How to Make Dog-Themed Masks

The post How to Make Dog-Themed Masks by Annie Butler Shirreffs appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

I’ve been making and donating cloth face masks through a Facebook group I joined when the pandemic first started. If we need to wear masks, why not make them fun?! There are all kinds of masks out there — some with nose pieces, some with filter pockets, some with casings, some medical-grade. The ones here are very basic — perfect for a quick trip to the (hopefully not crowded) grocery store.

What you’ll need:

• 2 pieces of tightly-woven, 100% cotton fabric, cut to 6 by 9 inches (adult size) or 7½ by 5
  (child size)
• 2 pieces of 1/₈ to ¼ inch elastic, cut to
  7 inches long for adult mask and
  5 inches long for child mask
•  Scissors
• Thread
• Sewing machine
• Iron

Directions

1. Stack the two pieces of fabric with right sides together, making sure all raw edges of the fabric are aligned.
2. Pin one end of each piece of elastic ½ inch below the raw edges at the top corners of the mask; repeat with the other end of elastic pieces ½ inch above the raw edges at the bottom of the mask.
3. Using a ¼-inch seam, start stitching around the outside of the mask, starting at the bottom. Leave a 2- to 3-inch opening along the bottom.
4. Clip the corners and turn the mask right-side out; use a pencil or a chopstick to help push out the seams in the four corners.
5. Press the mask with your iron; carefully lining up and folding in the edges of the fabric in the opening.
6. Measure and pin two evenly spaced pleats (about 1 inch) on each side of the mask, making sure the folds go in the same direction.
7. Sew a ¼-inch seam along all sides of the mask to hold the pleats in place and close the small area of the open seam.

Read Next: Can Dogs Detect COVID-19?

The post How to Make Dog-Themed Masks by Annie Butler Shirreffs appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

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What’s the Best Food for Your Dog’s Joints

The post What’s the Best Food for Your Dog’s Joints by Arden Moore appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

What you select to put in your dog’s food bowl and dole out as treats can make a difference in staving off — or at least, delaying — the onset of arthritis and other aches and pains in her joints.

Prime example: Debbie, a 7-year-old Boxer, the first of her breed to ever earn the American Kennel Club’s Agility Grand Championship title.

“Her health in general, and particularly as an athlete, is a top priority for us, and nutrition is the building block to her life,” says Cara Armour, professional dog trainer and president of Active Paws in Bolton, Massachusetts. “A lot of her success has to do with her conditioning, training and, of course, what she eats.”
Cara’s previous Boxers developed arthritis by age 6, so she consulted veterinarians to identify joint-friendly foods and supplements when Debbie was a young pup. Now, she makes sure that Debbie eats meals with cartilage and bone broth plus takes supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin as well as green-lipped mussels and kelp.

“Debbie has only had one soft tissue injury in her shoulder, which is pretty remarkable given her constant training,” Cara says. “I know that without good fuel in her body, she wouldn’t be able to compete and to do so well.”

Cara also weighs Debbie regularly to make sure she stays at her ideal weight of 47 pounds.

Being overweight can have a negative impact on your dog’s overall health. Photo: monkeybusinessimages | Getty Images

Keep your dog at a healthy weight

Extra pounds can tax a dog’s joints, no matter the breed, says Dr. Zac Pilossoph, president of telehealth veterinary service ValidVet in Miami, Florida, and consulting veterinarian for Healthy Paws Pet Insurance.

“From bone and joint disease to metabolic conditions to even cancer, being overweight has been shown ➝ to be a negative contributor to a pet’s overall well-being, regardless of the size or breed,” he says.

Dr. Stephanie Liff, owner and lead veterinarian at Pure Paws Veterinary Care in New York City, also works with her clients to help keep their dogs at healthy weights.

“Excess weight means excess stress on joints and excess impact when exercising,” she says. “As far as joint issues, Bulldogs and other chondrodystrophic breeds (dogs who sport short legs and long bodies, such as Corgis and Dachshunds) are especially prone to joint disease of the hips and elbows. Very active dogs of any breed are more prone to knee injuries, especially tearing the cranial cruciate ligament.”

What to look for when choosing a joint-healthy dog diet

When searching for a joint-healthy diet for your dog, Dr. Liff urges you to work closely with your veterinarian.

“A balanced diet, in general, is important, but for joint issues, a diet supplemented with glucosamine, chondroitin and fish oils can be especially helpful,” she says.

Try giving your dog sardines in water, as this fish is high in omega-3 fatty acids that are great for joint, heart and brain health.

“Omega-3s promote anti-inflammation in the body and are also a healthy source of fats,” Dr. Pilossoph adds. “It is always better to absorb nutrients from a whole food source instead of trying to supplement diets piecemeal. So, adding foods with higher omega-3 and omega-6 rations are ideal.” Top choices are crab, cod, salmon, flaxseed, chia seeds and some green vegetables (consult with your veterinarian).

Leafy green vegetables are packed with antioxidants and can help with joint inflammation. Photo: FreshSplash | Getty Images

Other key joint-aiding foods and supplements include:

✤ Green-lipped mussels. Heralded as arthritis-fighting superfood, mussels contain lots of omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine and chondroitin.

✤ Kale and spinach. Both of these leafy green vegetables are packed with antioxidants that help against inflammation in joints.

✤ Glucosamine sulfate. This supplement may produce more “cushioning” around joints and slow down the rate of cartilage degeneration in active dogs.

✤ Chondroitin sulfate. This supplement is a go-to choice to reduce joint inflammation and to increase a dog’s mobility.

✤ Turmeric root powder. Recent studies have shown that this yellowish powder aids in reducing arthritic inflammation and joint pain.

