Lords & Labradors Information Hub

The home of handy tips and advice dedicated to pet owners

  • How Often Should You Replace Your Dog’s Bed?
    28.02.24 February 28, 2024 FAQs Featured

    How Often Should You Replace Your Dog’s Bed?

    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.

    By Megan Willis

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  • The Importance Of Correct Nutrition For Dogs And Cats!
    29.01.24 January 29, 2024 Health Featured

    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

    By Megan Willis

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  • Dog Crate Sets & Crate Aftercare
    02.08.21 August 02, 2021 FAQs Featured

    Dog Crate Sets & Crate Aftercare

    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!

    By Zac Girdlestone

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  • How To Travel With A Dog In A Car
    06.02.23 February 06, 2023 Owning a Dog Featured

    How To Travel With A Dog In A Car

    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.

    By Megan Willis

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  • The Top 10 Puppy Essentials
    13.01.23 January 13, 2023 Getting A Puppy Featured

    The Top 10 Puppy Essentials

    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.

    By Megan Willis

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How To Stop Cats Clawing The Carpet
21.09.20 September 21, 2020 Owning a Cat Featured

How To Stop Cats Clawing The Carpet

Everyone enjoys the feeling of soft, thick, comfortable carpet under their feet, but for cats, this experience may give them the urge to bed their claws into these materials, pulling at them and causing significant damage. If your pet cats do this to your sofas, carpets, rugs and walls, they could ruin the material beyond repair. If you want to prevent your cat from clawing at your carpet and other furniture in your home, you need to look at the potential causes for why they’re doing it. Once you’ve found the root cause, you should be able to stop them from causing any further damage, and it may even help to encourage your cat to feel more content and happy in your home in the future.   How Can I Stop My Cat From Clawing The Furniture? There are a number of reasons why your cat may be resorting to clawing and kneading at the furniture in your home. It could be the case that your cat is feeling stressed and anxious or is being destructive as a result of not getting sufficient attention. However, if you’ve ruled out this possibility, it could be a far simpler reason. For example, it could be due to a lack of mental or physical stimulation, an attempt to mark their territory, a method of trimming their claws down when they are too long or simply a side effect of stretching their muscles. Fortunately, all of these problems can be remedied through introducing a cat scratching post.   What Is A Cat Scratching Post? A cat scratching post is an accessory that gives your cat an outset for their urges to scratch and claw. Often covered by cardboard, felt or another thick material, these posts are usually displayed as an upwards-facing pole with a softer base for your cat to roll around on while playing. Cat scratchers are also available as massive structures - better known as tall trees - or as flat cardboard boxes.   Why Do Cats Use Scratching Posts? Although you may think that the only benefit of scratching posts is to trim your cat’s claws, they actually possess a number of uses. For instance, your cat may recognise it as a symbol of marking their territory in your home, or it could keep them stimulated and prevent them from scratching at other nearby furniture. Many cat owners see a scratching post as being just as a vital accessory for their feline due to how effective they are with keeping your cat as stress-free and content as possible.   How To Get Your Cat To Use A Scratching Post? If your cat isn’t using their scratching post, there are a handful of things you can do to encourage them to use it, which in turn should make them more comfortable with using it on a regular basis.  Tips for getting your cat to use their scratching post include: Start your cat young - For kittens, the problem with not being fond of their scratching post could simply be a matter of not knowing what it’s for. However, you can get your kitten better acquainted with your scratching post by getting them to play near it, putting their favourite cat toys next to it and scratching it yourself to tempt them to use it.If none of these approaches work, you could even wait until your cat is calm before bringing them over to the post and gently holding their paws to scratch their claws against the post to show them how it’s meant to be used. Pick the right material for your cat - Although cats typically like specific materials such as wool, cardboard and rope, each cat is different. Before choosing a scratching post, consider what material your cat likes the most and try a few with them until you find one they respond to in a positive way. Consider the placement of the scratching post - Scratching posts are used by cats to mark their territory, so you should put some thought into where it’s being placed. The best place would be near to where they sleep or high traffic areas that they could see as being an important area in your home. If your cat is scratching a specific item of furniture, you could put the scratching post nearby as an alternative option. Give each cat their own scratching post - As previously mentioned, cats recognise scratching posts as a form of marking their territory. Due to this, it would be counterproductive to make several cats share the same scratcher. Instead, give them their own post and put them in separate areas of your home to differentiate.

By Zac Girdlestone

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Our Favourite Tweed Dog Accessories For Autumn
10.09.20 September 10, 2020 Product Spotlight Featured

Our Favourite Tweed Dog Accessories For Autumn

Autumn is one of our favourite times of the year here in the L&L offices. Who can resist the changing colours of the landscape and crisp morning walks. September has crept up on us rather quickly and we’re now thinking about our cold weather wardrobes and what we we might need for our pets in the coming months. You might not only want to think about what dog coat is best for Autumn, but you might swap your dog bed and accessories to match the season too. Here, we’ve picked out some of our favourite accessories for dogs including tweed dog beds, coats and toys. Explore and shop the collection:   Our Top 10 Tweed Accessories for Dogs L&L Balmoral Tweed Dog Crate Set Our luxury dog crate sets are some of the most comfortable dog beds around. Our handmade dog bedding turns your cold draughty crate into a sumptuous, luxury dog bed den. Why not upgrade your dog’s bedding to a new tweed set? Our Balmoral tweeds come in stylish colour options in sizes to fit all of our crates. The tweed is durable and washable, making it practical as well as aesthetically pleasing. The perfect winter dog bed; the only consideration is which to opt for!    Lords & Labradors Dog Bandana Our range of dog bandanas will add a dash of sartorial elegance to your dog’s look. With September here, we are in love with our tweed bandanas, made by hand here in our workshop. Each tweed bandana simply slips on to your dog’s collar. They come in a variety of colour options and sizes so you will find a size to suit any dog breed. We even offer personalisation on our bandanas so you can treat your pup to a special gift!   L&L Tweed Bone Dog Toy If you are looking for Autumn dog toys, look no further than our delightful tweed dog bones. Each dog toy is hand made in the shape of a bone, from our tweed fabrics. These are the perfect addition to your dog’s toy box and will add an Autumnal feel to your dog’s playtime.   Sleepy Burrow Beds If you’re looking for a super cosy, plush dog bed, then our Sleepy Burrow Beds might just be for you (and your pooch!). Made in a variety of fabrics, our Sleepy Burrows dog beds are designed to look effortlessly chic whilst offering a cosy spot for any pup. Our classic cushion design, elevated with a hooded top for snuggling under.   Stylish Dog Coats If you’d like more dog coat choices, then you may just love the designer dog coats we have on offer. Your pup will look lovely on their morning walk wearing this warm and cosy coat.   Dog Harness Our choice of dog harnesses from our luxury designers are the perfect harness for the Autumn season. We simply adore the tweed harnesses, but also the brighter harnesses too! Which will you choose?!

