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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Our Favourite Winter Accessories for Pets
28.01.20 January 28, 2020 Seasonal Featured

Our Favourite Winter Accessories for Pets

Winter can be a dark, dull month so why not brighten it up with some new accessories?! It's important to keep our dogs warm in the cold weather, especially if you have a toy dog or short/fine haired breed. If you’re looking for a new dog walking set or snuggly dog coat for your pup, look no further! We’ve picked out some of our favourite items that are just perfect for the cold weather…   Ruffwear Dog Coats & Accessories If you’re looking for the most practical outdoor dog accessories then Ruffwear is the go-to brand. Ruffwear design dog products to be used in all kinds of conditions, from the hottest to the coldest. We love their range of winter dog coats, especially as they have a plethora of walking accessories, including collars, leads and harnesses, to match!   Mutts & Hounds Dog Coats & Accessories We love the stylish tweed dog coats by Mutts & Hounds. Fashion and function collide to make coats and accessories that work for everyday. We are particularly in love with the wax jackets - now our pup will coordinate with us in our Barbour jackets; and the dog bow ties are adorable for indoor and outdoor wear!     House of Paws Dog Jumpers If you have a toy or fine haired breed, keeping them warm in Winter is really important. The cable knit jumpers from House of Paws ar ideal for the Winter. They come in a range of sizes and colours to suit a variety of breeds.   Feline Favourites from the Cat Emporium We don't need to clothe our cats like our canine companions, but there are some items that you might like to invest in to make your cat more comfortable and keep them active indoors during the coldest months. We have some gorgeous plush beds that will offer your cats the cosiest nights sleep as well as some toys that will keep them occupied when the adverse weather stops them getting outside.   Cosmopolitan Cat Beds A recent addition to our range of cat beds and the sister design to our popular Cosmopolitan Dog fabric, Cosmopolitan Cat is a silhouette print featuring various breed including a Ragdoll cat, British Shorthair and black cat. Available in a super squishy donut bed with cosy sherpa fleece top or the snuggle bed; the same donut shape with an added blanket layer of sherpa so your furry companion can snuggle under the covers!       Luxury Velvet Cat Beds and Matching Blankets Our luxury velvet beds for cats are perfect for the colder months. The super soft, plush velvet is perfect for snuggling down into when the temperature drops. Available in three beautiful colours that will look gorgeous in any room!   Cat Toys A bored cat can become anxious and unsettled, so combat that with plenty of toys! If you have an outdoor cat, you may find they don't want to go out as much or you may want to keep them indoors in adverse weather during the Winter. Providing them with plenty of stimulation at times like this is most important. Here are a few toys we really like that will help keep them active when they can't get outside.  Catnip toys such as the KONG Patchwork Teddy Jollly Moggy Catnip Mice are ideal for cats; the catnip will entice and keep them coming back for more, and they can bat the toy around and chase to their heart's content! These are great for you to join in the fun. You can throw them around and watch your cat play The KONG window teaser has all the same benefits of the previous two, but as sticks on the wall, your cat can go back and forth and play on its own. How adorable is the feathered bird. Your cat will never get bored of stalling out his feathered prey! Below is a collection of our Catit Senses 2.0 toys. These really are the ultimate in feline entertainment. The items are all designed to work alone or together as in the picture to create a mini playground for your cat. Each piece is designed to appeal to one of your cat's very unique senses - when put together your cat will find a myriad of things to do to sate all of their desires: scratch, massage, stretch, play, hunt, eat... they will find all of that and more in a world of Catit Senses!​ These are just a few of our favourite winter things for cats and dogs. Explore our collections online and you'll find all sorts of goodies that your pets will love.  If you have any questions about anything in this article, do get in touch; we're always happy to help with any queries.

By Zac Girdlestone

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Everything You Need For Your New British Shorthair Kitten
14.01.20 January 14, 2020 Cat Breed Guide Featured

