Friday, July 31, 2009

New Dog Party Collars!


Are you looking for a way to dress up your dog for a holiday or party but don't want too have them wear clothes or they refuse to wear clothes?




These are adorable collars that have taffeta fabric with rhinestones, pom poms, or other shapes at the end can spice up your dog's neckline.


Perfect for Halloween parties, tailgate parties or any other get together you can think of!

Thursday, July 30, 2009

Bessie and Barnie Dog Beds



Bessie and Barnie are high quality made in the USA dog beds.


They make beds in three different styles- a bagel, a square, and a sofa.


Not only do they make three different styles, all three come in many different designs. They are available in a fun colorful zebra print to a classic chenilles.


The beds are available in 6 different sizes from a some 20" bed to a huge 60" bed.


Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Something to be Proud Of??

Poochieheaven got mentioned in this article.

We are listed at #8.

Whether or not this is a good or bad thing, I think it is an interesting article.

By the way, I think it a good gift!

Kwigy-Bo Dog Carriers on Sale


All Kwigy Bo Dog Carriers are currently 10% off.


Kwigy-Bo is a leading designer in the dog fashion world. They make fabulous high quality dog carriers that will last you for a long time. Another nice thing about their carriers are that they are very purse like; meaning you can hide your dog while going into stores.


We offer many types of Kwigy-Bo dog carriers, from the simple Alex to the manly Michael. They all ship very fast and will become your new favorite dog carrier.


Shop Dog Carriers now!

Monday, July 27, 2009

Find the Perfect Dog for You

Finding your perfect dog is a personal decision and should start with a serious look at your lifestyle, preferences and home life. Always select a dog that fits into the home – if you think that the home will adapt to the dog it is unfortunate but seldom does this work and too often the dog is given up a few months later.

Do your research and find out about the dog breeds that appeal to you. A few questions to answer honestly helps shape your decision. Are you active or sedentary? Do you enjoy grooming and are you willing to put up with hair? Is there an activity you want to do with the dog? What do you want the dog for? Are there children in the home? Do you have restrictions as far as the size or type of dog you may or may not have in your area? Do you live in an apartment or is there access to a back yard? Where will your dog spend their time when you are gone?

Having a good clear vision of this can indicate the personal difference between a small adult ‘mutt’ and a large purebred as your perfect dog, which may be different from other people’s perfect dog. If you know you have a 20 pound limit for the apartment then you may be safer getting a purebred that for sure matures under 20 pounds or an adult that is under 20 pounds.

Keep the big “ideal for you” picture in mind. If you have neighbors and don’t like barking steel yourself at those cute beagle puppies with a natural tendency to bawl as hounds do. If you have young children they may be too rambunctious for small dogs like MinPins. If you are active and want a running companion consider active breeds or the “hyper” dog from the shelter *providing* you are willing to put the time into training them in addition to the activity. If you need a service dog look at what type of service is needed. A Chihuahua can be a seizure alert dog, while if you need a guide dog you’ll be more apt to look at larger breeds.

Remember your ideal dog may be different than someone else’s. Dogs are wonderfully adaptable. Choose one that fits your life.

Thursday, July 23, 2009

New Dog Halloween Costumes


Halloween already!?


Yes. We have been adding a lot of new costumes getting ready for Halloween (you know, it is only a few months away!).


Some of my favorites:






Make sure you order early so they don't sell out!
We have large dog costumes and small dog costumes so all dogs can get into the fun.

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Taco Bell Chihuahua Dies


She charmed millions without ever saying a word, and managed to make fast food tacos adorable.
Gidget, the Chihuahua best known for her Taco Bell ad campaign, died from a stroke on Tuesday night at age 15. "She made so many people happy," says Gidget's trainer, Sue Chipperton.
PEOPLE met both Gidget and Sue at a Hollywood animals photo shoot in February, where the pup was a consummate pro and delighted the crew with her playful nature.
The mostly retired actor lived out her days laying in the sun – "I like to joke that it's like looking after a plant," says Chipperton – and entertaining at shoots when her trainer brought her along. "Gidget," says Chipperton, "always knew where the camera was."
Source: People.com

Monday, July 20, 2009

Peek a Poo Dog Breed Information

The PEEK-A-POO

Checkers writes:

Because the Peek-A-Poo is not a purebred dog some people think that we are mutts – but we’re not! We are PEEK-A-POOs….and we are terrific dogs to have.

We are a cross between a purebred Pekingese and a Poodle. The ideal Peek-A-Poo is first generation. These days we have been tagged “designer dogs”. And that’s fine with us because we are in fact very special…but we Peek-A-Poo’s have been around for over 50 years. That’s right – the Peek-A-Poo is one of the oldest of the hybrid, or designer, breeds. We were developed in the 1950s with the cross of a Pekingese with a Miniature or Toy Poodle. The goal was to produce a non- to low-shedding dog suitable for people with allergies. The Peek-A-Poo gained popularity by the early 1960s, around the same time as the Cock-A-Poo.

