News

active breed dog food active dog breeds adopting a yorkiepoo adventure dogs athletes’ dogs athletic dogs autumn backpacking with your dog beach safe dog beach safety for dog benefits of hiking best dog food brands best dog food for active dogs best fall colors bulldog breeds Bulldog Health bulldog price bulldogs canine diabetes chihuahua breed chihuahua facts chihuahua puppies coil dog leash cold weather dog tips comfortable dog collar cross country with a dog Diabetes in Dogs dog camps dog exercise dog foot injury dog games dog GPS dog leash for running dog obesity dog sniffing dog swimming dog trackers dog travel dog-friendly marathons dog-friendly races dogs in cold weather exercise with your dog exercises for disabled dogs exercises for handicapped dogs fall leaves fat dog fleas and ticks hands-free dog leash hiking with your dog how to get rid of fleas how to start running hyper dog training tips hyper puppy hyperactive dog indoor activities for dogs instagram dogs K-9 diabetes lessons dogs teach us life lessons new year’s resolutions obese dog outdoor dog boots overly excited dog overweight dog padded collar padded dog collar paw pad injuries in dogs pet-friendly runs professional athletes rhodesian ridgeback Rhodesian ridgeback puppies ridgeback dog road trip with your dog running belt for dog owners running dog belt running dog leash running with your dog signs of diabetes in dogs sniffing during walks sports and dogs spring dog shedding staying fit with your dog summer safety tips for dogs symptoms of diabetes in dogs toenail cut too short tracking device for dogs winter safety for dogs Working out with your dog yorkiepoo yorkiepoo health yorkshire terrier
  • 8 Inspiring Adventure Dogs to Follow On Instagram

    photo credits: @thehikerpup, @alisontravels, @explorewithollie

     

    Is there anything cuter than pet Instagram accounts? As a dog lover, and an armchair traveler, dog adventures are sometimes the best way to fill that wanderlust in your heart. We've scoured the internet to find the best possible doggy adventures on Instagram.

     

    Take a look at these adorable and inspiring Instagrams!

     

    1. Loki The Wolfdog

     

    https://www.instagram.com/loki/

    What began as the travel adventures of one photographer and one very photogenic malamute/wolfdog puppy, has changed into a great travel blog featuring Loki, as well as a business helping other dogs, with all-natural dog treats and doggy accessories. But mostly it's just photos of one seriously beautiful dog traveling the world!

     

    2. Alison Travels

     

    https://www.instagram.com/alisontravels

    If you've got a serious case of wanderlust, Max and Cooper have you covered! Along with their human Alison, they hit the road in their outfitted van Homie, and see some of the best views you could ask for across the USA.

     

    3. Find Me Outside

     

    https://www.instagram.com/findmeoutside

    Elena, and her lab mixes, Rio and Baya have visited just about every stop in Oregon, from mountains to deserts! They're looking forward to tackling more states, and would love the visit from you, to keep up on their adventures!

     

    4. Explore With Ollie

     

    https://www.instagram.com/explorewithollie/

    Ollie is proof you don't have to be a big boy to go on big adventures! He and his human Stephan have visited four states so far, and hiked 32 of Colorado's mountain peaks! Take a look at his Instagram to find out how this little guy does it!

     

    5. Millie The Golden

     

    https://www.instagram.com/milliethegolden/

    Millie and Sunny are two beautiful Golden Doodles who live in Alaska, and spend a lot of their time outdoors, camping and traveling with their humans. The wilderness is breathtaking, the family is adorable, and Millie and her sister pup Sunny always have a smile for everyone!

     

    6. Running With Sam

     

    https://www.instagram.com/runningwithsam/

    Amy's Go-Pro skills are amazing. She and her Germain Pointer Sam spend a lot of time hiking the Colorado trails, and they track their progress on Instagram. If you've ever been curious about the best hiking trails in Colorado, you're going to love spending time with Amy, and Sam, who follows her everywhere she goes!

     

    7. Theresa Silveyra

     

    https://www.instagram.com/theresasilveyra/

    Theresa Silveyra is a dedicated hiker trained in Wilderness First Aid who loves to tackle new horizons with her dog Cassie and her partner Mack. Her Instagram is chock full of gorgeous summit pictures, and some fantastic images of Cassie enjoying the climbs, guaranteed to encourage you to climb higher and reach further, just like she does!

     

    8. The Hiker Pup

     

    https://www.instagram.com/thehikerpup/

    Dawn is more than a committed hiker and pet owner. She's actually a pro dog trainer, who specializes in no-force dog training. Not only is her Instagram full of the amazing views and trails she hikes with her beloved rescued Border Collie Pups, Nick and Emily, but she's also got plenty of tips and tricks for pet owners too. Nick, her most recent adoption, is still in the training phase, so we get to watch him grow into an adventurer right before our eyes.

