Dog Uni: A Haven for Urban Dogs
Dog Uni, a training and care center for pets, was founded by the passionate couple, Anh Huy (32) and Thuy Linh (29), in District 12. This 2,000-square-meter facility is a peaceful haven for dogs, offering a range of services tailored to different breeds, genders, weights, and personalities.
Puppies from diverse backgrounds come to Dog Uni for various reasons. Some enroll in training courses, while others visit on weekends to play with friends, stay while their owners are away, or receive stress treatment. The center welcomes dogs of all ages and breeds, providing a much-needed space for urban pets that may be confined to townhouses or high-rise apartments.
According to Anh Huy, urban dogs often face limitations due to their living environment. For example, a puppy named Gau, a long-term resident at Dog Uni, had become chubby and limp due to overfeeding and lack of exercise, resulting in a loss of hearing and smell. Urban dogs can also lose their natural skills and become more aggressive than their rural counterparts.
 |
| A trainer from Dog Uni takes the dogs for a walk along the riverbank in District 12, Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Chung Thanh Huy / Tuoi Tre |
Thuy Linh, co-founder of Dog Uni, shared that many unfortunate accidents occur because dog owners lack knowledge about the specific needs and traits of their dog’s breed. Some breeds, designed for hunting or fighting, can be challenging to domesticate and require specialized care.
Training for Good Behavior
Anh Huy explained that the center’s primary requirement for acceptance is a certificate proving that the dog has received all necessary vaccinations. Before enrollment, staff hold discussions with clients to agree on training timelines and objectives and to gather essential information about the dog’s preferences and habits.
The time needed to establish a connection between the trainer and the dog varies depending on the dog’s age and breed. Younger puppies tend to adjust to new environments more quickly. However, after eight to ten months, a dog’s personality is nearly fully developed, making it harder to bond with strangers, which may extend the training period.
Trong Tran, a puppy trainer at Dog Uni, noted that puppies between six and twelve months are the easiest to train. “While dogs of other ages can also learn, their progress may be slower,” he added. He also emphasized the importance of tailoring training methods to each puppy’s temperament, explaining that gentle and shy puppies respond well to encouragement and affection, while more stubborn pups may require different approaches.
The daily routine at Dog Uni starts with an early morning bathroom break before feeding. On cool days, small groups of puppies are taken for walks along the riverbank. Training sessions are held from Monday to Friday, with Fridays also dedicated to grooming and bathing. The puppies look forward to weekends when they enjoy free playtime or visits from their families, who sometimes come to celebrate their furry friends’ birthdays with cakes, candies, yogurt, and sausages.
 |
| A birthday celebration for the dogs at Dog Uni in District 12, Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Chung Thanh Huy / Tuoi Tre |
Mealtimes at Dog Uni are carefully planned, with puppies aged three to four months being fed three to four times a day to support their growth. From the age of one, the feeding frequency is reduced to twice a day.
During their time at Dog Uni, the puppies learn essential lessons, including proper bathroom habits and avoiding unfamiliar food. They are taught basic commands such as stand, walk, lie down, sit, roll over, greet, and shake hands. Additionally, they are trained to protect their owners and belongings, walk alongside them, respond to commands to bark, and manage signs of depression or aggression.
The ‘syllabus’ at Dog Uni also includes unique skills such as riding a motorcycle as a passenger and addressing behavioral issues. Whether it’s calming a hyperactive dog or encouraging a shy pup to be more social, the trainers at Dog Uni are dedicated to bringing out the best in every dog.
“Each puppy has unique and lovable traits,” Thuy Linh remarked. “Many dogs that come to us are initially shy and fearful in our spacious facility, but over time, exposure and interaction with our trainers help build their confidence and integration.”
 |
| A dog receives a graduation certificate after completing its course at Dog Uni in District 12, Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Chung Thanh Huy / Tuoi Tre |
The center maintains open communication with puppy owners, providing health updates and daily activity photos. A dedicated team ensures that owners feel reassured and connected to their furry friends, even when they are away. Anh Hieu, a puppy trainer, emphasized the importance of patience in the training process, noting that hot-tempered owners or those who curse or hit their dogs can hinder the dog’s learning and cause fearfulness.
Dog Uni follows a disciplined training approach, with short, clear, and authoritative commands given consistently to ensure compliance. Allowing at least 30 seconds between commands gives the dogs time to process and respond appropriately.
Each month, the dogs return home for three days, allowing their families to assess their progress. Upon completing their courses, the dogs and their families are invited to graduation ceremonies, a heartwarming celebration of their achievements.
“Our goal is to develop a comprehensive service system,” Anh Huy stated. “We want to offer everything from training and care to essential products for urban pet owners and dog-loving families. We aim to make Dog Uni a second home and a fun playground for all dogs.”
Welsh Corgi Racing Thrills Hundreds in Ho Chi Minh City
Hundreds of young people gathered at the Labour Cultural Palace in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City to watch a racing competition featuring 80 Welsh Corgis on Sunday afternoon.
