Doggy DNA Test

A DNA Test for your dog? Yes! Doggy DNA tests reveal the mix of your mixed breed dog. The Canine Heritage Breed Test is a kit you order, take a quick swab inside of your dogs mouth and mail it in! 

You will receive a certificate that tells you what your mutt is made of. Just remember, a dog's breed has a lot of influence on his needs and behavior.

Moving with Your Dog

Moving into a new house or apartment is a stressful time for us but we need to think about what our dog will go through as we move all of our stuff into a new place. The home they are leaving means leaving behind their territory.

To make a smooth transition, include your dog while you pack and move boxes so he can check things out. He is aware that something is going on with all these items piled around the house. 

When you are ready for the big day, it is probably best to have a dog sitter. It will allow you to get things done and not stress about where the dog is. It will also mean less stress on your dog. When the movers are gone-bring in Fido! He will need to make his rounds and check out the place. 

Sticking to his old routine is very important. Keeping him on the same schedule for eating and bedtime will allow him to acclimate even quicker. Dogs adjust faster than cats simply because we tend to socialize them more. 

Once you are in your new home, take your furry friend for a walk around his new neighborhood. Once he gets used to the new smells, the sooner he will feel at home.

Water....is your dog drinking enough?

Water is one of the most important nutrients in your dogs diet and you should know how much is enough for him.

A dog will drink about 1 cup of water for every 10 pounds of body weight each day and should drink the same amount of water every day as well. If it is hot outside or if your dog has been out running he may drink more. A nursing mother or a new medication could also cause your dog to drink more water daily. If your dog is ill or fed moisture rich food, such as canned dog food, he may drink less.

If you would like to make sure your pooch is drinking a sufficient amount of water each day, simply monitor his consumption. Serve your dog a full bowl of water in the morning. If he is 50 pounds, give him 5 cups. Measure what is left in his water bowl just before bedtime. If it is empty, serve up a little more the next day. Keep a log of his water consumption for the next 4-5 days to determine an average amount.

Any unusual changes in your dog's water consumption could indicate a problem. Be sure to call your veterinarian to rule out any medical problems.

*Doggy Dental Solution can be found at LiveLoveAndBark.com

Dogs Love to Run!

Does your dog love to run if you let him go?  Dogs love to run, they just do. Their view of exercise, especially running, is so different from most people. I wish I loved to run as much as my dog does.

Most of us have to force ourselves to work out or exercise daily, but a dog does not require any motivation to go outside for a run. They just do it. It is one of their favorite things to do and they will run as often as you let them. When I open the door to let Murphy outside he takes off in a run to see what is going on out there. 

I always ask my dog if he wants to go for a walk and if he could answer me I bet he would say, "No, I would rather go for a quick run!". Dogs love to run from scent to scent, over to other dogs, and to any other interesting smells. 

Ever play catch with someone? You stand apart from each other and throw the ball toward the person so they catch it. Ever notice where your dog stands when you play fetch with him? He stands next to you and waits for the ball to be thrown away from him so he can take off in a run to get it. He will then run all the way back to you with the ball. Now, if you overthrow the ball to the person you are playing catch with I bet they would be annoyed if they had to run after the ball. 

Many dogs are bred for running such as Siberian Huskies, Shepard Dogs, Border Collies and Greyhounds. Running is not bred out of your dog when he does not do it as often as he likes. It is important to give your pooch some room to run and get a bit of exercise. His few minutes of running gives him a feeling of satisfaction. The saying, " A tired dog is a happy dog" is true.

If you are not up for a run, just play fetch in your yard with your dog. Just throwing a ball for your dog is an easy way for your dog to get in a good amount of running. 

Chillin...

It has been so cold outside that we have not been able to walk or play long out there. Today it is 19 degrees but feels more like 59 to us!! 

Murphy was able to get out for a walk and a game of fetch. Now it is time to chill!

Ear Infections in Dogs

Ear infections in dogs are more common than you think. This can be a painful condition for your dog to experience. If you see your furry friend shaking his head or trying to scratch at his ears or head, this could be a warning sign of infection. You may notice a strange odor or even see a brownish discharge in the ear. 

My dog, Murphy has had a few ear infections and currently has a double ear infection. His signs of infection have included  a redness on the inside of his ear and he started to smell a little funny. When I would get close to him I could not figure out what I was smelling until I flipped his ear over and saw how red it was. 

Most ear infections in adult dogs are caused by a bacteria or yeast. Ear mites are common in puppies. Your veterinarian will take a sample from the infected ear and determine what is causing the infection. He will also provide a treatment based on the diagnosis. 

If you notice any of following: you may want to make an appointment with your veterinarian and have him check out your best friends ears. Remember...ear infections can be painful. 

* Scratching or Rubbing at ears
* Shaking head around
* Notice an abnormal odor
* Red or Swollen ears

25 Things Your Dog Will Do

25 Things Your Dog Will Do Because He is a Dog!

1. Eat at least one pair of people shoes in his life time.
2. Go for a run with you
3. Take a swim.
4. Dig a hole
5. Play in the snow.
6. Sit on your couch.
7. Greet you at the door.
8. Cheer you up when you had a bad day.
9. Attend a family party.
10. Sleep in your bed.
11. Wake you up in the morning.
12. Learn to sit.
13. Howl along with your favorite song.
14. Ride in the car with his head out the window.
15. Have his own Christmas stocking.
16. Play Frisbee.
17. Own stylish canine clothing.
18. Enjoy his very own birthday cake.
19. Eat something he is not suppose to.
20. Rip the stuffing out of a pillow or cushion.
21. Watch T.V.
22. Be in a family photo.
23. Have a bed of his own.
24. Play with other four legged friends.
25. Bark to get your attention.

How many of these things has your dog done already?