Finding Food That's Good for Your Dog

Just imagine the wagging tail that greets you once you step inside the house. You wouldn't dare feed him with just anything, would you? However, quality nutrition for your loyal companion is usually expensive. You would even hear of stories about pet owners selling their pets or having them adopted, because they couldn't afford the costs of keeping them anymore.

But, these days, you can purchase from online pet stores good brands that are priced cheap like Eukanuba dog food, Hills Science Diet and Royal Canin. So, you should not despair anymore. What you should think about first is what would be good for your canine companion.

First of all, they are not built for vegetarian diets. You should, therefore, feed your pet high-quality, animal-based proteins. When buying their treats and eats, you should always read the label. Usually, the first ingredient on the list is what consists most of the product. Your pet does not require a lot of carbohydrates, so you should minimize his intake of flour, wheat or corn. Whether his meal that you are buying is dry or canned, you should compare which ingredients are prioritized in the label. Of course, other things that you should check on the label are the complete vitamins and minerals your pet needs.

You should feed your canine according to life stages. A puppy should be given a puppy diet, while adult ones should get adult nutrients. Puppies need calories and vitamins more than adult canines. The adults should have less calories and energy, but more vitamins.

Sometimes special canine cases require special diet prescribed by veterinarians. Obese dogs, for instance, still need to eat, but with reduced calories. For sick dogs, you need to be more delicate in feeding. Some dogs may require a very specific diet like lamb and rice only. Others might need to have much less protein. You must consult a veterinarian about your pet's diet if you suspect or know that he has any illness.

In addition to this, canines should also be fed according to their breed. A canine's breed defines his size and function, among others. Similar to human beings, their nutritional requirements differ according to the shape of their body and their natural activities. For example, if your pet is in the medium-sized working category, he does not have the same diet needs as those of a small toy canine.

If you are a canine lover, you would be glad to know that pet nutrition companies have introduced diets that fulfill all these various requirements. You also don't need to look far for canine diets that are effective but affordable. Online pet stores today offer you recommended products like Royal Canin and Eukanuba dog food at cheap prices.

Should You Give Green Lipped Mussel Dog Food to Your Dog?

If you have a dog that's suffering from the painful effects arthritis, you may have heard of green lipped mussel extract as an alternative form of treatment to harsh commercial drugs. You may have even discovered green lipped mussel dog food, which has the extract added to it.

Will it really help your dog though, or is it a marketing gimmick? And if so, what brand of dog food is best?

The choice can be confusing because there are many different products on the market. They fall into two main categories: dry treats for dogs that are formulated with mussel extract, or a blend of mussel extract and other ingredients targeting arthritis, and dry dog food formulated with mussel extract or a mussel extract blend. Popular brands include Pedigree Joint Care, Royal Canin Mobility Support, and GREENIES JointCare Canine Treats.

Fortunately, there have been a number of scientific studies on the use of mussel extract to cure arthritis in dogs. In one study (Improvement of Arthritis Signs in Dogs Fed Green Lipped Mussel. Tiffany Linn Bierer and Linh M. Bui) the supplement was actually given to dogs in three different ways: in formulated dry treats, in formulated dry food, and sprinkled in pure powder form over the dogs' standard food.

According to the results, the simple sprinkling of mussel powder over the dogs' standard food proved to be most effective in reducing their symptoms. A total of 83% of dogs treated this way showed improvement. This contrasted with around 50% of dogs that were fed dog food formulated with the extract.

This indicates that there's really no need to buy expensive formulated food for your dog. Instead, a quality green lipped mussel powder will do a better job of helping your dog feel better.

The recommended dosage, based on the clinical trials and dog owners' first hand experiences, is 500 mg (usually one capsule) of powder a day. This is for a medium sized dog such as a Labrador. After a month or so, when the dog has shown improvement, it's possible to decrease the dosage to around 350 mg a day.

Of course, it's extremely important to choose the right brand of mussel powder in order to get the most noticeable results. This is because the nutrients in the mussels are easily lost. The mussel flesh is highly prone to oxidization during the manufacturing process, and steaming open the mussel shells also destroys the nutrients.

Discovering New, Fun Outdoor Activities With Your Pet

Aside from the usual walks around the park, there are actually many more activities that you can do together with your dog. These different activities will not only give them the exercise that they need but can also train them in specific aspects, such as agility and obedience. And the best part is they can also be a great way for you to bond with your pet. So here are a few of the best outdoor activities that you can do on that next date out.

