Nine Toasty Tips To Keep Your Senior Dog Warm Outdoors This Winter

by Kevin Roberts

November 10th, 2014 12:00 AM

nine toasty tips to keep your senior dog warm outdoors this winter

The star and the inspiration for this post is Kevin Roberts’ dog, Willow, who has since crossed over the Rainbow Bridge. He brought her home when she was 3 years old, and she lived with him until she was 15. Kevin feels lucky that Willow was able to hike with him right up the day she died. It takes a little bit of consideration and planning to include your senior dogs in your outdoor adventures, but Kevin has a few tips to ensure you and your senior dog enjoy this winter in comfort.

There is something special about a senior dog. Over the years, you have built a lifetime of memories together. Now your best friend may be more “gray” than “play” at this stage in his life, but that doesn’t mean he should stay at home once it starts snowing. He loved the snow as a pup and now as a senior, he still loves it and can benefit tremendously from regular exercise, even in the snow. That being said, the cold temperatures in winter can negatively affect a senior dog, so it’s important to take a few things into consideration before heading out into the winter wonderland. Here are nine essential outdoor tips to keep your senior dog healthy and safe outside in the winter.

Related: Safety Tips For Dog Paws

Keep him moving. Walks and adventures will help keep joints nimble and the brain engaged. During the winter, your senior dog will benefit from multiple short excursions rather than two or three long walks, especially if the temperature is below freezing outside. It’s probably not a good idea to take him on those long hikes you used to love doing together. Even if he is moving the whole time, snow can clump in his paws (if he refuses to wear booties), which can be painful and cause him to limp, and he can get cold before you’re ready to turn back and head home.

Avoid over doing it. “The mind is willing, but the body is not able” may be the motto of many senior dogs. Your dog might not want to romp through the snow like he did when he was a pup, since age has slowed him down and he pays for it with aches and pains the next day. So, even though you may want him to keep up his 60-minute walks even in the winter, you may want to rethink that. Yes, it’s up to you to be the judge of your dog, so look at life and the activities you do together from his senior perspective, rather than yours.

Keep him on a leash. Even the most obedient older dog will benefit from being on a leash during winter excursions. Your dog’s eyes and ears may not be as keen as they used to be, and it’s your job to keep your dog safe. A leash is going to go a long way in keeping your senior dog out of trouble. Since the sun sets earlier during the winter months, it can be pretty dark by 4 or 5 in the afternoon. Making sure your dog is visible at dusk or at night is very important, even against a background of white snow. Luckily, there’s a lot of reflective gear out there for dogs, so opt for reflective collars, coats, and leashes.

Take care of those feet. This is the time of the year where you need to keep your senior pal’s nails trimmed properly. Your dog should have the weight of the body pressed down on the footpad, not on the nails. If he is standing on his nails, it can cause considerable pain and discomfort. Also, check for hair growing out of control between the toes. Hairy feet are for Hobbits, not dogs, and this extra fur does nothing to keep your dog warm. In fact, this hair traps snow and ice in between the paw pads, forcing the toes apart, and in some cases rubbing against the pads to causing bleeding – ouch!

If you have a fussy older dog that won’t wear booties, then it’s important to protect the pads of his paws. Make sure to wipe off his paws when he comes inside so they don’t stay wet (and cold) for long periods of time. Rock salt is going to be everywhere and may rub on the pads of his paws and cause irritation. Keep a pail of warm water and a towel near the door so you can gently wipe any sand or salt, and then dry it with the towel. Sometimes the pads become dry, cracked and may bleed. Apply a moisturizer originally made for cow udders to soothe the paws of your senior dog. Keep him busy with treats or a puzzle feeder so that he doesn’t lick it right off.

Dress for the weather. As dogs age, they can’t regulate their bodies temperatures as easily as they use to. Some breeds—like huskies, certain shepherds, and mountain dogs—are bred for cold weather, and they really don’t ever need a sweater. But many dog breeds aren’t built for arctic temps, like smaller dogs or shorter-haired dogs. Dogs can get frostbite and any prolonged exposure of skin, paws or belly to sub-freezing temperatures can cause frostbite, which can be dangerous. Make sure your senior is outfitted with a warm coat that fits well and boots to help take the chill off. There are many styles of coats out these to choose from, so even older pooches can look fashionable while keeping warm.

Set out a warm place to lie down. Place a few dog beds around your home so your senior dog can find a place that’s just the right temperature to lie down. A fleece blanket on top of a dog bed makes it a little warmer and a little softer – two things your senior pooch is sure to appreciate! And now that your dog is older and past the chewing stage, you can treat him to an electric blanket for his favorite napping spot.

