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  • Tips on Raising Cockapoo Puppies

    You’ve finally decided to purchase a Cockapoo puppy. Now what? Do you know what to expect in the first few months with your new dog? If not, don’t worry. Here are 3 tips on what to expect. 

    Tip 1 

    Cockapoo puppies love to be around their families and don’t like to spend too much time alone. Because of this, you want to make sure that you spend as much time as possible with your new dog. This is a great way to establish a bond with your pup, which is important.

    Tip 2

    Provide your dog with exercise – lots! When you found your Cockapoo puppy you may or may not have known that they need daily exercise. This is especially true for puppies. You want to tire them out! Take them for several walks a day to get them used to the process and also to expend some of their natural puppy energy. A tired puppy is one of the least destructive ones!

    Tip 3

    We recommend that your puppy is in your sight at all times. When they are away they can be a bit mischievous. Close all doors and keep your puppy confined in the same room where you are. The last thing that you want is a puppy wandering around your house unsupervised. This is most likely when accidents occur and when they can chew on things they shouldn’t!

    Taking care of Cockapoo puppies isn’t a hard task if it’s done correctly. What we want to reiterate is making sure that you spend as much time as possible with your new puppy during the first month of their time in their new home. In order for them to establish daily routines and understand that you’re the leader of the pack, they need quality time to be invested in them. In doing so, you’ll create a loving bond that won’t be easily broken! 

  • Keeping Your Dachshunds Healthy

     As a new pet owner you will soon learn to love spoiling your pups. It may not always be the best thing to needlessly reward your pup for just being cute, but it happens. After all, just looking at the adorable Dachshund is probably how you ended up being an owner.

     We want our pups to be healthy so they can enjoy long quality lives. Dachshunds are short and stout naturally and their stature can lend to look pudgy. Here are three signs that your Dachshund puppy is overweight. 

     Sign #1 – They Have No Definition

    Each breed has its own unique shape and dietary requirements, but all breeds should have a certain level of definition. Considering that Dachshunds have a deep rib cage and only a slight tuck at the loin, you can still see a difference. If you seem to notice that there’s more width than normal to your pup, that is a sign of obesity. 

     #2 – Can’t Scratch an Itch

    We know. Dachshunds have long bodies, and it can sometimes cause problems. With a normal and healthy weight, your pup should have no problems grooming herself. If she’s unable to relieve some ear itchiness with her legs, she is more than likely chunkier than she should be. 

     #3 – Overexerted Quickly

    Much like with humans, if we’re overweight the slightest bit of movement that remotely resembles exercise can cause us to pant and get out of breath fairly quickly. Have you noticed any of this behavior? Your pup shouldn’t be overly exerted so easily. If you see this pattern, your dog is likely overweight. 

    When you decided to purchase a precious Dachshund puppy, you became responsible for the health and well-being of such a beloved animal. Any of the aforementioned signs are enough to warrant a vet visit to start discussing ways to get control of your pup’s diet and exercise. We all want healthy, happy, and comfortable dogs and you’re no exception. Hop to it and get your pup back on track!

  • Best Dogs for Fall Activities

    Are you planning a fun Fall break activity this year? These trips can be exciting if you decide to bring a companion along. We will help pair you with a dog that enjoys the same activity that you are planning to go out and do this Fall break. There are many activities to take part in during the Fall. Depending on which activities you like to do you may want to consider looking for specific dog breeds. There are certain dogs that really enjoy adventures so, here are some of the best activities that these breeds would really enjoy taking part in.

    1. Going on a fishing trip? If you enjoy fishing and have planned an awesome fishing trip this Fall you may want to consider buying a Golden Retriever. These dogs really enjoy water and time spent with their owners. They are patient and friendly animals and will provide a great sense of comfort while you are waiting for your next catch.

    2. Going hiking? One of the best hiking trail companions is the Siberian Husky. These dogs love being out in nature and are excellent tour guides. These dogs have very intelligent senses and will warn you if there is a possibility that you may be heading into trouble. These dogs are super protective which is very comforting while you’re on a hike.

    3. Traveling abroad? If you have managed to plan far enough ahead of time for a trip to a different country this year and get affordable tickets you should consider bringing a Yorkshire Terrier with you. These dogs are excellent traveling companions. They are not hard to travel with at all. In fact, these dogs remain really calm on airplanes and are small enough to fit in a travel size dog bag.

    These dogs are great friends and incredible at building bonds with their owners. These are some of the most loving dogs that will make sure you feel comfortable and safe during your trip. 

  • 3 Reasons to love dogs

    There are lots of things to love about dogs. They don’t call them man’s best friend for no reason. Dogs are extremely special and therefore they need special love, care, and attention. We’ve decided to share three reasons that we love dogs to celebrate the bond between man and dog.

    1. We love dogs because they love us!

     Dogs are one of nature’s sweetest creations. Dogs care so much about the people that they build bonds. They feel our emotions which can make it hard for them to see us suffer. Even on your worst days, you can count on dogs to love. Every time you come home; they celebrate your arrival. Dogs offer a special kind of love that everyone should experience in their life. 

