dog

The Complete Checklist for Moving with Your Dog

May 23, 2016 4 Comments

Will you be moving or taking a trip soon with your dog? Here's a complete guide to ensuring a smooth transition! — DepositPhotos|belchonock

As many of you know, we will be packing up and moving to a new state at the beginning of June. We are extremely excited to move and cannot wait to be in a new location. I know the fluffies are going to absolutely love it – especially their new backyard! Even though Mauja has already lived in four houses, I know the move will still be rough for her.

Mauja is easily stressed and Atka is the most routine-driven dog I have ever met. He does not like change! In order to lessen their stress and ensure a smooth transition, I’ve created myself a dog-focused moving checklist 🙂 Here’s the guide to moving with your dog!

Visit Your Vet

Before you move, make an appointment with your vet. You want to make sure your dog is up to date on all of his vaccinations and requirements, especially rabies, before the move. If you will be visiting dog-populated areas (and your dog doesn’t already receive the vaccination), it might be a good idea to discuss Bordetella with your vet.

While not always required, a health certificate is often necessary to cross state lines with your dog. Your vet will be able to perform a health examination to ensure your dog is healthy enough to travel and prevent the spread of disease. You should also request your dog’s health history to make the transition to a new vet an easier process.

Most vets have contacts across the country, so it’s a good idea to ask for any recommendations. This may help you find a suitable vet before you even move. Also, be sure to check the licensing rules for your new home and update licenses accordingly.

Related: 10 Tips for Training a Great Pyrenees

Update Identification

How long has it been since you’ve updated your dog’s ID tags? Now is a great time to ensure the information is accurate and most importantly, includes a phone number. This is especially important if you don’t have a house right away and will be living in a hotel or other temporary location.

If you dog is microchipped, check that chip! A microchip can shift so it’s important to have your dog’s chip checked for functionality. Make sure all of your dog’s online chip information is up to date and that you enter your new address into the database once you move.

Research Pet-Friendly Stops

If your move is going to take multiple days, take some time to determine your route and where you can stop with your dog. Find nice parks or walking trails for fluffy to stretch his legs and get some exercise, which will help reduce the travel stress.

You may also want to look for pet-friendly restaurants so everyone can take a break from the car and enjoy a relaxing meal. Most importantly, know where the pet-friendly hotels are located!

Pack Safety Items

This includes a crate, baby gates, or any car harness that your dog wears. Crates and baby gates are also very helpful for hotel stays if your dog shows any destructiveness when traveling. While neither Mauja or Atka have to be crated in hotels anymore, we do often bring baby gates, just in case.

Related: My Great Pyrenees Won’t Come When Called!

Make a Travel Kit

Our travel kit, while massive, is exceptionally helpful in keeping a move stress-free. Here’s what we included in our travel kit:

Food (regular food and a topper to encourage eating when stressed)
Food and water bowls
Favorite treats
Chews (bully sticks, antlers, etc.)
Bottled water
Basic grooming supplies
Paper towels and Nature’s Miracle (in case of an accident/car sickness)
Poop bags
Blanket/bed
Toys
Medications/supplements
1st aid kit
Grooming wipes
Leash
Collar, harness, gentle leader, etc.

Now that you have all of your things in order, you’re ready for moving with your dog! Wish us luck on our new adventure 🙂

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Should Your Dog Try a Homemade Diet?

March 4, 2016 4 Comments

Miss the start of our adventure into homecooked meals? Catch up here and here!

We’re nearing the end of our third week since making the transition to homecooked meals. I will say, things are getting much easier. We still haven’t perfected it (we’ve run out of protein on more than one occasion), but progress not perfection, right?

I know I should be happiest that Mauja’s tummy has been normal for almost two weeks now, but I’m most excited about how much the pups like their food. I know that’s a selfish reason – but it gives me the warm and fuzzies to know how happy they are and I won’t hide it 😉

Anyway, back to Mauja’s tummy.

Her stools have been firm and we haven’t had to hose down her hind end after she does her business. Even with a sanitary trim, we were still having that issue because of her upset tummy. Super gross, I know, so we’re glad we haven’t had to do it in awhile!

Mauja is too – she always finds that process degrading.

I don’t blame her.

Unfortunately, Atka is still itchy. However, he is showing improvement! We haven’t experimented with proteins very much since we are just trying to get the hang of things, but that’s next on our list. I’ve actually created a log to track when and where he is itching.

Crazy dog lady or studying efficiently? 😉

Great Pyrenees — Umm… excuse us. Where is our Veg-To-Bowl?

Today, I have a question for you: Should your dog try homecooked meals?

