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  • Top 5 Rare Dog Breeds

    You probably consider yourself a maestro when it comes to identifying dog breeds. The good ol’ reliable German Shepherd, the adorable Labrador Retriever, or the spoiled Chihuahua. 

    There are breeds that you see and can identify at the drop of a hat. However, there are a number of dog breeds that are not all that common. There is even a possibility that you’ve never heard of them. Here’s 5 of them:

    1. Azawakh 

    Azawakhs are known for their fierce loyalty and protectiveness of their owners. Unlike other dog breeds that smell before seeing, this breed is a sight hound and mostly discovers its prey using its sights. 

    It stands regal with long legs and has its origins in the Sahel region of Africa, where it stood guard over nomad’s tepees while withstanding the harsh conditions. 

    This breed was introduced to America in the 80s, was entered into the American Kennel Club’s Foundation in 1997, and is known to shy away from strangers.  

    1. Telonian 

    The Telonian is a Malaysian breed and the only known one at that. Specifically trained to catch vermin by the Orang Asil indigenous people, this breed moves really fast and has great sensory abilities. 

    It also has a surprising climbing ability which is clearly an adaptation to the homes of the Orang Asil people that were built on stilts to prevent invasion by wild animals. 

    1. Norwegian Lundehund 

    With a long history dating as far back as the ice age, the Norwegian Lundehund is one of the rarest of dog breeds alive. They feature a crimson coat and were originally intended for hunting down Puffin birds on the edges of coastal cliffs. 

    As a result of this hunting environment, over the years, this breed has mastered scaling rocky cliffs. In addition, although pretty close to extinction, it is known as a breed that builds a close-knit relationship with its owner.

    1. Thai Ridgeback

    The Thai Ridgeback sees its origins in Thailand and just along the breed’s back, you would find a ridge similar to that of the Rhodesian Ridgebacks. This ridge which is found in only three dog breeds refers to a strip that grows away in the opposite direction of the fur. 

    Although for a while, they could only be found in Thailand, the breed has started to spread gradually. However, they are notable for their great escape methods and need a close eye kept on them. 

    1. Otterhound 

    The British Otterhound is ranked one of the most vulnerable dog breeds In the UK. It is believed to be as old as the medieval age and bred mainly to stay on guard during fishing. 

    It is kinsmen with the Bloodhound and displays similar virtues such as determination and dexterity. This breed features a healthy and impressive crop of hair and makes for a great companion anyway. 

    They eat in a pretty messy manner, and their grooming, well, you can definitely handle it. 

  • Preparing Your Home To Welcome a New Puppy

    Opening up your home and your heart to a new puppy is one of the most beautiful experiences you can have. The feeling of the warm, fluffy, pulsing mass of life (super adorable puppy in other words), is nothing short of an incredible one. 

    But before the puppy arrives, you would need to ensure that your home is in the right state to accommodate a puppy. What does this mean? It simply implies that you would need to answer the following questions and tick them off your checklist:

    1. Is Your Home Puppy Proof?  

    The first step before bringing your puppy home is ensuring your home is safe. Your puppy would tend to wander around the house a lot, getting familiar with the surroundings and on his quest, might decide to explore interesting subjects. 

    These subjects may range anywhere from dangling fabrics, strings, or wires to small objects like paper clips or even furniture! So, you would want to protect your pup from swallowing stuff he shouldn’t while preserving your property too. 

    1. Have You Gotten Supplies?

    Food and water bowls, and of course, food are primary supplies you need. For feeding, 2 or 3 times a day is ideal while your pup’s feed should be recommended by a veterinarian. 

    You would need to get a collar and leash, and toys too! Your puppy would have a lot of nervous energy and wouldn’t you rather he took it out on toys rather than your furniture. 

    Furthermore, your pup would need a place to sleep, just like you do, and a crate would do just fine for this. It would also serve as a secure location for times when you’re leaving him on his own. As a rule of thumb, the crate should have enough space for your pup to stand and turn around. 

    1. Have You Decided On Limits?

    Puppies are just like babies, they watch your every move and easily pick up on routine or rules. However, inconsistency is one factor you want to avoid. If it’s cool for them to go in a room one day, and it’s not the next, you’re sending mixed signals and this is confusing. 

