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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Is It Time To Take Your Dog To Work?
09.01.17 January 09, 2017 Owning a Dog Featured

Is It Time To Take Your Dog To Work?

January’s a pretty gloomy time and what better way to cheer up the work day than by taking your best friend to work with you? Bring Your Dog to Work Day may be officially in June but it doesn’t mean you can’t do it at any other time! In fact, a lot of people routinely take their dog to work anyway, from self-employed gardeners and farmers to therapy assistants and trainers. But, taking your dog to work for a change can bring great benefits for everyone.   Here’s 5 great reasons to take your dog to work: Pets are known to reduce stress and there’s nothing more stressful than a day at the office! Spending time with your dog is a good way to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels and have a happier more relaxed day. Taking your dog to work helps your dog too. Meeting new people and visiting new places will help your dog socialise and integrate better. If your colleagues also take their dogs it will also help with interaction between dogs. Your dog will still need some exercise even when he’s at work so instead of sitting at your desk for lunch having your pet with you will mean you’ll have to get out and do some exercise with them! A definite win-win situation. Having your dog with you will also help with your own socialisation. It’s much easier to talk to someone when you have a ready-made conversation starter with you! If your pet is with you all day then you’ll also increase the bond that the two of you have leading to a happier home life and a greater relationship. It may not be possible to take your dog to work with you every day but it’s definitely worth doing as often as you can.   How To Prepare For Taking Your Dog To Work If you are going to take your dog with you then please remember to get everything ready beforehand. Your dog will need somewhere to sleep, something to eat and drink, a dog toy to keep them busy and don’t forget about trips to the bathroom! Also, it’s probably worth bearing in mind your dog’s character. If he’s a bit too boisterous the workplace may not be the best place for him, while most people will love your dog not everyone may be a fan and it’s best to make sure your pet is well-behaved before you take him in. Taking your dog to work has benefits for you both so remember have fun with it!

By Johanna Buitelaar-Warden

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Should Your Next Dog Be A Rescue?
01.11.16 November 01, 2016 Getting A Puppy Featured

Should Your Next Dog Be A Rescue?

  For those who are thinking of getting a dog (whether it is your first or fifth), there is always a tough question to answer – do you go to a breeder or get a rescue dog? Of course, there are advantages and disadvantages to both paths, and it does ultimately depend on what works out to be best for you, the future owner. If you are looking into adopting a dog from your local rescue centre, then you need to make sure you do your research and really ask the question is a rescue dog right for me?   The Benefits Of A Rescue Dog There are so many benefits to rescuing a dog. For one, you are giving a pooch a second chance in life after it was abandoned or brought to the centre under other circumstances. Dogs don’t like being in kennels, they want a family. Rescuing one means you are giving it a chance. Often, they are older dogs and come with a lot of training, which is a lot different to purchasing a puppy and doing everything from scratch. There is something rewarding about helping a dog through difficult periods as well, and if they have behavioural issues then it can be a really eye opening experience when you help them work through it. Plus, if you adopt a dog with health issue, most centres will offer to pay for all or some of the medication for the rest of the dog’s life. So you don’t need to be put off a dog you love just because they have a health problem. When you adopt a dog the adoption fee usually covers the following: Vaccines Microchip Neutering/spaying Flea and worm treatment Vet check up Temporary insurance (usually 4-6 weeks) Rescue dogs are almost always neutered meaning that that large expense has already been done for you and means your dog is more likely to be calmer.   The Downsides There aren’t many negatives to adopting a dog. Just remember that they aren’t always pre-trained and some of them are going to be difficult when it comes to training and gaining their trust. When you find a dog, do your research and don’t take on anything you can’t handle. It is not good for the dog to be rehomed and then sent back to the centre.   Choosing the Right Dog With so many to choose from in rescue centres, this is often the hardest part. After all, how are you even meant to narrow down your choices when there are so many needing homes? The best thing to do when you start your search is to make a list of the things you would like in your canine. An example list would be: Age Sex Breed (or mongrel) Size Activity level Good with kids/dogs/cats Coat type Of course, there are other specifics you can add but this is dependent on what you want. After this, you can look online or visit the centre. Online often lets you narrow down your choices quickly, but they can do this at the centre to and introduce you to the dogs – so you can see all your potential companions in person. You can spend time with the dog and ask staff questions about them if you want more information. You even get the chance to play with them and walk them on the grounds. If they suit you, fantastic, but if not don’t feel guilty or obliged. Ask to see another, the one that didn’t work for you will be adopted by someone else who is just right for them. When you find your perfect dog, it’s a simple case of a home check, exchange of money/paperwork, and then the dog is yours. If you have time, patience, and are looking to give an unwanted pooch a second home, then a rescue dog is perfect for you. Just remember that many of them have some behavioural issues or are in need of further training, so you will have some work to do. However, following this you are sure to have a great experience and a loyal friend in your dog.  You may even find that your heart has been so won over by your rescue dog that you’ll end up volunteering with your local shelter, like so many people have!  Nationwide shelters include Dogs Trust and the RSPCA, but you will also be able to find many smaller, local shelters near you.

