Are you planning to add a furry member to your family this holiday season? You're not alone. Although the downsides are often touted, a well thought out addition is fine. The reality is that many families choose this time of year in order to use the extra time off to begin house training and bonding with their new family member. Today I'd like to offer a few tips from the Whole Dog Journal, along with my own enhancements to their ideas, sure to aid in helping you raise a fear-free pup.

Although ideally you'd want your new little buddy to have these experiences prior to entering your home, adding these enhancements to your holiday playtime will most certainly be good for his growth and potential to be a wonderful family member:

1. Give your pup a chance to experience walking on 7 types of surfaces: carpet, concrete, wood, vinyl, grass, dirt, gravel, and wood chips. Each different texture will have its own lessons, most importantly that different footing is needed and nothing should be feared by a variety of textures under the pads of the feet.
2. Offer 7 different types of play objects for a variety of stimulation: big balls, small balls, soft fabric toys, fuzzy toys, squeaky toys, paper or cardboard (toilet paper/paper towel centers are perfect), metal items (without sharp edges and sticks or pieces of hose. Remember that all playtime with toys should be supervised to assure your puppy's safety.


3. Include 7 different locations in your puppy's experiences: front yard, back yard, basement, kitchen, car, garage, laundry room and bathroom. You'll want your little one to know all of these places are safe and fun, so make sure to offer pleasant experiences in each.
4. Introduce your pup to at least 7 different types of new people: babies, children, seniors, people with canes, walkers, or wheelchairs, people in uniforms, people wearing hats, and men with beards.
5. Provide 7 different challenges for your pup to work his problem-solving skills: climb around inside a box, climb off the top of a box, go through a tunnel, climb up steps, climb down steps, climb over obstacles, play hide an seek, go in and out of a doorway with a step up or down, run around a fence. Surely you'll be able to find even more challenges like these. Each will teach your new friend lots of ways to solve new problems.
6. Offer meals in a variety of different containers: metal, plastic, china, cardboard, paper, pie plate and a frying pan. Don't forget to also use food-dispensing balls for a slower way to serve a meal, while your dog learns to push the ball around the house to retrieve his dinner.
7. In addition to these ways to eat, your pup should learn that eating in a variety of locations is also a good thing: crate, yard, kitchen, basement, laundry room, living room, bathroom and even an RV. The lesson is clear; wherever you offer food to your pup, it's still yummy!
8. Exposure to many different types of noises will help your pup learn that sound is not a scary thing. Include as much variety as possible, focusing on things like banging pots, thunder, loud music, traffic, sirens, vacuums, landscaping equipment, fireworks, dog parks, and crowds

It is no fun when your dog is not feeling well. However there are many natural remedies to make him feel better fast. Here are some common ailments and a few tips for treating them the natural way:

Fleas – Fleas are the bane of any dog owner’s existence, but there are natural ways to fight them. One thing you should do is regularly bathe your dog. Comb them with a flea comb to remove current infestations and vacuum any areas that the fleas may be living. You can give your dogs a garlic supplement to ward off fleas and also treat their skin and fur with a mixture of essential oils like tea tree and lemon grass. Proceed slowly to watch for your dog’s reaction to any new remedies. You can also use orange oil or vegetable soap to repel fleas.

 

 Treat affected sleeping areas and carpets with diatomaceous earth, but do not use on your dogs unless a food grade version is obtained. You may find this at your local pet specialty store or in some health food shops.

Gas – There are many reasons that your dog is gassy. Most of the time it is due to diet. To prevent gas avoid feeding the dog leftovers. Feed only dog food or suitable alternatives. Do not switch the food brands or flavors quickly. Instead introduce new brands a little at a time. If your dog eats too fast consider breaking up the food and placing it in a wide, shallow bowl to encourage slower eating. Do not let your dog run and jump right after eating. Instead encourage a resting period and then a slow walk to promote good digestion.

Itchy skin – There are many causes for itchy skin, but dogs frequently itch until they bleed, making the problem worse. To alleviate itching naturally try to wash the dog with a diluted mixture of apple cider vinegar. Some other baths include chamomile tea, green tea, or a baking soda solution can also help with itching. If you have recently changed dog shampoos you may want to go back to the old brand or try a natural alternative. Supplements like fish oil can also help problem skin and make fur shiny and healthy.


