Welcome
Must Haves For Dogs
These are the basic supplies we buy all our new puppies. We have gone through countless dog products and have curated a list that balances durability with affordability.
Materials Matter
Feeding and Providing Water is Crucial to Pet Health and Well-being.
Metal bowls, such as stainless steel, are our choice for feeding and watering dogs and puppies due to their durability, cleanliness, and safety. Metal bowls are sturdy and long-lasting, making them a reliable choice for everyday use. They are resistant to cracks, chips, and scratches, unlike bowls made of plastic or ceramic, which can harbor bacteria and become damaged over time.
Hygiene is another important consideration. Metal bowls are non-porous and non-absorbent, making them easy to clean and sanitize. They do not retain odors or stains and can be safely washed in a dishwasher or by hand. This helps to prevent the growth of bacteria and ensures that your dog's food and water remain fresh and uncontaminated.
Metal bowls also offer safety benefits. They are less likely to break or shatter compared to ceramic or glass bowls, minimizing the risk of injury to your dog. Furthermore, some dogs may have allergies or sensitivities to certain materials, such as plastics, which can cause skin irritations or other health issues. Metal bowls are hypoallergenic and do not pose such risks.
When selecting metal bowls, we look for ones that are specifically designed for dogs. We choose a size that matches the dog's needs, ensuring that it is neither too small nor too large for their meals or water.
Our Stance on Crates
Crate Training has Been an Incredibly Valuable Tool in my Dog Training Journey.
First and foremost, crate training ensures the safety and security of my dogs. It provides them with a den-like environment, satisfying their natural instinct to seek a safe and protected space. I no longer worry about them accessing hazardous areas or objects in the house when I'm not able to supervise them closely.
Moreover, crate training has been instrumental in house training my puppies and newly adopted dogs. Dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping areas, so the crate becomes a useful tool in establishing bladder and bowel control. By confining them to an appropriate-sized crate, I can prevent accidents inside the house and establish a consistent routine for outdoor elimination.
Crate training also helps prevent destructive behavior. Dogs can become bored or anxious, leading them to engage in destructive chewing or other undesirable behaviors. By providing a crate as a controlled space, my dogs have a designated area where they can relax and avoid destructive tendencies. This creates a sense of calm and security, ultimately reducing anxiety and preventing destructive behavior.
Furthermore, crates have made traveling with my dogs much easier and less stressful. Whether it's a car ride or a flight, dogs who are familiar with crates feel more comfortable and secure. Additionally, crates also come in handy during vet visits or situations where dogs may feel anxious or scared, as they provide a familiar and safe space for them.
Lastly, crates allow me to manage and control my dog's behavior in various situations. Whether it's mealtime, visitors coming over, or potential dangers around, I can use the crate as a safe and contained space to prevent any unwanted incidents.
In conclusion, crate training has been an indispensable tool in my dog training journey. It ensures the safety, security, and overall well-being of my dogs while promoting good behavior and aiding in house training. By introducing the crate gradually and using positive reinforcement techniques, I have established a positive association with the crate, making it a comfortable and secure space for my furry babies.
Wearing Collars
A Good Collar Serves Multiple Purposes
A dog wearing a collar is not merely a fashion statement but a crucial aspect of responsible pet ownership. Here are several reasons why it is important for a dog to wear a collar.
A collar serves as a means of identification. It is essential for a dog to have visible identification at all times, displaying their name and contact information. This information allows for a quick and safe return of a lost or stray dog to their rightful owner. Collars can also hold additional identification tags, such as rabies tags, license tags, or medical alerts. This can ensure that important information about the dog is readily available.
Moreover, a collar provides a convenient attachment point for a leash. Leashing a dog is vital for their safety and the safety of others. A collar offers a secure connection between the leash and the dog, allowing for control and guidance during walks, preventing the dog from wandering into unsafe areas or approaching potentially dangerous situations.
In terms of training and obedience, a collar plays a significant role. It allows for the attachment of a training leash, which is essential for teaching commands, correcting behavior, and guiding the dog's actions. A collar gives trainers and owners the ability to gently correct unwanted behavior and establish boundaries, promoting discipline and reinforcing positive training techniques.
Additionally, a collar can serve as a visual signal to others. It indicates that the dog is under the care and control of a responsible owner, providing a sense of reassurance to the community. This is particularly important in public places, parks, or around other animals, where the presence of a collar signifies that the dog is properly cared for and approachable.
Lastly, collars can be equipped with various safety features. Reflective collars or collar attachments enhance visibility during low-light conditions, making the dog more visible to vehicles and pedestrians. Some collars even incorporate GPS technology, enabling owners to track their dog's location and ensure their safety, particularly for dogs that have a tendency to escape or roam.