    Before bringing the puppy home, decide rooms where he’s allowed to enter, whether or not he’s allowed on the furniture and other decisions in that line. Consistency is key!

    1. Are Your Family Members Prepared Too?

    Preparing your family members is just as important as preparing your home itself. If you have kids, they need to know that the pup isn’t a toy, and should be treated gently. 

    They should know the basics about puppy care; how to relate with the puppy, knowing better than to not disturb the pup when he’s sleeping or eating, amongst others. 

    Create a routine for your pup and let your family members know about it so that they can keep up even in your absence. These preparations go a long way into making the obedient dog that you want later in the future.  

  • Vital Nutrients That Your Dog Needs

    Your dog’s nutritional needs supersedes every other in terms of importance, it is what guarantees your pup would live a long, healthy life. You may skimp from time to time on grooming or neglect to take Milo walking on rare occasions. But for his meals, you want to pay extra care to guarantee that he’s getting all the right nutrients in the right proportions. What are these vital nutrients? Check them out: 

    1. Water 

    A mature dog’s lean body mass is made up of about 70-80% of water. It is vital for digestion, regulating body temperature, and even the elimination process. On a biological level, it serves as a transportation system for conveying nutrients to the various cells. 

    Your pup’s water needs depend on activity level, health, and temperature. Most dogs can regulate water intake on their own, and if your dog is on high-moisture food, they would generally take less water. However, always make clean and fresh water available. 

    1. Fat

    Fat is a better source of energy than both protein and carbohydrates, supplying up to twice as many calories. It also provides omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids which function in protecting the organs, absorbing fat-soluble vitamins, and boosting a healthy nervous system. 

    On the flip side, excess fats can cause gastrointestinal problems or pancreatitis, so, it should be well regulated. Pup fat sources include plant-based oils like hemp seed and flaxseed as well as low-mercury fish and fish oil. 

    1. Protein

    Protein is a source of both essential and non-essential amino acids that your dog needs to stay alive and healthy. Pups are unable to produce their required amount of proteins, so they need to get it from their diet. 

    Proteins are responsible for a range of structures ranging from bones to muscles to nails and even healthy hair. It also has some energy components and complements that are supplied by carbs and fat. Fish, eggs, and lean-muscle meats are great sources of protein for pups. 

    1. Carbohydrates 

    Dogs are able to get a measure of glucose from fat and protein, therefore, carbs are not essential. However, they are important because they are the main source of glucose which supplies energy for daily activity. 

    A good measure of carbohydrates also provides the body with minerals, antioxidants, and vitamins for general pup health. It can be gotten from gluten-free grains and legumes. 

    1. Vitamins

    Vitamins play several important roles such as aiding blood clotting (K), boosting the immune system (A), functioning as antioxidants (C and E), amongst others. 

    They are usually required in minute quantities and can be gotten from diets like dog-friendly plant-based foods or muscle meats. 

    1. Minerals 

    Minerals are essential to the body for sustaining metabolic functions and play a major role in various processes. 

    For instance, calcium and phosphorus are a major constituent of bones, iron transports oxygen, zinc aids injury recovery, nerve transmission is aided by sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium amongst other functions. 

    Dogs are unable to naturally manufacture minerals, hence, their only source is their diet. Feed like meat and bone is rich in phosphorus and calcium respectively while a great source of zinc is shellfish. 

  • Father’s Day – How to Bond Better With Your Pup

    Establishing a strong bond is the foundation for success in any relationship, and this applies to your pup. The human-pet bond that goes so deep that they can sense changes in your mood doesn’t happen overnight. Instead, it comes about as a result of certain conscious or unconsciously done moves. Not sure how to bond with your pup better? Here’s how:

    1. Quality Time Together!

    No relationship, not a single one, blossoms without quality time. Even love at first sight needs time to develop into happily ever after. It’s all about being together and going on adventures and making memories. Whether indoors or outdoors, you absolutely want to devote time and attention to your pup. Once in a while, you could plan a little human-doggo vacation and go exploring!

