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7 Best Dogs For People That Live in Small Apartments

Published on April 20, 2021

There are many things you should consider before getting a dog, and one of them is choosing the right breed. Every dog breed is different and since we are talking about living in a small space, you should focus on smaller dogs.

You should also focus on dogs that are less active, low-shed, and polite and quiet.

On top of that, you need to pay attention to your dog’s requirements such as daily exercise needs, food, activities, and etc.

Fortunately, there are plenty of small dogs that will be more than happy to live in an apartment.

In the end, the most important thing when choosing the right breed for your lifestyle.

Let’s find some of the most popular choices for small apartments.

1. Bichon Frise

This is a popular choice for small apartment owners and for a couple of reasons. First of all, the dog looks adorable and charming. Additionally, it is a hypoallergenic dog that learns things quickly.

This is a small dog that averages around 15 pounds and it can be your perfect playful companion that doesn’t take too much space from your apartment.

One of the drawbacks that many Bichon owners report, is that they like to be vocal, which can lead to a few neighbor’s complaints.

2. French Bulldog

This is one of the most popular dog breeds at the moment, and its popularity skyrocketed over the last couple of years. We are talking about Frenchies that were very popular in Paris back in the 18^th century.

This cutie is perfect for apartment owners for a couple of reasons. Firstly, it is a quiet dog that you’ll rarely hear barking. Additionally, the French Bulldog breed is known for its laziness so hard-core physical activity is not recommended since they can have difficulty breathing from their nose.

With that said, a small walk every day is good enough to keep them in shape. There is one drawback that comes with French Bulldog, and that is shedding! Even though they have short hair, they do tend to shed a lot.

3. Greyhound

Greyhound is the fastest dog in the world, and most people think that they need a large house with a backyard to keep this beast in shape. However, Greyhound is a great dog for a small living space. Most of the day they like to lounge and they are quiet enough and rarely bark.

You do need to take them for an exercise, so make sure you have a park or big enough area near your apartment where they can blow off steam.

4. Pug

Most people that owned a Pug will agree that this is the perfect dog breed for an apartment. They are a bit mischievous but totally loving. Note that Pugs have trouble living in areas where there are extreme temperatures since they have trouble breathing.

Another thing to consider is that you should develop a meal plan that will give them just enough calories for the day. Pugs love food and they will eat until there is food in their bowl, which is why they are prone to obesity.

You should increase or decrease their calorie limit depending on their activity. However, since they have a medical issue with their breathing, they aren’t dogs that will run around all day.

To find out more information about healthy eating habits and the type of food you should give your dog, make sure to check out this dog food delivery service: https://spotandtango.com/

5. Bulldog

Despite their muscled build, bulldogs have developed a reputation for lazy dogs. They are quite loyal dogs and friendly with children. Just like Pugs and French Bulldogs they cannot stand hot climates, so make sure you keep your apartment cool in the summer.

When it comes to daily exercises, a walk once a day is just enough to keep them in shape. You should also pay attention to their diet and avoid giving them unhealthy snacks since they are also prone to obesity.

Another thing to consider is that they snore a lot. Apart from that, they are fairly quiet and you can barely hear them bark.

6. Havanese

This 10-pound fluff ball is the perfect dog for urban living. Its origins come from Cuba with a very soft and shiny double coat (beware of shedding) and a lifetime of 13-15 years. This breed comes in many different colors such as black, white, tobacco, and etc.

They are very fun dogs that love to play. They are also intelligent meaning that you can teach them good habits without facing any stubbornness.

Another important thing to know is that Havenese cannot stand being alone, so if you are a busy person, you should choose a different breed.

Havenese is also hypoallergenic so you don’t have to worry about allergies.

7. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu is an Asian dog breed from Tibet. This is a very popular breed for their short snout and large round eyes. Due to their long fur, they too cannot stand high temperatures, and surprisingly they don’t shade too much compared to other dog breeds.

When it comes to daily activities, they are dogs that don’t prefer to run and play with you most of the time. They have low energy levels, which is good if you are living in an apartment. On the other hand, they may be a bit stubborn which makes training a bit difficult.

This is also a great dog breed for novice pet owners since they don’t have any special requirements. The best thing about Shih Tzu is that they are great with kids and other dogs, so you don’t have to worry about causing chaos when there are a lot of people under the same roof.

Final Words

As you can see from the list, there are plenty of dogs that are great for an apartment. There are few things to consider before getting a dog if you live in a small apartment, such as shedding, physical activity requirements, size, if they are good with other people and children, and their vocal capabilities.