Adventure Hike

A new trail will be more than a welcome change for your dog. Trail hikes can expose your dogs to different kinds of terrain than the usual concrete and Bermuda grasses in the park. But of course, the new view can pose new dangers and hazards as well, so always be prepared for these. Bring a short or retractable leash to keep the rope from tangling up with branches, and get a tick collar, which can effectively repel away any parasite from making its way on to your dog's fur.

Dog Agility Trails

Agility trails are parks that are made especially for dogs. They are made out of several obstacle courses that your dog will surely have fun going through. There are ramps, balancing bridges, hurdles and many other obstacles that will give your dog that full workout. Today, more and more dog friendly communities are offering them for the residents and their pets.

Water Sports

Most dog breeds are not scared of water and will even be delighted being in one. Aside from that, going out for some water sports during the summer months can be the most fun way to chase off the summer heat while still giving them physical activity. You can play the usually catch with a twist by using waterproof and buoyant toys instead. Just make sure to throw it at a safe distance and at shallower depths.

Soccer

It might be surprising to you but dogs can make tough soccer players. They can run very fast and are as intent in getting the ball as you are. This is a fun way that allows your dog and the entire family to have fun and exercise together. What you simply need is a good wide open space and a ball (not necessarily those expensive soccer balls) that he can bite onto or push around.

Drill Team

A drill team is actually a group of people and their dogs who do synchronized dances. Although this may not be that much of a physical exercise compared to those mentioned above, this can be a great way to teach your dog discipline and obedience and help him improve his social skills towards other dogs and people.

Although physical activities in dogs should be a must, this does not mean that it should all be repetitive and boring. So if you are ready to try something new, then these are the perfect activities to start with.

Dog Illnesses: Home Remedy or Vet?

Dogs are more than mere pets, they truly become a part of the family and when they are ill, it can cause true panic. Your dog is not so different from you in that they can get a tummy ache, fever or suffer from bad dental hygiene. Like people, dogs sometimes need the service of medical professionals but in some cases, home remedies will work just as well. Your job is learning how to tell the difference and knowing how to treat them.

Diarrhea

When your dog has diarrhea it is very apparent, particularly if they are an inside dog. There are many things that can result in a bout of diarrhea including change in diet or water. During the first day or two of diarrhea, you can give your pet a small amount of Pepto or other over the counter anti-diarrhea medication. Should the problem persist or other symptoms are present you will want to call your vet and make an appointment. Other serious symptoms:

• Listlessness
• Vomiting
• Lack of appetite
• Refuses water
• Explosive diarrhea
• Extremely foul smelling feces

Any of the above-added symptoms can be an indication of canine parvovirus, a deadly disease that carries a high mortality rate. Only with quick intervention can your pet be saved.

Vomiting

Dogs can also vomit for many reasons, upset stomach due to eating something that does not agree with them or internal parasites are both common causes. Generally speaking one or two instances of vomiting is nothing to be overly concerned about, ensure they have plenty of ingested to prevent dehydration and keep an eye out for other symptoms. Many veterinarians will suggest a period of fasting from all substances, allow 24 hours for the stomach to rest and recover from common irritants. During this time, you can give them small amounts of honey or syrup to prevent hypoglycemia. Just rub a little over their gums.

If your dog's vomiting is constant and shows no signs of easing within 48 hours or you see other problems then you'll want to call the vet as soon as possible. Watch for blood, froth, worms and other foreign materials.

Fever

Many people believe that if their dog's nose is slightly warm, they have a fever but this is not necessarily true. Dogs have a higher normal body temperature than humans, typically 101-102 degrees. The best way to get an accurate reading on whether your dog has a temperature or not is by using a specially designed rectal thermometer. It is normal for your dog to run a low-grade fever for up to two days after immunization.

Other causes for fever may not be so evident. If your dog is showing severe signs of illness such as lethargy, vomiting or depression get them checked out immediately.

Conclusion

There are times when you can treat your dog at home simply with rest and a few types of over the counter remedies. However, always keep a close eye on their progress as serious illnesses can escalate rather quickly at times. As with people, early intervention is often necessary to prevent debilitation or even death.

Even Dogs Can Be Taught Proper Etiquette

Let's face it; your dog is a very important member of your family. You want to introduce them to your friends, family, and of course other dogs. Having said that, you expect them to have a little etiquette and manners around other people and pets. However, they cannot do it on their own. Just like raising a child, dogs need to be taught how to act properly in social situations and when at home alone. It's best to start them when they are puppies, because they are the quickest to learn. However, you can teach any dog at any age, but you will just have to be a tad more patient with older dogs.

