Here is the list of the TOP FIVE DOG TOYS to entertain your pup and keep them from pulling apart your home:

1>Extreme Kong Dog Toy

Kong’s are made out of a durable rubber that can stand up to the biggest dog bit. These dog toys will give your dog hours of enjoyment trying to get the dog treat out of them. This does not only help cure boredom, but also these dog toys help you dog stretch their jaw muscles and learn the value of having to work hard for something that they really want.

Price Range: $4.97-$16.97

2>Wiggly Giggly Ball

This ball is not the average ball. It is wiggly and giggly and sure to have your dog chasing something other than you around the house. This dog toy will give your dog hours of fun chancing it around the house and the best part to this ball unlike some of the dog toys that you have purchased for your dog; it is made out of a durable plastic, which will last your dog for years.

Price Range: $9.97-$12.99

3>Kyjen Plush Puppies I Qube Dog Toys

The I Qube dog toy is a way to have you dog try and to figure out the puzzle to get the little balls that are put inside out. I Qube promotes paw and eye coordination. This also is a great dog toy to help your dog to try and get the larger dog treats like milk bones out of it. You do not have to worry about your small puppy getting hurt on this product either as this dog toy is made out of a soft fabric and it can even be machine washed. This will have your dog testing their own IQs and helping them with brain development.

Price Range: $8.70

4>Premier Busy Buddy Tug-a-Jug Treat Dispensing Dog Toy

if you have even seen your dog want to play with a pop bottle around the house, this might be the perfect alternative. You can place a dog treat inside the clear jug when you leave to go somewhere and your dog can spend hours enjoying the time trying to get the treat out. This dog toy differs from some of the other dog toys that dispense dog treats because the dog can not only hear and smell the dog treat, but it can also see it.

Price Range: $14.99

5>Plush Hide A Toys

This cute little tree stump plush includes 3 little plushy squirrels that can be hidden in the holes. This will give your dog the enjoyment of chasing after squirrels while you are gone. This dog toy is made out of a strong durable fabric, so let your dog have at it and get those squirrels that may have tormented them so long.

Price Range: $12.99

While it’s necessary at times, dogs usually don’t like being left home alone.  They get bored easily   and as a result, you could have quite a mess onyour hands!  You may have found this out the hard way such as, coming home to find your house ripped to apart and your furry, little bundle just innocently staring back at you, excitedly wagging his tail!

Your loveable pet has the ability to destroy everything from brand new furniture to decorative pillows and can even shred clothes and chew up your shoes!  Save yourself from replacing these expensive items by buying an inexpensive chew toy that can entertain your active dog for hours! I love hearing your feedback, so please, leave me a comment!

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SMARTEST DOG BREEDS -

#1 Border collies
#2 Poodles
#3 German shepherds
#4 Golden retrievers
#5 Dobermans
#6 Shetland sheepdogs
#7 Labrador retrievers
#8 The Papillon
#9 Rottweiler
#10 Australian Cattle Dog

Hopefully, you found this as interesting as I did.  Although I know my dogs are very smart, their breeds didn’t make the list.  Oh well, what they lack in smarts, they make up for it in cuteness!  Leave a comment!  I love hearing your feedback!  Thanks for reading!  Pop back in again, soon!

Having a dog as a pet involves a great deal of commitment. A dog needs more attention to proper food takes the place that stands as contracts disease very easily than any other animal.

Simple things can be purchased at the grocery stores for dogs. There are many dog stores that give advice to care for the comfort that can be provided. These stores are well equipped with supplies for dogs and can also give suggestions regarding dogs and dog care.

Sources include dog bed, blanket, water bowl and a stainless steel or clay. Glazed pottery is not recommended for dogs because ceramics are made of lead that are dangerous for dogs. A leather strap with a sturdy closure pressure and an identification tag is important for walking your dog. Dog fur is different from human hair and requires special combs and brushes designed specifically for dogs.

Similarly, a chew toy or a hard rubber ball will be much appreciated by your pooch, as well.        Playing with dog toys is one of the best activities for your pup to stay active throughout the day. Dog supply stores are equipped with various canine necessities such as, carriers, beds, blankets, bones, chews, food and water bowls, nutrition, personal hygiene products such as dog toothpaste, toothbrush, dog shampoo and nail clippers, books, health , stain and odor restricting powders, toys, mattresses, life jackets, dog houses, and more.

