Blog
Thursday, September 26, 2013
We’ve all heard the stories about the long-lasting rivalry between the dog and the mail man. Whether it’s your neighbor, the mailman or a stranger, here are some tips for ensuring that you can trust your dog to behave next time you cross paths with another person.
Just one dog bite can cause injury, a lawsuit or worse. Most stories we hear about involving dogs becoming aggressive or biting are on account of the animal feeling threatened or scared. For example, a dog may feel anxious or afraid when a child or stranger reaches out to pet them.
Read more: Help Your Puppy Interact with Strangers
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
This month we feature the Poodle, identified by AKC registration statistics as one of the most popular breeds. While often noted for its stylish and carefully groomed appearance, the Poodle is also one of the most intelligent of dog breeds.
History
According to the American Kennel Club, the Poodle originated in Germany as a water retriever, also used for truffle hunting. The style of grooming we associate with the Poodle was actually designed by hunters to help the dogs swim through the water more efficiently. As a result, Poodles are skilled in agility, obedience, and other dog sports.
Read more: January Featured Breed: Poodle
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Barking is natural; however, when it becomes disruptive and excessive, it can become a problem for you and those around you. There are many reasons that dogs bark: they feel isolated and want attention, they feel threatened, lack of physical or mental stimulus, and many more. The following tips can help prevent your dog from becoming a problem barker.
Most importantly, you must be clear in communicating to your dog that barking is an unacceptable behavior. If you yell back to your dog or give in to his demand (for example, letting him back inside or out of his crate) you may actually be reinforcing the barking. Keep in mind that there could be several different triggers prompting your dog to bark, hence there may not be a ‘one size fits all solution.’
Read more: How to Prevent Disruptive Barking
Thursday, December 29, 2011
When you bring a new puppy into your family, it’s only natural that you will want to protect his health and also protect yourself from the financial costs associated unexpected accidents, injury or illness. There are several options of pet insurance plans out there for this very reason that can help bring you peace of mind.
What You Can Expect from a Pet Insurance Plan
Pet insurance typically includes deductibles, co-pays and policy limits just like health insurance for people. Plans may include treatment options including reimbursement for spaying or neutering your dog, vaccinations, tests and more. Depending on the level of coverage you desire, you can get protection for your pet for accidents or in some cases, pre-existing conditions.
Read more: All About Pet Insurance
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
The German Shepherd dog was ranked as the 2nd most popular breed of 2010 according to American Kennel Club Registration Statistics. Recognized for its famed role as the world’s leading police, guard and military dog, this breed is also a loving companion and a fast learner.
History
The name of this breed also reveals some insight into its past. According to the AKC, the German Shepherd originated in Germany and was not exhibited in America until 1907. The breed’s cameo in movies such as Rin-Tin-Tin and Strongheart attributed to the sudden popularity of the German Shepherd.
Read more: December Featured Breed – German Shepherd
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Perhaps you’ve heard about the city of Chicago’s recent crackdown on dog licensing. If not, here’s what you’ll need to know. The City Hall’s animal control chief announced that starting next year, dog owners who have not purchased licenses for their canines may be fined in the range of $30 to $200.
The licenses (that have not been enforced previously), are precautions to ensure that Chicago dogs have been vaccinated for rabies. According to Cherie Travis, executive director of the Animal Care and Control Commission, it’s estimated that less than 5% of Chicago’s dog population is currently licensed.
Read more: Chicago Dog Licenses – What You Need to Know
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
We all want our pets to be happy and healthy. Unfortunately like humans, animals can come down with sicknesses or injury. The only difference is that animals cannot verbalize to us that they aren’t feeling well. Being able to recognize when your dog is sick is important, especially in the early stages.
Luckily, by observing your pet’s everyday habits, you can decide whether he may require further attention from a veterinarian.
Read more: How to Recognize When Your Dog is Sick
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
True dog lovers share a common goal: to raise a happy and healthy dog. Your pup’s happiness and healthiness go hand in hand, and we are here to help you accomplish this goal. The following are guidelines to keeping your dog content.
Regular Exercise
The average growing puppy requires about half an hour of physical exercise a day, although this can vary depending on the breed. Taking your dog out for a daily walk will serve as bonding time and expel some of that extra energy. Routine exercise also has obvious health benefits to your canine like improved heart and lung function as well as bone and joint health. Try to set aside 30 minutes each day to take your dog out for a walk or go to the park and trust us, they’ll appreciate it.
Read more: How to Raise a Happy Dog
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Just like children, growing puppies require a healthy diet with the proper nutrition. With so many options on the shelves, it can be confusing choosing between quality dog food and filler, so here is a guide to help you create a balanced diet for your puppy.
Basics
Starting at your local pet store, you can find dry, canned and semi-moist food. Then there’s natural, organic, holistic and super-premium to choose from. In many cases, experts tend to agree that you get what you pay for. However that does not necessarily mean that just because a brand is labeled ‘all-natural’ or premium, that your puppy will perform better. It’s important to read the label and choose your puppy food based on ingredients.
Read more: Starting Your Puppy on a Healthy Diet
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
This month’s featured breed is the Bulldog, one of the most popular breeds, widely known for it’s muscular build and adorably wrinkled face. The American Kennel Club refers to this breed as, “equable, resolute and dignified.”
History
The name “Bull” was given to this breed in correlation with the dog’s use in bull baiting, a sport popular in the 17th century. According to the AKC, the original Bulldog was valued for it’s courageousness, ferocity and insensitivity to pain. Once dog fighting became illegal in England, the breed was preserved by eliminating the fierce characteristics and within a few generations, the Bulldog became one of the finest physical specimens with an agreeable temperament.
Read more: November Featured Breed: Bulldog
