But as irresistible as these squishable mounds of sugar are, can dogs eat marshmallows with you? Are there any benefits to tossing your dog a sweet treat every once in a while or should you stick with healthy dog treats? And what should you do if your dog has sneakily chowed down on a bag of marshmallows while you were away?

Whip up a cup of hot cocoa because we’ve got the answers to all of your marshmallow questions!

Can dogs eat marshmallows?

While most marshmallows are not technically toxic to dogs, the widespread consensus is that dogs should not eat them. Not only do marshmallows offer no nutritional value, but their high sugar content can have both short term and long term negative health effects, such as tooth decay, pancreatitis, heart disease and hypertension. 

While your dog may love the taste of marshmallows in the moment, they could start to feel sick to their stomach shortly after their special treat. If you’ve ever overindulged in marshmallows yourself, you know that it’s a quick way to ruin a perfectly good time.

Marshmallows that contain the chemical sweeter, xylitol, do pose a risk of toxicity in dogs and should be considered dangerous. In some cases, xylitol can trigger a drop in blood sugar and strain on the liver that can be life-threatening if not treated.

One other thing to consider with marshmallows is that they can pose a choking hazard to dogs. Because the texture is not hard or crunchy, your dog may try to swallow the whole thing without chewing. This is made worse by the fact that your dog’s sweet receptors are located on the back of their tongue.

Can dogs eat marshmallows as a very special treat?

Given that the majority of marshmallows are not toxic, you don’t have to worry about your dog eating one that fell between the couch cushions. And, if you really feel the need, you can share one or two marshmallows with your furry friend the next time you and the family are roasting marshmallows. 

That said, there are better ways to include Fido in on the fun that doesn’t include scrutinising ingredient labels for xylitol and hoping that he doesn’t have digestive discomfort afterwards. You might consider, for example, having a bag of Waggly Treats on hand when your family is enjoying a few marshmallows. In fact, because dogs are more drawn to all-natural, meaty flavours, your dog will probably prefer the taste of their favourite doggy snack to the sweetness of marshmallows.

To be sure, sharing an occasional treat with your dog is a wonderful way to build a strong bond with your pup and provide them with some mental enrichment. You can be sure that your doggo is getting the most out of the experience by giving them treats that are created just for them! 

What should you do if your dog has eaten more than a few marshmallows?

A couple of marshmallows here and there isn’t likely to be too much of an issue for your dog. But what should you do if you walk into a kitchen with an empty bag of marshmallows and a very suspicious-looking dog? 

Firstly, if the marshmallows contain xylitol, you’ll want to head straight for the vet’s office where they can treat your dog right away.

If the marshmallows did not contain xylitol, your first step will be to call your vet. They may recommend that you come in for immediate treatment before your dog experiences digestive discomfort. Or, they may have you monitor your dog for the following symptoms before coming in:

• Vomiting 
• Diarrhoea
• Panting
• Fatigue 
• Excessive thirst

Make sure that your dog has access to fresh water and a cool area to recuperate in, and take your dog in if you see any further changes to their health status.

How can you prevent your dog from eating marshmallows in the first place?

Once a dog has developed a taste for marshmallows, they might start to drool at the mere sight of the bag. While you will certainly want to limit their access to this sweet treat and warn their dedicated Dog Sitter to hide away the sweets, there are a few things that you can do to phase out your dog’s marshmallow madness:

• Teach them a generalised “leave it” cue. Teaching your dog to leave food that’s fallen on the ground is a valuable skill, and it can prevent a costly trip to the vet if you happen to drop something that is toxic to your dog

• Provide your dog with foraging outlets. Foraging is a natural doggy instinct that can lead to all kinds of naughtiness when you’re away. By giving your dog supervised opportunities to forage, whether with a fun scent tracking game in the backyard or a snuffle mat, your dog may be less inclined to sniff through your kitchen cabinets

• Address any counter-surfing habits. If your dog has a habit of jumping up on the counters, you probably already know to keep the tasty treats safely out of your dog’s reach. At the same time, proactively teaching your dog not to counter surf by offering them treats for a different behaviour can help to phase out the counter cruising entirely. 

Overall, should dogs have marshmallows…yes or no?

Marshmallows range from unhealthy to potentially toxic and should never be considered an appropriate treat for your dog. If they manage to get their chompers on one or two non-xylitol marshmallows (or you simply can’t resist those puppy dog eyes), you don’t have to panic. But, even a few marshmallows here and there can lead to digestive upset and, over time, negative health outcomes.

Instead, give your doggo what they really want, like tasty, all-natural snacks. And work on teaching your doggo not to lunge for the marshmallows with some proactive training. The good news is, more marshmallows for you!

The post Can dogs eat marshmallows? appeared first on Mad Paws.

Let’s get to the answers you’ve bean waiting for!

Can dogs eat baked beans?

The simple answer is no. Dogs should not eat baked beans. This tasty dish contains too much sugar, salt and other seasonings that are not good for doggy digestion or overall health. 

Additional ingredients, like garlic and onions, are what give baked beans their tasty flavour, but they pose a risk of toxicity in dogs. And while tomatoes aren’t technically toxic, their high acidity can lead to digestive upset.

Finally, there’s the issue of preservatives. We love the convenience of a baked beans can, but the truth is, the preservatives that give it a long shelf life can be harmful to our pets.

So, can dogs eat baked beans? The short answer is no.

Can dogs eat baked beans in small quantities? What should I do if my dog ate baked beans?

Now that we’ve established that baked beans should not be part of your doggo’s regular diet, what should you do if your sneaky pup found a way to eat some while you weren’t looking?

