Family Pet

Dogs are a part of the family for many people. And just like other members of the family, they need certain things to make their lives easier and more comfortable. If you’re a dog owner on a budget, here are six must-have items that won’t break the bank.

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Dog Bike Trailers

Dog bike trailers are a great way to take your furry friend on a walk, or a ride, without having to worry about them getting tired. To find the perfect one for your pup, you need to compare and review some of The 9 Best Dog Bike Trailers on the market. Not only are they a great way to get your pup some exercise, but they’re also perfect for trips to the park or exploring new areas.

Bike trailers for dogs are relatively affordable and can be found at most pet stores. But be sure to do your research before purchasing one to get the right size and features for your needs.

Nail Clippers

The first thing most dog owners want to do when they get a puppy is get their nails trimmed. You can easily find nail clippers online for under $20. But some very high-quality options can cost around $50+. If you don’t mind doing your research, you will find some great deals on more professional nail clippers, usually about $40. Nail clippers are a must-have for every dog owner. And it’s crucial to find the right ones for your pup. Be sure to get a pair that is easy to use, durable, and fits comfortably in your hand. It’s also essential that the blades are sharp so that you can make quick, clean cuts.

 

Dog Harness

A dog harness is a great way to walk your pup and give them some exercise. If you have an energetic pup, it’s vital for their health that they get at least a couple of walks per day. A good dog harness will be comfortable, safe, durable, and simple to use. So there is no reason not to own one if you want to take your pet outside with you. There are many different types of dog harnesses out there. But most come in the form of a vest or strap around the neck/chest area. Depending on size requirements from the manufacturer, you may find several options. And you’ll find that most vests are adjustable, whereas straps usually only come in certain sizes based on weight and breed.

[Read: 6 Essential Care Tips As Your Dog Grows Older]

 

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Free Pet Printables

What’s included in this pet information kit?

In this free download, you’ll find a variety of resources to help your family care for you pet!

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Dog Leash

With all of the different accessories that come with owning a dog, it’s hard to believe how little people spend on their leashes. There are many types of leashes out there, and it depends on your pup what type would work best for them. But the favorite is the standard flat leather one because it feels more natural than some of the nylon options. If you’re looking to save money, choose something simple is a great option.

To complement the dog leash, consider getting a collar with a collar with a custom dog ID tag. It’ll not only fit your style but also help ensure your dog’s safety. Include your contact information and any medical conditions or allergies your pup may have. This’ll help anyone who finds your dog contact you quickly and take any appropriate measures.

 

Dog Bowls

Bowls are another thing most people don’t realize how much they can spend on, especially if you’re buying multiples. There isn’t anything special about the best type of material to choose when it comes to picking out your puppy’s food/water dish. However, there are some factors worth mentioning. Size, shape, style, color, and whether or not the bowl screws onto something so it doesn’t get knocked over with rough play from pets or kids. Some bowls even come with a stand, to help elevate for larger dogs.

Durable Toys

All dogs love toys, and it’s essential to have a good selection of them so your pup doesn’t get bored. Choose toys that are made from safe materials like rubber, nylon, and canvas. They don’t harm your pup in any way. It’s also essential to ensure the toy has no sharp edges or parts that could break off and become dangerous for both your dog and other pets/people in the household if swallowed.

An excellent option for durable dog toys is rubber balls. These can be found at most discount stores and usually cost around $0.50-$0.75 each. Be sure to avoid soft plush-type toys that won’t last long because your pup will probably rip them apart within days.

 

In summary, here are a few key items every dog owner should budget for when getting ready to bring their new furry friend home. These would include a durable toy, leash, bowls, and possibly a crate – depending on the size of your pup. All of these items can be found at very reasonable prices if you know where to look. So there’s no excuse not to get them.

 

For more on this topic, check out the full Family Pet collection

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What Can We Learn From Dogs About Life?

A dog’s life seems simple from the outside. All they really need are companions, food, and exercise.

The same is true for us human beings. We also need the basics. However, we have a dreadful habit of making everything more complicated than it should be. We worry endlessly about things that just aren’t important. 

Dogs, on the other hand, are content practically all the time. You rarely see a pup moping around because of something another dog did or because they are worried about their mortality. It simply doesn’t occur to them. 

Okay, with the preamble out of the way, what can we actually learn from dogs about life? Let’s take a look.

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Follow Your Nose

Dogs follow their noses. It’s their main sense. If something smells right, they’ll go for it. 