But here lately there are all sorts of “designer dogs”. Schnoodles, Labradoodles, Goldendoodles, Puggles and more. In most cases designer dogs bring owners the best of each breed. It seems that the POODLE is the constant factor in the designer dog category. The reason for this is it generally gives the dog the advantage of being a very low shedding dog. Take me – I don’t have an undercoat….I don’t shed at all – which makes it terrific for my mom who has terrible allergies!

These are great combinations and are becoming more and more popular with the dog loving public who aren’t necessarily of the opinion that a dog must be pure and registered with the AKC. Just as formalities in life have given way to casual life style, the breed of a dog doesn’t really matter anymore if you love dogs and are looking for a loving pet. The breed of a dog does count when it comes to the loyalty and nature of your canine companion. Designer dogs fit the bill.

Purists say that you can’t rely on the personality of a designer dog. I beg to differ.
We are small, soft furry dogs with cute “bobbed hair” type ears and a long straight furry tail. We generally live for 12-15 years. We are usually around 11 inches tall and will weigh between 9 and 20 pounds when fully grown. I weight about 11.5 pounds - the size will depend on whether you come from a Standard or Miniature or Toy Poodle.

We have exceptionally great personalities. We are SUPER smart, funny and friendly. Some of us actually believe that we are human. I certainly do. We are extremely friendly, loyal and affectionate and totally dedicated to our families. We do tend to be protective of our owners and we make the best lap dogs. We are also a perfect family dog and we tend to be very friendly with children and get along with other pets. I love cats…..and other dogs…especially big dogs!!!!

I am the ideal lapdog – and believe me – that is where I spend most of my time. If I’m not in a lap I’m right next to my mommy or daddy. I totally delight in being part of every family activity. I am rarely combative and I am happiest when I am with my hoomans – especially in the great outdoors. I am very protective of my family and will defend them with everything in the power of my 11.5 pounds.

A Peekapoo can adapt to any type of dwelling, including apartments, but they do much better with a small fenced yard to access, since they enjoy being outdoors. They should not be left unattended outside, however, since they can become prey for larger dogs and animals in the neighborhood.

A Peekapoo should also live in a home with air-conditioning, since they can be susceptible to heat exhaustion. A Peekapoo should never be exercised or left outside on unusually hot days.
Peek-A-Poos can be noisy and will alert bark whenever they see something or someone suspicious. This can be a little irritating at 2 in the morning , but at least they make great watchdogs. FYI – just go sleep in the big bed and nothing will bother you – that’s what I do!
In some cases we can inherit that overactive tear duct like our Poodle parent – not me tho…..I’m perfect!!!!

Overall we Peek-A-Poos are wonderful, devoted and loving companions.

Despite the popularity of the Peek-A-Poo, there is no breed club. We have remained largely a first-generation cross and there is no indication that multigenerational breeding will occur--but never say never.

Because of our small, lap-friendly size and sweetly affectionate temperament, the Peek-A-Poo has maintained a strong following….and my folks think I am the very best doggie in the world to own.

I bet you there are over one thousand “breeds” listed under the designer dog category. Purebreds are outnumbered and may someday be just a memory! Some people say dogs have become “multi-racial” just like people and that is a good thing!

Whatever kind of dog you decide on just remember to be a responsible dog owner and spay or neuter your dog. Especially if you are a “designer dog”. We are much healthier as first generation dogs and we want to make sure that all doggies [and kitties] are afforded a long life filled with love and affection….so let’s not over-populate!

If you would like to write something about your dog's breed, please email us at info@poochieheaven.com

Thursday, July 16, 2009

Pet Fire Alert Safety Decal

The Fire Pet Alert Window Decal is an important thing to have in your house. If you are ever not home and a fire squad needs to rescue your pet, this will help them determine how many live in your house.

Each pack comes with two decals to place in your windows. It is a good idea to place one on the front door and one on the back door.


Don't wait, buy a Fire Pet Alert Window Decal now, these could save your pet's life!

Monday, July 13, 2009

Live Chat!

We recently installed a live chat function on our website so that you can get live support.

We look forward to answering all your questions at www.poochieheaven.com

Friday, July 10, 2009

Baxter Showing Off!




Lindsey & Baxter sent some pictures of Baxter enjoying his new collar and toy. He also got a matching leash, but that is not pictured.

There is still time to sign up for July's contest.

Find adorable dog collars and dog toys!


