Doggie Blog
How Often Should You Bathe Your Dog? 1
Some dogs love baths and some hate them. Either way, they need to be bathed! It's simply a part of regular dog care items like feeding them and taking them on walks. Dogs don't often clean themselves the way that cats do, so that's where you come in, shampoo and towel in hand.
Exactly how often you bathe your pup depends on their breed, skin conditions, and how often they like to roll around in the mud, but a general guideline to follow is to bathe your dog at least once a month. Certain breeds may need bathing more often, especially those with skin conditions and hairless breeds. Hearty short haired breeds could probably go a bit longer in between baths. In general, once a month will make your dog clean and happy, as long as you're using the right products that won't dry out their skin.
Qualities of the Perfect Dog Shampoo
The most important thing is using something that won't dry out their skin and fur. This means a soap-free shampoo and conditioner made from natural ingredients with moisturizer included. The shampoo should not interfere with topical flea medications, so your dog (and your home) can stay bite free.
Consider factors of your dog's behavior and age. If your dog has gotten into some garbage, a deodorizing shampoo may do the trick. Shampoos for puppies are a bit more gentle on your soft and furry friend. So, the qualities of the perfect shampoo depend on your mutt, but in general, think soap-free and moisturizing.
Dog Bathing Tips
So, your dog doesn't like to take a bath. Or maybe he does but your bathroom ends up looking like it got hit by a hurricane after all is said and done. Here's how to make bath time easier for both you and your dog.
- Have everything nearby. Before you even bring your pup into the bathroom, bring the towel, and any shampoos and conditioners you plan to use. Dogs are unpredictable, especially when they do not want to take a bath, and having everything close will make it faster and easier.
- Use a shake towel. Putting a towel over your dog while you're getting ready for the next step of the bath could prevent them from shaking off and getting water all over the walls.
- Stay inside. Keep your pup inside until she is fully dry because dirt plus water equals a big mess. If your dog can handle the sound, blow drying is a faster way to make sure she won't get too messy if she needs to go outside.
- Make it quick. Have your plan in place of how you are going to bathe your dog right when you start. Experts recommend to start at the neck and work your way down the body.
- Stay positive. Even if your dog resists, don't get angry or annoyed towards them. They are very sensitive to your emotions and they just want to please you, but they are scared. Keep a loving and positive tone in your voice - and perhaps give a treat or two - and your dog might come out on the other end loving baths!
Keeping Your Dogs Coat & Skin Healthy
Bathing is just one part of your dog's coat and skin health. There are other things you can do to keep your fur baby looking great.
- Make sure your dog's diet is on point. A healthy diet will keep your dog's coat looking beautiful, so make sure that you buy high-quality food and treats with balanced nutrition and great ingredients for your dog's size and weight.
- Doggie vitamins can help their coats stay beautiful. Make sure to supplement with omega fatty acids like flaxseed oil or fish oil for an extra lustrous coat. Even a simple scoop of coconut oil can have a similar effect!
- Use doggie sunscreen. Pets with pale skin under their fur can be just as sensitive to the sun's rays as you are. Use a pet-safe spray sunscreen on exposed areas, or put a shirt on them.
- Brushing your dog is an important part of grooming, especially in particularly hairy breeds. It keeps long haired dogs from getting matted fur, and helps to keep their coat clean in between baths.
Go Forth and Clean!
The first step towards giving your dog their monthly bath is picking out the right shampoo. One option to try is our new Clean Condition 2-in-1 Shampoo for Dogs. This product meets the recommended conditions for moisturizing and caring for doggy's fur and skin. It is soap-free with a light coconut scent that can combat trips inside the garbage and other smelly pup endeavors. Use it on puppies and even your cat. Give our dog shampoo a try and then let us know how much your dog loves it in the comments below! As always, our products are backed by our 100% money back guarantee.
Use code DOGGIE22 to enjoy 20% off our 2-in-1 Shampoo + Conditioner on Amazon.
