Tag: puppy

  • Common Questions About Buying a Puppy, Answered Honestly

    Common Questions About Buying a Puppy, Answered Honestly

    Somewhere between “just looking” and seriously considering a puppy, the questions start to stack up.

    Not in a stressful way; just quietly, in the background. You start wondering about where the puppy came from, what kind of care they’ve had, and whether you’re making the right choice. It’s not hesitation. It’s care.

    Bringing a puppy home isn’t something you do lightly. You want to feel sure about it… and that starts with asking the right questions.

    The More You Ask, the Better the Outcome

    A puppy isn’t just a new addition. It’s a long-term responsibility.

    The more you understand upfront, the easier everything becomes later. Asking questions about health, background, and expectations helps you avoid surprises and sets your puppy up for a smoother transition into your home.

    At Furrylicious, those questions are always welcome. In fact, they’re encouraged. Because when families feel informed, they make decisions that are better for everyone involved.

    The Questions that Matter Most, And What You Should Know

    Here are some of the most important questions people ask, and what you should know:

    “Where does the puppy come from?”

    This is one of the most important questions you can ask. And you should always expect a clear answer.

    A responsible source will be open about where their puppies come from and the standards those breeders follow. That includes how the puppies are raised, the care they receive early on, and whether those practices prioritize their wellbeing.

    At Furrylicious, transparency around sourcing is part of the process. You’re not left guessing or piecing together information. You’re given a clear picture from the start.

    “Has the puppy been checked by a vet?”

    Health is something you should never have to assume.

    Puppies should receive proper veterinary care before going home, including exams and vaccinations. You should also be able to see documentation that confirms this, rather than relying on verbal reassurance alone.

    At Furrylicious, health records are shared openly so you know exactly what care your puppy has received and where they stand.

    “What is this breed really like?”

    Every breed comes with its own set of needs, and understanding that is just as important as choosing the puppy itself.

    Temperament, energy level, grooming requirements, and lifestyle compatibility all play a role in whether a breed is the right fit for you. It’s not just about what looks appealing; it’s about what works in real life.

    At Furrylicious, conversations around breed are honest and practical. The goal is to help you find a puppy that fits into your life naturally, not one that feels like a mismatch later on.

    “What happens after I bring my puppy home?”

    Bringing your puppy home is just the beginning.

    It’s normal to have questions after that first day: about feeding, training, behavior, and routines. A trustworthy place doesn’t disappear once you leave. They remain a resource.

    Furrylicious understands that support matters beyond the initial moment, and that ongoing guidance helps both puppies and families settle in more comfortably.

    “What does the cost actually include?”

    Clarity around cost is just as important as anything else.

    You should understand what is included, from veterinary care to any additional services or support. Transparent pricing allows you to plan properly and feel confident in your decision.

    At Furrylicious, these details are explained clearly so you’re not left wondering what’s included or why.

    “Am I ready for this?”

    It’s a simple question… but an important one.

    A puppy requires time, consistency, and attention. Taking a moment to think through your routine and responsibilities isn’t a sign of doubt; it’s part of making a responsible choice.

    A place you can trust will give you space to think that through, not rush you into a decision.

    Why Honest Answers Matter at Furrylicious

    At Furrylicious, the approach is simple: be clear, be honest, and make sure families feel confident in their decision.

    That means taking the time to answer questions thoroughly, sharing real information about sourcing and care, and helping you understand what to expect, not just today, but long-term. It’s not about quick decisions. It’s about the right ones.

    When you have all the information in front of you, everything feels more straightforward. You’re not second-guessing or relying on assumptions. You’re making a choice that feels considered and well-informed.

    Ask Everything – It’s Part of Doing It Right

    There’s no such thing as too many questions when it comes to bringing a puppy home.

    In fact, the more you ask, the more confident you’ll feel, not just in your decision, but in the journey ahead.

    At Furrylicious, that’s exactly the point. Clear answers, open conversations, and a process that makes sense from beginning to end. When you feel sure about where your puppy comes from, everything that follows becomes that much easier.

