Author: rgoessel

Many research studies have been conducted regarding the significant benefits of pet ownership for seniors.

They affect their mental, physical, and emotional health positively. In essence, they are good for their mind, body, and spirit. Small dog breeds and dogs in general have been found to provide loving day-to-day companionship, physical exercise, and socialization for seniors, increasing their quality of life vastly. They are therapeutic in that they promote the flow of feel good hormones in the brain and body, consequently lowering blood pressure, stress, and heart rates. If you’re considering creating this unique bond either for yourself or a loved one, you’ll benefit greatly from this list of small dog breeds who are a breeze!

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are known for the friendly and playful dispositions. They are ideal for apartment living and were bred to be companions, so they’re perfect. These small dog breeds require daily walks and some indoor playtime and then lots of lap loving! Their coats will require daily grooming, which can be peaceful and strengthen the senior/pet bond.

Poodle

Poodles come in three sizes – standard, miniature, and toy. The smallest of the bunch are Toy Poodles and they’re lap dogs, as you might have guessed. What makes these small dog breeds particularly suitable for seniors is that they’re highly intelligent, easy to train, and they don’t shed, which means people with allergies can own them. Toy Poodles are energetic, but have the least amount of the three types and can adapt to a more sedentary lifestyle, if needed.

Yorkshire Terrier

The biggest downside to these small dog breeds is their long hair that will certainly require lots of grooming, professional is recommended. But despite that, they are small and adaptable making them a perfect pet companion for seniors, especially those in assisted living homes. A daily stroll suits them just fine and it will provide just enough physical activity for their owners, too!

Pug

Their small, wrinkly faces, short legs, and inquisitive personalities makes the Pug a comedic and friendly senior companion. The always pleasant Pug is easy to and willing to please. These small dog breeds snore, so you may want to consider buying some ear plugs if you decide to bring this dog into your home!

Cocker Spaniel

Okay, we’re sneaking this one on the list! Though they aren’t typically categorized as small dog breeds, some of the runts can be! Cocker Spaniels are great companions for seniors. They have even temperaments and are generally happy and healthy dogs. They can be energetic, so a daily walk will treat that energy just fine. Their beautiful coats will need some grooming, but it’s not a labor intensive task. They are truly known to be joys to seniors.

As humans, it’s quite natural for us to pay close attention to our health and weight.

It’s in magazines and on television so often that it’s practically ingrained in our brains. What’s not more prevalent is the same amount of attention paid to our furry family members. Sure, we may have seen a commercial or two about specific dog brands catering towards their weight maintenance, but still – that’s not enough. When people decide to buy a dog, their weight may not be on the top of their priority list, like house training for example. With that said, we want to give you 5 tips to prevent obesity in your dog, so that he can live a long and healthy life!

1. Familiarize yourself with your dog’s ideal weight.

Here’s an interesting and commonly unknown fact. Most owners will buy a dog and not have a clue as to what their ideal weight should be. This is the easiest tip and the first step in monitoring and staying on top of your pup’s healthy. This is so important to know, because it will help you make the best dietary decisions when feeding your dog.

2.  Exercise, exercise, and exercise!

Ah, exercise…it’s a word many dread and some actually love! No matter what emotion it evokes, the reality is that it’s necessary for both humans and dogs. There’s just no getting around it! When you buy a dog, make the commitment to exercise her, especially once you’ve mastered #1, the aforementioned tip. Depending on your dog, a daily stroll may be all that’s required. If you buy a dog of a larger breed, it kind of goes without saying that a stroll won’t cut it. Take your dog to a park and let him run about or if you’re a bike rider or jogger, take him along with you. This is beneficial for both you and your dog!

3. Stay abreast with your vet.

If you’ve noticed that your dog has put on a few extra pounds, contact your vet. Your veterinarian is the best place to start. They can give you a meal plan, yes we said meal plan! A recommended goal weight and professional plan of action is suggested, as opposed to you going at it alone. Keep in mind that an overweight dog can truly experience discomfort in their joints and they are prone to additional injuries. Your veterinarian can also help you rule out other ailments that can cause obesity, such as hypothyroidism.

4. Make dietary changes, if needed.

First and foremost, try hard to avoid feeding your dog table scraps and human food, in general. When you buy a dog, you can also buy treats for him, but opt for low fat, low caloric, and healthy ones. They exist, trust us! Stick to a feeding schedule rather than a free-for-all. Treat treats just as that – treats! If your dog seems to be grazing and appears hungry, try giving her fresh veggies, as they’re an excellent source of fiber and can be filling. Based on the advice and consultation with your vet, it may not be necessary to change your pet’s food, but rather the quantity.

