Do Pitbulls Shed: A Complete Guide to Pitbull Shedding
Do pitbulls shed? Dogs shed their fur occasionally and Pit bulls are no exception. This might come as a shock…
The post Do Pitbulls Shed: A Complete Guide to Pitbull Shedding appeared first on The Pitbull Center.
2024 Dogster Photo Contest Winners
The post 2024 Dogster Photo Contest Winners by Dogster Team 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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Welcome to our Dogster’s Dog of the Week winners’ gallery, where the best of the pack take center stage! Every week, our community of dog enthusiasts submits their cutest, funniest, and most captivating photos, but only one lucky dog in each category can snag the highly sought-after title.
Whether it’s a fluffy furball basking in the sun, a cranky senior dog giving a side-eye to the camera, or an energetic pup caught in a hilarious moment of mischief, these winners have charmed our team with their personalities, cuteness, and irresistible doggy spirit.
Below, you’ll find a collection of unforgettable moments from our past champions. These pups didn’t just take home the prize—they absolutely owned their category! From majestic poses to playful action shots, each photo tells a uniquely canine story… and who knows? You might just find some inspiration for your own dog’s shot at glory!
How to Enter Your Dog
Does your dog have the personality, flair, and good looks to earn the prestigious title of Dogster’s Dog of the Week? Well, there’s only one way to find out—by entering them into our weekly contest! Submit your photo today and see if they can strut their stuff in to the spotlight!
Each week, our team reviews all submissions to select the top dog photos across the categories listed below, with the winner announced every Thursday
- Silliest
- Cutest
- Most Dignified
- Most Expressive
- Best Action Shot
- Sleepiest
Click here to submit your dog!
October
2024
November
2024
Week Ending November 15, 2024
Week Ending November 22, 2024
Week Ending November 29, 2024
Featured Image Credit: New Africa, Shutterstock
The post 2024 Dogster Photo Contest Winners by Dogster Team 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.
Dr Karyn’s 10 Commandments For Successful Puppy Parenting (Part 1)
The post Dr Karyn’s 10 Commandments For Successful Puppy Parenting (Part 1) by Dr. Karyn Kanowski, BVSc MRCVS (Vet) 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.
Hi, I’m Dr. Karyn! Read my introduction to learn more about me and my five funny dogs, Poppy, Bailey, Kodah, Ned, and Fred.
Bringing a new puppy into the home should be a happy and exciting time, but it’s also an important period of training and socialization. I believe that when it comes to raising puppies (and probably children, too), if you don’t feel mean some of the time, you’re probably doing it wrong. It’s easy to show your puppy love and affection; it’s not so easy to implement rules and discipline. But if you want to have a well-adjusted dog that you can take out with you or leave at home, and that won’t ruin your carpet, turn into a velociraptor when they need an ear clean, or try to bite anyone that gets in between them and their favorite toy or food, boundaries are essential.
I have created this list of dos and don’ts for raising puppies, based on my work with thousands of puppies and puppy owners, learning from behaviorists and dog trainers, as well as raising dogs of my own. This list is by no means exhaustive or foolproof, but it should give even the most inexperienced dog owners a good basis for early puppy training.
These commandments are intended for puppies. Although some will absolutely apply to any new dog, some will be more difficult or even dangerous to implement with an adult rescue dog.
I have marked these with an ‘✽’.
The First 5 Commandments for Successful Puppy Parenting:
1. Thou Shalt Not: Give in to crying
This is the number one mistake I see made time and time again.
Regardless of where you plan for your dog to sleep in the long term, unless you want to be imprisoned by a dog that cries every time you leave their sight, you cannot go running every time they make a sound during the night. I don’t care which school of thought you subscribe to when it comes to raising human babies, when it comes to puppies, they need to learn to be okay on their own. Unless, of course, you plan to stay by their side at ALL times for the next 15 years.
If you want to make sure your puppy is safe, point a baby monitor at their bed, but do not give in to their cries, no matter how tragic they sound. Once your pup has learned to settle on their own, they will realize that they are perfectly safe without having to be reassured by you. Crates (aka puppy bedrooms) are ideal for this.
If you weaken after an hour or two, all you will teach them is that perseverance will get them what they want. If you don’t teach them how to self-soothe when you are there, you can’t expect them to magically learn how to do it when you go out.
2. Thou Shalt Not: Leave the door open and call it toilet training
Telling me that your puppy never has an accident indoors because the door (or doggy door) is always open is not successful toilet training! You may have taught your puppy that the “outside room” is the preferred location for toileting, but:
- they haven’t learned to wait to be let out to go to the toilet, and
- there is no clear distinction between inside and outside.
What happens when that door is closed? That’s right, your dog has an accident inside, you’re annoyed, and they’re confused. When your puppy is older and you’re certain that they understand the difference between inside and outside, and that they need to wait to go outside to do their business, then you can start leaving doors open if that suits you, but not before.
