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Top 10 Most Popular Teacup Dog Breeds

April 7th, 2018 12:00 AM

The smallest of pooches falls into the category known as teacup dog breeds. Even if you’re name isn’t Paris, these tiny bundles of love will steal your heart!

Pinkies up and best behavior needed as we take a look at the tiniest of the tiny dogs – teacup dog breeds. These wee ones are so small they don’t even fall within the American Kennel Club (AKC)’s criterion for their “toy” group (which is to weigh a minimum of 4 to 6 pounds). Yes, this is the controversial under-4-pounds-when-fully-grown group that brings lots of love but also lots of health and care concerns as they come in extra-fragile packaging. Still want to fill up your cup with this teeny pup? Let’s look at 10 of the most popular teacup dog breeds:

Teacup Chihuahua

These tiny Mexican tamales bring the feisty nature of the full-size Chihuahua but in a much smaller format and will require extra special care when handling. This nervous little pup can co-exist with cats (of the friendly variety) but other dogs or kids in the household are not recommended given how easily he can be injured if rough play happens. (Photo credit: Cloudfoam/Shutterstock)

Teacup Yorkie

This confident little kipper can be his own worst enemy because in spite of his tiny size, he retains the fearless nature of the Yorkshire Terrier and needs to be discouraged from taking on all who cross his path. As with all teacup pooches, extra attention is needed with feeding and mealtimes will consist of small servings 5 to 6 times throughout the day. (Photo credit: C. Lee Parrish/Shutterstock)

Russian Toy

Introduced to North America in the 1990s, this mini-mutt with the great big voice actually prefers a leash to a handbag. Similar to a Chihuahua, he comes in either long or short-haired varieties and because he tips the scales at 2 to 6 pounds, he spans that crucial 4-pound threshold and was recently introduced to AKC “toy” group listing. (Photo credit: Arthur Lookyanov/Shutterstock)

Teacup Maltese

This cute little ball of fur is one of the feistier of the pint-sized pooches and can make a formidable watchdog when it comes to vocal alerts. While this busy little boy really is gentle and just loves to play and cuddle when he isn’t seeking out stranger-danger, he isn’t suitable for families with young kids or other dogs. (Photo credit: Joy Brown/Shutterstock)

Yorkie Poo

Cross a Yorkshire Terrier with a Toy Poodle and you get an energetic little guy that can range upward of 3 pounds and fit quite nicely into any teacup… if you can get him to sit still long enough. This diminutive doggie loves to run, play games and snuggle on your lap at the end of a busy day. He also enjoys a good bark to ward off strangers. (Photo credit: JStaley401/Shutterstock)

Teacup Poodle

Smaller than the Toy and as smart as the Standard, these tiny teacup fuzz balls are not only adorable companions but are hypoallergenic to boot. Note that just like their larger sized poodle kin, these tiny tots will need their coats trimmed and this will require a professional groomer who is trained specifically on handling the super small teacup breeds.(Photo credit: Eloine Chapman/Shutterstock)

Teacup Shih Tzu

Perfect for the handbag and ideal for apartment living, the sweet little Teacup Shih Tzu adores being fussed over and having his long locks brushed and styled. He isn’t high energy, and doesn’t see the point of barking which makes him a great neighbor. Unlike other tiny dogs, he gets along with kids and other pets but handling must be supervised.(Photo credit: Ken Hurst/Shutterstock)

Teacup Pomeranian

While this curious little teacup with the fox-like looks and quick-to-bark personality resembles a regular-sized Pom, don’t expect the same energy or activity level. This much smaller version needs a quieter, child-free household where he won’t feel threatened or risk being trampled. And because of their ultra-tiny organs, most teacup pups cannot be house-trained. (Photo credit: Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock)

Teacup Maltipoo

This tiny tot comes from breeding a Toy Poodle with a Teacup Maltese for a truly sweet natured little pup. Luckily, he travels well because as is the case with most Teacup dog breeds, he can’t be left on his own for any length of time. The need for frequent feeding and separation anxiety are big factors that potential owners need to consider before taking on these little guys. (Photo credit: JStaley401/Shutterstock)

Teacup Pekingese

Not everything becomes miniaturized with a Teacup pup and the assertive Pekingese personality comes through loud and clear with this tiny take-off. While he still loves to play and cuddle, the small size of this pooch means extra care needs to be taken to monitor his whereabouts as falls off a chair or sofa can be deadly and broken bones happen easily if he’s mishandled. (Photo credit: Grisha Bruev/Shutterstock)

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10 Most Popular Rabbit Breeds

If you’ve decided that a rabbit is a perfect pet for you or your family, you might be wondering which breed is the most compatible with your lifestyle and preferences. The world of rabbits is diverse, with 50 rabbit breeds recognized by ARBA and many more in development, so it might be difficult to narrow down your choice. Luckily, there are more than a few rabbit breeds that have consistently been the most popular choices, both for first-time owners and seasoned bunny parents, as they combine lovely looks with an even lovelier personality, making them a favorite choice for a pet rabbit for years – or decades– back. Take a look at our selection of the 10 most popular rabbit breeds for pets, and you might just meet your new best friend!

