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  • Saint Bernard Fun and Interesting Facts – Part 1

    Saint Bernards are giant, muscular, and strong dogs!

    Like any other large breed dog, Saint Bernard puppies start out cute and cuddly and grow to somewhat massive sizes and heights! Our Saint Bernard puppies are gentle, friendly, and great with children. Saint Bernard owners rave about their sweet temperaments and eagerness to please. In a three-part series, we’ve gathered 15 facts about Saint Bernards!

     

    • The Saint Bernard originated in the Alpine region of Switzerland, which is where they gained their well-earned notoriety as search and rescue dogs.

     

    • Saint Bernard puppies got their names from the Great St. Bernard Hospice in the western Alps. Specifically, they were named after Saint Bernard de Menthon, the patron saint of mountaineers. The farmers gave monks at the hospice dogs for protection. They soon began to realize their exceptional sense of smell and started using them for rescue work.

     

    • Saint Bernards would often travel in pairs of two. If someone were stranded, one would wait with the stranded while the other would return to the monks for help.

     

    • The breed was almost wiped out after several avalanches killed most of the breed. Consequently, the monks started crossing Saint Bernard puppies with Newfoundlands.

     

    • Like any other breed, Saints have specifically associated ailments. They are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, eczema, heart problems, and seizures.

     

    • There is a town in Ohio called St. Bernard.

     

    • The Saint’s coat is a beautiful mix of various shades of white, red, tan, mahogany, black, and brindle.

     

    • Saint Bernard puppies weigh an average of 1.5 pounds at birth!

     

    • These big babies grow for a long time because they don’t reach maturity for 3 years!

     

    • Saint Bernards range in height from 25 to 30 inches at the shoulder.

     

    • Saints are working dogs and are commonly used for cart pulling, agility, weight pulling, and their excellent nose work.

     

    • Buck from Jack London’s Call of the Wild was a Saint Bernard mix.

     

    • Many large breed dogs, including Saint Bernard puppies, faced extinction after WWII.

     

    • Saint Bernard dogs are thought to be descendants of Molosser dogs which were brought to Europe by the ancient Romans.

     

    • Saint Bernard puppies start (and don’t stop) drooling early in their lives! Drooling is part of the Saint Bernard puppy package! Because of their drooling, they drink a lot of water, so keep fresh water accessible for them at all times.

     

  • Interesting English Mastiff Info

    The English Mastiff (nicknamed the Old English Mastiff) is one of those large dogs that are pretty distinguishable.

    Even as puppies, you know them by their splendid colors and specifically their massive sized heads and bodies! Large dogs, in general, are pretty intimidating but these babies are gentle and sweet by nature. Want to learn more about these big beauties? Continue reading because we’ve gathered some dynamic information about them.

    Guess what. They don’t require daily exercise!

    Despite how large the English Mastiff is they don’t require any more exercise than regular size dogs. In fact, because of their large form, their bones need to fully develop before they are actually introduced to a routine exercise schedule. Excessive exercise before their bones and joints are developed can stunt and hinder their growth.

    Training them takes patience.

    The English Mastiff is an intelligent but stubborn and sensitive dog! Because of the former, it will take time and patience to train them. Because of the latter, they respond very well to positive and firm training. They love to please their owners, so keep the commands simple and straightforward.

    Mastiffs are sweet.

    We touched on this earlier. The English Mastiff is large and lovable. They are incredibly gentle and calm, especially with their families. They can live in families with children, as well. They are protective and make excellent guard dogs, but don’t expect them to actually chase or attack someone. They may keep an intruder held down physically until human help arrives, but that’s about it.

    Mastiffs have large litters!

    Because the English Mastiff is so large, they consequently have large litters. A typical litter produces approximately 10-12 puppies, and that’s a lot! The Mastiff breed is the only dog breed that has ever produced the highest number of puppies in a single litter. This record goes to an English Mastiff in England who gave birth to 24 puppies, of which 20 survived past the first week!

    Their care can be costly.

    As with most large dogs, it will be more expensive to take care of them. They eat a lot! No really, they eat 6 to 8 cups of dry food a day. Because they need to be fed the best and highest quality of food, that can really add up. You also have to factor in their vet bills, toys, etc. Taking proper care of them requires proper financial planning; however, they are worth every penny!

