Did you know dogs spend 12 to 14 hours a day sleeping? That's a lot of time in bed so it's no surprise that their bed might be looking a little worse for wear. Dogs are creatures of comfort so making sure they have a a clean and supportive bed is essential for their overall well-being. In this guide, our Pet Experts explore the signs that indicate it's time to change your dog's bed and share expert tips on how to care for your canine's cherished sleeping spot.
How Often Should You Replace Your Dog’s Bed?
Determining how often to replace your dog's bed depends on several factors including the quality of the bed, your dog's size and activity level, and any specific health considerations. As a general guideline, it's advisable to replace your dog's bed every 1 to 3 years, or sooner if signs of wear and tear become noticeable.
Signs It's Time to Change Your Dog's Bed:
Visible Wear and Tear: Over time, your dog's bed may start showing signs of wear and tear, such as flattened cushions, lumps, or torn fabric. If you notice any significant damage, it's a clear indication that it's time to consider a replacement.
Lingering Odours: Despite regular cleaning, dog beds can accumulate odours over time, especially if your furry friend enjoys outdoor adventures or has accidents indoors. Lingering smells that persist even after washing could signal the need for a new bed.
Loss of Support: Just like humans, dogs require proper support for their joints and muscles, especially as they age or if they have existing health conditions. If your dog's bed no longer provides adequate support or has become too soft, it's time to invest in a new one to ensure their comfort and well-being. It might be worth investing in an orthopaedic dog bed if your dog’s breed is prone to joint issues.
Allergies and Skin Irritations: Dogs can develop allergies or skin irritations from prolonged exposure to dust mites, pet dander, or other allergens that accumulate in their beds over time. If you notice your dog scratching more than usual or experiencing skin issues, a new bed with hypoallergenic materials may offer relief.
Preference for Alternative Sleeping Spots: Dogs are creatures of habit, and if you notice your furry friend opting for alternative sleeping spots around the house instead of their bed, it could indicate that they're no longer comfortable or satisfied with their current sleeping arrangements. It’s worth looking at how your dog likes to sleep so you can get the best bed shape to suit their sleeping style, our Information Hub has a guide on how to choose the perfect dog bed for your dog.
Top Ways to Care for Your Dog's Bed:
Regular Washing: Establish a routine for washing your dog's bed to remove dirt, hair, and odour-causing bacteria. Most of our Lords & Labradors dog beds are machine washable, we have a handy guide on how to wash your dog’s bed here.
Use a Removable Cover: Opt for dog beds with removable, machine-washable covers for easy cleaning. Having a spare cover on hand allows you to swap them out while one is being laundered, ensuring your pup always has a fresh and clean place to sleep. We also sell bamboo bed covers which are great for popping over your dog’s bed to help keep them clean especially after a muddy dog walk, they will act as an additional layer of defence against moisture and stains, extending the life of the bed!
Vacuum and Spot Clean: In between washings, use a handheld vacuum or lint roller to remove hair and debris from the surface of the bed. Spot clean any stains or spills promptly to prevent them from setting into the fabric.
Rotate and Fluff: Just like flipping a mattress, periodically rotate your dog's bed to distribute wear evenly and prevent premature sagging. Fluffing the bed's filling helps maintain its loft and support over time.
Sun and Air Dry: On sunny days, take advantage of natural sunlight by airing out your dog's bed outdoors. Sunlight helps eliminate odours and kills bacteria, leaving the bed feeling fresh and revitalised.
Inspect Regularly: Take time to inspect your dog's bed for any signs of damage, loose seams, or worn-out stuffing. Promptly address any issues to prevent further deterioration and ensure your pup's safety and comfort.
By recognising the signs that it's time to change your dog's bed and implementing proper care and maintenance techniques, you can provide your furry friend with a clean, comfortable, and supportive sleeping environment. Remember, a happy and well-rested pup makes for a happier pet parent too!
If you’re looking to upgrade your dog’s bed why not check out our collection of luxury dog beds? Bedding is our speciality, we design and craft all of our bedding here in our Lincolnshire workshop so you can be sure your dog will be getting the best sleep possible in one of our luxury dog beds.
The Importance Of Correct Nutrition For Dogs And Cats!
Ensuring optimal nutrition for our beloved pets is paramount for their overall health and well-being. As responsible pet owners, it is crucial to understand the significance of providing nutritionally complete and balanced meals to our furry friends. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of dog and cat nutrition, exploring the importance of the right food choices, nutritionally complete homemade recipes, and the best commercial options available.
Understanding Dog and Cat Nutrition
Your pet's nutrition plays a pivotal role in their vitality and longevity. Just like humans, dogs and cats require a balanced diet that fulfils their specific dietary needs. A well-rounded diet supports their immune system, maintains a healthy weight, and promotes optimal organ function. Pet food ranges from being more processed to being raw and rich in natural ingredients, finding the right fit for your pet is important!
Dog Food Nutrition
Choosing the right dog food is a key aspect of canine care. With an abundance of options available, it's essential to prioritise nutritionally complete choices. To make an informed decision, consider using a dog food nutrition calculator and comparing different products. Look for the best nutritional dog food that meets your pet's unique requirements, taking into account factors such as breed, size, and age. Our favourite nutritionally rich dog foods are Orijen, Carnilove and Acana, they are all designed with your dogs nutrition in mind.
Dog Nutrition Facts and Guide
Understanding dog nutrition facts is imperative for providing the best care. Refer to a dog food nutrition guide to navigate through the plethora of choices available in the market. Learn about your dog's daily nutritional requirements and make informed decisions that contribute to their overall health and happiness.
Cat Food Nutrition
Cats, being obligate carnivores, have unique nutritional requirements. The best cat food for nutrition considers their need for high-quality protein and essential nutrients. Explore dry cat food nutrition labels to ensure your feline friend receives a balanced diet that supports their specific dietary needs. For a cat food which is high in protein and great for fussy felines we love Carnilove, they all have at least 80% wild origin meat content and contain No grains, potatoes, GMO, soy, sugar, preservatives or colourants.
Daily Nutritional Requirements for Cats
Cats require a carefully balanced diet to thrive. Knowing the daily nutritional requirements for cats is essential for choosing the right cat food. Consult with your vet to understand the specific needs of your cat, such as the importance of taurine and other essential nutrients crucial for their health.
In conclusion, the importance of correct nutrition for dogs and cats cannot be overstated. Whether choosing commercial options or crafting homemade recipes, prioritising nutritionally complete meals is key to ensuring your pet's health and happiness. Stay informed about dog and cat nutrition, consult with professionals, and make choices that align with your pet's unique requirements. By providing the best nutritional dog food or cat food, you contribute to a longer, healthier life for your furry companions. Here at Lords & Labradors we have a large range of both cat and dog food so you can pick the best option for you and your pet
Crate training is an important part of settling in a new puppy. A crate provides a safe, quiet space for your pup and will help them to get used to their nighttime routine and with toilet training. A dog crate can be made into a cosy den that will be loved by your new four-legged friend for a lifetime. In this article we will explain the best crate set-up for puppies, how to change the set-up as they grow up and also how to look after your crate and crate bedding.
How To Make The Perfect Crate Set-Up For A Puppy
Crate training your puppy will have lots of advantages, helping them to settle and feel safe in their home as well getting them into a consistent bedtime routine. The perfect crate for a puppy will feel safe, warm and cosy. It’s important that it’s inviting so that they feel compelled to use it.
With this in mind we’d suggest the following items:
Crate Cover
[product]Crates in their basic form can be rather draughty and a little bit unsightly! A crate cover will not only make the crate look stylish, but it will make the crate feel cosy inside. Our crate covers feature roll down doors which can be lowered when it’s time for bed. Puppy will soon learn when they should be sleeping (doors rolled down) and when it’s time to get up (doors rolled up). Our crate covers come in a range of fabrics which have been designed to match your home and they're all machine washable, making them brilliant for puppies!