Here Are the 10 Most Popular Dog Names for 2022

With 2022 nearing its end (whew, is it that time of the year already?!), many companies are sharing their anticipated list of their yearly statistics – such as which movies earned the most money in theaters or recaps of the best and worst moments of the year. However, as pet lovers, we are always more interested in data concerning the man’s best friend, or in this case – Trupanion’s list of most popular dog names and breeds for 2022. As the leading pet insurance house in the United States, Trupanion has an impressive database of pets, which means plenty of fun information that gives us a better insight into the world of pets and their owners. This year, they’ve sifted through whooping 800,000 insured pets to find out which names were most commonly chosen by new owners in 2022, and which breeds of dogs seem to be the most popular – and while there were some deservedly expected wins on the list (such as Labrador Retrievers or names like Charlie), there are a few fun surprises, too.Without further ado, here’s how the list of 10 most popular dog names for 2022 looks like, according to Trupanion’s research: 1. Luna2. Charlie3. Bella4. Daisy5. Milo6. Lucy7. Cooper8. Bailey9 Teddy10. MaxAnd here’s what are the 10 most popular dog breeds for 2022:1. Labrador Retriever2. Goldendoodle3. Golden Retriever4. French Bulldog5. Labradoodle6. German Shepherd7. Shih Tzu8. Chihuahua9. Yorkshire Terrier10. Cavalier King Charles SpanielAre you surprised by the results, or are you among pet parents that named their new pet Luna or Cooper this year or recently adopted a German Shepherd or a Goldendoodle? Either way, it’s nice to see that there’s a little bit of both the well-loved classics that have been on lists such as this one for many years back, as well as fresh new faces that you might have not yet considered as your new companion, but you will now.

Top 10 Clingy Dog Breeds

Just call them Velcro dogs! Here’s a list of 10 clingy dog breeds that will never want to leave your side.

Top 10 Crisis Response Dog Breeds

So, what exactly is a Crisis Response Dog? Let’s start with what it isn’t. It’s not a Therapy Dog, it isn’t a Service Dog, nor is it an Emotional Support Animal (ESA).

Top 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds

What makes a pup popular? There are many reasons why these dogs made it onto the Most Popular Dog Breeds list. Here are the top 10 breeds that the AKC named as very good dogs! Show us someone who doesn’t love dogs and we’ll show you someone who doesn’t have a heart. These loving and lovely animals are beloved by humans everywhere. They remain the best of all possible pets (sorry cat-lovers, but you know it’s true!). Yet, there are so many different doggos out there. It can be hard to choose which one to bring into your home. Still, people do it every year by the millions. Dogs are everywhere and in all shapes and sizes. But which dogs are the most popular? Which breeds always find themselves at the head of the pack? We’re just as curious as you! So to uncover that answer, we’re going to rely on the American Kennel Club. No one would know better than them which pups are selling in record numbers. Every year the good folks at the American Kennel Club (AKC) run a survey of dog registrations to determine which breeds rule our hearts. The data is gathered, tabulated, and out comes AKC’s listing of the Top 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds. Now we all know the Labrador Retriever has continued to top the charts for the past 26 years. That’s just a fact. The Lab is loved. However, what about those breeds who will be forever the bridesmaid and never the bride? Let’s take a look at those breeds that made the coveted Most Popular Dog Breeds list… but from the bottom up. These are the ten most popular dogs, other than the perpetual crowdpleaser: the Labrador Retriever. We’ll get to them. Just wait. 10. Boxer