Patchy fur – Most issues with patchy fur are due to itching or skin allergies. If you have done your best to remove any allergens and the fur is still not growing back, try this simple treatment. Everyday wash your dog with an apple cider vinegar solution. You can even supplement this with an occasional spray throughout the day. After a few days the skin should not be red and fur should be growing back. The vinegar helps to kill bacteria on the skin and restore natural PH, reducing the urge to itch.

Ear Mites – If your dog is itching at his ears or seems to have black growth in his ears, it might be ear mites. The first thing you should do is rub a few drops of vegetable oil in the ear. After a minute clean out the existing black with a cotton ball. Then treat the mites with a solution of 9 drops of yellow dock root and 1 teaspoon of water. Massage it in once every three days for six weeks. Or you can mix one half ounce of almond oil with 400 IUs of Vitamin E. Apply half an eyedropper full every day for six days and massage in. Stop for three days and then repeat to kill the mites.

These are just a few of the natural ways you can help your dog to feel better fast. There are many resources to help you in your quest to make your dog well naturally, so take a look around dog-bestfriends.blogspot.com and find out what works.

If you’re the active type who likes to take your dogs on journeys, then an investment in a bike trailer might be exactly what you’re looking for. With a good one, you’ll be able to take your dog with you whenever you cycle, allowing your pup a free ride at your expense and making sure you never have to leave them home again.

Why a pet bicycle trailer? Because taking your dog with you while cycling is a great way for the two of you to bond and it’ll be immensely enjoyable for both of you.

As long as you keep all of these in mind, you’re going to be able to take your canine companion for a relaxing ride with relative ease of mind for the both of you. You might just find that it’s your new favorite activity, combining your love for your pet and cycling can be absolutely fantastic.

Individual Reviews of the Best Dog Bicycle Trailers

1. InStep Sync Single Bicycle Trailer

This is probably one of the best dog trailers you’ll be able to find anywhere, and the price reflects it. If you love to spoil your animals, though, then let them be spoiled with a ride in this dog trailer.

The main thing you’re left with here, apart from a well-designed hitch that’ll allow you to move quickly and efficiently while minimizing the reduction in your turning capacity, is options.

This pet bike trailer is enclosed in mesh, and you can open and close the various windows to allow your dog to breathe and look around or keep the world safely hidden away from view if they get skittish while you’re on the go. It has a loop for a leash inside, and cargo pockets on the rear as well, making it convenient for both you and your pet.

2. Solvit HoundAbout Pet Bicycle Trailer

The Solvit HoundAbout is a large, well-built trailer. It’s rated for holding a dog up to 110lbs. so if you’re looking at getting on the trail with a large dog you’ll definitely be in good hands in most cases.

This dog bike trailer has a very wide wheelbase and rides low to the ground, this helps keep your dog safe while you’re on the road as well. A lower center of gravity decreases the likelihood of anything going too awry while providing a smoother ride for your dog.

In addition to the smooth ride, it offers, you’ll also be pleased to know that it has readily accessible pockets along the top of the sides, perfect for keeping a leash or some treats to make sure that your pet is thrilled when you arrive at your destination.

The interior cushion is waterproof as well, so if things get a little bit hairy and your dog loses control of their bladder you’ll be able to remove and wash it easily.

3. DoggyRide Mini Dog Bike Trailer

If you’re into trail riding and camping, this might be just the bike trailer you’re looking for to haul your dog.

The mesh surface is wide open, allowing for a lot of breathability for your dog as well as an excellent view of their surroundings during your journey together.

It also comes with everything you need to take a camping trip with your dog. A large cargo rack up top allows you to pile on some gear and once the wheels are removed you’ll have the benefit of some legs which will allow you to use it as temporary lodgings for your dog.

Along with the rack, there’s also some large pockets for when you don’t want to lash anything off to the top of the trailer, making it perfect for around town as well.

In addition to all of that, there’s a 2” memory foam mat inside, easily removable for washing and ultra-comfortable for your dog as the two of you go on an adventure together.

Conclusion

If you’re an avid biker, as well as a dog-lover, then you’ll definitely want to look into purchasing the best dog bike trailer you can afford. There’s no reason to leave your pet at home while you go on a brilliant adventure, make the purchase and the two of you will be riding in style, together.