- Jennifer M
Awesome Dog Halloween Costumes For 2018 1
Halloween is a fun time of year when people can be whatever characters they want! When it comes to canine companions, the possibilities are almost endless! As long as your pooch feels safe and happy participating in the fun, take some time to be creative and let them show off their best selves. Whether it's a simple addition to a collar or an elaborate piece of clothing, these pet parents are showing that dogs are our best friends this time of year, just like every season when we treasure them so much.
These dogs got in on the action. Which costume is your favorite?
1. Every guardian thinks their pup is as cute as a stuffie, so why not show off his cuteness with a unique costume? This simple addition to his collar makes this dog a beanie baby.
2. A little bit of faux fur turns this golden retriever into a king of the jungle. All dogs are truly this noble!
3. Any Harry Potter fans in the house? Wand and hat included, talent at wizardry is optional.
4. When you have to wear the cone of shame, you might as well make the best of it and mix a cocktail. Will that be two tennis ball olives or three?
5. Tailor-made for the Star Wars fans and their faux-Ewok helpers.
6. Perfect for those dancing dogs who dream of living in Hawaii!
7. This puppy is ready to climb the corporate ladder. Check out the power tie and cuffs!
8. For only the saints of the dog park! This doggy priest is ready to give you his blessings.
9. Who doesn't love sushi with a side of cuteness? Wasabi and soy sauce on the side.
10. This pooch is just as soft and snuggly as your childhood teddy bear. This one comes with a wagging tail and puppy kisses!
11. Is it a pig or a pug? Or a puggly pig?
12. A whole different spin on the tale of Red Riding Hood! Is your husky really a wolf in disguise?
13. This tiny chihuahua is as daring as a bat. In a moment, he may fly across the room with those giant wings!
14. This is for the Wizard of Oz fans! No doubt this "Tin Man" pooch already has a big heart.
15. This dog shows off his love of nature! A canine assistant to tend to your garden, perhaps?
16. Showing off his love of a coffee and donut chain, this pup is as sweet as can be.
17. This one is a family affair. Mom, Dad and fur kids showing off their love of hot dogs. Ketchup, mustard, or plain?
- Jennifer M
Doggie Dental Health - Why It Matters 0
Just like you, your canine companion needs to have healthy teeth and gums. Unlike their people, however, dogs can't do much to take care of their dental health. When there's a problem, they may hide the evidence by not showing any pain.
There are things you can do to keep your puppy happy and pain-free. Regular vet visits, at-home brushings and chew toys are some of the ways you can ensure those chompers stay strong and healthy for years to come.
Why Take Care of Your Dog's Teeth?
Without attention to dental health, your dog may suffer some major health problems. Some you would expect, like build up of plaque and cavities. According to the AVMA, cavities are less common in pets than their people, but some serious canine-specific tooth problems include:
- Infected, absessed, or broken teeth
- Periodontal (gum) disease
- Broken roots
- Mouth cysts or tumors
- Teeth misalignment, fractured jaw, palate defects
Obviously, these can be quite uncomfortable for your dog. Some problems also affect your dog's overall health, like periodontal disease. This condition not only causes problems in the mouth but may increase risk for diseases of the heart, kidney and liver. This happens because bacteria on the gums enters the bloodstream.
Dental health is important for all dogs, but small breeds like Yorkies and Pomeranians are at greater risk for gum disease. Even as young pups small dogs may have the first signs of periodontal issues. Teeth problems can start early, well before your pooch enters his senior years, so good preventive care is essential.
How Can You Spot Dental Problems?
Dogs unfortunately can't tell you when their mouth is starting to feel uncomfortable. You can know it's time for a vet check up with certain signs, like bad breath, visible buildup on the teeth, problems eating, pawing at the mouth, or lumps around the mouth.
What Can You Do?
The good news is that you can take control of your dog's dental health, and you can start at home. It is easiest to start the routines early, but even if you have a pooch who's getting on in years you can work with him to support dental health.
