Tuesday, September 30, 2008

dogcollars-28

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Care For Your Small Dog With These Big-Impact Tips
Author: Blake Kritzberg
Basic small dog care is much the same as for larger dogs, but owners need to make a few adjustments to best meet their small dog's needs. Consider the following daily dog care routines, and how they're adapted to meet the needs of your pint-sized pup.

Feeding Your Small Dog

Naturally you're going to feed your dog daily, but the standard-size kibble at the grocery store may be too large for your small dog to eat comfortably. You'll need to be sure to buy a kibble designed to fit his smaller mouth (these are easy to find among the premium dog food brands). Canned soft foods are also perfectly suitable for your small dog.

Containing Your Small Dog

All dogs need exercise and a safe place to potty outdoors, and a fenced-in yard provides all the security they need, right? Not necessarily when it comes to small dogs. A fence that adequately holds a bigger dog may have gaps large enough for a small dog to fit between or under, allowing him to escape. Fences also can't provide overhead protection from large hawks, which sadly have been known to carry small dogs and puppies away. A covered kennel run might better meet your small dog's needs.

Training Your Small Dog

Small dogs aren't any harder to train than large dogs, yet the consensus of many pet experts is that many of them end up spoiled. No matter if he fits in a purse or a pocket, your small dog still sees the world in terms of pack behavior, and if you're not leading the pack, he is. It's a wise idea to make sure your small dog is thoroughly housetrained, no matter how small and inconsequential the mess might seem when he misses. Dog experts also suggest you make your small dog work for you, to keep him responsive to your rules. Have him sit or do tricks before you give him a tasty treat or even his meal.

Grooming Your Small Dog

Small dog care includes some special grooming needs you'll need to keep in mind. Small dogs require more frequent nail trimming than larger dogs, because they typically spend less time on rough surfaces wearing them down. You'll also need to brush your small dog's teeth twice a week if you're feeding a soft canned food diet.

As you can see, small dog care largely follows the same route as care for any other sized dog. The differences may seem like minor details, but paying attention to them can make a big impact when it comes to meeting your small dog's special needs.

Article Source : http://www.articledashboard.com

Blake Kritzberg is proprietor of Poodle-oo, your source for small dog clothes. Stop by for small dog couture and home decor, designer dog collars, leather dog leashes and the Small Dog Blog. www.poodle-oo.com

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Tuesday, September 23, 2008

dogcollars-27

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Burberry for Dogs?
Author: Natacha Bunzl
Burberry is one of the world's famous designer brands. But branded trenchcoats and sweaters for dogs? A thought that may make you raise your eyebrows!

Is today's designer fashion selling out? Despite what you might think, high-class designer labels also cater for your pets nowadays as does British luxury label Burberry who has just released their own collection of Burberry clothing for dogs. Most notable features are the famous Burberry trenchcoat for dogs as well as the Check sweater and Burberry dog leash.

Where did this trend start? The origins of dog clothing most probably came from England due to its damp and cold climate, it was very easy for smaller dogs to catch colds when they were taken out. So for a while it was not uncommon to find small dogs dressed in cover-up "raincoats" and sausaged in small waterproof capes.

But the idea of actually dressing your dog and providing them with a wardrobe only came up recently. Sparked by such celebrities as Paris Hilton and her pet chihuahua Tinkerbell as well as the successful Hollywood movie 'Legally Blonde', dressing your dog up has become the ultimate in fashion and accesorizing.

From an alligator-skin dog collar and leash set to an elegant Burberry trench coat for dogs, shoes, t-shirts, hats and more you can find just about everything you wear yourself in 'dog sizes'. Bloomingdale's, Neiman-Marcus, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, all the biggest names in fashion have pawed their way into the very lucrative pet-accessories market, an industry that gathered an estimated $8 billion during 2004.

Though Burberry aren't the only designer label to release their own dog clothing collection, Burberry for dogs is definitely the collection with the most fashion credibility if you consider that as well as being English, and therefore well accustomed to bad weather, Thomas Burberry's initial success was for outdoor wear, trenchcoats and sweaters.

So if you are looking to dress your dog up, think of Burberry for dogs, with their trenchcoats, leashes and custom-made sweaters, your dog will always keep warm whilst looking elegant and refined just like Burberry clothes make you feel when you wear them. It's a sweet way of extending your love for fashion to your pet.

Unfortunately, Burberry clothing for dogs are a little pricey with the Check sweater for dogs selling at $155 and only available from select Burberry stores. But why not coordinate and shop for a Burberry mesh hat, handbag or sweater for yourself online? Shops like Bluefly.com and Ashford.com sell authentic Burberry clothing and accessories at lower prices than in real shops.

Happy Shopping!

