Category: Pets

Kristina Lotz

Kristina Lotz has been a writer on all-things animal for over a decade. A former CPDT-KA dog trainer, she has competed in agility, herding and rally with her dogs. Now, she clicker trains her horse! Follow life on her farm @MeridaTheBitless.

Dogs are doers. It is in their history and bloodlines to be guardians of their families, to hunt for their food and to chase what catches their eye. These instincts led to the evolution of dog sports into such a wide variety that a sport exists for just about any purebred and mixed breed dog and their human.

Any dog breed can participate in sports. Choose the sport based on the trainability and physical capabilities of your dog. The following list compiles a variety of dog sports offered in North America. Use this and some research of your own to find the sport that best suits your dog.

See the top dog athletes from recent years. 

What is Dog Agility?

One of the fastest growing dog sports showcases the dog’s ability to jump, climb and race through tunnels while listening to a handler’s sometimes subtle cues for what obstacle to perform next. Most purebreds and mixed breeds find Agility exciting and enjoy performing in the standard obstacle courses and jumpers with weaves. The most popular and most decorated breeds in the sport include Border Collies, Papillons, Shetland Sheepdogs, Australian Shepherds and mixed breed dogs.

Flatwork training for agility can start prior to a dog’s first birthday. Due to concerns for the joints of young, growing dogs, many trainers delay training over jumps until after the dog turns 1. Competing can begin as early as 15 months of age. With proper care for the dog’s health, dogs can compete into their middle age.

Agility takes place at a variety of competition venues, so find the venue that best fits your lifestyle and location.

(Want to read more about dog agility training? Check out Dogster’s sister publication Whole Dog Journal’s e-book Beginner’s Guide to Agility Training.)

What is Barn Hunt?

While some may shudder at the idea of participating in a sport that involves rats, Barn Hunt is the type of sport that encourages a dog’s natural instinct of smelling out vermin. Barn Hunt started as a sport mostly for terriers, capitalizing on their ratting instinct to chase down the scent of a rat in the barn or in fields. The sport has gained popularity among other breeds and their owners because all canines use their nose.

The Barn Hunt Association (BHA) invites pet parents and their dogs of all breeds — purebred and mixed — to take part in the age-old sport.

“Barn Hunt is open to any dog of any breed or mix who wishes to play the game and can fit through an 18-inch wide by hale bale height tunnel,” states the BHA website. In fact, Barn Hunt might be one of the most inclusive sports for dogs of all ages and abilities and owners of all ages and abilities. It is a timed sport, but it does not require blazing speeds. This gives older dogs and older handlers a sport to enjoy, as well as tripod dogs, deaf dogs, blind dogs and dogs using wheeled carts.

Don’t worry, the rats are not turned loose, but kept in large plastic, aerated tubes with holes for air drilled in. In fact, the rats are treated as beloved family pets and enjoy their jobs of “hiding” as much as the dogs enjoy their jobs of seeking.

What is Conformation?

Perhaps the only sport where routine baths are a necessity, Conformation shows pit purebred dogs against each other by breed to find the best representative of that particular breed. Conformation shows are sanctioned by kennel clubs and breed parent clubs to preserve the breed’s standards. Each breed has a set of “standards” that describes what makes that particular breed what it is and acts as a guide for breeders, owners and judges. Within each breed standard are descriptions regarding every part of the dog’s body from the set of the ears on his skull to the way the tail is held. The dog’s personality can be included in that standard as well.

Puppies as young as 6 months can be entered to compete in Conformation shows, and there is no limit as to the maximum age. For many dogs, Conformation shows are their first foray into sports. They can earn a championship title in the show ring before moving along to learning new events, such as obedience, agility or herding. Many dogs compete in those different sports while also competing in Conformation.

Conformation dogs cannot be spayed or neutered. This is because a goal of Conformation is to find the best specimen of the breed to continue those desired traits in future generations.

What is Coursing Ability or Fast CAT or Lure Coursing?

Do you have a runner in your home? Does your dog channel the mantra “I am speed” at various times of the day? Events such as Fast CAT or the Coursing Ability Test are perfect for your dog.

