When Sally moved into a retirement home, Brody continued to go to Sally’s home and would look for her through her window.  Seeing how much Brody misses Sally, his parents started taking him to visit Sally in her new home every week.  When Brody walks into Sally’s new home, he acts as if he owns the place.  They continue to hang out like they used to.  Just look at how content the two are in this video.

What is a St. Bernard like?

St. Bernard is a gentle giant.  When full grown, they can be 120 to 180 pounds, according to Vet Street.

You know that image of a St. Bernard carrying a keg of brandy to rescue people?  It was actually the painter, Edwin Landseer, taking artistic liberty when he painted a St. Bernard back in 1819.  The Bernies DO rescue lost travellers near St. Bernard Hospice high up in the Alps.  Mostly they are companion dogs, appreciated for their patience and calmness.  St. Bernards do drool.  Remember the movie “Beethoven”?  And as puppies, they DO chew.  Keep your socks in your drawers.  If you live in hot climate, keep your Bernie cool in air-condition.  They can get heat stroke.  Even though they are large dogs, their food requirement is not any more than other large breeds.  And their exercise need is moderate.  So even if you have a small yard, they would do fine.  This is a companion dog, which also means they want YOUR companionship.  They love their people and will pine for you if left alone too long.  When the family is home, they would be happy being a part of family life.  They adore it.

Enjoy watching this heartwarming video of a St. Bernard and a special neighbor.  If you enjoy this video, here is one of a French Bulldog puppy that has a lot to say.

The post [VIDEO] St. Bernard Befriends A Neighbor appeared first on Doggie Outpost.

Thinking about getting your elderly parent a dog?

At one point, the dear man licks the ice cream bar, then gives it back for his beloved dog to finish, seeing how much his friend enjoys ice cream.   This is a moving video.  I see this man putting his dog’s enjoyment above his own.  His dog friend comes first.  I appreciate the videographer capturing this moment on camera. It speaks volume about the friendship between us and our dogs.

Many have suggested that an elderly person living alone might benefit from having a dog as a companion.  And the children of some seniors might want to give their parents this great gift, provided that taking care of a dog is something they are open to.

Matching a dog’s personality with an elderly owner

This can be a great match when several factors come together, according to Barbara Ballinger in AgingCare.com.

#1.  Puppies are adorable, AND they need a lot of care.  And they are very active and energetic.  Would that be a match with with the parents’ energy level and lifestyle?  If in doubt, borrow a friend’s puppy and see how your parents feel after spending a whole day with the puppy.

#2.  Perhaps someone thinks that a smaller dog is easier to care for than a big dog.  That depends.  Some large dogs have a mellow temperament and are content with a leisurely walk.  Some small dogs are highly energetic, and requires an owner that is active.  But some small dogs have a mellow temperament too.

#3.  Having a dog no doubt adds to the social interactions of the elderly, whether it’s meeting someone at the dog park and talking about their dogs, or the increased exercise they get because their dogs need to exercise.  Many an elderly person expand their friendship circle as a result of walking their dogs, socializing with more people.  Even a second chance at romance.

There is also the benefits of reducing stress, lowering blood pressure, in addition to this wonderful companionship with their dog.

You can read the entire article here.  Enjoy watching this precious moment.  And if you appreciate precious moments like this, here’s a video on how a Saint Bernard become friends with an elderly neighbor.

Article source:  Barbara Ballinger in AgingCare.com

The post [VIDEO] Kind Man Sharing Ice Cream Bar With His Dog appeared first on Doggie Outpost.

Dogs can get stressed.  They are alert to strangers at the door.  Just look at their body posture.  They are in alarm mode.  You know dogs who get really afraid when they hear thunder?  That’s great stress for some dogs.  Actually, many dogs do not like loud noises.  Sirens, for example.  These may seem like everyday occurrence to us, but still it can cause stress to our friends.  Massage can help them to release tension and relax.

How to massage your dog

Another benefit is improved circulation.  More oxygen flowing through, deeper breathing, improved immune system.  Pretty much the same benefits we get from a massage.  At the end of a massage, there is a sense of well-being, balance, rejuvenated. Same goes for dogs.

Josh Weiss-Roessler in Cesar’s Way offers some tips on how to massage our dogs.  First, do not massage your dog like you would a human.  That would be too much pressure on them.  Use gentle motion when working on your dog. And if he is in an anxious mood, take him for a walk first.  He needs to be in a calm state and receptive of the massage before you begin.

Begin the massage by gently petting your dog all over. And talk to him softly to keep him relaxed and calm.   Use circular motion when massage his neck.  Then work your way down to the shoulders.  This is an area that dogs can’t reach, so they appreciate you spending more time here. When you get to the legs and paws, be respectful of your dog’s wishes.  If they don’t like to be touched there, move to another area.  By the time you work on the whole body, they would be in heaven.  And it creates a deeper bond between you and your friend.    You can read the details on how to give your puppy a massage here.

