It wasn’t too long ago when organic foods became one of the hottest topics in America. I specifically recall my older sister jumping on the organic-food bandwagon with intense enthusiasm. She spent many passionate days and nights researching all the reasons and ways organic foods made our lives healthier, and I spent many passionate days …
Unless your dog is the weirdest dog alive, he loves being outside. The outside world is an exciting and stimulating adventure for our dogs, even if they’re just hanging out in their backyards or going on the same routine walk every day. Unfortunately for us humans, getting up to let our dogs outside every other …
Pomeranian dogs are known for being intelligent, sassy, adorable, and super playful. As a Pomeranian owner, you’re probably on the hunt for some of the best Pomeranian toy options to keep your little ball of fur active and happy. Listen, we know that all dogs are unique, but there is just something special about the …
Whether it’s small dog prejudice or an actual fact, there is a common opinion floating around amongst dog enthusiasts that small dogs bark more frequently than large dogs. In fact, I think the exact term is that small dogs are “yappy”. My personal and somewhat educated opinion as an unbiased small dog owner is that …
As a utilitarian dog that is highly adaptable to a variety of lifestyles and jobs, the Airedale Terrier has rightfully earned its place as one of the most popular terrier breeds in the world. But, because this regal, intelligent, and courageous hound tends to be highly driven and very active, it is not the right …
The more we learn about dogs and their nutritional needs, the more we dog parents come to realize just how important a good, healthy diet is for our canine counterparts. Let’s face it. Dogs rely on us for pretty much everything, and it’s entirely up to us to keep them healthy, happy, and well fed. …
When looking at the American scenthound breeds, you might assume they all share a similar history. But if you are including the Plott Hound in that assessment, you’d be wrong. Keep reading to find out what makes this handsome striped hound so unique among treeing and trailing dogs and if one of these athletic and …
When it comes to dogs you don’t want to run into in a dark alley, the Neopolitan Mastiff or Mastino Napoletano certainly has to be high on the list. This quintessential mastiff breed is huge, intimidating, and fearless. But don’t let the heavy stare and massive jaws of the Neapolitan Mastiff turn you off to …
Stout and mighty, there are few dogs with as much grit, intelligence, and confidence as this ancient Scandanavian breed. Despite their long history as a hunting and all-around utility dog, the Elkhound is most famous today for its role as a loyal and cuddly companion. But these feisty characters aren’t right for just anyone. Keep …
Bred throughout history to be loving and cuddly companion dogs, this spitz breed has had centuries to develop their keen sense of empathy and their velcro-like dependence. But their use as watchdogs means these pups aren’t always quiet companions. Keep reading to find out if the smiling Dutchman is the right breed of dog for …
With their elegant build, delicate flowing coat, and large dark eyes, there are few breeds in the world that can touch the Afghan in terms of sheer beauty. But their strong instincts and independent nature make them a more difficult dog to keep as a companion. Keep reading to find out if you have what …
Hybrid dog breeds, or “designer dogs” are becoming more and more popular. You’re probably familiar with dog breeds like the Labradoodle and the Golden Doodle, but there’s another hybrid dog breed that you should know about, especially if you’re looking for a family-friendly canine companion. A cross between a Poodle and a Bernese Mountain Dog, …
It’s never easy watching our beloved pets get older. Larger dogs especially may find that as they age, they begin to struggle with everyday tasks like climbing stairs or going for walks. Luckily, there are products available for those of us with aging dogs that promise to help them get around more comfortably regardless of …
Sometimes, when the subject of muzzles comes up, especially with our cutest of poof-ball Pomeranians, we tend to get nervous or upset by even the thought of having to put one on. I can tell you though, after being a professional dog trainer for almost 25 years, a muzzle can be an invaluable item for …
A few weeks ago when taking a walk in my friend’s neighborhood, I was approached by an older woman and what must have been her teen granddaughter. The pair looked at me lovingly, the older woman almost longingly, and they asked, “how old is your baby?” I was pushing a pink jogging stroller with dark, …
This little white dog may look like your average lap pup, but their unique personalities and even more unique history make them anything but. Keep reading to see what sets this pint-sized companion dog apart and to find out if the Coton de Tulear would be a good fit for your family. General Characteristics of …
Tall, elegant, and, for all appearances, aloof, the standard poodle might be characterized as one of the dog world’s most regal breeds. Leggy and statuesque, standard poodles exude a haughtiness and grace that has won the breed countless awards in the show ring over the years. Yet, as anyone who owns a standard poodle will …
Have you ever described your dog as strong-willed, independent or let’s face it… just plain stubborn? Or maybe this is how your friends and neighbors characterize your pet? I can tell you that as a dog trainer, I hear this description of “stubborn” on a weekly basis, but I can honestly say that I have …
