When Should I Use a 15M Long Dog Leash?

When Should I Use a Long 15 Meter Dog Leash?

www.waggylife.com

When should I use a long 15 Meter dog leash? I was recently asked this question from a concerned dog owner, who had seen this product on my website and who had a very active outdoor lifestyle that involved running with his dog over rough wilderness terrain. He also said that he went camping at least two to three times a year in wilderness areas, and was both concerned for the safety of the dog, plus also wanted to give the dog some run on the leash, but remain in complete control of the dog. He was debating about getting a retractable leash but had some concerns as to the suitability of this choice against other types of leash.

There are a multitude of leash choices in to-days pet supply industry. Is it a case as was in the past that a general leash suited all applications? More to the real question at the core of this debate, what with our multitude of leisure activities that we pursue today, and want to include our pet dogs in, then it would be more the case that each leash is different, and each have advantages, and each will depend on the particular activity or demands that the leash must meet.

So, let me address when or why would you choose a long leash?

A long leash features 15m in length or more. This is a dog leash made of premium materials like leather or woven fiber, which adopts innovative design and soft texture for comfortable use. This leash gives you the ultimate control over your dog, while still allowing your dog the freedom to move, run, and play. Used during play, the leash is long enough for you to play a great game of fetch with your dog - all the while holding one end of the leash. It's a great way to honor local leash laws, keeping your dog under control at all times while giving them lots of running room. Used during training, the leash is perfect protection for you. You can let the leash drag on the ground and focus on working with your dog - but if your dog decides to make a run for it, you have plenty of time to react and keep your dog close. Your dog learns the feel of obedience without being dependent on the leash. For example, you can teach your dog to "heel" with the leash dragging on the ground - and once your dog's "off-leash" heel is perfect, all you have to do is pick up the leash for a perfect on-leash heel. Much easier to do it that way than to try and teach your dog how to behave off-leash when your dog is already dependent on feedback from a short leash. For the park, the backyard, the woods on camping trips, or the beach - this leash gives you peace of mind and control at a distance - and your dog can just forget that it's even there.

https://waggylife.com/collections/leashes/products/15-meter-long-leash

This leash is ideal to be used with a ground stake, for those times when you are out in your front garden working, and you also want your companion to be outside, then this will secure it while also giving it the roam it needs, allowing you to do your work.

It is perfect for everyday walks also, even in crowds, as you can coil the leash up short when you need too, or, let it out when you want the dog to have more roam.

Features:

• Nylon webbing material super strong.
• Leash length: 15M.
• High quality for durable and long-lasting use. Not easy to break.
• Comfortable to grip with quick release and reconnect.
• Long leash design. Perfect for dog training use.
• It offers a comfortable control when walking your pet.
• Super long, your dog can get enough distance and explore safely.
• Comes with a waist belt and an organizer bag, easy to carry.
•  Perfect for everyday walk and outdoor activities.

Conclusion:

This leash is probably one of the most rounded, and versatile leash’s that you can have in your arsenal. It is great for the outdoors, great for camping, excellent for training, good for crowds, and our busy urban streets, and indispensable at home. With a bit of practice it could easily become your only leash, as it has so many uses and applications. I have one for my Beagle, “Oakie” which I use when I am out on the trails, or on camping trips. I also use it at home for when I am outside with the dog, and I want him to be safe and secure. The only drawback to the leash is that it is bulky in the hand, and you do have to master the technique of letting in and out the coils.

Otherwise I have no hesitation in saying that all dog owners who lead a active lifestyle that includes their dogs, should have this leash.

Don't Forget to Visit Us @ www.waggylife.com Sign Up For Our Free Newsletter And Receive A 10% Coupon Good For Entire purchase.

Flirting With Your Dog

Flirting With Your Dog

www.waggylife.com

There are many products on the market to-day to use to exercise a dog with. Each have their own unique set of features and benefits that may be specific in nature in addressing a particular exercise format or routine for your particular dog. We each of us live in different situations, some of us live in towns and cities amid urban sprawl, while some of us live in rural or semi-rural areas. Where you live will determine how you can exercise your dog effectively, and still have a healthy thriving animal.

Some of us do not have the luxury of having access to a well-designed dog park, or manicured trail systems. We may live in high density housing where at best there may be a green common area that is not specifically designated for pets. I myself live in such a condo complex, whereby they do allow pet dogs up to 50lb in weight, but the complex was not designed for dog owners, as it has no dog runs, nor enclosed greenbelts where you can safely exercise a dog and also keep other residents safe.

As a responsible pet parent what do you do in this case?

A dog to remain healthy and physiologically well-adjusted needs a daily outlet to exercise. Otherwise you run the risk of the dog becoming aggressive, or destructive, or worse, developing health issues that will impact its quality of life.

Fortunately a modern product designed just for confined spaces for exercise, even indoors, but is also good for backyards and parks, may just be your answer. Introducing the Flirt Pole.

Flirt Pole

Also referred to as a flirt stick and was developed to encourage a dog to burn a lot of energy in a short time-frame in a confined space while also getting the required exercise and all of the benefits that flow from this activity. It comes in two sizes, for a small to medium size breed of dog, plus a large size for bigger dogs. An innovation to-day is that the pole is telescopic, which gives a range of heights you can choose to vary the exercise.

