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  • Two Dog Households

    Owning two puppies can be a joyful experience. Whether they are big or small, a Great Dane, and a poodle, they can be companions for life. Four-legged friends enjoy hanging out together, especially when you are not around. They take care of each other, cuddle together, enjoy their walks, and show their owners twice as much love. If you are considering adding two dogs to complete your family, here are a few tips to make this adventure a smooth one.

    1. Prepare Your Home 

    Keep in mind each dog needs its own toys, food bowls, dog pillows, leashes, and love. Be prepared to provide these individual items for each of your puppies to create a harmonious home. Once you have all of the pet supplies, you need to be sure to set up a separate area for each of your pets to enjoy their meals and sleep. A special blanket for each of your pets may be soothing and give your puppy the feeling they are extra special.

    2. Transportation for Two

    Your vehicle should have enough space to transport your two furry friends safely. Use crates when necessary or reserve a spot in the back where your dogs can move comfortably around your car without obstructing your view. Don’t forget to have those water bowls and leashes handy in case you and your puppies decide to go on a long hike.

    3. Relax and Show Double Love

    Pets are easy and just want the same unconditional love they give you. Loving two pets is not double work; it’s double fun. When you watch your two pets bonding, it will light up your life and warm your heart. You’ll look forward to coming home to their love and doggie kisses and spending cozy nights cuddled with them both. Once you have two doggies, you will wonder how you ever lived your life without them.

  • Home Training Your Dog

    Getting a new puppy can be an exciting time! As a pet lover, you can’t wait to add your new family member to your home, but this is the easy part. Home training your new family member is the most rewarding venture, yet it can be the most challenging. Puppies are naturally very excited animals and need to be trained for the household environment. It is important you start to train your puppy as soon as they enter your household. Here are a few helpful tips on how to train your puppy at home.  

    1. A Space Just for Your Puppy 

    Establish your household boundaries. If there are areas in your house that you would not like your puppy to roam around in, make that clear to your dog. It is perfectly fine if you tell your puppy  “No” this will help you establish boundaries with them. Set up a specific area in your home for your This space will be used for feeding your puppy, a doggie bed and any toys your puppy will enjoy.

    2. Curb Any Bad Puppy Habits 

    Any biting or nipping of any kind should be discouraged. Puppies naturally bite or nip when they are excited. This chewing type action is not a sign of aggression, but merely a natural trait for dogs. It is up to you to let your puppy know this type of behavior is unacceptable in your household. By not allowing your puppy to continue this behavior, you are stopping any bad habits that may develop, as well as preventing serious bites when your dog’s teeth become even stronger. 

    3. Reward Good Behavior 

    Training your puppy can be tough on them, remember they are trying their best. Practice patience and give lots of treats, rewarding them for their hard work. Praise them with a friendly pet or cuddle that will make their tail wag and make you the happiest pet owner on earth!

  • Winter Pet Care

    As the season changes and the weather gets colder, make sure you and your pet are prepared. Winter may bring about a few challenges for your pet, but nothing you can’t handle. Knowing what to do so your pet is well taken care of in these colder months is easy and could help make a life for your furry friend something he will look forward to. Here are a few tips you can follow to make sure your pet has a cozy and warm winter.

    1. Limit Your Dog Grooming Appointments 

        Cancel your next grooming appointment!  The wintertime is a time to let your dog’s fur grow. We understand that dogs are more flattering when they are well-groomed, however, their fur is what will keep them insulated in this cold weather. A dog with a big fluffy coat will be able to take on the outdoors and not worry about getting cold.

     2. Booties and Sweaters 

         Invest in puppy booties and dog sweaters. They are worth their weight in gold! Pet booties are not just trendy and cute, and they are functional. Your dog’s toes won’t have to touch the ice, or cold concrete or experience any winter weather pain. Dog sweaters can give your dog an extra sense of comfort. Remember, extreme temperatures are tough on a dog’s paws, and cold weather can be a culprit. It may take a few more moments to put

     3. Short Walks 

      Early morning walks can get chilly, so shorten your walk to make sure your dog is not in the cold for too long. Your pet may get chillier a lot faster than you since more of their skin is exposed. By limiting the distance of your regular walks for those cold mornings, you can protect your dog from the harsh elements winter can bring 

  • Gifts for Your Dog

    Though we don’t need a reason to buy our puppy a gift, holidays and birthdays give us a good excuse. And since your furry friends come in different sizes and breeds and ages, there are a ton of choices that make excellent gifts for your pet. From doggie clothes to doggie treats to doggie toys shopping for your puppy can be a lot of fun!

    1. Goody Box For Your Furry Friend

    Fill your birthday goody box with morsels and jerky and doggy breath mints. These boxes are designed for your dog according to their age and weight and can be ordered online. You can’t go wrong with these edible treats full of soft and chewy goodies. These goodie boxes can also include a heated pet bed. When this package arrives, your dog will be jumping for joy!

