As an owner of an Australian Koolie, I am no stranger to odd looks and confused faces at the dog park, when asked what breed my dog Tilly is. “Is she a Kelpie?” they ask, “No, an Australian Koolie” I reply. Insert strange look on face and the follow up question “A what?”.
Let me shed some light on the beautiful breed of an Australian Koolie.
An Australian Koolie, is a working / herding breed, that is known for their amazing speed and stamina while herding sheep and driving cattle. According to the Australian Breeders International, the Australian Koolie which was historically called a German Coolie, has existed in Australia since the late 1700’s and early 1800’s when the first German immigrants arrived with their dogs.
Koolies which can be easily be mistaken for an Australian Cattle Dog or Australian Kelpie due to their likeness of speed, agility and coat colours, were bred as an all-around station dog. The versatility and intelligence of the Koolie allowed farmers to use these dogs for many different types of stock and farm duties whereas the Australian Cattle Dog and Kelpie were breed for a specific duty in mind; Cattle Dogs are unique in their ability to round up cattle thanks to their heeling and bite characteristics, and Kelpies with their barking qualities are best for sheep yard work.
Today, Koolies are not only used on farms and stations. Due to their sweet-nature and devoted sense of loyalty they are seen in family homes all over Australia and increasingly overseas. As incredibly smart dogs, they are easy to train but must be kept active and challenged. Therefore they would be great companions for an active and adventurous family. Long walks, swimming, hikes and an open field to bolt around (and I do mean bolt! They are very quick) are some of the adventurous activities this breed loves.
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If you want to give your Koolie a little something special for being such a beautiful doggo, why not give them a new dog lead and dog collar – there are 6 designs to choose from and they will fit a Medium size collar.
All of Pebblina's dog leads and collars are made and designed from Aussies who love their dogs and want beautiful, affordable accessories.
Get yours today!
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Australian Koolie Training
As Koolies are extremely active, not only physically but mentally as well, they need to be kept busy and ‘working’. A bored and frustrated Koolie will see your backyard and garden turned into a pot hole filled playground.
Training your Koolie will make life much easier and will keep your bundle of energy happy and healthy by knowing what he can and can’t do. Once the Master is respected, you will have a loyal companion who will not leave your side and one who will be obedient when going out on adventures with you.
Make sure that your Koolie has lots of challenges to complete when you are busy. See below for a few suggestions:
Overall, Koolies currently have the cleanest DNA genetic diversity in the world. This is partly due to careful breeding and not focussing on one ability more than another.
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This blog is written from the writers own personal experience and information gathered from the below sources: ]]>
In these ultra-modern times, it is increasingly becoming more desirable to style ones home with plush items that adds a feeling of luxury whilst accommodating the essential needs of spending more time at home. But how do you know where to start styling and how do you know what will work well together in that space?
It is best to start off small. For instance, pick one area in the family home. Next you need to decide what you would like to add that could generate a bit of extra flare and go from there.
In this blog we are going to start with your pet teepee. We will be providing a few helpful tips and tricks on how you can style up your pet teepee to help add a bit more style and comfort to your family home.
1 – Rug
Consider adding a shaggy run under your dog teepee. This will help ground the teepee and connect it to the surrounding area.
If your pet teepee has a lot of colours and contains a bold pattern look for a rug with neutral colour tones, this will help compliment the dog teepee without overpowering the space. White, off white, charcoal or beige are all good options.
If, however your pet teepee is more of a plain design with limited or no patterns, or has bold colours on it, choose a rug with a bit more colour. Nothing to strong as you do not want the rug to clash or draw too much attention away from the teepee.
Our personal preference are round rugs however square or rectangular rugs work just as well. When choosing the right size always pick a rug that is bigger than the teepee. You want your furfriend to be able to enjoy it!
2 – Blanket
Another great styling option is adding a dog blanket. Not only does this provide a great function in helping the dog feel more comfortable but it adds as a great piece of decoration for your room.
Consider either a neutral or plain colour blanket as this will help style your pet teepee without drawing to much attention away from it. If you prefer a blanket with a bit more flare, consider one that has a subtle pattern.
3 - Fairy lights
Fairy lights would have to by my favourite item to add to my dog teepee. It adds so much warmth and magic to the space. This creates a more calming and relaxing vibe. You really can not go wrong with fairy lights.
4 - Name plate
Most pet owners love to personalise their pet accessories, so why not your pet teepee? Adding a name plate with your pet’s name helps make your teepee have more of a homely vibe.
Once you have added these four items into your pets space you can start to look at the surrounding area and pick items that help tie it all together. Plants are always a great option to add into a space as they help bring in greenery and purify the air. If the plants are low to the ground make sure the plants you choose are pet friendly! You could also add a photo off you and your furbaby to help finish of the area.
For more tips and tricks make sure you sign up to our newsletter as we release blogs twice a month.
Happy styling!
]]>However, you should spare a thought for your dog. From their perspective, the one person they love more than anything in the world has been around a whole lot more than usual. What’s more, if you bought a new puppy during lockdown, they’ve only ever known your lockdown routine. Adjusting to the idea of an empty home can be a huge challenge for a young pup.
Still, whether you’re a new dog owner or have had your best friend around for years, you should be prepared to help your dog with anxiety as you start spending more time away from home.
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Separation anxiety is fairly common in dogs, especially when there's a sudden change in routine. Dogs develop attachments to their owners. So, if you're suddenly spending more time away from home, your best friend can become more anxious. Aside from being an unpleasant experience for your dog, it can also lead to other problems at home.
Dogs develop strong attachments with their owners, and you might not have even left your home before the signs of separation anxiety begin to show. If your dog is displaying any of the behaviours below, then you could have a problem:
Of course, some of these signs won’t be as noticeable as others, especially when behavioural changes happen while you're away. It’s a good idea to set up a smart camera in your home so that you can keep an eye on your dog’s behaviour. This way, you can see exactly how your pet is behaving while you’re absent and whether there's any cause for concern.
If you do see changes in your dog's behaviour, then you should check out the steps below.
We've outlined some of the simple changes you can make to help your dog with separation anxiety.
The good news is that we can help our dogs to deal with the inevitable anxiety that can arise from a change in schedule. Below, you’ll find points on how to help your dog with anxiety when you’re expecting to spend more time away from home.
Bark-tober is a wondrous time for pets and owners alike as you play dress-up, engage in baking some pet-friendly snacks to curl up with in front of a scary movie.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, however, trick-or-treating with your fur-baby is effectively out of the question. Luckily, there are plenty of other things you can do with your companion this Howl-o-Ween!
Here’s how you and your furry friend can get your spook on:
Pumpkin patches are the number one pet-friendly Halloween attraction, and for good reason. Unlike haunted houses or scary forests, they’re relatively calm and won’t spook your pet too much.
Additionally, many pumpkin patches also have corn mazes as well, which can be an extremely enriching activity for hyperactive little puppies or overly energetic breeds. If you’re lucky, your local pumpkin patch may also have a petting zoo that’s perfect for your little one to make new friends!