Cosy & Calming Puppy Crate Bed
[product]
Our cosy and calming beds have been designed with crate training in mind. Each size is made to fill exactly one half of the corresponding crate size. So if you have a small crate for a Chihuahua for example, the small bed will fit in exactly one half of the crate. This then leaves room for a puppy pad in the other half along with a bowl for water. They come in a range of our printed cotton fabrics and feature a reversible cushion pad inside - one side covered in super plush sherpa!
Puppy Pads
Whilst we don’t want to encourage puppies to pee in the crate, it’s also important to note that they can’t hold themselves for very long at all. Whilst you will be able to take them outside at regular intervals during the day, this may not be the case at night. When you put them to bed, putting a puppy pad in one half of the crate will help to stop any accidents from dirtying their bed or crate tray.
Crate Bowls
Puppies will need access to water at all times and a crate bowl is a brilliant accessory as it can be fastened to the crate walls. This will ensure it doesn’t get tipped over or knocked like a standard bowl might.
The Perfect Crate Set-Up For An Adult Dog
As your dog becomes toilet trained and they begin to need the full space of the crate for their bed, you will need to consider swapping out the puppy accessories for their proper adult bed. At Lords & Labradors we specialise in crate bedding that will make your dog’s den look stunning as well as super comfortable inside.
Crate Cushion
Our crate cushions are designed to fit our crates perfectly. They come in a range of fabulous fabric designs from luxurious tweeds to printed cottons. There really is something to suit every taste and home.
Crate Bumper
Crate walls aren’t the most comfortable things to snuggle up to, and if your dog likes to curl in the corner of their bed, they will need something other than metal bars! That’s where our fabulous bumpers come in. They sit around the edge of the crate cushion and create a spongey layer of warmth around the walls. Perfect for snuggling up in the corner when nap time calls!
Crate Cover
Our crate covers are perfect for setting a routine with your dog, when the doors are rolled down it will signal to them it's time to sleep. Our crate covers are fully lined to help keep light out and come in matching fabrics to our bumpers and cushions to you can be sure crate will look stylish!
Crate Set Aftercare and How To Clean A Crate
With a little love and care your crate set will last a long time. Here we detail how to look after your crate set:
The Crate - The crate is made of sturdy metal and is really easy to keep clean. Our crates are easy to wipe clean and the tray is removable so you can get into the corners properly. It’s really important to make sure the crate is completely dry before setting back up and allowing your pet back in, we recommend drying your crate to avoid any rusting.
Lords & Labradors Cushion & Bumper Covers - For our bedding from our core collection you will be able to remove the covers on the cushions and bumpers. Turn the cover inside out and machine wash on a 20 degree gentle cycle. Allow the covers to air dry (do not tumble dry). Once dry return the inner cushion to the cover.
Essentials Plush Collection Bumpers & Cushions - Our bumpers and cushions from the Essentials Plush Collection don't have removable covers, we recommend spot washing your essentials plush bumpers and cushions.
Lords & Labradors Crate Covers - Our crate covers are all machine washable on a 20 degree gentle cycle, apart from our oil cloth crate covers. After washing, we recommend air drying your crate cover over your crate to help keep it in shape and to make sure it doesn't shrink. A cool iron on the reverse of the cotton fabrics is fine if necessary, but often they won’t even need that. Our tweeds and Savanna fabrics are super fast drying and they will come out of the spin almost dry. Just give them an air and they’ll be ready to use again in no time at all!
Cushion and bumper inners - The cushion and bumper inners are protected by waterproof interlinings, so won’t need washing. This will preserve the inner fillings. The waterproof liners are wipe clean. If they become soiled, simply wipe down with a mild pet-safe detergent and they’ll be as good as new again.
Cosy and Calm Puppy Bed - Our puppy beds are fully machine washable. You can put the whole bed in the machine and wash on a 20° cycle. When removed, simply shake and plump the cushion back into shape and leave to air dry.
Follow these simple steps and your crate sets will last and look stunning for years to come!
We’re getting to that time of year again where we’re travelling more with our pets to the beach, staycations and even trips to a different location for a long walk. No matter how long the journey - even if it’s a trip to the local vets - you should ensure your dog is properly restrained and safe to travel. Here in the UK it’s the law when travelling by car your dog needs to be restrained. In this blog, we breakdown how to travel safely with your pet.
What Is The Law With Dogs In Cars?
The Highway Code states in their Rules about Animals, when in a vehicle, dogs are to be suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you’re driving or injure you, or themselves, if you should need to stop quickly. If you were in an accident caused by your dog distracting you whilst you were driving, this could be considered as ‘dangerous driving’. It’s also good to check your insurance policy, as car insurance providers may require you to restrain your pet.
Is It The Law To Restrain A Dog In A Car?
It is the law to restrain your dog when travelling in your car. So as fun as it is for your pooch to sit with their head out of the window, they must be suitably restrained so they cannot distract you and potentially hurt either you or themselves. When it comes to where your dog should be when travelling, although there are no laws against your dog travelling in the footwell of the car, unfortunately they would not be properly restrained and if you did have an accident, you may be prosecuted for ‘dangerous driving’.
When choosing where your dog should be properly restrained, no matter what method you choose, your dog should not sit in the front seat - securing them in the boot or back seat behind a front seat is considered a safer option.
How To Secure A Dog In The Car
There are many safety products you can choose from, which can help with travelling safely in the car. It’s most important you choose a solution that’s suitable and comfortable for your pooch, and it has been installed and executed correctly to ensure the safety of your pet. Here at Lords & Labradors, we’d recommend the following for safe travel.
Dog Carriers
Our pet carriers come in different sizes and weights which will vary for the suitability for you and your dog. It’s a lighter option to our metal crates and are easily packed away if you’re staying away from home. Carriers are great when travelling by car and when taking your dog from the car into a safe place to let them out and stretch their legs. They keep your pooch safe and settled whilst travelling.
Travel Harnesses
Our pet-friendly harnesses come in a variety of sizes, suitable to your dogs breed and size. Travel harnesses are easy to fit onto your dog and it’s quick to clip them into place. They’re specially designed to prevent your dog from moving around whilst in the car, all whilst keeping your pet safe and comfortably restrained.
Travel Crates
Crating your dog keeps them safe & secure - using a crate to transport your pet has the added benefit if they’re already used to being crated at home. If your dog is used to being crated, often when travelling they’ll feel safer and their surroundings will reduce any anxiety your dog may have around travelling.
How Long Can A Dog Travel In A Car
Being stuck in the car can be hard for your dog! Not only will your dog need regular toilet breaks, they’ll also need to stretch their legs and get some of their energy out. When stopping for your dog to toilet and stretch their legs, you could also give them some food and water to avoid any spillages whilst travelling. Ideally you should try to keep to your dogs routine where possible (even when travelling) - every 2 to 4 hours for about 15 to 30 minutes is a good guide to follow, however you’ll know what is best for your dog and how they travel. If you’re planning a lengthy trip, try to go on few shorter journeys to see how your dog is likely to react.
You may be preparing for the all important ‘Gotcha Day’, the day celebrated by all dog parents as the day you brought your pup home. Taking your puppy home for the first time is exciting, especially if you have prepared for their arrival. Puppy shopping can be so much fun, but also overwhelming if you’re a new pet parent, or if you’ve not had a puppy for a few years. There will be some things you do need to buy for necessity and some things that are worth buying for your new pup. Here at Lords & Labradors we’ve put together the 10 puppy essentials you’ll need to get your new puppy settled.