First of all, don’t panic. Your dog probably won’t experience a severe outcome from eating a few bites of baked beans. Unless you notice a change in their behaviour or digestion, you can assume that your doggo will be just fine.

If they gobbled down a good amount, then they might experience symptoms of stomach upset like vomiting, diarrhoea, and even fever. In more severe, but rare cases, ingesting large amounts of beans can lead to stomach bloating or digestive blockages. Whatever your dog’s symptoms are after eating baked beans, it’s a good idea to reach out to your vet for further instruction.  

Can dogs eat beans that don’t come in a baked beans can?

As it turns out, the beans themselves aren’t actually the problem when it comes to baked beans. Beans alone can be quite healthy for dogs, as long as they’re of the pup-friendly variety and prepared the pup-friendly way. 

Black beans, green beans, chickpeas, and lima beans are all dog-friendly legumes that are a great source of dietary fibre and health-boosting minerals like iron and magnesium. These beans are also full of vitamins like Vitamin C and K as well as antioxidants and protein.

To prepare these beans for your dog, you’ll want to soak them overnight and then cook them without any oils or seasoning (unless you’ve got some dog-friendly bone broth on hand.) Once the beans are thoroughly cooked, you can serve them in bite sized pieces or blend them up for a spreadable treat for your dog’s puzzle toys.

Some beans require extra care before you feed them to your dog. Fava beans, for example, are typically not recommended for DIY dog treats because they need special processing to become digestible and safe. When prepared the right way, such as in lab-tested dog foods, studies have shown that fava beans are an excellent source of protein and folates.

Are there health risks to feeding beans to your dog?

As with any plant-based food, moderation is important. Dogs are omnivores, but they’re not as efficient at processing fibre as we humans are. As such, too much roughage in their diet can lead to digestive blockages and dangerous gas build-ups.

Beans are typically high-calorie and high-carb foods, so there’s also a risk of throwing off your dog’s overall health by overdoing it with the legumes.

Your dog’s ideal serving size will depend on their unique tolerance to beans as well as their activity levels. Always start with very small portions and make sure that you’re not feeding more than a few spoonfuls of beans per day. If you’re not sure how many beans you can feed your dog, check with your vet.

If you want the nutrition, swap out the baked beans can and the bag of dried beans for something better

At this point, it’s probably clear that beans are not the convenient snack that you might have expected. The answer to the question of, “Can dogs eat baked beans?” is a resounding no. And while unseasoned, cooked beans can offer some health benefits, they also require a good amount of preparation before serving to your dog.

We haven’t even mentioned the fact that your doggo might be one of the many that doesn’t enjoy the taste of plain, cooked beans! 

If you want to give your pupper the nutrition of legumes without the extra effort, you might opt for a meal plan with beans as an ingredient! Mad Paws Dinner Bowl Kibble, for instance, offers options with chickpeas and fava beans so that your dog can get the nutritional boost of the best dog-friendly beans.

When you leave it up to the pros, you can be sure that your dog is getting the ideal amount of legumes in their nutritional plan. And if your furry friend is a picky eater, you won’t have to trick them into eating their plants. They’ll be drooling over their high quality kibble every time they see the bag!

Overall, can dogs eat baked beans?

While your dog can probably tolerate a few nibbles of baked beans, it’s strongly recommended that you do not make it a regular habit. Baked beans are unhealthy and potentially toxic to dogs, and should definitely be enjoyed where they belong: on your plate along with a couple of fried eggs and smoked bacon.

That said, beans are not the problem ingredient in the baked beans can, which means your dog can eat them. As long as they’re cooked, unseasoned, and served in moderation, beans can offer some nutritional benefits to your dog.

At the end of the day, it’s always best to leave the nutritional science to the pros by giving your dog high quality, balanced dog food. 

The post Can dogs eat baked beans? appeared first on Mad Paws.

• Height – 60-69cm

• Weight – 30-50kg

• Lifespan – 10-15 years

• Country of origin – U.K.

• Breed type – Hound group, scent hound

• Best breed for: 

  • First time Dog Owners
  • Families with children
  • Active families

Otterhound Breed History

Englishmen and women living in the Middle Ages may not have been able to eat tomatoes or chocolate (those would come after Europeans set sail to the New World), but you know what they did have? Rivers full of delicious trout, shad and salmon. And while the ruling class didn’t want the freshwater fish anywhere near their lavish feasts, the vast majority of people saw them as an affordable, nutritious source of protein. 

Of course, peasants weren’t the only ones who benefitted from a pescetarian diet. Local predators, including bears and river otters, also enjoyed a fishy meal. As you can probably guess, turf wars ensued, spurring the townsfolk to start breeding a dog who could sniff out the fish-loving wild animals.

Exactly when this all took place is up for debate. But there are records of otter-hunting dogs dating back to Henry II’s reign in the late 12th century. And, when the St. Hubert Hound—predecessor to the Bloodhound—made its way north from Belgium just a short while later, well, that’s when the breed really hit their sniffing stride.

With the athleticism and strength of ancient hunting dogs and the newfound tracking skills of the Belgian hounds, Otterhounds were ready to take on their water-dwelling prey. And, they were so good at otter hunting that the ruling class started to use them for sport during the off season for deer.

It wasn’t until the early 1970s that otter hunting would be banned for good. By then, hunting, habitat loss and water contamination had sadly put river otters on the brink of extinction in the UK. Thankfully, the efforts of conservationists have reversed the trend, with populations increasing over the last few decades.

As for the Otterhounds, saying goodbye to their hunting days has opened them up for new ventures, like the role of family pet or stunning show dog. That said, they are one of the more rare breeds to come from the UK, with only a few hundred registered dogs still in existence around the world.

