Category: Petcare

Are you in the market to buy a dog, but not sure if you want short hair puppies or long hair puppies?  

It’s quite the decision to make, because with either choice time is needed, however for long hair puppies, they fall short in some areas! Here, we’re playing devil’s advocate and siding with short hair puppies. We have a comprehensive checklist for you to ponder before you buy a dog. 

Time’s a Ticking! 

For humans and dogs alike, with long hair comes longer prep. There’s way more care and attention needed with long hair puppies than short hair puppies. Doggies with long and flowing manes means time spent brushing and sometimes wrestling with your pup to sit still while you tend to their tresses. Be honest with yourself before you buy a dog. If you are someone who cannot spare the time or effort to brush your dog’s coat regularly, then it’s borderline cruelty to get long hair puppies. Short hair puppies typically need a quick brush or two and that’s it! 

Work Hard or Play Hard?

As we mentioned, it can be a hassle to constantly brush long hair puppies. Would you rather spend your time petting your dog versus working to keep their fur from matting, tangling, or potentially getting caught in their nails? Are you someone who would rather have the loving companionship of a dog, instead of grooming them? Are you someone who loves to play, but hates to brush, if so short hair puppies might be right for you.  

 It’s Lint! 

All dogs shed to some degree. We won’t dispute that; however long hair puppies are more likely to put the “fur” in furniture! Are you willing to constantly clean up little fur balls found around your home? If your answer is “no,” then short hair puppies might be best for you. Do you want to keep lint brushes handy in each room and in your car? If the answers are “no,” then long hair puppies may not be best for you. 

As we mentioned earlier, we’re making light of this debate, before you buy a dog! We recognize that no matter the length of your dog’s hair, they bring great joy and comfort. Feel free to contact us directly with any questions you may have and while you’re at it, take a look at the short hair puppies we have for sale.  

What are purebred puppies? 

The official definition of purebred reads as follows: canines who are “bred for many generations from a member of a recognized breed or strain” or “a pedigreed animal of unmixed lineage.” According to the American Kennel Club, a purebred dog means “the sire and dam of a dog are members of a recognized breed and the ancestry of a dog consists of the same breed over many generations.” 

 Why would you select to purchase purebred puppies? 

Here are a few reasons to consider for owning a purebred dog: 

• They are AKC registered and have distinct heritages 
• Most breeds were developed to perform a specific function that helped humans in their daily lives, i.e. capturing pest, such as vermin, herding animals, or hauling food and supplies 
• Many AKC breeds have pedigrees that can be traced back more than 100 years, thus creating breed predictability 

Are there any associated health problems with purebred puppies? 

The main problem with purebreds stems inbreeding. To create a purebred puppy, you need two dogs from the exact same gene pool. Because this pool is already limited, many breeders use the same family gene pool to create more dogs. As a result, there is a higher risk of genetic defects with each successive coupling. 

 Can you predict the temperament of purebred puppies? 

Yes, you can predict some behavior traits in purebred puppies. If you want a herding breed, then choose a breed with those traits and the chances are they’ll inherit them. The same goes for dogs who are more relaxed or have high energy. There are, however, some aspects of temperaments that are not inherited, but rather based on how the dog is raised and in what environment. 

 Why is purchasing purebred puppies is a good choice? 

They’re a good choice: 

• if you know exactly which characteristics you want in a dog 
• if there is a breed that has all the characteristics you want 
• if you’re willing to accept the other traits that breed may have 
• if you’re willing to accept the greater potential for health problems 
• if you’re willing to pay more than mixed breeds or opting to adopt 

Just because you live in an apartment or condo doesn’t mean that your love for having big dogs as apartment puppies isn’t an option – on the contrary!  

Your choice for apartment puppies doesn’t have to be limited to little pint-sized pups. In this vain, large dog get a bad rap. Many times, large dogs are more laid back and chill than their small or medium size counterparts. Despite their sometimes-intimidating appearances, they are quieter than the little ones. We’re here to make the case for large apartment puppies. Below is a list of 5 popular large dogs that will bode well in an apartment or condo. 