By Zac Girdlestone

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Everything You Need For Your New Scottish Fold Kitten
01.09.20 September 01, 2020 Cat Breed Guide Featured

Everything You Need For Your New Scottish Fold Kitten

The Scottish Fold is a beautiful and distinctive breed of cat. They have a natural gene that affects the cartilage throughout their body, sometimes causing their ears to bend forwards; hence their name, Scottish Fold. Their distinctive good looks and loving personalities make them extremely popular pets. Here we take a look at the history of the breed and then discuss all the things you should have if you’re going to make a Scottish Fold your next pet.   The History Of The Scottish Fold Cat The First Scottish Fold cat was discovered in Scotland in the early 1960’s. Susie had the distinctive folded down ears and soon gave birth to two kittens with the same owl-like appearance. The cats went on to be registered with the GCCF Governing Council of Cat Fancy) and the Scottish Fold breed was born. The breed is renowned for their folded down ears, but it’s important to note that not all Scottish Fold’s will have folded ears; it all depends on the kitten’s dominant gene. Scottish Fold’s who do not develop the folded ears are often called Straights. Straights are no less attractive - who could resist those round cheeks and big eyes! A medium sized cat, Scottish Folds can be either long or short haired and can have almost every known colour. The breed is typically very pleasant natured with with humans and other animals. In fact they tend to grow very strong bonds with their human owners and are usually very affectionate. This makes them a very popular choice of pet. Just make sure you have the time to give them plenty of attention as they can grow lonely quite easily. If you work full time, it might be a good idea to buy two together so they are not alone for long periods of time.   Scottish Fold Kitten Shopping List Are you planning to get a Scottish Fold? If you’re making one your next pet, or are considering it, we’ve put together this shopping list so you can make sure you have everything you need ready to collect them and bring them home. Cat Carrier Travel safety is an important consideration for your cat, both for the day you collect your kitten and beyond. Choose your carrier carefully and look at their really practical features. The main thing we love about cat carriers is a top opening with double door closure. It allows you to easily get your kitten in and out. Nervous new kittens might be reluctant to get in a carrier or get out so the top opening is ideal. Also a lot of our carriers are certified safe for various forms of travel including land, sea and air so all travel forms are covered.   Kitten Blanket You will want your kitten to be as comfortable as possible on the journey home. Little kittens may be nervous to travel and will be unsure of their surroundings. A blanket will offer warmth and a feeling of security. We have scent blankets that can be left with Mum for a couple of weeks before you pick your kitten up. They can bring the scent home with them and have the comforting feeling of home with them. A large cat blanket is a good idea to put with them in their carrier though and can be added to their bed for snuggles at catnap time and bedtime.   Pet Calming Products for Kittens Pet Remedy make a range of calming products suitable for both cats and dogs. You might like to spray their blanket with some of the natural solution to help keep your kitten stress-free on the journey. You could also spray their bed at home to help settle them in. Pet remedy make a range of different products including kits for New Homes and for Travel. Feliway is a brand of calming products designed especially for cats and kittens. Their plug-in diffusers can be plugged in a week or so before you bring your kitten home and will help to make them at home more quickly. They are 100% pet safe, tried and tested to help calm nervous pets in a range of situations. Feliway is great to use in the lead up to trips to the Vet and at any other times that your cat may feel particularly stressed.   Cat Litter Tray & Accessories Pet hygiene is an important part of your cat’s life, whilst litter training is a crucial part of their development and cleanliness. Most kittens will be fully litter trained by the time you bring them home, so just ensure you have a litter tray with good quality litter and a scoop for cleaning. When you first get kitten home, make sure they know where the litter tray is. We have a wide range of litter tray types, but we’d suggest a medium to large size for your Scottish Fold and a clumping litter.    Cosy Cat Bed Kittens love to nap and snooze. New kittens can spend up to 20 hours a day sleeping, so having a comfortable bed is a must. A cosy kitten bed can also help them to feel safe and secure in their new environment. A hooded cat bed is a really good option as cats like to feel sheltered and safe. Choose a cat bed with a sherpa top as cat’s love the texture of this type of fleece.    Cat Bowls Your Scottish Fold will  need bowls for feeding time! A minimum of two bowls or saucers for food and water is essential. You might also consider a third one if you want to feed dry and wet food separately. Some of our favourite bowls are the shallow designs. Tarhong make really durable melamine saucers that are just perfect for pouches of wet food or water. The shallow design makes them particularly whisker friendly.   Cat Food A good quality dry kitten food is essential for developing kittens. Your breeder is likely to suggest the best food for them and will probably send you home with a sample of the food they’ve been eating so far. If you decide to move them on to a different food, make sure it’s suitable for kittens and make sure changes are gradual over a week or two. Sudden changes to diet can have negative effects on kitten’s digestion. Our recommendation is that you keep dry food down all day for your kitten to graze on and then supplement with one or two wet food meals a day (make sure you read the packaging for portion sizes as different foods will vary). Dry food is great for dental health, helping to keep plaque at bay, but wet food has the benefit of a high water content which is beneficial for cats, especially for those who don’t like drinking water from a bowl. You should always keep fresh water down for them, even if they don’t drink much. Cats can suffer from urinary tract problems; making sure they drink enough can keep such problems at bay.   Cat Treats Choose some good quality treats for your kitten. Treats are a nice little reward for good behaviour and can be used to instil good behaviour when training them to scratch their scratch post. We have a wide selection of treats from brands including The Innocent Cat and Felix.   Cat Toys Whether your cat will live indoors or outdoors, they will love playing. Choose good quality toys that appeal to an array of your cat’s senses. Hunting, chasing and pouncing are just some of the things your cat will do in the wild, so giving them toys that allow them to do the same in their indoor environment will make sure they are entertained and stimulated. We have a fun collection of catnip toys as well as enticing cat wands and teasers from brands including Catit, KONG and All For Paws. Don’t forget to swap toys around so your cat doesn’t get bored!    Cat Scratch Post Your Scottish Fold kitten will definitely scratch, which shouldn’t be seen as naughty behaviour, but rather a natural instinct to be encouraged in the correct places. Never scold your kitten for scratching furniture, but instead provide specific scratching products for them to sate their scratching needs. A good quality scratch post should be tall enough for your kitten to stretch when scratching. You may choose a small compact one to begin with and size up as your kitten grows. If your cat is going to live solely indoors then you will need to invest in a tall scratch post with platforms and ledges for them to climb and exercise. Indoor cats live long healthy lives as long as you give them plenty of things to do. A tall cat tower is ideal for indoors cats.   Cat Collar If you are going to let your kitten outdoors eventually you may want to invest in a cat collar so you can attach an ID tag in case they go missing. Choose a cat collar with a safety buckle incase it gets caught when climbing and consider something with a reflective strip so your cat can be seen in the dark. You may well choose to keep your Scottish Fold as an indoor only cat, which is perfectly fine as long as you provide them with plenty of activities to keep them active and stimulated indoors.    Cat Grooming Tools Cats are very good at grooming themselves, but it’s also a good idea to get them used to being brushed and in some cases bathed too. Short haired Scottish Fold’s will only need minimal brushing but a long haired cat may require a daily brush. Grooming is good for their socialisation and helps build a strong bond with you. You could get your cat used to bathing too. Shampooing your cat isn’t always necessary, but you may choose to get them used to a bath every now and then; it might be necessary if you intend to show your cat. If your cat doesn’t like water, you could try a waterless shampoo spray. It’ll condition the hair and make it smell Devine.