What To Do During Flea and Tick Season to Keep Pets Protected and Toxi

It’s that time of year again—the weather is perfect for outdoor activities. It’s also time for nasty fleas and ticks to rear their heads and wreak havoc on you and your pets. What do you need to know this flea and tick season, and how can you help protect your furry family members best? Warmer weather seems to bring out the best in everyone—more people take their pets on longer walks and participate in more outdoor activities and happy pets across the country enjoy all the perks of prettier weather. But there’s a downside to the warmer temperatures and outdoor activities: fleas and ticks. While your dog is not totally in the clear even in the winter, the odds of a flea infestation or tick bite goes down significantly in colder weather. Spring and summer bring out the worst in fleas and ticks, and it’s vital to protect your pets from them. More, it’s important to do so without chemicals and toxins that can be just as bad for them. Tackle Ticks to Take Care of Your Furry Family Members In 2018, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said nearly 60,000 cases of tick-borne disease in humans were reported to them. These include Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Alpha-Gal Allergy reactions. And, according to the CDC, a new tick species has been identified for the first time in the United States—Haemaphsalis longicornis (the Asian longhorned tick). While there’s no germ spreading from the tick reported as of yet, research continues. Ticks are dangers for dogs for several reasons. Because they like to run through woods, grasses, thickets and forests, they tend to easily pick ticks up in their fur and hair and carry them around. This is a problem because it makes dogs susceptible to the disease many ticks carry. These diseases include Lyme, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, tularemia, Babesia, anaplasmosis and Ehrlichia. Our furry friends can also bring those infected ticks into our homes and subject us to being bitten and infected by the tick as well. Flee, Fleas! Fleas are another nasty bunch of little critters that enjoy warmer weather as well. Though they can be a problem during the cold because they continue their life cycles inside where it’s warm, they prefer their fun in the sun. They’re an external parasite found on dogs and cats and frankly, they’re a literal pain in your pet’s butt (and other places). Flea infestations will make your pet scratch and chew their poor bodies until they’re raw. They can lose hair and skin coating, and flea bites can even cause skin allergies in dogs. And their bites don’t just itch and aggravate; they can transmit parasites like tapeworms. Tapeworms can make your dog extremely uncomfortable and lose weight. Additionally, fleas can feast so much on your pet’s blood that they’ll suffer from anemia. An Ounce of Prevention When it comes to protecting your pet from fleas and ticks, prevention is critical. Yes, there are vaccinations for several of the diseases that ticks can bring about, and even chemical and pharmaceutical preventatives that promise to keep the fleas and ticks away. The issue is that our pets are family and we don’t want to expose our family members to any more chemicals or toxins than we have to. Many people don’t pay too much attention to the ingredients in pet products, but just as the skin is a human’s largest organ, so it is in your dog. Exposing them to toxic chemicals and ingredients is just as bad for them as it is for you. It’s not uncommon at all for manufacturers to put products that are linked to allergic reactions, hypertension, neurological dysfunction and even cancers. Parabens are inexpensive and often used in human and pet products as preservatives, but have been linked to cancer, while added synthetic dyes and fragrances like D&C Blue No. 4 and D&C Yellow No. 8 are often made from coal tar, a known carcinogen as well. Safety and Efficacy Combined When you’re looking for a safe but effective flea and tick preventative, you want to be sure to read labels and count ingredients. Experts also believe a combination of a natural and effective flea and tick shampoo combined with a spray when going out offers pets superior, safe and effective protection against flea and tick bites.

