Dog Breed of The Month : The Boxer

Boxers are sturdy, short haired dogs that come from Germany. A combination of Old English Bulldogs and the Bullenbeisser (extinct), Boxers possess square, wide skulls with powerful jaws and an under bite. Placed in the working group, Boxers first appeared in dogs shows in 1895 and the flagship Boxer club was started the following year. Based on AKC data, Boxers have garnered the placement of 7th most loved breed in the U.S. for 4 ensuing years. Boxers are said to have acquired their name from its proclivity to stand on its hind legs when playing and “box” with its front paws but no one knows the validity of that.

Boxers typically measure 21.5 to 25 inches in height and weigh between 55-70 lbs.They formally needed their ears to be cropped and their tails docked to be counted as breed standards but cropping and docking have been banned in a lot of countries around the globe due to them being unnecessary and cruel however it’s still the norm for show dogs to be docked and cropped. Boxers have short, smooth fur. Fawn and brindle are the most prominent coat colors, often with white on the under belly and feet. These white markings are known as flash and when the white stretches to the face or neck, the dogs that have these markings are deemed “flashy”. Solid white to mostly white boxers are normal but precaution must be extended – they are prone to sunburn and skin cancer and 18% of white boxers are born deaf in one or both ears. Purebred black boxers do not exist. The boxer does not posess the gene for a solid black coat.

Boxers can have many health issues but cancer outnumbers them all. 38.5% of Boxers deaths are attributed to cancer. They have a shorter lifespan than many breeds, at 9-10 years. They are also prone to heart conditions, hip dysplasia, epilepsy, bloat, intestinal issues, and allergies. Boxers are a sporty breed and require adequate exercise but being that they are brachycephalic care must be taken in extreme heat or cold.

This breed is happy, playful, curious, and energetic usually making them very good with children. They are not by nature an aggressive breed but they are very protective of their families, and they are excellent guard dogs. Boxers are highly intelligent and eager to learn. A well socialized Boxer makes a perfect family pet and with training, get along well with other household pets. They can be headstrong though, and need a lot of human leadership.

Fun Facts:

1. Because Boxers are so easily trainable, strong, and energetic, they used to be used as performers in the circus.
2. The now-extinct ancestor of the Boxer, the Bullenbeisser, was used to hunt wild boar and stag. This dog had incredibly powerful jaws and could seize and hold large prey until it’s master came.
3. The Guinness World Record for longest tongue belongs to a Boxer named Brandy who had a 17 inch tongue.
4. Boxers became popular in the United States after WWII when soldiers brought them home as pets after using them in the military as guard and attack dogs.
5. Celebrities who own or have owned include Alec Baldwin, Humphrey Bogart, George Clooney, Jodie Foster, Luke Perry, Sylvester Stallone, Justin Timberlake, and Robin Williams.

Top 5 New Products under $20

The dog days of summer have set in. The best way to beat the heat is to stay indoors and pamper yourself AND your pooch. Here is a list of our new favorite products this summer, sure to stave off boredom and delight your deserving pooch and better yet, they are all under the low price of $20!

1. Warren London Pawdicure Nail Polish Pens for Dogs ($9.99) – Forget messy bottles and brushes! These easy to use pens make polish application quick and mess free. Non-toxic and formulated just for dogs. Only one layer is needed and it comes in 13 brilliant colors!
2. Espree Bark Art Hair Dye Blow Pens for Dogs ($14.99) – Perfect for celebrating holidays like the 4th of July or just for everyday fun, these hair dye blow pens are easy to use! Just aim and blow to release a fine mist of liquid hair dye. Safe, washable, and non-toxic! Set of 12 assorted colors.
3. Kong Shakers Dog Toys ($9.99-$11.99) – These lovable yet tough toys have something for every dog! Made of soft plush perfect for cuddling with a unique squeaker that squeaks and rattles for ultimate fun!
4. Pet Botanics Healthy Omega Dog Treats ($18.99) – These delicious and supremely nutritious dog treats provide your dogs with all the nutrients they need for beautiful skin and coats. Made of premium ingredients including real meat and fish, these low fat treats are multi-layered for ultimate tastiness!
5. Dingo Double Meat Knotted Dog Bones ( $5.79-$11.99) – Made from natural rawhide hand rolled around high quality chicken jerky, these premium dog bones have twice the meat that original Dingo bones offer!

Five Fun Dog Facts

1. The name of the Dog on the side of the Cracker Jack Box is Bingo.

2. Dogs judge objects first by their movement, then how bright they are, and finally by their shape.

3. Contrary to wive’s tales, dogs do not have cleaner mouths than humans and their saliva has no antiseptic properties.

4. There is a group of baboons in Saudi Arabia who kidnap puppies from their mothers and keep them as pets. They train the dogs to guard their group and in turn the baboons provide them with food and companionship, the same way that humans do.

