5 best products on Amazon for first-time dog owners!
It is a scary task to prepare for a new arrival at your house. Adopting a dog comes with its own set of responsibilities. Dogs are an amazing pet to have, they shower you with unconditional love, they have the most exuberant energy and they can brighten up any bad day. If you are deciding to be a new dog owner then there are some things you have to prepare for. For the impending arrival of your new fur buddy, you need to have at least 5 essential items on hand. These include safety measures, sleeping arrangements, and food necessities. If you want to find out what products are best, then keep on reading because we have some of the best and easily accessible models listed just for you! Joytale Reflective dog collar 1. Joytale Reflective dog collar One of the first things you will need to bring your dog home is a dog collar. With the details of your pooch on the inlet in the collar, this product will help your dog find its way back home. The Joytale Reflective Dog Collar is one of the most affordable options on Amazon. It has a reflective quality that ensures visibility in the dark, ensuring the safety of your pet. It is made of nylon and padded neoprene rubber material, and will not cause your dog any discomfort or irritation. It also comes in 12 different colors to fit every pooch’s personality! The added perk of style with safety makes it an instant bestseller. Equipped with quick-release buckles you can easily alter lengths and take it on/off. 2. MidWest Bolster Pet Bed A dog bed needs to be present before your puppy arrives at your home. It will immediately reassure your dog that your place is welcoming and warm. The MidWest Bolster Pet Bed is the number one bestseller on Amazon for dog beds. It fits an 18-inch-long dog crate and can be used separately as well. It can also be used to tempt your puppy into using a dog crate if your preferred breed of dog is a large one. Made of soft synthetic tip and padded comfortably with polyester cushions it gives the ultimate comfort. It also has an inbuilt dog pillow for your dog to lay its head-on. It also has inbuilt folds for storage and is ideal for travel needs. 3. The BAAPET dog leash Now that you have bought your dog you must be looking forward to those long dog walks. For those, you need a secure dog leash. The BAAPET dog leash is made exactly for that purpose. It is heavy-duty, made using a sturdy rock-climbing rope variable, and has an easily detachable clip hook. For your hands, it has padded handles to make it easy for you to hold on, and protect you from rope burns. Made with reflective quality threads it is also easily visible in the dark. It measures at least two feet and is made for close-distance walking. It also has a 100% money-back guarantee if you feel that it is not the right fit for you and your dog. 4. Outward Hound Fun Feeder Dog bowls are an essential first buy for any new dog owner. However, the science behind them is a little more complicated than you might think. But that is hardly a problem if you have the Outward Hound Feeder from Amazon. It slows down eating up to ten times the normal rate! Its unique design distracts your hound’s attention to slow down eating speed. This helps avoid digestive problems in your dog that arise due to fast eating habits. With this dog bowl, there will be no more bloating, regurgitation, and obesity. It has a non slip base that will save you a lot of cleaning time, and allow your dog to forage its food freely without spilling any of it. It comes in different patterns and colors, so you can have fun choosing what you want for your dog. 5. Regalo Easy Step Gate Your pet is going to be unfamiliar with your home, and there are some places you would rather that your dog does not have access to. The easy solution for that is for you to buy a baby gate. The Regalo Easy Step Gate measures up to 30 inches in height and can fit up to 38 inches in width. With an easy-to-set-up pressure mount design, it is perfect for first-time users. It is also adjustable and comes with an extension kit. Made of steel it is durable and sturdy. It also has multiple safety features that make sure that your dog is well protected and cannot jump through the gate. It is effective and affordable to boot. Now that you know all about what products you need to welcome your new dog home, all that is left is for you to enjoy your time with your furry friend. These five items will prepare you beforehand to avoid any problems, and leave you free to bond with your new companion!
The Best Collars for Your Dog
With so many collars available online and offline, it may be difficult to find the best ones. However, not to worry, as some excellent dogs stand out from the crowd. These collars are extremely comfy, strong, and great for all dog sizes. ECOFRIENDLY SOFT POLYESTER COLLAR This is a soft China-made dog collar that offers comfort to pets. It is made of nylon or polyester material. It comes with an adjustable belt, suitable for both puppies and big dogs. It is padded, reflective, stocked, and features breakaway jewelry. It offers full collar support to pets. The soft polyester dog collar can be used in any season. It comes in different sizes, such as XS, S, M, and L. OUMI CUSTOM STAINLESS STEEL COLLAR This is another suitable collar for dogs. The stainless steel collar is made of 18k Gold. This beautifies your pet in addition to the comfort it offers. It features a sustainability, reflection, and breakaway jewel.Despite being made of steel, the OUMI custom collar is lightweight, making it an excellent option for dogs of different sizes. The collar comes in different sizes, such as S, M, L, and XL. FASHIONABLE DOG PLAID COLLAR This is a floral-patterned collar with an adjustable belt that is suitable for dogs. Made of soft leather material, the collar offers comfort to dogs, allowing free movement of the collar. It is lightweight, so it is not a burden on the pet, even if it is a puppy. It comes in different sizes suitable for all dogs.
