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  • Petland’s Top 5 Designer Breed Dogs for 2022

    Petland’s Top 5 Designer Breed Dogs for 2022

    Designer breeds have been around for quite some time now and have fast become favorites among dog lovers. In addition to the fact that a good number of them are hypoallergenic, they also possess exclusive excellent features from their parents. Here are the top 5 designer breeds ranked by Petland:

    Cockapoo

    The cockapoo has a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle parents and their original breeding can be traced to the 1960s. They are a very loving breed and an incredible family dog. They respond well to training, and can be easily socialized. 

    Labradoodle

    This breed is a mix of a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. They are very playful and have lots of energy. Their cross can be traced back to the 1980s and their hypoallergenic status makes them a major favorite. 

    Goldendoodle

    The goldendoodle’s cross can be traced to around the 1990s. They are a cross between the golden retriever and poodle. They are very loving dogs who are easy to train and do well when exposed to lots of exercise and attention. 

    Yorkie poo

    This breed is the result of a cross between a Yorkshire terrier and a Toy or Miniature Poodle. They are family-friendly dogs and are highly intelligent and playful. They may tend to bark a lot, and this would have to be curbed early on. They weigh around 8 to 15 pounds making them good for apartment living too. 

    Cavachon

    With a Bichon Frize and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel parents, it’s no surprise that this breed is very playful. They also boast great qualities such as intelligence and loyalty and relate well with other pets and kids. They have medium energy levels and only require moderate exercise as well as grooming to keep them in top shape. 

    Conclusion 

    Designer breeds have a lot of excellent qualities that may give them an edge over pure breeds. One of these is their hypoallergenic status. So, if you want to go down this path, these five breeds are an excellent array to pick from. 

  • The Best Kind of Bed for Your Dog

    The Best Kind of Bed for Your Dog

    Dog beds come in various shapes and sizes and more importantly, types. They also come in different price ranges ranging from less than a hundred dollars to a couple hundred and are best placed in various positions within the house. So, first off, what is the best kind of bed for your dog: 

    Pillow Bed 

    The pillow bed has a very basic design, however, it is super comfortable. It is made with materials that can resist food, water, and stains. The best place to position this bed is in a corner within the house or at a somewhat elevated level so that your pup has a height vantage point. 

    Bolster Bed 

    Bolster beds have characteristic plush raised sides and a soft base. The design is reminiscent of the nesting box where mother dogs give birth in. The sides provide extra comfort and support and are great for dogs who love to snuggle or stay under covers. 

    Tent Beds 

    Tent beds are enclosed on all sides and the last one is left open so that they can go about their activities. The tent has walls that are made out of cotton, canvas, or other waterproof material and the base is very plush. 

    Orthopedic Bed 

    This bed type is best suited to older dogs who have some form of old-age ailments such as sore tendons from lots of movement or arthritis. The bed is designed to help relieve pains such as those from hip dysplasia. An orthopedic bed also comes in handy to keep joints, tendons, and bones healthy as your dog ages. 

    Elevated Beds 

    An elevated dog bed keeps your dog away from the floor, thereby relieving pressure from pressure points. This bed type is easy to maintain, breathable, and can be used both outdoors and indoors. It also comes in handy for camping trips. 

    Conclusion 

    Choosing a bed type for your dog could be quite the activity, but the important part is to choose based on their need.  

  • Picking the Best Food for Your Furry Friend

    Picking the Best Food for Your Furry Friend

    There is a range of food types that are generally well suited to be eaten by dogs. Wet food diets, kibble, organic, holistic food, and a range of others. However, the best type of food for your dog greatly depends on what would be the healthiest choice for them. 

    In other words, high-quality food is one that has nutrient components that are required by your dog based on their breed and age or stage in life. Usually, the best way to pick a great diet for your dog is to talk to a nutritionist or veterinarian.

    They are in the best position to make recommendations based on the needs of your pup, and they would be able to highlight the nutrients that are essential at that point in time. They can also help you avoid foods that could induce allergic reactions in your pet since your veterinarian has your pup’s health records. 

    In addition to consulting with experts, here are some tips that can help you along in the decision-making process: 

    • Learn about the constituents of dog food so that you know what to look out for 
    • Read labels and ingredients 
    • Note the grain and gluten constituent of the food
    • Check the by-products used in making the food, if any, and ensure that they are healthy for your pup
    • Keep an eye out for adequacy, it would typically read “this food is complete and balanced for all life stages”
    • Read up on information provided about the trial feeding stage 
    • Check out the analysis of nutrients provided on the label of the food
    • As a reminder, consult with your veterinarian 

    Conclusion 

    Your dog’s food goes a long way in determining so much in their lives ranging from development to remaining in proper health. As such, you should pay close attention. 

  • Camping With Your Dogs

    Camping With Your Dogs

    One of the most exciting experiences that any pup can experience is camping. In addition to the fact that they are with their favorite human, they are also surrounded by new sights and smells, so much to explore! 

    A very vital aspect to ensure before going camping is that their vaccinations are up to date. If you aren’t certain, then be sure to pay a visit to the vet. 