Everything You Need For Your New British Shorthair Kitten

It is probably no surprise that the British Shorthair is the most popular pedigree breed in the UK. Who couldn’t fall for those big amber eyes and super squishy cheeks?! They are not only loved for their beautiful, teddybear-like appearance, but for their loving temperament. Rather than the usual feline aloofness, British Shorthairs are known for their loving nature making them great family pets. They are less independent than other breeds, love human company and will follow their owners from room to room. In this article, we talk a little about the history of the breed and then discuss the ideal shopping list for those who are about to bring their new British Shorthair kitten home.   The History of the British Shorthair Cat They're the oldest pedigree breed in England and once known as the British Blue as that was their only coat colour, they are thought to have descended from domestic cats imported from Egypt. They became extremely popular in the Victorian era and were the only breed to be shown at some of the earliest cat shows. They almost became extinct after the World Wars but were revitalised, with the American Cat Association accepting the breed in 1967 followed by the International Cat Association and Cat Fanciers Association in 1979 and 1980 respectively. Since then the breed has only grown further in popularity and can be seen in almost every coat colour - the most popular is still Blue (grey).   British Shorthair Kitten Shopping List Are you wondering what to buy your British Shorthair Kitten? Here are our recommendations: Lords and Labradors Cat Washroom  While British Shorthairs love company and being around their human parents, they do like privacy when they go to the loo! Our Lords and Labradors Cat Washrooms will provide a private space to do their business. The breed can grow quite large; they are naturally round with a broad chest so make sure you choose a litter tray large enough for them.   Cosy Cat Bed There are a number of options when it comes to cat beds. We all know cats can be stubborn and once they find their favourite spot to sleep, no amount of coaxing will get them to sleep elsewhere. It’s best to see what kind of thing they like to sleep on and go from there. Shop our full range and choose your favourite - there is a bed to suit every cat and every interior decor too!   Cat Food British Shorthairs mainly live indoors and due to their naturally sedentary lifestyle and huge appetites can gain weight quickly. We’d suggest a good quality food designed for indoor, less active cats that is lower in fat. You could speak to your vet for their opinion and also your breeder to find out what their cats eat. We tend to suggest a mix of dry food and wet for all cats. The dry food helps clean their teeth whilst the wet helps to keep them hydrated - cats naturally don’t tend to drink vast amounts of water. Keep a bowl of dry food down all day for grazing along with fresh water and then feed a meal or two of wet food; one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Every cat is a little different and finding the right food for your particular cat will come with time and advice form your vet if needed.   Cat Bowls You will need bowls to put their food in. We love small bowls as they're ideal for dry food and water whilst the saucers are perfect for a portion of wet food.  Catit also make a cat water fountain. As we said before, many cats will shun their water bowl and drink little. The fountain provides a trickle of filtered water which may just encourage fussy cats to drink more. Many cats favour running water over still - how many of you have a cat who takes a drink from a running tap?!  The filtration also means the water stays fresh and free of any nasties.    Shorthair Cat Grooming Kit The British Shorthair is known for its thick, plush coat which doesn’t require a lot of attention. A weekly brush should usually suffice with a more regular groom during shedding seasons which are usually in the Spring and Autumn.   Scratch Post or Tree Most people will keep to choose their pedigree cat indoors. British Shorthairs in particular can be rather relaxed and trusting so letting them out isn’t always the best idea. If they are going to be indoor pets, then a decently proportioned cat scratch tree is a must. A series of posts and platforms will Gove them an area to exercise and allow them to scratch. Rather than a bad habit, scratching is a necessary , natural instinct in cats and keeps their claws healthy and allows them to stretch out their muscles. We’d definitely suggest investing in a tree as large as you have room for. Obviously if you live a small apartment or flat you will need to be clever about what you choose. You could opt for some platforms that attach to the wall if you have limited floor space and then have just a small post on the floor. Whatever you choose, creating an environment that allows your cat to exercise and fulfilling their scratching needs is a must.     Cat Toys! It’s important to give your cat plenty of stimulation, especially those living solely indoors. A series of toys will help with development, appeal to their hunting instincts and is also great bonding time with owners. Buy a mixture of toys; some catnip mice for them to play hunt, a wand teaser toy so you can play with them and perhaps a puzzle toy with a tasty treat reward. Try to rotate their toys so that they don’t get bored. New things should keep them interested longer!   Cat Carrier Whether you need something for short journeys or longer ones, a good quality carrier in an appropriate size is a must-have. You will need something from the day you collect your new bundle of joy to transport them home in safety. Our favourite is the Mobile Dog Gear Pet Carrier plus. This has a number of features to make journeying with your cat a breeze. The top opening makes trips to the vet super easy, there are fitted bowls for feeding on longer journeys and it can be seat belted into the car for safety. An all round super product!

By Zac Girdlestone

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Winter Pet Safety Advice - Keeping Your Pet Safe In The Cold
07.01.20 January 07, 2020 Health Featured