Otterhound Personality Traits

The fact that Otterhounds aren’t more popular in their homeland or worldwide certainly is not a testament to their temperament. As any Otterhound Owner will tell you, they’re smart, social doggos, apt for family settings and first time Dog Owners. 

For one thing, a well-exercised Otterhound is a gentle giant. While friendly and playful enough to be considered clownish, they are patient and careful around children and other dogs. It’s a joy to watch these gracefully galloping doggos bounce around with furry friends of all shapes and sizes, and you don’t need to worry about them using their large size to dominate other doggos at the dog park.

That said, Otterhounds are hunting dogs, which means that many still have a pretty high prey drive. They need to be well-socialised from puppyhood so that they don’t see very small dogs as prey. And special care should be taken around cats, bunnies, and other small animals.

When it comes to guarding duties, the Otterhound is probably not the best candidate. While they do have a sense of smell to know exactly who or what is in their territory, they’re not very interested in protecting the homestead. That’s not to say, though, that their size and booming bark won’t ward off intruders. Not many would be brave enough to come face to face with the loud and large Otterhound.

Your houseguests, on the other hand, need not be driven away by this shaggy pupper. Otterhounds are happy to introduce themselves politely before giving your visitors space to settle in. These aren’t generally velcro dogs, preferring to retreat to a comfortable snoozing spot than being in your or your houseguests’ personal bubbles.

Finally, we have to talk about the elephant in the room: an Otterhound’s tracking drive. Like most scent hounds, Otterhounds have an instinct to follow their nose, whether or not you’ve given them the go-ahead. For this reason, you might hear them labelled as stubborn. But while it can be a challenge to work with that powerful sniffer, you also have to marvel at their amazing capabilities!

Trainability & Training Tips

Before you run for the hills thinking that the Otterhound is untrainable, remember that this dog is intelligent and people-pleasing. Under the right circumstances, they can be highly trainable dogs! Here are a few ways to help them along:

• Start training as soon as possible. Did we mention that this is a big dog? As such, it’s a good idea to get their basic training done while they’re still small enough to handle. In a blink of an eye, they’ll be full-grown and you’ll be glad that they’ve learned the obedience fundamentals!

• Work on leash training. Again, because of their size, early leash training is a top priority. Scent hounds like the Otterhound will be spending a lot of time on leash outside, and proper leash etiquette will be necessary if you’ll be calling in a dedicated Dog Walker.

• Train in a distraction-free area. Even a well-trained scent hound will struggle to stay focused in an area with lots of sights, smells, and sounds. So, it’s not reasonable to expect that an untrained pupper will learn in a busy environment. Set them up for success by training in an area without distractions.

• • Stock up on all sorts of treats. For a food-motivated doggo like a scent hound, treats are sure to keep your dog engaged in the training session. But don’t get the impression that you have to stick with one kind of treat. In fact, having a range of different flavoured and textured treats is going to make training sessions even more enjoyable for your dog. 

• Don’t shy away from their scent tracking drive. When working with a scent hound, it’s easy to feel like you’re constantly working against their nose. But, the reality is, leaning into their tracking ability can be a huge advantage for training! Get these doggos signed up for formal tracking classes or pick up a few tracking tips to try at home so that you can satisfy this dog’s drive to sniff. When training your dog to do what they were born to do, you’ll build a deep bond that will make general training easier. 

• Know when to call it quits. We won’t pretend that training a scent hound is always an easy experience. There will be times that they are simply not interested in engaging. Instead of powering through training sessions that have gotten out of hand, simply take a break and try again when they’re more receptive. To be sure, that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t fully train an Otterhound. It just means that you may have to squeeze in more frequent, short training sessions throughout the day.

Exercise Needs & Living Conditions

Otterhounds are typically more energetic and bouncy than their meandering cousin, the Bloodhound. They need at least an hour of engaging exercise per day, and even then, they may have some playfulness left over.

In order to keep them physically healthy and mentally happy, consider exercise routines including:

• Swimming. Otterhounds are one of the few hounds that are as comfortable in water as out of it! So, giving them the chance to swim around is a great form of exercise. Keep in mind that a dip in a lake, river or ocean will require a grooming session to prevent tangles.

• Dock diving. If you want your pup to swim with a purpose, dock diving is a brilliant form of exercise. Give your Otterhound a running start and see how far they’ll jump in after a ball or floating toy. 

• Scent tracking. As we mentioned, scent tracking is a fantastic idea for training, and it’s also a good way to give your doggo some exercise. Otterhounds are what are called “cold nosed tracking dogs,” meaning that they can pick up a scent trail on land or along water even after the trail has gone cold. So, get some all-terrain boots, because this doggo will walk for hours! 

• Walking. Beyond focused tracking sessions, walking is a great form of exercise for an Otterhound and will provide them with a low-impact form of movement to complement their more high-energy activities. With proper leash training, they make excellent walking companions, so be sure to schedule in a daily walk or call in a dedicated Dog Walker.

• Agility. As large and bouncy as they are, Otterhounds won’t be the quickest dogs through an agility course. But, they’ll have fun no matter what their final standing is! Agility training will get your dog jumping, crawling and running, while exercising their obedience skills, too. 

• Freeplay with other dogs. Because Otterhounds can be unpredictable off-leash, finding a nearby dog park is a must for this breed. They will have so much fun bounding around with their fellow doggos that you’ll be sure to have a tired out pup at the end of the play session.

Like all dogs with a working background, exercising an Otterhound is essential for a well-behaved pup. Without appropriate outlets for their energy, they can develop digging, chewing, and howling habits, which are especially difficult to deal with given the Otterhound’s size!