Our Top 10 Items To Buy For Your New Puppy
1) What crate to buy?
Firstly, if you’ve decided to crate train your puppy, you’ll need a crate that will see you through from puppyhood to adulthood. You’ll need a crate the appropriate size so you can fit a puppy bed at one end and a puppy training pad the other incase they need to toilet when left in their crate. It also gives your pup enough room to stretch, play and sleep if crated during the daytime. Depending on your training methods, you may want to place the crate somewhere the puppy can be near to you, but also not directly in a high traffic area of your home. Remember the crate is your puppy’s den, so discourage any children from climbing inside.
2) Where should my puppy sleep?
We recommend a puppy bed that’s easy for your pup to get in and gives them enough support and comfort whilst they sleep. Our Cosy & Calm Puppy Box Beds have been carefully designed with your puppy in mind. The beds are super squishy and soft, and have the most comfortable sides for your pup to snuggle right into. If you have chosen to crate train your pup, our vet bed is really popular, as it’s cosy, comfortable, robust and relatively puppy proof - it’s easily washed and dried too. It can be used with or without our Cosy & Calm puppy box bed.
3) What will my new puppy eat?
It’s recommended you initially use the same food that your puppy comes home with, in order to avoid any tummy upset during their first few days with you. Once your puppy has settled, you can gradually introduce a new food to their diet. It’s good to check the food guidelines of the food you choose to feed your pup, as often they’ll give you the correct guidelines on how to introduce the new food to your pup.
Make sure you have a clean bowl for water and a clean bowl for food, you can opt for a slanted water bowl if you have a spaniel breed to reduce your dogs ears from getting soaked in their water.
4) Puppy Toilet Training
Top of your list should be a reliable pack of puppy training pads, not only are they great for training your young pup, but they are invaluable when travelling (pop in the bottom of their carrier/crate to catch any travel sickness or accidental toilet trips). You can also use them to absorb muddy, wet paws after your pup has had a play in puddles!
5) How to settle my new puppy at night
When settling your new puppy at night, our heart beat sheep will be your puppy's new best friend. The heart beat sheep features a beating heart inside that mimics the beat of Mum's heart. They're designed to offer comfort and calm to new puppies who may feel nervous in their new home; they help to stop separation anxiety too. Alongside the heart beat sheep, you could pop in a heat pad under your dogs bed/cushion to keep them warm and to mimic the feeling of having siblings/mum near. Both the heat and the heart beat sheep will provide comfort for your puppy, especially whilst they are settling in and adjusting overnight.
6) How to keep your new puppy entertained
Toys will provide something to chew on for your pup, which you’ll find are essential if you want to avoid your puppy chewing on your furniture. Choose a variety of textures, styles and sizes to keep your puppy engaged and interested. You may want to keep a toy box so your pup can choose what they’d like to play with, or keep a few toys in rotation so your puppy doesn’t get bored with them.
You can also buy toys you can fill with treats or their food. If you want/need to leave your puppy - remember to build this up slowly, and don’t leave your new puppy for a long period of time - you could try freezing a peanut butter filled KONG (remember to use doggy/puppy friendly peanut butter). Freezing the toy will take them longer to work through and will give some relief to their sore teething gums and teeth.
7) Does my new puppy need a collar?
You may want to purchase your dogs collar before they arrive home with you, however it’s advised to purchase the correct size collar for your puppy, which you may have to wait until they’re here to measure them properly. It is a legal requirement to have a tag with your details on incase your puppy gets lost or strays away, but it’s advised not to add your puppy’s name to the tag.
8) How will I get my new puppy home?
Collecting your puppy to take them home is really exciting, but it’s best to be prepared. Make sure you have a suitable carrier/crate to store them in safely for the journey. It’s important your dog is restrained as it is the law to keep your puppy properly restrained whilst driving. In your carrier, you may want to pop in a blanket that smells like home and a scent blanket that smells like their mum and litter mates. It’s also good to have some puppy training pads to hand incase of any car sickness or accidental toilet trips.
9) When to start training my new puppy?
You can start with bonding and training your puppy almost straight away, get some high quality, puppy training treats (make sure to check the guidelines), and enjoy teaching them new tricks - you’ll be amazed at how quick they learn!
10) When do I start grooming my puppy?
It’s recommend that even if your pup won’t require grooming at first, you should regularly brush them to get them used to being groomed and handled. Choose a simple, soft brush and/or comb for the first couple of months. There will be a time you will need to wash your puppy, make sure you’re not using human shampoo as this will upset your puppy's PH levels and may not be compatible with your puppy flea treatment. It’s best to invest in a puppy shampoo that you can use when and if you need to bathe your puppy. We have our own puppy grooming set in our Petplex collection called the 'Puppy Purifier' it has a shampoo and a cologne to help keep your puppy smelling fresh.
Every dog is different, some love a dip in a creek or pond and others treat water like the enemy. But can all dogs swim? The short answer is yes but in this blog, we will look at dogs swimming in a little more detail, explore what bodies of water are best for those pet parents who do want to take their dog swimming and discover the swimming essentials you'll need.
Can Dogs Swim?
A lot of dogs know how to do doggy paddle from the moment they first put their paws in the water and can be trained to become strong swimmers with a little practice. Swimming is a great way to make amazing memories with your dog, especially in the warm summer months, however, there are a few things to keep in mind when swimming with your dog.
Studies have shown swimming is a great stress reliever for dogs and improves their mental well-being. Having a varied range of exercises for your dog will help keep them sharp and happy. It’s also a great form of low-impact and non-weight-bearing exercise, this allows your pooch to enjoy the benefits of exercise without putting too much stress on their joints and tendons as the water will take on most of their weight.
Whether your dog takes to swimming like a duck to water or if they’re a little more hesitant, swimming is a great skill to teach your precious pooch to ensure they’re safe whenever you are around a body of water. The ‘doggy paddle’ swim movement is identical to how your dog moves their paws when walking so with a little help all dogs should be able to pick up swimming with a little help.
Some breeds are more natural when it comes to swimming and others may find it a little more challenging. Certain breeds like Labrador Retrievers and Portuguese Water Dogs were developed to be strong swimmers. Their body structures lend themselves to being stronger swimmers and so often these breeds will love nothing more than a splash in the water.
Other breed's body structures may not lend themselves as well to being natural swimmers, but this doesn’t mean they can’t learn with a little help and a life jacket. It’s important to be careful with breeds whose weight distribution doesn’t lend itself to being a natural swimmer – such as bulldogs or dachshunds and also as with all exercise make sure any flat-faced breeds don’t go too far so they’re not too out of breath.
If your dog isn’t a natural water baby, then start by teaching them to not be scared of the water and progress from there. Start slowly introducing them to the water and give them plenty of praise so they being to associate being in the water as a positive thing.
Even dogs that naturally start to doggy paddle will need a little practice, to begin with, they will likely splash a lot and tire quickly but with a little more time they will be able to keep their bodies afloat and will be able to build up their stamina.
Safety First
Use A Floatation Device - Float Coats have strategically placed foam panels to support your dog in its natural swimming position to give them optimal buoyancy. They also have handles so you can give your dog assistance when getting in and out of the water. These are great for helping your dog become more comfortable in the water and keeping them safe.
Stay Close - Always supervise your dog when swimming to ensure they’re keeping their head above water, aren’t swallowing too much water, and aren’t getting too tired.
Shallow To Start - Keep them in a shallow body of water with easy entry and exit points to begin with while they find their sea legs.
How Far Can Dogs Swim?
