#1 in my opinion its finding the time to train your dog. I've had really hard ones to potty train. #2 medications I use reminders on my phone to help with! And my vet is really good they'll call or text you to remind you of appointments and I put it on both my real calendar and the one on my phone. I also set reminders on my Alexa devices. #3 training!! It would be so wonderful if agility training was easier! How abot you? What's your answers to the questions?

 

For me, it’s keeping track of all the moving parts—vet visits, vaccinations, grooming schedules, and making sure I’m giving the right portions of food. It can feel overwhelming, especially when life gets busy.Right now, I use a mix of reminders on my phone and a physical calendar. It works okay, but it’s easy to forget to update things, and I sometimes end up scrambling to figure out when the last check-up was.I wish there was a better way to get trusted advice quickly when something unusual happens—like when my dog starts acting differently or I notice a health issue. Googling stuff often leads to conflicting answers, which is frustrating.

By the way , How do you handle unexpected issues, like your dog getting sick or showing unusual behavior?
And What’s one feature you’d find helpful if there were an app for dog care?

 

Hey dog parents!
I’d love to hear about your experiences with training and managing your dog’s behavior.

1. What’s the most challenging behavior you’re dealing with in your dog right now?
2. What’s your go-to method for training or correcting unwanted behavior?
3. If you could have one tool or resource to make training or behavior management easier, what would it be?

Your input could lead to new ideas for making life with our pups smoother and more fun.

 

Well my future career is to be a vet so what I do is just a basic look over of my dog if she gets sick ( gum color, eye color, reaction to sudden stuff that normally would alarm her, etc). If her gums or light and the symptoms aren't something I can fix then I either ask on here what to do or just take her to get a checkup. Unusual behavior i just kinda watch her closely and if she continues to exhibit them for more than 2 days then I look into them further. To be honest it would be so cool if there was an app for dog care!! I would love it if there was! Say one did exist I would have high expectations for it. I need something that helps me read my dogs mind. She is so complicated sometimes. So I guess that's what I'd want the app to do. Well that and many other things!

 

That’s so exciting that you’re pursuing a career as a vet! It sounds like you’re already really proactive about your dog’s health, which is awesome. Keeping an eye on gum color, behavior, and other early signs is such a great habit—most people don’t think to check those!

Funny you mention an app for dog care because I’m actually working on one! The goal is to make it easier for dog owners to track their dog’s health, set reminders for vet visits or medications, and even learn to recognize behaviors and what they might mean. I love the idea of helping owners “read their dog’s mind”—that’s such a cool way to put it.

Out of curiosity, if an app could give you resources to understand your dog better, like what certain behaviors or symptoms might indicate, would that be helpful? Or do you think more interactive tools, like behavior tracking or personalized tips, would be better?
Your insights are super helpful—thank you! It sounds like you’d have a ton of great ideas for something like this. 😊🐾

 

What is the purpose of these questions ?

 

I’m working on creating an app that will help dog owners manage their pets’ health, behavior, and daily care more easily. The purpose of these questions is to better understand the challenges and needs of dog owners like you, so the app can truly make a difference and be as helpful as possible. Your input is super valuable for shaping it into something that would benefit everyone, and I really appreciate you sharing your thoughts! 😊🐾

 

We get people coming on from time to time with this proposition.

The general consensus is that it's a solution that's looking for a problem that doesn't exist.

But good luck.

 

Thank you for your honesty and feedback—I genuinely appreciate it. I completely understand the sentiment that this might seem like a solution in search of a problem. That’s why I’m doing this research and having these conversations—to make sure that what I’m building addresses real pain points and genuinely helps dog owners.
From what I’ve already gathered, many people face challenges like forgetting vet appointments, managing medications, or even understanding their dog’s behavior better. But if the general consensus is that there isn’t a real problem here, that’s something I need to know and consider deeply.
If you don’t mind me asking—do you feel like you have everything you need to manage your dog’s care, or is there anything you’d ever want to be easier or more streamlined?

 

I think all of what you asked about the tools, symptoms, etc would be very helpful!! Sounds like you've got some great ideas if possible include all of them in your app! Let me know when its finished and how to find it!! I would love to use it!!! Looking forward to the app!!