The Best Dogs for Kids and Families
By: Nelson Ansah Wondering about the best dogs for kids and families? Well, you’re in the right place. Adding a dog as a pet to your family is an excellent option for people of every age. Dogs are extraordinary companions. They’re responsible, loyal, and patient, making them excellent pets for your kids and family. Moreover, getting a new dog is an exciting decision to make as a family. Yet it can be challenging too. Why? There are many options as far as perfect breeds for families or kids, each with its own qualities. You need to choose one that the whole family can identify with; that’s no easy task. In this article, we’ll highlight the different dog breeds you can choose for your kids and family. We’ll also identify some pros and cons of each breed so you can make an informed decision for your home. Let’s get to it. The Best Dogs for Kids and Families Though choosing a dog breed for your family or kids entirely depends on your home lifestyle and budget, here is a comprehensive list of the best dogs for kids and families: Labrador Retriever Labrador retrievers love to be around literally everyone, including kids, adults, and other pets. This quality makes them the most popular dog breed for families and kids. They have a constant urge to play, making them suitable for kids with high energy levels who love to play. They weigh about 55 to 80 pounds, and their life expectancy ranges from 10 to 12 years. Pros Friendly and can be around everyone Easy to train Cons High shedders Require intensive exercise Bulldog Bulldogs are another famous breed among the best dogs for kids and families. They possess a straight and smooth coat in red, white, or pale brown color and weigh around 50 pounds. Some bulldogs have a patterned coat, like brindle, piebald, ticking, black masks, or tipping. If patterns are your family style, these are options as well. Bulldogs are an excellent fit for smaller homes with not-so-active lifestyles. Like the Retrievers, bulldogs are energetic dogs. However, they become inactive as they age. If you have a quiet home and want to keep it that way, the bulldog is an option. Pros They don’t bark unnecessarily. They require moderate exercise. Cons They aren’t suitable for families with an active lifestyle. They can be destructive when bored. Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers possess glossy double coats, weigh about 75 pounds, and generally live for 10 to 12 years. They are a perfect fit for a family with an active lifestyle and are loving towards kids. They provide you with the most pleasing companionship you can ever demand. Pros They’re quick learners. They are one of the most intelligent dog breeds. You can effortlessly fit them into any size house. Cons They can be destructive. They require higher levels of exercise. Beagle Beagles possess every characteristic to be among the best dogs for kids and families. They have short coats in all dog colors, including black and white but are not limited to only these colors. They weigh about 25 pounds and live for 10 to 15 years. They are cute, loving, and goofy. Beagles are among the best dogs for kids or families because they ideally thrive on friendship. Pros They love to be around people and other animals. They are easy to care for. Cons They can be destructive when alone. They howl unnecessarily when alone. Pugs Pugs love to eat and sleep like humans. They possess a smooth double coat in black or fawn color. They are almost everyone’s favorite since they bring a cuddle factor with them. However, you have to provide them with a lot of food and require plenty of exercises. They weigh about 18 pounds and live for 13 to 15 years. They love to be around people and are quite joyful. They were bred to be lap dogs, making them a perfect family dog. Pros They’re gentle towards kids. They have an urge for socialization. They are easy to groom. Just brush these animals, and they are done. Cons They snore because of their short snouts. They are not good guards because of their friendly nature. Conclusion Dogs are the most enthusiastic playmates you could ever ask for. But with so many breeds to choose from, it can become challenging quickly. We hope this article has made your decision easier. Remember, there is a breed for everyone; all you have to do is choose.