5. Seeing-eye dogs are trained to use the bathroom on command. The blind person can feel the dog's back after giving the signal to go to know if they are urinating or defecating and can then clean up after them accordingly.

How to Break Your Dog’s Ball Obsession

Playing fetch is great exercise for you and your pup, and what’s not to like? You get to spend time together, your dog gets to run his little heart out, and its fun…. The ‘pros’ go on and on but for some dogs fetch, and balls in particular, cross the line from a fun game to an unhealthy obsession. These compulsive pups never get tired of retrieving, their eyes never leave the ball, and they get obsessive about the ball’s location and feel the need to take it with them everywhere. Instead of being fun, fetch ends up becoming an anxiety ridden event. 

So how do you know if your dog has ball obsession or just really loves to chase a ball? A non-obsessed dog will play with other toys, dogs, and kids. A ball obsessed dog will abandon any activity for fetch and will go into a trance like state when the ball is in play. Their bodies tense up and stiffen, their eyes glaze over, and their eyes are fixated on the ball only. They could become very neurotic about their ball and could become destructive or anxious without it.

Ball obsession has the potential to become dangerous. Your dog could become so focused on the game of fetch that he runs into traffic to get the ball. He could knock down kids, other dogs, or anything that stands in the way of him retrieving the ball. He could suffer from heat exhaustion because an obsessed dog doesn’t understand the need for a water break or rest time.

The earlier you decide to curb this obsession the better as it will only worsen in severity over time. Here are some steps to take to break your dog’s obsession with balls:

• Learn to recognize your dog’s behaviors when he’s going into an obsessive state and correct him before the obsession takes over.
• Try walking your dog before playing ball. This will help burn up some of his extra energy, leaving him to play in a less frenzied state.
• You want your dog to know that you are still the pack leader and that he must obey you no matter what. Use his ball as a reward. Make him sit and make eye contact you before you throw the ball. This will assert your dominance and keep him from getting too focused on the ball.
• Teach your dog a command such as “all done” or “take a break” to use when play time is over. Keep the ball put up, out of reach and be diligent – always use this command and always keep the ball put up so that your dog knows that you are in control. By doing this, you are showing dominance and ‘guarding’ your property.
• Try alternating toys during a game of fetch if he is fixated on a specific ball. Between throws of the coveted ball, try throwing another toy to change things up and keep him from obsessing on a specific toy.
• Never try taking the ball from your dog’s mouth. Always use the ‘drop it’ command. If your dog is hesitant to drop the ball, or flat out refuses, try offering them a treat or toy that they value equally and use the ‘drop it’ command.
• If the ball or other coveted toy is put up and your dog continues to beg for it or stare at the spot where it is put away, distract them by getting another toy to play with, going for a walk, going on a car ride, anything to change their focus. This is much more effective than telling them “no” or that they are bad as they do not understand the meaning you are trying to convey.

Frozen Star Dog Treats

The dog days of summer are on their way and when the temperature heats up, the last thing you want to do is turn the oven on. Here is a nutritious snack for your pampered pooch that requires no cooking and minimal preparation. A perfect summer treat for any hot dog looking to cool down!

Ingredients 

1 Cup Water
8 Strawberries
1/4 cup Blueberries

 Directions 

1. Rinse the strawberries and blueberries.
2. Cut stems off of strawberries
3. Mix 1/2 cup water and all 8 strawberries in the blender. Blend until liquefied.
4. Repeat with blueberries, mixing 1/4 cup blueberries with 1/4 cup to 1/2 cup of water).
5. Pour the strawberry/water mixture into star shaped ice cube trays using a cake decorating tip to help prevent any leaks.
6. Repeat with the blueberry mixture.
7. Freeze for 2-4 hours or overnight.
8. Once the stars are frozen, pop them out and serve 1-2 cubes at a time.
9. You can put the remaining cubes into a plastic container and store them in the freezer.

 *If you don't have star shaped ice cube trays, regular square ones work just as well!

  Recipe Courtesy of irrisistiblepets.com.

Dog Breed of The Month: The Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers, or as they are more commonly known, Yorkies, are a small dog breed of the terrier type. Originally these tiny, fancy dogs were not so prim and proper; They were used for catching rats in clothing mills. Yorkies are part of the toy group. They originated in northern England and came to North America in 1872. During the Victorian era the Yorkie was a very popular pet and show dog in England and since America embraced Victorian customs, they also embraced the Yorkie and they are still popular today.

Adult Yorkies remain small and usually reach 6-7 inches and height and only weigh no more than 7 lbs. They have a long, glossy coat that requires diligent combing and grooming. Their silky hair tangles easily and without constant attention it can become tangled and matted. A good dog brush and dog comb is a necessity with this breed. Their coat is tan with steel blue on the body and tail. They have abundant hair on their heads that must either be trimmed or secured with a bow or ribbon.

