Dog News

Did you know?

The Labrador Retriever has been on the American Kennel Clubs top 10 most popular breeds list for 25 consecutive years! This is longer than any other breed.

This is likely due to the fact that they are such a wonderful dog breed, some of their top qualities include:

1. Extremely friendly
2. Excellent companions
3. Great family dog
4. Easy to train
5. Very owner motivated
6. Intelligent
7. Loyal
8. Low maintenance grooming
9. Adapt well to different environments
10. Active and outgoing

The Pros Of Adopting A Dog

Dogs and puppies end up at animal shelters for a variety of different reasons. Whether a family member discovered they have allergies, the owner was not ready for the responsibility, or they passed away, a new dog doesn't get along with the current dog of the household etc… the list goes on and on. While shelters do their best to give great care to these animals, due to the volume of puppies and dogs - the conditions are typically less than ideal.

The bottom line is that shelters are full and adopters are needed across the world. When people think of adopting they typically focus too much on the potential cons and not enough on all the pros. Some of the pros are below:

1. You will potentially be saving a life
2. You will be giving a dog a second chance
3. You can often adopt a full trained dog
4. You will likely get a very affectionate and appreciative dog
5. You will save money on the cost of purchasing a dog
6. You are getting a dog that has been medically screened by a veterinarian
7. You have a lot of choices
8. You can take the dog for a trial period to see if it fits your family (most adoption facilities have foster to adopt programs)
9. You will have a general sense of fulfillment and bragging rights
10. You are helping to eradicate puppy mills by not funding the illegal trade

The next time you are thinking about getting another dog, stop and review all of the pros of adoption. Save a life, change a life, and make a difference in your community.

Source (Image): PBS
Source (Image): Next Ranks 

HAPPY MONDAY BULLWRINKLES FRIENDS. START YOUR WEEK OFF WITH A GIGGLE! 

Did you know: Dogs kick after going to the bathroom because they are using scent glands on their paws to further mark their territory. Dogs have glands on their feet which are designed for secreting pheromones, and the backward kicking motion is a way of releasing those pheromones. They just want to make sure that the next pup who stops by, knows exactly who was there first!

This habit or behavior stemmed from wild dogs. It was a way for them to let other dogs know about their presence, size, and strength. 

Source (Image): German Shepherd Dog Rescue

Our fur babies don't like Monday any more than we do! 

Why Do Dog's Bury?

Fun Fact: dogs instinctively bury toys, chews, and bones because it used to be the only way to protect their belongings from other animals in the wild. Primal instincts, right?

A very long time ago when dog's were wild and roamed in packs, it was their job to find their own food - like every other animal. This wasn't always an easy task, often placing the pack under great physical stress and with inconsistent food sources. In order to ensure that what they found (carcasses/bones) would be kept in a safe place for future feedings, they would  bury them deep into the dirt. By doing so, the dirt kept other animals from finding the remains of their food.

Instinctually - not because they are hungry as domesticated puppies - they feel the need to hide some of their favorite things or extra food (like treats) for later. This is especially true when it comes to a favorite bone.

If you are a  busy pet parent and sometimes fall short of play time with your pup, you may find household items that you use on a daily basis go missing. Some dogs hide or bury shoes, tv remotes, and personal belongings as a way to beg for attention or play time. After all, our furry friends are all about game playing! 

Source (Image): Dig Clip Art 
Source (Image): Lifestyle

Housebreaking Do’s and Dont’s

Housebreaking your puppy can be a difficult time for both your new friend and your patience. It is crucial to make sure that you are understanding and positive throughout the entire process in order to keep the bond between the two of you precious. Puppies can often end up with difficulty controlling their bladders if they constantly think they will be punished or yelled at if they accidentally pee in the house. Remember, when puppies are born, much like babies, they are constantly relieving themselves. In the beginning, the mother cleans up after them, leaving no trace of urine behind. Once they are around 12 weeks of age, they need to learn how to relieve themselves in a way that doesn't drive you or your household nuts.

A puppy’s digestive tract moves very quickly. Your puppy will typically poop 30 minutes after they eat, and have to urinate shortly after that. So, pay attention to their daily schedule especially in the early stages.

Do’s

1. Find a safe location that you can familiarize your puppy with for regular potty breaks, such as a park with grassy areas. Once they have urinated or defecated there, the scent will act as a trigger for future trips outside.
2. Coordinate a daily routine. First thing in the morning let your puppy outside, again a few minutes after eating and again every hour after that until your puppy is trained.
3. Keep your puppy on a consistent feeding schedule to regulate his or her patterns.
4. Stay outside with your puppy so that you can reward and praise immediately after the deed is done.
5. STAY POSITIVE - toilet training doesn't happen overnight.

Dont’s 

1. Do not create a negative association with urinating and defecating (inside or outside of the house). If your puppy has an accident, simply and assertively remove the puppy from the soiled area and relocate to their safe spot outside.
2. Do not shove your puppy’s face in his/her accident or yell, they will not understand the association between their accident and your frustration. They yet don't know what they are and are not supposed to do.

If you keep your head up, stick to a routine and keep a balanced energy your puppy will be housebroken in no time! Good luck and don’t forget to reward your new best friend with a tasty treat like Bullwrinkles Chicken Fingers!

Source (Image): Vet Street
Source (Image): Animals For Sale