Quiz: Can You Guess These Famous Cartoon Dogs?

Quiz: Can You Guess These Famous Movie Dogs?

Quiz: Can You Guess the Doodle?

Quiz: Can You Guess A Dog Breed By His Butt?

Quiz: Can You Guess The Working Breed?

Quiz: Can You Guess The Breed By Its Tail?

Retirement Communities That Embrace Pets Becomes A Growing Trend

From Yappy Hour to adoption events, retirement residences are attracting pet lovers with dog-centric activities and services. Bridge, euchre, and shuffleboard used to be the pastime of seniors. A tried and true method used by retirement homes throughout North America to get their residents to mix and mingle. But no more! While today’s seniors may be sorry to say good bye to the family home and flower garden, they’re putting their foot down when it comes to leaving their fur-kids behind and that’s where savvy retirement residences are stepping up to the plate. In fact, so much so that some not only “allow” pooches, but celebrate their arrival with Yappy Hour socials and even a “Welcome Waggin’”event that encourages the adoption of shelter animals by seniors who may be feeling a little lost and lonely in their new digs. Related: Japanese Legislation Gives New Meaning To “Till Death Do Us Part” According to senior housing marketing consultant Janis Ehlers, “With the growing number of seniors owning pets, senior communities recognize the changing needs of resident pet owners. Whether it’s Yappy Hour, dog parks or mobile vets and grooming, when communities want to be competitive, they have to provide services.” At The Palace Coral Gables in Florida, Yappy Hour is the most hotly anticipated event of the month. The wine flows, treats are doled out to both human and canine attendees, family photos are snapped, and goodie bags filled with dog treats have become the coveted take-away. Now does that not trump bridge? Related: Blind Service Dog’s Smile Brightens The Lives Of Others At Vancouver’s Courtyard Village in Washington, the monthly gathering of pooches and parents takes on a competitive edge, with one lucky boy being voted “Dog of the Month” based primarily on his charisma (though the odd, well-executed trick doesn’t go amiss). His proud pet mama or papa receives a bounty of pooch-themed goodies and toys worth upwards of $100, along with bragging rights. What gives this growing trend added traction is the news that publicly-run retirement homes fall under federal housing laws in the U.S. – meaning seniors cannot be denied the right to bring their furry companions along with them. Assuming their little guy is properly trained and socialized, he must be welcomed. Sadly, in Canada the story isn’t the same. When searching for a long-term-care facility for my mom a few years back, the option of bringing her beloved pets with her was not available. So Harry and Maddie are now lovingly cared for by family but can only visit with their mom – no sleepovers. I’m thinking the upside for seniors in the U.S. is that if keeping their pooch becomes the deciding factor by which thousands of potential residents choose a facility, those run privately will be changing their tune pretty soon. Gray power at its best!