Best Dog Bowls 2022 (Dishes Feeder)
The bowl your dog uses to eat is just as important as its food. Sounds strange? I’ll explain. Some dog bowls aren’t safe for use because they contain harmful chemicals or be prone to bacteria growth. If this gets into your dog’s system, it could threaten your furry baby’s health and well-being. So you see, it is essential that you only get the best dog bowls 2022. So how do you know the best bowls to buy? Every brand out their claims that theirs is the right fit for you and your pup. How do you choose? Not to worry, you have us to break it down for you! We have reviewed the top dog bowls for you, and we are convinced that our top picks are problem solvers and not just for aesthetics. Are you always cleaning up spills and splashes after your dog gets a meal? We have a bowl specially designed to prevent that. Does your dog gobble up food in seconds? This could lead to bloating, choking and other digestive issues; we have a bowl designed to slow Scooby down too. Without further ado, find the best dog bowls 2022 for you and your pup below. 10 Best Dog feeder bowl We have done our research and decided that these are the best bowls 2022 on the market. Amazon Basics Stainless Steel Dog Bowl – Best puppy bowls Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl – Puzzle bowl Designer diner adjustable elevated dog bowl – Best bowls for large dogs Comfort Diner Elevated Dog Food Dish – Best dishes Smart Feed Automatic – Puppy feeding bowls WellTobe Food Dispenser Dog Feeder – Slow feeder bowl Stainless Steel Spill Proof Splash Bowl – Puppy food bowl Drink well Gallon Fountain for Dogs – Dog Food and water stand No-Spill Mat Set WESEN Dog Bowl – Cool dog bowls Water and Food Bowl Set with Automatic Waterer – Puppy food and water bowls Best Dog Bowls 2022 Buying Guide Choosing the best dog bowls for your canine is a task that every pet parent and aspiring pet owner should take seriously. The last thing you want is to change bowls every other month because your little terror chews on them, or worse, buy a bowl that would become the planet for bacteria to live in. Yikes! Did you know that the best dog bowls can promote healthy digestion? It sounds far-fetched, but it is true! The best dog bowls can resist bacterial growth and would even help to make cleaning up after your pup easier. There are several factors to consider when choosing these top-tier dog bowls, including material, size, design, and durability. What makes for the best dog bowls? Let’s find out. What do I need to consider before buying the best dog bowls? Material Different types of materials are used in making dog bowls, each of which has pros and cons. The best material for dog bowls depends on their usage, durability and ease of cleaning. Plastic Dog bowls made from plastic are lightweight and quite handy. They usually have a rubber ring underneath that prevents them from slipping while your pup eats with gusto. Plastic bowls are inexpensive, and they come in different shapes and sizes. It is important to note that plastic dog bowls may be made from toxic chemicals. These chemicals get into your dog’s food and right into its body. While you may not notice your dog getting sick immediately, the chemical buildup in your canine’s system could lead to severe health problems over time. Plastic bowls are also prone to scratches and cuts that can harbour bacteria and become tough to clean. Stainless steel Dog bowls made from stainless steel are quite popular among dog owners because they are lightweight, easy to clean and hygienic. Stainless steel dog bowls are durable and are great for dogs who like to chew and gnaw at their bowls. They come in different sizes and designs – the most common being the double stainless steel bowls. You must pay special attention when picking the best stainless steel dog bowl. There are different grades of stainless steel, and their usage differs. Some manufacturers use lesser grades of stainless steel to make cheap bowls; while this may be favourable to your pocket, it may not be the best option for your canine. If a product doesn’t disclose the type of stainless steel grade it is made from, then it is most likely an inferior product. Avoid buying stainless bowls that aren’t dishwasher safe or are “for pet use only .”These are clear indications that they are made from inferior materials. The best dog food bowls should not contain any possible contaminants and must be of the best quality. Ceramic Bowls Dog bowls made from ceramics weigh more than most bowls. They are the perfect bowls for puppies who like to push their bowls around the floor while eating. Dog bowls made from ceramics are easy to clean and quick to dry. Most of them have clear sealant coatings that prevent bacteria from getting into the cracks and pores of the material. You want to make that you pick a ceramic dog bowl that is not cracked in any way. Due to their heavy weight, ceramic bowls break and chip easily when dropped. Bacteria can grow in these cracks, and a wash in the dishwasher may not be able to get rid of it. These bacteria could get into your canine’s food and cause health problems. If you notice a crack in your dog’s ceramic feeding bowl, it is time to replace it immediately. Size The size of your dog’s food and water bowls is essential when choosing the best dog bowls. Your dog’s breed and eating habits would determine the size of the food and water bowls you get. To get a feel for the right sizes, you need to calculate the approximate volume of food you serve your dog at each meal. The general rule of
Best Dog Brushes For Shedding(Combo Undercoat)
