What To Do If Your Dog Goes Missing
A dog going missing is absolutely heart wrenching, but if you do ever find yourself in this situation try to remain calm. Here's a plan to help you effectively recover your lost dog.
Topics: Health and Wellness
The Wanderer
Why Do Dogs Smile?
Have you ever seen your dog smile and wonder what it means? Are they doing it to communicate with us? Are they happy?
Topics: Training
4 Must Have Winter Dog Products
Winter comfort for your pup is all about staying warm, eating well and being protected from the weather. Keep them cozy and happy during the cold months ahead with these 4 must-have products.
Topics: Health and Wellness
Does Your Dog Need to Wear a Winter Coat?
We've all heard people scoff at the notion that dogs need to wear clothes. During the cold winter months, however, a coat might be just the ticket for making your pup's life a whole lot more comfortable and help you both survive winter cabin fever. If you're concerned about the cold, there is absolutely nothing wrong with putting an extra layer on your dog.
Topics: Lifestyle
Kenzie & Callie’s Pawliday Gift Guide
Tis the season for holiday shopping! This year we called in a pair of experts to help pick the top holiday gifts for the dogs and dog lovers in your life.
Topics: Lifestyle
Best Stores for Shopping with your Dog
Holiday shopping is already underway and you might find yourself leaving your dog at home more than usual to shop for everyone on your list. If this leaves you feeling guilty, consider taking your dog shopping with you. Did you know that many large retailers have policies that allow well-behaved dogs in stores? Before you go, make sure your dog will be at ease around crowds and children. Be prepared for accidents, and keep your dog's physical needs in mind. If she's getting tired and stressed, it's time to go.
Topics: Lifestyle
Link AKC Featured at Macys Herald Square
This holiday season, LINK AKC is being featured at an iconic New York City destination, Macy’s Herald Square. Macy’s Herald Square is known as being a top destination for both tourists and New Yorkers alike, especially around the holidays. Each year in mid-November the store unveils their holiday-themed window displays, which are the backdrop for their annual Thanksgiving Day Parade. Holiday cheer is abundant as people peer through the windows at the stunning displays.
Topics: Training
How Pet Technology Helps Pups Prosper
Smart home technology is EVERYWHERE. These devices are available for just about anything, including your pets! With the power of the internet, we can control thermostats, keep an eye on our homes, see who's ringing our doorbell, and even play with our pets remotely. While it’s no replacement for in-person attention, pet technology makes it easier to be an owner and can enrich pets’ lives when we can’t be there with them. Here are some of the best ways smart pet tech can improve your life as well as your pet's lives.
Topics: Training
Plan a Winter Getaway in Vermont
Vermont is a great getaway destination with beautiful mountain vistas, wilderness areas, and plenty of snow for some winter fun. Best of all, you can enjoy many of these activities side by side with your canine pal!
Topics: On the Go
4 Quick Ways To Tire Your Dog Out
With all the hustle and bustle of getting ready for the holidays, a lot of pet parents find themselves with less time to spend playing and exercising their beloved canine companions. With busy schedules again, it can be challenging to wear your dog out in the same way you were previously.
Topics: On the Go
Pet-friendly Tailgating Tips
Football season is in full swing and tailgating might be almost as much fun as the game. With all the delicious food and festivities prior to kick-off, it’s no wonder that your pup wants to join in the fun. If you want to make your dog part of the party, here are some helpful tips to keep your dog safe and happy while tailgating.
Topics: Lifestyle
Game-Changing Thanksgiving Recipes with Pup-Approved Produce
As mentioned in our article, Ultimate Guide to Safe & Unsafe Produce for Dogs, there are some fruits and veggies that are safe for your dog to eat. Some even have health benefits that can positively affect your dog in a number of ways. In honor of Thanksgiving, we’ve compiled some of our favorite recipes (for humans) that include some tasty produce (for your pup). Remember, do not feed your dog these completed recipes. Take the ingredients that we mark as PUP-APPROVED and set some aside to feed your dog as a treat this Thanksgiving.
