Life With Dogs

Got Dogs? You Need An Air Purifier for Dog Hair

Air Purifier for Dog Hair

 Wondering why you need an air purifier for dog hair? Well did you know that 15-30% of all Americans are allergic to dog hair. Dog hair allergies can be more severe than cat hair allergies, so using an air purifier can be a great help to those with allergies.

Because dogs secrete proteins that end up in their dander, urine and saliva, if you have a sensitive immune system to these proteins you will tend to suffer from dog allergies. These allergens end up on the carpet, clothing, couch, or anything a dog might come in contact with.

It’s not the dogs hair you are allergic to, it’s the dander and dust the hair holds. Not all dogs breeds produce the same dander so you can be allergic to one breed more than another. And as you know, pet dander can float thru the air which can then get into your lungs and eyes.

Symptoms of Dog Hair Allergies

There are many reasons one might have allergies and it can be hard to pinpoint what is causing your allergies, so make sure you always woman allergic to dogsconsult with a Dr. before taking medications.

Dog allergy symptoms can include but not limited to:

  • face, neck or chest rash
  • skin turning red after being licked by a dog
  • nose and eye swelling and itching
  • after dog exposure, couching, wheezing or shortness of breath
  • in those with asthma – a severe asthma attack can happen.

 

Do Air Purifiers Help with Pet Allergies?

Air purifiers for dog hair are about the best choice when it comes to getting a handle on all the dander and dust floating around your home. Aside from the dander your pets give off, dust and allergens comes from other places like furnaces, air conditioners, ceiling fans, clothing, clothes dryers, cooking, and having windows open.

Using things to filter the air like a HEPA (stands for high efficiency particulate air) air purifier will work by forcing air thru a fine mesh that then traps those harmful particles like the pet dander, dust, smoke, etc., and filter clean air back out.

Air purifiers come in many sizes and shapes so you can have one in each room, or install a huge unit to take care of your whole house.

 

How to Choose the Best Air Purifier for Pet Hair

Choosing an air purifier for pet hair can be a bit overwhelming with all the air purifiers out there on the market these days. You can literally spend as little as $20 or as much as $1000 or more. The styles vary so much, and it basically boils down to your exact needs.

Here is a list to give you some options when choosing your air purifier:

**One thing that I really like about the Bissell products is that every Bissell purchase helps save a pet. Bissell proudly supports Bissell Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets.

Are All Air Purifiers the Same

Understanding what your needs are and why you might be on the hunt for an air purifier brings us to that question, Are All Air Purifiers the Same When it Comes to Pet Odor and Hair?

While the answer is a simple no, it might not seem so simple when you start looking at air purifiers. Let me break it down for you.

  1. The most effective at trapping airborne particles are the HEPA air purifiers. But, these do not remove or trap odors, gases or chemicals. Make sure the HEPA air purifier has some level of an activated carbon material that does absorb those.
  2. If it’s contamination in the air you are looking to remove then a carbon air filter helps with that. But, a carbon filter is less efficient at removing allergens and airborne particles.
  3. Using a UV technology filter system is good for killing viruses and bacteria, but not useful at removing airborne pollutants unless it has a HEPA and activated carbon filtration as well.
  4. Negative ion systems are basically no good for removing of airborne pollutants. They take the particles out of the air and transfer them to surrounding walls or solid surfaces instead of eliminating them. This means, those pollutants are still there and will fall to the ground or re-circulate in the air.
  5. The bottom of the list and one that is totally useless for any kind of pet dander or most common air pollutants is an Ozone filter. Most of the indoor environment chemicals take months or years to react to ozone which makes this option virtually ineffective.  And, this type of air purifier can be dangerous if you have pet birds.

 

There are many manufacturers of air purifiers but when looking for one for your home you want to make sure to read all the info.

  • What size room (sq. ft.) does it cover?
  • How often does it refresh (run it’s cycle)?
  • How loud/quiet is it?
  • Does it have auto settings or timers?
  • How many filters does it have?
  • How often do the filters need changing?
  • What is the cost of filters?
  • How easy is it to get parts and filters?
  • How big is the unit itself?

 

Make a few Changes in Addition to an Air Purifier for Dog Hair

There is no reason you should have to suffer just because you are a pet lover. Having dogs is one of life’s great joys and there are so many dogs needing loving home out there, that the more people with big hearts the better.

But, having a big heart might come with some challenges, like dealing with your allergies. If you can make a few small changes in your daily life of living with dogs, it will be better for you, and in turn you can be a happier dog parent.

  • Finding hypoallergenic dog breeds.
  • Weekly bathing and grooming of your dog with a pet friendly shampoo and conditioner that contains ingredients to help your allergies. Allerpet Dog Allergy Relief is a good one.
  • Training your dogs to stay in certain areas of the home. Maybe keeping them out of your bedroom and just allowed in the main area of your home.
  • Using HEPA purifiers to help reduce the dander and airborne allergens from your pets.
  • Washing your hands when you are done playing with your dogs and try to not touch your face while playing with your dogs.
  • Don’t let your dogs lick your hands or face.
  • Dust and Vacuum more often.
  • Wash bedding and any throw blankets or pillows on your furniture more often.

Choosing to be a pet parent is a big responsibility and one nobody should take lightly. If you feel you can’t handle all the pet hair and danger and possible allergies that might come with being a pet parent, and you have read over all the ways to help with that, consider the fact you might not be ready to take on the role of a pet parent.

Maybe you can donate time at a local shelter for a bit to see how you react to being around dogs and their dander. This will be a good indicator if you can invite a dog into your home to be a forever family member.

For More Help With Dog Allergies

How to Get Rid of Dog Hair

Best Hypoallergenic Dogs for Kids

 

 

Help Your Senior Dog Live A Happy Healthy Life

The beautiful, bright-eyed, over-active puppy you brought home about seven years ago, is now entering a new phase of his life. Welcome to the senior dog years!

Signs of Aging in Senior Dogs

Just like humans, senior dogs will begin to display signs of aging.  Along with the graying muzzles, his mental and physical health will begin to change.