3. Thou Shalt Not: Let puppies make the rules*
A phrase I hate hearing from owners is: “He/She doesn’t let me do that.”
Seriously? Who is the adult in this relationship?!
Whether your dog is large or small, you need to be the one in charge, and that starts when they are puppies. Here are things that you should be able to do with, to, or for your dog, so start practicing when they are puppies:
- open their mouth and check their teeth
- clean their ears using a cloth or tissue
- examine their paws and between their toes
- touch/feel them all over (keep it clean, please!)
9 times out of 10, when a puppy squeals in protest at any of these, it is a combination of surprise and “I don’t like it.” If it’s important, and provided you aren’t hurting them, it’s okay if they don’t like it! Once you’ve ignored their tantrums once or twice, and rewarded them once the task is complete, you’ll both realize that it’s not such a big deal after all.
4. Thou Shalt Not: Teach too many things at once
Dogs are very smart, but you can’t expect them to learn everything at once. Teach them commands in order of importance, then you can move on to fancy tricks, and don’t move on to the next command until they’ve mastered the current one. “Order of importance?” you ask? These are my recommendations:
- Recall — the most important command so you can call your puppy back and get their attention.
- Drop it/Leave it — if you’ve ever had to try to prise something out of a dog’s mouth, you will understand why this is number 2 on my list.
- Sit — the first thing most people teach, but not as important as the first two.
- Stay — this one will take time. Every time they move from their ‘stay’ spot, take them back and start again.
- Off — this means get off me or off whatever it is they are jumping on.
- Down — as in, lay down.
- Other tricks — paw, shake, roll-over, etc.
You can use whichever command words you like, just make sure they are clear and consistent.
5. Thou Shalt Not: Keep repeating yourself
Another of my pet hates is hearing this:
“Sit…sit…sit, sit, sit….. SIT! Good boy!”
I will tell you this once, and once only: If you have their attention, they heard you the first time. Don’t keep repeating yourself; you are just teaching your dog to sit after 6, 7, or 10 commands.
The key to success here? Start by saying the command when your puppy is doing the action naturally, so they learn to associate the word with the action. Every time they sit down, say ‘sit’ and give them a treat; it won’t be long before they put two and two together and start to sit every time you say the word.
Check back next week for part two!
- Read her previous article: Why Ned & Fred Have Ruined Me For Other Pets
The post Dr Karyn’s 10 Commandments For Successful Puppy Parenting (Part 1) by Dr. Karyn Kanowski, BVSc MRCVS (Vet) 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.
10 Common American Staffordshire Terrier Health Problems
Are you new to American Staffordshire Terriers or a lifelong fan of the breed? Then You need to know the…
The post 10 Common American Staffordshire Terrier Health Problems appeared first on The Pitbull Center.
Know Your Pet DNA by Ancestry Review 2024: Our Experience Building Ragz’ Family Tree
The post Know Your Pet DNA by Ancestry Review 2024: Our Experience Building Ragz’ Family Tree by Sara Seitz 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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We give Know Your Pet DNA by Ancestry a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars
If you’re looking for a better way to get to know your dog, the Know Your Pet DNA kit by Ancestry can help.
Like other pet DNA products on the market, this one can unlock the mystery of your dog’s breed makeup. This kit also offers unique insights into your dog’s physical and behavioral traits as well as important health markers. Unlike other products, this one can match your dog’s DNA to that of other dogs that share a familial relationship.
That’s right, with this DNA kit, you can start building your dog’s family tree!
I had a chance to try Know Your Pet DNA by Ancestry on my mystery mutt, Ragz. Below, I’ll share what I liked about this product, where I see room for improvement, and, most importantly, what insights it provided on my adopted furry family member.
Overview
| Product Type: | DNA test |
| Best Suited For: | Dogs with unknown lineages. |
| Price Range: | Great value compared to competitors. |
| Contents: | DNA test kit, return mailer, voucher for Dutch vet services. |
| Insights: | Breeds, traits, health, and DNA matches. |
| Registration: | Simple and straightforward. |
| Collection: | Easy, takes less than a minute. |
| Results: | One to four weeks. |
Our Experience
I have wanted to use a DNA test on my mixed-breed dog, Ragz, since we first adopted her over thirteen years ago. When I got the opportunity to try out Ancestry’s Know Your Pet DNA test, I jumped on it. Not only was I excited to see her breed results, but I was interested in this test’s health insights as well.
On top of the standard offerings, I was also very curious about the DNA matching Ancestry offers for pets. I have taken an Ancestry DNA test myself and always love digging into the DNA matches they send me each week. Since Ragz came to us from another state where she was found as a stray, I was hopeful this feature could shed some light on her past.
Registering the test kit was super easy. All I had to do was scan the QR code and enter Ragz’s details and we were ready to get started.
Administering the test was nearly as easy. The testing tools come in one compact package, with the swab attached to the vile. All I had to do was swab the inside of Ragz’s cheek, then unscrew the swab and flip it around and screw it back into the vile.