How To Clean A Stinky Dog Collar in 8 Simple Steps

What’s that smell? It’s not dog breath – it’s coming from his collar! We often forget that collars need to be washed to help keep our pooches smelling fresh. Wow! That stinks! How many times has this been your reaction when you smell a strong odor coming from your dog’s collar? This is a common situation that many dog owners often solve by purchasing a new collar. Save your money! The good news is you can easily clean his collar and have it smelling fresh quickly. Whether it’s an already made product or a homemade recipe, you can have that collar going from staaaannnky to stupendous in no time. Why Does My Dog’s Collar Stink? Let’s just face it. Our dogs like being dirty. And that means their collars get dirty too. Obviously–if you know your dog’s been sprayed by a skunk or been rolling around in the local deer poo–you have a pretty good idea of why his neck makes you want to gag. But the reality is that collars are often the least-considered aspect of keeping our dogs groomed and we forget that dirt, mold, bacteria, parasites and a whole host of other ickies like to hang out in our dogs’ collars. Many collars have fibers that hold on to those germies, and then when you mixe that with your dog’s body oils, dirt on fir and even sweat and skin smell? A collar can reek. And it really makes no difference what the collar material is, honestly. Leather, polyester, nylon…they all get dirty and they all need to be cleaned properly (and regularly) to help ward off infection as well as stinky dog smell. How To Clean Synthetic Dog Collars Doing this is probably easier than you may have thought. Every time you clean or bathe your dog, do so for his collar. If you bathe or groom at home, you can use that same dog shampoo you’re using on Fido on most synthetic collars. If there are some stains, you can use an old tooth-brush or soft-bristled brush to get into the nooks and crannies of the collar. Be sure to use hot water for best bacterial cleaning and then hang by the buckle until it’s totally dry. You don’t necessarily want to put it back on your dog until it is (prevents yeast issues), so be sure you have a backup collar for your dog while you’re cleaning it. You don’t want him to run off with no ID! Related: 4 DIY Homemade Cleaners That Are Safe For Dogs What To Do If Your Dog’s Collar Is Badly Stained? Some pet parents like to use vinegar and baking soda on really stained collars. It’s a safe, non-toxic way to get stains (and smells) out, and you can make a solution of this and let a synthetic collar soak (or be brushed) to get the collar clean. You’ll want to rinse with hot water again, and let it fully dry by hanging. This is only for synthetic or cloth collars; leather collars need different care. How To Clean A Leather Dog Collar If your dog’s leather collar just needs some spot cleaning, you can still use a vinegar/baking soda mix and a toothbrush to gently spot clean where it’s needed. You’ll want to rinse gently (but not submerge for extended time) and you’ll want to completely dry it out when you’re done. Leather conditioner after is always a wise move and way to preserve the collar. If your dog’s leather collar needs more cleaning than just spot cleaning, you can buy a leather cleaner to do the job. If in a pinche because poochy got into something raunchy and rolled everywhere, you can use a gentle dog soap or mild cleaner and warm water, but you’ll want to be sure to let it dry fully and condition after if you can so you preserve the integrity of the leather. Easy DIY Recipe For Cleaning Dog Collars If you’re looking for an all-purpose solution for regular collar cleaning, this little diddy takes about 10-15 minutes from start to finish and keeps your dog’s collar clean and stink-free! Items Needed Bowl or bucketRubber glovesBaking sodaToothbrush or similar brushLavender oilTowel Step 1: Fill the bowl or bucket with warm water and add 2 teaspoons of baking soda. Stir until the baking soda has been melted by the water. Step 2: Place the dog collar in the water and let it soak for 10 minutes. Related: DIY Cleaning Solutions For Stinky Pet Stains Step 3: Scrub the collar with a toothbrush or similar type of brush until clean. Make sure you get in all of the crevices of the collar. Repeat step 1, 2 and 3 until the collar is clean and odor has lessened considerably. Step 4: Clean and rinse the bowl or bucket thoroughly and refill the bucket with fresh water, adding 2 drops of lavender oil. You can also use peppermint oil or any other essential oil that you may prefer. Step 5: Soak the collar in the aromatic mixture until the bad odor has disappeared. Step 6: Rinse the collar off by running it under the faucet. Step 7: Pat the collar dry and place it on a flat surface to dry. Step 8: Place the fresh-smelling collar on your dog. Dog collars absorb oils from the skin as well as attracts dirt and grime. Depending on your dog’s activity level outdoors, you may need to clean his collar on a regular basis to keep it clean. Dog’s that enjoy the outdoors, go swimming, roll around in the mud and participate in high-level activities will require frequent cleaning. Keep in mind indoor dogs will also need a good cleaning once you detect the first scent of odor. The above cleaning method is suitable for fabric, nylon and leather collars. You can also add 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to the baking soda and water mixture if you find that the collar has deep stains. At times, a leather collar may require additional cleaning. If you observe staining or discoloration in a leather collar you will want to use saddle soap to remove deep, set-in stains. Notes For Before You Get Started Always use rubber gloves to protect your hands and arms while cleaning the collar. Avoid submerging your hands in the baking soda and water mixture. It can cause dryness and irritation to those who are sensitive to baking soda. As an alternative you can replace the baking soda with apple cider vinegar. Keeping your dog’s collar clean on a regular basis will prevent odor and keep the collar in good condition, which keeps your dog smelling sweet and saves you money. It will also keep the skin that is nearest to the collar healthy, since dirt buildup can develop into bacteria have a negative impact on the skin. Repeat the steps as much as needed during each cleaning session to reveal a clean, fresh scented dog collar.

What Are The Most Common Dog Food Allergies?