When it comes to living conditions, having an enclosed outdoor area is a definite advantage. When they’re getting a little rambunctious, it’s nice to be able to take them to the backyard where they can sniff around to their heart’s content. 

Apartment-living isn’t recommended for a dog this large—and loud—but you can make it work if your home is spacious and you’re able to give them plenty of outdoor time throughout the day. Leaving your pup in the care of a friendly Pet Sitter is another good option.   

Keep in mind that these dogs were originally bred to live in fairly damp, cold settings, so they have a heavy coat to keep them warm. That’s not to say that they won’t adapt to warmer climates, but you’ll want to keep a close eye on them for signs of overheating.

Otterhound Grooming

The shaggy beard and ears of an Otterhound are sure to make you fall in love instantly. But what does it take to keep that coat looking great?

To start, you’ll want to fully brush out their fur at least weekly or every few days to prevent tangling or matting. That hairy coat also tends to pick up debris and ticks, so give them a quick brushing after being in long grasses or thick vegetation. 

When it comes to washing, you’ll want to find a schedule that works for their specific hair type. Most Otterhounds have a rough, water repellent coat that doesn’t require washing more than once every few months. Others, though, take after their hound cousins with an oily coat that will need more frequent washing.

Otterhound Health

Considering their size, Otterhounds can live to a surprisingly ripe old age! Owners can improve their health by signing them up for a reliable pet insurance plan and keep an eye out for the following issues:

• Hip or elbow dysplasia

• Hypothyroidism

• Bloat

• Epilepsy

• Glanzmann’s Thrombasthenia, a type of rare bleeding disorder that was first discovered in Otterhounds

With a dog this large, it’s important to keep their bones strong with a nutritious, balanced diet. All-natural raw food is a brilliant option for a dog who needs the extra protein and vitamins to keep up with their active lifestyle.

Fun Fact

As far as nicknames go, we can’t think of a better one than that of Mr. Otterhound, the man responsible for popularising the breed in the United States in the 1930s. Hugh Mouat, a veterinarian and Otterhound enthusiast is credited with founding a successful breeding program and showing award-winning dogs all over the country.

Considering that the Otterhound breed is on the decline, it seems like we could use a modern-day Mr. or Ms. Otterhound to carry on the tradition!

Final thoughts on the Otterhound dog breed

The more you learn about this special dog, you might wonder why they’re not more popular! Otterhounds are well-mannered, happy-go-lucky, and clownishly fun. They’re one of the more trainable hounds out there and they get along with children and other dogs. Plus, they live longer than the average giant breed. What’s not to love?

Still, every Otterhound dog you meet serves as an admirable ambassador to the breed. It’s impossible for their vet, dedicated Pet Sitter, groomer, and everyone else not to fall in love with the one-of-a-kind Otterhound!

The post Dog Breed Corner: Otterhound appeared first on Mad Paws.

• Height – 24-30cm
• Weight – 5-8kg
• Lifespan – 15 years
• Country of origin – Spain, Canary Islands
• Breed type – Non-sporting Group
• Best breed for:
           – Families who spend a lot of time at home
           – Apartment-living
           – Households with other pets

Bichon Frise History

French? Phonecian? Italian? Spanish? There are many theories as to where this dog originally came from! No matter what, they’re true Mediterranean pups at heart, and their history has been quite the voyage!

One thing that’s certain is that the Bichon Frise is the direct descendant of a dog called the Bichon Tenerife, which got its name from the Tenerife Island of the Canary Islands. During the 13th and 14th centuries, these small white dogs were commonly traded along sea routes between Spain to Italy and even as far as Greece and Egypt. You might have seen another offshoot of these original white doggos: the Maltese.

Over time, it wasn’t just tradesmen and everyday shoppers buying and selling the small white dogs. Aristocratic dog lovers started to gain an appreciation for the breed, and their value shot up exponentially. By the 16th century, the Bichon Tenerife had become the Bichon Frise (frisé meaning curly-haired in French), a dog owned almost exclusively by French, Spanish, and Italian royalty.

These well-mannered lap dogs made excellent pets for their wealthy and powerful Owners. Throughout this time period, you can find portrait after portrait of Europe’s ruling class depicted with their Bichon Frise dogs. Henry III of France was even known to carry his around with him wherever he went.

Of course, if you’ve brushed up on your European history, you might anticipate that a storm is on the horizon for the Bichon Frise. Because, with the French Revolution, these puppers had to say goodbye to their regal lifestyle. In fact, as lap dogs so closely associated with the aristocracy, they were much less appealing than the useful hunting dogs formerly owned by the ruling class. Without a specific skill, the Bichon Frise was left to fend for themselves on the streets of Paris and beyond.

But, as anyone who’s ever spent time with a Bichon Frise knows, these dogs don’t give up without a fight. Their people-loving nature and intelligence made them appealing for street performers, who found them highly trainable, entertaining, and visible from a distance. Before long, they had wiggled, jumped, and danced their way back into the good graces of French society.

Unfortunately, it wouldn’t always be smooth sailing. The two world wars threatened to wipe out the breed completely. It was only thanks to the tireless efforts of dog fanciers in the aftermath of World War II that we can enjoy the Bichon Frise today. By 1975, they had earned official recognition in the American Kennel Club, and later in 1981, they were welcomed into the United Kennel Club, as well. 

Today, the Bichon Frise is right back where they belong: in the lap of loving Owners all over the world!

Bichon Frise Personality

This dog is all about companionship, and you’ll find that they’ve got a winning personality that’s easy to fall in love with.

