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  • High Energy Dogs

    High Energy Dogs

    Are you looking for a fast-paced high energy dog that will keep you active? If so, here is a list of the most energetic dog breeds that will keep you and your kids on the move! It is very important though to know that these dog breeds will require a lot of outdoor activity time with their family to prevent them from engaging in indoor no no’s. (Chewing furniture, etc.)

    Border Collie

    The Border Collie is an extremely intelligent, loyal, playful and energetic dog breed. They are well known for their agility and stamina. These dogs make great family pets for those who enjoy a lot of time outdoors.

    HEIGHT: 18 to 23 Inches

    WEIGHT: 30 to 60 Pounds

    PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Rough or smooth medium-length coat which can be solid, bicolor, tricolor, merle, or sable; well-balanced, athletic body.

    Australian Shepherd

    The Australian Shepherd is a dog that is often on the move. They have a lot of energy and enjoy burning it off. This breed is a great fit for families that have active children who enjoy playing outside. It is important to make sure the Australian Shepherd receives copious amounts of activity time to prevent pent up energy.  

    HEIGHT: 18 to 24 inches

    WEIGHT: 35 to 65 pounds

    PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Medium-length coat with a well-balanced body; colors include black, blue merle, red, and red merle.

    Jack Russell Terrier

    The Jack Russell Terrier is as energetic and wiry as he looks! This small breed of dog loves playtime and will most likely outplay even the most active child. From running, to playing fetch, to a game of tug of war, the Jack Russell Terrier is top dog!

    HEIGHT: 12 to 14 inches

    WEIGHT: 13 to 10 Pounds

    PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Smooth or wiry coat with colors include white with black, brown, or tan markings

    Weimaraner

    Weimaraners were originally bred for hunting and are considered high-energy dogs. This breed loves to engage in outdoor activity time with family and does well with families who like to stay busy. About 60 minutes of activity time a day for this breed will help keep him happy and healthy.

    HEIGHT: 23 to 29 inches

    WEIGHT: 50 to 90 pounds

    PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Sleek body with a short coat; blue to gray color.

    Siberian Husky

    Siberian Huskies were bred to pull sleds over very long distances. This breed is known for having an incredible amount of energy and loves to stay active. They do best with families who include them in outdoor activity time which can be anything from hiking to a brisk walk or a game of fetch. It is important to keep them active to prevent them from destroying indoor fixtures out of boredom.

    It is important to remember that all dogs require daily exercise in order to remain fit and healthy. Dogs that are considered to be high energy dogs will require even more activity time to help them feel their best. Regardless which way you accomplish this, making sure to consistently keep your pup on a good activity schedule is very important.

  • Longest Living Dog Breeds – Which are They and Ways to Achieve a Longer Life

    Longest Living Dog Breeds – Which are They and Ways to Achieve a Longer Life

    The average life expectancy of a dog varies based on many different things. Variables such as having a proper diet, remaining at a healthy weight, and routine veterinarian wellness checks do come into play. Despite all of these things, some dog breeds in general, tend to live longer than others. Below we compiled a list of the top five dogs breeds that have the longest average life expectancy.

    New Guinea Singing Dog

    The New Guinea Singing Dogs, also referred to as NGSD, are native to the Highlands of Papua New Guinea. These free-roaming dogs have evolved naturally on the island over thousands of years and were not discovered by scientists until about 1950. They have an extremely long average lifespan of about seventeen years.

    Chihuahua

    The Chihuahua is the smallest recognized dog breed, named for the Mexican state of Chihuahua, where it was first noted in the mid-19th century. It is believed that the Chihuahua is thought to derived from the Techichi, a small dog kept by the Toltec people of Mexico as long ago as the 9th century. This breed of dog has an average lifespan of about seventeen years.

    Toy Poodle

    The Toy Poodle was originally bred in the early 20th century as a companion dog. This breed is known for its loyalty and intelligence. The poodle was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1886 and has been a family favorite for generations. This breed has an average lifespan of about sixteen years.

