Author: rgoessel

From time to time, The American Kennel Club (AKC) adds new breeds of dogs to its registry. Being added to their list as a new breed is not something that happens with ease. The American Kennel Club has a rigorous screening process with extremely strict eligibility requirements in order for a dog to be recognized as a new, pure breed. These requirements include a national breed club with at least one hundred members and a population of third-generation dogs numbering at least three hundred. That is not easy to find. The dogs must also be found in at least twenty states in the U.S. To demonstrate how selective this process is, there have only been fifteen new breeds added to this registry since 2015. We rounded up five of these new breeds registered in the last five years to help you get more familiar with them.

Barbet

Initially registered in 2020, Barbet Dog is one of the AKC’s most recent additions. The Barbet has been shown off in French artwork that dates back as far as the early 16th century. This breed gets its name from the French word “barbe,” which means “beard,” and by looking at this pup you will understand why. The Barbet Dog is a rare dog breed, with a long coat similar to a Poodle, that consists of thick fur that transitions into tight curls. The Barbet is a very loyal and smart breed of dog that has an appearance as unique as its personality.

Azawakh

The Azawakh originated in West Africa and is a tall and slender dog. Although this breed has been around for a very long time, it wasn’t listed on the registry until 2019. This dog was originally developed to be a hunting dog. The Azawakh is a very rare breed and consequently, a very expensive breed. They have a similar, but not identical, appearance of a greyhound and are very athletic. Today’s Azawakh is still commonly used as sighthounds. The Azawakh does make a great pet and tends to be happy when his family is happy.

Dogo Argentino

The Dogo Argentino is a strong and muscular dog which was developed in Argentina for hunting large game. This rare breed, which was initially registered in 2020, is also very expensive. The Dogo Argentino is a strong looking and focused dog that has a very alert mind and a strong will. They are known for their loyalty and protective personalities. Despite their somewhat intimidating appearance, they are not known to be aggressive dogs. This breed does make a good family pet if you are able to find one.

American Hairless Terrier Dog

Despite their name, the American Hairless Terrier can be found in both hairless and coated varieties. This breed descended from a single Rat Terrier that was selectively bred for its hairlessness qualities. In 2016 the American Hairless Terrier dog breed was officially recognized. This breed is known to be outgoing, energetic, curious, and loyal. They are also very good at hunting small rodents. They make great family pets and are not known to excessively shed.

Nederlandse Kooikerhondjie Dog

The Nederlandse Kooikerhondjie was originally bred in the Netherlands to serve as a duck decoy dog. They were very good at luring fowl to their doom into “Eendenkooi,” which is a man-made pond trapping cage. Their Dutch name translates to “small cager dog,” and their unique tails helped entice ducks into these areas. Despite the Nederlandse Kooikerhondjie being very popular in the Netherlands for centuries, they were not registered with the AKC until 2018. This is a quality breed of dog that does well in families of all dynamics.

Did you know that there are 339 breeds of dog on Earth? That’s a lot dogs! Each dog breed comes with very distinct traits. Besides physical attributes each has its own personality, skill, and demeanor. Although every dog is special, some are just more “pupular” than others. Below is a list of the top ten dog breeds in the United States and a little information about each dog.

Ranking #1 – Labrador Retriever

For over thirty straight years, the Labrador Retriever has been the most popular breed of dog in the United States. This pup is not only as handsome as they come, but has a personality to match. They are kid friendly and mom approved dogs that are always happy to see their family. They do great with other pets in the house and do not require excessive amounts of work.

Ranking #2 – Goldendoodle

The Goldendoodle’s popularity continues to take off much thanks to her sweet and playful personality and very approachable demeanor. This breed has a lot to offer and is a joy to be around. They enjoy playing, do great with children and are not known to be aggressive. The Goldendoodle is also a very attractive dog who cleans up well!

Ranking #3 – Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is not only a very smart breed of dog but a very loving and loyal breed. They are family friendly dogs who easily train and who remain very loyal. This breed is known for its companionship and simply enjoys being around his family. For families that are active, this pup is able to keep up and looks forward to making his family happy.

Ranking # 4 – French Bulldog

The French Bulldog is the perfect combination between adorable and lazy! This breed enjoys the company of his family and other pets. They are also mild mannered which allows for them to interact well with younger children. They enjoy taking naps and being close to their family. For those who want a good-looking pup without having to invest a lot of time in grooming, this should be one to consider.