  • Why Transparency Matters When Choosing a Puppy and How Wags About You Gets It Right

    Why Transparency Matters When Choosing a Puppy and How Wags About You Gets It Right

    At some point in the search, most people realize it’s not just about finding a puppy. It’s about trying to understand the where and how of it all.

    Photos and first impressions only go so far. What really matters is the information you can’t see right away: where the puppy was raised, how they were cared for, and whether you’re getting clear, honest answers when you ask.

    That’s where transparency comes in, and why it matters more than people expect.

    It’s Not Just About the Puppy, It’s About the Process

    When people picture bringing a puppy home, they think about the fun parts. The playtime, the bonding, the new routines.

    But everything that happens before that moment matters just as much.

    Transparency means you’re not filling in gaps or making assumptions. You’re given real information: about the puppy’s background, their care, and what to expect moving forward. That kind of clarity doesn’t just help you choose a puppy. It helps you feel confident in the decision.

    At Wags About You, that clarity is part of the experience from the start.

    Why Transparency Matters When Choosing a Puppy

    Here’s what transparency actually does for you and your future dog:

    You Know Exactly Where Your Puppy Comes From

    One of the first things to look for is a clear answer to a simple question: Where did this puppy come from?

    At Wags About You, that answer is straightforward. Puppies are sourced from carefully chosen breeders who meet strong standards for care and responsibility. These relationships are intentional, not transactional.

    That means you’re not guessing. You’re informed.

    You Understand the Care They’ve Received

    A puppy’s early weeks shape their development in real ways.

    Nutrition, handling, and early socialization all play a role in how they adjust to a new home. When a business is transparent, they walk you through that early care, not just the end result.

    At Wags About You, that information is part of the conversation, not something you have to chase down.

    You Get Clear, Honest Information, Not Sales Talk

    Transparency also shows up in how things are explained.

    You should be able to ask about breed traits, energy levels, and what daily life will actually look like, and get answers that are straightforward and useful.

    At Wags About You, the goal is to help you find the right fit, not just any fit. That means being honest about what each puppy needs and what kind of home will suit them best.

    It Builds Trust That Lasts

    When things are clear from the beginning, it changes the entire experience.

    You feel more comfortable asking questions. You feel supported, not rushed. And you leave knowing you made a well-informed choice, not a quick one.

    That kind of trust doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built through consistency and openness.

    How Wags About You Prioritizes Transparency

    At Wags About You, transparency isn’t a feature or add-on. It’s a standard.

    Puppies come from responsible breeders who are selected for their commitment to proper care and ethical practices. There’s clear communication around sourcing, early care, and what families can expect.

    Information is shared openly, and questions are encouraged. The process is designed to be straightforward, so families feel confident every step of the way.

    What That Means for You

    When transparency is part of the process, everything feels different.

    You’re not second-guessing where your puppy came from. You’re not wondering if you missed something important. You’re starting with a clear understanding, and that sets you up for a better experience long-term.

    At Wags About You, that’s the goal. Not just helping you find a puppy, but making sure you feel good about how you found them, too.

    More Helpful Reads From Wags About You From planning and preparation to everyday puppy care, our articles are here to help you feel informed and confident as a pet parent. Check out the related posts below to keep learning with us.

  • Is Canine Care Certified Just a Label for Puppy Mills? Let’s Break It Down

    Is Canine Care Certified Just a Label for Puppy Mills? Let’s Break It Down

    Is Canine Care Certified Just a Label for Puppy Mills? Let’s Break It Down

    You’re scrolling through photos of adorable puppies. Suddenly, one steals your heart. For a moment, you picture the walks, the zoomies, and the quiet evenings with a dog curled beside you.

    Then reality sets in. Questions start popping up everywhere.

    Where did the puppy come from?

    How are the parents treated?

    Is this breeder responsible?

    During that research, you may come across something called Canine Care Certified™ (CCC). At first, it sounds promising. The program highlights animal welfare and responsible breeding.

    However, keep reading online and you might see claims suggesting CCC is just a label used to hide puppy mills.