If you like this video, here is another puppy massage video for you!

Article source:  Josh Weiss-Roessler in Cesar’s Way

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The Papillon is one of the oldest of the Toy Spaniels. They originally came from France, and were often depicted lying in the laps of Spanish and French noble women.  Papillon is also called the Butterfly dog because their ears look like a butterfly. They are light and dainty.  Their gait is quick, graceful, and easy.  Ty The Dog Guy shares some insights on the temperament and characteristics of the Papillon.

What are Papillons like?

Papillon has long and silky hair.  They have no undercoat, which means they can get cold easily.  This is one dog that needs a jacket or a sweater in the winter.  Please be sure to keep them warm.

The Papillon is lively, intelligent, and friendly.  They are usually not shy or aggressive.  They can be energetic and playful, and they can also be calm and gentle.  Papillon loves to cuddle.   They may look small and dainty, but they are tougher than they look.  They love human companionship.

They are highly trainable.  And unless they sense danger, they don’t bark a lot.  It may take longer to house train a Papillon puppy.  They love to do tricks and follow your commands, that’s why they are so easy to train.  You can also socialize them to get along with other pets in your family, including your cat.  Papillon will be happy living in an apartment or out in the country.  Although they love playing outdoors, they can just as easily get their exercises indoor.

If you like this video, here is another Papillon puppy video for you to enjoy!

Article source:   Ty the Dog Guy

The post [VIDEO] Papillon Puppy At 8 Weeks Old appeared first on Doggie Outpost.

So, after all that beautifying, Dad needs to change the bedsheet and re-decorate.   Hopefully, he will find help in potty-train Cooper, so he doesn’t need to spend too much time taking care of these accidents.  So how do we potty-train a puppy?  Emily Wilson shares some wonderful tips on this topic in Desirablepuppy.com.

Potty training a puppy

First of all, when accidents happen, stay calm and relaxed, suggests Emily Wilson.  Remember that this is just a baby and doesn’t yet know what to do. Patience is much appreciated in your baby’s learning process.  Emily also strongly recommends that we do not punish them by yelling or rubbing their nose  in it or hitting their rear.

Her in-depth article goes into the mindset that would help us through the training period.  She goes into the different ways of training a puppy to potty and setting a potty training schedule.  Her article answers questions including when to begin house-training our puppy, how long do we need to potty train, and what to do if our puppy forgets his potty training.  Emily believes that potty training requires us to be patient, consistent, and provide positive reinforcement.   Even though it takes months, maybe even a year for some dogs, for the potty training, it is so worth the time investment.  You will have your house back, your schedule back, your freedom back.  Many a dog owners who skip this training may be so frustrated with the daily clean-up that they end up having to part with their dog.  You can read more about these tips here.

If you enjoy this video, here is another puppy video for you!

Article source:  Emily Wilson in Desirablepuppy.com

The post [VIDEO] This Puppy Needs Potty Training appeared first on Doggie Outpost.

These puppies do need to run off their excess energy!  Australian Shepherds are also called Aussies.  This is a wonderful breed that are highly intelligent and loyal, according to Dog Breed Info,  They are good with children, even a child that’s very active, because Aussies love to play.  They are naturally protective, and are devoted.

Traits of an Australian Shepherd

There is another wonderful trait about this breed–even in their adult life, they retain their puppy nature.  That means they keep their youthful attitude throughout their life.  How wonderful! Because Aussies are originally working dogs, they need a lot of exercise.  They are more suited for people who lead an active lifestyle.    This is not a dog that lies around taking naps.

So if you are thinking about getting an Aussie, lifestyle is an important factor to think about.  Are you an active person?  If you have an Aussie, they need to be mentally and physically active.  If they get bored, it can lead to destructive behavior.

Australian Shepherds also have the wonderful ability to know what their owners want–kind of like a sixth sense.  They love to please, and they are attentive.  This makes them easy to train.

Because they are herding dogs, they may have a habit to nip at someone’s ankles.  You can train them to know that they do not herd people, just livestock.  Aussies are gentle with people.  This is not a dog for apartment living.  They will need at least a big yard for them to expend their energy.  If you give them a job, they will be even happier.  You can read more about Australian Shepherds here.  Enjoy watching these joyful puppies.

If you like this video, here is another Australian Shepherd video for you!

Article source:  Dog Breed Info

The post [VIDEO] Australian Shepherd Puppies Playing With Dad appeared first on Doggie Outpost.

Can puppies eat food for adult dogs?

I was curious whether adult dog food is okay for puppies, so I did a bit of research and found an article by Dr. Greg Martinez, who wrote the book, Dog Dish Diet.  Dr. Martinez writes that basically, the main difference between puppy food and adult dog food is the size of the kibble, and about 2% extra protein for the growing puppy.