How to Financially Plan for Getting a Pet

Published on March 17, 2021March 17, 2021

Animals

If you are going to be a responsible pet owner, you must know that cute cats and dogs are not only a source of inspiration and our true friends but also a responsibility and a part of the family budget. When you start to read about keeping a pet, your head can go round because of the number of things a pet needs. In this article, you will find everything you need to know when planning your family budget before getting a pet.

What are the Essential Pet Costs?

According to some research, the annual cost of keeping a dog is from $1,471 to $2,008. Those figures can be less, but we wouldn’t count on that. Be prepared that you can spend even more. It depends on the size of your dog, its health, and many other factors.

It is recommended to buy high-quality food for your furry friend and have enough budget for a vet. You will have to provide your pet with all the vaccinations it needs. On top of that, unfortunately, pets can get ill. The cost of treatment and medications is often high.

Pet-Related Costs to Keep in Mind

As recent research by Securian Financial Group showed, only 44% of dog owners can describe themselves as people who have thought everything through before getting a pet. As you can see, more than half of interviewed had some surprises to deal with. Here is a list of things you have to figure out before you buy or adopt a pet.

The actual cost of a dog. If you take a dog from a dog shelter, you may not have to pay for it. However, at some pounds, you can be entitled to adoption fees. Be aware of potential health problems of your fluffy friend if it has a challenging background.
Be aware of hidden costs. Food, bowls, and a leash sound obvious. But have you ever thought about how much a kitten or a puppy can destroy? It can be some trifle things like a carpet or a pair of socks if you are lucky. However, it can also be a laptop, an expensive pair of shoes, a couch, or some other furniture pieces.
Consider working with a dog handler. If you are a lucky owner of a puppy, you can take your pet to special training held by a professional dog handler. Such training is undeniably useful for any dog but is not cheap at all.
Think about pet insurance. It is not compulsory, but pet insurance has proven itself to be a wise investment in the majority of cases. Take a sheet of paper and count all pros and cons. You will also have to dedicate some time looking through offers from different insurance companies. Keep in mind that the cheapest insurance offers are not likely to be the best.
Pet accessories. A cage, a leash, a muzzle, kitty litter, toys, vitamins, special equipment (like a wheel for a hamster), and so on. These things do not have to be pricy, but it is better to choose high-quality and durable products. For example, it is better to buy a medium-priced leash that will serve you for a year or even longer than a cheap one that will be chewed and torn in a month.
Think about your travels. You will have to ask somebody to look after your pet while you are away. But people have their own lives, and even if they agreed to help you, they might be forced to change their minds. You can leave your pet at special pet hotels, but, as you can guess, it becomes another point of your expenses.

How to Avoid Financial Surprises When Getting a Pet?

The following three tips will allow you to be prepared in case of unexpected expenses with your pet:

Make a list of essential pet costs. Also, list the hidden costs you can think of and don’t forget about the possibility of emergencies. Estimate the amount of money you need to be financially prepared.
It is a good idea to create a special fund. You can add $20 to it every month, or even more if you can. It is not a secret that it is wise to have some money left for emergency situations like being fired, getting sick, etc. Your pet should have a place in this fund.
Be responsible. Sometimes it is hard to stop yourself from buying every cute thing you see to treat your pet. If you can’t afford it, it is better to save that money for the emergency fund. Be fully aware of your income and expenses to have a clear picture of your financial situation.

Where to Get Money in Case of a Pet-Related Emergency?

If your pet is ill and you need a considerable amount of money fast, traditional banks are not an option. They need at least a few business days to look through your credit history and make the final decision. When your beloved pet is ill, there is no time to spare.

Asking friends and family for help is another option to get money for pet-related expenses, but people from your close circle might not be ready to help you instantly. Besides, asking someone you know for help can be awkward. We all want to seem independent, and not everyone can open up about their problems easily.

When you have nowhere to go, remember that you have websites such as paydaydepot.com. Having filled out the form in the morning, you will get your money before the afternoon – no extra questions asked. You can always visit the official website with all the information you might need to make the final decision.

We wish you and your pet all the luck in the world! Stay healthy!

Your Dog’s Biggest Fears & How to Avoid/Overcome them

Published on January 19, 2021

Animals

Even though a term like ‘Guard dog’ exists and we imagine most dogs (especially larger ones) as protectors, defenders, brave & fearless animals, they’re actually very shy and scaredy. If they’re threatened, they bark and attack but in everyday life, there are actually so many things that spook them silly. Sometimes it is funny, but a lot of the time, the fears of your dog could lead to inconveniences and excess trouble. Here are the biggest fears of dogs and tips as well as tricks to overcome them.