Brush your dog's teeth. This may seem like a tall order and it does require some patience. Organizations like the California SPCA have step-by-step guides on how to do it right. Use toothpaste made specifically for dogs (never use human toothpaste), and start slowly with just a bit of paste on a piece of gauze. Try to pick a time when your dog is at ease and speak soothingly to him to keep him relaxed.
Feed dry food. Your vet may have specific recommendations for your dog's diet that you should follow. But if you can, try feeding dry food for dental health. Wet food is more likely to sit on the teeth for longer, eventually leading to decay.
Offer chew toys. Your pet store may have toys that are designed to enhance canine teeth health. Give these a try and watch your dog to see if he's enjoying them.
See your vet. Regular checkups help you and your vet to monitor your dog's dental health and spot any early signs of problems. Your vet may recommend a professional dental cleaning, which typically involves putting your dog under anesthesia. The vet will take x-rays and clean thoroughly under the gum line.
Your Dog Will Thank You!
Most guardians relish the opportunity to spend more time with their dogs. You can make regular brushings a happy experience for you both, and keep him healthier over the long run. Often, preventive care is the best route to good health.
- Dana S
8 Fall-Themed Homemade Dog Treat Recipes 0
Fall is a great time for pet owners. Leaf piles make fun obstacles for dogs to run through and roll around in, and crisp nights make for memorable walks. Humans enjoy many delectable treats around this time of year, with pumpkin flavored goodies and hearty holiday meals. Why should your dog get left out of the mix? Here are 8 fall-themed dog treat recipes your mutt will love as much as you love your pumpkin spice latte!
1. Izzy's Apple Cheddar Dog Biscuits
Apples are a fall favorite for everyone, including Fido. Make sure they get their apple-a-day with these incredible dog treats that combine the sweet taste of apples with savory cheddar cheese. They are easy to make too - just combine all the ingredients, bake and give to your pup once they have cooled.
2. Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Dog Treats
Everyone knows dogs love peanut butter but did you also know they enjoy a taste of pumpkin? This treat combines the two flavors for a winning combination your furry sweetie will love the same way that you love grandma's pumpkin pie.
3. Sweet Potato Dog Chews
Sweet potatoes are a delicious part of fall feasts. They are great on their own, but don't forget about sweet potato pudding and sweet potato pie! Dogs appreciate this treat because it takes delicious sweet potatoes and turns them into a chewy toy that can be enjoyed for a few moments longer than a simple biscuit.
4. Candy Corn Dog Treats
Candy corn isn't just for trick-or-treaters anymore. Now dogs can enjoy their own version with this recipe. The treats are basically a simple dog biscuit flavored with chicken or beef stock to make it extra enticing for your pup. The colored frosting gives the treat its candy corn look. Flour icing might sound boring to a human but dogs absolutely love it!
5. Pumpkin Oatmeal Spice Dog Treats
Pumpkin spice is getting into everything these days. It started with pumpkin spice warm beverages, but now there is pumpkin spice chocolate, cereal and even soap with the yummy flavor profile. Dogs love pumpkin spice too, so try this pumpkin oatmeal spice recipe. Use your favorite fall themed cookie cutter to make the treats even more seasonal.
6. Puppuccino Doggy Style Hot Chocolate
Chocolate is definitely no good for dogs, but this warm treat is made from worry-free carob. While you are sipping your hot chocolate on a cold night, your pooch can have their own version. Pups love the warm feeling, and sharing the experience with you.
7. Maple Dog Treats
Fall is the time for maple flavored everything. It's when you pour maple syrup on your food and eat maple sugar candies. Your dog will appreciate these maple dog treats for the same reasons you love maple! This convenient recipe has two different versions: one for real maple syrup and one for maple flavoring. Don't leave them out because wily dogs have been known to gobble them all up in one sitting!
8. Brie's Turkey & Cranberry Dog Treats
Turkey is the centerpiece of fall feasts like Thanksgiving, and cranberry is a well-known accomplice to full bellies. While you're munching on turkey with cranberry sauce, toss your dog one of these treats for a shared holiday experience you can both enjoy.
- Dana S