Great Dane 

The Great Dane was bred to basically to sit next to a king’s throne to look big and intimidating, but they are truly gentle giants and very mellow dogs. They aren’t overly active, so a daily regular walk will suit their needs just fine, making them perfect apartment puppies. You’ll soon learn that Great Danes, though grand in size, are pseudo lap dogs, because that’s where they’ll try to lay their giant heads! 

Basset Hound 

Basset Hounds are apartment puppies, because they are pretty easy-going. Even though they have short legs, they are considered larger dogs, because they weigh between 50 – 60 pounds. They love a slow paced daily walk, due to their innate love for scents. They’d love to sniff and follow scents, versus romping around and running at a fast pace. They are really social and friendly dogs, too. 

Standard Poodle 

We’re going to talk specifically about the Standard Poodle, not the miniature or toy, because those are common apartment puppies. The reality is that they are suitable as well. They require 3 good long walks a day and they’ll be satisfied. They aren’t overly excitable, like their smaller counterparts. What they’ll require, more than anything is a good groomer to keep these picture-perfect pups looking beautiful and handsome! 

Greyhound 

Sure, we all know that Greyhounds are fast runners, but that doesn’t mean that they require fast running exercise all day. It also doesn’t mean that they’ll be running all over your space and place. They have been nicknamed the “40 mph couch potato!” These apartment puppies have been likened to being a giant cat! They’re quiet and don’t demand much. They will certainly enjoy a nice long walk or even a jog, but they’re equally satisfied with a few short daily walks or maybe an opportunity to run off leash in a fenced in area. 

Irish Wolfhound 

Irish Wolfhounds are showstoppers! You won’t be able to go anywhere or do anything without garnering attention. People just can’t help it and we don’t blame them! When it comes to where they reside, believe us when we say that they can live and thrive just well as apartment puppies. They are mild mannered and generally gentle and quiet dogs. They require nice and slow daily walks. Because of their large sizes, running isn’t recommended, nor are homes with lots of stairs or steps.  

They’re big. They’re bold. They’re beautiful.  

The Rottie puppy undoubtedly holds that title! To maintain their beauty takes knowledge, persistence, and care. Below is all about their physical attributes and appearance. 

Size and Weight 

Once the Rottie puppy matures, he should stand between 24 to 27 inches at his shoulder. Females should stand between 22 to 25 inches. In general, the mature Rottie puppy should be slightly longer than they are tall. Males weigh around 115 pounds, while females weigh in around 100 pounds. 

Appearance 

Rottweilers are muscular, powerful, athletic dogs. As we previously mentioned, their bodies are somewhat longer than they are tall. Their triangular ears sit atop their large, broad heads. Their black coats cover their eyes, cheeks, chest, lower legs, and under their tails. The Rottie puppy has a black and wide nose, black lips, and also the insides of their mouths are black. The eyes are dark brown, deep set, and beautifully shaped like almonds. They typically have their dewclaws removed and have docked tails. 

Color and Coat 

Rottweilers are always black with markings over the eyes, cheeks, each side of the muzzle, the chest, legs, and beneath the tail. The tail area may sometimes range from a rust to mahogany color. The coat of a Rottie puppy is medium in length, coarse to the touch, and straight. The undercoat is concentrated on the neck and thighs. The coat is always shorter on the head, ears, and legs, than the rest of its body. 

Grooming Needs 

You’ll find that your Rottie puppy will indeed shed, and pretty heavily twice a year! You should brush him at least two to three times a week to remove loose hair. Brushing also helps to distribute natural skin oils, which helps to keep their coats healthy and shiny. Bathe only as needed. 

Cleaning  

Brush your Rottie puppy’s teeth twice a week to prevent tartar build up and bad breath and to also promote healthy gums. Keep an eye on their eyes, by checking for signs of wax build up and infections. To clean them, use a cotton ball with a cleanser approved by a vet. Under no circumstances should you use a cotton swab in the canal of your Rottie puppy. Keep their nails nice and trimmed.  

