

Save the files as PDFs; they’re reliable, portable, and open on almost any device. For convenience, you can merge multiple records into one clean file with this tool. Keeping these essentials organized means you’re always ready for a vet visit, emergency, or boarding request in your new area.

Travel Day: Stay Calm, Stay Simple

Moving days are hectic, and dogs sense your energy. Your best strategy is calm consistency.

Pack a “dog go-bag” with:

  • Food and collapsible bowls
  • Waste bags and cleaning wipes
  • Favorite toy or blanket
  • Leash, collar, and updated ID tags
  • Any medications and first-aid essentials

Keep familiar scents around. Let your dog travel with a favorite blanket or worn T-shirt of yours, it’s grounding. If you’re driving, stop regularly for short walks and hydration. If you’re flying, check your airline’s pet policy early, as rules and kennel sizes vary widely.

The Essential Dog-Move Checklist

Before leaving your old home, run through this list:

  • Health Check: Vet visit completed and records in hand.
  • Microchip Update: Your new contact information is registered.
  • ID Tag: Updated phone number visible and legible.
  • Supplies Packed: Food, leash, bowls, medication, and comfort items.
  • Digital Records: All key documents saved and backed up.
  • Travel Plan: Rest stops or flight arrangements confirmed.
  • New Vet Contact: A clinic selected near your new address.

Rebuild Routine in a New Environment

Once you arrive, recreate normalcy fast. Set up your dog’s bed and feeding area before unpacking your own boxes. Use familiar commands, toys, and walking times to reestablish their rhythm. Dogs rely on patterns to feel secure; the more you replicate their old schedule, the quicker they’ll adapt.

Take short exploratory walks so your dog can get used to local scents and sounds. If they seem hesitant, don’t rush it. Let them lead the pace; confidence builds gradually through repetition.

Dog Transition Timeline at a Glance

StageFocusGoal
3–4 weeks before moveVet visit, ID updatesHealth & paperwork ready
1–2 weeks before movePacking acclimationReduce anxiety around change
Moving dayCalm, consistent energySafe and comfortable travel
ArrivalEstablish feeding/sleeping areasCreate familiarity fast
First weekDaily walks, local vet visitBuild new routine & comfort

Support Your Dog’s Emotional Adjustment

Some dogs sail through moves; others struggle. Signs of stress can include pacing, panting, whining, or hiding. Keep things calm and predictable. Set up a quiet area where they can retreat when the new space feels overwhelming.

Just as important: manage your own stress. Dogs take emotional cues from you — if you’re tense, they will be too. A calm tone, gentle reassurance, and unhurried movements go a long way. When you’re relaxed and consistent, your dog begins to trust that the new home is safe.

If your pet is struggling, spend extra time together doing things they love — a walk, gentle grooming, or simply sitting nearby. These small rituals of connection reinforce safety and stability more powerfully than any special training tool ever could.

FAQs

Q: How long does it take a dog to adjust after a move?
Typically one to three weeks. The key is routine — same feeding times, same walking windows, same tone of reassurance.

Q: Should my dog stay with me during the move?
If possible, yes, but if the environment will be chaotic, arrange for them to stay with a trusted friend until moving day is over.

Q: What should I do if my dog stops eating after the move?
Offer familiar food and limit new treats until they settle. Keep mealtimes quiet and predictable.

Q: How can I tell if my dog is too anxious?
Look for excessive panting, hiding, or destructive chewing These are normal short-term reactions, but contact your vet if they persist.

Final Thoughts: Familiar Love in a New Place

Moving with your dog isn’t about perfection, it’s about patience. Dogs care less about where they live than who they live with. By maintaining structure, reassurance, and calm energy, you’ll help them feel safe no matter the ZIP code.

Eventually, the boxes will be unpacked, the walks will feel routine again, and your dog will nap in a new sunbeam, proof that home isn’t a destination. It’s a feeling you build together.

Leonbergers Giving Gifts to Pugs

Esther’s writing prompt: 17th December : Giving

Click here or here  to join in.

Dogs give gifts and do nice things for people and other dogs. In this post I am describing three occasions when our late Leonberger Bronco gave our Pug Daisy gifts.