After that, I popped it into the included prepaid mailer and put it in the mailbox. The actual mailing of the package took longer than any other step. But, after about a week, it arrived at the lab and just six days later, I received results.
I was updated each step of the way via email.
We adopted Ragz from a Dalmatian rescue when she was about a year old. Since then, I have been adamant that she is, in fact, a Dalmatian mix and not a Heeler mix as her spots might indicate. So you can imagine how relieved I was when I looked at the results and found Dalmatian listed among her breeds.
That part was expected. What came as a bit of a surprise was that she was mostly Labrador and had both Boxer and Cocker Spaniel in her.
Although, in hindsight, these make a lot of sense. She has a lot of Boxer personality traits and the Cocker explains her smaller stature.
Finding out her breeds was a lot of fun, but the more important insights this test provides are the health metrics. Luckily, Ragz only had one red-flag health marker and she is just a carrier for the gene and won’t be affected by it. I can see this aspect of the test being very useful for both breeders and owners of new puppies so they can take preventative measures if necessary.
Another great feature of this test that would be helpful for puppy owners is the traits aspect. The test covers dozens of physical and behavioral DNA-based traits. For the most part, these seemed accurate for Ragz. Although there were a few that didn’t quite match her personality, but this may just be the effects of nurture versus nature.
Of course, what most sets this test apart is the inclusion of DNA matches. I didn’t expect to see many matches simply because this is a newer offering and I didn’t think there would be much data to draw from. But already, Ragz has 197 matches, almost all of which come from the Labrador side of her family tree.
Overall, given how easy this test was to administer, how quickly I got the results, and how well-priced this test is for all you get, I would highly recommend it to any dog owner looking at pet DNA kits.
Pros & Cons
- Easy to use
- Fast results
- Covers multiple insights
- Easy to navigate dashboard
- Well-priced
- Includes DNA matches
- Some traits aren’t well explained
Key Features
Get Insights in Four Different Areas
Most pet DNA tests include insights into your dog’s breed makeup. In addition to that, this one also gives you trait insights so you can get a better understanding of the DNA that makes up your dog’s physical appearance as well as their behavioral tendencies.
This kit also provides health insights on over 200 health markers. You’ll find out if your dog carries any genes known to cause disease and whether they are likely to suffer from that disease or simply pass the genes on. This gives you valuable insights that you can use to start preventative measures or at least know what symptoms to look for.
Lastly, this test uses your dog’s DNA to find closely related dogs in their testing system. As with human DNA tests, this can help you build your dog’s family tree and may even find some closely related cousins and siblings.
Easy to Use
Getting all these insights is as simple as swabbing your dog’s cheek and dropping the return package in the mail. It took me less than five minutes to register my pup and get her DNA sample. The kit comes with clear instructions on how to collect the sample and even has links to video tutorials to ensure you do it right.
Fast Results
I received my dog’s DNA results thirteen days after I put the sample in the mail. And most of this time was spent on shipping, not analysis. Once the lab received the sample, I got my results in just six short days.
According to the website, it takes, on average, two to four weeks for DNA to be processed.
Easy to Navigate Dashboard
Ancestry makes it easy to review your dog’s results with their intuitive dashboard. You’ll see their breed results front-and-center with quick links to their traits, health information, and DNA matches. You can even quickly share your DNA results with your social media platforms from this fun and colorful dashboard.
About Ancestry
| Known for: | Human DNA kits that include extensive DNA matching across the globe. |
| Processing: | Ancestry utilizes third-party laboratories in the USA to process their samples. |
| Pet DNA Kit Options: | Breed, trait, and DNA matches with or without health insights. |
| Shipping: | You can expect your kit to arrive within 10 days of placing your order. |
| DNA Services: | At this time, ancestry offers DNA kits for humans and dogs. |
Is Know Your Pet DNA by Ancestry a Good Value?
Ancestry offers two pet DNA kits, one that includes health insights on top of breeds, traits, and DNA matches, and one that does not. The kit without health is priced about even with competitors offering the same insights. The kit that includes health costs less, on average, than similar offerings, making this kit an especially good value.
How We Tested
I received the kit, followed the instructions to collect the sample (a cheek swab), and mailed it to the lab.
I also tested the user dashboard Ancestry offers by thoroughly exploring all of the features.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take to get results?
According to the website, it can take two to four weeks to get results once the lab receives them. It took only six days for my results to be processed.
How many breeds are tested against?
Ancestry uses the DNA knowledge of hundreds of different dog breeds around the world to identify breed traits in your dog’s DNA.
How many health markers does the test look at?
The Know Your Pet DNA kit looks at over 200 health markers.
Are the results ever updated?
Yes, you will receive notifications as new health and trait markers are identified. You will also receive continuous updates as new DNA matches are identified.
Conclusion
If you’re curious about your dog’s DNA makeup, I highly recommend checking out the Know Your Pet DNA Kit by Ancestry.