For some people, brushing your dog feels like a chore, and to others? It is the perfect way for you and your pet to bond. Picture this; you’re curled up on a couch with your clingy canine draped all over you. There’s a movie on, and you’re slowly and unconsciously running your fingers through their fur. You suddenly hit a snag and your pet whines out in pain. No matter how much you try detangling the matted fur, it refuses to untangle. This is why you need the best dog brushes for shedding on the market to prevent this from happening. It is just a pet brush, why write an article about it? What is the fuss about? If you’re thinking this then you should know that you cannot groom your dog’s delicate fur with regular brushes. They could irritate your dog’s skin, and cause injuries that could lead to infections. The best grooming brushes for dogs carefully and meticulously untangles, and de-sheds matted fur, promoting a healthy and shiny coat. Here are our top 10 best dog brushes for shedding; they have been carefully vetted and come highly recommended by veterinarians and pet owners alike. 10 Best Dog Grooming Brushes Hertzko Slicker Dog Brush – Best Dog Brush For Long Hair Hartz Groomer’s Dog Brush – Best Comb For Shedding Dogs Maxplanet Grooming Dog Brush – Professional Dog Grooming Brushes FURminator Grooming Dog Brush – Dog Brush For Undercoat Atlamia Self-cleaning Dog Brush – Brush For Dogs That Shed WAHL Premium Dog Brush – Pet Brush For Shedding Thunderpaws De-shedding Dog Brush – Dog Deshedding Brush Poodle Dog Grooming Brush – Dog Shedder Darkpets Dog Grooming Brush – Tools For Shedding Dogs Coastal Dog Grooming Brush – Best Dog Brushes For Shedding Best dog brushes for shedding : Buying Guide Do you have loose dog hair flying all over your house? In your clothes, couch, and even bed? Yup, we’ve all been there. And grooming your dog frequently can help remove loose hair from the coat before it sheds all over your clothes and home. Brushing your dog’s coat seems like a chore especially if you have multiple dogs, but it shouldn’t be. Regular grooming prevents tangles and mats from forming on your dog’s fur. Without being de-tangled, these snarled knots of hair could get trapped in their undercoats and this could irritate the skin, cause discomfort, and may even lead to severe infections. If you’re a new pet owner and you want to do right by buying the best grooming brush for your dog, or you are a seasoned dog parent but you also buy grooming brushes that don’t last the week, this buying guide will give all the necessary information needed to make the right buying decision for your and dog, How do I choose the Best dog brushes for shedding ? Material When it comes to dog brushes, there are tons of them on the market and each is made with different types of materials ranging from plastic to stainless steel. When choosing the best brush for your dog, you want to make sure that it is made from high-quality materials that come with a warranty or guarantee from the manufacturer to ensure its durability. Quality As a pet mom, I’ve gotten dog brushes that broke the same day. I know you can relate to my plights. Some brushes are so flimsy and badly manufactured that a simple fall should shatter them. You don’t want that, especially if you have multiple dogs or your one dog has the energy of five dogs put together. Dog brushes get a lot of use and if you intend to groom every day or maybe your pup’s coat type requires daily grooming, then you need a brush that is durable and pet safe. Make sure you carefully seek out this information before choosing a pet brush for your canine. Size This is an essential factor to consider when choosing the best grooming brushes for dogs. You don’t want to make the mistake of buying a small brush to groom a large dog. It is useless and may even cause discomfort and pain for your furry friend. You want to choose a brush that is appropriately sized and matched the coat type of your dog. If you have a long-haired or curly-haired dog, the size of the brush you use is way different from a dog with a short coat. A lot of pet parents are not aware of this math. It is a good thing that we brought it to your notice, isn’t it? Coat type This is one of the important factors to consider when choosing the best grooming brush for your dog. There are many breeds of dogs and each has a different coat type. The right brush for your dog depends on the type and texture of its coat. For dogs that aren’t as hairy and have short, smooth coats, soft bristle brushes are great. Dogs with medium-to-long length coats require more brushing and the slicker brush or pin brush is best suited for that. Be careful though, slicker brushes are effective at de-matting fur but they can cause pain and discomfort on your pup’s skin when used with too much pressure. Dogs with really thick fur that are double-coated may benefit from a grooming rake or a de-shedding tool. As this has the power to penetrate deeply into the dense fur and remove any dead undercoats lying in its wake, after using a rake, a slicker brush can then be used to finish off the grooming session. Ease of cleaning Your dog’s coat health should be handled with utmost care. This is because of how sensitive their skin is and how quickly they can lose hair when in distress. They are different models of grooming brushes. After grooming a dog, all that fur can get tangled up in the bristles of the brush. Some models have buttons that when pushed, the bristles go in and
11 Essential Dog Products for Aspiring and Existing Dog Owners
You are just about to bring home your dream puppy or dog. Or you surely need to better the living conditions of your precious existing pet. However, the main challenge is that you have no idea what kind of dog products to assemble in preparation for your dog’s arrival. Or to enhance the conditions. Worry not! Because you’re neither the first nor the last person to encounter that. I also went through the same stalemate, before I landed on this helpful information I’m just about to share with you today. I’ve put together some of the necessary dog products that will enable you to accomplish your target. Not only did they come in handy for me, but they are also used by many happy dog owners to take care of their cherished pets. So let’s dive in and find out what these helpful products are. 11 Essential Dog Products Whether you aspire to have a dog as your pet of choice or you intend to improve the living standards of an existing one, you can use these products to fulfill your goal and enjoy the company of your pet. 1. A Fitting Dog Collar Your pet will always need a collar. In case you acquire it from a breeder or salvage, you may luckily be given one. Although it might not be satisfactory. Hence, going for a suitable one will be necessary. In such a case, you should opt for one that suits your needs. That’s the correct size for your puppy, with a strong D-ring for leash attachment and a fast to release clasp for protection. It should also contain a loop for the attachment of your dog’s tags to prevent them from obstructing the leash. 