✤ SAM-e. Known formally as S-Adenosylmethionine, SAM-e is a dietary supplement that can help treat joint pain and osteoarthritis.

✤ CBD oil and treats. Cannabidiol (CBD) oil is an extract from the cannabis plant that does not contain the psychogenic, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) found in marijuana. “We’ve been seeing promising research about the use of CBD products for pets with joint disease and arthritis,” Dr. Liff says.

Related: CBD Can Ease Dogs’ Arthritis Pain

When searching for a joint-healthy food for your dog, work closely with your veterinarian. Anthony Boulton | Getty Images

Part of the daily diet

In some situations, the best game plan for your dog may be the need to switch her to a therapeutic diet developed for canines with joint issues. Among the popular diets requiring a veterinary prescription are Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Joint Mobility, Hills Prescription Diet Joint Care (J/D) and Royal CaninVeterinary Diet Mobility.

What’s the best game plan for your dog? Regular exercise, maintaining healthy weight and offering joint-supporting foods and supplements recommended by your veterinarian represent a formidable recipe to help keep your dog free of joint inflammation or pain.

“There’s no doubt that food is the foundation for Debbie’s fitness program,” Cara says. “I always try to include joint-friendly foods from the time my dogs are wee pups and weaned. I make sure each meal is balanced, so they have all of their nutritional needs to grow into healthy, active dogs.”

Featured Image: gmurrayroberts | Getty Images 

Read Next: What Vegetables Can Dogs Eat?

The post What’s the Best Food for Your Dog’s Joints by Arden Moore appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

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5 New Year’s Resolutions For Your Dog

The post 5 New Year’s Resolutions For Your Dog by Beth Ann Mayer appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

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You love your dog just the way he iis, but helping him make a change or learn something new can be a fun bonding experience for the two of you. Learning a trick or discovering a new place can also be mentally stimulating for a pup, and helping an overweight dog lose weight can extend his life.

January is traditionally a time to set new goals for ourselves, and dogs can get in on the fun, too. These five New Year’s resolutions will help your dog have a happier, healthier 2021.

Help your dog achieve his weight loss New Year’s resolution.

Almost half of dogs ages 5 to 11 weigh more than they should. Excess weight puts pups at a greater risk for cancer, heart disease and joint issues. If your fur baby needs to trim down, there are many ways to help him get healthier while keeping things fun. Think daily 30-minute walks and games of fetch. Your vet can also help prescribe a healthy-eating plan.

Teach your dog a new trick this New Year

Not only can you teach an old dog new tricks — you should. It keeps them physically and mentally active, which can extend their lives (or at least up their quality of life during their Golden Years). The keys to helping your dog learn something new: Start simple, be ready to reward them with treats, like these soft puppy bites from Wellness (4.49, Chewy), and praise and pace yourself. Don’t expect Fido to master it right away — stay patient and upbeat, and he’ll likely master it eventually.

Photo: smrm1977/Getty Images

Stop eating the house

You love coming home to your dog every day. Finding out she ate your favorite throw pillow? Not so much. Help your dog stop chewing by understanding why her is doing it. It’s not spite. Puppies are exploring, and older dogs may have separation anxiety. Part of getting your dog to nail this resolution is on you. You’ll need to supervise her, and if you notice chewing, redirect her attention rather than scolding her. Give her plenty of acceptable toys, like a Nylabone Textured Ring ($5.99, Chewy), to chew on, and consider crate training her for when you’re not around. Frisco’s Fold & Carry crate ($31.09, Chewy) is easy to set up.

Help your dog fall in love with water

If your version of fun in the sun involves water, but your co-pilot pup isn’t into it, it can put a major damper on your summer plans. There are steps you can try, including starting with a kiddie pool, keeping things pressure-free and letting your dog go at his own pace. Remember, though: You want this to be fun. Don’t force it. If your pup really wants to stay landlocked, let him be.

Photo: mixetto/Getty Images

Make traveling more your dog’s New Year’s Resolution

Hopefully, 2021 year will be a healthier year for humans and pups alike as we start putting COVID-19 in our rearview mirrors. Road trips became more popular this year, and even when the pandemic ends, they’re still a fun option, especially because they allow you to bring your dog. Pack essentials, like a crate and ID tag, and plan ahead. If you’re staying in a hotel or with a friend, ensure your pup is the perfect guest. Where should you go? The sky is the limit, but these dog-friendly national parks look fun.

Featured Image: AleksandarNakic/Getty Images

Read Next: Traveling with Dogs: 8 Things to Pack for a Road Trip with Your Pup

The post 5 New Year’s Resolutions For Your Dog by Beth Ann Mayer appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

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The 2021 Editors’ Choice Awards

The post The 2021 Editors’ Choice Awards by dogedit appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Dog products. We’re passionate about them, and we’ve been writing
about them, testing them and purchasing them for years. Our canine and human judges pawed through a list of more than 70 dog products to choose the ones that got the biggest bark of approval. With a trio of judges possessing 25-plus years of experience each, we put the latest dog products in the categories of toys, gear, clothing, tech, grooming/cleaning, housewares and dental to the test to find the ones we believe unleashed high excellence. Here are the winners.