By Zac Girdlestone

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Brand Spotlight: KONG - Pet Toys For Cats & Dogs
26.08.20 August 26, 2020 Product Spotlight Featured

Brand Spotlight: KONG - Pet Toys For Cats & Dogs

KONG has long been one of our most popular brands of dog toys. We all know and love KONG for their practical and durable chew toys such as the classic KONG and puppy teething toys. KONG also make a wonderful selection of dog plush toys and toys for cats too. We thought we’d explore the range and highlight some of our favourite new arrivals!   KONG Dog Chew Toys KONG dog toys are known for their super durable, almost indestructible qualities - the ideal toys for teething puppies and obsessive chewers. We’ve all seen the classic KONG toys, but now we have some additions to the line up that will add another dimension to your dog’s toy box! KONG Classic with a Rope - The KONG Classic now comes in an all new version with a rope. The KONG Classic with a Rope dog toy offers all the chewing fun of the normal Classic, but with added throwing and tugging capabilities. Fun games of tug, throw and toss have never looked so fun! It’s the perfect dog toy for the beach or the park as the bright colours mean it can easily be spotted from a distance - no more losing your dog toy in the bushes or the sea! KONG Puppy Goodie Bone on a Rope - What puppy doesn’t love their Goodie Bone?! Made especially for teething puppies, the toys are durable and help soothe aching gums. Now there is a new version with an additional rope threaded through. This is great for puppies who enjoy a game of tug or those who like to carry toys around with them. The cotton rope gives more chewing choices and will help clean teeth too! KONG AirDog Fetch Stick - If your dog cares less about chewing and more about throw and retrieve games of fetch, then they may just love the AirDog Fetch stick. The toy itself is made from a non-abrasive tennis ball like material, making it kind to teeth and gums; whilst the added rope makes it perfect for throwing long distance and great for tugging. KONG Wobbler - The KONG wobbler looks just like a KONG Classic, but is an all new type of toy. A mentally stimulating puzzle toy that can be stuffed with treats. It is weighted at the bottom for your dog to knock and bat until they release the treats for a tasty reward! A great way to spark your dog’s curiosity if they’re reluctant to play with normal toys. It can also be used at mealtime with real food for dogs who eat too quickly, to help extend meal time and aid digestion. KONG Cat Toys & Accessories KONG produce a range of cute catnip toys and plush toys for kittens. We have some adorable new additions to the range to keep your cat entertained with games of hunt and chase! KONG Softies Fuzzy Bunny Grey Plush - A cute cat toy stuffed with premium catnip is designed especially for kitten paws. It also has a rattle inside to ignite your kitten’s curiosity for hours of chasing and pouncing fun. Available in two fun colours! KONG Curlz Teaser - Cat teaser wands are perfect for interactive play between owner and kitten. This one features a feather and ribbon tail made up of springy corkscrew curls. This distinctive construction makes for truly unpredictable playtime fun and will have your cat chasing, jumping and pouncing for hours!