Winter Pet Safety Advice - Keeping Your Pet Safe In The Cold

​Christmas is behind us and we’ve just entered the New Year. We may be well into Winter, but the coldest weeks are still ahead. Frosty mornings and plummeting temperatures can pose a challenge for many reasons, not least for looking after our pets. There’s no reason not to enjoy the Winter period; we love crisp morning walks and then snuggling down under a blanket with a hot drink on our return, but it’s essential to make sure you take extra precautions to ensure your pet stays warm and safe at the same time. Here we point out a few hazards for pet owners to consider during Winter:   Winter Safety Tips for Dogs Keep Them Warm This may seem obvious, but maintaining your dog’s body temperature is really important. Wrap them up warm when going out for walks - especially short and fine haired breeds, and make sure if they get wet that you quickly dry them as soon as possible. Keeping a drying coat in the car when travelling is great, as you can quickly change them into this from their coat to help dry them more quickly and regulate their body temperature.  Visibility is Imperative We all know how short daylight hours are in the Winter. Not only this, but visibility can be much lower than usual in the daytime too, especially in certain weather conditions. If you’re venturing out with your dog in the dark or when visibility is low, making sure you're BOTH visible is a must. Reflective clothing, leads and collars with reflective strips and even a light of some kind will all ensure you can be seen by motorists and other people out and about. The Ruffwear Range of coats and accessories are perfect for outdoors adventures as many pieces feature reflective strips. Maybe attach a Beacon Safety Light to your dogs collar or coat too - you can’t be too safe. Be careful of snow, ice and grit Walking in snow and ice can be painful for dogs. If you’ve been out in the snow, make sure you dry their paws thoroughly after and ensure no ice has collected in-between toes. It’s also essential that you’re aware of grit. Some grit used to defrost roads and pathways can cause burns to dogs paws and can even be toxic if ingested. You could make your dog wear special all weather boots to protect them in icy or snowy conditions. If not, try not to walk in areas that have been gritted and always clean their paws well on your return.   Keep Them Active Indoors There may be some days that you don’t want to take your dog out - perhaps you don’t want to risk the snow or ice. In this case it’s important to keep your dog as active and exercised indoors as is possible. Keep them occupied with lots of toys. Puzzle games and interactive toys with a tasty treat element are perfect for these days. It’ll keep their brain stimulated and boredom levels low.   Don’t Leave your Dog Unattended in the car Just as you wouldn’t leave your dog in the car on a sweltering hot day in the Summer, you shouldn’t leave them alone in a vehicle in the Winter either. Temperatures can drop quickly in cold weather. Even if your dog is wearing a coat, it’s not suitable to leave them alone for long.   Winter Safety Tips for Cats Keep Your Cat Warm and Dry It may seem obvious, but keeping your cat as warm as possible is your number one priority. If you have an outdoor cat, you might want to limit their outdoor adventures, especially after dark. Be Wary of Antifreeze Anti freeze is extremely toxic to cats and many other wildlife and can be fatal if ingested. Be careful when using it, spray sparingly and try not to spill it anywhere. Store such products in a safe place and clean any spillages immediately. If you notice your cat vomiting, drinking more often or breathing abnormally with a high heart rate, it could be sign that they’ve ingested antifreeze. In this case seek veterinary advice immediately; it’s imperative that they are treated as soon as possible. Check Your Car in the Morning Cats seek warmth in the winter and it’s not unusual for them to crawl under car bonnets and wheel arches. Tap your bonnet in the morning before you drive to startle any hiding neighbourhood cats before you drive off. Provide them a litter tray You should ideally provide your cat with a litter tray all year round, even for outdoor cats who prefer to toilet outside. A litter tray will give them somewhere safe to relieve themselves when it isn’t possible of safe or convenient to go outside.  Keep Them Away From Hot Things This may sound counter productive, but hot fires and stoves are equally as dangerous as the snow outside. Never leave your cat alone around open fires or any other burning hot implement such as candles or hot radiators. They need to keep warm, but in a safe controlled environment. Provide lots of indoor Activities Indoor cats will probably have a plethora of toys around them anyway, but it’s really important to offer the same to outdoor cats in the coldest months. If you’re going to keep your outdoor cat inside more often, giving them mental stimulation is a must. Plenty of toys and scratching accessories will make sure they don’t get bored and allow them to exercise indoors.  Provide Outdoor Shelter Ensure your cat has somewhere to retreat if they do get caught outside in inclement weather. It may be fine when you let them outside, only for it to snow an hour later. Make sure there is somewhere in your garden that they can get to keep as warm and dry as possible.                         Fresh Water Many outdoor cats prefer to drink outside. If this is the case, make sure you clean out the bowls on a regular basis and ensure they’re not frozen over. Provide water bowls inside as well, so that they always have access to fresh water.

By Zac Girdlestone

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Have A Happy New Year With Your Pets!
31.12.19 December 31, 2019 Seasonal Featured

Have A Happy New Year With Your Pets!

New Year’s Eve is upon us; it’s time to celebrate all the best parts of the past year and look forward to a new start in 2020 - not only the start of a new year, but a new decade! Whether you’re watching the fireworks on tv or at home; having a few drinks with loved ones; or just having a quiet night in, it’s important to think about our pets at this time of year. Like halloween and Guy Fawkes Night, New Year celebrations often involve fireworks which can be detrimental to your pet’s stress levels. If you live in town, noisy New Year’s party goers may also cause your pet distress. Here we suggest a few things to help keep your pet happy and stress-free this New Year:   Exercise Your Pets Ensuring your dog or cat has plenty of stimulation during the day, will hopefully wear them out enough to keep them restful in the evening. Take dogs on a long walk in the afternoon. If it’s a nice enough day, perhaps play a Game of Fetch to get their mind stimulated. Cat owners should get the Cat Toys out of the toy box and encourage your cat to get hunting those feathers and catnip toys. Hopefully, tired pets will be less bothered by any fireworks or, for those in towns, noisy revellers out and about in the early hours. Also, getting out and about with your pets is a great start to those New Year’s get-fit(ter) resolutions too!   Distract Your Pets If they’re not sleepy or the noise levels wake them from their slumber, offering your pet something nice to focus on will distract them from everything else going on. Give them some tasty treats, perhaps a puzzle toy with some treats inside which should keep them occupied for a while. Hopefully this will help keep their stress levels down. For dogs, we have a host of chew toys, some with tasty treat prizes, that will keep them playing for ours - chew toys are a great solution for all kinds of destructive behaviours caused by boredom or stress.  For cats, the range of Senses toys and activities by Catit are a great idea. Each item can be used alone or in conjunction with other items from the range to create a multi-sensory playground for your felines. They'll be so enthralled with their new toys that they won't notice the fireworks going off in the background!   Prepare a Cosy Den For Your Pet We advise giving your pet a safe space at all times of year, but it’s essential on occasions such as New Year when the festivities might get too much for them. A crate furnished with bedding and a cover is our recommendation for dogs as it offers privacy and comfort when they just want to get away from the rest of the house - pop a Chew toy in too to keep boredom levels low. For a cat, we’d suggest a high scratch tree with covered hideout. Cat’s like to be high up and feel safe when they can retreat to a private space. Whatever space you provide your pet, make sure they are comfortable and maybe add a blanket so they can curl up and feel protected if need be.   Background Noise We mentioned distraction earlier - if toys aren’t enough, then turning on the tv or radio may help drown out any noises outside. Pick something calming if possible; the last thing you want to do is add the noise of a loud action film to the New Year’s celebrations.   Pet Calming Products We have a range of premium calming products for pets that are great for any situations that could cause them distress or nerves. These are ideal for travelling, moving home or any other time when your pet might get stressed by a change to routine. We have sourced balms, sprays, room diffusers, calming jackets and edible treats. Shop our range here: anxious-pet We hope our tips help you and your pets this New Year's Eve. However you decide to celebrate this New Year, we hope you have a happy and healthy one and wish you all the best for 2020.  If you have any questions about this article or have any other queries, please do get in touch. We’ll do our best to help in any way we can.