 

https://waggylife.com/collections/ball-throw-and-interactive/products/interactive-flirt-pole

Flirt poles are simple to operate from a standing position or even from a seated position. So if you are confined to a wheelchair, then this might be an invaluable exercise tool for you to be able to interact with your dog also. They consist of a pole, which today are adjustable to variable lengths, they have a tug rope attached at the end, on which can be tied a lure, which can be a canvas toy (maybe your dog’s favorite) or some colorful scarves or scraps of fabric. By lowering the tip of the pole down toward the floor and moving the pole side to side, then you can emulate a chasing action for the dog, and he can burn a lot of energy this way. Allow the dog to grab the lure, then you can have some tugging fun. Raise the height of the pole up, and your dog will have to jump to try to catch the lure, this will give it a different and unique range of exercise movement. It is important to vary the routine for maximum benefit. A flirt pole works great when for whatever the reason, you just cannot get outside with your dog. Flirt poles are also great for training a dog in sit, stay, lie down, and drop commands. And of course Flirt poles are great for a backyard and the park as well.

Flirt poles will tire out a dog quickly and effectively, but will not tire you out.

Flirt Pole Basic Rules For Indoor Exercising A Dog.

1. Make sure the area around you is free of furniture and objects.
2. Make sure there are no low hanging lights or chandeliers above you in the exercise area.
3. Vary your exercise routine to include some chasing, some tugging, and some jumping exercises.
4. Use it two or three times a day for maximum benefit.

Flirt poles are great for puppies, and dogs up to later in life that do not have joint issues. Dogs with joint issues should not be jumping as this will aggravate the condition, otherwise, a flirt pole is good for all dogs, and ideal for indoor exercising.

Features:

• Interactive Flirt Pole
• Color: Black.
• Material: Aluminum alloy, nylon and cotton.
• Size S: 69cm (Extended Length); 26cm (Constricted Length); 80cm (Rope Length)
• Size L: 90cm (Extended Length); 26cm (Constricted Length); 100cm (Rope Length)
• Extendable Collapsible Pole.
• Easy to Carry and store.
• Great Exercise Tool.
• Great as a Training Tool.

Don't Forget To Visit Us @ www.waggylife.com Sign Up For Our Free Newsletter And Receive A 10% Coupon Good For Entire Purchase.

14 Tips For Safely Running With Your Dog

14 Tips For Safely Running With Your Dog

www.waggylife.com

I am the proud owner of a 16 month old Beagle called Oakie. I have always chosen dogs to suit my outdoor active lifestyle. A dog to me is more than a pet. He is my companion in just about everything that I do, be it hiking, riding my bike, or at the beach with my sit on top and my paddleboard, or on the water in my sailboat, and of course running. Different dogs are suited to different activities, and unfortunately not all dogs are suitable as a running partner. I have often been asked by people;

“Is your dog really a good running dog”?

And indignantly I reply he can;

 “Run the hind legs off a greyhound”!

But what I really mean is that he is at his prime in terms of physical ability, with no underlying medical conditions, and stamina is one of the traits of the breed, so an ideal dog companion for Jogging.

But of course this does not define running with a dog, as I have not spoken of the types of running we as humans pursue, and how can you incorporate a dog into the activity safely for the animal and you. This further began me thinking about what products are useful, and what precautions to take.

Not all dogs are suitable or interested in running (and over my lifetime I have had a few of them). Dogs like Retrievers, Terriers, Sheepdogs and Herder dogs, Visalia’s and Labs are great running companions, really any medium to large breeds with loping body structure, or slender legs are ideal choices. But the really large boned big breeds like: Mastiffs and Great Danes, are too heavy and will get tired to easily over any distance that you want to run. Smaller breeds with pushed in faces like English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, and Pugs because of the design of their nasal passages, cannot draw enough air in so labor very easily under stress, so would not make running partners. The toys like the Pomeranians and the Chihuahuas with their tiny bodies and legs are not good runners neither.

So, here are the tips for safely running with your dog.

1. Wait until your dog is older than one, as its body and bone structure need to be developed. Always have your dog checked by a vet to make sure that there are no underlying medical or physical conditions that may prevent the dog from running over long distances.

 

2. Plan Your Route. Is it paved roads in a park setting, is it over countryside, or is it a mix of terrain. Whatever route you take make sure that it is dog friendly.

 

3. Plan for the weather. Both for you and for your dog. Is it hot or cold, will you both need a protective jacket, or on a hot day, will your dog need a cooling jacket? Is their snow on your route, what about deicing salts – will your dog need booties. 
   https://waggylife.com/collections/fashion-and-apparel/products/4pcs-waterproof-pet-dog-boots-for-small-medium-and-large-dogs

 

4. Make sure that your dog is rested and in good health. Give it the once over to make sure that it is not experiencing any joint stiffness, and in general looks healthy with a shiny coat, and clear eyes.

5. If you do not have a human running partner or are not going with a group, but rather going by yourself, then tell someone the planned route, and expected duration and distance of the run. Leave a written plan at your home with contact information on it just in case of emergency.

6. Hydration is critical. Bring a fresh drinking water supply for both you and your dog. Have a dog drinking bottle just for the dog, never let the dog drink from yours, and visa-versa. Plan for water stops for the both of you.
   https://waggylife.com/collections/feeding-bowls/products/compact-portable-spill-proof-drinking-hydration-on-the-go-bottle

 

7. The right clothing. Wear bright reflective outer clothing appropriate for the weather conditions, but which make you more visible.