    Jack Russell Terrier

    The Jack Russell Terrier was originally developed in southern England during in the mid-1800s by Parson John Russell. The intentions were to create a working terrier who would hunt with hounds, bolting foxes from their dens so the hounds could chase them. This family pup has an average life expectancy of sixteen years.

    Cockapoo

    The Cockapoo was first created in the 1960s, when a breeder accidentally combined the genetic material of a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. This breed has since taken off in popularity and adored by many families around the world. His long average life expectancy of sixteen years is much thanks to his Poodle parent.

    Five Basic Tip to Keep Your Dog Healthy

    1- Feed Your Dog a Healthy and Balanced Diet – Always read the ingredients of their food. It is also important to feed your dog the proper amount of food. Variables such as the size of your dog, his activity level, and age must be considered. Feeding your dog too much will result in weight issues as feeding him too little will result in nutrition issues.

    2- Dental Care – Routine teeth cleaning is very important. This is not always easy, but with practice this task becomes second nature in time.

    3- Keep Your Dog Active, But Don’t Overdo It – Most dogs do well with about thirty minutes of physical exercise every day. It is important to make sure you keep an eye on your pup while exercising to make sure he is not overdoing it.

    4- Provide Mental Enrichment and Stimulation – Play with your dog. Human interaction which includes talking to him will help to stimulate his mind. One-on-one playtime vs just allowing him to run around the yard alone is an example of this.

    5- Regular Veterinary Visits – Do not wait for there to be a health concern. Routine wellness checks for your fur-legged friend are very important.

  • The Seven Oldest Breeds of Dogs

    The Seven Oldest Breeds of Dogs

    They are known as man’s best friend and recent research indicates that they may have been given this title longer than we first believed. Although many dog breeds date back centuries, there are a few that date back well before that. Below is a list of the oldest dog breeds on record and a little information about each breed.

    Akita Inu

    Dating Back 10,000 Years – Akita Inu

    The Akita Inu is a historic breed of dog who originated in the mountains of northern Japan. The two separate varieties of Akita are a pure Japanese strain, also known as Akita-ken and a mixed American strain, commonly larger. This breed has a short double coat similar to northern spitz breeds. The Akita Inu is a very strong, loyal and focused dog who’s been around for a long time.

    Dating Back 9,500 Years – Greenland Sled Dog

    The Greenland Sled Dog is a sturdy, powerful and heavy-built dog with a wedge-shaped head, slightly tilted eyes and small triangular ears. This breed is covered with a thick coat which helps to prevents frostbite. This breed has a very long history of being a loyal and hardworking dog known for its incredible stamina.

    Dating Back 8,000 Years – Afghan Hound

    While many believe that the Afghan Hound was originally from the deserts of Egypt, its name suggests otherwise, and a more realistic theory is that they were originally bred by the nomadic people of Afghanistan and its neighboring regions. This breed was used to hunt animals such as antelopes and leopards. They are very fast and focused dogs that have a very long history.

    Greyhound

    Dating Back 8,000 Years – Greyhound

    The original primary use of Greyhounds, both in the British Isles and on the Continent of Europe, was in the coursing of deer for meat and sport. Over thousands of years, this breed has become a very popular family pet due to their gentle and loving demeanor. Greyhounds are also extremely fast and are able to maintain great speeds over long distances. As of today, the Greyhound is known as the fastest breed of dog in the world clocking in at 45 mph.

    Dating Back 5,000 Years – Basenji

    The Basenji is an ancient dog breed tracing their lineage from pariah dogs to the Egyptians and then to hunting dogs for the tribes in the Congo. Running in silent packs, the Basenjis often wore bells to alert their human partners to their whereabouts in the deep jungle. This breed of dog was a tremendous hunter whose stamina and loyalty won the hearts of humans for thousands of years.

    Dating Back 5,000 Years – Tibetan Mastiff

    The Tibetan mastiff is a large-size dog breed that originated in China. They are often described to be as magnificent and alert as a lion. This breed was used in Tibet for thousands of years as powerful and imposing estate guard. They are very protective and loyal dogs whose appearance can be intimidating. Despite being very intelligent dogs, they can be stubborn and at times difficult to train. Many would suggest training at a young age will yield the best results.