By Johanna Buitelaar-Warden

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Pet Insurance - Is It Worth It?
09.08.16 August 09, 2016 Health Featured

Pet Insurance - Is It Worth It?

Your pet is a part of your family, and so when they get sick or are involved in an accident, you will do everything in your power to help them make a full recovery. Similarly, if they go missing or are stolen, you are going to put all your effort into finding them and advertising the fact that they are lost. Pet insurance can help you with all of this and more, and the short answer to the question of ‘is it worth it?’ is yes. Here’s some more information about pet insurance and why it is definitely worth buying for your pet.   What Does It Do? Pet insurance covers a range of things that could happen with your pet. Commonly, illness, accidents, and death are covered by most insurance policies. Many will also cover things like your pet going missing and being stolen, even going so far as to fund the production of posters and even the reward money for their safe return. It’s a cushion for you to land on when you are met with unexpected veterinary bills.   Types of Pet Insurance There are three main types of pet insurance available. When you go to select yours, make sure you choose carefully, and remember that 70% of insurance claims are through illness and not accidents.   The Lifetime pet insurance is the most comprehensive that is available. You pay the premiums each year, and the insurer covers your pet regardless of age or any illnesses that they may develop over the course of their life. In fact, many will cover existing conditions as well, although it will often cost more to do this. This is the most commonly purchased form of insurance, and highly recommended.   Annual insurance lasts for a year and allows you the freedom to go and search for cheaper policies elsewhere. However, this is also less comprehensive and highly unlikely to cover existing conditions. In addition to this, it will be harder to insure your pet as they get older due to increased risks of illness and death.   Accident Only insurance will cover your pet for any accidents that they are involved in, such as being hit by a car, but no illnesses or other areas. It also does not cover you if your pet attacks a person or animal. It’s a huge risk to take if you decide to purchase this insurance, and if anything happens to your pet through illness you will be met by a large vet bill.   Choosing Pet Insurance Pet Plan is one of the best insurers on the market and offer excellent packages at affordable prices. They are recommended by vets and professionals, and are in partnership with many practices and breeders, offering four weeks of free insurance when you first get your pet. They also have a 10% discount for applying online and 10% off for each additional pet. Traditional insurers such as More Than and banks such as Tesco and Sainsbury's also offer insurance. You could also purchase insurance via a charity like the Dogs Trust or the RSPCA and help them at the same time. If you’re looking for the best deal then there is the option to check out price comparison websites for the best insurance deals across providers at websites like Money Supermarket or Compare The Market.   To Conclude Pet insurance is definitely worth it. After all, if you end up with a vet bill for £2000, could you afford it? For many, the answer is no. So to save yourself stress and worry, it is well worth purchasing an insurance plan for your pets. That way, you know you are covered if anything goes wrong and you don’t need to worry about big bills – only about the recovery of your pet. If your pet is not insured already, you should strongly consider doing it now.

By Johanna Buitelaar-Warden

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Beginner's Guide To Training Your Dog To Walk In a Harness
02.08.16 August 02, 2016 Getting A Puppy Featured