Aging Dogs Arthritis and Joint Problems

You may notice your senior dog begins to walk slower and tire easier.  He may become snappy and not want to be touched.  He probably long ago learned not to jump up on people but now he may also have trouble jumping up onto the porch, into the car or onto the bed. And stairs may be slow or impossible to climb. Old bones and tired muscles are now in control. Consider putting carpet or treads on your steps. Ramps are available for porches, decks, cars and beds. And nutritional supplements can help to ease the arthritis achiness he is feeling. Your Vet may also prescribe an arthritis medication.  A supplement that is working well for our fifteen-year-old senior dog is Glucosamine Chondroitin.  Short frequent walks with your senior dog help to keep his joints limber. Your Vet may also prescribe an arthritis medication.  

  • Consider putting carpet or treads on your steps.
  • Ramps are available for porches, decks, cars, and beds.
  • Nutritional supplements can help to ease the arthritis achiness he is feeling. Your Vet may also prescribe an arthritis medication.  A supplement that is working well for our fifteen-year-old senior dog is Glucosamine Chondroitin.  We use and like the Naturvet Brand.  
  • Short frequent walks with your senior dog help to keep his joints limber.
  • Get an Orthopedic Bed to cushion and support your older dog’s joints.

Incontinence and Your Aging Dog

Older dogs go through changes just as they did in their puppy years. You may notice your senior dog urinating in the house. Remember when you patiently (for the most part) cleaned up his potty accidents, taught him not to jump on visitors and walk beside you (not several blocks ahead) on a leash? Well, now there may again be potty accidents due to forgetfulness or the fact that his bladder and bowels cannot hold it so well any longer. More frequent bathroom breaks may be in order. Remember, your senior dog does not want to disappoint you. He just is not able to wait.

  • If you have a job outside the home, try to arrange for someone to come in during the day to let your dog out for a bathroom break.  Hiring a dog walker may be an option.
  • You can revert to the puppy days and use pee pads in your dog’s area when you are not home.  Puppy pads can also be used in your dog’s bed if he is peeing while lying down.  
  • Another option for dog’s that wet their bed;  Replace the bed with a crib or bassinette mattress, depending on your dog’s size.  Cover with sheets to fit and then you can simply remove the wet sheet, wipe down the plastic surface of the mattress and replace it with a clean sheet.  Often these sheets can be found at yard sales.

 

Age Related Health Issues to Watch for in Your Older Dog:

*Sudden lethargic behavior in a senior dog

*Cloudy eyes in your aging dog

*Older dog not seeming to hear you when called

*Slowness in movement or limping

*Confusion

*Senior dog losing weight

*Senior dog urinating in the house

While many of these changes are a normal part of aging if the symptoms appear suddenly or are very pronounced, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. It could be a sign of a serious ailment that needs medical treatment.

15 Tips to Help Your Senior Dog Enjoy a Healthy, Happy Retirement:

  1. Exercise your senior dog with short, frequent walks and gentle, stimulating play.  Don’t over do and be aware of the temperature when walking.  Choose to take your walks in the early morning or later evening times.  Take a small container and bottle of water with you and offer frequent sips to your dog. For convenience, I recommend a portable water/feeder to carry with you on your dog’s walk. This one has over 13,000 great reviews on Amazon.
  2.  Change to a good quality senior formula dog food.
  3. Avoid giving too many treats or overfeeding to help prevent extra weight on his old bones. Green beans are a good substitute for more fattening treats and are easy for your aging dog to chew.
  4. Consider helpful aids like dog ramps, quality padded and heated beds, add nutritional supplements to his diet.
  5. Hopefully, you have already established a relationship with a good veterinarian that knows your dog. Now is the time to step up the visits to at least twice a year so your vet. can give your senior dog a physical assessment, checking for lumps and any other warning signs that may signal a need for further tests or treatment. Be sure to include dental care in your dog’s Vet visit.
  6. Keep your senior dog groomed, bathed, nails clipped and ears cleaned to help him feel refreshed. He may not think he likes a bath but, just like us, he will feel so much better when freshly bathed and groomed. And don’t forget to tell him, in your best praising tone, how good he smells and looks.
  7. Consider seeking out a dog massage therapist or learning to do dog massage yourself.  Does wonders for achy joints and dogs love to be touched.
  8. Provide your aging dog with good dental care.  Poor care of your dog’s teeth and gums will cause him discomfort and may lead to heart and kidney disease.  Brush his teeth at least a couple of times a week with a toothbrush specially made for dogs.  If you need help with how to brush your dog’s teeth, take a look at this article.  You can also supply your senior dog with a dog teeth cleaning chew toy that helps clean his teeth and massages the gums.  And, he will not even suspect it is good for him.  Get your dog a professional teeth cleaning at his veterinarian if his mouth has been neglected and he has tarter and plaque buildup.
  9. An elevated food and water bowl will be helpful if your aging dog has difficulty bending down to eat and drink.
  10. If your senior dog has trouble walking or getting up, try a sling lift harness specially made to help him.  We used one for our senior Lab mix and it was a true blessing.  It helped us to get her outside to potty as well as gave her a small bit of exercise.
  11. Older dogs tend to have less of an appetite and may lose some weight.  f your senior dog does not want to eat, try adding bits of cheese, some meat baby food or canned sardines to his food.  This often will help stimulate his appetite and help prevent weight loss.
  12. As the weather gets chillier, make sure your elderly dog is staying warm.  Provide him with a warm sweater or tuck a blanket around him as he sleeps.
  13. Keep your aged dog bathed and groomed.  We all feel better after a nice bath or shower and your older dog is no exception.
  14. Spend time taking your older dog out for special treats.  Chances are he will still enjoy a trip to Starbucks for a Puppichino or to McDonalds for a plain cheeseburger.  Take him to the park, simply to enjoy being outside and watching the world go by.
  15. Above all, shower your senior dog with lots and lots of hugs, praise and affection. Dogs, as well as humans, live happy healthier lives when they are shown love and acceptance.