Topics: Lifestyle
The Ultimate Guide to Safe & Unsafe Produce for Dogs
Cooking for your family can be a lot of work! You have to pick out your recipes, check your ingredients list and make sure you have all the necessary tools to perfect your meal. Meanwhile, you want to prepare something that is both tasty as well as nutritious. Adding fruits and vegetables is the best way to support a healthy family. As you stroll through the produce aisle in the grocery store, you also may be tempted tograb some of your produce as a snack for your four-legged family member, your dog. Before you do, make sure to check our list of fruits and vegetables to see if they are pup-approved or human only.
Topics: Health and Wellness
A New Leash On Life
What could be better than switching up your pup's style up for fall? There is so much to do in the fall, from hiking to roadtripping. Why not tackle these adventures with a brand new leash? Whether you’re looking for a training leash, a comfortable grip, or a fashion statement, we’ve rounded up our favorites for you.
Topics: Lifestyle
Getting Scrappy: Do’s and Don’ts for Feeding People Food to Dogs
It's tempting to feed your dog table scraps, but not every nibble is worth sharing with him, no matter how pleading the puppy dog eyes. With the help of nationally acclaimed pet wellness advocate, Tracie Hotchner, we've put together a list of seven do's and don'ts about foods that dogs can and can't eat.
Topics: Health and Wellness
Tips for Dog-Friendly Holiday Travel
Ready or not, the holidays are approaching. Now is the perfect time to schedule your trips, book your tickets and make plans for your pup. Here are some things to consider before heading out the door:
Topics: On the Go
Service Dogs Helping Heroes
On Veteran's Day we honor the service and sacrifice of those who have served their country. Often their sacrifice doesn't end when their enlisted service is over. Many soldiers return with physical disabilities forever altering the way they live. But others have invisible wounds that are just as serious. Veterans often suffer from depression, anxiety and PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) when they come home. If left untreated, these mental health issues can become a heavy burden for veterans and their families.
Topics: Lifestyle
Believe It Or Not: Crazy Things Dogs Have Eaten
Ask dog pawrents what's the most unbelievable thing their pup ate, and you'll be regaled with stories about devoured turkeys on Thanksgiving and missing Valentine's Day chocolate, both frustrating and dangerous as both can be quite harmful to dogs. Curious about their world, these pups have their families telling unbelievable tales about what their dogs ate.
Topics: Health and Wellness
Fall Back: How do Winter Hours Affect Dogs?
Winter is approaching, and with it, shorter days and the end of Daylight Saving Time. Clocks fall back one hour, which means an earlier sunrise and sunset. But what do these changes mean for your pup?
Topics: Health and Wellness
Keep Tabs on Your Pup’s Temperature
What if your dog is too cold or too hot in their environment, but they have no way of telling you? The ambient temperature, or air temperature of an environment, is very important in dictating your comfort level. If you're uncomfortable for you in your living room, you can go over and adjust the thermostat. However, our dogs can’t adjust the air to cool them down or warm them.
Topics: Training
Frisbee Fun for You and Your Dog
Fall is the perfect time to go beyond daily walks and add a Frisbee to the mix! In no time you and your pup will both be working out without even thinking about it. Wouldn't you rather enjoy the outdoors with your canine best friend than toil away in a gym full of sweaty, huffing people? It's also a sport you can share in all but the most inclement weather. Playing dog Frisbee doesn't offer the same amount of exercise as Ultimate Frisbee, since Fido does the jumping and running and not you. But between walking and throwing, you achieve a decent workout while having fun and strengthening the bond with your pet.
Topics: Lifestyle
The Perfect Pair: Dog & Owner Halloween Costumes
Planning to rock matching dog and owner costumes at your Halloween party this year? Or maybe your plan is to stay at home, and surprise trick-or-treaters by answering the door in an outfit that coordinates with your best furry friend. It's not too late to make plans for a memorable holiday! Choose one of these spook-tacular dog and owner costumes to make this Halloween howlingly special.