Products for dogs extends to the range of dog clothes making your pampered pet look glamorous. If you live in a colder climate, there are a variety of dog coats, raincoats, and sweaters available to keep your dog dry, warm and happy.  To make transportation easier you can also purchase dog carriers, bicycle carrier, bag, pet carriers, and many more. The carriers are designed to meet travel styles.  Pet carriers for airline travel are of exquisite quality, but approval of the airlines is required if your pet must travel as it ensures that travel is as safe as possible.  There are many other products available to ensure that your dog is happy, healthy and well-adjusted.

If you are adopting a dog or a puppy, I hope that this information was helpful to you.  You can read the entire article at the link below.  Thanks for reading!  Please leave a comment!

Paying Attention To Dog Supplies | Pet Source USA Blog

Humans suffer from what is called Obsessive Compulsive Disorder or OCD.  This condition manifests itself in many different ways including excessive hand-washing,   New studies have shown that this disorder may be prevalent in dogs.  Scientists have identified a gene in Dobermans that makes the dog susceptible to obsessive compulsive disorder.  Read the following article to determine if your dog may shown signs of OCD.

The study, which appears in the journal “Nature Molecular Psychiatry,” was authored by Dr. Nicholas Dodman of the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, who said the gene is the same in humans as it is in dogs.  “It’s certainly true we have basically the same gene in us, so it’s an intriguing lead, but there’s a lot more work that has to be done to see if this particular finding is relevant to human health and obsessive compulsive disorder,” added Dr. Michael Slifer, an assistant professor of human genetics and genomics at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. “But even if this particular finding is not directly relevant, it still gives us clues as to the pathways and processes that may be going on in humans as well as some possible targets for intervention and treatment.

“People with obsessive compulsive disorder, or OCD, tend to have repetitive behaviors and/or thoughts.Scientists found that dogs with the OCD gene maniacally chase their tails, lick different body parts or blankets.

Look for the symptoms to determine whether your dog has OCD.  While there may be no known cure for OCD, it’s important to pay attention to the signs and address your dog’s condition, properly.  Thanks for reading!  Please leave me a comment!

Study: Dogs Also Suffer From Obsessive Compulsive Disorder – Pet Health | Questions | Information | Animal Health – FOXNews.com

Because they can’t talk to us, it’s difficult for us as pet owners to know when it’s time to take our pet to the vet.  Certain symptoms or issues require mandatory emergency care for your dog (or cat).  But, how do you know when it’s an emergency ?  The following article can be used as a guide to determine whether it’s an emergency situation or if you just need to make an appointment with the vet.

Let’s start with the true emergencies.If your pet has experienced trauma, is actively bleeding or has been hit by a car, they should be taken immediately to your veterinary hospital. Other situations in which immediate veterinary care is recommended include seizures lasting more than a few minutes; collapse; shortness of breath or very rapid breathing; heat stroke; pale or white gums; trouble giving birth; and the sudden inability to walk or dragging of the rear legs.A male cat or dog who is straining unsuccessfully to urinate or a dog with a distended abdomen who is retching up white froth also require immediate veterinary attention for potential life-threatening illnesses.

And, if your pet has ingested antifreeze, a foreign object or even some of your own medications, get them to your veterinarian right away.It is always helpful to call your veterinary hospital to alert them that you are on your way to see them with an emergency.An appointment should be scheduled the same day for a pet who is experiencing a complete loss of appetite or persistent vomiting or diarrhea, especially if blood is present.

If your dog or cat is very lethargic, has a fever greater than 103 degrees Fahrenheit, or is coughing acutely, they should also be seen the same day. Other signs that would warrant an appointment within 24 hours include superficial skin wounds or abscesses, blood in the urine, eye discomfort or discharge, foul-smelling ears, inflamed skin, and holding up one leg completely.

Animals who are experiencing itchy ears, minor skin irritations, coughing or sneezing, a decreased appetite, increased thirst or urination, softer than normal stools, a bad mouth odor or stiffness/lameness should be examined by their veterinarian at the earliest convenience, usually within a few days.