Are you a dog lover? Recently, we had the pleasure of attending a pet-welcoming conference geared at pet bloggers and social media influencers. This year, it was located in sunny and oh-so-gorgeous Chandler, Arizona, located near Phoenix. I, along with 500 other pet industry pros, brands, bloggers, and more discovered gobs and gobs of products for pets and their parents.

In our never-ending effort to provide for readers of dog-bestfriends.blogspot.com with the latest and greatest canine news, here are 10 products for dog lovers to make life easier, what they do, and why you should check them out:

1. DogSupport & Rehabilitation Harness

As a dog mom to a pooch who has twice injured his legs due to ACL tears, I so very much wish I knew about this the Gingerlead® when my dog, Dexter, was recovering. Liz and Barry Rubenstein invented the Gingerlead out of necessity. It is a premium dog sling harness ideal for aging or disabled dogs needing help with mobility or balance, degenerative myelopathy, or dogs with knee or hip injuries.  We love the soft, padded belly sling and the leash that extends from the handle and connect to the dog’s collar or chest harness with a snap. The straps are also adjustable.

2. Dr. Buzby’s Toe Grips

If you have a dog with back or mobility issues, have a home with hardwood floors, or have a dog who is a bit older and could use some stability due to arthritis, slowing down, joint issues, or any other host of health issues, this is a must have product. Dr. Buzby’s ToeGrip® s are not a fashion statement and it is not nail polish. Again, when my dog, Dexter, tore his two ACLs – yes, both legs and almost a year apart to the day – these toe grips would have been beneficial during his recovery. provide instant traction and confidence for dogs who struggle on hard-surface floors and stairs—such as hardwood, tile, linoleum, marble, etc.  Learn more about Dr. Buzby’s Toe Grips here and why our friend Poppy the Cocker Spaniel uses them.

3. Muffin’s Halo

“Muffin’s Halo® is a device for blind dogs,” founder and inventor Silvie Bordeaux told me at the BlogPaws Conference. “It helps them navigate so they don’t bump into the walls and objects.”

The “halo” prevents blind and visually impaired dogs from bumping into wall, furniture and other objects. Seeing is believing, as the product does not interfere with a dog’s daily activities plus it helps them regain or keep their confidence, see?

4. Pawz Dog Boots

A common myth in among dog world is that a dog’s paws need no protection. While in Arizona, the temperatures reached close to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. I knew I could not allow my dog to walk on the pavement and sidewalks, as within 30 seconds he could suffer severe burns.  Never in a million years did I think I’d have a dog who wore “booties,” but I do. It took us 10 minutes to get Dexter used to wearing Pawz dog boots and we are not alone in using them.

Put your hand down on pavement for 10 seconds. Put your bare foot down. Does it feel good? Not burn? If it does, it will hurt your dog. The same holds true for winter time chemicals and irritants. Consider dog boots or an item like Pawz®, which are natural rubber disposable boots for dogs. These are rubber “boots” which are more like a pad cover for dogs. They are waterproof, and the manufacturer states that no other boot protects against liquid chloride and other liquid hazards.

5. Rocco and Roxie Stain and Odor Eliminator

“As first timers to the BlogPaws Conference, we wanted to get the word out, “said Matson Magleby, co-founder of Rocco & Roxie Supply Company® . We received a bottle of their stain and odor remover to try, which Magleby tells me is a top seller on Amazon. Little did I realize I would soon need to test it out.

I inadvertently spilled a glass of home brewed iced tea on my mattress while doing some summer cleaning. Since the Rocco & Roxie Stain and Odor Eliminator is bio-enzymatic and safe around dog paws, I gave it a shot. In all honestly, it worked. I followed the instructions to blot, spray, wait, and blot. The huge brown iced tea stain was gone, the light aroma of the product dissipated within 10 minutes, and I am one happy dog mama.

6. Freshwave

Speaking of scents, we love the trend we are seeing of companies who care about chemicals, the lack thereof, and keeping pets safe. At the Freshwave® booth, we discovered a natural, chemical- and fragrance-free line of products that are safe to use around kids and pets. Using no perfumes or harsh chemicals, the line of Freshwave products use simple, pure and natural ingredients — water and natural extracts of lime, pine needle, aniseed, clove and cedarwood — to get rid of organic and inorganic odors.