By Zac Girdlestone

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Miniature Schnauzer: The Ultimate Guide
21.08.20 August 21, 2020 Dog Breed Guide Featured

Miniature Schnauzer: The Ultimate Guide

Miniature Schnauzers are a small, intelligent breed, that are friendly and easy to train. All of these traits make them extremely popular pets with people around the world. Here we take a look at the history of the Miniature Schnauzer and take a look at everything you need to know and all the essentials you’ll need if you’re going to choose one as your next pet! The Standard Schnauzer was first bred in Germany in the early 19th century with the miniature coming along around the late 1880’s. It is thought that the smallest of the Standard Schnauzer breed were crossed with smaller breeds such Miniature poodles to form what we know today as the Miniature Schanuzer. They were originally bred into a smaller form for ratting, but would soon become a popular pet around the world. Miniature Schanuzers are known for their square shaped build, double coat with wiry topcoat and soft undercoat and their signature rectangular head with bushy beard. They come in four coat colours; Black, White, Salt and Pepper, and Pure White.   Features  Breed  Miniature Schnauzer  Breed Group  Terrier  Breed Size  Medium  Height   12-14 inches  Length   18-21 inches  Weight Range  11-21 inches  Coat Length  Medium  Coat Colours  Black, Silver, Salt & Pepper  Coat Type  Wiry when hand stripped, soft and curly when clipped    Lifespan  12 - 15 Years   How Big Does A Miniature Schnauzer Get? Although miniature is in the name, Miniature Schnauzers are actually medium dogs. This means that when they’re fully grown they usually measure between 12 and 14 inches. We usually recommend either medium or larges in our L&L products for Miniature Schnauzers depending on how big they are but we always recommend checking the products individual sizing guide or speak to our customer care team who are always happy to help you find the paw-fect fit.   What Do Miniature Schnauzers Look Like? Miniature Schnauzers are instantly recognisable from their bushy beards, crazy eyebrows and rectangular heads. Their bodies are almost square shapes and they’re shorter than their standard cousins.   Are Miniature Schnauzers Easy To Train? Schnauzers are known for being obedient, fast learners who are devoted to their owners – this makes them easier to train. Schnauzers are also super easygoing, they’re adaptable meaning they are just as happy being city dogs with a walk or two a day as they are being countryside dogs with plenty of room to run. They make great family dogs as they are super playful and sociable.   Miniature Schnauzer Health Issues Miniature Schnauzers age gracefully, not showing signs of aging until their later years. The main things to watch out for with your Schnauzers are dental disease, obesity and ear infections. All of these are both easily preventable and treatable; make sure you are giving your dog dental treats, plenty of exercise and cleaning their ears regularly to help keep these health problems at bay.   How To Groom Miniature Schnauzers Miniature Schnauzers do require regular grooming; something to think about if you’re considering one as a pet. Their signature groom cut is achieved by either clipping or stripping and is recommended every 6-8 weeks or so. Your Miniature Schnauzer will need regular grooming as they grow up. When they are older you may well want to invest in regular trips to a professional groomer to keep them in tip top condition and looking their best. It’s important to get them used to grooming from puppyhood though, with daily brushing and regular bath times. Animology make a range of super puppy shampoos and conditioners. We’d also suggest buying a slicker brush and then maybe a double-sided slicker brush as they grow up.   How Much Exercise Should A Miniature Schnauzer Have? One of the most important parts of your puppy’s development will be lead training. Make sure you’re prepared by having a well fitted harness or collar and a lead. Also keep treats with you and some poo bags. When you first start lead training we’d suggest using a harness as it gives comfort to your pup and will distribute the pressure if your pup pulls in the early stages. The Hi & Light Harness is perfect for training puppies as it is so lightweight. We'd probably suggest the XXS, but do check the measurements and cross reference with your puppy - puppies, like humans, can vary a little a size!   Miniature Schnauzer Nutrition Feeding time will be one of your dog's favourite times of the day, so make sure they do it in style! We’d suggest crate bowls that can be attached to the bars of your dog’s crate and will help prevent spillages. For outside the crate we love the melamine pet bowls by Tarhong. They come in an array of wonderful colours and patterns and have coordinating scoops, treat tins and placemats too!   Miniature Schnazer Sleeping 30” Dog crate Crate training your puppy will really help them to settle in to their new home quickly and efficiently. Crating isn’t a punishment, but gives your pup a space of their own, away form the hustle and bustle of the rest of the house. A 30” deluxe dog crate is ideal for a Miniature Schnauzer from puppyhood through to adulthood. To begin with you can put a puppy bed in one side and a puppy pad in the other just whilst pup is training, and then swap out to a full size bed once pup has grown and is fully potty trained. Miniature Schnauzer Puppy Bed Choose a puppy bed that will fit in one half of the crate. We’d suggest either the Grow with Me bed for a Miniature Schnauzer, or our Cosy & Calm Puppy Crate Bed - designed to fit exactly one half of the crate. When puppy is fully trained, you can use the bed elsewhere in the house as a stand-alone bed and buy a full size cushion for the crate. Puppy Blanket Puppies love to snuggle; it is comforting to nervous new pups and makes them feel safe. We’d suggest buying a scent blanket at first. Give it to your breeder a couple of weeks before you pick up your pup. It can be left with Mum for a while and then when you collect pup, you can bring the scent blanket with them. The comforting smell of Mum will come home with them and help them to feel content in their new surroundings. As pup grows up, size up to a full size dog blanket. Our luxury velvet blankets are lined in cosy sherpa or teddy fleece and make ideal additions to your dog’s crate or bed. They are also ideal to pop in your travel crate or carrier on trips to the Vet. Dog Crate Cover The perfect crate set-up for a puppy includes a dog crate cover. A crate cover is a really practical addition to the crate as it helps to make nervous pups feel safe, whilst also helping them adjust to their new night-time routine. They're washable too, so great for puppies!  Hopefully this guide will have given you some ideas of the key things to buy when getting ready for your new Miniature Schnauzer. even more suggestions, visit our Schnauzer breed page which has some must-have items for all Schnauzer owners. If you need any help or advice with your order don’t hesitate to contact us, we’re always happy to help as best we can.