Any new lumps under or on the skin of your pets should also be evaluated and not just assumed to be benign.  Becoming familiar with what is normal for your pet is most helpful in determining if your pet needs to be examined by their doctor. You know your pet best and can recognize when they are even just a little “off.”  And, remember, if you are still unsure if your pet needs to be seen, it is best to call your veterinarian’s office, tell them what is going on, and let them help you to make that decision.

Being a dog owner, myself I have often wondered if certain medical health issues should be addresses immediately or if they can wait until I can schedule an appointment with the vet.  I hope this information has been helpful to you in determining between an emergency and a non-emergency.  Please leave me a comment!  Thanks for reading!!

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Are you bringing a new baby home or adopting a dog and you have children home?  The relationship between a child and the family dog can be beneficial and rewarding relationship for both your child and the dog.  This can give your child a lifetime of love and respect for animals.  It’s important to know what your role should be in all of this.  Use the advice in the following article and it will lead to a happy, well adjusted home for both dogs and children.

One of the joys of parenthood is the opportunity to share experiences and relationships with someone who is living them for the first time. Fond childhood memories come to life again as we watch children discover the pleasure of things that we have come to take for granted. This can include the bond a child makes with a family dog.

A 1989 study published in Psychological Reports by Kidd and Kidd reports that people who grow up with a certain type of dog will often seek out that same breed as an adult. As the mother of young children, this makes sense to me. I enjoy buying my children the same toys and books that I enjoyed as a little girl. They bring back wonderful memories – memories that I would like my children to have when they get older. A good dog can do the same thing.It is widely appreciated that the human-animal bond can have a positive effect on health and happiness.

These same things hold true for children with the additional benefit of giving them lessons in responsibility, respect for living things, gentleness and acceptance.The flip side to this coin is that children are disproportionately more likely than adults to be bitten by a dog, and not all dogs are suited to a household with children. The Centers for Disease Control reports that 400,000 children are brought to emergency rooms annually in the U.S. for dog bites and the highest rate of dog bites occurs in children between the ages of 5 and 9 years old.Like many of the really great things in life, dog ownership comes with some risks. There are, however, many things parents can do to mitigate those risks. Making informed and thoughtful decisions along with a proactive approach can prevent disaster.

First step: choose well. There is more to selecting a dog than selecting a breed. Should you go to a pet store or breeder? What about the dogs in rescue groups and animal shelters? Would an adult dog be better? Which puppy is the pick of the litter? How old should the kids be before getting a dog? There are no right answers to these questions, but careful consideration will help prevent regret. Your boyhood German shepherd may have been the best dog a boy could ask for, but that doesn’t mean all shepherds make a perfect family pet.

Next, educate the dog and the child. Obedience classes are as much for the dog as the people. A family-friendly class is fun and will help reinforce the child’s responsibility in caring, training and respecting the dog. Parents can also employ the use of many great books, Web sites and DVDs geared for children on the subject of dogs.Most important, actively supervise children and dogs at all times.

Collen Pelar, the author of the book, “Living with Kids and Dogs,” does a great job explaining what active supervision means. In part, it is about making sure the dog behaves, but also the children.  Kids can be hard on a dog, and although most dogs will tolerate the unwanted attention, it doesn’t mean it should be allowed. Active supervision is knowing when a dog is saying “the kids are driving me crazy” and intervening – because after all, we all reach that point sometimes.Parents should also foster appropriate play.

My own 4- and 6-year-old boys love to train our dog. Give them a choice between a Wii controller or a training clicker, the clicker wins every time. OK, not every time, but they do enjoy giving our dog treats and get a kick out making her do their bidding. Children are forever having to follow to instructions, and it can be fun for them to turn the tables.No family dog is 100 percent bite-proof, but if you do have a dog that could be a danger to your children, or you want to prevent a problem, seek professional help immediately from an experienced veterinary behaviorist. Choosing a dog wisely, fostering a respectful relationship, training, educating and recognizing warning signs are important ways a parent can improve the likelihood that their dog fulfills the role as a memorable childhood pet.

In most situations, dogs enjoy children and children enjoy dogs.  And it’s important when adopting a dog, or bringing a new baby home to accommodate both the child and your canine friend.  If you do your part, this will help train your dog to socialize with small children and it helps your child develop a loving relationship with dogs that could last the rest of their life!

I love hearing your feedback, so please, leave me a comment!  Have a wonderful day!!