    Dating Back 5,000 Years – Saluki

    The Saluki is a very old breed of dog dating back thousands of years. Images of this breed with have been found on various artifacts in the Middle East, such as tomb paintings and mosaic sculptures. The Saluki was bred to hunt and unlike many dogs that utilize scent to do so, this breed utilizes its amazing vision. These are strong, alert, and fast dogs that have a long and proven history of helping mankind.

  • They’ll Fight Like Cats and Dogs! Or will they?

    They’ll Fight Like Cats and Dogs! Or will they?


    As the saying goes, they’ll fight like cats and dogs…

    Not necessarily if you find the right dog. But what qualities does a dog need in order for it to get along well with a cat? The first thing to take into consideration is the dog’s breed group. Dogs in the Terrier Group were by designed bred to hunt small game. (Such as a cat!) Dogs in the Hound Group were bred to chase and follow, which would mean a cat on the run could cause this type of breed to chase it.

    Dogs that fall under the Herding Group were designed to do just that, herd. Cats are very independent animals and may not appreciate being led where to walk. Although all of these types of dog breeds are able interact well with cats, many dogs within these groups naturally may have a hard time doing so.

    On the other hand, dog breed groups known for having a less energetic and more laid-back mentality tend to do well with cats. For example, the Toy Group includes smaller lapdogs who generally spend more energy gently licking their owner’s hand than chasing them.

    They also tend to be less alarming to a cat since they are almost the same size. Being that they are not as active, a cat may not feel as intimidated around them. Smaller and calmer breeds such as the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is known for their gentle disposition and do not over-bark, which can startle a cat.

    In a perfect world, the cat and dog are introduced while both are young, which allows them to grow and bond without having a territorial conflict. For those of us who add a cat to the mix after already owning a dog, it is important to remember that they first need to get familiar with one another. This will take time and initially keeping both pets spaced apart. By allowing each pet to sense (smell and hear) the other animal will allow for a gradual adjustment between the two. Eventually, both pets will need to see each other, but it is advised that they do so standing on different sides of a pet gate. This will prevent one pet from scratching or biting the other.

    Below are the top five dog breeds that we believe do best with cats inside the home.

    Bichon Fires


    The Bichon Frise has a warm and gentle demeanor and tends to do well with cats because of this. They are not aggressive dogs and enjoy curling up next to any fur-legged friend they can find. They are also a smaller dog which may allow the cat to feel less threatened.

    Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

    Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

    Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are extraordinarily loving and calm dogs who enjoy being close to family. They quickly warm up to people and other pets in the home and are not known for overly barking. This breed is gentle and caring and does make a great fit for those who also want a cat.

    Poodle

    Poodles (all three sizes) make excellent housemates for cats. Many Toy Poodles enjoy actually playing with cats. Miniature Poodles have been known to just exist with a cat and be partial. Standard Poodles seem to have a “who cares” outlook and pretend the cat isn’t even in the house. The Poodle is a very smart dog who is able to get along with just about anyone or anything.

    Golden Retriever

    Golden Retrievers are one of the top dog breeds in general. They get along well with people, other dogs, and cats. The Golden Retriever enjoys his family, and if a cat is a part of that, so be it. With very pleasant and warm personalities, this breed normally does well with cats. They are also not aggressive or known to push other animals around.

    Labrador Retriever

    Labrador Retriever

    The always “pup-ular” Labrador Retriever, or “Lab,” is a very social yet not anxious or excited dog. They tend to be patient and have very warm and loving personalities. This breed tends to coexist well with other pets in the home, including cats. For many years this breed has been ranked as a top dog breed in the United States.

    Regardless which dog breed you decide to introduce to a cat, the key is being patient. Remember, by nature not all animals “get along” but with time, care, and introducing the animals in steps, your puppy’s new best friend may be a cat.

