Dog Care

Dog Park Safety: Concerns and Tips

When I think of a dog park I see images of dogs running free, having fun with their canine friends. All while their owners sip coffee and talk with their fellow dog parents. In my mind the dog park is perfectly maintained with plenty of shade and all the dogs are getting along. Nice image right? This is the image we most often see in the movies or commercials but rarely are dog parks truly that perfect. The reality is there are a lot of dangers lurking in dog parks. Join us as we discuss dog park safety concerns and provide safety tips to help you protect your pup.

Dog Park Safety

I was surprised when our Puppy Kindergarten Class trainer said she would never bring her dogs to a dog park. I personally had a bad experience at a dog park the one and only time we took our adult English Springer Spaniel, but I brushed it off as a onetime event. After listening to the trainer’s dog park safety concerns, I realized that my bad experience was more common than I thought.

Are Dog Parks Safe?

Some of the dog park safety concerns you need to be aware of are:

Aggressive dogs
Inattentive owners or owners who do not have control over their dog
Physical dangers at the park
- Inadequate fencing that allows a dog to escape
- Broken or worn fencing
- Trash, glass or other debris
Disease – Sickness and disease can be passed through shared water bowls, fecal matter, ticks and fleas

To learn more about the risk of disease at dog parks, visit the American Veterinary Medical Association’s page on Dogs’ Social Lives and Disease Risks – Tips for Canine and Human Safety

Dog Park Safety Tips

Before you go:

Know your dog

Make sure you know how your dog will behave at the park. Things to think about:

Only well-socialized, friendly dogs should go to a dog park. If your dog shows signs of aggression or has issues that could make him hostile toward another dog, a dog park is not the right place to go. This includes any aggression they may have involving sharing toys or food.

Make sure you understand your dog’s prey drive. Many dogs can have a high prey drive and look at anything that is smaller than them as something to hunt. Do not bring your dog to a dog park if there is a chance they will hurt another dog.

You should not bring a shy or nervous dog to the park. A frighten dog may strike out at another dog due to fear. Plus it would not be much fun for the dog if they were afraid to be there.

Do not bring your dog if they are in heat. Along with the risk of an unplanned litter, nothing starts a fight quicker than a group of male dogs vying for the attention of a female in heat.

Protect your dog

Make sure your dog has the proper protections in place:

Stay up to date on vaccines. Your dog can encounter viruses and parasites at the park. Check with your veterinarian to confirm he’s current on vaccines like rabies and distemper/parvo. Also ask your veterinarian what other vaccines they might need.

Protect against fleas and ticks. Ticks can lurk in the grass and bushes. Dogs and wildlife that come to the park can spread fleas and ticks. The best protection for your pet is to keep them up to date on flea and tick control. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations.

Total recall – Make sure you have total control over your dog. Practice calling your dog to make sure he will listen to you at all times. This will be important if he gets into a scuffle.

Don’t bring your puppy to the park until they are fully vaccinated.

Check out the park before you take your dog

Look for the following:

General maintenance – Does the park appear to be maintained.

Double gate entry – A double gate entry will prevent dogs from escaping when the dogs are entering or leaving.

Dog Park Safety Dog looking through fence

Walk the perimeter of the park. Look for any faults in the fencing that would allow a dog to escape such as fencing that is too low, too high off the ground or has holes.

Separation – Look for a dog park that separates dogs by size. Small and large dogs should never be in an enclosure together. Even the friendliest large dog can hurt a smaller dog just because of the size difference. Also a large dog’s hunting instinct may kick in and look at the smaller dogs as prey.

Size of park– It is important to have enough space in a dog park for the dogs to run around and get away from one another if need be.

Rules – Are there Rules of Conduct posted on or near the gate so everyone knows how they should behave?

Shade – Is there enough shade available for both dogs and humans?

Visit the park – Visit at the time(s) you would go with your dog. Often people have set schedules that they go by, so you will get a feel for the type of people and dogs that will be there when you are. Visit more than once. Are you comfortable with what you see? A park filled with aggressive dogs and inattentive owners is not the right place to take your pet.

Cleanliness – A park with trash and dog waste lying around is a breeding ground for disease and injuries.

Keeping Your Dog Safe at the Park

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Dog Park Essentials

Bring a water bowl and plenty of fresh water – Don’t let your dog use a communal bowl. Parasites can be spread through feces and shared water bowls.

Although a water bottle with an attached bowl is popular right now, I personally prefer using a collaspable water bowl for my dog. That way I don’t have to bring two separate water bottles to the park. Teton Dog makes a collaspable water bowl in two sizes. The Made in the USA, waterproof water bowl is easily foldable. You can find it at Amazon.com

Dog Waste Bags – Although many dog parks supply waste bags and a trash can, bring your own in case there are none. Always pick up after your dog.

An animal deterrent spray or an air-horn to help break up a fight between dogs.

A breakaway collar to prevent accidental strangulation.

Regular dog collars can be dangerous for your dog, especially if they get in a scuffle with another dog. Dogs can also become injured if their collar is caught on a branch or part of the fencing. The Petsafe Break-Away Collar Available at Amazon.com will pull apart when pressure is applied to the snap. Plus it is Made in USA

Identification tags along with their rabies tags and a dog license.

Bring your cell phone to call the police or local animal control if needed.

Know where the closest veterinary hospital is, in case of an emergency.

For tips and ideas of what to bring to the Dog Park go to Dog Park Essentials Checklist

Once you get there

Don’t let your dog inside the gate if there are other dogs gathered there. Wait until they wander off before opening the gate and removing your dog’s leash.

Be vigilant – Keep an eye on your dog and the dogs around him. At the first sign of a trouble, like growling, mounting, or other aggressive behavior that could turn into a scuffle, call your dog over for a break. If the behavior continues, leave the park.

In the event of a dogfight, be careful. Do not get between dogs that are fighting. Instead use an air horn to distract them or throw water on the fighting dogs to separate them.

If it is a hot day, take plenty of water breaks and watch out for heat stroke.

Alternatives to the dog park:

Set up playdates with dogs you know in private fenced in yards

For puppies 6 months and under consider bringing them to a puppy social. Puppy socials are safe places usually run by dog trainers.

For more like this read:

The Best Dog Bed for Your Dog

Finding the best dog bed for your dog is an important step to making your dog healthy and happy. Dogs that do not get enough quality rest can become stressed. Plus poor quality pet beds can contribute to joint damage as your dog ages. Let’s not forget to mention that choosing the wrong bed will result in wasted time and money. But with so many pet beds to choose from it’s hard to pick the best dog bed for your dog.

But the “Best Dog Bed” is a relative term. What is best for one person and their dog might be different for another. There are many websites out there that will tell you what the best rated beds are. But you must decide what type of pet bed fits the needs of you and your dog. Let us help you decide which type of pet bed you should get by looking at your reason to get a bed.

How to Pick the Best Dog Bed for your Dog?

When deciding what is best bed for your dog you first need to know what you are looking for. To help you, we have created a series of questions for your to answer. Then prioritize your answers from most to least important. This will help you decide what features you should focus on.

1.What is the main reason for getting a dog bed?

Is it to give them a place of their own, where they can feel safe?
Do you need a bed that will keep them warm?
If you live in a hot climate, maybe you are looking for a bed that keeps them cool.
Do you want a bed that lies on the floor or one that raises them up?
Is your main goal to keep them from sleeping on the couch or your bed?