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Our kidney’s sole function is to remove waste from the blood.  Your dog’s kidneys work in the same way and kidney failure happens when the kidneys stop filtering the toxins from their blood.  This causes your dog to get very sick.  For more information on your dog’s kidney health, read the following article to learn new studies that link certain ingredients in food to kidney failure in dogs.

The cause of kidney failure in dogs is often thought to be age. However, while age may play a part it may not be just that the kidneys are getting old. Through the years, you may be feeding your dog the same food. Food that is loaded with harmful agents. All those years of eating the wrong food may be what is really causing the kidney failure. However, due to your dog’s advanced age, it may just be attributed to age and not looked into further.

Do you really know what is in the food that you are feeding your dog?   Did you know that low levels of cancer causing agents, like BHA, BHT and ethoxyquin are allowed in dog food?   Suprisingly, the effects of such agents have not been tested as to what happens with long-term exposure,  Dog food ingredients are often contaminated with various harmful things. Toxins, cancer causing agents and other harmful things are often found in dog food. Findings of such harmful substances have led to a history of recall after recall.

When your dog is eating contaminated dog food or dog food with who knows what in it for years, these harmful contaminants and substances build up in your dog’s body. The kidneys take the largest amount because they are the part of the body where contaminants and waste are filtered. The body may not be able to get rid of harmful substances and they end up sticking around in the kidneys and slowing them down. This is what can lead to kidney failure.

As a concerned dog owner, you likely now want to know what you can do to prevent your dog from eating harmful food. The best thing you can do is to start being a smart consumer. You have to start reading labels and asking questions. You can no longer go the store and pull a bag of food off the shelf. You need to do your research.Stop letting big manufacturers put your dog at risk. Take a stand. Only buy foods that have high quality ingredients. Only buy from manufacturers who are truly concerned with your dog’s health. Do not settle for food that is going to end up making your dog sick.Remember that your dog relies on you for everything. It is your responsibility as a dog owner to make sure you are doing everything you can to make your dog’s life healthy and happy.  Kidney problems in dogs can escalate very quickly.  So, it’s important to not only inspect the dog food you buy, carefully, but also to pay close attention to your dog or puppy and try to feed them only natural dog food with no added

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I had no idea that some dog food can contain cancer causing agents!  This was shocking information to me!  I’m definitely going to be paying closer attention to the dog food I buy.  Our pets are too precious to us and it only takes a second to ensure, that your dog lives a long, happy, and healthy life, which in turn gives you more time to enjoy man’s best friend.  Please leave a comment!  I love hearing your feedback!

Do you want to save money by grooming your dog yourself as opposed to paying for a groomer?  Here is some helpful information and tips for dog grooming at home.

When you begin grooming, it’s important to have a designated area for grooming that lets your dog know that it is not play time.  Before you begin, you’ll need to have these items ready:

Brushes
Clippers
Shampoo & Conditioner
Towel
Nail file
Talcum powder (optional) to use on hind quarters to help remove dry spots

It’s important to clip your dog’s nails regularly.  It’s very important to not cut too far (i.e. the dog’s ‘quick’), which causes it to bleed.  This hurts your pooch and sometimes this bleeding can be difficult to stop.  If your dog’s nails are clear, you can see the flesh in the center of the nail, however if their nails are black, this can be very difficult.  If you are having trouble, you can take your dog to a local vet or a groomer and they will do this for you for a small fee.  This usually costs anywhere around $8 – $15.

Lather your dog up with shampoo being careful to suds up their paws (which can get very dirty), their tail (if they have one) and carefully rinse inside their ears with warm water.  Rinse completely, squeezing the water out as you go.  Apply conditioner and rinse.  You can then towel dry your freshly cleaned pup.
You know they’ll want to shake it off, too!

As for cutting, specific instructions according to fur type are available via the Dog Breeders Association.  When trimming your dog’s fur, the clippers should be touched regularly to make sure they are not overheating.  It’s helpful to have an “assistant” for this step.  It’s also important to trim the fur on their paws which needs to be done with a smaller pair of scissors and a comb.  You also need to clean between their toes and eliminate any matting they may have on their paws.

Follow these simple tips and save yourself time and money by grooming your dog at home.  Plus, your dog is much more at ease throughout the process when he/she is groomed at home.  This allows special bonding time with your dog and they’re getting cleaned up, at the same time!  Please leave a comment & Have a happy dog-day!

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