  • The BIG Dog

    The BIG Dog

    Despite their massive and intimidating appearance, large dog breeds are generally well-tempered, warm, loving, friendly and loyal animals!  Throughout history, these dogs have been relied on for their strength which helped them to excel in guarding territory, protect livestock, and farm work. If a large dog is what you want than this is the blog for you. Below are the top six largest breeds of dogs and some information about them.

    English Mastiff

    At the top of our list of big dogs is the English Mastiff. This breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club. The biggest English Mastiff on record is named Aicama Zorba and broke the scale at 343 pounds. Typically, however, male English Mastiffs weigh 160 to 230 pounds while female English Mastiffs weigh 120 to 170 pounds. These dogs also stand about 30 inches tall at the shoulder, with females being slightly shorter.

    Boerboels

    The Boerboel generally weighs between 150 and 220 pounds, with no difference given between females and males. Farmers in South Africa began using this breed after initially developing them to hunt leopards and baboons. This dog is a very large and powerful dog and is known to be somewhat aggressive, so good socialization training at a young age is needed.

    Saint Bernard

    Saint Bernard dogs are large, strong and dominant in size. Male Saint Bernards typically weigh in between 140 and 180 pounds while female Saint Bernards tend to weigh between 120 and 140 pounds. Most Saint Bernards stand just under thirty inches tall at full maturity. This breed was developed to help rescue Alpine mountaineers. The face of a Saint Bernard has a distinct appearance with a wrinkled brow and short muzzle.

    Great Dane

    The Great Dane is another large breed of dog. Male Great Danes tend to weigh in between 140 and 175 pounds. Female Great Danes generally check in between 110 and 140 pounds. The largest Great Dane in the record books was named Zeus. This gigantic dog stood nearly four feet tall and stood seven feet four inches high when on his back legs. This being almost two feet taller than the average man.

    Leonbergers

    According to the American Kennel Club, male Leonbergers weigh between 110 and 170 pounds. Female Leonbergers generally weigh between 90 and 140 pounds. Both male and female Leonbergers stand about 30 inches tall at maturity. The Leonbergers has a unique lion-like mane around its neck and chest which magnifies its large appearance. Water rescue teams often use this breed because of their water-resistant coat. Many also deploy this breed to herd animals and as watchdogs because of their size.

    Tibetan Mastiffs

    Tibetan Mastiffs are large and solid dogs. Male Tibetan Mastiffs weigh between 90 and 150 pounds. Female Tibetan Mastiffs weigh between 70 and 120 pounds. They stand about two feet tall at maturity and are known to make an excellent watchdog. If a large dog is what you are looking for this is definitely a breed to consider.

    Anatolian Shepherd

    Anatolian Shepherds were initially developed in the Kangal region of Turkey to guard and protect livestock. Although this breed is large and strong and protective, they tend to be very gentle around their family.  Male Anatolian Shepherds weigh between 110 and 150 pounds while female Anatolian Shepherds weigh between 80 and 120 pounds. They stand about thirty inches tall at maturity.

  • Top Ways to Keep Your Pup Happy

    We love our puppies, and so do you! Nothing will stop us from doing things for them to make them feel happy and loved. Below are some ideas of ways that you can improve their life, and they are much easier than you may think!

    Boost Up the Exercise Routine!

    Our pups love being active, especially with their family. A jog in the park or a walk through the neighborhood will get your pup’s heart beating and tail wagging. Some parks even offer secured off-leash areas, which is a great place for a game of fetch. Regardless of what you do, keeping your fur-legged friend active and well-exercised is a great way to keep them happy.

    Mental Stimulation

    Mental stimulation for your pup is a great way to fight boredom and stay mentally active. Taking your dog to new places and on new adventures is a great way to accomplish this. Instead of just walking your dog for exercise, try playing games that require them to follow commands. This is a good way to keep their mind sharp and happy.

    Positive Reinforcement

    When training your pup be sure to use positive reinforcement techniques. Your dog wants to make you happy and is generally happy when you are. While training him, be sure to use the same words when they accomplish an act correctly, followed by an extra pat on the back. Your dog can sense the tone in your voice, so using a consistent and upbeat voice when he does good will allow him to sense your happiness and feel the same way.