This kit not only offers insight into your dog’s breed makeup and traits but also important health insights on over 200 health markers. Uniquely, this kit also links your pet to individual dogs who share their DNA, helping you to build your pup’s family tree.
Know Your Pet DNA by Ancestry is an easy-to-use and affordable option for dog owners who want to get to know their dog inside and out.
The post Know Your Pet DNA by Ancestry Review 2024: Our Experience Building Ragz’ Family Tree by Sara Seitz 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.
ShelterLogic Dog Shade Canopy Review 2024: Keeping Lorelei Cool in the California Heat
The post ShelterLogic Dog Shade Canopy Review 2024: Keeping Lorelei Cool in the California Heat by Lisa Lee 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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We give the ShelterLogic Blue Dog Shade Canopy a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars.
I live in Southern California, and during the summer months… it gets hot. Actually, it tends to be pretty toasty throughout the year. My entire front and back yard are artificial grass because my pup prefers grass for her bathroom romps, and with water being such an expensive commodity, artificial was the way to go. Unfortunately, this grass tends to warm up quite a bit, and I worry about my dog’s paws.
ShelterLogic developed a portable solution for this common problem: a doggy canopy! I had seen this around but never tried it out until now, and here is how it fared as a solution to my dilemma.
About ShelterLogic
Founded in 1991, ShelterLogic is a brand that focuses on providing shelters for anything you need! From protecting your car and tools from the elements to shelters for farm animals and greenhouse plants, ShelterLogic has aimed to create affordable, efficient, and durable products. Throughout the company’s success, ShelterLogic has become a go-to option for anyone enjoying the outdoors. As of late, ShelterLogic has expanded to creating canopies and shady areas for dogs and other household pets!
ShelterLogic not only creates shelter for your beloved pets, but the company is also very big on social responsibility and philanthropy. ShelterLogic donates to local shelters and often raises money for causes they strongly believe in.
Dog Shade Canopy Overview
Here is an overview of the Blue Dog Shade and why it is one of the best options for a shady retreat for your pup.
Sizes Available
The ShelterLogic Blue Dog Shade Canopy is currently available in three different sizes:
- 2-foot width x 2.5-foot height x 2.5-foot length (this size is good for small breed dogs)
- 4-foot width x 4-foot height x 5-foot length (this size is excellent for medium to large-size dogs)
- 4-foot width x 3-foot height x 4-foot length (this size is suitable for medium-sized dogs).
The shelter only comes in the flattering royal blue color.
Pricing and Shipping
Price is based upon the size selected:
- 2ft x 2.5ft x 2.5ft = $55.99
- 4ft x 4ft x 5ft = $79.99
- 4ft x 3ft x 4ft = $59.99
ShelterLogic does accept the Affirm service, so you can break the price down into monthly payments if wanted. Shipping is free!
Build, Materials, and Design
Each Blue Dog Shade Canopy size comes with the same items within the box: The frame, the cover, and a bag of auger anchors.
The frame is made of strong steel, with a 1-inch/2.5-centimeter diameter, and coated with a premium powder finish.
The cover is made of Polyester 600 Denier, which is fire-resistant, water-resistant, and has a UV-ray protective coating. Velcro lining is what secures the cover to the frame.
The anchors are 15-inch auger anchors made of steel.
The ShelterLogic Blue Dog Shade Canopy is outfitted with nylon foot plates that help keep the shelter securely in place without damaging anything! You can place this canopy on a deck and patio and be fine; there will be no issues with your wood.
Durability
This is one of the most durable shelters due to the premium materials and thoughtfulness that went into designing the ShelterLogic Blue Dog Shade Canopy!
To start, the powder coating on the steel frame is resistant to chipping, peeling, rust, and corrosion—all of which tend to be problems with outdoor furniture since the canopy will be consistently exposed to the elements.
The blue cover is coated to resist UVB and UVA rays, so you won’t have any color bleaching or fading due to the sun. The Polyester 600 Denier material is resistant to fire and water, making the shelter unable to burn and fine in rain storms. The cover also can’t be ripped.
The anchors are made of durable steel, so nothing will happen to them either!
Ease Of Construction and Use
The ShelterLogic Blue Dog Shade Canopy is designed to be very simple to build. The design is simply a frame, a canopy tarp, and some anchors.
The instructions are clear and assist with putting the frame together. Then, you pull the cover over and secure it with the velcro. Anchors can then be added to keep the frame from moving around. No screws are required except when doing the feet, everything else is like putting a Lego together – super simple.
Warranty
The ShelterLogic Blue Dog Shade Canopy comes with a one-year warranty. Considering that the canopy is intended for everyday use (as a permanent fixture in your yard), I feel like the company confidently stands by its product.
You can submit a warranty claim directly on the ShelterLogic website by completing the warranty form.
In Summary
- Three different sizes
- Fire-resistant, water-resistant
- UVB, & UVA ray-resistant
- Rust, corrosion, chipping, peeling resistant frame
- Nylon foot plates
- Anchors included
- Easy assembly
- Affordable
- One-year warranty
- Velcro can detach with wind
Key Features
Easy Construction
I’m not a handy person, but I was able to put this together. It’s much simpler than Ikea furniture!
