Patterdale terrier eating his dog cookie

Here's my patterdale terrier Blake eating his cookie! Don't worry, it's not any normal human cookie though, it's Blake's liver cookie for dogs. He loves liver and I regularly make him Liver cake for dogs too.

Keep your Dog Cool - Don't have a hot dog!

Why is it important to keep your dog cool?

During the summer months, temperatures in the UK can increase to a level that your dog is not used to. This summer especially, it is important to keep your dog cool during the heatwave. Dogs are furry and can't sweat. They can only pant to try to cool themselves. Dehydration in dogs is very serious - they can die from it. NEVER leave your dog in a hot car.

Ways to keep your dog cool

If your dog is panting a lot, make sure that he can get in the shade. Dogs must ALWAYS have a clean water supply.

If your dog likes water, consider getting him a small pool, or having fun with the sprinklers and water jets. If your dog is more of a lounger, consider getting a fan to keep him or her cool.

Brushing your Dog during Summer

It is a good idea to brush your dog daily during the summer to remove access hairs from the coat. Some short haired dogs cuch as the Jack Russell Terrier can moult a great deal, and grooming will limit this. If you have a long haired dog or a dog with a coarse coat, you may consider getting it professional cut or clipped to keep him or her cool.

Introducing new Dogs to Each Other

Puppy Socialisation

The best way to start introducing your dog to other dogs is to socialise as a puppy. Most vetenary surgeries and dog training schools offer puppy socialisation classes. It is important for your puppy to be socialised so that he or she know how to play with other dogs, and recognise warning signs and when to stop. Some breeds are very high energy like Jack Russells and Patterdale terriers and it's particularly important for them to learn boundaries with other dogs and familiarise themselves with the rules of play.

Introducing Older Dogs

Older dogs may be less sociable if they are in pain with arthritis, or too old to play.  They may be more agressive if they are rescue dogs or haven't been socialised as puppies properly. Certain breeds, such as the Jack Russell Terrier can be more agressive and protective of their owners.

When introducing older dogs to each other, it is important to do this on lead and on neutral territory. This means no introducing them in your house. I found this out when Milo got extremely angry that his new friend Winston came into our house! Milo attacked, and we couldn't get them used to each other. They had to be separated for the rest of the weekend. The strangest thing was that once they were outside, no problem!

Top Tips for Dog Socialisation on Walks

• If your dog is agressive, don't avoid other dogs, as you are showing him or her that other dogs are a threat, and making the situation worse.
• Take treats and toys on walks to positively re-enforce when they 'play nice'
• Avoid petting other dogs if you have a jealous pooch

Tips for Dog Socialisation inside or in an Enclosed Space

• If your dog is off-lead and has a tendancy to be agressive, don't be scared to use a muzzle. This will make your dog the safest dog in the room.
• Use loud noises if 'play' starts to become agressive, for example banging a spoon on a saucepan. The noise will startle them and should prevent a fight from developing.
•  Discipline agressive dog by turning them on their back into the 'submit' position.

The running of the Weiners!

Dachshunds, commonly known as the weiner dog in the US, are an extremely popular breed. The Dachshund was originally bred to chase and flush out badgers. The breed is commonly known for it's adorably cute face and elongated sausage like body. 

Dachshunds make a great family pet. It is important to be careful of their backs, as they are prone to spinal injuries.  You should not overfeed your dachshund, as this can put pressure on the dogs spine.

Did you know that every year in the US, they hold a weiner dog race, racing their dachshunds dressed up as hot dogs?! Check it out....

If you want a hot dog costume for your weiner dog, you can buy one on www.amazon.co.uk.

Steampunk Dogs!

Steampunk is big for 2013. But how about a steampup, or a steampug? Check out these ace steampunk dogs!

Follow this link for more Steampunk Dogs.

What is Steampunk Style?

Gorgeous Retro Dog Collars

Get your dog to go retro in 2013 with these fabulous retro dog collars!

Milo the Jack Russell dog plays cards!

Milo the Jack Russell playing Cards - this time he gets the Joker! He just can't wait for the next one, crazy dog!

Follow this link if you would like to know How to Teach your Dog to Play Cards.