5. Continuously monitor your pup’s weight.

Check your pup’s weight regularly, just as you would do for yourself. It’s imperative to know if your efforts of weight loss or maintenance are paying off, just as you desired. If weight loss is your goal, they should be losing approximately 1 lb. a month. Again, stay in contact with your vet regularly to ensure the laid out plan is working.

We recognize that when you buy a dog, there will be some areas that are forgotten or that you may not have known about, but we’re hopeful that these tips will be helpful. Keep in mind, you control what and when your dog eats. Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to maintaining a long and healthy life. You can do it!

In life, sometimes we want what we want and there are times when we need what we need.

If you live, work and breath in rural or more countryside areas, sometimes you actually have a need for hunting dogs. They serve the purpose of guarding and herding your farm animals. We have purebred puppies that will meet your needs and we’ve compiled a list of 5 hunting breeds of dogs.

Chesapeake Bay Retriever

Nicknamed “The Chessie,” these purebred puppies have an origin date of 1807. Two Newfoundland dogs were rescued from a shipwreck off the coast of Maryland, near the Chesapeake Bay river. They were bred for duck hunting with other water loving breeds and eventually they became the family friendly, outdoorsy, and energetic Chesapeake Bay Retriever. They will happily charge through a long day of hunting.

Beagle

Beagle purebred puppies are seen as the the quintessential “hunting dog.” If you are hunting varmint like rabbits, the Beagle is your dog, hands down! They are known to track and follow a scent until they tire or the scent disappears! Beagles have been described as having a “nose with feet!”

American Foxhound

American Foxhounds, just as their name suggests, were bred with the purpose of hunting foxes, and although a somewhat rare breed, they are still known to do so. Deer hunters have used these purebred puppies for their excellent running skills during deer season. When it comes to the American Foxhound, they are great at what they do and will practically chase down anything you train and tell them.

Labrador Retriever

It’s a known fact that Labrador Retrievers are household favorites, however the same goes for the countryside and their impeccable hunting reputations. Retriever breeds make the best hunting dog and are revered as the best that’s ever did it! Their thick coats allow them to be in cold weather for hours. They are best known for hunting ducks, but they can also help you out with any type of small game.

Bloodhound

The Bloodhound is the largest scent hound there is! These purebred puppies were originally bred for hunting deer, wild boar, and since the Middle Ages…for tracking people! They live up to the expectation of their name, with their unparalleled tracking abilities and strong noses making them excellent hunting dogs.

Don’t say long hair puppies aren’t fabulous, when you know they are!

Puppies with long hair are preferred by many! Besides how beautiful their luxurious coats can look, many owners love grooming and taking care of their long hair puppies. We’ve put together a list of 5 long hair puppies that are absolutely lovable.

Have a Havanese, Why Don’tcha?

The Havanese is the national dog for Cuba. These little beauties have a long lifespan of 13-15 years. They can be found in many color combinations, but best of all – their furs are very long, straight and silky! They are excellent family dogs and provide endless companionship.

Afghan Hounds

Now THESE are long hair puppies to be envied! They have bouncy, long and silky fur all over their bodies, which are tall and lean. The Afghan is said to be one of the oldest existing dog breeds. They are also known as the Kuchi Hound or the Kabul Hound. They are a gorgeous breed and definitely benefit from professional and regular grooming.

The Ever So Soft – Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

This breed originated in Ireland over 200 years ago. They share a common ancestry with the Kerry Blue and Irish Terrier, but are distinguished separately by their soft, silky, long coats. They are great family dogs, especially for those with kids. These long hair puppies require daily brushing every day, but since they don’t shed, they only require baths and trimming every other month!

Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkies)

These long hair puppies may be in the toy group and member of the small dog breeds, but they pack a good punch!  Their long and silky coats give the appearance of being just a handsome lap dog, but their demeanor matches that of large dog breeds, serving as sometimes overly protective watchdogs. They are one of the more popular long hair puppy breeds!

Can You Handle The Komondor?