Ranking #5 – Labradoodle

What do you get when you mix a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle? The Labradoodle. This very attractive dog is also very smart. They make amazing family pets and enjoy being the center of your attention. They are also social dogs who enjoy the company of other pets in the home. If a smart and good-looking pup is what you are searching for, this breed should be considered.

Ranking #6 – German Shepherd

The German Shepherd is quality pup who is known to be loyal, smart and protective. Despite being protective, they can also be very gentle and caring. They enjoy staying busy and they do best with families who enjoy spending time outdoors. Thanks to their intelligence and physical attributes, this breed is also used in law enforcement and the military.

Ranking #7 – Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is an elegant dog who is not afraid to get her paws dirty. Despite having a luxurious coat and pretty features, she loves to play and play hard. This breed is very popular and has been for years. If you are looking for a gentle lapdog who is ready for a game of tug of war, the Shih Tzu should be considered.

Ranking #8 – Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is a small yet feisty dog that doesn’t back down from anyone. These pups are also very loving and have caring personalities. They enjoy spending time both indoors and outdoors with family and have been a family favorite for generations in the United States. This breed does well for those who are first time dog owners because they are low maintenance and relatively easy to care for.

Below is a list of our favorite at-home dog hacks for dog owners. These tips and tricks will help you save time and are also pretty neat to try! They range from cleaning up loose dog hair to easy ways to check for fleas.

Dryer Sheets Pick up Dog Hair

Looking for an easy way to clean up dog hair? Use dryer sheets! They pick up loose dog hair with ease. Simply rub a dryer sheet over your furniture or wherever else pet hair collects and watch it disappear! Dryer sheets will allow for the hair to cling which makes this routine chore quick and easy to accomplish.

Use Baking Soda to Clean up Pet Urine

Every dog will eventually do it. When your dog pees on the carpet sprinkle some baking soda on the spot and allow it to sit for twenty to thirty minutes. The baking soda will absorb the liquid and help to remove the odor. Once dried simply vacuum it up! Depending on how saturated the carpet is, a second round may be needed which should do the trick.

Check for Fleas by Giving Your Dog the White Towel Test

Do you suspect that your pup has fleas? Or do you just want to check and make sure he doesn’t? Have your dog lay on a white towel while you examine & brush their fur. The white towel will make it easy to see any loose flea dirt that falls from your dog. Although these critters are very small, they will be able to be seen on a white or very light-colored towel.

Make Your Own DIY Pill Pockets with Peanut Butter, Milk & Flour

One of the most popular life hacks for dog owners was finding a way to get their dog to swallow pills. If you’re having a difficult time getting your dog to swallow pills consider making your own treat by mixing peanut butter, a dribble of milk, and coating it flour. Form each treat into a small round shape the size of your thumb nail. This will keep the pill secured inside the treat assuring your fur-legged friend takes his medicine.

Soften Up Dry Food Using Warm Water

If your pup has a hard time eating his kibble, consider mixing a little warm water over the food first. This will soften the kibble and allow your pup to enjoy his meal. This especially helpful for dogs who may have sensitive teeth.

Skunk Spray? No Problem.

If your dog was sprayed by a skunk the odor can be overwhelming and difficult to get rid of. One of the best ways to combat this unpleasant odor is by using pet soap, peroxide, and baking soda. These ingredients will help to remove the odor from your dog. At times, two or more rounds of cleaning your dog may be needed. Always use caution around your pup’s eyes when washing him, especially with the soap and peroxide.

Use Flour, Cornstarch or Baking Soda to Stop Your Dogs Nail from Bleeding

It happens to the best of us. We accidentally trim our pup’s nails too short and they begin to bleed. Use a homemade mixture of flour, cornstarch or baking soda with water until it’s a thick paste. Once the past forms apply it to the injured nail with moderate pressure for a few minutes. This will help clot the area that is bleeding.

Make Training More Fun by Alternating the Rewards

Rather than just giving praise for a new trick, add some tasty treats to the mix. When your pup follows the rules or is in the process of potty training, a small treat can go a long way. Alternating the types of treats will help keep your pup’s attention. This is a form of positive reinforcement and a great way to keep you fur-legged friend proud of his accomplishments.