Wednesday, July 08, 2009

June Contest Winner

Congrats to Lindsey and her 8 month old Labradoodle Baxter for being June's Contest winner.

Baxter got a new leash, collar, and toy!

Sign up at www.poochieheaven.com

Tuesday, July 07, 2009

Top 10 Reasons to Rescue a Dog

Many people don't want to rescue a dog because they thing the dog is at a shelter because they are bad dogs. This is not the case at all. Below is 10 reasons why it is a good idea to rescue a dog.

Looking for dogs in your area? Visit www.petfinder.com

#10 – No Housebreaking Required

Rescue dogs are often housebroken and since they are not puppies, they are able to hold their bladder longer. No housetraining makes for a much easier transition into a new home. But be sure to continue to enforce the good behavior by praising the dog when he goes outside.

#9 – No House Destruction

Because rescue dogs are already past the puppy teething stage, they are less likely to destroy your house. Your furniture legs, clothes, and your carpet will all be safe because rescue dogs can be left in the house without you worrying that your belongings will be destroyed when you come home. *Of course a new dog might suffer from separation anxiety and could react accordingly, but for the most part, adult dogs will not destroy their new home due to teething.*

#8 – You can Sleep

Puppies will keep new owners up all night with their whimpering and need to go out, but adult rescue dogs will be past that stage. A new dog can be frightened the first few nights but once he understands that he is in his new forever home and you have established a schedule, he will settle quickly into a routine and not keep his new owners up all night. *Tip: Keeping your dog's crate or bed near yours is a good idea so he doesn’t feel isolated.

#7 – You can Relax

A new puppy will keep you on your toes 24 hours a day but with an adult rescue dog, you won’t have to worry about cleaning up a mess from the dog, or what he’s up to when you’re trying to watch TV or read the newspaper.

#6 – Veterinary Trips

Because puppies require so many vaccinations and trips to the veterinarian during their first year, you won’t go back and forth as often or spend as much money initially. A rescue dog will be up-to-date with shots, spayed or neutered, and already on heartworm medication.

#5 – You Can Pick the Perfect Match

When you see an adult rescue dog, you know what he’s already like. However, when you get a puppy it’s uncertain as to what his temperament, personality or size will be. You can get a sense based on the parents, but puppies don’t always turn out to be like their parents. What if you get the one puppy in the litter that has a bad temperament or grows to be much larger than you had expected? With a puppy, you just don’t know what you’re getting. You might buy a puppy thinking he will be your new running partner, but when he grows up, he can turn out to be a couch potato. With a rescue, you know exactly what you are getting and can select accordingly. The rescue groups work hard to find the right family for each dog.

#4 – No Biting

Imagine not having to put up with a biting puppy all of the time. You won’t have to worry about your family and friends being nipped by a teething puppy if you adopt a rescue dog.

#3 – A New Best Friend

A rescue dog will be happy to go with you everywhere and is a ready-made best friend. You won’t have to wait for him to grow up. Instead of spending time cleaning up after a new puppy, you can spend that time bonding with your new rescue.

#2 – A Strong Bond

Rescue dogs are very appreciative that their new owners chose them. If they had a particularly bad start in life and you give them everything they ever dreamed of, they will be forever grateful. Rescue dogs want to please their new owners so they’ll be very well behaved, and the bond between you and your new rescue will become deeper and more meaningful. Rescue dogs are very loyal, affectionate, and will be your forever best friend.

#1 – Control the Dog Population

Not only will you help keep the dog population down, but you’ll also save a life. What better reason to adopt a rescue dog?

Source: Mary & Doug Clark

What are your thoughts? Why did you rescue your dog?

Thursday, July 02, 2009

Training Methods for Dogs

I was reading a dog training book and read this interesting article that broke down the different trainging models. It really got me thinking.

Dog Training Models

No-No Model

Method- The dog is always wrong- he is punished unless he can figure out on his own by trial and error what you want.

Effectiveness- Takes a long time and sometimes the dog doesn’t get it, depending on what the dog is expected to learn.

Stress Involved- Extremely high, to the point where the dog may give up trying altogether.

Yes-Yes Model

Method- The dog is always right- he is rewarded for every correct response but still has to learn on his own what is expected.

Effectiveness- Takes a considerable amount of patience and time.

Stress Involved- Can be high, depending on the dog.

Yes-No Model

Method- The dog knows immediately whether he is right or wrong.

Effectiveness- Very fast.

Stress Involved- Very little.

It made me think about how I train Duke. I think when he was a puppy I was using the yes-no model, but sadly, now that he is older and knows the basic commands, I think I use the no-no model in the sense that I really only do training when he does something wrong. I don't tell him he is a good boy enough. I am happy I read this so I can work on getting back to using the yes-no model.

What model do you use? Why?
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