Naturally, humans’ sense of smell isn’t quite as advanced. However, we can copy dogs metaphorically. Curiosity might have hurt the cat, but it need not harm us. 

If you think an opportunity is worth exploring, follow it and see what happens. Don’t let fear get in your way. See life as an adventure or a quest, not an exercise in wrapping yourself in cotton wool. 

 

Enjoy Life To The Fullest

Life is a passing pleasure, so enjoy it while you can – that’s the lesson dogs have for us. Things won’t last forever, so indulge in your passions and find out what makes you tick. Look for ways to get into the race and make things happen in your life. Don’t sit on the sidelines. Experience it all. 

You don’t have to be grandiose, either, even small things can have a massive impact on your health and happiness. A simple walk in the park or game of frisbee is all dogs need to keep themselves joyful, and the same applies to you. 

 

Be Yourself

You never see dogs apologizing for who they are, and you shouldn’t, either. Just be yourself and do what feels right. Don’t try to conform to society’s straight jacket. People will always tell you who you are and what you should do, but the trick is to ignore them all and follow your heart. Dogs do this unapologetically, and so should you. 

 

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Free Pet Printables

What’s included in this pet information kit?

In this free download, you’ll find a variety of resources to help your family care for you pet!

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Avoid Grudges

Did you ever see a dog hold a grudge? It never happens. Dogs live and let live. If another dog or person harms them, they let it go and just continue with their lives as normal.

Pups won’t hold injustices against you. If you get something wrong, don’t worry: they will forgive you. They show you how nurturing relationships with your enemies can allow great friendships to develop. 

 

Be Enthusiastic With Everyone

Dogs are enthusiastic about everyone they meet. It doesn’t matter whether they are a new acquaintance or an old friend, everyone gets the same treatment. 

Dogs are also incredibly enthusiastic about life in general. A walk in the park is just as exciting as going abroad. Dogs don’t care. There are always opportunities to have fun and enjoy oneself. 

You can see this enthusiasm from a young age. As sites like

https://chocolatelabradorretriever.ca/lab-retrievers-london/ point out, dogs are always looking for ways to enjoy their lives more. Their energy is infectious. 

 

 

Be Loyal To People

Dogs are possibly the most loyal animals on the planet. It doesn’t matter if you are the CEO of a Fortune 500 company or a homeless bum, they’re always by your side. They never judge and they are happy to be in your company. 

Dogs teach us the value of good friends. They want people who are there to feed them when they are hungry and keep them warm when it is cold outside. They also want companions they can grow together with for years to come.

Being as loyal as a dog is hard, but not impossible. Being dog-like in your relationships with others builds trust, connection, and intimacy. We can absolutely learn from dogs when it comes to loyalty in our own lives.

 

Make Your Love Unconditional

Loving unconditionally is tough for people. However, for dogs, it’s second nature. They don’t mind how hard things are for you or what you do with your life, just so long as you are with them. 

Dogs help people through rough patches, even when they are self-inflicted. Dogs understand that people aren’t perfect and that they always make mistakes. They don’t mind that. Even if they mess up, they are still there to help them. 

As people, we can often find it hard to ignore the faults of others, but that’s what unconditional love is all about. Being patient with friends and families, even in their weakest moments, are opportunities to be dog-like. 

 

 

Run And Play

Dogs love to move around, run and play. They don’t vegetate in front of Netflix every day, watching entire seasons of Korean zombie dramas. 

Humans could learn a thing or two from this. We tend to spend the majority of our free time sitting on our butts, not doing a great deal. But dogs are always moving, and it gives them a level of energy we simply don’t have. 

When you move more, it improves the hormonal balance of your body. You feel better about life and more able to take on the challenges of the world. Feel-good chemicals flood your system, and you feel more like a dog at the park, not a gray-suited worker at the office. 

 

Don’t Think About The Past Or The Future. Be Present

The last, and perhaps most important lesson we can learn from dogs is to be present. According to https://bestlifeonline.com/life-lessons-from-dogs/, they don’t think about the past or future. Instead, they live entirely and exclusively in the present. Fretting about what’s happening to their 401(k) simply isn’t on their radar. 

If you find yourself living at any other time than the present, bring yourself back to the center. Focus on what’s important right now and accept it for what it is. You can make any moment in your life blissful if you take this approach. 

If you struggle to stay in the present because of your devices, simply switch them off.