Dog Snorting: Why It Happens and What to Do About It

It’s kind of cute when a dog snorts and sneezes. Some breeds can’t help but snort or sneeze often. Here’s what you should know about dog snorting. Everyone sneezes, even your dog. When a dog sneezes it often catches him by surprise, so his reaction to it is just as amusing as the sneeze itself. In addition to sneezing, some dogs exhibit another strange behavior – snorting. Sometimes the two look very similar, so it can be difficult to tell what is really going on. Keep reading to learn more about dog snorting including why it happens and what to do about it. Why Do Dogs Sneeze and Snort? Dogs sneeze for all kinds of reasons, just like humans. In many cases, it is related to the upper respiratory tract – either something is causing irritation or there is some kind of infection. In dogs, these infections could include anything from distemper to kennel cough. Another potential cause for sneezing in dogs is an upper airway obstruction – this is most common in short-faced breeds that have brachycephalic syndrome. Other potential causes for sneezing into environmental allergies or inhaled irritants, either of which may include dust, pollen, and perfumes. Related: What Pet Parents Need To Know About Reverse Sneezing In Dogs Though some of the causes for snorting in dogs overlap with the causes of sneezing, there are some key differences. For example, if your dog snorts frequently then it could be the result of obesity. Obesity increases your dog’s risk for upper airway obstruction which can lead to frequent snorting as your dog tries to clear his respiratory tract. In some cases, snorting is caused by something called “reverse sneezing” in which the dog experiences repeated bouts of spastic inhalation. After the bout passes, your dog may snort to clear his throat. Reverse sneezing, also known as paroxysmal respiration, can be frightening to experience if you are seeing it for the first time. This is largely due to the loud noise that accompanies it. The good news is that in most cases, startling experience is nothing serious or overly concerning. While veterinary professionals and researchers haven’t been able to pinpoint the exact cause of the reverse sneeze, there are a long list of potential causes including allergies, smoke, or foreign bodies in the nose, sinuses, or back of throat. Most cases of reverse sneezing will resolve themselves with no need for medical care. However, if you notice that your dog continues reverse sneezing with little to no relief, or if it continues returning, you should contact your veterinarian for a more detailed examination. Dog Sneezing During Play Do you notice that your dog tends to sneeze specifically while playing with other dogs? If so, the cause is nothing to be concerned about. In fact, behaviorists say that dogs sneeze as a form of communication. The act of sneezing in the middle of play signals that any roughhousing is just fun natured, not a threat. If they feel like there may be a misunderstanding or miscommunication of this point, sneezing is an effective way to diffuse the situation. What Can You Do About Dog Snorting? If your dog snorts very frequently it is not necessarily a cause for concern, but you may want to consult your vet anyway. If your dog is a flat-faced breed or is carrying extra weight, it is likely that he has an upper airway obstruction or some kind of anatomical abnormality that is contributing to the problem. Depending how severe the problem is, your veterinarian may recommend treatment or surgery. Related: Why Is My Cat Sneezing? To diagnose your dog’s problem, your vet may take a history of his symptoms so make sure you’ve been paying attention. Next, he’ll perform a physical exam and may take blood to run laboratory tests in order to rule out any underlying health problems. If those results are inconclusive, he may go so far as to order X-rays or other imaging tests. In extreme causes, he may need to do a visual examination of the nasal structures which could require anesthesia. In addition to having your dog checked out by your veterinarian, there are a few simple things you can do to prevent snorting. For example, you could try using a harness instead of a collar when walking your dog to take the pressure off his neck. Brachycephalic breeds should also be protected from high temperatures and keeping your dog at a healthy body weight will help as well. When is Sneezing a Concern? If you notice your dog sneezing, you may be wondering when you can laugh it off as being an adorable episode and when you should be concerned that it’s something more. In many cases, dog snorting is harmless and doesn’t signify a serious problem. However, if your dog is sneezing more frequently, if it is paired with signs of respiratory distress, or if there are any other signs that there could be something more serious happening, then you should take the situation seriously and contact your veterinarian for the next recommended steps. The first thing to take notice of is how frequently your dog is sneezing. A one-off sneeze could easily be a minor irritation in their nasal passages that has now resolved itself. This is especially common if some dust or pollen has found it’s way into your dog’s nose leading to a sneeze. However, if you notice that your dog continues sneezing repeatedly over a period of time, it’s a sign that there may be a bigger concern that needs to be addressed. It could still be nothing important, but it’s better to err on the side of caution and contact your veterinarian to investigate the potential cause. Another red flag to watch out for is the presence of blood. If your dog is sneezing blood, this is a sign that there is something that has either caused some form of damage in his nose or that something is stuck there irritating the sinus passages. This could be hair, a food item that became stuck while eating, or a plant such as the all-too-common foxtail burr. If there is something lodged in your dog’s nose, you should contact your veterinarian as soon as possible to address the situation. Not only will this allow the professionals to carefully remove the item preventing any additional damage, but it also allows them to prevent it from becoming lodged even deeper in his nasal cavity. If your veterinarian does find any damage present in his sinus passages, they can also prescribe medications to prevent further complications, such as an infection.

Drop Dead Gorgeous: Cat Grooming Basics You Need To Know

Such a pretty kitty! Here’s how to keep your cat looking her best. Although cats are fastidious groomers on their own and you rarely, if ever, have to worry about bathing them, there are some grooming basics that you should be aware of that will help you keep your pet’s skin and coat healthy throughout her life. Taking Care of the Skin and Fur Bathing Unlike dogs who typically need to be bathed on a regular basis, cats usually only need a bath when they have extremely oily skin or when they get themselves really dirty. A flea bath may also be warranted in the case of an infestation. Related: Interactive Cat Brush Lets You Lick Your Cat –Hairballs Not Included [Video] The key to bathing a cat successfully lies in using a mild, non-irritating, preferably natural feline shampoo. Only fill your bathtub with about three or four inches of lukewarm water. A large cup or pitcher can be used if you don’t have a gentle spray hose, making sure you avoid getting water in your cat’s nose, ears, and eyes. After applying the shampoo from head to tail, gently rinse and dry your pet with a towel. Brushing Brushing can be done in lieu of bathing because it’s a great way to remove dirt and irritants to keep your pet’s skin and coat healthy. It also helps to eliminate tangles, especially in long-haired breeds, and assists in distributing the natural oils of the skin throughout the coat in order to keep it soft and shiny. Brush once a week if your pet has short fur but more often (maybe even once a day) if you have a long-haired kitty. Related: 5 Cat Hacks to Understand and Treat Cat Hairballs A metal comb can be used first to get to the skin and remove dirt from head to tail. This can be followed by a rubber or bristle brush to remove any loose or dead fur. Once again, move from head to tail, and be gentle on sensitive areas like the tummy. Be sure to remove any tangles you find along the way. Kitty Pedicures To keep your cat’s claws healthy and dull enough that she doesn’t inadvertently scratch you up and destroy your furniture, invest in a pair of nail clippers specifically designed for cats. Though you can certainly trim her front and back claws, most owners stick with the front paws only. To do so successfully, you need to get your cat used to having her paws handled. You can accomplish this by gently massaging her legs and making it a point to touch the feet and press in on them to extend the claws. Once she is used to this type of touch from you, she will be able to tolerate the nail clippings, though you may still need someone to hold her while you do the trimming. Notice that each claw has a pink center. You want to avoid cutting into this area, which is referred as the quick. It is rich in blood and nerves. Instead, just trim the clear, sharp end of each claw to ensure it is a pain-free experience. The Keys to a Successful Grooming Session Never groom your cat when you, or your pet, are in a bad mood or stressed. Instead, take a few minutes out of your day when you are both relaxed and content to be around one another. This will make the process go more smoothly and quickly. Also, start grooming your cat at a young age to get her used to the process. Start with short sessions and build up from there. You should even make it a point to pet your cat from head to tail, including the feet and belly, in order to get her used to your hands and to prepare her for the grooming tools, including brushes and nail clippers, you’ll use.