 

I can also give you access to the free beta test that will be available soon If you don't mind please share your email and I will keep all the things updated

 

I look forward to both the app and the beta test!! My email is the first thing written here. Let me know when you send me updates because I'm bad at checking it

 

Those of us who know our dogs and love them do not need an "app" to keep track of things or to take good care of our dogs.
People come here all the time to this forum trying to sell "apps" to look after dogs. I personally think the idea is ridiculous.

For me, there is nothing the least bit difficult about looking after my dogs.

All I do is live with my dogs. Every day I feed them, look after their fur and teeth, and have my hands all over their bodies. I talk to them and interact with them. I don't need some gadget to remind me to take good care of my dogs; it comes naturally to me, just as it has for millions of people who loved their dogs for thousands of years before computers and "apps" were ever invented.

@LauraFZ , it is very, very unwise to give anyone your email address, let alone to post it on an international forum! That is just asking for trouble.

 

Thank you for your feedback, and I completely respect your perspective. It’s clear that you’re deeply connected with your dogs and have an intuitive, hands-on approach to their care. That’s honestly inspiring, and I know many dog owners aspire to have that same level of awareness and connection.

The purpose of what I’m working on isn’t to replace the natural bond or care people already provide to their pets. Instead, it’s to support those who might find themselves struggling with organization—perhaps because they’re first-time pet owners, have demanding schedules, or are managing pets with complex health needs. It’s not about telling people how to care for their dogs but rather providing a tool for those who feel they could use a little extra help.
I genuinely appreciate the opportunity to hear this perspective, as it helps me understand that this kind of solution may not resonate with everyone—and that’s okay. My goal is simply to make life a bit easier for those who might benefit from it. Thanks again for sharing your thoughts! 😊

 

@LauraFZ I've taken your email address out, as Madra says it's not a good idea to share it publicly.

You can choose to share it by private message with Eugene, but I'd counsel that he has only been a member for a very short time, and while I'm sure he is genuine, he could be someone who will sell your email address to spammers send scammers.

 

Thank you for pointing that out—I completely understand the concern, and I want to assure everyone that I’m here genuinely to ask for insights and help. I’m not collecting or selling any information, and I’d never misuse someone’s trust.
I’m just working on a project to better understand the challenges dog owners face, and your feedback has been incredibly valuable to me so far. If anyone prefers, we can continue the conversation publicly here—I’m more than happy to adapt to what’s most comfortable for everyone.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to clarify! 😊🐾

 

I don't want to "streamline" caring for my dogs.
Taking good care of my dogs is a PLEASURE to me. I have no desire or need to make it take less time than it does, because I do it out of love.

There is no "app" that can offer anything of use to anyone who genuinely cares about their animals.
I really wish people would put their energy into something worthwhile, and stop trying to sell "solutions" to problems that do not exist.

 

Thank you for sharing your perspective—I really admire your dedication and the love you have for your dogs. It’s heartwarming to hear how much joy you find in every aspect of caring for them.
I completely understand where you’re coming from, and I agree that for many people like you, taking care of their pets isn’t a task to “streamline” but a meaningful part of their relationship. My goal isn’t to replace or diminish that connection. Instead, I’m trying to create something that might help those who feel overwhelmed, like new pet owners or those managing pets with specific health challenges, to feel more confident and organized.
I also appreciate your honesty—it’s valuable for me to hear all sides, as it helps shape my understanding of what’s truly needed (or not) in this space. Thank you again for taking the time to share your thoughts—it means a lot. 😊🐾

 

As noted by JoanneF, many times people have come here trying to sell this idea, and every time they are met with little to no interest.
It's just trying to create a "solution" to a made-up problem that no one has.

How about spending your energy trying to create something unique, and something that a thousand other people are not trying to do? And maybe even to help with a genuine problem.

In my opinion, any one who does not have what you are calling a "hands-on" approach to taking care of their pets is not involved enough in the lives of their animals and possibly shouldn't even have them at all.

If a person can manage to keep track of their own medical appointments, they can use the same method, whether it's a paper calendar or their phone's calendar, to keep track of their pets' appointments. No need for some kind of separate "app". If they can't keep track of their own medical appointments, then even more so a whole separate "app" for their animals is not what they need.