What started as just Lure Coursing, an event restricted to Sighthounds only, has captured the excitement of all breeds and mixed breeds, who love the thrill of the chase. Fast CAT is a 100-yard dash where a dog chases a lure and is timed from start to finish. The Coursing Ability Test allows any breed or mix to chase a lure through a track that mimics a rectangular racetrack. Coursing Ability Tests are pass/fail tests — if your dog can chase the “bunny” throughout the course, he passes. Fast CAT is timed, and points are accrued from the rated speed the dog runs to chase the bunny.

Lure Coursing is for Sighthound breeds only. It pits three Sighthounds against each other, and they are judged on their speed, chasing ability and more.

What is Dock Diving?

Sporting breeds aren’t the only ones that like to jump into any body of water they see. Measured a lot like when an athlete competes in the long jump, only instead of jumping and landing in sand, the dog jumps into the water, with his distance measured from the end of the dock to the splash zone.

Any dog that loves the water can make a good Dock Diving dog. “Like any other dog sport, the dogs who love it will do very well in it,” says Hillarey Kriegler, owner of Dobby, a Golden Retriever who has competed at the regional championships three years in a row. “Toy drive helps some dock diving dogs, but honestly I think Dobby would jump without the toy.”

Hillarey says the breed she feels excels at the sport is the Whippet because of their speed and their sleek, aerodynamic bodies. There is not a lot of training outside of the pool for dock diving. Instead, it relies a lot on instinct and natural talent. “However, you can work on toy drive and the dog’s fitness,” says Kriegler. “We work to improve hind-end strength and a lot of stretching.”

What is Herding?

Toy breeds need not apply to the sport of Herding. Herding breeds such as the Border Collie, Australian Cattle Dog, Cardigan and Pembroke Welsh Corgis, German Shepherd Dogs and more are able to hone their natural instincts of gathering and moving groups of animals (mostly sheep or ducks) from one location to another.

Don’t have access to livestock to move? This is how the sport of Triebball was invented, where dogs learn to follow their handler’s cues to retrieve blown up exercise balls, pushing them back to their handler and the start line.

What is Schuntzhund?

Schutzhund, more recently called IGP, is a three-phased sport comprised of tracking, obedience and personal protection. It started as a breed suitability test for German Shepherd Dogs in the early 20^th century, but now it is a competitive sport across the world.

“We primarily try to highlight the balance of precision and power in our routines,” says Marla Stickel, trainer and owner of Radical K9 in Elwood, Indiana. “For me, IGP is all about the bond I establish with my dogs through training and the power of a routine we train for together. For example, my current competition dog, Iggy, and I have trained together since she was 8-weeks old, and we are headed to Denmark in October to compete in the World Championships.”

Any breed can compete in the sport. There are breed specific competitions and all-breed competitions, depending on the organization and event. German Shepherd Dogs and Belgian Malinois excel the best, but any breed with the heart and desire can compete. Stickel has competed with German Shepherd Dogs, Belgian Malinois and a Pit Bull Terrier. Training can begin as early as 8 weeks old, but dogs cannot compete until they are at least 15 months old. Stickel points out that patience and dedication is a virtue with Schutzhund, because it may take several years to prepare a dog to compete in the sport.

The best place to get started is with a local club. Finding an encouraging and educational club to train with is essential to having fun and succeeding in this sport. You can find a list of clubs with the United Schutzhund Clubs of America (USCA), on its webpage. You can also find a list of trials or competitions with that organization and go and watch a club training day or trial.

Jump into dog sports and competition

If any of these sports piqued your interest, take a cue from agility handlers and just “Jump!” Working toward a goal with your canine best friend is the best way to strengthen your relationship, as well as help make new friends (human and dog) while learning how you can help better the dog world.

“Dock diving has strengthened my relationship with my dog,” says Hillarey. “When we train together and play together, it gives him a job and a purpose, all while getting exercise. Nothing makes me happier than seeing him happy!”

Do you love the great outdoors, hiking, camping and traveling with your pup? Let’s talk about the different ways to enjoy America’s most beautiful natural places and spaces with your dog. National parks are managed by the federal government. There are more than 400 parks in the National Park System, preserving some of America’s most famous, beloved, precious, historic and natural wonders across the country. Examples include the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is the country’s most-visited national park, Yellowstone National Park, the Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial and other monuments along the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

State parks, managed by individual state governments, feature many equally stunning landscapes and natural areas. Local parks are also fun green spaces owned and operated by cities, counties or towns. One of the most famous examples may be New York City’s Central Park, which allows dogs in most areas, provided they’re on a leash, between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.