    2. Doggie Clothes

    Browse through the many styles of doggie clothes by shopping with your dog. You can touch and feel the texture of the clothing and decide which outfit is best for your pet. Don’t forget the accessories and booties designed just for your pet. Small and large boutiques make browsing for unique doggie clothes a charming adventure. Your favorite doggie clothes designers have a unique set of doggie clothes waiting for you and your furry friend. If you want the convenience of online shopping, feel free to browse and order at home just in time for the holiday parties.

    3. Doggie Toys

    When it comes to toys, there are many choices. The variety of doggie toys range from the quiet and chewy kind to the loud and durable one. Your selection of toys all depends on the personality of your dog. Sushi chewable toys work well for puppies and Frisbees work well for all dogs, it helps to keep your pet active, it’s fun and helps sustain their life.

  • Pet Safety For Your Furry Friend

    Keeping your pet safe shows them just how much you love them. Your best friend trust and depend on you to keep him safe and protected. There are many ways to make sure your pet is safe. Whether on a walk or inside the comforts of their home and yard or just in a safe environment. By using some safety measures to care for your puppy, you both will feel more at ease. Here are a few safety tips you can use to keep your pet safe.

    1. Safe Walks 

    Not every neighborhood is dog-friendly. Choose the right park or trail or dog park where the environment is not dangerous for your dog. Save the long walks for the bright daylight hours. Pay close attention when you are walking your dog by observing other animals and people in the vicinity. Never walk your dog without a collar and always have an extra leash in case your leash breaks, and don’t forget to clean up after your pet. Having your pet chipped at the local pet store is a good idea in case they are lost or stolen.

    2. Keep Your Pet Healthy

     Your puppy depends on you to make sure their shots are up to date. Follow the recommendations of your vet. Feed your puppy the right type of food and amount for their weight. Make sure your pet gets enough water and nutrition, including healthy dog treats from the local pet stores. Pets need proper nourishment, just like their owners.   

    3. Pet-Proof Your Home 

    Puppies love to explore. Take a close look around your home from a pet’s point of view. Clean up any areas that could be dangerous to your pet. Pesticides and hazardous chemicals should never be kept in the reach of your pet.

    Follow these tips to keep your pet safe so you can enjoy years of memories with your furry friend.

  • Doggie Day Care

    We would all love to say we have all the time we need to take care of ourselves and our dog. But the truth is, your life gets busy and there are days and weeks when you can barely take care of yourself, not to mention your pet. A doggie daycare or boarding facility is the perfect place for your pet during these times. This daycare option could be the ideal choice to make sure your pet has all of its needs met. Here are a few tips on doggie daycares that may be the perfect answer for you and your puppy’s needs.

    1. Information Required 

    To keep the daycares safe, your dog needs to have all of his required vaccinations up to date. These vaccinations include rabies and distemper, and your dog must pass a temperament test. If your dog is over six months old, they must be spayed or neutered. It is a good idea to visit with your dog and see how your dog reacts to the environment.

    2. What Doggie Day Cares Provide

    Early drop off hours, in case you need to get to work for that crucial meeting. Doggie daycares provide exercise, breakfast, lunch, dinner, and lots of companionship. You can provide your dog’s food to the daycare,  so his diet is familiar to him. Dogs get ample playtime or time to lounge around. Nap times are welcome, and lots of treats are provided, and staff of dog lovers always surround your dog with plenty of love. Doggie daycares can be the ultimate place for your dog to spend the day.

    3. Other Benefits of Doggie Day Cares

    You are welcome to use the pet webcams to watch your pet while you are away; it may make you feel more at ease. Dog grooming is available if you have not had the time to get your pet groomed. Doggie daycares don’t need a lot of notice, so sign up online, pack up your puppy, and head to the nearest doggie daycare so your puppy can have some fun!

  • Puppies and Holidays

    It’s time for holiday festivities once again. It’s an exciting time to get together with our families and friends. If your family includes a puppy, make sure they are included in your holiday traditions, from the songs to the holiday meal to pictures and gift-giving. This can be a memorable time for all of your family and furry friends. Here are some tips on how to make sure your puppy and family have a Merry good time they will not soon forget.

    1. Gifts your puppy will love 

    When you’re hanging up those stocking stuffers, don’t forget to buy a stocking for your puppy. Puppies love gifts too. While everyone is opening up their presents on that beautiful Christmas morning, your puppy will be excited to open his. This is the perfect time to make sure your puppy gets their stocking and any other toys or goodies you may have for them. Don’t worry; there is no need to wrap their toys since your puppy will be ready to enjoy them.

    2. A family meal for all. 

    The holiday meal can be an exciting and much anticipated time for all, and perhaps everyone has worked hard to put together this special meal. Before everyone takes their place at the table, make sure your puppy has a special spot and meal preparation. Be sure only to include foods that you know your puppy can digest safely. With a special dog-friendly meal, your puppy won’t be susceptible to dangerous bones or foods that may cause illness..

    3. Family and Puppy Photos 

    When it’s time to take those family photos, tie that big beautiful red bow on your puppy so they can be as festive as everyone else in the picture. Be sure to groom or brush and make them feel comfortable next to the family he loves. These photos will remind you of your cherished holidays with your family and your puppy.

