11 Things You Should Know About the Dachshund

Dachshunds, known as Doxies among their admirers, originated in Germany nearly 600 years ago and have been popular throughout history.  These tiny entertainers consistently make the top breed lists and it’s not hard to see why.  In addition to their adorably pint-sized frames, they are sassy and have a mind of their own.  Although this …

How to Care for a Senior Shih Tzu 

The Shih Tzu is a long-lived breed with a lifespan of 10-18 years according to the America Kennel Club which leads most vets to classify a nine to 10-year-old as a senior. My Shih Tzu, Leia, celebrated her 12th birthday this summer and has been experiencing many of the age-related issues common in small breed …

11 Things You Should Know About the Cavachon

The Cavachon’s popularity is on the rise, and with good reason. Descended from the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Bichon Frise, the Cavachon inherited traits from both parents, including their beautiful coats, friendly natures, and general adorability. Sometimes spelled “Cavashon,” these dogs are loyal, loving, smart, and the perfect addition to any family. Below …

11 Things You Should Know About Podencos

Podencos are native to Spain and can be found across the different comunidades, or communities, of the country.  They have traditionally been used as hunting dogs but as the number of abandoned Pondencos rises, many local rescues have stepped in to help. Despite the fact that as hunting dogs, Podencos are kept outside, adopters are …

11 Reasons Why Bully Breeds Make the Best Companions

Bully breeds are remarkable dogs with an unfortunate reputation. Unpopular to many, the bull breeds are surrounded by stigma and suspicion. It is a disservice towards these dogs who are much more gentle than their widespread stature would suggest. Breeds such as the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and Pit Bull Terrier are said to have been …

13 Things You Should Know About the German Shepherd

So you’re thinking about getting a new dog or puppy and you have several things on your list that are must haves: loyalty, intelligence, and protection. A German Shepherd certainly fits into all of those categories and more. However, German Shepherds do require a little extra work. Before adding a German Shepherd to your family, …

The Ultimate Guide to the Best Collapsible Bowls

Have you ever found yourself out on a walk or hike with your dog, only to suddenly realize you brought plenty of water for your dog—but nothing for them to drink it out of? For the longest time, I relied on cupping my hands and pouring water into them. My German shepherds, Clancy and Bella, …

16 Things You Should Know about the English Mastiff

There are many words you could use to describe the English Mastiff, and most of them have to do with size: humongous, gargantuan, immense, and colossal all come to mind. But that obvious physical feature is just the start of what you need to know about the this breed if you’re looking to add one …

What Are Desensitization and Counterconditioning and Why Are They Helpful?

Counterconditioning and desensitization are two terms that can be baffling if you are just entering the world of dog training and behavior but, if you are dealing with a nervous or fearful dog, they are ones that it is important to gain an understanding of as they can be very powerful tools, especially when used …

7 Products That Make Loose Leash Walking Easy

Loose leash walking is one of the most common behaviour issues that dog trainers are asked to help with.  It can be stressful, and sometimes even dangerous, for the owner when taking a strong dog a walk that is pulling on the leash all the time.  It can also be a problem for your dog. …

11 Things You Should Know about the Bichon Frise

1995 was the year when the Bichon Frise first stepped foot in America. And since then, people can’t help but be fascinated by this breed of dog. And since then, it wasn’t only the Americans who were smitten with him. Just about everybody around the world were hooked. By simply looking at the Bichon Frise, …

11 Things You Should Know About Sibling Puppies

When you see a litter of puppies it can be very difficult to choose just one. How can you pick between all of those adorable puppies? Maybe, you think, just maybe I’ll take two. Wait! You may want to rethink this because as cute as they are, sibling puppies present their own array of challenges. …

6 Tips for Managing the Spring Shed

We’ve all been there. The dog hair just keeps piling up, and you can’t seem to stop it. Shedding is a natural event that most dogs experience, especially during seasonal changes. Spring, when the temperatures begin to warm up, tends to be the most vicious of all the shedding. The accumulation of dog hair during …

Pug Breed Information – 14 Things to Know

Very few dog breeds have a motto, but the Pug dog is so unique that having their own motto definitely makes sense. And here it is: multum in parvo – a Latin phrase that translates to “a lot in a little.” That’s a very fitting description for the Pug dog that is both incredibly cute …