If you follow these instructions and guidelines, your Rottie puppy will maintain its prize-winning coats. Contact us for more information and to see the available Rotties we have in store!  

We’ve all been in situations where we’ve seen a dog or two and just couldn’t place the breed.

Yes, though we’re pet experts, some just slip our minds! The reality is that there are tons of breeds of dogs, but purebred and hybrid puppies are making it difficult to readily identify each!

So what exactly is a purebred?

They are dog breeds that encompass a unique genetic makeup that can be consistently reproduced. This means that any dog whose parents belong to the same breed is considered a purebred dog.

What are hybrid puppies?

Hybrid puppies are bred from two purebred dogs from different breeds, hence the term designer, which implies a bloodline created by mixing purebreds. Purebred puppies are simply puppies that are bred from two dogs of the same breed. If a dog is not purebred, it is considered to be a hybrid or mixed breed (commonly referred to as a mutt).

Are purebred puppies healthier?

Most hybrid puppies are pretty unpredictable in a lot ways, particularly regarding their health and inherited diseases. Purebreds are tested for issues usually known to affect the breed. This is to ensure only healthy dogs are being bred. Most diseases are being detected and eradicated this way. When breeds are crossed, it creates hybrid puppies with unknown results, thus they really can’t be tested in advance.

What are some of the most common hybrid puppies?

We’ve piled a list of the top 5 most popular hybrid puppies.

• Cockapoo

A Cockapoo is a mixed breed dog that is the cross between either the Cocker Spaniel breed and a Poodle.

• Maltipoo

This adorable dog is a cross between a Maltese and a Toy or Miniature Poodle.

• Labradoodle

The Labradoodle is a cross between the Labrador Retriever and Standard, Miniature, or Toy Poodle.

• Goldendoodle

It is a mixed breed dog obtained by breeding a Golden Retriever with a Poodle. The Golden Doodle was originally developed as a guide dog for visually impaired people with allergies.

• Cheeks

The Cheeks, also known as Pek-A-Chis or Pekachis, are a hybrid between a Chihuahua and a Pekingese. Cheeks typically look more like Chihuahuas than the Pekingese, but this all depends on their breed line.

The kids have begged you for a dog. Like a responsible would-be pet owner, you conduct your research and concede.

Then…they beg you for two dogs. Now what should you do?! There’s some debate in the pet community as to whether it’s wise to get one or two puppies on sale to join your home. It’s a personal decision that should be weighed and pondered greatly. Here are two questions to consider asking yourself as you’re deciding to adopt or purchase two puppies on sale, at the same time.

Firstly, do you have the time and patience?

Raising one puppy is a task, but imagine two. Just think down the line for second. It’s midnight and you hear one puppy whimpering who may be suggesting a late night relief run. The other puppy is unaffected but awakened, and you decide it’s best to take them both. What could have been a quick walk becomes a longer and more labored task to accomplish. Before you know it, they’ve engaged in some midnight fun and their potty run is an afterthought. At this point, you might start second guessing your decision to getting two puppies on sale.

And since we’re on the subject of potty runs, house training two puppies is an arduous, but doable task with persistence and patience. You’ll find yourself separating and supervising the two to ensure they’re eliminating in the proper places. Again, ask yourself. Do you have the time and patience?

Secondly, can you give each puppy individual attention?

Just because the puppies on sale that you found have come as a packaged deal, you’ll soon discover that they have very distinct personalities and require individual attention. One might be a loner and the other may be a constant cuddle companion. You’ll have to treat and do everything for them separately, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Just make the firm commitment to spend social time with them individually. This will prevent them from becoming inseparable and creating a super bond with each, to the exclusion of developing a meaningful relationship with their humans.

While it is certainly more of a commitment to own two puppies on sale, it has successfully been done many many times. With the proper time and dedication, they can be raised to be healthy, well adjusted, sociable adult dogs!

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!