2. What are your dogs traits?

Are they diggers?
Do they sleep in a crate?
Are they heavy chewers?
Do they have accidents in bed?
Do they like to hide under blanket?

3. Is price important to you?

You should have a budget in mind before looking for a bed. But buying a dog bed based solely on price is not a good idea. Try to look at the purchase as an investment for the long run. A high quality bed will last much longer than a cheap one making the per year cost lower in the end.

Back when we adopted our first dog together we didn’t have a lot of money to spend on a dog bed, so we bought a L.L. Bean dog bed at a garage sale. The bed, which was ten years old at the time, looked almost new. We had that bed for another 3 years before deciding to purchase a new insert for the bed. The bed lasted that long because it was a well made bed.

4. Do you want a bed that fits in with your décor?

It is much easier these days to find a bed that fits in with your individual sense of style. Just make sure you choose a bed that is also a high quality and is safe for your dog.

5. What size bed do you want/need?

Do you have an big dog? Some extra-large beds are too small for big dogs. Make sure you look at the dimensions before buying. Also extra-large dogs will require a denser foam to support their weight.
Are you looking for a bed that fits in a certain place?
Do you want one that will fit in their crate?

6. What stage of life is your dog in?

An older dog may need an orthopedic foam bed to be comfortable
A puppy might prefer something with higher sides that they can cuddle up in and feel safe.
Do you need a water proof bed in case of accidents?

7. Are you looking for a bed that is healthy for your dog?

This is a very important but often over looked feature in dog beds. Many dog beds on the market contain harmful chemicals that give off toxic fumes. These beds are not safe for your dog to sleep on. Also if your dog licks or chews on these beds the toxins can get into their blood stream

As a general rule if the bed smells bad, it probably not healthy for your dog to lay on. Also if your dog is having allergy issues, it could be caused by their bed.

To learn more about toxins in pet products read: 8 Toxic Materials Found in Common Pet Products (and How to Avoid Them)

How to check if your dog bed is safe to use?

You can check for toxic chemicals at the Healthy Stuff Product Search. There they test everyday household items for toxic chemicals and reports on the findings. Not every product has been tested, but it is still a good resource.

8. Do you want a bed that is ecofriendly?

Ecofriendly isn’t necessarily healthy. When looking for an ecofriendly dog bed make sure it is also safe for you and your dog.

9. Do you want a bed that is made in the USA with USA made materials?

I wish it was easier to find made in the USA dog beds. As you look for a bed you will find that most dog beds are either imported or made from imported materials. Especially the less expensive ones. But there are still some USA companies that offer USA made pet supplies. But even beds made in USA beds can be made with imported materials. These beds are not much better than beds that are made overseas. In the second part of this post we will showcase the ones we have found.

Remember that by buying products that are made in USA with USA materials you are helping the US economy.

What to Look For in a Dog Bed

Cushion

For most people the main goal of getting a dog bed is to provide your dog with a soft, comfortable place to rest. This becomes increasingly important as dogs age.

Many dog beds will look cushiony but when you add weight to the cushion they compress to a hard surface. Also some imported low quality foams will lose their shape after a short amount of use. Look for a cushion that uses high density foam that will not compact all the way to the floor. You can do this by pressing down on the bed in a store. Also make sure you read the reviews on-line.

Younger dogs may be fine with any type of cushy bed but older dogs will benefit from a foam bed. Just remember to look for a bed that does not use toxic foams.

Fabric

When choosing your dog’s bed, look for quality fabrics that guarantee the fabric is chew or dig resistant. Even dogs that don’t dig outside will paw at their bed before lying down.

Imported fabrics may contain toxins that can be harmful to your dog. Be wary of strong odors. Your dog bed should not smell before your dog even starts to use it.

If you have an older dog or puppies select a fabric that is either has a waterproof cover or insert. A bed with a non-skid bottom is also useful to ensure your dog’s safety.

Don’t forget to check the zipper to make sure they are strong and break resistant. Often zippers are the weakest spot on a dog bed.

Ease of cleaning

All dog beds should be washable, but many are not.

Make sure you find a bed that is both washable and will fit in your washer. Having a washable bed that can’t be washed is useless.

If your dog is too big to fit in a bed that can be washed at home choose a bed with a cover that zips on and off easily for washing. Make sure the bed can be washed in hot water over 60°C. This will kill flea eggs and dust mites.

What to Avoid in a Dog Bed

Mattresses that can’t be washed
Beds with straps, buttons, exposed zippers or piping should be avoided. These items can be particularly dangerous for dogs who like to chew. If swallowed these items can cause an intestinal blockage or have lead that can kill your dog.
Cooling or heated beds that have batteries or an electric connection if you have a chewer on your hands
Wooden framed beds can have a finish that can be toxic when ingested by your dog.

A Word About Toxins in Dog Beds

You should try to select a bed made of non-toxic materials.

Synthetic products, including stain-proofing and flame retardant chemicals, may harm your dog and you. This is particularly important if you or your dog has sensitive skin or allergies.

It is also important for dogs who may chew their bed! When you first bring your bed home give it a good wash to remove any residues from processing.

This warning also applies to orthopedic beds for senior dogs. The foam used in egg crate foam and memory foam can release gases from harmful chemicals

How to determine the right size bed

When choosing a bed for your pooch remember to measure your dog from nose to tail and floor to top of head, then add about 5 inches to the width and length to determine the correct size of the bed needed. This will ensure that they have enough room to stretch out when they want.

The Best Dog Beds

EcoFriendly Dog Beds

If social and environment safety is the most important feature to you then these Certified B Corporation Pet supply companies are what you are looking for.

What’s a B Corp? Per their website “It is a certification for companies that aim for a more balanced “triple bottom line”—measuring success not just by profit, but how they treat people and our planet. Certified by the non-profit B Lab, B Corps hold an above-and-beyond commitment to healthier employees, sustainable practices, transparency, and accountability.” Below are 4 pet supply companies that are certified B corp and produce eco friendly beds.

West Paw

Only Natural Pet

P.L.A.Y Pet Lifestyle and You

Found My Animal

Best Dog Beds for Large Dogs – Made in USA

Note: As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Big Barker 7″ Orthopedic Dog Bed with Pillow-Top (Headrest Edition)

Likes

Beds are made with dense foam suited for larger/heavier dogs
7” foam bed compare to 4” used by the other foam bed companies
Beds are sized bigger than other large sized beds
Removable/Washable Microfiber Cover
Waterproof liner (extra cost)
Guarantees that the foam will retain 90% of original shape & loft for 10 years or your money back
Made in the USA: Handmade by in their small California workshop
Certified Certi-PUR-US^®

Dis-likes

Although not the most expensive bed on the market these beds are pricey
Comes in basic solid colors
Not chew proof – If you have a heavy chewer these beds may not be right for you
Made for the weight of large dogs only. Too hard for smaller dogs or large lighter weight dogs
Waterproof liner is an extra cost

Buy a Big Barker 7″ Orthopedic Dog Bed with Pillow-Top (Headrest Edition) at Amazon

Best Dog Beds For small/medium sized dogs – Made in the USA

There are many more options for medium and small sized dogs then large dogs. Here are two of our favorites:

Big Barker Jr
The West Paw Heyday

Big Barker Mini

Likes

Provides the same great quality and foam technology as the Big Barker Beds for larger dogs, but specially calibrated for small & medium size dogs.
Beds are made with dense foam suited for small and medium sized dogs
Removable/Washable Microfiber Cover
Waterproof liner (extra cost)
Guarantees that the foam will retain 90% of original shape & loft for 10 years or your money back
Made in the USA: Handmade by in their small California workshop
Certified Certi-PUR-US^®

Dis-likes

Comes in basic solid colors
Not chew proof – If you have a heavy chewer these beds may not be right for you
Waterproof liner is an extra cost

Buy a Big Barker Mini Orthopedic Dog Bed at Amazon

West Paw Design Heyday

Likes

Made with durable micro suede that resists stains and scratching
Easy to wipe clean or wash in a washer and dryer for a deep cleaning
Has an antimicrobial protection that repels odor
Eco-friendly – Beds are filled with a thick 100% recycled IntelliLoft polyfill made from recycled plastic bottles
Proudly handcrafted in the USA
Replacement parts are available
Certified B Corporation – Certified B Corps are businesses that meet the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, public transparency, and legal accountability to balance profit and purpose.