2. A Strong Double Handle Leash A leash is among the essential dog products because it allows you to have full control of your pet. However, all leashes aren’t the same. Leashes with double handles and an additional loop next to the ones at their end are preferred. Because the second loop enables you to have the dog close to you. This specific leash, is of heavy-duty nylon, with two handles, two loops, a reflective stitch for night walking, and is six feet long. 3. A Strong and Comfortable Dog Crate Professional trainers as well as most dog owners approve crate training. Because it makes sure that the pet doesn’t demolish any of your properties or get hurt in your absence. However,, whether you choose to do it or not, depends on you. In case you choose to crate train, wire dog crates are highly recommended. Because most of them come with divider panels for maturing puppies as well as simple transport fold ups. Besides, they include two separate doors as well as a plastic base that is easy to clean up. 4. A Comfortable Dog Bed Most pet owners like giving their dogs cushy and relaxing beds. However, in case you aren’t sure if your new pet is a chewer, you might wish to throw caution to the wind and try heightened dog beds. Which are made up of steel frames covered with lasting fabric coated with PVC. Their tall nature will help maintain your dog’s coolness even during hot times. Many reviewers confess that dogs enjoy using these beds and that you can add a towel or blanket to them in case you feel like offering your pet additional comfort. 5. An Airtight Food Storage Container Undesirable vermin such as bugs and mice can breed on your dog’s food and spoil it. So it’s only necessary that you keep the food in a container that is airtight to avoid wastage. Airtight pet food containers such as the one above are popular, because of their bigger capacities and convenient lid opening. These containers are made up of food-grade plastic that is free from BPA, and airtight lids surely prevent pests from contaminating the food. 6. Washable Dog Bowls Both your new and existing dogs need food and water bowls as well. To facilitate both their feeding and drinking needs. These stainless steel bowls can come in handy. Because they can handle a capacity of four cups and three quarters, making them suitable for all dog sizes. They also have a rubber base to curb skidding as well as to protect your floors. Furthermore, you can easily clean the bowls, by simply tossing them in a dishwasher. 7. Milk-Bone Treats Milk-Bone treats are among the most famous dog treats on the market. They are both affordable and cherished by dogs as well. These medium-sized treats come in a box of ten pounds and cost USD. 12. And lasts for several months. Additionally, they are fortified with a total of 12 vitamins as well as essential minerals. Their crunchy nature assists in eliminating tartar and plaque, ensuring your dog’s teeth are clean. 8. A Dog Food Mat Investing in a good food mat is necessary for your dog’s upkeep. It prevents any possible harm to your floor by the food bowls. Furthermore, it helps deter any possible mess when your dog begins to play in his/her water bowl. Hence, preventing the floor from becoming wet. These mats are raised along their edges to contain spills from the bowls, and they’re easy to clean, due to their stain-resistant nature. 9. A Special Dog Water Bottle In case you decide to go hiking with your pet, it’s significant to carry along sufficient water for the two of you. Or else, you might be forced to share your bottle of water with it. This handy water bottle with a bowl on top is very convenient, as you can easily clasp the water up into the bowl for your dog to sip. Then unclasp the bottle to let the remaining water back into the bottle. After, your pet is done drinking, hence preventing water wastage. 10. Scented Dog Shampoos and Conditioners Consequent to the day-long activities including playing on the ground and swimming, your dog will certainly
My Dog Story
All my life, I have had dogs. Our dog matriarch was Diana; a lovely pure Rottweiler breed that was bought sometime in 1998. Diana was a powerful and faithful dog to the core. I still remember memories of her and how she usually barked to wane off strangers. Diana was posthumously named by my father, after Princess Diana of the British royal family. I don’t know where animals go when they die, but I keep hoping every day that Diana is at peace wherever she is. Well, this story is about Queen, my dog; a super brilliant brindle Boerboel. Queen is named after a dog of ours that died sometime in 2014, and funnily enough, asides from the fact that they are of different breed (the first Queen was a descendant of Diana. She was a Rottweiler breed), they have similar traits and attributes. I want to believe the name aligned in some sort of way. My dog Queen was adopted in September 2020 as a two-month-old puppy. Before then, we did not have dogs for about a year. Her arrival was emotional for us all and we did our best to make her feel at home. Weeks later, I had to travel back to the school from which I did not have plans of staying away for so long, unfortunately, I was away for a whole year! On returning, I became a stranger to Queen. The humiliation and embarrassment were something I did not really foresee, but then again, it was understandable. Dogs do not have as much cognition as humans. Queen was all grown up and kept barking incessantly at me. It was really awkward, and emotionally destabilizing, and pushed me to tears a couple of times. “Queen! Queen! It’s me. Remember?” I’d say while trying to offer her food, but she was not budging enough to even take a glance at me. She did not care that I was being friendly. All she thought – I presume – was that I was a stranger who was not supposed to be in the space as her “owners,” at the time. Did I stop trying? No. I kept coming closer and tried everything possible to pet her into at least, not barking when I passed. A few days later, I was in the kitchen chopping some vegetables when my peripheral vision caught a glimpse of an animal-like structure hanging around the door. I swiftly looked, and to my greatest surprise (read