Itchy paws, red ears, loss of fur – could your dog be suffering from common dog food allergies? Here are some of the most frequent causes and what to do about it.Food allergies and intolerances in humans seem to be on the rise, but did you know that dogs can be affected by food allergies as well? The same foods that cause allergies in humans can also cause allergic reactions in dogs and they can be severe in some cases. Let’s talk about common dog food allergies well as the signs of food allergies and treatment options.Related: Is There A Difference Between Natural Vs Organic Dog Food?Common Dog Food AllergiesFood allergies account for about 20 percent of all allergies affecting dogs and they affect all breeds, ages, and sexes similarly. In dogs, food allergies can develop as early as five months of age or as late as 12 years. In many cases, dogs with food allergies also have contact allergies to things like dust, perfumes, or certain chemicals. Some of the most common food allergens affecting dogs include:BeefDairyChickenLambFishEggsCornWheatSoyRelated: Gluten Allergies And Intolerance In DogsAs is true for humans, there is a difference between food allergies and food intolerance in dogs. Food intolerance typically produces gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea while food allergies produce allergic reactions like itching and skin problems. The treatment for food allergies and food intolerances is the same – avoidance of the offending food.Signs and Symptoms of Food AllergiesThe symptoms of food allergies in dogs are similar regardless of what type of food is causing the reaction. The most common symptom is intense itching, especially on the face, feet, ears, and forelegs. Some dogs experience chronic or recurring ear infections as well as hair loss, hot spots, and recurring skin infections that do not respond to treatment. Excessive scratching is a common sign of food allergies, as is increased frequency of bowel movements. It can sometimes be difficult to distinguish between food allergies and atopic (contact) allergies. A common sign of food allergies is that the symptoms persist all year round and if skin problems do not respond to medical treatment.Treatment for Food Allergies The best way to identify your dog’s food allergen is to conduct a food trial. During a food trial, you would feed your dog a diet that consists of a novel protein and carbohydrate for 12 weeks until all signs of the allergy have disappeared. Novel protein sources might include rabbit, venison, or even kangaroo while novel carbohydrates include things like sweet potato or brown rice. After the 12 weeks, you would then introduce common food allergens back into the diet one at a time and watch for a reaction. Once you have identified the culprit, you then simply need to keep your dog on a diet that does not contain that food allergen.Common Food Allergy-Related Mistakes When it comes to addressing food allergies in your dog, there are some common mistakes that you may experience along the way. Don’t Forget About the Treats When you make the commitment to a food trial, there is more to consider than just the ingredients in your dog’s food. You need to also pay careful attention to any treats or snacks that you may be feeding in between mealtimes. Food allergies can be incredibly sensitive, and it may take as little as a single treat with the offending allergen to set your dog off and destroy your food trial results entirely. Get the Whole Family On-BoardThis is a mistake often seen in larger families. If there are multiple family members that all have access to your dog on a regular basis, everyone needs to be on the same page in terms of any dietary rules and restrictions. For example, if you believe that your dog may be allergic to chicken and put the time into selecting chicken-free treats and food, but your child is still feeding small pieces of chicken under the dining room table or behind your back, you are fighting a losing battle. Worse yet, it could leave you believing that chicken isn’t actually the cause of your dog’s problems even if it is! Failing to Read Past the First 5 Ingredients There is a lot of advice out there pointing at the first 5 ingredients of a dog’s food as the most important. While it’s true that these ingredients hold a lot of weight, making up a good majority of your dog’s meal, don’t discount the smaller ingredients later on the list. For example, there are many fish-based dog foods that still contain chicken by-products or other ingredients that prevent the food from qualifying as a single-protein diet. Don’t Forget to Address the Non-Food Allergens Of course, there is always the possibility that the allergic reaction you are seeing is caused by something other than your dog’s food. There is no way to completely eliminate all environmental allergens (unless you live in a bubble with no plant life), but there are some steps that you can take to help reduce the risk that your dog is reacting to something in your home or yard. First, always watch for signs that your dog may be dealing with fleas. These tiny, hard-to-spot pests can trigger a reaction called ‘flea allergy dermatitis’ which can mimic the skin conditions associated with food allergies. Use a flea prevention product all year long. If you notice that your dog is biting or scratching at himself excessively, search for any signs of flea droppings. They look like black rice and the easiest place to see these is often around the groin area. Another common environmental trigger to watch out for is the use of scented laundry products. Dogs that are sensitive to the chemicals in these products may experience a reaction simply from cuddling with a person wearing clothes that have been washed using them or sleeping on contaminated bedding. Food allergies in dogs are becoming an increasing concern with pet parents, and there are more formulas on the market that eliminate the offending ingredient while providing all the nutrients your dog needs. If you suspect that your dog is suffering from a food allergy you should consult with your veterinarian and take steps to identify the allergen and then eliminate it from your dog’s diet.