    1. Never Lose Your Cool

    There are times when your pup might do something naughty like chew on the rug or pee indoors. These times call for utmost calmness, and even if you’re not feeling it, you must totally remain tranquil. If you’re losing your temper as a result of something different altogether and you feel the urge to yell, resist it. The memory of your pup running off to hide under a chair is one that would haunt you and you absolutely do not want to experience this. 

    1. Clear Communication 

    Communicating clearly and precisely is the lubricant that smoothens relationships over. You need to be as clear as possible when communicating with your dog. Your body language is important too as they watch very closely. Therefore, you don’t want your words and body language contradicting as this would confuse your pet. Ensure that your training signals are consistent and if you notice that your dog is more of a visual learner, emphasize more on that and less on words. 

    1. The Power of Touch 

    A cuddle, a warm hug, a kiss, regular patting, and you’re on your way to building a strong bond with your pet. More than anything in the world, pups love being physically loved up just like you do. The same hormones that are released in you when you get a warm, soothing hug are released in them too. Give your dog a massage on occasion, and some veterinarians even believe that it helps with a lowered blood pressure and relieves stress.   

    1. Keep Them Comfortable  

    Your pup has likes and dislikes too, some things annoy him and it is your responsibility to take note of these things. For instance, some pups are not comfortable around other people and wouldn’t like to be petted by them. Some others do not like being dressed up or being put in unfamiliar situations. If you would be introducing them to new situations, take along treats for positive reinforcement. Also, recall that their sense of smell is way stronger than yours. So, that slightly irritating smell for you is multiplied for them. Just try to keep them comfy!

  • What to Know Before Embarking On that Human-doggo Summer Road Trip

    You are finally taking the summer trip and bringing Ruby along! Planning for a humans-only summer trip is not so much of a hassle, you just have to bring along the regulars. But if you’re going with your pet, then you need to be certain that you’ve made adequate preparation for them. Here are some things to know before beginning the trip:

    1. A Visit to the Vet!

    A big summer trip or any one for that matter calls for a visit to the vet first off. The main purpose is to check that they’re healthy enough to undertake the journey. It wouldn’t be ideal for a pet who’s facing a series of health or nutrition problems to embark on a big trip. Similarly, a thorough checkup and getting up-to-date vaccination are vet activities, so you shouldn’t be skipping this step. 

    1. A Trip Calls for a Carrier  

    It would have been a nice idea for your pup to sit up in front, seat belt all tucked in and looking pretty. However, if you would be going on a major trip, whether via land or air, you would need a carrier to guarantee a positive trip experience. You need to size up your crate to supply your pet with more room to move around and great ventilation. It is advisable to purchase the crate in advance so that your pet can get acclimated to it. 

    1. Aim for Cool Weather 

    For air travel, some airlines only permit pet cargo travel in the mornings or evenings when the weather would be cool. A pet-safe airline like Lufthansa only allows for snub-nosed pet travel when it is guaranteed that both departure and arrival locations would have temperatures under 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Pups are unable to regulate their body temperature as we do, so you would need to look out for cool weather. This applies to road trips too, ensuring that the air conditioning works just great. 

    1. Get Their ‘Groom’ On!

    Some pre-travel summer grooming might not be a bad idea for your pet. Depending on the breed, they might stand to benefit beyond just looking great. You would need to be careful with the length of their coat. This is because your pup’s hair serves as a cooling system for her and a measure of hair left on could help prevent the skin from experiencing sun damage. So, cutting hair short or giving them a buzz cut could be exposing them to a lot of discomforts during the trip. 

    1. Tire Them Out 

    Plenty of exercise before departure time is bound to have your pet snoozing or lying around passively during the trip. Not exercising Ruby can cause her to experience anxiety all through the trip, something you want to avoid. Before heading out to the airport or starting the car, get some quick exercises because a tired pup is a calm pup. 