    Who doesn’t like a good massage? Well, your pup loves them too! Test out different massage techniques for your pup, and when you see one of his back legs twitching, you found the right one! This will allow you and your pup to bond while promoting relaxation. A good brushing of your dog will also accomplish similar results and make him look good too!

    Let Them Relax

    Many dog owners find it more convenient to keep their pup’s collar on day and night. Although this will save you time, collars can cause discomfort if left on too long. Consider removing your pup’s collar in the evening before bed so he can relax. A relaxed pup is a happy pup!

    Feed Them Well

    Properly fueling your pup has many advantages. For one, their overall health. A properly fed dog will look and feel better than a dog that is being fed low-quality dog food. Long-term health also greatly depends on the quality of his food. A treat here and there and fine but feeding your dog twice a day in twelve-hour intervals tends to keep their energy levels balanced.

    Grooming is Good

    Every dog needs to be groomed. Some breeds require more work than others based on their coats, etc. Daily brushing of your pup is very important as it will prevent stubborn knots and matting from forming. Not only will your dog look better being groomed, but he will feel much better too.

    Pay Attention

    Your dog seeks your undivided attention. Regardless of how busy your day is, be sure to pay your pup quality attention. That can be lying down together, petting while talking to him, or even teaching him a new trick. Your one-on-one attention with your dog is very important. This will allow him to feel loved and allow your bond to be even stronger.

    No matter how you keep your dog happy, know that he relies on you and loves your presence. Taking the time each and every day to show your fur-legged friend love is good for his health and will allow him to know he’s special.

  • Top Pups for First Time Dog Owners

    Top Pups for First Time Dog Owners

    Adding a dog to your family is a very fun and exciting part of life, however, does come with some challenges. Realistically, your pup is a part of your family and will be for many years. There are certainly many plusses to adding a fur-legged friend but there are also certain challenging aspects that come with this. Potty training, basic obedience and you being able to leave home for long periods of time while your pup is home alone are just a few. The key is finding a dog breed that best fits your family’s dynamics and routine. Certain dogs are a better fit for first-time dog owners because they are easier to care for. Below is a list of our top five dog breeds for those who never owned a dog before.

    Bichon Frise

    The Bichon Frise is more of a laidback and happy-go-lucky dog. They are easy to get along with and tend to be very simple. They also train easily and only need a moderate amount of exercise. This a big plus for families that are always on the go. They tend to do well when their family is away from the home and are not known to be destructive. This breed has been a very popular breed for many years because of this.

    GROUP: Non-Sporting (AKC)

    HEIGHT: 9 to 12 inches

    WEIGHT: 7 to 12 pounds

    COAT AND COLOR: Curly white coat; may have traces of apricot, buff, or cream LIFE EXPECTANCY: 13 to 15 years

    Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

    The Cavalier King Charles spaniel is as loving as she looks. They tend to do great with children and have warm demeanors. They do well home alone and are not known to act out when their family is away for the day. This breed also trains well and is overall a very easy dog to care for. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel does not require excessive amounts of exercise and will be patiently waiting for you at the front door for you to come home. This breed makes a great fit for first-time dog owners.

    GROUP: Toy (AKC)

    HEIGHT: 12 to 13 inches (to the withers)

    WEIGHT: 13 to 18 pounds

    COAT AND COLOR: Long, sleek and silky coat with feathering around ears, feet, chest, and tail in four color varieties, tricolor, blenheim, ruby, and black and tan LIFE EXPECTANCY: 12 to 14 years

    Golden Retriever

    The Golden Retriever makes a great dog for first-time dog owners because they are very easy to train and very smart. They do require and do well with a little more activity time than some breeds, however, they also tend to occupy themselves when at home alone. This breed is also able to adapt to contemporary home or apartment living, does great with children and is overall one of the better dog breeds for first-time dog owners.