Proper diet.Talk to your vet about your senior dog’s activity and dietary needs. All dogs need a bit more food to keep warm during the winter. This is the time of year you can give him a little extra food, but be sure not to overdo it! Overweight dogs, especially seniors are prone to health issues as well as joint and muscles pains that can be made worse with excess weight.

Watch out for slippery surfaces. You know to be careful on ice, but dogs often don’t. In his younger days, your dog may have been a four-wheeling, ice-running machine – but these days, he may have trouble with traction. As your dog ages, he may not have the strength he used to have to keep him from slip-sliding around. If your sidewalks are icy, look for dog booties that are outfitted with rubber soles.

Beware of antifreeze: Even older dogs are curious and like to sniff around and taste things. There are special dangers lurking on the ground in the winter, such as antifreeze. Be extra vigilant about keeping your dog away from antifreeze. It tastes sweet, but is extremely toxic. As little as a teaspoon of antifreeze can cause kidney failure. Even if your antifreeze is safely tucked away, there is still a danger from residue in the streets. Most antifreeze is green ethylene glycol, but it comes in several different colors, so watch where your dog is sniffing and what he is ingesting.

Kevin Roberts

Kevin Roberts lives for adventure. Together with his pack of rescue dogs and his husband, he spends as much time outdoors as possible. Kevin lives by the motto: "Get outside and play with your dogs!

More by Kevin Roberts

Popular Pet Guide

Rover Releases the Most Popular Pet Names of 2023

View Article

Rover Boutique Offers Designer Dog Clothes for Refined Pooches

Your pup will strut his stuff in cool Canadian Designer Dog Clothes Some dogs like glitz and bling, other prefer to don a more refined, classic style. And for posh pups that love designer dog clothes, there’s Rover Boutique. A Canadian-owned and -operated company, Rover handcrafts durable and timelessly designer dog clothes for fashion-conscious dogs and their owners. Rover offers a selection of shirts, dresses, outerwear and accessories in six sizes to accommodate dogs from the small to big (they also do made to measure as well.) Perfect for a day on the water, the navy peacoat is made from mid-weight cotton twill and features a double-breasted design with velcro closure. We love the Skipper Peacoat, part of the Classic Collection. Perfect for a day on the water, the navy peacoat is made from mid-weight cotton twill and features a double-breasted design with velcro closure. Rover has a variety of coats, blazers, dress shirts (the Oxford shirt is too adorable for words), bow tie collars and dresses that will set your pooch apart from all the other dogs at its next obedience class reunion. For designer dog clothes that definitely make a statement, you can check out the full line of clothing at Rover’s website.

What To Look For In A Doggie Daycare

Tips On What The Perfect Doggie Daycare Will Offer Only dog people can relate to how important it is to find the right doggie daycare for your fur baby. There are lots of reasons why your pup would need to go to doggie daycare: perhaps you’re away all day, or maybe your dog needs some socialization skills, or you just feel better when your dog is being taken care of by caring people. Whatever your reasons are, there is some homework involved in finding the right doggie daycare for your pooch. There are a range of doggie daycare facilities to choose from. Vets and groomers offer day boarding, as do well-known pet stores, retailers and open-space facilities. There are even people offering their own doggie daycare from their homes. We’ve put together a few tips for you to watch for when picking out a doggie daycare. There is some homework involved in finding the right doggie daycare for your pooch. Initial assessments: Not all dogs are a good fit for a particular facility. Because dogs have different temperaments, always insist that your dog receives an initial assessment to see if it’s a suitable environment. The other dogs that hang out at that doggie daycare may have a totally different energy than your dog’s – during your first visit, introduce your pooch to the group slowly and safely.Cleanliness is next to dogliness: You can’t expect a doggie daycare to be so clean that you can eat off the floor (ick), but it should be tidy and shouldn’t smell like a dog bathroom. Take a look around and make sure accidents (because they do happen) are cleaned up quickly and the other dogs are healthy looking.Supervision and Staff: Someone needs to be the pack leader, even when dogs are playing. A good doggie daycare will have proper supervision to ensure proper doggie manners are present at play. A live body should be with the pack at all times – lazy dog sitting by glancing now and then through a window or gate isn’t going to cut it. A good rule of thumb is there should be one human to every 10 to 15 dogs.Size does matter: Is there enough room for your dog to play, both indoors and out? Inside, your dog should have about 70 to 100 square feet of space to run around off leash. As for outdoor space, it should be more than just a place for your dog to do his business. Being inside all the time is boring, even for a dog. The doggie daycare you choose should have a large, secure space to play and get some fresh air (and of course, have a pee break).Experience and Control: You don’t want to leave your best friend with someone who has no experience working with dogs. Ask questions and find out how long the doggie daycare has been in business, who is in charge and how experienced they are when it comes to working with dogs. Ask around at the dog park or at a local dog club to see what businesses come highly recommended. And see what kind of control measures the daycare employs. Look for positive reinforcement training rather than a doggie daycare that uses aggressive or physically tactics. Do you put your dog into a doggie daycare program? Would you recommend it? Leave your comments below. And if you are on the hunt for a doggie daycare, make sure to go to more than one business before making your decision – it’s not all about convenience or locale, it’s about your dog’s safety and comfort.