If you are adopting a puppy, this is the best time to teach them proper manners and socialization. Dogs at this young age are like little sponges and will quickly learn what they are taught. A good rule of thumb is that a person should strive to expose them to a hundred different social situations within the first ninety days of taking puppy home. This way they will be familiar with the different noises, smells and touches. This can mean anything from the washing machine going into the spin cycle, to the doorbell ringing, to a car honking. When they are exposed to this, they will "remember" it, and not be scared when exposed to it in the future. Think of it as climatizing or acclimating your dog. This is a brand new world for them, and they deserve a chance to adjust to it safely with you by their side.

Along with introducing Fido to environmental elements, you should also have them meet several different types of people. This means people with high and low voices, loud and soft voices, and different accents. Let your friends and family hold your puppy and play with them. Your puppy will not only have a great time because he is the center of attention, but it will also give the humans a fun time as well. During this time you can also teach your puppy how to not jump on guests or "kiss" them.

Although puppies are the easiest and fastest dogs to train, adult dogs can be trained to be social as well. It just takes a little more time, patience and consistency. You can get suggestions from your vet or a professional dog trainer if need be. If your dog doesn't fare well the first time around, don't give up on him, because he wants to please you as much as you want him or her to act correctly. Always reward your puppy for his good behavior with a doggie treat, and he will work hard for that food in the training you'll be providing to him.

Even though it might seem like an overwhelming task, socializing your dog is really worth the time and effort. You'll be able to relax much more when guests come to your house, and be able to take them out with you more often. The same rules apply when you train dogs to be around other dogs. Over time, your dog will leave you smiling when your friends and family say how well behaved he is.

Detecting Signs of Gastro Parvo in Your Dog

Gastro Parvo is a serious illness for all dogs but, young puppies and older dogs are often hit hard, and when they are the disease can be deadly unless you seek immediate treatment for your pet. Unfortunately for many puppies and older dogs by the time most owners realize that their dog is seriously ill, it may already be too late to save them. Knowing the signs to look for in your dog may well save his life and help prevent the spread of this illness to other dogs as well.

Lethargy

While it is natural for your dog to want to just lie around after a long exercise or play session, most dogs quickly recover after a nap. If your dog is lopping around for an unnaturally long period of time and doesn't seem to want to move even when encouraged or moves slow you might want to make an immediate appointment with a vet. While being lethargic may be a sign of a less serious illness or no illness at all; it is also one of the first signs of parvo and the cost of the vet may well be worth it even if turns out to be nothing at all.

Loss of Appetite

Like lethargy, loss of appetite in your dog may be caused by many things including too many snacks. However, if his loss of appetite is unexpected and accompanied by being lethargic then there is probably something that is making him feel ill even if the cause is not parvo. Again seeking vet care is the best thing to do in order to find out exactly what is wrong and to get prompt treatment.

Fever

Almost every dog who contacts parvo will have some level of fever. Keep in mind however, that some dogs will carry and pass this disease without ever showing any real symptoms. These are usually adult dogs that have been in good health and may have received a parvo vaccine.

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Once the Parvo virus really takes hold, your dog may vomit and/or have diarrhea. In cases of parvo induced diarrhea your dogs stool will not only be liquid but may be almost black in color and extremely foul smelling. In most cases once a young puppy or older dog begins having diarrhea or vomiting he will quickly dehydrate and it is this dehydration that can kill a dog very quickly. 

If your dog, especially a puppy shows signs of vomiting or diarrhea then call your vet immediately. Get a stool sample and try to feed your dog as much fluid as possible. Giving him water laced with Gatorade will help him maintain his electrolyte levels until he can be treated.

Once diarrhea and vomiting have set in, treatment for parvo may include the use of an IV to replace fluids and perhaps even an extended stay at the Vet clinic which will be far more costly than an early visit to your vet, even if the visit proves to be a false alarm. While vaccinating your puppy at the appropriate times can help lessen the effects of this virus it does not mean that your dog still cannot catch it. So take care and be alert in order to protect your beloved pet's health.