This massively depends on your dog’s breed, fitness, and the body of water they’re swimming in. The distance your dog can swim will depend on how long their legs are, the tinier the legs the tinier the paddles so they won’t be able to swim as far as a dog with longer legs. Likewise, active dogs are going to be able to keep themselves afloat for longer, maybe around 20-30 minutes compared to other less active dogs who may only need 10-15 minutes. You know your dog best so take it steady to begin with and build it up from there to a distance that they’re comfortable with – this could be anywhere from 5 – 60 minutes. Ideally, keep beginners swimming sessions to under ten minutes at a time to help avoid fatigue and drowning. You can then slowly build up their swimming from here to up to 30 minutes.
Can’t get your dog to stay in the water for 10 minutes? Don’t worry, some dogs just need a little more encouragement, why not try enticing them in with a water toy or a ball? Don’t worry about pushing it, just take it slowly and it’s okay if they just get their paws wet for the first couple of sessions. It’s important to keep the first few sessions fun and at their own pace so they can start to develop positive associations with the water and can come to love it over time.
Once your dog is more comfortable being in and around water you can begin to gradually increase the time they spend in the water and the distance they are swimming. Your dog will then be a water baby in no time!
Remember puppies and senior dogs may tire quicker than adult dogs so just keep your eye on them and take them out once they begin to become fatigued.
Can Dogs Swim In Cold Water?
Average sea temperatures in the UK in winter are 6-10 degrees compared to summer temperatures of 15-20 degrees. Generally speaking, if the water is too cold for you it’s probably too cold for your dog but it all depends on how long your dog is going to be in the water.
A quick splash in a cold body of water will usually be okay for a healthy dog, however prolonged periods could lead to issues such as hypothermia or frostbite. So, our advice is to keep the winter dips short and sweet and just make sure to dry them off post-swim to help warm them back up.
Can Dogs Swim In Chlorine Pools?
Swimming pools are great for teaching your dog to swim, they don’t have all the same risks such as currents and sharp objects that open water has. However, they don’t come without their risks.
Short swimming sessions in balanced chlorine pools are usually harmless but over-exposure to some of the pool chemicals may irritate your dog’s eyes, skin, coat, and ears. If the pool’s chlorine level is properly balanced, then it will generally not be harmful in small doses for your dog. We advise making sure there is always access to clean, fresh drinking water so they don’t begin to see the pool as their personal water bowl.
If your dog enjoys swimming in the pool, then let them. Make sure to limit their time in there as mentioned above so they don’t become too fatigued. Try encouraging them out of the pool after half an hour for a break, drink, and use the bathroom.
Should I Rinse My Dog Off After The Pool?
We recommend rinsing your dog off after swimming in any body of water, this will help limit their exposure to chemicals such as chlorine from pools or help to clear off any dirt or sand that may have become trapped in their fur in lakes or sea.
After every swim, rinse your dog off with cool water, we recommend rinsing them for a little longer than you think is necessary to make sure all the dirt or chlorine has been removed. You can then towel dry them and clean their paws and ears to keep them warm and prevent any infections.
Can Dogs Swim In The Sea?
Your dogs can spend the same amount of time swimming in the sea as they do in other bodies of water, again the length of time will depend on their breed and other physical factors such as age and stamina.
When swimming in the sea there are just a few things to watch out for to keep your dog as safe as possible:
Make sure they’re not drinking the seawater. The salt can be hazardous for them so ensure that they are well hydrated before swimming and provide some fresh, clean drinking water for them once they come out.
Salt water can be drying for your dog’s skin and coat, make sure to wash them off after a day at the beach to ensure their coat stays nice and silky and to wash out any sand they make have become trapped in their fur.
Check it’s a dog-friendly beach before going – a lot of beaches in the UK have restrictions based on the time of day and time of year when you’re allowed to take your dog on the beach. There are some great dog-friendly beaches all over the UK though so do your research, we've listed some of our favourite coastal spots here.
Assess the sea conditions before taking your dog in the water – if it is a rough day then maybe avoid taking them in to avoid any dangers. Calmer currents are much safer for both you and your dog.
If your dog doesn’t seem keen don’t force them in, this can be distressing both you and them. Let them go in of their own accord and you can try a treat or a toy to incentivise them in.
Start with the shallow water and let your dog show you how deep they’re comfortable going.
Lastly remember not all dogs will like the sea, so just follow your dog’s lead, and keep them in their comfort zone. Slow and steady is the best course of action when it comes to dogs and water.
Can Dogs Swim In Lakes?
Taking your dog to the lake is a great way to make summer memories but as with the sea and pools, there are a few things you need to bear in mind.
Assess and find a shallow area with an easy entrance and exit point.
Check for any dangerous debris – branches, metal, rubbish – anything that could harm you or your pooch – find a clear spot.
We can’t stress this point enough – go at your dog’s pace and don’t force them in.
Have treats and toys on hand to make it a fun experience for both you and them.
Check if the water is calm – avoid going in rough water to ensure both yours and your dog’s safety.
Blue-green algae is toxic for dogs and can, unfortunately, be found in many water bodies throughout the UK. Check the water and avoid any waterways with blue-green algae warnings.
Have fresh drinking water available and make sure your dog doesn’t drink the lake water.
How Do I Dry My Dog After Swimming?
We recommend rinsing and drying your dog after going into any body of water. This just helps to remove anything that may have gotten trapped in your dog’s fur and will help to stop any infections.
We recommend using a drying coat as an easy, fuss-free way to dry your dog off after a quick dip. They are usually made from a super absorbent towelling that will help to wick moisture away from your dog and keep them warm when they need it most. They fasten with either velcro or poppers so your dog can walk back to the car wearing their drying coat and stay cosy and warm.
Our Lords & Labradors Drying range is made out of a super-soft bamboo fabric which is double layered to make it extra absorbent. The range includes a drying coat, bed cover and mitts, all designed to help make drying your dog as easy as possible. It comes in four stylish colours and a big range of sizes so you're sure to find the perfect fit.
For long-eared dogs, it’s also super important to make sure their ears are clean and dry as long ears are prone to infections.
New Brands Alert: Flavourful Food Brands We’re Loving
Here at L&L we naturally care about making sure your precious pets are living well, eating well, and enjoying their food. This is why we’ve handpicked a new range of well-known and loved pet food brands that both taste and do the world of good. This blog explores our new brands and helps you pick the right one for you and your pet.
James Wellbeloved
James Wellbeloved has been creating naturally healthy hypoallergenic pet food for the last 30 years. Their wholesome and tasty recipes are inspired by nature and use simple ingredients, so your dog gets all the nutrients they need and nothing they don’t. Their food also never contains artificial preservatives, flavours, or colours and is soya and wheat free so is perfect for allergies.
James Wellbeloved’s food is all bursting with essential vitamins and minerals so you can be sure your pets will be enjoying a balanced diet and your pet’s skin and coat will be nourished and glossy. They only use gentle and highly digestible ingredients so you can be sure your pets’ bodies will be loving any of the James Wellbeloved food.
The James Wellbeloved range spans the whole of your pet’s life from puppies and kittens to juniors to adult cats and dogs and all the way to the golden oldies with their senior-specific products. They also have size-specific products to make sure you get the right fit for your dog whether they’re a tiny terrier or a large Labrador there is sure to be a food for them.
Pedigree
Pedigree put dogs in the heart of everything they do, they truly believe that dogs bring out the good in us, so they strive to create food that brings out the good in them.
Their food gives your dog all the essentials to support and fuel them whilst being an affordable option. The team have created foods which are nutritionally balanced to help encourage, fortify and fuel your dog to be their healthiest and happiest selves.
Their range includes every life stage from puppy to adult, for both tasty treats and delicious dinners.
IAMS
IAMS is committed to helping your precious pets live long and healthy lives so create innovative nutrition which truly makes a difference and brings out your pet’s unique best.