Yorkies can have delicate digestive systems and should only be fed quality food. Vomiting and diarrhea can occur as a result of them eating outside of their normal diet. Like many toy breeds, their small size makes them have a poor tolerance for anesthesia. They can also suffer from skin allergies, cataracts, Luxating patella, liver shunts, tracheal collapse, and bladder stones. They typically have a life span of 12-15 years.

Though tiny, the Yorkie is a very active, curious, attention loving dog. Unlike many small dogs, well adjusted Yorkies do not display the submissive attitude lap dogs can adopt. For this reason, Yorkies typically are not a good choice for households with small children. Yorkies have a natural disposition to work hard without human assistance, and therefore are usually easy to train. They descended from a working breed so they require both physical and mental stimulation. They tend to bark a lot, making them excellent watch dogs. Yorkies are very adaptable and are suitable for most home and living situations.

Fun Facts:

1. The smallest dog in recorded history was Sylvia, a Yorkie from England. She passed away at 2 years old in 1945, weighing only 4 ounces and measuring 2.5 inches tall at the shoulders and 3.5 inches long.

2. Yorkies first appeared in dog shows in 1861 but at the time they were called Broken Haired Scotch Terriers.

3. In 1944, during WWII, a female Yorkie was found in the jungle in New Guinea near Japanese lines. She didn’t understand English or Japanese and no one claimed her so William Wynne of the Air Force adopted her and named her Smoky. She became a war hero by helping save soldiers’ lives during the war carrying communications wires through an underground tunnel. She accompanied her owner on 150 air raids and 12 air-sea missions. She even jumped from a 30 ft tower with a specially made parachute!

4. Yorkies are the 6th most popular breed in the U.S.

5. A 12lb Yorkie saved her elderly owner’s life by fighting off the attack of an 80lb Akita. The Yorkie survived and only needed 9 stitches.

Microchips: How They Work and Why Your Pets Need Them

A pet owner’s worst nightmare is their pet running away, getting lost, or stolen. A dog collar with tags is a great first step to helping identify your dog if they are found, but what if the collar comes off? That would leave no way for your pup to be identified and reunited with you.

Microchips are minuscule transponders about the same size as a grain of rice. They use radio frequency waves to transmit information. They are implanted in between your dog’s shoulder blades, just under the skin and are made to last your dog's entire lifetime. There is only minimal discomfort when they are injected, about the same as a routine vaccination. After they are implanted it is as if they aren’t even there. They stay anchored in the skin and cause your pet no pain. Almost all vets and animal shelters can implant microchips. An enrollment form is completed with the chip ID number, your contact information, and your pet’s information. The form is sent to a registry to be put into their database. Sometimes registration is left up to the owner, to be competed online. It’s important to make sure your pet is registered with the correct information after being microchipped or the chip is useless. Also remember to always update your information after you move, get a new phone number, or change your email address.

In the event that your dog is lost and taken to the vet or a shelter, they will scan your pet and find your contact information and you can be reunited with your pooch. Microchips are not tracking or GPS devices; they have to be scanned with a microchip scanner for them to work but almost all vets and animal shelters have scanners. Each year millions of animals are lost and only a small percentage are reunited with owners solely because there is no way to identify the animal. Animal shelters and veterinarians both routinely scan for microchips and they are fairly low cost considering the extra level of protection they provide you and your pet. In the event of accidental separation, a microchip could be literally be a lifesaver!

Top 10 Under 20: 4th of July

Help your canine companions exhibit their American pride this Independence Day with one of our pawtacular patriotic dog products! We've got everything from American flag printed dog clothing to red, white and blue themed dog toys! Here’s a compilation of our top patriotic products sure to set off fireworks, all below the low price of $20!

1. America’s Pup Dog Bow ($1.99) – An awesome accessory for any American pup! This cute bow measures 2 inches wide and has a rubber band backing for a secure attachment.

2. Fun Food Plush Dog Toys ($4.99) – No Independence Day cook out is complete without hamburgers and hot dogs! Those delicious treats are not good for your pets but that’s no excuse for them to be left out of  the fun! They're sure to love these novel toys!

3. Paws N’ Stripes Forever Dog Bandana ($5.99) – Not every dog finds dog clothing appealing.  This all over flag print bandana is a great substitute!Big enough to fit most dogs and can be cut down to fit the smaller ones!

4. Reflective Cushion Dog Collar ($8.99-$14.99) – These dog collars are ideal for any season but their American colors make them a perfect summer option!

5. Basic Ribbed Dog Tanks ($9.99) – Classic and super comfortable, our basic ribbed dog tanks now come in bold colors perfect for Independence Day!