Leonberger Shares a Gingerbread House

Our Leonberger dog Bronco (his full name was Le Bronco von der Löwenhöhle) was an expert counter surfer, which is why we installed a pet gate to the entrance of our kitchen. Bronco knew how to open gates if they were not locked, so you had to make sure that you did not just close the gate but lock it. However, one December day I forgot to lock the gate. That was the day our daughter had made a gingerbread house and left it on the kitchen counter. Guess who ate half the gingerbread house? Guess who ate some of the other half? Bronco shared some with Daisy. He was always very generous. The photo below is what I saw when I got home that day.

A pug on the left, and Leonberger dog on the right. There are pieces of a gingerbread house on the floor. There is an open gate in the background.
The open gate behind Daisy and Bronco permitted their gingerbread-house raid.

Leonberger Shares a Baked Potato

I believe dogs have empathy, and sometimes they want to share—at least Bronco did. There was a time when we were in our home eating take-out food and Bronco stole one of our dinners, including meat, vegetables, and a baked potato. He started eating the meat, then he glanced at Daisy, who was sitting in the middle of the floor looking sad. Immediately he took the baked potato in his mouth and carried it over to her and dropped it right at her feet. I was going to get mad at him for stealing, but when I saw his kindhearted and unselfish act, I let it be.

Daisy our pug is sitting in front of a vent.
Daisy our Pug was sitting there looking sad, but she got a baked potato with bacon and butter. I should say that the photo is from another occasion when she sat in front of the vent because she was cold. But it is close enough.

Leonberger Saves our Pug Daisy’s Life

On another occasion, Bronco did something else amazing for Daisy. Despite having issues with his paws—this was around the time he was being treated for squamous cell carcinoma—he saved Daisy from an attacking German shepherd who was running loose.

We were at my wife Claudia’s parents’ house, just leaving, standing on their driveway, when one of their neighbors came out to drop some garbage in the trash can at the end of her driveway. With her was a young, probably adolescent, German shepherd, and he was not on a leash. As we were standing on the porch, I suddenly saw the shepherd flying through the bushes, his teeth bared. He quickly charged us—viciously.

First, he went for Daisy, but Bronco got between them to protect her. Essentially, Bronco saved her life. The shepherd bit his leg in return. Bronco was almost twelve when this happened, and he was not as strong as he used to be. A German shepherd would have been an easy opponent for Bronco just a few years earlier, but at that point he was old, and he did not need the extra stress.

I kicked the German shepherd in the stomach, and he ran off. Bronco’s legs were weak—he had recently had a toe operation, and his walking was unsteady—so seeing the shepherd going for the leg on which he had had his operation was very upsetting. The shepherd could have bitten me, of course, and I could have been severely injured, but I didn’t care. I was defending my dogs—who were all on a leash, by the way. If the shepherd had bitten me, the owner could have been criminally charged, and there could have been a lawsuit

The owner of the shepherd came over to apologize, but I cursed at her. Maybe I shouldn’t have, but she had a vicious and dangerous dog, and she intentionally let him run loose. In the end, though, there were no major injuries. Bronco’s leg was slightly hurt, but overall, he was fine. These days, whenever we talk about this incident, I jokingly refer to the neighbor dog as Cujo. I should say that we’ve had a German Shepherd who was a sweetheart, so this is story is in no way an attempt to disparage German Shepherds. They are typically wonderful dogs as well.

In conclusion, this third example was an example of Bronco giving up his safety and potential health to protect our Pug Daisy.

The photo shows our Leonberger Bronco standing in the backyard as a sun ray is shining down over his head.
Bronco was a hero saving Daisy’s life.

My Other Responses to Esther’s Prompts

Respect your Dog

Esther’s writing prompt: 10th December : Respect

Click here or here  to join in.

Dogs are living conscious beings, and they should not be mistreated, hurt or treated disrespectfully. For example, don’t allow kids to play rough with dogs or take their food. Do not hit them. Do not push their face towards the feces when they have an accident inside the house. There is a widespread false misconception that you should. Again, respect your dog.

Do not keep them outside for a long time in the heat or cold. Do not abandon them, especially not to the wild where they will not survive. When your dog gets old, slow and boring, take care of it. You can get a new puppy but do not ever replace an old dog with a puppy. Doing so is cruel and immoral. Dogs deserve your respect.