Loud noises (e.g. fireworks & thunder)

Dogs have a hearing that’s actually three to four times more sensitive than humans. Thus, it should come as no surprise why loud and bang-like noises scare them very, very much. When there’s a thunderstorm or the fireworks show on New Year’s eve, it’s quite a common sight to see a pup shivering, shaking or even soiling themselves. There isn’t a direct and simple solution to this. Dogs are wired this way and that’s just in their DNA. Fireworks and thunder are too loud.

You could give your dog a sedative if the situation gets completely out of hand. However, one of the most effective tactics is to just be with your dog at all times. Pick them up, pet them and say nice words, just like you would with a baby… Really. If you can’t be next to them, locking them out in a room with good sound insulation might work too.

Staircases

If the previous fear is super inconvenient and very saddening, this one is actually quite fun. If your pup hasn’t encountered any flights of stairs before, brace yourselves for something entertaining. They won’t go down or up, they won’t trust the stairs and will act awkwardly around them. There are tons of funny videos online of people trying to persuade their pets to come down to them or come up to them by the staircases.

For a while the dog is visibly anxious, running around the stair and barking more than trying to climb it. However, with enough positive reinforcement and nice words, people persuade them to take the first step. Once they do that, it’s the same old story. You need to do as much reinforcement for them to take the next stair, and then the next one after that. Once they climb it for the first time, it could also be pure entertainment to watch them go down. But once they catch on how it’s done, they act pretty normally. So, the fear of stairs is only temporary and easily defeated.

Men

No gender equality here. Some dogs have quite a profound fear of men, and to be honest, it isn’t something that they’re born with. It is something that’s gained over time. Such a fear indicates that in the past, the dog could have been physically or mentally abused by a male. They recognise how a man differs from a woman and are thus, less afraid of females.

Fully treating and eliminating this fear/phobia isn’t always possible. Sometimes the emotional and physical trauma is so severe, that a dog never fully recovers and isn’t able to trust. Such pets usually end up in animal shelters or in homes where they can be put back on their feet. The only viable option is to be kind, gentle and very very slowly try and warm their heart towards males. With that being said, we have to once again acknowledge the fact that fixing it isn’t always possible.

Nail clippers

This is definitely a common spook for dogs, but it can be overcome and defeated, so to speak. This fear can only be blamed on past grooming mistakes of the pet’s owner. When you’re using nail clippers, you have to be super careful not too trim too much of the nail off. If you do that, you’ll end up clipping the nerve or cutting into the live part of the nail which is super painful and blood will come out.

Whether it’s just a simple fear or a whole phobia – depends on the dog and how sensitive their nervous system, as well as how severe are traumas, sustained in the past. The first thing to do, regardless, would be to try a more sensitive and welcoming approach to nail trimming. Use treats, positive reinforcement, pet them after every clip (and/or give a treat) and be more attentive, in general. Read their body language to know whether you can proceed or have to take a step back.

The second step would be to change the clippers into an electric grinder. The former tool is very primitive and dangerous, even. If you make even a tiny little mistake when measuring the clipping point, you’ll end up hurting the pet. In contrast, it’s almost impossible to hurt a dog when you’re using an electric grinder. Some of the more sophisticated devices have a guiding angle and specific tips, suited for dogs of all sizes. All in all – use a grinder and positive reinforcement.

Vibrating and whirring devices

Some dogs are easily unnerved and distressed by whirring and vibrating devices/appliances in your home. Now once again, not all dogs are distressed, others are more curious rather than scared. However, if you notice that your pup is trembling and immediately hides or squeals when you turn something on, take that into account.

One thing that you will likely have to do, is change some of your appliances and devices into silent & non-vibrating ones. For example, you could look for a silent robot vacuum or a silent/quiet nail grinder (You can read more about those on this website).

Nevertheless, it’s worth investing into the grinder. It’s going to solve at least one fear, or maybe two, if need be.

Strangers & other dogs

In shorter terms – that’s the fear of socialization. It can arise from just being shy, in general, and a lack of socialization. Now, regardless of their character, with enough socialization, all dogs stop being so shy and the fear of strangers & dogs slowly evaporates. Needless to say, it’s super important to teach them how to behave around other people and dogs. If they feel combative, scared or are hard to control around people and other pets/dogs, you need to spend time in order to properly socialize them.