8. Make sure that the dog’s nails are trimmed. These can chip and break easily, and can cause bleeding which can lead to some circumstances that you were not expecting (like having to carry a whining dog back home). 
   https://waggylife.com/collections/grooming-and-health/products/four-piece-stainless-dog-grooming-kit

 

9. A dog running leash is a must. Choose one that is bungee corded which will allow the dog some wander, but will also safely restrain it. The leash attaches around your waist for hands free operation. 
   https://waggylife.com/collections/leashes/products/hands-free-pet-dog-waist-bungee-running-leash

 

10. A dog harness is best. Choose a harness over a collar. A collar can choke a dog, a harness spreads the pull over the dog’s body, and does not restrict breathing. Choose one that is also reflective for greater visibility and safety.

 

11. Wear a belt designed for running with your dog. After all you will need to carry poop bags, a place for your phone, some extra water, and some treats for the dog. 
     https://waggylife.com/collections/backpacks-and-carryalls/products/dog-waist-pouch-or-shoulder-bag-with-built-in-poop-bag-dispenser

 

12. Start slow and short. You will need to both get your dog used to running distance and build its stamina, and this will only happen over time.

13. Cool down after the run. Allow the dog to cool down after the run, dog’s physiology is different than ours and some breeds can get heated pretty quickly, so a sit down and take five is in good order to help your animal not to get stressed. Give him some treats as both a reward and as a recovery tip.

14. When you get home and your dog is relaxed check its pads for splits or abrasions. Check its body for ticks, if you have been in a grassy area like a park or on a country run. If your dog’s paws are raw and sore, then treat them immediately, and do not run with the dog again until it is fully healed.

So in conclusion, running with your dog should be fun and rewarding for the both of you. With just a little planning and the right tools then the trail is calling your names. Running is great for stress relief and most dogs love to run, just make sure that you build up to the longer runs, and before you know it you will be thinking about different activities that you and your best workout buddy can enjoy together.

Don't Forget To Visit us @ www.waggylife.com Sign up for our newsletter and receive a 10% discount code good for entire purchase.

Indoor Exercising Your Dog Some Do's and Don'ts

Indoor Exercising Your Dog Some Do's And Don'ts

“Oh the weather outside is frightful……..”

Well you know how the rest of it goes. Sometimes awful weather prevents us from being able to walk our dogs and use products like dog throw and fetch toys, etc. What do you do in this case?  The dog still needs its exercise, otherwise it will be crawling up the walls. What about if poor weather is going to be more than a day, how about as it seems more the case, it is not going to let up for a few days, or weeks? How about the situation where you are at an age in life where you are less mobile than you used to be. Maybe you are wheel chair bound or even bed ridden? Maybe you live in an apartment or condo complex with little or no facilities for pets? Maybe a medical condition is preventing you from being able to walk very much, or be outdoors very much?

Can you still own a dog and receive all of the benefit’s that come with that relationship? Recently Dog ownership has been shown through scientific study to be one of the best relationships that a human can have. Dog ownership can extend the life span of a human by a number of years, the friendship and companionship of a dog are second to none. A dog is always there for you. The health and wellness benefits and the psychological benefits are exponential for the dog owner versus a non-owner.

A Dogs Basic Needs.

A dog needs some basic things in order for it to live a happy and healthy life. Good food, proper and professional vet care, good hygiene care, a safe place to live out of the elements, dog toys and chews, and a regular and active exercise schedule. 

Some Challenges That May Seem Un-surmountable.

Unfortunately, the last item - a regular and active exercise schedule - can be a challenge for some folks.

Whatever challenge that may exist then should this be a reason for not having a dog, or for having to give up an existing dog? ---- Especially when all of the reasons are so good and positive for dog ownership.

But when all is said and done, the very basic need of a dog is exercise. It must have an outlet for all of that energy that it has, otherwise it will develop physical problems, health problems, and psychological problems, and dog ownership will be a misery for both you and your dog.

An Illusion Challenged.

When a home is advertised for sale, it is usually described as x-bedrooms, x-bathrooms, plus a front and backyard for the kids and dogs. The suggestion has always been that in order to have a dog you should have a house with a front and backyard to exercise the animal in. Now, I am not saying that this would not be the ideal set-up in order to have healthy thriving pets, but I am saying that this is not the be all and end all in regards to owning a dog.  Today we are more likely to live in a built up urban area in high density housing that may not offer the convenience of a front or backyard for a dog. There may also not be a local park in order to bring our dogs too for their daily exercise requirements. The local neighborhood may not be safe to walk around for neither you nor the dog, so all in all the question may be:

How can I have a dog, and exercise it properly if I have some of the challenges as mentioned above?

The Answer:

Yes you can have a dog that will thrive even in a confined indoor space, giving you all of the great benefits of dog ownership, and you can do it quite easily with some innovative products that are available to-day.

A Flirt Pole

Also referred to as a flirt stick and was developed to encourage a dog to burn a lot of energy in a short time-frame in a confined space while also getting the required exercise and all of the benefits that flow from this activity. It comes in two sizes, for a small to medium size breed of dog, plus a large size for bigger dogs. An innovation to-day is that the pole is telescopic, which gives a range of heights you can choose to vary the exercise.

https://waggylife.com/collections/ball-throw-and-interactive/products/interactive-flirt-pole

Flirt poles are simple to operate from a seated position, so if you are confined to a wheelchair, then this might be an invaluable exercise tool for you to be able to interact with your dog. They consist of a pole, which today are adjustable to variable lengths, they have a tug rope attached at the end, on which can be tied a lure, which can be a canvas toy (maybe your dog’s favorite) or some colorful scarves or scraps of fabric. By lowering the tip of the pole down toward the floor and moving the pole side to side, then you can emulate a chasing action for the dog, and he can burn a lot of energy this way. Allow the dog to grab the lure, then you can have some tugging fun. Raise the height of the pole up, and your dog will have to jump to try to catch the lure, this will give it a different and unique range of exercise movement. It is important to vary the routine for maximum benefit. A flirt pole works great when for whatever the reason, you just cannot get outside with your dog. Flirt poles are also great for training a dog in sit, stay, lie down, and drop commands. And of course Flirt poles are great for a backyard and the park as well.