Their food supports pet health and stimulates their immune systems by using specially selected ingredients which include all the vital vitamins, minerals and nutrients and they are flavour enhancer, artificial colours and preservatives free.
IAMS dog food is tailored for your dogs and cats age and size, from puppies and kittens to cats and dogs.
Whiskas
Whiskas has been a household name for cat food since they began in 1958, their decades of experience helps them to create delicious products which help your cats live their happiest and healthiest lives.
They understand that cats are independent spirits that still need love and care, they’ve crafted their food range so cat owners everywhere can care for their feline’s natural instincts. Whiskas meals are full of the natural goodness that your cat craves, they are nutritionally balanced and complete with just the right amount of energy so you can be sure your cat is getting all the fuel they need to thrive whilst helping them to stay lean and sleek.
The Whiskas brand is there for the whole journey from kitten to cat to senior, as your cat grows their products grow with them. With the range including both wet and dry food as well as cat milk there’s sure to be something for even the fussiest of felines.
Sheba
Sheba has a variety of delicious, luxury cat food which they guarantee to impress. They’ve created products which contain all the flavours, nutrients, vitamins and minerals your cat needs to thrive. Their products contain no artificial colours or preservatives so you can be sure that you cat is only getting the goodness it needs and nothing it doesn’t.
Our range consists of two textures which are sure to delight your feline’s taste buds – Fine Flakes and Select Slices. The fine flakes are a wet cat food with scrumptious flakes in a melting jelly your cat will adore. Their select slices are a deluxe medley of cat food pieces in a delicious gravy – either texture is likely to received the meow of approval from your feline friend.
Crates are the perfect space for your dog to relax and recharge, as well as an amazing training tool for your puppy. The best crates provide cosiness and a private, safe den for your dog to retreat to. However, a question we get asked all the time is ‘how big should my dog’s crate be?’ This blog will help you pick the perfect crate for your pooch.
Our top 3 things to know when picking what size crate to get
There are a few things to consider when picking a crate for your dog to make sure you get the perfect fit:
Size is more important than weight – we often get asked ‘what size crate do I need for an 8kg dog’ but 8kg can look very different depending on the breed, an 8kg French Bulldog will measure differently from an 8kg Border Terrier for instance.
The height and length of your dog – don’t worry we’ve explained below exactly how to measure your dog.
If your dog is fully grown – we know we’re stating the obvious here but puppies are much smaller than fully grown dogs so their measurements would indicate that they need a much smaller crate which they will quickly grow out of. Carry on reading to see our recommendations on picking a crate size for your new puppy.
How to measure your dog for the correct crate size
When in doubt about which crate size to pick, measure! Your dog should be able to stand in their crate without their nose and rear end touching the crate and they shouldn’t be hunched or lowering their head past their shoulder blades when sitting or standing in the crate. Measuring will ensure that your dog can sit, stand, and lie down comfortably in their crate.
Length of dog
When your dog is on all fours measure them from their nose to the base of their tail. Make sure not to include the tail as this may mislead you into getting a bigger crate than you need, instead add between 2-4 inches to the overall measurement depending on the size of your dog to get the minimum length you will need for your crate.
Height of dog
Next, when your dog is sitting, you will need to measure them from the top of their head to the ground – make sure to measure from the tip of the ears if they have pointy ears. You will need to measure them sitting as some dogs are taller when they’re sat rather than when they’re standing, this will help you get the comfiest crate fit for your dog. Again, you will need to add between 2-4 inches to the overall measurement to get the minimum crate height so that they will definitely have plenty of room.
What Size Crate Does My Dog Need?
Once you have your dog’s measurements you can figure out what size crate you will need, their height and length measurements will just need to be smaller than the height and length of the dog crate to ensure that they will have plenty of room. Dog crates come in several different sizes, the most common being 24”, 30”, 36”, 42”, and 48” in length. Different brands may vary slightly, but most will offer these most common size options.
These are our size recommendations for each size of crate*:
24" Crate (S)
Chihuahua, Jack Russell, Shih Tzu, Yorkshire Terrier and similar breeds
30" Crate (M)
Westie, Beagle, Standard and Miniature Dachshunds, French Bulldog, Border Terrier and similar
36" Crate (L)
Cockapoo, Springer Spaniel, Bulldog and similar breeds
42" Crate (XL)
Labrador, Dalmatian, Labradoodle, English Bull Terrier and similar breeds
48" Crate (XXL)
Golden Retrievers, Greyhounds, Bernese Mountain Dogs and similar breeds
*These are our general breed size recommendations. When selecting your crate speak to your breeder to find out what crate size, they think will be most suitable. Not every dog of a particular breed is the same size. You might have or be expecting a particularly large Frenchie or a very dainty Cockapoo – use our recommendations as a guide and use this with your breeder’s knowledge of the litter for a more accurate size recommendation.
How big should a dog crate be for a puppy?
When picking a crate for your puppy things work a little differently, as your puppy grows the measurements you’ve taken won’t stay the same and they will soon grow out of their crate. We always suggest choosing a big enough crate for your puppy to grow into as an adult dog. This means you won’t have the expense of upgrading to a larger size later on and your dog won’t have to part with the den that has been their favourite private place for as long as they can remember! Look at our crate guide to see how to set up the perfect cosy den for your puppy so that their crate doesn’t feel too big for them!
We recommend having your crate set up ready for when you bring your puppy home so that they can get used to it from day one however this means you won’t be able to measure them beforehand. We do encourage prospective puppy owners to look at both the breed list above and see which category we’ve recommended as well as to consult their puppy’s breeder as they hold the specialist breed information.
Can a crate be too big for a dog?
We’ve looked at how a crate can be too small for a dog you may be wondering if it can be too big. It may seem like giving your dog as much space as possible is the best thing to do but this may create more anxiety for them. Smaller spaces actually feel safer and more secure for your dog as it replicates their dens in the wild where their priority is small spaces without too much exposure to protect them from predators.
How to tell if your dog crate is too big
Your dog will just need space to stretch out, lay down and sleep comfortably, any more space they may feel overwhelmed and unprotected. If your dog’s crate is too big, they may begin to seek out other places they feel safe in as a makeshift den, under the table, a bed, or behind the sofa are all popular choices for this!
Another thing to look out for is how your dog is using the crate, are they stretched out or mainly on one side? Are they using one end of the crate as a toilet? If they’re not utilising the whole crate or are using part of the crate as a bathroom it can be a sign that the crate is too big for your dog. Following our measuring guide above should help your find the right size for your dog!
If you’ve read this guide and still have questions about selecting the right dog crates, please get in touch with your dog's measurements and we will happily help, we love to help you purchase the perfect products for you and your pooch.
Ready to shop? Start by browsing our crates and crate bedding. Unsure what material or have more questions about crates? Why not try looking at our Complete Dog Crate Guide for more information!
Keeping your pets bedding clean and smelling fresh will not only benefit you and your pooch, it’ll also prolong the life of your pet’s well loved bed. Here at Lords and Labradors, we know being able to wash your pet’s bedding is important, as our furry friends can get their beds messy from muddy paw prints, to treats/chews being hidden inside of their bed! If you have any questions about your Lords and Labradors bedding, please do contact us and we’re happy to answer any queries you may have.
Our bedding comes in two main collections, our essentials collection which includes our Plush, Herdwick and Twill ranges, and our Core Collection which consists of our signature ranges. Each needs washing in a different way so first check which collection your pet’s bedding is from.
How To Clean Your L&L Core Collection Pet Bedding
Our core collection is all machine washable, our pet experts have listed their top tips below to keep them looking fresh for as long as possible!