Your senior dog may not be the bouncy active dog he once was but inside still dwells the puppy you once knew.  But, in his golden years he still desires many of the things he has always enjoyed.  By giving him these things, as his health permits, it will help him to live a happier healthier life and you will know you have given him the best throughout all the years of his life.

 

HOW TO GET RID OF DOG HAIR

If you have dogs, dog hair is simply part of your life.  As dog owners we are constantly fighting the swirling hair floating across the floor and hunting for the lint roller to swipe at our clothing before heading out the door.  Let’s explore some helpful tips to get rid of dog hair.

Best Dog Hair Remover For Furniture

Ideally, pet households will have leather furniture.  Leather is simply the easiest to clean up dog hair.  Wipe with a slightly damp cloth and the hair comes right up.  The same holds true for cleaning up muddy paw prints.  If leather is not your taste or in your budget, here are easy tips to keep your home free (ish) of dog hair:
This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience (which means if you make a purchase after clicking a link I will earn a small commission but it won’t cost you a penny more) Click here for my full disclosure policy.
  • Furniture upholstery can be cleaned of dog hair with a damp latex glove.  Wipe across the furniture fabric and the dog hair will stick to the glove.  Pre-wiping with a fabric softener sheet will help to loosen the hair.  In a pinch, if you can’t locate your latex glove (or if you are allergic to latex) a damp hand will help remove the hair also.  After removing the hair, simply rinse the glove well and it’s ready to go for your next dog hair cleanup.
  • Sticky tape, such as packing tape or duck tape works well to remove dog hair from furniture.  Either use by the piece or wrap sticky side out around your hand to pickup dog hair.
  • I’ve recently discovered that a kitchen plastic wrap called Press n Seal works great at dog hair pickup.  Tear off enough to wrap around your hand, sticky side out and use like you would use tape to remove the hair.  Or, tear off a larger sheet and lay sticky side down on your furniture, press flat with your hand and remove.  You will be amazed at the amount of dog hair that is sticking to the wrap.
  • Of course the trusty lint roller is a staple to help get rid of dog hair.  Mine was always running out of sticky paper or I’d find it sticking to everything that was in the drawer with it.  Then I found the washable, reusable lint roller. This thing is amazing at picking up dog hair, dust and lint.  And, it does not stick to everything stored with it.  Added bonus, it comes with a short handle version and a longer handle one to reach out of the way places.

Cleanup Dog Hair From Bedding and Pillows

  • Remove pillow covers from their forms.
  • Shake the bedding (human or dog) thoroughly outside before adding to the washer.
  • Add approx. 1/2 cup white vinegar to the rinse cycle.  This acts as a natural softener and helps to release the hair from the fabric fibers.
  • Toss a couple new tennis balls into the dryer with the bedding.  The tennis balls tossing about with the fabric will help to gently pound the hair loose and it will end up in the lint trap (which you will need to clean immediately.)

Clean up Dog Hair From Wood and Tile Floors

Best Broom For Dog Hair on Hardwood Floors (and Tile!)

  • Rubber brooms are a wonder tool to get rid of dog hair. Unlike regular bristle brooms, the rubber broom for pet hair allows you to sweep up the hair without it blowing about.  I first saw this in use at a Home and Garden Show and was mega impressed.  Bought it and have been loving it for about five years now.  I’ve since noticed my dog’s Veterinarian office as well as the Doggie Day Care are using this rubber broom to get rid of dog hair.  Must be something to it!  You can get the Rubber Broom for a great price on Amazon.

Best Dust Mop For Dog Hair

The Best Dust Mop for Dog Hair is a microfiber mop that the hair clings to as it is picked up.  I’ve used several but finally settled on the Bona Dust Mop.  I am a huge fan of all the Bona products and use their cleaner regularly for all my hard surface floors.  I even put their cleaner in my Bissell Crosswave.  I found a good deal on Amazon, especially if you are just getting started with the Bona products.  You get the long handle, dusting pad, cleaning pad and a 32oz. spray bottle of their cleaning solution.  Get the 4-piece set from Amazon.

Best Vacuum For Pet Hair And Hardwood Floors

  • One of my favorite go-to tools is a bit pricier but I would not be without it.  The BISSELL Crosswave Pet Pro All in One Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner and Mop for Hard floors and Area Rugs is AMAZING!  This machine is a vacuum and floor cleaner in one.  You simply fill the canister with either the Bissell Floor Cleaner or your favorite brand and the machine lays down the cleaner and sucks up the dog hair, cleaning and vacuuming the floor at the same time.  This dual action saves time and does a super job of cleaning the floor.  Wood floors should never be subjected to large amounts of liquid and this vacuum allows you to control how much you put down.  I love this machine soooo much.  Between my daughter and I, we have six dogs and three of the Bissell Crosswaves.  An added advantage of this vacuum is that it also cleans area rugs.  This video will give you an excellent view of how well the Bissell Crosswave works.

I consider the Bissell Crosswave to be the Best Vacuum for Tile Floors and the Best Vacuum for Wood Floors

Order the Bissell Crosswave from Amazon.

How to Get Dog Hair Out of Carpet

Carpet can be a really dirty place in your home.  The germs and dirt that reside there are scary.  Particles get caught up in the fibers and set up house.  That is one very big reason why solid surface floors, such as hardwoods, laminate and tile have become so popular.  Easy to clean and keep relatively germ-free.  However if your home already has carpet or you simply prefer the soft feel of carpet beneath your feet, her are some ideas to help keep your carpet clean and get rid of dog hair.

How to Remove Hair From Carpet Without A Vacuum

A good pet hair vacuum is really a necessity for families with pets in their homes.  No matter how much brushing and grooming you do, your sweet Fur Child will still be releasing a huge amount of hair and dander each day.

However, sometimes it is just not convenient to drag out the vacuum.  Or, for times your vacuum breaks, these dog hair remover tips will help you to clean up quick.  You can also use these ideas before you do your regular vacuuming if you like.

  • Add several drops of fabric softener to a full spray bottle of water.  Spray over carpet, then brush with a stiff-bristled brush or bristle broom.
  • Rake through carpet with a Rubber Broom or Carpet Rake.
  • Use a long-handled Lint Roller.

