Coco Plays Hide and Seek with Her Belly Bites

Our friends at Chewy.com asked if we wanted to try Natural Balance Belly Bites.  I  don't usually like to give Coco anything grain free because it gives her ridiculous gas, but I figured since the treats were small, we'd give them a try.  I'm so glad I did!

These semi-soft treats are great because I can break them in half and just give her a little something.  I feel good about giving them too her because they are made in the USA (something that is a MUST for me).  The package says that it is great for dogs with sensitivities, which means that Cousin Madam Star's tummy can tolerate them, another bonus.

Since these are nice and small, and SMELLY (we got the legume formula) I thought it would be fun to play hide and seek with the Belly Bites.  Coco loves this game.  In this video, I make Coco sit where she can't see what I'm doing.  Then I hide the treat in under a tennis ball in a muffin tin.  When I give her the ok, she has to choose which ball the treat is under.  She always gets it right!  *Look for a cameo from sissy!

I love how Coco sniffs the treat out, then takes the ball out of the tin.  She's so smart.  When she is finishes, she always gets a treat.  

Thanks again, Chewy.com for sending us these treats to try!  They were a big hit and perfect for hide and seek!

*Note: I got this game from a fellow blogger, but can't for the life of me remember where, so please send me a message if you were the clever mommy I stole this from so I can give you proper credit!*

Coco's New Collar From Sirius Republic

I got Coco a new collar (much to Daddy's dismay, who insisted she didn't need one...as always).  After seeing Corbin's dashing collars on Oh, Corbin, I just had to have one!  I learned form Corbin's mommy that she gets his collars from Sirius Republic.

I can't tell you how much I love their line of collars--they are, by far the cutest collars I have found.  Since Coco's had to be Daddy approved, we sat down together and decided on the Jagger.  While it wouldn't have been my first choice (but probably second)  if I were a single mommy, I still think it is just fantastic! (My first choice would have been Henny Penny, so cute!)

Sirius Republic hand makes each collar and the craftsmanship is supreme.  Even Bill commented on how nice it is, which is some high praise. Coco has taken to it quite easily and actually is better behaved with it on.

Thanks to Corbin's mommy for showing these collars off and to Sirius Republic for such a fancy and well-made product!

P.S. If you order from Sirius Republic, enter code RPHB81 and 20% of your order will go to Corbin's rescue, Homeward Bound!

Coco Tries Pawz...And Looks Pretty Cute Doing It

After so much trouble with her paw pads, and after talking with the doctor--who suggested a few remedies, we were ready to try Coco's new shoes for the first time!

We had heard good things about Pawz and decided to start there.  Our vet said that since her pads haven't toughened up as quickly as normal (and maybe they wouldn't) that if she is going to play outside for an extended period of time (like here at grandma and grandpa's) she should wear shoes.  

I had my doubts, as Coco doesn't do well with things on her paws, or even things touching them.  We struggled just a bit getting them on, and she didn't want to walk on them at first, but she settled into them.  Once we got into the car (with Cousin Madam Star) she managed to get one off.  In the Pawz defense, I'm not completely convinced I got the right size.  I think she is in between sizes.  When we got to playing she didn't mind them a bit.

All in all, they worked well and protected her paws from peeling.  She was able to play fetch and I didn't have to worry she was playing too rough!

Pawz claims that their boots are reusable, however, by the time we were done playing, one of Coco's nails had poked through the rubber and it seemed that they were tightening around her leg a little.  I can't imagine I could use them more than once and certainly not for an extended period time (we were playing for around an hour).   In the summer, when the roads get really hot, I can see using them for a walk and being able to reuse them then, but not for playing.

I think we will keep trying different products because Pawz aren't perfect, but so far, they are just what we need so that she can play outside and I don't have to worry about torn paws!  

How to Help Overweight Dogs

It has been estimated that 55% of dogs in the US are overweight or obese, which can alter the lifestyle and health of our best friends.  Recently, my sister experienced this firsthand when she thought there was something seriously wrong with her beloved Tigger.  After a trip to the vet, reporting Tigger as lethargic and not wanting to do anything but sleep on the bed, turns out, Tigger is overweight.