If you do plan on visiting a pumpkin patch with your little fuzz-ball, though, make it a point to call ahead and ensure that they are dog-friendly. Once you have the confirmation, bring some doggy bags along just in case, and go have fun!
Halloween parties have always been a staple of the spooky season, so what better to do with your pet than host one with the other local dog parents?
Not only can you let your dogs play themselves with their friends, but you can also spend time bonding with the other moms while baking pet-friendly treats and shopping for party favors!
When planning your party, however, take the proper time beforehand to ensure everyone has a stress-free and safe evening.
Begin by clearing out a large space either in your home or yard where you intend on having the dogs play together. Then, remove any potentially dangerous objects that could be chewed on and fill the area with more desirable toys. Lastly, buy yourself and the other moms a large bottle of wine and all the candy you can eat!
While your pets are tuckering themselves out, pour a glass, put on a movie, and have a blast!
Similar to a Halloween party, costume parties are incredible for bonding and ensuring that everyone involved has a great time. With pets, however, costume parties can be taken to the next level.
Invite your local dog parents to dress up their own pups and bring them over for a contest, and offer bonus points if the parent dresses up in a matching outfit. Then, include a little photo booth (this can be as simple as cut-out cardboard or as complicated as renting a whole machine) where everyone can take photos. Also, be sure to include a wide variety of snacks for both the parents and the pups to make sure that everyone has an excellent time and feels right at home!
Exactly what it sounds like, a canine hiking Halloween trip involves dressing up your pup (either alone or with other pet parents) and going out for a hike just before sunset. This way, your pup gets to run, jump, play, and get all of its energy out and you get to watch as the sun sinks below the horizon on Halloween night.
Afterward, head back home or to a spot along your hiking trail where camping is permitted and light up a fire before it gets too chilly. This way, you can spend the remainder of your night bonding with friends, eating s’mores, telling scary stories, and enjoying the holiday.
Not everyone is the type of person who wants to go out and be with others on Halloween. In fact, if you’re an introvert, the holidays are probably rather stressful for you because of the massive crowds of people. There’s no need to feel upset, though. Your desire to stay in and be with your puppy is just as valid as wanting to go out and visit as many haunted houses as possible.
If that’s what you want to do, we recommend planning a movie marathon in advance! To do this, select the movie(s) you want to binge on Halloween night, visit your local supermarket for snacks and a plush blanket, and get yourself some nice cinnamon-scented candles to light.
Then, of course, we also recommend taking your pet out for a walk before movie night starts to get their energy out so they’ll actually lay down with you!
Halloween has always been a time of decorating your home and dressing up as whatever you feel like being that year. Ensure your pup has the same experience by treating them to a new collar or harness!
This can be anything from a decorative collar that sports a pumpkin pattern to a ghost-themed leash! We recommend getting a highly reflective or glow-in-the-dark lead as part of your pup’s package, though, as it will help your pup be seen from a distance and work to keep them safe as the two of your go about your Howl-o-Ween activities.
If you’re lost for ideas or need some help choosing a leash, collar, or harness, be sure to visit our shop! Not only do we offer adorable leads, unforgettable harnesses, and so much more, but buying them in a bundle is also cheaper than buying just one thing! We’re all about Howl-o-Ween discounts!
Not to mention, you can never have too many different designs!
If you’re anything like us, you’re all about allowing your pup to express their personality through decoration and design. This Halloween, what could be better than getting them the items they need to have a fully decorated sleeping space?
Start by getting your pet a specialty dog bed, such as a tee-pee tent bed! Not only will a bed like this make them feel safe and secure, but it will also elevate the space so they’re proud to call it their own.
Then, you can get started with decorating other parts of the space with pet-friendly objects such as hanging signs or even a Howl-o-Ween doormat!
The options are endless!
If you’re going to be dressed up this Halloween, it only makes sense that your pet is too! As the season approaches, make sure you spend some time shopping for the perfect costume for your fur baby.
Keep in mind, however, that your pet’s preferences could be different depending on their temperament. Some people are able to get their fur-ball into a full get-up (including the shoes!) while others can barely put on a decorative collar. Before buying anything, make sure you understand your dog’s preference and don’t force them out of their comfort zone.
If your dog is one who doesn’t like a lot of decor, we recommend trying out some small bumblebee wings or a puppy bandana that you think suits them!
Many neighborhoods (especially those that are pet-friendly) will host Halloween events just for pets in the days leading up to the holiday. These activities are an excellent way to get your dog out and celebrating while also taking it easy yourself.
Because of this, we recommend checking into your local community’s Facebook page or asking some local trainers if they know of anything coming up. Local shelters will often host playdates, and some trainers even orchestrate huge walks where dogs of all shapes and sizes can prance around together.
Be sure to get the details, though, because some Halloween pet events include more than one type of pet. By ensuring you have all the information, you can guarantee the events you’re attending are perfect for you and your little pup!
Above all, Halloween (and the entire month of October, really) is about getting out and spending time with family and friends. Whether that be you and your pet with a huge group of others or just the pair of your alone is irrelevant—just be sure that don’t get so caught up in the holiday antics that you forget what’s really important:
Being together.
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They've sailed the Mediterranean, sat as lapdogs to the French aristocracy and even enjoyed a stint in the circus, but today the Bichon Frise is best known as one of the most popular companion breeds in the world. Read on to find out more about the fascinating history and quirky personality traits of this charming and irresistibly cute little dog.
Although the name Bichon Frise is French and means "curly haired dog," the breed is actually thought to have originated in the Canary Islands. Bichon Frises were once the companion of choice for Spanish sailors, and it's believed that these sailors introduced the little dogs to the island of Tenerife during the 12th and 13th centuries. Then, in the 14th century, Italian sailors discovered them on the island and took them back with them to mainland Europe.
From the 14th century onwards, Bichon Frises were a popular lapdog and court companion in continental Europe, becoming extremely fashionable during the Renaissance period and a favourite amongst the French royal family in particular. In fact, King Henry III was so fond of these little white dogs that he used to carry them around in a basket suspended around his neck with ribbons.
By the 19th century, the Bichon Frise had fallen out of fashion amongst the aristocracy, and these natural performers started becoming known for their tricks instead. Bichon Frises started appearing in circuses and fairs, and even performing alongside organ grinders on the streets of Europe. And by the 1930s, the breed's talent for performing tricks was being recognised on the showgrounds too.
Despite their maritime beginnings and the fact that they're descended from the water spaniel, the Bichon Frise is often more of a companion dog than a water dog. In fact, many count the Bichon Frise amongst the few dog breeds that don't like the water much at all.
Bichon Frises are very friendly and playful by nature, and they get along well with other dogs as well as kids. They also make loyal and constant companion dogs, and they love nothing more than being at their human's side. This can mean, however, that the breed is susceptible to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods at a time.
The Bichon Frise's dense, curly coat is made up of two layers and hardly sheds at all, making this breed a good choice for those with allergies. However, it also means that the corkscrew curls of this little breed require regular grooming to keep their coat in tip-top condition.
