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Snuffle Mats for Dogs: The Best One To Buy (or How to Make One Yourself)

The Best Snuffle Mat for Dogs Snuffle mats have become an incredibly popular enrichment toy for dogs. Pet parents have realized that dogs need more than balls and ropes to engage their senses. Unlike humans, dogs use their noses as one of the primary channels for experiencing the world. When a dog is able to search and find food using their nose, a dog’s confidence is increased, and their brain is activated in new ways. Here at iHeartDogs, we’re big … Read more

5 Ways To Prepare For Off-Shore Fun With Your Dog This Summer

As summer approaches, dog water safety is an important thing to consider, as dogs can drown in just minutes! Water activities can be a great source of fun for you and your canine; however before taking your pooch out for a paddle, preparing for the adventure is a must.  It is estimated that thousands of pets lose their lives in drowning accidents each year. A majority of these incidents could have been prevented if pet owners were more aware of … Read more

6 Easy Ways To Include Your Dog In Your Wedding

Dogs have become such a big part of our lives, it’s only natural that we would want them to be a part of our big day. Have you decided how you want your dog to be involved? If you’re stumped for ideas, here are several from people whose canine best friend was front and center at their wedding, even if they couldn’t be there in “person”! 1. Engagement Photos & Save The Dates Kristy Boulos and her fiancé included their dogs … Read more

5 Summer Grooming Tips From An Expert

As your dog starts to shed his winter coat and the weather warms up, it’s time to start thinking about all the fun things summer brings: playing in the water, late evening walks in the warm air, and even a “pupsicle” or two. It also means it’s time to make sure your dog is groomed properly for the season. Andis Grooming Educator Tammy Siert provided us with the following tips to make sure your dog is ready for some (safe) … Read more

Puppy Pizza DIY Healthy Snack!

This treat is just so adorable! When you think of pizza for a pup, you may think, “There’s no way that can possibly be healthy for my dog.” But today we have whipped up a creative and healthy retake on pizza, but using fresh ingredients your dog can benefit from and will have them begging for another slice! Incorporating plain yogurt, beet juice for color, and banana slices, you will have a pawesome pizza fit for a puppy king! Here’s how … Read more

DIY Tennis Ball Teaser Treat Toy!

We’re all looking for fun ways to keep our pups busy when we are preoccupied with work and other things. We look for the fanciest toys with all the bells and whistles in hopes that it will be able to entertain our buddies… Although sometimes, the coolest and most appreciated toys are just plain and simple ones homemade with love. Take tennis balls and doggy treats, for instance! Two things that will never fail in making a pup happy, no matter what. … Read more

DIY Breath-Freshening Pup Stars!

While we all absolutely adore our four-legged friends, when they grow up, their “puppy breath” we grew to love quickly becomes a thing of the past. Licking up dirt, dog food and treats, and eating things they aren’t supposed to eat starts to take a toll on their mouth. Bad breath is the result of a build-up of odor producing bacteria in your dog’s mouth, lungs, or gut. Persistent bad breath that seems to get worse can indicate that your dog needs … Read more

Super Healthy DIY Veggie Dog Treats!

We all want to give our pups special treats that we know are nutritious and good for them, and–more importantly–completely safe for them to eat. Nowadays there a tons of DIY doggy treat recipes of all sorts available for us to try out, based around beneficial vegetables and other foods that are great for our four-legged friends. Today, we have one of those healthy, awesome recipes for you to try! Ingredients: 3 Cups Gluten Free Flour 1 Can Pumpkin Puree 1/4 Cup … Read more

Ways To Prevent Accidental Pet Poisonings In Your Home

One of the most common and yet preventable vet bills is accidental poisoning of your pet. Since 2013, Trupanion has paid out over $2.9 million in pet toxicity claims – and that’s just one insurance company. Not to mention the thousands of pets that don’t have insurance. In honor of Poison Prevention Awareness Month (March) and National Poison Prevention Week (March 20-26), we have rounded up some simple ways to make sure your pet does not become a statistic. Proofing … Read more

Super Simple DIY Doggy Rope Toy

Is it time for your four-legged friend to get a new toy? Are all the other ones shredded to pieces and not safe to keep around any longer? Well worry no more! This awesome DIY video will share with you a simple toy you can make at home, as long as you have some old t-shirts that you don’t mind cutting up for your pup! Even if you don’t have old t-shirts, places like the dollar store or craft stores … Read more

DIY: No-Sew Dog Bed Made From Your Old Clothes

Does your dog love laying in your lap? Now she can curl up your legs any time, day or night. This DIY, no-sew pet bed is made with old clothes that can be repurposed into fluffy friend’s new favorite hangout. Check out this video for easy instructions: Pant Leg Puppy Bed Look at this super easy DIY bed for your doggy. LOL Posted by Tip Dog on Tuesday, March 15, 2016   So cool! Now you know what to do with … Read more