We received a few Freshwave products to try, which we have been doing so for three weeks now. The results have been amazing so far. The odor-removing gel is non-intrusive and the gel disappears as it evaporates. We use it in the bathroom. Our other must-have item is the Freshwave odor removing packs, which we toss in hampers, closets, and even the dirty laundry. After bathing the dog, I tossed the wet towels into a basket for an hour along with a Freshwave pack. It took care of the wet dog towel smell until I could do laundry.

7. The Mountain

I love wearing my love of dogs on a shirt. There is something so fun, whimsical, and conversational about an attractive shirt reflecting a passion for pets. How cool, then, to discover that The Mountain sponsored this year’s BlogPaws t-shirt! If you are a dog lover, this company has so many cool shirts.

The folks at The Mountain® produce American-made apparel that embodies the spirit of animal lovers (and others). I am a Cocker Spaniel addict, to be blunt. I love to wear clothing that basically screams out “talk to me, I’m a dog mom.” In fact, when I wear my Dean Russo shirt from The Mountain and walk my dog at the same time, it takes me a good half hour to an hour to take a walk around the block.

Check the line of dog t-shirts out at TheMountain.com

8. Surfin’ Jack™ Leave-in Conditioning Spray

My dog recently rolled in bear poop. There I said it. It was not pleasant and we shampooed him twice. I dug into the bag of swag from BlogPaws and found a yummy coconut scented spray from Lucy Pet Products® . After I bathed my dog, I put this spray on that contains blend of mild natural coconut oil cleansers with moisturizing sunflower seed oil plus rehydrating revitalizing coconut water. It worked! It smells beachy, is very light, and good for the coat. You can use it in between baths, and it contains no parabens, sulfates or harsh chemicals and is 100 percent cruelty-free, made in the USA.

9. Merrick Lil Plates

Of course, at the core of a pet blogger conference is pet food and treats. For smaller breeds with smaller mouths, Merrick® showcased 3 dry formulas and 9 wet formulas from the new Lil’ Plates Line. The #1 ingredient is deboned meat, fish, or poultry. This little containers make a perfect travel sized companion, too. My dog snacks on them as a treat or when traveling now and then. Since I like to rotate proteins, the Merrick Lil’ Plates come in handy.

10. Vita Bone Dog Treats

A dancing dog bone caught my eye, so how could we not stop and give the Vita Bone® mascot a hug? Made in the USA with 23 essential vitamins and minerals, Vita Bone treats are formulated for easy digestion for dogs of all ages and breeds. Vita Bone® Biscuits are available in three varieties: Original, Flavors and Basted.

In addition to the biscuits, they also have a chewy treat and little trainers for smaller mouths or smaller bites.

While going to the vet is the best option when you suspect that your dog has a health problem, minor ailments can easily be treated at home. Using natural remedies such as herbs can make a whole lot of difference to any health issue compared to over the counter drugs. You can be sure that they are free of ingredients that can be harmful to your pet in the long run, plus they're generally less expensive (or free!).

Here are some natural remedies for dogs that you should have ready at home:

Aloe Vera

For us humans, the aloe vera plant is best known for the wonders it does to our hair in skin. Did you know that the plant is beneficial to canine skin as well? According to the American Animal Association, aloe vera is proven to soothe the skin when a dog has an allergic reaction or hot spots. However, experts advise careful supervision when using aloe vera on pets as it can cause diarrhea when ingested. Use the gel part of the plant only and use a bandage to seal it so that your dog doesn't lick it off.

Calendula Oil

Calendula oil has many benefits. For dogs, they are known to help heal abrasions, insect bites, minor cuts, poison ivy, eczema and many more because of its powerful antimicrobial and wound-healing properties. According to natural-dog-health-remedies.com, this healing oil can also be used for treatment for a canine's digestive and urinary tract inflammation as well as bruises and sprains. There is calendula oil especially formulated for our furry friends that can be found online or in specialty stores.

St. John's Wort

Also referred to as Hypericum, this powerful herb is effective in fighting anxiety, depression and psychological stress in pets (which could be useful when there is a thunderstorm or fireworks). St. John's Wort, according to VCA Animal Hospitals, is also a great remedy for pain in both cats and dogs because the herb works to relieve pain in a way similar to opiates. On top of this, St. John's Wort essential oil can also be a natural remedy for minor skin irritations, muscle aches and muscle contusions in dogs.