How To Wash Your L&L Crate Cover
Taking care of your L&L crate cover means it’ll keep it looking fresh for longer! To wash, just turn the cover inside out and wash on a 20º, gentle cycle in the washing machine. The fabric will just need to air dry, by placing it somewhere flat and not in direct sunlight - you could even lay it over the crate so it dries in its shape. Once dry, you can cool-iron/steam inside out to remove any unsightly creases. Do not machine wash oilcloth covers.
How To Wash Your L&L Crate Cushion and Crate Bumpers
Washing your L&L core collection crate cushions and bumpers is easy, simply unzip the covers, and remove the waterproof liner from the cushion too. You can wipe clean the waterproof liner and air out the cushion whilst you pop the cushion cover/crate bumper cover into the washing machine at 20º on a gentle cycle - don’t forget to turn the covers inside out before doing so! Allow the covers to air dry, and do not tumble dry.
How To Wash Your L&L Beds
With the right care your Lords & Labradors bed will continue to look beautiful for years!
To wash, unzip the bed cover and remove the water resistant inner cushion. Wash your bed cover on a 30º machine wash inside out and leave to air dry. If the inner cushion becomes soiled it can be wiped down with a disinfectant cleaning product.
How To Wash Your L&L Blankets
Your Lords & Labradors blanket can be popped into the washing machine on a gentle cycle at 20º - the blankets are quick to dry once laid flat, do not lay over a hot radiator and do not tumble dry.
How To Wash Your L&L Sofa Toppers
Our sofa toppers are easy to wash - you don’t need to put the whole topper in the wash - only the cover. Simply remove the cover by unzipping the back, slide the inner out, turn the cover inside out and pop into a gentle wash at 20º. Once washed, lay flat if you can to air dry - this shouldn’t take too long and then you can return your beautiful sofa topper to your comfortable sofa!
How To Clean Your Lords & Labradors Essentials Pet Bedding
Our Essentials Plush & Twill beds are machine washable, the rest of our Essentials collection is spot wash only. Below we’ve listed our top tips for cleaning your L&L Essentials beds.
Cleaning Your Essentials Sofa Toppers
Our Essentials Plush sofa toppers, as well as our Sleepeze cushions, are spot wash only. You will want to start by hoovering off any loose hair and dirt, make sure to get in any crevices. Next, using a clean cloth, warm water and a mild pet-safe detergent, gently scrub any areas which need cleaning, afterwards with a clean cloth wipe away any suds and leave to air dry. We recommend doing a test patch on a discreet area of the bed before cleaning the whole bed to check that your detergent isn’t going to cause any discolouration.
Cleaning Your Essentials Herdwick Bed & Sleepeze
Start by hoovering any loose hairs or dirt from the bed, some of the collection have removable inner cushions we recommend taking this out to clean separately, so you can properly get into all the corners of the bed. Next you’ll want to get some warm water mixed with a mild pet safe detergent, with a clean cloth gently scrub your pet’s bed focusing on any dirty areas. Then wipe away any suds and leave to air dry. Again we recommend trialling the detergent in a discreet spot to check it doesn’t discolour your pet’s bed.
How To Wash Your Essentials Plush & Twill Beds
Our Plush & Twill beds are all machine washable. To keep them looking fresh we recommend starting by hoovering away any loose hairs or dirt, this will stop the hair from clogging up in your washing machine. Our twill crate mats and orthopaedic beds have removable covers, pop the cover inside out and zipped up in your washing machine. If your bed has an inner cushion, you can take this out and wash it separately to the outer, making it easier to fit in the washing machine. We recommend washing our beds on a gentle cycle at 20º in the washing machine, leave to air dry and never tumble dry. Your bed may just need a good shake after to spread out the filling and then it will be ready for your pet to use again.
If you have any questions on cleaning your Lords & Labradors bedding then why not ask out pet experts? You can call them on +44 1790 720 900 or email us at sales@lordsandlabradors.co.uk
We love nothing more than matching our dog beds and blankets to our home decor. Our dogs are part of our everyday and having an old, dirty dog bed isn’t quite the style we’re opting for. Our spots and stripes collection are the perfect addition to be in keeping with your interior style, whilst ensuring the correct support and quality for your dog.
Introducing our Spots & Stripes Collection which feature our signature, 100% cotton Grey Spot fabric, 100% cotton Duck Egg Spot fabric and 100% cotton Regency Stripe fabric. This collection features all your dog will ever need whilst looking super stylish, take a look at the range below.
Crate Bedding and Sets
[product]
Our crate sets are the ultimate dog beds - available in Grey Spot, Duck Egg Spot and Regency Stripe. Your pup will love having a cosy, stylish den of their own where they can retreat to for a snooze. General dog crates can be quite draughty and unsightly, which is why we have designed the ultimate cosy den, equipped with a cover, bumper and cushion. You can also mix and match your crate bedding and sets by opting for a crate set, a crate with bumper and cushion, or a crate with a cushion or cover! You can also purchase any of the components to our crate sets separately so you can add to your crate as your pup grows. All of our ‘By Lords & Labradors’ bedding is designed and hand made in our workshop in Lincolnshire; if you already have your crate, you can purchase a made to measure crate set separately by emailing us at sales@lordsandlabrador.co.uk, or by calling us on +44 (0) 1790 720900.
Our luxury dog crate sets are machine washable on a delicate cycle (perfect for any training puppies, or after those muddy, wet dog walk snoozes!), and come as part of a four piece set. Once you’ve picked the spot or stripe fabric, build your crate set with a crate of your choice. Our Lords & Labradors crates come in colours, black, silver or gold, all of which look gorgeous with our fabrics. The crate covers are designed to help your dog/puppy get into their nighttime routine. The bumpers create a wall around the inside of the crate, which is great for pups who love to curl up in the corner. And our crate cushions fit perfectly in the inside of the crate and can also be taken out to use as a standalone dog bed when needed too! Our crate sets come in 5 different sizes, and our experts are happy to recommend the suitable size for your breed.
High Wall Beds
Our super cosy, high wall beds are available in our gorgeous spots & stripes too. They are really plush and cosy with a super soft inner for your dog who will love cuddling up inside getting snuggly against the high sided walls of the bed. The beds come in three sizes so you can find the bed perfect for your dog’s breed - you can even personalise the bed with their name too! The only decision is which fabric to opt for! Our spots & stripes fabrics are really durable and washable, so you don’t need to worry about their muddy paw prints getting their gorgeous new bed dirty.
Spots & Stripes Collection Box Beds
Our box beds are designed for those stretched out sleepers, and those pups who need a little more support, with ease of getting in and out of their bed. Our adult dog box beds are easy for your dog to get onto and curl up to get comfy, as are our cosy & calm puppy crate beds. Each design of box bed feature a reversible inner cushion with a lovely soft teddy fleece/sherpa on one side and the 100% cotton fabric on the opposite side, so you can opt for either the print or the cosy side up - your pup will have the choice of which side they’d like to sleep on. The beds not only look stylish, they’re comfy and oh-so soft and plush. All of our Lords & Labradors 100% cotton beds are washable, meaning your dogs bed will look gorgeous for years!
Cosy Blankets
Our cosy spots & stripes blankets are designed and handmade in our gorgeous fabrics with the softest of teddy fleece on the reverse. The blankets will look fabulous in your home, whether this be on your sofa or your bed, and your dog will love curling up in them. The blankets come in varied sizes suitable for dogs of many breeds and ages, they’re a brilliant addition to your home, and they make a great gift for a special puppy or dog in your life - you can even personalise them too!
SIGN UP FOR USEFUL TIPS & GUIDES STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX
26.04.22April 26, 2022HealthFeatured
How Often Should I Walk My Dog?