For Homemade Dog Biscuits, Bo’s Hempaw Cookie Mix Will Give Dogs The

Try these homemade dog biscuits made with hemp! Dude, these cookies are so good! That’s what your dog will be saying after it gets a taste of Bo’s Hempaw Cookie Mix. After one batch of these homemade dog biscuits, your dog will have the munchies for these munchies. From Canadian-company High On Health, this cookie mix contains hemp – both seed and flour – as a main ingredient, and also contains brown rice flour and oatmeal. Dude, these cookies are so good! You’ll have to do a little work to get them ready for your pooch. Just add one cup of water and 1/3 cup of peanut butter with Hempaw. Mix and shape into balls about 1/2 inch and press down with a fork. Bake at 350° for 10 to 12 minutes, and then let them cool or throw them in the freezer. If this is your first time making homemade dog biscuits, this is the perfect mix to hone your baking skills. If you’d like to learn more about Bo’s Hempaw Cookie Mix or order, visit the High on Health website.

Chinese Shar-Pei

Chinese Shar-Pei Basics Let’s put it this way: when you own a Chinese Shar-Pei, you know you own a Chinese Shar-Pei. It’s one of the most distinctive-looking breeds available – certainly one of the dog breeds that makes other uninitiated dog lovers ask “what breed is that?” Well, they have good reason to be curious: this is actually one of the rarest breeds out there and despite its relatively rich history – considering the breed’s numbers – it was not officially recognized by the American Kennel Club until 1991. The chances are if you’re looking for a Chinese Shar-Pei, you’re going to have more difficulty than simply making the decision of choosing the right breed for you. Acquiring this dog can be a bit difficult, but for many people, the adventure is worth it. A Shar-Pei can be a very protective dog that bonds well to a close-knit group of people, but without proper handling and training from a young age, it can become a bit territorial. Let’s find out more about this impressive and rare breed of dog that will certainly become a main attraction wherever you decide to take it. A Shar-Pei can be a very protective dog that bonds well to a close-knit group of people. Origin Where else could the Chinese Shar-Pei come from if not China? Its name roughly translating from Mandarin into English as “sand skin,” the origin is similar to that of many old Chinese breeds like the pug. In other words, it goes back through a lot of history. Although no definitive dates are available regarding the early development of the Shar-Pei, historians believe it can be traced to the Guangdong province and southern provinces of China. During their early days in China, the Chinese Shar-Pei would be used for a number of reasons, often by peasants: the dogs could be used for protection, for hunting, and for herding animals. This has given the modern version a certain athletic versatility and a wide taste for different types of both exercise and play. As time went on, the Chinese Shar-Pei was also used in the upper classes as a fighting dog, although this practice went out of style after the Communist revolution. After the Communist revolution in China, the Shar-Pei population was nearly wiped out, and to this day it is among the rarest breeds in the world. Pedigree

Belgian Malinois

Belgian Malinois Basics If you don’t stop and look twice, you might confuse the Belgian Malinois with a really tough-looking German Shepherd. That would be a big mistake and an unfair burden to put on the Belgian Malinois. Although they both hail from the same general region of Europe, there are some key differences between the breeds that you’ll want to be aware of. Considered good as a guard or police dog, the Belgian Malinois actually looks like the police of the dog world, strong and square and certainly ready for action. He’s a pupper authority figure. Ready to keep all other dogges in line. While the Belgian Malinois can be incredibly loyal and even obedient, they’re definitely not a dog for someone who isn’t able to demonstrate authority over a dog. If you’re a particularly passive owner who prefers a dog who develops its own personality naturally, the Belgian Malinois is probably not for you. They can be territorial and while not always aggressive, they’ll need proper training and socialization from a young age to bring out their innate friendliness and general cooperation. This is not an an ideal pet for a first time dog owner. It takes a certain type of owner to keep up. Are you that type of owner? There’s only one way to find out. Keep your eyes glued to this page and scroll away. All will be revealed. By the end of this article, you’ll either be running out to bring home a Belgian Malinois or frantically searching for a different dog. So what are you waiting for? Read on… If you don’t stop and look twice, you might confuse the Belgian Malinois with a really tough-looking German Shepherd. Origin One of four Belgian sheep dogs – that is, dogs commonly used to herd sheep – the Belgian Malinois is actually far more popular in its home country of Belgium than it is in the U.S., even despite the relative popularity of the German Shepherd. Hard to believe, but true. While there are three other breeds of Belgian sheep dogs, many have considered them all the same breed with minimal differences, such as the color of their coat. Even so, the Belgian Malinois gained American Kennel Club recognition as a breed in its own right in 1959. The breed is just that well respected. In the United Kingdom, however, the more European way of acknowledging this dog as part of a larger breed is still adopted. This can make for some confusion between the two continents, but when you see a Belgian Malinois, there can be little mistaking that you’re looking at a very serious dog indeed. Pedigree