    To enjoy a great camping experience without hitches, here’s a checklist to help:

    • Prepare ahead 
    • Keep your dog secure at all times 
    • Ensure your dog is never left unattended 
    • Keep an eye out for wildlife 
    • Observe in case of any allergies 
    • Bring along a lot of water 
    • Use appropriate gear 
    • Do a test run 
    • Have an up-to-date picture of your dog 
    • Bring a first aid kit along 

    Since you’re taking your dog camping, then you should plan fun activities ahead of time. This would be judicious use of the time and you can both make memories. Some dog-friendly activities that you can explore while camping include: 

    • Hiking the trails present 
    • Boating or kayaking 
    • A picnic 
    • A visit to the beach 
    • Lots outdoor games 

    It is important to find out beforehand whether the places that you would be visiting are dog-friendly. This is because certain establishments would not allow your fur baby in. For private trails, national parks, beaches, dining, and shopping centers, you would have to confirm that they allow pets. 

    Also, take note of the leash laws wherever you are and when going on walks, bring along enough water and a leash. A dog waste bag is essential too. 

    Conclusion 

    If you want to have a beautiful camping experience, then it is important to ensure that you have planned ahead adequately. 

  • Involving Your Pup in Summer Activities

    Involving Your Pup in Summer Activities

    Summer is a beautiful time to be outdoors and you would typically be up to a whole lot of fun stuff. Your pup would definitely appreciate being included in all of these fun activities, and here are some that they would especially love:

    Pool Parties 

    Summer heralds hot months and a lot of time spent in the pool, and Winter would no doubt love to splash around too. You can picture his tongue hanging out the side of his mouth and then the characteristic wiggle that splashes water all over you. If you can picture it, then you should definitely do it!

    Backyard BBQs 

    The lingering smell of meat in the air and the occasional treats you toss which are expertly caught by Winter. This is definitely a dream event by all standards; their favorite person in the world and treats! 

    Picnics in the Garden 

    You can enjoy the warm sunshine, some very cool lemonade, and pastries with the butterflies all fluttering around. This sounds like a dream paradise and definitely one you shouldn’t enjoy alone. Your pup would have a lot of fun and probably get some exercise from chasing butterflies.

    Cozy Dinners 

    Cozy dinners on the patio in the cooling evening sound like a wonderful idea. You can take in the night air and sounds and you can be certain that Winter would enjoy the calm, laying at your feet. This is an awesome doggo-human moment and definitely one that you would remember for a long time to come.

    Hikes 

    Going on a hike? Be sure to bring your furry companion along. Nobody loves the outdoors and its sounds as much as they do. 

    Conclusion 

    Looking to make great memories this summer? Involve your pup and they become even better.

  • Preparing Your Dog for the Hot Summer Months Ahead

    Preparing Your Dog for the Hot Summer Months Ahead

    Summer months are only around the corner. It is important this time of year to prepare your dog for the summer heat. Here are three tips to keep your dog cool and comfortable this summer: 

    Prepare Their Coat for Summer 

    Your pet’s fur coat helps them stay warm in winter and cool in summer. Your dog will grow a heavier coat in winter months and shed it in the spring season to develop a lighter coat for summer.

    Help keep your pet cool in the summer by trimming their coat. It is advisable to go with a professional trimmer, so you don’t end up cutting it too short. 

    A low trim could also help identify any skin infections or telling symptoms. 

    Prepare the Garden for Summer 

    If your pup loves to spend a lot of time outdoors, then you should consider creating a great space for them. You could create shade using a screen, umbrella or putting up a tarp. 

    Wet mats or towels during the hottest parts of the day to use with your pet. You can also find colling mats at some local pet stores. If you already have ice packs in your freezer, you can sandwich the packs between light blankets or towels to create a refreshing mat for your dog.

    Hydrate!

    This is good advice for you and applies to your pet too. Puppies usually require water more frequently because they are more active and their bodies are unable to regulate well. 

    The hot temperatures could cause dehydration and it is important to ensure that the water remains cool too. You could do this by adding ice to the water bowl as well as filling a clamshell or paddling pool with cool water. 

    Conclusion 

    If you are going to have a seamless summer with your pup, then you need to prepare. These tips are vital ones that you can follow.

  • Summertime is the Best Time for Puppy Photos

    Summertime is the Best Time for Puppy Photos

    Summer means the warmer months and of course, spending lots of time outdoors. Since most places are accessible and open in summer, you can definitely find a lot of picturesque backgrounds to use for pictures. Here are some of the best places for puppy pictures that you can explore: 

    The Beach 

    The beach offers the dual perk of having a great time and taking beautiful pictures too. Following a couple of hours of running around the beach with your pup and playing in the water, well, it’s picture time! You could explore a couple of picture ideas like putting a mini hat on your pet’s head or having them stretched out on a beach chair. 

    The Mountains 

    The mountains offer an amazing, picturesque background for pictures. It’s like being on top of the world, and the rest of the earth is just at your feet. This is definitely one place to take majestic pictures of your pet. 