    2. We love Dogs because they require care 

    Dogs give us a purpose because they have needs. Most dogs need to be fed two to three times a day in order to be well cared for and maintain a healthy weight. With that said, dogs must also be taken on walks daily so that they get the appropriate amount of exercise to keep them healthy. Caring for a dog can help treat depression and keep you healthy. 

    3. We love dogs because they add value to our lives 

    Dog’s age in dog years is not the same as in human years. For each human year dog’s age 7, so the time they spend being a puppy is pretty short. As dogs start to age, they should be looked after and cared for just the same as you cared for them when they were puppies. They need close attention so that they can have a complete high-quality life.

    The friendship between dogs and humans is an amazing connection filled with mutual love, trust, and care. 

  • Celebrate Fall Equinox with a Dog lead Hike

    Hiking is one of America’s favorite past times. There are over thousands of miles of trails in the national trail system across the country. There’s an opportunity to hike pretty much everywhere. Taking a hike alone is fantastic and so is taking one with your dog!  Most dogs are natural hikers and they always up for an adventure. So, if you’re ready to take a hike, take a look at these five tips for hiking with your canine friend.

    Tip 1 – Make sure that your pup is up-to-date on their shots and attended routine veterinary appointments. You’ll be doing fun yet strenuous activities in nature where there are critters and other animals so ensuring your dog is healthy is very important.

    Tip 2 – Bring enough food and water for your dog and yourself. Fall is a great time to take midday hikes without being beaten down by sun but you’ll want to make sure that you and your dog are properly hydrated. This could take a few hours, so stop often for food and hydration breaks.  

    Tip 3 – When you think about your furry friend may envision them in cold climates with doggy backpacks on their bodies. Well, in this case, that’s a good thing to envision, because it’s practical and necessary for hiking. Larger sized dogs can carry a few light objects in a doggy backpack while hiking.

    Tip 4 – Pick up after your pup! Bring along poop bags and even a bag to hold it while you’re hiking. There may or may not be trash cans or places for you to dispose of it along the way. 

    Tip 5 – Bring a pet emergency aid kit, just in case. This should include items like bandages, ointment for cuts or scrapes, and some sort of antiseptic that can be used to clean any bruises or injuries.

    Enjoying a leisure hiking day can be pleasant, especially if you are prepared! 

  • Tips for choosing the best breed for you

    Just like humans, dogs have personalities. Some dogs can be larger than life, while others are shy. Choose a dog whose personality compliments yours is a recipe for success. Here are three personality types with breeds to match. 

    The Adventure Seeker

    If you love to scale mountains and have an overall passion for the outdoors, the famous Labrador Retriever is exactly the dog you need to be your sidekick. These dogs are known to love outdoor excursions and lake days because they are excellent swimmers. They are not afraid to get messy, and there is very little that they fear. They are loyal, trusting, and natural survivors.

    The Affectionate type

    If you love cuddling and enjoying time with the family, then you will need an affectionate and family-oriented dog. Frenchie pups are one of the most fun and loving dogs that enjoy every moment spent with their family. Frenchie pups understand younger children’s playtime needs but also respect the boundaries of your older children too. Frenchie pups are super affectionate and do not like to be left out of family time.

    The Socializer 

    If you are the life of the party, then you will be well suited to an outgoing dog breed. The Pug has always been known for being extremely outgoing. These dogs attract a lot of attention and know-how to make strangers smile. They are also not afraid to communicate their needs. These dogs do not grow to be that big in size so they are not intimidating.

    Finding the right puppy for your home and your family doesn’t have to be a difficult decision. Understanding the common personality traits can help you narrow down your selection. Keep in mind that every dog is unique therefore there is no predicting individual behavior, likes or dislikes of a puppy. Getting to know your pup’s true personality is the fun part of puppy parenting. 

  • Are short hair dogs easier to groom?

    If you don’t love the idea of regularly grooming a puppy or paying a groomer to do it for you, you might be considering a short hair dog. But are short hair dogs really easier to groom? Let’s explore some of the advantages of caring for short hair dogs

    Grooming takes less time!

    For humans and dogs alike, grooming will always be a factor, but with short hair dogs, the time investment is decreased. If you have ever had long trees then you know that it takes extra time to wash, dry, style and maintain, but having short hair doesn’t eliminate the need to care for your hair.  The same applies for pups. There’s way more care and attention needed with long hair puppies than short hair puppies. Doggies with long and flowing manes mean time spent brushing and sometimes wrestling with your pup to sit still while you tend to their tresses. Be honest with yourself before you buy a dog. If you are someone who cannot spare the time or effort to brush your dog’s coat regularly, then it’s borderline cruelty to get long hair puppies. Short hair puppies typically need a quick brush or two and that’s it!

    More time for play

    As we mentioned, it can be a hassle to constantly brush long hair puppies. Would you rather spend your time petting your dog versus working to keep their fur from matting, tangling, or potentially getting caught in their nails? Are you someone who would rather have the loving companionship of a dog, instead of grooming them? Are you someone who loves to play, but hates to brush, if so short hair puppies might be right for you. 

    Less time cleaning!