Although diminutive in stature – according to the Australian Kennel Club, they should stand no more than 30 cm tall and weigh 11 kg at most – the Bichon Frise is still not classified as a toy breed in many countries.
Smaller dogs typically live longer lives than larger breeds, and the Bichon Frise is no exception. These little dogs commonly have a life span of 12-15 years, and many can even live longer than that.
The Bichon Frise typically has a pure white coat, with a little bit of darker cream marking the ears, paws, mouth or nose.
The Bichon Frise is a very intelligent dog breed that excels in obedience and agility training. These high-energy dogs do particularly well on a rewards-based training program in particular, and they will happily perform tricks for treats.
]]>If you’re curious about Frenchies, here are 5 fun facts about them:
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Cute, playful and oh-so-charming, French bulldogs or ‘Frenchies’ resemble bulldogs – except for their relatively diminutive size and constantly erect large ‘bat’ ears. These quirky-looking pups are among the most popular small-dog breeds in the world.
If you’re curious about Frenchies, here are 5 fun facts about them:
They don’t look it, but Frenchies are actually descended from the ancient hounds of Molossus in Greece. The ancient Greek tribe of Molossians raised the Molossian hound whose breed spread because of Phoenician traders.
The Molossian gave rise to the English mastiff and later to bulldogs. A now-extinct German bulldog called the ‘Bullenbeiser’ (bull-biter), a cousin of the mastiff, was raised for bull baiting as a sport.
But when bull baiting became illegal in England in 1835, the bulldogs were left with nothing to do, so they were later bred to become companion dogs. However, they were deemed too big, so some bulldogs were interbred with smaller breeds like terriers, which were very common as they were bred as ratter dogs.
Toy bulldogs, the scaled-down versions of the Bullenbeiser mixed with smaller breeds, became very popular in England at around 1850, participating in breed shows in the following decade. Nottinghamshire lace workers who settled in Normandy, France brought their pups, including toy bulldogs, which the French adored. English breeders also exported bulldogs deemed too small or flawed, such as those with erect ears.
But these small bulldogs became established French favourites and a recognised breed called ‘Bouledogue Francais’ meaning French ‘ball’ and ‘mastiff’ or ‘molosser’. Unexpectedly, these toy bulldogs were transformed into fashion icons as they were highly favoured by Parisian women, including writers, fashion designers and artists.
By the early 20th century, the bat ears of French bulldogs became widely accepted with the support of American breeders. Since then, the distinctive ears of Frenchies have become part of their trademark look and are widely recognised all over the world.
French bulldogs have a small stature, usually standing at around 28 to 30 centimetres (11 to 12 inches). Males weigh around 9 to 13 kilograms (20 to 28 pounds) and females at around 7 to 11 kilograms (16 to 24 pounds).
Their elongated bat ears top their large square heads and slightly rounded foreheads. Like typical bulldogs, Frenchies have thick necks and eyes set wide apart, but they have slightly rounded foreheads. Their short, smooth coat – which may be brindle, fawn, cream, white with brindle patches or black – is wrinkly, particularly around the head and shoulders.
They have a short, stocky build, tucked-up belly and a straight or curved tail, as well as short and sturdy front legs set far apart. However, their hind legs are noticeably longer. They love to lie down on their tummies or sit with their hind legs spread out. This, combined with their wide, round face, has earned them the moniker ‘frog dogs’.
While Frenchies crave attention and affection, they return the same in kind. They are playful, loyal, stubborn, affectionate, fun-loving, and they don’t bark so much. Frenchies have an overall highly agreeable personality, so they can also live well with other dogs and even cats.
They make great apartment dogs and only require regular walks and some exercise to keep fit.
Like other breeds, French bulldogs are susceptible to both food and environmental allergies.
They may be allergic to beef, dairy products, chicken and their eggs, corn, lamb, some types of fish, and wheat. Environmental allergens that trigger allergy attacks in Frenchies include animal dander, pollen, dust mites and mould spores.
If your Frenchie is suddenly suffering from diarrhea, vomiting and non-stop flatulence, or has rashes and is scratching continuously, better take it to the vet.
Many celebrities are Frenchie fur parents, including the late Carrie Fisher, the Beckhams, Eva Longoria, Noah Hill, Lady Gaga, Hugh Jackman, Reese Witherspoon, Zach Braff and Leonardo DiCaprio.
So, if you get yourself a Frenchie, you’re in good company!
]]>1. Collar, ID tags and contact information
No-one wants their dog to get lost, but now and again it does happen. To make finding your dog a lot faster and easier, you will need a collar with their ID attached, including your phone number. Whilst microchipping is also essential, if a neighbour finds your dog, it’s much quicker to give you a call than take your dog to the vet’s to have their microchip read.
2. Dog leash and harness
To walk your dog, you’re going to need a leash, but you don’t want the leash to be too long, because you lose control over their movements, so opt for a shorter leash (avoiding retractable leashes for this very reason). However, instead of attaching the leash to your dog’s collar, you can attach it to a harness that puts pressure on their chest (rather than their neck), making it much more comfortable for your dog.
3. Water and food bowls
Every dog needs their own food and water bowls, but these don’t have to be boring! There are some fabulous dog bowls on the market and you won’t have any problems finding bowls that look awesome for your dog. Obviously, you need to match the size of the bowls to the size of your dog, keep them clean, and refill their water bowl with clean fresh water, every day.'
4. A swanky dog teepee!
Every dog needs their own safe space, somewhere warm and comfortable where they can rest after a long day playing with balls and racing around the yard! There are lots of different dog beds on the market, but one of the cutest must be a dog teepee with a lovely soft, but supportive cushion for taking naps.
5. High quality dog food
Dogs need a healthy and nutritious diet that’s also low in fat, because they can quickly become ill on a high fat diet. So before you bring your furry friend home, it’s a good idea to talk to a vet who can suggest the best type of diet for your pup.
6. Lots and lots of toys!
Dogs love to play, whether it’s running after a tennis ball, football or a frisbee. They also love something soft to snuggle into when they have a nap (teddy bears are a good option) and they love to chew! You need to be careful however, that none of these toys or chew toys contain sharp edges or anything that if swallowed can be dangerous to their health. It all comes down to common sense!
7. Keeping your dog looking fabulous
Whilst bathing your dog too often is not good for their skin, they will need a bath every now and again, but you need a dog shampoo, not a human shampoo (as these can dry their skin). A grooming brush is also a good idea, as this helps to keep them tangle free.
Are you thinking about buying a Pebblina reversible dog harness? Our harnesses are very popular with owners and their dogs for a variety of reasons. So let’s take a look at the benefits of Pebblina harnesses and why they’re much better than a collar or even a choker chain for your pooch on their daily walks.
Why you should use a Pebblina reversible dog harness
Aussies love their pet pooches, so we only want the very best for them. We know that they love their walks and all the different smells they come across every day, and they thoroughly enjoy socialising with other owners and dogs. However, deciding between a collar and a harness can be a difficult decision, particularly when you have always used a collar and really don’t understand the benefits of a harness. So if you’re unsure of which way to jump, here are seven reasons why a Pebblina reversible dog harness is ideal for your happy pooch.