Golden Mountain Dog

Golden Mountain Dog Basics Anyone who’s in search of a larger canine breed that will be super affectionate and loyal will fall in love with the Golden Mountain Dog. These attractive pooches will adore you forever, and they won’t be afraid to show you how much they think you’re the center of their universe. But they’ll expect just as much love and attention from you in return. Active families will also enjoy the company of a Golden Mountain Dog, who won’t think twice about going hiking or jogging with you. So if you’re the type of person who has the time to devote to an attention-seeking dog, and you’re willing to take your pet on all of your adventures, this could be the perfect breed. The Golden Mountain Dog is a cross between a purebred Golden Retriever and Bernese Mountain Dog. Origin The Golden Mountain Dog is a designer dog breed whose origins aren’t entirely clear. 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.  

Mini Rex Rabbit

When seeking out a rabbit, most people will merely get whatever is available. This is a mistake. Like any other popular pet, there are a variety of rabbits out there with a variety of qualities. Not every rabbit is the right choice for every home. So how will you be able to spot the all-star rabbits from the bargain basement bunnies? Well, fortunately you’ve come to the right place. We’ve been taking a look at the finest rabbits out there, breed by breed. To day we explore the qualities of the Mini Rex Rabbit. Is this the right rabbit to bring into your family? Keep your eyeballs glued to this page and scroll on to find out. Mini Rex Rabbit Breed History/Origin The Rex fur gene in rabbits was first discovered in 1900s France. Soon after that, these types of rabbits were being bred all over the world. Their popularity exploded. You might even say that they bred like rabbits (please excuse the pun, it was irresistible). The ARBA recognized the original Rex Rabbit breed- these bunnies weigh about 9 lbs, but demand grew for a smaller version. As a result, the Mini Rex Rabbit was born. A rabbit that crammed all of the beloved qualities of the Rex into a tiny little furball. The Mini Rex breed was first developed by Monna R. Berryhill of Texas, who bred a black Dwarf Rex buck and a undersized Lynx Red doe. The litter produced seven kits, marking the first of the new breed. In 1986, Berryhill introduced the Mini Rex Rabbit, and the American Rabbit Breeders’ Association (ARBA) recognized it as a new breed of rabbit. Every since then, the Mini Rex has been a favourite pet of rabbit lovers everywhere. The Mini Rex rabbit is a popular breed for families looking for a first-time pet for their children. Overall Description The Mini Rex might be the pet that finally proves once and for all that size doesn’t matter. The diminutive size of these bunnies didn’t diminish their beauty. In fact, it’s quite the opposite! Rex rabbits are known for their well-proportioned physique, luxurious coat, and overall charming appearance. The miniature size of The Mini Rex rabbit only increases their appeal. It’s everything that everyone loves about the Rex packed into a tiny package that is even more adorable in every conceivable way. At half the size of the standard Rex, these rabbits weigh between 3 and 4.5 pounds when fully mature. The does (females) are bigger than the bucks (males). The Mini Rex Rabbit has a compact body type. Their backs are rounded, with well-developed shoulders, hindquarters, and midsection. The body is well-filled, the depth and width of it in balance. Legs are straight and rather short. When it comes to the head, it should be relatively close to to the shoulders, with a short neck, giving these bunnies an ever more compact appearance. The ears are thick and upright- their maximum length is 3.5 inches. A gorgeous physique that can only be described as a mini masterpiece of rabbit design. Coat

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.