With their compact frame, pointy ears, and lively expression, the Schipperke is as adorable as it is intelligent. And its tenacity and energetic spirit mean it can keep up with even the most active of large breeds. But this dog can be independent and stubborn and may not be the right pint-sized gladiator for every …
Spunky, fearless, and packed full of personality, the Scottish terrier is one of the most well-known dog breeds in the world. And with the fun-loving personality and get-up-and-go of a large dog packed into a compact frame, that notoriety is well deserved. But that doesn’t mean the spicy Scottie is the right dog for everyone. …
The Maltese Shih Tzu is a cross between the Maltese and Shih Tzu breeds, and is what is known as a crossbreed, hybrid, designer dog, or mixed breed. It is also often referred to by enthusiasts as the Malshi, Malt-Tzu or Malti-zu. It is the offspring of two purebred parents. Do you remember when you …
This curly-coated dog’s spunk and affection have owners around the globe swooning. The Portuguese Water Dog is as intelligent as they are loving and fit for active families that can give them the exercise and attention they desire. But this fluffy pup with a long working history isn’t for everyone. Keep reading to find out …
The black mouth cur is an all-around utility dog that has been helping families survive in the southern United States for centuries. These fearless and loyal working dogs will take on any task given to them and have the energy and devotion to see it through. But that same drive can make these dogs difficult …
Humans have been hunting with dogs for at least 20,000 years, and the relationship between hunter and dog has changed throughout the ages. Around 10,000 years ago, when man first began domesticating animals, dogs were tasked with overseeing the herd. By about 6,000 years ago there were at least 5 distinct breeds of hunting dogs …
The Dapple Dachshund is a Dachshund dog who has a particular pattern of spotting on its coat. Also known as the Sausage Dog, the Dapple Dachshund can be found in two sizes (standard or miniature), three coat types (smooth coated, long haired or wire-haired), and a variety of coat colors including black and tan, black …
A few years ago while attending a holiday event in Atlanta, Georgia, my boyfriend and I were introduced to a gentleman whom we were assured could possibly help us further our business endeavors. But it wasn’t this man’s work savvy that truly caught our attention. This man was, in fact, accompanied by a very large …
If you’re reading this right now, the chances are that you just witnessed your canine companion do the unthinkable – eat cat poop! While this is not a conversation you want to be having, especially where food is involved, dogs eating cat poop is no new news! You would be surprised how common this is, …
Centuries ago, men of property, including men of the clergy, loved hunting. The Parson Russell terrier was developed to hunt foxes in the south of England about 200 years ago. Parson John Russell, popularly known as Jack, needed a dog that was efficient in hunting, and he designs the Parson Russell Terrier to suit his …
The Gordon Setter has been around for a long time now, but the 4th Duke of Gordon brought it to people’s attention in the 1800s. These handsome and proud working dogs are also the largest of all the setters. These dogs are acclaimed hunting dogs that specialized in scent work as well as tracking fallen …
Petite and curly-coated, the poochon is a delightful mix between a miniature or toy poodle and bichon frise. This dog is a popular doodle mix, also called bichpoo or bichon poo. From their friendly looks to their teddy-bear-esque looks, poochons are hard dogs not to love. Poochons are more of a cross-breed than a breed …
The Kuvasz (pronounced KOO-vahss) is a well known Hungarian guard dog throughout Europe. They are intelligent dogs with the ability to remain loyal and protective of their owners or family. They are best suited for affectionate and playful companions who will accommodate their working aptitudes. Their independent personality makes them assertive guard dogs. However, this …
Considered by some to be the most beautiful dog in the working group, the Irish setter is equal parts grace, glamour, and charm. It doesn’t hurt that they’re also incredibly sweet and good-natured. But this active setter also has abundant energy and a lot of drive, making them too boisterous for some families. Keep reading …
Whether you are looking for a hunting buddy or a companion dog that can keep up with your active family, the German shorthaired pointer has you covered. But all that energy and instinct to work mean this bouncy canine isn’t for everyone. Keep reading to find out if the German shorthaired pointer is the right …
Loyal, intelligent, and powerful, this ancient breed has been protecting humans and their livestock for millennia. But do Anatolian shepherds make good housepets? In this article, we will take a deep dive into what makes this livestock guardian tick, how easy they are to care for, and whether or not they would make the right …
This gentle giant may look like they were bred for the battlefield, but their history is not at all what you’d expect. Their personality, however, is much more straight forward. The Leonberger is a calm and devoted companion, perfect for families. But they also require a lot of space, early training and socialization, and an …