Why embark on visiting a dog-friendly national park?

People are drawn to parks for many reasons — travel and vacations, a love of nature and the great outdoors, plus fun recreation such as hiking, swimming, camping and more. And according to TripAdvisor, 53% of pet parents worldwide bring their pets while traveling!

But before you blaze just any trail with Buster, do your research. Before heading to a national or state park, make sure you can answer these questions:

• Does this park allow dogs?
• What rules are in place for dogs and dog owners to follow
• Do I have the necessary gear and supplies to make sure my dog stays safe?
• What type of wildlife can I expect to see and how does that affect my dog?

Your dog can become a B.A.R.K Ranger

Many of the national parks have B.A.R.K Ranger programs. https://www.nps.gov/subjects/pets/bark-rangers.htm It’s a pretty simple concept that welcomes pets into the parks. Basically, when families pledge to follow the four rules, then complete park activities such as pet-friendly hikes, they often earn a certificate or keepsake from that park and some pretty cool swag to boot.

B.A.R.K stands for four key concepts:

Bag your pet’s poop.
Always keep your pet on a leash.
Respect wildlife.
Know where you can go.

Even if a national park is mostly pet-friendly, there are bound to be specific trails, beaches, waterways and other areas that are off-limits to dogs. This is often for your pet’s own safety to avoid treacherous areas such as hot springs and dangerous rocks, or to protect wildlife or waterways that supply drinking water, says Kathy Grant, supervisory park ranger at Acadia National Park in Maine.

Dog-friendly national parks in Maine: Acadia National Park

Acadia, says Kathy, was one of the early adopters of the NPS B.A.R.K Ranger program, and since launching the program in 2016, it has advised many other national parks on how to add B.A.R.K Ranger programs too.

Visitors with dogs should make Acadia’s visitor center their first stop, Kathy recommends, because a ranger can explain which areas of the park are most pet-friendly. That information is also on Acadia’s website. Pup tent, anyone? Camping with dogs is allowed at Acadia. And with 150 miles of trails, Acadia’s hiking is one of the most popular dog-friendly activities.

Specific dog-friendly trails, recommended by Kathy, include:

There are two national parks that stand out in Amy Burkert’s memory as especially dog-friendly —Acadia and the Grand Canyon. And she should know, as founder of GoPetFriendly.com and author of “The Ultimate Pet Friendly Road Trip: A Guide to the #1 Pet Friendly Attraction in 48 States & Washington D.C.”

Amy recommends Acadia for the wide variety of trails, coupled with Maine’s spectacular seaside scenery.

The 10 most dog-friendly national parks

Amy also has fond memories of exploring the entire 13-mile South Rim Trail of the Grand Canyon with her dogs. It’s a breath-taking experience that’s best shared with the ones you love — whether they’re walking on two or four feet.

Nine of the 10 dog-friendly national park suggestions come from Amy’s travel experience. We’ve linked to each specific park’s B.A.R.K Ranger or dog policies.

The 10 most dog-friendly national parks:

1. Acadia National Park, Maine
2. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona 
3. National Mall, Washington, D.C.
4. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia 
5. Congaree National Park, South Carolina
6. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio 
7. Padre Island National Seashore, Texas 
8. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona 
9. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, Alaska 
10. Gettysburg National Military Park (GNMP), Pennsylvania 

Dog-friendly national parks in Pennsylvania

The reasons we include Gettysburg? In addition to its significance in American history, its dog-friendly 33 miles of trails and more than 1,300 monuments and markers make it the largest collection of outdoor sculptures in the world — including two very special dog-related sculptures!

The Irish Brigade Monument is considered one of the prettiest monuments at Gettysburg, says Jason Martz of GNMP. It’s topped with a large Celtic cross and has life size Irish Wolfhound sculpted at its base.

The 11th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry Regiment includes Sallie, a bronze Terrier — a brindle-coated Staffordshire Bull Terrier to be exact. Sallie was given to the regiment as a puppy, and she took part in every one of the regiment’s Civil War battles. Jason says she was such a good girl that following the Battle of Gettysburg, as the story goes, Sallie was found with some of the regiment’s dead and dying soldiers until the living discovered her two days later.