Grooming Basics: All About Hand Stripping

Shaggy, smooth, brown, white, or multi-colored – dog coats come in all shapes and forms. The coat is what gives each dog a distinct appearance and a unique identity. And, it goes without saying, this coat needs to be kept pretty and pristine. And that is where you come into the story. As a diligent and responsible owner, you will have to regularly groom your pet’s coat, keeping it tidy and clean. Some dogs, however, can’t be groomed with a simple shave or a haircut. Instead, their coats need hand stripping. So what is this grooming method and which dogs need it? Well, that’s why you’re here, isn’t it? Read on as we learn all about hand stripping. When it comes to keeping your dog’s skin and coat healthy the best thing you can do is groom him on a regular basis. It’s kind of obvious, but it’s true. For some dogs, regular grooming means little more than brushing a few times a week. For other dogs, however, grooming is much more complicated and taxing. Some dogs have a coat that requires a specific grooming method called hand stripping. This is a complicated process and one that isn’t necessarily something that every pet owner can master (hey, that’s what professional groomers are for, right?). So, what is hand stripping? Can you do it yourself if your dog needs it? Spoiler alert: With the right preparation and training, of course you can. All of the answers are below. So keep your eyes glued to this page and scroll away to learn more.This is a sponsored placementCertain dog breeds require a special grooming routine, such as hand stripping, to keep their coat in top shape. However, hand stripping can be tricky if you’re new to it, and many pet owners opt for going to a professional instead. Luckily, pet care plans such as Vital Care can help you keep grooming costs down to a minimum. Petco’s Vital Care offers you an affordable solution to take care of your pet’s routine wellness needs. In addition to covering the costs of unlimited preventative vet exams, this plan also provides unlimited 30% discounts on full-grooming services and monthly rewards that can be used to buy food, toys, and more. Unlike traditional pet insurance plans, this pet care program helps you reduce the chances of health issues occurring in the first place, rather than treating them after the fact. Their complete wellness care makes sure your pet is being taken care of, head to tail, with regular checkups and grooming. Easy to sign up for and economical, this pet care plan will make sure your dog gets only the best care even when you’re on a strict budget. LEARN MORE HEREWhat is Hand Stripping? The process is somewhat given away by its name – stripping loose hair by hand. But it is not all that simple. Hand stripping is a type of grooming method that dog owners use to remove excess hair from their dog’s coat. The most common method of dog grooming is clipping, this method involves the use of a pair of electric clippers which cut or shave the top layer of hair on a dog’s coat. The difference between clipping and hand-stripping is that not only is hand-stripping done by hand, but it removes coat from the root (not just the top layer) so a new coat is able to grow in. Each time you clip a dog’s coat instead of hand stripping, you are just taking off the top layer of dead fur rather than removing it from the roots. As a result, the coat may become duller in texture and color with each clipping, which is why many people consider hand stripping to be preferable. Is it an ideal solution for every dog? Of course not, it all depends on the dog and the coat. For some dogs, it’s not just the best solution, but the only one as well.What Dog Breeds Require Hand Stripping?When it comes to hand stripping, it is more about the type of coat than the breed of dog. Of course, certain dog breeds have certain types of coats, so obviously you can identify some breeds that require hand stripping based on their breed alone. That’s just not a universal truth. The type of coat that requires hand stripping produces two types of hair: the undercoat (which is soft and dense) and the top coat (which is longer and wiry in texture). The process of hand-stripping involves removing the dead hairs from the top coat by pulling them out from the roots rather than simply trimming them down. By removing the hairs entirely, you will create room for the new coat to grow in. Dogs with wiry coats go through a specific growing cycle in which the hair becomes thicker and darker as it grows. If you do not remove the dead hair from the top coat, it will have a negative impact on the overall appearance of the coat. That’s why this process is so important for dogs that have this very specific style of coat that is tricky to work with.Related: Understanding Your Dog’s Special Grooming NeedsSome of the breeds that have a coat that requires hand stripping include (but are not limited to): Airedale Terrier Bouvier de Flanders Affenpinscher Cairn Terrier Wire Fox Terrier Jack Russel Terrier German Wirehaired Pointer Schnauzer Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Wirehaired DachshundTips for Hand Stripping Your Dog’s CoatHand stripping a dog’s coat can be tricky if you don’t know how to do it. So, before trying it for yourself, it is recommended that you have a professional groomer show you the proper method. To hand strip your dog’s coat, you should place him on a stable surface (like a counter or grooming table). It may also help if you have someone to hold your dog in place if he is nervous about being up high. Take a few strands of hair and grip it between your thumb and forefinger, then pull gently in the direction of hair growth to remove the hair. If your dog’s coat is ready to be stripped, the hair will come out easily and it will not cause your dog any pain. While it may seem strange to quite literally pull your dog’s hair out and you may worry about causing him distress, this process is completely natural and painless provided that it is happening at the right time. For example, you may need to strip your dog’s coat more frequently in the summer than in the winter and it may be best to strip it in sections over a period of several weeks rather than doing it all at once. Much of this will depend on your specific dog and his specific coat. There are few hard and fast rules here, so you will need to monitor his coat and act accordingly.Some Additional Hand Stripping Info and Helpful TipsWhen talking about hand stripping, pet owners tend to have a lot of questions at the beginning, especially if they are new to this type of grooming and they are hoping to do it themselves rather than simply going to a groomer to get the job done. We get it. This can all seem a little intimidating. There’s good reason for that. Hand stripping needs to be handled with care to work effectively. However, if you go into the process knowing what you are doing and what to expect, it doesn’t have to be an anxiety-inducing task. Having questions and concerns is important. That’s why we are here to alleviate your concerns and provide some answers.For example, one of the most commonly asked questions about hand stripping is how often it needs to be done in order to keep a dog’s coat beautiful and healthy. Generally, you can hand strip your dog’s coat every four to six weeks, but if your pet’s coat grows rather slowly, you can probably wait as long as eight weeks before hand stripping the coat again. It all depends on the dog and his coat. Essentially you want to give the coat enough time to renew itself, and you want to let the layers grow in so that they are uniform. While that may sound difficult to identify, after a few rounds you’ll start to notice fairly easily when your dog’s coat is ready for another round of hand stripping.Other people ask about bathing their dogs prior to hand stripping the coat. Simply put, it isn’t a good idea to bathe your pooch before you hand strip. The bath will end up softening your pet’s skin and fur, and when that happens, the coat will become more challenging to hand strip. Plus, it will be uncomfortable for your poor dog. You want their hair to be as dry and brittle as possible before hand stripping. This will make the process easier for you and less uncomfortable for your dog. Dry coats are already ideal for hand stripping – the hairs are coarse and loose enough, making them easy to come out in clumps. Wet hair, however, is bunched together, slippery, and can be a nightmare to pull out. So best not do it that way. After you have hand stripped your dog, if you want his coat to be on the shorter side, you can scissor or clip the fur down further. However, some grooming experts don’t bother with this step, as it could end up changing the flow and the texture of the animal’s coat, thus making it harder for the coat to be able to do things like repel water and dirt. It’s probably healthiest to let the hair grow in naturally, however, some people are more interested in styling their dog than grooming. In that case, clip away. Just do so with caution.Another question often asked about hand stripping a dog’s coat is in regards to the steps involved. Generally, you can divide the hand stripping into three different sections. The first section would be the dog’s jaw line, ears, cheeks, and head, as well as the area down the neck. The section section would be the dog’s sides and his back. Finally, the third section would be the legs, eyebrows, and beard. Sometimes it might be easier for you and your dog to divide the hand stripping process across three separate sessions that focus on each of these three separate sections. Other times, it might be best to do it all in one epic hand stripping session. Either way, it’s best to divide the job into those three separate sections to make the process a little easier and more organization. However, it might not always be universal. A lot depends on the size and breed of the dog, the thickness of the coat, and the position they are in. Certain breeds have a more prominent neckline, while others have it seemingly connected to the torso (Dachshund for example). This means that sometimes, only two general steps might be involved, and not three.Remember, when hand stripping the correct way, you need to pull the hair out in the direction of its growth. If you are hand stripping a wire coated canine, he will have releasing hair follicles that will allow the hair to come out surprisingly easily. It is also worth noting that hand stripping can be time consuming, not only while you are learning how to it, but also once you have the routine down. For this reason, you might decide that rather than doing it all on your own at home, you will let your dog be hand stripped by a professional groomer who has loads of experience and can make the grooming session as quick and comfortable as possible for your pooch. However, when it comes to deciding whether you want to take a DIY approach to hand stripping, it really is up to you and your dog.Ready to Give Hand Stripping a Try? Just Be PatientGrooming is an essential part of being a dog owner and it is a task that can be challenging with certain breeds. Sometimes, it takes a while to master, and can be a daily task with certain dog breeds. With a little training, you can take care of most of your dog’s hand stripping needs yourself to keep him looking and feeling his best. This is an important responsibility as a dog owner, but also a tricky process. There’s no shame in leaving this grooming in the hands of a professional if it seems too daunting. However, if you wish to hand strip your dog’s coat yourself, hopefully we’ve demystified the process enough to make it seem less intimidating.Just remember to be patient and consistent in your training. The learning process for hand stripping shouldn’t be too long. After all, it is all about learning the right motions and getting the hang of it. With just a few practice runs you can certainly master this grooming method and continue to maintain the tidy and normal look for your pet. And learning it can go into your favor as well – regular visits to the groomer can definitely make a big dent in your budget. So think about that as well! Of course, this is not a call to neglect your pet’s basic needs in terms of hygiene and appearance. If you see that hand stripping simply does not work for you, then by all means, visit the grooming salon.  Never overlook proper hygiene. A neglected dog coat is a perfect platform for diseases and all sorts of nuisances. Lack of grooming, brushing, and bathing can lead to overgrown hairs, mats, clumps, and accumulated dirt and mud and feces. Next up are fleas, ticks, parasites, and all sorts of nasty critters that can seriously impact your dog’s health. Then there is the bad smell. A doggo whose hygiene has been neglected is bound to be stinky. And in time this can prove to be a big issue, both indoors and outdoors. So, as you can see, it really is criminal to neglect the basic needs of your pet. Don’t be an irresponsible owner, and provide your loved pet with the care they need. Whether that is ordinary brushing, grooming, or hand stripping. Do you have any tips for hand stripping your dog at home? If so, we’d love to hear them. Please leave your tips in the comments below.