What is The Best Vacuum For Pet Hair

Before I bought my vacuum, (the one I consider the best vacuum for dog hair)  I vowed not to give in to all the advertising and hype I had seen for this particular vacuum.  But, after struggling for years with my cheaper sweepers and never being satisfied with how well they removed the hair from the carpets in my multi-dog house, I succumbed.  I finally purchased a Dyson Vacuum.  So very glad I did.  This vacuum really sucks (in a good way).  These are a few of the things I like about this amazing sweeper:

  • Strongest suction of any vacuum. Even more power for tough tasks
  • Self-adjusting cleaner head Seals in suction across carpet, wood, vinyl, and tile floors
  • Tangle-free Turbine tool, stair tool, combination tool included.
  • Whole-machine HEPA filtration ensures allergens and bacteria are captured and trapped.
  • Hygienically empty the bin with the push of a button

NOTE: I am a huge fan of Bissell and own their Crosswave (which, as stated above, I love) but have not tried their larger vacuums yet.  Planning to in the future, simply because I appreciate this company so much.  They are very animal oriented, especially Cathy Bissell who hugely supports animal rescue.  And, each purchase of their products results in a donation made to rescue efforts.  Yay!!!

How to Remove Pet Hair From Clothes

  • Duct tape
  • Rubber glove, slightly wet
  • Sticky Lint Roller
  • Palm of your hand, slightly wet

When a dog is a part of your family, his hair will naturally be a part of your decor.  It’s difficult to totally eliminate dog hair but with a little effort you can greatly decrease the amount.  Having the right tools and products on hand will help make the job easier and it does help to only have friends who are dog lovers too.  They understand!

 

 

 

Are Rawhide Bones Bad For Dogs?

The short answer is YES!  Rawhide bones can be a danger to your dog’s health.  Chewing is a healthy and necessary part of your dog’s life.  Dog love to chew and chewing helps to keep his teeth clean but be very careful what your dog chews.

Five Reasons Rawhide Bones Are Unsafe For Your Dog

  • Can cause digestive upset  As your dog consumes his rawhide chew, it becomes a gooey, slimy mess that can get stuck in the roof of his mouth, in his throat or esophagus.  
  • Large pieces may be broken off and become lodged in your dog’s digestive tract, causing a potentially fatal blockage.  this is one of the most common causes of emergencies in Veterinary practices and often requires surgery to save the dog’s life.
  • Rawhide bones may contain harmful chemicals.  Rawhides are soaked in peroxide, bleach and even has been soaked in arsenic to remove the hair and “clean” the hide.  The chews are often coated with “flavor enhancers” to entice your dog.
  • Rawhide bones are commonly made outside the USA, where regulations are laxer.  Countries such as China, Korea and Thailand are frequent sources. 

Why Rawhide Bones Are Unsafe For Your Dog

 

After seeing how Rawhide Chew Bones are made, I’m sure you will agree, these should not be an option in your dog’s life.  Fortunately, there are better options, although you should monitor anything your dog chews.

 Safe Dog Chews – Alternatives To Deadly Rawhides

  • Carrots make great short-term chews for dogs.  These are more a treat than a chew since most dogs will make short work of them.  Most dogs love carrots due to their crunch and natural sweetness.  You will love them for their nutrition value.  They are loaded with vitamins and are low in calories which makes for a great treat for dogs watching their weight.  The larger carrots work well for big dogs but I like to keep bags of baby carrots in my fridge for my crew.  My Pitbull mix, Lab mix and Boxer mix all love when I head for the Refrigerator, knowing they are likely to be offered a carrot. 

This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience (which means if you make a purchase after clicking a link I will earn a small commission but it won’t cost you a penny more) Click here for my full disclosure policy.

  • Deer, Elk and Moose Antlers provide long-term chewing pleasure for your dog.  Antlers are naturally shed in the Spring.  They are gathered and cut into pieces for all dog sizes.  My heavy chewers have been working on their antlers for months and still going strong. 

 

 

  • Bully Horns are another awesome choice instead of Rawhide Bones.  These are my dogs personal favorites.  They last forever and the dogs love to chew them for hours.  They have a hollow center that can be filled with peanut butter for an added treat.  Or, try putting a couple small carrots into the hollow to give your dog some mental stimulation.

 

 

Dogs love to chew and they are gonna chew whether it’s your shoe, furniture leg or a healthy natural choice that you choose.  Chewing is not only enjoyable for your dog, it’s a necessary activity for his dental health.  Bad dental health can lead to an unhealthy body,including heart disease.  For more help with keeping your dog’s teeth and gums healthy, check out this article.

How to Get Rid of Fleas Naturally

Many dog owners are deciding they want to get rid of fleas naturally instead of using harmful chemicals on their dogs.  Here are some reasonings and natural solutions to getting rid of fleas on your dog and around your home.

Common Medications to Get Rid of Fleas on Dogs

There are many effective flea and tick products on the market.  Chances are your veterinarian is recommending one of them.  But, while they may be effective at eliminating fleas, they are also harmful to your dog’s health.

Treatments for Fleas on Dogs

  • Flea Medications applied directly to your dog’s body, such as Advantage and Frontline are applied to spots on the back of the dog’s neck and along the spine.  They get into the dog’s body through the skin.
  • Oral dog flea treatments include Bravecto and Nexgard.  These flea meds are given in pill form.  They work by destroying the flea’s nervous system.

Think about this; If these flea treatments are capable of interfering with an insect’s nervous system, what could it be doing to your dog?  These chemical treatments have been proven to cause serious damage to dogs.

  I used them on my own dogs, on my vet’s advice but each month, I was more and more hesitant to do so.  That’s when I decided to do some research on products to get rid of fleas naturally.  

