Chronic stress doesn't always look the way people expect. Most people associate stress with barking, growling, or destructive behavior. In reality, many dogs experience prolonged stress in much quieter ways. Cortisol is the body's primary stress hormone. It plays an important role in helping dogs respond to challenges, but when cortisol remains elevated for long periods, it can affect behavior, learning, sleep, digestion, and overall wellbeing. Recognizing the early signs all

Portland offers more than dog-friendly spaces—it creates the perfect environment for calm, structured walks that support a dog’s emotional well-being. From quiet suburban trails to balanced urban neighborhoods, each area provides unique opportunities to build confidence, reduce anxiety, and reinforce positive behavior. Discover how intentional dog walking transforms everyday outings into meaningful, supportive experiences for your dog.

Dogs are incredibly unique—each with their own personality, emotional world, and way of communicating. They add so much depth, companionship, and connection to our lives. But even though dogs are often called “man’s best friend,” they don’t communicate the way we do. And that’s where confusion can happen. Understanding why your dog whines isn’t just helpful—it’s essential for their well-being and your relationship with them. Dogs Don’t “Cry” Like Humans—They Communicate Dogs

Play isn’t just something dogs do —it’s something they learn, feel, and grow into . Just like us, dogs need moments of joy, release, and engagement. Play helps them regulate their energy, stimulate their minds, and feel safe in their environment. But not every dog naturally knows how to play—especially in the beginning. And that’s okay. Why Some Dogs Don’t Play (At First) If your dog isn’t engaging in play, it’s not because they’re “difficult”—it’s usually because of their ex

Kodi had the best time playing—but like a lot of puppies, he got so caught up that he forgot to drink water. Once I offered it to him, he drank right away. Little moments like this matter. Puppies don’t always regulate themselves yet—it’s something we support and guide. 💖 Water is not a privilege for dogs—it’s a basic biological need. Yet, one of the most common (and concerning) practices I still see is water being restricted to “manage” behaviors like accidents, anxiety, or

(Keeping Your Dog Happy, Stimulated, and Regulated Indoors) Snow days in Portland and Lake Oswego are rare—but when they happen, everything slows down. Walks get shorter. Roads get icy. Routines shift. And suddenly… you have a dog with energy and nowhere to put it. But here’s the thing:👉 your dog doesn’t just need physical exercise—they need mental stimulation and emotional engagement , especially during weather disruptions. At Doggywalkie, snow days are an opportunity to s

House training your puppy isn’t about control—it’s about guidance, consistency, and trust . When approached with patience and positive reinforcement, potty training becomes less stressful and more of a bonding experience between you and your dog. At its core, you’re not just teaching where to go—you’re helping your puppy feel safe, understand routine, and build confidence in their new environment. How Long Does Potty Training Take? Most puppies take about 4–6 months to becom

Summer is here, and with it comes warmer weather and more outdoor adventures for you and your furry friend. While we humans can easily slip on sandals or grab an umbrella, our canine companions rely on us to protect their delicate paws from the harsh elements. Let's dive into the importance of paw care, the dangers of hot pavement, and how to keep your dog's feet happy and healthy during the summer months. The Perils of Hot Pavement As the sun beats down, sidewalks, asphalt,

Portland, Oregon is a beautiful city renowned for its love of animals. The city's diverse population and the active, outdoor lifestyle of many residents including myself at Doggywalkie demand a specific skill set from those caring for pets. So, what exactly makes us the best pet sitter in Portland? Understanding the Portland Pet Owner Before diving into the qualities of a great pet sitter, it's essential to understand the typical Portland pet owner. These individuals often pr

Portland's love for dogs extends far beyond its parks and trails. The city boasts a thriving cafe culture, and many establishments welcome furry friends with open arms. Here are some of the best dog-friendly cafes in Portland: Coffee Shops with Canine Charm Common Grounds Coffeehouse: This cozy spot offers delicious coffee, pastries, and sandwiches, all while providing a warm welcome to your four-legged friend. Their outdoor seating area is perfect for enjoying a sunny day w

Living in Portland, Oregon , life can feel like a constant balance—busy schedules, long commutes, gray rainy months, and the everyday emotional weight that comes with it. What many people don’t realize is that one of the most powerful tools for grounding, connection, and emotional regulation is already right in your home: your dog. At Doggywalkie , we take an intuitive, emotionally-aware approach to pet care—and one of the simplest, most overlooked practices we encourage is t

The great thing about being a pet nanny in the beautiful city of Portland, Oregon, is that many dining establishments have welcomed the ability to bring your furry companions along. From casual eateries to upscale bistros, Portland offers a diverse range of dog-friendly restaurants where myself and your dog can enjoy delicious food and quality time exploring the city during your vacation away. The Pearl District: Urban Chic with Canine Companions The Pearl District, known for

Beaverton boasts a vibrant landscape, perfect for exploring with your furry companion. Whether your pup craves social interaction in an off-leash park or prefers a peaceful stroll through nature, Beaverton offers a variety of dog-friendly destinations to keep your pup happy and healthy. Lace up your walking shoes , grab your leash, and get ready to embark on an adventure with these exciting walk options: Off-Leash Adventures: Winkelman Park Dog Park: This two-acre haven is a