     

  • 5 Labrador Retriever Facts

    Black lab, chocolate lab, yellow lab…no matter the color they are loved across the world!

    Lab puppies are simply adorable, and they are cute beyond belief! Here are some facts about these precious and reliable family pups!

    They Are Doctors

    Okay, that’s a bit of stretch! Lab puppies can be raised to help detect cancer. Because of their powerful noses and sense of smell, they can be trained to identify the early stages of cancer. Through work with cancer cell samples, they can render a diagnosis from smelling a patient’s breath, blood, or stool.

    They Are Favored

    We feel like this is necessary to share and an obvious truth. According to the American Kennel Club, lab puppies continuously rank high on the most popular breeds list. They have done this for 24 consecutive years. This is the longest reign of any breed in the American Kennel Club’s history.

    Labs Love Water!

    They were bred to be water dogs, and they happen to have water resistant double coats. Their coats provide insulation, and their short fur keeps them warm, which allows them to swim swiftly when they’re wet. Lab puppies also have webbed toes that aids with fast swimming.

    Labs Have Lovely Colors

    Lab puppies can be born in a variety of colors, regardless of the parents’ color. In one litter there could be a chocolate, a black, and a yellow lab!

    Labs Are Fast

    Labradors are well-known for their ability to sprint. They can run 12 miles an hour in just three seconds! So they’re runners and swimmers!

    Labs Aren’t From Labrador

    Lab puppies didn’t originate in Labrador as one would think, based on their name. They are actually from Newfoundland. They are called Labrador Retrievers because they were used as working dogs in the Labrador Sea.

     

    If you’re interested in learning even more about Lab puppies and taking one home for yourself, contact us today!

     

  • 5 Ways to Manage Your Fluffy Corgi’s Fur

    Are you an owner of one or more Corgi puppies?

    Then you already know that they are well-known shedders and there’s no getting around that fact! There are, however, ways that you can manage their fur. We have some tips for you. Take a look!

    • Buy a Furminator!

    This is an essentially needed item, and no substitutes will do. This is a tool that every owner of Corgi puppies should have. Slowly introduce it to your pup over time and then start using it on a weekly basis, during shedding season. On the off-shedding season, you can use it every 3 to 4 weeks.

    • Use a Greyhound Comb

    During the off-shedding season, use a greyhound comb in conjunction with the Furminator. It’s perfect for brushing out the fine hairs stuck under your pup’s fur.

    • Use Quality Shampoos and Conditioners

    There indeed comes a time when you’ll need to bathe your Corgi puppies at home. When you do, make sure that it’s not done too often. Frequent baths will strip the natural oils from your pup’s skin and hair. Use quality and natural shampoos and conditioners to keep your pup’s hair healthy, beautiful, and soft.

    • Purchase a Vacuum Cleaner

    This is another essential item, especially if you have carpet in your home. The vacuum will be like your best and most reliable friend, so you’ll need a high-quality one. You’ll need one that can easily pick up animal hairs and not break down, so invest in one of the more expensive types that will ultimately last. Also related and significantly cheaper…get a lint brush or two!

    • Professional Groom at Least Twice A Year

    Lastly, to keep a handle on the shedding of Corgi puppies, we recommend that you take your pups to get professional grooming at least twice a year. Go during the winter and summer sheds. You’ll see noticeable differences each year when you do this.

     

  • We Have Hybrid Puppies Here!

    Hybrid or “designer” dogs are the latest craze in the puppy industry and we applaud their varied mixes!

    They are often times a blend of the best of both doggy worlds, making for dogs with affable and desirable temperaments. Below are a few that we feature and sale right here at Petland!  

    Cavachon

    You have surely seen these beauties, but perhaps you didn’t recognize the breed by name. We are formally introducing you to this beautiful breed! Cavachon puppies are a type of mixed breed or hybrid puppies that came from a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Bichon Frise. They range from 12 to 16 inches in height and they can weigh between 10 to 20 pounds. Cavachon puppies come in a variety of coat colors, but the most common are peach and white. You’ll also see tri-colored, black and tan, and sable.

