Sometimes dog enthusiasts forget that there are people out there that never have lived with a dog–and all dog owners have to start somewhere. Even if a new owner was raised with dogs, it’s very different being solely responsible for one. Here are the five most crucial things for a new dog owner to remember. Research, research, research All too often dogs are brought to the shelter because people didn’t know what they were getting into. German Shepherd puppies are … Read more

Anyone that’s ever lived with a dog knows of the many advantages to canine friendship. They are great listeners that rarely interrupt and always eager to see you. They are so excited when their human walks through the door, happily wagging their tails at your feet. And who gives better hugs and kisses than a dog? But what about the actual physical benefits to dog ownership? -Immune System Booster Studies show that we as a society are obsessed with germs. … Read more

In this dog loving and accepting population, more and more companies are implementing “bring your dog to work” days. These days could be wonderful for a dog owner who enjoys spending time with their dog, but may be a nightmare for the office workers that barely tolerate four-legged creatures. Here are a few tips to ensure maximum enjoyment for all employees on days the canines are in the house! 1. Prepare for everything https://www.instagram.com/p/BylkQZkAu9C/ Dogs may not be familiar right … Read more

Fetch? Or is it? Most dog owners have experienced this from time to time; the dog will bring a stuffed animal and lay it at the owner’s feet. The owner, more than likely, will pick up the slobber soaked toy and fling it away from them. Result being the dog chases after it, retrieves it, shakes it a few times and brings it back to the owner’s feet. Thus goes the game of fetch. Or is it? Let’s look at … Read more

Research suggests the domestic dogs of today originated nearly 33,000 years ago on the eastern portion of the Asian continent. The ancient Asian people knew the canine’s value for work and protection, but also found the dog could be their best friend too! From the Asian countries, dog love spread worldwide and has only gotten stronger with every year, decade, and century which passes. Because the Asian continent serves as one origin point for the domestic dog, it comes as … Read more

Mexico is the largest Latin American country in North America and is closely bordered by many South and Central American countries. Each of these countries and continents is home to unique dog breeds, some not found in the United States and Canada. Here we’ll take a look at some of the amazing dogs that Latin America has to offer. #1 – Dogo Argentino The Dogo Argentino is a large hunting dog developed in Argentina. The breed is descended from extinct fighting … Read more

Canada is a large country with a very cold climate and it’s surprising that so few dog breeds actually originate there. That said, the ones that do are spectacular animals that should be celebrated just as much as any others. #1 – Canadian Eskimo Dog The Canadian Eskimo Dog is a northern working dog thought to be one of the oldest and rarest of the indignant North American breeds. The breed has been noted as a resident of the Arctic … Read more

While dog breeds come from just about every country in the world, Germany is home to a wide variety of versatile working breeds. Some of them are obvious based on the breed names, others are unexpected, and some you might’ve never heard of! But regardless of how familiar these dogs are, they’re all lovable and come from the same location. So, if you were curious about where different dog breeds originate, now is the time to find out! Coming in … Read more

Switzerland is home to watches, chocolate and cheese fondue, not to mention the beautiful Swiss Alps. But the country also brings some amazing dog breeds that the rest of the world has come to adore. Check them out below! #1 – Appenzeller Sennenhund The Appenzeller Sennenhund is one of four Sennenhunds, meaning Swiss Mountain Dogs. It’s a medium-sized dog from the Swiss Alps and was bred and used as a cattle herder and livestock guardian. They are powerful dogs that … Read more

While most people probably think of waffles, beer and chocolate when they think of Belgium, dog fanciers often think of a variety of unique dog breeds. Whether they have a more French or German influence depends on their location and use. Needless to say, all the Belgian breeds certainly make a great line up! Belgian Shepherd Dogs – From Left to Right The Belgian Shepherd dogs, going by their original standard, come in 4 different varieties. These varieties could all … Read more

With such a large, spacious country, it’s a little bit surprising that so few dog breeds come from Australia. But the ones that did originate down under are absolutely wonderful animals! Check them out in this gallery. #1 – Australian Bulldog The Australian Bulldog was developed as an improvement upon the less healthy, very popular English Bulldog. Although the breed is not yet formally recognized by any organization, enthusiasts are working on breed standards for the Australian National Kennel Coucnil. … Read more

The first recognized therapy dog was a four pound Yorkshire Terrier named Smokey. It was during WWII; Smokey was rescued by a soldier and traveled with his human through various battles. When his human was hospitalized, Smokey was brought to the hospital. The dog slept on his person’s bed, keeping him company and raising his spirits with amusing canine antics. Pretty soon nurses were borrowing Smokey, to entertain other wounded soldiers in the hospital. Continuing the tradition It is a … Read more

Love dogs? Why not turn it into a career? There are the usual suggestions of becoming a dog trainer, behaviorist or even a groomer. These ideas take time, schooling, certifications and licensing. People may suggest dog walking or becoming a pet sitter. While they are decent start-ups, they’ve been covered the internet over by animal lovers all around the world. The pet industry is a multi-billion dollar operation. Owners are spending more on their pets now than ten years ago. … Read more

  Quick! First thought with the word—Chihuahua? Ankle biter? Snuggle bug? How about—Dachshund? Weiner dog? Digging fanatic? Everyone has preconceived notions about most breeds. Thinking of a St. Bernard may equal rabid killer for some or slobber giant for others. What about a Collie? Is she a multi-lingual communicator or dog with an attitude? What if the breed had a less than stellar reputation? How does society overcome breed stereotypes and accept a dog at face value? The history of … Read more

    Sometimes well meaning owners will take on the responsibility of two dogs at once. The dogs have bonded and will be heartbroken if separated… Dogs are social animals, so they will always need a buddy…  Two is better than one? The list of reasons may go on and on. Reality is, potential owners don’t see the downside of bringing in two dogs at the same time until the negatives become glaringly obvious. Double the bills… double the training… … Read more

Another round of dog shows have come and gone and there is still a little nagging voice in the back of the head, “My dog is better looking than that dog!” Well, that may be true, but no one will ever know unless the dog steps foot in the ring. How exactly does one get involved in dog showing? Normally a pure breed dog is involved; but there are a whole slew of other things to train for before Fido … Read more