    GROUP: Sporting (AKC)

    HEIGHT: 20 to 24 inches

    WEIGHT: 50 to 75 pounds

    COAT AND COLOR: Medium-length double coat; light to dark gold LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10 to 12 years

    Pomeranian

    The Pomeranian is a gentle and caring lapdog who loves his family. They are easy to care for and do not require excessive exercise. They are also not known to be destructive and are good at occupying themselves when home alone. They can be at times a bit stubborn, however, do train well and make great contemporary home or apartment style living dogs. Although this good-looking dog looks high maintenance, they are anything but that and are sure to make a great fit in your home.

    GROUP: Toy (AKC)

    HEIGHT: 6 to 8 inches

    WEIGHT: 3 to 7 pounds

    COAT AND COLOR: Long, double coat that comes in many colors, though the most common are red, orange, cream, sable, black, brown, and blue LIFE EXPECTANCY: 12 to 16 years

    Poodle

    Last but certainly not least is the ever so popular Poodle. Known to be the scholars of all dogs, this breed is a great fit for new dog owners because they train with ease. The Poodle does do best with one-on-one attention from his family, but is also able to adapt to being home alone when no one is home. This Poodle comes in three sizes: toy, miniature, or standard. All are intelligent and very loving dogs.

    GROUP: Non-Sporting (AKC)

    HEIGHT: Over 15 inches (standard) 10 to 15 inches (miniature) 10 inches and under (toy)

    WEIGHT: 45 to 70 pounds (standard) 15 to 18 pounds (miniature) 5 to 9 pounds (toy)

    COAT AND COLOR: One of many solid colors, including but not limited to white, black, gray, brown, apricot, and particolored LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10 to 16 years

  • Tips for Keeping Your Pup Healthy in the Winter

    Tips for Keeping Your Pup Healthy in the Winter

    With winter here, we all know the challenges of staying warm and safe. We must also take into consideration the well-being of our pets as the temperature drops. Here are a few simple tips you can take to make sure your fur-legged friend stays warm, comfortable, and healthy this winter season. 

    Keep a Time Limit on How Long Your Pup is Outside

    The key is monitoring your pup and making sure he is not left outside for more than a few minutes at a time. Things such as frostbite can set in quickly, which can be very painful for your dog. Watch his behavior while outside, and if he begins to slow down or shiver, it’s time to bring him in. Dogs do love the outdoors but have limitations, just like we do.

    Bundle Your Pup Up

    Yes, most dogs have thick coats, which will help keep them somewhat warm, but a second layer of insulation, such as a dog jacket or sweater, will help keep your pup warmer. Many pet stores carry insulated jackets which will prevent your dog from losing heat. This is especially important for dog breeds that have a thin coat and or are not designed to withstand cold weather. 

    Consider Your Pup’s Age and General Activity Level 

    Young puppies and senior dogs tend to have more of a difficult time in cold weather. Although puppies love to play in the snow, they do not always know their limits and can find themselves in over their head (no pun intended) when a significant amount of snow falls. Dogs between two years of age and eight years of age tend to handle the cold weather better than puppies or senior pups. 

    Keep Your Dog’s Paws Protected 

    Dogs have very sensitive and vulnerable paws, which is why keeping their paws safe is important. Dog booties offer a layer of protection between your pup’s paws and the harsh ground. Ice and snow can quickly irritate the pads on your dog’s paws. Other things, such as rock salt, which is used in the winter, can also greatly irritate his paws. Doggy booties are an inexpensive yet effective way to keep your pup feeling his best while outside in the winter. They may take some time to get used to, but they are well worth it.

    Heating Beds for After Playtime

    After your pup comes in, he will need to warm up. Providing your pup with a dog heating bed is a great way to help bring his body temperature up to where it needs to be. This will also help your four-legged friend relax and rest after exerting himself while outside. Several dog heating beds come with an automatic shutoff feature for safety. If a heating bed is out of your price range, consider a dog heating pad. This less expensive item will also allow your dog to warm up after being outside in the freezing weather.