Durability
Being water-proof, fire-proof, UV-ray resistant, unable to corrode and rust, and coated to prevent chipping and peeling, I would say that this is probably one of the most durable canopies for your pet out there.
Nylon Foot Plates WIth Steel Anchors
The nylon foot plates allow you to use the ShelterLogic Blue Dog Shade Canopy on decks and patios without worrying about destroying the wood. The steel anchors help secure the canopy when placed on dirt, ground, sand, or grass.
Keeps Your Pets Cool And Safe From The Elements
Using a canopy for your dogs is beneficial in many ways: your pup can have a nice shady spot to rest outside, escape from the rain, and keep the ground cool if you need a safe potty area in hot climates.
Is the ShelterLogic Blue Dog Shade Canopy a Good Value?
I will be honest with you, my jaw dropped to the floor when I saw the price of the ShelterLogic Blue Dog Shade Canopy. Ranging in price from only $55.99 to $79.99, this is the most affordable high-quality canopy I have ever personally seen. Considering the build materials and durability of the ShelterLogic Blue Dog Shade Canopy, I honestly cannot believe that is all it costs.
You can go to a different store and buy your pup a $25 tent or canopy, but I can promise that it will get destroyed quickly when left outside daily. You’ll be running to buy another one a quickly as you bought the first one. The ShelterLogic Blue Dog Shade Canopy is intended for long-term use and will withstand much abuse. A one-time fee of $55.99 (with free shipping even!) on something that I can leave in my yard endlessly is an incredible value, not just a good one.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the ShelterLogic Blue Dog Shade Canopy only intended for dogs?
Although dogs tend to be significant users of shades like this, the canopy is not only for pups. Rabbits, cats, and other household pets can also benefit.
Is the ShelterLogic Blue Dog Shade Canopy portable and easy to transport? Can I use it on road trips?
Yes! This canopy is easy to disassemble and is small enough to be portable for beach trips, camping trips, and other adventures.
Can you get a replacement part if you lose a part or something happens?
ShelterLogic offers replacement parts for any component that may be missing or damaged—just call the company at 1-800-932-9344 for assistance.
Our Experience With the ShelterLogic Blue Dog Shade Canopy
As I mentioned in my intro, my dog Lorelei and I are residents of Southern California, where temperatures hit the hundreds in the summer. Unlike other states, our temperatures don’t go down most of the year, so it’s toasty like… 9 months out of the year. My entire front and back yards are artificial grass, which heats up quite a bit. I was very excited to get the ShelterLogic Blue Dog Shade Canopy as a way to have a nice, cool, shady spot for my dog. I opted for the 4-foot width x 3-foot height x 4-foot length size as that would be perfect for my pup.
Assembly is required, but I found it pretty simple, even as someone who is not savvy about building things. The instructions are clear, and all parts are well-marked – I wasn’t confused about what is what. Admittedly I am a bit traumatized from Ikea furniture and expect everything to be like that, and this certainly was not – it was so easy! I did find that pulling the canopy over was a bit more difficult for me. I am not a very strong person, and that is very taut and tight. But, it was well worth the endeavor, and I can always ask for my spouse’s help if need be.
Even in the bright, beating sun, the area underneath the canopy remained very pleasant! I kept moving it around between days when I didn’t have time to sit in the yard with my dog because of work (in which case, the shade was just to keep a potty area at a walkable temperature) and as a resting spot when we had time to spend outside. This size provided 8 square feet of shade coverage for my dog.
There was an unusual day in which the wind kicked up full force, and I wondered what would happen to my canopy! The anchors held it in place strong, so the frame itself didn’t move anywhere. A few velcro spots started coming a bit undone with strong gusts, but not enough to pull the actual canopy fabric off – it was a quick fix. I felt like the ShelterLogic Blue Dog Shade Canopy is really durable and sturdy, and I don’t think it would ever fall on my pup (I have complete confidence)!
Lorelei enjoys it, and as long as she spends time underneath there, it’s a 10/10 in my book!
Conclusion
In finality, I should have gotten the ShelterLogic Blue Dog Shade Canopy a lot sooner than I did – it has really fixed many issues with living in such a sun-beating hot environment! My dog has a cool spot to do her business, and I don’t have to worry about her paws as much.
The fact that the canopy can be so easily moved is also fantastic, both for when I clean the area and when I need the canopy to just be a chill, shady spot for her to get some fresh air and relax!
The post ShelterLogic Dog Shade Canopy Review 2024: Keeping Lorelei Cool in the California Heat by Lisa Lee 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.