Spring Is In The Air! Here Are 7 Tips For Dog-Friendly Planting

As the weather warms up, we all start thinking about spring planting. It’s one of the best things about the changes in season: new flowers, fresh grass and the promise of unexpected delights springing forth from the ground. But if you have a dog, spring can be frustrating and even heart-breaking as your dog tears up your new garden and makes a muddy mess of your yard. Kris Kiser, President & CEO of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute is the … Read more

THIS COULD SAVE YOUR DOG’S LIFE: Dog First Aid 101

Everyone knows that if there is something wrong your dog, you need to take him to the vet. But there are times when you are unable to get there, or when it might be too late by the time you arrive. For these times, it’s good to know some basic Dog First Aid, which could prevent further injury or even death until you can make it to your veterinary’s office. Dr. Carol Osborne, DVM, is a world-renowned integrative veterinarian and author. … Read more

What To Look For In A Pet Sitter

Leaving your pet behind when you go on vacation can be stressful. Worrying about whether or not your best friend is being taken care of properly can actually ruin your time off work. The key to a stress- and worry-free trip without your pet is picking the right pet sitter. In honor of Professional Pet Sitters Week, we wanted to give you some tips on selecting a pet sitter that’s right for your pet. Certification – Do They Have it? … Read more

Trail Etiquette All Dog Owners Should Follow

Hiking with our dogs is a great way to get exercise as well as stimulate your dog’s mind by giving him new environments to explore. However, as dog owners we have a responsibility to others who use the trail – remember not everyone is a dog lover! It is our job to ensure our canine friends continue to be welcomed on trials by being good stewards. Elyse Horvath, owner of Natural Paws, an all-natural dog spa product company, is an … Read more

DIY Heart-Shaped Valentine Cookies Just For Dogs!

These cookies are a recipe my husband (a vet tech) and I developed to give our own dogs a special Valentine’s Day treat! They are made with all the things dogs love, like peanut butter and pumpkin, and even have pink icing that is naturally colored with beet juice! They are a snap to make and we are sure your dogs will love them! I’m taking a bunch to my classmates in agility class as Valentines – they are a … Read more

Watch Out For These Winter Toxins!

As the temperature continues to drop, we begin to take precautions to prepare. Throw on more layers, turn up the thermostat, salt the driveway and add antifreeze to your car’s radiator. Although these all may seem like smart safety precautions, some of our winter preparedness items can be harmful for our dogs. Dr. Denise Petryk, on-staff veterinarian at Trupanion pet medical insurance, gave us the following toxins commonly used in winter that all pet parents should watch out for. #1 – Antifreeze Antifreeze … Read more

8 Ways To Prevent Dog Theft

There is nothing scarier than the realization that someone has stolen your dog. The first thought that crosses is your mind is “Why? What are they doing to him?” Rarely do you assume that you dog is being well-loved by the thieves, and you would be right. Dogs are stolen for ransoms, resale, medical research, breeding, fighting, torture, and for use as bait dogs to name a few horrifying facts. Here are a few ways you can help prevent your dog … Read more

Essential Travel Gear Checklist For Your Dog

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Traveling with your dog can be a wonderful experience, full of shared adventures and memories. However, it also comes with a unique set of challenges and responsibilities. To ensure that your journey is as smooth and stress-free as possible, it’s crucial to pack the right travel essentials for your canine companion. From practical items to comfort-focused accessories, … Read more

7 Tips To Help Your Senior Dog Through The Winter

As your dog gets older, winter months get harder for them to handle. Cold, wet weather can make every day a little more painful for your senior dog, and can even be hazardous to his health. The following tips can help you make sure your senior dog stays comfortable all winter long. #1 –  Add glucosamine and chondroitin to their diet Talk to your vet about adding these to your senior dog’s diet. They help lubricate their joints, which get … Read more

DIY Peanut Butter Biscuits

TO NOTE: Always, check with your vet first if you think your dog might have allergies to the ingredients in this recipe or if you think there is anything that could cause an issue. They are your best source for information. This is intended as a treat for your pet, not a replacement for a balanced diet. This is a fun treat your dog will enjoy – no matter how young or old! Whether it be a special occasion or just … Read more

Simple DIY Fleece Dog Stocking

The best thing about this stocking is how EASY it is! In no time you will have a great dog stocking for your own pup or a friend’s. They are great way to give a dog-themed hostess gift – skip the basket that nobody wants and tuck their prezzies in this cute dog stocking instead. Materials Roughly 8.5×14 fleece in whatever color you wish Scrap piece of fleece in coordinating color Stocking Pattern – print on 8.5 x 14 paper … Read more