    Hydrate Your Dog After Playtime 

    Dogs do not only need extra water after playing in the warm months. Cold winter days will also require your pup to stay well hydrated. When the moisture in the air drops (as it often does) in the winter, your dog will need proper hydration. Providing your dog with ample amounts of room-temperature water when he returns inside will help keep him feeling his best. 

    Clean His Paws

    If you opt not to use dog booties, be sure to make sure his paws are wiped down when he comes in. Rock salt and other anti-ice agents may cause your pup’s paws to be in discomfort. Wiping them down will help to remove whatever he gets on them, plus it will prevent him from licking the substance off of his paws. This very quick and very easy chore will greatly benefit your dog.

    We all love our dogs, and by taking a few simple precautions, we can ensure that they remain in top condition and feel great all winter long. Always remember, if it’s too cold for you to be outside, it is probably too cold for your dog to be outside. Taking the time to make sure your pup is comfortable and safe is always very important.

  • Which Dogs Shed the Least?

    Which Dogs Shed the Least?

    Many of us believe that owning a dog and dealing with shedding goes hand in hand. And in many cases that is the truth. However, there are dog breeds that shed very little to none at all. If you are looking for a low shedding or no shedding dog, this article is for you. We will go over a list of not only great family dogs, but dogs that are easy to care for and are not known for excessive shedding.

    Bedlington Terrier The Bedlington Terrier requires some grooming, but they don’t shed. This breed is a gentle and caring family dog that makes a great fit into most families. They are not hard to care for and quickly bond with their family. The Bedlington Terrier is certainly a top-notch dog that will win your heart and lap in no time.

    Bichon Frise

    The Bichon Frise is best described as being a happy, social, and energetic dog. The Bichon Frise does need routine grooming to maintain their clean white coats which grow, not shed. Due to this, this breed has less dander, which generally makes this pup a good dog for allergy sufferers. Between not shedding and being so lovable, the Bichon Frise is a highly recommended family dog.

    Brussels Griffon

    The Brussels Griffon is an all-around fun and happy dog. The rough-coated version of this breed does not shed and is easy to groom. They are low maintenance pups that have very loyal and outgoing personalities. They do well with children and other pets inside the home.

    Kerry Blue Terrier

    Another top choice for those looking for a non-shedding dog is the Kerry Blue Terrier. This breed is a wise choice for folks looking for non-shedding and somewhat non-allergenic dogs. This breed is known for being affectionate, playful, and all-around fun to be around. They make tremendous family pets and are relatively easy to care for.

    Maltese

    The Maltese is a small, easy-going, and charming dog that has a single white silky coat. Basic routine care is needed in keeping this pup looking its best but is overall is a simple dog. They are considered low-shedding dogs which will allow for more playtime than vacuuming time. The Maltese has a long history of making a great pet and is sure to win your heart in no time at all.

    Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier

    The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium sized dog that has a soft and wavy coat that requires basic care. This breed is considered to be a low-shedding dog which means a lot less dander. The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier makes a great family pet thanks to its warm and approachable demeanor and is known to quickly bond with its family.

    Barbet

    The Barbet originated in France and has become very popular in the United States over the last few years. This breed has a very tightly-curled coat which is non-shedding. They are very friendly dogs that tend to be loyal and loving to their families. The Barbet will generally quickly form a strong bond with you and your family. They also have eager to please personalities and enjoy showing off.

    Regardless whichever fur-legged friend wins your heart, you have made a great decision. Dogs (high, medium, low, or no shedders) offer amazing companionship and normally offer years of happiness. All dogs will require basic care to look and feel their best and by taking the time to select a dog that best fits what you are able to provide it, will allow you and your new best friend to be happy and content.

  • The Top Five Dogs for Families That Have Children

    The Top Five Dogs for Families That Have Children

    Many parents ask which breed of dog would be the best for their family. Kids love dogs and most dogs love kids, but there are some dogs that generally do better around children than others. You have to admit, kids are curious and at times a little rough which is why having a dog who’s tolerable around them is important. Other great qualities in a dog that will be around children include low to no aggression, not overly powerful as to accidently hurt your child while playing, and a warm and loving demeanor. You also do not want a breed of dog that doesn’t want to be “bothered” because many kids just want to play, play, and play some more! If you are considering a family pet and you have children this blog is for you. Below you will find our pick of the top five dog breeds that do great around children.