Degenerative Joint Disease - What It Is and How It Is Treated

It's a sad fact that all dog owners have to face. Our beloved pets are going to get old someday, and with age come inherent health problems such as degenerative bone disease, or what is better known as arthritis. With the right nutrition from birth this risk dramatically decreases, but that's not always the case. Some breeds, such as large breeds, are more prone to bone problems than others are. However, there are ways to effectively manage and treat it and keep the symptoms at bay via natural treatment options and medications.

Dog arthritis is probably as common in middle-aged and elderly dogs as it is in people. The degenerative nature of the disease begins when the joints, which are normally smooth and covered in cartilage makes moving the joints easy and pain-free. When this cartilage begins to wear down with age, the bone surfaces are exposed to the bones around it and can rub against each other, which results in swelling, inflammation, and pain when the affected joint is moved.

Most dogs are affected by some type of wear and tear arthritis as they enter their senior years, but there is also a form of juvenile arthritis that affects some younger dogs due to a genetic factor. There are ways that you can spot arthritis or at least begin seeing the signs of it, these include:

• Joints that are tender and swollen: check the knees, hips, and elbows for signs of tenderness.

• You may be able to hear a cracking or grinding sound when your dog walks or gets up from a laying down position.

• Your dog may have trouble getting up when he or she is laying down.

• You may notice your dog is reluctant to do things he always did in the past, such as climb a flight of stairs.

• Lameness in any of the legs.

Your veterinarian will use several diagnostic tools to make the diagnosis and begin a treatment plan. First, x-rays will be performed of the suspected joints as well as the spine, since it is often hard to tell if your dog has arthritis of the spine. Once the diagnosis is established, a treatment plan will get underway, which will include:

Weight loss: if your dog is just two pounds overweight, this can be a significant amount of extra weight for him or her to carry and therefore, losing weight will help ease the pain.

Regular and gentle exercise will keep the joints moving and make it less painful for your dog to move more freely

Anti-inflammatory drugs that they have available for dogs today are called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs such as Rimadyl can help to significantly reduce the inflammation and some dogs respond very well to these newer medications, but some do have side effects and cannot tolerate them, depending on how sensitive they are to the drugs.

You can add glucosamine and MSM to your dog's diet as these are natural anti-inflammatories and glucosamine can actually help to build more cartilage naturally.

Does My Dog Need to Be a Water Dog to Swim in the Ocean or Lake?

Water sports are very popular with families. Whether it is on a water skiing expedition or a leisurely trip in your boat, you need to pay attention to the dog. It is extremely important to keep your dog safe while in the water, and don't wait until the trip to start familiarizing your dog with the water conveyance.

Whatever your mode of travel is, your dog should have a flotation device. These dog specific life jackets could save your dogs life. Some dogs cannot swim. If your dog takes a dive into the water in search of a fish or as an escape, the life jacket could save their life. Hypothermia is another possibility that you need to consider. They serve three purposes; they prevent your dog from drowning, becoming exhausted or hypothermic due to the temperature of the water.

You can find life jackets at most boat shops, major pet stores and online. Be sure you are getting a size that fits snugly and properly to ensure their safety. Your dog may not like the jacket at first, so it is best to acclimate him to the process before you venture out onto the boat. Put the jacket on for a few minutes and repeat for several days. Leave it on a little longer each day and make it a rewarding experience. If you give your dog a verbal, tactile or food reward for behaving until you take it off, he will look forward to the experience in a short time.

It would be wise not to assume that your dog will love being on a boat. Dogs walk on floors and ground, not on a surface that is constantly in motion. Here again it is important to acquaint your dog to the boat. While your boat is on the trailer or at dockside, let them get a turn to get onboard with their life jacket on. Once your dog seems adjusted to the boat, you should start the engine. New noises can startle a dog and set them on a running spree.

Your first trip should be a short one. It will give your dog the opportunity to get used to the travel. There is a possibility that the dog will get seasick, just as humans do.

Dogs are sensitive to heat and sun. It is important to provide them with some shade to get some relief from direct sun exposure. The deck of your boat will get very hot in direct sun. Dogs absorb heat through their feet, so provide them with a padded area to give them some relief.

Have a good supply of drinking water on hand. Dogs can become dehydrated in heat. A sport bottle filled with water is probably the best method to get water in your dog's mouth. You should make every attempt to force water into your dog to prevent dehydration.

Allow your dog a dip in the water to cool. Be sure the life jacket is on before the dog hits the surf or lake. It will be a great relief from the sun and heat and probably a good photo moment.

Dogs need to eliminate their bladder, so if your boat surface isn't appropriate, make plans to hit the shore from time to time.