Here in the UK, it’s recommended we get at least 30 minutes of exercise daily, and what a great way to get that exercise through your daily dog walk. The actual amount of exercise your dog needs will vary on their breed, their age, their heath and what they enjoy doing. Generally, your dog will need a walk or two a day. In this blog, we discuss how long you need to walk your dog and whether this does depend on their breed.
How Long Should I Walk My Dog For A Day?
There isn’t a perfect number or formula to determine how long your dog actually needs on a walk, but walking should be a part of your dog’s daily routine to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Make sure they’re comfortable when walking and if needed, build their stamina by gradually improving pace and how far you walk. A brisk, fast-paced walk will ensure they burn off some energy, where as a slower ‘sniffing’ walk will exercise your dog mentally as well as physically. Always make sure you’re taking into account your dogs fitness and health, if you’re unsure if your dog will be able to cope with lots of exercise in one go, contact your veterinarian for advice. Always consider the conditions you're walking in and how comfortable your dog is. You may want to invest in a sturdy harness if you're likely to go on a longer walk, or if walking in cold or warm conditions, make sure you and your dog are properly equipped for the weather.
How Long Should A Small Dog Be Walked For?
No matter how big or small your dog, they will still require a daily amount of exercise. If your dog doesn’t get enough exercise they may display mental problems, behavioural problems and/or obesity. Although walking your small dog may be challenging due to their short legs, they will still require walking daily. Generally two 15 minute walks a day will help to maintain their health. When considering how long or far to walk your dog, consider their age and health before setting off on your daily walks.
How Long Should A Puppy Be Walked?
The general rule for puppies is they should get 5 minutes of walk time for each month of age, so a 3 month old puppy would get 15 minutes of walk time one or twice a day. This is super important to follow as puppies bones are still developing so are still soft, taking extra care helps to prevent any joint or bone problems they may develop. Continue the 5 minutes per month of age until they are fully grown and can handle longer walks.
How Many Times Should You Walk Your Dog A Day?
Depending on how far you’re walking your dog and for how long you’re out with your dog on each walk, will depend on how many times you walk your dog in a day. For example, if you took your dog on two 30 minute walks a day, or rather four 15 minute walks a day.
What Happens If You Don't Walk Your Dog?
By not walking your dog daily, you may find your dog will get bored easily, which often leads to destructive behaviour. Don’t worry if you miss the odd day, especially if your dog can’t walk due to a health reason, or if the weather is too hot or too cold which could be dangerous to your dog. Walking your dog not only provides exercise and mental stimulation, but also helps to combat obesity and heart problems for your pooch. Do remember, it’s not just exercise for your dog, it’s a chance for them to spend some quality, bonding time with you too.
How Soon Can I Walk My Dog After Neutering?
The answer to this question massively depends on your dog, we always recommend following your vets advice on this. Usually your dog will be ready to resume their normal walking routine 10 to 14 days after the procedure but others may need less time to heal where as others may need a little longer.
Should You Walk A Dog With Arthritis?
As with neutering we recommend you ask your vet for advice and recommendation on how far you should walk your arthritic dog. It is important to keep your dogs joints moving if they have arthritis, this will help prevent stiffness and decrease pain. Try splitting their walk time into several slower and shorter walks a day rather than one long walk, this will be easier on them sore muscles and joints.
How To Measure Your Dog For A Hugo & Hudson Puffer Jacket
Keeping your furry friend warm, dry, cosy, and stylish is the ideal solution in harsh weather conditions. When picking out the perfect coat for your dog it's important to consider the size and whether or not it will suit the unique shape of your dog.
If you’ve ordered a coat too big, it may be difficult for your dog to keep it on and it could also potentially hinder your dog’s movement. If it’s too small, it could be too tight and uncomfortable for your dog to walk in. To avoid this, measure your dog as per the sizing guide for the coat you require.
How To Measure Your Dog For Their Hugo & Hudson Puffer Jacket
Top 10 Dog Accessories For Spring - Our Favourite Springtime Accessories
Every season brings with it a certain set of challenges for pet owners. Whether it’s the super cold temperatures of Winter, the extreme heat in Summer or the dampness of Autumn, each season requires a little thought to keep our canine family members as happy as possible. In Spring, we’ve come to expect a mixture of weather, especially here in the UK; it can be bright and warm one moment and then pouring with rain the next! Here, we’ve compiled a list of our favourite dog products for Spring so that you and your canine pals can navigate this beautiful season in comfort. Our list is full of practical travel accessories for the car as well as other everyday items that will keep your pup looking and feeling great!
Our Favourite Dog Accessories for Spring
Dog Coat - The first item on the list has to be a good coat. Spring can be very wet so having a waterproof dog coat is a must. We’d suggest something that can be layered with other items for warmth if needed, such as the Ruffwear Sunshower jacket that can be layered over the Climate Changer fleece. Or a jumper that can be layered under a waterproof jacket. Just make sure you’re prepared for a range of weathers before leaving the house on your day trips!
We recently wrote a blog about The Best Dog Coats for Spring which may be worth a read if you need help choosing one.
Dog Drying Coat - With wet weather in mind, a dog drying coat can be a lifesaver at this time of year. We use ours all year round for different things, but in Spring it’s a brilliant addition to your travel kit for days out. Whether it’s a run on the beach or a rainy walk in the countryside, if your dog does get wet on their walk you can pop this on before they get back in the car. It will wick the extra moisture away from their body helping to keep them warm and to dry off more quickly. We also like to use them for bath times and as a cooling jacket when it comes to the summer.
Washable Dog Bed - It sounds like all we talk about is rain, but even a bit of mud can be a pain in the Spring. If your dog is one for jumping in muddy puddles or spends lots of time in the field, then a bed that can be washed in the washing machine can be great. Most of our dog beds have a waterproof liner too, and removable covers which is great this time of year. Check out our sofa toppers, which sit on top of your sofa to avoid muddy footprints on your furniture, and they're able to be washed with ease.
Car Protection - With day trips very much on the agenda, making sure we’ve got all the car and travel accessories we need is a must. One of our must have items is car/boot protection, which protects the boot or the car seats from water and dirt. They're a must have car accessory for days at the beach or park when your dog may well return rather dirtier than they arrived! They're also handy to have for trips to the recycling centre and garden centre and any other excursion that may call for extra protection for your car’s interior.
Dog Shampoo & Grooming Products - Dogs tend to start shedding around March and can continue to do so well into early Summer. A shed control shampoo such as the one by Tropiclean is ideal to help keep loose hair to a minimum. It’ll help to keep tangles and knots at bay too.
Insect Shield Snood - Do you love a ramble in woodland or in the countryside? One thing you might not like are the insects that make an appearance at this time of year. If your dog gets easily irritated by insects, then try one of these Insect Shield Snoods by Scruffs. They will help deter flying insects from descending on your pup.
Travel cup - Outdoor adventures become much more appealing at this time of year and if your outings are like ours, then they probably get longer the further into Spring we get. If your daily strolls are turning into longer walks, maybe even day trips, then taking provisions with you is a must. The Travel Bowl is a great item to slip in your bag, take some food and a drink for your dog. You won’t have to worry about getting home for lunch!
Dexas Mud Buster - Keep muddy paws at bay with the MudBuster. It’s a really simple contraption to use; simply add a little water, insert the paw, do a little twist, dab the paw dry and repeat 3 more times! Perfect to keep in the car before you allow your dog back inside after a walk, or to keep in the porch for when you return after a walk.
Mobile Dog Gear - With the potential for longer day trips with our dogs at this time of year, a good quality travel bag is something we can’t do without. The mobile dog gear range has enough room to pack all the dog food and treats you’ll need as well as a few more essentials including wipes, a lead and a toy. It has so many great features including collapsible silicone bowls that store neatly inside when travelling as well as a matching placemat. You’ll be able to pack everything that you need for some brilliant Springtime adventures with your canine pals!