I have gathered some information for my sister and the millions of others just liker her who are wondering, "How do I put my dog on a diet?"

1.  Watch the Food
Feed the right amount. This should help guide you. Then use an actual measuring cup to feed.  It might help to feed two or three smaller meals to help your dog feel more satisfied.  Don't let your dog free feed.

2.  Change the way you view treats
It's hard to get rid of treats totally (although you may have to) especially if you use them to train.  However, you do have some options.  Try veggies as treats.  Dogs usually love carrots, cut up apples, and most fruits (not grapes). You can also try stuffing fruits and veggies mixed with some plain yogurt in a Kong and freeze it as a healthy treat.  These options are low in calories and will be more of a treat for your dog than a Milkbone that gets gulped down!

3.  Get your pooch movin!
Think about creative ways to incorporate exercise into your dog's day.  I am a huge fan of treat dispensing toys.  I've written about some of them for Yahoo! Answers. I also have a list of my favorites here.  These are great for a many reasons.  But the best reason for a plump dog is because he/she is using physical energy to get his/her food, and because it will help satisfy him/her a little more.  Chasing a toy around just to get dinner burns some major calories for a little body!

My favorite food dispensing toy: the TreatStik

You can also teach your dog some new tricks.  If you spend 15-20 minutes a day on a new skill and reward with low calorie treats, you are bound to shed some pounds.  Get creative and get moving!

4.  Forget about people food
I see so many people giving their dogs bites of their food.  If you have an overweight dog (and really even if you don't), there isn't any real reason to do this.  Our food is filled with calories that dogs just don't need!  Stick with feeding them their own food and treating them with healthy people food if you must.  The less human food you can keep out of their mouths, the better.

5.  Consider a change in dog food
I, personally, don't think this should be the first thing you do if your dog is overweight.  I think if you do the first 4 things successfully, you should be ok.  But according to this article in The Whole Dog Journal, feeding a higher protein dog food could help you manage your dog's weight.

*I am not an expert on this subject, but I do know the basics of losing weight (for dogs or humans): less calories in and more calories burned.  This, of course is somewhat of an oversimplification.  The key here is that you are in control of what goes into your dog's mouth.  Making sure that your pup is active enough to shed those few extra pounds can be fun for both of you and can bring you closer together.

Inforgraphic: The Most Dog-friendly Cities?

Is your city dog-friendly?  We are lucky enough to have a couple of dog parks here in Tallahassee, although there is certainly room for improvement--and there is argument about whether dog parks are really "dog friendly."  In general, our parks and recreation system in town is fantastic, and in that sense, there is lots of opportunity to enjoy the outdoors with your pooch.

While searching about what makes cities "dog-friendly," I came across this infographic I thought I'd share.

Did you find your city on the list?  Do you agree? What do you think makes a city dog-friendly? 

Many families relocate to be in a city that is more suited to raise a family, so it makes sense for furfamilies to want to know what cities have to offer them.  Maybe this is a growing trend, attracting dog-families with dog-friendly activities.  

Wysong Dream Treats

This evening the doorbell rang, which doesn't happen very often, and when it does Coco is supposed to go on her mat (which is in the kitchen very near the front door).  She is very good at hearing the bell and instantly going to the mat; however, once there, most of the time she inches toward the front door as she sits on her haunches.

 Tonight was different.  She actually stayed!  And it was a good thing because I didn't know who was at the door and I didn't want her to release herself early from the stay command--which happens when she knows the person at the door.

Turns out, the UPS carrier brought me/her a package from our very good friends at chewy.com.  Inside was a bag of treats for the whole family--ok not so much me or Bill, but certainly Sissy and Coco.

Wysong Dream Treats (rabbit flavor) are freeze-dried disc shaped treats that are suitable for dogs and cats, which was a big draw for me.  Anything those two can share and not fight over, I'm on board with.

Coco about knocked me over trying to get open the pouch before I did, but Spooky wasn't too interested.  I left the broken up disc in her dish and am thinking maybe she will get back to it.

I really appreciate that they are made in the USA!  We will be trying the quail flavor soon! Thanks chewy.com!