Flirt poles will tire out a dog quickly and effectively, but will not tire you out.

Flirt Pole Basic Rules For Indoor Exercising A Dog.

1. Make sure the area around you is free of furniture and objects.
2. Make sure there are no low hanging lights or chandeliers above you in the exercise area.
3. Vary your exercise routine to include some chasing, some tugging, and some jumping exercises.
4. Use it two or three times a day for maximum benefit.

Flirt poles are great for puppies, and dogs up to later in life that do not have joint issues. Dogs with joint issues should not be jumping as this will aggravate the condition, otherwise, a flirt pole is good for all dogs, and ideal for indoor exercising.

Tennis Ball launcher

A Tennis Ball Launcher is a tool that consists of a long curved handle with a tennis ball cradle at the end designed to hold a standard size tennis ball. Although they are ideal for the park, the lake, the river, and the backyard, they can also be used indoors.

https://waggylife.com/collections/ball-throw-and-interactive/products/tennis-ball-launcher

Because you do not have to bend down to pick up the tennis ball, after your loyal friends returns it to you, you simply scoop it up into the cradle, and launch it again. It could be a useful tool, for the wheelchair bound dog owner. The tennis Ball launcher comes in different lengths, so a small to medium might be the right choice for indoors. Great for an apartment or condo also.

Tennis Ball Launcher Rules For Indoor Exercising A Dog.

1. Use In a room that leads into a hallway or corridor.
2. Practice before use with your dog, the flyer can launch a great distance, so exercise caution in confined spaces.
3. Reward your dog every few fetches, to make it interesting for it.
4. Launch in a downward stroke or with an underhand swing only.
5. Watch the bounce of the ball.

Canvas Throw Toys

Canvas throw toys are ideal for indoor fetch exercise games as their design allows for a very limited range of throw distance, and they have no bounce. Their soft design will not damage walls or furniture if you accidentally hit them.

https://waggylife.com/collections/chews-and-flyers/products/dog-squeaky-chew-toy-durable-construction-plus-visually-attractive

 Today they are made of a canvas outer shell casing, which is durable for a dog to bite on. Use it for a dog that knows to fetch and return. If you are wheelchair bound then train the dog to drop the toy into your hand. Can also be used in tugging exercises.

Canvas Toy Rules For Indoor Exercising A Dog.

1. Use in a room with little obstructions like furniture.
2. Use in a room leading into a hallway or corridor.
3. Reward your dog every few fetches.
4. Can be used in tugging exercises.
5. Vary between throw and fetch and tugging.

Knotted Ropes

Knotted ropes are similar to Canvas Throw Toys, but differ in one aspect.

https://waggylife.com/collections/chews-and-flyers/products/chew-knot-cotton-bone-rope

They consist of a heavily woven cotton rope that is tied on each end in a durable knot. I would recommend a knotted rope for indoor exercising your dog in tugging exercise play only. I would not use a knotted rope in a throw and fetch routine, as they can be very stiff and heavy in design, and may damage things that they impact accidentally in the home. Also, ideally a knotted rope is designed to be a chew toy for a dog.

Knotted Rope Rules For Indoor Exercising A Dog.

1. Use for tug and play type exercises.
2. Vary with other exercises for maximum benefit.
3. Good for all dog types.

What about other needs of the dog having to go outside like “when nature calls”? How do you take care of this?

A dog will have a movement sometimes at least once, if not a few times a day, and if you are challenged in being able to get outside with the dog to be able to take care of this, then what do you do? A simple solution is to get from your local hardware store a large low plastic container, about a few inches high, and about a 36” (3FT) or 48”(4Ft) long dimension. The size you get will be determined by the size of the dog. The dog should be able to fully stand and squat in it. Fill this with cat litter, and train your dog to go in this when it needs too. Don’t fill the container right to the top, and hold back some of the litter sand. When the dog goes, just toss a few scoops of litter over it. This way you should be able to get about a week out of it before having to clean it out. If you have a small balcony or patio then this is where I would keep it, and train the dog to go. Otherwise, I would keep it near a window, or in a bathroom.

Conclusion:

For whatever reason is keeping you from being able to take a dog outside for walks and exercise, or for calls of nature, should not be a reason to not be able to effectively exercise a dog indoors. Being mobility limited, or even wheelchair bound should not be an impediment to owning a dog and receiving all of the great benefits that dog ownership and companionship bestow. Utilizing the products mentioned above, and with some simple planning then you can effectively give your dog all of the exercise that it needs without having to venture outside. Even those of us that are able bodied but sometimes are challenged by Mother Nature, can still use these techniques and products to give our dogs what they need without risking the dangers of the outside environment.

The Strange Case of the Disappearing Pigs Ears

www.waggylife.com

The Strange Case of the Disappearing Pigs Ears

Why Dogs Need Chew Toys

This was a bewildering case and most baffling. It occurred with my Beagle Oakie.