At first glance, you may not know their names, but you definitely know their giant “mop dog” appearance! These fluffy and shaggy fur babies commonly command attention everywhere they go. You wouldn’t know it, because their eyes are barely visible, but Komondors are used today as sheep guardians! Their coats require detailed and professional attention. As an owner, be ready to separate their cords by hand regularly to prevent matting and to maintain their distinctive coats! Because of the sheer volume of their hair, they must be towel dried as much as possible, as it can take two or three days for these long hair puppies to dry!

Gone are the days and misconceptions of all dogs living in homes with lavish backyards. There are breeds that thrive in small environments!

You can raise happy condo or apartment puppies. It just takes a little more planning and foresight. Follow these tips when considering adding a dog to your apartment.

Research, research and more research!

Firstly, you want to be absolutely realistic about what kind of dog you want and if they’re actually well suited for apartment life. Most large dog breeds won’t gel well in small spaces, so small to medium sized dogs are recommended. Big dogs may become frustrated with being cooped in tight spaces and may resort to destructive behavior like chewing or scratching.

A little preparation goes a long way

Once you’ve decided on the apartment puppies you want to have, you want to puppy proof and prepare your house. Protect your floors. Put some items like potted plants in higher places, so that curious pups won’t inspect them. Educate yourself on harmful foods for dogs and keep them away. Create a space specifically for your dog, by getting a dog bed, some toys and food and water bowls. If you have the room, create two spaces for your dog to enjoy and rest. You’ll also want to find a place for their crate.

Take a look at your schedule

You, most assuredly, need to create a routine. Dogs thrive best when they have one. Feed him at the same times in the same places every single day. Take them for walks at the same time. It might not be immediately evident, but they will become more compliant with a consistently executed routine.

Apartment puppies still need exercise

Now that your dog has joined your home, you’ll soon learn that apartments puppies will need exercise just like dogs that dwell in larger homes. They are excitable and need to burn that energy. Take them for at least two walks a day. Socialize them by allowing them to run freely in neighborhood dog parks. You’ll thank us later. Promise!

Invest in some training classes

Lastly, get professional training and make it a priority. No one wants a dog who barks incessantly or won’t listen to your commands. It can make life unbearable and you’ll question your decision to have apartment puppies. If you’re unable to actually obtain or attend professional training, invest in books or other training techniques via YouTube. Remember, consistency is key!

The German Shepherd, though not an American breed, is one of America’s most loyal and fierce family dogs!

When you spot German Shepherd puppies, you know it. They are commonly side-by-side with police units across the world and that’s for many reasons. Below, we’ve highlighted the top three characteristics and other facts about German Shepherd puppies.

The Protector

German Shepherd dogs are frequently known to provide protection for families, police, and people with disabilities. They are widely used as guard dogs, police dogs, and herders – sometimes to little kiddies at home! Their work ethics are nearly unmatched, because their level of trainability is high and their intelligence is incomparable. German Shepherd puppies are incredibly eager to learn and crave challenges which lends itself to their outstanding obedience. Like any dog, they don’t respond to anger or negativity. These pups command authority, so everyone in the household should be prepared to “show” them respect, with a firm but gentle touch!

Their Noble Stature

At first glance, you’ll notice that German Shepherd puppies are handsome and regal, with a powerful disposition. Their bodies are always much longer than they are tall, giving a wolf-like build and appearance. This breed varies in color and there are various mixes of lines, including American, Canadian, West German, East German, and Czech. Each line has its own breeding purpose, however physically they differ slightly.

Consistently, the German Shepherd dog has front legs that are straight, while their thighs are very toned and extremely muscular. The head is well-proportioned to the rest of the body, with inquisitive almond shaped eyes that range from black/dark brown to light orange/yellow/red brown. Their ears typically stand up when they’re approximately a year old and are held erect on the top of their head. Their muzzle is long, with a black nose and strong teeth that meet in a scissors bite. They have distinctive bushy, long tails that hang downward with a slight curve when they’re at rest and curves more noticeably when they get excited.

They Are Family And Kid Friendly Dogs

German Shepherd puppies have high energies and are perfect for families with kids. They don’t get tired too soon, so children can play with them endlessly! It’s true that they don’t take very well to strangers, but they have a sweet and friendly disposition towards their family members. They absolutely love playing with kids, especially if they’re trained to do so at a young age. German Shepherd puppies are an addition to your family which are recommended and one you won’t regret!

Maybe you don’t know this fun fact, but there are over 300 different dog breeds in the world!

The most popular breeds that live and are currently bred in the United States don’t have American origins, however. We’ve created a list of 7 absolutely American puppies that you may or may not have known!