     

    Dogs have a way of looking at the world that makes every day feel like a new adventure. But these wandering pups take on adventures almost daily, with their running, hiking, and traveling. If you've got some wanderlust, follow these four-legged adventurers as they take on the world, and look really cute doing it! Considering, following their lead and taking on adventures of your own with your pawtner in tow? The following articles can help you get started on the right track!

     

    How To Safely Travel Cross-Country with Your Dog

    The Surprising Benefits of Hiking with Your Dog

    How To Start Running Like A Pro

  • Summer Safety Tips For Beach Loving Dogs

    Summer days with your favorite pooch is a great way to spend a vacation. Hitting the beach can be a great time for everyone. But for your dog, the beach has some downsides you should keep in mind before you get out in the sun with him.

     

    Check out these tips for keeping your dog safe at the beach, so you can both enjoy the day together!

     

    1. Stick To The Shallows

     

    It turns out, the doggy paddle is just an expression! Not all dogs can swim, or even like the water. Unless you know your dog is an experienced swimmer, stick to the shallow end. Some pet stores sell life vests for your dog. Look for one that fastens at three points, and has a handle in the back, so you can pull your dog away from danger when you need to. You should also avoid water if there are a lot of surfboards, jet skis, and other water sports, to avoid the dog getting over-excited.

     

    2. Keep Him Hydrated

     

    Salt water is very bad for dogs and can dry them out quickly. But unlike humans, dogs don't always know to keep from drinking the water. Keep a portable water dish in your beach bag, and stay loaded up on fresh bottled water. Keep an eye on your dog and make sure to pull him away if he starts drinking.

     

    3. Use Sunscreen

     

    Of course, you know to protect your own skin from the sun, but many people make the mistake of assuming that their dog's natural protection will be enough. Bring some sunscreen formulated for dogs to protect your dog's nose and ears from the sun. And don't forget to bring sunscreen for yourself too!

     

    4. Spend Some Time In The Shade

     

    Hot sand in the middle of the day can be dangerous for dogs. Not only is it tougher to walk in, but it could actually get hot enough to cause small burns on the bottom of your dog's feet. Dehydration can creep up on your dog slowly, so make sure to find a shady spot to take breaks in. Whether it's tug-of-war under a beach umbrella or taking a nap while you sunbath or read a book in the shade, your dog's going to need some extra rest time with all the excitement, especially in the heat.

     

    5. Keep An Eye Out For Hidden Dangers

     

    From hot sand to swimming in the ocean with beach glass, you'll want to make regular checks of your dog's pads, feet and legs are clear of debris. Being extra vigilant helps you avoid infection, and helps your dog avoid extended pain or problems later on. So watch where your dog is stepping and pay attention to his body language. Remember before you leave the beach to thoroughly rinse him top to tail to get out any salt, sand, and organisms, and give him a proper bath when you get home to ensure the salt water hasn't dried out his skin, and you haven't missed any cuts or scrapes.

     

    Nothing beats a day at the beach, except a day at the beach with your best friend. The sun, sand and salt water can be good for both of you, but it does pose risks. Follow these tips to keep both of you safe on the beach, so you can make the most of the summer sun!

  • Ruff Life Gear Breed Spotlight: Chihuahua

    If you're a fan of small dogs, you probably already know a little about the Chihuahua. From Legally Blondes’ Bruiser Woods, to the adorable Taco Bell mascot, the little dogs with the big personality are everywhere. But are they right for your family? Like all small dogs, Chihuahuas have challenges. But with the right environment, they can make fantastic companions for you and your family.

     

    Since International Chihuahua Appreciation Day was this month, let’s take a closer look at the these charming little devils!

     

    Breed Basics

     

    Chihuahuas are toy breeds, and that means small. They are 6-9 inches tall. At full-grown, they weigh between 2-6 pounds. This does mean, especially when they are young, they're a little needy when compared to other dogs. Children, especially younger children being introduced to a Chihuahua should be supervised. Don’t get it twisted though, they are great family pets! Whether you are an active family of four, with a huge yard, or a single person in an apartment, Chihuahuas are fiesty, energetic and loyal companions. They're very adaptable, and can make themselves at home wherever their people are.

     

    Puppy Training

     

     

    Because of their size, Chihuahua puppies can be very delicate. Though they are highly intelligent and eager to please, this can make house training difficult. Many Chihuahua owners decide to puppy pad or litter box train their Chihuahua. It is better for the dog to be taught go outside.

     

    Chihuahuas have been bred to be companion dogs. They are loyal and smart and need to be kept busy. This makes trick training very easy. They should be taught with clicker training instead of treat training. Chihuahua stomachs are so small, they can be very easily overfed, and too many treats can really upset their diet and health quickly. For this reason, they are prone to obesity and diabetes.