Dealing With Pet Grief

Dogs come into your life, provide companionship, and for many people become a very close friend. Years of romping in the grass, fetching sticks and warming your feet are great, but at some point in time, you are very likely to lose your pet to old age. The typical life span for dogs ranges between 12 to 18 years depending upon the breed in question. When the time comes, dealing with the death of your pet can be very difficult and if you have children, it can be even harder.

Normal Grief

People who do not own pets may not understand your grief, but that does not mean that your grief is unnatural or something to be ashamed of. Feeling pain and loss when a dog dies is natural and has the same stages of grief that you would experience when losing a loved one. Just know you are not crazy or silly to feel pain and grief.

Pet Grief

As stated earlier grief over the loss of a pet is similar to typical grief, the stages are a bit different however. Below are a few of the different feelings you may experience after losing a pet:

• Guilt - pet owners often blame themselves for a pet's death, running over in their mind what they could have done to prevent it. This is especially true when the death is the result of an accident.
• Denial - it will be difficult to imagine that your pet will no longer be there to greet you when you get home from work. This can become extreme and some owners find it hard to accept a new dog out of fear of being disloyal.
• Depression - grief can lead to depression and can leave you tired and lacking of motivation.
• Anger - there will be plenty of opportunities to be angry, toward the illness, the driver of the car or even your veterinarian who was unable to cure or save your dog.

It is natural for you to experience these feelings; however it is important that you work through these feelings so you can move on. 

  

Expression

You will need an outlet for your feelings because bottling them up inside will only make matters worse. Do not try to hide your emotions or deny feelings of guilt, anger or depression. Expression is your road to healing. There are many ways you can express grief, write poems, talk with friends, cry, scream or even pound the floor but get the frustration out of your system.

Conclusion

For the true pet lover the death of a dog is devastating and it can be difficult to explain these feelings to those who are not similar lovers of furry creatures. Remember that these feelings are normal and you have the right to process your grief. If you have children, remember to be understanding, as they will experience the same grief that you will. It is probably not a good idea to try to replace the pet immediately your child may have a hard time bonding with the new pet because of feelings of guilt.

Caring for Your Outdoor Pet Dog in Winter

For reasons of space limitations, personal preferences and breed disposition, many pet owners will choose to let their pet dogs live outside during the winter season. Well, of course, their pets are allowed inside once the weather gets too harsh as is the case with blizzards. For the most part, however, an outdoors life is the preferred choice for both man and dog.

As a responsible pet owner, you must ensure that your dog is comfortable even in the doghouse. Here are a few tips in this regard.

Shelter

The first need to look after is the dog's shelter, of which the most important requirement is that it should be warm, dry and comfortable. Your pet will then be assured of a safe place within which to escape the frigid snow and wind especially when the doghouse is equipped with a heating mechanism installed by a professional. We recommend staying away from heating lights and heating pads since these require electric cords, which can be chewed on and result to electrocution.

You must also regularly change the beddings in the doghouse lest diseases result from you negligence of such a basic hygiene issue. Take note that the straw can harbor molds that leads to skin and respiratory problems while the dirty blankets also harbor germs.

Food

Naturally, food is the second concern in keeping your pet healthy even when outside in the winter. You must increase its caloric intake as the cold weather demands more from the dog's body in order to keep it warm. Just increase the amount of dog food as well as the supplements preferably with advice from the veterinarian.

Water must also be regularly supplied to your dog on a daily basis. When your dog drinks from the melted or frozen snow and ice, you are exposing it to unnecessary health danger. Even humans will react badly to drinking melted snow once too often.

Hygiene

Even in the dead of winter when socialization opportunities are few and far between, your pet must be groomed for hygienic reasons. Regular grooming maintains a healthy coat, thus, better insulation for your pet.

Long-haired dogs are especially vulnerable to matted coats with debris embedded here and there. You must comb the coat to remove these dirt and debris, which means better insulation. Besides, it simply will not do for your dog to look scruffy.

Veterinary Care

Many dog experts recommend taking your dog to the vet for a physical check-up with the aim of ensuring that it is healthy and, hence, able to withstand wintry conditions. Vaccinations must be updated as many canine diseases become rampant during the winter season.

Plus, dogs are also more vulnerable to diseases during winter for many reasons. You have to carefully monitor almost every symptom of illness lest it becomes worse. We suggest regular checking of the ears, tail and feet since these are the most vulnerable parts of the dog's body during the winter season.