Dis-likes

Middle cushion is not a plumb as other beds
Not waterproof
Cost more than average dog beds

Buy a West Paw Design Heyday Dog Bed at Amazon

Majestic Pet Faux Suede Nesting Bagel bed for all sized dogs

Likes

Designed for comfort, the bolster and waterproof middle cushion will keep your pup warm and cozy.
Machine washable: small and medium beds can be washed in oversized washer; larger beds come with a washable slipcover
Base of bed is made of waterproof 300/600 denier for unwanted accidents or spills
Eco-friendly – Filled with recycled Polyester Fiber-fill
Stuffing is hypoallergenic for dogs with allergies
Assembled in USA

Dis-likes

Slipcovers are only available on 40-inch & 52-inch bagel beds
Uses imported materials

Buy a Majestic Faux Suede Nesting Bagel bed at Amazon

Conclusion

We like the beds listed and would purchase them for our dogs. However in the end, only you can decide that is best for your dog. Make sure to carefully evaluate your options and then go for it. They will love you no matter which bed you pick.

Looking for some more dog inspired ideas? Check out these posts:

Boredom Buster Ideas for Your Dog

Boredom Busters for Dogs: Ways to Entertain Your Dog

Being stuck in the house all day is no fun for you or your dog. Too many days stuck inside without adequate exercise can cause your dog to become stressed. In turn that stress can cause bad behaviors; like barking or destroying your belongings. One of the best ways to provide your pup with physical and mental exercise is to go on daily walks. But sometimes we just cannot get outside. All is not lost. You can still give your dog plenty of exercise with games and activities you can do inside your home. Join us as we show you 15 boredom busters for dogs.

How Much Exercise Does My Dog Need?

The amount of exercise your pup needs dependents on their age, health and energy level. Some experts say that breed affects a dog’s energy level. To a certain extent this is true, but within the same breed you can find dogs with more or less energy. In the end no two dogs are alike and you need to decide what your dog’s energy level is. Our English Springer Spaniel had a very high energy level. She could chase a ball for an hour with few rest periods in between. Our Rat doodle, with her short legs, can become tired after just a few times of chasing the ball in the house.

So how do you determine the correct amount of exercise for your dog? Pay attention to your dog. Your dog will let your know when they have had enough. For example, let’s say you are playing a game of fetch, when your dog starts to become tired they will start taking breaks. Our Rat doodle goes to the couch with her ball when she has had enough play time. This might be harder to see if you are out on a walk. But I have noticed that our dogs will start to slow down as they get tired.

Just keep in mind that one play session or walk is probably not enough daily exercise for your pup. Most dogs will benefit from a combination of walks and play sessions with you throughout the day.

There are signs that your pup is not getting enough exercise. These include weight gain, destructive behaviors, hyperactivity, and barking or whining. For more signs of boredom in your dog, PetMD has a great article titled: 6 Signs Your Dog Isn’t Getting Enough Exercise.

How to Tell if Your Dog is Bored?

You can tell when a dog is bored by the trouble they get into. It’s not that they want to get into trouble, it’s just that the things they find entertaining are not entertaining to you. These activities include:

Barking
Destructive Chewing
Exploring off limit areas, like the garbage
Digging
Excessive licking or chewing their paws or other areas of their body
Running around the house
Jumping on you
Biting or pulling on you
Whining
Escaping
Excessive sleeping
Stealing personal items

When our Golden Retriever wanted attention he would steal something of ours. It was generally a piece of clothing. He would then taunt us with the item until we reacted. At which point he would run away. If we didn’t follow he would parade past us to make sure we knew what he had. Thankfully he never destroyed any of the things he stole. He just wanted to play a game of chase. To keep your dog from stealing your clothes check out these boredom busters for dogs.

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15 Boredom Busters for Dogs

Teach Your Dog a New Trick

The first idea on our list of boredom busters for dogs is teaching your dog a new trick. Dogs were originally domesticated to work side by side with humans. But these days most dogs are family pets, so teaching them a new trick is a great way to reinforce your relationship. To get started here are a few tips:

Break the trick into small steps
Generously reward your dog with a high value treat each time they do something right or close to right
Don’t reprimand them when they don’t do it correctly
Make sure to reward your dog right away
Be consistent with training

Before you can start teaching your dog new tricks, it is important that they know the basic commands such as sit, down, stay, come and release.

There are plenty of books and videos available on how to train your dogs to do basic commands and advanced tricks.

Boredom Busters for Dogs: 101 Dog Tricks

The one I used is the 101 Dog Tricks by Kyra Sundance and her pup Chalcy. It starts out with step by step instructions for the four basic commands; sit, down, stay and come. Then it moves on to harder tricks. The best part is this book is available at most libraries. Check out your library’s eBook select to see if you can check out it out today. You can also find 101 Dog Tricks by Kyra Sundance at Amazon.com

Create an Indoor Agility Obstacle Course

The second idea on our list of our boredom busters for dogs is agility training. Agility training can be a lot of fun for you and your dog. It not only provides physical and mental exercise for your dog, but it is another great way to for you to bond. However you need to be careful when setting up your agility course to ensure you don’t hurt your pup. Remember only you know what your pup is capable of doing. Watch what they do naturally and build a course based on that.

Note: At home agility training for young dogs and puppies should not include jumps. Jumping can cause injury to young dogs and puppies. Please speak to your veterinarian to determine when your dog will be ready to attempt the jumps.

There are a variety of obstacles in an agility course. Not everything was easy to recreate. We were able to recreate the weaving course, a low jump and a tunnel obstacle from things we had around the house.

Tunnel

Boredom Busters for Dogs: Agility Training

This is an easy obstacle to recreate using a children’s tunnel. If you have kids there is a chance you already have one lying around. If you look at the picture to the right you will see we placed two yoga mats on each side of the tunnel. We did this to stop the tunnel from rolling while our dog is trying to get inside. Many dogs will be frightened by the movement and will not attempt to enter the tunnel

If your pup is not willing to go through the tunnel you can lure them inside by placing treats in the tunnel. Leave a trail of treats inside the tunnel for them to follow. Give your dog plenty of time to warm up to the idea of entering the tunnel.