Pet Wipes - A really simple item, but essential nonetheless! Some good quality pet wipes are one of our go-to products for quick clean ups in-between bath time. They are brilliant for a quick clean down after a walk just before getting back in the car!
Some good options are the Earth Rated Grooming Wipes which come in a lovely lavender fragrance or the HOWND Yup You Stink Emergency Wipes.
Doggy bandanas are worn for serval reasons, not only do they make your dog look super stylish, there are bandanas that are used for safety, preventative reasons and can serve different purposes when worn outdoors. In this article, we look into why dogs wear bandanas and if they are necessary.
What Is The Point In A Dog Bandana?
The primary purpose of a dog bandana is to communicate, whether this be for the owner, or for the dog itself. Owners put different coloured bandanas on to visually communicate how they interact with other people and other dogs, or alternatively, they may personalise a bandana for example, ‘I’m Anxious’, to communicate the dog is anxious around other dogs/people. Dogs not only wear bandanas for communication, they may reduce anxiety, repel bugs, dry dribble/wet mouths and can act as a fashion accessory. If your dog does not have multiple coats, they may need a bandana to keep warm, if a coat isn’t suitable for them. Our Lords & Labradors tweed bandanas are great for keeping your small dog/puppy cosy and warm around their neck and chest.
In warmer climates, bandanas are a great way to keep your dog cool. Ensure the bandana chosen is a ‘cooling bandana’ as these deflect sunlight and soak up water to give a consistent cooling effect to your dog. Simply immerse the bandana in water, squeeze out excess water and tie through your dogs collar, ensuring it is not too tight. Ensure the largest part of the bandana cover the chest area.
You may see a dog wearing a hi-vis bandana when out and about on a walk, these are typically used for safety, and often used on early morning walks/evening walks where your dog may not be as visible to other road users.
Bandanas are also used at events, you may want to dress your dog up for a particular event, whether this be your wedding, a birthday, a brand awareness or another cause/charity. If you’d like to dress your dog up, just ensure they’re happy wearing the bandana and it isn’t causing any discomfort or irritation.
How To Get Your Dog To Wear A Bandana
Once you’ve chosen your bandana, they can often be attached in two ways. They can be attached either through the collar - where the collar slips through the bandana and hangs off the collar. Or you can tie the bandana around the dog's neck, do make sure it’s not tied to tightly and you can fit 2 fingers between the bandana and your dog's neck.
What Size Of Bandana For A Dog?
The size of the bandana will depend on the type of dog bandana you choose, and the purpose of the bandana. Here at Lords and Labradors, we confirm the size of bandana and what breed they’re generally recommended for.
Our Lords & Labradors guides are below to help you choose your perfect fit:
Length
Height
Recommended For
Small
18cm
13cm
Dachshund, Jack Russell, Pug
Medium
21cm
16cm
French Bulldog, Cocker Spaniel
Large
27cm
18cm
Dalmatian, Labrador, English Bull Terrier
Spring is in the air and your old, muddy dog bed might not quite fit with your newly spring cleaned home! We love nothing more than making sure our pets are comfortable, but a dog bed that looks good and supports our dogs needs are the top of our list!
Introducing our Savanna Collection, which has been carefully designed to suit your dogs needs, equipped with all you’ll ever need for your dog to be oh-so stylish and comfortably supported whilst drifting off to sleep.
Crate Bedding and Sets
Our Savanna crate bedding and crate sets are the ultimate dog beds. If your dog loves their crate; they’ll love having a cosy den of their own where they can retreat to for a snooze. Basic dog crates can be quite draughty and unsightly, which is where our luxury Savanna crate bedding comes in. Whether you choose to pair your crate with a cover, or a bumper or a cushion, or mix and match with a crate, bumper and cushion, your dogs crate will look so cosy and will be the most delightful doggie den you’ve ever seen! All of our ‘By Lords & Labradors’ bedding is designed, made and packed in our workshop in Lincolnshire, so you can be sure it’s of the highest quality.
Our luxury dog crate sets are machine washable on a delicate cycle (perfect for any training puppies), and come as part of a four piece set. Build your crate set with a crate of your choice, featuring from our core crate colours, black, silver or gold, paired with a crate cover in one of our Savanna fabrics. The crate cover really helps your dog/puppy get into their nighttime routine - you can roll down the doors which can signify it’s time to sleep. Our crate cushions fit the inside of the crate perfectly and can be taken out to use as a standalone dog bed when needed too. The final piece of the set is the bumper which will add a cosy wall of cushioning to the inside of the crate. It’s the perfect addition for any dog or puppy who loves to curl up in the corner of their crate at nap time or bedtime. Our crate sets and crate bedding come in 5 different sizes, suitable for all breed of dog. If you already have your crate, you can purchase a crate set separately by emailing us at sales@lordsandlabradors.co.uk, or by calling us on +44 (0) 1790 720900.
Sofa Toppers
Introducing our most stylish sofa protection, our Savanna Sofa Toppers. The hard wearing Savanna fabric are perfect for pups who like to dig or circle to get comfortable when making themselves at home on your sofa. The sofa toppers feature a gorgeous comfy, soft inner (so great for you too!), as well as being machine washable at 30 degrees. The cover is easily removed for washing so you it’ll fit within your washing machine! Our luxurious sofa toppers come in three different sizes or they can be made to fit your sofa, just get in touch with our team on +44 (0) 1790 720900 if you'd like a custom quote.
High Wall Beds
Our super cosy high wall beds come in our choice of luxury Savanna colours, they’re super cosy, super soft and your dog will love cuddling up inside getting all snuggly against the high sided walls. The beds come in three sizes so you’ll be sure to find the the bed perfect for your dog - you can even personalise it with their name too! The only decision is what colour to go for - you don’t need to worry about their muddy paw prints getting on the bed either as the Savanna material is extremely durable and the bed will look beautiful for years if given the right care! You can wash the beds at 30 degrees and lay to air dry and your dogs bed will look as good as new!
Savanna Box Beds
Our durable and stylish box beds are perfect for those stretched out sleepers, or even those pups who need a little more support. Our box beds are easy for your dog to get onto and curl up to get comfy. The box beds feature a reversible inner cushion with a lovely soft teddy fleece on one side and the durable Savanna fabric on the opposite side, so you and your pup have the choice of which side they’d like to sleep on. The beds not only look gorgeous and stylish, they’re comfy and soft and squishy, for your pup to lay their weary heads on the cushioned walls. All of our Savanna beds are washable, meaning your dogs bed will look gorgeous for years!
Cosy Blankets
Our luxurious Savanna blankets are hand crafted from our gorgeous Savanna fabrics and the softest teddy fleece on the reverse. The blankets will look fabulous in your home and your dog will love cuddling up to them. The blankets come in 2 different sizes suitable for dogs of many breeds and ages, and the perfect size for the end of your bed where they love to curl up. They’re a brilliant addition to your home, or ideal for a gift for a puppy or dog - you can even personalise them too!
Accessories
Our Savanna bandanas are the perfect gift for your dog, or a friends dog! The luxury Savanna bandanas are hand made from the highest quality fabric that is sure to make your pup stand out. The bandanas are really easy to fit, simply looping on to your dog's favourite collar - they’ll look so stylish and dapper whatever the occasion in their fabulous neckerchief!
Or perhaps your dog is more of a toy lover - our Savanna bone plush toys are made from the our gorgeous Savanna that is sure to withstand playtime! Each toy is fashioned from our fabulous Savanna fabric that is durable and stylish. - You can also get their name on their bone too!