    Labrador Retriever

    Year after year after year the Labrador Retriever ranks the most “pupular” dog in the United States. This breed is simply amazing and ranks number one in our kid friendly and mom approved list of dogs. They are loving, caring, social, and have very approachable demeanors. They love your attention and are gentle around children.

    Breed Assessment Traits and Qualities:

    • Personality: Friendly, gentle and playful
    • Energy Level: Moderately active
    • Good with Children: Very
    • Good with Other Dogs: Very
    • Shedding: Moderate
    • Grooming: Daily brushing
    • Trainability: With ease
    • Height: 21 to 25 inches tall at maturity
    • Weight: 55 to 80 pounds at maturity
    • Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
    • Barking Level: Average

    French Bulldog

    The French Bulldog is at the top of our list for many reasons. They are a very gentle and affectionate breed of dog that does exceptionally well with children. They are patient and loving and enjoy to play. They are not overly energetic or pushy which is why they are safe for smaller children. They almost never show signs of aggression and enjoy both indoor and outdoor playtime. This breed continues to be very popular around the world and makes a great fit into almost any family.

    Breed Assessment Traits and Qualities:

    • Personality: Loving, playful, gentle, and smart.
    • Energy Level: Lower than average
    • Good with Children: Very
    • Good with other Dogs: Very
    • Shedding: Low
    • Grooming: Two to three brushes a week
    • Trainability: With ease
    • Height: 11-13 inches at maturity
    • Weight: 20-30 pounds at maturity
    • Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
    • Barking Level: Low

    Golden Retriever

    The Golden Retriever was designed for those who wanted a medium-sized dog that would do well in wild-fowling, both upland game and waterfowl. Today’s Golden Retriever is a sought-after gorgeous dog that does well in families that have children and other pets in the home. They are very social and gentle dogs that have an easygoing and warm demeanor. They enjoy being close to their family and are great around children. They almost never show signs of aggression and are a pleasure to be around.

    Breed Assessment Traits and Qualities:

    • Personality: Smart, easy to get along with and caring
    • Energy Level: Moderately active
    • Good with Children: Very
    • Good with other Dogs: Very
    • Shedding: Average
    • Grooming: Daily brushing
    • Trainability: With ease
    • Height: 21 to 24 inches tall at maturity
    • Weight: 55 to 75 pounds at maturity
    • Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
    • Barking Level: Average

    Pug

    The small but mighty Pug also ranks high on our list because of his playful, loving, and warm demeanor. This breed has a social and outgoing personality and packs a lot of energy in a small body. The Pug does great around children because of this and is not known to show aggression. Their tolerance level allows them to play well with children who are still learning how to be around dogs.

    Breed Assessment Traits and Qualities:

    • Personality: Outgoing, curious, and playful
    • Energy Level: Moderately active
    • Good with Children: Good
    • Good with Other Dogs: Good
    • Shedding: Routinely
    • Grooming: Two to four times a week
    • Trainability: Generally easy
    • Height: 10-13 inches tall at maturity
    • Weight: 14-18 pounds at maturity
    • Life Expectancy: 13-15 years
    • Barking Level: Average

    Collie

    Collies are very smart and energetic dogs that love human interaction and outdoor activity time. They are gentle and patient around children and are not known to be at all aggressive. This breed has a very long history of making a marvelous family pet and is sure to win your heart too. Collies also tend to be able to adapt well with other dogs in the home.

    Breed Assessment Traits and Qualities:

    • Personality: Caring, alert and playful
    • Energy Level: Very active
    • Good with Children: Very
    • Good with Other Dogs: Yes
    • Shedding: Moderate
    • Grooming: Two to four brushes a week
    • Trainability: Easily trained
    • Height: 22-26 inches tall at maturity
    • Weight: 50-75 pounds at maturity
    • Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
    • Barking Level: Moderate