1. Your dog can step out in style
Every dog deserves to look a million dollars on their walks and a Pebblina reversible dog harness does just that! Our harnesses look cute on little dogs and big dogs, and because they’re reversible you get two different style options for one very affordable price. We use a heavy duty neoprene and mesh material that’s comfortable to wear, durable and long lasting (the mesh is also breathable to keep your pet nice and cool). All the edges of the harness are reinforced for comfort, so there’s no hard or rough edges to rub your pet’s skin. Our harnesses are also fully adjustable for extra comfort.
2. Harnesses give you more control over your dog
However much you try to train your dog, it doesn’t always work out 100% of the time. Dogs often pull on their leads because they want to get to a delicious smell, chase a cat or socialise with a fellow pooch on their walk. Collars don’t give you the control you need over your dog, simply because your dog wants to go in their own direction, regardless of what their owner wants! This constant pulling builds up their neck muscles, which is why you hardly ever seem to control your dog when you use a collar. The Pebblina reversible dog harness however, wraps around your dog’s body, particularly across their chest, giving you much more control over your dog on his or her walks.
3. Dog harnesses discourage pulling on the lead
Dogs love to pull on the lead, because they want to move forward at their own pace and get where they’re going fast! If you have a fairly large dog, this constant pulling can cause injuries to your shoulders and even pull elderly people off their feet. So stopping your dog pulling on the lead is a safety factor, but it also makes the walk much more pleasant for both of you. A collar does absolutely nothing to prevent your dog pulling on their lead, in fact it often encourages them to pull because they move forward faster! Harnesses on the other hand, give your dog no advantage when they pull against the lead, it doesn’t move them any faster forward and often lifts their front paws off the ground.
4. Harnesses avoid your dog suffering neck injuries
Dogs tend to pull against a collar and leash whenever they can get away with it, but this causes stress on their neck muscles and can eventually result in long term problems. This constant pressure on your dog’s neck can, over time, damage their thyroid gland, which is located at the front of the neck. It can also lead to respiratory problems as well. A Pebblina reversible dog harness however, spread this pressure over their chest, putting no strain on their neck at all. A harness is much better for your dog’s health than a collar!
5. A reversible dog harness avoids skin problems
Most collars are worn tightly around a dog’s neck, otherwise they can easily slip out of the collar and run away. This tightness can cause the skin under the collar to sweat, particularly in summer, resulting in irritated skin, that can become infected. If your dog loves to swim, the fur under the collar often remains wet for long periods of time, which can also cause skin irritations. Their fur can also be worn away by a tight collar, leaving bald areas that once again, can become irritated. Some collars are worse than others because they are made from very thick material that doesn’t let your dog’s skin breathe and keeps the skin moist. A dog harness however, is only worn when you walk your dog and even then, there is no tight collar around their neck. The Pebblina reversible dog harness doesn’t cause your dog’s skin to sweat, because it’s made from a mesh material that breathes, as well as neoprene that dries very quickly.
6. Harnesses are ideal for both small and large dogs
Small dogs can really benefit from wearing a dog harness mainly because it doesn’t put any pressure on their fragile necks. The tightness of a collar around their neck can easily cause neck injuries in small breed dogs, whereas a harness spreads this pressure over their body and chest, and not around their neck. Larger dogs also benefit from wearing a harness, as it gives you more control when they are out and about on their walk.
7. A Pebblina reversible dog harness is perfect for Houdinis!
If your dog frequently wriggles out of their collar on their walk, they are going to have a much more difficult time wriggling out of a harness. They can get out of their harness if it isn’t fitted properly however, so you need to make sure that it isn’t too loose. Of course, a harness that’s too tight can rub their skin, but you will quickly work out the best way to fit your dog’s harness so that it keeps them safe and fits comfortably.
If you want your dog to step out in style this year, why not check out our fabulous range of Pebblina reversible dog harnesses?
]]>West Highland Terriers are most famously known as 'Westies' or to some 'Scottie' dogs. Although 'Scottie' dogs is a nickname more commonly related to the beautiful Scottish Terrier, some still associate West Highland Terriers as 'Scottie' dogs.
Westies have the most beautiful long fur coat which is white in colour. This coat is complemented by their adorable pointy ears. Despite their pretty looks and eyes mesmerising eyes, they should not be mistaken as a delicate lapdog. Westies have a big personality and some may even say they are a big dog in a little dog’s body.
West Highland Terriers are incredibly intelligent and require lots of training but due to their high intelligence, they are easy to train.
To help you understand this beautiful breed a bit more we have put together some interesting facts!
#1 History
West Highland Terriers were originally bred to be white hunting dogs. Back in the 1800’s, a hunter named Colonel Edward Donald Malcolm of Poltalloch from Scotland, was hunting with his favourite Cairn Terrier when he accidentally shot and killed his terrier after mistaking it for a fox. Devastated by what happened, Malcolm decided he would only hunt with white dogs as they were easier to identify.
It just so happens that some Cairn Terriers and Scottish Terriers can be born white. If they were born white, they were bred together until their puppies were consistently white, creating the West Highland Terrier.
There are reports of terriers being recorded back in the 1560-1630’s during James VI of Scotland’s reign. As the King wanted to give a dozen terriers to the Kingdom of France as a gift. However, the white off shoots of Cairn Terriers and Scottish Terriers were seen as weak and often killed.
#2 Hunters
Westies were bred to be hunters! That is right, this cute and cuddly breed is an amazing hunter. Specialising in rodents such as: rats, mice, foxes and badges.
They became great hunters due to their bullet shaped body as they were able to wriggle through underground holes to chase out rodents.
#3 Big Personality
These dogs were fearless, borrowing into underground burrows to catch foxes and badgers so it should come as no surprise that they can be a handful. Westies are incredibly smart, confident, independent and a little bit stubborn. They require a firm owner and lots of exercise. Like most dogs, it is important to socialise your Westie at a young age. The older the Westie, the less friendly they can be towards new dogs.
#4 Terriers
Due to their terrier nature they are little barkers, warning you of cars passing by or visitors at the front door. They are also prone to digging holes in the back yard.
Compared to other terriers though they are considered more friendly when it comes to strangers and other pets. However, Westies can have a tendency to display aggression towards other animals due to the breed's strong chasing and hunting instincts.
#5 Coat
Westies' coat have two layers, a wiry top layer with a soft undercoat. They do require regular grooming and brushing as their hair can grow quite long and being white, it does get dirty easily. Luckily their shredding is on the low side of average.
#6 Health
West Highland Terriers are prone to skin disorders so it is important to check their skin on a regular basis. A common problem is atopic dermatitis, a chronic skin disease associated with allergies.
Conclusion:
Maintenance Level: Medium
Lifespan: 12-16 years
Temperament: Independent, smart, playful, cheeky and confident.