By Zac Girdlestone

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Picture Perfect Pets - Christmas Dressing Up Outfits & Accessories for Dogs
12.12.19 December 12, 2019 Seasonal Featured

Picture Perfect Pets - Christmas Dressing Up Outfits & Accessories for Dogs

Who doesn’t love sharing a picture or two to their social media timeline during the festive period? Maybe you send out family portrait Christmas cards?  We have a whole Dressing-Up Box full of festive themed fancies so your pup will look their best when the camera flashes. From stylish bandanas and bow ties to novelty jumpers and hoodies, there is an outfit to suit even the fussiest furry fashionista!   Dog Bow Ties & Bandanas For the dapper dog about town one of our many Christmas inspired bandanas or festive bow ties will add the perfect finishing touch to their look. Whether it’s a festive print such as the adorable snowman or snowflake patterns, or you opt for an oh-so-sparkly sequinned version, your pup will look a bobby dazzler when the camera comes out.   Dog Christmas Jumpers If you’re looking for something practical as well as adorable, then a Christmas jumper might be just the thing. We have novelty versions for fun loving dogs or more stylish cable knit and star adorned designs for fashion conscious pups. Whatever their style there’s a Christmas jumper to suit.   Dog Hats & Scarves Top off your dog’s festive look with a Christmas hat or scarf. We have knitted scarves to match some of our jumpers as well as a variety of hats - from knitted snoods to novelty Santa and elf hats. Whatever the theme of your pictures or Christmas Cards we have something for your dog to wear that will enhance the theme perfectly. Whether you’re going for fun-loving and a little silly or you’re looking to create a stylish, more refined aesthetic, there is bound to be something on our dressing-up box rails for you. Don't forget to tag us in your social media posts... we'd love to see your pup wearing their Christmas outfit! 

By Zac Girdlestone

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Everything You Need For Your New Bengal Kitten
05.11.19 November 05, 2019 Cat Breed Guide Featured