Here are our top picks for dog toys

Trash n Seek
The raccoons squeak and crinkle while playing hide-and-seek in a trash bag. (An included postcard tells how the raccoons got stuck there.) Not only is it adorable, but it appeals to canine snugglers, tuggers and chewers. “The more I have this,” says a judge, “the more I appreciate that one toy has multiple components that can be enjoyed concurrently in a multi-dog household. And I love the back-story element.” $19.99. Bulltug Company; bulltug.com

Tugtopus
This two-in-one dog toy is perfect for medium and large dogs. I watched two large dogs in a tug-of-war with it, which was hilarious. It squeaks, it crinkles, and it’s durable. Judges love the design, think the quality is excellent, and the cuteness is off the charts. $15.99. Bulltug Company; bulltug.com

Sid the Sea Turtle
Fetch, toss, chew and cuddle with this sweet sea turtle. ZippyPaws calls the squeaker a Grunter. Judges particularly like the “grunt” instead of the squeak for those dogs who aren’t big fans of high-pitched noises. Comes from ZippyPaws’ Ocean Storybook collection, which includes other sea-themed toys like a mermaid, starfish, anchor and oysters. $12.99. ZippyPaws; zippypaws.com or chewy.com

Easy Tug Handheld Tug Toy
The handle “gives the human the edge,” says one judge. “Makes tug time more fun — easier on my arm and shoulder,” says another. The EasyFlex Technology that stretches as your dog pulls and shakes the toy is what makes it so great. Although it comes with the squeaking Bite Tug Toy attachment, you can switch it out with other tug toys from Tether Tug. $34.95. Tether Tug; tethertug.com

Zoomierex Incrediball
“Something about the way it bounces gets the dogs very excited,” says one judge, “and they like to chomp on it.” Bouncing, tossing, floating — this ball has it all, even an opening to place a dog treat for enrichment. Available in blue, green or orange. $11.50/S and $15.50/L. P.L.A.Y. Pet Lifestyle and You; petplay.com.

Zippy Burrow Aliens in UFO
These aliens may come in peace, but if your dog is like our test dogs, he’ll have a blast pulling those squeaky aliens from the spaceship and chewing on them. The aliens were nice and strong, so good for bigger dogs. It’s part of ZippyPaws’ Space Storybook collection, which includes other spaced-themed toys like a spaceship, astronaut, robot, the moon and others. $13.99. ZippyPaws; zippypaws.com and chewy.com

Rompidogz Rugged Tug n Toss Rope
“Both dogs played with me, with each other and by themselves. A winner!” remarks one judge. A toy favorite for tugging, chewing and carrying around. It’s strong and durable with interwoven polycotton blend material that makes it easy for dogs and humans to get a good grip. The elasticity returns it back to shape after being stretched. $13/S and $18/L. Rompidogz; available on amazon.ca

Here are our top picks for dog gear products

HPZ Pet Rover XL Extra-Long Premium Stroller
We loved the stroller’s spaciousness — 35 inches lengthwise, which fits bigger dogs or multiple dogs. There is a mesh cover and a weather-resistant canopy. The ride is smooth, it is easy to push, and the reversible leather handlebar, drink cup and rubber wheels add to the fun. $199.86. HPZ/Pet Rover USA; petroverusa.com and chewy.com

Martingale Harness For Dogs
Definitely a favorite with our judges. One sums it up: “Everywhere we went, people commented on this harness because it is so sporty looking. Our dog liked that it was lighter than his previous harnesses and we liked the extra strong Velcro he couldn’t escape from and the adjustable neck and chest.” Available in five colors. $29.99/XS, $32.99/S and $34.99/M. Sleepypod; sleepypod.com

DFD X2 Boost
“Fits well, easy to put on and comfortable for the dog,” raves one judge. Besides flotation, this vest is all about ergonomics and a streamlined fit. You can adjust the top collar, and there is a padded girth adjustment, too, along with reflective piping, leash attachments and a grab handle. Comes in bright red or yellow and five sizes: XS-XL. $79. EzyDog; store.ezydog.com or chewy.com

Goin’ In Style Dog Walker Organizer
A judge favorite, this dog-walking organizer bagged it! There are specialized compartments for your phone, waste bags, treats, plus a key fob. The big compartment is vinyl lined and contains an activated charcoal sachet to temporarily contain a used poop bag. It’s got a long enough strap to wear it at your comfortable length no matter your size. $29.99. Goin’ In Style; goininstyle.com

Go Boldly Adjustable Collar and Get Out & Go Leash
The judges loved these on-the-go products for their sturdiness, feel and colors. The leash has some unique features: You can adjust the length between 4 and 6 feet, use the lower down helper handle, plus an integrated buckle on the handle to tether your dog in monitored situations, like taking her out to dinner. The collection is available in five amazing color combinations (black/graphite, ocean/green, red/mango, raspberry/wine, brown/gold). Collar and Leash come in two sizes: S/M and L. $5.79-$26.99. Hamilton; petfoodexpress.com

Here are our top picks for dog products: clothing

Barctic Waterless Cooling Dog Shirt with Light Therapy
This one received a perfect score from the judges. The lightweight, durable and stretchy shirt material helps dogs stay cool and comfortable (plus it looks good, too!), transforming light into healthy, cool red and near-infrared light. Keeps dog’s fur up to 30 degrees Fahrenheit cooler than in direct sunlight. Comes in 3XS-3XL. $69-$129. Coolvio; coolvio.com

Happiness Hugs Yak Down Doggie Sweater
One judge sums it up: “Clearly a beautiful and well-made sweater. Looks unique and the hand-crafted aspect makes it more so.” The Hugs for Dogs handcrafted yak down sweaters are for small dogs, 25 pounds or less. There are also matching scarves or shrugs, depending on the sweater design. This design is Sunray Hug.
$38-$60. Chews Happiness; chewshappiness.com

Black Varsity Frenchie Dog Hoodie
Stylish, comfortable and really well-made, say our judges. Made of moisture-wicking polyester to keep pup warm and dry. There is a harness slit (yeah!), a back-stash pocket and a hood to keep those ears warm. For dogs under 40 pounds; available in M-XXL. $39.99. Frenchie; frenchiebulldog.com