Health Risk: Skin problems
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Dachshunds are one of the most popular dog breeds to have as a pet and it’s no real surprise considering how ridiculously cute they are!
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Dachshunds are one of the most popular dog breeds to have as a pet and it’s no real surprise considering how ridiculously cute they are!
The dachshund is also commonly known as a ‘doxie’, ‘wiener’ or ‘sausage dog’. Weighing in at 7.3kg-15kg for the standard dachshund while the miniature dachshund tends to weigh less than 5.4kg.
They have a beautiful playful temperament however they can be quiet stubborn which can make training a more challenging and rewarding exercise.
With all that said, we have found some really interesting fact about dachshunds that we would love to share:
#1 Originated from Germany
Hundreds of years ago the Dachshund was bred in Germany to hunt badgers. The name Dachshund literally means “badger dog”. Dach meaning badger and hund meaning hound/dog. Due to their long and narrow build along with their cute little legs, the Dachshund was the perfect size to go into badger dens.
#2 Used during World War 1 & 2
With their German heritage, the Dachshund image was used to represent Germany in propaganda during World War 1 & 2. During that time this drastically impacted the popularity of the breed as widespread contempt grew towards the Dachshund.
#3 The first Olympic Mascot
Back in 1972 during the summer Olympic games in Munich, the very first official Olympic mascot tradition was born! It just so happened to be a Dachshund called Waldi! They even designed the marathon route to be in the shape of a Dachshund.
#4 They have three types of coats
A fun fact some people may not be aware of is that the Dachshund breed has three types of coats. The most popular being the smooth (shorthaired) but they also come in wirehaired and longhaired.
The Dachshund can also come in a variety of colours including: red, cream, chocolate, tan, grey, sable, dapple, black, brindle, piebald and wildboar.
#5 They come in 3 sizes
The Dachshund have three sizes: standard, miniature and kaninchen. While the standard and miniature sizes are widely known the kaninchen is not. Kaninchen being German for rabbit weighs up to 3.5kg.
#6 It is not pronounced Dash-hound
As the word Dachshund is German, the correct pronunciation is ‘dahks-hund’ not ‘dash-hound’ as some of us tend to call them.
#7 By nature, Dachshunds can be a one-person dog
Dachshunds by nature tend to bond closely with a single person. They can become quiet jealous and often become very suspicious of strangers.
#8 Spinal Health Risks
Due to their long spine and small rib cage, the Dachshund is prone to spinal problems, in particular intervertebral disk disease. It is important to not let your Dachshund jump up on to the furniture, eat more than the doctor’s recommendation or exercise too much. This can cause strain on their backs. Roughly 20-25% of all Dachshunds will develop intervertebral disk disease.
Conclusion
Maintenance Level: Low
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Temperament: Independent, loyal, playful & stubborn
Health Risk: Slipped disks in their spine.
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With the holidays fast approaching it is time to hang your stockings up, assemble the Christmas tree, turn your Christmas lights on and most importantly it’s time to start considering what your most valuable family member might want put on their Christmas wish list to Santa Paws this year!
Here are some pawesome Christmas gift ideas for your furchild:
1. Christmas Bandana
Without a doubt the cutest gift idea out there at the moment is a Christmas bandana. Made out of 100% cotton, this accessory is soft and gentle on the skin. With a great range to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect style to complete your dog’s wardrobe:
- Winter Wonderland
- O Christmas Tree
- Snowflakes
- Two Turtle Doves
- Santa's Choice
Receive 1 free Pebblina Christmas bandana for all orders of $25!!
2. Reindeer Antlers
Santa Paws cannot reach all the furchildren without his trusty and reliable reindeers. This Christmas, join Rodolph and his friends to help Santa bring joy to furbabies all around the world.
Made out of polyester this playful headband is easy to slip on and creates a joyful and festive element to your pawfect Christmas family photo!
3. Christmas Costume
The holidays just aren’t the holidays without a little dress up.
With so many options out there, one of our favourites is the classic Santa Paws outfit with his trusted helper, the Christmas Elf.
Made out of polyester your friends and family are sure to get a kick out of seeing your pooch in one of these two festive and playful costumes.
4. X-Mas Jumper
Christmas jumpers are a great idea for those cooler climates. While they are playing outside in their winter wonderland be sure to keep their core warm in a cotton or wool jumper which can be found at most pet stores.
5. New Dog Bed
Moving away from Christmas themed gifts, a classic but a goodie is a new dog bed. Instead of buying a traditional dog bed, how about adding some ‘lux’ and indulge in your very own teepee dog tent.
Made out of cotton, you dog will be sleeping like the king or queen in this stylish palace.
7. Treats
Spoil your pet this Christmas with their favourite treats! Whether your dog loves a good bone, liver treats or schmackos, you simply cannot go wrong with this tummy pleaser to satisfy their taste buds.
Just be sure to not leave it wrapped under the tree for too long as I am sure your pet will sniff it out and it will be wrapped no more!
7. Automatic Ball Launcher
Who doesn’t love a good game of fetch? If you really want to go all out this Christmas, Petsafe have a great product to buy for your dog, an automatic ball launcher.
Starting at $190, this gift will entertain and energise you special furfriend for hours
8. Pet Massager
A great Christmas gift idea for those looking for something a little bit different is a pet massager. Designed to relieve muscle tension and stiffness to improve flexibility, it ensures your dog has a healthy digestion whilst reducing anxiety. Pet Wall offer a great variety of massage items to suit any budget.
9. Wicked Bone
Wicked Bone is a really cool gift idea we discovered on Kickstarter. It is practically a remote control car but shaped as a bone and designed for your dog.
It has a bunch of interactive features to help stimulate your dog while keeping them entertained.
You can pre order this through Indiegogo for $99 USD but be sure to order soon so that it arrives in time for Christmas.
10. Brite Bite Brushing Stick
A clever fun toy that helps clean your dog’s teeth.
Made from pet safe rubber, this toy made our list because it is new and innovative. As dog owners, we do not always have time every day to clean our dog’s teeth. This item helps take some of the hassle away and the best part is, dogs love it!
There you have it, our top 10 Christmas present ideas for dogs this year. Be sure to leave the water and doggy biscuits out for Santa Paws to help keep his energy levels up as he embarks on the mighty journey of spreading the doggy love and Christmas cheer all around the world.
]]>This blog post is a brief summary on an item we feel is one of the most important items to buy for your dog. A Dog Harness!
Why you ask? A dog harness is not only great for walking your dog but it is also a great item to use when transporting your dog in the car. It is important to make sure your dog is secure while travelling to help prevent injury.
Obviously the harness alone won’t restrain your dog in the car so you will also need a seat restraint that clips onto your dog harness.
Teaching your dog from an early age to sit down in the car and not run around is important. Having a harness and a seat restraint helps make sure they can not run around in your back seat. Ensuring you can keep your eyes on the road!
When it comes to walking your dog most people prefer to use a harness as they feel collars and halters chock or hurt their dog. Every dog is different and you may find your dog responds better to a certain product.