    That kind of statement can leave families confused. So it’s worth slowing down and looking at what CCC actually is… and what it isn’t.

    What Is Canine Care Certified™?

    Canine Care Certified is a welfare certification program developed by researchers at the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine. The program was built using animal welfare science. Its purpose is to promote higher standards of care for dogs raised by breeders. Rather than focusing only on paperwork or registration, CCC evaluates how dogs actually live and are cared for. 

    Breeders who participate must meet strict requirements across several welfare categories.

    Physical Health

    Dogs must receive regular veterinary care and preventative health support. Breeders also follow genetic health screening recommendations.

    These practices help reduce inherited health concerns and support long-term well-being.

    Behavioral Well-Being

    The program requires structured socialization, enrichment activities, and low-stress handling.

    These experiences help puppies develop confidence and healthy behavior around people.

    Living Environment

    Housing must be clean, safe, and enriched. Dogs need appropriate space, proper sanitation, and stimulation that supports normal canine behavior.

    Responsible Breeding and Retirement

    CCC guidelines also address breeding limits and responsible care for adult dogs.

    Breeders must follow standards related to breeding age, spacing between litters, and retirement planning.

    Independent Verification

    One important detail often gets overlooked.

    Certification is not self-awarded. Facilities must pass third-party audits to verify that they meet these welfare standards.

    Why CCC Isn’t a Puppy Mill Label

    The term puppy mill typically refers to operations that prioritize profit over animal welfare. Those facilities often lack proper veterinary care, enrichment, socialization, and humane living conditions.

    The CCC program was designed to address exactly those problems.

    By establishing science-based welfare standards, the program encourages breeders to improve care practices and transparency.

    Even long-time animal welfare advocates who visited CCC facilities reported seeing environments very different from the stereotypical puppy mill image. They observed enrichment areas, social interaction, and attentive care for both puppies and adult dogs.

    Programs like CCC don’t eliminate debate around dog breeding. Still, they represent an effort to raise standards within the industry.

    How Happiness Is Pets Approaches Responsible Breeding

    At Happiness Is Pets, we take sourcing seriously.

    We partner with breeders who prioritize animal welfare, veterinary oversight, and responsible breeding practices. In fact, we partner solely with breeders who participate in programs such as Canine Care Certified or follow similar welfare guidelines.

    Our team stays connected with these breeders and learns about their care practices firsthand.

    This approach helps us understand how puppies are raised and how adult dogs are treated throughout their lives.

    When Transparency Leads the Way

    Sorting through online claims about dog breeding can feel overwhelming. However, meaningful programs backed by research offer a clearer picture of how responsible breeders operate.

    For families searching for a puppy, learning about those standards can make the process easier and more informed.

    At the end of the day, finding the right puppy should never feel uncertain. When care, transparency, and welfare remain front and center, that journey becomes much easier to navigate, for both people and the dogs who join their families. 

    If you’re up for another read, these posts are popular with puppy parents:

  • What Can Puppies Eat? Tasty Treats and Food to Avoid

    What Can Puppies Eat? Tasty Treats and Food to Avoid

    Few things tug at your heartstrings more than your puppy gazing longingly at your dinner plate. One adorable, pleading look can make you want to give in and share your meal (understandably so, those puppy eyes are powerful!). But before slipping them a bite, it’s important to know what’s safe and what’s not. Puppies are still growing, and while some people food can make healthy treats, others are harmful or even toxic. Knowing what foods puppies can eat helps you give them safe, nutritious treats while avoiding harmful options.

    Why Educating Yourself Matters

    Your pup depends on you to make the right choices. A small “treat” from your plate can either boost their nutrition or send you racing to the vet. Knowing what’s safe and what’s not keeps your puppy healthy while giving you peace of mind.

    When Puppies Can Try People Food

    Puppies can begin sampling small amounts of safe human foods once they’re weaned and fully eating puppy kibble, usually around 8 weeks old. Keep portions tiny and occasional. People food should never replace a balanced puppy diet, but it can be a fun way to add variety. Think of it as a bonus treat, not the main course. 