Home Remedies to Get Rid of Fleas on Your Dog

  • Bathe your dog with a good natural shampoo to which you’ve added lemon juice.  Leave the suds on the dog for about five minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
  • After washing your dog, apply a rinse of one part apple cider vinegar to three parts water.  Leave this on your dog and dry him well.
  • Spray your towel-dried dog’s coat with the same mixture of vinegar and water.
  • Use a flea comb to check for and remove any lingering fleas.  Make sure to select a flea comb with small enough teeth to pick up the adult fleas as well as the eggs.
  • Dawn dish detergent is a sworn-by favorite of many pet owners for helping with flea control.  Simply wash your dog with the detergent instead of dog shampoo.

Natural Flea and Tick Treatments You Can Buy

This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience (which means if you make a purchase after clicking a link I will earn a small commission but it won’t cost you a penny more) Click here for my full disclosure policy.

Agatha’s Organic Flea and Tick Prevention Treatment for Dogs is a safe and natural remedy for fleas and ticks.  This product is a tasty, flea fighting powder you sprinkle on your dog’s food daily.  It contains natural ingredients that repel fleas and makes your dog unappealing to pests.  It has many great reviews on Amazon from people who are pleased with how it has helped control fleas and ticks on their dogs.  

Vet’s Best Flea and Tick Home Spray for Dogs and Home is a spray made of plant-based ingredients that kill fleas, ticks, and flea eggs.  Also, helps to repel mosquitoes.  As the name states, it can be used on your dog as well as in your home to help eradicate flea infestations.  Make sure to spray on dog bedding, kennels & crates, pillows, blankets, upholstery, carpets, etc.  There are many positive reviews on Amazon that say it is amazing to watch this natural flea spray kill the fleas.

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How to Get Rid of Fleas Naturally in Your Home

How to Get Rid of Fleas in Carpet

  • Make a mixture of equal parts baking soda and table salt.  Sprinkle liberally onto carpets and leave for several hours before vacuuming.  This mixture works by drying out the fleas and their eggs.
  • Thoroughly vacuum carpeting.  I use a vacuum with great suction power in order to remove fleas from the carpeting as well as the flea eggs.  My personal favorite is the Shark Rocket Deluxe Pro.  This corded, bagless vacuum is lightweight but packs a powerful suction.  After vacuuming, be sure to empty canister into a trash bag, seal and dispose of it immediately.  Wipe canister with a paper towel dipped in a 3:1 ratio of apple cider vinegar and water.
  • Spray the carpet with a natural flea treatment, such as Vets Best Flea and Tick Spray.  This natural flea treatment for the home contains natural oils to get rid of fleas.  It also works gently on your pet as well.  

How to Get Rid of Fleas With Vinegar

  • Vacuum hard surface floors such as tile, hardwood floors, and laminate.  Be sure to pay attention to the seams and grooves in the floor.  Also, using a vacuum crevice tool, get into the area where the baseboards meet the floor.  Fleas love dark private areas.
  • Damp mop hard surface floors with a solution of water and apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.  A 3:1 ratio works well.  
  • Wipe baseboards with the same vinegar/lemon solution.

Naturally Kill Fleas on Soft Surfaces in Your Home

  • Vacuum sofas and chairs thoroughly, making sure to get into the crevices on the seats.
  • Remove any washable pillow covers.
  • Wash pillow covers, linens, rugs, curtains and blankets in as hot water as recommended by the manufacturer.  Dry thoroughly.
  • Also, wash your dog’s kennel bedding, doggie beds and stuffed toys in as hot water as possible.
  • Spray dried kennel bedding and doggy beds with Vets Best Flea and Tick Spray.

Get Rid of Fleas in Your Yard Naturally

  • Mow Your Lawn regularly and keep it short. 
  • Trim any bushes and weeds.  This helps to eliminate hiding places for fleas and ticks as well as mosquitoes.  The more sunlight you can get into the area the better.
  • Remove dead leaves. Fleas prefer dark, damp places, so clear all leaves and plant debris away. 
  • Beneficial Nematodes.  Nematodes are a great natural way to help get rid of fleas in your yard.  They are microscopic worms the feed on flea eggs and larvae.  Added bonus: They also help get rid of mosquitoes, grubs, and termites, while being safe for humans and pets.
  • Diatomaceous Earth is a powder made up of fossilized simple cell organisims.  It can be sprinkled across the lawn or mixed with water and sprayed on the grass.  Be sure to get the food grade.
  • Plant flea repelling herbs. Herbs such as lemongrass, mint, and sage have natural oils that repel fleas. 
  •  Spray indoors and out, in the yard and living room with  Vet’s Best Flea and Tick Home Spray.  Use on dog bedding, kennels & crates, pillows, blankets, upholstery, carpets, etc.  It’s gentle on surfaces but effective on fleas.

Fleas and ticks can become a real problem for both you and your dog.  In addition to the misery they cause with itching in your dog, they also can be hazardous to health.  Infections caused by biting and scratching and diseases such as Lyme can be deadly to your dog.  Fleas and ticks are persistent but with persistence on your part with non-toxic flea products can help you to get rid of fleas naturally and help your dog live a healthier and happier life. 

For more tips on getting rid of fleas naturally, check out this article in Whole Dog Journal.

Dog Dental Chews Promote Fresh Breath and Dental Health

Puppy  breath is great but dog breath is a whole different animal!  Stinky dog breath can be helped or prevented by good oral habits, such as brushing your dog’s teeth and regular periodic dental cleanings at the Vet.  Many dog’s HATE teeth brushing.  An alternative for the dreaded brushing can be found in dog dental chews.

Benefits of Dog Dental Chews

  • Chewing Dog Dental Bones helps to clean your dog’s teeth. Works as a great supplement to teeth brushing or for some dogs it is the only way to achieve a teeth cleaning when your dog will not cooperate with the brushing.
  • Dog Dental Bones helps to freshen your dog’s breath by removing plaque buildup and leftover food particles. Also, many dog dental chews come in breath freshening flavors.
  • The act of chewing the dental bone provides a boredom fighting activity for your dog.

This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience (which means if you make a purchase after clicking a link I will earn a small commission but it won’t cost you a penny more) Click here for my full disclosure policy.