When it comes to their beloved family, you might assume that they’re attached by invisible strings. They always want to be near their Owners and will flash a very sweet smile to ask whether they can climb into your lap. As you might have guessed, this is a dog with a high penchant for separation anxiety. They may tolerate some time on their own in a crate or with a puzzle toy, but anything longer than a few hours at a time will likely make them very blue. It’s best to leave them in the care of a friendly Pet Sitter to satisfy their need for human connection.

Despite their velcro dog tendencies, these dogs do have a playful, curious spirit that will have them hopping off your lap in search of adventure. They love to play with other dogs of a similar size, children, and even cats. They’re typically welcoming of strangers and will do quite well on outdoor adventures to dog-friendly restaurants and the like.

There is a big caveat here, though. As ideal as the Bichon Frise personality looks on paper, it’s only possible if you’ve properly socialised your pup. Remember that all small dogs have the potential to develop a range of defensive and aggressive behaviours if they’ve developed a fear of the big world around them. In order to lower the risk of Small Dog Syndrome in the Bichon Frise, it will be important to introduce your pet to a wide variety of situations, strangers, and other animals to help boost their confidence and make positive associations.

All in all, this charming, friendly pup is a favourite with families, single adults, new Dog Owners, and just about any other kind of dog lover!

Trainability & Training Tips

Any time that you’re dealing with an intelligent pup, you have to wonder whether that will translate to trainability. The challenge with the Bichon Frise is convincing them to follow your lead rather than their own clever devices. Here are a few tricks to train this pup:

• Start with treat training. Tasty rewards are a quick and sure way to convince a Bichon Frise that they’re going to love training! If your pup isn’t super food motivated, you might try having a few different treats on hand so that you can keep their interest with more variety. 
• Use plenty of praise. Another major motivation for a people-oriented dog is praise, and the Bichon Frise can’t get enough! So, whenever they do something right, smother them with verbal praise and pets. 
• Always make it fun. Like most small dogs, a harsh voice or intimidating stance will likely overwhelm and scare your dog during training. Instead, think of every training session like a fun game so that your doggo is in the right mindset to learn.
• Be prepared to be ignored, sometimes. Some Dog Owners of this breed describe them as having “selective hearing,” which can be frustrating during a training session. It could be that there are too many distractions that your Bichon Frise just can’t ignore! So, try changing locations and see if you get more success. With consistency and yummy rewards, those moments of distraction will—hopefully—fade away.  
• Don’t forget this dog’s performing background! Sure, they spent many years living in the lap of luxury, but remember that these dogs have picked up a few performance skills since then! Once they’ve mastered the basics like “sit,” “come,” and “leave it,” consider teaching them more complex, showy, and fun tricks. Not only will it give them mental stimulation and satisfaction, but you’ll build a better training and personal relationship with your dog.

Exercise Needs & Living Conditions

Even a pup with lapdog roots needs some exercise! And with the Bichon Frise, you should have a goal of about 30 minutes of activity per day. With just a half hour, they’ll be ready to cuddle up and relax alongside their favourite humans. Here are a few ideas for tiring out a Bichon:

• Walking. Those little legs are quicker than they look, making a Bichon Frise an excellent walking partner. With a 20 to 30 minute walk, they’ll get a great workout and enjoy mental stimulation to keep them happy. 
• Freeplay with other dogs. Whether it’s the small dog park or a meetup with other Bichon Frise Owners, your pupper will love to romp around with other dogs.
• Fetch. Not all dogs in this breed will take to fetch, but for the ones that do, a 20 minute game in the backyard is a brilliant way to get moving! If your Bichon Frise isn’t excited about fetch, they may be more motivated by other interactive play like tug-of-war.
• Swimming. It might surprise people unfamiliar with the breed, but don’t forget this was a sea-faring doggo! They’re perfectly capable of learning how to swim, although they might take some coaxing to get in the water. If you’re able to convince them to dive in, they’ll benefit from a great form of exercise. 
• Agility. Who can forget Winky the Bichon who wowed the crowd at the Westminster Agility Trials of 2019? Winky did not come to win the title, but she did come to win the hearts of her adoring fans. And, she got a great workout in the process.

With an engaged, smart dog like this one, daily exercise is a non-negotiable. If you’re not able to take your pooch out for a walk, make sure to call in a friendly Dog Walker. You might save yourself from some destructive habits!

In terms of living conditions, Bichons are ideal for apartment-living, and they’ll quickly endear themself to all your neighbours. That said, they can be a bit chatty, so you might need to consider a “quiet” command to manage the barking.

As they get older, you’ll want to take some special precautions to make them more comfortable, such as installing ramps or steps. But, as pups and healthy adults, they’ll have no problem jumping up on the sofa for a nice cuddle. 

Bichon Frise Grooming

The Bichon Frise is often mistaken for a Poodle because of that distinctive white curly coat. And, you’ll find that their grooming needs are quite similar.

Daily brushing, with a wide-tooth comb or a pin brush, will keep their coat detangled and free of debris. You’ll want to make sure not to overlook their underside, where matting is most likely to occur.

Bichon Frise are typically bathed every two weeks or twice a month and trimmed about once a month. If that seems like a lot, you’ll understand why many Owners of this breed make sure to find a groomer early on! If you’re drawn to that quintessential poofy Bichon look, you’ll need to commit to the high-maintenance grooming lifestyle. You can stick with a more natural look that won’t require quite as much work. But either way, this doggo requires grooming commitment.

The good news is, that coat is hypoallergenic and non-to-low shedding, so your home will be mostly dog fur-free!