If you don’t have a tunnel handy or if it is too small for your dog, you can get an agility tunnel that is made for dogs. These tunnels are 18′ long and have a 24′ wide opening providing a larger space to crawl through. A kid’s tunnel is generally 6′ long and has a 19″ opening. The HDP 18 Ft Dog Agility Training Tunnel shown above is available at amazon.com

Jump

For the jump obstacle we used a yoga mat and two chairs. Since we didn’t want to take a chance of hurting our pup we kept the jump low. If you need a higher jump you can raise the yoga mat with some books. Remember to start the jumps low. If it is too easy you can raise it a little, but be mindful that you don’t raise it too much. Dog are prone to injury when jumping. All it takes is landing wrong to get hurt.

To teach this trick have your dog, sit on the opposite side of the yoga mat from you. With a treat in your hand call your dog to you. Hopefully they will jump over the mat to get the treat. However, some dogs may simply go around the mat to get to you. That is what our pup did the first time we tried. To teach your dog to jump over the mat instead of going around it place the mat between two objects that block any other way to get to the treat. Here we used our kid’s small soft chairs. Now your dog will have no other choice but to hop over the mat to get to you.

Weaving

The last obstacle we created in our course was the weaving poles. Here we used our yoga mats standing on their end and one roller. You can also use wrapped paper towel rolls as the poles.

This trick is a little harder to teach your pup. If you have ever watched a dog agility contest you might have noticed that some trainers use a stick to guide the dog through the obstacles. This is called a lure stick.

To teach the weaving obstacle we created our own lure stick using a chopstick and a treat stuck on the end. When Bella completed the trick we would give her a different treat so that the stick stayed together.

Use this stick to guide your puppy around the mats. Most dogs will follow the treat around the poles. Before you start guiding them through the poles give them a command like weave. That way they will associate the command with an action. Each time they complete one round of weaving give them a treat. Soon they will learn that weaving in and out of the poles on command earns them a treat.

Give Them An Interactive Toy

Next on our list of boredom busters for dogs are interactive toys. These can be toys that you play with your dog or challenging dog toys that can keep your dog entertained on their own.

Pole and Bait toys

A pole and bait toy is a fun interactive dog toy that can be used in a confined space. It is basically a large version of a cat toy. The idea is you control the bait by swinging around the pole as your pup tries to catch the bait. We got the Vee Chase and Pull toy after it was suggested by our trainer.

There are a few versions of this toy. In our post Pole and Bait Toys: Why You Should Get One we review the two top selling pole and chase toys including the one we have.

Large Hard Ball

The first time I saw these extra-large balls was in a training video. The video had nothing to do with the ball, except that the trainer gave the extra-large ball to their dog at the end of the training as a reward. You could tell it was the dog’s favorite toy.

The largest one I could find is the Jolly Pets Push and Play Dog ball. It comes in two large sizes 10″ and 14 “. It is available at Amazon.com

Snuffle Mat

The Snuffle Mat has become a very popular canine enrichment tool for many people. Most snuffle mats consists of long strips of fabric tied to a rubber mat. Treats are then hidden under the strips of fabric. Dogs need to use their sense of smell to sniff out where the treats are hidden.

You can purchase a snuffle mat like the Paw5 wooly snuffle mat pictured here or create your own using a rubber dish and strips of fleece. The Honest Kitchen has easy to understand instructions. Just make sure to supervise your dog when using a snuffle mat. Heavy chewers will be able to tear the material off the mat.

Paper Egg Carton Puzzle

This is a simple and inexpensive food puzzle for your dog. Simply place pieces of dog treats in a clean paper egg carton. Make sure to close the carton then watch as they try to figure out how to get the treats out. Make sure to supervise your dog while they have the egg carton to ensure they do not ingest the paper.

Stuffed Treat Ball

Hol-ee Roller Ball is available at Amazon.com

The Hol-ee Roller Ball is a round ball with holes that allow you to stuff treats into it. You can use large treats like shown here or wrap smaller treats in cloth. By wrapping the treats in a cloth you can create a food puzzle for your dog. If you get the larger size Hol-ee Roller ball you can also stuff a ball in it.

The Hol-ee Roller ball is made out of soft flexible rubber which allows a dog to bend and stretch it to get the treats out. It is not indestructible and should not be given to your dog without supervision. Our pup liked to play tug a war with ours and ripped the thin rubber strip so we had to take it away.

Play a Game with your Dog

Another one of our boredom busters for dogs ideas is playing games with them. Playing a game with your dog not only gives you both some exercise but it can also help you bond with your dog. Here are a few games you can play inside with your dog.

Bella looking for someone to play ball with

Indoor Game of Fetch

Just because you don’t have a lot of space inside doesn’t mean you can’t play a game of fetch. Just use a soft ball and don’t throw it as hard. Also instead of throwing the ball you can roll it. When we lived in a ranch style home we had a long straight path that went from one end of the house all the way to the other end. We used that as our fetch area for our puppy Molly. Every night we would play fetch inside with her before bedtime.

Make sure to clear away anything that might get broken, like picture frames on the wall. The only downside to playing fetch in our hallway was that we ended up with round dirt marks on our walls. But that could be easily cleaned.

Monkey in the Middle

Don’t have enough space to play a game of fetch, try playing monkey in the middle with your dog as the monkey. If you have never played this game, it is a simple game where two people throw a ball back and forth. The object of the game is that the middle person needs to try to steal the ball as it is throw past him. To play the game with your dog, sit or kneel on the ground and throw the ball over your dog’s head to the other person. Your dog will run back and forth trying to catch the ball. Just make sure your dog is able to steal the ball from time to time otherwise they may lose interest in the game or get frustrated.

The Cup Game

This is the canine version of the shell game. To play you will need three large cups and a treat. Show the treat to your pup then place it under a cup. Move the cups around on the floor. When you stop give your dog the “go find” command. If they don’t know that command simply give them the command and then show them were the treat is. After a couple of rounds they will quickly understand what they are supposed to do.

Tug-a-War

I am not sure why dogs love playing tug-a-war so much but they do. Tug-a-war ropes can be made out of rope or fleece. You can also make your own out of fleece by braiding fleece material. We use the Made in the USA, Knots for Fun; Tug Toy for dogs. I prefer the soft fleece used in this toy over the rope tug toys. This is due to my dog’s gums becoming irritated with the stiffer rope toys. So far the Knots for Fun tug robe has held up well with our pup. But it is not indestructible and you should not allow your dog to chew on it unsupervised.

Send Them On A Hunt

Another one of the boredom busters for dogs are hide and seek games. Dogs love to use their noses to find an object. There are many different types of hunting games. Here are a few options:

Play Hide and Seek with Treats

This is a simple game to teach your dog. However in order to play this game you need to teach your dog to sit and stay even when they cannot see you.

To play this game you will need a small high value treat to hide in several places. We generally use a large sized treat that we break into smaller pieces. Just make sure you don’t give your dog too many treats. The treat needs to be high value so your dog will want to search for it.

Once you have your treats handy give your dog the sit and stay command. Then hide the treats in the area you want your dog to search. Do not place them in an area where your dog can potentially do harm. Then go back to your dog and show him a treat you did not hide. Now tell him to “go find”. At first your dog will not actually know what you are asking him to do. You will need to go around with him showing him where the hidden pieces are. After a few times, your pup should learn the command.

To start place the treats where they can be easily found. As your dog begins to understand the game you can hide them better.

Play Hide and Seek with Toys

Once they get the hang of the hide and seek you hide their toys instead. This version might be a little harder to teach. They must first be attached to their toys and know what they are called. Always remember to give them a treat when they find the toy.