  • Taking Your Dog to the Park

    The park is a great place for your dog to run free amongst other dogs and more importantly, socialize. There’d also be the occasional butt sniffing, but consider the ‘hazards’ that come with the park. While the park sounds just perfect, you’d need to make sure that your dog is ready for the park environment. Not sure what this entails? Then take a look at this checklist: 

    1. Will Your Dog Have Fun?

    More than anything, you need to be certain that your pet would have a good time. Not all dogs are big fans of socializing with other dogs, and your pup might get frightened by large, adult dogs. A good way to break them in would be supervised playgroups or play dates, perhaps with friends’ puppies who are in the same age bracket and would interact pleasantly. Also, if your dog displays signs of aggression, even at that young age, you would need to work on curbing that before introducing him to a dog park. 

    1. Are Vaccinations In Order? 

    Taking your unvaccinated pup to the park opens them up to transmittable diseases, and puts other dogs at risk. This is why you need to get your pup vaccinated first for all necessary ailments, as well as various parasite preservatives. Furthermore, as a rule of thumb, your pup should only visit the park when they are 17 weeks or older. Keeping your pup’s information updated is also essential in case they get separated from you, so, even when you’re letting them off-leash, the collar and tags should stay on. 

    1. Does Duke Have Basic Training?

    The most basic of training: would Duke respond to a “come!” command? If you’re not certain that your dog would respond to your summons, then it isn’t quite dog park time yet. To get Duke used to answering the summons, you can start in the living room with short distances. You can then extend this to further distances such as calling from an entirely different room. For every time he runs to you, make sure you give him a treat; this would help with ingraining this response in his psyche. This particularly comes in handy when it looks like trouble is starting to brew at the park and you need to get your pup out of the mix. 

    1. Are You Conversant With Dog Park Manners?

    Knowing dog park manners is important to keep your dog in line. For instance, there’s a thin line between normal play behavior and bullying, and you need to be able to detect when your dog is acting up. This is a two-way street, so it could happen to your pup too and you should be ready to rescue your pet. A dog park is meant for relaxation and socializing, so, if your dog is experiencing stress and anxiety, the purpose is defeated. Similarly, recall that pups would pick up proper mannerism from well-socialized adult dogs, so the occasional growl from one during dog to dog interaction shouldn’t be perceived as a fight, especially when no harm or bullying is evident. 

  • Saving Money as a Pet Parent

    We all want to spoil and care for our pets as best we can, and one major factor that plays in is the financial aspect. This implies money spent on feeding, the vet, pet supplies, grooming products, and toys amongst others. For the most part, this is money that you probably don’t mind spending and perhaps you even enjoy doing so. But certainly, you won’t mind learning some ways to cut back, so, here are some proven ways to save money as a pet parent: 

    1. Prioritize Your Pet’s Health 

    It’s a fact that most dogs are not big fans of the vet. But maintaining your pup’s quality of life and saving yourself money involves routine trips to a capable vet. By ensuring that your dog gets adequate exercise and a healthy diet, you can start wading off ailments that may come later in their lives. 80% of dogs over age three experience dental problems, so, make sure to keep your pup’s teeth healthy. 

    1. Work With a Budget 

    Lesson 101 in saving money is working with a budget. This budget would be based on your dog’s needs and topping the list would be recurring expenses like quality food. Some expenses that are far in between such as a vet visit should be planned for ahead of time. After breaking down monthly expenses that are absolutely necessary, you can eliminate the ones that can be dispensed with, and you’re on track to saving money. 

    1. Make Your Dog Treats 

    You’d be surprised at what all the money you spend on treats sums up to. We can’t help spoiling our pups with chewy treats and tasty goodies and making them yourself can save you a great deal of cash. Homemade dog treats using ingredients you already have at home are surprisingly easy to make and healthier even! You could also make a significant portion and preserve in the freezer. 

    1. Regular Doggo Playtime  

    If you’ve seen the movie Marley and Me, then you probably understand where this is coming from. A tired dog is a happy dog and in addition, can save you a great deal of money. If you have a dog who constantly needs physical or mental exercise for stimulation, and they aren’t getting it, they could lovingly take it out on your shoes or couch. Provided their teeth and claws can get in, they would stimulate themselves. Save yourself extra expenses by creating playtime for Fido!