Maltichon

Maltichon BasicsCute, fluffy, and loving- the Maltichon will make your heart melt. Maltichon, or Maltese Frise, as it is also known, is a very popular designer dog breed, and with good reason. These beautiful dogs were developed by crossing the Maltese and Bichon Frise, two well-loved toy breeds. At first glance, these two white-haired, small dogs look a lot alike, but each of the parental breeds brings something unique to the mix. It’s not often that the puppies inherit only the best traits from their mom and dad, but the Maltichon is as close to being the best of both worlds as a designer dog can get.Of course, while its lovely appearance plays a role in its popularity, it’s not the only reason why the Maltichon is a sought-after breed. But not only that – the breed is popular because of its great personality as well! They are quirky, fun, energetic, and very affectionate. What’s not to like!? Perfectly suited to life in an apartment, these petite pooches get along with everybody and adapt to any family. Children, other pets, seniors, or singles- the Maltichon will fit in with ease. If you are looking for a family-friendly canine companion that will do well in an apartment setting and bring a bit of fun into the daily grind, you can’t go wrong with a Maltichon. Let’s learn more about these fun doggos.OriginIt’s not often that the origin of a designer dog breed is known. For the majority of these hybrid breeds, it’s impossible to pinpoint an exact time and place of their creation. Of course, there have surely been many accidental pairings of the Maltese and the Bichon Frise, but their intentional crossbreeding is a fairly new occurrence. It’s highly likely that the first litters of purposely bred Maltichon puppies came to be in the United States, sometime in the last twenty years. That is when many designer dog breeds that we know and love have come to be. Granted, we might not know much about the history of each of the designer dog breeds, but the origin of their purebred parents can tell us a lot about their offspring. For the Maltichon, it’s easy to see how these mixed breed puppies are bound to be ideal companions for families. Both the Bichon Frise and Maltese have been treasured as pets and lap dogs for centuries- the Maltese is even considered to be the oldest European toy breed known to man. Their long histories were bound to come together at one point – the end result is the wonderful Maltichon. Pedigree

Shichon

Shichon BasicsIn recent years there has been a drastic increase in the popularity of designer dog breeds. Once considered little more than mutts by snooty purebred enthusiasts, designer dogs are now rightfully considered to be special and lovable pups in their own right. Everyone seems to want a designer dogs these days. And the Shichon is one of the most sought after mixes in the pack! Adorable looks, soft and fluffy fur, and a friendly, sweet nature all make the Shichon attractive to a variety of pet owners. After all, who wouldn’t fall in love with a breed dubbed the Teddy Bear Dog? Only a monster and you aren’t a monster now, are you?Also known as Zuchon or Tzu Frise, the Shichon is a cross between the Bichon Frise and the Shih Tzu, resulting in a hybrid pup that combines all of the best features of both breeds. The Shichon gives you the small size of the Shih Tzu and the friendly disposition of the Bichon Frise. Why choose between two wonderful dog breeds when you can have the best of both in one lovable pup? You don’t need to choose between your favourite breeds anymore. You can have it all! That’s the main appeal of designer dog breeds, and the Shichon is a perfect representative as the cross truly gives you a perfect blend of two popular breeds.These hybrid dogs are not demanding. They will adapt to almost any family or living situation. However, like all breeds, the Shichon also has his quirks and special needs. What are these exactly? You’ve come to the right place to find out. Read on to learn all about these designer dogs before welcoming one into your family.The Shichon gives you the small size of the Shih Tzu and the friendly disposition of the Bichon Frise.Origin Designer dogs are a popular global trend, but individual hybrids don’t have well-documented histories. Few people were paying attention to how these dogs came to be so popular and even less were documenting the development. The origins of the Shichon breed cannot be traced back to any one breeder because the crossing of purebred dogs is not a new phenomenon. There have been surprise mixed breed litters for as long as dogs have been breeding, but that’s not what experts would consider a “true” Shichon. The history of the breed starts with people who started intentionally developing it, with a clear goal for the future. And, since no one has stepped out to claim that they first created the Shih Tzu and Bichon Frise mix with the idea to make a fluffy family companion, there’s no way to know the origin of the breed itself. The Sichon remains a bit of a mystery, but thankfully even if we don’t know exactly where these pups came from, we do know that they are lovable and loyal companions. That’s all that matters.That said, it’s safe to assume that the Shichon shares the origin story with the majority of other designer dogs. The first litter was probably born somewhere in the United States in the last 20 to 30 years. And that’s only if you take designer dogs as your timeframe. If you are looking at all Shih Tzu and Bichon Frise mix in history, it’s certain you could find more of them much earlier than that. But, let’s stop sweating about this breed’s mysterious origins. There’s so much that we do know about them that is necessary to explore.Pedigree

Australian Labradoodle

Australian Labradoodle Basics The Australian Labradoodle is a unique hybrid breed that is beloved for its loyal and loving personality. But before you bring one of these dogs home to be a part of your family, you should learn about their needs. Check out the information below to understand what it takes to keep these furry companions happy and healthy. The Australian Labradoodle is a cross with Poodle, Labrador Retriever, Cocker Spaniel, Irish Water Spaniel, and Curly Coated Retriever. Origin