Doodle Breeds & Grooming Advice

Published on November 9, 2020November 9, 2020

Animals

Dogs represent the most common pets in the whole world. They are known as people’s best friends, along with their loyalty, cuteness, and intelligence. There are hundreds of breeds that were created by combining various sorts of dogs. Also, you can choose between many sizes, fur longevity, and more. One of the most popular breeds are doodles, which represents a mixture of various breeds and poodles. These dogs have a unique appearance because of the long and wool-like fur. The interesting fact about doodles is that there are all types of different breeds made from combining golden retrievers, Alsatian dogs, sheepdogs, terriers, bulldogs, and more.

You can visit We Love Doodles to read more about various breeds of doodles. Moreover, if you are interested in getting one, you should know that every pet requires proper care and lots of attention. The difference between these dogs and many other types is that some of them require higher levels of care related to nutrition, grooming, and more. In this article, we are going to introduce you to some of the most popular doodle breeds and advice related to grooming them properly.

Most Popular Doodle Breeds

Golden doodle

A combination of Poodle and a Golden Retriever is known for being cute, smart, and excellent for kids. Also, these dogs are very friendly and it is not common for them to develop some bad behaviors. On the other hand, you should know that Golden Doodle requires a lot of attention, which means that you should not leave it alone for long periods.

Schnoodles

This breed is a combination with a schnauzer, which, as a result, has an amazing appearance. This dog is quite playful and excellent for families with small children. Also, they are getting along with other animals, which means that you can own a cat beside this dog without any problems. Moreover, this dog is very intelligent, and you can teach him all kinds of tricks and good habits.

Aussiedoodles

The combination with Australian Shepherd is also remarkable. However, since it is a herding dog breed, you should pay attention to its habits from an early age. This dog is full of energy and requires a lot of walks. Since this breed has herding in its DNA, you have to pay attention to train him properly to not treat small kids as sheep. Luckily, there are very intelligent, and you won’t have any issues with that.

Labradoodles

The most common and popular sort of doodle is a poodle mixed with a Labrador. While it shares all abilities with other sorts of poodles, you should pay attention to some of the potential bad habits like being too abundant and noisy.

Grooming Tips

While most things related to care are similar like with any other dog breeds, what makes them unique is that they require proper grooming since their fur is growing constantly. Also, this sort is the best for people who have issues with allergies since their coat will not spread germs all over the place. Proper grooming is most important when it comes to their special needs. Here are some tips for grooming your doodle.

Coat Brushing

Since they have a long coat, you must pay attention to keeping it clean all the time. Brush their fur at least a few times a week. Also, choose only light brushes that will not rip the fur. If you don’t do brush them too often, the fur will become full of twists.

Removing Twists

In case you forget to brush your dog on time, there is a high chance for twists on its coat. The main issue with twists is that it can become a place with increased deposits of dirt and bacteria that the dog can deliver in your home. It is very important to be gentle during this process to avoid ripping off the fur or injuring your pet.

Washing Before Cutting the Fur

The process of cutting the fur will be much easier and safer when you clean your dog before that process. It is common for these animals to collect a lot of dirt while playing outside, and all of that dirt could end up in your house during washing.

Trimming Process

You can use regular scissors to take off most parts of the fur. However, use a smaller one for some sensitive areas like the stomach and ears. Moreover, pay attention to don’t miss some part and try to be as gentle as you can. It is advisable to trim these dogs more often since they could have issues with dirt, fur that is covering their eyes, and more. Also, they will become even more beautiful. Besides the fur, you can also trim their nails to prevent them from scratching the floor and other surfaces.

Another reason why you should be gentle and patient is to not scare your pet and traumatize him. Therefore, before you start grooming, let your pet to see the tools you are using, smell them, and take turns slowly one by one to let it know that it is safe. After you finish with scissors, you can use a machine for wider areas on the dog’s body. Preparation is the key in this process, and it will get much easier if the pet sits still while you are grooming him. Therefore, make slow moves, pet your dog, be gentle, and let him know that there is no reason for fear.

Last Words

Grooming pets has become so popular that we have many pet saloons in bigger towns where your pet can get the best service from experts. When it comes to doodles, the most important part of proper care is to brush them more often and keep them clean. On the other hand, the frequency of grooming is your choice, but it is recommended to groom them at least every two months. When it comes to puppies, you should wait until they reach a certain size before first grooming. One of the great benefits related to this breed is that you won’t have parts of their fur all over your home.

Which Types of Dog Treats Clean Teeth?

Published on September 10, 2020

Animals

It is estimated that more than 80 percent of dogs three years and older are suffering from existing dental problems. The vast percentage of pets that suffer from dental diseases can be attributed to the fact that you’ll notice the visible signs of dental problems in very few dogs.

It is upon you and your vet to discover these painful conditions early and treat them in most cases. Dental diseases may be due to diet, bacterial plaque, or just poor care.