as fright), Queen was standing there. With her hazel eyes, camouflage skin, and stallion build, she gazed at me. I saw her ear move and her countenance got mean like she was ready for an attack. “Mummy!”, I screamed under my breath. I was scared that, if I shouted loudly, she would perceive me as a threat. I kept murmuring “mummy!” until she (Queen) came closer and began to sniff me. I stood still while following her every sniff with my eyes, set to run if things went beyond “sniffing.” Guess what? We became friends that day, and ever since, we have been buddies. Literally, I consider Queen to be my baby And I guess she loves me just as much because she never stays a minute without being close to me, once I’m around. You can imagine my excitement when I realized my baby (Queen) was going to have puppies! Wheeeeeew! She was taken for breeding on the second week of October 2021. It was really stress at the time, to find a male brindle Boerboel to do the job. Well, we finally found one; a slight variation in their tone though. Expectantly, I ensured Queen felt safe and secure during the period, as I kept monitoring her every move. I have been present while our dogs littered. It was not a new experience, but it felt surreal that one more time, I was going to witness our dog litter, let alone it being Queen. Usually, dogs begin to nest about a week before their EDD and even before then, in most cases. Our compound is spacious and has some sandy portions, like the flower pots at strategic corners. We also have a large garden seated pretty in the middle of the compound. Our dogs nested by digging sand, thereby creating shallow holes. They dug as many as six holes, at different corners. Queen did not nest, or maybe she did but I was skeptical to notice. I will tell you why. I had Queen stay indoors for her first six weeks. Later on, I was advised to let her stay outside so she could nest. But it was the Christmas season, and Queen was not having all the banger sound that filled the air. Whenever she heard the sound, she ran to enter inside and stay close to me. Other times, she would run to the guest room and dwell in one of the sofas there. Eight weeks in, we knew her delivery was going to be anytime soon, so we started making preparations. My mother noticed Queen was not nesting, so she helped her nest in the veranda, by placing some neat rags at the edge and luring Queen to stay there. Little did we know Queen had other plans. One faithful evening, people would blow bangers and knockouts in celebration of the Christmas festive. Queen, as usual, was not having it and kept running towards the door, in order to enter inside. But my mother asked we kept the door locked so Queen did not come inside. At this point, there was a mucus secretion from Queen’s vulva. That was a sign of labor. I was really concerned and internally questioned the worst that could happen if Queen was let to come in. So just like Queen, I had plans too. Fortunately for me, my mother went upstairs. Queen was still scuffing at the door when I rushed to open up for her to come in. It literally took less than ten seconds
Using Grass or AstroTurf for Potty Training a Puppy
By: Aldrin Shu Picture this. You live alone in an apartment building. Life is enjoyable most days, but you need that something (or someone) to add some excitement to it. To make your days seem less lonely and have someone (or something) to talk to. A pet seems like a good idea: a puppy, an even better one. However, you live in an apartment swarming with other tenants that would more than love to tell on you, to the landlord, if you cross any lines. Thankfully, the landlord is a bit of a pet lover and decides to make an exception for you because you’re generally a stand-up building resident. He says that one of the main concerns that he would have is the prospect of the pup being poorly potty trained. He also suggests a brilliant way to introduce the dog to a designated area of your flat. Success in this regard could be the key to ensuring that you achieve and keep the status of ‘dog father’ (or mother). Fake Grass, or AstroTurf as it could be more commonly referred to, is synthetic grass generally used for sporting purposes and landscaping. Company giants such as AstroTurf and SynLawn mass manufacture artificial grass to be used in place of its natural counterpart when the need for consistency in color, length, and durability is high. In the case of your under-potty-trained pup, it is also an excellent substitute for the real thing in a few ways. It can be a great training tool to direct your furry companion to the correct place to relieve him or herself. Unlike natural grass, the synthetic nature of Astroturf allows it to withstand your pet’s bodily fluids. Fake grass is also porous enough to allow urine to pass, making it easier to clean without staining. This grass substitute is straightforward to use. Place a large enough piece that your pup can comfortably stand on and keep it on the balcony or any other designated area of your apartment. The part of the grass should also be set inside a similar-sized rubber insert to collect whatever urine is expelled once it passes through the grass. There are also several pet products like the ones in the image that come with a piece of fake grass built into a tray or stand with easy-to-remove trays or compartments that allow for easier cleanup. All dogs respond differently to different training applications. So now that you’ve given your pup a designated ‘Go’ place, how do you communicate this to them. Suppose your dog is used to being negatively reinforced. To learn to obey a command, wait for them to urinate somewhere within your abode and once they do, cover the puddle with newspaper and allow it to absorb. In that case, the newspaper dries up quickly, so once this happens, place the newspaper onto the designated Astroturf area and indicate to your pup that that should be where the pee needs to be. You may have to do this a few more times before they get it, but once they do, ensure to reward their good behavior, and before you know it, your dog will only do their business on their designated spot. By using this method, you can guarantee that your well-kept apartment will continue to be kept. Other lodgings like houses could also employ this form of training to ensure that the pets maintain discipline. Homes with gardens could also benefit from a fake grass ‘bathroom’ as the chemicals in dog urine could sometimes diminish the growth or even discolor or harm its natural greenery. Conversely, the AstroTurf method may not be as effective a solution to in-house pooping as it is peeing. The pups could use it for either job, but cleanup would be quite a hassle, and the smells accompanying the doggy feces cannot be avoided. But all in all, provided that the pup is trained well and can understand that they have been given their spot, you could be well on your way to securing your apartment as a pet-friendly one, and maybe have a few more days, where life is enjoyable, all thanks to your furry four-legged friend. End it