Dogster Photo Contest: Dogs of the Week Winners (November 8, 2024)
The post Dogster Photo Contest: Dogs of the Week Winners (November 8, 2024) by Dogster Team 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 Week’s Winner
| Name: | Noel Rascal |
| Breed: | Maltese/Chihuahua mix |
| Fun Fact: | Noel came from a rescue at 12 weeks old. He was named Noel because he was adopted during Christmas. After a couple months, he was given a middle name “Rascal” which suits his personality. He is the foster advocate at his home because he helps the fosters dogs to come out of their shells and feel comfortable. He not only steals treats, but he will also steals your heart in a blink. |
Cutest
| Name: | Lucy |
| Breed: | Dutch Shepherd |
| Fun Fact: | Lucy just celebrated her first birthday! |
Most Expressive
| Name: | Mel Lo |
| Breed: | German Shepherd/Shar Pei |
| Fun Fact: | Mel Lo comes by his name naturally. He is so agreeable with other dogs and humans, especially little children. Mel is German and Lo is Chinese; thus his pedigree. But his expression always gets an “Awww, You’re so cute.” |
Sleepiest
| Name: | Packer |
| Breed: | Chihuahua mix |
| Fun Fact: | Packer is pretty sure he is human, so he changes his shirt/outfit daily. He loves the camera! His favorite thing to do is snuggle. He does not play fetch. He does not bark, I have heard him ruff tho. I love seeing him sleep and take pics whenever I see him sleeping, he’s a light sleeper so it’s hard to get. I find myself just staring at him sleep thinking “how did I get such a handsome little man? Im the luckiest mama on earth  ” |
Silliest
| Name: | Hazel |
| Breed: | Mini Goldendoodle |
Best Action Shot
| Name: | Homer |
| Breed: | Basset Hound |
| Fun Fact: | Homer is a multi titled AKC AND UKC dog. He is 3, and this is a shot of him running down the DASH Course at the UKC Premier National. In AKC’s FastCAT – He is the highest ranked Champion Dog in the country with top speed 9f nearly 16 mph. |
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The post Dogster Photo Contest: Dogs of the Week Winners (November 8, 2024) by Dogster Team 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 Kind of Dog Is Bluey? Breed Facts & Info
The post What Kind of Dog Is Bluey? Breed Facts & Info by Jessica Kim 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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Bluey is an Australian family-friendly animated program that premiered in 2018. It features an anthropomorphic dog named Bluey and her family and friends. Bluey quickly rose in popularity and is now a dog who’s beloved by children all around the world.
Bluey was inspired by the real-life dog breed, the Australian Cattle Dog, also known as a Blue Heeler. More people have become more aware and curious about them because of Bluey. Here’s everything you need to know about this beloved Australian dog breed.
Bluey Is an Australian Cattle Dog
It’s no surprise that Bluey was inspired by the beloved local breed, the Australian Cattle Dog. Australian Cattle Dogs were originally bred to herd cattle on large Australian ranches. They helped to grow and strengthen the country’s beef industry and are still used today to herd livestock.
Australian Cattle Dogs got their “Heeler” nickname because their herding technique involves nipping at the feet of their cattle. The most common type of Australian Cattle Dog is the Blue Heeler. However, you can also find Red Heelers. Blue Heelers have blue base coats and can have mottled or speckled patterns, while Red Heelers have red speckled or mottled coats. Other than coat color, there are no distinguishable features between the two types of Australian Cattle Dogs.
Australian Cattle Dog Temperament
As Australian Cattle Dogs were bred to herd livestock, it’s no surprise that they’re hardy dogs with incredible stamina. Like the cartoon Bluey, real Australian Cattle Dogs are energetic and inquisitive dogs. They’re extremely intelligent and are even known to outsmart their handlers.
Australian Cattle Dogs are also known for their loyalty, and they’re devoted to their families. They usually form a strong bond with one or two people and become “Velcro” dogs that never seem to leave their owner’s side. They’re not known to be aggressive, but they can be wary or aloof with strangers. However, they tend to warm up quickly to new people if they see that they’re friendly with their family.
While Australian Cattle Dogs are relatively easy to train, they’re not recommended for first-time dog owners. These energetic dogs were bred to chase and herd livestock all day, so they need daily exercise that involves long walks and running around. Not getting enough exercise and mental stimulation will cause boredom, and they often resort to engaging in destructive behaviors if they have pent-up energy.
Australian Cattle Dogs love to learn, and they often excel at obedience training. They also make excellent competitors in dog sports and are often seen in agility courses, dock diving, and herding competitions. Because they require space to run, they’re not recommended for city life and apartment living. They do best in single-family homes with a secured, fenced yard or in rural homes with plenty of space for them to run around.
Does Bluey Act Like an Australian Cattle Dog?
Bluey’s personality does stay true to some core Australian Cattle Dog traits. She’s an energetic and upbeat dog who loves to go on adventures. She’s also very curious and enjoys learning.
Real Australian Cattle Dogs also possess these traits, which is why they’re commonly known as some of the best companions for outdoor travel. They’ll love exploring, hiking, and even riding on canoes and kayaks. Similar to Bluey, most pet Australian Cattle Dogs would love to go on adventures and explore all that Australia has to offer with their favorite people.