Hope you enjoyed our Boredom Busters for Dogs post

Walking a Dog in the Rain: A Survival Guide

For dog owners and dog walkers a like, rain days can mean wet walks with their favorite pooch. That often translates into wet, smelly fur and muddy paws in the house. And if you don’t prepare before heading out, you can end up with a wet, smelly home. If you have doodle with long hair, walking a dog in the rain can also mean fur mats. But unless you want your dog to go to the bathroom inside the house, you’ll need to take them out for potty breaks. Join us as we share our Survival Guide to Walking a Dog in the Rain. Here you will find the hidden dangers of walking a dog in the rain. Plus find tips on how to stay dry and deal with the mess.

Should I Walk My Dog in the Rain?

You will find that many dogs, even ones that like the water, will not enjoy walking in the rain. Our poodle mix hates going out in the rain. If your dog is not the rain loving type, I suggest you skip the walk. Instead just take them out for quick potty breaks.

Even if your dog loves walking in the rain you should think twice before taking them on a long walk. There are hidden dangers with walking your dog in the rain that you might not have thought of. Here are five things you need to consider before you take your dog for a walk in the rain.

Lightning

Although rare there is a change that you can be struck by lightning while walking out in a storm. If you are near a body of water that risk increases. Also lightning and thunder can frighten a dog. This may cause your dog to break free and run into traffic.

Low visibility

Heavy rain can make it difficult for drivers to see you and your pup in the street. It can also impair your vision.

Weather may change for the worst

Storms tend to increase in intensity. What might have started as a light rain could turn into a heavy downpour before you are able to seek shelter.

Falling trees

There is an increased risk of being struck by a falling tree or tree limb during a storm. This is probably more common than getting struck by lightning.

Puddles

Puddles pose a threat to your dog both when it is raining and when the skies have cleared. This is because standing water can harbor dangerous bacteria that can cause your dog to become ill. In the Rainy Day Dangers for Dogs post on PetMD.com, Dr. Sarah Tauber, a veterinarian at DoveLewis Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Hospital states “Leptospirosis and giardia are two infectious agents that can potentially result when dogs consume diseased water [found in puddles],”

Puddles can also be dangerous if toxins like motor oil, antifreeze or lawn chemicals have spread to puddles during rainfall. These toxins can be consumed by your dog, either by drinking the water directly or by licking their paws after stepping in the puddle.

Can Dogs Get Sick from Walking in the Rain?

While rain itself generally will not cause harm to your pup, standing rainwater can harm your pup. Dogs can become sick by ingesting contaminated rainwater either by drinking from a puddle or by licking it off their paws. In addition, dogs can get sick if they are exposed to wet, cold weather for too long. In same post Rainy Day Dangers for Dogs, Dr. Tauber states that “If dogs are exposed to wet, cold weather for too long, their respiratory tract can become inflamed, which may lead to pneumonia,”

To learn more about the dangers of walking your dog in the rain please read the PetMd.com post on Rainy Day Dangers for Dogs

Tips for Walking a Dog in the Rain

Here are 5 information packed tips on how to make dog walks in the rain a breeze.

1. Check the weather

Walking a Dog in the Rain: A Survival Guide

You may have noticed that rain often comes in cycles. It is common to have either light rain or no rain in between harder downpours. Therefore, you should plan your day accordingly by checking the weather forecast for your area. You can get a clearer picture of what the day will bring by using local weather radar maps. Above is the radar map from Accuweather.com. By using the future feature (see red arrow above) you can see when there will be breaks in the rain.

Waiting for your normal walk time or when your dog needs to go out may result in you having to go out in a downpour.

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2. Be Prepared for the Weather

You should prepare for the rainy season before it comes. That means having the right tools gear when you need it. The last thing you want to be doing to searching the closets looking for your rain gear when your pup needs to go out. Here are some items you might want on hand to make going outside in the rain with your dog easier.

For you

If you are just going out for a quick potty break an extra-large umbrella works well to keep you both dry. It’s the only way to get our pup will go out the door.

You can find large sized umbrellas in stores or online. The G4Free Golf Umbrella pictured to the left comes in three sizes: 54″, 62″, and 68″. You can also choose between 22 color combinations. The canopy is vented to allow wind to pass through it while still keeping you dry. You can find the G4Free Golf Umbrella on Amazon.com

However umbrellas may be less feasible if you are going on a long walk. Between holding the leash, umbrella and a poopy bag we just don’t have enough hands. Instead, use a long raincoat with a hood or a hooded poncho to keep dry. Don’t forget the rain boots.

SaphiRose Hooded Rain Poncho with pockets for Adults. Available at Amazon.com

For your dog

Before heading outside, check the temperature outside. If it’s raining and cold, you’ll need to be sure your dog is protected from the elements. Excessive exposure to the cold rain can result in hypothermia.

This is especially true for smaller dogs and dogs that have short hair and a single coat. These types of dogs usually don’t have the protection of a thick coat to keep them warm. To learn more about how to decide if your dog needs a sweater read our post Does Your Dog Need a Sweater in the Winter?

RC packable Rain Poncho is available at Amazon.com

Whether your pup has a thick coat of fur or not, getting them a rain coat and boots to help keep them dry and mud free. Just keep in mind that some dogs will be unwilling to wear them at first.

You can find doggy raincoats with and without an insulating layer to provide the right amount of coverage for your pup. Raincoats for dogs also come in varying degrees of coverage. Some will cover the entire body and legs with just enough open space for the dog to relieve themselves and others only cover the back. If your pooch doesn’t mind wearing a raincoat get one that at least covers their head, back, legs and underside.

However, if they are not the type to wear a full body raincoat, try a less restrictive rain coat that covers their head, back and part of their stomach. Here are 5 raincoat ideas for your dog.

Paw care

It’s important to properly care for your pup’s paws. Walking in the rain can expose your dog to chemicals that wash out from lawns or are left behind by cars. Dog boots are a great option to protect your pup from these dangerous chemicals. Plus they will keep your pup’s paws from getting wet and muddy. There are many dog boots available. What boot is best for you will depend on where you live. If you live in a colder climate then insulated boots might be best. If the cold is not an issue simple rubber boots will work to keep their paws clean and dry. Either way look for boots that are sturdy, well-fitting and have non slip grips on the bottom.

How to get a dog to wear boots?

Most dogs will not like the idea of wearing boots at first. So don’t whip them out the first day it rains and try to put them on. You will need to introduce the boots to your dog slowly. Begin by letting them smell the boots. You may even want to leave the boots out where your pup can smell them at their own pace. Then when you put the boots on your dog give them lots of treats. This works best with two people. As one person puts on the boots have another person give your pup small bits of a high value treat. Once they are on, distract your pup with their favorite game or toy. Do this a few times before you try going for a walk in them.

3. Before you leave prepare for your return

Having everything in place for your return will make drying your pup a breeze. Before leaving the house, make sure to spread out a super absorbent machine washable rug in your entryway. That way the rug will soak up the rain and mud you will both track inside. If one rug is not large enough to cover most of the floor, use more. Old towels will work too but you may find that you will need a lot more towels on the floor to soak up the mess.

Tip: Use two or more small rugs to cover the area instead of one large rug. Using small rugs will make it easier to wash them.

Keep old towels within close reach of the door to drape over your dog’s head as soon as you come in. The draped towel will help stop him from shaking all the rain and mud onto your walls and floors.

Keep a low bucket of water with a mild dog shampoo mixed in waiting next to the door. That way you can dunk your pup’s paws in and clean the mud off.