Despite their massive and intimidating appearance, large dog breeds are generally well-tempered, warm, loving, friendly and loyal animals!  Throughout history, these dogs have been relied on for their strength which helped them to excel in guarding territory, protect livestock, and farm work. If a large dog is what you want than this is the blog for you. Below are the top six largest breeds of dogs and some information about them.

English Mastiff

At the top of our list of big dogs is the English Mastiff. This breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club. The biggest English Mastiff on record is named Aicama Zorba and broke the scale at 343 pounds. Typically, however, male English Mastiffs weigh 160 to 230 pounds while female English Mastiffs weigh 120 to 170 pounds. These dogs also stand about 30 inches tall at the shoulder, with females being slightly shorter.

Boerboels

The Boerboel generally weighs between 150 and 220 pounds, with no difference given between females and males. Farmers in South Africa began using this breed after initially developing them to hunt leopards and baboons. This dog is a very large and powerful dog and is known to be somewhat aggressive, so good socialization training at a young age is needed.

Saint Bernard

Saint Bernard dogs are large, strong and dominant in size. Male Saint Bernards typically weigh in between 140 and 180 pounds while female Saint Bernards tend to weigh between 120 and 140 pounds. Most Saint Bernards stand just under thirty inches tall at full maturity. This breed was developed to help rescue Alpine mountaineers. The face of a Saint Bernard has a distinct appearance with a wrinkled brow and short muzzle.

Great Dane

The Great Dane is another large breed of dog. Male Great Danes tend to weigh in between 140 and 175 pounds. Female Great Danes generally check in between 110 and 140 pounds. The largest Great Dane in the record books was named Zeus. This gigantic dog stood nearly four feet tall and stood seven feet four inches high when on his back legs. This being almost two feet taller than the average man.

Leonbergers

According to the American Kennel Club, male Leonbergers weigh between 110 and 170 pounds. Female Leonbergers generally weigh between 90 and 140 pounds. Both male and female Leonbergers stand about 30 inches tall at maturity. The Leonbergers has a unique lion-like mane around its neck and chest which magnifies its large appearance. Water rescue teams often use this breed because of their water-resistant coat. Many also deploy this breed to herd animals and as watchdogs because of their size.

Tibetan Mastiffs

Tibetan Mastiffs are large and solid dogs. Male Tibetan Mastiffs weigh between 90 and 150 pounds. Female Tibetan Mastiffs weigh between 70 and 120 pounds. They stand about two feet tall at maturity and are known to make an excellent watchdog. If a large dog is what you are looking for this is definitely a breed to consider.

Anatolian Shepherd

Anatolian Shepherds were initially developed in the Kangal region of Turkey to guard and protect livestock. Although this breed is large and strong and protective, they tend to be very gentle around their family.  Male Anatolian Shepherds weigh between 110 and 150 pounds while female Anatolian Shepherds weigh between 80 and 120 pounds. They stand about thirty inches tall at maturity.

We love our puppies, and so do you! Nothing will stop us from doing things for them to make them feel happy and loved. Below are some ideas of ways that you can improve their life, and they are much easier than you may think!

Boost Up the Exercise Routine!

Our pups love being active, especially with their family. A jog in the park or a walk through the neighborhood will get your pup’s heart beating and tail wagging. Some parks even offer secured off-leash areas, which is a great place for a game of fetch. Regardless of what you do, keeping your fur-legged friend active and well-exercised is a great way to keep them happy.

Mental Stimulation

Mental stimulation for your pup is a great way to fight boredom and stay mentally active. Taking your dog to new places and on new adventures is a great way to accomplish this. Instead of just walking your dog for exercise, try playing games that require them to follow commands. This is a good way to keep their mind sharp and happy.

Positive Reinforcement

When training your pup be sure to use positive reinforcement techniques. Your dog wants to make you happy and is generally happy when you are. While training him, be sure to use the same words when they accomplish an act correctly, followed by an extra pat on the back. Your dog can sense the tone in your voice, so using a consistent and upbeat voice when he does good will allow him to sense your happiness and feel the same way.

Who doesn’t like a good massage? Well, your pup loves them too! Test out different massage techniques for your pup, and when you see one of his back legs twitching, you found the right one! This will allow you and your pup to bond while promoting relaxation. A good brushing of your dog will also accomplish similar results and make him look good too!