  • Dog Sitting Success for the Holidays

    The holidays may mean travel time for you and your family, and that may not include your pet. It is not difficult to find a sitter, simply prepare in advance and give yourself time to find the perfect dog sitter for your furry friend. It’s easy to set up your dog sitting experience, so it’s a carefree and successful experience. Pets are easy to care for and just want to be loved. Whether your dog sitter is a perfect stranger or your well known next-door neighbor, there are a few things you can do to set your pet and his dog sitter up for success.

    1. Meet With Your Potential Pet Sitter 

    When it comes to finding the right person to care for your pet while you are out of town, it’s essential to choose the person that blends well with your pet. Set up a meeting with your sitter and narrow down the candidate. Once you have narrowed your choice to one or two candidates, set up a time when you, the candidate, and your pet can spend some time together. Go on a walk and observe the interaction between your pet and the potential dog sitter.

    2. Supplies, Supplies, Supplies

    With the right amount of supplies, your dog sitter can focus on caring for your pet. Make a list of dog food and other supplies your pet will need based on the time you will be out of town. Always buy extra supplies in case your trip is unexpectedly extended. Your list should include dog food, an extra collar and leash, gates, dog bed, treats, your pet’s favorite toy, and any special items such as medicine your pet may need.

    3. Important Emergency Information 

    Post a list of emergency numbers your sitter can easily access. This list should include the nearest veterinarian or emergency pet hospital, your neighbor or relative, and any alternative number where you can be reached.   

    Now relax and enjoy the holidays, knowing you have chosen the right dog sitter, and your puppy is well taken care of.

  • 3 Steps for Training your Puppy to go to bed

    This is a very easy concept to teach a dog. It’s just a matter of consistency on the owner’s part.

    Step #1: Give the command “go to your bed.”

    If your dog actually does go to her bed, make sure to give her treats and praise. Most likely, she’ll need you to guide her. Once there, place her in a down position and give her treats and praise. Then release her. “Good girl!” Repeat that five times or so and quit.

    At this point, the dog doesn’t stay on the bed for more than a second or so. You’re just encouraging her to go to her bed and giving her rewards for it. Remember to have some sort of word to release your dog from her bed such as “free!” or “ok!

    Step #2: Begin increasing the distance.

    Increase the difficulty very gradually so the dog is successful. At this point, you could tell your dog to go to her bed when she is about six feet away from it. Once she is successful from that distance, work from 10 feet away and then across the room.

    Step #3: Increase the time.

    You’ll most likely be practicing this step along with step two. Basically, you want to teach your dog that “go to your bed” means “go to your bed and stay there until I release you.”

    Ideally your dog would then stay on her bed for up to a half-hour or more while you’re doing something else but you need to gradually work up to that point.

    If your dog knows the command “stay” then it’s OK to use that to encourage your dog to stay. Personally, I don’t like to use “go to your bed” and “stay” because “go to your bed” implies the dog should stay.

    At first, you’ll only expect your dog to remain on her bed for five seconds while you’re sitting right next to her. Give her treats and praise. Then release her with – “free!”

  • How To Make A Dog’s Coat Shine

    1.       Nutrition         

    A Good Quality Feeding Program literally shines out from your dog. Always check that your dog’s daily food is rich in protein (chicken, turkey, beef or lamb). When you check the brand ingredients on the food label protein should be the first on the list. Make sure that the food has a low quantity of grains and preservatives.

    Add Omega 3 Fatty Acids to Your Dog’s Diet To Make Your Dog’s Coat Shine. Add a little oily fish or a supplement to nourish the skin cells and improve dryness or itchy patches. Omega 3 has anti-inflammatory properties that help if your dog has allergies or other skin conditions.

    It is important to only add small quantities of oily fish to start with because it can cause diarrhea.

    Examples of oily fish:

    ·Mackerel

    ·Salmon

    ·Herring

    ·Sardines

    ·Flaxseeds and Cod liver oil is also a great source of Omega 3 Fatty Acid.

    2.       Daily Grooming

    Brushing your dog every day will not only stop the coat from getting matted or tangled, but it will also give the coat a great shine. Use good quality grooming tools specific to the breed and type of coat. If your dog has a long coat use a de-shedding tool to remove all the loose, damaged fur. Check for ticks and fleas so that they can be treated straight away. Look out for abnormalities when you groom your dog. If you spot lumps, rashes and sores on the skin, consult your vet for early diagnosis.

    3.       Bathing

    If you want to achieve a shiny dog coat you may need to bathe your dog less frequently. The reason is that bathing strips the coat of essential oils needed to keep the coat looking healthy. Try to restrict regular baths to just one per month and use good quality dog shampoo and conditioners which are made from natural products. Make sure you rinse the fur really well after bathing. Any residue will leave the coat dull and lifeless. If your dog has itchy skin or allergies an oatmeal bath will soothe the skin and add shine to the coat. Add a final rinse of alcohol-free beer to the fur, leave for five minutes then rinse thoroughly to get the coat to really shine.