A harness is considered more gentle on their body as it’s not correcting their walking by pulling on their throat or turning their head to an uncomfortable position. Instead it gently pulls back on their shoulders to encourage them to walk slower.
Walking products are not meant to hurt your dog, they are designed to encourage your dog to naturally walk nicer next to you as opposed to pulling on their lead and taking you for a walk instead of the other way around.
It is important to find out which product works best for your dog. If you haven’t already tried a harness, why not give it a try!
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Here is a list of products you can use to walk your dog:
Collar
A dog collar probably has to be the most common product for walking a dog. Everyone wants to show off their stylish dog collar while walking their pooch. Collars are also great for because you can clip a name tag on which not only shows their name but shows your contact information so in the unfortunate event your dog goes missing and someone else finds them, they can contact you.
Pros
Cons
Halter
When used properly a dog halter is actually a really great product for walking your dog. The halter is designed to gently turn their head towards you if they start walking too fast. This encourages your dog to slow down and walk nicely next to you.
Pros
Cons
Harness
A dog harness is a very easy product to use for walking your dog. It’s also one of the most comfortable products for your dog.
It is gentle on their body and rather than pull on their throat or turn their head to correct their walking, it gently tugs on their shoulders to encourage them to slow down and walk nicely next to you.
Pros
Cons
Correction Chain
Correction chains are also known as choker chains however I do not like referring to them as choker chains because if you use them properly you are not choking your dog. It also gives off the impression that you are correcting your dog’s walking by choking them which is incorrect. You are more likely to choke them using a normal collar than you are a correction chain. However, if you wish to use this type of collar ensure you apply the right technique so are that you are walking your dog correctly. The correction occurs from the sounds the chains make when tugged on.
Pros
Cons
There are other items you may want to consider when walking your dog, such as a muzzle. Your dog doesn’t have to be aggressive to wear a muzzle. In certain places your dog may be required to wear a muzzle such as public transport.
There you have it! The top products we recommend when walking your dog. Be sure to try a few options to see which one your dog responds best do.
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Dogs are naturally dominant so it is important from an early age to determine dominance. A dog doesn’t have to be aggressive to be dominant as there a many forms of dominance from passive to extremely dominant. Your dog can be influenced by his or her surroundings so it is important to understand the signs and in particular the signs you may not be aware of.
To help with these signs we have found 5 common traits a dog may show to establish dominance that people are not aware of:
Have you ever noticed that your dog likes to sleep above your head? Maybe they like to lay their head on your shoulders? Although that may be cute, it is your dog showing dominance so the next time your pet does this, tell them off and make them move. If your dog fails to comply then we would recommend they sleep on the floor in their own bed to help you re-establish dominance.
Does your dog ever decide to stop moving while they are on a walk? Maybe they are walking nice and slow behind you and for no reason they decide to stop? This is passive dominance. They are trying to tell you that they don’t want to move where you want them to and they will continue to move when they are ready. Our tip to help stop this would be to use your voice correction to tell them off and keep them moving. You dictate when it is ok to stop and smell the roses not them.
It is ok to have your dog up on the couch with you but it is important for them to understand it is your couch not there’s. If they always jump up without permission or refuse to get off when told, then this is a sign of dominance. Getting them in the habit from a young age that they are only allowed up when invited and to get down when told is important for their ongoing obedience training.
We all like to show our four legged family friend attention, with lots of pats and lots of play time. Have you ever noticed that when you stop patting your dog they nudge you to keep patting them? Or maybe they give you a look or start whinging? Maybe they love fetch and constantly put the ball back in your hand after you tell them that’s enough. This is another sign of dominance. They are demanding your attention. Although this trait can be quiet cute, especially when they nudge you, it is a trait that should not be encouraged.
Lastly you may not be aware that by your dog never licking or kissing other dogs is a sign of dominance. Ever noticed when your dogs don’t kiss? Or maybe they have a furry best friend they don’t kiss? A dog kissing another dog is essentially the same as humans and our social kiss on the cheek when we great each other. It is their way of saying hello and that they come in peace. By your dog not doing this it is them establishing dominance.
There you have it! Our 5 signs that your dog is showing dominance that you may not be aware of. Obviously there are way more than 5 signs and things to keep an eye out for are:
At an early age it is important for your furry friend to understand that you are top dog. The main reason being to help with their obedience training. They are more likely to listen and follow your commands if they understand you are top dog.
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A misconception we often hear is people saying they don’t want a pet because it will tie them down and they won’t be able to travel as much. I disagree, I don’t believe having a pet stops you from living your life like you normally would. The best part is they can actually come with you! All you need to do is prepare for it. Make sure the place you are staying is dog friendly. Double check with the local public transport if they can come on board. Often I have found they can but they need to wear a muzzle and lastly incorporate some dog friendly areas into your trip. For example, go to a dog friendly beach instead of a non-dog beach.
To help you prepare for your exciting getaway we have 5 tips to get your furry family member ready for their big adventure.
Make sure your pet is up to date with their vaccinations, flea, tick and worming treatments. This is super important as you don’t want your pet getting sick while they are away. Talk to your vet, tell them where you are going and if there’s anything to be mindful of. For example, if you are from Victoria Australia, travelling to Queensland you will need to make sure your pet has the proper tick treatment as Queensland has paralysis ticks which can be fatal.
Having your dog microchipped is great in the event they go astray. This will help them find their way back to you. It’s also a great idea for them to wear a tag on their collar with their name and your phone number.
Take a good supply of food and treats with you. If your dog is feeling anxious with their unfamiliar surroundings they may not eat as much. So to help make sure they are still eating give them some treats. This will also help them understand that this is a good thing. The more and more trips they go on they will start to associate holidays and treats together. Helping them relax and enjoy their getaway.
Also consider taking fresh bottled water with you to keep your pet hydrated throughout their travels
To help keep your pet comfortable, consider taking their bed and favourite toys on your trip. This is a great idea to keep some of their surroundings and routines similar to back home. Sleeping on the same bed and playing with their favourite toy when they are bored. These items not only smell like home but reminds them of home which will help keep them calm, comfortable & relaxed.
Our check list refers to everything else. After a few trips you will start to generate your own check list as to what to bring and maybe what to keep at home. Your check list should include things like:
The list is to help make sure you don’t leave any of the essentials behind.
Travelling with pets is great fun. You may sometimes need to plan your trip around them but who would you rather be on a holiday with than man’s best friend!
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Exercise
Regular exercise is important in order to keep your pet healthy. A brisk walk or outdoor play helps your pet, such as dogs, stretch their legs. Exercise helps keeps your pet from gaining excess weight and promotes a healthy heart. If you don’t have a yard to let your pet run around in, a 10 minute walk or a dog park will provide the same type of exercise. For cats, try purchasing a cat tower or use cat toys to play with him or her.