How Can I Get Plaque off My Dog’s Teeth?

If a dental condition is left untreated, it can lead to significant damage to your furry friend’s chompers. Plaque and tartar on the pet’s teeth are apparent signs of a developing dental problem.

Your dog will mostly develop plaque on the teeth when food particles, saliva, and bacteria combine. If you don’t clear this plaque on time, it will combine with other minerals in the pet’s mouth and develop to hard tartar.

What would follow next are painful gum diseases, tooth decay, and related oral complications. Note that if tartar builds up on your dog’s teeth over an extended period, it gets hard, and you may not be able to remove it unless you have experience as a vet.

But still, even if you were a vet before, you’ll need specialized pieces of equipment to fully clear the stubborn tartar from your canine companion’s teeth. If you want to avoid getting into these types of trouble, the basic rule of thumb is always to remove this plaque early and stop it from growing further.

The best way out is to clean the pet’s teeth. You can maintain the teeth clean by regularly brushing them. You may also use treats to supplement the cleaning.

Do Pet Teeth Cleaning Chews Really Work?

There are specially designed pet chews that may help stop or control the tartar buildup in the dog’s mouth. An excellent example of such treats is the Cheddar N’ Bacon Dancin’ Bones from Tail Bangers.

These pet foods are hard and chewy, so when the pet gnaws on them, they rub on its teeth, thus removing the plaque on the teeth. Now, even though these pet foods are effective in keeping the buildup of plaque and tartar low, do not substitute your dog’s dental cleanings with them. It would be better if you just use them to supplement the cleaning regime.

What to Know When Buying Teeth Cleaning Pet Chews

If you are keen to offer or provide something helpful for your furry friend, you must know a few pointers to keep an eye on when buying teeth cleaning pet chews. Here’s a roundup of a few questions you may need to ask before spending money on the pet chews.

How hard are the chews? There are medium-hard dog chews and treats, as well as those that are very hard. Check to ensure that the treats are not too hard.

Ideally, they should not be bones, antlers, or hooves. Tough dog foods have the potential of fracturing the pet’s teeth. Some brittle bones may also have the possibility of splintering and then cause injuries to the pet’s mouth, teeth or even choke it.

What is the caloric content of the chews? You also need to understand that the caloric content of these pet snacks varies. If the pet is under a diet, you must keep off treats with too much fat or calories. Always check the ingredients listed on the packages of your pet foods to determine their caloric contents.

Are there any additives added to the chews? You can as well make these chews from home. If you’re thinking of using homemade chews, avoid using additives like artificial sweeteners.

If you must use sweeteners, they should be organic. Also, note that some human foods may be poisonous to the pet; therefore, if, for example, you’re thinking of using something like peanut butter (which most dogs love by the way), ensure it is pure organic one with no Xylitol. Check with your supplier and confirm that the treats you wish to buy are not made with any artificial sweeteners or additives.

Where was the treat produced? The source of the pet food may not be a huge issue, but vet experts recommend that you insist on treats produced locally in the US. Such treats are manufactured under stringent supervision as compared to imported treats which you may not be sure about.

Can you contact the company with ease? A good company will be willing to stand behind the products they produce. Therefore they should be transparent with easy to access communication channels. Most importantly, they should list their number on the company website (if they have) and be willing to respond to your questions.

What is the size of the treat? Here is where most ‘fresher’ pet parents fail. The size of the pet snack is a primary consideration when shopping for the chews. If you’re buying the chews for a small puppy, the delicacies should be sizeable enough to fit into its tiny mouth.

You may also consider age. If it’s a senior dog, the pet chews should be medium-hard. They should be easy to chew.

Could my pet be allergic to the treat? Perhaps this could be your final consideration when buying the treats. If your pet has a record of developing allergic reactions to some ingredients in dog food, review the ingredients used in the chews you wish to buy to see if they’re safe.

If it’s the first time you’re trying them out, give your four-legged friend sizeable chews and then watch its reaction. It would be better if you avoid pet snacks that cause worrying allergic symptoms.

In Closing

Chances are high the dental chews will help slow down the development of plaque and tartar in your dog’s teeth. You must, however, insist on quality treats always.

Don’t settle for any pet food just because of price. Harmful treats may cause dangerous health complications that may be difficult and costly to control. Besides being careful with your choice of dog foods, use specified doggie toothbrush and toothpaste to clean the pet’s teeth regularly.

Special Recipe for a Dog with Stomach Issues

Published on September 10, 2020

Animals

If you’ve ever had an upset stomach (and most of us have!) you’ll know how terrible it can feel. You don’t want to eat, you have no energy, and you might even have bouts of vomiting and diarrhea.