 

My goal isn’t just about managing pet care; it’s about building a community for pet owners. For me, it’s not just the pets that matter, but the people too.
I want to create a space where owners can connect, share advice, and support each other. Whether it’s finding playmates for their pets, joining breed-specific groups, or learning from experts about nutrition or training, the idea is to foster connection and make life with pets even more enjoyable.
I know an app isn’t for everyone, but for some, it could be a way to feel less alone in their journey or get the help they need.

And I'm not trying to sell anything

 

do you feel like you have everything you need to manage your dog’s care

Yes, I do.

forgetting vet appointments

I use a diary. If I used a separate app to remember vet appointments, I'd also need separate ones for my hairdressing appointments, my doctor or dentist appointments, and my meet-ups with friends. One diary (on my phone, as it happens) keeps all my appointments in one place and makes sure there's no overlap or double booking.

managing medications

These are too important to forget but if I needed something, I'd simply use the alarm function on my phone.

understanding their dog’s behavior better

I really don't see how an app could analyse something so complex with any accuracy. For example, a common problem is reactivity. But how does an app take account of trigger stacking, hormonal factors, sleep patterns, pain, weather etc that might contribute? My dog isn't very reactive but some other dogs make him tense - that's due to their body language, and I can read that and make sure my dog has enough distance to feel comfortable. An app isn't going to do that, so suggesting it might help with behaviour is naive, and even potentially dangerous because it oversimplifies things.

 

Yes, I do.

I use a diary. If I used a separate app to remember vet appointments, I'd also need separate ones for my hairdressing appointments, my doctor or dentist appointments, and my meet-ups with friends. One diary (on my phone, as it happens) keeps all my appointments in one place and makes sure there's no overlap or double booking.

These are too important to forget but if I needed something, I'd simply use the alarm function on my phone.

I really don't see how an app could analyse something so complex with any accuracy. For example, a common problem is reactivity. But how does an app take account of trigger stacking, hormonal factors, sleep patterns, pain, weather etc that might contribute? My dog isn't very reactive but some other dogs make him tense - that's due to their body language, and I can read that and make sure my dog has enough distance to feel comfortable. An app isn't going to do that, so suggesting it might help with behaviour is naive, and even potentially dangerous because it oversimplifies things.

You make a really good point—behavior like reactivity is super complex, and there are so many factors that contribute to it. I completely agree that an app can’t replace the intuition and knowledge of someone who really understands their dog.
If anything, the app I’m thinking of would just be a tool to support owners, not to oversimplify things. For example, it could help track patterns in behavior or provide general tips, but it would never claim to "fix" anything. I’m also considering AI-driven features, but only to help with things like identifying trends or offering education—not as a replacement for proper training or professional advice.

 

I'm going to merge the two threads as they are covering the same ground.

 

want to create a space where owners can connect, share advice, and support each other.

learning from experts about nutrition or training

Like we have here?

playmates for their pets

If I wanted my dog to interact with others, I'd be choosing them very carefully and have observed them and their owners first. I don't want my dog interacting with dogs whose behaviour might not be ssuitable. Meeting random strangers via an app is a big no for me.

 

Like we have here?

If I wanted my dog to interact with others, I'd be choosing them very carefully and have observed them and their owners first. I don't want my dog interacting with dogs whose behaviour might not be ssuitable. Meeting random strangers via an app is a big no for me.

Thank you for sharing your perspective—it’s a very valid point. I completely agree that being selective about who your dog interacts with is critical, and I’d never suggest replacing that careful observation or decision-making with something like an app.

The idea behind the playmate feature isn’t about random connections—it’s about creating a way for pet owners to connect with like-minded people they trust and feel comfortable meeting. For example, it could help you find someone nearby with a similar approach to dog care or even a trainer-approved match for your dog. But I see how this concept might need better framing, and I truly appreciate the feedback.