    Maltishi

    Maltishi puppies are the beautiful blended mix of the Maltese and Shih Tzu dogs. These sweet babies were originated and created to be small companions who don’t shed much and loves laps! There’s more to the eye with these little guys. Maltishi hybrid puppies are full of personality and not the kind that’s nerve-wracking. They are active, intelligent dogs with relatively quiet and laid back personalities. They love being around family and they’re quite content spending quality time with you. We will warn you that they can sometimes be a bit curious and mischievous so just be mindful!

    Walrus

    The Walrus dogs are hybrid puppies that are a cross between a Chinese Shar-Pei and a Basset Hound. His body is more of the Basset, but his skin is wrinkly and crinkly like the Shar-Pei, making him undeniably irresistible. They are technically a medium sized dog, as they range from 40 to 60 pounds. You may also see them referred to as a Ba-Shar.  Walrus puppies for sale are normally a show stopper and conversation starter, because they’re still kinda rare, so some research studies are rare and sparse, too. What we know for sure is that they are an affectionate breed who match very well with dog owners who live inactive and somewhat sedentary lifestyles.

    Mini Goldendoodle

    The Miniature Goldendoodle is crossed between a Toy, Miniature, or small Standard Poodle and a Golden Retriever. They’ve been nicknamed the Mini Groodle, which is kinda funny! The name Goldendoodle originated in the United States during the early 1990’s. Mini Goldendoodle puppies are friendly, hypoallergenic, non-shedding dogs. They are extremely intelligent, having been mixed with two smart breeds, this is expected! Mini Goldendoodle puppies are also highly trainable, affectionate, and extremely social dogs. Because of their cheerful disposition, they are trustworthy and eager to please their owners. The Mini Goldendoodle puppy will thrive in any home environment, i.e. apartments or stand alone houses, surely to be entertaining, and creating memories with your family for 10 – 14 years!

    Yorkipoo

    The Yorkipoo is a cross between the Yorkshire Terrier and a Toy or Miniature Poodle. The charming Yorkipoo stops everyone in their tracks upon first sight! They are always ready to play or entertain you. These hybrid puppies are gentle and loving dogs who can do well with children, but very young children are not recommended. That would increase the likelihood of injury if he’s improperly handled.  A Yorkipoo makes for an excellent companion for the elderly, as well.

     

  • Are You Ready for Some Rottie Facts?

    Big. Brown. Bold. Beautiful.

    Those are just some of the ways we describe the Rottie puppy. We’ve compiled some fun facts about these big beauties and broken them down into categories.  Take a look!

    Their Training

    • Rottie puppies require early socialization, which includes exposure to various people, places, pets, and things. This will help to ensure that your Rottie puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog.
    • Rottweilers need to have an established leader in their training. This person should be someone who is assertive and truly has time to devote towards training.
    • They require firm and consistent training. They don’t respond well to harsh discipline, but rather one sharp word.

    Their Past

    • Romans used Rottie puppies to drive cattle and to pull carts for farmers and butchers.
    • They were also used to protect money the cattlemen received. This was done by cleverly putting the money in a purse and tying it around the dog’s neck.
    • The first Rottie puppy came to the United States in the late 1920’s, with a German emigrant.

    Their Personality

    • Even as a Rottie puppy, they have the inherent desire to protect their family and property. With this in mind, they should never be allowed to be aggressive.
    • Both are known to be affectionate, but female Rottie puppies are more-so. Male Rotties tend to be a bit more watchful and constantly surveying his surroundings for threats.
    • Rotties are not highly excitable dogs, but they possess a strong desire to work.

    Their Health

    • They are prone to hip dysplasia, like many dogs. This is a genetic condition in which the thigh bone doesn’t fit snugly into the hip joint.
    • The Rottie puppy is prone to gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV). This is also called bloat and is a seriously life-threatening condition. This can happen when a dog rapidly ingests a large meal, consumes massive volumes of water, followed with vigorous exercises. Essentially the stomach is distended with gas or air and then twists.
    • Elbow dysplasia is a genetic malformation of the elbow joint that also affects Rottie puppies.

    Other Fun Facts

    • Purchase some earplugs, because your Rottie puppy will probably snore right into adulthood!
    • Rottweilers have a double coat and shed heavily in the spring and the fall.
    • The Rottie puppy and adult dogs are prone to obesity, because they have a tendency to overeat and gain weight rather quickly. Like humans, it’s not always easy to shed those unwanted pounds, so always monitor their food intake and provide them with high quality nutritional meals.
    • Though Rotties are good with children, they have a natural instinct and tendency to herd, like the Corgi. The Rottie puppy is substantially larger, so they may bump the toddler causing him to fall. Firmly teach your Rottie that this behavior is unacceptable.