When the weather turns very unpleasant for man and animal, you must lead the dog inside. Hypothermia is a very real concern among dogs and it is not one that you will want your dog to suffer from in the outdoors.

Camping With Your Dog in the Great Outdoors

Taking the family and your dog camping in the great outdoors can be so much fun for all involved. Your dog can have as much fun as you and the rest of the family can. It will be able to romp and play with you like it can't at home because you have to work so much. The fun can be even more when you setup next to a lake you can swim in. If your dog is like mine he loves to swim!

You can take your dog for long walks through the area you have set up camp in. Go explore nature with your dog. Walk the paths through the woods and commune with nature. This will get both of you some exercise which will be good for your health. Your dog will love the attention too.

Another fun activity when camping is swimming if you are by a lake. This way you can let your dog enjoy the water too. Put his lifejacket on so he can swim safely. This keeps something from happening in case he gets tired in the water. Dogs can even be trained to get up on a foam raft so they can float around. My dog just loves doing this when we go to the lake.

At night around the campfire, your dog can lie down near it and warm its body. Also my dog is such a hoot and helps me break small branches up to use on the fire. She grabs the thin pieces of branch in her mouth and then takes her front paws and pushes down on them to break them. Oh how we laugh, it is such fun! She just started it out of the blue one time. Be sure to use only branches that have already fallen though. Most campgrounds permit this but will not permit you to bother living trees.

Another big rule to remember for the safety of your dog is that on dry land he should always be on a leash. Even if you are not in a public campground your dog could take off and chase some wild critter and get hurt in the process. Most public campgrounds will have a rule about the dogs being on leashes and how long they can be.

Make sure when you go camping with your dog that you have all of the flea and tick protection your dog needs. You need put it on the dog prior to going camping if you are using the top-spot applications or using a flea and tick collar, however, if you are using sprays you will need those with you on the campsite to apply probably more than once to protect your dog.

Make sure the dog has their food from home when camping. This will prevent his system from being upset from a change of food. Make sure he has enough water to drink too with being outside and more active than usual too.

Being outside with your dog is a great way to bond with him. Camping is a fun activity to do to accomplish this. It gives you both exercise and the fresh makes you both healthier too.

A Great Option For A Family Dog

You may have heard about them or maybe not, but lately, many Cavalier King Charles puppies for sale have been turning up. No, it's not that they have been featured on TV shows or any of the Hollywood rags-although a famous television personality and his girlfriend do have one-people seem to be discovering or re-discovering this lovable breed.

There's a lot to love about this particular dog breed. One of the most important factors why there are more Cavalier King Charles puppies for sale nowadays is that pet-owners and the dog-breeders find their even temperament quite remarkable. Not only that, their sweet dispositions also complement their "sporting-toy" breed characteristics; this is where the combination of spaniel and toy traits show through; Cavalier King Charles puppies are playful yet gentle.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a happy dog by nature. They are active and smart enough that you can train them so easily. They love to be with people most of the time, they are easy to please too. However, people should always have to impose rules and limit what they can do around the house.

This very social breed loves being part of the family; snuggling against legs, resting on laps, and quietly spending a day indoors is not a problem for them. They do have their athletic instincts as well, more than most people think. Let loose outdoors, this diminutive pet can be quite the runner and chaser. So much so, that allowed to run free, they should be kept within enclosed or fenced yards; Cavaliers have a tendency to run after birds, squirrels, chipmunks, and even butterflies, and they will keep chase even right onto the street.

Another point going for Cavalier King Charles dogs stems yet again from their even temperaments. These dogs are generally happy and eager to please. They are friendly and people-oriented. Their demeanor toward other people and other pets is peaceful and non-aggressive; they can get along well with other dogs and cats. Early socialization will build their confidence and easygoing personality.

A family with or without children will have an easy time welcoming a Cavalier King Charles puppy into their home and their life. Companionship, moderate exercise and activity, attention, and affection are all they need. This breed is also intelligent enough to understand what their owner or family wants and are quite responsive to gentle obedience training. They have all that going for them; and as if that isn't enough, they also have the cutest faces.

Cats and Dogs Living Together

It's been a long held myth that cats and dogs can't live together. It's been said that to have a cat and a dog living together is like mixing oil and water. But many pet owners have dispelled this myth. The fact is that when a dog and a cat have been socialized to live together, not only can they get along, but they can even become dear friends, in as much as pets befriend each other.