Regarding the community aspect, you’re absolutely right—this forum is already a fantastic space for advice and shared experiences. My goal isn’t to replace spaces like this but to build something complementary, where people can organize their resources, schedules, and learnings in one place while still fostering community connections.
Thanks again for being so honest—it’s helpful for shaping how I present and develop these ideas! 😊🐾

 

The email I used is the one that is full of people trying to spam me. I don't give my actual email to a person until they have passed my tests. I think eugene has a good idea! With the way people are finding dogs on streets and keeping them I think the app will help them. They have no idea what they are doing when they pick these dogs up! They aren't thinking so the app is definitely going to help them. I did not read all of the comments but if there is something I should know that I might have missed let me know please. I am young but I have been training dogs for roughly 13 years. And I'm dead serious my dad bought me a pitbull and he showed me what to do and I did it. When she had most of her training done we did little obedience shows in the woods with his friends and mine. She couldn't beat those hunting dogs but as I got older and her daily training stricter ( meaning on a good schedule that worked for her and me) she was able to beat all but one dog out of 12 dogs that were trained by people that were in their thirties and had trained hunting dogs for many years or professionals. If I had been older than I was and the app had existed I would have used it. I think people who are first time owners should use the app while they are getting started

 

@LauraFZ don't worry, I don't think people were offended - just of a different opinion.

But

I am young

May I ask how young? Message me privately if you prefer.

 

@LauraFZ , there are far better ways to learn about dog care and training than to use an "app".

You don't know whether or not this "app" would be helpful to anyone, since you haven't even seen it. It doesn't even exist yet.

It might give terrible advice, or recommend utterly ineffective or even abusive training methods. I am not saying it will, but you have no way to know one way or another.

What makes you think that people who find dogs on the street "have no idea what they are doing"? That's a silly statement, since you have actually no idea who these people are or how much experience they may have.

There are literally millions of people who pick dogs up off the streets, and they run the whole gamut of people who are extremely experienced with dogs and dog rescue, to those who are not experienced.

Not to mention, you have no idea what this "app" is even going to be like, or what it would say, or what kind of advice it might give, good or bad.

If you want to know what you have missed, read the comments.

 

Ok I get it. Sorry that sounded a little snappy. I've had a long hard day. As far as why I think people who find dogs on the street don't know what they are doing. I was referring to people around here. And the reason I know they they don't is because A I've seen it first hand and B I'm a good friend of the local sheriff around here and he is big into animal rescue. He will risk everything his life to get a dog out of a not good home. He has told me that many people around find the dog don't know what to do with it or how to care for it and need a way to learn how to care from them. I was just trying to be open about. I'm sorry I caused so many problems. I didn't mean to I promise. I just like supporting people's interests. I'm sorry I upset you Madra. I did not mean to. I'm sorry I really am. Your comment kinda hurt though. I have nothing but the best intentions when it comes to dogs. Training dogs was the way me and my dad bonded until I lost him. Now training dogs is so much more than tricks for me. It's how I bond with my dogs and keep my memories of my dad alive in my heart. You know? I'm sorry I didn't realize the negative side about this app. I only wanted to be encouraging. If I ever see another person trying to get people on here to answer questions for a dog care app I will ignore it. I really am sorry. Will you forgive me? I just wanted to be kind and now I just want to make things right and make peace. Please forgive me

 

Keeping track of my pets' appointments is a solved problem for me: I use the calendar app that came free on my phone. It has the benefit of keeping track of all my other appointments, too, so I don't double book something. Keeping track of medications and food is also a solved problem. Free calendar app, free alarm app, white board next to the container where I store the dog food.

Dog training is not a solved problem, nor is it a problem that can be solved by an app. Dogs don't use apps. I know how to do basic dog training. I can't, however, do basic dog training if I'm working in an office building 15 miles away while the puppy is locked in a crate at home. An app isn't going to solve that problem for me. The pup needs to learn by doing. The best way to do this, in my experience, is to get the pup out into the controlled environment of a group class at a well run training center followed by practicing our lessons at home and on walks. I, of course, learn from the trainer. The dog learns from me and also from exposure to the sights and sounds of everything going on around us. An app can't replicate that experience for the dog.

 

Thank you for your response—I completely understand your points. I’m just trying to learn more about the challenges or problems in the animal world where technology could make a meaningful contribution. Are there any areas you think could use improvement or support?

 

Guess I'm part of the group that just doesn't see how any app is going to help care for my dog, which is in truth a very dynamic and fluid process. Now if the app could substantially extend their lifespan, or make them and keep them well I might be interested. I'm already doing everything humanly possible to keep my dog healthy happy and able to live her best, healthiest, happiest and longest life possible.

 

@Curls makes a good point, the nutritional needs for our dogs is very different then what is required by humans. I believe that not many dog owners fully understand those differences and how important it is to address those needs for our dogs.

 

I am planning to get a dog and I am very carefully preparing and studying all the necessary information