Top 10 Reasons for Adopting a Senior Dog

Looking to adopt? Choose an older dog. There are plenty of reasons why you should adopt a senior dog, and we’ve outlined just 10 of them! We’ve all heard the expression “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks”, but odds are most of us haven’t stopped to consider that if you adopt a senior pooch, you really don’t have to – he already knows them. So, why is it that when our best buddies are unfortunate enough to find themselves in a shelter after they’ve reached their golden years, its almost certain that they will never be adopted. And sadly, this is the fate of many “established” pooches that are ready, willing and able to share their life with a new family. It may be that prospective pet parents fear falling in love, then losing their new pooch too soon. Or they’re concerned about costly medical issues that may (or may not) crop up. Maybe they think an older dog is too set in his ways to accept a new home or, well, learn those new tricks. In many instances they’d be wrong. And although there is a wealth of reasons why a more seasoned dog is a great option for a family, we’ve narrowed it down to just 10 that should be considered before you decide to exclude an older pooch from making it onto your short-list of potential pets. No Surprises with an Older Dog Let’s face it, a bouncy, playful puppy is easy to gravitate towards, but each breed can present some health or personality issues as they grow older. While some can be a bit snappish, others may have dietary challenges or be prone to issues ranging from dental disease (smaller breeds) to joint issues. And some breeds are renowned for being difficult to train while others can be prone to separation anxiety which results in destructive behaviors if you leave them alone for periods of time. With an older dog, any of these behavioral or hereditary issues will have already presented – if at all. You’ll also know his fully-grown size and required activity level – so no surprises on these fronts either. You’re Stepping Up As mentioned earlier, older dogs that find their way into the already overcrowded shelter system are the least likely to be adopted into a new family. Because of this, they are among the first to be euthanized if they’re not adopted soon after arrival. While you may assume that if you don’t adopt him, someone else will, you’re likely to be wrong. Most never make it out of the shelter alive. These pooches have many great years left in them and are simply looking for someone to look past the grey and recognize the puppy that still lurks within. And don’t forget that by adopting any dog from a shelter, you’re helping to take a stand against puppy mills, pet stores and irresponsible breeders. Training is Done Anyone who has adopted a young puppy knows all about the sleepless nights caused by their new furry youngster yipping and yapping for his siblings. Puddles on the floor, shoes and furniture that have been gnawed on the moment he is left alone. Yes, puppies are cute but even with crating, that “breaking in” period is not for the faint of heart. And training any dog can be a mixed bag as a number of breeds are downright stubborn, requiring a professional trainer to step in. With an older dog, you can expect that he’s already been trained on the basic commands such as sit, leave it, stay and come. Better still, he’ll almost certainly know to wait till he gets outside to do his business and the days of him needing to chew on everything he encounters, are long past. Older Dogs are More Chill Our grey-muzzled friends are just so great to hang out with. Want to sit on the porch and read a book? He’s down for it. Try that with a puppy. If you have kids or older family members who want to take him for a walk, there’s no worry that he’s going to tug, lunge or jump around and either break free or knock them over. With a senior dog, that urgent need to burn off excess energy by chasing another animal or that errant wafting leaf isn’t there – which makes outings more relaxing. And when you just want to hang out on the sofa with a companion that you don’t have to continually supervise and entertain, an older dog is just the ticket. Great for First Time Dog Owners If you’ve always dreamed of adopting a pooch but have hesitated because you don’t think you have the time, energy or know-how to nurture a loving relationship with your pet, an older dog is ideal. Why, you ask? Because, they don’t have the same restless energy of a puppy. They’re a little slower, a lot more patient and much easier to connect with than their younger counterparts. And don’t be mis-led by a little “snow on the roof” (or grey on the muzzle), these older pooches are still quite capable of picking up new skills, learning new tricks and building strong, new relationships when given the opportunity. They Fit in Well Older dogs have often come from a family environment which may have included other animals. A pet parent passes away, a new baby makes caring for a dog just too challenging, allergies, a move, there are a number of reasons why an older dog is uprooted from all that is familiar and placed into the shelter system. The upside for adoptive parents is that this dog already understands the family dynamic and how to fit in with his human pack. And with most shelters, they’re able to tell you if that pooch with the softly greying muzzle and gentle eyes gets along well with other animals, likes to cuddle or has any fun, quirky behaviors you may want to know about. They’ve Been Socialized Because most older dogs have already been exposed to not only humans but other animals over the course of their life, you don’t have to worry about how they will react to new faces, sights and sounds. Socialization is a crucial part of puppy training and it shapes how a young dog will be able to adapt to new settings and get along with others. We’ve all seen dogs that bark and growl when strangers approach or become aggressive around other animals and this can often be down to a lack of proper socialization when they were young. With an older dog, it’s a safe bet that his senses have been exposed to a variety of stimulants and he’s likely to be less reactive in new situations. A Great Option for Seniors Older individuals often say they are reluctant to adopt another dog or cat because they are afraid it will outlive them. Understandably, they don’t want to see their beloved pet put into the shelter system and possibly languish in a cage while awaiting adoption…or euthanasia. And that’s why an older dog is a great option. While a puppy can be a long-term commitment with smaller breeds often breeching the 20-year mark these days, an older dog has a finite number of years left. He’s content to take shorter, easy walks or to simply hang out with his older pet parent. Additionally, studies continue to report the important role a pet can play in the life of a senior. The responsibility of having to feed, shelter and care for another living being improves both their mental and physical health. They Are Quick to Bond We’ve all seen those heart-breaking photos of dogs mourning by the graves of their deceased pet parents. The love is real and the loyalty unquestionable. Which is why I think a lot of prospective pet parents hesitate to adopt an older dog. Can they replace the unique bond this pooch has had with his former owner? The answer is a resounding “yes”. An older animal going through a life upheaval is in search of a new pack that he can bond with. He needs the reassurance that comes from companionship and having a sense of direction. In fact, many dog breeds are known to need a strong pack leader to help them cope. You can be that pack leader. You’ll Feel Great About Your Choice Pat yourself on the back. You haven’t succumbed to the cute little puppy or paid through the nose for a pure-bred dog that won’t be available for a couple more months. You’ve seen a dog in desperate need and brought him into your life. You’ve accepted all of the age-related benefits as well as the restrictions that he brings and can focus on enjoying the years ahead. There’s something special about making a home for an older animal because you just know he appreciates having a second chance at life. Rest assured that the warm and fuzzy feeling you get each time you scratch his head or offer him a treat, never ends.