    1. Groom Your Dog at Home 

    Bath time is a pretty great time for bonding. There’s nothing like saving yourself money while deepening the loving bond between you and your pup. Professional groomers could cost a pretty penny, and there’s the stressful drive down there too, depending on how often you groom. When you’re grooming, make sure to concentrate on the coat, the paws, the inside of the ears, and other semi-hidden parts of your dog’s body.

  • 5 Ways To Keep Your Dog Happy

    Ever heard of a sad dog? I bet you haven’t. This is because dogs are naturally happy animals who find a way to have fun every chance they get. Now, this doesn’t mean there are no ways to make your dog happy. After spending a bit of time with your pup, you would have picked up on certain activities that get Lily giddy with excitement. In addition to these activities, here are 5 tips to keep your dog happy:

    1. Be Health-conscious 

    It goes without saying that a healthy pup is a happy pup. Only a healthy pup has sufficient nervous energy to dash around with reckless abandon. In addition to regular checkups, proper nutrition is an essential aspect of keeping your pup in sound health. Don’t just pick food off the shelf, get recommendations from your veterinarian. Be sure that other healthy habits like regular exercise and adequate grooming are not left out either. 

    1. Playtime!

    More than anything in the world, all Lily wants to do is play catch and fetch and run around the backyard with her ‘hooman’. Playtime with your dog helps them get physical exercise which is required for stimulation, and of course, you get to have fun and relax too. It doesn’t have to be outdoors fun only, you could play hide and seek within the house, unleash the tracker in them! Read to Lily, dance around the house with her, you would definitely see her eyes shining with excitement. 

    1. Road Trip!

    No, it doesn’t have to be a planned road trip. It could be a quick drive to the mall or the drive-through. He would definitely love riding shotgun and make sure you let the window down a bit so that he gets the breeze in his face. You can almost picture him with his tongue hanging out, face pressed against the window watching the shrubbery fly by and the occasional bird takes flight. If this sounds like such a great pastime to you, then it definitely is for Max too! By the way, ensure he’s well secured in his seat. 

    1. Plenty of Love 

    That strong loving bond that you form with your pup is one of the greatest rewards that having a dog gets you. Dogs love physical contact; cuddling, belly rubs, petting, forehead kisses, they love all of it. So, if you want your pup to be happy, then you have to show them that they are loved a whole lot. This helps build a stronger emotional connection with you, maintains their emotional intelligence, and helps them remain friends and sociable. 

    1. Treats! 

    You want to give out treats from time to time, particularly to reinforce good behavior. And at other times, treat your dog just because. Treats,outside of mealtimes,are bound to make them ecstatic. And of course, be sure to share in moderation and ensure they are healthy treats. They could even be homemade, so you save some money in the process.

  • Exciting DIYs for Your Dog

    Rewarding Max from time to time for being such a good boy is bound to make him happy. In addition to toys and other products that you can get at the store, you can pour your heart into making a DIY accessory. It could be a couple of toys to boost his plaything portfolio or a comfy piece of cushion for him to snuggle up to. Sound like a plan? Then you should totally check out these exciting DIYs for your dog:

    1. Braided T-Shirt Toy 

    For this, all you need is a pair of scissors and 2-3 old T-shirts (preferably cotton). 

    • Cut the hems off the shirts,
    • Make even slits that are about 2-3” wide along the base of the shirts, then rip them up to get the slits,
    • Tie off one end of the strips after you’ve gathered them together, and then divide the strips into thirds, 
    • Braid starting from the tied part and make your way down to the untied portion of the shirt, all the while ensuring that your braids are tight,
    • Once you’ve braided all the way to the bottom, tie it off there and cut off strips that won’t be useful. 

    And then you would have made the perfect toy for Max!

    1. A Chew Toy 

    Making your pup a chew toy is perhaps one of the easiest DIYs. It doesn’t require any cutting up, or braiding, or sewing. All you have to do is:

    • Find an old sock that is still pretty firm,
    • Wash if dirty. You don’t want Max tasting your feet, do you?
    • Get a clean tennis ball,
    • Stick it in the sock, and tie the open end up. 

    And voila, a great chewing toy for your beloved Max. 