    Safe Foods for Puppies (in Moderation)

    Some people foods are safe and even nutritious for puppies when served properly:

    Carrots – Crunchy, low-calorie, and packed with vitamin A. Perfect for teething pups and great for dental health when chewed raw.

    Apples (no seeds or core) – A sweet source of vitamins A and C, plus fiber. Slice thinly to avoid choking hazards.

    Blueberries – Tiny antioxidant powerhouses that support brain health. A great training treat because of their small size.

    Pumpkin (plain, cooked, or canned) – Rich in fiber and gentle on digestion. Helps with both diarrhea and constipation when served in spoonfuls.

    Bananas – Loaded with potassium, vitamins, and fiber. Best given in small chunks due to their natural sugar content.

    Cooked Chicken or Turkey (plain, no seasoning) – A lean protein that supports growing muscles. Shred into small pieces and avoid skin or fat.

    Salmon (cooked, boneless) – High in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote a shiny coat and healthy skin. Never serve raw or with bones.

    Plain Rice or Pasta – Bland but filling, and great for soothing an upset stomach. Serve plain, without sauces or butter.

    Cheese (low-fat, in moderation) – Pups love cheese, and it can be a good training reward. Stick to small amounts to avoid tummy troubles.

    Dangerous Food to Avoid

    Other foods should never be given to puppies, as they can cause illness or worse:

    Chocolate – Contains theobromine, toxic to dogs and especially harmful to puppies. Dark chocolate is the most dangerous.

    Grapes and Raisins – Even tiny amounts can cause sudden kidney failure. Best to avoid completely.

    Onions, Garlic, and Chives – These damage red blood cells and can lead to anemia. They’re unsafe in any form—raw, cooked, or powdered.

    Avocado – Contains persin, which upsets a puppy’s stomach and can be dangerous in large amounts.

    Macadamia Nuts – Known to cause weakness, tremors, and vomiting in dogs. Never feed them.

    Xylitol (artificial sweetener in gum, candy, and some peanut butters) – Extremely toxic. Even a small lick can cause low blood sugar, seizures, or liver failure.

    Alcohol and Caffeine – Both can cause rapid heart rate, seizures, and even death. Never let your pup near coffee, soda, or cocktails.

    Fatty or Fried Foods – Can trigger pancreatitis, stomach upset, and long-term weight issues.

    Cooked Bones – Dangerous because they splinter and can choke or injure your puppy’s digestive tract.

    Why Puppies Love Eating With You

    Sharing meals feels natural to your pup because they see you as family, part of their pack. But the safest way to bond is with approved snacks and nutritious treats.

    Knowing which foods are safe (and which are dangerous) is a vital part of raising a healthy pup. By sticking to dog-friendly options and avoiding risky ones, you’ll keep your puppy safe while still making them feel included at the table. After all, a healthy puppy is a happy puppy. And that’s the best treat of all!

  • Springtime Makes for the Perfect Fur Baby Photo!

    Springtime Makes for the Perfect Fur Baby Photo!

    Spring brings the flowers to bloom and the greenery back to life, and it’s no doubt one of your pup’s favorite seasons. Lots of time to be spent in the great outdoors and what’s more, the weather is getting warm too. 

    For a bit of fun this spring, one trend you can consider is playing dress up! Picture dressing your fur baby in a nice, smart plaid shirt and maybe wearing one to match too! You could have loads of fun like organizing photo shoots, maybe a party or two too! 

    Many people love to play dress up with their dogs and post photos on social media, and this definitely makes for an excellent idea. For starters, it is a great way to share the moment and cute pictures with the rest of the world via the internet. 

    In addition, posting on platforms like Instagram allows you to save pictures on there for as long as you want and you can use it as a form of album or cloud storage for Max’s pictures. In the years to come, you could easily access the images from your smart device and recall the enchanting memories that you created that day. 