Now Beagles are noted chewers, as are most puppies and dogs. Dogs will chew for many reasons, and there are equally as many old wives tales as to the meaning of this behavior. One long held belief is that when a puppy is teething, it will chew on something as a natural instinct to help control tooth growth and gum strength.

To some extent this may be true, but recent beliefs are that a dog will explore its world using its senses. It does not have hands as we do in order to pick up an object with to examine it closely. It uses its mouth for this purpose, so it is exploring the object with its mouth, primarily to see if it is edible and food. Further to this, around the house, a dog will pick up and chew any item that has a human scent on it. Socks, slippers, shoes, and other items usually fall victim to this. Other dogs may even tackle bigger items like seats or furniture.

Chewing on household items is associated with anxious behavior in a dog, especially if they are left alone for periods, they receive comfort from the items they chew on, and usually although mischievous behavior to us when they decide to chew on our best slippers, it is not a sign of destructive behavior, merely the dog seeking comfort from the familiar.

When I was growing up my Granddad always advised me to throw an old shoe onto the bed of all of my dogs that I had, and it worked a treat. My dogs would happily chew on the old shoes, and not destruct the good furniture in the house. My mom would kick my behind if she found out that the shoes were not as worn out and old as they might have been. But, no matter it was a good ploy on my behalf to get the latest in shoe fashions.

Roll forward to today, and I have forgotten a lot of that early advice. Like all pet parents, I was excited to bring my Beagle puppy Oakie out into the world. I got a Beagle to begin with because where I grew up was a place still steeped in the old traditions and ways.

Our family lived in a new urban development on the edge of the city, about a quarter mile from open countryside. So in essence I lived and grew up in two distinct worlds, the new fast growing city sprawl, with all of its problems, and in just a few minutes’ walk, the peaceful tranquility of an unchanged rural landscape.

One of the traditional dog sports practiced was Drag Hunting. Now this is not what it sounds like, where a bunch of hairy men dress up in their wives or girlfriends best Sunday dresses and high heels and parade around town with their best looking dogs in tow, to the catcalls of locals. Drag Hunting is practiced by Harrier Clubs. These clubs date back a couple of centuries and are a traditional English pastime. Of course the transplanted landed gentry in my country carried on this tradition. It would consist of running a pack of about thirty Harrier Hounds, and riders on Horseback, chasing a Fox over a preset course. Now there were Anglo’s in my neighborhood growing up, but not enough of them, as it was primarily a working class area. As working class, we could not afford Horses and such to be able to partake of this sport. So, Drag Hunting evolved as the working man’s alternative.

It was enthusiastically pursued where I grew up. For the most part instead of Harriers the locals used Beagles, and instead of chasing a live fox, a runner would run a preset course over the countryside of about six miles, dragging a rag soaked in Aniseed Oil.

The Beagles would then chase the scent, and it was first home that won. This early experience of scent hounds running so exuberantly and thoroughly enjoying the activity seared the idea into my mind of one day getting a good Beagle of my own.

But, back to the case at hand.

A Beagle likes to get down and dirty, the wetter, and mucky the better. They are not shy about picking up just about anything. So from a very early age, my Beagle puppy Oakie on my walks in the park, would pick up twigs and branches and merrily and gustily chow down on them.

I thought nothing of this, and saw no danger nor harm in the practice, and in fact would pick up some sticks myself to throw for him to fetch back. A few weeks later he started to bleed severely from the lips and gums, and his mouth swelled to where he was having difficulty eating. Off to the vet who on examining his mouth found a small splinter from a twig embedded in the dog’s soft pallet which was infected and causing the discomfort.

One severe lecture later by the vet on the danger of allowing a puppy to chew on twigs and branches, he advised that I should buy the dog Pigs Ears to chew on, as these would not splinter and would be soft. He said they would also satisfy the dogs desire to chew.

I could not believe how voraciously Oakie attacked the Pigs ear, and I was very happy as it seemed that it would occupy the dog for hours without him getting into mischief while I was out taking care of different things. The Pigs Ear came a couple to a pack, but it seemed to me that the dog was going through one ear a day. Dutifully each morning I gave him a new Ear to chew on, and each evening I could not believe that there was no sign of the Ear, had he eaten it all so quickly? This went on for weeks and I still felt that the vet was right, for my Beagle stayed occupied most all of the day, busily chewing on a Pigs Ear.

Now, I also installed a Doggie Door in my sliding patio, so that Oakie could also go out into the yard whenever he wanted. When I used to come home and went out in the yard, Oakie became very guarded of certain spots around the yard, especially the flower beds and would anxiously run to them as if he was guarding them from something.

I started to get suspicious. Then one day soon came the call………..

Get home right now there are worms all over the house and your dog is to blame. Somehow he was my dog then, and no longer the family dog, when something went wrong.

And there were white tallow worms crawling all over the floor, and sure enough Oakie was looking very guilty. From my days when I was a teen and fishing was one of my big occupations, then I would bury a raw piece of meat in a plastic bag for a few days to get “bait worms” to use for fishing. So immediately I recognized that a piece of raw meat was probably the culprit here too, but I did not feed Oakie any raw meat, so how……?

I remembered Oakies behavior when I went out in the yard, so I had my suspicions that the answer might lie somewhere there. On digging around in the flower beds, and under extreme protests from Oakie, I discovered a pile of half eaten, and half rotten Pigs Ears, crawling in maggots. Oakie immediately ran into the house and onto his bed, growling at me in warning as I approached. When I lifted his bed, there I found more rotting Pig Ears, diffusing streams of wriggling worms…..mystery solved.