Adapting to Change with Five Dogs
When it comes to changes happening in the household, it’s not always easy for our dogs and us. A great example is how our home renovations started a week ago. With all the people coming in and out of the house, the disordered furniture, the dirt, and the noise, it’s incredibly stressful. If you’re wondering if it’s chaos, it is. Not only has it disrupted my routine, but it also disrupted my dogs’ routine. But alas, as stressful as it is, we must make a little sacrifice here and there. Eventually, everything will be expected, and it’ll be a cozy home for my family and five dogs. Two’s A Company, Three’s A Crowd, Five’s a Family Here’s a bit of a background about my dogs. All of them are Labrador Chow-Chow mixes. They are somewhat of a family of their own, as we initially only got two of them after our geriatric dogs passed away. We got a boy and a girl; they were only two months old since they arrived in their new home. I guess you can imagine what happened next. Almost a year later, they sprouted seven puppies! Out of the seven, we only kept three: two boys and one girl. Suddenly, we lived with five dogs as part of our family. All are cute, loyal, loving, and stubborn in their little way. First, there was Bubbie — he’s the Alpha and the father. The second was Poochi; she’s the mother. And there’s Bo, Gremlin, and Panda (the girl). I know, Gremlin as a dog’s name seems quite strange. But that’s because when he was a puppy, he had these big black pointy ears and a small face that resembled a Gremlin’s — when they were cute, mind you, and not the ugly monsters they turned out to be. Regardless of his name, though, he’s adorable! They smother me with all their love, sometimes jumping on me in their excitement to see me. They’re also brilliant as they know how to communicate by giving cues and using body language. Most of all, they’re clingy, to the point of not knowing anything about personal space! But it’s all part of why I love them so much! A Day in Our Dogs’ Lives My dogs usually have their routine. In the early morning, they wake up and play in the garage, running back and forth and wrestling. They have a lot of physical activity during this time, so they get enough exercise. Once they’re done with their business, they come back inside my room and sleep most of the day. We’ve set up their dog beds beside ours. Since they’re large, though, we had to get a few they could share! So we got two large pet beds from Magic Dog, which were perfect for them. Gremlin loves anything soft and fluffy, so he rolls around in it whenever he gets the chance. The others are pretty okay with it, but Bubbie seems to like the cold floor more, so he often doesn’t stay too long on their bed. Of course, with large dogs, it’s essential to give them good dog food that provides them with the proper nutrition. We feed them dry kibble and occasional wet food, especially since Panda’s quite a picky eater. They love Wellness Core’s chicken & turkey dry dog food and Beef & Carrots wet dog food — they lap it all up in minutes! Wellness Core’s Chicken & Turkey dry dog food is an ideal choice for customers who love to see their pup lick up every last morsel. This high-protein recipe is made with real chicken and turkey, plus a blend of other wholesome ingredients that are perfectly balanced for optimal nutrition. Not only will your pup love the taste, but you can also feel good about giving them a meal full of the nutrients they need! Beef & Carrots wet dog food is ideal for customers looking to give their pets a complete and balanced meal. The combination of beef and carrots provides plenty of essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals necessary for an active and healthy lifestyle. This meal is especially beneficial for those with picky eaters since it offers the perfect blend of flavors to entice even the most finicky pup. Plus, the wet form helps keep your pet hydrated while providing the taste they love. With Beef & Carrots wet dog food, you can be sure you’re giving your pet a delicious and nutritious meal they’ll enjoy every time. We feed them twice a day, lunch and dinner. And in the kitchen, they have their little areas, sitting and waiting while giving us those puppy dog eyes that say, “Feed us!” But most of the time, they behave. We put their food down one after the other, with Bubbie being the first and Gremlin being the last. We must monitor their eating, especially when younger, to encourage good habits and avoid fighting or snatching from each other’s bowls. After lunch, they go on a little siesta until late afternoon. Our country is usually hot and humid, so they can only relax during this time. I sometimes take Bubbie out for a walk since he’s the only one who loves it. Black Rhino offers a variety of stylish and functional dog accessories to meet your pup’s needs. From durable leashes and collars to comfortable harnesses and muzzles, you can find something perfect for your beloved companion. With their quality materials, craftsmanship, and attention to detail, you can trust that their products will hold up against daily wear and tear. I got him a red dog collar and leash from Black Rhino. The moment he sees me holding it, he jumps towards me so I can put it on his neck. Towards the evening, they’re awake again to play with each other. I guess all the excitement for dinner starts to build up during this time, too, because they’re usually more hyper! Then after dinner, they finally begin to wind
HOW MUCH FOOD SHOULD I FEED MY DOG ?