Topics: Lifestyle
Halloween Prep For Your Dog
In addition to looking for matching costumes, you and your canine bestie can get ready for Halloween by working on new tricks she can use to earn her treats. You should also plan ahead to keep her feeling safe and secure when the ghosts and goblins come knocking on your door so it's a howling good time for everyone.
Topics: Lifestyle
Tall Tails: Debunking Dog Myths
Dogs are an incredibly important part of our lives, and as such, dog myths - long-held nuggets of so-called truth about our canine pals - have been passed along for generations.
Topics: Lifestyle
Become a Better Pet Photographer with These Six Tips
You know your dog is the most handsome canine on planet earth, but how do you prove it to the world? With today’s smartphone technology, taking fantastic pet photos is a snap. Here are some pro tips on how to get the perfect holiday shot of your perfect pet.
Topics: On the Go
Discover, Try & Buy LINK AKC at b8ta
Right now the LINK AKC Classic Leather and Sport Smart Collars is available to try and buy at b8ta. If you don’t know b8ta yet, you should get to know how it works as b8ta is not like other retailers.
Topics: Lifestyle
Emotional Support Dogs: Providing Comfort & Companionship
If you have a dog you probably know that one simple snuggle from him can help you feel at ease. While you may be conflicted on whether or not sleeping with your dog is good for you in the long term, there's no denying your pup is a vital member of your daily life. For some pawrents, that unspoken connection and bond stems even further into their mental and emotional well-being.
Topics: Lifestyle
10 Life Changing Life Hacks for Dog Owners
Having a dog in your life is great, don't you agree? You have an adorable friend that loves you unconditionally and gets excited each time they see your face. They are always ready for an adventure or even just sharing a mid-afternoon nap on the couch. While it’s mostly fun and games, having a dog is also a lot of work. They require a great deal of responsibility to keep them safe, happy and healthy. To help you make pet ownership easier, we’ve compiled our top 10 favorite life hacks.
Topics: On the Go
5 Ways To Remove Your Dog's Stress When Moving
Moving is always stressful, and not just for us...it’s tough on our dogs too. The initial house hunt, the packing, cleaning and actually removing yourself from somewhere you once lived...it’s a challenging process.
Topics: Health and Wellness
Be More Like Your Dog: A Lesson in Mindfulness
Over the past 10 years or so the practice of Mindfulness has invaded our lives like few other health trends. Mindfulness is the ability to live each moment as it comes without judgement and various research studies showing can help reduce stress significantly.
Topics: Lifestyle
Camping with Dogs: RV Having Fun Yet?
Dogs and camping go together like hot cocoa and marshmallows. We asked Ray Burr, a full-time RVer and dog owner, why so many RV campers enjoy traveling with their four-legged friends.
Topics: On the Go
Dog-Friendly National Parks
The United States has 60 protected areas known as national parks that are all incredible in their own unique way. From the geological features and breathtaking views, to the unusual ecosystems and wildlife, there’s nothing quite like planning a vacation to explore one (or many) of these historic parks.
Topics: On the Go
Dog-Friendly Pennsylvania
The Keystone State, Pennsylvania is well known for its friendly residents, outstanding service and occasionally exuberant sports fans (cough, cough, fans of the current NFL Superbowl champs). A lesser known fact about Pennsylvania is that it’s in the top 5 most popular states for owners of the best smart dog collar on the market (somewhat biased view).
Topics: On the Go
The Nose Knows Best: Dog Nosework Training
Training your dog is a never-ending feat. From basic obedience to tricks, and even some specialized work, there is always more for your dog to learn. One great exercise that you can teach your dog is nosework. The great thing about nosework is that you can literally do it anywhere! Dogs naturally want to put their noses to work so teaching them the basics can be fun for both of you.