September Is National Service Dog Month

National Service Dog Month shines a spotlight on all the wonderful ways these specially trained dogs help make our lives better. In 2008, inspired by the guide dogs he had seen in his travels, Dick Van Patten worked to make September National Guide Dog Month. As the founder of Natural Balance, a pet food company, Van Patten initially partnered with Petco to raise money and awareness for the work performed by guide dogs. Later, the event expanded to celebrate guide dogs and other working dogs. Now, September is hailed as National Service Dog Month. The month honors dogs who work tirelessly to make our lives better and easier. Related: Top 10 Therapy Dog Breeds In addition to dogs who help their seeing- or hearing-impaired human partner, there are dogs trained to alert their person of an impending seizure. Other dogs are psychiatric helpers, who are specially trained to help with anxiety, depression, PTSD and more. Dogs keep our military heroes safe and work in bomb detection. Other dogs partner with local law enforcement agencies to keep our cities safe. Related: New Canadian Law Makes It A Criminal Offence To Harm Service Dogs There isn’t a limit to what dogs can do to help their human partners, and September’s National Service Dog Month honors them for all that they do. To get involved, consider volunteering or donating to an organization like Guide Dogs for the Blind. Share stories of service dogs on social media to spread awareness. And give thanks to all the dogs who give of themselves, not just in the services mentioned, but also as loving family pets who partner with humans every day. What will you do to celebrate or bring attention to the service dogs in your life or those who work in your community?