     

  • Exercising Your Pup

    We know that when you decided to buy a dog you weren’t expecting a lecture about exercising.

    We aren’t going to lecture you necessarily, but we are going to strongly make a point of the importance of exercising your dog and why it’s beneficial. Much like humans, dog require exercise. Sure, it varies depending on the breed and size, but the fact still stands that most, if not all, will require some form. When you buy a dog, you’ll soon learn that this comes with the territory. There are benefits that also come with exercising your puppies, so read on to learn about them.

    Exercising strengthens their muscles

    Regular exercise helps to build up their muscles and strengthens their bones. This is helpful in their youth. Consistency will help to fight arthritis as your dog matures and ages. Muscle atrophy is commonly diagnosed with dogs who have joint pain. Building and maintaining strong muscles will prevent such pain in the long run.

    Exercising boosts their immunity

    Establishing a routine exercise regiment with your puppy will help to boost and strengthen their immune systems. When you buy a dog, you have to take care of them, just as you do for yourself. Having a strong immunity system will protect your pup from dog related diseases and illnesses.

    Exercising prevents obesity

    When you buy a dog, you should know a lot about the breed that will be in your home and life for years to come. One specific physical trait you should know is whether your pup is prone to obesity, for instance like the Pug. They’re also known to be overeaters if given the opportunity! In addition to well balanced doggy diets, physical exercise is needed. Obesity is just as bad with dogs as it is with humans, and in both cases humans control the process and outcomes. Be a responsible pet owner and be mindful of what you feed your pup and exercise them so that obesity doesn’t affect their quality of life.

    Exercising increases sharpness and agility

    When you go to work and leave your dog, he’s cooped up in the house all day long. It’s true that dogs have the keen ability to adapt to human behaviors and schedules, but they’re still relatives to wolves (even that little Yorkie of yours) and aren’t designed to be left alone all day with nothing to do. Innately, dogs are active, outdoor animals who need regular exercise to maintain their mental health. Many behavioral problems are a direct result of the lack of play and exercise. They include: hyperactivity, rough play, destructive chewing or digging, garbage raiding, and barking and whining for attention. Exercise will greatly reduce and discourage this behavior.

    The importance of regular exercise to your puppies cannot be overemphasized and there are boundless benefits!

  • Precious Purebred Puppies at Petland

    If you’re in the market for small purebred puppies, you’re in luck!

    Right here at Petland, we’ve got tons from which you can choose. Here are just a few that we regularly have and absolutely love!

    Bichon Frise

    You see those little snowballs and you just want to pick one up and let them melt in your arms and heart. The official AKC standard description of the Bichon Frise is perfectly put. They call them “a white powder puff of a dog whose merry temperament is evidenced by his plumed tail carried jauntily over the back and his dark-eyed inquisitive expression.” We couldn’t agree more. Our available Bichon purebred puppies for sale have little puffs of personality.

    Boston Terrier

    Boston Terrier puppies are intelligent dogs and they learn quickly and are treat motivated. This breed is suitable for kids, because they are known to be playful, delicate, and affectionate. No doggy odor with Boston Terrier puppies exists, so they can be bathed every few months! They require daily exercise, of which a long walk would suffice.

    Shih Tzu

    The Shih Tzu is an energetic, lively, lapdog, favored by Chinese royalty during the Ming dynasty. Today’s Shih Tzu puppies for sale are still revered as lovely companions, except their lives are lived amongst commoners! For at least 2,000 years, these purebred puppies have been bred as a companion and referred to as the little “lion dog.” They are happy and outgoing and make for a great addition to families. Our Shih Tzu puppies for sale are praised and prize possessions!

    Chihuahua

    You know these favored purse pets! They are Chihuahuas weighing no more than 6 pounds, in the show world. Outside of the show dog world, Chihuahuas often grow as big as 12 pounds. Sure they’re lap dogs because of their size, but don’t let their little legs fool ya. They’re active and require a daily walk, albeit a rather short one! Chihuahuas need lots of human attention and interaction, thus they love to be petted and touched. Come check out our cute Chihuahua puppies for sale today!