Topics: Training
How to build a dog park in your community
If your neighborhood has yet to jump on the trend, consider being a puppy playground pioneer. Read on for a “how to plan” and get the ball rolling!
Topics: On the Go
3 Scientific Reasons for the Canine Head-Tilt
Is there a more adorable dog pose than the head tilt? Dog lovers know exactly what we’re talking about – that head tilt response that our dogs’ give us when we speak to them. This is one of the most commonly searched dog behaviors on the internet, not as popular as ‘Why does my dog lick me?’ but close.
Topics: Training
Howling Good Dog Vacations: Perfect Parks & Seaside Strolls
We love to get away from it all, but we also love being with our dogs. Here are five timely suggestions for a picture-perfect dog vacation to enjoy with your furry friend.
Topics: On the Go
Do You Speak Dog? It’s All in Our Biology
Have you ever wondered how your dog knows to come cheer you up when you're crying or feeling down, or why they snuggle with you on the couch every night? What about how they seem to know what you're thinking, and vice versa, just by a look into each other's eyes?
Topics: Training
Does My Dog Know She's Been Naughty?
Have you ever caught your dog doing something they’re not supposed to and gotten a guilty look in response? All dog owners know this look, and we’ve come to believe that this look is their recognition that they’re guilty of something.
Topics: Training
Play The Have You Ever Game: Dog Edition
Loving your dog comes naturally. Sometimes, however, love makes us do some pretty interesting things. Read through these “have you ever” statements and figure out how much of a crazy dog person you really are.
Topics: Lifestyle
Free Stuff For Your Dog
Everyone loves a good deal, but free stuff is even better. We rounded up our top picks for free items for your dog and where you can snag yours!
Topics: Lifestyle
Can My Dog Get Poison Ivy?
If you’re like us and love to spend summer days on long hikes exploring wooded trails with your best friend, you already know to bring plenty of water and check for pesky ticks afterward.
Topics: Health and Wellness
Can My Dog Eat Watermelon?
It’s good to be choosey about what you feed your dog. Many fruits we consume every day such as grapes, avocados, and figs can be toxic to our pets. Watermelon, on the other hand, is safe and nutritious when fed responsibly. Technically both a fruit and a vegetable, watermelon is from the botanical family Curcurbitaceae and is closely related to pumpkin, cucumber, and squash—all healthy, low calorie treats for our canine companions.
Topics: Health and Wellness
5 Ways to Socialize an Older Dog
Some say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but we disagree! In fact, dogs of all ages are eager to learn and please their owners. Maybe you are considering adding an older dog into your home, or you feel like your dog should get out more and learn some new socialization skills. Either way, there are some important things to keep in mind when working with an older dog.
Topics: Training
5 Ways to Keep Your Child & Pup Busy This Summer
School’s out, summer’s here…anyone bored yet? If you find your child and fur-baby sitting around without much to do it’s time to get them up and moving. Here are 5 creative ways to keep all of the babies in your house entertained this summer:
Topics: Lifestyle
Your Summer of Fun With Fido & Friends
Summer has begun! That means more dogs out in the neighborhood and more dog-friendly events. From yappy hours to group hikes, when people get together with their dogs it's bound to be a good time.
Topics: Lifestyle
How to Keep Dogs Cool During the Dog Days of Summer
When warm weather hits, outdoor adventures beckon. You dress light, pack sunscreen and carry icy water for yourself, but remember that your dog heats up quickly in hot temps too. Follow these four tips on how to keep your dog cool this summer.
Topics: Health and Wellness
5 Fascinating Facts About Fido's Eyes
Does my dog see what I see, does he have good eyesight, is it true that he only sees the world in black and white? These are some of the questions we’ve all pondered when we see our dog peering off into the distance. Just what does he see with those eyes?