     

    Chihuahuas are very protective. They are too small to be a real threat to intruders, but they do make great alarm systems. They're great for a variety of people at different ages and stages of their lives, including families with children or single seniors looking for companions, since they don't take up much space and can get most of their exercise indoors when they need to. They don't necessarily get along well with other animals because they are so devoted to their humans. If your Chihuahua is your only dog, or you have other chihuahuas at home this may be the right dog for you. Otherwise you may find your Chihuahua develops some aggressive tendencies.

     

    Health Problems

     

    Every dog breed has its share of typical health problems. Like many small dog breeds, chihuahuas are susceptible to hypoglycemia urinary tract infections, and joint problems. Chihuahuas are also susceptible to heart murmurs and other heart conditions. As they age you might find your Chihuahua losing sight due to cataracts or chronic eye infections. Taking good care of your chihuahuas eyes are essential since they protrude from the head, leaving them more susceptible to injury and infection. However, like many toy breeds, Chihuahuas have an impressive lifespan. Typically, a Chihuahua can live 14 to 19 years.

     

    Chihuahuas are very small dogs, with very big personalities! They are fiercely loyal, and often require the same devotion from their owners. But if you have the time and attention to spare, a feisty, fun-loving Chihuahua can add years of memories for you and your family.

     

  • Our Top Tips for Training a Hyperactive Dog

    Bringing home a dog is always full of challenges. As a new dog owner or one with more experience, you want to nip behavioral problems in the bud as early as possible. Hyperactivity is a common problem in puppies. If it is left unchecked, however, it can result in disastrous behavioral issues later.

     

    Follow these tips to learn how to calm and train a hyperactive dog whether puppy or adult.

      

    1. More Exercise

     One of the most common causes of a so-called hyperactive dog is boredom. This tends to result in a lot of pent-up energy. So, when a dog is given some freedom, he will bolt, jump, or become too difficult to control. Offer your dog who is exhibiting hyperactive traits more walks, exercise, and other physical activities. This will help with both discipline, and burning off the excess energy.

     

    2. Keep Your Dog Stimulated

     Certain breeds of dogs need to be mentally stimulated along with getting their exercise. Puzzle toys can help stimulate the dog mentally. If that doesn’t seem to be doing it, try enrolling in a sport with your dog. Games like Frisbee and agility training exercise the dog’s body and mind and help keep them mentally stimulated, as well as physically wearing them out.

     

    3. Build a Routine

     Oftentimes, dogs act out or get over excited when they don’t know what to expect from you. Hyperactive dogs are usually high energy dogs that have been left untrained. Remember, your dog wants to please you. Provide structure by giving the dog an expected routine, including food and walking schedule. Try as well to be consistent with where you go, and the activities you do together. If your dog is exposed to a routine early and often, they will understand the expectations in your home, and feel calmer and safer.

     

    4. Learn How To Discipline

     It’s a common misconception that dogs need to be disciplined through displays of dominance. Most often, a hyperactive dog is the result of poor training techniques, not the dog's desire for dominance. Never respond to a display of hyperactivity with aggression. This will encourage nervousness in the dog, and may cause him to snap, or create aggression problems later on. Instead, distract the dog with a walk or run with a running dog leash. If the dog needs discipline- for example, if they have chewed something or become too anxious to distract- crate or lock the dog in a safe separate space first, to calm down.

     

    Your dog takes his cues from you. Hyperactivity as a puppy can often be handled effectively as he ages. But too many pet owners believe this is a problem to do with age, or that the dog needs harsher discipline methods. In reality, hyperactivity is usually a sign of boredom in dogs. Once you understand what your dog is trying to tell you, the tips on this list can help you turn a hyperactive pup into an obedient, energetic best friend!

  • How to Care for Pad, Toenail, and Other Foot Injuries in Dogs

    One of the most painful (and common) conditions that dogs visit the vet for is paw pad injuries in dogs. If your four-legged children can get hurt doing something, they probably will. It happens, especially with active dogs. While a dog foot injury can be quite painful for the pooch, it usually looks worse than it is. Whether it is a broken nail, pad blisters, lacerations, or broken bones, we will be going over the foot injuries that your pup can sustain and what you need to do.

     

    Toenail Injuries:

     

    When trimming your pup's nails at home, it can be a little nerve-wracking. When you cut a toenail too short it hurts but it typically does not require a rush to the vets' office. Your dogs' nails have a feature called a quick. You want to be careful to not clip the quick when cutting Fido’s nails but if you do accidentally cut it, it isn't the end of the world. There will be a bit of blood, and it will be tender for a while but he will be fine. We are going to go over what you need to do if this happens.

