Make First-Time Dog Ownership Easier with These Fun and Functional Apps

If you have never owned a pet before, you may be surprised by just how much work it really is. Just like your own children, it’s all worth it for the undying love and affection you receive in the end. Also, just like your own children, pets take a lot of time and commitment. Whether it is vet visits or house training, there is always something to keep track of. Fortunately, there are a ton of smartphone apps that do a lot of the work for you.

PetCoach by Petco

This handy app is like having a vet in your pocket. Anytime you think something might be wrong, log into the PetCoach app and search the database for answers or talk to a live vet. Don’t waste precious time scouring the internet if you have a sick pup. Get your answers right away with this app. Whether it’s a skin problem, something they ate, or a strange bowel movement, you’ll find the information directly from a vet so you know you can trust it.

iKibble

How often do you wonder if you can feed something specific to your dog? We all know chocolate is bad for dogs, but what about peas? Will peaches give them a bellyache? The iKibble app lets you know exactly what you can feed your dog and what you should definitely stay away from. The information you get from the app can also help you cook meals for your dog.

Puppr

You want to start training your dog to do cute little tricks as soon as they’re old enough. Training schools can be expensive, and searching for videos can be unreliable. The Puppr app has hundreds of lessons by famous dog trainer, Sara Carson, as well as one-on-one consultations with her. There is a clicker included in the app so you can train on the go.

Paw Tracks

The Paw Tracks app helps when more than one person is in charge of pet care. You won’t have to worry about when the dog was last walked or if they did their business. This app also records how far each walk was and who did it. It even tells you the GPS location of the walk and how long it took. This app is super helpful in busy households when sending a ton of texts or writing notes just isn’t prudent.

Say BARK!

Totally for fun, this wild and wacky app lets you take photos of your dog, add filters, stickers, and music to make a funny video. It lets you design and send out your silly holiday cards featuring your pet. Perfect for the pet parent who is crazy about their pet. It makes a great gift, too.

Pet Monitor by Annie

This monitoring app lets you see what your dog is up to no matter where you are. Own more than one pet? No problem. This app lets you monitor up to four pets at one time on simultaneous devices. Use the mic button to talk to your best friend when you are away from home. A fun feature of this app is it enables you to use your old, outdated phones as pet monitors, too!

A Phone for All Your Apps

To use any of these helpful apps, you will need a speedy smartphone that’s up to date and meets the compatibility requirements. Android users can save money on their next phone by trading in their old phone with a qualifying provider. Plus, newer models are packed with great features; the Samsung Galaxy S10, for example, has a large screen and great performance—perfect for running all your apps. If you’d prefer an iPhone, you can look into getting the iPhone 11 for its long battery life and good-quality camera, so you never miss one adorable shot of your pup.

Owning a dog for the first time is hard work. Make it easier by running a few good apps that will help you in all aspects of pet care, from feeding to training. Your dog will thank you with countless kisses and tail wags!

Image courtesy of Rawpixel

Article by Tyler Evans [email protected]