Yummy Fromm Chicken Treats

We feed Coco Fromm Family dog food, so when the nice people at Chewy.com asked if we wanted to review some treats, we were thrilled to receive Fromm Chicken with Carrots and Peas treats.

Since we have been working on being nicer when on walks, I have been using Fromm treats as Coco's "jackpot" reward--what she gets when she really nails the look command.  In Feisty Fido (a training book for leash reactive dogs) they suggest using a treat that your dog can't refuse.  We got these treats just in time for training; Coco LOVES them and gets super excited when she sees me reach for them.

They are a little big for training all the time, but perfect for getting her excited to train because she likes them so much.  The very crunchy round treats are also perfect for us as go-to treats because they don't stink. (Bill hates smelly food/treats and will complain if they are too strong.  No complaints with Fromm!)

Our local pet health store carries Fromm food but not these treats.  We've been wanting to try them for a while now, and I'm so thrilled to know that I can order them on Chewy.com whenever I want.

Practicing "look" 

Coco's Hour of Fun, Courtesy ToyShoppe

We had a moment of weakness.  We know better.  We did it anyway; we bought Coco a toy we thought was "tough" at PetSmart.  Given her history, I almost ALWAYS buy toys I have researched and have faith in.  We love West Paw toys because I know she's not going to chew through them in a matter of hours.

We stopped at PetSmart to get some fragrance spray and we thought, "She's older now.  She's not as destructive.  This toy looks pretty strong."  Bill even predicted, "It'll take her at least 2 weeks to destroy this one!"

We were wrong. He was wrong.  It was completely destroyed in less than an hour.  

It didn't stay a chance.  We were so foolish to think it might.  

Luckily she doesn't like to eat the pieces of toys she's conquered.  Just kills and spits to the side to go in for more.  I don't worry much about her ingesting this awful stuff.  And of course I was watching her the entire time.  She'd never be left alone with a toy like this.  

The carpet in the aftermath. Notice the fuzz and red strings. 

But boy did she love this little wiener dog!  She had a blast tearing it apart (killing all 5 squeakers-a selling point for Bill).  It was almost worth the $6 to see her enjoy it so much.  Almost.  

Coco Loves Her Lamb Airy Bites!

Today I want to discuss a topic that is near and dear to Coco's heart: treats.  And something that I take very seriously: Coco's health. The jerky treat recall scares me to death, and I am extremely careful of what goes into Coco's body.  Cousin Madam Star had a close with what we attribute to some DENTASTIX.  So when our friends at Clear Conscience Pet asked if Coco wanted to review some treats, I immediately started doing my research. After a review of the website and the ingredients in their treats (all-natural goodness! And made in the USA) I am sold.  But of course Coco is the real test.  So how did she like them?

Coco Inspects Her Loot

Cruncherz:  She liked these crunchy Ginger Yaps pretty well.  They were very similar to the dog treats I bake her, so they didn't set her tail on fire.  Scout, however, went nuts for them!

Bison & Beef Liver Bark: These were really hard chuck-like pieces of nice and stinky treats that Coco loved!

Smelling the Bison and Beef Liver Bark

Super Gravy: Ok, I was a little skeptical about the gravy.  It seemed like a lot of work.  But once I read the directions, I realized it was really simple (they even provide a little scoop!) and Coco was drooling for the stuff while I was getting it ready!  She gobbled it right up.

Coco Waits for Super Gravy

Lamb Airy Bites: These were, by far, her favorite. They are little dried bits that are perfect for training.  After an evening of making her do tricks, she still wanted more and woke me up in the middle of the night whining next to the table where the bag of Airy Bites where sitting.  She is serious about her Lamb Bites.  This is what she was willing to do for some:

I am so thankful that Clear Conscience Pet let us review these products.  These holistic treats are such a good alternative to the jerky that has been harming dogs for so long.

I know what Coco will be getting in her stocking this Christmas!

A Puppy for Christmas?

The decision to get Coco took a lot of thought and planning for us.  However, for many, especially around the holidays, it seems to be an easy decision.  Children (and some parents) fantasize about a cute little puppy under the tree.

But a puppy for Christmas isn't always a good idea.  After the holiday high, shelters are over-run with unwanted puppies that weren't the best of ideas.  

