How to Keep Your Dog Busy

For those people that work all day and feel bad leaving their dogs home along there are several things you can do to keep your dog busy while you are gone.

• Freeze peanut butter or wet food in a kong and then give to your dog when you leave. This will take them longer and they will have to work harder then just giving it to them in its natural state.
  
• Nina Ottosson dog toys- these toys can be given to your dog filled with their food or filled with treats. They need to work to get the items out and not only is this good fine motor skills, but it is also great for making think.
• Bully sticks, Himalayan chews, antlers and other types of chews. These types of chews will keep your fur baby busy because they are long lasting. Rawhides can be dangerous for dogs, so we do not suggest those.
• Other interactive dog toys- interactive toys are a great way to keep your dog's mind fresh and have them get mentally tired. They are many options available so find one that is perfect for your dog.
  
• Hide treats around house before you leave so they have to work to find them. Great for food motivated dogs.
  
• If you live in an area that gets lots of vehicle or foot traffic leave the blinds open and way to look out the window and let your dog stay busy by watching the traffic go by.

These are just a few ways to keep your dog busy while you are gone.

New Product: Puppy's First Christmas Tee

A new item at Poochieheaven is the Puppy's First Christmas Tee. This soft cotton dog shirt would be a great addition to your dog's holiday wardrobe.

With the stylish green, red, and gold bow, it would look adorable on any new puppy. It comes in sizes for dogs up to 18lbs, so many new puppies would fit.

Looking to get other dog Christmas gifts? Make sure to visit Poochieheaven!

Wordless Wednesday

Heat Retaining Dog Coat

I've already realized that with a tiny dog in the cold winter that I am going to need a very good coat. She has already gotten cold on days that it is 70 degrees outside!

In my quest for a new, high quality dog coat, I am across a heat retaining dog coat. Not only would this make a great warm coat, but it also features a waterproof shell that will keep your dog dry during rain or snow storms.

This is the perfect dog coat for any sized dog.

Duke's Weight Issues

Duke went with me to the vet today to pick up heartguard and frontline. While there I wanted to get him weighed because it had been away. Well, to my surprise (or not!) he currently weighs 116lbs. The past few times at the vet he has been around 110lbs, so it was a slight surprise to see him at 116lbs as I didn't think he had gained any weight. But I guess 5lb doesn't show up on a dog as much as it does on a person :).

But, while I would like to get him back down to about 110lb, I am not all that worried and this is why.

Duke has never been food motivated. He has never really like food or most treats. As a puppy he would sometimes go a whole day without eating. During his past 5 years I have tried every food out there to get him to eat. I tried the good and the bad, I didn't care, I just wanted him to eat. I was never able to find one that he would eat on a daily basis all the time. I also did free feeding because if I was to do scheduled feeding, he would never eat!

After 2.5 years ago, I finally realized how bad it was. Because he is so hairy and fluffy it is really hard to see what he looks like under that fur. I normally get him groomed professionally, so I also never saw him wet. But one day it was super nice out and for some reason I thought that Duke needed a bath. I took him into the back yard and got him all wet and was absolutely disgusted with what I saw. After my poor dog got all wet there was nothing left to him. I then realized that Duke's irregular eating was worse than what I thought. Shortly after this I got him weighed, he was at 70lbs. While he is pretty big now, subtract over 40lbs from that. I can only imagine what the groomers thought I was doing to my poor dog.

After this point, I made sure that he ate twice a day. If he wouldn't eat the kibble plain, then I would add canned or some other type of topper to it, so he would eat something. He didn't have to eat a full meal, just something.

6 months ago I decided that I was going to switch to raw. Luckily for me and for Duke, he really enjoys the raw diet and eats the entire meal, every time. So not only am I happy with the results of the raw, but am extremely happy that he is now eating twice a day!

I once had a vet tell me that Duke needed to lose a little weight (he said ideal is about 100-110lbs), while I do agree he does, I am absolutely terrified to cut back on his food because I do no want him to go back to what he was. I do realize that being over weight is not healthy for him either, so I will make a conscious effort to reduce how much he gets each day, we also could go on a few more walks as well.

Side story: We are at a new vet since we moved and they have only seen Piper. When I brought him in today the vet laughed as she said "I was so used to the little peanut".

Side story 2: Duke really is just a big dog. I've seen a few of this siblings (picture of his sister)(picture of his father) and he is just much larger!

Are you ok with your dog's weight?

Popular Dog Costumes

There is 7.5 weeks until Halloween, are you ready? The dog costumes are selling fast already, and below are some of the more popular ones so far.

Dog Sheep Costume
Pink Fairy Tails Costume
Green Fairy Tails Costume
Sir Barks a Lot Knight Costume

What is your dog going to be this year?

Choosing a Dog Carrier

There are many reasons why you may choose a dog carrier for your family. Dog travel carriers are great for trips to the mall, going out to eat, trips to visit relatives, veterinarian visits, and many more.

At Poochieheaven we have great luxury dog carriers that will fit your needs. Dogs are becoming a more integral part of everyone’s lives and no one likes to leave them behind. Luxury dog carriers and purse dog carriers are an easy and stylish way to carry your loved one around. When you choose from our large selection of fashion and designer dog carriers to carry your dog around those busy city streets, you will be doing it in a secure way.

There are five different features you should look for when you are purchasing a dog carrier.

1. Pockets- Besides your dog, you’ll want room for dog treats, cell phone, and a small wallet.

2. Padding- If your dog has to ride in it, make it comfortable for them!

3. Safety- Make sure there is a place to hook a leash too.

4. Sturdy Construction- This is the reason why a cheap carrier is not always a good idea.

5. Fashion- If you have to be seen with it, make sure it is something you like.

There are just a few tips that will help you choose the perfect dog carrier.

Are You Ready for Some Football?

With the start of the college football season this weekend and the NFL starting soon, is your dog ready?

One of the easiest ways to get dressed are to wear dog football jerseys. They come in multiple sizes to fit many dogs and are officially licensed, so they look great!

Don't like football? Find other great dog clothing at Poochieheaven!

Wordless Wednesday

Chilly Dog Sweaters- In Stock

My favorite winter wear for dogs is back in stock! Chilly Dog Sweaters are by far the thickest sweaters I have found.

They have came out with new designs for this fall and they are fantastic. These warm wool dog sweaters will keep your pooch warm during cold winter days. They are 100% wool and hand knit. They are high cut underneath to allow for male dogs to wear. The best thing about these sweaters? They are available in many sizes- from xxs to xxxl.

To find the perfect way to keep your dog warm, visit Poochieheaven to get your dog sweaters.