Beginner's Guide To Training Your Dog To Walk In a Harness

Many people who own more powerful dogs that are prone to pulling will opt to use a harness instead of a collar. It makes it easier to restrain them, as the harness pushes against the chest, but also doesn’t end up choking a dog, like a collar does, if they pull. It can often be more comfortable for the dog as well, especially those that are padded on the inside. You may think the idea of training your dog to walk on a harness is a little daunting. However, it’s not nearly as hard as it may seem, and with this guide you’ll be walking your dog on a harness in no time.   When Should I Start Lead Training? A commonly asked question is how old your dog should be before you start the training. You can start up as soon as you get your puppy by letting them wear the harness for short periods of time while around the house. This helps them to get used to the feeling. You can also lead walk them on it around the garden, but do not reprimand them for pulling. The first two weeks in your home should only hold positive experiences for your puppy. Just let them get a feel for the harness.   Learning To Bring To Heel The most key part of harness training is learning to heel. This is very important, as it reduces the amount of pulling (or stops it completely) and leads to a more relaxed walk for both of you. It also helps keep your dog under control for both of your safety. Learning to heel can take time, but it’s often easier to achieve with a harness. Make sure you use clear commands and hold the lead firmly when you are about set off. Commands like “let’s go” are simple and effective. Every time your dog is in step with you and by your side, reward them with praise and a treat to reinforce this good behaviour. If your dog begins to pull, use a kind and simple command like ‘easy’ or ‘heel’ to keep them in check and remind them of the good way in which they were behaving before. If the pulling continues, then loosen the lead and turn around back towards home. The dog will learn that pulling results in no walk. Once they behave again, you can resume your original direction. The whole process requires a lot of repetition and patience, but you will get there in no time at all.   Things to Remember When Lead Training Here are some important things to remember when you go to buy a harness and use it on your dog. Make sure the harness fits correctly, and that it is not too loose or too tight Ensure you are calm and not stressed when you train your dog Remember that practice makes perfect, as does persistence Buy a harness from a reliable brand so you know it won’t come apart Always reward your dog for good on-harness behaviour   To Conclude Harness training really isn’t hard at all. Just remember to buy a harness that fits well, to be persistent with training, and to always reward your dog for good behaviour. It won’t take long, and dogs love the whole process of training – especially the rewards! So for a more comfortable walk, and one that you and your dog enjoy consider a harness and follow these little training tips.

By Megan Willis

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Beach Haul - Things For A Day At The Beach With Your Dog
19.07.16 July 19, 2016 Product Spotlight Featured

Beach Haul - Things For A Day At The Beach With Your Dog

So, FINALLY, it’s getting hotter!  Its about time we got a bit more of a British Summer! But the sun has finally come out, The weather reports say its hotter than Miami, so why would you want to be anywhere else? So to make sure you have THE BEST DAY at the beach, we have made a list of important things to take with you on your trip to make it a hassle free, fun day at the beach.   1. Keep your dog hydrated! Travel bowls are an absolute necessity – We love these Beco pop up travel bowls, they are light, handy and just slot in to your beach bag.  2. Nothing is more embarrassing than when your dog leaves a mess and you have nothing to clear it up with – plus its not uncommon for passers by to watch! (Aghhhhh! Awkward) But don’t fret, we have these super cool Beco poo bag holders which clip on to pretty much anything. 3. If your dog loves the water it might be important to get your dog a float coat, basically, a life jacket for dogs. They are perfect for all dogs but are particularly great for flat faced dogs where it is important to keep their faces above water. 4. Ball on a rope, they are brilliant for the beach! you can throw them extra far and make the beach extra enjoyable for your four-legged friend.

By Johanna Buitelaar-Warden

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Dog Crates: Cruel or Crucial?
03.05.16 May 03, 2016 Owning a Dog Featured

Dog Crates: Cruel or Crucial?