Tip: Depending on how long your walk lasts you can leave out warmer water then you would normally use on your dog. By the time you come back the water should be the right temperature.

4. Plan your walk

Carefully choose your route – Think about what areas on your walk may contain puddles or muddy areas and avoid them by picking another route. Also if you live in an urban environment stay away from busy streets where you may be splashed by a passing car.
Look for shelter – If possible go for a walk in areas that provide shelter from the rain.
Shorten the route – Instead of going on a long walk, take a short walk and then spend time playing inside with your dog.
Visibility – Make sure you can be seen by other people, especially drivers. Wear bright colors or clothes with reflective strips to ensure you can be seen by others. Also cloudy days are always darker, again affecting your ability to see dangers or be seen by others.
Bring water – If you are going for a longer, walk bring water for your dog so they won’t be tempted to drink form a puddle.

5. When you get back

Once you get back inside and before your dog is able to shake off the water, drape the towel you laid out earlier on their back. Dogs are less likely to shake with a towel on them. Quickly start drying off their back and legs. If they are wearing a full raincoat and boots the cleanup should be easy.

If they went out without a raincoat, use a super absorbent towel to dry them as much as you can For dogs with long fur, you should use a slicker to brush out tangles before they become full blown mats.

The Bone Dry DII Microfiber Dog Bath Towel comes highly rated. You can find it on Amazon.com

Clean their muddy paws by dipping them in the soapy water you set out before going on your walk. Just remember to check the water temperature before dunking your dog’s paws in.

You need to make sure that you completely rinse and dry your dog’s paws to prevent cracking. Wet paws can encourage the development of fungi.

If you have one, use a pet friendly hair dryer to completely dry their fur. Be careful not to hold the dryer to close to your pet or let it get too hot.

There you have it. Everything we know about the dangers of walking a dog in the rain. Plus the tips and tricks we have used over the years to deal with rainy days. Hopefully we helped make walking your dog in the rain easier for you.

The Best Dog Harness for Doodles

Why We Use a Dog Harness For Our Doodle

I love our little bundle of fur, but walking her has become a chore. She is gets easily excited when outside. This translates into her pulling on her leash. Since we use a collar this is a concern, but the real problem is when she sees a squirrel. Her instinct is to chase the squirrel even though she can’t run freely. The short chase usually ends with her jerking her neck when she reaches the end of the leash. So in order for her not to hurt herself, we decided to switch to a harness while working on leash training. Problem solved, right? Well, as any doodle parent can tell you, doodles mat easily, especially when something rubs their fur, which can be an issue with harnesses. So to find the best dog harness for doodles, I asked doodle parents which harnesses caused the least amount of matting.

Why Are Dog Collars Dangerous?

Before we go any further let’s take a closer look at why dog collars are dangerous. Imagine that while you are walking your dog, they lug out after a squirrel like my pup. With a collar when your dog reaches the end of the leash they are abruptly stopped. This stop causes your dog to be jerked back towards you. All that force from their running and the sudden stop is focused directly on a small section of their neck. Whether it is from chasing a squirrel or just pulling on their leash, the repeated stress on their neck can lead to long term medical issues. These issues can include: damaging the thyroid glands, the trachea, and the spinal cord.

Even for dogs that are well behaved on a leash there will still be times when you need to react quickly and pull your dog to safety. If you are using a collar the impact of pulling them can cause injury to your pup. Plus your dog can be choked or worst if the collar becomes caught on something. Many dogs have been hung by their collars getting caught on a tree limb or fence post.

What to Look for in a Dog Harness for Doodles

Safety – Is the harness adjustable? The harness should fit snug so your dog cannot slip out of it, but not too tight to cause discomfort to your dog.
Comfort – Is the harness designed to fit comfortable on the dog? Are the materials soft? You don’t want to pick a harness that will irritate your dog’s skin
Durability – You want the harness to last. Is the material sturdy? Can a dog chew through the harness?
Less friction points – The best dog harness for doodles will have less fictions points. This can be done by either reducing the amount of material that touches a doodle’s fur or by using silky materials in the areas that are in contact with the doodle’s fur

What Causes Matting In Doodles?

There are a number of reasons that doodles mat. Here are just a few reasons your doodle can mat:

Doodles that have a curly or wavy coat are more likely to mat than straight coated doodles. This is due to the curly hair wrapping around other hairs. Over time this wrapping of hairs turns into mats.
Friction will speed up the hair becoming tangled together. Friction can be caused by wearing something that rubs against their fur like a collar or harness. It is also be caused by scratching their favorite spot.
Matting can occur when they shed. As the fur falls out it can become entangled with the curly hair. Even low shed doodles shed some hair.
Moisture can cause fur to curl more. Wet fur as it dries will wrap around the other hairs. Again if nothing is done they will become matted.

How To Prevent Matting In a Doodle

The best way to prevent matting is to brush and line comb your pup every day. But not everyone has the time to groom their doodle daily. Another option is to keep your pups hair short, since short hair matts less than long hair. If you need to find a groomer, here are are some things you should know when picking a dog groomer.

It is also best to avoid activities that can speed up matting. This means you should avoid activities that allow your pup to get wet or expose them to unnecessary friction. This is where your choice of harness comes in. To avoid mats caused by friction you want to look for a harness that either has a small contact area or is smooth on the inside.

Friction is also caused by wearing a dog coat. If you have a hardier doodle breed with long hair, wearing a coat in the winter may not be needed. But doodles with short hair or breeds that are not meant for the cold may need to wear a coat for their daily walks during the winter. To help you decide if your dog needs a coat, check out our post on Does your dog need a sweater in the winter?

If you are looking for a dog coat with low friction to avoid matting, check out our review post on the Shedrow K9 Tundra Dog Coat

To find the best dog harness for doodles we asked other doodle parents which harnesses they use for their doodles.

Dog Harness Types

Before we get into the recommendations it is important to understand the different types of harness. Depending on the manufacturer, harnesses are either classified by how they are put on a dog or by where the leash attachment is.

Step In Harness

As the name implies your dog steps into the harness straps, which are then pulled up and closed with a top closure. It takes fewer steps to get a step in harness on so it is easier to use with dogs that will not stay still

Over Head Harness

The overhead harness is put on a dog by first slipping the harness over their head before closing the bottom clips. These types of harnesses require multiple steps to get the harness on a dog and may be more difficult with dogs that do not stay still.

Front Clip Harness

A front clip harness has the D-ring in front of the dog’s chest. Front clip harnesses were developed as a way to prevent pulling. The idea is that dog will be redirected towards you when they pull on the leash. The issue with the front clip harnesses is that it is easier for the dog to become tangled in the leash.

Back Clip Harness

With a back clip harness the leash is attached to the harness on the back of the dog. A back clip harness allows your dog the most freedom. Since the attachment is away from the ground there is less chance of your dog getting tangled in the leash. However it does little to prevent your dog from pulling.

Dual Clip Harness

As the name implies a dual clip harnesses gives you the option to attach the leash from your dog’s back or front depending on your needs at the time. It is the most versatile of the harness options.

The Best Dog Harness For Doodles

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Easy Walk Harness by Pet Safe

Easy Walk Dog Harness on German Shepherd walking — Easy Walk Harness

First on our list is the Easy Walk Dog Harness by Pet Safe. This harness was the most recommended dog harness for doodles by doodle owners. In addition to being an alternative to using a collar, the Easy Walk Harness is designed to stop “light to moderate pulling”. This is a plus for doodle parents since doodles tend to be large dogs. Based on all the positive reviews the harness seems to work.