Everything You Need For Your New Bengal Kitten

So you’ve made the decision to get a Bengal kitten? First of all, congratulations! Bengals are a beautiful, intelligent breed and your new feline friend is sure to bring you much joy. Now you’ve made the decision to get a Bengal cat, you might be wondering what you’re going to need for them. Here we take a closer look at the breed and discuss what items you'll need for them.    The Bengal Breed Wild Cat - The Bengal’s bloodline comes from the Asian leopard cat mixed with the domestic cat. They have inherited many of their wild ancestors traits, making them a truly unique pet to own. Depending on their generation (F1 are most closely related to their Asian Leopard heritage, with F2 being a generation down and F3 one down further) Bengals will show a certain amount of adventurousness - the closer to an F1 they are, the more boisterous they might be! Chatty Cats - Bengals are renowned for being vocal.  One of the breeds involved in the initial breeding of the Bengal was the Siamese which are known for their chatty nature. Bengals often like to “talk” to their owners… and aren’t too keen on being ignored! Hunters -  All cats have a natural hunting instinct, but it is particularly strong in the Bengal breed. They are among the most active and successful hunters of all domestic cat breeds. If your Bengal is going to be an indoor cat , which many are, you might want to provide plenty of interaction for them.   Bengal Cat Shopping List: Cat Bed Offering your cat their own space for nap time is a good idea - they may well find a spot on the windowsill or back of an armchair that they like too, but giving them a cat bed of their own offers them a place to retreat to if they want their space. Every cat is different, some more social than others; some cats will choose to sit on or next to you, others will slink off somewhere quiet. A hooded cat bed is a nice option as it offers the privacy that many cats crave.       Cat Litter Tray & Accessories A must for all cats, especially indoor cats, a good quality litter tray and litter is essential. We like the hooded trays as cats tend to like their privacy. We also recommend a clumping litter which allows you to scoop out the waste without fully emptying the tray. It can cost more upfront, but a bag will last much longer, therefore saving in the long-run.      Scratch Tree - A tall, tall scratch tree! As we’ve mentioned, Bengals are an active, energetic breed and they’ll need plenty of places to climb and exercise, especially as they are more likely to be kept indoors. A tall scratch tree with plenty of platforms is a really good idea as well as some wall mounted platforms. If you have room for something like this in various rooms around the house it will help ensure your cat has plenty of chance for exercise and keep boredom levels low. They may even make one of the platforms their bed, as cats enjoy being high up.   Food and Water Bowls You will need cat bowls or saucers for their food and water. If you can, offer both dry and wet food as well as water. We’d suggest keeping dry food available all day for them to graze on and then give them a wet food meal once or twice a day. Always make sure they have access to water too, whether that’s a cat drinking fountain or a normal bowl.   Lots of Cat Toys!! Keeping your Bengal entertained will be a full time job! Ensure they have plenty of toys of various types to keep them occupied. Something to hunt and chase as well as something more interactive will ensure they don’t get bored and keep them mentally stimulated. The Catit Senses 2.0 range of toys is ideal for active indoor cats as the various pieces available can be slotted together in different layouts to create an interactive cat activity centre. There are a number of different sets - you could buy one or two for when they’re a kitten and then keep adding more as they grow older. Change the layouts regularly to keep your cat coming back for more! Cat Carrier You’ll need a carrier to transport your cat home and also for vet visits and any other time they may need to travel. If you’ll only need it for short journeys then a fabric carrier may be sufficient. If you are likely to go on longer car journeys then a hard bodied carrier which are car, train and airline approved will be a better option. Safety is paramount and investing in a carrier with more features is highly recommended.     Pet Calming Products These aren’t necessarily an essential, but some kind of calming product might just help your new arrival settle in more quickly. All pets can suffer from nerves in various situations - moving house, noisy situations such as bonfire night or halloween etc. Pet Remedy have this sorted with their all natural range of calming sprays, plug-in diffusers and wipes.   Cat Harness & Lead Again, this isn’t necessarily an essential, but many people do choose to train their indoor cat on a harness and lead. If you introduce the harness to them whilst they’re a kitten, they should take to it quite quickly. It’s a nice idea to get indoor cats outside for a bit of exercise in a controlled way without the risk of them running off. A little venture out is sure to appeal to your Bengal’s adventuress nature! Do make sure they have all their inoculations before you take them out though and ensure they have been treated for fleas.   Cat Grooming Products Bengals are a short haired breed and so only minimal grooming will be necessary. They have a shallow, low-lying coat which tends to shed very little. They are likely to be able to take care of their own grooming, but a light brush once or twice a week will offer valuable bonding time for you and your pet and also help reduce shedding.  We hope you find our Bengal Shopping List helpful. This isn't a definitive list, but rather a collection of the things we think will most suit this breed in particular. Do have a good browse of the other cat accessories in our online shop. We have a plethora of lovely things that will appeal to cats of all breeds.  If you have any questions about any of the items suggested do get in touch. We're here to help in any way we can!

By Zac Girdlestone

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Discover The Christmas Grotto For Pets At Lords & Labradors
29.10.19 October 29, 2019 Seasonal Featured

Discover The Christmas Grotto For Pets At Lords & Labradors

​It’s almost that time of year again; Christmas chocolates and presents have started appearing in the shops … the Christmas season is almost upon us! You may not have thought much about Christmas an awful lot, but it’s only a matter of weeks away and we like to be prepared. This year, Santa’s Grotto is back at Lords & Labradors and it is brimming with goodies for your loveable canines and fabulous felines. Here we look at some of the things on offer so your furry bundles of joy can make a list ready for Santa!   Pet Advent Calendars Involve your pet in the countdown to Christmas with their very own advent calendar, after all, they deserve a treat too! ​    Christmas Toys for Dogs Every dog likes a soft toy to snuggle up to at nighttime or to play with on Christmas day. Our Elves’ workshop is full of both snuggly and fun toys that your pup will love. Plush Christmas Toys We have a whole range of plush Christmas dog toys which are perfect for snuggling, from reindeers to santa to penguins we're sure to have the perfect snuggle partner for your pup this Christmas     Interactive Christmas Toys Wanting to keep your dog out of mischief this Christmas? Our interactive toys are great to keep them busy.      Squeaky Christmas Toys Every dog loves a squeak and we've got an amazing range of squeaky christmas toys.     Christmas Catnip Toys We haven’t forgotten about your feline family members! Discover a selection of adorable catnip toys that your cats will love to hunt and chase…       Christmas Dinner for Pets Let your dog join in the Christmas Day feast with their very own Christmas dinner. Lily’s Kitchen have brought out a Christmas themed wet food for dogs which is three bird feast flavour.  Innocent hound have also brought out a make your own dog Christmas cake which will be fun for all the family over the holidays.       Dressing Up Box Your dog will certainly look the part if you dress them in something from our Dressing Up Box. We have festive jumpers, hats, scarves and even a mini Santa outfit!       Stockings and Santa Sacks We have designed our own santa sacks and stockings which you can personalise with your pet's name or even your kids! They are pawfect for putting presents in for Christmas morning.     Wrapping Paper Why not finish off your pet's or pet lovers present with our L&L wrapping paper. It has a fun Christmas pet print which is pawfect for all the family.    These are just a few of our favourite things from the Christmas Grotto. Check out the other goodies that we have in the Grotto here and make sure your pet's stocking is full to the brim of festive treats this Christmas! ​