Chipoo

Chipoo Basics Looking for a dog with a name every bit as adorable and his cuddly little appearance? Then you need a Chipoo in your life. An energetic and friendly little pup, the Chipoo is a great companion dog and loves to be part of a family environment. This pup not only soaks up attention and affection, he gives it back in spades. He loves to play, he’s quite intelligent, he’s considered easy to train due to his desire to please, and because of a tendency to bark when excited, he is an effective – albeit tiny – guard dog. He is also known to be quite independent, turning any space into his own personal play zone – including a small apartment – so lots of toys are a wise investment. In other words, this is a sweetheart of a doggo who can fit into just about any home. But, is the Chipoo the right pooch to bring home to your family? There’s only one way to find out! Keep your eyes glued to this page and scroll away. Everything that you could possibly want to know about the Chipoo is about to be revealed. The Chipoo is a great companion dog and loves to be part of a family environment. Origin Similar to other designer dogs that have Miniature or Toy Poodle DNA running through their veins, Chipoos likely originated in the U.S. back in the 1970s. That’s about a decade after the first poodle-mix (the Cockapoo) came on the scene. The Chihuahua is thought to date back to an ancient civilization that lived in Mexico between the 10th and 12th centuries. Poodles are believed to have originated in Germany around the 13th century, while the more recent Toy variation came out of the U.K. around the 18th century. Unfortunately, there’s not much known about the history of the Chipoo beyond that. Like all designer dogs, there simply wasn’t much documentation kept about their history. No breeder has even claimed credit for being the first to breed Chipoos deliberately. Sadly, the history of designer dogs simply isn’t considered as important as that of purebreds. Pedigree

Text A Woof: Dogs Trust Launches First Ever Canine Emojis

Say it with a furry emoji! Dogs Trust releases the first ever dog emoji keyboard, featuring 23 of the most popular breeds in the UK. It had to happen but I guess I was expecting something like this to emanate from tech-savvy and pet-crazed China or the US. But no, jolly old England is the first to introduce a pooch-faced emoji for dog lovers around the world. It seems those Brits are a clever lot who not only adore the estimated nine million pooches sharing their homes, but were quick to spot an opportunity to promote pet adoption by jumping on the world’s fasts growing language bandwagon and developing a keyboard that allows the user to insert a dog-face emoji. Related: ResQwalk App Wants You To Step Up To Benefit Animal Rescues What’s the connection between a key-stroke and pet adoption? The emoji keyboard features 23 of the UK’s most popular breeds and it was developed by the Dogs Trust charity in a bid to highlight the many types of pooches sitting in the organization’s rehoming centers awaiting their forever homes. From Staffordshire Terriers to Cocker Spaniels to German Shepherds and more, each of the featured emojis represents the image of an actual dog from one of the 20 Dogs Trust Rehoming Centres in the UK and Ireland. Related: Walk For A Dog App Helps You Get Active For A Cause According to Dogs Trust CEO Adrian Burder, the group is keen to see even more breeds added to the current list of 23. It’s all about celebrating canine diversity and the wonderful varieties of pooches calling the U.K. home. It’s expected that from the added exposure offered through social media, a greater awareness of the need to adopt will naturally emerge. Dogs Trust Emoji is available to download for free on Apple iOS and Google Android now! [Source: Dogs Trust]

Domestic Longhair

Domestic Longhair Breed History Considered one of the most popular cats in the United States, the Domestic Longhair is also one of the most common breeds. But it is actually a combination of several breeds, so you can call these cats mutts. In other words, the Domestic Longhair is not a recognized breed. Today’s Domestic Longhairs are descendants of the Domestic Shorthairs that lived more than 400 years ago. Their fur grew long because of a spontaneous mutation that allowed the coat to be thicker and fuller so the cats could stay warm in cold and icy areas like Russia, Turkey, and Persia. When the early settlers made their way to America, they brought Domestic Longhairs with them in order to help control the rodent population on their boats. Today, these super cute kitties with luxurious coats make wonderful pets, and they still have that natural instinct to hunt down prey. Also, even though they might be a bit harder to find than Domestic Shorthair cats, if you check your local animal shelters, you may discover that some Domestic Longhairs are patiently waiting for their forever home. Considered one of the most popular cats in the United States, the Domestic Longhair is also one of the most common breeds. Breed Traits

American Airlines Lets Dogs Fly Cuddle Class In Luxe Pet Cabins

For dogs who just don’t do “coach,” American Airlines offers a more sophisticated way to fly… first class pet cabins. Have you ever travelled with your pet? I’m not talking about schlepping Rover up to the cottage in the back of the minivan; I’m talking about serious air travel to a foreign country. For those who have, you know that watching your little guy’s travel crate disappear from sight is like watching your four year old head into school for the first time; you’re sure everything will be alright, but that doesn’t make for less angst (or the proverbial breath-holding) till you reconnect. Related: Safety Tips: Flying With A Dog While most airlines will allow smaller, well-behaved pets to sit with their owners as “carry on” (don’t you just hate referring to our fur-kids as a piece of luggage?) this can quickly be a non-starter for those whose pets make strange with new faces, get motion sickness, or become stressed in unfamiliar surroundings. Well, one airline gets it and has introduced the first of its kind pet cabin called “Cuddle Class”. Okay, work needed here, but it’s the thought that counts, right? Although the privilege of packing poochie closer to your own seat is only offered to first class passengers and on select flights (so far), it’s definitely a move in the right direction and acknowledges the concerns of those travelling with their pets – whether they be dogs or cats. Related: KLM’s Newest Employee Will Make You Want To Lose Your Luggage [Video] How does it work? The pet cabin is two berths at the front of the bulkhead that has a space with a vented door to hold your pet’s kennel or carrying case during take-off and landing. Your seat would be adjacent to this space. You book your pet cabin at the same time you book your flight, and compared to the average cost of a round-trip longer haul flight in First Class (think $8,000 and up), the $125 carry-on fee for this service is a walk in the dog park! Because of limited availability and with a first-come-first-served philosophy, you need to think fast and book your pet’s seat at the same time you book your own. Your little feline or canine will require veterinary documentation, a 9” x 13” soft- or hard-sided waterproof carrier, and sufficient food to last a 24 hour period. Other airline requirements surrounding check-in times (no more than 4 hours before your flight) still apply, so should be reviewed prior to heading to the airport.