I also have to put a plug in for my home state and its outstanding state park system — one of the largest in the country that offers free admission to all. Although I’ve camped and hiked at many, one of our recent favorites is Black Moshannon State Park, near Penn State University, where we enjoyed some very unique hikes including the Bog Trail’s boardwalk with Luna.

Dog friendly hiking in South Dakota

During her cross-country travels, Amy says one of the most dog friendly state parks she visited was Custer State Park in South Dakota. There are miles of trails, and she describes pretty pine needle-covered paths along the creek. Wildlife is plentiful, including buffalo, so Amy recommends checking at the visitor center to ask where the herd is active before hiking with your dog. Buffalo generally don’t like dogs, and your dog’s behavior could be unpredictable when encountering one — or more — for the first time, even from a distance. So, Amy recommends attaching bear bells to dog collars. Putting that jingle-jangle into your pup’s step is sure to bring smiles, as well as safety, over the miles.

Dog-friendly hiking in Tennessee

I recently traveled to Tennessee with my husband and our Alaskan Malamute, Luna. We all loved the adventure of hiking to the base and numerous gorgeous vistas of Fall Creek Falls, the highest free flowing waterfall east of the Rockies. From a dog-friendly campground as our home base, we hiked to all four major waterfalls within Fall Creek Falls State Park, and Luna even trotted across two suspension bridges with us.

Hiking in national forests

Visiting national parks during peak season can take a lot longer than anticipated, Amy says, and can leave you and your dog frustrated. However, many national forests, often located adjacent to national parks, are pet friendly! And many offer similar vistas and scenery, but without the traffic and crowds.

Amy recommends hiking in the Dixie National Forest, located between Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks in Utah. Ultimately, she says, national forests offer an off-the-beaten-path nature experience. And what could be better than a little solitude with your furry soul mate?

If you have a dog, you’ll have dog hair — everywhere! Dogs shed year-round with certain seasons being worse than others. Here are some simple cleanup tips to win the hair war around the home, in your car and, of course, on you.

Start by cleaning the hair on the dog

The best place to start controlling the dog hair situation is on the canine culprit.

“A dog’s fur varies in length, texture, thickness and hair-growth patterns,” explains certified master groomer Christina Pawlosky.

Aside from different hair types, dogs have different shedding patterns influenced by seasonal changes, daylight hours and temperature. Dogs that live in an air-conditioned environment can shed all year round.

So, even if your dog has a regular appointment with a groomer, having basic tools to help with shedding at home and using them weekly, even daily if necessary, can go a long way in controlling a hairy situation in your home and car.

Here are a few grooming tools to help control shedding:

Clean dog hair on the couch, carpet and floor

Because removing dog hair from the couch and carpeted areas of a home is an endless task, it’s worth investing in a lightweight cordless vacuum cleaner that is easy to grab and go, tackling crevices in the furniture and those fur bunnies that seems to gravitate under the couch. Using large sticky sheets also makes the task quick and easy.

Investing in throws that can be regularly grabbed and thrown in the washing machine keeps furniture fur-free and can be put away when you have company coming over. There are throws specifically made for dogs that are waterproof in case of accidents, like the PupProtector Waterproof Throw Blanket.

Have hardwood floors? Cute and fashionable throw rugs are a must to not only brighten up the room but are a hair magnet that is easy to throw in the wash.

Clean dog hair in the car

Similarly, investing in seat covers not only keeps the hair off the upholstery but also takes care of wet and muddy feet. Seat covers are available for both front and back seats as well as the cargo areas, and some include dog beds like PetSafe’s Happy Ride Car Dog Bed. Placing pooches in travel crates, such as the Sleepypod pet bed, keeps them safe, plus controls loose hair in a vehicle.

Cleaning dog hair from the washer and tumble dryer

Of course, all those throws, seat covers and your fur-covered clothes all find their way into the washing machine and the tumble dryer. Dryer sheets can certainly capture loose hair, while a nifty gadget such as the Furzapper can remove hair from both the washing machine and the dryer. Simply place these spongy rings in each machine and let them get to work attracting loose hair. A simple wash and they are ready to be used again. Be sure to service your laundry machines from time to time too, hair can get in places you can’t reach to clean out.

Keeping lint rollers, such as the ZeLo handheld roller, handy around the home and in your car lets you go fur-free and are ideal for those last-minute touch ups on upholstery and on clothes when, as much as you love your pooch, you don’t want dog hair to be a fashion accessory.