Let Them Relax

Many dog owners find it more convenient to keep their pup’s collar on day and night. Although this will save you time, collars can cause discomfort if left on too long. Consider removing your pup’s collar in the evening before bed so he can relax. A relaxed pup is a happy pup!

Feed Them Well

Properly fueling your pup has many advantages. For one, their overall health. A properly fed dog will look and feel better than a dog that is being fed low-quality dog food. Long-term health also greatly depends on the quality of his food. A treat here and there and fine but feeding your dog twice a day in twelve-hour intervals tends to keep their energy levels balanced.

Grooming is Good

Every dog needs to be groomed. Some breeds require more work than others based on their coats, etc. Daily brushing of your pup is very important as it will prevent stubborn knots and matting from forming. Not only will your dog look better being groomed, but he will feel much better too.

Pay Attention

Your dog seeks your undivided attention. Regardless of how busy your day is, be sure to pay your pup quality attention. That can be lying down together, petting while talking to him, or even teaching him a new trick. Your one-on-one attention with your dog is very important. This will allow him to feel loved and allow your bond to be even stronger.

No matter how you keep your dog happy, know that he relies on you and loves your presence. Taking the time each and every day to show your fur-legged friend love is good for his health and will allow him to know he’s special.

Many of us believe that owning a dog and dealing with shedding goes hand in hand. And in many cases that is the truth. However, there are dog breeds that shed very little to none at all. If you are looking for a low shedding or no shedding dog, this article is for you. We will go over a list of not only great family dogs, but dogs that are easy to care for and are not known for excessive shedding.

Bedlington Terrier The Bedlington Terrier requires some grooming, but they don’t shed. This breed is a gentle and caring family dog that makes a great fit into most families. They are not hard to care for and quickly bond with their family. The Bedlington Terrier is certainly a top-notch dog that will win your heart and lap in no time.

Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is best described as being a happy, social, and energetic dog. The Bichon Frise does need routine grooming to maintain their clean white coats which grow, not shed. Due to this, this breed has less dander, which generally makes this pup a good dog for allergy sufferers. Between not shedding and being so lovable, the Bichon Frise is a highly recommended family dog.

Brussels Griffon

The Brussels Griffon is an all-around fun and happy dog. The rough-coated version of this breed does not shed and is easy to groom. They are low maintenance pups that have very loyal and outgoing personalities. They do well with children and other pets inside the home.

Kerry Blue Terrier

Another top choice for those looking for a non-shedding dog is the Kerry Blue Terrier. This breed is a wise choice for folks looking for non-shedding and somewhat non-allergenic dogs. This breed is known for being affectionate, playful, and all-around fun to be around. They make tremendous family pets and are relatively easy to care for.

Maltese

The Maltese is a small, easy-going, and charming dog that has a single white silky coat. Basic routine care is needed in keeping this pup looking its best but is overall is a simple dog. They are considered low-shedding dogs which will allow for more playtime than vacuuming time. The Maltese has a long history of making a great pet and is sure to win your heart in no time at all.

Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier

The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium sized dog that has a soft and wavy coat that requires basic care. This breed is considered to be a low-shedding dog which means a lot less dander. The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier makes a great family pet thanks to its warm and approachable demeanor and is known to quickly bond with its family.

Barbet

The Barbet originated in France and has become very popular in the United States over the last few years. This breed has a very tightly-curled coat which is non-shedding. They are very friendly dogs that tend to be loyal and loving to their families. The Barbet will generally quickly form a strong bond with you and your family. They also have eager to please personalities and enjoy showing off.

Regardless whichever fur-legged friend wins your heart, you have made a great decision. Dogs (high, medium, low, or no shedders) offer amazing companionship and normally offer years of happiness. All dogs will require basic care to look and feel their best and by taking the time to select a dog that best fits what you are able to provide it, will allow you and your new best friend to be happy and content.

Many parents ask which breed of dog would be the best for their family. Kids love dogs and most dogs love kids, but there are some dogs that generally do better around children than others. You have to admit, kids are curious and at times a little rough which is why having a dog who’s tolerable around them is important. Other great qualities in a dog that will be around children include low to no aggression, not overly powerful as to accidently hurt your child while playing, and a warm and loving demeanor. You also do not want a breed of dog that doesn’t want to be “bothered” because many kids just want to play, play, and play some more! If you are considering a family pet and you have children this blog is for you. Below you will find our pick of the top five dog breeds that do great around children.