6. Dogs Equis Beer Dog Toy ($12.99) – Serve up a hilarious new toy for your pooch! Our dogs can’t partake like us humans but they are guaranteed to love this super fun parody toy!

7. Pet Paint Color Spray ($12.99) – This veterinary approved, spray designed just for dogs is full of 4th of July fun! Dries almost instantly, is completely non-toxic, washes off with mild soap and water, and contains no harsh chemicals.

8. Double Ball Dog Tosser Dog Toy ($16.99) – These dog toys provide an awesome combo of ball and rope sure keep your playful pet busy and comes in patriotic red, white, and blue! Durable and sure to last!

9. Doggles ILS (19.99) – Doggles are the premier and only eye wear made just for dogs. Extra wide nose bridge for comfort, straps to keep them secured, and offer 100% UV protection for your pooch!

10. Charlie Dog Bow Tie ($19.99) – This cute dog bow tie is a superb choice this 4th of July! Shirt collar has a detachable bow tie and adjustable Velcro closure.

Five Fun Dog Facts

Our canine companions always find a way to regale us. From goofy behavior to intriguing history, dogs always have delightful to give. Here are some interesting morsels about our furry friends that you might not be aware of:

1. Dogs are the only animals in the animal kingdom that can read the emotions on human's faces.

2. 50% of dogs will develop some form of cancer in their lifetime.

3. The only dog mentioned in the bible is the Greyhound, in Proverbs 30:31.

4. The reason a frightened dog puts his tail between his legs is to cut off the scent glands in his anal region, which carries the personal scent that identifies him to other dogs.

5. Dogs do not feel guilt. The ‘guilty’ look is just your perception and their reaction to your voice.

Gluten Free and Grain Free Loaded Potato Dog Treats

Just like us, our dogs can have intolerance or allergies to many ubiquitous ingredients found in dog food and treats. This yummy recipe is great for pets who have sensitivity to grains or gluten. Comprised of delicious ingredients like eggs, bacon, and cheese, your deserving dog is sure to adore these amazing treats!

Ingredients:

1 cup Potato Flour
3 slices Bacon, crisply cooked and crumbled
1/2 cup shredded Cheddar Cheese
1 cup chopped Broccoli
2 Eggs
1/2 cup Water
pinch Parsley

Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. In a large bowl mix all ingredients one at a time, kneading well after each addition.
3. Once dough is well mixed roll dough into 1/2 inch balls and place them a inch apart onto the prepared baking sheet. Press down on the tops to flatten.
4. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, until the edges brown slightly. Cool and refrigerate.

Makes 2 to 3 dozen rounds

Recipe Courtesy of doggydessertchef.com.

Dog Breed of the Month : The Chihuahua

Of all the dog breeds, the Chihuahua is the most minute and is also the eldest breed in the American continent. Earning their name from the state of Chihuahua in Mexico, these minuscule dogs’ ancestry is an enigma but they are ostensibly progeny of the Techichi breed, a companion dog beloved by the Toltec civilization in Mexico. In olden times Chihuahuas were employed in religious ceremonies and were kept by the aristocracy. In modern times, the Chihuahua is more beloved than ever and is cataloged in the top 20 most favored dogs breeds in the United States by the AKC.

Chihuahuas are slight dogs who are typically 6-9 inches tall and weigh between 4-6 lbs. Occasionally they can be larger, measuring up to 12-15 inches and weighing 10 lbs or greater. They are split into two catagories, long hair and short hair. Chihuahuas are recognized for big, round eyes and oversized, upright ears on top of a rotund cranium. Chihuahuas exist in limitless color combinations from solid to spotted to marked and all that falls within. Popular fur colors are fawn, red, cream, chocolate, brown, white, and black. Dissimilar to other breeds, no color or pattern is though of as more profitable with Chihuahuas. The short haired variation needs no coat grooming and the long haired variationy only requires combing. Unlike other long haired breeds, their coat does not require cutting.

Chihuahuas live long lives of 15 years or better. They can lead very vigorous lives if they get enough physical activity and consume a nutritious diet. Many Chihuahuas have a soft spot on their cranium as babies like human babes posses. They are the only dog breed born with an under developed cranium and caution needs to be executed for the first 6 months until their cranium finishes fusing. Chihuahuas can develop hypoglycemia, like many little breeds, in addition to epilepsy, collapsed trachea, obesity, eye injury or infection, and dental disease. Chihuahuas often shake or shiver when stressed, excited, or cold. These minuscule pups are much more intolerant of winter than bigger dogs and may require a dog coat, dog sweater, or dog boots in cold weather.

