Too many people buy a new dog on impulse. Whether they are in the window of a pet store or a cardboard box in front of your local grocery, cute canine faces have been known to wither the decision-making abilities of otherwise sensible adults. This mother of all impulse buys is a mistake. After all, we're talking about a creature that will basically be a member of your family, often for a decade or longer. Thus, it's essential that you think through what you're looking for in your new canine companion well in advance.
Be aware that different breeds of dogs have vastly different temperaments. When purchasing your dog this should be just as much of a consideration as its appearance. For instance, some people like dogs that resemble wolves. They may be attracted to breeds such as the Siberian Husky or the Alaskan Malamute. If they purchase one of those breeds purely on the basis of looks, however, they may be disappointed to find that they are not as easy to train as the German Shepherd, another dog that retains some physical similarities to the wolf. Many Husky and Malamute buyers also purchase the dog with the notion of using them for protection -- only to learn that these breeds are typically quite shy and retiring.
Some people are taken with dog breeds because of how they are represented in movies or on television. But these portrayals can often be misleading. When Disney released its live-action version of "101 Dalmatians", we had a dozen of the spotted pooches in our kennel within six months. Most of them were brought in by the parents of children who had fallen in love with the dogs because of the movie. But what Disney didn't share with filmgoers was that Dalmatians are high-strung and often deaf -- two big surprises for owners hoping to replicate movie magic in their living rooms.
The key to choosing a new dog responsibly is research. Local bookstores and libraries are usually extensively stocked with titles about different breeds. Online quizzes can use your criteria to help you sort through breed options (though the results should never be taken as conclusive unless they confirm your other research). The American Kennel Club's website is also a great resource for learning the specific traits of the breeds that you're interested in.
These are the questions you should ask yourself before purchasing a new dog:
What type of breed do I find physically attractive? -- Do you want a small dog or a large dog? Do you want a stocky mastiff type or a slender greyhound type? Do you want prick ears, cropped ears, or flat ears? Do you want a dog with a short coat or a long coat? Should your dog have a short, round face or a long, pointy face?
What type of physical activity level do I prefer? -- Do you bike and want a dog that will jog along with you? Or would you rather have a dog that wants nothing more than to curl up next to you on the couch?
Is your dog going to live primarily indoors or outdoors? -- Certain breeds like Boxers, Dobermans, and Boston Terriers have very little coat and do not do well kept outside. You should know whether a breed has a problem with extreme temperatures before you buy.
What level of trainability do you desire? -- Certain hounds and terriers take great effort to train, although there are still plenty of owners who prefer them for their appearance and personality. By contrast, Herding, Sporting, and some Working breeds are usually easier to condition. This owes in large part to the genetic and historical backgrounds of these breeds. Dogs that were bred to work independently or in packs (such as terriers and sled-pulling breeds) have retained some of that independence throughout the years. Of course, trainability has to be defined by the task at hand. If you're looking for a dog to root out vermin or lead a fox hunt, terriers and hounds may be exactly what you're looking for.
How protective do you want the dog to be? -- Only a small percentage of dogs are suitable to be trained protection dogs. Some breeds will bark and make a lot of noise, but will back down when push comes to shove. If you are looking for an authentic protection dog, you should limit your search to the Working and Herding breeds -- and only some of those are qualified to do the job. Breeds such as the German Shepherd, Belgian Shepherd, Belgian Malinois, Boxer, Bouvier, Bull Mastiff, Rottweiler, Pit Bull, and Doberman will do. These breeds can be wonderful guard dogs, but it is also important to train and socialize them so that they can remain good canine citizens while still offering you protection.
How friendly do you want your dog to be with other dogs and strangers? -- This can vary substantially between breeds. Gun dogs such as Retrievers and Spaniels have a good reputation for cordiality because they have been bred to work around other dogs and people. As a counterexample, Terriers are notorious for fighting with each other.
How much grooming do you want to be responsible for? -- Many long-coated breeds will need a monthly grooming appointment to keep their coats from getting matted. Many owners convince themselves that they can handle this responsibility on their own, but they often end up only grooming the top coat, while missing the many layers beneath. This allows mats to form against the skin and leaves the dog in real pain (and, sometimes, causes infection). The only way to prevent this matting is to keep up with proper grooming or to shave the coat down to a reasonable length.
If you are able to give definitive answers to each of these questions, you have successfully narrowed down your options and should be ready to choose your new dog.
Most parents can probably expect to hear their child ask for a dog some time during their life. This can be a dreaded question, because there’s a good chance your child has no idea what’s involved in dog ownership. They don’t consider the time and money involved, like walking the dog every day, taking it to the vet, shedding, and other problems that can cause a mess in the house, and the need for a dog sitter when your family goes on trips. In fact, many parents soon find the dog to be their responsibility! Besides paying for its needs, they have to feed it, walk it, and use that pooper scooper every day!