Labrador Retriever

Year after year after year the Labrador Retriever ranks the most “pupular” dog in the United States. This breed is simply amazing and ranks number one in our kid friendly and mom approved list of dogs. They are loving, caring, social, and have very approachable demeanors. They love your attention and are gentle around children.

Breed Assessment Traits and Qualities:

• Personality: Friendly, gentle and playful
• Energy Level: Moderately active
• Good with Children: Very
• Good with Other Dogs: Very
• Shedding: Moderate
• Grooming: Daily brushing
• Trainability: With ease
• Height: 21 to 25 inches tall at maturity
• Weight: 55 to 80 pounds at maturity
• Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
• Barking Level: Average

French Bulldog

The French Bulldog is at the top of our list for many reasons. They are a very gentle and affectionate breed of dog that does exceptionally well with children. They are patient and loving and enjoy to play. They are not overly energetic or pushy which is why they are safe for smaller children. They almost never show signs of aggression and enjoy both indoor and outdoor playtime. This breed continues to be very popular around the world and makes a great fit into almost any family.

Breed Assessment Traits and Qualities:

• Personality: Loving, playful, gentle, and smart.
• Energy Level: Lower than average
• Good with Children: Very
• Good with other Dogs: Very
• Shedding: Low
• Grooming: Two to three brushes a week
• Trainability: With ease
• Height: 11-13 inches at maturity
• Weight: 20-30 pounds at maturity
• Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
• Barking Level: Low

Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever was designed for those who wanted a medium-sized dog that would do well in wild-fowling, both upland game and waterfowl. Today’s Golden Retriever is a sought-after gorgeous dog that does well in families that have children and other pets in the home. They are very social and gentle dogs that have an easygoing and warm demeanor. They enjoy being close to their family and are great around children. They almost never show signs of aggression and are a pleasure to be around.

Breed Assessment Traits and Qualities:

• Personality: Smart, easy to get along with and caring
• Energy Level: Moderately active
• Good with Children: Very
• Good with other Dogs: Very
• Shedding: Average
• Grooming: Daily brushing
• Trainability: With ease
• Height: 21 to 24 inches tall at maturity
• Weight: 55 to 75 pounds at maturity
• Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
• Barking Level: Average

Pug

The small but mighty Pug also ranks high on our list because of his playful, loving, and warm demeanor. This breed has a social and outgoing personality and packs a lot of energy in a small body. The Pug does great around children because of this and is not known to show aggression. Their tolerance level allows them to play well with children who are still learning how to be around dogs.

Breed Assessment Traits and Qualities:

• Personality: Outgoing, curious, and playful
• Energy Level: Moderately active
• Good with Children: Good
• Good with Other Dogs: Good
• Shedding: Routinely
• Grooming: Two to four times a week
• Trainability: Generally easy
• Height: 10-13 inches tall at maturity
• Weight: 14-18 pounds at maturity
• Life Expectancy: 13-15 years
• Barking Level: Average

Collie

Collies are very smart and energetic dogs that love human interaction and outdoor activity time. They are gentle and patient around children and are not known to be at all aggressive. This breed has a very long history of making a marvelous family pet and is sure to win your heart too. Collies also tend to be able to adapt well with other dogs in the home.

Breed Assessment Traits and Qualities:

• Personality: Caring, alert and playful
• Energy Level: Very active
• Good with Children: Very
• Good with Other Dogs: Yes
• Shedding: Moderate
• Grooming: Two to four brushes a week
• Trainability: Easily trained
• Height: 22-26 inches tall at maturity
• Weight: 50-75 pounds at maturity
• Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
• Barking Level: Moderate

As the holidays approach we think about nice family dinners, festive music, and holiday cheer. It is a time of year like nothing else and there seems to be a unique peace in the air. What many dog owners do not realize is it is also a risky time of the year for our fur-legged friends. Not because Santa will scare them when he comes down the chimney, but because of very common items in our home that come out this month.

People food

Let’s start off by talking about food. During the holidays we often have get-togethers and share meals much larger than an average dinner. Many foods that we will enjoy should not be eaten by our fur-legged friends. Below is a list of foods that are the most dangerous for dogs to eat.