    1. Suitcase Dog Bed 

    Your pup might have a bed in his designated room or corner, but does he have one in the room where he spends most of his time? The living room. A suitcase dog bed is a super convenient way to solve this minor problem. For starters: 

    • Look for a suitcase that your dog would fit into width-wise,
    • Get a regular density foam insert from a store that you trust,
    • Get fabric that would serve as a covering or case for your foam,
    • Cut your foam up so that it perfectly in the bottom of your suitcase,
    • Slip your mattress into your pre-sewn cover, make it removable so that you can wash it,
    • Fit the foam into your suitcase. 

    Watch Max turn this bed into his watchtower. 

    1. Dog Shampoo 

    Take a break from harsh chemicals and go a bit natural. All you need for your dog shampoo is one cup of dish soap, one cup of apple cider vinegar, two ounces of glycerin, and a bottle to pour your shampoo in. Vinegar has antibacterial and antiseptic properties that calm inflammation and skin irritations, glycerin also helps moisturize your dog’s fur and prevent irritation. You can get glycerin at a drugstore. 

    • Pour all your ingredients into a jar, starting with the dish soap,
    • Mix by shaking the ingredients thoroughly until even mixing has taken place,
    • Pour the mixture into your bottle and keep until the next time you want to wash your pup. 

  • 10 Famous TV Show Dogs

    Fun fact; dogs are never the villain in any movie. If anything, they do something so incredibly endearing that we love them more for it. Or they simply just exist as their wonderful selves and make us fall in love with them! Long story short, here are 10 of the most famous tv show dogs you’ve probably heard about, and if you hadn’t previously, you would have now: 

    1. Marley from Marley & Me (2008)

    The story of Marley is one that’s made it into print media. Marley was the super active 100-pound dog of John and Jennifer Grogan who acted like a puppy all his life and was featured in the movie, Marley and Me. 

    1. Old Yeller from Old Yeller (1957)

    Old Yeller is a very familiar name and the star of the 1957 film, Old Yeller. The plot details a Labrador Retriever/Mastiff mix who saves his family and saves the day but tragically gets rabies in the process. 

    1. Chance and Shadow from Homeward Bound (1993)

    A combo of Chance, a young pup, and Shadow, old and experienced, make up two out of the three pets who embark on a journey to find their owners who are vacationing. Their adventure takes them across open countryside and forests in this film. 

    1. Brian from Family Guy (1999)

    One of the most eloquent and educated talking dogs you would find on TV. Brian from Family Guy is smarter than most of his family members and was even quite the player! No, this can’t be left out! 

    1. Beethoven from Beethoven (1992) 

    For starters, this is not about the famous music composer. This is Beethoven the “St. Bernard dog” and in addition to the remarkable name, this dog-themed movie has enjoyed immense success since its making in 1992.  

    1. Buddy from Air Bud (1997)

    Police dogs are a thing, but a basketball-player dog, now that’s a new one. This is the story of Buddy the Golden Retriever in the movie Air Bud. In the movie, he goes on to join a human team and play in a competition! Fun fact, his real-life name was Buddy too and his trainer, Kevin di Cicco, really did teach him basketball and how to dunk. 

    1. Jerry Lee from K-9 (1989)

    Jerry Lee was a cool police dog who did just what he pleased and frustrated his handler, Michael Dooley, many times. He was supposed to help Michael in his pursuit of an international drug dealer, Ken Lyman, and by the end of the movie, he’d endeared himself to everyone. 

    1. Hachi from Hachi A Dog’s Tale (2009)

    Inspired by a real story from Japan about an Akita Inu who always waited at the train station for his master’s arrival and continued every single day even after his master’s demise. 

    1. Rin Tin Tin from The Adventures of Rin Tin Tin (1954)

    This series with a total of 164 episodes tells the story of an orphan boy Rusty and his German Shepherd Rin Tin Tin. With his trusted companion by his side, he traveled to carry out various military duties. 

    1. Snoopy from Snoopy Come Home (1972)

    Snoopy was a well-known fictional character from the peanuts comic strip, and he could walk upright like a human. In fiction, Snoopy always wanted to be famous, and he got so famous in reality, that he was honored on the Hollywood Walk of Fame!