The only significant difference between Bluey’s personality and the Australian Cattle Dog’s temperament is Bluey’s sociability. Bluey has many friends and goes on adventures with them regularly. Australian Cattle Dogs tend to be more reserved and aren’t social butterflies. They may get along with another dog sibling, but they typically don’t go to dog parks to socialize with other dogs.
Conclusion
Bluey is an excellent representation of the Australian Cattle Dog. Both Bluey and Australian Cattle Dogs are brave and energetic, and they’re always up for going on a new adventure. We love that Australian Cattle Dogs have become more well-known and recognized around the world. They certainly deserve all the love and attention they’ve been receiving!
Featured Image Credit: Property of Bluey Wiki. All rights reserved to the copyright owners.
The post What Kind of Dog Is Bluey? Breed Facts & Info by Jessica Kim 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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Meet Rosa & Machado, Our Adorably Cheeky Rescue Pups
The post Meet Rosa & Machado, Our Adorably Cheeky Rescue Pups by Nicole Cosgrove 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.
Welcome to the Wednesday Dogs of Dogster! Every Wednesday, we share a story from one of our Dogsters. This week is about Nicole and her two rescue dogs, Mac and Rosa.
Meet Rosa and Machado. I have so many stories to tell about these extraordinary pups, but as they are rescue dogs, I feel like I need to share how they came to be Cosgroves. They live a rural life, break all of the house rules (like no dogs inside and no dogs on the bed), and change them to suit themselves with their cheeky smiles and unconditional love.
I’ll be sharing stories about our lives together each month, the good, the challenging, and the hilarious. But this month, I’ll begin with how our little hooligans found their way home.
Rosa’s Journey Home
Rosa came into our lives as a COVID baby. We had been on an 18-month nomadic adventure and were set to continue traveling for the foreseeable future. We were home in New Zealand for some weddings when the pandemic and lockdown hit, so we did what any normal traveler would do: we bought 25 acres of land with native New Zealand forest on it and started building an eco-retreat so we could host other travelers once the borders opened.
We already had our cat, Baby Cat, who had been living with family while we traveled. Since we were stuck in New Zealand, we realized COVID was a blessing and a chance for us to provide him with the retirement property he deserved—but we thought we’d spice up his life a bit by getting him a dog. Retirement is not all about staying in your comfort zone, of course!
Scrolling through the Facebook feed of our region’s main animal rescue daily, we saw plenty of adorable dogs, but it wasn’t until about two weeks of searching later that ‘Rose’ appeared, and I remember yelling to my husband ‘She’s here! That’s our girl!’
When he saw the photo, he agreed profusely, and we madly rushed to apply for her, praying we weren’t too late. We drove over an hour to pick her up (and quickly learned that car rides were not her favorite).
If you are lucky enough to have a rescue animal in your life, you’ll know that knowing their origin story is important in understanding the animal, but it does not define them.
Rosa’s Origin Story
Rosa’s origin story may have some triggers, so please proceed through the next paragraph with caution:
Rosa was kept in a small box for the first 8 1/2 months of her life and was forced to have puppies on her first heat. When she was rescued, the woman who saved her was at a property investigating it as a potential puppy mill and was there to confiscate some other dogs when she heard some noise coming from the box. Inside, she found Rosa chained to her two puppies, who were about 2 1/2 months old. Thankfully, she got them away and the three of them went to live with an incredible couple who were fostering 15 dogs at the time we picked her up. We never met the lady who physically rescued Rosa, but her foster parents told us the story. The foster parents are dairy farmers who work with specific breeds of rescued dogs to train them to be working dogs, but with Rosa, they immediately knew she was a house dog. Rosa was in foster care for 3 months because she was so traumatized, and sadly, her son went feral and had to be put down because he was too dangerous to adopt out. Her daughter went to a lovely family, but all of this further traumatized Rosa. In addition to the emotional stress, Rosa is blind in her left eye due to physical trauma. We don’t know what happened exactly, but we do know that she is the most brave, trusting, and incredible dog we’ve ever met.
Rosa got her name not just because she was previously named Rose, but because we had cared for a dog in Ecuador on our travels who was named Rosa, and she was the most kind-natured, motherly dog we’d ever met. When we met Rose, we were instantly reminded of Rosa and felt that the single letter change in honor of Rosa was perfect—her foster family shared that she was the kindest-natured dog they had met, even with all of her past. This was one of the main contributing factors to her being labeled a ‘house dog.’ Her nature continued from the moment we met her and has only blossomed.
It’s the strangest feeling, loathing the person who could treat any animal that way, especially the sweetheart she is, but also knowing that if it weren’t for that situation, we wouldn’t have our baby girl. There isn’t a word for the feeling because it certainly isn’t gratitude, but it’s something that makes me honored to be her mama. I don’t know if any other readers or parents of rescues know what I’m talking about, but if you do, I’d love to hear from you in the comments below.