Chihuahuas are exceptional, affectionate companion dogs and usually connect strongly with one person. They are brave, curious, smart, and devoted. They should be well socialized and obedient or these headstrong pups can become contentious with other dogs and humans. Chihuahuas can develop Small Dog Syndrome and are not suggested for families with young kids. Some Chihuahuas are can get along with other household pets with no issues but they do not always tolerate other breeds or pets. They often favor other Chihuahuas over other dog breeds and cats.

Fun Facts

1. The Taco Bell Chihuahua was actually a girl, named Gidget. The Taco Bell commercials that aired from 1994 until 2009, when Gidget passed away.

2. Chihuahuas were first known as the Arizona dog or the Texas dog, because they were first found in those states bordering Mexico.

3. Chihuahuas were once a considered sacred. Mummified remains have been discovered in Meso-American grave sites. These people believed the Chihuahua helped them travel to the afterlife safely. In ancient times Chihuahuas were also thought to have healing properties.

4. The Chihuahua has the largest brain in comparison to it's body size out of all dog breeds.

5. Chihuahuas were used as hot packs in ancient times to alleviate aches and pains.

Top Grooming Products for Spring Under $20

Spring showers might bring flowers but for us dog owners it brings something else – Muddy paws! Keep your dog fresh, clean, and in style with these pawsome grooming products! This is a list of our favorite grooming products this season and they’re all under $20!
1. Color Paw Dog Nail Polish ($4.99) – This water and chip resistant nail polish was formulated specifically for dogs and is 100% non toxic. Quick drying for easy manicures!
2. Bathing Wipes for Dogs ($6.99) –Perfect for keeping your dog clean and fresh in between grooming, these handy wipes clean and condition to remove odor, dirt and dander.
3. Tropiclean Fresh Breath Dog Oral Care Kit ($19.99) – Kit includes everything you need to give your dog a clean, fresh mouth, including toothbrush, finger brush, and toothbrush.
4. Medistyp Styptic Powder ($5.99-$11.99) – Accidents can happen when you’re trimming your pup’s nails. This styptic powder is a quick and effective way to stop bleeding from nails cut too short as well as minor nicks and scrapes. Benzocaine helps alleviate pain.
5. Ikaria Botanical Coat Mists ($14.99) - This luxurious mist comes in 5 spa like scents sure to silken and soften your dogs coat. Made of naturally derived ingredients.
6. Ergonomic Dog Nail Trimmer ($9.99-$12.99) – Salon quality results at him! These ultra sharp trimmers have a comfy no slip rubber grip and a built in safety guard to prevent over cutting.
7. Dog Slicker Brush (9.99-$12.99) – Perfect for keeping up your dog’s coat in between grooming. Contoured handle makes at home grooming a breeze.
8. Pretty In Pink Dog Bows ($2.99) – These adorable bows are a pretty finishing touch to your dog’s look. Each bow has a rubber band backing to ensure security. Comes in a set of 4.
9. Pawz Rubber Dog Boots ($12.99-$17.99) – Keep muddy paws at bay with these reusable, natural rubber boots. Comes in a set of 12 boots and each pair can be worn many time.
10. Ikaria Nurture Dog Conditioner ($16.99) – Spa quality conditioner smoothes and soothes skin and gives fur a silky shine. Allows easy comb out and reduces matting of fur.

Five Fun Dog Facts About Your Dog's Ears

1. You can detect what mood a dog is in by the way their ears are pointing. Ears going up and front facing indicate your pup is focused. Ears slanted slightly back suggest friendliness and happiness and ears flattened down onto your pup’s head means fear or nervousness.

2. Even at the night, the earth's quietest time,  it is still  largely vociferous for dogs. They can hear the high-frequency pulse of the crystal resonator used in digital alarm clocks and bodily vibrations of termites in the walls.

3. Your dog’s ears can maneuver freely from one another.

4. The world record title for longest ears belongs to a bloodhound named Tigger in Illinois. His right ear measures 13.75 inches and hs left is 13.5 inches. The logic for these dogs having such long ears is to assist their powerful noses by directing scents.

5. Dogs use twice as many muscles to operate their ears as humans and their hearing is greater than 10 times more accurate.

Blueberry Cheddar Dog Biscuits

Out of all of the super foods, blueberries are one of the tastiest! These yummy berries offer a myriad of healthy perks not limited to just us humans!  Dogs prosper from the antioxidants, fiber, and phytochemicals blueberries are full of. This scrumptious recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Delicious berries paired with tangy cheddar cheese offer a perfect match in these crunchy biscuits!