But if you do decide to go forward with dog ownership, there are a couple of things that you’ll need to consider. First, you need to investigate the temperament and behavior of the dog you want to adopt. Remember, pets rarely come perfectly trained, especially if you plan on getting a puppy.
Let’s take the example of a Lab. This larger dog is extremely active, and it needs a family that’s just as high energy. The Lab is a great dog for outdoorsy types; if your family loves things like camping and hunting, then this dog would be a great match. Also a great match for the active family would be a Dalmatian. These animals were originally bred to be a working dog as carriage horses, and so they are agile with a lot of stamina. Another great match for the energetic family, and probably the most active dog around, is the Husky. Bred to race, these large, long-haired dogs are known for their athleticism. They are also stubborn without training, so before getting a Husky you need to make sure your family has the patience and dedication to train hard. On the other hand, if you do not have such an active family, then a smaller dog like the Chihuahua might be a better match. While these dogs can be wound up like any animal, they are certainly more mellow overall. They also crave attention and are territorial, which means they aren’t good dogs for families with small children.
These are just some examples of common traits for dog breeds. Carefully evaluate your lifestyle and the needs of the animal before making a decision. Some dog types are also less prone to health problems, which can cut down on your vet bills. So remember, there is a lot to consider when deciding if a dog is right for your family.
But if you decide a dog isn’t right for your household, there is a way to cut off any child tantrums before they start. Get them a plush dog! A plush dog is still cute, but there’s no shedding, barking, biting, cleanup, or vet bills. This could also be a great “in-between” stop before making the final decision on whether or not to get a real dog. Have your kids take care of their plush pet as if it were real, giving them a chance to get used to the idea of all the responsibilities that come with dog ownership. Get them into a routine where they “feed” the dog at specific meal times and give the stuffed toy and themselves regular exercise. They’ll either perform well and give you the confidence that they can handle a real dog, or they’ll realize that an animal would be too much work for them. Either way its win/win, and in the meantime, you get an adorable placeholder for the real thing.
If you have a special stuffed animal, whether it’s a much loved child’s toy or a perfect decoration for your living room, it’s a shame to watch it give in to the ravages of time. Dirt and dust are pervasive, impossible to stop annoyances, but it is possible to clean up your favorite dirty teddy bear! And you can do it without ruining the toy too. Water and teddy bears aren’t mutually exclusive. Whether the plush animal is only a little dusty, or extremely soiled, these tricks and tips will insure you never lose another stuffed animal to the ravages of dirt again.
“A Little Dusty”
Dust is unavoidable, and so cleaning some off before the plush animal’s status becomes code red is a good idea. This is actually quite easy, just get a damp cloth or duster to wipe way the accumulated dust. You can even use a disinfecting cloth to wipe away any unwanted germs. If just cleaning the surface isn’t enough for you, another great approach is to toss the plush toy into the dryer with a couple of scented dryer sheets. All you need to do is to set the temperature on high in order to kill germs, and let it go for 10 minutes. This way both their insides and outsides have been freshened up. You’ll feel like the toy is new again!
“I Need a Bath”
If your teddy bear ends up on the floor a lot, then it probably needs a better cleaning then the ones above. There are several options here. First, you can let the plush toy soak overnight with some softener and detergent, then throw them in the dryer for that fresh smell. Or, you can just simply throw them in the washing machine. To keep the toy safe, put it in a pillow case and knot the case closed. Then, so as not to damage the stuffed animal, set the washer on a gentle cycle with cold water, and always make sure you dry it on low. A low heat setting for a half and hour will be plenty for the toy, and then when you take them out, straighten the teddy bear in case any of its stuffing has shifted out of place.
“I Need a Miracle”
These toys have had a hard life. But even covered in dirt and unidentifiable gunk, there are ways to clean them. Those terrible stains don’t have to be irreversible. Whether they are beloved childhood toys or your favorite Valentine’s Day present from a loved one, miracles do happen. Make sure you get some carpet cleaner and a toothbrush. The toothbrush is a good size brush for delicate toys, as anything bigger could ruin them. This is especially good for spotting stains. Just squirt a little cleaner on the brush and gently scrub on the worst spots. Once you have done this, rinse the plush animal in cold water, until the water runs clear. Then you can put the stuffed toy in the dryer for 10 minutes. It will most likely not be completely dry, but that’s okay, as then you can let it air dry. Don’t forget to use a disinfecting cloth, which is especially important if its toy for a small child.