Pup Scruffs
Do bandanas drive you crazy? Having to re-tie and re-adjust them constantly? Our judges appreciate the machine-washable Pup Scruff, which does away with all that. It’s lightweight, quick drying, fits tiny dogs and large breeds and has 40-plus patterns available. $14.99. Pup Scruffs; pupscruffs.com

Here are our top picks for dog products: tech

Trusens Air Purifiers and True HEPA Pet Filter
So many things for the judges to love about this modern-looking air filter that removes dander and pet odor from pet lovers’ homes. Some of the features: UV sterilization system, two air streams distributing cleaner air, HEPA pet filter and SensorPod technology that measures the air quality. (One judge checks this about five times a day — too cool!) Air purifier and HEPA pet filters available in three sizes: S, M and L. $149, $249 and $399/air purifiers. $49, $69 and $89/pet filters. TruSens; trusens.com

Nitedog Rechargeable LedLeash, Collar and Collar Light
This leash, collar and collar light shine brightly. “Our dog was the king of the neighborhood with this set,” one judge exclaims. “Everyone asked us where they could buy them. Plus, they are perfect for night walks and potty times when we go camping.” All three easily recharge just like your phone. Collar (sizes S-XL) and leash come in blue/blue and lime/green. Collar light offers selectable colors: red, green or blue. Weather resistant and push-button operation. $24.99/collar, $29.99/leash and $19.99/collar light. Nite Ize; niteize.com

Smart Feed Automatic Dog and Cat Feeder, 2nd Generation
“Keeps feeding times regulated with my inconsistent work schedule,” one judge explains. “App was easy to use, and the feeder has a nice-looking external design.” Who wouldn’t love an automatic feeder that lets you schedule, monitor and adjust Fido’s feeding remotely? $169.95. PetSafe; store.petsafe.com

Nixplay Smart Photo Frame
Who doesn’t love a frame loaded with pic after pic of your dog? Especially one that our judges felt was so easy to set up and upload photos to. Free stands on a desk or mounts on the wall. Comes in four sizes and black, metal and wood finishes. What we’d love to see next? A frame with pawprints!
$179.99-$349.99. Nixplay; nixplay.com

Drinkwell 1 Gallon Pet Fountain
Fresh, running water, thanks to technology. Judges call it a big hit with the pups and found dogs preferred it over their plain old water bowls. Uses a replaceable carbon filter to remove bad taste and odor, while foam filter catches debris. Have multiple dogs or a small dog? There’s a 2-gallon and ½-gallon version, too. $44.95. PetSafe; store.petsafe.com

Here are our top picks for grooming/cleaning dog products

Pulse ZR II Limited Edition Flora Clipper
Talk about flower power! Sums up one judge, “They are solid, easy to hold and cut great.” All testers love the cordless feature on this clipper and how simple it is to charge. Plus, it comes in a great storage container you can take anywhere. Five speeds, detachable blades and three hours of run time before recharging. $539.13. Andis Company; small-animal.andis.com

Hoover Smartwash Pet Carpet Cleaner
The judges got swept up by this product — and who wouldn’t? It is so attractive, lightweight, easy to use and effective that one judge gave away her other brand-new carpet cleaner to her sister and kept this one. Works well with the Paws & Claws Carpet Cleaning Formula with Stainguard ($19.99) and the Oxy Spot Chaser Wand Refill ($10.99). $299.99. Hoover; hoover.com

Premier Pet Conditioner
This conditioner really wowed. “My dog’s fur was still soft and smelled good a week later,” says one judge. (Note: The directions say to keep the conditioner on for 12 minutes.) The conditioner has a fragrance, although not overpowering. Some judges wished it was stronger while others felt it was strong enough. All agreed it made coats silky and shiny. $13.99/16-ounce. EQyss Grooming Products; eqyss.com or chewy.com

Sanipet Pet Safe Coat Spray
If you and your dog love getting out of the house, you’ll love this easy-to-use spray like the judges do. It reduces the transfer of bacteria and germs from entering the home. The spray includes conditioning ingredients and is proven to kill 99.9% of germs and bacteria within 60 seconds, says the manufacturer. $14.99. Absorbine Pet Care; absorbinepet.com

Jax & Cali Paw and Body Wipes
Judges love the texture, durability and large size of the wipes and that they are individually wrapped. As one judge says, “They do a great job of removing dirt, dust and pollen from my dog’s coat, leaving it smelling nice after a hike on a dusty trail.” Available in Soft-Pak and 25 individually wrapped. $6.59. Jax & Cali; jaxandcali.com

ChomChom Roller Limited Edition Dog
No tape or batteries needed. This roller simply removes pet hair from your furniture, your bedding, even your clothes. One of our judges has five dogs. “It really pulls up hair,” she says, “and it’s easy to clean.” (Also comes in a Limited Edition Cat version.) $27.95. ChomChom Roller; pethairgone.com and chewy.com

Here are our top picks for top housewares dog products

Bella Roma Travel Double and Single Diner Bowls
A favorite with our dog judges on the go. Easy to collapse, wash and use. “It’s kind of amazing that two bowls fold down to such a small size,” a judge says. Comes in a solo travel bowl or a double diner. Use with or without the stand, and has a locking lid to store dry food. Available in S, M, L for the single and S and M for the double. Comes in blue or pink. $7.49-$13.49. Loving Pets;
lovingpetsproducts.com