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For more on this topic, check out the full Family Pet collection

Getting a pet can be great for families! Pets allow kids the opportunity to take responsibility over something, learn how to care for something, and of course, have plenty of fun. Dogs are a great example of this, and can make for an enjoyable, adventurous companion. But which dog breeds make the best pets for families? Read on to find out our top picks!

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For more on this topic, check out the full Family Pet collection

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Corgi

Corgis are a great pet to add to your household. They’re known for being loyal and intelligent dogs. And due to their small size, they can make a great friend to smaller children. You may be wondering, are corgis good with kids? If you’re curious, this article from Native Pet — Are corgis good with kids? — explores the question in plenty of detail. Since Native Pet specialize in providing the highest quality food for pets, and is made up of a team of pet lovers; they’re a great source of information on pets and the kind of things to expect.

Corgis also have bundles of energy and make every day plenty of fun. In fact, you’ll find many social media pages dedicated to their goofy antics, showing just how lovable this breed really is. It’s no wonder that corgis were the most popular dog of 2019!

[Read: A Child’s Best Friend: Reasons To Get A Family Dog For Your Kids ]

Labrador Retriever

If you’re looking for a dog that’s incredibly lovable and full of energy, look no further than a Labrador retriever. Just like the classic film Marley and Me (which is based on a true story), you’ll be sure to have an adventure full of craziness and excitement! As well as make a best friend.

Labrador retrievers are known for having lots of energy, meaning they need a lot of exercise. This is great for a family because it’s an opportunity to head out to somewhere new and explore a local forest or beach. It’s also a chance to encourage the kids to get some exercise too, as a Labrador retriever needs plenty of walks.

Labrador retrievers are quite big dogs, so it might be worth having older children to look after them. You’d be surprised how strong they are! But these lovable creatures make a best friend for any member of the family, and you can be sure with a Labrador retriever that you’ll have memories to remember!

 

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Free Pet Printables

What’s included in this pet information kit?

In this free download, you’ll find a variety of resources to help your family care for you pet!

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Bernese Mountain Dog

This breed of dog isn’t as common as the first two, but don’t let that fool you. A Bernese Mountain dog is basically the gentle giant of the dog world. And even the face of one is filled with simple joy and kindness. In fact, a Bernese Mountain dog is known to be one of the least aggressive dog breeds towards humans, so you can be sure that your children are safe around one.

It’s not only their warm, calm nature that makes them the perfect companion; they also come with a huge, thick coat, which is perfect for kids to spend time brushing and looking after. It’s a great way to teach kids how to look after something, as well as show them to be gentle and careful in the things they do. They are big dogs, so they do need a lot of space to roam. But they’re also easy to train, so you can be sure they’ll fit in well with the household.

The best thing about Bernese Mountain dogs is, however, their love for people. They grow deep, strong connections with family members and are eager to protect them and look after them. This makes them feel truly part of the family.

[Read: 6 Budget-friendly Items That Every Dog Owner Must Have]

West Highland White Terrier

West highland white terriers, or westies for short, are a great choice for those looking for a playful dog. And they are also easy to look after. Not only are westies great with kids and always looking to play, but they’re incredibly smart too. This means that you can not only teach them some fantastic tricks, but you can have a lot of fun trying out different games with them.

Westies are loyal and self-confident, making them excellent companions, especially for young children. You can be sure that they’ll grow a strong bond with your kids and protect them at all costs. But they also require relatively little grooming and pampering, making them easy to look after and great as a first pet for kids to be responsible for.

While they’re known for being loving to people, they can be a little anxious around other animals, so a house with no pets is the most suitable for a westie. However, with humans, they’re friendly to almost everyone they meet, making them great family pets.

[Read: 8 Best Treats for Puppies To Keep Them Healthy]

Conclusion for Best Dog Breeds for Families

Though there are plenty of dog breeds out there for families, these are our top four picks for dogs that would make the best family pet. So, no matter what family dynamic you have, or whether you have older or younger kids, you can be sure to find your next family member!

 

For more on this topic, check out the full Family Pet collection

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Best Treats for Puppies To Keep Them Healthy

As a dog parent, one of your priorities is to keep your fur baby healthy at all times. This is primarily reliant on their food intake. From their meal plans to dog treats, it’s essential to feed your dog only with the most nutritious dog snacks you can find. And more so, there could be instances that may require you to feed them treats.