Balanced Diet
In order to maintain a healthy pet be sure to feed them a balanced diet. Providing the correct foods for your pet is important for growth and stability. Feeding your pet food that isn’t intended for them can cause digestive problems, weight problems, and cost you in the long run. A balanced diet will reflect in their health, giving your pet healthy skin, nails, bones, and teeth. If you notice something wrong with your pets appearance contact your veterinarian to discuss other food options or possibly adding a daily vitamin to your pets routine.
Vitamins
Along with a balanced diet, it’s important to make sure your pet receives proper vitamins, if they need the extra supplements. When animals do not consume a balanced diet or the proper food it will reflect it in their skin, coat, bones and possible their stool. It is important to discuss proper food choices and vitamins with a Veterinarian. It is important to know that a pet should never receive human vitamins!
Regular Vet Checks
Regular vet checks are necessary to keep your pet healthy! For example, puppies need to visit the vet every 3 to 4 weeks until they are 16 weeks old in order to receive their shots and again at 6 months. After the first year, it’s recommended that dogs visit the vet once a year for a proper check-up. If you feel as though your pet is sick or not himself do not wait until their check-up to be seen, schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Also, different pets may have different check-up requirements.
Updated Vaccines
For the first year, a puppy can receive up to 11 vaccinations. During the second year of its life, a puppy receives those same shots to maintain its health and keep him safe from other animals that may not have received their own set of vaccines. The most important vaccine your dog should receive is the Rabies shot, this will protect him in case he is bit by another animal containing Rabies as well as a Human if your dog happens to bite a person.
Keep them Safe
It is the owners responsibility to keep their pets safe. Safe from getting hit by car, bit by another animal, getting sick, or any other potential dangerous situation. By keeping your pet safe from harm you are checking off one more item off the list on ways to keep your pet healthy.
Micro-Chipped
A microchip is a device that’s inserted under the skin of your pet, usually dogs or cats, but even horses can get them. The microchip helps identify them if they get lost or stolen. Once the microchip is scanned all of the owners information will generate and the pet’s owner will be contacted. This helps the pet to be returned safely to its owner. A microchip is important no matter how often you travel or go on walks, an animal can escape from your home or be stolen at any given moment. In order to keep your pet healthy and safe you will want to be able to track them down incase something like this happens. Without a microchip your pet could wander the streets for days going hungry or worse, getting hit by a car.
Spray or Neuter
Spraying or Neutering your dog or cat provides many health benefits. Spraying a female cat or dog can help prevent uterine infections while neutering a male cat or dog can help prevent testicular cancer. These procedures also prevent unwanted litters and contribution to the overpopulated animal community. There are also speculations that neutering your male pet will help him behave or be calmer.
Proper Grooming
Getting your pet groomed or grooming your pet yourself plays an important role in your pets health. Grooming contributes to your pets physical health and appearance. When grooming your pet it gives the owner or groomer a chance to inspect the pet’s skin, nails, teeth and more and to check for any abnormalities. It’s important to groom your pet weekly or monthly according to what kind of pet you have and what they are environment they are exposed to. An indoor cat may need less grooming than a dog who plays in the woods every day.
Pet Insurance
The most important thing of all that will help to keep your pet safe is to purchase pet insurance for your beloved pet. Pet insurance covers vet visits, emergencies, and in some cases the companies policy cover if the pet dies, or is lost or stolen. Policies can start from $30 a month, depending on the company and the policy you choose. Pet insurance also works for damages that your pet may cause, for example if your dog bites someone provoking him, you could be responsible for that person's medical bills. Pet insurance will help pay those bills after the deductible is paid.
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A Collar
A cute collar is a must for small dogs. There are so many options on the market that you can’t go wrong in finding one to fit you and your new puppy’s personality. Just be sure to make sure the sizing is correct, usually for smaller dogs it’s recommended that you get an extra small (xs) collar. The size of an extra small collar is around 27cm and most websites, or stores list the size on the tag. Collars are important for any size dog to have because of its many uses that it provides to you and your new puppy. For example, the collar holds your puppy's identification tags and helps you connect your leash to your puppy if you choose to.
Fitting Lead or Leash
If you want to take your brand new puppy or small dog out on the town you’ll need to buy her a leash. Not only so that she doesn’t run away but also to keep her safe. There are many types of leashes or leads that can help you train your small dog to walk with you, instead of pulling you. You can find many styles, colours, and material choices to choose from when purchasing a lead, it’s recommended to use a leash that works best for your size dog. Choose one that isn’t too long, one that won’t hurt your hands, and one that isn’t to heavy or wide for your small puppy to endure. The wider the leash the heavier it can be.
Harness
You can choose a harness for your small puppy or dog as well as a collar, or in exchange for a collar. Choosing both will give you options for your small dog when she is connected to her leash, you can either connect your leash to her collar or to her harness. One of the benefits of a harness is that it can help train your small puppy or dog to walk better. It is known that for smaller dogs, a harness can help disperse pressure to a larger part of his body and in doing so he won’t strain his neck. Harnesses are also good for extra small dogs that cannot fit into a collar properly, if your small dogs neck is smaller than 27cm, a harness is a better option so that your small puppy doesn’t slip out of his collar when on a walk and run away.
A Bed
Small dogs need a place to sleep too! Providing a place to sleep for your small dog is essential in training him or her on where to sleep. Instead of having her jump up and down from the couch or bed, which could result in injury, she can have her own little bed in the corner on the floor. When choosing a bed for your small dog consider purchasing something insulated, or something that your small dog can huddle in to to keep her warm while she sleeps. Providing a bed for your small dog will help her feel welcomed and secure in her new home.
Food & Water Bowls
Selecting a food and water bowl is important because this is where your small dog will eat her meals and drink her water. When choosing food dishes consider your small dogs height and whether or not you want to separate her food from her water or purchase a Double Diner set. Choosing the right bowls for your small dogs is all about their size, you don’t want bowls that are too big or too small, or too high off the ground, you want something that they can reach perfectly.
Food
Choosing food bowls brings us to choosing the right type of food for your small dog, not all dogs can eat the same food. Some dogs prefer to eat wet food while others eat dry food. There are many types of food on the market for dogs, and every dog has different dietary needs. Make sure to talk to your veterinarian to discuss the proper food that your small dog should be eating. Keep in mind, dogs should never eat human food!
Puppy Pads (for training)
When you first bring home your small puppy or dog they may have an accident or two in the house before they are trained to only pee outside. While training a small dog consider purchasing puppy pads for easy clean up.. Puppy pads can also be used in the winter since small dogs can feel the cold pretty quickly compared to bigger dogs and may not want to go outside to relieve themselves.
Crate / Carrying Crate
Crate training a small dog can be beneficial to both the small dog and its owner. Using a crate for a small dog when its owner isn’t home can help aid in keeping him or her safe when its owner can’t be there to supervise them. Most owners use crates as a part of house training and for their dog to have a comfortable place to call home, be sure not to misuse the crate for any type of dog as they may refuse to use to go back inside. A carrying crate can be used for when the small dog and its owner intend to travel or make a trip to the veterinarian.