Luxurious Velvet & Faux Fur Dog Bed
“This immediately became my dog’s favorite bed. And that’s saying something, as he has five other beds,” says a judge. It’s plush with faux fur and velvet, along with a three-sided bolster to rest one’s furry head. More pluses: non-slip silicone bottom, hypoallergenic, 100% waterproof liner, 4-inch memory orthopedic foam, and the cover unzips and is machine washable. $128-$134/L and $168-$178/XL.
Luxe Pets Products, Inc.; luxepetsproducts.com

Blue Zoca Premium Waterproof Blanket
Dog lying on the sofa or bed? This 65- by 80-inch blanket keeps you covered — it’s 100% waterproof and leak-proof. Plus, machine washable. (Don’t tumble dry on high, as it can hurt the waterproof core.) One of our judges with senior rescue dogs says it does a great job repelling liquid and it’s big and cozy. She loves it. $84. Blue Zoca Inc.; bluezoca.com

Snuggle Bed

Mold into a sleeping bag or lay it flat for a soft sleeping mat — our doggie judges did both. One judge says it so instantly became part of her dog’s sleep routine; she forgot it was a product she was assessing. Has dirt-resistant canvas on one side and faux fur on the other. Available in five colors and three sizes. $55/S, $75/L and $109/XL. P.L.A.Y. Pet Lifestyle and You; petplay.com or chewy.com

Here are our top products for dog products: dental

 

Yummy Combs
“My dog prefers these to his other dental treats — which were the highlight of his day!” one judge comments. Another judge loves the fun shape, which took the dogs longer to eat — a good thing. Shaped like a honeycomb to floss and scrub around teeth and gums. Has 12 wellness ingredients, plus 44% rich protein. Comes in five sizes: XS-XL. Individually wrapped. $19.99-$20.99. Pets Best Life; petsbestlife.com

Jax & Cali Toothbrush Wipes
“With these wipes, it was a breeze!” says a judge about brushing her dog’s teeth, usually a struggle. These all-natural wipes smell minty, so her dog’s breath was “fresh and minty.” The wipes are both textured and premoistened, plus reduce bacterial growth, plaque and inflammation when used on a pet’s teeth, says the company. $15.95. Jax & Cali; jaxandcali.com and chewy.com.

Plaque & Tartar Control Breath Spray
Freshen breath, remove tartar and fight plaque with no preservatives, dyes or chemicals. Judges love the size, ease of use and that it was made in the USA. A few judges noticed a definite improvement right away. If your dog doesn’t like sprays, you may have to ease him into it. $14.99. Pure and Natural Pet; pureandnaturalpet.com

Meet This Year’s Editors’ Choice Judges

Melissa L. Kauffman has worked in the pet world for 25-plus years in a variety of magazines and websites from Pet Product News and Bird Talk to Catster and Dogster. Her dogs Justice and Tampa have been modeling for said magazines since they were puppies and are amazing, experienced pet-product testers. Sadly, Justice went over the rainbow bridge during the testing season. We miss his love, energy, enthusiasm for life and his amazing harness and leash pulling … err, testing ability.

Elizabeth Anderson Lopez has been a dog lover and owner all her life and has three English Bull Terrier (one is actually a Scotty mix) rescues, along with her husband, Tom, in California. Over the years she has bought countless beds, treats, collars, etc. and enjoyed reviewing them for this year’s Editors’ Choice. She received two Dog Writers Association of America awards in 2020.

Audrey Pavia is a former managing editor of Dog Fancy magazine and former senior editor of the American Kennel Club Gazette. A member of Dog Writers Association of America, she has written hundreds of articles on dogs for a variety of publications and is the author of The Labrador Retriever Handbook (Barrons). Audrey lives in Norco, California, with her rescue dogs, Mookie and Candy, plus furry niece Zoe, who all had a great time testing this year’s fun and innovative products.

The post The 2021 Editors’ Choice Awards by dogedit appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

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Wayne Brady Discusses His Lifelong Love of Dogs, New Puppy Bowl Spot

The post Wayne Brady Discusses His Lifelong Love of Dogs, New Puppy Bowl Spot by Beth Ann Mayer appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

TV personality Wayne Brady has almost always had a dog in his life. His first dog memories are with his grandmother’s Collie. These days, he has a pack of seven with his ex-wife Mandie. Four live with him.

“I have two Rotties, Charlie and Phatty  — aka James Franco, a Bichon Frise named Mick and a Tibetan Terrier named Pia,” says Wayne, a Masked Singer winner and host of Game of Talents. 

In 2021, he’ll be living in a puppy world when he hosts the Puppy Pre-Show before the AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin (aka as the Puppy Bowl) on Feb. 7.

It’ll also give him a chance to actually enjoy the event, something he’s only gotten to do once before.

“If you’re busy making TV, you can’t watch TV, but I watched it once and thought it was awesome,” Wayne says. “The fact that I can watch it this year and be a part of it is a score.”

Before he suits up for the big day, Wayne took time to talk about what dogs have meant to him throughout his life, how they’ve helped him get through an unprecedented 2020 and the importance of rescues.

Tell us about how you came to love dogs.
Wayne: Some of my earliest memories are with dogs. Growing up, my grandmother had a Collie. We had a German Shepherd. My first dog that was my little guy was a little Terrier named Brandy. Then I had a Pit Bull named Pete. My aunt had dogs. Her dogs were always over at my house. There really hasn’t been a period in my life that I have not had a dog in my family.

How did they make your life better as a child?
Wayne: They were my friends. As a young child, I always wanted to play, and dogs were always down to play. They were little, happy people trapped in their fur costumes. I had the best time playing with them. They were always up for a game of tag and hide-and-seek.

Related: Stuck At Home? Play This Indoor Game With Your Dog

This has been a crazy year. How have your pups helped you get through it?
Wayne: They’ve always been a source of comfort. Wherever your dogs are, that’s where home is.