Are you confused too about what and how much to feed your dog? If yes, then you are definitely at the right place because here, in this article, am going to solve all of your ambiguities related to feeding protocols for dogs of all sizes. Have you ever noticed why there are specifications for feeding your animals? Because just like human beings, nutritional requirements for animals also depend on their height, weight, and level of physical activity, when they are fed without considering their requirements their physical, mental, and even emotional health may be affected adversely. Now let’s continue with this very important topic How much food should I feed my dog which will provide all possible solutions for the problems you are facing. Why does the correct amount of food matters? When you fail to fulfill the nutritional requirements of your fur babies then they may get serious health issues. Nutritional requirements don’t only refer to under nutrition, over-nutrition also can be caused due to irresponsible feeding practices and ultimately it causes obesity which itself is a disease. Malnutrition in dogs may cause: How to find out the correct amount of food? As I already have discussed the right amount of Food for your dog greatly depends on its size, weight, and physical activity. Along with these factors type of food and the number of meals also matter. You can find out caloric requirements in 2 ways, the first one is by taking a look at a feeding guide present on your dog food’s label and the second one is by calculating the calories with the help of a calorie calculator for dogs by putting its current weight along with physical activity but keep it in your mind that your dog’s nutritional requirements may vary 20-25% more or less than according to the calculator. In active or senior activity level 15–30 minutes of exercise each day; or over 7 years old Average activity level 30–60 minutes of exercise each day Active Activity Level 60–120 minutes of exercise each day Whatever way you follow, just always keep in touch with your Veterinarian for making the right decisions for your beloved ones. What Should Be in Your Dog’s Bowl? To maintain an ideal body weight, your dog needs complete and balanced nutrition to meet the needs associated with his size, age, and lifestyle. For example, a dog having an active lifestyle must get higher calorie and protein levels, while less active dogs may require food that is lower in calories. How much food should I feed my dog according to its size? In general, dogs should be fed at least twice a day. Breed, age, size, and energy level all contribute to assessing how often dogs should eat and how much. Dogs with medical issues or specific dietary needs may require modified diet plans and guidelines on what they eat. Therefore, talk to your veterinarian about your dog’s lifestyle and eating patterns to make sure you’re meeting its nutritional needs. According to me, fresh dog food is always a better option than dry kibble or wet canned food. You should always try to feed them freshly made food at least 2-3 times per week if are unable to feed them daily. Requirements of dogs to fulfill their appetite according to their sizes are categorized below: a) How much should I feed my puppy? Since puppies are in their growing phase, they need more calories than adult dogs. Puppy nutrition is crucial as the quality and longevity of life depend on how that individual was fed when he was a baby and how well or poorly his immune system and body have developed. Puppies must have a specific amount of calcium in their diet, otherwise, they are prone to develop metabolic bone diseases such as arthritis. Puppies need small, frequent meals. For the first few months, they will need small, frequent meals throughout the day as they transition from their mother’s milk to solid food. But when they grow to four months old, they can begin eating about three times per day, and after that, puppies can instantly graduate to twice-a-day feedings. Generally, it is recommended to feed them every 6–8 hours which becomes approximately three to four times per day. It makes it easier for them to digest quickly and also to meet their nutritional requirements, otherwise, they can show signs of low blood sugar levels causing fatigue, weakness, muscle tremors, and even sometimes seizures. However, sometimes we care a little not much and feed them more than their requirements which causes obesity, so be careful about that pals! Toy-breed puppies typically need 4 to 6 meals per day for the first three months. Medium-breed puppies will need three meals per day, and large-breed puppies need 3 to 4 meals per day. Though the breed is an important consideration because metabolism and energy levels can vary up to 30%. Since puppies need more calories compared to adult dogs due to their activeness but these calories are reduced once they start growing so keep checking their requirements from 3-12 months. b) How much should I feed my adult dog? Don’t let your dog trick you into getting more meals per day compared to its requirements by making adorable puppy dog faces. Most dogs only require two meals per day, but if you find your dog barking and demanding more food then occasionally a healthy treat may be offered. The point to ponder is not to feed your dog more than recommendations. Food labels can be misleading or confusing. Food labels can also over or under-calculate your canine’s requirements so the best way is to first determine its weight and feed accordingly. Adult Dog Size (lbs) Dry Food Feeding Amount (Cups) 3-12 lbs 1/3 to 1 13-20 lbs 1 to 1-1/3 21-35 lbs 1-1/3 to 2 26-50 lbs 2 to 2-2/3 51-75 lbs 2-2/3 to 3-1/3 76-100 lbs 3-1/3 to 4-1/4 100 lbs plus 4-1/4 plus 1/4 cup for each 10 lbs