In professional pet care, the best defense is a proactive plan. Move beyond reactive sitting and discover the "Sparky Steps Standard" for...
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Blog — Dogs
About Dogs
Welcome to our dedicated archive for Dogs. At Sparky Steps, we know that exceptional pet care is a continuous learning journey. Whether you are a dedicated Chicago pet parent, a fellow pet professional, or simply an animal lover, you have found the right place to dive into our curated collection of articles and insights.
Our Voices & Editorial Ethics
The stories and guides you will read regarding Dogs are the result of true community collaboration. Our content is crafted by the core Sparky Steps team—professional dog walkers and trained pet sitters who spend every day on the streets of Chicago—as well as trusted guest writers, local veterinarians, and passionate pet advocates. We proudly champion positive reinforcement (R+), force-free handling, and science-based animal welfare. The guidance you find here is grounded in real-world experience and a deep respect for animals.
Rooted in the Community
As a local Chicago small business, exploring topics like Dogs is our way of giving back and empowering pet owners to advocate for their furry best friends. Please browse the articles below to learn more! If you have a unique perspective or a heartwarming story to share, we are always looking for new voices to join our pack as guest contributors.
The Art of the Greeting: Why the First Five Minutes of a Pet Visit Matter Most
De-escalation 101: How to Defuse Conflict and Redirect Anxiety
In high-tension moments, your response is the deciding factor. Move beyond "alpha" myths and learn how to cool the room using the...
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How do I Choose A Reliable Dog Walker In Chicago
Choosing a dog walker in Chicago matters deeply when you want your pup to feel happy, safe, and cared for during your...
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The SNAP Check: Your 5-Second Superpower for Reading Your Dog’s Mood
Does your dog get overwhelmed by visitors or new places? The SNAP Check is a simple, 5-second trick to decode your dog's...
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The Four Pillars of Dog Behavior: Genetics, Learning, Environment, and Self-Regulation
Your dog's behavior isn't a mystery; it's a formula! Learn the 4 Hidden Forces that control your dog's actions: their Nature (genetics),...
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Life Lesson from Copper: Why Patience Is the Only Rule for Raising a Puppy
Shoes, rugs, and furniture, meet your new worst enemy: the puppy. If you're struggling to find patience while house training or managing...
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10 Unexpected Holiday Dog Behavior Changes (and Expert Tips to Manage Stress)
The holiday season can feel like chaos to your dog, leading to unexpected stress and anxiety. Learn the 10 subtle signs of...
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How to Talk to a Mental Health Professional About Getting an ESA Letter
Talking to your mental health professional about an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) can feel daunting. This complete guide provides scripts, a legal...
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Interview With GeorgeTheSheepie
We interviewed Molly George From Chicago, IL, USA with her pup George, A.K.A. @georgethesheepie on Instagram! Tell us about George! “George is hilarious, loving, sweet, goofy,...
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The Complete Beginner’s Guide to Responsible Pet Ownership
Becoming a pet owner is rewarding, but requires commitment. Get the Complete Beginner's Guide to Responsible Pet Ownership, covering everything from core...
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10 Signs Your Dog Is Stressed (and How to Calm Them)
10 Signs Your Dog Is Stressed (and How to Calm Them) Dogs may not speak our language, but they’re always communicating with...
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Clicker Training vs Positive Reinforcement: Which Works Best?
When training pets, should you use a clicker or rely on verbal praise and treats alone? We break down the key differences,...
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What Should You Do if a Dog Bites?
If your dog suddenly bites you, it can feel overwhelming and even heartbreaking.Before you let panic take over, take a deep breath....
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Winter Health Check: Signs of Seasonal Ailments in Dogs
Winter Health Check: Signs of Seasonal Ailments in Dogs As winter's chill settles in, dog owners in Chicago need to be vigilant...
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Winter Exercise Tips for Dogs: Indoor Activities to Keep Them Active
Winter Woofs: Keeping Your Pup Active Indoors with Sparky Steps As the cold winter winds sweep through Chicago, pet owners face...
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Navigating the Chicago Chill: A Guide to Protecting Your Pup's Paws in Winter
As winter tightens its icy grip on the Windy City, dog owners in Chicago must prepare to face the challenges that...
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The Struggles and Triumphs of Brushing Your Dog's Teeth: A Sparky Steps Guide to Dental Hygiene
Discover the challenges of brushing your dog's teeth and learn how to overcome them with this comprehensive guide from Sparky Steps, your...
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Training Your Dog: The Importance of Socialization
Carrie Pallardy Source Whether you are bringing home a puppy or an adult dog, proper socialization is an essential part of...
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How Do You House Train Your Puppy?
Carrie Pallardy Accidents in the house are a normal part of having a puppy, but dog owners eagerly await the day...
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6 Steps to Crate Training Your Dog
Puppy & Adult Training A Safe Space of Their Own: The Ultimate Guide to Crate Training Demystify the crate training process, avoid...
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Going for a Walk: How to Teach Your Dog Leash Etiquette
Carrie Pallardy Source One of the best parts of having a dog is stepping outside and stretching your legs together. You...
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At Home on Land and in Water: A Breed Guide to the Portuguese Water Dog
Carrie Pallardy Source The Portuguese Water Dog might not be as a big of a name as a Golden Retriever or...