Last but not least, your washing machine is your friend. Wash throws and rugs weekly to keep the hair down and your house smelling fresh and not eua de dog.

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier can claim a colorful and checkered past, but through it all, his courage has never been questioned. He offers maximum muscle in a medium-sized package. Here are six interesting facts about this devoted breed.

History of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier

The breed originated in the northern regions of Birmingham, England, and in the Black Country of Staffordshire, where he got his name. Dog historians agree that the breed descends from Mastiff-like dogs through the old-fashioned Bulldog which, when crossed with various British terriers, produced the first “Bull and Terriers” in the early 1800s. Those old Bulldogs were taller and longer-legged than the dogs we think of today. They were ferocious creatures used in the “sports” of bear- and bull-baiting as early as the mid-16th century. When these gruesome activities were eventually outlawed, their supporters turned to dog fighting, which was easier to promote in secret. The goal was to produce a sporting dog that retained the courage and ferocity of the Bulldog while adding the grit and agility of the terrier. It is believed that the Manchester Terrier and the now-extinct English White Terrier went into the mix.

Different groups of English enthusiasts favored different looks, but, in time, two distinct types of Bull and Terrier emerged, and were easily recognized by 1900. James Hinks produced a classic white dog by further adding the Pointer and Dalmatian. What we know today as the Bull Terrier (think Spuds Mackenzie) was recognized by the Kennel Club (United Kingdom) and the American Kennel Club at the turn of the century. The “other” Bull and Terrier, a working-class dog owned by the common folk, had a more difficult time finding legitimacy. Admirers of the Staffordshire met in England in 1935 to form a club and create a breed standard, a canine blueprint to help produce a more uniform dog.

When the Staffordshire Bull Terrier came to the US

Shortly before the American Civil War, immigrants from Great Britain brought their Bull-and-Terrier crossbreeds into the United States. They became the ancestral progenitors of the American Staffordshire Terrier, Miniature Bull Terrier, Boston Terrier and the American Pit Bull Terrier. With dogs no longer needing to be bred for blood sport, and the interest growing in dog shows, responsible breeders set out to produce dogs of more stable, trustworthy temperament, affectionate with family, and children in particular. Considered a well-kept secret in the dog world, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier was not recognized by the American Kennel Club until 1975. The first Staffordshire to be registered with the AKC was an English import, Champion Tinkinswood Imperial. The first U.S. champion was a female from Australia, Northwark Becky Sharpe.

How the Staffordshire Bull Terrier got his name

It’s not surprising, given his eclectic history, that the Staffordshire Bull Terrier has been known by a variety of names. Originally, he was the Bull and Terrier and the Brindle Bull. Today, many people shorten Staffordshire Bull Terrier to Stafford or Staffy. You will also see the abbreviation SBT. In addition, to honor his affinity for children, the breed is affectionately known around the world as the “nanny dog.”

Socialize your Staffordshire Bull Terrier

The American Kennel Club breed standard sums up the breed’s character so well. Under “Temperament,” we are told, “From the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage, high intelligence and tenacity. This, coupled with its affection for its friends, and children in particular, its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability, makes it a foremost all-purpose dog.” To bring out these qualities in a Staffordshire Bull Terrier puppy, socialization must begin early and continue throughout his life, exposing him to new experiences and teaching him, gently but firmly, what is acceptable behavior. The Stafford, despite his medium size, is incredibly strong, muscular and active. As there are communities around the country that include the SBT in their “Breed-Specific Legislation,” you want your dog to be welcomed as a good canine citizen.

Coat and grooming of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Staffords come in a wide variety of colors. Red, fawn, white, black or steel blue are all seen, either as solid colors or with white trim. Any shade of brindle (dark stripes on a lighter background), or brindle with white, is equally acceptable. Black-and-tan or liver are the only disqualifications in the standard.

Whatever color pattern you prefer, grooming is a simple task. The Stafford coat is smooth, short and close to the skin. Shedding is moderate, and regular brushing will cut down on it.

Celebrity Staffordshire Bull Terrier owners

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier’s strong, muscular good looks in a compact package have made him a favorite of many, including some high-profile performers. Celebrities sharing their homes, private jets and touring buses with Staffords include Kaley Cuoco, Rachael Ray, Jessica Alba, Linda Blair, Danny Trejo, Kevin Bacon, Liam Hemsworth, Adrian Grenier and Miranda Lambert.