By Zac Girdlestone

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Everything You Need For Your New Tonkinese Kitten
07.08.20 August 07, 2020 Cat Breed Guide Featured

Everything You Need For Your New Tonkinese Kitten

The Tonkinese is a beautiful, medium sized breed of cat known for its intelligence and loving nature. They love company, both that of humans and other animals. They are perfectly suited to the life of a house cat, as long as they have company around most of the day; they don’t appreciate being left alone for long periods. They make great pets and are an increasingly popular choice for pet owners. Here we take a look at the history of the breed and look at all the things you will need if you are getting ready to welcome one in to your home.    The History Of The Tonkinese Breed The Tonkinese were originally a crossbreed between the Siamese and Burmese, becoming recognised as a breed in their own right in the latter half of the 20th century. They have since become increasingly popular amongst both pet owners and show cat owners. They are a medium sized breed with distinctive almond shaped eyes. Perhaps best known in their Siamese-like colouring, there are in fact a broad spectrum of coat colours and patterns in the breed - with 78 combinations of coat colour and markings! Their intelligence makes them quick learners and they are quite capable of learning a trick or two. They can be vocal, just like their Siamese cousins and are known for being extremely affectionate (although perhaps not as loud as Siamese!). They will love spending time with you and other pets. This does mean they can get bored easily - so ensure you give them plenty of stimulation and they will live happily content lives.       Tonkinese Shopping List So you’ve decided to bring one of these beautiful cats into your home? Here are the cat products we recommend you have ready for their arrival! Travelling Home With Your Kitten: Cat Carrier It is essential that you travel safely with your new kitten, even short journeys will require a good quality cat carrier that can be fastened securely in to the car. Carriers are great as they're safe for various forms of transport and have some wonderful features. There is often a shoulder strap for comfortable carrying too!   Kitten Blanket Kittens love a warm snuggle. A blanket will allow them to curl up and snooze and give them a feeling of security, We’d suggest leaving a blanket with the breeder in the run-up to bringing them home so the blanket can be left with Mum for a while. Then when you bring kitten home with the blanket they will have the comforting scent of Mum with them.   Soft Toy Like the blanket, a snuggle toy will offer a comforting cuddle to nervous new kittens. Moving in to their new home is a big step for new kittens, so making them feel as settled and secure as possible is the most important thing.    Moving Kitten Into Their New Home: Kitten Bed Cats are notorious for sleeping wherever they like around the house; sunny window sills, the top of a wardrobe, the back of the sofa… you name it, your kitten will probably enjoy a snooze on it! It’s still important to give your kitten a dedicated bed though. You can pop their snuggle blanket and toys in there; and it will be a place of their own for them to retreat to when they need a break from the rest of the house.      Cat Bowls & Saucers Feeding time will probably become one of  your kitten’s favourite times of the day. You will need at least two bowls for food and water - three if you want to separate dry and wet food. We have a wonderful range of melamine bowls by Tarhong. The new Cactus design is particularly adorable, but there are also many other designs to choose from to suit all tastes and interiors.   Scratch Post or Tree Your cat will have a strong instinct to scratch. This isn’t a bad habit, but actually promotes healthy claws and allows them to stretch their muscles. Cats are like athletes and need to ensure their muscles are primed for all that climbing and jumping! With this in mind, you need to provide an area where you can allow and encourage them to scratch that isn’t your furniture. A tall scratch post is ideal. If your cat is going to live indoors we’d suggest a tree that is on the larger side with multiple platforms and posts. This will give them a place to climb and exercise as they would outside. Giving your indoor cat plenty to do will also ensure boredom doesn’t set in.   Cat Litter Tray & Accessories Your cat will need somewhere to toilet inside the house. Even if they will be allowed outside, giving them a litter tray indoors is always advised for the occasions where weather doesn’t permit outdoor pursuits; or if your cat has to be kept indoors for medical reasons. We’d recommend the Cat Washroom with a standard litter tray inside. A white wooden piece of furniture that will complement most interiors, our L&L Cat washroom is a great way to disguise your cat’s litter tray. Use a good quality clumping cat litter and you’ll be all set for litter training.   Catnip Toys We all know kittens are playful. This, teamed with their instinct to hunt and chase, means they will love a toy or two. We offer an array of brightly coloured toys featuring interesting textures and sounds for your cat to explore, such as feathers, rattles and bells, as well as an impressive selection of catnip toys they won’t be able to get enough. Buy a few different ones and try to swap them around so they don’t get bored of them.   Feather Wand Teaser In a similar vein to catnip toys, your cat will love playing with a feather teaser. A wand toy has the added benefit of including you in the fun - playing with your cat is good bonding time and the perfect chance to spend valuable time with your feline friend.    Activity Toys If you want to add an extra dimension to your cat’s playtime, you could try the interactive toys by Catit. Catit have designed a series of accessories that can be used alone or in conjunction with each other. Each one is designed to appeal to a specific feline sense - hence the name ‘Catit Senses’! Your cat will love chasing a ball around a Senses track system, or digging for treats in the Digger accessory. Explore the collection and create the ultimate kitten playground.   Pet Calming Products Feliway is designed to stop unwanted cat behaviours around the home. Settling into a new home can be stressful for a kitten. Stress can lead to all kinds of unwanted behaviour such as scratching furniture and toileting in the wrong places. Feliway is a good place to start when trying to stop this behaviour. Simply plug it in and the diffuser will release a scent that mimics the pheromones that cat’s leave on furniture - basically their smell of home.

By Zac Girdlestone

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Why Won't My Dog Walk?
24.07.20 July 24, 2020 Health Featured

Why Won't My Dog Walk?