American Foxhound

The American Foxhound is one of the rarest dog breeds that are native to America. They came to the American colonies from England in 1650, by a man named Robert Brooke. He transported them and “established a breeding and working pack of black and tan foxhounds in America,” the AKC states. George Washington owned many of these beautiful foxhounds and helped to create some of the best early examples of the breed.

American Hairless Terrier

So you’ve surely heard of the almost hairless Chinese Crested dog, but have you heard of the American Hairless Terrier? Yeah, we kinda figured that! They were actually the first ever hairless breed to be originated in the United States. They happen to share the same lineage as the Rat Terrier until the 1970’s. Around that time, a rare mutation occurred in a litter of them and so was born the American Hairless Terrier, another hypoallergenic puppy!

Chesapeake Bay Retriever

Nicknamed “The Chessie,” these American puppies have an origin date of 1807. Two Newfoundland dogs were rescued from a shipwreck off the coast of Maryland, near the Chesapeake Bay river. They were bred with other water loving breeds and eventually they became the family friendly, outdoorsy, and energetic Chesapeake Bay Retriever.

Alaskan Malamute

One of the most recognizable American puppies is the Alaskan Malamute. Their wolf like stature and facial markings are instantly impressive. Some believe that they are part wolf, but that’s debatable. They’re often playing the part of wolves in movies and television shows, but they’re truly domestic dogs. They are primarily companionship American puppies, but they’ll easily excel in several dog sports like obedience competitions, weight pulling, backpacking, and recreational sledding.

Boston Terrier

The breed, just as their name suggests, originated in Boston, Massachusetts somewhere around 1870, then later adapted the name “Boston Terrier,” in 1891. They were finally and formally recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1893. In the 20th century, they began being bred to be much smaller, loving companions versus fearless, ferocious fighters! You certainly won’t know it today from looking at these dapper little dogs, but they were originally developed for fighting. Now, they excel at looking and being adorable family pets.

No shed puppies, simply put, are dogs whose daily shedding ranges from barely detectable to somewhat noticeable.

The term “no shed” is kind of a misnomer, because all dogs shed to some degree, but on the bright side, people who suffer from allergies are usually able to own no shed puppies. We’ve compiled a list of 7 dog breeds that don’t shed!

Chinese Crested

We’ll start out with the obvious, since these dogs are pretty much hairless! The Chinese Crested dog falls into this category also because their small amount of hair is called powderpuff. This means they have soft hair all over, though not very visible. They are considered to be hypoallergenic. Here’s a interesting fact about them. Despite their name, these no shed puppies actually originated in Africa! After Chinese traders let the dogs board their ships to hunt vermin, they were renamed.

Portuguese Water Dog

You may have recognized this dog because he was Bo – the first dog! President Obama gifted his daughters this bubbly and energetic dog, in part to accommodate his daughter Malia’s allergies. Their coats shed very little and they are considered a hypoallergenic breed, but they still require regular grooming.

The Irish Water Spaniel

This breed serves as hunting dogs and companions. They are very friendly and active and loyal to their owners. Their full and fluffy coats don’t shed, but they do require regular and daily grooming.

Mini Schnauzer

Mini Schnauzer puppies have a thick, wiry, double coat, which came in handy while they dug into the ground, as it naturally kept off debris. As an added benefit, they do not shed much, so they are perfect for potential dog owners who have allergies.

Bouvier des Flandres

The Bouvier’s name means “cow-herder of Flandres.” There were originally three different dog breeds, but were dissolved into one after nearly becoming extinct during World War I. These no shed puppies are rare big beauties that were bred for herding, various farm duties, guards dogs, police dogs, and loving companion pets!

Basenji

Bred to be a hunting dog, these alert and energetic babies come from Central Africa. Their coats shed very little and they require a minimal amount of grooming. Basenjis are rather unique, because they don’t bark, but prefer to howl. What’s also fascinating is that they clean themselves in a manner similar to cats, but they don’t shed like them!

Bichon Frise

The Bichon puppy has a beautiful coat, but what makes it even more spectacular is that they are hypoallergenic. Their coats shed very little and is rather comparable to that of a Poodle. The longer their hair grows, the cuter and curlier it gets. Consequently, professional and regular grooming is necessary to maintain the purity of the powdery white coats. Visiting the groomer every 6-8 weeks will keep your Bichon looking radiant!