    Dachshund

    The Dachshund, affectionately known as the Doxie and visually known as the hotdog dog, is an energetic dog breed, with lots of big personality. They are known to be barkers – beware!  Dachshund purebred puppies for sale are intensely stubborn and protective, but lovable. They are very social animals and love their family, wanting to be around them at all times. Their personality is the only thing big on them, however!

     

  • No Sneeze Zone with No Shed Puppies

    Allergies are no fun and it doesn’t matter if they’re mild or severe or in reaction to food or furry friends!

    Thankfully, there are breeds that lessen the chances of allergic reactions to dogs. All dogs naturally shed, but these, and several others, shed an almost non-existent amount and the dander is at a minimal. Read on to learn more about these no shed puppies!

    Bichon Frise

    The Bichon puppy has a beautiful coat, but what makes it even more spectacular is that they are hypoallergenic. Their coats shed very little and is rather comparable to that of a Poodle. The longer their hair grows, the cuter and curlier it gets. Consequently, professional and regular grooming is necessary to maintain the purity of the powdery white coats. Visiting the groomer every 6 – 8 weeks will keep your Bichon looking radiant!

    Teddy Bear Dogs

    The teddy bear dog “breed” is a relatively new type of dog that was first discovered and introduced in 2000. These no shed puppies consist of and is commonly known as the Zuchon or Suchon, which is a cross breed between the Bichon Frise and Shih Tzu. Now, although this is the technical definition of the teddy bear dog breed, the name has become synonymous with the hybrid mix of Shih Tzus, Cocker Spaniels, Bichon Frise, Toy Poodles, Daschunds, Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers, and Schnauzers. Regardless of the mix, they share the same friendly, sweet, playful dispositions. Their weights range from 11 – 20 pounds.  Their coats are fluffy, soft, and shed very little.

    Shitzpoos

    The Shitzpoo is a crossbreed of a Shih Tzu and Toy or Miniature Poodle. They are simply a dream, with their fluffy hair and captivating eyes. He is cute and alert and absolutely adorable. They originated in the United States, with the hopes of creating a new hypoallergenic dog. The Shitzpoo was also crossed to be small companions, just enough to be lap dogs and be carried around, but not too fragile.

    Poodles

    Ah, Poodles! They have been mixed time and time again specifically for their intelligence and lately because of their hypoallergenic coats. They are a favorite and at the base of many no shed puppies and we’ll just leave it at that!

    Mini Schnauzers

    Mini Schnauzer puppies have a thick, wiry, double coat, which came in handy while they dug into the ground, as it naturally kept off debris. As an added benefit, they do not shed much! They, too, are often mixed with Poodles creating perfect no shed puppies!

  • Pros and Cons of Having Large Dog Breeds

    We just love dogs, large and small.

    For now, we’re going to show some love to the large dog breeds out there! Here are some fun and somewhat comical cons and pros to housing and having big dogs.

    Protection

    Pro: Large dogs undoubtedly are crime deterrents! Their sizes are intimidating and so are their barks. Depending on which of the large dog breeds that you own and the situation, of course, they may go the extra physical mile to protect you.

    Con: Not all large dogs are guard dogs. Forget about their sizes, because many are big old friendly pals and they’d rather play than capture a crook!

    Showstoppers

    Pro: They are simply fun and they garner lots of attention. Large dog breeds are so popular and you can rarely go out with them, without it being some type of show!

    Con: Conversely, all of the attention can become a task to just go for a walk. You’re gonna have to factor in extra time no matter what!

    Gentle Giants

    Pro: Most large dog breeds are gentle and goofy giants! They can handle a little rough play with toddlers and they’re far from fragile like little purse pets. They also don’t require a lot of exercise. Size doesn’t correlate to increased physical activity, so you won’t have to take extended walks or jogs!

    Trailblazers

    Con: Well, they leave a trail is more like it! A lot of large dog breeds slobber and there’s nothing you can do about it, except keep paper towels handy!

    Warm Blankets

    Pro: If you are cold and need a little warmth, your big dog can provide it for you! They will more than likely want nothing more than to sleep beside you anyway!

    Have we made our case for buying large dog breeds? We think so! They’re tons of fun and you should get you one! Come by our store today.