Congratulations! You added a canine member to your family. If you have toddlers and young children at home, here are a few tips to make the bond strong and get your relationship off the right start. Over his or her lifetime, your dog will bring you an amazing amount of joy and love and your children will grow up with wonderful childhood memories.
Observation and Supervision. Not all dogs are alike. Even breeds that are family friendly need to be supervised and observed when you bring them into your home. Just like toddlers, dogs are unpredictable and they can easily get excited. Their first reaction may be to growl or nip at a small child. Having you present and involved when they are together is important. Never leave your child alone with a dog, even if you think you’ll be gone for just a minute. Take your child with you or put your dog in a crate or in an area blocked off by a pet gate or baby gate.
Be Calm Around the Dog. It’s hard for young children to be calm. But teaching your child to play nicely or quietly with a dog in the room until they are very familiar with each other. Even the most adorable, sweet natured dogs can be provoked to growl or bite when startled. Young puppies will get excited when babies cry, bang or throw toys. They can run around and knock small children over. Toys can become a tug-of-war, which the dog usually wins, and an excited wagging tail can hurt if your child is hit by it. If your dog gets overly excited, pick up your child and leave the room or use a command to calm your dog. Teach your child to remain calm and leave the dog alone.
Show Your Toddler How to Show Affection. Toddlers are unpredictable. They may try to pull hair, touch mouths, kiss or grab your dog’s tail. Showing your toddler how to gently stroke their back or side will teach younger children what a dog likes. Later they can probably get away with a lot more, but initially you’ll need to show, teach and observe their interaction. Approach a dog from the side and stroke their back. Give your dog a command like sit or stay when you and your toddler approach her. She needs to know that she is below the children in the pack order.
Keep Food and Snacks Separate. Nothing destroys a relationship between a toddler and a puppy more than food snatching. It’s one of the most frequently reported times when a dog may bite a child. Serve snacks to your children when they are seated in a high chair or at the table. If that’s not possible, than put your dog in a crate or a separate area with a baby gate or pet gate. When your dog is eating, prevent your toddler from going near the dog or her food. Children should be kept away from a dog when they are eating.
Respect the Dogs Space. Small children can get hurt if they climb on dogs, especially if the dog moves to get away. If the dog is sleeping, keep your children away from her as much as you can. Give your dog a safe haven from children when they are asleep and teach your children to respect their space or block access to the dog by using a gate or crate.
The best advice is to limit and watch the time your children spend with your new dog. Dogs and children are wonderful together once they have clearly established boundaries and have been shown how to play together. Supervision and observation are keys to a long, happy relationship.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Monday, January 12, 2009
Dog Collars, No Excuse for Lack of Style…
Ever think to yourself ‘nice dog, LOVE the collar’? Well, we do all the time. At Suburban Dog House, we look for quality dog collars and matching dog leashes and have the variety to satisfy your preppy puppy, woodsy retriever, weekend warrior or diva dog. Never before have there been so many choices for dog collars that offer control, comfort, safety and style.
Choosing the type of collar that’s right for your dog is important. There are three broad types of collars: standard that includes buckle and adjustable closures; choke/martingale; and prong collars. Choke, martingale and prong collars address specific control needs. Most dogs will only require a standard collar. These come in a variety of shapes and sizes to match you and your dog’s personality. You can even have several including ones that match seasons, favorite sports teams, favorite colors, or with fancy rhinestones.
Adjustable cotton or nylon collars may offer a better fit than a buckle collar if your dog is between sizes. Cotton fabrics on adjustable collars come in a wide variety including paisley, chocolate & pink swirls, reindeer and holly, and modern dots. Adjustable embroidered collars come with alligators, skull and crossbones, and cherries.
The classic standard collar with a buckle typically comes with 1” wide notches to adjust for neck sizes and comes in a variety of modern, retro, ribbon, and leather styles. Some of the collars even feature bone charms for that added touch.
With so many options today you’ll find the right look. You can find a dog collar to match any dog personality and in fact you can have several. Just as often as you change jackets or handbags your dog’s look can change. Leopard faux fur, rhinestones, navy argyle, palm trees, biker’s cross, sailing anchors, studded leather, birds, American flags, and just about anything else you can think of is available on a dog collar so there really is no more excuses for a lack of style in your dog’s collar.
Choosing the type of collar that’s right for your dog is important. There are three broad types of collars: standard that includes buckle and adjustable closures; choke/martingale; and prong collars. Choke, martingale and prong collars address specific control needs. Most dogs will only require a standard collar. These come in a variety of shapes and sizes to match you and your dog’s personality. You can even have several including ones that match seasons, favorite sports teams, favorite colors, or with fancy rhinestones.
Adjustable cotton or nylon collars may offer a better fit than a buckle collar if your dog is between sizes. Cotton fabrics on adjustable collars come in a wide variety including paisley, chocolate & pink swirls, reindeer and holly, and modern dots. Adjustable embroidered collars come with alligators, skull and crossbones, and cherries.
The classic standard collar with a buckle typically comes with 1” wide notches to adjust for neck sizes and comes in a variety of modern, retro, ribbon, and leather styles. Some of the collars even feature bone charms for that added touch.
With so many options today you’ll find the right look. You can find a dog collar to match any dog personality and in fact you can have several. Just as often as you change jackets or handbags your dog’s look can change. Leopard faux fur, rhinestones, navy argyle, palm trees, biker’s cross, sailing anchors, studded leather, birds, American flags, and just about anything else you can think of is available on a dog collar so there really is no more excuses for a lack of style in your dog’s collar.
Monday, December 1, 2008
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.
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
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
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’.
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’.
Friday, November 7, 2008
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.
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.
Monday, October 27, 2008
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.
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.
Monday, October 20, 2008
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.
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.
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