As a TV personality, you’re on the road a lot. How do you keep in touch with your pets?
Wayne: I’m lucky to have an assistant who watches the kids when I need and an amazing dog walker who they love like another member of the pack … I get pictures and videos. Thank God for the video age. Seeing the puppies and seeing them have fun immediately is a positive burst of energy.

How did your gig on the Puppy Pre-Show happen?
Wayne: The people at Royal Canin … probably saw my TikToks,with not just my dogs but with Mandie’s dogs. They see I’m a dog lover. Years ago, I was in People Magazine as a celebrity pet owner, a bachelor with my dogs. They’ve always been part of my story. When they reached out, they asked if I would host the Puppy Pre-Show for the AKC national championship, and I jumped at the chance because I do love my dogs, and I love puppies. They asked me to be part of the contest where people submit their best puppy videos. Best in Show receives $5,000 and a year’s supply of Royal Canin puppy food. I thought, “That’s a home run. Let’s go.”

The Puppy Bowl focuses on rescue dogs. Are any of your dogs rescues?
Wayne: Yes, Phatty and Mick. When we picked up Mick, he was beaten and had just healed. His shoulder was dislocated, and his back legs had been broken. When he healed, and we got him, he couldn’t even look us in the eye. It broke my heart. He immediately latched onto my dog, Charlie. She took him under her wing. To this day, they are a little dog couple. Where there is one, there is the other.

What’s that been like watching Mick grow into the best version of himself?
Wayne: It makes me so happy. Now, he loves affection. I’ll just be sitting there, and he’ll want to cuddle. I remember a couple years ago when I could not cuddle with Mick, and that is beautiful. It’s absolutely beautiful.

What do you hope this year’s Puppy Bowl does for rescues?
Wayne: I hope it raises awareness, especially in the pre-show where we talk about the journey of a puppy and how to care for a puppy. I hope it makes certain people that want to have a dog because they saw a dog in the movie and think the dog is so cute that they will think twice. I hope they see this dog is a living, breathing creature with needs and wants and needs affection and love. I love what they do in terms of raising awareness of rescues and giving people the 4-1-1 on what it takes to be a good dog parent.

Read Next: How to Help Your New Rescue Dog Relax and Feel at Home

The post Wayne Brady Discusses His Lifelong Love of Dogs, New Puppy Bowl Spot by Beth Ann Mayer appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

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This Historic Pet Rescue Flight Brought Nearly 600 Animals to Seattle

The post This Historic Pet Rescue Flight Brought Nearly 600 Animals to Seattle by Annie Butler Shirreffs appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

This year, Hawaiian shelters were thrust into a COVID-19 crisis. Normal operations had been affected by months of shutdowns, economic downturn and limited hours. Greater Good Charities partnered with the John R. Peterson Foundation and Wings of Rescue to launch Paws Across the Pacific to make room in Hawaii’s shelters for at-risk pets who otherwise wouldn’t be able to receive the necessary care to survive. The airlift was conducted in coordination with the Hawaii Veterinary Medical Association, ensuring the safety and health of the pets on the flight.

Greater Good Charities CEO Liz Baker with Hilo the puppy — who she adopted! Photo: Greater Good Charities

Related: #GivingTuesday: 10 Ways Dog Lovers Can Pay It Forward

On October 28, Paws Across the Pacific became the largest pet rescue flight in history, by boarding nearly 600 shelter dogs and cats on a chartered Hercules C-130 aircraft that made stops on Kauai, Oahu, Maui and Hawaii islands. The flight took the pets to Seattle, Washington, where pet shelters and rescue groups picked them up, while 120 of the animals continued their journey on a smaller plane to Walla Walla, Washington, and Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Some of the lucky four-footed travelers have already found their forever homes.

Learn more about the impact of this historic flight at greatergood.org.

Featured Image: Hawai’i Emergency Management Agency

The post This Historic Pet Rescue Flight Brought Nearly 600 Animals to Seattle by Annie Butler Shirreffs appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

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How to Start Dog Mushing

The post How to Start Dog Mushing by Paul J. Kearney appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Looking for a cool sport for cooler weather? Give some form of mushing a try. I’ve been mushing with my own dogs for a couple of decades, and it’s our favorite thing to do together. They look forward to this so much, which is apparent by the excitement they display at home getting ready and when we get to the trailhead. The bond we share that has been created by doing this as teammates is unparalleled.

Dog trainer Paul J. Kearney enjoys bikejoring with his dogs Summer (aka Cake) and Tucker (aka Tuckerpalooza).

What exactly is mushing?

Mushing as a sport originated in 1908 in Alaska. Driving dogs from a sled is recorded going back to 2000 BC by Siberian and North American native tribes. There are people who race professionally with dog teams of four to 12-plus dogs and people who run professional mushing tour groups. However, the majority of people engaged in mushing sports are people like you and me, who want to enjoy this amazing sport together with our furry teammates.

The International Federation of Sled Dog Sports (IFSS) holds a world championship series of multiple disciplines of mushing sports annually. Events are either dryland mushing or, weather-permitting, the events are held on snow. Local clubs have get-together meetups, and some have sponsored local races where and when conditions allow them to be held.

Mushing with dog sleds is fun for all ages. Photo: Zuberka | Getty Images

The right conditions and conditioning for mushing

As to outside conditions for forms of mushing, most people follow the 120 guideline for temperature and humidity concerns: 60 degrees Fahrenheit and 60% humidity is the normal cut off point for engaging in extended periods of cardiovascular exercise when driving dogs/mushing. When temperatures and humidity are higher, we have to make sure that dogs do not overheat, taxing their thermoregulation ability of evaporative cooling/panting.