Rosa didn’t know how to play, cuddle, or really be a dog when she arrived. She got a lot of ‘spooks’ as we call them. We do our best to make light of things and not let her spooks define her. We practice exposure therapy and shower her with all our love. In the early days, she learned a lot from Baby Cat (things like how to play the ‘I-want-outside-no-I-want-inside’ game, groaning in embarrassment at us, snoozing by the fire, and asking for food at all hours of the day). But, she was a Mama. The maternal instinct in her was strong and between nervous outbreaks, the girl was (and still is) always looking to care for someone.
She understandably has anxiety and showed signs of doggie depression when she first joined our family. She has come an incredibly long way. I’d like to say it was all that my husband and I have done for her, but I would be lying if I didn’t introduce the main contributing factor to her healing now…
How Machado Joined Our Family
We never anticipated being a two-dog household until after we had Rosa for about six months. We had been trying for a human baby well before Rosa arrived, as the plan had been that Baby Cat needed an animal mate (Rosa) so he wouldn’t be too upset about a human baby. But, as our human baby took longer to arrive, we learned that Rosa was actually the one who would need a mate once a baby arrived. She loved her cat, but he wasn’t really playful or engaging. We talked about getting our dog a dog, but no dogs really caught our attention.
About three weeks after we found out I was pregnant, he appeared on our district council pound’s Facebook page, and again, I immediately yelled to my husband ‘He’s here! This is our boy!’
The friendly giant was delivered to us by a wonderful woman from animal control who had been there for processing when he was brought in. She shared what little they knew about him.
Mac’s Origin Story
His origin story is full of gaps. We know that he was found wandering through a farmer’s field, looking very skinny. Up where we live, it’s sadly not unlikely for a farmer to shoot a feral dog because it could injure or kill their livestock. The farmer who spotted Mac, however, noticed something gentle in his demeanor and felt he was a lost pet. He turned him into the council pound, and they advertised him as a lost dog. After 9 days, if nobody is able to show proof of ownership, legally they must put the dog up for adoption. We saw him on day 10 and he was ours. We assume he was abandoned, another sad reality of rural life. Many people get dogs as puppies, and when they grow up and become too difficult to feed or control, they ditch them on the side of the road.
We call Machado (named after Rob Machado) our ‘drag to trash, surfer dude’. He’s so chill and ready for adventure, like a surfer dude (my husband is also a surfer, so they are kindred spirits), and it’s like he has truly forgotten whatever happened to him. He showed up at our door and left his past behind him, never to look back. It took him no time to become accustomed to life with us, and he immediately took his spot at the bottom of the chain, listening to his sister Rosa, and mostly, King Baby Cat.
The craziest part of Mac’s arrival is that the woman who dropped him off took one look at Rosa and started welling up. “I know her! I know her!” she said.
She immediately grabbed her phone and started scrolling back through her album. Much to my disbelief, she showed me a photo of Rosa as an 8 ½-month-old puppy next to her son and daughter. She was the woman who physically saved Rosa and transferred her to the animal rescue foundation because she needed fostering (and the pound doesn’t do that, they work with external organizations for this). She didn’t know what happened to Rosa until that moment, and she was speechless, seeing how far she had come, and how happy her life was now.
We got our cat a dog, and we got our cat’s dog a dog. The fur baby family was complete, and all we had to do was wait for our human baby to arrive.
The Dogs Today
Without knowing Rosa’s history, one would meet her and simply assume she was quirky, and we love that. She has the most fascinating brain and is hilarious. She has no spatial awareness (thanks to being blind in one eye) and cannot howl (only barks). Mac sings along to every song and has a beautiful voice. Rosa tries to join in, and then it just becomes chaos.
But Rosa’s anxiety is nearly gone (when it rains and she’s inside, or when it thunders, she does still get pretty nervous, but we think that’s pretty good). Mac has been the best therapy dog ever for her, without him even knowing it. He is a proper little brother. He pushes her buttons and drives her crazy and then gives her a goofy, loving look and she runs to him and kisses him all over. Their love is the sweetest thing to witness.
Both dogs love our daughter: Mac (who has thoroughly earned his nickname MacCuddles) is finally letting her cuddle him (he was a bit spooked of her when she was too little), and Rosa is very protective of her, but not so cuddly with her—she takes her job of big sister/mother dog seriously around her.
The two are mostly inseparable, but Rosa recently had to spend some days at daycare without Mac (he had emergency abdominal surgery after swallowing a macadamia nut whole, a story for another time), and she did incredibly well. Watching their relationship blossom has been an absolute treasure, and seeing both of them embrace their cheekiness in our home makes us feel like proud (and sometimes frustrated) parents every day.
I am so excited to be able to share their journey with you and let you in on some of the fun and real elements of pet parenthood, and hopefully connect with readers who have similar experiences. If you are thinking about adopting a dog, I could not recommend it more.
The post Meet Rosa & Machado, Our Adorably Cheeky Rescue Pups by Nicole Cosgrove 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.