There are some things to keep in mind when you want to keep a dog and a cat in the same household. First, you need to take the energy of the household into account. What type of environment is your home? Is it full of children and rambunctious activity? Is it a very quiet environment? Are there any senior citizens in the home? 

These will all determine what types of pets that a person would want in the home. Just like with humans, pets have personalities. Having said that, cats tend to be very independent; they just don't require that much attention. Some breeds of cats flat out don't want your attention. If someone tries to pet a cat, some of them are okay with it for a little while, and some of them will hiss and snap at the person touching them. Cats in general want to be social on their terms, and on their time table.

Dogs on the other hand need lots of attention. They crave lot of love. They are very active, and they want to be touched. As such, they will assume that the cat in the home wants to play with them, just like the humans do. Here lies the problem between cats and dogs. They are both loveable, but for different reasons. They naturally have different temperaments. So the human pet owner has to decide what breeds of cats and dogs would fit into their household and with each other.

It would make the most sense to pick out cat and dog breeds that complement each other. For example, you wouldn't want to get a rambunctious dog to live with a very independent and scary type cat. The dog will want to play, and the cat will scratch and hiss at it. On the other hand, kittens can be an issue with a huge, older dog. Older dogs are slow and impatient. Kittens are frisky and all over the place. Plus, the large dog might crush the kittens. So be mindful of size and personalities.

It might take some work to get your dog and cat to live together, but don't believe the myths. Dogs and cats can live together, and they can both be valuable parts of the family.

Why Give Dog Gift Baskets?

There are many reasons why you would give dog gift baskets: an arrival of a new puppy, a get well for a sick dog or even birthdays. Yes, people do celebrate their dog's birthdays; they are a part of the family and should be treated as such, so why not celebrate the day they were born or even the day they came into your life?

What's the Occasion?

If you are planning on buy dog gift baskets, you need to know the occasion that is being celebrated. There are many different items that can be included and each basket can be customized to perfectly fit the occasion as well as the dog and its owner's tastes or needs.

New Puppy: If you are buying a gift basket for a new puppy, then you could include some very necessary items as well as fun ones. Puppy training pads are a great choice for the basket as well as dental bones, vitamins and nail trimming sets. You should always throw in a few chew toys, since puppies love to chew, and also add something for the owner like a manual on how to train a new puppy.

Sick Dog: If you are buying gift baskets for a sick dog, be careful what you choose. You may not want to include items that will require them to run, chase or tug such as Frisbees, ropes or other toys. Place a stuffed animal in the basket for them to snuggle with while they recover and maybe even a small blanket. Items like easy-to-chew treats, soft dog food and dog brushes are great to place in the dog gift baskets.

Birthdays: When you are celebrating a dog's birthday and want to create the perfect gift basket, the ideas are endless. Depending on the dog and the owner's style, you may want to include something whimsical such as a cute outfit for the dog to wear. You can include treats of all kinds; after all, it is a celebration and there are no limits. Make sure there are toys included in the basket and maybe even a cute photo frame or album to use for captured moments of the special day.

Just Because: There are times that you want to do something special for someone and there is no other reason. On those occasions when it happens to be a dog that you want to make feel special and loved, use dog gift baskets.

You can customize the baskets to fit your needs and include personalized items as well as ordinary everyday items. There is no need to get fancy or go overboard; a few basic items included with a few special ones will make the perfect basket. Dog and owner alike will love the idea of getting dog gift baskets. So be sure that you check into the gift baskets for dogs, and the next time an occasion comes up or even just a moment that you want to acknowledge, put together the treat of a fun-filled basket.

Types of Small Dog Apparel

There are many different types of small dog apparel available for your pup to sport around. Dressing your pet in clothing is a great way to let her personality shine. You can dress her up to match your own clothing or let her sport around something totally unique that suits her own personal style, it's up to you.

If you haven't looked at some of the clothing accessible today, you may be a little surprised at how many different styles and outfits there are available. These will surely keep your pet in fashion for any special occasion or event.

Here are some of the different types of small dog apparel that you can buy for you pup:

· Formal Wear- There's many occasions in which you can dress your pup in formal wear from weddings to parties. You can buy suits, tuxedos, bridal gowns, shirts, party dresses and more. All of which will ensure your pet is properly dressed for the occasion.

· Sports Apparel- These are a fantastic way to show off your team spirit. A cute dog jersey with your favorite player's number or the team logo is sure to be a hit at your next sports get-together.