By Megan Willis

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Everything You Need For Your New Cavapoo Puppy
22.10.19 October 22, 2019 Dog Breed Guide Featured

Everything You Need For Your New Cavapoo Puppy

Also known as Cavoodle and Cavadoodle, the Cavapoo is a friendly, playful, affectionate and curious breed. A cross between a miniature poodle and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Cavapoos make great family pets. They are typically fiercely loyal and dedicated to the whole family. They are also usually great with adults and children alike, and are good at socialising with other dogs. Finally, if you are looking for a fairly low-maintenance breed, Cavapoos are known for their tendency not to shed their fur. With all of this in mind, this week we discuss the things you will need if you’re expecting a new Cavapoo puppy. From breakfast time to bedtime and everything in between, read on to find out what you should provide for your new furry bundle of joy.   Cavapoo Crates A dog crate should be high on the list for any dog owner. It really is a valuable asset for any new puppy owner, helping with the training period and the general settling in of your new pup. Adding a cover so your pup has some privacy and a quiet place to go is also a good idea. This will also help with setting a good nighttime routine as you can roll the doors down to help teach when it’s bedtime and when it’s morning time.   What size crate for a Cavapoo? As mentioned above, you will need to select a crate that your four-legged friend will comfortably fit in once they are fully grown. With this in mind, as a rule, we’d suggest a Medium crate for a Cavapoo puppy. However, it’s important to remember that Cavapoos come in a variety of different sizes depending on the sizes of the poodle and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel your pup is bred from. For this reason, it’s always a good idea to find out as much information as possible about your puppy’s parents before bringing them home. This will help to give you a better idea of how large your Cavapoo will grow and what size crate may be required. Some Cavapoos may need a smaller crate and some a bigger crate, but it is essential to select a crate that will fit them for their adult-sized body, not that of their puppy body. Therefore, if it is possible, as stressed above, it is best to find out how large your Cavapoo puppy is likely to be as a full-grown adult dog so that the wrong-sized crate is not selected. A good quality, washable puppy bed that will fit in your crate is a must. The cosy & calm puppy box bed is a really great option; the choice of stylish fabrics can be washed in case of accidents. It also fits neatly into one half of the crate leaving room for puppy pads and a water bowl.    Cavapoo Beds [product] A good quality, washable puppy bed that will fit in your crate is a must. The cosy & calm puppy box bed is a really great option; the choice of stylish fabrics can be washed in case of accidents. It also fits neatly into one half of the crate, leaving room for puppy pads and a water bowl.   Training a Cavapoo puppy to use pads A must for all new puppy parents - your puppy won’t be able to hold themselves for long in the first couple of weeks, so puppy pads will give them somewhere to relieve themselves when they don’t make it outside in time. These items are good to put in one side of your crate at nighttime and also to pop down in a corner of the playpen.   How to toilet train a Cavapoo puppy Toilet training is always a priority when you bring home a new puppy. While puppies do have the ability to understand not to spoil their own personal space if they can avoid it from as young as three weeks old, accidents will still happen - particularly overnight and after periods of sleep. Although there are conflicting opinions when it comes to the use of puppy pads, with some arguing they can teach puppies that urinating and defecating inside the house is acceptable, the general consensus is they are a useful tool during your puppy’s first few months of life. Your puppy will use them if you are not around, but if you are in the house and suspect your furry friend needs to go to the toilet, you should take them outside. This will help to train them where they should be going. If your Cavapoo will only go using the pad, after a few weeks you should also try to gradually move the pad closer and closer to the door. This should train your pup to gravitate towards the door when they need to go out. Eventually, if you are consistent with your training, your Cavapoo puppy will go outside when they need the toilet, enabling you to phase out the use of pads altogether.   Cavapoo playpens [product] In the first few weeks after you bring your Cavapoo puppy home, you will want to give your pup specific areas of the house to roam freely. This can either be a room or a partitioned part of a room. A puppy playpen is the perfect option for most people as they can be moved when needed.   A natural progression from their crate, playpens provide larger contained areas that can be used to keep your puppy safe and secure, while also giving them space to play in. As your Cavapoo pup gets a little older, these items are also useful when you need to leave your puppy unsupervised for a short period of time. When it comes to size, there needs to be enough space in your pup’s pen for a bed, a water bowl and play area. As a rule, we would suggest purchasing a pen that provides between 3.5 and 5 square metres of space for your Cavapoo to play in.   Cavapoo Bowls Small sized food and water bowls suitable for your little pup are an essential. You may want to consider a slanted shape as they grow up to cater for their floppy ears. We’d also suggest a set of crate bowls for their crate and a travel bowl or two for when they’re out about - ideal for vet trips, day trips and holidays! Cavapoo Accessories Whilst Cavapoos love a snuggle on the sofa with you, they are also energetic and playful. You will soon want to get your puppy trained on a lead so you can get out and about for walks to burn some energy.  We’d suggest a harness for walking as it will be more comfortable than a collar when your pup is first learning and will offer more control. The harnesses and leads in our puppy walking section are super durable and are available in a range of stylish colours.   Best Toys for Cavapoos Cavapoos are playful little things and a range of toys will help keep them occupied and their minds active. Buy a variety of different toys and rotate them so they don’t get bored. Chew toys will help with their teething stage and also help prevent them from chewing furniture or their bed. Cuddly snuggle toys will give them something to soothe them to sleep and a throwing toy or two will offer you both an opportunity to play together when you’re outside. Remember to put a chew toy and plush in the crate and pen to keep them occupied when they’re inside.   Grooming brushes for Cavapoos It will be important to get your puppy into a grooming routine from the beginning. You don’t need to bathe them too often, but a good brush every few days will help keep their coat in tip top condition. Grooming time is also really good binding time - don’t forget to give them a reward for good behaviour!    Cavapoo Treats Your puppy will spend the first few months of their existence constantly learning. They are going to get things wrong sometimes and it’s important not to scold them at these times, but rather to encourage good behaviour. Training treats should be used for these occasions. Our Puppy Development treats are low-calorie, natural treats that are ideal for training.  