Top 10 Play Pens for Dogs

Outdoor or indoor play pens, play pens for big dogs or small breeds, metal, plastic, wood, or nylon play pens for dogs- there’s a choice for everybody.

Adoptable Dog of the Week- Nyla

If you want a lively, playful fluffy ball of fur in your life, you’ve come to the right place. Our Adoptable Dog of the Week is Nyla, a one year old Pomeranian from Madison, Wisconsin. This adorable little lady is spayed and current on her vaccines. Nyla is a friendly, sweet dog who does well with humans and other dogs alike- but it’s recommended she goes to a family with older or no children, due to her small size. Nyla’s Tale Nyla is a young pooch that’s up to a ruff start, but it didn’t dampen her spirits. This fluffy little caramel furball is full of love for everyone she meets- she loves being held and cuddled. In fact, she’ll likely jump at you to show you to scoop her up in a hug. Nyla’s a cuddle bug and an ideal lapdog companion, not unlike most Pomeranians, and this girl’s a purebred Pom through and through. She is very energetic and playful and loves going on walks. But only on a harness attached to a leash, as she tends to choke on collars. Owing to her young age, Nyla is still an adaptable, curious dog that will blossom into a lovely canine companion with a right person by her side. She still has a lot to learn and would do best if adopted by an experienced pawrent who could housetrain her and teach her the basics of pooch life. When it comes to her sweetness and friendliness, Nyla isn’t shy to show it at all times. She gets along well with most other dogs, too, and could potentially do great in a family that already has one furry baby in the households. As for human babies, Nyla is a small and fragile pooch that shouldn’t be around small kids. Only teens or older children could be a fit- make sure to contact Dane County Humane Society for more information and a meeting before you decide.