Made by dog lovers for dog lovers, these gift tags are sure to bring holiday wags with hand-painted and crafted designs. Don’t see your dog breed? Check the artists’ websites. Most create a variety of dog breeds in various colors and will create custom artwork, too.

Here are Dogster’s favorite holiday gift tags for dog lovers:

 

Need something a little quicker? Print-at-home holiday dog gift-tag templates are fast and let you customize as you wish.

Here are a few of our favorite print-at-home holiday dog gift tags:

Choosing the best family dog is not as easy as one might think yet can be a fun process for the entire family. Determining who we are as a family, what we are bringing to the table, we can’t only think about what kind of dog we want, because the dog is only half the equation; we are the other half.

Which dog is best for your family depends on knowing your own family’s desires: lifestyle, time available to spend training a dog, ages and energy level of the children and energy to help integrate a dog into your family and, yes, your financial capacity. Should you get a puppy or an older dog depends on all the above factors and will ultimately make choosing a compatible family dog a worthwhile and important endeavor.

Ask each family member what she wants in a dog

By including each family member’s wishes in how she sees a dog fitting into the family, you might be surprised to find out that one of them really doesn’t want a dog, the other one can’t wait to teach tricks and one spouse wants to have a hiking buddy, while another is kind of fearful of dogs. Knowing this will help facilitate the decision making process when searching for a doggie companion for your entire family.

Best family dog breeds

That said, these breeds or a combination thereof, are known to have an overall good resume to thrive in a family with kids.

Labrador Retriever because of their innate temperament to be loving, very trainable and easy to maintain. Labs love to be a part of whatever the family is doing; they are energetic and can go the distance — hiking, beach time or as a travel companion. Plus, Labs will keep you laughing for years.

Golden Retrievers have enough energy and willingness to be a part of anything the family wants to do. Goldens are known to be playful and have the ability to hone in on what’s going on in a family dynamic, often bringing a calming presence to a situation. It’s why they are often used as service dogs for people with autism and, did I mention, Goldens are very trainable.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are great family dogs — outdoorsy but don’t require extensive amounts of exercise. These sweet and gentle dogs love to be cuddled, don’t have exceedingly high energy, yet love to play and run. Cavaliers are happy to be a house dog with long walks in the neighborhood, joyfully greeting other people and dogs. Easy going and trainable, Cavaliers are adaptable to new situations and people.

Collies are great family dogs with the stamina to keep up with the most active family. They are easy going, adventurous, faithful and very intuitive to the needs of each family member. Remember Lassie, the famous TV star who so devotionally took care of Timmy? Smart as a whip, but won’t try to outsmart you and a very willing partner. Collies are a bit more of a maintenance commitment, given their longer coat. But, if you’re looking for a fantastic disposition, a Collie is a great choice.

West Highland Terrier makes a great family pet due to his smallish medium size, but with a big-dog personality that can go the distance with any active family. He’s sturdy, but not too big. This smart, confident dog is willing to learn and loves to do tricks. The Westie may not be as cuddly for those who’re seeking that kind of disposition, but some may surprise you. They need a little more patience with training because of their independence but will give you their all if you do put the time in. Westies need a bit more maintenance because they are white and need to be groomed, but their steadfast nature of courage and alertness goes a long way to keeping you entertained for years. They have a long life expectancy, too.

Pugs are little dogs, who are easy going and pretty trainable, but with a lower energy level that might be great for families who are more indoorsy than outdoorsy. Pugs are not in need of too much physical stimulation, yet playful enough to want to learn some tricks and play fetch with the kids. They’re adaptable to new situations, not too protective and quite social. They have a clown-like personality, so they’ll keep everyone smiling.

Standard Poodles are also known to be clowns. I call them humans in a dog suit. They are smart, playful, proud, willing partners and enjoy each family member equally. They need both physical and mental stimulation and, if you don’t oblige, they will come up with their own agenda. Well, most dogs will do this, but there’s something about a Standard Poodle where they have an uncanny way of letting you know they need something from you and know that in return, you’ll be the wiser for it. They’ll definitely keep you on your toes. Don’t be fooled or put off by the show Poodle cut, most people don’t keep them that way, and instead keep them in what’s called a puppy cut. Standard Poodles are low-shedding but need to be groomed regularly. Standard Poodles have (for the most part) a lower energy level than the smaller sized Toy and Miniature Poodles and get along great with other dogs.