• Rich, fatty foods.
• Meats that have bones in them
• Onions and garlic
• Chocolate
• Alcoholic beverages
• Raisins/grapes
• Nuts
• Milk Products

Potpourri and Candles

Although potpourri and candles look and smell great, they can make your fur-legged friend sick should he use them as a treat. Candles are also a fire hazard should your dog knock one over that is lit. Always keep items such as these well out of your dog’s reach. If these items are on a counter or table take into consideration that your dog still may be able to reach them. Playing safe than sorry as to wear you leave these items is also recommended.

Holiday Plants and Flowers

A very popular item found during the holiday season is decorative plants such as holly and mistletoe. Many plants and flowers can cause your dog to become very sick if digested. Dogs are always curious to try a new “food” and certain items such as these can cause your dog harm. Be sure to place these items in an area that your dog is unable to reach. We often place flowers near a window for sunlight which is also an area your dog has access to.

Tinsel On Your Christmas Tree

While tinsel isn’t “poisonous” per se, it’s extremely dangerous to your dog should he consume it. Swallowing tinsel can lead to internal issues as well as basic choking issues for your dog. Tinsel is generally shiny which catches your dog’s attention and may be too much for him to resist. Many dog owners do not even bring this item into their homes as a precaution. If you must decorate with tinsel, keep it in an area completely out of reach of your dog or you may be spending Christmas morning at the veterinarian, not unwrapping gifts from Santa!

Secure Your Christmas Tree

You can’t really blame this one on your pup. Afterall, they wake up one morning and magically there is a seven-foot pine tree in their living room! As beautiful as this tree looks, it does cause a safety hazard. Dogs are naturally attracted to trees and tend to want to hide under and behind them. It does not take much for a Christmas tree to topple over which could injure your pup or anyone near it when it falls. This can also result in damaging the decorations on the tree which can be very costly. By taking a few minutes to properly secure your tree can end up saving you a lot of problems in the end.

Safe Haven for Your Dog

If you intend to have a holiday party which involves a lot of people, consider putting your dog in a room dedicated just for him away from the commotion. The room should have water and food and you should periodically check on your pup. A soft blanket or dog bed would also be a nice fixture in the room while he hangs out there. Although some dogs want to party as much as grandma does, some tend to get quickly get scared of the noise and want to be left alone. You know your dog better than anyone and should determine this before the party begins. This is also a wise decision if your dog is a runner because the front door may be opened and closed dozens of times which would allow for him to escape.

You are what you eat. And that expression applies to our fur-legged friends too. Some dog food brands skimp out on the actual healthy ingredients (chicken, beef, etc.) and replace these proteins with fillers. Fillers do not add much nutritional value to what they are eating and, overall are not recommended. Current research is bringing to light that many of these unhealthy ingredients can trigger allergies in your dog as well.

What Ingredients Should You Avoid?

Butylated Hydroxyanisole, also known as BHA, is a chemical preservative found in many dog foods and treats. It is used to preserve fats and oils. The CDC lists this ingredient as a known carcinogen that has negative effects on the liver and kidneys of animals. Some countries actually banned this substance due to this. Although the effects might not be noticeable in small quantities, over a long period of time, feeding your dog food that has BHA in it can contribute to health issues.

White Flour

White flour is usually used as a filler and binding agent in dog food. It is a bleached flour that contains little to no nutritional value. White flour has even proven to cause spikes in blood sugar. This means it may make your dog feel full, but not for a sustained period.

Unspecified Meat or “Meat Meal” With “unspecified” meat in your dog’s food, what it is can be a mystery and risky. These meat meals are usually low quality, leftover meats with minimal regulation and or control of quality. Although these products are in many dog foods, try to avoid them. At the very least, pick a dog food where the specific type of meat is listed.

Artificial Colors and Flavorings

Artificial coloring and flavors are added to dog foods to create a more appealing appearance and smell. They are usually listed specifically, and the most commonly found dyes in dog foods are Red 40, Blue 2, and Yellow 5 and 6. These artificial ingredients are simply unnecessary and have been linked to hyperactivity, hypersensitivity, and allergic reactions to foods.