By Zac Girdlestone

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Our Top Picks for AW24
15.10.19 October 15, 2019 Product Spotlight Featured

Our Top Picks for AW24

The nights are growing longer and the weather turning crisp. We’ve brought out our winter woolies and are enjoying hot drinks in front of the fire after our morning dog walks. We love the colours and textures of homewares and clothing in the Autumn/Winter months. Here we’ve selected some of our favourite items that are just perfect for the colder months ahead.  Bouclé Crate Sets We love all of our dog crate bedding, but there’s something so warm and cosy about the Bouclé range at this time of year. Available in three beautiful colours to suit all kinds of interiors, the covers are super durable and really do make your crate look stunning. We make crate covers, bumpers and cushions - all washable on a delicate cycle. Luxury High Wall Beds Our High Wall beds are the perfect companions for your dogs and cats this Autumn/Winter, the high sides are perfect for your pets to snuggle into on cold nights.  Luxury Pet Blankets Add a sumptuous blanket to your dog or cat’s bed this winter. Our luxury blankets are made here in our Lincolnshire workshop and will make your pet’s bed even more inviting. Available in a range of colours, there is a blanket to coordinate with all of our bedding sets. Barbour Dog Coats You may wish to give your dog some protection from the elements when out exploring and the range of coats from Barbour is just adorable. They have both quilted and wax versions, which are perfect for coordinating with our own Barbour jackets!   Lords & Labradors Collars and Leads You’ve got the designer dog coat, but what about matching walking accessories? Here at Lords & Labradors, we make the most stunning collars and matching leads that are ideal for outdoor adventures in the Autumn/Winter months. We particularly love the Ostrich Leather which features a beautiful leather strap and inspired by a ostrich, leather embossed print. Lords & Labradors collars and accessories are made from the finest materials by master craftsmen. A beautifully made collar that will stand the test of time. Don't forget to browse the matching accessories too! Dachshund Fleeces Our Dachshund fleeces are more than just a fashion statement, they are perfect for keeping their long backs and bellies protected from the cold. They can be worn on their own and also have a handy hole for clipping a lead onto their harness so are perfect for their Autumn/Winter walks. They can also be personalised for that extra special touch! Drying Coats Dog drying coats have become somewhat of an everyday essential and we suggest every owner have one. At this time of year they are not only great for bath time, but are great for days out too. We suggest keeping one in your travel bag as they’re ideal for wet-weather-walks - you can pop it on your dog before you get back in the car which saves soggy car furnishings! Don't forget to browse the full Bamboo range!

By Megan Willis

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How To Litter Train Your Cat
01.10.19 October 01, 2019 Owning a Cat Featured