Are mixed breed dogs good for families?

There are other breeds of course, that are family-friendly dogs. I chose the most common purebred dogs to give you an idea of what characteristics they have, so you can think about which dog breed or dog breed mix might be the best dog for your family.

Any mix of these dog breeds is something to seriously consider because one can get the best of both worlds with a mutt. One of the largest service dog organizations, Canine Companions For Independence, started its own breeding program breeding Golden Retrievers with Labrador Retrievers because it felt that this was the best way to glean the best characteristics of each in one dog, leading to a dog with a more solid temperament.

Other great mutt/mixes are:

You might be getting the picture that Poodles mixed with other breeds make for great family dogs, offering trainability, intelligence, gentleness and loyalty.

What is the best dog for families with children?

If you have a baby or toddlers, choosing the right dog becomes even more important for obvious safety concerns. This requires a good, honest look at the energy level of the baby or toddler, and their willingness to go along with the program.

Is your child of the more independent ilk, wanting to carve her own way or is she more timid, and will need to adjust to a dog and feel satisfied with long cuddle times on the couch. The more independent child will be better off with a medium to larger breed dog, so they won’t be tempted to carry a smaller dog around not understanding that the dog may not like to be carried all the time. Since they can’t pick up a bigger dog, it could be an opportunity for this child to learn how to teach a bigger dog tricks and spread the joy rather than needing to tell them to “please put the dog down; she really isn’t liking being held” more often than you’d like. The more timid or quiet child might love cuddling with a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, melting everyone’s hearts.

Children need to be taught how to interact with dogs and dogs need to learn to be appropriate with children. Family Paws Parenting Education is a fantastic resource for parents to get the support they need to safely and happily raise dogs and children together. Being proactive rather than reactive is key to creating safety and harmony in the home. It doesn’t happen without the guidance from the parents.

Thinking critically rather than emotionally about which might be the best doggie companion for your family will offer the greatest opportunity for a long and happy life for both the dog and for your family. Once you decide on the right pup for your family, then let the emotions fly, because you’re now ready to fill your home with more joy than you’ve ever imagined possible.

Keeping hydrated is important for all of us — our dogs, too. How much water our dogs are drinking can actually tell us a lot about their general health.

Excessive thirst in dogs can result from something as simple as recent exercise to a more complex underlying medical condition.

Dr. Annette Louviere, of Wisdom Panel pet DNA testing service, says that while dogs can normally change their water intake from day-to-day, any fluctuation that persists or any sudden, drastic changes in their habits could be an indicator of an underlying health condition.

What causes excessive thirst and urination in dogs?

Dr. Louviere says other causes of increased water intake in dogs include the type of food they’re eating (dry food can make them more thirsty), hot weather, playing, certain medications, infection and even boredom.

She says increased urination in dogs could have several causes. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) or urinary stones may be the culprit in many cases. More serious kidney disorders or endocrine conditions like Cushing’s disease, are possible, too.

Signs of kidney disease in dogs

Excessive thirst may also be a sign of kidney disease in dogs. Other signs of kidney disease in dogs may include:

• Increased (or sometimes decreased) urination
• Lethargy
• Lack of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Weight loss

Signs of diabetes in dogs

Signs of diabetes in dogs also include excessive drinking, along with:

• Increased urination
• Weight loss — especially paired with increased appetite
• Chronic or recurrent infections

But drinking more water isn’t always a sign of a larger medical problem. Dr. Louviere says it’s good to consider the big picture and take into account if there are any other notable changes — like appetite or energy levels — as well as your dog’s age and lifestyle.

When should you be concerned?

Dr. Louviere says to see a vet if you notice any fluctuation from your dog’s normal level of water drinking that is persistent — or if you see sudden, drastic changes in your dog’s drinking habits. If your dog is drinking much more water than usual and he’s a senior, a trip to the vet is a good idea. When in doubt, give your vet a call. Note any other unusual symptoms your dog is exhibiting — like changes in appetite levels and urination.

She says a vet will likely start with a physical exam in order to determine the best course of action. Then bloodwork and urinalysis to help rule out (or rule in) different conditions like kidney disease, diabetes or Cushing’s disease.