    All dogs shed to some degree. We won’t dispute that, however long hair puppies are more likely to put the “fur” in furniture! Are you willing to constantly clean up little fur balls found around your home? If your answer is “no,” then short hair puppies might be best for you. Do you want to keep lint brushes handy in each room and in your car? If the answers are “no,” then long hair puppies may not be best for you.

  • How to Prepare for Apartment Puppies for the Fall

    Summer is coming to an end and your puppy will have to adjust to the new season of Fall. There are several ways you can make your pup more comfortable in your apartment as the seasons’ change. We take the utmost pride in educating our pet parents. Here are three things you can do to make your apartment the perfect home for your puppies.

    Easy on the Air

    The hot days of summer require constant use of air conditioning. Your dog may have fur, but pups prefer natural air over air conditioning. On a cool crisp fall day, opt for opening your bedroom or living room window and letting the fresh fall breeze enter your apartment. Your pup will be relaxed and comfortable breathing in the natural air. 

    Purchase a crate and become educated on crate training.

    Crate training is great for apartment puppies, as it helps to keep relatively small spaces cleaner and provides structure for your pups. We provide in-depth details on crate training to all puppy parents. We also carry a wide variety of crates. Our staff can assist you in finding the perfect crate for your new apartment companion.

    Get outdoors.

    Just because you live in an apartment doesn’t mean your puppy isn’t ready for some fall outdoor fun. Apartment puppies, especially some of the larger ones, will require exercise and will love some playtime with other pups! Venture out and find a pile of leaves for them to jump in or visit a local dog park. Fall mid-range temperatures are perfect for spending time outdoors. Plus, early socialization is important, but so is establishing a routine with your pup for elimination purposes. Your apartment community may actually have designated walking trails and areas for its residents’ dogs. Some are spacious and some are just patches! Do your research – it could be a fun venture for you and your pup!  

  • 3 Rooms You Must Puppy Proof

    Purchasing a puppy is an unforgettable experience, similar to bringing home a new baby. Your new puppy is a new member of your family and will soon be exploring his new home. Preparing your home for his arrival is an essential part of caring for your pup.  Below is our advice on the three most important rooms you should puppy proof.

    Bathrooms

    First, we recommend that you use child-proof cabinet locks where hazardous chemicals are stored. Puppies are smarter than you think and can learn how to open cabinets to explore, hide and play inside. If possible install toilet clamps to avoid your new puppy drinking from the porcelain bowl. There are tons of dangerous items such as medication, razors, cotton balls, and swabs and even soap. When you buy a pup, some things don’t necessarily seem harmful, but they are. Shampoos and tissue can be digested and cause unnecessary discomfort to your dog. It’s best to keep those items high atop or simply put away so that they’re inaccessible. Teach your family members to close the bathroom door as the ultimate puppy proof mechanism.

    Kitchen

    Just as in the bathroom, add kid-proof cabinet locks to all of the low- level kitchen cabinets. Since kitchens are bigger there are more things that your pup can get into. Make sure that your trashcans are sturdy and have tops that can’t be pried open and consider putting your trash can in a cabinet or in the pantry. Don’t leave food and drinks on tables and countertops and be extra cautious with low hanging tablecloths and drapes. Also be sure to store plastic grocery bags out of sight, or just switch to reusable cloth bags to be extra safe and environmentally conscience. 

    Living Rooms and Dens

    The family room is a place where your dog will feel just as comfortable as you, so you want to make it safe for him. Move magazines and remote controls in places where he can’t reach. Put away loose items, including decorative throw pillows. Teething puppies will enjoy gnawing on them, so move them! Cover electrical power cords and strips and also install outlet covers. 

    All of these tips are for the benefit and preservation of your pup’s good health and well-being. You should keep the local animal poison number handy and readily accessible. Contact us should you have questions or concerns about how to puppy-proof your home and keep them safe at all times.

  • Best Gift for Grandparents Day

    We celebrate our Mothers and Fathers each year, but what about Grandparents? Well, this year Grandparent’s Day is on September 8, so we suggest celebrating your lovely grandparents all September long. What better gift to present than a new puppy for your grandparents? Here are a few benefits that elders can experience for owning a dog

    1. Exercise – walking a dog each day can help your grandparents maintain an active lifestyle.   morning, afternoon and evening walks will ensure that your grandparents are getting up and moving which helps to improve blood circulation and fresh air will help improve their mood. Be sure that your grandparents are healthy and strong enough to meet the requirements for dog walking. Also, remember that large dog breeds can pull during walks so its best to opt for a smaller breed. 

    2. Companionship – sometimes our grandparents can get lonely. Living in an empty house after all of the grandchild’s leave can be quiet and boring. A puppy can bring vigor and spice back into the home of your grandparents. Again, a smaller breed is best for elders so they don’t occupy too much space in the home. 

    3. Entertainment – One of the best characteristics of dogs is that they really love spending time with their owners. Not only will this make your grandparents extremely happy but a dog will bring laughter and cheer into the home. 

    Make Grandparent’s day a big deal this year and buy your beloved grandparents a gift that will love them forever. Stop in today to learn about the best breeds for elders to help them remain active and have companionship and entertainment.