The Home Visit: An Essential Part Of Adopting A Dog

Home visits are often part of the dog adoption process. And you want to be ready when they visit your home – that’s why Kevin Roberts will walk you through the home visit procedure. “Hello! I am here for your home visit!” If you’re adopting a dog, you might be greeted by these words from a stranger at your door. Not to worry, he’s not here to sell you anything – this is a home visit and it’s an increasingly common part of pet rescues adoption procedure. In fact, I may end up on your door step because I do home visits for a local dog rescue. This is my favorite part of volunteering. I love to meet people and feel so special to be part of the final step in a dog’s journey to finding a new home. Related: Adventures In Fostering: Meet Francis I understand that people may be nervous about a home visit. Relax – I’m not there to judge your home décor color scheme (but since we’re on the subject… do you think that flashing beer sign goes with the couch?) or make sure you’ve dusted everything with a flat surface. This home visit is to ensure that this adoption is going to be successful. The best way to do this is by having an in-house conversation, as well as a pair of trained eyes that will help you eliminate any potential problems around your house and yard. What questions do I ask? While I don’t have a script or a clipboard, I find that simply having a conversation puts people at ease. We’ll talk and our discussion will be guided by a number of questions many home visitors will ask. Related: A Day In The Life Of Dog Foster Dad I’ll want to know if you have a vet you’re using. It’s best to have a vet set up before you bring your dog home, rather than rushing to find one in case of an emergency. Have you ever taken an obedience classes before, and what activities you are looking to do with your dog? What’s your daily routine and how you will include the dog in this? This includes where the dog will eat, sleep, be trained and exercised. I’m not here to tell you how to do it; I am here to get you to think about it. Some families have a bed already in place and bowls out for meal time. Others are looking for guidance, and we will discuss options and possibilities that will work for you. What am I looking for? In general, I am looking to see that the home is safe for the dog. If you have a fenced yard, I will inspect it with fresh eyes for any possible escape routes. Maybe your gate is sagging, or you have a stack of firewood piled against the back corner, which a dog might use as a ladder and escape the yard. These are easy fixes, and it’s my job to point them out to you. I also look for potential hazards to your new dog. Many dogs just love to eat from the cat litter box, or get confused by kid’s toys vs. dog’s toys. I check to see that household cleaning supplies are stored away safety – products such as laundry soap can be harmful to dogs if ingested. Most of the homes I visit, the humans have to work outside of the home. Hey, someone has to bring home the bacon for chew toys and food. I understand! I am also looking to see where the dog will be spending time when his owners are out of the house. When a shelter takes on the commitment of a dog, it’s a huge responsibility. Finding it the right fit for a forever home is part of that responsibility. The home visit is intended to support the adoptive family and to ensure that this will be the right match. Be open with me; ask me whatever questions you want. I’m here to make sure that everyone is happy, and that you and your new dog live happily ever after!