Here are a few signs you may want to consider the switch:

Your dog is overweight. It’s really easy to overfeed your dog when he’s looking at you with those sweet eyes, insisting that he is starving. Even though you just fed him, how could you resist that face? Veg-To-Bowl provides a hearty base of vegetables to your dog’s meal so you can fill his tummy without all of the calories.

Your dog is experiencing digestive issues. If, like Mauja, your dog is having a bit of tummy troubles, you may want to try a homecooked meal. We varied brands and proteins with Mauja for several months without any success. She would be completely fine for a week, then would have a bout of really loose stools. We could never trace it to her eating anything. Since making the switch to a homecooked meal, we haven’t had any instances of loose stools (two weeks strong!). It may be helpful for your dog with digestive issues to simplify his diet.

Your dog has kidney problems. If your dog has kidney problems or is experiencing renal failure, a homecooked diet is ideal. You can easily monitor and regulate the amount of protein your dog is getting. No more guesswork about how accurate the back of the bag is!

Your dog has allergies. This is probably the most common reason for switching to a homecooked diet. When you prepare your dog’s food yourself, you have complete control over the type of ingredients used. No more wondering if an ingredient snuck in that you weren’t aware it. This makes it easy to rotate proteins to determine if your dog is sensitive to one of them. We’re still working on things with Atka, but I’m confident we’re moving in the right direction.

After next week, the fluffies will have been on a homecooked meal for almost a month. I’m really excited to continue to track their progress! Do you think your dog would benefit from a homemade diet?

My Training Confession

February 5, 2016 8 Comments

My training confession – I ignore a lot of professional trainers.

Let me elaborate. In no way am I saying that I know more about training than most trainers. However, I know more about Great Pyrenees than most trainers.

Regardless of what any trainer says, there is such a thing as an independent dog. An independent dog is not a “dominant dog” and needs to be embraced, not changed. The Great Pyrenees and other livestock guardian breeds are independent dogs – I really don’t know how anyone can argue that. A livestock guardian dog can spend days, even weeks, alone and do their job exceptionally well. They don’t need direction, but more importantly, they don’t want direction.

Atka and I have attended a few training events over the last year. All of these events were very basic for Atka, but it got him working in a new environment with different stimulation – something his adolescent brain desperately needs!

At one point, the trainer had all the dogs walking in a large circle to practice loose leash walking. She called out for us to stop and I asked Atka for a sit. He sat, but after a few seconds, his butt slowly slid back until he was in a down.

Lazy butt.

The trainer noticed this and made a snarky remark about Atka being dominant and I needed to put him back in his place. She suggested doing this by yanking the leash upward to force him into a sit.

First of all, I don’t believe in forcing my dog into anything. Secondly, you really expect me to pull a 130 lb dog up when he absolutely does not want to be up? Good luck with that one. I’ll pass.

Similar incidents have happened at several other events and they always frustrate me. Atka is never going to stay in a sit. He hates being in a sit. I think it’s partly because he’s lazy, partly because it’s hard to keep his legs from slipping, partly because he simply doesn’t care, and partly because he likes the cool floor on his belly.

To be completely honest, I don’t care how he relaxes. I only care that he actually relaxes. Getting a Great Pyrenees to enjoy training is a task itself. I want him to have a good experience and if that means being in a down, I’m fine with that.

Thankfully, Atka and I have been working with a trainer recently who gets pyrs and more importantly, gets Atka. He’s not a puppet. I’m not going to make him do as I please all the time. He’s an independent boy with his own mind and he deserves to express that. As long as he’s behaving, he can relax however he wants.

So, tell me. What’s your training confession?

This post is part of the Positive Pet Training Blog Hop, hosted by Cascadian Nomads,Tenacious Little Terrier and Rubicon Days. This month’s theme is Training Confessions and the next hop begins on March 7th. The hop happens on the first Monday of every month, and is open for a full week – please join us in spreading the word about the rewards of positive training!

Meet the Giants: Boerboel

December 7, 2015 8 Comments

This week on Meet the Giants, we're talking about the Boerboel! Read more for tons of fabulous breed information!

Today on Meet the Giants, we’re going to be talking about the Boerboel! This is another breed that I haven’t had the pleasure of meeting in person, but it’s just such a stunning breed!

Many thanks to Emily Musgrove for providing the information and pictures of the Boerboel!

If you currently have a Boerboel, please list their names, ages, and gender.
Egypt 4 years, female spayed. I have had 21, including Egypt as fosters.

Are there any other names/nicknames for the Boerboel? If yes, list here.
African Mastiff, South African Mastiff

What are three words you would use to describe the Boerboel? Independent, Intense, Dramatic

What is the average size of a Boerboel?
Most are between 100-150, males can be up to 200. Most of mine were 120.