I immediately stopped giving my dog Pig Ears, and also stopped giving him Raw Hide chews. But obviously the dog still needed to chew on something during the day, otherwise, he would revert to destructive chewing, and that call would not go so easy.

This is why for your puppy and dog, you will need the basics at least. I have found that a good quality “Knotted Rope” coupled with a couple of interactive treat balls, which can be filled with treats is doing the trick at the moment.

Oakie has forgotten all about Pigs Ears, and now looks forward to me filling up the Interactive Treat Balls with some dry food each morning and letting him occupy himself all day with trying to get the treats out of the ball. Nice and clean with no more nasty worms creeping around the house. I just rinse the interactive treat balls under warm running water to clean them, and they are ready for the next day.

An occupied dog is a happy dog, and less likely to be a destructive dog, so it is very important to always have the basics for your puppy and dog.

Don't Forget To Visit Us @www.waggylife.com Sign Up For Our Free Newsletter And Receive A 10% Discount Code Good For Entire Purchase.

A Knights Tale. A Simple Guide to Easy Dog Clean-up

A Knights Tale

A Simple Guide to Easy Dog Cleanup

www.waggylife.com

“In days of yore when knights were bold and toilets weren’t invented. They did their load upon the road and rode away contented”

Let’s face it, one of the happiest days in a dogs parent life is the day that we get the little bundle of joy. We hold it, we cuddle it, and we play with it. We plan for its future and we make a checklist of what we may need to take care of its need’s;

1. A Warm bed
2. Feeding and drinking bowls
3. Food
4. A collar and a leash
5. Some play toys
6. Some chew toys
7. Maybe a warm weather proof jacket or coat.

And then it’s time for its first big milestone, its first walk around the neighborhood, so you can show off your new best four-legged friend.

Everything is going fine and all is right with the world.  It is curious about the world around it. So many new things, so many smells. Its tail is swishing happily as it scamps along joyfully at your feet. You are both so happy and excited.

But then, it starts to sniff the grass, walks a few steps more and sniffs some more, you are confused, you are looking down anxiously, looking around at other people passing, noticing how they are admiring your new friend, all eyes are on you and your puppy.

 But what is about to happen?

And happen it does, nature calls to your little friend and he drops his load upon the road, or right there on the sidewalk in front of all the neighbors and passerby’s, and he tries to walk away contented.

You panic, you hope that nobody is paying to close attention. Somehow dog cleanup was not one of the items high on your list of necessary things to carry for those inevitable emergencies that all dogs are going to have. So you promise yourself that next time you will be prepared.

Today, we live in a world of rules.I suppose necessary so that we can enjoy a high degree of civilization. If you live in a town or a city, then local ordinance will dictate that it is the responsible owner that must clean up after their pet or face a penalty or a fine. No matter where we go today with our pets, the park, the beach, around the local neighborhood, along city sidewalks, those ordinances will apply.

We as humans have the convenience of indoor plumbing and flushing toilets to take care of our bodily movements. But alas not so our pets. We must clean-up after them, like it or not.

When I was a kid, and being a boy, then around my house I was assigned the job of “chief pooper scooper” and so from a young age, I learned the value of why it was necessary to clean up a pets movements. To-day it is even more so, as we now live in a world that is not only more crowded with people and things, but also more crowded with pets, especially dogs.

It does not have to be such a chore anymore to “own” the responsibility of cleaning up after your pet, even though it is sometimes easier just to dart off quickly if nobody saw you (and I am guilty of this sometimes).  

If you follow a few simple rules then it will become second nature:

At Your Home

1. Buy a scoop pan and blade with handle at your local hardware store. Use this to pick up after the dog at least every other day, leave it outside for convenience and hygiene.
2. Learn where your dog routinely does its business around the yard or garden, encourage it to always go to these areas.
3. Hose off the area every few days, especially in hotter climes and summertime, to prevent flies and bugs.

On Your Walk or at the Park or Beach

1. Bring your own supply of poop bags
2. Encourage the dog to go on grass if possible, and not on sidewalks.
3. Dump the waste bag in a trash can, not on a curb or at the side of the road

Convenient and well-designed products now make it a simple matter to carry your own supply of Eco-friendly and environmentally safe dog poop bags with you no matter where you go, like our bone poop bag dispenser with 21 rolls of poop bags.

https://waggylife.com/products/dog-poop-bag-dispenser

 Hang it from the dogs collar or leash, or carry it on your belt or backpack for extra convenience.

Fanny packs with built in poop dispensers make them the ideal choice for out and about walks or runs with your dog.

https://waggylife.com/products/dog-waist-pouch-or-shoulder-bag-with-built-in-poop-bag-dispenser

They even have room for other things like cell-phones and your dogs favorite treats.

Even for walking at night, when it is sometimes hard to see where the dog has gone, then our new retractable leash with built in flashlight and poop bag dispenser is the ideal solution. 

https://waggylife.com/products/dog-waist-pouch-or-shoulder-bag-with-built-in-poop-bag-dispenser

So, no matter what convenient product you choose, you will always be prepared for your pets little emergencies.

Happy Walking.

Do Not Forget To Visit Us @www.waggylife.com

Sign up for our free newsletter and receive a 10% discount code good for entire purchase.