Topics: Health and Wellness
Host a Dog-Friendly Yappy Hour
The weather is warming up and we are excited for longer days and the bright summer sun. Now is the perfect time to plan a Yappy Hour for your friends, both two-legged and four-legged.
Topics: Lifestyle
Erasing Owner Guilt
While we all wish we could take our dogs everywhere we go, that is not always possible. We have jobs and other responsibilities that require us to leave our dogs at home alone. Owner guilt tends to set in and we worry that we are not being the best pet parents that we could be. However, there are ways that you can get rid of this guilt and set your pup up for success when your schedule is not conducive to bringing your little buddy along.
Topics: Health and Wellness
Is Hydrotherapy the Answer to Dog Obesity?
Memorial Day signals the start of summer for us all and best of all, it’s the time of year when our public outdoor pools open for the season. That got us thinking about all the benefits that swimming gives for humans and dogs alike.
Topics: Health and Wellness
Can Your Dog’s Germs Help Improve Your Baby’s Health?
Can the bacteria that dog’s carry actually make your baby healthier in the long run? This correlation may seem far-fetched, however, some studies have shown that owning a dog might help better prepare your child’s immune system.
Topics: Health and Wellness
Mountain Charm: Dog-Friendly Asheville
If you’ve read any articles over the past few years covering top cities to visit in the United States, you’ve likely read about Asheville, North Carolina. Between the breathtaking mountain views, artistic locals, thriving restaurant and brewery scene...it’s a one-of-a-kind place. Even better, it’s also the perfect playground for your pup to tag along when you visit and here’s why:
Topics: On the Go
Can You Motivate a Lazy Dog?
You don't have a lazy dog just a poorly trained one. As surprising as that sounds, the takeaway from our interview with Dr. Steve Neuenschwander of Brentwood Animal Hospital in Raleigh, NC, is dogs will do whatever it takes to make you happy, but they can't do something they have never been taught to do. With 36 years experience as a vet, Neuenschwander says one of the most common problems he sees is obesity in dogs from lack of exercise. But how do you motivate your dog to exercise? This time-tested vet says a lot of dog's motivation comes from her owner. Let's see what else he has to say on the topic of movtivating your "lazy dog" to exercise.
Topics: Health and Wellness
Must Love Dogs: A Guide to Dating
Dating is a game of compatibility. First, you have to meet someone that you’re actually interested in getting to know, and then comes the process of actually getting to know them.You begin to learn about each other’s likes and dislikes. Wouldn’t it be great to have one thing that you can agree with right off the bat? How about your shared love for dogs!
Topics: Lifestyle
Diet and Exercise Keep Your Dog Looking and Feeling Young
Are doggie diets really just a fad? We all know diet and exercise are important for people, but on what level is this the same for dogs? Nutrition is such an important part of dog wellness. While no two dogs are alike, there are some basic rules to follow to make sure your dog is getting the nutrients they require. As always, consult your veterinarian for any specific nutritional questions related to your furry friend.
Topics: Health and Wellness
Make Lack-Luster Dog Toys Good As New
It’s no secret, dogs love getting new toys. Even when their toy basket is overflowing with fluffy, squeaky, bouncy toys, they still cannot contain their excitement when you rip the tag off a brand new toy you brought home for them. You may wonder, has your dog lost interest in all their other toys or is there merely something special about receiving a new one?
Topics: Lifestyle
Eat, Play Sleep: Decoding Your Dog’s Sleep Cycle
Eat, play, sleep!
Have you ever caught yourself thinking, “My dog has the best life! Eat, play, then sleep for hours on end.” Well, according to the American Kennel Club, dogs spend 50% of their day sleeping, 30% awake but lounging, and 20% being active. Puppies and older dogs require even more sleep and can sleep up to 20 hours during the day. What a life!
Topics: Training
Why Does My Dog Destroy His Toys?
Have you ever been frustrated by your pup's tendency to destroy his toys? Before thinking about a solution to this, it's helpful to understand why he might be behaving like this. And the solution isn't to stop giving him toys to play with or finding indestructible dog toys.