Kangal Dog

Kangal Dog BasicsThe Kangal Dog is a large and powerful breed, often used in Turkey to guard livestock against predators. This dog is easily recognized by its massive head, dark muzzle, and curled tail which is carried up and over the back. When viewed from the side, the Kangal has a distinctive silhouette. It’s no challenge to pick this dog out from a lineup, there aren’t any pups out there quite like it.But don’t let the Kangal Dog’s imposing physique intimidate you. Appearances can be deceiving and this majestic breed is the true definition of a gentle giant. While they are alert and make ideal watchdogs or guard dogs, there’s not an ounce of aggressiveness or viciousness in the Kangal Dog. These fierce guardians have a peaceful nature and serene demeanor. When push comes to shove, they would rather block the intruder than actually attack them, like some other guard dog breeds. This isn’t a dog for anyone simply seeking protection. Nope, despite what you might think at first glance, the Kangal dog is more about love and protection than fear and intimidation.It goes without saying that you should only get a Kangal Dog if you have a space for one. These dogs need a lot of space, and a house with a big, securely fenced yard is the ideal setting for them. Owners need to be experienced dog owners who understand clearly the proper ways to manage and correct bad behavior in a Kangal. If this dog is subject to negative corrections (spanking or other poor training methods), a typical Kangal will not tolerate being treated this way, leading to a total failure for the dog and family as well.So, is The Kangal Dog the big burly boy that you need to bring home to your family? You’ve come to the right place to find out. Keep your eyes glued to this page and scroll away. We are about to reveal everything that there is to know about this beautiful breed. By the end, you’ll know whether or not you need one of these big boys in your life.The Kangal Dog is a large and powerful breed, often used in Turkey to guard livestock against predators.OriginThough there is some debate regarding the details of this breed’s origins, the Kangal Dog is known to come from Turkey where it was used as an ancient flock-guarding breed. The Kangal is thought to have descended from various mastiff-type dogs such as those depicted in ancient Assyrian art. This breed gets its name from the Kangal District of Sivas Province in Turkey and this location is also likely where it originated. Throughout its history, the Kangal has been associated with the Aga of Kangal, a large family of landholders and chieftains that use the dogs to guard flocks against large predators such as bears, jackals and wolves. This breed’s history as protectors is legendary.The first mention of the Kangal Dog in European literature during the late 1900s. In 1985, David and Judith Nelson brought their Kangal to the United States where it, along with other imports, served as the foundation stock for the Kangal Dog in the U.S. There continues to be some debate regarding whether the Kangal Dog is actually a separate breed from the Anatolian Shepherd, another Turkish breed. It is commonly accepted, however, that true Kangal Dogs are a separate breed from generic Turkish shepherd dogs. So, at least that statement carries no controversy.Pedigree

Patterdale Terrier

Patterdale Terrier Basics The Patterdale Terrier is a compact, working breed that was originally bred to hunt foxes and other vermin. While there isn’t as much need for full time hunting dogs these days, the Patterdale Terrier has proven to quite a popular bet. These terriers are particularly popular in Europe, though they are starting to become more common in the United States and other countries. Europeans couldn’t keep this beautiful animal to themselves for long. These pups are far too easy to love for that. What makes these dogs so popular, in addition to their irresistibly attractive appearance, is the fact that they are versatile and adaptable. These dogs are capable of completing just about any task that they are assigned. But, what’s even more so appealing is that they make great pets, too. These dogs fit in well to just about any home and have proven themselves to be fun and loving companions for a variety of owners. Smart, spunky, and full of energy- the Patterdale Terrier might be small, but his spirit certainly isn’t. These terriers might not be as tenacious and driven as they were in the early beginnings of the breed, when they were exclusively selected for hunting, but traces of these traits still survive. While their size and sweet nature might fool you into thinking that they could live happily as a lapdog, that’s far from the truth. Even in the role of a pet and companion, the Patterdale Terrier will need a lot of exercise to stay happy and healthy. Still curious to find out if this rare British breed is the right choice for you? Well, the good news is that you’ve come to the right place. Keep your eyes glued to this page and scroll away. Everything that you could possibly want to know about these remarkable animals is about to be revealed. So what are you waiting for?! Read on to learn all about the feisty Patterdale Terrier. By the end of this article, you just might find yourself running out to the nearest Patterdale Terrier breeder to add another member to your family. The Patterdale Terrier is a compact, working breed that was originally bred to hunt foxes and other vermin. Origin Another common name for the Patterdale Terrier is the Fell Terrier, owing to his place of origin. Fell Terriers are a specific type of small working terriers that all originate from Fell country in England. That makes the Patterdale Terrier quite possibly the group’s most representative breed to date. Breeder Joe Bowman of Ullswater Hunt is credited with developing the breed through careful line breeding. He is to be commended for his extraordinary work. However, he’s not the only one responsible for the look and behavior of the Patterdale Terrier as we know it today. The work he did on creating these dogs in the first place was taken on by various UK breeders, which popularized and standardized the breed. There’s a rich history to this particular pup. There are many breeders involved in developing the dog that we know today and pooch lovers everywhere are forever grateful. The Patterdale Terrier was first brought to the U.S. in 1978, but it is still a rare and fairly unknown breed outside of his homeland. However, in recent years, it seems that the popularity of the Patterdale Terrier is growing, all thanks to their exceptional qualities as working dogs and pets. Soon, this breed may well be just as popular on this side of the pond as in Europe. Only time will tell, but given how delightful these dogs are, our hopes remain high. Pedigree

10 Most Affectionate Rabbit Breeds

If you want a friendly, cuddly rabbit that will enjoy petting and spending time in your lap, there are a few things you need to consider before adopting one. The most important thing is to realize that socialization and your relationship with your pet to be are crucial if you want them to be sweet and snuggly: as prey animals, most rabbits have a tendency to be skittish and fearful, so you’ll need to be gentle with them and take it slow. Don’t expect them to be relaxed and affectionate straight away – they need a bit of time to warm up to you and realize they are safe by your side.Next, the rabbit breed also plays a role in a rabbit’s temperament. Some breeds are friendlier than others, simply because they have been bred to be companions or show rabbits, so they are well accustomed to human contact and handling. In case you’re unsure which are the most affectionate rabbit breeds out there, we’ve rounded up some of the sweetest, friendliest rabbits around to help you make your decision.