How To Litter Train Your Cat

Most cats will learn how and where to toilet from their mother at a very young age and many people find their kitten knows what to do from the moment they bring them home. All it takes for such kittens, is to show them where the litter tray is and they will take to using it straight away. For other cats it can take a little more encouragement though. Nervous kittens may take a little time to become accustomed to their new surroundings and feral cats may not know how to use a tray at all. Whether you’re litter training a new kitten or retraining an older cat, this guide will provide some tips to help you and your feline friends on the right track.   Choosing The Litter Box Size is important as your cat needs plenty of room to do their business, turn around and cover it up. If the litter box is too snug, your cat may just not want to use it. Choose a box that is easy for your cat to get into, but also plenty large enough for them. We’d usually suggest erring towards a bigger box so your cat feels comfortable - you also don’t want your cat to feel it’s full too quickly as they may stop using the tray. If you have a small kitten or your cat is elderly, try to choose a tray with lower sides to allow them to enter and exit with ease.   Hooded Litter Tray Or Uncovered? Both options have their pros and cons. Uncovered trays may be more inviting to cats who seem unsure about a litter tray; hooded trays offer privacy which most cats appreciate. The latter can however, trap odours which can make a dirty litter tray unappealing and larger cats can have find it difficult to move around inside unless you manage to find an extra large version. If you can, it might be worth trying both styles to see which your cat prefers.   Choose A Good Location We all know cats can be rather picky; they’re also very clean and like to bury their waste. Choosing the right spot is of the utmost importance as this will determine your cats likelihood to use the litter tray. It should be within easy access, but also slightly out of the way as cats like their privacy. If you have room for more than one litter tray it might be worth having multiple trays so they don’t feel they have far to roam to get to the tray.    Where To Put The Cat Litter Box?  Placement is really important in making your cat feel safe. Place your litter tray in discreet corners or adjacent to walls so that your cat has a full view of approaching danger but is also protected from behind. Try not to place your cats litter tray where they eat and drink, find a low traffic area in your home and avoid full-length windows looking out over the garden, cat flaps, and external doors where the threat from strange cats outside may be particularly evident for your cat. It's important to take proper care of the litter box. It will make using a litter box a more pleasant experience for your cat.   Setting Up The Litter Tray And Keeping It Clean Choose a good quality litter and make sure to keep it clean as much as possible. We suggest a clumping litter - it tends to be made up of fine granules, covers mess easily and keeps litter smells to an absolute minimum. It’s also comfortable for your cat to walk on, further encouraging your cat to use the tray. Clumping litter is also super easy to clean, as you can just scoop out the dirty bits on a daily basis and fully cleaning on a weekly basis, making the litter last longer. Ensure you use enough litter for your cat to be able to cover their business comfortably, but refrain from using too much as you don’t want an excessive amount of litter to be kicked out of the tray. Between 2-4” of litter is recommended. Start at the lower end and if your cat seems dissatisfied and wants more litter to dig in, then top up as required. A Litter Mat to pop outside the tray is a great idea to catch any excess litter that may be kicked out of the tray. Whilst your new kitten is still training leave one or two clumps in the tray to remind them where to toilet, but after this period keep the tray as clean as possible, removing clumps daily. The biggest cause of cats eliminating outside the tray is a dirty litter box. We suggest a full tray clean once a week. Empty the tray completely and wash with warm water and a gentle pet safe soap - no harsh chemicals. Make sure the tray is thoroughly dried after you've washed it, before you refill with litter.   Teaching Your Cat To Use The Litter Tray As we noted before, most cats will learn what to do from their mother and will generally continue learning in the new home. If they do get confused initially, or don’t know what to do, don’t scold them but encourage them in the right direction. When you first bring your kitten home show them where their things are including the litter tray. You could show them what to do by physically placing them in the tray. Show them how to dig in the litter with your finger and their natural instinct should kick in. The main thing is to be patient  and trust your cat will learn. What Do I Need To Litter Train My Cat? To give you and your feline the best chance, make sure you have all the things you are going to need to ensure litter training is a success. You will need the following:  Litter Box - You’ll need two litter boxes for one cat, or three litter boxes for two cats. Make sure when choosing where to put the litter trays, they’re in a suitable place for both you and your cat. Your cat will need some privacy as if they’re too exposed, they might not feel safe enough to use them. Litter - Here at Lords & Labradors we know cats can be particular with the litter they take to. You’re best to start with an unscented, clumping litter, and then once your cat is fully litter trained, you can experiment with other litters. Treats & Toys - When they successfully use their litter box, reward them with their favourite treat, or favourite toy. Create positive associations with using the litter box - but be aware you'll need to wean your cat off expecting a food-related treat every time she uses the box.   How To Train A Cat To Use The Litter Box   Once you have all the correct gear for starting litter training, you will actually need to get your cat involved in the training. By following these easy steps, you should have a fully litter box trained cat in no time.  Start by showing the boxes as soon as your cat arrives home, by setting them in the box and letting them sniff and examine their new toilets. Be sure not to move the boxes once you've shown them to your cat, to avoid confusion. Set your cat in one of the litter boxes immediately after meals and after they wake up from naps. If you notice they’re behaving like they need to go to the toilet, often this might look like sniffing and/or crouching in a particular area, pick them up and put them in one of the litter boxes. Make sure you reward your feline whenever you notice them using their litter box. Praise and/or give them a treat or a toy. Remember not to punish or scold for any accidents. Doing so will only lead to stress and anxiety, which may exacerbate the problem and make training more difficult. Many cats need to eliminate after playtime, so playing near the litter tray is a good way to encourage them to use their litter.     Medical Problems If your cat’s tray goes unused, you need to check everywhere to make sure they are going at all. If your cat isn’t eliminating they may have an obstruction and veterinary help is imperative. If your  litter trained pets start urinating outside the box, this could be a sign of urinary tract problems. Cats with these problems often look for cooler surfaces such as tiles or wooden floors. Again seek the advice of your Vet immediately as these issues need to be treated as a matter of urgency.   Why Does My Cat Poop Outside The Litter Box?  Once any medical causes have been ruled out, start to look for patterns that may point to the possible cause of your cat using anywhere but the litter tray. Your cat may find the actual litter box offensive and you may need to look for an alternative litter tray. Or perhaps they prefer a certain type of surface? Try to replicate the surface they prefer in their litter box to entice them back to using their toilet. Don’t forget to make sure the tray is clean and the litter is fresh, as like us humans, your cat will not want to use a dirty toilet. If your cat does eliminate outside the tray, rather than simply putting faeces in the bin, put it in the tray where they should have done it. Your cat will smell it and it will help remind him what the tray is for. If your cat continues to toilet in the same place outside of the tray, make sure you clean it thoroughly as your cat is more likely to toilet in the same spot if they can smell it. You could try placing food and water in that spot once clean, to help deter them from doing it again.   Don’t panic! The main thing is not to panic, and be patient. Cats are clean animals and tend to take pride in their grooming and home. Persevere and your cat will be later trained in no time. If you have any questions do get in touch, we’re always happy to help!

By Megan Willis

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