What are the acceptable colors of the Boerboel?
Fawn, apricot and Brindle. Black is not accepted by AKC and most other registries do not accept, piebald, blue or anything with more than 30% white.

What is the average lifespan?
10-12 years

What was the Boerboel bred to do?
Guard people from lions and predators in Africa. Some say they were breed to guard diamond mines too. I have never had one guard things always people.

How much exercise does the Boerboel need?
High for a mastiff but low for most breeds. 1-2 mile walks are plenty.

What are some common health problems?
Heart disease, joint problems, eye problems.

How much grooming does the breed require?
They do shed a lot of little short hairs but no hair cuts or anything extra.

What do you wish people knew about the Boerboel before bringing one home?
Research!!!!!! This is not a breed for 90% of the population. They are only loyal to the family and they do not like change or strangers. If you like the look but want a social dog, go for a Bullmastiff instead.

Why do you love Boerboels?
I love the spunk, the attitude, and they are not for everyone. They love their family and not many others. I love that they are more agile than most mastiff but still laid back.

They get their feelings hurt and do not respond well to punishment or force. They really need positive reinforcement based training. Tell a Boerboel to do something and they will give you a look; make them do it and you will get hurt. Ask them to do it and reward them and they will jump over the moon for you.

The same could be said of Neos.

I found this week’s Meet the Giants post SO interesting because I don’t know a single thing about Boerboels! I love people that truly embrace the personality of each breed. Thanks again, Emily, for all the info!

Interested in your own Boerboel? Head to Big Dogs Huge Paws for a list of available dogs and more information!

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Celebrating National Mutt Day with Kaeto

December 2, 2015 8 Comments

Before Mauja and Atka, an adorably high-maintenance husky/lab mix entered our lives. He was presumed to be about a year of age and had been bounced around his first year of life. When Nick and I went searching for our first dog as a married couple, we found Kaeto at the local shelter. He cautiously approached the edge of the kennel with his ears pulled back and his tail tucked under, but it only took a few minutes for him to lean in for some ear rubs. We were hooked.

Kaeto's "Gotcha" picture. In our car and leaving the shelter! — Kaeto’s “Gotcha” picture. In our car and leaving the shelter!

We asked the shelter workers if we could take Kaeto out to the meet and greet area and we were able to see his personality emerge. He sprinted around, jumped on us, and tried to crawl in our laps. We knew he was going to be a handful, but he had a way of capturing your heart.

He went home with us that day.

As many of you know, Kaeto passed away a short 8 months later. The vets believed a blood clot in the brain was the cause, but at the time it was too painful to investigate further. We were just thankful to have that time with him.

So today, National Mutt Day, is for you, Kaeto. It’s for you and all of the other mixed breeds in shelters across the world.

Because of you, I became extremely interested in training and understanding dog behavior.

Because of you, I learned more in those 8 months than I ever thought possible.

I was sick that day, but was in great hands ;) — I was sick that day, but was in great hands 😉

Because of you, I learned techniques for reactivity, resource guarding, and separation anxiety.

Because of you, I understand the meaning of “velcro dog”.

He had to get creative when he couldn't sit on my lap ;) — He had to get creative when he couldn’t sit on my lap 😉

Because of you, Mauja came into our lives (and now she has a particular love for huskies).

I’m sorry you left this world so early, but because of you, my life was changed forever.

Has a special mutt changed your life?

10 Thanksgiving Treats Your Dog Will Thank You For

November 24, 2015 1 Comment

We spend so much time fussing over the Thanksgiving dinner for people, but sometimes our furry ones get left out in the hustle and bustle. That’s why we’ve rounded up 10 homemade treat recipes we think your dog will love that also go with the Thanksgiving theme! Most likely, you’ll have most of the ingredients you need on hand.

Cranberry Cheese Cookies (via Gluten Free Canteen)
Apple Oatmeal Treats (via Brownie Bites)
Gluten Free Pumpkin Treats (via Minnie in Manhatten)
Apple Crunch Pupcakes (via Candiquik)
Pumpkin Pupcakes (via Pet Coupon Savings)
Vegan & Grain-Free Sweet Potato Cookie (via The Lazy Pitbull)
Thanksgiving Thumbprint Cookies (via Kol’s Notes)
Homemade Turkey Jerky (via My GBGV Life)
Baked Sweet Potato Fries (via Sugar the Golden Retriever)
Cran-Pumpkin Peanut Butter Treats (via The Cottage Market)

Have you made any similar treats? Do you have a favorite Thanksgiving inspired dog treat recipe?