When your dog has a tummy issue, they suffer in much the same way! Whether it’s something they’ve eaten or bacterial infection, dogs are bound to have the odd stomach problem every now and then. But sometimes it’s a sign of something more serious—which is why it pays to know what to look out for and how to treat it.

This article will cover the main things you need to know about feeding a dog with a stomach issue, including improving gut health through things like LivelyPaws vitamin chews for dogs.

Understanding stomach issues in dogs

Dogs have a complex digestive system and are known for eating things that they probably shouldn’t.

There are many reasons your dog may be experiencing tummy problems, but some of the most common include gastrointestinal upset, parasites, reflux, or underlying gut health issues.

Gastritis/stomach inflammation is one of the most prevalent digestive issues in dogs. It can have a number of causes including allergies, medications, a change in diet, a virus, and so on. Symptoms include bloating, gas, vomiting, diarrhea, a lack of appetite, and indigestion.

It can also be a sign of a bigger problem.

Parasites, such as worms, are also very common. Worms tend to enter a dog through contaminated food or fecal matter. They then settle in the intestines, feeding off everything your dog has eaten. This often means your dog misses out on a lot of his much-needed nutrients, which can lead to weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, dehydration, diarrhea, fever, and vomiting.

Viruses such as parvovirus (which is particularly dangerous and highly contagious) are spread through fecal matter and often attach to a new host after a dog ingests an infected dog’s feces. The virus attacks a healthy dog’s small intestine, where it can move into the bloodstream and eventually attack white blood cells, bone marrow, and the heart.

Natural remedies to relieve stomach issues

Feed a whole food diet

A natural but bland diet can help to alleviate some of your dog’s intestinal discomfort. This is best done with whole foods such as lean meats and cooked vegetables..

If your dog has recurring diarrhea or constipation, your first step should be to see a vet. However, for one-off issues, it’s easy to treat them with foods you might enjoy yourself if you have a stomach issue.

Plain cooked pumpkin (pure pumpkin, not pie filling) is helpful as it’s very gentle on the stomach and rich in fiber, along with vitamins A, C, and E, potassium, and iron. Fiber adds bulk to your dog’s stool by absorbing water in the gut. It can also support the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestines while inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria. Plain boiled, shredded chicken is also easy to digest and contains many essential vitamins, minerals, fats, and amino acids. This makes it highly beneficial for when your pup is feeling unwell.

Avoid low-quality dog treats

Dog treats may seem like a fun and easy way to make your dog happy, but they may actually worsen their stomach issues. Treats often contain a huge range of harmful ingredients such as artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives that can irritate the lining of the gut. Check the ingredients list on every ‘treat’ before you buy and make sure there’s nothing you don’t recognize.

Treat with probiotics

Probiotics are ‘friendly’ bacteria that live in the digestive tract of all animals. These bacteria support digestion and the immune system and can inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria like E. coli, salmonella, and clostridium. Specific strains known to benefit dogs include Enterococcus faecium and Bacillus coagulans. Bifidobacterium animalis has been shown to reduce acute diarrhea in dogs, while certain strains of Lactobacillus acidophilus can improve stool quality. Lactobacillus rhamnosus strain GG (LGG) is effective in preventing and treating diarrhea in humans and appears to be good for dogs as well.

Bone broth to soothe sensitive stomachs

Bone broth is a great way to relieve inflammation in the gut and nourish the intestinal lining. It’s made by boiling down meaty bones into a soup so that they contain all of the natural minerals contained within. One of the most important of these is glutamine, which is a fuel source for cells in the small intestine and large bowel. It’s an excellent fuel source for gut villi, which means it helps to prevent bacteria from entering the small intestine or bowel wall. Here’s a great recipe for bone broth (onion-free) from Dog’s Naturally Magazine.

NOTE: If your dog’s gut issues persist—especially if they are vomiting or have diarrhea—you must take him to a vet.

How Much to Feed a Rottweiler Puppy: Feeding Guidelines

Published on September 2, 2020September 7, 2020

Animals

Often, people who dream of a pet choose dogs because of their dedication and love for people. If you are a self-confident person with determined character and are ready to engage in pet training, you have probably thought about taking a Rottweiler puppy under your wing.

The Rottweiler has a strong skeleton, a powerful body, innate mental abilities, and a good memory. Willfulness and fearlessness, guardian instinct and loyalty to the owner – all these qualities, and not only, but this breed is also famous for.

Rottweilers are active, and they need to release the accumulated energy and emotions. The dog should always have enough space to be in good physical shape, facilitated by regular exercise and proper nutrition.

