All dog lovers want their dogs to enjoy the great outdoors as much as possible. However dog owners who live in the city or in apartments or condos have found some creative ways to overcome the problems associated with indoor dogs.

Some of the problems with indoor dogs include teaching your dog containment training, keeping your dog well fed and happily busy, as well as providing outlets for nature's call. Some of the more frustrating problems include barking when someone knocks at the door and jumping on expensive furniture.

Luckily there are dog training products that make it easier for dog owners to train their indoor dogs. According to PetSafe, stimulation training aids such as pads and collars that use mild electric stimulation can help teach dogs to avoid expensive furniture. These products are unpleasant to dogs but are harmless.

Other products to hit the market include a pheromone line by Farnam Pet Products that uses a soothing scent that helps

calm dogs and reduce negative behavior.

Dog beds and crates that provide dogs with a "comfort zone" not only reduce stress for dogs, but also dog owners who are away for long periods of time. Thermal beds that provide warmth and comfort are very popular.

Veterinarians suggest crate training for the indoor dog as a dog's natural instinct is to find shelter when he hears thunder or unfamiliar noises. Plus dog's like to have a place of safety and privacy when they are scared, tired, or have "just had enough action for the moment." Dogs that are introduced to the crate early often consider their crates their home.

Automatic feeding bowls can also be invaluable making sure that your dog's feeding time is never missed so that your dog never goes hungry. This helps reduce your dog's stress.

It's been shown that one of the best ways to improve your dog's health is to get him to drink more water. However dogs sometimes turn their noses up at water

that's been sitting in the water bowl all day. Enter dog drinking fountains. These fountains are great as they keep water circulating; most also have a reserve tank so that you never have to worry about your dog going without water while you are gone.

Chew toys are a must for the home alone dog. Chew toys and dog bones are a great way for dogs to keep themselves busy while you are away. Plus they help keep your dog's teeth and gums clean. It's a good idea to keep several toys out at once for your dog - the more dog toys your dog has to choose from while you're away, the less likely he'll be to chew on your favorite sofa.

About the author:

Margaret Svete, best-selling author of 116 Ways To Spoil Your Dog, television and radio personality, and dog rescuer helps dog owners discover new and exciting ways to spoil their dogs. Visit her site at SpoilYourDog.com ">http://www.spoilyourdog.com">SpoilYourDog.com

How dog gates can help with your dog training
Dogs in the house need to know who is in charge and what the house rules are. Not putting rules in place can cause a lot of problems in the long...

The One Important Aspect You Must Differentiate In Order To Gain Respect From Your Dog
The basis of training any animal is winning its trust, confidence and respect. True training cannot begin until the animal has accepted you...

Finding a Dog Breeder for the Perfect Puppy
A good way to begin finding the "perfect puppy" is to decide what kind of dog you want. Think about what type of dog would be suitable for you and...

Dog Sports For Every Breed
Engaging in sports is not only for humans. It is also well-loved by our best friend, the dog. Dog sports do not only make a dog's life fun, but...