In addition to brushing and bathing, you’ll need to spend some time each day cleaning their face and other areas where they may develop fur staining. Nail trimming and teeth cleaning will round out the Bichon’s grooming needs.

Bichon Frise Health

While typically healthy, Bichon Frise Owners should be proactive about getting their pup on a reliable pet insurance plan. There are a few common health concerns for the breed, so it’s best to get them checked out by a vet eartly to monitor their general healthy and the following:

• Patellar luxation
• Allergies
• Vaccination Sensitivity
• Bladder problems
• Eye issues, including cataracts

Because they are often considered to be lap dogs, unhealthy weight gain is another risk factor for the Bichon Frise. Make sure that they get the right amount of exercise as well as an all-natural, balanced diet to maintain a healthy weight.

Fun Fact

Today, the Bichon Frise is a doggo for the everyday family. But, they’ve also reclaimed their status with modern day royalty! Celebrities adore the breed, with big-name Owners like Martha Stewart, Jessica Simpson, Demi Lovato, and Barbara Streisand all cuddling up with their own Bichon Frise.

Final Thoughts on the Bichon Frise

They’ve sailed on ships, lounged in the French royal court, performed in the streets of Paris, and faced the paparazzi alongside their celebrity Owners. And it’s easy to see why this dog has succeeded in so many different life paths. They’ve got a shining personality that draws everyone in, and their friendliness and curiosity make them an instant playmate for kids, and other family pets.

Life with a Bichon Frise isn’t always easy, of course. As small dogs, they can be at risk of developing fear-based snappiness and other symptoms of Small Dog Syndrome. And, without proper exercise and mental stimulation, they can be quite vocal and destructive. The high grooming needs should also not be overlooked!

But, if you’re able to care for a Bichon Frise with love, dedication, and a little bit of patience, you’ll be rewarded with a companion that has spent hundreds of years earning their reputation as lovable doggos.

The post Dog Breed Corner: Bichon Frise appeared first on Mad Paws.

Sit back and relax with these dog-tastic shows!

First of all, why these dog friendly tv shows?

If you caught our article on top dog-friendly movies, you’ll know that we are downright picky about the media we recommend for Dog Owners! In order for a show or movie to make our list, it has to check some of the following boxes:

• Plenty of doggy stars. Your pupper is more likely to respond to shows that dedicate a lot of screen time to their doggy actors. So, we’ve picked shows with canine characters to get your doggo invested!

• Dog-friendly scenery.  It’s not just doggy actors that will capture your pup’s attention! Your dog may respond more to nature shots, bird calls and the sounds of a babbling brook. Remember also, that dogs are best able to see yellows and blues, so you may find them more likely to be captivated by colours on that spectrum. 

• The perfect mood. Okay, sure. Your dog won’t really be following along with the plot. But they will be able to pick up on the emotional journey of their beloved Owner. So, while we’ve included some shows that pack an emotional punch, most are light-hearted!

Ready to see the dog friendly tv shows we can’t stop barking about? Here’s our list of series to snuggle up and watch with your dog!

#1: Dogs (Netflix)

If there’s one thing that can bring us together as humans, it’s a shared love for dogs. And with this heartwarming series on (hu)man’s best friend, you’ll get a glimpse of what dog ownership is like everywhere from Brazil to Syria to Japan. We’re not going to say that you won’t be sobbing at the end of some of these episodes, but in general, they’ll be happy tears!

#2: The Pack (Amazon Prime) 

Looking for a show that will satisfy your travel bug? The Pack is an action-filled whirlwind of a show that pits dog-Owner teams against one another in a race to the finish line. Think of the drama of the Amazing Race, but with furry contestants. Truly, a brilliant move to remake such a popular show, but with dogs!

Unfortunately, the Pack was cancelled after just one season, due to mid-pandemic production challenges. But, you’ll be tempted to rewatch your favourite episodes over and over!

A fun fact about The Pack: while the show aired, it donated $250,000USD to animal rescue charities in the countries where filming took place. The winners of the competition (no spoilers!) were able to donate an additional $250,000USD to the animal charity of their choosing. 

#3: Dogs with Jobs (Amazon Prime) 

An oldie, but a goodie, Dogs with Jobs was a Canadian documentary series highlighting the many different canine careers that a dog can enter. The show ran for 5 seasons, with 65 episodes, so you can be sure that you’ll know every different kind of doggy job there is to know. And, you’ll meet some unforgettable furry characters along the way.

One thing that we adore about Dogs with Jobs is that it reminds us of all the amazing things our own doggos can do! Yes, even your lounge-loving Pug can learn how to wiggle through an obstacle course with the right encouragement—especially if there’s a bowl of delicious raw dog food at the end!

#4: Bluey (Disney+)

Bluey’s been a furry family favourite ever since it first aired in 2018. Whether you have a Blue Heeler at home or not, kids and doggos enjoy the whimsical tales of this Aussie Cattle Dog family. 

If you’re looking for children’s programs that are as fun for the kiddos as they are for puppers and parents, Bluey is sure to put a smile on everyone’s face! 

#5: Reality Dog Training with Zak George (YouTube)

Okay, this series isn’t technically a prime-time television show but rather a collection of videos from world-renowned dog trainer Zak George. Even so, you’ll find yourself completely invested in the main canine characters and looking forward to new episodes every week. 

The series follows Zak as he works one-on-one with an untrained—and sometimes difficult—dog over the course of a few weeks leading up to their Adoption Day. The show is all about revealing the good, the bad, and the ugly of real-life dog training, so be ready to have all your own training struggles and accomplishments validated as you watch!

