Gifts For Your Dog
Owning a dog isn't all about picking the right kind of food or choosing the most qualified veterinarian. Dogs, like people, enjoy a gift every now and then. And shopping for your four-legged friend (or the four-legged friend of a friend) can be just as fun and satisfying as picking out a new pair of shoes or getting a fresh new haircut. There are a few things to remember when you're out on a canine shopping spree, though. What type of dog are you buying for? What is the personality of the dog and its owner? What kind of grooming or training items would be appropriate and what kinds would be a waste of money? Here are a few suggestions for items that will help make your pooch feel like the Top Dog on the block.
A Proper Bed
Unless your dog sleeps in your bed with you, you'll probably want to consider investing in a nice dog bed. Like people, sleep is an important part of a dog's life, and if your dog is dozing every night on an uncomfortable floor or bedding it might be developing spine, joint and muscle problems. The best way to pick a bed for your dog is to determine your dog's sleeping style and match that with its size. If your dog likes to curl into a ball while sleeping you'll probably want to go for a donut dog bed. These also make great winter beds; the cozy sides double as protection against drafts. These types of beds are best for small- to medium-sized dogs.
Orthopedic beds come in a variety of styles and are great for aging dogs. These beds address such issues as arthritis and incontinence and many offer heated cushions.
For the more rambunctious canine, you might want to choose a chew-proof bed. While you're new puppy or unruly pooch will undoubtedly enjoy a soft bed to sleep on, it will probably still see the bed as primarily a chew toy.
Dog Toys
Dog toys are essential for a happy, healthy pet. They provide entertainment and distraction while you're away, help curb chewing urges, provide much needed exercise and help reward your dog with something other than treats. Not just any toy will be safe for your dog, however. First, choose a toy that is made specifically for dogs. Children's toys, especially stuffed, plush ones, may contain harmful fibers or Styrofoam. Second, make sure your dog isn't too large for its toy. If you give your Mastiff a toy made for a beagle, you might end up inadvertently asphyxiating your dog. Also, be mindful of squeak toys; many large breeds can easily chew through and swallow the squeaking mechanism.
One of the best kinds of toys for any breed is a Kong, which is a rubber toy that has holes in both ends and can be filled with biscuits or kibble. Similar to the Kong is a puzzle ball, which can also be filled with treats. These types of toys provide mental and physical stimulation as well as a well-deserved treat.
Meal Time
Not all dog bowls are created equal. Dogs eat better and healthier when they have a food and water bowl that fits their size. If you have a large dog, look into dog bowls that sit on an elevated stand so that the dog does not have to strain its neck to get at its meal. Smaller bowls are better suited for little dog breeds so that they don't have to step into the bowl to get at a piece of kibble. These smaller bowls also help keep the dog from overeating and getting sick. There are also new bowls available for dogs that are overweight and need some help controlling the speed at which they eat. These bowls have dividers within the dish that force the dog to eat half cup segments one at a time.
Grooming Supplies
For the more adventurous pet owner, a good set of grooming tools can provide hours of bonding time as well as save you money. Grooming is a tricky business. A professional groomer has to simultaneously clean, clip, shave and cut your dog's coat while keeping it calm and relaxed. For the less experienced pet owner, the best place to start is with a good shampoo and brush or shedding blade. Brushes and shedding blades help remove excess hair and keep your dog's coat looking sleek and healthy.
Oral hygiene products can also be a great addition; all natural, peanut butter flavored toothpaste helps control bad breath and safely removes plaque when used with a gentle, soft-bristled toothbrush.
Fleas and ticks can be a big problem for your dog, especially during the warm summer months. No grooming package would be complete without a healthy flea remedy. All natural flea-deterrent shampoos are generally made with citrus oil and are a great way to keep your dog flea-free as well as relieve fleabite dermatitis. Consult a veterinarian for any advanced flea or tick infestations.
Buying toys and hygiene products for your dog will not only satisfy your dog's need for fun and frivolity, but it will also help you learn more about your canine companion. As they say, it is better to give than to receive, and after everything dog has given you, isn't it time to return the favor?
|