Conditioning and building up endurance are key to successful mushing. These are done within the first total of 100 miles. These first hundred miles are kept to shorter runs for the overall health benefits to each individual dog. By regulating the distance and speed dogs run, we can regulate how much heat they are creating versus how much they are getting rid of by panting.

Dog carts/rigs are great for dryland mushing. Photo: Peter Devlin | Alamy Stock Photo

Before you start mushing

A whole bunch of learning needs to happen for both humans and dogs before a dog pulls a sled, a cart, a scooter or a bike. The dog needs to be old enough, physically ready, comfortable in a harness, plus all the groundwork needs to be done, like learning to turn, go and stop.

These last few things can be done at earlier ages before the dog physically matures at roughly 11/2 years old. Adolescents and puppies can learn how to be comfortable in harness, how to make turns, how to “line out” and how to stop. Most breeds and sizes can enjoy recreational mushing — exceptions would be brachycephalic breeds — as long as they are physically fit and healthy enough to do so safely. (Have your veterinarian give your dog the go-ahead for this sport first to be on the safe side.)

To start, get the dogs used to the gear and then understanding the signals. You’ll need a sled-dog harness made for pulling. Classically the X-back harness is the most common across-the-board in all variations of mushing, but there are also others, like shortie style, H-back, pen-back and wheel-dog harnesses. Depending on the type of mushing you’ll be doing, the dogs may need belts, lines and antennas.

Let’s look at the different types of mushing sports, so you’ll have an idea of what gear you’ll need and the cues you’ll need to teach.

Photo: Design Pics | Alamy Stock Photo

Mushing on snow

Dog sleds: Sleds have two runners on the bottom, a drag mat/pressure brake and a basket in which gear can be stowed. There are also toboggan-style sleds you can use. Each type of sled works with different types of snow and different conditions. While there are smaller, sprint-type sleds that can be used with two to three dogs, most sledding is done with larger teams of four to 10-plus dogs. As a sled driver, you’ll assist your dogs, especially when starting to move, pushing the sled with one foot while the other remains on the runner.

Kick-sleds: Kick-sleds are small sleds with a form of chair mounted to two flexible runners. They also incorporate a drag mat/pressure brake. Kick-sleds can be adapted to mushing. Places that sell them have them set up to do mushing with one to two dogs. You’ll be kick pushing the scooter with one foot while the other remains on the deck.

Skijoring: This is done with the human on cross-country skis and the dogs in harness attached to a gangline going to a hip belt the human is wearing. In skijoring the person needs to first be able to cross-country ski, as they will be assisting the dogs pulling. Skijoring takes a lot of stamina and skill, as braking requires snow plowing while being pulled by a dog or two.

Snowskates: Snowskates are like skateboards or snowboards without bindings. They are popular with adventurous people who have the ability to skate or snowboard that use a hip belt, a line and a harness to their dogs. You basically push the snowskate with one foot while the other remains on the deck.

Trail race with your dog in Canicross.

Dryland mushing

Carts/Rigs: Dry-land carts are three or four-wheel carts used to get teams in shape before a snow pack accumulates to where people can get their sleds out and get on their runners. Lots of people use carts all season long, depending on where they live. Most modern carts have hydraulic brake systems.

Scooters: One or two dogs are in harness out front pulling, with a tow line connected to the scooter the human is on. People who want to be closer to the ground, instead of on a seat, prefer scooters to bikes. Scootering is very popular in the sport of mushing.

The company KickBike has scooters for all levels, and they are widely available. Scooters typically have an antenna to prevent the tow line from getting tangled in the front wheel. The driver assists the dogs by kick pushing the scooter with one foot while the other remains on the deck. Some modern scooters have disc brakes.

Bikejoring: Your dogs are out pulling in front with their harness attached to a tow line attached to your bike. Mountain bikes are the most popular bikes used for bikejoring. Fat bikes are also used and can be used in the snow, which is a great benefit for smaller teams that live in areas where snow happens. Bikes typically have an antenna to prevent the tow line from getting tangled in the front wheel. The driver assists the dogs by peddling the bicycle. Best mountain bikes on the market today have disc brakes.

Canicross: For this sport, you are running with your dog in harness, and a line is attached to a canicross belt, which has leg straps to ensure that the belt does not rise up above the top of your hip bone.

Having this setup even for walking is a great way to introduce any dog to the sport of mushing and to teach the verbal cues needed to be able to start running, slow down, make turns, stop and more.

Cues for mushing

I do not use “commands” when training dogs. I teach verbal cues or signals related to the behavior I request, which creates teammates who become flexible-thinking, problem-solving dogs.

Nearly all mushing cues can be learned through shaping, pairing and capturing, which we’ve discussed in previous columns. Let’s quickly review:

• Shaping is marking and reinforcing the baby steps of almost getting it right that lead to getting it right.
• Pairing is associating actions with words issued at the moment the actions are occurring.
• Capturing is being prepared to mark and reinforce naturally occurring or freely given behaviors.

Here are four cues to teach your dog before mushing.

Stopping — Stopping can be tricky, because you are asking the dog to do something he doesn’t understand, and it’s not really his predilection to do so when excited and having fun running. However, this can be taught if the focus is on when the dog stops on his own (capturing).

Stopping is taught when the dog stops, not when you asked the dog to stop. Therefore, when the dog stops on his own, mark that behavior with the word “stop“ (pairing). Reinforce the behavior by having a partner who can issue a reward out in front of you or, if the dog is standing next to you and stops on his own, say “stop” then issue them a food reward yourself. Make sure your dog understands what stop means before getting on any type of sled, ski, scooter, bike or cart.