#6: Dug Days (Disney+)

Since it’s not out yet, there’s not much we can say about this upcoming Disney Plus show other than the fact that the trailer had us howling with anticipation! 

If you watched the 2009 Pixar film, Up, you definitely remember Dug, the talking dog with an affinity for tennis balls and squirrels. In the new spinoff, you’ll get to see this lovable pup navigate his new life in the suburbs alongside his endearingly grouchy Owner. 

Now, we have to be honest. In the 12 years since Up first came out, we were really hoping that technology would have given us real-life talking collars for our dogs. But alas, hearing Dug’s every adorable thought will have to do for now!

Which dog friendly tv shows are you most looking forward to?

With 6 amazing series just waiting to be binged, you and your pup are in for some brilliant tv watching. Pop the popcorn, serve up a bowl of your dog’s favourite raw food and settle in for an evening of entertainment!

Have some tv shows that capture your canine’s attention? We’d love to hear your suggestions for dog friendly tv shows!  

The post Top 6 Dog Friendly TV Shows appeared first on Mad Paws.

Try out these 5 April Fool’s Day pranks with your playful pet for a fun-filled day of surprises.

Should we really be pranking our pets?

Before we get into some of the best April Fool’s Day pranks to play on your pup or cat, you might be wondering if this is really a good idea. After all, you worked hard to earn the trust of your beloved furbaby! You certainly don’t want a bit of fun to lead to stress or confusion for your pet.

But, when done right, pranks can be a great way to provide your pet with some excitement and mental stimulation. As long as the prank appeals to your dog or cat’s natural curiosity and playfulness, you can be sure that April 1st is a day that they look forward to every year! As you’ll see, the pranks in our list are light-hearted, fear-free, and sure to give you some bonding time with your pet.

#1: Unleash a toy storm

This prank will require a large quantity of toys such as tennis balls—or for our smaller furry friends, table tennis balls. Make sure you have about a bucket full of them!

When your pet is in a playful mood, find a hiding spot from which you can toss the toys in their direction without them seeing you. For instance, if your pup is in the backyard, position yourself inside under an open window. 

Start out with one ball or toy to get their attention. If they’re intrigued, start throwing a new one every few seconds until they’re absolutely bombarded with a toy shower. Your pet won’t know where the toys are coming from or which one to focus on. And, you’ll enjoy watching them scramble from toy to toy while trying to figure out how they got so lucky!

When you’re out of toys to throw, emerge from your hiding spot and join the fun.

#2: Try a meal-time prank

If your pet is a food-lover, we have a few meal-based April Fool’s Day pranks to get their mouths watering.

Here’s the cheeky version: think of a type of food that your dog or cat absolutely despises. Maybe they turn up their whiskers at broccoli or lettuce, for instance. Whatever their culinary kryptonite, you’re going to have a bowl of it on hand when you’re preparing their regular meal. Pretend to pour their food into their bowl as if this were any other mealtime. But instead of serving them their regular meal, give them the bowl of veggies and wait for their reaction. Your pet will be momentarily surprised before either giving you a look of disdain or disappointment. Don’t worry, furry friend. Your real meal is right here!

If you want your April Fool’s Day prank to be all tail-wags and purrs, here’s an alternative. Before you put your pet’s regular food in the bowl, put a very special treat in the bottom. That way, they’ll get a pleasant surprise when they’ve finished their food!

#3: Adventure switcheroo

Dogs are masters at observation, which means that they probably know well in advance when you’re planning on taking them to the groomers or the vet. As soon as you turn on that street, they might start looking at you with a “please don’t make me do this” face. 

With this April Fool’s Day prank, you’ll show them that they’re in for a fun surprise instead of a trip to their least-favourite place! All you have to do is re-route your trip to the dog park or dog friendly beach so that you pass by the dreaded vet clinic or groomer. Once your pupper realises they’re actually on the way to a fun new adventure, their demeanour will change completely!

What we like about this April Fool’s Day prank is that it provides you with an opportunity for counterconditioning. Instead of associating the drive to the vet with something scary, you’re showing them that they might be in for something fun instead! You can even throw in a few treats along the way for more positive reinforcement.

#4: Bring back the blanket challenge 

If you didn’t hop on this TikTok trend in 2020, this April Fool’s Day is the perfect time to play a magic trick on your pet.

The concept is simple. All you have to do is hide behind a blanket in a doorway while your dog or cat watches on the other side. Lower the blanket to expose your face two or three times and then toss the blanket up while you dash out of sight. The blanket will fall, and your pet will be left stunned at your disappearing act! Don’t leave them in suspense too long; your pet just wants to make sure you haven’t disappeared for good!

While many of the viral videos for this trick involved doggos, we have to say that curious cats are also made for great participants! Just take a look at this concerned kitty when her human disappears:

@smr_1222

Don’t mind the random pj combo #kittensoftiktok #fyp #foryoupage

♬ original sound – Sara

#5: Bath time shenanigans

Some doggos will never come around to the idea of taking a bath, but you can use that to your pranking advantage! On a non-bath day, you’re going to pretend that you’re getting everything ready for Fido’s least favourite activity. But really, you’ll be filling the tub with new and old toys and special treats. 

Make a big show about telling your pup that it’s time for a wash so that when they step into the bathroom, they’re pleasantly puzzled. No bath? New toys? Tasty treats? This is their lucky day!

Just like the Adventure Switcheroo prank, this April Fool’s Day prank can help your pupper to reconsider their view of the dreaded tub while you laugh at their adorable reaction.

Which April fool’s pranks will you pull on your pet?

No matter which April Fool’s Day prank you choose, you and your pet are in for a day of fun bonding and memory-making. So get creative—and get your camera ready—for a laughter-filled day of humour, surprises, and plenty of tasty treats!