Daily walks are a natural and important part of a dog’s life, and by taking your furry friend for a trip around your local area, you can exercise them while providing mental stimulation - helping to prevent them from becoming restless and upset. It’s also only likely to benefit the relationship between you and your dog, as walking is commonly associated with bonding, training and building closer ties with your canine pal. Most dogs will quite literally leap at the chance to go for a walk with their owner, but it’s also possible for them to be apprehensive when it comes to getting out on the lead. You may have found your pup pulling backwards, hiding when it's time to put their harness on, or simply refusing to let you clip their lead on. In this guide, we take a closer look at why your dog might be refusing to walk and offer tips to help your address the problem. Why Doesn’t My Dog Want To Walk? More often than not, dogs love going out with their human companions. As long as they’ve got the energy, they should be jumping at the chance to go exploring with you as soon as you bring out the lead or harness and begin to prepare for your trip out together. With this in mind, if your pooch doesn’t seem excited at the prospect or doesn’t appear to enjoy the dog walk itself, it could be worth questioning why. Reasons why your dog may not want to walk include:  laziness  unpleasant weather  a short attention span  inexperience  a lack of routine  fear  an uncomfortable harness, collar or lead  tiredness  a lack of trust  illness  an undiagnosed injury     What To Do When Your Dog Refuses To Walk When trying to find out why your pet is reluctant to walk, start by checking if they are injured or unwell. If you think they may be, you should seek advice from a professional - call your veterinarian with your concerns and they may want to check them over to make sure there is nothing to worry about. If you don’t check that your dog is okay prior to your walk, you could be forcing them to exercise when they’re in pain, not only hurting your dog but also potentially worsening their condition. For mental or emotional issues, for example if your dog is frightened, untrusting, out of routine or simply not used to going on walks, you should steadily introduce them to the concept by walking them around your garden connected to their lead or harness. Once they seem happy, you can consider taking them out for a walk near where you live for a short period of time and gradually extending the duration of the walk, before taking them for walks elsewhere.   Why Is Walking Dogs Important? By walking your dog regularly, you’re providing them with the mental and physical stimulation they need. Dogs want to explore the world and it’s many sights, sounds and smells, and if you prevent them from doing this, you’re likely to leave them bored, irritable and depressed. And not only is it bad for your dog’s mental and physical health, but it could also lead to destructive behaviour. Dog walking has many benefits to your pet’s long-term development. If you start to take your furry friend for walks from a young age, you’ll get them used to the concept of going for walks consistently, and they’ll hopefully grow to enjoy these trips out. Another bonus to taking your dog for a walk is that it improves their training. It also helps with their socialising - both with humans and other animals - and it tires them out to encourage a healthy sleep when you return home.   What Happens If You Don’t Walk Your Dog? Missing the occasional walk is something that may happen naturally as a side effect of bad weather, not having the time or simply forgetting to do so. However, if it becomes a regular occurrence, it could have a negative impact on your dog. Failing to walk your dog will mean that they’re not getting enough exercise, possibly leading to serious health problems, and they also won’t be given the opportunity to socialise and learn about their environment. Without this experience, they’re likely to react in an unpredictable manner when it finally comes to interacting with other dogs, people and the outside world.   What Dogs Don’t Need Walking? While all dogs need some level of exercise each day, there are breeds that need distinctly less activity than others. For example, larger, more athletic dogs could need several walks each day, where as smaller pooches or lazier dogs are more likely to be suitably happy after a run around the back garden.   Dog breeds that typically require less exercise include: Pugs English Bulldogs French Bulldogs Bull Mastiffs Chihuahuas Shih Tzus Chow Chows Miniature Pinschers Basset Hounds Pekingese Boston Terriers Tibetan Spaniels Cavalier King Charles Spaniels Greyhounds   If your dog belongs to one of these breeds or has any of them in their family tree, it could be the reason for their apprehension when it comes to walks. If they don’t, you should or consider taking them to the vet for a health check to ensure that the problem isn’t something serious.

By Zac Girdlestone

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Everything You Need For Your New Maltipoo Puppy
23.07.20 July 23, 2020 Dog Breed Guide Featured

Everything You Need For Your New Maltipoo Puppy

Are you getting a Maltipoo? Maybe you’re wondering what the best Maltipoo bed is or perhaps  what the best sized crate is for a Maltipoo? Here we take a look at the breed and its characteristics and then discuss what you will need to buy, ready to welcome them home.   Maltipoo Characteristics The Maltipoo is a cute bundle of fur, a mix between the Maltese and the Poodle. They are a small dog breed with floppy ears and the curly coat of their poodle ancestry. Maltipoos are a popular crossbreed known for their affectionate nature and playful personality. They will fit into many kinds of home too, from apartments through to larger family homes; and suit both single parents and families with children.  They are friendly, not only towards humans, but other animals too, so would make a great addition to a multi-pet household. Being affectionate, they do not like being left alone for long; something to bear in mind if you work a lot.   A list of things you need for a Maltipoo puppy Puppy Carrier - Travelling safely with your puppy is imperative and a must when it comes to collecting them and bringing them home. A compact puppy carrier that can be belted into the backseat of the car is ideal. If you can collect with someone else so you can sit with them in the backseat all the better so you can keep them company on the journey home. We love the fabric carriers as they have a mesh panel to see your puppy inside, they’re not too big and they have a handy shoulder strap. This will come in handy for trips to the Vet and other journeys too. Scent blanket -  A small scent blanket is a useful purchase even before you collect puppy. We’d suggest giving one to your breeder a couple of weeks before you collect them, so it can be left with puppy and mum. Then when you bring them home with the scent blanket, they’ll return with the scent of Mum too - a lovely comfort when they’re settling in to their new environment. Travel Bowl or Feeding Set  - If you’re travelling a long way to collect your new Maltipoo puppy, then you’ll need some feeding accessories for the journey, even if it’s just to give them a drink of water. A travel bowl is an essential for journeys along with a pet water bottle, not just for this journey but all journeys in the future. You could even invest in a travel dining set by Mobile Dog Gear which have all kinds of feeding accessories for eating and drinking on the road!    Dog Crate - The best sized crate for a Maltipoo is 30” long. The medium size in either our L&L dog crate is ideal. This size will be big enough for your puppy when they grow into an adult. Top Tip - To begin with we’d set up the crate with a Puppy Bed in one half and a puppy pad in the other - not to encourage them to toilet in their crate, but rather as a precaution, especially during the night. When they are fully toilet trained and used to their crate you can swap out the puppy bed and pad for a full sized cushion. Don’t forget a crate bowl for water too.  Puppy Bed -  A puppy bed to fit in one half of the crate will be best for your Maltese puppy. Our Cosy and Calming Puppy Crate Bed has been designed especially to fit exactly half the crate. When you come to swap it out for a full size crate cushion, you can use the half size bed outside the crate somewhere else around the house. Puppy’s can never have too many beds for lounging!! Dog Crate Cover - A crate cover might be one of the best things you buy to help with crate training your new Maltese puppy. Covering the crate gives new puppies privacy and a feeling of security. The roll down doors also help them to understand when bedtime is coming and will keep out early morning light too. These are really practical as they simply wipe clean. We make them in a variety of stylish fabrics to suit any home; all in fabrics to match you cosy & calming puppy crate bed! Puppy Plush Toy - Puppies love to snuggle and play and plush toys are great for both of these activities. We especially love the Heart Beat Sheep and Warm Bear as they both have calming, comforting features for new puppies. The former has a “heartbeat” that mimics the feel of mum, whilst the latter has a warming feeling that offers a “warm hug”! They’ll become your new Maltipoo’s best friends in no time! Puppy Chew Toy - Puppy’s can chew for a number of reasons; inquisitiveness, boredom and teething. If you don’t provide some specific chew toys, you may find they’ll chew their bedding or even your furniture! Some of the best chew toys for puppies and dogs are made by KONG. We especially love the puppy sized Classic KONG as well as the Teething Stick and Binkie.    First Puppy Walking Set - Lead training might not happen straight away, but you will need a lead and harness ready. We love the Hi & Light harness by Ruffwear as it gives great stability, comfort and control when puppy is learning to walk on a lead. Match with the Ruffwear Front Range Lead and you’re all set to start lead training.

