Archive for January, 2019

• 5 Reasons Dogs Eat Dirt

  Dogs do the darnedestthings sometimes, don’t they?

  Besides being comical they have the tendency to do weird things, like eating stuff that they shouldn’t! In this post, we’re exploring their desire to eat dirt. What does it mean? Should you be alarmed? Here are five reasons why dogs eat dirt.

  It Tastes Good

  One obvious reason dogs eat dirt is because it tastes good. For instance, if there was a cookout in the backyard and some food dropped in the surrounding area, one of your purebred dogs might just take a few bites. This is a less serious reason so don’t be too alarmed.

  Bad Diet

  Your dog may be eating dirt because he’s actually searching for minerals and vitamins that they may be missing in their daily diet. Make sure that your purebred dogs are fed healthy and nutritional diets.

  Behavior Issues

  Just like humans, dogs get bored and they do some weird things to entertain themselves. As odd as it may seem to pick up that as a habit, it could be because of a behavioral issue with your pup. Believe it or not, dogs can suffer from OCD and start eating dirt as part of that disorder. You may want to consult with a vet or animal behaviorist for assistance.

  Chronic Health Concerns

  As we mentioned in #2, when purebred dogs search for vitamins and minerals in such a way, this could be a sign of something more serious. Inflammatory bowel disease could be one reason.

  Soothing an Upset Stomach

  There are some types of dirt that contain clay that can actually soothe digestive issues your dogs may be having. Some say that dogs instinctively consume it in order to heal themselves, so to speak.

  When dogs eat dirt, it may not always be the worst thing however it should be monitored for the very reasons we’ve outline. If you’ve started to notice a more habitual problem, we recommend that you contact your vet.

• Doggy Birthday Ideas

  It’s been one year since you’ve purchased one of our Dachshund puppies for sale and now is the time to celebrate!

  Did you ever think how you’d celebrate the year? Well, we’ve got some ideas to share with you. These are sure to please your dogs! Take a look.

  Set Up a Doggie Playdate

  Who doesn’t like spending time with friends and family on their birthday? Do you think Dachshund puppies are any different? They’re so social and energetic, they’d love a playdate. As a way to celebrate another year of living you can arrange a time for your dog and her bestie to play!

  Have a Doggy Party!

  If you’re looking for a way to really go all out and celebrate your dog’s birthday, having a birthday party is the way to go! Invite your friends who have dogs over. Plan to have games and toys and maybe an obstacle course in your backyard. Be sure to keep fresh water available at all times for the dogs. At the end of the party, give your human and canine guests to-go “doggy bags!” How cute and fun will that be?

  Make a “Cake” or Treats

  In the past, we’ve written about various homemade treats you can make for your dog. Now’s the time to break out those recipes and celebrate your Dachshund puppies! There are tons of dog-friendly treats that you can also pick up at a pet store if you don’t want to cook!

  Take Your Dog on a New Excursion

  Dogs love exploration! The will go anywhere you allow them, so why not take your pups on a new walk or trail. Unfortunately, they can’t talk and thank you themselves, but trust us, they will love you for it. There’s nothing as exciting for them than to have the opportunity to take in new smells and sights. What a great way to celebrate a birthday!

  Let Your Dog Pick Out a Gift

  Go to your local pet store or even pet-friendly department store and let your pup pick out a gift. They may find something they’re particularly drawn to so get it for them! Make it even more fun by wrapping it loosely and allowing your pup to actually open it!

• Keeping Your Apartment Puppies Warm This Winter

  Cuddling up with your pup by the fire sounds like an ideal way to wind down and warm up during the winter season.

  But what about when it’s time to go outside? How will your pup stay warm and healthy this winter? Just as we take extra steps and precautions for the winter, i.e. flu shots, we need to do the same for our dogs. Take a look at three tips we have gathered to help keep apartment puppies warm and healthy.

  Add Extra Layers

  Most apartment puppies are small but if they’re small and short-haired and living in a winter environment, then it’s likely they’re going to be cold. The best way to warm them up is by adding layers. That’s right…layers and by that we really mean clothing. Take the time to go shopping for your dog. Stock up on a few sweaters and there are even thick puffy coats for dogs. Your pups deserve the same warmth that you’d afford to yourself while going out on walks!