11 Things You Should Know About the Cock-a-Mo

Finding the perfect family pet can be difficult. My family has always been lucky.  Throughout my life we have had four completely different dogs, ranging in size and personality.  Our current dog is named Obie and he is a cock-a-mo. With his huge grin, constantly wagging tail and beautiful fur, we fell in love with …

How to Choose the Best Training Treat Pouch

We are advocates of positive dog training techniques.  Teaching your dog using force-free, scientific and positive methods has been shown to be much more effective and kinder than harsh and aversive techniques and it also helps to create a stronger, happier and more trusting relationship between you and your dog. Food rewards can be great …

Fleas: How to Keep Your Pet and Home from Getting an Infestation

It may not be something you have given too much thought to but, let me tell you, having volunteered with a number of dog rescues across Europe, dealing with a flea infestation, is not only icky but it can be extremely detrimental to the health of your pet and possibly even your wider family.  They …

Boston Terrier Breed Information – 14 Facts about Boston Terriers

You’ve probably never heard the phrase “as American as apple pie” applied to a dog before. Maybe that’s because you’ve never met a Boston Terrier. The Boston Terrier, an all-American dog, is instantly recognized by its unique black-and-white coat, the breed’s distinctive markings and large eyes. If you’re considering adopting one of this special breed, …

The Journey of a Puppy – the Stages of Puppyhood and How to Handle Them

Getting a new puppy is such an exciting time.  All the fun, games and mischief that ensue make it a wonderful period with lots of great memories and plenty of fantastically cute photos to look back on.  It is, however, easy to get carried away with the anticipation and thrill of it all and forget …

13 Things You Should Know about the Great Dane

The gentle giants. The Apollo of dogs. The Great Dane. By whatever name you call it, this very large breed or gentle giant is instantly recognizable and can be very imposing to those who don’t know that its big body holds a huge capacity for loving its people. But what does owning a Great Dane …

Helping Houdini: Our Tips to Change Escape Artist Behavior

All too often we read on social media about dogs that go missing.  Many times the missing canines have escaped from their home, garden or car and this is how they ended up on the run.  It is a serious problem, the dogs can risk injury or death and they are also putting others at …

Pembroke Welsh Corgi Breed Information – 11 Things to Know

Known for their cute, stubby legs, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is somewhat short. Originally bred to herd livestock, the working dog has assisted farmers for hundreds of years; in fact, some speculate that their ancestors been around as early as the 10th century. Referred to as “heelers”, they drive cattle and sheep by nipping at …

11 Things You Should Know About the British Labrador

For 25 years, the Labrador Retriever – or Lab – has remained the most popular dog in America. Known for friendliness, boundless energy, and a big heart, the Lab can make an extraordinary companion. But did you know there are two types of Labradors? The American and the British. While the American Kennel Club (AKC) …

House Training a Puppy: 14 Ways to Get it Right

Toilet training or house training a puppy is something that a lot of new dog owners can get frustrated with.  It is not pleasant to come into a room and discover that your new puppy or rescue dog has had an accident on your brand new rug.  Apart from the obvious of not giving your …

English Cocker Spaniel Breed Information – 10 Things to Know

If you haven’t already noticed, I LOVE the English Cocker Spaniel.  I love their cuddly, fun, energetic personalities. Every dog is an individual, they don’t all follow the stereotypes, but there are some general breed characteristics.  Want to know more about the breed and its history? Here are some well known and lesser known details …

Doxle (Beagle Dachshund Mix) Breed Information Guide

What do you get when you cross a beagle and a dachshund? You get the sweet and playful Doxle! This breed is an adorable dog possessing the best qualities his two popular hound parents. They are also known as Beachunds, if you prefer the beagle to come first.  Whatever name you prefer, this mix breed …

Alaskan Malamute Breed Information – 11 Things to Know

Want to know more about the Alaskan Malamute? We’ll be going over 11 different facts on the breed below. Despite their visual similarities, Mals are much bigger than Siberian Huskies. Here is our full Alaskan Malamute vs Siberian Husky comparison. Weighing in at nearly 100 pounds, Alaskan Malamutes are anything but small. One of the oldest …

Border Terrier Breed Information Guide – 9 Things to Know

Often recognized for looking like a grumpy Yorkshireman, the Border Terrier is a small dog with strong instincts, intense loyalty, and a cheeky personality. These loveable dogs come with a large amount of terrier energy, and are highly intelligent. Border terriers make excellent family pets, as they are extremely playful and easily trained too. Border …