Our friends at The Uncommon Dog have put together this infograph to help parents decide if getting a puppy for Christmas is a good idea.  Since pet overpopulation is such a concern in many communities, making a decision like this one is critical! 

"Get in My Belly!"- Coco's Guide to Food and Treat Dispensing Toys

We learned pretty quickly that, if allowed, Coco will inhale her food.  So, in order to slow her down and provide her with a little mental stimulation, we invested in some food/treat dispensing toys.  Here is a list of our favorites:

1.  TreatStick

This extremely hard plastic tube-like toy is great for feeding!  We call it her flashlight.  I love this toy because it is a challenge for Coco and because it is made in the USA.  It is easy to clean (just toss it in the dishwasher) and very easy to load!  Coco eats her breakfast from this every morning.  Worth every penny.

2. Monster Girl

This monster ball is perfect for holding large treats or about a cup of food.  It is easy to load and fun for Coco to roll around.  While this toy somewhat challenging, the TreatStick always takes her longer to empty. The Monster Girl is durable and can double as a ball.

3. Monster Mouth

The Monster Mouth is just like the girl in material and size, but I've noticed that the food/treats fall out easier (especially with wear) than in the girl. That being said, Coco still has a great time pushing it around the house with her nose.  No inhaling here! 

4. Squirrel Dude 

Coco loves her squirrely dude!  She likes to toss it around after she has emptied it.  This toy is harder to load and doesn't hold a lot of food/treats.  I usually use this when she is getting a small snack (like after an afternoon at the park) or when I need her to occupy herself.  We have had our S.D. for almost 3 years now, and it is showing no signs of wear!

5.  Classic Kong

Mommy will stuff anything in a Kong!  I like to stuff it (in layers) and freeze it so it is harder for her to conquer.  Here is a site for ideas on how and what to stuff.

Keeping Coco busy and challenged is one of my number one priorities.  These toys help her stay healthy and happy!

Want so see more of Coco's favorites and Mommy's worse picks?  See "Don't Waste Your Money" and "Coco's Favorite Toys"

The Sporn Halter: The Verdict

After taking a few walks with our new Sporn Halter (remember the trouble?), I can say with confidence that it DOES help with pulling.  And the padded arm loops are soft and do not irritate her at all.  And there is no way she is gettin' outta this without my help!

Here is the bad side:  It was pretty complicated to get on the first time.  Once I got use to it, it wasn't too bad. However, it is still hard to adjust so that it is just right.

Overall, I think this is a keeper.  We won't use it every time we go outside, but if I feel I'm going to need extra control or on long walks, this will be our choice.  

sittin pretty.

nice and comfy

here you can see where the leash attaches

On Its Way: The Sporn Halter

We have always had a hard time finding a collar/harness for Coco.  She is quite the problem child when it comes to walks: she pulls, she backs out of collars, and she has bald spots on her chest and armpits that get really irritated.

We tried all different kinds of contraptions.  Her least favorite (but maybe my favorite) was the front leading harness.  Once that thing went on her, she pretty much refused to walk.  She stopped, then laid down.  And the face she gave me, it looked like I had just broken her little heart.  I couldn't keep it after that, so it went back to the store. On the bright side, it did stop the pulling.

Here is when we were trying just a basic collar.  When she wasn't getting her way, she would simply back her head out of it, no matter how tight we fastened it.  Family photo by Rochford Photo

I have been researching collars/harnesses relentlessly ever since she came home with us and have never found one that meets our needs.  I am hoping the Sporn Halter will do the trick.

Based on the research I've done, the Sporn Halter helps with pulling.  And the way it is shaped, it won't hit her cute little balding chest.  Also, it has padded-like arm pieces so her little pits won't get chafed.

It should be arriving in the mail today and I'll report on its effectiveness after we've tested it out some.  My hopes are high for this one!

See the Sporn Halter!