Best Dog Dental Chews

There are many chews on the market to help with dog dental health.  Just as in dog food, quality varies from brand to brand.  The following are the ones I have used or have good knowledge of and recommend.  There may be other good ones as well but I do like that both of these brands are shaped to help with tartar and plaque removal on your dog’s teeth.

Merrick Brand Dental Chews

Merrick dog chews is the one we are currently using with our three dogs, a Lab mix, Pitbull mix and Boxer mix.  They love them and look forward to getting one each day.  One has mint flavored breath strips embedded in, for fresh doggy breath.  The other is infused with coconut oil and botanicals.  Both have a brush shape on the ends to help scrub the teeth as your dog chews.

Greenies Dog Chews

Greenies is another great dog chew. I have used this brand and love it as well.  Made in the USA.  Greenies has a variety of options, including: multiple sizes from petite to large size, blueberry flavor, hip and joint chews, weight management chews and grain-free.  Highly digestible, natural ingredients and a shape that cleans the teeth down to the gumline.  Greenies has the approval of the Veterinary Oral Health Council.

*Cautions When Giving Your Dog Dental Chews

  • As with anything you give your dog to chew, never leave him alone while he is enjoying it.  Although these brands are digestible, your dog could still break off a larger piece and have difficulty.
  • Make sure your dog has plenty of water available as he chews his treat.
  • Only buy dog products that are made in the USA.  There have been too many tragedies associated with products made in China and other countries.  There standards are not as controlled.

Neglecting your dog’s oral health can lead to more serious issues than bad breath.  Teeth and gum issues can cause heart disease and infections in the body.  Give your dog the gift of good oral health by brushing his teeth daily if he will allow it, regular Vet visits to check for cavities or other issues and give him a daily dental bone.  He will think it is a treat but you will know it’s good for him.

For more help with your dog’s dental health, Check Out:

Brush Your Dogs Teeth to Promote Good Health 

Hypoallergenic Dogs – Dogs for Allergy Sufferers

Hypoallergenic dogs or non-shedding dogs are terms used to describe a breed of dog that is safer for people with allergies. No dog breed is 100% allergy-free.

Highly allergic people may always be affected to some degree, while those with mild allergies may tolerate specific dogs quite well.

The allergen for most people is not the hair but the protein formed by the dog’s saliva and dander. Protein production can differ between dogs so each dog can affect allergic individuals to varying degrees.

Even hypoallergenic dog breeds that are considered non-shedding, have saliva and dander. And the reality is that all dogs shed somewhat, including non-shedding dogs.

Non-allergenic dog breeds are a good starting point in your quest for the best dog breeds for allergy sufferers. You won’t be able to stop dog shedding entirely. Just impossible; we all lose some of our hair and your dog is no different. And there is still the dander and saliva to contend with.

Three Factors That Make a Dog Worse for Allergy Sufferers

  1. The size of the dog can be a factor because the largest dogs have the most body surface, thus more area to contain dander. Smaller dogs naturally have less dander. A small hairless dog conditioned with oils will have the least amount of allergens.
  2. Dogs spending much time outside can pick up outdoor pollens and other allergens, bringing them back in on their feet and fur.
  3. Dogs that bark a lot can disperse saliva and shake off dander. Opt for a calm dog.

To start you in the right direction in making the best possible choice, we have compiled a list of those considered to be hypoallergenic dog breeds.

Small Hypoallergenic Dogs

 Medium Hypoallergenic Dogs

Large Hypoallergenic Dogs

These are but a few of the dogs thought to be typically hypoallergenic.  Others include: Bichon Frise, Brussels Griffon, Bedlington Terrier, Barbet, American Hairless Terrier, Kerry Blue Terrier, Chinese Crested and the Irish Water Spaniel.

Are the Goldendoodle and Labradoodle Hypoallergenic?

The answer to this is, maybe.  These combo dogs are as cute as can be.  They combine the intelligence of the Poodle with the agreeable, friendly nature of the Labrador Retriever or the Golden Retriever.  This makes for a wonderful family dog and a fantastic kids’ dog.  Whether they are hypoallergenic or not can depend on whether they are first-generation or beyond.  It can be questionable with first-generation breeding.  Ask questions of the breeder.

Try to introduce the new dog into your home on a trial basis, carefully monitoring any effects on the allergic person.

Once you have chosen from among the non-allergic dog breeds and determined that dog fits in with your lifestyle, there are things you can do to help reduce allergens caused by the dog.

Allergies to Dogs do Not Mean You Can’t Have a Dog

This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience (which means if you make a purchase after clicking a link I will earn a small commission but it won’t cost you a penny more) Click here for my full disclosure policy.

Grooming Your Dog to Lessen Dog Hair Allergies

  • Bathe your dog several times a month, using a mild shampoo.  I use and really like Jax and Daisy Dog Shampoo.  Not only is this shampoo mild; it also has anti-itch components, to help keep your dog from scratching so much.  Scratching naturally disperses dander into the air, creating more allergy opportunities.

 

  • Brush your dog regularly to eliminate excess hair before it gets the opportunity to float into the air.  Use a grooming tool specially made to get the hair loose and removed.  I love this Pet Grooming Brush.  Works great on my three furry creatures to remove the hair before it makes it’s way to the furniture and floors and the air I breathe.

Selecting The Right Furniture Can Help With Dog Hair Shedding

Learn to recognize furniture that is best if you have a shedding dog.  Leather, vinyl or similar smooth surface furniture is more dog hair friendly.  A damp cloth will easily remove any dog hair left behind.  Fabric upholstered furniture allows the hair to become trapped within the fibers, making it more difficult to remove.

For help with eliminating dog hair in your home see How to Get Rid of Dog Hair.

Dog Training Can be The Best Ally For People Allergic to Dogs

Dog training may seem a bit of a surprise element when dealing with the topic of dogs and allergies.  However, it is quite an important piece of the allergy solution.  Training your dog to stay off the furniture and off of his humans will help to keep the hair off of you.  I say this with a bit of guilt since I am totally guilty of allowing my dogs to jump all over me and lounge on the furniture.  I do have a sensitivity to the dog hair and dander but not severe,  If your allergies are more advanced, you may want to do as I suggest and not as I do.