Top 10 Tips for Home Cooking Dog Diets

If you have thought about cooking for your dog, now’s the time! November 1 is National Cook For Your Pets Day and what could be better than a starting a home cooked diet? Dr. Oscar E Chavez BVetMed MRCVS MBA is a licensed veterinarian and Chief Medical Officer for JustFoodForDogs, a company that makes cooking for your dog easy with premade meals and kits that are veterinarian approved. Below are his top 10 tips to cooking for your dog. #1 … Read more

This Brilliant Halloween Idea Will Have All The Dogs Lined Up Ready To Do Tricks

It’s that time of year again. We enjoy pumpkin spice lattes, the weather gets colder, and children everywhere start walking around with pounds of candy in pillow cases. I’m talking about Halloween. The popularity of Halloween now goes beyond children. Adults spend more and more money on costumes and parties for themselves each year. But aren’t we missing someone? What about our pets? We buy them costumes and even take them trick-or-treating. But while the kids get candy and the adults … Read more

How To Make A Natural Flea And Tick Repellent

With so many harsh chemical products on the market, a lot of dog owners are concerned with the unnatural poisons they’re advised to either put on their dog’s skin or feed to them. So for those looking to go a more natural route, you’ll be happy to find that we’ve found a very easy, very safe, natural flea and tick repellent that can be made cheaply from your home. Summer brings many wonderful things; warm weather, summer showers, beautiful flowers, … Read more

DIY: Your Dog Will Go Nuts For These Homemade Peanut Butter Oat Dog Treats!

If you haven’t made treats for your dog because you are intimidated by the whole process (like knowing what ingredients are safe or not safe to feed your dog), or you don’t fancy yourself much of a baker, this simple recipe is perfect for your first attempt. If you are an “old pro” at baking dog treats, or just baking in general, this recipe gives you lots of room to add and substitute ingredients to make fancy treats your dog will beg for! … Read more

10 Refreshing Frozen Treat Recipes For Your Dog

It. Is. HOT outside! But it’s also the season for ice cream, cold drinks, and popsicles! Don’t forget to include your dog on the chilly-treat fun when you’re snacking. Your dog can enjoy a lot of the treats you do – in dog-safe form, of course. The homemade treats here are super tasty, extra-simple, and don’t need you to turn on your oven. They’re all chilled or frozen! Note: All recipes are senior dog-safe, but be sure to check the … Read more

8 DIY Pallet Beds For Dogs

Dog beds can get pretty expensive and more and more owners are coming up with creative ways to make their own. While there are plenty of good ideas, one of the most common DIY dog beds is made from pallets! It makes total sense, because you make the bed look however you want and it will be sturdy, comfortable and long-lasting. Check out these awesome, homemade dog beds we found around the internet that you can make yourself! Remember to … Read more

5 Fun DIY Dog Halloween Costumes

Halloween… a time for tricks, treats and expressions of individuality. Some dogs don’t mind getting dressed up in elaborate costumes and paraded out and about, lapping up the adoration. There are some incredibly complex canine costumes such as the American bobsled team, Liberace, and a peacock fairy. The following suggestions are more for the creative owner who prefers gluing to sewing and dogs who aren’t as thrilled with dressing up. These costumes are easily constructed and may be tailor made … Read more

10 Ways to Pamper Your Dog on a Budget

Ever wondered how to give your pups the best pampering, but can’t afford a full spa day or a fancy foam dog bed? Luckily, what our dogs value most is something money can’t buy – love and attention from you! Here are some great ideas for the dog lover on a budget who is looking to splurge on their pooch! #1 – Homemade Meal Instead of his normal commercial dog food, fix the dog a homemade meal. Not only will … Read more

5 Tips For Taking Spectacular Photos Of Your Dog

Are you looking to get great shots of your dog? Photographing dogs can be a little tricky at first, but with these five tips you’ll soon be on your way to photographing like a pro. 1. Get Down on His Level That’s right – getting yourself down on your dog’s level will change the camera angle and bring out more realistic, detailed shots. Depending on the size of your dog, this may be easier said than done. If you have … Read more

Pooch-mmm-oothie? Have You Heard Of This For Your Pooch?

Show of hands: how many enjoy a great smoothie? Have you ever thought that your dog may enjoy a smoothie too? It is true, yes, your dog may have a challenge drinking a smoothie through a straw, however, your dog certainly will enjoy this delicious treat in a bowl.  While you are making some for your dog, be sure that you save some for you too.  Yes, this smoothie is great and healthy for you both! This recipe is loaded with … Read more