Topics: Training
5 Tips for Picky Eaters
It can be frustrating and sometimes frightening when your pet doesn’t show any interest in her dinner. You want to give her the best, but her finicky nature makes it hard. Whether the change is sudden, or it’s been going on for a while, here are 5 tips to help your fussy friend get excited about the dinner bell again.
Topics: Training
You’ve Come a Long Way, Puppy: Pet Technology Grows Up
Ten years ago the GPS in your car was a dash-mounted brick that might just steer you into a detention pond, but now directional navigation consists of a soothing voice providing real-time traffic updates and restaurant recommendations. The tech in human gadgets has improved dramatically, and GPS gear for man's best friend has followed suit. The pet technology in the LINK AKC Smart Collar makes life with your four-legged friend stress-free and easier than ever.
Topics: On the Go
Does Daylight Saving Time Change Affect Dogs?
Spring is (thankfully) fast approaching and we are all looking forward to that extra sunshine the changing season brings. It seems like everyone has a little extra pep in their step once the clock moves forward an hour but can that change affect our canine companions? Just like humans, dogs are naturally conditioned to wake up when the sun rises and sleep after the sun sets. This natural biological clock is known as circadian rhythm. Take a little time to help your pup adjust to the routine change that comes with Daylight Saving Time.
Topics: Health and Wellness
Ashley & Ella: How LINK Helped Change Their Lives
One of the reasons Ashley moved to New York City was for Central Park. She had always dreamed of running through the scenic park, passing the Boathouse, Tavern on the Green and all the famous sites with her dog Ella. When she moved here, however, life got busy! She found herself making excuses (especially in the winter) about why she couldn’t take Ella on a long walk. She found herself saying, “it’s cold out” or “I’m exhausted,” more often than she would like to admit.
Topics: Health and Wellness
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo With a Dog-Friendly Pawty
By now you’re probably aware, at Link AKC we take celebrating with our dogs very seriously. We will use any excuse to host a pup-friendly pawty. With Cinco de Mayo coming up, we’ve gathered some fun ideas to help you throw a fiesta that your furry friend will be begging to attend!
Topics: Lifestyle
Do Dogs Actually Sweat?
Picture this: You’re out for a run with your dog, and notice sweat has completely drenched your new workout clothes. You look down at your pup and she looks seemingly unaffected. Sure, she may be panting and walking a bit slower, but not an ounce of sweat is seen on her body. The truth is, just because you can’t see it doesn’t mean that it isn’t still happening. There are myths floating around the internet that dogs do not sweat. That is not the case. Dogs do sweat, but it is not the main way they cool themselves down when affected by heat. Unfortunately, dogs are not that well equipped at staying cool in warm temperatures. Dogs have two types of sweat glands called Merocrine glands and Apocrine glands. Merocrine glands are similar to human sweat glands and are located on your dog’s paw pads. If you look closely on a hot dry day, you may even see wet paw prints from your dog as you walk. The Apocrine sweat glands release pheromones, so their main purpose is not to release sweat! They are all over your dog’s body and help dogs identify and recognize each other.
Topics: Health and Wellness
Outsmarting Your Escape Artist
Going on adventures with your dog can be a great pastime, but what about when your dog attempts to go wandering by themselves? We’ve all heard stories about dogs jumping over fences, digging out of the yard, slipping free of their collars and bolting every time a door is opened. Maybe it’s the thrill of the chase, or maybe dogs are just reverting back to their free roaming internal instincts. Either way, here are some tips that we’ve compiled to help you prevent your curious pup from wandering off unattended.
Topics: Training
5 Ways to Explore Dog-Friendly Boston
From exploring the historic Freedom Trail to kayaking in the Charles River, the city of Boston, Massachusetts is full of fantastic things to do and see with your dog. Along with Charleston, San Francisco, New York City and others, this could be one of the dog friendliest cities in the United States.
