Teaching Responsibility

Wednesday, January 25, 2012@ 6:36 PM
posted by MyStylinPooch

grooming-a-horseFor years my daughter has been begging me for horseback riding lessons. I finally gave in this year after a serious discussion about responsibility. I explained to her that learning to ride also entails learning to care for horses. I told her that most barns would expect her to shovel stalls, feed and care for horses.

At the beginning of her first lesson, her riding instructor explained the same things to her. In fact, before she was even allowed on a horse, she had to learn proper grooming techniques, like how to use a curry comb and how to pick a hoof. Only after she proved that she was taking her responsibilities seriously was she allowed to ride.

Small Dog, Big Heart

Thursday, December 29, 2011@ 4:24 PM
posted by MyStylinPooch

master TPP004I never pictured myself owning a small dog. I had always thought of them as irritating ankle biters. When I went to the humane society to find a furry addition to my family, I was surprised when my heart melted as I looked at Buck. He’s an adorable tiny mutt that was in need of a good home.

Ever since then we’ve been inseparable. I love his antics; even though he is small he acts like a big tough dog, particularly when he feels that his family is threatened by any outsiders. Buck also loves the outdoors and would stay outside all winter, but I worry that it is too cold, so I’ve tempted him inside with a cozy indoor dog house.

Dress Up Your Pup

Tuesday, December 6, 2011@ 6:22 PM
posted by MyStylinPooch

dressed-up-dogIf you are dog owner, you want your dog to be as fashionable as you are.  When you bring your pet out for a walk or to the supermarket, you want the others to notice the designer dog collars they are wearing.  There are many accessories you can buy, and a premium dog collar is one of them.

There are many designs to choose from and they can even match the leather dog collar you are using.  You can even buy different kinds of pendants that you can attach to their collars.  You can buy them fashionable clothes and paw wear, as well, to complete the whole look.  You can never get enough of those cute outfits for your pets.  Maybe you can even get matching outfits for you and your favorite pooch. Your dog will surely create a unique fashion statement with these adorable dog collars.

Dog Toys for Destructive Dogs

Tuesday, November 22, 2011@ 6:21 PM
posted by MyStylinPooch

dog-tough-toysHave a dog that won’t hesitate to chew on metal, wood, or even rock? Or a dog who bites through standard nylon leashes in two chomps, terrorizes chew toys, and rips the stuffing out of all objects put in front of them? For dogs like this, the solution is indestructible dog toys! These dog toys are designed for those dogs that seem to just destroy all of the regular toys. Often made of hard rubber, indestructible toys are perfect for larger dogs like Mastiffs, Pitbulls, and Chow-Chows that tend to rip through standard dog toys. With indestructible toys, it’s possible to keep these dogs entertained and away from the furniture or other objects in the home that they shouldn’t be chewing on. These toys are also great for fetch and other games, allowing pet and owner to interact without worry of the toy breaking.

Most tough dog toys will last for several years before requiring replacement, and even then, the replacement is often at the discretion of the owner as the toy becomes riddled with bite marks and quite potent in odor from years of being gnawed on!

Why Are Dog Toys So Important?

Thursday, November 10, 2011@ 2:43 PM
posted by MyStylinPooch

dog-toysDogs love to chew. Dog toys give them things they are allowed to chew, keeping them from getting bored and trying the taste of furniture, walls, rugs, clothes, shoes…you get the idea. Dogs should have a variety of toys and bones to keep busy-rotated occasionally for continued interest–and they need to be within reach as well.   Toys end up under the furniture, appliances, out in the yard, or just plain lost as time goes on, and as dog chew toys mysteriously disappear, there will be less for Rover to do, and once again, the threat of destructive canine mode looms over your home.

Some dog owners have had great success with a dog toy box-a large rubber container works (and has the added benefit of being easy to clean). All the plush dog toys will occupy a specific space, and the dog has the added fun of digging through and choosing her toy for the moment. Having dog toys in a centralized location also makes training easier, because if your dog has taken something she is not supposed to have, it is easier to distract her with an appropriate toy when they are all found in one location.  The dog will learn to go his toy box when he wants to chew, which will keep him occupied and out of mischief.

A Dog Safety Solution

Thursday, October 27, 2011@ 2:43 PM
posted by MyStylinPooch

lighted nylon dog collarMany dogs don’t have a schedule for relieving themselves – they need to go when they need to go! That said, dog owners often find themselves walking their dogs at night when it’s dark. This can put both the dog and owner in danger of getting hit by a car. We all know that people should wear light, bright colors if they are walking or biking at night, but how are you protecting your dog?

Dogs could easily be hit by a car, even if the driver sees you. They may not notice a dark dog at the end of a dark leash. You can help prevent this tragedy by buying a lighted nylon dog collar for your dog. Some lighted dog collars can be set to flash mode or just a steady light; flash is recommended for maximum visibility. Don’t take any chances with your beloved dog – invest in his safety today!

Western and English Saddles

Monday, October 10, 2011@ 3:04 PM
posted by MyStylinPooch

western-saddleMost equestrians think of saddles as falling into two main categories, English and Western.  Western saddles are distinctive because of a horn and high fork on the front of the saddle, and a deeper seat.  The western saddle also has wide and long stirrups and fenders.  The English saddle has a flatter seat, and no noticeable fork and horn.

Regardless of which style you decide on, you should make sure that the saddle fits your horse. If your horse appears uncomfortable, examine the horse’s back to see if there are any sores due to chafing or rubbing, this indicates an incorrectly fitted western saddle.

Don’t Forget Your Dog

Monday, September 26, 2011@ 3:04 PM
posted by MyStylinPooch

travel-with-dogWhen you are planning on taking a vacation, a lot of things come into play. One of those is bringing your pet with you. Your dog is one of your family members and you don’t want to leave them behind. They get excited to go on vacation just like your children do.

Airlines have a lot of stipulations on what you can carry on, as well as how heavy your bags are that you check in. Dog carriers are no different. It’s best to check with the airline to see what type of airline approved dog carriers they use. They do need to be equipped with a sticker that says “live animal.” You don’t want to purchase a carrier that is collapsible. It has potential to fall on your dog. Getting the right information is key, so your family including your dog has an amazing vacation.

Experience The Benefits Of Crate Training

Thursday, September 15, 2011@ 4:38 PM
posted by MyStylinPooch

dog_crate_wireThere are many benefits of using a dog crate. For some pet owners, a dog crate can help break bad habits that their improperly trained dogs may have developed over the years. A dog crate also promotes happiness in dogs as they feel more secure and safe in their own space, hence, reducing behavioral problems such as excessive chewing and barking. In addition, keeping a dog in a crate teaches him to “hold it” until he can go in an appropriate place, which can help him develop bladder control.

There are many choices in dog crates and one of them is soft dog crate.  Soft dog crates are made of lightweight fabric that is suitable for crate-trained dogs. However, they are not ideal for chewers, aggressive or nervous dogs. Another choice is a plastic crate which is good for a dog who travels a lot and is basically the only method of containment accepted by airlines. A metal wire dog crate are ideal for home use.

Dachshund Stuff

Thursday, September 1, 2011@ 4:38 PM
posted by MyStylinPooch

dachshundIf you are looking for a pet dog, you might want to consider getting a dachshund. This breed is friendly, playful, and fun to be with. It is also a loyal family dog, hence, it is perfect for families with kids around. Dachshunds are also clever animals.

There are a lot of dachshund lovers around the country. In fact, there are even dachshund collectible items such as bumper stickers and house ware items. There are dachshund posters, too. There is also dog tees especially for dachshunds.