So as you can see, there are many ways to clean a stuffed animal. Even when it seems the toy may be beyond saving, don’t give up! If it’s important to you, it might just be worth a little elbow grease. You’ll be happy when your favorite toys are fresh, clean, and just like new again!
During the cold season parents know how easy it is for their children to catch colds, but they also need to be aware that the toys that their children play with can actually carry germs on them at any time during the year.
Parents need to know the right way to properly clean and disinfect the toys that their children play with to help keep down germs. They also need to take into consideration that some cleaning products may actually be unsafe to use on certain types of materials that your children's toys might be made out of. Also another point to mention is that some products can leave residue or a film on your children's toys that can be harmful for your children.
The best way to clean and disinfect your children's toys is to create your very own safe and multipurpose cleaner that can be used on all or your children's toys. Bleach is always a great way to kill germs and bacteria that build up on the toys that your children are playing with. Another great point that parents might not realize that once they have discovered the cleaner that they plan to use they can purchase a plastic spray bottle to aid them when cleaning their children's toys.
Another helpful tip is that when parents are mixing up their own multipurpose cleaner it may be important and very helpful if they create a large batch and store it away from their children in a large container that is clearly marked. This way all the parents will need to do is to fill up their spray bottle as the cleaner is needed. It might also be helpful to mention that parents need to empty their spray bottles into their storage container until it is needed again.
Cloth toys and any clothing that might be on your children's toys should not be cleaned with their multipurpose cleaner or with the bleach, because this may cause the cloth or clothing to become damaged. Toys should be cleaned daily by simply spraying the multipurpose cleaning solution directly onto the toys, then wiping them off with a clean cloth. The surface of all toys should be wiped carefully, being sure to get into each corner and crevice for proper cleaning.
Any tables or areas that your children may be playing with their toys on should also be cleaned, as well as any outside toys such as slides and swings. It is best to spray these larger surfaces and then to let them sit for a couple of minutes before wiping them down, which will give the multipurpose cleaner a chance to kill any bacteria and germs that are present on the toys. After the toys have been sprayed and wiped down, then parents should simply allow these large surfaces to air dry. This air drying method allows the cleaner or bleach to make enough contact with the surface over a much longer period of time.
When ever your children are finished playing with a particular toy or on a certain surface for the day, then parents need to be sure that they clean the area or toy properly. Parents may also collect smaller toys into a tub or bucket depending on the amount of toys and then immerse them into either a multipurpose cleaner or bleach instead of wiping each individual toy off. Deep cleaning and disinfecting techniques should always be done at least once a week and even more if there are multiple children in the household and if one of the children are sick.
Another Father’s Day is right around the corner, and you need to find another great present for your own dad. No matter what you may think, you don’t actually need to spend all day scouring the web or you’re your local stores for the perfect gift. Finding the right present isn’t difficult, no matter what your budget. The trick is to keep in mind your dad’s personality and his likes and hobbies. Below we’ve paired some common father types with some great gifts that are assured to make this a truly special Father’s Day.
1. The Poker Dad
Is your dad one of those guys who is crazy about poker? If he is, then getting him a personalized playing card case is an inexpensive, yet still fancy way to support one of his favorite hobbies. This classy gift shows that you really do know him well, and he’ll look a professional player when he gets together with his buddies.
2. The Funny and Young Dad
If you have a young dad with a very young child, then stuffed animals are particularly appropriate, and still fun, gift. What better reminder of his adorable baby girl or boy at home? This can be an especially great idea for a dad who has to take business trips away from home, as it will make him not feel so alone. Use the toy as a metaphor. For example, get a stuffed tiger and tape a picture of the dad and the son onto the tiger’s paws with the message: "For my darling tigers." Remember you can do this with practically any animal. Perhaps he has a favorite dog or other pet, give him a great reminder!
3. The Outdoor Lover Dad
Is your dad the consummate outdoorsman? Perhaps he never misses a hiking, biking, or white water rafting trip. If so, then get him a multi-tool. A multi-tool is the perfect helper to any outdoorsman, it can include things like pliers, knives, bottle openers, or even more complicated equipment. This tool comes in a range of prices with many different uses, and your dad will simply find it indispensible out on the trail.
4. Singing in the Shower Dad
Our you one of those people who doesn’t need an alarm clock because dad will start humming his favorite tune regularly at 6 am? Then get him a shower radio! This waterproof system will allow him to start his day right, without subjecting the rest of the family to his booming vocal styling’s. He could also get a chance to listen to the morning’s news and weather without wasting any time in his routine.
5. Always Busy Dad
Sometimes it’s difficult for those hard workers to slow down. If your dad is one of those who’s in the office 80 hours a week, then a massage package would be the perfect incentive to get him to relax a little. Get him a gift certificate for one of those men’s packages at his local spa or salon, and he’ll finally have a chance to relax and get rid of some of that tension.