The Perfect Poop And Why It’s So Important

We know that a healthy gut is vital for our nutrition and the key to overall wellness in people, but researchers and clinicians are now finding that gut health is also essential for our furry loved ones. How do we check our pets’ digestive tracts to ensure that are they are firing on all cylinders? The first step is to check their poop. Yes, poop. It never lies! Based on their poop, we can consider adding digestive supplements or making lifestyle changes to help our furry friends heal their guts and obtain the perfect poop. There’s a reason your vet asks you for a fecal sample when you go in for well-checks. In addition to looking for harmful parasites and bacteria, your vet is also looking at the sample much like how a human doctor does. Your stool can tell if you’re absorbing enough nutrients, are dehydrated, have hemorrhoids, and even if you are getting enough fiber. Health starts with nutrition and nutrition begins in our gut, so a well-oiled digestive tract is critical. In addition to helping us avoid bouts of diarrhea or constipation, a properly operating digestive tract can help strengthen our immune system, help us maintain our weight, increase our energy levels and so much more. And our pets’ poop is no different – their stool can show us whether they’re getting the right nutrition, whether they have bacteria or toxins inside of them, and even give an indication to things like inflammation and many other conditions. You could be spending hard-earned money to serve your pet top-notch food (and we hope you are), but an unhealthy gut may be stealing a lot of that beneficial nutrition you’re giving them. Healthy Digestive Systems: The Poop Starts Here What makes a healthy digestive system in pets, and what can we do to maintain it? Just as in humans, our pet’s digestive systems work to digest foods, absorb vitamins, minerals and nutrients and weed out toxins and other harmful organisms. The digestive system also houses the stomach and intestines (gut) and harbors billions of bacteria that aid in the digestive process and support the immune system. There are many more factors that go into the digestive system and we’re learning more and more as vets perform more research. To help understand our pets’ digestion better and figure out what I specifically could do to help our recently adopted rescue dog (who was having some major poop issues), I scoured one of the world’s largest pet conventions and learned from many companies and about products that could help. In the process, I met and spoke with Jim Finnigan, the creator of Bernie’s Perfect Poop and president of Bernie’s Best – a company dedicated to improving our pet’s gut health. Jim says that the key to a good digestive system for our pets starts with good nutrition. What we put into our bodies matters, and what we put into our pets’ bodies matters too. A healthy GI tract in our pets leads to higher absorption of minerals, amino acids, vitamins and nutrients. Additionally, a healthy GI tract in dogs and cats acts as a barrier for many of the disease-causing bacteria and viruses they come in contact with on a regular (my dogs find deer and goat poop particularly gourmet) basis. It also creates the optimal environment for beneficial bacteria to grow and fight off harmful organisms. Checking your dog’s poop is the easiest way to tell how healthy your pet’s gut is. When it ‘looks good’ in appearance, size and color, odds are it is the sign of a healthy GI tract. Bad breath (no, dog breath doesn’t normally reek), stinky stool, and lots of flatulence (it really is the dog, and not just you blaming him for that stink!) are also signs of gastric distress in your pet, and should be addressed to ensure maximum health. Plus, a good health poop is easier to pick up and less stinky for the pet parent! What Makes Perfect Poop? Good gut health has a few key factors that are involved. First and foremost, dietary fiber is pivotal. And we’re not talking just roughage—we’re talking good fiber. All pet food manufacturers include fiber in the foods they sell, but not all of them want to spend the money to ensure the fiber ingredients are clean and green. In fact, many dog foods (and even some human products) will use cellulose or other byproducts to add fiber. Cellulose can come from shredded wood or wood pulps and is processed with harsh chemicals. Not necessarily what you want in your body or your pet’s, so it’s essential to read labels and know your fiber sources.

How to Dog-Proof Your Outdoor Barbecue

It’s barbecue season and your dog couldn’t be happier. Here’s how to ensure your BBQ is a success and keep your dog out of trouble Now that it is finally summer, you’re enjoying the sunshine and looking forward to spending as much time as possible outdoors. And your dog is too! With summer comes barbecues, pool days and other outdoor parties. These events can be a lot of fun and a great way to catch up with friends and neighbors, but they can also pose a number of risks for your dog. In this article we’ve outlined some tips for dog-proofing your outdoor parties to keep everyone safe this summer. Food Safety Tips When it comes to outdoor parties, it is all about the food. Not all foods are safe for dogs, however, so it is important that you employ some basic precautions to keep your dog safe. Always keep food in covered containers to ensure that your dog can’t reach it – this is especially important for foods with bones, onions and other ingredients that are toxic to dogs. Another thing to be wary of is letting your guests feed the dog under the table. Not only can this encourage your dog to develop a problem with begging, but your guests may not know which foods are unsafe for your dog. Either ask your guests not to feed the dog or consider putting out a bowl of dog-safe snacks for them to hand out. Keep the Dog Contained No matter how well trained your dog is, his normal behavior may change when he is faced with the opportunity to bite into a juicy steak. Consider keeping your dog tethered while you are outside to ensure that he has a safe place to roam around that is away from the food. If you have a fenced yard, make sure your guests know to keep the gate closed when they come and go – put up a sign if you have to. Ultimately, you know your dog and you know what he is capable of and likely to do – if you don’t feel like you can trust him outside, then your best bet may be to leave him inside. Keep the Grill Off-Limits Perhaps the main thing you need to worry about when keeping your dog outside for a barbecue is grill safety – your dog may be drawn in by the delicious smells from the grill and won’t even realize the potential danger it poses. If your dog is well trained, teach him to stay away from the grill by using the “No” or “Off” command when he goes near it. Another option is to keep the grill in an area that you can close off using baby gates so that your dog can’t get to it. These precautions are also recommended for bonfires and other smaller cooking surfaces that you may use outdoors where your dog will be in the proximity. Clean Up Quickly Pool parties and barbecues are casual affairs, so people tend to come and go from the table. In most cases, it isn’t a big deal if you leave a plate of food on the table and return to it later but, if there is a dog in the vicinity, he may help himself in your absence. To keep your dog from eating unsafe foods, clean up quickly and put all the trash in an appropriate container – a trash can with a lid is best because trash bags can fall over or tear open. The summer is the perfect time to enjoy the sunshine and the company of friends and family. It is also a great time to spend with your dog, as long as you take proper precautions to keep him safe. After reading this article you should have an idea of what you need to do to dog-proof your outdoor parties.