     

     

    • Rinse the affected toe.
    • If there are any nail fragments or slivers, attempt to clip or remove them.
    • Use a coagulant to suppress the bleeding. (They sell special products over the counter but cornstarch, flour or tea leaves work just as well)
    • Hold the quick to the coagulant and press lightly for about a minute or until the bleeding ceases.
    • You are going to want to apply an antibacterial ointment, like Neosporin.
    • Cover with a gauze square.
    • Wrap the paw in vet wrap or a secure ace bandage.

     

    Pro Tip:

     

    As you regularly trim the nail, the quick will recede. If you want to avoid an injury, trim a little bit every day until you get to the desired length.

     

    Toenail injuries can become infected. Keep an eye on your pet and if you believe they might have an infected toenail, bring him to the vets' office. It is rare that this type of injury will need antibiotics but it is better to be safe than sorry.

     

    Paw Pad Injuries:

     

    Paw pad injuries are no fun (especially for your pup!). Blisters, lacerations, tears, punctures, and scrapes are all common. Dogs that are not accustomed to walking on hot asphalt or concrete can get blisters. While not dangerous it can be uncomfortable. If your pet winds up with a paw pad injury (as long as it is not too severe!) it can usually be treated at home.

     

    Blisters

    The best way to avoid pad blisters is to take some preventative measures such as doggie boots. We’re giving you fair warning though- be prepared for your pooch to do a little kicking dance until they get used to them! However, gradually introducing their feet to outdoor surfaces will help build calluses, therefore, eliminating the need for protective footwear in most cases. If your dog has developed a blister(s) on his pad:

     

    • Clean the paw pad. (Do not use peroxide, as it slows the healing process!)
    • Apply Neosporin.
    • Wrap the paw in vet wrap.

     

    Pro Tip:

    You do not need to pop the blister. This will only cause unnecessary pain to your dog.

     

    Scrapes

    Scrapes or abrasions on the paw are not serious and require very little treatment. If Fido has an abrasion on his paw pad:

     

    • Clean the area.
    • Apply antibacterial ointment.

     

    Pro Tips:

     

    This type of injury typically does not need to be wrapped but try to keep your pup from licking or biting at his paw.

     

    Laceration, Puncture, or Tear

    This is where it gets a bit difficult to treat your pooch at home. Lacerations, tears, and punctures are generally going to need to be assessed by a veterinarian. They can require stitches and/or antibiotic/pain medicine. If you frequently run, hike, or go camping with your dog, it’s important to keep an eye out for dangerous obstructions. To help your pet in the meantime:

     

     

    • Once again clean the affected area.
    • You can apply an antibiotic ointment.
    • Wrap it up.
    • Get to the vets' office.

     

    Pro Tips:

     

    Paw pads do not heal as well as regular skin. If after a day or two the pad injury does not seem to be healing, please see a vet.

     

    Licking, biting, and gnawing at the affected area is absolutely normal but try to discourage your pet from doing so as it may hinder the healing process.

     

    Paw Injuries:

     

    In what we used to call an invisible booboo, there are injuries that can occur to your dogs' feet with no blood or obvious trauma. Unfortunately, these are the more worrisome situations. If you see any symptoms of discomfort or pain such as licking, biting, limping, or refusing to use the limb, it is the safest bet to have it looked at by a professional. You can’t see broken bones or fractures. To keep your pet comfortable until you can get to the office:

     

    • Restrict movement as much as possible. (I know, that is easier said than done!)
    • Alternate between applying ice and heat to the tender area.

     

    Again, it is better to be safe than sorry! Please have your dog seen by a veterinarian. Bones that do not heal correctly may cause future issues. Plus, your vet can give Fido good drugs to help him feel better!

     

    Safety First:

     

    Even the friendliest of dogs can and will bite or nip out of fear or pain. If possible have a friend or family member do a ‘safety hold’ on your dog:

     

    • Have your pup stand sideways in front of you. His head should be facing your left and his rump pointing to the right.
    • Place your left arm (gently) around the jaw/neck area, lightly pulling his head in toward your shoulder but away from your face. This will prevent both you and the person doing the treatment from being in the dogs ‘bite zone’.
    • With your other arm, go underneath the trunk of your dog's body closer to the rump, and hold firmly. You should be stretching the dog's body against your own. The dog should not be able to move very much.
    • Make sure you don’t choke him. We are just trying to limit his range of motion to avoid anyone getting bit.
    • If doing this on your own, a muzzle is recommended.
    • Stock up on treats. Fido deserves a little pampering after all of this!

     

    Dogs give us their unconditional love and expect us to love and care for them in return. They are not able to call up the local hospital for advice. It is our responsibility to get them medical attention when needed.

     

    Most veterinarians are animal lovers and will work with you, financially, to ensure your pet gets the medical treatment they need. Many vet hospitals offer wellness plans, and/or financial aid. Whenever you are in doubt about the seriousness of any injury (big or small), we encourage you to get it checked out.

instagram close apple-pay diners-club

Success! Feel free to continue shopping or head to your cart .

c