This may be self-evident to most dog owners. However, I have seen people do these things to dogs and worse, so it bears repeating.

Do not let kids or Puppies Pull a Dog’s Tail

Playing with a dog is, of course, fine. They love running after balls and other toys and having fun in the backyard, playing with kids and other dogs. However, having their tail pulled is not their version of fun and it can cause a dog to bite. I am guilty of this myself. When I was a kid, I pulled the tail of my uncle’s dog and I almost got bitten. When our mini-Australian Shepherd Rollo was still a puppy he sometimes pestered our Leonberger Bronco by pulling his tail and even dangling in it like a swing. We did not allow this, but accidents happened. Luckily Bronco was very patient with Rollo, and he let us know when there was tail biting mischief under way so that we could remove Rollo.

The photo shows a mini-Australian Shepherd biting a Leonberger’s tail.
Rollo, our mini-Australian Shepherd, frequently bit our Leonberger Bronco’s tail, and he even swung in it like a swing. He climbed all over Bronco. Bronco was very patient with him. Naturally, we did not allow this, but accidents happened.

Do not let kids ride big dogs

Do not allow children to ride big dogs like a horse. This could cause severe spinal injuries to the dog because their backs aren’t built for weight. The dog may also bite the kid to defend itself.

A small boy is sitting on the back of a big Leonberger dog. A red X is drawn across the picture, and it features the text Don’t in red.
Don’t allow. This is very dangerous to the dog as well as the kid as the dog may bite. The dog in the picture is a Leonberger. This image was generated with the help of AI/ChatGPT.

Dogs Get Lonely

Don’t leave dogs alone for extended periods of time. Dogs need to potty, they need interaction, they get lonely and anxious. It is typically fine to leave an adult dog at home for a couple of hours but much longer than that could be a problem. If the dog goes potty on the floor when home alone for a long time, well that is not the dog’s fault. You clean it up and apologize to the dog.

A dark brown and white Australian Shepherd is looking out the window of a brick house.
A lonely Australian Shepherd looking out the window. This image was generated with the help of AI/ChatGPT.
Rollo our dark brown and white mini-Australian Shepherd is standing in front of the window looking out. You can see the reflection of me and the rest of the neighborhood in the window, obscuring Rollo a bit.
Rollo is looking out the window. We don’t leave him for very long but when we do he sits and looks out the window. You can see the reflection of me taking the photo and of the neighborhood in the window.

It is a little bit better when dogs have the company of each other.

A pug and a mini-Australian Shepherd are standing on the sofa looking out the window. The joke goes: Daisy says : Rollo do you want to hear a joke? Rollo says OK. Daisy says Knock! Knock! They both start barking like crazy.
Daisy’s and Rollo’s knock knock joke.

Hugs May not be Welcome

Perhaps surprisingly most dogs find hugs uncomfortable and stressful because they restrict their natural “flight” instinct and make them feel threatened, even though humans see it as affection. Our Leonberger gave us Leonberger hugs, meaning he leaned on us, or pressed his body against us, but like most dogs he probably did not like human arms around his body. If you put your arms around a dog they may start licking their lips, yawning, or even trying to get away. These are stress signals. If they lick your face in this situation, it is not likely to be a kiss, but attempted appeasement. Essentially, the dog wants to please you, but he is wondering why you are mean by giving him a hug without his consent.

The picture shows a Leonberger dog looking forward as boy on his right is hugging the dog and putting his arm around him.
Hugs may not be welcome. Watch for lip licking and other stress signals when kids do this. Perhaps ask the kid not to squeeze the dog with his arms. This image was generated with the help of AI/ChatGPT.

In the picture below our Leonberger Bronco is reaching out to me to give me a hug, as I entered the room, but maybe I should not have put my arm around him. I should say Bronco was a very tolerant dog.

Bronco is standing on our red leather sofa giving me hug and a kiss.
Bronco our Leonberger is giving me a kiss, or is it? He is about one year old and not yet fully grown.

To learn more about the complex question of dog hugs you can watch the 8 minute video below.

In summary, Respect Your Dog

To visit a related post, Promises To My Dog, click here.