Top 10 Best Poop Bags

Scooping up dog poop is one of the less enjoyable aspects of being a pet parent, but it’s also an unavoidable one. Check out what are the best poop bags to help you get through this experience mess-free.

Adoptable Dog Of The Week – Berlynn

What a beautiful girl! We’d like you to meet Berlynn, our Adoptable Dog of the Week. She’s a young female Rottweiler from Billings, MT. Berlynn is already spayed, housetrained, purebred, up to date with shots, good with kids, and not good with cats. Berlynn’s Story: Berlynn is a nice, quiet girl. She lived with a Shih Tzu all her life and they loved each other. She lived with a young boy and girl and is good with people. She also lived with a cat, but they only tolerated each other so would probably be a good idea to have NO cats in the home. She is a young dog, so would be a good candidate for an active family. She is a real cuddle bug and goes into the whole body and head wiggle when she sees you. She will then get into your lap and just cuddle and kiss. She also loves to hold her toys in her mouth for you to see and touch. Berlynn doesn’t appear to be a candidate for livestock, unless you are willing to work with her. She also has developed some car sickness which can be helped by meds and is probably stress related as she did not have these symptoms before. It has been determined that Berlynn is not suitable for a home with small dogs, she gets too excited, then jealous and will go after them. She may be okay with another large male dog or ideally in a home of her own. To learn about Berlynn, please visit Adoptapet.com.

How to Protect Your Dog From Fleas and Ticks

Flea and tick season is here – so how do your protect your dog from these nasty pests?

Maltichon

Maltichon BasicsCute, fluffy, and loving- the Maltichon will make your heart melt. Maltichon, or Maltese Frise, as it is also known, is a very popular designer dog breed, and with good reason. These beautiful dogs were developed by crossing the Maltese and Bichon Frise, two well-loved toy breeds. At first glance, these two white-haired, small dogs look a lot alike, but each of the parental breeds brings something unique to the mix. It’s not often that the puppies inherit only the best traits from their mom and dad, but the Maltichon is as close to being the best of both worlds as a designer dog can get.Of course, while its lovely appearance plays a role in its popularity, it’s not the only reason why the Maltichon is a sought-after breed. But not only that – the breed is popular because of its great personality as well! They are quirky, fun, energetic, and very affectionate. What’s not to like!? Perfectly suited to life in an apartment, these petite pooches get along with everybody and adapt to any family. Children, other pets, seniors, or singles- the Maltichon will fit in with ease. If you are looking for a family-friendly canine companion that will do well in an apartment setting and bring a bit of fun into the daily grind, you can’t go wrong with a Maltichon. Let’s learn more about these fun doggos.OriginIt’s not often that the origin of a designer dog breed is known. For the majority of these hybrid breeds, it’s impossible to pinpoint an exact time and place of their creation. Of course, there have surely been many accidental pairings of the Maltese and the Bichon Frise, but their intentional crossbreeding is a fairly new occurrence. It’s highly likely that the first litters of purposely bred Maltichon puppies came to be in the United States, sometime in the last twenty years. That is when many designer dog breeds that we know and love have come to be. Granted, we might not know much about the history of each of the designer dog breeds, but the origin of their purebred parents can tell us a lot about their offspring. For the Maltichon, it’s easy to see how these mixed breed puppies are bound to be ideal companions for families. Both the Bichon Frise and Maltese have been treasured as pets and lap dogs for centuries- the Maltese is even considered to be the oldest European toy breed known to man. Their long histories were bound to come together at one point – the end result is the wonderful Maltichon. Pedigree

Study Proposes Smartest Dog Breed And You May Be Surprised

Dogs are smart, that’s for sure. But some breeds are thought to be more intelligent than others. While many might put Border Collies, Poodles or German Shepherds at the head of the smarty-pants list, a new study finds the Belgian Malinois to be the top dog.

Top 10 Most Popular Teacup Dog Breeds Information and Pictures