My Fetching Fido

Anyone who owns a dog, or any pet for that matter, can attest to the fact that animals have distinct personalities. Just like with humans, the clothing and accessories that animals wear can give us insight into their character. Think about the different connotations that a spike collar will conjure up as opposed to a jeweled model.

The dog accessories that you choose for your canine should help reflect their unique traits. Opting for bandannas and hats will exhibit a dog’s masculine features, while dresses and gemstone collars provide for a feminine appearance. You can also find practical accessories to display your dog’s uniqueness, like rain jackets, backpacks and leashes.

New puppies are notorious for their unruly behavior, thought it’s through no fault of their own. By their very nature, young dogs are hyperactive and mischievous. Their levels of excitement and curiosity are often enough to drive a new owner bonkers. Luckily, the combination of age and training has a way of getting even the most rambunctious puppies to mellow out.

Leash training requires patience and persistence on the owner’s part, but it’s certainly worth the trouble in the long run. The dog’s natural first reaction to a leather dog leash will be one of resistance, but eventually he’ll get used to the feeling. Let him drag the leash around the house for a while taking care that it doesn’t catch on any furniture. Then take the act outdoors and go for a short walk. In time, the dog will learn to respond to even the lightest tug.

Our dogs love their walks day and night, rain or shine. They can’t get too many. They also like to be in the middle of things. They sense when something is different, like when you get into your wacky Halloween costume to answer the door to trick or treaters and try to scare them. So be sure to plan ahead and get just the right costume so your pet can be in on the fun. I’ve picked up a dog costume that my Sadie will just love. She’ll look so cute in her red and black velour Dracula cape. I’ll scoop her up each time the doorbell rings, so she can hear the ooooh’s and ahhhh’s as everyone tells her how cute she looks. She’ll be warm, too, when we take a walk after all the candy is gone.