In conclusion, a collar is a fundamental accessory for dogs. It provides identification, facilitates leash attachment for controlled walks, aids in training and obedience, serves as a visual indicator of responsible ownership, and can incorporate safety features. By wearing a collar, dogs are not only protected and easily identified but also contribute to a harmonious and secure community.
Visible Name Tags
Versatile Collar Bling
A name tag on a dog's collar may seem like a simple accessory, but its importance cannot be overstated. It serves as a small but significant identifier, carrying vital information that ensures the safety and well-being of our four-legged companions.
A name tag displays the dog's name, allowing others to address them properly. This is especially crucial when lost or encountering new people. Calling a dog by its name helps establish a sense of familiarity and can help put the dog and the finder at ease.
However, a name tag's value goes far beyond a mere introductions. The most critical function of a name tag is providing contact information. In the unfortunate event that a dog goes missing, the name tag acts as a crucial link between the lost pet and its owner. The tag usually includes the owner's phone number, making it easier for anyone who finds the dog to reach out and facilitate a swift reunion. Microchips, while permanent, require the additional step of scanning by animal control or a vetrinarian and that information has to be accessed through a third party that may not be available 24/7.
Additionally, a name tag may also display the owner's address or other relevant details, aiding in the dog's safe return. This information is especially vital if the dog gets injured or needs immediate medical attention. Veterinarians, animal shelters, or concerned individuals who find the dog can promptly contact the owner and ensure the dog receives the necessary care without delay.
Moreover, a name tag serves as a visual indicator that a dog is not a stray or abandoned animal. It provides a clear indication that the dog has a responsible owner who cares for its well-being. This can prevent misunderstandings and potentially spare the dog from unnecessary interventions or trips to the animal shelter.
In conclusion, a name tag on a dog's collar is a small but mighty accessory. It allows for proper identification, helps in reuniting lost pets with their owners, ensures prompt medical attention if needed, and distinguishes owned dogs from strays. Every responsible dog owner should recognize the importance of a name tag as a vital tool for the safety and protection of their beloved furry companions.
Slip Leads
Slip Leads are Simple Effective and Ingenious
A slip lead style leash offers several benefits and is known for its ease of use, making it a popular choice among dog owners and trainers. We use these leashes with all of our dogs and puppies in the beginning. This type of leash combines the functions of a collar and a leash into one convenient design, providing both control and comfort for both the handler and the dog.
One of the key advantages of a slip lead leash is its simplicity. It consists of a single piece of rope or nylon with a loop at one end and a sliding mechanism at the other. This design eliminates the need for separate collar and leash attachments, making it quick and easy to put on and take off, especially when dealing with new dogs that are excitable or resistant. Our kids are able to leash any excitable puppy by making a loop and letting them run through it.
The adjustable sliding mechanism allows for easy control and adjustment. By simply sliding the mechanism up or down, the handler can tighten or loosen the loop around the dog's neck to ensure a secure fit without choking or causing discomfort. This versatility makes the slip lead leash suitable for dogs of different sizes and breeds and handlers of any age.
Furthermore, the slip lead style leash provides gentle control and guidance. When the dog pulls or applies pressure, the leash tightens slightly, creating a natural feedback system. This can be particularly effective for some dogs, as the dog quickly learns to associate the pressure with the need to slow down. The slip lead leash can help promote loose leash walking and discourage leash pulling behaviors.
The versatility of the design of a slip lead allows you to use it in a couple other ways if a dog needs more guidance. We can expand the loop and twist it over the muzzle to make an instant head harness. We can loop the leash over the dogs body and neck to create a body harness that cause pressure behind the chest that wont activate their pulling reflex in prone dogs. If that wasn’t enough, we can loop the handle around our body to make a hands free leash.
In addition to its functional benefits, the slip lead leash is also lightweight and portable, making it convenient for travel or outdoor activities. It can be easily folded or rolled up and carried in a pocket or bag, ensuring that we have a leash on hand whenever we need it that will work for any person or dog.
Overall, the slip lead style leash offers simplicity, ease of use, control, and comfort, making it a valuable tool for us.
Enrichment Toys are Brain Training
Innovative Puzzle Feeder
Planet Dog's Orbee-Tuff Snoop is a fantastic puzzle feeder. We find it to be a great enrichment toy, particularly for dogs or pet parents tired of noise. Our dogs and puppies remained engaged while pawing and nudging thier snacks out, all without causing much noise. It's worth noting, however, that we have seen that the squishy design has a tendency to attract pet hair and lint.. Smaller dogs and puppies might find the regular size too deep for their snoots, necessitating the Lil' Snoop version. To add an extra layer of challenge, Planet Dog offers the Orbee Nook, which can be filled with treats and placed inside the Snoop.