Chorkie

Chorkie BasicsThere are many reasons why prospective dog owners may choose a specific breed. Some are looking for working dogs, while some value dogs who do well with children. Others seek a dog to fulfill certain therapeutic needs. There are almost as many reasons why owners choose their dogs as there are breeds themselves! Of course, the number one reason why most people choose their pup isn’t even remotely practical. It all comes down to cuteness. Chorkies are without a doubt one of the cutest breeds of designer dogs available to the modern dog owner. A relatively new breed created in the early 1990s, a Chorkie is the result of a crossing between a Yorkshire Terrier and a Chihuahua. So what happens when you put the two tiniest and cutest pups together? You certainly don’t end up with anything other than a cutiepie.As with most mixed breed dogs, the Chorkie’s physical appearance can sometimes have subtle variances depending on the genetic contribution of the parents. However, like their parents, they are extremely small toy-sized dogs that make for excellent indoor pets. Chorkies generally retain the long and silky hair of the Yorkshire terriers and the head shape of the Chihuahua. Their ears are generally erect like the Chihuahua’s, but can sometimes be droopy. Unlike Yorkshire terriers which are usually tan, grey and black in color, Chorkies can come in a variety of colors due to their Chihuahua genetics. It’s all quite tricky to predict with hybrids, but rest assured that no matter which mixture of traits pop up in your Chrokie, the results will be absolutely adorable.Some people also call these dogs Yorkie-Chi or Chiyorkie, but these are not common or official breed names.Chorkies are without a doubt one of the cutest breeds of designer dogs available to the modern dog owner.Origin As is the case with most new designer breeds, origins are often hazy and obscured, with no dates known for certain. Although it is impossible to trace the first intentional Yorkshire Terrier and Chihuahua crossing, sources indicate that Chorkies were initially bred in the early 1990s. This is the time when the popularity of designer breeds soared, and many of the hybrids were created with success. Sadly, nothing more is known about where these pretty pups came from. However, they have since gained a great deal of popularity and are an extremely beloved choice of designer dog. They aren’t going anywhere. This breed is growing exponentially.Pedigree

6 Easy Hacks to Cure Fish Boredom

Just like any other pet, fish can become bored, too. And while they won’t chew up your shoes, keeping them occupied will ensure they live a healthier life.We buy toys for our dogs, cats, rats, rabbits, birds, and beyond. But how often does anyone get toys for their fish? Better yet, did you even know that fish could appreciate or need toys in their tank? Well, they do! However, that doesn’t mean that you can just go to a random pet store and expect them to carry toys for fish – it’s not such a popular choice as, say, dog toys. Of course, that doesn’t mean that you won’t be able to find anything to engage your fish and provide them entertainment in the aquarium. The key is to play off of what fish already do naturally. Adding things into their tanks that will occupy them and hone their natural instincts is a sure-fire way to have healthier happier fish that are more interesting to watch. OK, now that you know how awesome it is when you provide entertaining and engaging accessories for your fish, all that remains is to learn how to do it. Don’t worry, you don’t have to be crafty or spending big bucks to keep your fish lively and occupied – here are six easy hacks to cure your fishes’ boredom.Ping pong balls: s: Yup, ping pong balls are amazing for fish – no need to get them a miniature ping pong table and rackets. Plain old ping pong balls are a cheap and easy way to amuse your fish. Bettas particularly enjoy moving them around the tank, but just about any fish will be curious enough to check it out. It will stimulate their senses, and it’s a cool party trick to show people when they come to visit.Related: Cost-Cutting Tips and Tricks for Aquarium EnthusiastsTubes and tunnels: Many fish decorations incorporate these attributes to some degree, but you can improve on them by making your own.  PVC pipe from your local hardware store connected with a couple of elbows joints will make an interesting place for your fish to explore and hang out. You can weight it to the bottom of the tank and cover it with rocks and plants if you don’t like the look of the pipes. For something a little fancier, you can use terra cotta planters in the tank. Of course, it’s important to note that any tubes or tunnels you introduce to the aquarium should be wide enough for the fish to pass through safely, and made from smooth, fish-safe materials. You don’t want anything rough that your fish could snag their fins on!Mirrors: Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the fairest fishy of them all? Fish aren’t vain, but mirrors are especially interesting to fish like bettas that live alone. They will be interested in their reflections and will flare, charge, and be curious about the “fish” on the other side. This provides much-needed enrichment for the solitary bettas, stimulates them to exercise their fins, and encourages natural territorial behaviors in a safe way. Still, you shouldn’t keep a mirror in the tank all the time, as it can become counterproductive – place it in the aquarium for a few minutes at a time as a form of exercise, and don’t leave it in for prolonged periods.Related: Take a Walk On the Wild Side of BettasShells, rocks, and sand: Nothing beats natural habitat vibes! Not only that mimicking their home is something that all fish like, but it also means that you don’t have to put in any special effort or look for any exotic items to keep your fishies occupied. Something you already have in your tank can be interesting to some species of fish. Cichlids, for example, will love rearranging their tank space (for fishy feng shui, we assume). They will dig holes, build hills, and create their own territory. Air stones and bubble wands: There are many benefits to air stones and bubble wands – these decorative accessories are not only for decor, but they also produce oxygen bubbles, which not only aerate the aquarium, but also lift certain layers to the top of the tank. In addition to making for a neat feature in your tank for you to look at, these accessories will also amuse your fish. Fish that enjoy stronger moving waters will hang out in the bubbles, and flit and flee through them. In fact, some species thrive in stronger aquarium currents and having something like an air stone or a bubble wand is a must – the list of popular choices includes Plecos, Red Neon Goby, Danios, and others.Food: Nothing motivates fish like food! If you ever want to make your aquatic pets enthusiastic about something, grab their food flakes and see them go bananas. It doesn’t come as a surprise, then, that finding ways to make their food slightly harder to acquire is an excellent way to stimulate your fish. Breaking away from the usual flakes and pellets and trying something like frozen bloodworms or brine shrimp will shake up their diets, and give them something to do. Live foods also help get your fish to hunt, which is a natural stimulant for them. Naturally, before opting for live foods or similar, be sure that your fish are omnivores or carnivores – because plant eaters such as Goldfish, Pleco, Oscars, and others certainly won’t find prey engaging.