How to Choose Food

When taking your future pet to the house, consider all the issues of raising and keeping a puppy. Sooner or later, you will become an expert in most topics related to Rottweilers, and one of the primary questions you have to face is the selection of food.

Now, after the period of feeding with mother’s milk, you are responsible for the life of the puppy. You need to think and decide what to feed the Rottweiler puppy to give him what it needs for proper and complete growth and development.

One of the main topics of discussion that is open to this day is what kind of nutrition is more balanced and wholesome. Each contender for the role of the best, and in particular natural food, has both its differences and advantages with disadvantages.

For most owners, having a dog is not the only hobby and occupation. In addition to raising and caring for their pet, a person needs to attend work, communicate with friends, pay attention to the family. So the question arises: are you ready to devote some more time to the selection and cooking food?

Although this process does not take a lot of time, many do not want to engage in “dog cooking,” preferring alternatives. Ready-made food, which already provides a balanced diet, includes all the necessary vitamins and supplements.

And canned food manufacturers have been quite successful in developing variations and novelties to meet demand and customer selectivity. In the shops, you can see different types of both dry food and canned food. A veterinary surgeon Dr. Linda Simon at ThePets.net recommends approaching the issue responsibly, since nutrition, along with several other factors, is an essential part of a dog’s life. Also, she notes that if you choose raw food, designing this diet at home is not recommended, you need to use nutritionally balanced and pre-prepared options.

And to choose a good and high-quality product for your pet, you must adhere to the following rules:

Don’t skimp when choosing canned food or dry food for Rottweiler puppies. Often, behind a low price there is an inferior quality product that cannot provide your dog with healthy nutrition and all the necessary nutrients;
Buy specialized feed suitable for both the breed and weight of the animal. If you are not sure that you will make the right choice, ask a consultant for help;
Before buying, read the recommendations and other information provided by the manufacturer on the packaging;
The first time it is better to take a little product for trial. If the purchased food did not suit your pet’s taste, do not force. Better look for something else.

In general, rottweilers prefer dry food rather than canned food since the risk of poor quality or not fresh goods is much less and is stored much longer. And, very importantly, do not forget to give the dog the right amount of liquid so that there are no stomach problems.

Natural food

Those who prefer saving money to saving time choose regular food, so-called homemade. You can fantasize, but one should not forget that the growing animal organism needs certain nutrients, in the right proportions.

Meals should contain protein and carbohydrates, as well as fiber. The diet must include cereals (it is recommended to cook in vegetable or meat broth), eggs, meat products, fresh vegetables (<20%). The dog also needs to eat dairy and fermented milk products (cottage cheese). The diet should contain liquid dishes, and the food should be warm or of room temperature.

Do not forget about drinking. There should always be a bowl of freshwater near the place of the meal so that he could quench his thirst. Nutrition should be low-calorie since excess weight increases the likelihood of developing hereditary and pathological diseases. It contributes to the abnormal development of puppies: the animal gains weight, but its joints and bones do not have time to develop sufficiently and get stronger.

Considerable attention should be paid to vitamins and specialized supplements in the diet. It is better to consult a specialist who should help with the choice and advise you on what and when it is best to give to your pet.

How to Create a Diet for a Puppy

When choosing how to feed a Rottweiler puppy properly, do not forget about such an essential point as drawing up the baby’s diet. What to feed the baby directly depends on its age.

Babies are incredibly close to their mother for up to 4 weeks, eating her milk for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and only by a month, they begin to take an interest in the contents of a dog’s bowl. The breeder or future owner should encourage this interest and curiosity of the discoverers by slowly feeding the young. It is not recommended to give adult food before this period. As mentioned earlier, in the first month of his life, a Rottweiler puppy receives all the necessary elements and nutrients from his parents.

When a baby leaves maternal care, it is worth thinking about his nutrition, but do not worry and do not be afraid of difficulties, since feeding a month-old Rottweiler puppy is not difficult. At this time, cooked milk formulas are well suited for the dog, or you can purchase specialized complementary foods that are sold in pet stores. Continuing this kind of addition to food for another month, you will accustom the kids to the new food, and you can expand the diet from 8 weeks.

Start with rice porridge with pieces of raw beef (cook rice for at least 45 minutes so that it is well boiled, put the meat in hot porridge so that it undergoes heat treatment). You can also give milk, cottage cheese, and sour cream. Minced meat is also suitable, but it must first be poured with boiling water for a couple of minutes.

Continue to gradually introduce this variety of foods into your puppy’s diet until three months old. A little earlier than four months or precisely at this time (it all depends on your pet), they begin to dilute the monotony of everyday food with new cereals and fresh vegetables. In small steps, the owner brings the pet to his essential diet.