    The Fields 

    Fields with wildflowers and rich soil could be great for a photo op. It would be like being cast into nature and if your pet is very playful, you could capture pictures of them in action. There is an off chance that a butterfly might rest on its nose, so, have your camera ready. 

    Sunsets

    Sunsets are never a bad idea for pictures. If anything, they make for a soft, beautiful, and calming background. Sunsets provide that incredible feeling in pictures that no other background can beat. So, in addition to enjoying a beautiful sunset, you get to keep a memory from it. 

    Conclusion 

    There are no doubt many backgrounds for photographing your pup, but these four definitely top the list. 

  • What to Bring With You While Hiking With Your Dog

    What to Bring With You While Hiking With Your Dog

    Hiking with your pet is some of the best alone time you could enjoy. You both have lots of sights, sounds, and smells to take in and it goes without saying that your darling pet would be ecstatic. 

    However, before you embark on a hike with your dog, it is important to ensure that you have checked certain boxes. Some of these boxes include bringing along adequate supplies and ensuring that your pet is in tip-top shape. 

    So, here’s a checklist of what to bring with you while hiking with your dog:

    • Water 
    • Food
    • Leash
    • Collar or harness
    • Canine first aid kit 
    • A bowl
    • Clothing
    • Microchip or ID card 
    • Flashlight 

    If you are hiking with a big dog, they can carry some things, nothing too heavy. On the other hand, for small dogs, you do all the carrying. 

    Before embarking on the hike, here are some things you need to ensure:

    • Physical shape; ensure that they are in top shape and ready for the rugged trails 
    • Ensure that all their vaccinations are up to date, you can always pay a visit to the veterinarian if you’re not certain 
    • Train your dog for the trails so that it’s not an entirely new experience 
    • Research where you would be hiking; the weather conditions, any specific occurrences that are peculiar to that area, among others 
    • Learn and understand how walking the trail goes, otherwise known as trail etiquette 

    The benefits of hiking are immense for both you and your pet. There is the baseline benefit of the physical fitness aspect. In addition, the atmosphere helps you and your pet relax and provides for an excellent adventure. 

    Conclusion 

    For a successful hike, be sure to check off the list here and of course, have a great time!

  • What is a Professional Regulated Breeder?

    What is a Professional Regulated Breeder?

    When you get a healthy and well-adjusted pup that requires little in the way of training, then quite a bit of work has gone behind the scenes. This is often the work of a professional regulated breeder. 

    A professional regulated breeder refers to an individual or a set of individuals who handle the breeding process amongst others, for 5 or more dogs over the span of 4 months. This basically describes the overall job description, however, a lot more goes into this process. 

    First off, a healthy, properly adjusted and socialized pup would need to be raised in a hygienic and friendly environment. This is because their background or the nature of where they were raised goes a long way in impacting their eventual behavior. 

    Professional regulated breeders, who often work with no days off, are highly committed and dedicated and must give adequate love and care to their wards. Therefore, they play a key role in the molding process of your future pup. 

    They also ensure that pets get adequate exercise and are socialized properly which, of course, is a no-brainer when dealing with a pup. The way they are socialized impacts how well they get along with other dog breeds as well as other humans.

    Dogs that are not properly socialized would be unable to behave appropriately in public and may act out as a result. Professional regulated breeders typically handle this aspect to ensure that you get the pet of your dreams. 

    Conclusion 

    In the early stages of development, what your pup picks up could stay with them till adulthood. This is why the jobs of professional regulated breeders cannot be underestimated. 

  • Why You Need a Poodle Mix

    Why You Need a Poodle Mix

    Poodle mixes like Cavapoos, Goldendoodle, Cockapoo, and Maltipoos, have attained critical acclaim because of the myriad of benefits that owning one can bring. 

    They are highly attractive, intelligent, and take training easy. In addition to these qualities, here are some others that would definitely seal the deal for you: 

    Hypoallergenic 

    A number of poodle mix-breeds are hypoallergenic which implies that they are great for people who have allergies. This is because they either do not shed or shed less and infrequently. So, they would either have no dander or very few clinging to their coat.  

    Small Size 

    They come in very small sizes which makes them well suited to small apartments and given that they don’t shed, you won’t have to worry about getting fur all over your apartment. 

    They are also very easy to carry around and their owners explore this benefit to the fullest. For instance, the Cockapoo weighs only about 12-25 pounds and has a height of 9-18 inches. 

    The Goldendoodle, which is one of the biggest in this breed category, has a height of about 22-22.5 inches and weighs around 50-90 pounds. 

    Great for Families 

    Poodle mixes also make for great family dogs, one great example is the Goldendoodle. They also have excellent traits gotten from both parents that they were bred from and are considered a superior breed to their parent breed. 

    They do well with kids and are not temperamental. In spite of their small size, some of them are quite energetic and playful and make for a good playmates for your kids. 

    Conclusion 

    Opting for a poodle mix could be an excellent option especially if you are looking for a small dog.