He writes that one dog will always wants to eat what the other dog is having.  Maybe it’s like school children exchanging their lunches, thinking the other’s mom must have packed something more yummy.  Puppies will want to try adult dog food, and the grown up dogs will want to taste the puppy’s food.  Maybe the other bowl IS greener.

Dr. Martinez suggests that we can buy just one kind of dog food, and add more protein to the puppy bowl. Including some human food also adds variety to their meals.  We wouldn’t want to eat the same thing meal after meal ourselves, why would dogs?  Enjoy watching this 4-weeks-old Chihuahua make himself at home INSIDE the food bowl of his adult dog friends.

If you like this video, here is another Chihuahua video for you to enjoy!

Article source: Dr. Greg Martinez

The post [VIDEO] 4-Weeks-Old Chihuahua Wants To Eat Adult Dog Food appeared first on Doggie Outpost.

How to introduce a puppy to his new home

When your puppy is here, it would be a good idea to show her where her bathroom is.  Maybe let her have a bathroom break before entering the house. Some people like to let the puppy explore the house on her own, and then mop up the house afterwards.  One idea that Vets Adopt Pets is to leash the puppy, and give her a tour of the house.  Then take her to her area where she’ll be comfortable for the next few days getting acquainted with the family members.

Give the puppy a dedicated space to eat and sleep

In this puppy section, put the water bowl, food bowl, crate, or dog bed, and a couple of toys.  Keep these items in the same place because dogs prefer order.  A puppy can find comfort in a crate that’s just large enough for her to stand up, turn around, and sleep. It’s cozy, it feels safe.  It’s her place to escape from people when she’s played enough, or when she just wants to be alone.

How to prepare the puppy his first night home

Before she goes to bed that first night, tire her out first with activities that doesn’t over stimulate her.  This way, she may sleep through the night, or at least a few hours in a row to give you your beauty rest.

And if your pup wakes up in the middle of the night and starts fussing, it’s a good time to take her out for a bathroom break.  In the morning, first thing, take the pup outside.  Enjoy watching Bebeto being pampered by Mom.

If you enjoy watching this video, here is another one of a Chow Chow who’s camera shy.

Article source:  Vets Adopt Pets

The post [VIDEO] Introducing Chow Chow Bebeto To His New Surroundings appeared first on Doggie Outpost.

Notice how Red does not take a bite.  He takes the entire burger!   And it’s gone in seconds.

Characteristics of the Doberman Pincher

A little tidbit about the Doberman Pincher.  According to the American Kennel Club, this breed originates in Germany around 1890.   The breed is named after a tax collector named Louis Doberman Apolda.  He wanted to have a medium sized dog who can be both a companion and a guard dog.

Are Doberman Pinchers easy to train?

Not all Dobermans have the same temperament.  However, the breed’s temperament (the correct breed temperament, that is) is trustworthy with the master’s children and friends.  They are affectionate and obedient.  Loyal too.  Very trainable.  That’s why they are trained to work as police dogs.

AKC writes that earlier Dobermans were rather sharp and aggressive.  However, today’s Dobermans are decreasing in sharpness.  Perhaps this is deliberate in the breeding strategy.  AKC also mentions that Dobermans are not meant to live outside the house alone.  And they aren’t meant to live in a kennel.  However, if you were to have 2 Dobermans, AKC recommends that you do not have 2 adult male Dobermans together.  You can read more about the Doberman here.

Enjoy watching this dog savor (quickly) a McDonald’s hamburger!

Article source:  American Kennel Club

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This Alpine dog loves to exercise, especially in the winter.  You don’t need to worry about them getting cold.  That thick hair is born to be out in the cold.  They love to romp around in the snow.   And they would love it even more if there are children around.  Let him pull the sleds or carts with the children.  That’s great exercise for him.   Given that the thick coat of his does well in winter, it means Bernese Mountain is not a dog that would do well in hot climate.

Characteristics of  Bernese Mountain dogs

Good with children

Bernese Mountain dogs tend to have a sweet and affectionate nature.   They are very gentle with children, and get along with the whole family.  They do tend to become more attached to one human.

Response to strangers

Bernese Mountain dogs respond differently to strangers.  Some can be friendly; some aloof.   They could be excessively shy.   But you can help them by socializing them as a puppy.   You can do this by exposing them to a variety of people and dogs.   Encourage them to mingle, and praise them when they do.   Let them feel comfortable in all kinds of environment.

Grooming

Bernies have a double coat.  And they do shed, especially during the shedding season.   If you brush them at least once a week, it will help to remove loose hair and keep them looking great.

Exercise needs

To stay healthy and happy, Bernese Mountain dogs need about half an hour of moderate exercise every day.  They enjoy outdoor activities.  If you like hiking or camping, bring your Bernie with you.  They can do really well in sports such as agility, herding, rally, obedience, and tracking.

If you enjoy this Bernese Mountain video, here is another one you might also enjoy.

Article source:  Michele Welton on Your Pure Bred Puppy

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