The idea of crating a dog or puppy is one that is often hotly debated. People wonder if the crate is actually a safe haven for a dog or more like a prison. Well, this all depends on how a person uses the crate, not the crate itself. Crating can actually be incredibly calming for a dog, as long as you do it correctly and do not misuse the concept. In this article we’ll take a look at some of the reasons that crating can be good, as well as telling you how not to use it.   Crate Training Your Puppy There are several ways crating can help with your puppy’s overall training, the main one being house-training. Dogs naturally like dens, especially in the early stages of their lives. By teaching them that the crate is their bed and also their safe retreat they will start to treat it as a bed and den and so learn to eliminate waste outside of it. So for example, if they have slept in their crate over night or spent a couple of hours in there during the day, take them outside as soon as they get up to help reinforce outdoor toileting. Dogs do not like to toilet where they eat and sleep.  It can also help them to cope with being left alone at night when you go to sleep and they are separated from you. If you live in a multi-dog household it is not advised that you leave your puppy unattended with the older dogs, and so having a crate can help them to remain social but also gives them a place to rest that is separate from the other dogs. We used to have our puppy’s crate right next to the beds of the older dogs so that she could sleep with them but in the safety of her crate. ​ Pet Safety and Security This works for both you and your dog. Some older dogs grow out of the crate stage (like ours did) and will stop using it once they mature a little. However, others will become a little more bonded with their crate. Some dogs like having their crate as an option at all times, just somewhere that they can go to sleep, relax, or get away from anything that might be upsetting them. It offers the dog a sense of security, which relates back to dogs being den animals. By leaving the crate door open (or removing it completely) you are allowing your dog the den-like hideout that they want.   In terms of how it works for you as an owner, it can offer you a great peace of mind. Whilst this is more for puppies and dogs who have not yet matured it can also be aimed at those who still have a few nasty habits. If your canine companion has a habit of chewing up the house or snacking on wires, then it is often worth crating them for an hour or two while you go out to run your errands. By doing this they are in a comfortable location and you don’t have to worry about them potentially electrocuting themselves while you are out.   Pet Transportation Crating your dog, and teaching it to be comfortable there can make transportation so much easier. Whether you are going for a walk somewhere new or moving house, a dog in a crate makes driving so much safer. It means that your dog isn’t going to end up sliding around the back of the car, and they also cannot distract you while you are driving. After all, if you don’t have a guard between the back and the front then they have the perfect opportunity to wiggle up to you. For dogs that get a little distressed while driving, the crate can offer a sense of comfort that will help calm them.   The dog crate is great, and it’s certainly something that is safe to use. However, it is important to note and explain how not to use the crate. Never use a crate if your dog acts fearfully towards it. Forcing your dog to use it will cause psychological damage – the crate should be a place they choose to go willingly to maintain that feeling of security. If your dog suffers from separation anxiety then crating them will only make it worse. Do not crate a dog for longer than the time they can hold the need to go to the toilet. This is cruel and unfair on them. Do not crate your dog if they suffer from medical conditions such as arthritis as this will encourage stiffness – always consult your vet about any conditions you think might be affected by the crate. Never crate a dog as a form of punishment as this will encourage a fear of the crate and associate it with negative actions. The same goes for you wanting peace and quiet, the crate is not the answer and it will again be associated with negativity. Finally, do not crate your dog for more than five hours. The crate is a place they can sleep and relax and they should not be shut away for more than a couple of hours, and even then not every day. If you shut them away for over five hours every day then this could lead to psychological damage.  If you’d like some more information about the use of dog crates the RSPCA also has a useful article.   Making Your Dog Feel at Home If you do decide to go with having a dog crate then look no further than our extensive selection of dog crates, covers, bumpers and cushions. Our dog crates come in 5 sizes – 24″, 30″, 36″, 42″ and 48″. Our range of exclusive covers, bumpers and cushions will suit any style of home and provide a relaxing and comfy den for your dog.

By Johanna Buitelaar-Warden

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Puppy Love; Children and Dogs
04.08.15 August 04, 2015 Owning a Dog Featured

Puppy Love; Children and Dogs

Ever since I can remember we have had dogs around us and it is with no doubt that they have shaped the way I am today.   “We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals” Immanual Kant   The relationship a child has with a dog helps from a young age the understanding of the importance of kindness and respect for other living beings.   Having a dog also establishes key responsibilities that are useful in every day life, structure, routine and accountability.   There are good reasons why dogs are used to help depression and aid the needs of humans. The sheer presence of dogs is calming and we are instinctively drawn to them. It is proven that the act of petting a dog can be soothing, improving mood and even blood pressure.   Dogs are uncomplicated beings, they have no agenda, they love unconditionally; Children respond wonderfully to the love given by dogs, so genuine and free of judgment. Children recognise this which is why often dogs are used to help children’s development.   • Empathy skills• Social skills• Relationships• Coping skills• Self-esteem• Family climate• Responsibility• Stress management   They also teach responsibility and encourage emotional development in some very valuable and interesting ways.   A study comparing children with dogs at home to those without, found that the children who were dog owners were significantly more empathic and pro-social. The stronger the attachment to the dog, the stronger this effect may be. The study also found that children with higher levels of attachment to pets reported more positive feelings about their family and home, than those with low attachment to pets. A dog can make a home feel safe and warm. Children and adults alike feel a unique sense of security just knowing that they can depend on that unconditional comfort every day.   Above all, and many parents fear the day they tell their child that a particular member of the family has gone to play in doggy heaven; it teaches children about the circle of life which will undoubtedly prepare them for the rest of their lives.   Last but certainly not least, having a dog in your family is fun! enjoyable, it brings the family together and there is nothing more rewarding than the thanks you get for taking care of a four legged companion. Even if he can’t talk…  

By Johanna Buitelaar-Warden

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