Best Hypoallergenic Dogs For Kids

The best hypoallergenic dog breed for kids is dependent on the size of the children and the lifestyle of your family. Smaller dogs should not generally be in a home with toddlers as the child can easily fall on the dog resulting in injury to the dog.  With smaller kids, it may be a better choice to opt for a medium-sized dog amongst the kid-friendly dog breeds that don’t shed.  All the dogs listed below are generally good with kids although each dog is an individual, with his own personality.

Top 3 Medium Sized Dogs That Don’t Shed

  • Bedlington Terrier – These good-natured, intelligent dogs resemble wooly lambs.  The Bedlington Terrier is a light shedder, resulting in fewer allergy problems for his people.  As in the case of most terriers, the Bedlington should get some exercise each day to work off the energy his active mind requires.  If you are a working family, be sure to walk or play actively with the dog each day, which shouldn’t be a problem with kids in the family.
  • Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier – Another great terrier breed that is kid-friendly, happy dog and does not shed.  True to the terrier nature, the Soft-Coated Wheaten is intelligent and active, requiring some vigorous exercise or activity each day.
  • Portuguese Water Dog – A great choice for allergy-prone people, the Portuguese Water Dog was the breed chosen by the Obamas for their allergic daughter.  Bet they did some research! A highly active dog, the Portuguese Water Dog does require vigorous daily exercise.  An active family would be best for this dog.  Hikes in the woods or trips to the lake would be this dog’s dream. This dog generally loves kids and it’s tightly curled hair is non-shedding.  A water lover, the Portuguese Water Dog loves to go for a swim or wade.  Mud puddles will usually suffice, so watch out when it rains.  Bet the kids AND the dog would love that!

Top 3 Small Dogs That Don’t Shed

  • Bichon Frison – This hypoallergenic dog is a tiny ball of white fluff that is affectionate and cheerful.  The Bichon tends to be fearless as many smaller dogs are, not appearing totally aware of their tiny structure.  A playful, gentle dog, he will do better in a home without very small kids due to the possibility of his being hurt while dancing under the kids as they run and play.
  • Toy Poodle – The Toy Poodle is exceptionally smart and active.  Extremely loyal to his owner, as are all sizes of Poodles,  he will want to be by your side and can become your child’s best friend.  This dog requires regular exercise to keep him happy and should be professionally groomed regularly to keep his hair mat-free.  The Poodle comes in a Medium and Standard (large) size also, so can be a great non-shedding, hypoallergenic dog for people who want a bit more size in their dog.
  • Yorkshire Terrier – The Yorkie has long, silky, brow-silver hair that does not shed.  He will need to be brushed regularly to keep his hair tangle-free.  This tiny dynamo is fearless, playful and affectionate.  Walks and a little play with a ball or squeaky toy will keep him happy.

Top 3 Large Dogs That Don’t Shed

  • Standard Schnauzer – A family-protective, hypoallergenic dog that is highly intelligent and active, requiring an active family that will play with and walk him regularly. 
  • Standard Poodle – Like the smaller poodles, the Standard Poodle is smart and active.  He will enjoy long walks and daily romps with the kids.
  • Afghan Hound – The Afghan Hound is a gorgeous dog with long, flowing hair.  The most well-known color is blonde with a black mask on the face area.  There is also a black or silver coloration. Although beautiful, this non-shedding dog also tends to be headstrong and loves to run.  Unfortunately, not known to listen well, the Afghan Hound often chooses to continue running, even when called.  For this reason, you will need a sturdy fence for this breed.  It would be best if your kids are responsible and not likely to leave the gate or door open.

Most all non-shedding or hypoallergenic dogs require regular grooming, including bathing, brushing and trims to keep the hair mat-free.  Some of the dogs, though technically non-shedding, have double coats that will shed and mat under the topcoat. This makes them more likely to tangle.  

Allergies to dogs do not necessarily mean you can’t have a dog as part of your family.  It may take some extra effort on your part, beginning with selecting the best dog for allergy sufferers.  Once you have your best dog, good grooming habits, wise furniture selection, and proper cleaning will help to assure you have a long and happy life with your dog.

REMEMBER:  Most of the hypoallergenic dogs listed are purebred but you do not need to buy from a breeder or pet store.  Shelters across the country are full of these non-shedding dogs.  Visit one in your area and spend time with the dogs to find your new best hypoallergenic friend.

Why Do Dogs Do That?

WHY DO DOGS DO THAT?

Why do dogs do that is an often asked question. They have an innate ability to perplex us with their quirky habits.

Some things they do make us laugh, such as chasing their tails or turning several times before lying down. Some irritate us, such as barking incessantly and some simply disgust us such as eating poop.

We often expect our dogs to act and do what we would do when after all they ARE dogs and they simply will do what dogs do however hard that is to understand sometimes.

That’s not to say that they don’t have perfectly good reasons (usually) for their 6 odd dog habits. By trying to understand some of these reasons, it will help us peacefully co-exist. Just don’t let them kiss you in the mouth!
We all love our dogs, they bring us happiness and comfort that other humans just don’t seem to be able to give. They never talk back, they love us no matter how homely we tend to be looking that day, and best of all they always let us call the shots. But even with all of their amazing qualities, sometimes our furry friends have some pretty interesting quirks. Here you will learn why your dog does some of the embarrassing things that he does.

Why Do Dogs Chase Their Tails?

Tail chasing is common in puppies as a form of play. It is less-common in older dogs. Sometimes older dogs chase their tails because they are bored and it is a way to relieve the tension. Some dogs don’t seem to realize the tail is attached to their bodies ad see it as a fun object to chase but rarely catch. Tail chasing can also be a symptom of worms, fleas or anal sac problems. In some dogs, tail chasing becomes a compulsive disorder. If tail chasing persists, consult your veterinarian to rule out a medical/psychological disorder.

This post may contain affiliate links which means if you make a purchase from a link on this site, I will earn a small commission.  This helps to support the site and keep it going but you will not pay a penny extra.