Ingredients
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup bread flour
½ cup blueberries
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1 egg
2 tbsp oil
½ cup water

Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350ºF
2. Combine flour, blueberries and cheddar cheese in a large bowl and mix well.
3. Add the egg and oil to flour mixture and mix until the egg is completely incorporated.
4. Add water to the dough and mix until dough starts to come together (if you find the dough is too dry, add another couple tablespoons of water at a time until dough forms - you don’t want the dough to be too sticky).
5. Once the dough is formed, place on a well floured surface and form into a ball.
6. Roll out dough to a ¼-inch thickness.
7. Using a dog-bone cookie cutter, cut out biscuits and place onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Re-roll scraps of dough to cut out more biscuits, you’ll yield about a dozen if you’re using a larger cookie cutter.
9. Bake biscuits 25-30 minute until nicely browned.
10. Remove from oven and allow to cool, store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

 Recipe Courtesy of Kia's Kitchen.

Dog Breed of The Month : The Pomeranian

The fox like Pomeranian may be tiny in stature they have the courage and personality of a dog thrice their size. These miniature pups have much larger ancestors - The German Spitz from Central Europe. They get their chutzpah from their forefathers who were working dogs in a frigid region. The breed originated in Pomerania, and that is where they got their name. Formerly much bigger in stature, the British Royal Family altered the evolution of Pomeranians. Queen Charlotte transported 2 Pomeranians to England who are shown in paintings as much bigger dogs, weighing around 30-50 lbs. Her granddaughter, Queen Victoria, owed a considerably more petite pups named Marco, who only weighed about 12 lbs. When she showed Marco in 1891, the more minuscule Poms were a hit and demand for them was so high that the breed's size was permanently scaled down.  The Pomeranian has been a favored breed in the United States for a long time and is regularly listed in the top 20 AKC breeds over the last decade.

Pomeranians are diminutive dogs typically weighing 4-8 lbs and standing 5-11 inches in height. They are small yet tenacious dogs with a heavy double coat and a curled tail that flips onto their back. Their top coat forms a prominent ruff of fur around their neck and they also have feathered hair on their hindquarters. Out of all dog breeds, the Pom comes in the most diverse array of colors, including white, black, brown, red, orange,blue, black and tan, brown and tan, spotted, brindle, and any mixture of these colors. The most prevailing colors notwithstanding are orange, black, or white/cream. Pom Poms' heavy double coat demands care and these dogs should be brushed every day with a quality dog brush to help reduce shedding. They should be trimmed every 1-2 months.

Pomeranians have long life spans and usually live 12 to 16 years. With a quality diet and adequate exercise they don't have many health problems. They are predisposed to tooth problems including early tooth loss, so you should feed your Pom Pom dry food. Other common ailments that Poms are prone to include luxating patella, tracheal collapse, and black skin disease, which is a combination of alopecia and hyper pigmentation. Pomeranians are very spirited, amicable, and smart dogs. They adore their masters and require ample attention. They are very observant and can be spectacular guard dogs because they love to bark and anything out of the ordinary or not stationary. These happy little dogs enjoy being the life of the party but can become dominating and combative if they aren't properly trained. Poms are very loyal and make perfect pets for single people because they tend to be one dog owners. They can have small dog syndrome and aren't recommended for small children. Pomeranians usually get along well with other dogs and cats but should be guarded from larger dogs. These feisty pups do not realize how little they are and are fearless in challenging other dogs, despite how big their opponent might be.

  Fun Facts

1. Some celebrities who are or have been Pomeranian owners include Sharon Osbourne, Elvis Presley, Leann Rimes, Fran Drescher, Nicole Richie, Rihanna, Maria Sharapova, Geri Halliwell, P. Diddy, Samantha Mamba, Bill Cosby, Mozart, Paris Hilton, Kate Hudson, Isaac Newton and Michelangelo
2. Whenever a smaller breed of dog is needed for a rescue mission, Pomeranians are used. Nordic people used their ancestors as sled pulling dogs and reindeer herders.
3. When the Titanic sank in 1912, one lucky Pomeranian survived with her owner, Margaret Hays, on a lifeboat.
4. Almost all Pomeranians go through an awkward “teenage stage,” when their puppy coat falls out and they grow in their adult coat. During this stage Pom Pom puppies can have random bald spots with fur sticking out.
5. Occasionally a Pom can end up being much larger than average (up to 20 pounds) due to a gene anomaly. These are called throwback Poms. Basically, these Pomeranian have the appearance of their descendants – the larger sled-pulling Pomeranians of from long ago. A Pom who is not overweight, but is larger than 14 pounds is considered a Throwback Pomeranian

Basic First Aid For Your Pets

Having a dog is very similar to being a parent to a human child… Both count on you to care for them and protect them. Accidents can occur at any time and it's not always possible to get to the vet immediately. The best insurance you can have when faced with unexpected accidents is knowledge and preparedness. Here are some prevalent accidents our pups experience and how to combat them until you can get professional care:

1. Stings - Remove the stinger if it is still ingrained in your pooch’s skin then wash the area. Use an ice pack to help take the swelling down. Benadryl can also help ease swelling. Your vet will be able to educate you as to the proper dosage for your dog. If the affected area is your pup's mouth or throat, get in touch with your vet immediately. Swelling in this area of the body could hinder your pet's ability to breathe.
2. Poisoning – If you think that your dog has consumed poison, try to find any packaging from the item ingested and have it with you when you contact the vet. If your dog has eaten a poisonous plant, attempt to figure out what kind of plant it is. If your pet is vomiting, collect that as well and bring it with you to the vet's office. Contact your vet or the Poison Control Center Hotline. They suggest that you to induce vomiting with hydrogen peroxide and the will tell you on how to do so.
3. Seizures – If you pet is having a seizure, steer them away from any objects that could injure them, such as furniture. Do not try to constrain your dog until the seizure is finish and stay away from their mouth while they are seizing to prevent yourself from being inadvertently bitten. Try to record the length of the seizure. Once your pet has stopped seizing, try to keep them as warm and quiet as you can and call your vet.
4. Eye Injuries – If your pet has gotten chemicals or other substances in their eyes, flush it out with water or eye wash solution. If your pup’s eye is bulging out of the socket, apply a wet dressing and call your vet. Keep your dog from rubbing or scratching their eye as this will only worsen the situation.
5. Broken Bones – If you have a muzzle, put it on your dog. Dogs bite out of fear and pain and you could get hurt. Gently lay your pet on a stretcher or transportable flat surface. You could also use a blanket or towel as a sling. If you are able, secure your pet to the stretcher to prevent as little movement as possible on the way to the vet. This could be as simple as wrapping a blanket around your pet and the stretcher.
6. External Bleeding – Press a thick clean gauze pad over the wound and apply consistent, firm pressure with your hand until the blood starts clotting. This could take a few minutes, depending on the severity of the bleeding. Do not continually check to see if the bleeding has stopped as removing pressure will make it take longer. Apply pressure for 3 minutes and then check. Repeat if necessary. If the bleeding is severe and on the legs, you can apply a tourniquet using elastic or gauze and then apply the bandage over the wound. Loosen the tourniquet for 20 seconds every 15-20 minutes. Severe bleeding is extremely life threatening and you need to get your pet to the vet immediately.
7. Burns- If your pet is burned, run cold water over the burn for at least 5 minutes and then contact your vet for further instruction. Try to keep your pet warm.
8. Choking – Use extreme caution! A choking pet is more likely to bite due to panic. If your pet can still breathe, get to your vet immediately. Look into your dog’s mouth to see if the object is visible. If you can see the object, try to gently remove it, but be extremely careful - you could end up pushing it further down the throat and worsen the situation. Do not spend a lot of time trying to remove the object if you can’t reach it – Instead go directly to your vet. If your pet collapses, place both of your hands on your dog’s sides, where the rib cage is and apply quick, firm pressure. You can also lay your pet on their side and hit the rib cage 3-4 times with the palm of your hand. You are trying to forcefully push air out of their lungs that will in turn push the object out. Keep doing this until the object is out or you arrive at your vet’s office.
9. Heatstroke – Take your pet to the vet as soon as possible. In the mean time, put a cold, wet towel around your dog’s neck and head but do not cover their eyes, nose or mouth. Remove the towel and re-wet with cold water and put it back on every few minutes or when you can feel the towel getting warm. Use a hose or shower nozzle to run water over your pet’s body, especially the legs and abdomen. Never leave your pet in the car on a warm day. The temperatures inside a car reach dangerous levels even on mild days. Heatstroke can quickly kill – Seek help immediately.
10. Not Breathing – As frightening as it is, stay calm. If it’s possible, have someone call the vet while you help your pet. Open your dog’s airway by gently opening the mouth, grasping their tongue, and pulling it forward until it is flat. Check for objects that could obstruct breathing and remove if found. Perform rescue breathing by holding the mouth closed and holding your mouth over your dog’s nose and breathing in until you see his chest rise, about 20 times a minute. If you can’t feel a heartbeat either, push on your dog’s chest just behind the front legs every second. Give 2 breaths into your dog’s nose for every 15 chest compression. Continue until you hear a heartbeat and your pet is breathing regularly, or until you arrive at your vet clinic, where they can take over resuscitation.

Five Fun Dog Facts

Out of the hundreds of different dog breeds, each with their own personalities and characteristics only one thing is certain - Our dog pals are as interesting as they are adorable. Here are some fascinating tidbits you might not already know about our canine companions:

 1. As loving as our furry friends can be, they don’t like hugs as much as other animals. Dogs interpret putting a limb over another animal as a sign of dominance.