Generally, many pet owners use dog treats during training. While some feed them these snacks to keep them preoccupied or make them feel loved. Whatever the reason is, it’s crucial that you pick out only the best treats for puppies and adult dogs. But aside from their nutrition content, you should also stick to the correct proportion and serving sizes so your dog won’t overeat.

As such, below are some of the best treats for your puppies to ensure their health.

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Best Treats for Puppies To Keep Them Healthy

Below are 8 wonderful healthy options that your beloved fur baby will surly enjoy!

 

Healthy Commercial Treats

Treats are good pet snacks that can be consumed differently from normal meals. And perhaps one of the most common and easiest treats to give your pets are soft bites, dog biscuits, and chewy treats. These options can be found in most pet stores today.

Some commercial treats are packed with excellent nutrition content and are quite flavorful and enjoyable for your fur baby. And the key to determining if it is the right treat to get for your pets, check the ingredients. As much as possible, to keep your furry friend’s snack healthy, avoid preservatives and fillers.

Apples

What makes apples an excellent dog treat is that they contain fiber, vitamin C, and calcium, which are all advantageous for your dog’s health. When giving apples as a snack, consider their size and portion. Your puppy will be able to chew them when they’re sliced into small pieces or bite sizes. Also, remove the hard parts such as the core and seeds as well.

More so, apples don’t come with many calories. So this makes them light to your puppy’s tummy. Because of this benefit, you won’t have to worry about your dog getting obese or gaining so much weight.

 

Carrots

The easiest way to feed snacks for your dog is to rummage through your fridge and find some carrots. They’re great treats since they contain beta carotene and other vitamins. Cut them into small cubes and perhaps feed them these treats as rewards after they succeed during dog training. This dog treat also looks exciting and appealing because of its bright orange color, attracting your dog to eat them.

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Free Pet Printables

In this free download, you’ll find a variety of resources to help your family care for you pet!

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Blueberries

Choosing the best type of dog for the family can be more difficult than choosing the best snacks for your new puppy. In this case, blueberries are excellent dog treat options because they’re effective antioxidants to the body. They’re rich in vitamins C, vitamin K, fiber, and they can be pretty easy to chew and munch on by your puppy. Blueberries can also be mixed with other dog treats, so your dog won’t get bored with one sole taste.

 

Sweet Potato Jerky

Sweet potatoes are great dog treats, and you can recreate them into a healthy jerky. Homemade puppy food and treats such as these can be a great way to spoil your furry baby healthily.

Clean and cut the potatoes into 1-inch-thick strips. Then bake them for approximately three to four hours at 225 F. Although you need to bake them, your effort will surely pay off considering how healthy and happy your pup will turn out to be. Roast some extras during the week to share with your furry family member. A tip is to roast a whole batch and store the leftovers in the fridge so you can reheat them later on.

 

Bananas

While bananas are super healthy for humans, they’re also one of the best dog treats. Bananas contain high fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and copper as a low-cholesterol, low-sodium fruit. These nutrients can work wonders for your dog’s health. They can also be energized enough to play and be happy with the rest of the family. Bananas are super soft, so your pup can easily chew on them.

Cucumbers

Almost no fat or oil is found in cucumbers, which is why it makes one of the excellent crunchy treats for dogs. They contain numerous vitamins, minerals, and nutrients beneficial for your dog’s health. Cucumbers can also provide your dog with plenty of water, so they’re especially good during hot summer days.

When you take your dog out for a walk, consider replenishing their energy by feeding them with some cucumber snacks. Or better yet, pack some of them and provide them while they’re under the sun playing in the park.

 

Pumpkin

A pumpkin is a powerhouse of antioxidants, such as beta-carotene, fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. Many veterinarians agree with these dog treats because they can help with diarrhea or constipation cases in dogs.

Pumpkin snacks can be consumed in various ways. You can opt for puree, canned ones, or organic cooked vegetables mixed with peanut butter for a more delicious delight for your dog.

 

Conclusion for Best Treats for Puppies To Keep Them Healthy

With so many dogs treat ideas listed above, you can mix and combine them all depending on your dog’s flavor preferences. To keep things interesting, you can offer different snacks each time or come up with delicious dog recipes to allow them to enjoy their delights always.

However, an important tip to keep in mind is to seek advice from your veterinarian before opting for any dog treat to ensure that they’re suitable and healthy for your specific dog breed.