Meet the Giants: Newfoundland

November 9, 2015 17 Comments

This week on Meet the Giants - the Newfoundland! Check back weekly for information about other giant breeds!

Last week we kicked off our Meet the Giants series with the Great Pyrenees. Today, our friends over at My Brown Newfies will be talking all things Newfoundland!

Do you currently have a Newfoundland?

Sherman-9 years old. Male. Leroy-7 years old. Male

Are there any other names/nicknames for the Newfoundland?

Newf. Newfie.

What are three words you would use to describe Newfoundlands?

Gentle. Loyal. Massive.

What is the average size of a Newfoundland?

Males=130-150 lbs. Females=100-130 lbs

What are the acceptable colors of a Newfoundland?

Black, Brown, Grey and Landseer (white with black markings)

What is the average lifespan?

To age 8-10 but many Newfoundlands these days are living well past 12!

What were Newfoundlands bred to do?

Water rescue and draft work, but many Newfoundlands also can be found doing therapy work in nursing homes, hospitals and schools.

How much exercise do Newfoundlands need?

Moderate to low. Should have daily walks and belly rubs.

What are some common health problems?

Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, SAS, hypothyroidism, cystinuria. allergies, bloat.

How much grooming does the breed require?

Daily

What do you wish people knew about Newfoundlands before bringing one home?

That they are a full time commitment and those cute little fluffy puppies will quickly grow to giant dogs that shed and drool all over house. They are a breed that is happiest when they are with their family. They require daily care and love. If they get sick you can expect giant vet bills.

Why do you love Newfoundlands?

I love the their sweet temperament and goofiness.

Anything else you want to say?

A Newfoundland dog is not for everyone. There’s a saying,, “Newfoundland. Not just a dog it’s lifestyle” and that couldn’t be more true. Newfies will change your life.

If you want to keep up with Sherman and Leroy, follow My Brown Newfies on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Hope you learned something new about Newfoundlands and check back next week for another giant breed!

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The Trick or Treat Giveaway Hop!

October 16, 2015 2 Comments

A Stuck Great Pyrenees

October 15, 2015 11 Comments

Great Pyrenees are typically more routine-driven than other breeds, but I’m not sure exactly why. Maybe it helps when they are livestock guardians? It would be easier to be a good guard dog if you knew exactly when things were going to happen, where your livestock is supposed to be, and how the day is going to go.

Mauja and Atka both get upset if their routine is changed, but Atka just can’t seem to handle it. I have never seen a dog get so stuck in a routine!

Here are a few things that happened recently that really upset Atka:

I had to wash his favorite blanket so it wasn’t in it’s usual spot. Atka stood by his spot and looked at the floor, looked at me, looked at the floor, looked at me, looked at the floor and then laid down staring at the blanket spot. When it was finally done in the dryer, I put it down and he immediately got up, took a step forward, turned around, and settled in for a nap.
Normally, our SUV is parked along the sidewalk rather than in the driveway and it’s always in the same place. Someone had parked there, so I had to park up two spots. Atka ran to the car that was in our usual spot (not even close to the same size) and stood there waiting for me to open the back for him to get in. It took several minutes and luring him with treats to get him to walk to our car.
Speaking of getting into the SUV – it used to be parked in our garage. Getting Atka to go out the front door after saying, “Do you want to go for a ride?” proved to be quite challening. He still wanted to go to the garage door.
We also normally come in the front door when we are out. Recently, the front door was locked, but the garage was wide open. I eventually had to go inside through the garage myself, unlock the front door, and let Atka in that way.
Atka always sleeps in the same spot every night. I thought I would move the cooling pad to that spot to keep him cool overnight. He stood there and stared at the cooling pad until I moved it out of his spot.
We used to have Mauja and Atka’s feeding spots separated by a baby gate. Eventually, I wanted to rearrange that room so I removed it and changed the eating arrangement. Atka went from his bowl being on the door side to it being on the back wall. For several weeks, Atka sat facing away from me while I put his food down behind him. It’s been months and I only have him sitting sideways at this point! We’ll see how long until he turns the entire way around.
We got a new water bowl – he refuses to drink out of it.
When I get home after being gone awhile, we always greet at the same spot – on the ottoman. If I don’t immediately go sit on the ottoman, he goes there and waits for me to come there. He won’t greet me unless I’m there!

I’m sure there are many other things I can’t think of at the moment, but there’s a few things that show how Atka likes routine. Such a sweet, goofy boy 🙂

Does your dog get upset if you change the routine?

dog

Visit Your Vet

Related: 10 Tips for Training a Great Pyrenees

Update Identification

Research Pet-Friendly Stops

Pack Safety Items

Related: My Great Pyrenees Won’t Come When Called!

Make a Travel Kit

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