The post April fool’s pranks you can pull with your pet appeared first on Mad Paws.

Whether you’ve been struggling to get your pets to like each other or you’re thinking of introducing a new member to the furry family, don’t worry. With some patience and intentionality, you can introduce your dog and cat in a way that will improve the chances for future cuddle sessions. You’re going to want to get your camera ready with these tips on introducing furry friends-to-be!

First, let’s talk about pupper politeness

Often, the biggest hurdle to successful relationship-building between dogs and cats is that dogs are, well, a little much for cats to handle. Some dogs tend to be excited and playful, while others see cats as something fun to chase. That’s why it’s crucial to get your dog’s behaviour under control before ever stepping foot in your feline’s territory!

Here are few basic cues that Fido should be excellent at before you introduce your dog and cat:

• Sit or lay down

• Stay

• Leave it

It’s also a brilliant idea to desensitise and counter condition your dog to your cat or cats in general at a distance before moving on to the next step. This will include exposing your dog to the smell, sound and sight of cats and rewarding your dog for calm behaviour. Teaching your dog to be relaxed around small animals will be incredibly useful when you’re ready to bring your pupper snout-to-snout with their furrever friend.

If your dog is especially cat-hesitant, take a look at our article, How to Get Your Dog to Like Cats. 

Ask your cat about their ideal first date

Okay, no. You can’t actually ask your cat what they would want from a first meeting with your dog. But, you can learn more about feline behaviour and use it to make the conditions just right for your introduction! Here are a few things your cat would like you to know before you put them in a room with the dog:

• They want to do a background check. Before your cat comes whiskers-to-whiskers with the dog, they’ll want to gather as much information as possible. You can help them by allowing them to sniff some of the dog’s toys, explore the area where the dog spends the most time, and watch the dog from a safe distance (such as in a windowsill while the dog is playing outside.) This will help your cat feel less surprised when they come into contact with your dog. 

• They want to have the high ground. Cats are natural tree-dwellers, which means that they’ll feel much more comfortable meeting Fido from above. This could be a cat tree or non-slippery shelves or ledges where your cat feels comfortable.

• They don’t want to feel cornered. Even if your dog is the perfect gentleman or lady, your cat will want to know they have an escape route if need be. If they do decide to leave early, let them go! Just make sure that the dog doesn’t chase after them.

• They want to be in charge. You might have spent weeks training your dog to be the perfect cat companion, but at the end of the day, your cat is going to call the shots here! Make sure to take cues from your cat’s body language.

It’s important to remember that cats are the prey animal in this relationship! So you’ll want to go out of your way to learn what they need to feel comfortable. 

It’s time to introduce your dog and cat!

You’ve gone over basic doggy manners with your dog and created a soothing environment for your cat. It’s time for the two to finally meet each other!

But before you do, make sure to exercise your dog so that they’re in a good, calm mood. If you can’t get your pooch out yourself, consider calling in a friendly Dog Walker to take them on a brisk walk. Or, play a rigorous game of tug or fetch in the backyard.

Then, with Fido on leash and a bag of treats in hand, introduce your dog and cat in an area that meets all of your cat’s comfort requirements. If your dog can stay calm, reward them with treats and positive praise. If your dog is overly excited, remove them until they’re calm and try again.

Your cat may not be as willing to accept treats as their future furry friend, but you should try giving them some special treatment as well. This will allow your cat to build positive associations with the dog.

If your first meeting is very short, or a series of very short sessions, that’s okay! It’s actually preferable that these early interactions last no longer than a few minutes at a time. With consistency, your dog and cat should be able to remain calm around each other for longer periods.

How long after you introduce your dog and cat can you expect them to be mates?

Every dog and cat dynamic is different, which is why it’s impossible to say how long it will take for them to warm up to each other.

In some cases, cats and dogs who have been properly introduced only need a few hours to go from strangers to BFFs. But it’s much more common for dogs and cats to need more time, up to weeks or months, before they feel comfortable in each other’s presence.

The most important thing is that you stay consistent. Short daily sessions will allow your furbabies to start seeing each other as a predictable part of their everyday lives.

What if it seems like your dog and cat are destined to distrust each other?

Maybe you’ve been trying for months to introduce your dog and cat and they don’t seem to be making any progress. Here are a few final words of advice:

• Serve meals on opposite sides of the door. Sometimes it can be helpful to build positive associations with your pets by using the thing they love most in the world: food! By feeding them on opposite sides of a door, they can begin to associate their meals with the presence of the other pet. Over time, you might be able to replace the door with a baby gate or other transparent barrier. 

• Play distraction games with your dog around the cat. In the animal world, eye contact is a big no-no. And your dog might be making your cat uncomfortable by staring! You can interrupt this behaviour by distracting your dog with a training session or scent tracking game. 

• Call in an animal behaviourist. Animal behaviourists are trained in pet psychology so that you can be sure that you’re using the right techniques with your dog and cat. Having a professional in the room is a fantastic way to move things along in the safest way possible.

• Always consider your pet’s safety and wellbeing. In some cases, dogs and cats are simply not destined to be best friends. If your pets are not making progress, fighting, or generally showing symptoms of stress, it might be time to admit that they’re happier in their own spaces. Don’t leave them alone together, and consider calling on the help of an experienced Pet Sitter when you can’t be there to supervise.

Are you ready to introduce your dog and cat?

With some planning, training, treats, and plenty of patience, you can introduce your dog and cat in a way that is most likely to result in a special canine-feline bond! 

The post How to: Introduce Your Dog and Cat appeared first on Mad Paws.