Pet Safe Inc. offers two versions of their Easy Walk Harnesses; the Easy Walk Harness and the Deluxe Easy Walk Harness.

Easy Walk Harness

The Easy Walk Harness (pictured left) consists of three thin bands. One that goes under the body just behind the front legs, one that goes over the back and one that goes across the front of the chest. The three bands are attached to each other with rings. The leash attaches to a d-ring which is then attached to the front chest band via a martingale loop. The Easy Walk Harness can be found at Amazon.com

Deluxe Easy Walk Harness

The Deluxe Easy Walk Harness has the same design as the Easy Walk Harness, including the no-pull Martingale leash attachment. What makes it deluxe is the neoprene lined straps for added comfort. Also the manufacturer’s description state that is has “highly visible, reflective strips”, but per the manufacturer the reflective strips are actually reflective stitching. The Easy Walk Harness can be found at Amazon.com

What is a Martingale Loop?

Easy Walk Harness martingale loop. Image is part of the post The Best Dog Harness for Doodles.

The Easy Walk Harness Martingale Loop is a loop that is created by the front harness strap. The d-ring for the leash to be attached is centered in the middle of the loop. When the dog pulls, the tension from the leash pulls on the loop, which pulls the front straps tighter across the chest. The purpose of the loop is to get your dog’s attention when they pull. It also keeps the harness from twisting.

Pro and Cons – Easy Walk Harness

Pros

Ease of use
Reduces Pulling
Less material means less areas of friction
8 Size choices
1 Year Chew Damage Policy

Cons

Harder to put on in the beginning
Can be chewed through
Needs to be readjusted occasionally

Top Considerations

Ease of Use

The main complaint about the Easy Walk Harness is that it is hard to put on at first. However is does become easier to put on once you get the hang of it.

As you can see by the picture to the left there are two body straps with snaps on the harness. One that goes over the back and one that goes under the body. The straps are different colors so you know which one goes where. All the straps on this harness are adjustable to ensure the proper fit.

Tip: The top harness strap is longer than the bottom one. If you have a deep chested dog try reversing the straps. It may provide for a better fit.

Reduces Pulling

The Easy Walk Harness is designed to stop your dog from pulling. Although no harness can completely stop a dog from pulling users of the Easy Walk Harness report reduced pulling and overall improved walking experience.

Easy Sizing

The Easy Walk Harness comes in 8 sizes including three half sizes making it easier to find the correct size for your dog.

1 Year Chew Damage Replacement

Because the Pet Safe Easy Walk Harness has been known to be chewed through by some pups, the company has a 1-year chew damage replacement policy. They will replace the harness for a minimal fee.

Ruffwear Front Range Harness

Blue padded dog harness. Part of The best dog harness for doodles.

The second most recommended dog harness for doodles by doodle owners is the Ruffwear Front Range Harness. This harness is designed for every day comfort. The top, bottom and chest areas are all padded. Plus there are four adjustment points so you can get a great fit. The Ruffwear Front Range Harness can be found at Amazon.com

Pro and Cons – Ruffwear Front Range Harness

Pros

Dual Clip Harness
Reduces pulling
ID section to hold tags
Padded chest and back
Adjustable

Cons

Dog may slip out of harness
Most expensive one in review
Multiple steps to put on

Top Considerations

Dual Clip Harness

Blue harness showing dual loops. - Part of the best dog harness for doodles

The Ruffwear Front Range Harness is a dual clip harness. There is a V-ring on the dog’s back and a reinforced webbed loop located in the front chest area. The front chest loop was designed to resist pulling and offer additional control.

Reduces Pulling

The front loop reduces your dog’s pulling by redirecting them back to you. You can use this harness with both the front loop and back loop for training. However your pup could step on or be tripped by the leash when using the front loop. The main complaint about the front loop is that it is not metal. It is a combination of webbed material and a plastic coating.

ID Pocket

Most dog harnesses does not have a convenient place to keep your pups tags, which means wearing a collar and a harness. However the Ruffwear Front Range Harness offers an ID pocket. The pocket keeps your dog’s tags from jingling, but still easily accessible.

Adjustable

The front shoulder straps and rear straps are adjustable. Helping you get the best fit for your dog. Here is a video by Ruffwear to show you how to adjust the harness to fit your dog.

Sizing

The Ruffwear Front Range Harness only uses one measurement for their sizing.

Ruffwear offers a matching leash for their Front Range Harness. This can be found at Amazon.com

New Earth Soy Comfort Wrap Adjustable Harness

Gray and black pup - Part of The Best Harness for Doodles — New Earth Soy Comfort Wrap Dog Harness

Last on our list of harnesses is the New Earth Soy Comfort Wrap Adjustable Harness by Costal Pet Inc. We use this harness with our Doodle. Here is Bella showing off her harness. Too bad you can’t see it due to her long hair. She is also modeling the harness above in the Harness Yype section of this post.

We discovered the Comfort Wrap Harness at our local specialty pet supply store. The New Earth Costal Pet Comfort Wrap Harness is earth friendly as it’s made from a by-product of the soy food industry. The 100% natural soy fibers are strong and soft to the touch unlike typical nylon harnesses which can be rough. The New Earth Costal Pet Comfort Wrap Harness can found at Amazon.com

Pro and Cons of the New Earth Soy Comfort Wrap Harness

Pros

Soft and comfortable
Easy to get on
Single closure
Less material means less areas of friction
Fully adjustable
7 color choices
Made from Earth Friendly materials

Cons

Does not reduce pulling
Can be chewed through
Needs to be readjusted occasionally
Only 3 sizes
Made in China
Hard to find

Top Considerations

Soft and Comfortable

The top reason to buy a New Earth Soy Comfort Wrap Harness is the material’s softness. It’s great for dogs with sensitive skin. The soft soy fibers won’t irritate like a nylon harness might. Each strap on the comfort wrap harness is adjustable, allowing for a better fit. Plus the front strap sits low across the dog’s chest so it won’t pull against their throat during walks.

Ease of Use

The New Earth Soy Comfort Wrap Harness is very easy to get on your dog. Just lay the harness on the floor and have them step in the straps. The single back closure makes getting it on your dog a snap.

Fully Adjustable

The belly and chest straps are adjustable making it easier to find the right fit. But the limited sizes means that it will not fit all dogs.

Double D-rings on Comfort Wrap Harness part of The Best Harness for Doodles

Added Safety

As an added safety measure the Comfort Wrap Harness offers two D-rings on each side of the closure to ensure the clasp does not open.

Earth Friendly

I am always looking for healthy options for my pup, so I like that it’s made from earth friendly materials and dyes. However, I am disappointed they are not made in the USA. I feel that many of the earth friendly benefits disappear when you consider it needs to be shipped across the ocean.

New Earth Soy collection also offers a 6′ matching leash to go with the Comfort Wrap Dog Harness. The matching leash an be found at Am a zon.com

How to Choose the Right Size Dog Harness for Doodles

No harness will be able to fit every dog. Just like people dogs come in all different shapes and sizes. You may need to try a few harnesses before your find the right fit for your dog.

Because every harness uses different points to measure make sure to use the manufacture’s website to find the measuring instructions and size chart.

Tip: Take the measurements while your dog is standing rather than sitting. If they are sitting the measurements may be off.