City Nights City Frights A Guide To Walking Your Dog Safely At Night

City Nights City Frights

A Guide To Walking Your Dog Safely at Night

www.waggylife.com

We live in a distracted world. Our digital age has presented us with some modern problems not heard of just a few years back. It is so common today to see people driving “Zombie” like, head down apparently on their phones, oblivious to the world around them, and all of the ordinary things occurring in it, like dog walking around the neighborhood.

How many times at night have you just been about to step off the curb, as you get the green filter light to do so, when just out the corner of your eye, you catch a fast approaching car, and immediately notice the drivers head down, an eerie digital glow from a cell phone screen illuminating their face, and they just do not see you. You have to deftly step back onto the curb to avoid injury to you and your precious friend, and end up shaking all over your body in fury and fright at the closeness of the danger. And all you are doing is walking your dog, an absolutely necessary thing whether it is winter or summer, rain, sleet or snow, dark or semi-darkness, morning noon, or evening.

Walking your dog is a big thing in both yours and your dog’s life. Besides it being one of the funnest activities that you both do together, the benefits of the activity are exhaustive, ranging from better health, to intimate bonding between you that is life lasting.

If you follow some “common sense” practices, and have the right gear, then walking at night, and in low light conditions should not present any more challenges than going to the park on a bright summer’s day with your dog.

When I was a kid, the road safety council used to come to our school to teach us the “Safe Cross Code” Now, even though this was at a time which was before digital, distracted driving took other forms back then. The “Safe Cross Code” although dated is still a practical  and common sense approach to help to be seen and safe no matter the conditions. The code as it was “drilled” into us kids was:

“Be Seen be Safe”

“Always use a Crosswalk”

“Stand in the Light”

"Look and Listen"

"Walk Don't Run"

Be Safe Be Seen - In the evening and at night always wear bright colors, no dark clothing no matter how fashionable this may be. Bright colors help to contrast you against the background and can lead to a driver been able to see you better and distinguish your shape in low light conditions.

Useful Tip: With the innovations in clothing both for you and your dog, there is a proliferation of bright sport themed outerwear that is highly visible and reflective and is absolutely fashionable by to-days standards, making it easier than ever to wear bright colors with confidence, plus knowing it is a safer option for you and you dog for nighttime walking.

Always Use A Crosswalk - I suppose that rule speaks for itself. But I would say that even though you are at a crosswalk there are some rules to follow to be safe. Stand back from the curb.  Pull your dog up on a short leash by your side. Wait for the signal to change, hesitate a moment, look both ways, make sure all cars have stopped, then step off the curb and walk smartly across to the other side without hesitation.

Useful Tip: Walk don’t run. Running will cause anxiety in your dog, and he may do something that is unpredictable as a result. Just walk in a smart deliberate way and your dog will do this also.

Stand In The Light - With modern innovations, and I daresay limitations, today standing in the light is a whole lot different than it used to be. With local authorities the world over looking for innovative ways to save on energy, and reduce light pollution etc, then the quality of light emitted by street lamps today is a different color and casts a different hue than our old technology. I do not know what the street lighting is like around your neighborhood, but around mine, it is not as bright as it used to be. Therefore it is more important than ever to think “Reflective” for both you and your dog.

Look And Listen - Don’t assume, look twice before you step off the curb, in both directions, and listen. Listen to the sound a stopped car is making, if it is revving up, then don’t continue forward, the driver may just be distracted. Turn around and go back to the curb and wait until you are sure.

That’s it, that’s the code as it was taught to me. But what about other considerations to night-time walking or low light conditions. Walking in the light might be the rule that I would apply here, and walking against oncoming traffic. Stay on a familiar route that is well lighted by street lighting, and be aware of shadows. Also be aware that “critters” come out at night that otherwise would not be about during the day. Your dog may get nervous when he hears that strange rustling in the bushes that is probably a night creature foraging for food. A good flashlight either one attached to a leash, or to a harness would be the best defense against this.

So, what are the best innovations for low light, or nighttime walking that will help you to conquer the dark and help you both to be safe.

• LED Luminous Collars 
  https://waggylife.com/collections/collars/products/led-luminous-dog-collar
• USB Rechargeable Collars with flashing sequences
  https://waggylife.com/collections/collars/products/luminous-usb-re-chargeable-led-pet-dog-collar
• Reflective Dog Harness and Leash 
  https://waggylife.com/collections/harness-and-attachments/products/no-pull-harness-for-dogs-heavy-duty-design-reflective-walking-harnesses-great-for-pet-training-and-control-and-daily-walking
• Retractable Leash and Flashlight combo.
  https://waggylife.com/collections/leashes/products/retractable-pet-dog-leash-led-light-clean-up-bag-for-small-medium-dogs

Walking at night should not be any more hazardous than walking at daytime, and should be enjoyable, fun, and fulfilling for the both of you, if you just follow some of the suggestions in this article.

Happy Walking!

A Guide To A Properly Fitting Dog Harness

Dog harnesses have come a long way over the years with to-day there being many choices for a pet parent to choose from. Collars can be a pain in the neck for a dog. 

The following questions keep coming up and this guide will help to navigate through the many choices to-day in dog harnes

 www.waggylife.com

Are they good for all breeds of dogs?

What about traveling in the car with my dog?

I love outdoor sports with my dog what then?

What about training my puppy?

When should I not choose a harness?

The right way to size?

Let’s dive into

What is a harness and how it works?