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Why Do Dogs Eat Poop?

It doesn’t matter if it comes from a baby, a cat, or a wild animal, dogs love to eat poop. This is not only one of their least attractive qualities, it is also one of their most embarrassing. But as it turns out, your dog is actually a bit of a genius. For instance, take that kitty litter box that your dog cannot keep his paws off of. Cat food actually contains different forms of protein and fats than dog food, so your pup is simply trying to get some more nutrients. The same goes for wild animals and humans, we all eat differently and your dog senses that. He is just trying to get a little taste of what he is missing.  Try switching to a better quality dog food to assure he is getting all the nutrients he needs. If your dog starts eating his own feces though, that could be a sign of a problem and he should see a vet.

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Why Do Dogs Roll On Their Food?

Once again, what might seem silly to us is actually smart for our canines. Usually a dog will roll on its food as a way to mark it. It tells the other dogs in the area that food has been spoken for, (it may not always work, but your dog thinks it is worth a shot). If you only have one dog in your home, there are two reasons they are likely to do this:

  • There are other pets in the house they are protecting their food from. By rubbing against or rolling on the food, they are putting the scent of the food on themselves so other dogs will realize the food belongs to them.
  • Possibly they were previously in a home with other dogs and picked up the trait there from the other dogs.

Why Do Dogs Drink Out Of The Toilet?

Although it may not seen so to us, dogs perceive toilet bowl water as fresh, cold and constantly replenished. And, it’s at a convenient height for larger dogs and something they don’t have to share with their smaller four-legged brothers and sisters.

Why Do Dogs Circle Before Lying Down?

There has never been any ‘official’ evidence on this ritual, but almost all dogs do it, even wild ones. The one thing that most doggie experts agree on is that this is a trait that has been around for centuries. The two most popular reasons they could be doing this are:

  • They might be trying to stay safe. Back in the days when dogs first came on the scene the grass and vegetation was pretty high, so they would circle to pat down the grass, this way the grass would not move if the dog moved, so there was less chance of an enemy finding an unsuspecting sleeping dog.
  • It might have something to do with the wind. By nature dogs are keen on direction and they always like to know where they are. So they circle to try to find the direction of the breeze and then they lie down so that they can face the breeze. The only exception to this are the dogs that live in extremely cold weather, like sled dogs, they will actually circle to make sure they are pointing away from the cold wind when they are lying down.

Why Do Dogs Roll On Their Back?

Dogs seem to get great joy from rolling on their back, but is that the reason dogs roll on their back, for the pure pleasure of it?  There could be more to it.

You let your dog outside and they roll on their back in the grass, wiggly-scooting and trying to cover every inch of his body.

One theory is that when a dog rolls on his back in the grass, it is an inherited trait from his wold-like ancestors.  Wolfs roll in interesting smells, particularly covering their face and neck area. They then take that smell back to the pack to share the new odor.

Additionally, dogs roll on their back in grass or dirt areas to cover their own smell, in hopes of going undetected by predators.  This may also be an inherited trait from their ancestors.

Sometimes dogs roll in the grass in an attempt to get rid of the “clean smell” after a bath.  Dogs have an intense sense of smell and while you may find a perfumed bath pleasing, he could find it offensive.

Itchiness can be a reason for your dog to roll in the grass.  Although they can scratch much of their body with their paws of teeth, the back is out of reach.  Could be a normal itch like we all have but it could be something more.  Make sure your dog is on a good flea preventative.  Also, check for dry skin or a rash.  I use Jax and Daisy Shampoo and Lotion to help alleviate these problems.

Of course, the answer to ‘Why does my dog roll in the grass”, could be as simple as, it feels good!

Why Do Dogs Sniff Each Other’s Butts?

There are no words to describe the humiliation when you take your pooch to the vet and they ‘make friends’ with the canine across the room by sniffing their bootie. There is a part of you that wants to make him stop, but there is another part of you that feels like you have just stepped into some kind of doggie mating ritual. But yet again your pup is showing, in this weird and awkward of ways, that he is much smarter than you could ever imagine.

  • When they first meet, they sniff each other in order to ‘learn’ the other one’s scent – remember, dogs rely on scent more than anything else, so doing this with a dog that they like will allow them to recognize that dog in the future.
  • If they know the dog, they will sniff that dogs butt to see what kind of a mood they are in – no one wants a disgruntled playmate, and it is much easier to sniff their backside than it is to get bitten. It also gives the dog an indication where the other animal has been and what he has eaten.

Why Do Dogs Dig?

  • Nesting – Dogs have an instinctual instinct to nest, possibly from early days when nesting down into the earth helped to provide protection from predators.
  • Curiosity – Dogs have a real need to know what is happening, often on the other side of the fence. They will dig at a fence line in an attempt to get to the other side. I think they really believe the saying about the ‘grass being greener on the other side’.
  • Heat – Dirt provides a cooling environment for your dog. In the heat of the summer, you will likely find your dog digging into the earth to provide a cool bed for himself. Be sure to provide him with a shady spot to lie down and a continual supply of fresh, clean and cool water. Keep him inside dring extremely hot weather. Remember, if you are unfomfortable in the heat, he is too!

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  • Boredom – Dogs require constant stimulation and if they don’t have it, they often will dig, simply to amuse themselves. Supply your dog with stimulating toys and set aside time each day to play and romp with your dog. Dogs are social animals and need your companionship and attention.

    TRIXIE Pet Products Flip Board, Level 2

So the next time you find yourself red with embarrassment wondering ‘why do dogs do that’, especially my dog? just remember there are very good reasons (at least to them).

Why Does My Dog Do That?

Dogs are unusual, perplexing and always entertaining creatures.  Often it is a mystery as to why they do the things they do.  So first we make sure there is no underlying health reasons for their actions.  Then we simply attempt to stop the more annoying or disgusting habits.  If this fails, we just accept and enjoy the dog for who he is, faults and all.  After all, on close inspection, can we really claim to be perfect?  We all have habits and annoyances, animal or human.