About the Author

Natacha Bunzl writes for best fashion shopping site Indelibles.com (http://www.indelibles.com/ )whose aim is to enhance your designer shopping experience.
If you wish to reproduce the above article you may do so provided the article is reproduced in its entirety, including this resource box and live link to the website. Live links must be human visible and search engine spiderable.

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Tuesday, September 16, 2008

dogcollars-26

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Dog Supplies Buying Guide
Author: Jack Russell
Just like a baby who needs utmost attention and care, the acquisition of the best supplies for your dog needs some major consideration, too. Here's how you can ensure that your beloved pet gets the best toys, food, and other necessities.

Dog Food and Treats

Your dog's needs should be the emphasis when considering what food or treat to buy him. The proper balance of vitamins and minerals should be given, particularly to growing puppies. Sporting and working dog breeds need to eat something that will sustain their hyperactive lifestyle. Dogs that aren't getting any younger need low-calorie food to avoid weight gain. Don't scrimp on the budget here no matter how compelling it might be. A healthy dog is reflected by the food he eats.

Dog Leashes and Collars

The size and weight of the dog should be taken into account in choosing the right dog collar. The collar's material needs attention too. Nylon is good for water-loving dogs since it is more durable and light. For a tougher look, leather collars are a lot better since they are more durable and can even be accessorized with spikes.

Dog leashes come in cloth, nylon, retractable, and leather styles.

Dog Toys

The safety of your dog should be the top priority in looking for a dog toy. What fun could be derived from a toy if it will endanger your pet's life, right? A dog toy should be large enough so that it can't be swallowed by your pet. However, it should be small enough for your dog to be able to grip it well.

The durability of the toys will need major consideration too, especially for dogs that are serious chewers. Light chewers can settle for vinyl and latex dog toys.

Training Guides for Your Dog

Dog whistles, dog harnesses and bitter-tasting sprays compose the wide array of dog-training guides that will keep a dog from chewing. If the chewing problem is a lot more serious, one may use a dog bark collar or an electric fence. It is advised that one stays consistent and humane in training his or her dog. Dog training books may also be availed for this endeavor.

Dog Health Items

Tick and flea infestation control medications are available to ensure that your dog's health is secured against these pests. Brands like Advantix, Advantage and Frontline are some of the popular flea and tick drugs in the market.

Your dog's dental health should never be taken for granted either. Dog toothbrushes and toothpastes, and even dog toys are now made available to support the dental health of your pet.

Article Source : http://www.articledashboard.com

Jack Russell is a a long time dog fancier, visit his Dog Resources Blog and download his Free Dog Owners Handbook - it's Dog Gone Good! www.daveshealthbuzz.com/dogcare/

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Tuesday, September 9, 2008

dogcollars-25

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Health Problems That Haunt Small Dogs
Author: Blake Kritzberg
While none of the following problems are by any means exclusive to small dogs, they do present extra challenges for small dogs and their owners.

Teeth and Gum Problems

Many small dogs have a tendency to develop teeth and gum problems which lead to tooth loss, because they are often fed canned food as an alternative to larger kibble. Although tooth loss in itself is vexing, oral disease can lead to even more serious heart disease, compromised immune systems and other complications.

Bi-weekly tooth brushing will help prevent this typical small dog health problem. An attractive supply of crunchy treats and chews (high-quality natural ingredients and not too large, please) will also help your pup keep his sparkling smile.

"Small Dog Syndrome"

Even the smallest toy dogs are infamous for their willingness to take on dogs the size of a full-grown man. Your dog may be that brave, but he's almost sure not to be that lucky. Protect your small dog from his oversized ambitions by picking him up when a larger dog approaches.

Injuries

Injuries make up more than their share of small dog health problems. Their tiny bones are more easily broken – sometimes, even when a small dog jumps off of the furniture onto a hard surface. As much as possible, try to cushion the normal launch spots by placing carpet and rugs underneath.

Small dogs tend to get underfoot more, and unlike the case with a larger animal, those tiny bones can easily be injured if the dog is accidentally stepped on. Many owners find the best solution is learning to "shuffle" around their dog and not lift their feet too high.

Illness

Although small dogs are typically long-lived, illness has even greater ramifications when it comes to small dog health problems. Many opportunistic illnesses like viruses and bacterial infections can take over a small dog's system much more quickly, causing them to go downhill rapidly.

Small dogs are also more prone to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) because of their faster metabolism. Paying attention to the first signs of any illness and taking immediate action can greatly help to keep small dog health problems in check.

While on the surface, small dog health problems might appear to be much the same as any other dog's, health issues can have a bigger effect on their tiny systems. Extra diligence on your part will help more effectively treat and prevent many small dog health problems!