· Pajamas- Keep your small dog warm and comfortable during the chilly nights with a cute pair of doggie pajamas.

· College Apparel- From sweaters to cheerleader outfits there are many wonderful designs to choose from that will let your small dog join in and help you support your team. You can also find tees and jerseys to show your support in a more casual way.

· Casual Wear- This describes the apparel used to help keep your pup warn and comfortable. A bright yellow raincoat and hat combined with a matching pair of booties is a necessity when you live in areas where it tends to rain often. A sweater can help keep your pup warm on those cold winter days and t-shirts are available as well. There are many cute, comfortable and outlandish designs in all types of colors and patterns available. This makes it easy to find something to suit your pet's style perfectly.

After choosing the small dog apparel that suits your pup, you can add a few accessories that will give it that special touch. These include hair bows, studded collars or harnesses, bowties and jewelry. Dog apparel is fun, exciting and functional all at the same time. After you begin collecting a few items for your pet, you may find yourself buying small dog apparel for every occasion.

Practical Reasons to Buy Small Dog Clothing

Dressing up small breed dogs is often associated with simply making a fashion statement but there are many practical reasons for buying small dog clothing that may interest you. Dressing your pet does get attention and there are some fun reasons for doing it but as the owner of a small breed dog, you will learn that she has special needs that you don't have to worry about with some of the larger breeds.

Providing your pup with dog clothing is a great way to accommodate for some of these needs and you can keep him looking stylish all at the same time.

Here are 4 practical reasons to buy clothing for your small breed dog:

1. Some dogs have very short hair and they get cold easily. A small breed dog with little or no fur will shake and be uncomfortable when the temperature drops below a certain level, even when she's indoors. During the winter or if you live in an area that has a cool climate most of the year, small dog clothing can help to keep her warm.

2. Booties and rain gear can help to keep your pet's feet dry and warm when you go for walks and it's chilly outside or when it's raining.

3. There are a number of medical reasons to dress your pet in clothing. For example, if you dog has a cut, a rash, or recently had surgery, covering the area will discourage licking and biting, which will allow the wounds to heal faster.

4. Small dog clothing can protect your pet from the hot rays of the sun during the summer that can cause cancer in pets as well as humans.

Throughout the years, dogs have become more than just a pet. Many consider them a part of the family. Due to this change, dogs have adapted to living indoors and this has made them more susceptible to weather changes. They get cold and need protection from the rain, wind and icy just like humans.

If you've avoided the trend to dress your pet simply because you thought it was only to make a fashion statement, you may want to reconsider that decision. There are many practical reasons to dress up your small dog and in many cases, it can make him a lot happier and more comfortable. However, while searching for the best small dog clothing for your pet, there is no reason to not look at fashion too and get something that suits her personality.

Benefits of a Step in Dog Harness

The step in dog harness is a great alternative to the dog collar and they work great for any size dog, even the small breeds. More and more dog owners are turning to the harness instead of the collar because of all the benefits they offer. A harness works great for small breeds that tend to pull back on the leash or when you're training a dog to walk calmly by your side.

They provide you with more control over the pet without putting unnecessary strain on his body. This is due to the design that wraps around the dog's belly and then a buckle or clasp secures it in place. Designers created the basic design of the harness with the comfort of your pet in mind and the fact that they give you more control makes them even more popular.

Here are some of the benefits associated with the step in dog harness:

· They're easy to put on your pup especially if he is well behaved. Lay the harness flat on the ground, have him step over it and pull the harness up and over his back, then secure.

· There are many styles and colors from which to choose. This makes it easy for you to find something that suits your dog's style and personality perfectly. You can buy matching leashes and walk your dog in style.

· Due to the unique design, your pet will not be able to slip out of the harness so you never have to worry about her getting loose and running off when walking or playing in the park.

· You can use them to train your pet and teach him how to obey your commands when walking without causing any damage to his neck or spine.

· They can help pets recover from certain types of injuries faster by allowing you to support her weight when walking or going up stairs without making the condition worse.

· Harnesses have adjustable straps that will fit the contour of the dog's body.

You can easily attach leashes and leads to a step in dog harness and you can attach the seatbelt to many styles to secure the pet in a vehicle. This keeps them safer and it can ease your mind when taking them on vacations or just for a short drive.

With all of the benefits of a step in dog harness, it's easy to see why so many dog owners are adding them to their collection of dog accessories.