 

For more on this topic, check out the full Family Pet collection

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There is a huge variety of dogs around the world today, with new breeds popping up all the time. So it’s no wonder that with such a huge selection available, choosing the best type of dog for your family requires a significant amount of research! But how do you choose the best type of dog? Continue reading below to find out!

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Each family is different, so there is no one-size-fits-all choice that will be right for every family. However, there are some breeds that are better for family life because of their temperament and maintenance levels.

Below are some breeds that families should consider when choosing their next dog.

 

Beagles

Beagles were originally hunting dogs. However, they are also perfect dogs for most families. They were bred to hunt in packs, so they are very laidback around other dogs and humans alike.

There are two sizes of Beagles: one that is under 13” tall, and another that is between 13” to 15”. Both types are very sturdy and similar. Various colors and patterns are available as well, so there is plenty of variety to choose from.

Overall, these canines are described as lovable, laidback, and happy. They don’t require much maintenance and are pretty low energy. They do shed, but not to the extreme extent of other dogs.

 

Bichon Frise

If you’re looking for a smaller dog, the Bichon Frise is a good choice. Unlike most smaller dog breeds, this canine is not prone to many health problems. It stands under a foot tall at the shoulder and is best recognized for its plushy coat.

These dogs are extremely friendly and live under the assumption that there is no such thing as a stranger. They are also easy to train and love pleasing their humans. Because of their temperament and small size, they are perfect for small spaces and city living.

As you might imagine, these dogs do not need much exercise. However, they do require quite a bit of grooming. They do not shed much, but will require professional trims.

 

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

This breed combines the gentle companionship of a toy breed with the energy of a sporting spaniel. They are smaller dogs, standing at below 13-inches high, and have a richly-colored coat.

Typically, they get along well with other children and dogs. They aren’t particularly active, but enjoy romping around in a backyard and chasing squirrels. They do equally well with active families and those that prefer to lounge on the couch.

Despite their look, they don’t require much grooming. They shed occasionally and need to be brushed about once a week. To keep their coat shiny and clean, they will need regular baths as well.

This breed is very eager to please, which makes them easy to train. They also tend to be rather friendly with everyone.

 

Bernese Mountain Dog

For those looking for a larger dog, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a wonderful option. These sturdy dogs stand at over 26-inches tall. Their coats are thick, silky, and decently long. They have distinctive markings and come in a recognizable tricolored pattern.

These large dogs do particularly well with smaller children. Because they are so large, children cannot really hurt them, even if they are a little rough. This prevents the likelihood of accidental bites, which can be a problem with some smaller dogs.

In many cases, these dogs will attach themselves to one particular person, though they are not usually possessive. They are not unfriendly, but do remain aloof around strangers. They aren’t attention-seekers.

 

Labrador Retriever

The labrador retriever is the quintessential family dog. They are known for their friendly and loyal nature. They bond well with the entire family, including other pets. They usually weigh between 55 to 80 pounds and come in three distinct colors.

These dogs are best for active families. They are working dogs, first and foremost. Because of this, they have quite a bit of physical and mental energy to use up each day. A bored and unexercised lab will quickly try and make their own fun, which often gets them into trouble.

They do not require much grooming at all, and are very trainable. They are extremely outgoing and eager to please. However, they do need a family that is going to meet their socialization and exercise needs.

 

Irish Setter

These dogs are somewhat more rare than the others on our list, but they are a perfect choice for families. They are beautiful dogs that stand at around two feet at the shoulder. They are graceful and built to work.

Irish Setters are very outgoing and see everyone as a friend. They are great with children both young and old. Their larger size means that they can put up with quite a bit of pushing and prodding from the littlest kids.

These dogs do not shed particularly bad, but they will need to be brushed a few times a week. An occasional bath might be necessary when they get dirty, but no extra grooming is necessary beyond that.

These dogs were originally bred for hunting and have lots of energy. They are a true sporting breed and work best for an active family. They aren’t the easiest dog to train – mostly because they have a hard time paying attention. However, consistent training can curb their distractibility.

 

Which dog will you get?

There are many dog breeds out there for you to choose from. While not all are suitable for families, there are dozens of breeds that are.

No matter what dog you choose, you will have many other decisions to make. Feeding your pooch is particularly important since high-quality dog food will prevent health problems and keep your canine feeling their best. Of course, leashes, collars, and dog beds are also important for your dog’s care.  Get ready for a fun journey!

For more on this topic, check out the full Family Pet collection

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