Article Source : http://www.articledashboard.com

Blake Kritzberg is proprietor of Poodle-oo, your source for small dog clothes. Stop by for fine dog couture, designer dog collars and the Small Dog Blog. www.poodle-oo.com/

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Tuesday, September 2, 2008

dogcollars-24

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Titan In A Teacup -- The Pomeranian Dog
Author: Blake Kritzberg
Looking for a new canine pal and have one of the toy breeds in mind? Then be sure to give more than a glance to the stylish Pomeranian -- that prancing little ringmaster who, just like a certain boy or girl from high school, knows exactly how good looking he is.

If you have the time to brush and comb his magnificent coat, the Pomeranian thoroughly deserves your consideration. A whole lot of dog in a small package, he fairly bursts with personality. When you walk him down the street, all eyes turn -- and not because he's blocking the light! -- but because of his bright eyes, "look at me" stride and gorgeous coat.

Most dog lovers don't know that the tiny Pom is related to the standoffish, handsome Chow, the lovely white Samoyed and others belonging to the group loosely known as "Northern dogs." Europe and especially Germany boasts several near relatives of the Pomeranian, including the white and black Spitzes.

So, then, why are Poms so small? The fact is, when they first appeared in America they were heftier, weighing in at about 15-20 pounds on average. In fact, around the turn of the twentieth century, prize-winning American Poms could be found at 25 to 30 pounds.

But their pint-sized destiny had already been determined. In the late 1800s, Queen Victoria became known as a Pomeranian fan, and like many celebrities, preferred the smallest specimens. Sure enough, the breeders followed her lead, resulting in the tiny, mighty companions we have today.

Unsurprisingly, Poms are a special favorite of women, but they deserve real consideration in many homes thanks to their special mix of size, intelligence and beauty. Urban families without a fenced yard can greatly enjoy a Pom.

It may hardly tip the scales, but the Pom is a distinctive pocket pup with an alert expression, incredibly acute hearing, and almost limitless intelligence and eagerness to learn. What's more, Poms have more backbone than you might think (you may have to protect them from their own bravado if a large, aggressive dog approaches).

If you're almost set on a Pom, just don't forget that being a Pom owner means devoting time and care to its coat. They're so attractive and proud that their thick, showy coats deserve special attention, and that means more than a lick-and-a-promise brushing.

Article Source : http://www.articledashboard.com

Blake Kritzberg is proprietor of Poodle-oo, your source for small dog clothes. Stop by www.poodle-oo.com/ for small dog couture and home decor, small dog collars, leather dog leashes and the Small Dog Blog.

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dogcollars-24

Dog Collar
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Titan In A Teacup -- The Pomeranian Dog
Author: Blake Kritzberg
Looking for a new canine pal and have one of the toy breeds in mind? Then be sure to give more than a glance to the stylish Pomeranian -- that prancing little ringmaster who, just like a certain boy or girl from high school, knows exactly how good looking he is.

If you have the time to brush and comb his magnificent coat, the Pomeranian thoroughly deserves your consideration. A whole lot of dog in a small package, he fairly bursts with personality. When you walk him down the street, all eyes turn -- and not because he's blocking the light! -- but because of his bright eyes, "look at me" stride and gorgeous coat.

Most dog lovers don't know that the tiny Pom is related to the standoffish, handsome Chow, the lovely white Samoyed and others belonging to the group loosely known as "Northern dogs." Europe and especially Germany boasts several near relatives of the Pomeranian, including the white and black Spitzes.

So, then, why are Poms so small? The fact is, when they first appeared in America they were heftier, weighing in at about 15-20 pounds on average. In fact, around the turn of the twentieth century, prize-winning American Poms could be found at 25 to 30 pounds.

But their pint-sized destiny had already been determined. In the late 1800s, Queen Victoria became known as a Pomeranian fan, and like many celebrities, preferred the smallest specimens. Sure enough, the breeders followed her lead, resulting in the tiny, mighty companions we have today.

Unsurprisingly, Poms are a special favorite of women, but they deserve real consideration in many homes thanks to their special mix of size, intelligence and beauty. Urban families without a fenced yard can greatly enjoy a Pom.

It may hardly tip the scales, but the Pom is a distinctive pocket pup with an alert expression, incredibly acute hearing, and almost limitless intelligence and eagerness to learn. What's more, Poms have more backbone than you might think (you may have to protect them from their own bravado if a large, aggressive dog approaches).

If you're almost set on a Pom, just don't forget that being a Pom owner means devoting time and care to its coat. They're so attractive and proud that their thick, showy coats deserve special attention, and that means more than a lick-and-a-promise brushing.

Article Source : http://www.articledashboard.com

Blake Kritzberg is proprietor of Poodle-oo, your source for small dog clothes. Stop by www.poodle-oo.com/ for small dog couture and home decor, small dog collars, leather dog leashes and the Small Dog Blog.

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