  Monitor Their Nutrition

  You are the only person in control of your dog’s diet so it’s your responsibility to feed your dog the best food available and possible. Quality and healthy dog food should consist of and be rich in fatty acids, vitamin E, and copper-zinc. Consult your veterinarian about how to add vitamins and fatty acids to your pet’s food if you’re unsure. All of these will help to promote shiny, healthy coats in addition to several other benefits. You can also give your dog warm drinking water in winter.

  Fight Off Dry Skin

  As we mentioned above, having a healthy diet will promote healthy, shiny, fur. The above also helps to keep your dog’s skin from drying out and being uncomfortable during the winter season. While Old Man Frost is outside, bathe your apartment puppies as little as possible to keep their skin from being dry. When you do, make sure the shampoo is pet-friendly, as human ones are harsh and acidic to their skin causing dryness and itchiness.

   

• Money Saving Tips for Large Dog Breeds

  Owning a dog is a wonderful experience to have in one’s lifetime.

  There’s no doubt about it, however, it can also be expensive if you don’t plan properly. This is especially true for large dog breeds, because of …well their size! Everything is a bit pricier, so we’ve put together five money saving tips for you to implement with your large dog breeds.

  Make Your Own Dog Treats

  We’ve discussed this in the past in previous posts and it’s certainly worth mentioning here. Instead of buying expensive treats in stores, take the time to make some at home. Large dog breeds eat more than their smaller counterparts, so this will be beneficial to you as a pet owner. Make your treats at home and freeze them for later!

  Make Your Own Dog Toys

  Have you considered this as an option? Probably not, because most people would just go to a store and buy toys. We believe your pups should be entertained regardless of where they got their toys, but to save you some money, you can make your own at home, if you’re crafty…go for it!

  Keep Vet Appointments Up-to-Date

  One of the best ways to keep large dog breeds healthy is by maintaining regular vet visits. Sure, you’ll have to pay when you take your dogs however this will save you money in the long run. Their health assessments will be current and you’ll be proactive in caring for your pup.

  Use Duct Tape and Rubber Gloves For Hair Removal

  Phew, there are some large dog breeds that are downright furry and shed and that can be costly to maintain. For instance, German Shepherds are one of the top shedding dogs. To keep a handle on everything, we recommend that you use duct tape and rubber gloves to remove hair from your home in various places and on your clothing. This is cheaper than buying tons of lint brushes and it helps you cut down on the amount of vacuuming you may need to do.

  Groom Your Dog at Home

  The last money saving tip we’re sharing is to groom your dog at home. This can be a task, sure, but it can also be fun and most importantly it saves you some bucks. Pull out your old towels and shampoo your pup from the comfort of your own home! While you’re at it, try trimming your dog’s nails too. This takes time to do and learn so be careful and if you’re uncomfortable, leave to a professional.

• Your Dog Has Separation Anxiety – What Now?

  At Petland, we fall in love over and over again with all of our dogs.

  From the small dog breeds to the larger ones, we love them all. Once they’re in your home, we know that life happens and your pup may be home alone, resulting in some sadness while you’re gone. Here are three ways to help ease the anxiety of your pup.

  Keep Them Busy

  Dogs that are well exercised or just downright tired are the best dogs! We say this because they aren’t as bored and will sleep that energy away that they just burned especially small dog breeds! When you leave your dog alone, leave them toys that are safe and can entertain them. Kongs are great for hiding treats and providing hours of entertainment. Leave some bits of dry food around your home too if you have that option. If possible, before you leave take your dog on a long walk. That will help them adjust to your departure because they’ll be exhausted coming home

  Have Quick Goodbyes

  As you’re getting dressed, your dog likely knows that you’re getting ready to leave. He may already be on edge anticipating it. Try not to make a big deal of you leaving, because it will get your dog even more worked up and excited and eventually sad.

  When you leave the home, make it a quick exit. Gently pet your pup and give him kind words like “I’ll be back soon,” and then leave. Make it nonchalant and then get outta there!

  Have Quick Hellos

  When you left the home, it wasn’t a big deal. When you come home, it should the same. As much as you want to hug and scoop up those small dog breeds into your arms, it’s best that you don’t. Because your dog hasn’t seen you for some time, he’s going to be hyper and wanting to jump all over you. Don’t allow it. Be nonchalant but do address your pup. Give it some time, maybe 5 -10 minutes and then shower your pup with love.