Water intoxication in dogs

While keeping hydrated is important, our dogs can get too much water. Dr. Louviere says there’s a condition called water intoxication often seen in dogs who like to play in water for long periods — especially those who continuously lap at the water while playing in it. It’s rare but severe cases are potentially fatal.

Symptoms of water intoxication may include:

• Lethargy
• Loss of coordination
• Nausea and vomiting
• Excessive salivation
• Bloating
• Dilated pupils
• Trouble breathing
• Seizures
• Coma

What to know about dogs drinking water

Monitoring how much water your dog is drinking can help pet parents gain valuable information about dog health. But it doesn’t always mean something serious. Sometimes it just means your dog is hot.

For pet parents with water-loving dogs who enjoy playing in the pool regularly, water intoxication is something to keep in mind. Dogs can ingest too much water while playing in water that can lead to this potentially fatal condition. Keep an eye on how much water your dog is taking in during water play and give him plenty of breaks to relieve himself.

Generally, if you notice any big changes in your dog’s water drinking, pay your vet a visit and note any other changes in your dog to help determine if there’s an underlying medical issue.

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Keeping hydrated is important for all of us — our dogs, too. How much water our dogs are drinking can actually tell us a lot about their general health.

Excessive thirst in dogs can result from something as simple as recent exercise to a more complex underlying medical condition.

Dr. Annette Louviere, of Wisdom Panel pet DNA testing service, says that while dogs can normally change their water intake from day-to-day, any fluctuation that persists or any sudden, drastic changes in their habits could be an indicator of an underlying health condition.

What causes excessive thirst and urination in dogs?

Dr. Louviere says other causes of increased water intake in dogs include the type of food they’re eating (dry food can make them more thirsty), hot weather, playing, certain medications, infection and even boredom.

She says increased urination in dogs could have several causes. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) or urinary stones may be the culprit in many cases. More serious kidney disorders or endocrine conditions like Cushing’s disease, are possible, too.

Signs of kidney disease in dogs

Excessive thirst may also be a sign of kidney disease in dogs. Other signs of kidney disease in dogs may include:

• Increased (or sometimes decreased) urination
• Lethargy
• Lack of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Weight loss

Signs of diabetes in dogs

Signs of diabetes in dogs also include excessive drinking, along with:

• Increased urination
• Weight loss — especially paired with increased appetite
• Chronic or recurrent infections

But drinking more water isn’t always a sign of a larger medical problem. Dr. Louviere says it’s good to consider the big picture and take into account if there are any other notable changes — like appetite or energy levels — as well as your dog’s age and lifestyle.

When should you be concerned?

Dr. Louviere says to see a vet if you notice any fluctuation from your dog’s normal level of water drinking that is persistent — or if you see sudden, drastic changes in your dog’s drinking habits. If your dog is drinking much more water than usual and he’s a senior, a trip to the vet is a good idea. When in doubt, give your vet a call. Note any other unusual symptoms your dog is exhibiting — like changes in appetite levels and urination.

She says a vet will likely start with a physical exam in order to determine the best course of action. Then bloodwork and urinalysis to help rule out (or rule in) different conditions like kidney disease, diabetes or Cushing’s disease.

Water intoxication in dogs

While keeping hydrated is important, our dogs can get too much water. Dr. Louviere says there’s a condition called water intoxication often seen in dogs who like to play in water for long periods — especially those who continuously lap at the water while playing in it. It’s rare but severe cases are potentially fatal.

Symptoms of water intoxication may include:

• Lethargy
• Loss of coordination
• Nausea and vomiting
• Excessive salivation
• Bloating
• Dilated pupils
• Trouble breathing
• Seizures
• Coma

What to know about dogs drinking water

Monitoring how much water your dog is drinking can help pet parents gain valuable information about dog health. But it doesn’t always mean something serious. Sometimes it just means your dog is hot.

For pet parents with water-loving dogs who enjoy playing in the pool regularly, water intoxication is something to keep in mind. Dogs can ingest too much water while playing in water that can lead to this potentially fatal condition. Keep an eye on how much water your dog is taking in during water play and give him plenty of breaks to relieve himself.

Generally, if you notice any big changes in your dog’s water drinking, pay your vet a visit and note any other changes in your dog to help determine if there’s an underlying medical issue.