Happy Thanksgiving, A Special Note about the Dogs in our Lives

We have a favorite quote around here, "Dogs Bring People Together" and we really believe it is true. A colleague moved into an established suburban development and began walking her dog. She has met many more neighbors than she would have otherwise met because of her dog walks. During Thanksgiving, we're reminded of the wonderful family and friends in our lives and also, the love and friendship of dogs.

Dogs remind us in a small way of what happiness is about. Here's a Thanksgiving list we compiled about all that we're grateful for when it comes to our dogs.

• warm greetings
• happy tails
• loving looks
• pure friendship
• exercise
• wet noses
• warm bellies
• companionship
• good laughs

Pampering Prince or Princess at Home

Many of us wish we had standing weekly pedicures or facials at a Salon that we could actually schedule, afford and keep. But remembering to get our hair done about every six weeks or every couple of months is all we do. So we perfectly understand why you want the royal treatment for your dog, but you often have to settle for pampering your dog at home. The good news is that shampoos, conditioners, and other products can be used at home and offer the same salon quality results! Now that’s good news for our furry family members.

Many of the products available today are salon quality and have natural, holistic ingredients that are not only safe for your dog but also for you. In fact, one manufacturer in particular, Cain and Able, is constantly telling us that we can apply the same wonderful products to ourselves. Their stuff is formulated to protect, heal and moisturize and has Shea Butter, Aloe and Vitamin E. None of us have actually done this but several are very tempted.

Do it yourself products like brushes and de-shedding combs are easier than ever to use. Many of these products are of the same quality that the groomer uses and they are made for the consumer market. There’s even a comfy, cozy terrycloth bathrobe with a rubber duckie on the back for your dog’s at-home spa experience.

In fact, many shampoos, spritz, and breath elixirs smell so good you may be tempted to try them for yourself. One thing is for sure though; you’ll love what they do for your dog. We have lavender, coconut lime and green tree varieties made with yogurt, honey, kiwi, or oatmeal all leaving your dog shiny, detangled, smelling great and stress free. Exactly what the Spa Experience would do if you could ever get there. Our personal favorite is toothpaste called ‘kissable’.

Has Bigger Gotten Better for Large Dogs?

We get emails that say something like ‘I love that sweater does it come in an XX-Large?’ or ‘do you have a pink leather collar that will fit a 26” neck?’ all the time. And lately, we’re happy to say our answer is yes. Many large breeds such as the Great Dane, Newfoundland, Labrador and Rottweiler were out of luck when it came to great looking larger styles of shirts, sweater and collars. But now, the pet apparel industry is leveling out and has a better selection of stylish and durable items for larger breeds.

It’s hard to miss the best-dressed Yorkie on the block with a shirt or sweater for every day of the week. Small dogs clothes are abundant. But big dogs, and big dog owners were collectively left out of the fashion loop until now. Part of the issue was seeing the need for larger dogs to wear clothing, coats, and fashionable collars. German Shepards, Golden Retrievers, Mastiffs and other large breeds were considered sporting or guardian dogs that were active that didn’t wear clothing. But that’s not necessarily true, many large breeds have short coats and can benefit from the warmth and protection that coats and sweaters have to offer. Some of our favorite sweaters and coats now come in sizes to fit dogs with necks up to 24” and chests up to 34” (that’s almost 3’ around).

Thanks to the growing demand for stylish products for larger dogs, many fashion collars now come in XX-Large sizes. Many large breed dog owners want their dog’s collar to make a statement about themselves and their families. Whether it’s purple crocodile studded leather collars or natural fleece lined hemp collars there is plenty to choose from. Bigger has certainly gotten better for large breed dogs.

Top 5 Reasons Why Your Dog Should Have His Own Bed

One of our favorite things about dogs is that they are warm and snuggly. But for your long term comfort and theirs, they need to sleep in their own bed (at least, most of the time). Here are the top 5 reasons why your dog should have his own bed.

1. Dogs Need Plenty of Sleep
Depending on the level of activity in your home, your dog could sleep 13 or more hours in one day. Where he sleeps will greatly affect the quality of his sleep intervals. Just like humans, dogs need uninterrupted deep sleep periods for REM (rapid eye movement) or a deep dream state. If your tossing or turning or they’re ‘running’ during REM neither one of you will sleep well or get enough sleep.

2. A Dog Bed Provides Comfort and Nesting
Many dogs will prefer a bed that provides comfort and is easy to get into and out of. Joint pain, arthritis, age, and weight can all hinder a dog’s ability to get comfortable while sleeping. They also limit your dog’s ability to jump up on your bed or climb stairs. The right dog bed is easy to get into and out of, provides comfort and warmth and is specifically designed for nesting.

3. A Place of Their Own - Safety and Security
Whether your new puppy started out in a crate or has always slept with you, it’s important for dogs to have a place all their own. Dog beds define a safe and secure spot where the dog can rest and sleep.

4. They’ll Love You More For It
We can’t forget about the pack issue. It’s been suggested that sleeping on the same level as your dog, like with you in bed, is confusing the pack mentality of dogs. The hierarchy is simple; the leader sleeps in the highest position. Having a dog bed on the floor, or downstairs while your family sleeps upstairs reinforces the fact that you are the pack leader.

5. You Have Plenty of Options
Today, there are so many options for dog bedding, that there is no excuse to find the one that’s right. Many fabrics are durable, washable and available in today’s popular colors and patterns. You can also choose dog beds that are made from eco friendly material, look like actual furniture, are elevated, have bolsters or are made from memory foam.

Most people are surprised at how well dogs take to their own beds. It really makes a difference in a good night’s sleep.

Is Fur Enough? Why a dog needs another coat.

When the fall and winter weather gets here it can be winding, chilly, snowy, wet, icy or any combination of bad weather. A dog’s natural fur coat may not be enough protection. Here’s why you want a coat for your dog and how you might go about selecting the best option.

Dog Coats Offer Protection
Some dogs spend a majority of their time outdoors, naturally love colder climates, or have thick, dense, long coats that enable them to be comfortable outdoors in the winter. Older dogs, dogs with medium or short hair, puppies, and dogs that have recently been ill or have a chronic disease such as osteoarthritis need protection from cold winds, dampness, ice and snow. These dogs are susceptible to frostbite, chapping and hypothermia. It can take over a month for an indoor dog to fully adjust to the drop in temperatures outside.

Outdoor Clothing Options for Dogs
Raincoats offer the best protection in cooler, damp climates. When a dog gets wet, they can quickly begin to loose body temperature. You’ll know because your dog will shiver in response to being cold. Many raincoats for dogs provide protection for their back, neck and sides and are waterproof or water resistant. Raincoats with hoods can be beneficial in protecting ears.

If it’s cold, then you’ll want a coat that is not only waterproof or water resistant, but has some form of a heat retentive lining such as fleece or berber. Barn coats and quilted vests are a good choice. If you just want to protect against the cold than suede jackets and warm sweaters will provide the total coverage and warmth your dog needs.

Since a dog naturally keeps warm by moving, very active outdoor dog coats are now being made of special material that is thin, provides full body coverage, is wind and water proof, and has special heat regulating and Teflon coating materials. These coats are imperative for dogs that go hiking or on long walks with you during the winter season.