2. There is a high pitched whistle heard only by dogs in the Beatles song “A Day in The Life”. Paul McCartney put it in for his Shetland sheepdog to enjoy.

3. Have you ever pondered why your dog’s paws smell like corn chips? Dogs pick up all kinds of microorganisms on their paws because they are always in contact with the ground. When dogs sweat through their feet, the combination of moisture and bacteria releases the “Frito feet” odor which is essentially dog b.o.

4. Dogs can count up to 5 and perform simple mathematical calculations.

5. Some stray dogs in Russia figured out how to navigate the subway system so that they can travel to more populated areas to search for food.

Pet First Aid Kits

April is National Pet First Aid Awareness Month, a way the American Red Cross is trying to draw attention to and educate people on pet first aid. Everyone owns a pet should have basic first aid knowledge, in case of accidents or emergencies. A adequately supplied first aid kit is a big leap towards being prepared.. Our canine companions are very different from us and require different care, so many of the items found in a standard human first aid kit won't work and could actually do more harm than good! You could buy a first aid kit made for pets at a pet sore but making your own can easily be done with items you already have around the house, saving you some cash. Here is a list of items you should include:
1. Phone numbers to your vet, an emergency vet, and the Animal Poison Center as well as your pet’s               medical records
2. A pet first aid book
3. A leash
4. Gauze to wrap injuries
5. Nonstick bandages and adhesive tape
6. Milk of Magnesia (to absorb poison)
7. Hydrogen Peroxide (to induce vomiting)
8. Digital Thermometer and petroleum jelly
9. Eye dropper or large syringe (with no needle) for administering oral medication
10. Tweezers and scissors (with a dull end)
11. Latex gloves
12. Cotton balls
13. A disinfectant
14. Wound spray for mild cuts, bites, scratches, hot spots, etc
15. Saline solution to wash out eyes
16. Antihistamine such as Benadryl to relieve allergy symptoms
17. Styptic powder or a small container of cornstarch or flour to stop bleeding if nails are cut too short or           break off
18. Rescue Remedy for natural stress relief
19. A blanket
20. A flashlight

Top 5 Spring Accessories Under $10

Spring has sprung! After the severe cold weather this year, nothing sounds better than sunshiny days and activities outdoors. Our canine companions despise winter just as much as we do. Help them celebrate spring’s return with one of our awesome new spring accessories! Here is a list of our 5 favorites, all under the low price of $10!

1. Olivia Dog Bows ( $3.99) – These cute bows feature polka dots for days! Four different versions of  the classic favorite in shades of pink mixed with black and white are sure to delight any diva dog!

2. Mustache Dog Charm ($3.99) – Mustaches are SO in right now and with this adorable charm, your furry friend can enjoy the trend, too! Easy to attach lobster claw clasp clips to the D-ring on your dog’s collar for an instant fashionable look.

3. Basic Ribbed Dog Tank ($9.99) – Now is a perfect time to stock up on basics! This wardrobe staple comes in 4 bold and classic colors and is made of comfy ribbed cotton.

4. Embroidered Berber Bone Dog Toy ($5.99) - These 8 inch soft berber toys are ideal for games of tug and fetch and each have an exciting squeaker inside to keep your dog occupied for hours.

5. Fursions Bouquet Dog Cologne ($9.99) – Our top selling Fursions Cologne offers 4 new floral scents, perfect for spring! Great for keeping your dog smelling fresh in between grooms!

Bunny’s Easter Delight Dog Treats

Include your deserving dog in the Easter fun this year by making them their very own Easter dog treats! These nutritious dog treats are simple to make and extra delicious. Your dog is sure to love them! Great for gifts as well!

Ingredients:

For The Cookies:
1.5 cups wheat or white flour
1 egg, beaten (save a little to brush on cookies)
1.5 bananas, mashed
2 tbsp molasses
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 tbsp canola oil
2 tbsp cold water

For The Icing:
1/2 cup of low-fat strawberry cream cheese
1/2 cup of low-fat plain cream cheese
2 tsp canola oil

Directions:

For The Cookies:
1. Mix all of the cookie ingredients together until a dough forms. If the dough is dry, add a few drops of water.
2. Knead the dough for one to two minutes.
3. On a firm and floured surface, roll out the dough to desired thickness.
4. Use Easter cookie cutters and cut out desired shapes.
5. Put cookies on well greased cookie sheet and brush with beaten egg.
6. Bake at 325 for 15 to 20 minutes or until cookies are firm.

For the Icing:
1. Put the cream cheese in bowls (each flavor in its own bowl). Add 1 tsp of oil to each and mix well.
2. Put the icing in piping bag (you can purchase these at any craft store) and decorate as you like!

Optional: You can put a drop of food coloring into the plain cream cheese for colorful icing.

Recipe Courtesy of Bunny Roo Beagle.