April 2025 Dog Care Highlights: Quick Tips, Honest Reviews, and Helpful Guides

April was a busy month on our blog. We tackled everything from midnight puppy potty breaks to the best way to fly a big dog. Below is a snapshot of what we covered, plus the key take‑aways you can use right now.

Puppy Milestones and Nighttime Routines

If you’re wondering whether to set a midnight alarm for your puppy, our "Wake My Puppy at Night?" post breaks it down. Puppies need a solid sleep schedule, but they don’t have to wake every hour. We suggest a final bathroom break right before bedtime, then monitor for the first few weeks. When your pup can hold it for eight hours, you can finally relax.

We also answered "When Is a Puppy Not a Puppy?" Puppies officially become adults at different ages depending on breed size. Small breeds hit adulthood around 9‑12 months, medium ones at 12‑15 months, and large breeds often need 18‑24 months. Knowing the timeline helps you adjust food portions and training expectations.

Another common question is "When Do Puppies Learn Their Name?" Most pups start recognizing their name by 6‑8 weeks if you use short, happy tones and pair the name with treats or play. Repeating the name in positive moments speeds the process.

Food, Treats, and Gear Reviews

Our deep‑dive into Blue Wilderness examined the ingredient list, protein sources, and price point. We found it solid for active dogs but a bit pricey for everyday feeding. If your dog has grain sensitivities, the brand stays clear of common allergens.

The "Healthiest Dog Food" guide laid out how to read labels, spot quality proteins, and avoid unnecessary fillers. Look for named meat sources near the top and avoid artificial colors or flavors.

We also tackled the Purina debate. While Purina offers balanced nutrition, some formulas contain lower‑grade meat meals. If you choose Purina, stick to the premium lines that list real meat first.

For supplements, we explored whether human protein powder is safe for dogs. The short answer: most human powders have added sweeteners or vitamins that can hurt dogs. Stick to dog‑specific protein powders or natural foods like cooked chicken and eggs.

Gear lovers got a straight‑talk piece on prong collars. The consensus among trainers we interviewed is that prong collars pose a risk of skin injury and don’t teach lasting obedience. Positive reinforcement tools and head halters work better for most dogs.

Travel questions popped up, too. Our "Big Dog Too Large for Cabin?" guide lists airlines that allow larger pets in the cabin for a fee and details cargo options for those who can’t fit under the seat. Pack a familiar blanket, check the temperature controls, and arrive early to reduce stress.

For everyday outings, we answered "Are Dogs Allowed in Walmart in North Carolina?" Most NC Walmart stores follow the national policy—no pets unless they’re service animals. We listed pet‑friendly alternatives like local grocery stores and outdoor markets.

Finally, we looked at canine sleeping habits. Dogs often pick a favorite person to snuggle with because they feel safe and hear your heartbeat. If your dog prefers a spot on the couch, give them a comfy bed nearby to keep the bond strong while protecting your furniture.

That’s the April roundup in a nutshell. Each post aims to give you clear, practical advice you can try today. Bookmark the topics that matter most, and keep coming back for fresh tips as your dog grows and changes.