If at 1-2 months the babies ate 5-6 times a day, now the number of meals can be reduced to 3-4. Moreover, the first feeding is recommended before a walk and the last before bedtime. So, the dog is full at night and does not bother you.

Food Taboos

There are several products that the animal, for one reason or another, does not perceive. And, in order not to harm your four-legged friend, you need to know them. For example, unprocessed cow’s milk can lead to digestive problems, and legumes are difficult to digest and can cause bloating. Cabbage is generally not recommended at an early age – it can be introduced from half a year in a thermally processed form. Potatoes are not digestible in dogs and so on.

Adult Dog

Gradually, meals will need to be reduced to two times – this is the amount that is considered optimal for an adult Rottweiler. Having coped with the problem of how to feed a Rottweiler puppy three months old, you, as a kind of expert, will not have much difficulty in transferring the baby to the menu of an adult and full-fledged individual.

Expanding the range of dishes and products, it is necessary to remember that the dog should receive the essential vitamins, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates in full. Like any dog, a Rottweiler should not be given fried, fatty dishes with a high content of spices or alcohol, a lot of flour. You cannot transfer the animal to monotonous food. The food should be simple, healthy, and balanced so that the dog is well-fed and cheerful.

The World’s Priciest Animals

Published on April 28, 2020July 17, 2020

Animals

Everything in this world has a price tag, even animals. Some, however, are priced way more than others, costing millions of dollars. If you are curious which animals those are, have a look at our list:

10. Toucan

This bird got its name from the extinct Brazilian Tupi language – the word “Tukana”. These gorgeous and magnificent animals are found in multiple areas like South America, southern Mexico and the Caribbean. Their popularity and fame are due to their big exotically colored beak. Their feathers are most often black with white, yellow and red shades. They cost from 5 to 10 thousand dollars.

9. De Brazza Monkey

Frequently called the swamp monkey, this animal habituates the Central Africa region. These monkeys got their name from the French explorer Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza. They make it very hard to find them, as they have great camouflaging skills. Their lifespan is around 20 years. The prices range from 7 to 10 thousand dollars.

8. Hyacinth Macaw

This macaw, along with taking the first spot for bird prices, also is the largest in the category of flying parrots. They habituate South America, most prominently central and eastern parts of the region. Unfortunately, their numbers have reduced dramatically, considering their rising popularity. This bird possesses a strong beak which it uses for eating hard foods like seeds. You can get one for a whopping 14 thousand dollars.

7. Palm Cockatoo

Palm cockatoo is famous for its black-grey feathers and a prominent red mark on its head. Cockatoo is capable of reaching a height of around 60cm and can weigh over a kilogram. The bird has a big comb on its head and a very large beak. It is priced at 16 thousand dollars.

6. Stag beetle

The stag beetle is a very remarkable species of bugs, which is why it costs so much. It has the characteristic big red tusks on its head. This type of beetle is incredibly uncommon and its population size is unknown. One specimen costs 89 thousand dollars.

5. White Lion Cubs

This species of lions are incredibly rare, which is why their cubs are so expensive. They are only found in special reserves – places in which they are closely observed to save them from extinction. There are just 300 of them left, and they are spread around multiple reserves around the world. Their price? 139 thousand dollars.

4. Sir Lancelot Labrador

The story of this dog is very peculiar, which explains his price – a couple from Florida decided to clone their dog who passed away in 2008, and that is how Sir Lancelot the Labrador came into existence. The pair has invested a sum of 155k dollars in the cloning.

3. Tibetan Mastiff

This is by far one of the most expensive and the biggest breeds you can purchase. The record for a Mastiff is a height of 83 cm and a weight of 70 kilograms. They come in a variety of colors, including red, brown, black and grey, and they cost half a million dollars – 582k, to be exact.

2. Miss Missy

Think about an animal with a price of more than a million dollars. A cow surely doesn’t cross your mind, right? Well, Miss Missy is the world’s priciest cow. After winning multiple competitions she became one of the world’s most famous animals. Thanks to that, she is also the second priciest animal in the world, at a price tag of 1.2 million dollars.

1. Green Monkey

You are probably imagining a monkey in the exotic green hues, right? Well, wrong. The first place actually goes to a horse called Green Monkey. Due to its bloodline and champion ancestry, this horse has reached an astonishing price of over 16 million dollars in an auction after being listed on popular equine marketplace HorseClicks. However, Green cannot be praised for his astounding running skills, as he has never won a horse race. He retired in 2008.

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