How to Check for Proper fit

The harness should fit snuggly against your doodle’s fur, but you should still be able to place two fingers between the strap and the dog. Check all straps on the harness to see if they fit properly.

In addition to checking the straps, look at the overall fit of the harness. You should not see gaps nor should there be pulling. If you see the skin bunched up that is an indication that the harness is too tight. When you walk with your dog there should be minimal movement in the harness. Also look for irritation spots and indentations when you take off the harness.

Lastly, check to see if you can pull the harness off by pulling on the front straps. Some dogs are able to slip out of front clip harness by pulling backwards from the leash attachment. You should not be able to slip it off nor should you see a lot of movement.

Retractable Leash

The Complete Shedrow K9 Tundra Dog Coat Review

Winter Coats for Dogs

As every parent of a doodle knows maintaining their pup’s long coat requires daily brushing. Without frequent brushing their fur can become matted. The alternative is to keep their fur short. This is what we do. But since we were in the middle of winter and her next grooming appointment was in just a couple of weeks, we were debating if we should cut her hair short again. Our main concern with cutting it short was that she would get too cold on our daily winter walks. If we let her fur grow out she may end up all matted. In the end we decided to cut her fur short and look for a warm winter coat. After some looking around and research we chose the Shedrow K9 Tundra Dog Coat.

About Shedrow K9

It appears that the Shedrow line of horse apparel is a brand of Greenhawk Equestrian Sport in Canada. The tag on the Tundra Dog Coat stated that the dog winter coats were fashioned after the company’s Shedrow line of horse blankets. The canine product line was introduced in Canada to the equestrian community 25 years ago. It is currently sold in the USA at local pet shops and by Greenhawk Equestrian Sport through Amazon.com.

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Shedrow K9 Tundra Winter Dog Coat in Perfectly Plum

Shedrow K9 Tundra Winter Coat for Dogs

Here are the many reasons we chose the Shedrow K9 Tundra Dog Winter Coat.

Ease of Use

What first drew us to the Shedrow K9 Tundra winter dog coat was how easy it was to put on our pup. To make sure we chose the right size, we tried it on her while we were still in the store. Since it only has two closures to deal with it was very quick to put it on her. Also she didn’t seem to mind putting it on even though this was the first time she had ever worn any type of clothing.

Although I wish the under belly strap covered more of her underside, I do like that the strap is extra wide with a large hook and loop pad to keep the strap in place.

Shedrow K9 Tundra Winter Dog Coat with belly strap open

Adjustable Fit

The hook and loop straps that go across the chest and under the belly are adjustable to ensure a good fit. You can see the front closure in the below picture. Although Bella is long and somewhat stocky, she has a narrow front. But with the adjustable hook and loop we can get the perfect fit.

There are also adjustable leg straps that keep the rear of the coat in place. These straps are thin so you don’t have to worry about them getting in the way of your dog going to the bathroom.

Shedrow K9 Tundra Winter Dog Coat Back Leg Strap

Quality Construction

The Tundra Dog Winter Coat looks like it is made to last. The coat has a wind and water-resistant 420 denier outer shell which will help keep her dry during snowy winter walks. Plus the 200 gram polyfill and fleece lining seems to keep our pup toasty warm even when her hair is cut short. I like that it has double stitching on the trim and reflective piping. Though, I wish they would have double stitched the trim on the belly band too.

Tailored Fit

Yet another feature that I liked about the Shedrow K9 Tundra Winter Dog Coat was the tailored fit in the rear. Unlike other dog coats that just lay on the rear of the dog, the tundra is tailored so it hugs your dog’s rear keeping the cold air out. The back leg bands help keep the coat snug.

Shedrow K9 Tundra Winter Dog Coat Fitted Rear

Multiple Sizes

One of the great features I liked about this coat was that it came in 9 different sizes. That’s about 4 more sizes than your average dog coat. The multiple size options mean a better fit for your dog. At only 18 pounds I consider our dog to be small. But even though she has short legs, her body is long and her chest is wide. We first tried on a small. Although it fit her, it seemed a bit small. Next we tried the Medium/Small. I had never heard of a medium/small but it fit her perfectly. As it turns out the medium/small is for sized for a Dachshund and a Corgi. These are two breeds that also have long, stocky bodies.

Machine Washable

The Shedrow K9 Tundra dog coat is machine washable. Just close all the velcro strips and wash in cold water on the gentle cycle. Make sure to wash it with like colors. The coat can then be hung to dry. You can find complete washing instructions at Shedrow K9 Washing Instructions

Possible Improvements

Although I really like the Shedrow K9 Tundra Winter Dog Coat there were a few issues with the coat.

Limited Coverage – I wished the coat covered more of the underside of my dog. A wider belly strap might help. If you are looking for a coat with more coverage the Shedrow K9 Chinook Winter Dog Coat might be a better choice. In addition to the greater coverage it is also waterproof. The Shedrow K9 Chinook Winter Dog Coat is available at Amazon.com

Shedrow K9 Chinook Winter Dog Coat Available at Amazon.com

Not Waterproof – The Tundra Winter Coat is only water and wind resistan unlike the Shedrow K9 Chinook Winter Dog Coat available at Amazon.com.

Fleece Liner Holds Fur – Basically, the fleece liner is a magnet for dog fur. If you have a low shed dog like I do it will not matter. But if you have a high shed dog and hair on clothes drives you nuts, you may want to go with the Shedrow K9 Glacier Winter Coat .This coat has a smooth inner lining that claims to repel hair. At a minimum it should not attract the hair like the fleece doses. The Shedrow K9 Glacier Winter Coat is available at Amazon.com

Shedrow K9 Glacier Winter Coat — Shedrow K9 Glacier Winter Dog Coat

No Place for Harness Loop – When I was researching this coat I noticed the only complaint about the coat was that it was missing a space for a harness loop to go through. I am not sure if this is a negative or a positive issue. On one hand water cannot leak through the harness hole. But on the other hand you need to attach the leash to the harness above where the coat sits. As you can see from the picture you can easily attach the leash to the harness this way. We use an Earth Soy Dog Comfort Wrap Harness that sits high on the back. The Earth Soy Dog Comfort Wrap Harness is available at Amazom.com

Shedrow K9 Tundra Winter Dog Coat with Harness Loops Sticking Out

Where to find the Shedrow K 9 Tundra Winter Dog Coat

You can find the Shedrow K9 Tundra coat at premium local pet supply shops or on Amazon.com

Other Dog Coat Options from Shedrow

The Shedrow K9 product line offers a variety of winter coat options based on your dog’s needs. Here are their other winter options:

The Shedrow K9 Glacier Winter Dog Coat which is available at Amazon.com features a wind and water-resistant 600 denier ripstop outer shell with 200 gram polyfill perfect for winter weather. The Smooth inner lining helps repel fur.

The Shedrow K9 Chinook coat which is alos available at Amazon.com provides the most coverage out of all the Shedrow winter dog coats. It is designed with cold climates in mind. The waterproof outer shell, cozy fleece lining and 140 gram cotton fill should keep your pup warm. The coat features a full-coverage Y-shaped belly band for extra chest and belly protection. A Sherpa lined collar completes the look.

The Shedrow K9 Aspen Winter Dog Coat features a multi-weave traditional plaid exterior with a soft, black fleece lining. You can find the Shedrow K9 Aspen Winter Dog Coat at Amazon.com