So there you go, no matter what your budget, getting a Father’s Day gift doesn’t have to be a frustrating experience. Hopefully one of these ideas will work for your dad, but if none of these hobbies or personalities seem to fit your dad, just pay attention and you’ll be surprised what you can come up with to fit his life. Before you know it you’ll have the perfect present with which to show dad that he’s appreciated, and that fun is just around the corner!
With Mother's Day over and Father's Day coming up soon, there is a need to give that Father in your life the gift that he would appreciate, but you don't need to give him the same thing every year. This Father's Day, try something strait from nature. A new hat for fishing or new boots for hunting is always good items to give. Here are a few item ideas which can really get him back into nature:
1. Fishing equipment- If the father in your life is a fisherman, then new equipment is always welcomed and enjoyed. A new tackle box or fishing pole is some items of interest for him. A true fisherman would love any of these gifts. If you are feeling a little bit more generous, you can by him a sonar fish finder.
2. Bird feeders- If your father is an avid bird watcher and enjoys watching them fly in the back yard, a nice bird feeder would be nice to attract birds to the nice feast for them to enjoy. Your father can enjoy himself watching birds come and partake from the feeder for hours.
3. Binoculars- These could be used for a variety of hobbies. Whether he is into hunting or bird watching, he can enjoy binoculars for many of the hobbies in which he likes to do. Getting the right binoculars for the specific sport is vital. Always be sure that they are the right kind for your father's hobby.
4. Hunting equipment- Every avid hunter needs new equipment. Clothes get ripped, food storage gets lost or a new piece of firearm or bow is always welcomed. Your father will love to have any of these things to get more into the feel of the nature themed present.
So whatever your father's hobby is, it is always good to get him a Father's Day gift of nature. Thinking of his hobby for sport in nature is thinking of him on that special day. Having any of the above equipment would make any father happy. So think of your father and nature and give one of these nice Father's Day gift ideas of nature.
Dad’s a great guy. Always willing to help you out and offer advice, even when you don’t ask for it! And once a year, you get a day to really show your appreciation for all that he does: Father’s Day. Finding the perfect present to fit your dad isn’t always easy. Luckily, if your dad has one of the below pastimes, than there are some great ideas to help you find the best gift!
1. For the Fisherman Dad
How many dad’s love to fish? If your father is the guy who wakes up at the crack of dawn and spends hours with a rod and lure in hand, then you’ve got a Fisherman dad! And whether or not he comes home with actual fish, or just stories of the one that got away, fishing paraphernalia is the way to this man’s heart! There are tons of gadgets out there that can help him find the best place to fish, and fish sonars come in many forms. Many swear that they can locate fish banks in a 50 mile radius and come with their own built in GPS. Some even have back lights for those crack of dawn outings he likes so much. He’ll certainly appreciate a gift that will make him feel like a master fisherman!
2. For the All Day Coffee Lover Dad
If you’ve got a dad who always seems to have java in hand, then you’ll know that those daily trips to the coffee shop tend to come with an unhealthy snack of doughnuts. But dad can cut out the temptation if he has the technology to make his own home brew. Get him a real espresso machine. This way he’ll get all his favorite coffees, but be able to save money and lower his cholesterol without the temptation of coffee shop pastries!
3. For the “Business Trip” Dad
If you’ve got a dad who’s always away for work, why not consider a stuffed animal? They aren’t just for kids anymore! Even if a teddy bear isn’t his thing, you could get him a tiger, a stuffed dog, or maybe another plush toy that mimics his favorite animal or pet. This is an especially good gift if you have a little one, because then they can provide company for him while he’s away. In fact, why not get a small tiger or small plush dog for your son and daughter to match the one that daddy has? This way they will always be connected, and daddy will know he’s being thought of while far away on business trips.
4. For the Golfer Dad
Golf is more popular than ever, and for many dad’s, it’s their favorite past time! If you’ve got one of those, why not get him something related to his favorite summer sport? For example, a monogrammed golf ball set can be a wonderful, and personalized, surprise. He may not be the best golfer, but at least he’ll never be embarrassed by his equipment!
5. For the BBQ Master Dad
Father’s Day falls on the first day of summer, and for many dads this season is all about barbecuing! If you’ve got a dad who considers himself the master of the grill, then here’s the perfect gift: a personalized apron and barbecue tool set. Give him the best equipment to go with his masterful culinary skills!
So there you go, if your dad spends his extra time doing one of these five things, then you’ve got the perfect gift! You’ll make dad one happy camper by finding him a gift that he can really use and enjoy. Whether sentimental or practical, these gifts will make sure dad has the right tools for the job, and he’ll remember what great children he has every time he sees his present!
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