Koolie

Koolie BasicsWhen you see the Koolie for the first time, you may think that you are looking at an Australian Cattle Dog. The breed is, in fact, an Australian breed but it is actually the other way around – the breed played a role in the development of the Australian Cattle Dog, also known as the Blue Heeler. Interestingly, however, the breed is sometimes misrepresented as a German breed because it is also known as the German Koolie.Koolies played a role in the development of the Australian Cattle Dog.OriginThe Koolie is also known as the German Koolie because the predecessors of the breed were brought to Australia by early German settlers. The German Koolie was used as an all-purpose working breed until the 1800s when one of them accidentally mated with a Dingo, the wild dog of Australia. The result of this mating was a short-coated working breed ideally suited to the hot climate in the Australian outback. The breed rapidly gained popularity after that point and was used to develop other Australian working breeds like the Australian Kelpie and the Australian Cattle Dog.Pedigree

Schnoodle

Schnoodle BasicsAfter sliding its furry form into the hearts of dog lovers everywhere, the Schnoodle is gaining popularity as a must-have designer dog. The Schnoodle seems to exploding in popularity exponentially, with dog lovers everywhere desperate to get their hands on this delightful animal. As a mixed breed, this adorable pooch has two purebred parents- the Schnauzer and the Poodle. This hybrid breed fills the role of many types of dog – lap dog, family dog, therapy dog and even a show stopper. You could say this is a well-rounded breed that will fill any position available! Not only is the Schnoodle cute and adorable, it is playful and lovable, making him the ideal family pet. It’s hard to find anyone who won’t fall for a Schnoodle.With a wide range of sizes available, Schnoodles come is small, medium and larger sizes. Depending on the size of Poodle and Schnauzer bred, your Schnoodle can weigh anywhere from 10 to 60 pounds (Schnauzer come in Miniature, Standard, and Giant, while Poodles come in Toy, Miniature, and Standard sizes). And, because of the Poodle mixed in, this dog has a hypoallergenic coat, which makes him an attractive pet for allergy sufferers. Please read on to learn about this wonderful hybrid dog breed.In addition to Schnoodle, this designer dog is also known as Mini Schnoodle, Miniature Schnoodle, Schnauzerdoodle, or Schnauzerpoo.So is this dog with multiple names, a variety of sizes, and endless reasons to love him worth bringing 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 Schnoodle is about to be revealed!Making its way into the hearts of dog lovers everywhere, the Schnoodle is gaining popularity as a must-have designer dog.Origin Developed in the 1980s, the Schnoodle made its appearance due to an increased interest in Poodle mixes. The “culprit” for the popularity of all things doodle was the first designer dog to be created- the Labradoodle. Breeders came to realize that the exceptional intelligence and hypoallergenic coat of the Poodle bring a lot of value to the mix. Crossbreeds with this breed in the family tree still remain one of the most popular hybrids!Although it’s not as popular as many other Poodle crosses, Schnoodle is gathering a dedicated following, thanks in part to its playful good nature and low- shedding, low-dander coat. Unfortunately, like most designer dogs, there isn’t much know about this specific breed’s history beyond those details. Sadly, there simply isn’t much documentation kept about the history of hybrid dogs, unlike purebreds.Pedigree