Don't Waste Your Money: A Review of the Worst Toys

We've spent a lot of money on dog toys.  I mean an absurd amount.  We spend, on average, $10 a month on toys for Coco.  At first, we had trouble finding toys that could stand up to her constant chewing and gnawing.  Eventually, I got good at recognizing good materials and workership.  I researched and researched to find the best toys for her.  I did, however, have to go through so many bad toys.  And I wasted so much money!  I've mad a list of toys that didn't quite meet our standards.

1. Kong Wubba:  This fetch and tug-o-war toy made by the Kong company seems like it would be extremely durable.  That assumption could not have been more wrong!  I thought that since it was made by a company with such a good reputation, it should be fine.  However, Coco had the outer shell off in minutes flat.  There are two small balls inside that a dog could easily choke on, even if you are watching it.  One good thing is that Coco loved the outer shell!  We played with it for a while after it was destroyed.  She liked flapping it around. For the price, it is a huge disappointment.

2.  Kong Genius Leo:  This toy is supposed to keep the dog's attention and serve as a treat despensing toy.  It can be played with on its own, or attached to another product to make it more challenging.  The fatal flaw with this toy is the hole in it.  Coco was able to get her mouth in the hole and use it as the weak spot to destroy it.  This lasted a whole day, maybe.  

3. Goughnuts This toy is expensive.  On the positive side, it has a lifetime guarantee! I had very high hopes for this ring, which is made of hard rubber.  And it has lasted...however Coco doesn't like to play with it.  I think it is too hard for her.  It is too hard to throw inside and it bounces awkwardly.  Even when outside, she seems to shy away from it.  That being said, I'm sure that dogs who like to just sit and chew something probably would love this.  It was not for Coco.  And I was sorry I spent so much money on it. 

4. Buster Food Cube Coco loves a good challenge. And food. That's why I thought the Buster Ball would be perfect for her.  Since the ball is made of very hard plastic, Coco gets scared by it rolling on our hardwood floors.  Even though she knew there was food in it, she wouldn't go near it.  I encouraged her until I was blue in the face.  Even let her have it when we weren't home, but she just let it sit there.  I've heard good things about this toy, but I'd like to warn everyone, this is not appealing to all dogs.  Coco LOVES treat dispensing toys, but not this one.  I ended up returning it. 

5.  Tug-a-Jug Normally, we love Busy Buddy toys.  The squirrel dude is one of her favorites; however this tug jug was a bit disappointing and certainly doesn't live up to the company's name.  In trying to get the treats out, she chewed off the rim of the jug, which is just hard plastic, and was able to get the entire rope out.  Granted, she got the treats, but the jug went in the trash, after just one session.  

Coco's Favorite Toys: A Mommy's Reivew

People often ask me about dog toys, seeing as how Coco can destroy one in a matter of minutes.  She makes an art out of removing a squeaker. I am always happy to give out some recommendations, after all, I'd hate for people to have to spend the money that we have in ill fated dog toys.

Coco and I are providing a list of our favorite toys.  These are toys that I know will stand up to her Herculean playing and ones that she actually enjoys playing with.

1.  West Paw Design's Hurley

Coco can play with this all day long.  And I am confident in the quality of West Paw.  I don't think I can say enough about what this company is doing.  Their Zogoflex toys are, by far, the BEST toys I have come across.  Other toys are durable, but Coco doesn't seem to like them as she does West Paw's products.

2.  West Paw Design's Jive

This bouncy durable ball can keep Coco's attention for hours!  As long as someone is willing to throw it, she is willing to fetch it.

3.  West Paw Design's Bumi

Do you see a pattern here?  This S-shape toy is good when Coco wants a little solo play.  She takes hold and shakes it silly.  Again, I love it because I know it will hold up.  If it doesn't, they'll replace it.

4.  Petstages Kooky Chicken

I recommend this with caution.  The feet and beak come off fairly easily.  Not as easily as others, but in about a month, Coco can amputate the poor bird.  That being said, Coco loves this toy. I have to watch her and take the pieces away once she's conquered it.  Luckily, she's not big on eating the detached pieces.  If she were choosing, I think this would be her favorite.  Around here we call it Turkey Lurkey.

5. Ruff Dawg's Stick 

This rubber stick has held up for a couple of years now.  And she loves it.  She will play fetch with it, toss it up in the air for herself, or just sit and have a good chew.