The Orbee-Tuff Snoop boasts several key features that make it a standout choice. Its soft rubber design ensures a quieter playtime experience, while its various designs allow for customization to suit different skill levels. As a bonus, the mint-infused material contributes to fresh breath during play. Very cool extra feature! We have found that the larger Snoop can hold approximately half a cup of kibble. It's easy to clean but, the Snoop is not dishwasher safe and tough chewers need supervision as it is not indestructible.
How We Use Raised Beds
Raised Beds are a Vital Training Tool
Raised dog beds offer us a versatile and beneficial solution for our dogs in various situations, providing advantages in training, relaxation, and safety. These beds, typically consisting of a raised platform with a durable soft surface, offer several advantages for our dogs and us as their owners.
In terms of training, raised dog beds can be an effective tool. By designating the bed as a specific area for rest or relaxation, we can establish boundaries and reinforce obedience commands such as "spot" or "wait." When used consistently, our dogs learn to associate the bed with relaxation and downtime, which can aid in reducing anxiety or hyperactivity. Training sessions conducted on the raised bed can also help our dogs focus and concentrate on the task at hand, promoting better learning outcomes.
Raised dog beds provide a comfortable and cozy spot for our dogs to relax and sleep. The elevated design allows for improved airflow and ventilation, keeping our dogs cool in warmer climates. It also helps to insulate them from cold floors during colder seasons. The orthopedic benefits of raised beds are particularly noteworthy for older dogs or those with joint issues. The firm yet supportive surface helps alleviate pressure on their joints, promoting better rest and reducing discomfort.
Safety is another advantage of raised dog beds. By providing an elevated space, they help keep our dogs off the ground and away from potentially harmful elements. This is especially valuable outdoors, where the bed can act as a clean and secure spot for our dogs to rest, away from damp grass, insects, or rough surfaces. Additionally, raised beds can prevent our dogs from lying directly on cold or hot surfaces, reducing the risk of temperature-related discomfort or injury.
Raised dog beds are also hygienic and easy to maintain. The elevated design keeps our dogs away from dirt, dust, and debris, making it easier for us to keep the dog clean. We buy beds we can rinse off, allowing for convenient cleaning and maintenance.
Overall, raised dog beds offer us a multi-functional solution that promotes training, relaxation, and safety for our dogs. Whether used during training sessions, as a cozy resting spot, or to provide an elevated and clean surface, these beds provide a range of benefits for everyone.
Kong Toys are a Staple
Indestructible and Engaging
We love Kong dog toys. These toys are designed to withstand even the toughest chewers, making them a go-to choice for many pet parents. Some of our dogs are aggressive chewers but they all enjoy a good play session, Kong toys can handle the excitement and keep them engaged. The unique shape keeps the rolling and bouncing random enough to stay engaging.
The design of Kong toys, with their hollow center, allows us to stuff them with treats, peanut butter, or other tasty things. This not only adds an extra challenge for our dogs but also provides mental stimulation and encourages them to work for their treats. It's a great way to keep our dogs entertained and occupied, especially during alone time or when we need to distract them from unwanted behaviors.
Additionally, Kong toys are made from high-quality, non-toxic materials that are safe for our dogs to chew on. We appreciate that we can leave our dogs alone with their Kong toys without worrying about them ingesting harmful substances.
Overall, Kong dog toys have earned their popularity among dog owners for their durability, versatility, and ability to keep our furry friends entertained and mentally stimulated. They have become a staple in our toy collection and a trusted companion for our dogs' playtime.
Cute Plushies That Last
Stuffed Toys That Stand up to Puppy Play
Stuffed toys offer excellent value as they provide entertainment, comfort, and companionship. These toys are often designed to withstand rough play, making them semi durable. They are made from sturdy materials so they can withstand our dogs’ chewing and tugging to a degree. The characters are cute and the colors are bright. They wash up well in the washing machine.
However, it's important to watch out for the stuffing inside these toys. Dogs may be tempted to tear them apart, leading to a potential mess and safety hazards. To address this, you could opt for stuffing-free options or toys that use alternatives like squeakers or crinkle materials. Additionally, choosing toys with reinforced seams or double stitching can increase their durability and reduce the risk of stuffing exposure. But for the price, we are happy with this set.
When selecting stuffed toys for dogs, consider your pet's size and chewing habits. Opt for toys that are appropriate for their breed and size to prevent choking hazards. Regularly inspect the toy for signs of wear and tear, and replace it if it becomes damaged. With proper attention and selection, these stuffed toys provide countless hours of joy and playtime for our fur babies.