Alexis Kestler
Owning a dog is one of life‘s greatest joys. From their enthusiastic tail wags to sloppy kisses, dogs brighten our days and fill our hearts with love. However, being a responsible pet parent requires more than just providing food, water and belly rubs. Proper care and training are essential for dogs‘ health and happiness. This is where technology can help.
There are now dozens of apps designed specifically for dog owners. These apps make it easier to track health records, find local services, train pets, and more. Whether you‘re a new puppy parent or a seasoned dog owner, these 12 apps are must-downloads.
1. Chewy
Chewy is the ultimate online resource for all things dog. Their app allows you to easily order food, treats, toys, supplies and medication right from your phone. With their autoship feature, you can schedule regular deliveries so you never run out of food or flea/tick prevention. Chewy‘s prices are very competitive, and they offer speedy shipping.
The app also provides tips on dog nutrition, training, healthcare and more in their PetCoach articles. You can even use the pharmacy chat to consult with vets about medication questions. For all your dog‘s needs, Chewy has you covered.
Compatible with: iOS, Android
2. Whistle
Whistle makes smart tech for pets. Their GPS trackers attach to your dog‘s collar so you can view their real-time location and receive alerts if they escape your yard or predetermined zones. This brings peace of mind if your pup is an escape artist.
The Whistle app also records your dog‘s daily activity levels and sleeping patterns. It can even detect potential illnesses based on irregularities in your dog‘s behavior. With Whistle, you‘ll have deeper insight into your best friend‘s health and habits.
Compatible with: iOS, Android
3. Rover
For pet parents who travel or need someone to care for their dog while they‘re away, Rover is a must. This app connects you with local dog walkers, sitters and boarding facilities that have been vetted for safety.
You can browse sitter profiles, read reviews and book services right in the app. Rover offers dog walking, boarding, drop-in visits and house sitting. You can even find groomers, trainers and doggy daycares. All bookings are covered by Rover‘s guarantee for peace of mind.
Compatible with: iOS, Android
4. Puppr
Training a dog can be difficult, but Puppr makes it easy and fun. This app provides step-by-step video lessons that teach dogs obedience skills, tricks and good manners. Lessons are tailored to your dog‘s abilities and things you want to work on.
Professional trainer Sara Carson guides you through each technique. You can track your progress, join social challenges, ask questions and troubleshoot issues. Puppr saves you expensive private training costs.
Compatible with: iOS, Android
5. PetDesk
PetDesk helps you manage all your dog‘s medical records and care in one place. You can store vet info, vaccination history, lab results, medication lists and more. It also tracks groomer and boarding bookings.
The app sends reminders for medication times, vet visits and rebooking services. You can also request prescription refills and appointments through the app. For multi-pet parents, you can store info for all your dogs in one organized hub.
Compatible with: iOS, Android
6. Dogo
Clicker training is a fast, positive reinforcement method. Dogo makes it easy with a built-in virtual clicker and library of training tutorials. Their variety of classes address basic obedience, impulse control, tricks and more.
Just click "train" to get step-by-step audio and visual guidance during lessons. The clicker marks correct behaviors to help your dog connect actions with rewards. You can track progress, ask questions and manage multiple dogs.
Compatible with: iOS, Android
7. GoodPup
GoodPup offers personalized dog training programs tailored to your unique pet. Their certified trainers create a customized plan based on your dog‘s needs, habits and temperament.
You‘ll have scheduled video coaching sessions plus 24/7 messaging access to the trainer. The app guides you through exercises and troubleshooting between lessons. GoodPup uses only positive reinforcement techniques for the best results.
Compatible with: iOS, Android
8. BarkHappy
BarkHappy helps you discover dog-friendly places and connect with fellow pet lovers. Browse listings for parks, trails, beaches, stores, hotels and restaurants that welcome dogs.
You can also join local events, meetups and playdates with other users. If your dog gets lost, quickly post alerts to notify nearby members. For adventures with your pup, check out BarkHappy.
Compatible with: iOS, Android
9. 11Pets
11Pets allows families, shelters and professionals to share pet records and coordinate care. You control what information is shared and with whom. This makes transferring medical history seamless when rehoming pets.
The app centralizes veterinary visits, vaccinations, medications, grooming schedules and more. Multiple caregivers can access real-time updates. It‘s a great option for collaborative pet care.
Compatible with: iOS, Android
10. BringFido
BringFido helps you travel with your dog. Browse pet-friendly hotels, vacation rentals, beaches, parks, stores and restaurants at your destination. You can even book accommodations right in the app.
BringFido also provides expert tips on safely flying with pets, road tripping, pet-safe outdoor activities and more. For stress-free travels with your pup, use BringFido.
Compatible with: iOS, Android
11. VitusVet
VitusVet allows 24/7 access to your pet‘s medical records. You can view history, request medication refills, schedule appointments and more through the app. Updates sync across your vet‘s office, so info is always current.
The intuitive interface makes it easy to manage healthcare, insurance and microchip details. You‘ll get reminders for upcoming vet visits and boosters. VitusVet simplifies pet health management.
Compatible with: iOS, Android
12. My Pet
My Pet keeps you informed on all aspects of dog care. Their app and newsletter provide tips on nutrition, exercise, grooming, training and seasonal health considerations. You can also set medication reminders so you never miss a dose.
Search their vast database for information on specific conditions, diseases and dog breeds. Reference it anytime for advice from experts. My Pet is a great quick reference guide.
Compatible with: iOS, Android
Summary
Being a dog parent has so many joys and responsibilities. Thankfully, technology and mobile apps make caring for your furry friend much easier. These 12 apps help you shop for supplies, monitor your dog‘s health, arrange care services, find dog-friendly places, simplify travel, connect with other pet owners, train your pup and more.
With just a few taps, you can access a wealth of resources that ultimately benefit your beloved companion. Download a few of these handy apps to be the best dog mom or dad you can be. Your loyal companion deserves it!