By Zac Girdlestone

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How To Walk A Dog
22.07.20 July 22, 2020 Owning a Dog Featured

How To Walk A Dog

It’s the duty of every dog owner to maintain the health and development of their furry friend. Part of this is feeding them quality food, making sure they eat enough each day and carrying out training to benefit their long-term and establish what is and isn’t acceptable. Another crucial element of dog ownership is ensuring that they’re getting enough exercise by taking them for daily dog walks. In this guide, we explain how you can train your dog to behave on walks and answer a range of important questions around dog walking to improve you and your pooch’s experience.   How To Train A Dog To Walk As a starting position, you should hold the dog lead in your left hand and treats in your right hand. Your dog can then cross diagonally from your left hand with the treats above their head as an incentive to walk. You can reverse hands if you’d prefer, as long as the lead is crossing your body and the treats remain above their head. When you start to walk, raise your hand to the height of your shoulder and give a clear, consistent instruction such as ‘with me’ to indicate that you want them to move forward. Once they’ve moved forward as you instructed, give them a treat to reward them for following your instructions. During your walk, if your dog starts to stray from you, hold your position and stand still until they’re beside you and back in the starting position. Continue to repeat these steps for walking your dog, rewarding them when they stick to your instructions, and they should eventually learn the dos and don’ts. Additional steps for getting your dog to walk include: Reward them after a successful walk Use a short lead to communicate better with your dog Walk in front of your dog to establish your dominance Keep the lead on your dog after the walk to continue training at home.   How Often Should You Walk Your Dog The recommended frequency of dog walks is entirely dependent on the breed of your dog. Generally speaking though, most dogs require at least one walk per day, as even smaller dogs need exercise and stimulation. As for larger or more energetic dogs, two or even three walks a day may be necessary to sufficiently exercise them and tire them out.   How To Stop My Dog Barking While Out Walking An obstacle that may arise during dog walks is outside influences that cause your dog to bark. Whether it’s people, vehicles, the weather, other dogs or even just the excitement of the walk itself, many things can cause your dog to bark. This can ruin the experience for you and it can be unsettling for other people in the area if your dog is constantly barking. Although your dog’s knee-jerk reaction of spontaneously barking while on walks may seem hard to prevent, you may in fact be able to find a relatively simple solution. The three primary options are:  Distraction - As soon as your dog barks, get their attention and give them a treat as soon as they look at you. Continue to do this, including a consistent word to indicate what you’re doing, such as ‘look’. You can also decrease the chance of coming into contact with things that may cause your dog to bark by avoiding busy areas and immediately walking away from anything that causes them to bark. As an additional measure, you could bring their favourite squeaky toy as an effective distraction. Control - Ensure that your dog’s harness is tight enough to hold them if they’re prone to lunging when they bark. When they start barking, command them to heel, holding them firmly by the lead but not so tight that it hurts them, and reward them when they do as you say. By controlling their movement, you’ll also be discouraging them from barking or becoming flustered or overly excitable by minor influences. Desensitise - When you’ve got a grasp of exactly what is causing your dog to bark, identify it on your next walk and stand as a barrier between your dog and the trigger. As soon as your dog stops barking, reward them with a treat, and continue to do this, moving further out of the way until your dog is side by side with the thing that sets them off.   How To Stop A Dog Sniffing While Walking Along with barking, sniffing is another behaviour that can delay and disrupt your dog walk. Unfortunately, with some dogs, sniffing can be something they do relentlessly as they excitedly explore the area they’re in. Within your home, there are several methods of preventing your dog from sniffing around people, other animals and anything else they come into contact with. However, there’s a general approach for preventing unwanted sniffing during walks: To train your dog to stop sniffing, start by teaching them ‘sit’ and ‘leave it’ commands. Then, when you take them on their next walk, let them sniff what you’re happy with, but if they start sniffing something you’re not happy with, use a ‘sit’ or ‘leave it’ command to get them to stop. When they’ve resisted the urge to sniff following your command, reward them with a treat.   Why Can’t My Dog Walk Straight If your dog isn’t walking in a straight line, you may be concerned that there’s something seriously wrong with them, but it’s actually a relatively common problem. Walking in a peculiar fashion or moving in a sideways motion is prevalent among specific breeds such as German shepherds, border collies, pointers, spaniels and vizslas. These quirks in their movement are primarily caused by their body shape and genetics  If your dog is a different breed, this issue could be caused by a distraction that’s leading them to edge away from your path. If this is the case, the distraction techniques used to stop them barking or sniffing may be a suitable solution. Alternatively, it could be the case that they have a problem with their joints. If training doesn’t fix their walking pattern, you should consider taking your dog to a vet.   How To Protect Your Dog From Other Dogs While Walking Your pet is likely to see other dogs during walks, and when they do, they may become very anxious or aggressive. This is because they might perceive another dog as a threat or simply become too excited and not know how to deal with it.  Standing between your dog and other dogs will help to prevent them from seeing each other and reduce the risk of the situation escalating. You can also use distractions - whether it’s through treats, squeaky toys or commands - to deter your dog from reacting in a bad way. If you’re unable to prevent a confrontation between dogs that are off their leads, the best thing you can do is attempt to get their attention at a distance. You may be tempted to split them up yourself, but this is only likely to get them more excitable and may even lead to you or the dogs being injured.