Morkie

Morkie BasicsTiny and adorable, the Morkie is an affectionate crossbreed who loves people and will get along with all of your other pets. By combining two popular breeds, the Yorkshire Terrier and the Maltese, breeders managed to create a beautiful dog with a loving personality. These petite balls of fluff are not all cuddles and smooches though. A Morkie can be as bullheaded as they come, so previous experience with small breed dogs might be beneficial. These little dogs can cause big problems if you aren’t careful. Morkies are also playful and will run to chase a ball for quite some time or find fun in interactive dog toys. They will surely keep older children in the home busy playing and then cuddle up in their beds at night to sleep. So it’s no wonder why these tiny pooches are one of the favorite family dogs! The Morkie attaches to his family quickly and tend to form strong bonds with their pawrents. While heartwarming and cute, his love for the family can create a problem when he needs to be left alone. These pups will become so attached to their families that they won’t be able to handle time on their own, so training them early and often in a must.Related: 10 Best Harnesses For MorkiesDue to their small size, Morkies are fragile and can be hurt easily if you’re not being careful with them. This crossbreed does best with families without small kids, who can seriously injure this furry baby in careless playing. They are best suited to families with mature children or even elderly couples looking to add a little fluff to their lives. As an adaptable and easy going pooch, a Morkie can be happy with a big yard in the suburbs or in a minuscule city apartment. A few, short walks each day will keep this Yorkie and Maltese cross content and well-exercised. That’s good news for urban dwellers. They can keep their pup in their apartment without fear of denying them the space they need to say happy and healthy.

Top 10 Best Virtual Vets: Veterinary Telemedicine For Your Pets

While a global pandemic may have made the need for virtual vet visits much greater, online health care for pets has been a growing industry for a while. With convenient times, options and pricing, telemedicine for pets makes a lot of sense. We’ve scoped out the best veterinary telemedicine services around. What Is Veterinary Telemedicine? Veterinary Telemedicine is very similar to human telemedicine/telehealth appointments in a lot of respects. Obviously, if your pet is in need of in-person veterinary care for whatever reason, you’ll want to contact your veterinarian and schedule that appointment. But sometimes, the anxiety of the vet can be overwhelming for a pet, particularly if it’s essentially something that can be talked about or is a fairly easy-to-identify issue. Veterinary telemedicine allows you to speak to either a veterinary technician or a licensed veterinarian over video, voice or text and that peace of mind can be priceless. Sometimes, what you think may be a major issue is minor and a quick talk with a licensed professional (without having to go into the office with your pet) can make a huge difference for you both. Do Veterinarians Actually Diagnose And Prescribe Online? The answer to that is “Yes, they do, ” and, “No, they don’t.” True telemedicine will be able to offer (some) diagnosis and prescription services, but typically requires a vet client-patient relationship (VCPR) according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. What that means is that a vet must have seen your pet in person first, typically within a year, in order to do phone/video diagnosis or prescribing of medicine. More and more online practices are encouraging their patients to participate–having them come in for that initial meet-and-greet and look over so that should emergency pop up, they’re able to schedule a telemedicine appointment with you at your convenience. Telehealth services for your pet also include what is typically called Teletriage and generally speaking, that’s what most pet parents are lookng for when they feel like their dog’s poo looks a little off or their kitty seems to be eating less and hiding more than usual. Pet parents want to be able to get in touch with a professional with ease and when they need to. That’s where Teletriage comes in handy. Most of the time, pet parents really just need triage, general advice, guidance and support from their veterinarian and vet techs, and that’s just what most veterinary telemedicine services will offer exactly when they need it. Experience speaking here, but we find that’s often at 1:00 am after Fifi has lost her cookies twice that night and your vet’s office is obviously closed. Why Choose Veterinary Telemedicine? In a nutshell? Veterinary telemedicine is a great option for the same reasons that many telehealth for human appointments are. They are typically offered on super-convenient schedules for you, which makes them easily accessible for most. They’re an affordable way for your pet to ‘see’ a vet at almost anytime of the day or night, and can often preempt an otherwise super expensive trip to the local emergency animal hospital just to find out a teaspoon of salt may have been all your dog needed to barf up that sinus infection antibiotic of yours they scarfed off the counter. True story, and for the record, our vet said that the medicine wouldn’t hurt our dog, but it sure was nice to just be able to do a quick telehealth chat with our vet to find that out. And most of all, though virtual vet vists can obviously replace the need to see the vet in-person sometimes, the peace of mind you can get about your pet’s well-being from the comfort of your own (and their) home is priceless. It can mean the difference between that expensive emergency hospital run or just waiting until the morning when your vet is in the office and can see your pet in-person (if needed) and is often much less stress on your pet too. The Best Veterinary Telemedicine Services 1. Vetster

Nine Toasty Tips To Keep Your Senior Dog Warm Outdoors This Winter

Popular Pet Guide

Rover Releases the Most Popular Pet Names of 2023

Popular Article

Holiday Gifts for Dogs to Include Them in the Fun

Nine Toasty Tips To Keep Your Senior Dog Warm Outdoors This Winter

Popular Pet Guide

Popular Article

Related articles