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Meet the Westie: A Breed Guide to West Highland White Terriers
Carrie Pallardy Source “West Highland white terrier” is quite the mouthful for a dog breed. The name belongs to a small,...
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A Noble Hunter: A Breed History of the Rhodesian Ridgeback
Carrie Pallardy Source Rhodesian Ridgebacks are sometimes mistaken for Vizslas. Both breeds have similar close, burnished coats of copper and lithe,...
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The Big and Beautiful Newfoundland: A Breed Guide
Carrie Pallardy Source From afar, you might confuse a Newfoundland for a small bear. These enormous dogs have long, shaggy coats...
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A Noteworthy Nose: A Basset Hound Breed Guide
Carrie Pallardy Source If you are a fan of classic Disney movies, you might recognize Sherlock Holmes’s dog from “The...
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Interview With Alyssa and Herbie
We interviewed Alyssa Lynch From Texas, USA with her dog, Herbie! Tell us about Herbie! "Herbie is a 6 year old terrier mix who...
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A Lovable Herder: A Breed Guide to the Collie
Carrie Pallardy Source Lassie is high on the list of famous dogs, starring in a long-running TV show and several...
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The Small But Mighty Maltese: A Breed Guide
Carrie Pallardy Source The Maltese is the quintessential lapdog. These pups have long, flowing white fur and a petite frame...
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Interview With Family Vermeulen-De Fauw and Their Pets Roro and Tseetsee
We interviewed Family Vermeulen-De Fauw From West Vlaanderen, Belgium with their pets, Roro and Tseetsee! Tell us about Roro and Tseetsee! “2 beaucerons, French sheperd...
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Interview With Barb and Rudy
We interviewed Barb Natividad From Chicago, IL, USA with her dog, Rudy! Tell us about Rudy! "Rudy is a beagle/American Staffordshire Terrier mix. He loves playing fetch and...
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The Different Kinds of Spaniels: A Brief Breed Guide
Those floppy ears and soulful eyes are hard to resist, but not all Spaniels are created equal! From the apartment-friendly Cocker Spaniel...
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The Gray Ghost: A Weimaraner Breed Guide
Carrie Pallardy Source The Weimaraner is a popular breed, and you might recognize their soulful eyes from the work of famous...
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A Smart and Tireless Breed: A Guide to the Border Collie
Carrie Pallardy Source Border Collies routinely top the list of the smartest dog breeds. The Border Collie Chaser actually earned...
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A Bodyguard Breed: A Guide to the Cane Corso
Carrie Pallardy Source The Cane Corso is a large breed that commands attention with its powerful body and regal appearance. Like...
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Interview With Sandy And Enzo
We interviewed Sandy From Wolcott, CT USA with her dog, Enzo! Tell us about Enzo! “I lost Enzo 2 years ago. But I keep his...
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A Spunky Spaniel: A Brittany Breed Guide
Brittanys run on something that doesn't quite look like regular dog energy. It's more specific than that: it's the focused, purposeful drive...
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Interview With Samantha and Scout
We interviewed Samantha Lacy From Chicago, IL, USA with her dog, Scout! Tell us about Scout! “My dog Scout is a 3 year...
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Herding Talent: A Sheltie Breed Guide
Herding Talent: A Sheltie Breed Guide Carrie Pallardy Shetland Sheepdogs are one of those breeds where the first impression, a...
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A Petite Athlete: A Breed Guide to the Miniature American Shepherd
Carrie Pallardy Source When most people think of a herding dog, the image of a wide-ranging Border Collie or a rugged...
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Small and Sassy: A Chihuahua Breed Guide
Carrie Pallardy Source Chihuahuas may be the smallest breed of dog, but what they lack in size they make up for in...
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A Fluffy Toy Breed: A Guide to the Havanese
Source A Fluffy Toy Breed: A Guide to the Havanese The Havanese is a popular toy breed known for its lively...
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Black and White Style: A Guide to the Boston Terrier Breed
Black and White Style: A Guide to the Boston Terrier Breed Source Boston Terriers have alert eyes, perky ears, and an inviting...
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Behind the Shih Tzu Coat: A Breed Guide
Behind the Shih Tzu Coat: A Breed Guide Carrie Pallardy Source Shih Tzus may be the closed you will ever come...
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Standard, Miniature, and Giant Schnauzers: A Breed Guide
With their bushy eyebrows and distinguished beards, Schnauzers often look like grumpy old men trapped in a dog's body. But did you...
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Interview With Sam and Daxter
We interviewed Sam Schultz From Chicago, IL, USA with his pup, Daxter! Tell us about Daxter! “Daxter is a hilarious and adorable 65lb...
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Puffy Pomeranians: A Breed Guide
By Carrie Pallardy | Updated June 2025 Quick answer: Pomeranians are small (3–7 lbs), double-coated toy dogs with big personalities. They're loyal,...
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5 Tips to Earn a Dog´s Trust
Source 5 Tips to Earn a Dog´s Trust Since ancient times, humans and dogs have maintained a strong relationship of cooperation. Even...
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Choosing an Assisted Living Community for You — and Fido Too!
Source Your dog goes everywhere you go. So, when it comes time to move to assisted living, it only makes sense that...
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Interview With Al and Charlie
We interviewed Al Marcano From Chicago, IL, USA with his pup, Charlie! Tell us about Charlie! “Charlie is a lovable 53lbs Old English...
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