    There are quite a number of dogs on Instagram, some even having their own accounts and in collaboration with their partners, may work as influencers. They commonly have pictures of them taken, for instance, there’s @magnusthetherapy dog on Instagram. You would commonly find him posing with his owner in various getups, even a chef’s cap!

    Also, @barked, a community for dogs on Instagram commonly posts up cute photos of different dog breeds. It should be no surprise to find a dog all suited up complete with a tie. What more are you waiting for? Get to creating memories!

    Conclusion 

    A well dressed dog gets compliments and pats from all and sundry. Give your pet the chance to be a hotshot dresser this spring!

  • What are the Benefits of Owning a Dog?

    What are the Benefits of Owning a Dog?

    The only downside to owning a dog is that those gooey eyes would charm you anytime, anyway. That said, there are loads of benefits to owning a dog; emotional, physical, mental, social, basically loads. This article highlights some of these benefits: 

    Companionship 

    If you’ve been battling loneliness for a while, owning a dog is precisely what you need. There is no feeling lonely when you have a pup that constantly craves your attention and worships you. It’s no wonder then that dogs are known as man’s best friend. 

    Uplifts Your Mood 

    There’s no feeling depressed around your dog. Pups are generally lively and full of energy and are ready to play at every turn. Their antics are bound to crack you up and you would find yourself bursting into laughter now and again. Dogs make humans happy.

    Longevity 

    People with pets have generally been shown to live longer. This is especially true for seniors. Having to care for a pet extends their lifespans and this applies to middle aged individuals too. 

    Teaches Vital Lessons 

    Owning a pet teaches vital life lessons like caring for other people besides ourselves. Knowing that a vulnerable pet totally depends on you teaches responsibility especially to kids at a young age. It improves social skills too. 

    Improved Mental Health 

    People battling depression and other mental health issues are often assigned support dogs to help them through. This is because having a dog that adores you stimulates feelings of hope and happiness. 

    Conclusion 

    There’s really nothing as blissful as owning and caring for a dog. In addition to the benefits outlined above, the daily walks are beneficial to physical health too while providing good bonding time with your pup. 

  • Should I Crate Train My Dog?

    Should I Crate Train My Dog?

    Crate training is the process of introducing your dog to view and accept a dog crate as a personal safe space. There are various benefits that crate training offers particularly for your pet. Here are the most profound ones: 

    Provides a Familiar, Safe Space 

    Sometimes, your pet needs a place to retire, particularly if they encounter something new. For instance, some dogs are not great at getting used to strangers and would rather stay away. A crate provides a form of escape for your pup and allows them to retreat from new, disturbing changes until they can eventually adapt. 

    Provides a Den Feeling 

    Many advocates point to the fact that dogs are den animals and a crate can serve as a substitute for a den. Daisy’s den is where she reigns supreme and feels like her own personal kingdom. This space serves as a sanctuary and your dog feels very secure in that space. 

    Helps With Potty Training 

    Dogs generally keep their sleeping areas clean as a matter of instinct. Providing your pup with a crate would help them learn to hold and this in turn strengthens bladder and bowel muscles. They inadvertently learn housebreaking on their own. 

    Makes Life Easier Generally 

    Crates generally make yours and your pet’s life easier. Transporting Daisy is safer using a crate whether by road for long distance trips or air trips. It results in less distractions for the driver and you would be able to have your dog with you whenever you travel.  

    Conclusion 

    Crate training your pup offers too many benefits for you to pass it up. During the process, ensure that you’re patient and reward with treats for good behavior. 

  • How Often Should I Groom My Dog?

    How Often Should I Groom My Dog?

    Various aspects of grooming are typically done at different times.  For instance, brushing is recommended at least 1 to 3 times a week, baths every 1 to 2 months, and trimming of the areas around the paws, ears, face, and sensitive areas around every 4 to 6 weeks. 

    Visiting a professional groomer should be done at least once a month, and the session would typically consist of your pet being brushed, bathed, sanitized, as well as nails trimmed or clipped. 

    Wire-haired dogs may grow a softer and different colored coat if they are shaved down, so this should be avoided. Similarly, it is ideal to place long-haired dogs on a grooming schedule. 