Starting (to move) — “Let’s go“ is my accelerator, not only in mushing, but when walking and starting to move with my dog from a standstill. “Hike“ is also a popular way to start your team moving from a standstill. “Hike” is also used to pick up speed while moving. Because I use “Let’s go“ so often, I stick with that as my signal to my teammates to start moving.

Slowing down — People generally use the cues “whoa” or “easy” when asking the dogs to slow down. I like to use “whoa“ to signal that I am about to say “stop.” I use “easy” as a signal to slow down for a brief period of time, before picking speed back up again.

Slowing down is an aspect of shaping. We are eliciting the behavior of slowing down by decreasing our own rate of speed, which in turn slows down the dogs’ rate of speed. As we are doing this, we are saying the word “whoa“ or “easy.“ The reinforcement comes from picking speed back up again. The pairing is associating the action of slowing down with the word “whoa”.

Making turns — Classically, in mushing, the same verbal cues for making turns are the same ones that were used in horse carting: “Haw” equals left and “gee” equals right. Teach your dog this as he is walking with you. Go to the left and, when your dog follows with you, at that moment say the word “haw.” Take a few more steps and then go to the right and, as your dog comes with you going to the right, say the word “gee.” Keep repeating this zigzag-style motion with your dog in a safe space. After a dozen repetitions, your dog will begin to predict turning left or right with the words “haw” or “gee.”

People who engage in the sport of mushing are some of the most wonderful people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. The care they give to their dogs is outstanding, as nutrition, conditioning and ensuring the health of their furry teammates is vital. Mushing teams rely on each other in so many different scenarios that they must be attuned to each other’s needs and signals, plus be relating all that information between teammates in any given moment, situation and environment. This sport is about teamwork and sharing the joy of being in nature and in motion with your dogs. Get outside, use good gear and have adventures. And always — dogs first.

Featured Image: ROMAOSLO | Getty Images

Read Next: The Newfoundlands of Plow Farms

The post How to Start Dog Mushing by Paul J. Kearney appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

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Let’s Talk Dog Poop Etiquette

The post Let’s Talk Dog Poop Etiquette by Victoria Stilwell appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

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A war is about to start in my neighborhood — the same war that is being fought in neighborhoods around the country. There is a public footpath near where I live that is used by walkers, runners, families with toddlers, children on bicycles and people walking their dogs.

I walk my dogs on this path every day, but the path has now become a health hazard, and if I don’t keep my eyes fixed firmly on the ground there is a distinct possibility that my dogs and I will step in dog poop.

Most municipalities have laws that impose fines for people who leave their dog’s mess for everyone to step in, but this law is seldom enforced. The problem has become so bad in my neighborhood that people are now practicing avoidance by walking along the road. What makes me even angrier is that my county has made picking up pet waste easy by providing bins and poop bag dispensers along the route. I’ve now taken to watching the path from my window and when I see someone leave their dog’s mess for everyone else to enjoy, I walk over and give them a poop bag to clean up. I’m becoming like my mother, but I have no choice because I have made it my personal mission to clean up the neighborhood.

Photo: G_B_R_Jo | Getty Images

Health concerns

Allowing your dog to foul a public area without picking it up imposes a serious health risk to people and other dogs. Diseases can pass through a dog’s intestinal tract and into feces which, once deposited on the ground, can pass onto others if not removed. The following diseases can spread through feces and cause debilitating illnesses. Dogs are most at risk of infection, but some of these diseases are zoonotic, meaning that they can transfer from animals to people through fecal contamination. If this list does not scare you, nothing will.

Adenovirus is a viral disease in dogs that can damage the liver and kidneys. This virus can cause convulsions, jaundice, bleeding and even death.

Parvovirus is a viral disease that causes vomiting, diarrhea and immunosuppression. This disease is particularly dangerous in puppies and can be fatal if treatment is not started early.

Giardia and Coccidia are parasites that infect the gastrointestinal tracts of dogs and humans that cause diarrhea and vomiting.

Tapeworms, whipworms and hookworms live off a dog’s intestinal tract causing vomiting, diarrhea and anemia.

Toxocariasis is a devastating parasitic disease that causes blindness and is especially dangerous to children who might come into contact with infected stool while playing in infected areas.

E-coli can cause urinary tract infections in humans as well as meningitis, peritonitis, mastitis, septicemia, pneumonia, severe vomiting and diarrhea.

Fortunately, modern-day vaccinations can protect your dog from most of these diseases, and medications can stop disease progression if a dog becomes infected.

However, eggs of parasites in fecal matter can remain in the soil for years, posing a risk to anything that comes in contact with it. And if that’s not bad enough, pet waste can wash into local bodies of water, causing a major pollution problem. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency has declared pet waste as a “nonpoint source of pollution.” Other items in this category are dangerous toxic chemicals and oil.

Spread the word

So what can be done to encourage pet parents to pick up their pet’s waste? Educating people online or distributing leaflets in veterinary surgeries, daycare and training centers, and pet stores can help. Putting up signs and supplying pet waste bins and biodegradable bags on well-traveled routes can also help to change habits. PET N PET sells biodegradable bags in bulk ($21.99, Chewy).

An inconsiderate pet parent’s failure to pick up their dog’s poop reflects badly on those of us who do, and the only really effective deterrent is the threat of a fine if caught. So the battle continues, and it is up to community pressure and public education to stem the tide. For all of you who do pick up your dog’s poop — thank you! For those of you who don’t — be warned — we all have phones and we will be watching.

Featured Image: LightFieldStudios | Getty Images

Read Next: ‘‘Find the Poo’ is a Book About, Well, Locating Your Dog’s Poop

The post Let’s Talk Dog Poop Etiquette by Victoria Stilwell appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

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