Clothing
Clothing for small dogs can serve two purposes; to make them look fashionable or cute and to keep them warm in the colder months. Keep in mind that not all dogs like to wear clothes and its important not to force them, if they don’t like wearing the item they might try to bite it off and accidentally hurt themselves. At first try something that can be easily removed in case the dog reacts negatively.
Small Toys
Buying size appropriate toys for a small dog is important so that they aren’t intimidated by a huge item that's meant for playing. By providing size appropriate toys to a small dog, they will be able to fit the item into their mouths easier and be able to have fun with their toy or use it for a chew toy. Supplying designated items that belong to your small dog may prevent them from chewing up their owners personal items. Remember this new dog is apart of the family now and you’ll want to provide him or her things to make them feel welcome.
]]>This has to be one of the best party tricks to teach your furry family member. You will need to master “Lay Down” and “Roll Over” before moving onto this trick. Please refer to our blog “How to Teach Your Dog to Lay Down & Roll Over” for more information.
1. Stick Em Up
Also known as “Sit Pretty” or “Beg” is a trick to get your dog sitting on their back legs in an upright position. Your dog will need to know the command “Sit’” before attempting this trick
Firstly, command your dog to “Sit”. Once sat grab a treat and put it above their head to encourage them to look up. Naturally your dog may want to jump up and grab the treat. To start this actually helps. When they jump up, put the treat and your hand closer to their nose which helps them naturally sit back down on their back legs. If their front legs touch the ground, use your other hand to lift them back up and only reward them once they are sitting properly on their back legs with their front legs off the ground.
If your dog jumps up and isn’t sitting back down when you bring the treat closer to their nose, use your other hand to guide them back into a sitting position much like you would have when you taught them to sit.
Some of you may have a very polite dog that doesn’t naturally jump up to grab the treat when the treat is above their head. Instead they sit there patiently waiting for you to give them a treat. In this case simply use your other hand to lift their front legs off the ground and reward them with the treat. Rinse and repeat until your dog gets used to putting their own legs up without your help. Also start incorporating the words “Stick Em Up” before rewarding them with a treat.
Once your beloved family member understands the command “Stick Em Up” start incorporating a hand gesture. The obvious one being point your hand at your dog with your thumb in the air like it’s a gun.
2. Bang
Now that your furry friend has mastered “Stick Em Up” you need to complete the party trick with “Bang”! Some of you may also refer to this as play dead.
To start, you will need to get them to “Lay Down”. It helps if your dog knows how to roll over and is comfortable with that command. The trick is to only get them to half roll. So similar to “Roll Over” put the treat close to their nose so they can smell it then move the treat to their ear encouraging them to turn their head and turn to their side.
As your dog learnt this for roll over they may naturally want to roll over, use your other hand to stop them completely rolling over but stopping them while they are laying on their side. Reward them with a treat and give them lots of praise!
While they are on their side laying down if you bring the treat closer to the ground your dog should start to also lay their head on the ground. When they start to do this reward them with a treat and start using the command “Bang”.
The next step is to get them to hold this position before rewarding them with a treat so that they know to stay there until your next command or until you tell them to release.
You will need to repeat this trick a few times until they understand that when you say “Bang” they need to lay on their side and hold that position. Having them lay down at the start of the command helps them to understand what you want from them.
Congratulations! By now your furry friend should understand the commands “Stick Em Up” and “Bang”. Now for the fun part, joining the two together! Good Luck!
Has your furry family member mastered the art of sit and stay and is now ready for the next challenge?
If yes, you have come to the right place! Teaching dogs tricks is a great way to build a connection with your beloved family member and to also keep them engaged.
1. Lay Down
Now that your furry friend has mastered sit, command them to sit. Once sat you will need to place your hand on their upper back just under their shoulders. Place your thumb on one side of their back and your other four fingers on the other side. Then gently apply a little bit of pressure while slightly rocking your hand back and forth to help them naturally lay down. Once they lay down instantly reward them with a treat.
Rinse and repeat until they lay down without you putting any pressure on them. You will then need to start saying the command “lay down” when rewarding them with the treat so that they associate the word with the action of laying down.
The next step is a little tricky. Getting your beloved friend to associate the words "lay down" with a hand action. Similar to your stay hand command but instead of facing your hand towards them like a stop sign, face the palm of your hand towards the ground. Then move your hand downwards like you are pushing down on something. Start integrating that while saying lay down and then reward them with a treat. Rinse and repeat!
2. Roll Over
By now your furry friend is well on their way to becoming a master at learning tricks! If you have an older dog teaching them to roll over can be more difficult. Just take your time and practice every day for at least 10-15 minutes.
To start, command your dog to “lay down”, then grab a treat and put it near their nose for them to smell. Then move your hand towards their ear, this will naturally make them want to turn their head to follow the treat. Circle the treat around their head to encourage them to turn their head as much as they are comfortable with which should naturally make them sit on their side. You should notice they are more comfortable on one side compared to the other. Continue your training on the side they naturally turn better on.
Once you have successfully got them sitting and turning to a particular side, start encouraging them to move onto their back. The best way is to you pretend you’re going to rub their belly. Then gently use your hands to roll them right over. Reward them straight away with a treat and lots of praise “good girl/boy”. Rinse and repeat.
Their roll by now is probably still a bit wobblily! That’s ok! It’s a hard trick to learn.
You will now need to start incorporating the words “roll over” when rewarding them with the treat.
Wow can you believe your beloved furry friend is rolling?!?! I can. Now start incorporating a hand gesture. A popular one to use is starting with the palm of your hand facing down then flip it over so it’s facing the roof. Use your hand gesture while saying “roll over” then reward them with a treat.
Has your dog mastered these two in no time? Move on to “Stick em up” and “Bang” next!
Do you have a new furry friend to love in your family? Obedient dogs are understandably easier to keep in a home, so consider teaching your new pup some old tricks. Start easy with these two: sit and stay.
1. Sit
Teaching your dog to sit on command is known to be one of the more simple cues to teach. While “sit” is a basic command, it is important for dogs to know as it helps them to settle down into new environments, focus on one thing, and allow them (and you) to stay in one place for a period of time. Learning to sit is also the groundwork for teaching your dog to stay! With a bag of treats, and less than thirty minutes of your day for a few days, your dog will have “sit” down in no time.
After getting your dog’s attention, hold a treat just above the nose while moving it back towards the ears. Once the treat gets to a certain point, the dog will likely automatically sit. Once their behind touches the ground, praise them and reward immediately with the treat.
After perfecting this, add the cue “sit” followed by your dog’s name while using the treat the same way as before. Your pup should perfect this in no time!
2. Stay
If you and your furry friend have mastered “sit”, you’re already one step closer to learning the command “stay”.
Once in the “sit” position, face your dog and raise your hand to his face with the palm facing him. Repeat the command “stay” while slowly taking a few steps backwards away from him. If he stays, walk back towards him, give him a command to “release” and immediately praise and reward. If he moves before you release him, just try again!
Has your dog mastered these two in no time? Move on to “lay down” and “roll over” next!