Whatever your dog brings home, it shouldn't be fleas and ticks

Dogs will be dogs. Whether they get into the garbage can out back or dig up that old shoe in the yard, Seresto for dogs can help keep them protected from fleas and ticks for 8 continuous months. The innovative Sustained Release Technology of Seresto provides effective flea and tick protection in an easy-to-apply, non-greasy collar.

Truly unique technology for your dog

Seresto is a unique polymer matrix collar that offers a continuous supply of two active ingredients: imidacloprid and flumethrin for effective 8-month protection against fleas and ticks. That's one convenient, non-greasy, odorless flea and tick collar instead of 8 monthly treatments.

The active ingredients are stored within the collar. They are released in low concentrations and are distributed over your dog's hair and skin surface for 8 months. As active ingredients wear off over time, Seresto for dogs continuously replenishes the skin and coat with a new supply of active ingredients. Fleas and ticks are killed through contact with the active ingredients — no biting required.

Works for you

Less hassle, no mess: The Seresto collar is non-greasy, and helps avoid the hassle of applying monthly treatments.

Easy to use: Application is easy. Seresto takes minutes to adjust on your dog, and provides treatment that lasts 8 months.

Designed for your dog: The Seresto small dog collar has a two-way release feature that allows your dog to get out of tight spots.

Product description

Kills and repels fleas and ticks for 8 continuous months in one easy-to-use, non-greasy, odorless collar. Quickly kills fleas within 24 hours of initial application. Reinfesting fleas are killed within 2 hours. Prevents tick infestations within 48 hours after application. Kills and repels reinfesting ticks in as quickly as 6 hours. The Seresto collar is water-resistant* and remains effective following a shampoo treatment, swimming or after exposure to rain or sunlight. *Seresto is water-resistant and remains effective following a shampoo treatment, swimming or after exposure to rain or sunlight. Under normal conditions, effectiveness lasts for 8 months. In order to maintain an eight-month duration, dogs must not be bathed more than once per month. For dogs that swim once a month or more, the control duration is reduced to 5 months for flea control and reduced to 7 months for tick control.

Keeping dogs’ teeth clean is absolutely critical to their health and longevity. As many as 4 out of 5 dogs over the age of 3 may be suffering from canine periodontal disease, or tooth decay and inflammation and infection of the gums.

Periodontal disease is very painful and extremely dangerous for pets as the infection could travel to other areas of their body, eventually causing organ failure if the loss of appetite doesn’t get them first.

Fortunately, there is a lot you can do about it and plenty of great products available to help keep your pup’s pearly whites shiny and clean. Many of them can even do the work for you! Read on to find products that clean your dog’s teeth.

Dog Toothbrush

This toothbrush is one-size-fits-all so you can be sure you have the right size for your pup. Pair this with your preferred pet-safe toothpaste and brush once daily. Bonus: this toothbrush provides 2 meals for shelter dogs!

Brushing Bone

Available in 2 sizes, small and large. This chew toy will have your pup cleaning her own teeth! The toy features grooves and nubs that provide a tooth and gum massage when chewed on. Dogs LOVE the feeling! Those grooves and nubs actually scrub food remnants and plaque right off your dog’s teeth, while stimulating helpful blood flow in the gums. As an added bonus, for each brushing bone sold, we’ll donate 1 toy to shelter dogs in need!

Bully Sticks

Surprised to see a food item here? Bully sticks are a really great for your dog’s dental health. The all natural dried out meat is fun for our pups to chew on. These sticks scrub away plaque and food particles. Even better, each individual stick provides 1 meal to shelter dogs!

Dental Wipes

For a quick and effective clean, these Dental Wipes by Project Paws™ couldn’t be better. If you just can’t make the time to wrangle your dog and supplies for a proper brushing, one of these wipes will do the trick. Simply rub one wipe along all your pup’s teeth and gums. You can use these once daily or after meals. No rinsing necessary! Plus, one container of 50 wipes feeds 14 shelter dogs!\

Dental Spray

Another quick and easy way to help keep your pup’s teeth clean and breath fresh is the Project Paws™ Dental Spray. The formula incorporates natural fruit extracts to help control tartar and peppermint oil to freshen your dog’s breath. In addition to those dental health benefits, each dental spray sold will provide 14 meals for shelter dogs!