By Zac Girdlestone

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Everything You Need For Your New Siamese Kitten
15.07.20 July 15, 2020 Cat Breed Guide Featured

Everything You Need For Your New Siamese Kitten

Getting a kitten is super exciting and bringing a cat into your family adds a whole new dynamic to the household! If you’ve chosen to get a Siamese kitten then you will be welcoming an intelligent, friendly cat into your home. Here we look at the history of the breed and then go on to list all the things you will need to prepare for their arrival.   The History Of The Siamese Cat The Siamese is one of the oldest breeds of cat, native to Thailand, which became one of the most popular breeds across America and Europe in the 19th Century. Descended from the Wichienmaat Landrace, a description of the Siamese can be found in the Tanra Maew, or The Cat Book of Poems, which is thought to originate from the Ayuttaya period between 1351 and 1767 AD. The first documented Siamese in the US was received by president Hayes in 1878; the first pair in Britain were brought back in 1884 by Edward Gould. It is thought that every Siamese cat born in Britain today is a descendant of these and nine other cats brought to this country at the time. Today the breed is known for its distinctive image; with its slender body, triangular head, large almond shaped eyes and colour point markings. The Siamese is born with a pure cream coat with dark markings appearing at the cooler extremities of their body as they age. They tend to be super affectionate cats, loving their owners and companionship from both humans and other cats. They tend to be quite playful too. Another trait they are known for is their vocal aptitude; they can extremely vocal when they are looking for attention with a loud, low pitched voice often compared to that of a baby! Siamese cats do love company and if you work or are out of the house often, it may be wise to acquire them as a pair.   Everything You Need to Buy For Your New Siamese Cat Cat Carrier First and foremost you will need to transport your new Siamese Kitten home safely. Whether it’s a short journey or a long one, a good quality cat carrier is essential. Choose a cat carrier which is large enough for your kitten to grow into as an adult, and can be safely belted into the backseat of the car. It's also worth noting where the openings are as most have a really practical top opening. The top opening is an ideal feature for nervous new kittens, especially when you first take them to the vet.   Cat Blanket One tip we often tell prospective kitten and puppy owners is to leave a blanket with their new arrival whilst they still live with Mum. This blanket will keep the smell of Mum and litter mates when you bring them home and help to give them comfort in their new environment. A small scent blanket might be the ideal option as it is small and compact and can be popped in the carrier with kitten when you collect them. You could then size up to a full cat sized blanket which will make a really cosy addition to their bed. We make a wonderful range of cat blankets in velvet, teddy fleece and faux fur. You may find it hard to decide on your favourite!         Cat Bed We all know how much cats love to catnap! Cats can be fickle creatures and, no matter whether you provide them with a bed or not, they will likely enjoy curling up in all kinds of spots around the house; probably the sunny windowsill or arm of the sofa! We’d still suggest providing them with their own bed though - somewhere soft and cosy that is a place of their own to retreat to. We stock a wide range of cat beds, all with super squishy, plush fabrics that cats will love to snooze in.   Cat Litter Tray & Accessories The likelihood is that your Siamese kitten will be an indoor cat. But even if you plan to let them outside it’s best to have a litter tray indoors as well. Our Lords & Labradors Cat washroom has been designed to disguise your cat’s litter tray and to look like a piece of furniture. You can pop a regular litter tray inside and store accessories on the shelf. A really practical and stylish way to house your litter tray. Don’t forget to buy a litter scoop for cleaning day. We’d suggest a good quality clumping litter to make cleaning really simple and reduce the amount of mess and waste.   Cat Bowls You’ll need at least two pet bowls for food and water. You may want a third so you can feed wet and dry food. Choose a shallow design meaning they’re whisker friendly. Here at Lords & Labradors we have a range of super stylish additions to your kitchen!   Cat Scratch Post A scratch post is an essential item for all cat owners. As your Siamese is likely to be an indoor cat, we’d suggest something quite large so they can climb, exercise, stretch, lounge and scratch. Scratching is an important part of a cat’s routine ensuring their claws stay healthy and the dead husks are removed. It’s also when they stretch out their muscles - it’s important to encourage them to do it in the right places, rather than prohibit them from doing it at all. Choose a scratch tree with plenty of platforms and a little hideaway and it might just become their favourite place to lounge!   Cat Toys Siamese kittens tend to be playful, even into adulthood. Provide them with plenty of catnip toys so they can play games of hunt and chase. You may even be able to teach them a game of fetch. If they will be indoor cats, giving them plenty of things to do to keep them occupied and keep boredom at bay is really important. The range of cat toys by KONG are particularly good as many of them have catnip refills. Alternatively, Catit make a wonderful range of toys; their catnip toys will keep your cat playing for hours, whilst the Catit Senses Range of toys is designed to appeal with all of your cats unique senses in mind.   Cat Grooming Accessories Siamese cats are short haired and will take only minimal grooming. It’s still a good idea to brush them every now and then as it will provide bonding time for you both whilst keeping their skin and coat healthy. A soft slicker brush is ideal as it will massage as well as comb the hair.   Cat Collar Cat Collars aren’t essential, but you may choose to put a collar on your cat for aesthetics and in case they go missing (you might want to add a name tag with your contact details). Choose a collar with a safety feature so it will easily come undone if the collar gets caught. There are even matching bow ties you can match to the collar for that added pizazz. Bow ties are perfect for special occasion events like Christmas and birthdays when you want your cat to look their very best for the camera!   Pet Calming Products These may not be an essential, but it can be beneficial to keep a pet calming spray or plug-in-diffuser handy at times when your cat might get nervous. Moving home itself can be stressful for nervous kittens. We like the pet calming products by Pet Remedy. They are made of pet safe natural oils and will help keep your bundle of joy relaxed and calm.

By Zac Girdlestone

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