MSG

MSG, or monosodium glutamate, is not usually listed on pet food ingredient lists. It is more often found in autolyzed yeast, hydrolyzed protein, calcium caseinate, protein isolate, texturized protein, natural flavors, hydrolyzed yeast, yeast extracts, soy extracts or concentrate, sodium caseinate, monopotassium glutamate, glutamate or glutamic acid, or disodium inosinate or guanylate. These ingredients are used to enhance the flavor of dog food but are not necessary.

Corn Syrup

Corn syrup is a concentrated sweetener that is derived from corn. It is inexpensive to produce and is often added to processed dog foods to add flavor without costing a lot of money. Corn syrup, like white flour, causes your dog’s blood sugar to spike, which is not healthy and known to cause health issues down the road.

Farmed Salmon

Farmed salmon refers to salmon that is grown inland in artificial habitats. These are not fish in the actual ocean, have never seen or been in the ocean, and are grown specifically to be harvested for food. If they are found in your dog’s food, they will be simply listed as salmon, salmon meal, or salmon oil. If the salmon in your dog’s food is wild-caught, it will be listed as so. Farmed salmon is not nearly as nutritious as wild-caught salmon.

Nitrates

Nitrates, more specifically sodium nitrite, is a common preservative found in dog foods. It is used to preserve meat products. This preservative, although currently deemed safe to be used in dog food, has been linked to a blood disorder called methemoglobin as well as cancer.

STPP

STPP, or sodium tripolyphosphate, is a common ingredient in laundry detergent that softens the water. In dog food, it is used as a preservative. Since it is an actual chemical that does not contain any nutritional value, it is best to avoid it in your dog’s food. Taking the time to shop for quality dog food will yield a better long-term health outlook for your dog. Just because an ingredient is approved for use in dog food does not always mean you should use it. Natural ingredients are always recommended and should be looked for.

Accidents happen… All puppies, from time to time, don’t make it outside before they do their business. If your puppy, like most, has an accident indoors, don’t overstress. It is important, though, to realize that indoor puppy accidents can cause your carpet and furniture to smell or even be destroyed. The key is to cleanse the area as soon as possible. This is important for two reasons. The first is because the waste left on the carpet or furniture can absorb into the fibers which makes removing the odor very difficult. The second is because once these odors remain, regardless of how slight, your four-legged friend may return to the same area and relieve himself there again.

How to Prevent Indoor Accidents

Being consistent with your puppy’s potty-training routine is key. Also, providing your puppy with ample outdoor potty time is essential. For those who work all day, considering a daytime pet sitter to stop over and allow your puppy a potty break also will help the issue. Using positive reinforcement is always more effective than using discipline in this process.

How to Get Urine Odors Out of a Carpet

Dog urine gets absorbed into the carpet as an acid that causes damage to the carpet’s fibers. Upon the urine drying up, it results in an alkaline residue. If urine salts are not cleaned with a professional pet cleaning product, this may result in a foul urine smell building up over time. Absorbing the wet urine with a dry rag, followed by washing the infected area, will help to remove the urine and smell. At times, this process may need to be completed two or more times.

How to Get the Urine Smell Out of a Couch?

If your pup had an accident on your couch, professional cleaning products should be used to cleanse the area. After the couch is cleansed, keep your puppy away from it until the area is complete and the odor is completely gone. Dogs tend to remark the same spot over and over and detect this area by smelling where they previously went.

At Home Cleaning Products

Did you know that you can naturally clean pet stains and odors using commonly found items in your pantry? Ingredients such as baking soda, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, vodka, orange, lemon, and salt to clean pet urine work well. You can neutralize and clean surfaces by using a combination of these products. The issue with using a synthetic cleaner on a carpet is that it can damage and remove its color and add unnecessary toxic chemicals to your home. By utilizing more natural ingredients, especially things like enzymatic cleaners with essential oils, pet owners can keep their homes safe from the buildup of harmful fumes and chemicals that can make their pets sick.

Before Using Any Cleaning Product

Before applying any cleaning solution, you should always test it on a small area of your rug or furniture to ensure it won’t do any damage. Once the ingredients demonstrate that they are working and not causing damage, be sure to cleanse the area with a copious amount of the product and thoroughly scrub the infected area. Dog urine can be very difficult to clean fully and, if not removed, can cause more issues down the road. Regardless of what products you use, all puppy owners need to remember that their puppies are still learning and want to make you happy. Being patient, using positive reinforcement, and taking the time to train your four-legged friend right will yield positive long-term results.