A dog harness fastens around your dog’s body, rather than around its neck like a traditional collar does. It has a leash loop near the shoulders thereby taking pressure off the neck of the dog. A good design can incorporate pressure points that help to redistribute the force of a pulling dog all over the body rather than concentrated on a single point like a collar does on the neck. Collars can choke a dog causing discomfort, or injury. A harness eliminates the possibility of choking and throat shearing for the dog.

There are lots and lots of harness styles — the best choice will depend on your dog’s size and the attributes of your dog.

Standard Harness: 

https://waggylife.com/collections/harness-and-attachments

Is the most common type of harness and it distributes the force of the leash against a dog’s chest and back, which works well for small and medium sized dogs. However, it’s not the best option for a large dogs that are strong and like to “walk you”, because it allows them to pull hard against the leash, which can cause chaffing on their skin.

No-Pull Harness:

https://waggylife.com/collections/harness-and-attachments

This harness will tighten slightly when a dog pulls — but the force is felt under the dog’s front “armpits” instead of their neck. This puts a little pressure on the dog, so pay attention to the fact that if they are hard pullers, then the leash may ”bite in” and cause some discomfort to the dog.

The right size and fit?

Use the “two finger rule” when sizing your dog for the correct fitting harness. Different styles have different fits. Place two fingers stacked one on top of the other on the dogs back close to their necks, your index and middle finger work best. Measure around your dog’s ribcage including the height of your two fingers, check the sizing chart of the harness you intend to purchase. Compare your dog’s chest measurement (chest plus two fingers) against the sizing choices. It’s important to get size right. Harnesses that are too tight can be painful, but dogs can wiggle out of a too-loose harness.

What dogs would benefit the most from a harness?

Vets will always recommend a harness over a collar for any breed of dog with pushed in faces like Pugs or English Bulldogs or French Bulldogs as the design of their nasal passages lead to labored breathing in these animals and a collar can put too much pressure on these dog’s throats thereby exasperating the problem. Also dogs with elongated overly slender delicate necks like Greyhounds, and Whippets slip out of a collar too easily, so a harness is always a better choice. Also, if you have a puppy, or a small breed like Toy breeds a collar can pull too forcibly on their walks, and with their tiny neck size, a dog harness may be the better option. A harness is also a great option for puppies in training, as it can communicate better signaling from you to the dog in a surer and deliberate action. Also any breed of dog like Pomeranian's that commonly can have throat problems, then a dog harness is a better choice.

Why choose a harness over the traditional collar and leash set-up?

If your dog breed is a bug eyed breed of dog or has a pushed-in-face then choose a harness. If you have a young puppy, a harness may be a better choice for controlling the puppy on walks or while training, giving you more control. All small breeds will benefit from a dog harness over a traditional collar. Any dog that suffers from throat problems or breathing issues and a collar might choke and exasperate the condition, would greatly benefit from a dog harness.

Are they good for all breeds of dogs?

No. Because harnesses are less restrictive and more comfortable than collars, dogs in harnesses are more likely to pull at their leashes. A dog that is rambunctious and typically pulls your arms out of your sockets while walking would not benefit greatly from the control a dog harness offers and so in this situation you might want to stick with a collar-and- leash.

What about traveling in the car with my dog?

A dog harness is recommended for travelling with your dog in the car. You need a seat belt extension to attach a leash to the seat belt of a car. A collar and leash will give too much travel to the dog, so in the case of a braking emergency stop, then the dog can go flying and can choke. A seat belt extension can connect directly to the dog harness, thereby giving the dog less travel and is a safer option in an

emergency stop delivering the force of the stop over the body of the dog, rather than on the throat and neck as would be the case with a collar and leash. Also with a harness it is safer for a dog to hang out the window of a moving car as they “love to do”

I love outdoor sports with my dog what then?

Dog Harnesses are designed with the sport enthusiast in mind. With a dog harness you can safely enjoy cycling with your best buddy trotting alongside you safely and securely. 
If you want to roller-blade and or skate, then a dog harness is made for both you and your dog. Running with your dog opens up a whole new fun, healthy and exhilarating experience for the both of you. All outdoor physical sport activity or pursuit where you want the ability to be able to secure your dog and attach it safely so you both can enjoy the activity, then a harness is the right choice.

What about training my puppy?

Puppies love to wiggle out of a collar don’t they? They are more amazing than Houdini, magically seeming to just slip out of that tight fitting collar……or so you thought, and you end up chasing them rather than enjoying teaching them. Collars are an uncomfortable feeling for the puppy around their necks, so it is a natural instinct for them to try to wiggle out of it. 

Because a dog harness goes around their bodies, then they cannot easily wiggle out of it. Training a puppy to walk on a leash can be much more deliberate and controlled with a harness.

When should I not choose a harness?

You still may need a collar to hang dog tags from if your local jurisdiction calls for it.

Harnesses may reduce issues of pulling in some dogs. But for other dogs, the opposite may be true, and certain harnesses also have the potential to increase a dog's desire to pull, as it will no longer find it uncomfortable to do so. If this is the case for your dog, consider using a front-clip harness or a no-pull harness, rather than one with a buckle on the back.

Conclusion:

You should have a harness for your dog. They are more comfortable for the dog. They are designed with many more features than a simple collar and leash. They offer you the ability to include your dog in outdoor sport pursuits. They allow for safer travel in the car, and are the only choice for some dog breeds.

Don't Forget To Visit With Us @ www.waggylife.com

Sign Up For Our Free Newsletter and receive a coupon for 10% off entire purchase.