    For breeds with wavy or curly hair, routine coat maintenance is important so that they don’t get up getting shaved bald. Routine grooming also helps breeds who blow their coat. 

    Benefits of Grooming 

    Brushing down your pet’s coat helps to allow air in, providing ventilation and facilitating healthy and strong hair growth as well as removing old or damaged hair. 

    Grooming also reduces the amount of grease in the coat. Excess grease can cause pore blockage leading to irritation and a range of other skin problems. 

    Similarly, regular grooming helps you rapidly identify underlying conditions or diseases early enough. This allows for quick treatment and staying the spread of such ailment. 

    Trimming nails also helps to promote good posture and prevents bone deformation. 

    Usually, grooming may be breed-specific while some others are general like a puppy cut. Discussing which is ideal for your dog with your veterinarian is essential. 

    Conclusion 

    Proper dog grooming makes for a clean, happy, and healthy dog. Definitely the dream of any pet parent!

  • A New Puppy For The New Year

    A New Puppy For The New Year

    Yay! It’s the new year! Many people have their new year resolutions outlined and are already putting them into effect. 

    For some, one of these resolutions is to get a new fur baby at the beginning of the year.

    Just like any other parenting, puppy parenting can be somewhat overwhelming but fun overall. 

    There are a lot of things for both of you to learn and you have to get started on your part before bringing your cuddly fur baby home. 

    Here are a few things to note when getting a new puppy:

    Your Schedule

    Puppies are fun to be with however, they require a lot of care and attention in their first few months. You’ll have to feed Max two to three times daily. 

    In addition, you would have to take him on walks and get him socialized later on. 

    You have to factor all of these into your schedule. This phase may be tasking, but it’s definitely rewarding for any new puppy owner.

    Bonding Time

    The first few months of Max’s life are the perfect time to bond with him and get to know him. There’s a lot that you can learn about him just by spending time with him. 

    You can learn about your playful puppy’s personality, temperament, tastes, and intelligence. 

    Everyone loves puppy breath and you’ll definitely be getting a lot of that in your face along with licks of gratitude.

    Training

    It is essential to start training your dog early. At this young age, Max is ready to learn. All he’s waiting for is for you to work with him as soon as you can. 

    Training provides tremendous benefits to continued good behavior both inside your home and in public. 

    You can teach your Max basic obedience and then step up to potty training, chew training, and crate training.

  • Petland In the Community

    Petland In the Community

    Petland stores pride themselves on giving back to the community that has given so much to us in terms of patronage and trust. It is mainly for this reason that we run several charity programs and events to touch the lives of several people/pets across different states where our stores are located. Here are details of some of the different programs that we are involved in:

    Safari Stan’s Children’s Charities by Petland 

    This charity program was officially launched for children in 1994, and we currently have two organizations. For the Make-A-Wish Foundation of America, since 1998, Petland has helped bring over 850 pet-related wishes. Likewise, for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Petland has collected over $1.2 million for thirteen years and counting!

    Pet Therapy at Petland

    This program benefits young children and the elderly in our communities. Petland occasionally takes some of our pets on visits to schools and nursing homes for some animal and human bonding experience. This has been proven to be an incredible experience for people!

    Pets in the Classroom 

    This is a program run by the Pet Care Trust, with Petland as an active member. This program seeks to generate funds to enable teachers to purchase pets and pet-related supplies for their classrooms. The aim of this is to promote a healthy relationship between kids and their pets if/when they have one.

    Adopt A Pet

    Petland takes in homeless pets from various sources such as pet rescue groups, local animal shelters, or people with more pets than they can properly take care of. Petland counselors work hand-in-hand with the welfare groups to find satisfactory homes for these pets.

    Other activities include:

    • Providing funds and feeding for several therapy dogs,service dogs, and k9 units.
    • Providng therap and companion dogs for incapacitated veterans
    • Providing extra protection for all their pets through technology

    Now, this is our little way of giving back, and we would definitely be looking to do even more!