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Is a Pembroke Welsh Corgi Right for You?

In recent years the Pembroke Welsh Corgi has surged in popularity, thanks to the breed’s adorable antics and interesting looks.  Popular Instagram accounts, such as Ralph the Corgi, have also encouraged the breed’s recent success.  Is a Pembroke Welsh Corgi right for you? Temperament Pembroke Welsh Corgis (which are distinct from the Cardigan Welsh Corgi) are highly intelligent dogs that are renowned for their working ability.  They are both affectionate and alert, and make wonderful family companions and watch dogs.  They can be bold, but are kind in their ways. Size, Coloring, and Upkeep Pembroke Welsh Corgis are recognized for their long bodies, erect, triangle-shaped ears, and absence of a tail.  They are small and sturdy dogs, weighing 22 – 31 lbs, depending on sex.  Their coats are short and stiff with the long-coat “fluffy” variation considered a fault.  The American Kennel Club recognizes four colors of Pembroke Welsh Corgi: ...
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Adopting a New Dog: The First Two Weeks

The most crucial period of time after a dog is adopted is the first two weeks.  Dogs are most frequently returned to shelters or rescues in this duration due to new owners expecting too much, too soon.  The following is what to expect in the first couple weeks your new dog is home, and common difficulties that are encountered. Name Changing Many adopters change the name of their new pets.  While most dogs are quick to learn their new name, this process may still take 2 – 3 weeks.  While your dog is adjusting to the surroundings and the new moniker, have patience with your pet.  After all, how easy would it be for you if your family suddenly started calling you by a different name? Potty Training Even if your new pet is supposedly potty trained it may take time for your dog to acclimate to new expectations.  Make...
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A New Dog in the House: Beyond the Introduction

If you are adding a new dog or long-term visitor to the household, there is much more to harmonious living beyond the initial introduction.  Even if resident pets tolerate the newcomer, there are additional steps the owner must take in order to ensure peaceful coexistence. Start Small One of the worst mistakes a dog owner can make is to assume that since the initial introduction went well there will be smooth sailing thereafter.  While this may be the case for some dogs, in reality there are many pets that will display some jealousy, resource guarding, or general brattiness.  It is always better to be on the safe side and start small.  Praise your dogs whenever they are behaving well, even if simply sitting on the couch next to one another. Expect a Few Scuffles The main way that dogs interact with one another is through assertion of hierarchy.  In the...
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Best Cyber Monday Deals for Dogs

Cyber Monday is upon us, which makes today one of the least productive work days of the year.  Why not join your coworkers in checking out the hottest deals?  Listed here are some of the best sales in dog food, treats, toys, and beds around the internet today. Amazon.com The online retailer is unveiling limited opportunity discounts today on items that rarely go on sale.  Look for products today that have been on your wish list. Orthopedic Memory Foam Bed, $63.41 This large bed is $40 off today, and is perfect for your aging pup that requires a softer surface at night.  If you are trying to break your dog’s bad habit of jumping on the furniture, this extra-comfy bed is also worthwhile.  Total savings:  40% Nail Grinder, $12.99 Many pet owners are uncomfortable clipping their dog’s nails.  With this grinder, you can rest assured you will avoid the trauma...
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Surviving Holiday Travel with your Dog

This week, many people will be traveling to spend the Thanksgiving holiday with friends and family.  For some, family pets will make the trip as well.  If this is your first time taking Fido home for the holidays, listed below are helpful tips to make sure he is welcomed back next year. Exercise Your pup is bound to be excited by the change in environment and new people to bug for attention.  Remember, a tired dog is a happy dog; and a happy dog makes for happy hosts.  Take your pup for extra long walks in the morning and provide plenty of play time.  Start a Thanksgiving Day tradition by letting your dog tag along in the local Turkey Trot. Routine Whereas humans enjoy to switch things up from time to time, dogs are happiest when their lives are predictable.  No matter where you travel for the holiday, try to...
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5 Universal Responsibilities of Dog Owners

Owning a dog is a huge responsibility, one that sometimes is not fully considered in advance.  To aid owners in understanding the role they are undertaking in a dog’s life, the ASPCA has created a list outlining the five freedoms every animal should have.  Does your dog enjoy these freedoms? Provide Food and Water At the top of the list of responsibilities that you have to your pet is providing reliable access to fresh water and food.  Water should be refreshed multiple times per day, and the food should be appropriate for your pet.  If your dog lives primarily outdoors, a heated water bowl should be utilized during the winter months so that water does not freeze.  During the summer months, water bowls should be cleaned regularly to prevent the growth of algae. Provide Appropriate Housing Every animal should have access to a roof and four walls of protection, whether...
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6 Reasons to be a Foster Parent to a Homeless Dog

Whether you are a current dog owner or are looking to become one, fostering is a great choice with numerous benefits.  A foster parent is responsible for housing a pet for a shelter or animal rescue until a suitable “furever” home can be found.  The advantages of fostering are listed below. See Whether a Dog is Right for You Are you unsure whether you can handle the responsibilities of pet ownership?  Fostering a pet can help you better understand if you are ready for purchasing or adopting a pet of your own.  If you ultimately realize that you are not ready for the full time commitment associated with a pet, you can rest assured that fostering is a short-term commitment. Socialize your Current Pets If you are considering bringing home a new dog but already have pets and are unsure how they will react, fostering is a great way to...
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Apartment Living with Your Dog

Not all breeds are well-suited to living in small spaces.  Some dogs, such as Siberian Huskies or German Shorthaired Pointers, require room to roam and excessive exercise.  However, circumstances can change, leaving you with the options of rehoming your beloved dog or making a less-than-ideal situation work.  Listed below are tips for keeping the peace with your landlord and neighbors. Crate Training Especially if your dog is prone to destruction when bored, a crate can be your best bet for ensuring your dog is well-behaved while you are away.  A crated dog is also less likely to bark throughout the day, meaning no complaints from your neighbors when you return home. Extra Exercise A tired dog is a happy dog, so extra exercise for your pet is necessary if cohabiting with a high-energy breed in an apartment.  Go for an extra long walk in the morning and in the evening,...
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Making Friends! How to Introduce Dogs To Each Other

As any dog owner can attest, canine introductions can be stressful situations.  If the introduction goes well, the two dogs will become playmates and pals; a bad introduction, however, can be extremely dangerous for both dog and owner.  What many pet owners do not realize is that the outcome of the introduction is highly dependent on how the owners handle their dogs.  Listed below are tips for safely introducing two dogs. Neutral Territory The first step in introducing two unfamiliar dogs is to find neutral territory.  A top mistake among pet owners is to attempt to bring a new dog into another dog’s space, such as the home or yard, and expect no problems to occur.  Dogs are naturally territorial animals, and even the most submissive pet may feel the need to protect its home and family.  The best place to introduce two dogs is in a nearby park or...
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Tips for Keeping your Dog Safe on Halloween

Did you know that Halloween is one of the most dangerous days for pets?  Every year, countless dogs are lost due to the commotion of trick-or-treaters, accidental chocolate poisoning, or even because of malicious intent.  Listed below are 6 tips for keeping your pet safe this Halloween. Keep the candy out of reach.  Especially if your family does not keep candy in the house year round, it can be easy for pet owners to stock up on Halloween candy and forget to store it in a location that Fido can’t reach.  After the excitement of trick or treating, children may forget to store their candy in a safe place; or, may even be tempted to share their treats with furry best friends.  Educate your children on the importance of only feeding dogs appropriate food and treats, and be extra vigilant that your dog cannot access anything that may make him...
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