Topics: On the Go
My Dog is My Child: The Truth About Millennial Dog Owners
It’s official. Millennials are different. Yes, we know you know this already. Millennials are marrying later, having kids later, less likely to be home or car owners. Basically Millennials are living the anti-American Dream with one surprising difference - pet ownership.
Topics: Lifestyle
Dogis and Yogis: All About Dog Yoga
When we first heard about Doga, the term for dog yoga, we were skeptical, to say the least. Sure, yoga is a great way to practice mindfulness and stretch your body, but how can you incorporate your dog into this? Your dog probably isn’t going to be crawling into leg twisting positions. What we discovered is that incorporating your dog into human yoga poses can have a calming effect on your dog, as you breathe and take time to reflect having them close by. It has the added benefit of being a great way to spend some extra time with your furry friend.
Topics: Lifestyle
Dig Another Look? Introducing the LINK Sport Collar.
This week we’re excited to introduce the LINK Sport Collar, the same incredible technology, just a new way to wear it. We started shipping our first smart dog collar, the LINK Classic just over a year ago. Since then thousands of dog owners have joined our pack. If you’re one of them, thank you for being one of our first customers, we’re delighted you’re part of our community of dog lovers. If you’re reading this and haven’t joined the pack yet, see some of our pack members who enjoy using LINK to make their lives as dog owners easier.
Topics: Training
Changing Seasons: 5 Ways To Prep Your Pup
Those long anticipated sunny days and warmer weather are here. Spring is in the air! We can finally emerge from hibernation and begin to prepare ourselves for Summer. It’s also that time of year where our pups need some extra care and attention to get them ready.
Topics: Health and Wellness
Celebrating Hero Dogs: Meet Mirko & Haney
Each member of our armed forces can route their journey back to a specific place where they began their military career. This place will always be special to them, as it is where they set out on a path that will shape their entire future. The same is true for our Military Working Dogs (MWDs). Their special starting place is none other than Lackland Base in San Antonio Texas, the home of the Defense Military Working Dog Program. This is where dogs arrive to begin their training in what will be a career of great importance. The first dogs were trained at Lackland in 1958. Currently there are 62 training areas with more than 1,000 dogs at various levels of advancement. The staff there is a mix of 125 men and women from the Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force. While a majority of the dogs are brought into the facility, nearly 15% are now bred on site. The dogs are constantly training for any types of calls and deployments and live in the kennels there until their official call to active duty.
Topics: Lifestyle
Link Winter Adventures
In some parts of the country we've all got our paws crossed for Spring weather to bloom sooner than later. Before we get going with showers and flowers here is a round-up of some of our favorite Winter adventures from the Link Pack shared on Instagram.
Topics: On the Go
Celebrating Hero Dogs: Eespn, Toby & Ethan
Air Force Dog Handler Ethan took a different path to becoming a dog handler than many others. He began his military career as a regular Security Force member, but his dream was always to become a K9 handler. He learned at a young age that working on a team with a K9 can be a rewarding yet unpredictable job. He first learned about K9 teams when he was a teenager and his stepfather became a police officer. On September 28, 2006 his stepfather’s job forever changed the trajectory of Ethan’s future career choices. Polk County Sheriff’s Office Dog Handler, Deputy Matthew Williams and K9 DiOGi, colleagues of his stepfather, were tragically killed on the job. Their stories of courage and perseverance inspired Ethan that one day he too would become a dog handler in order to protect and serve his country.
Topics: Lifestyle
Celebrating Hero Dogs: Meet Jordan & Bob
For the past 75 years, working dogs have been officially serving alongside our servicemen and women. The stories of K9 handlers and their military working dogs are each unique. Behind each story is a team of human and dog who rely on each other in the best and worst of times. Learning about how these servicemen and women join the military and ultimately choose to work with animals, is nothing short of inspiring. The process to become a dog handler in the military is not easy, but is a rewarding one.
Topics: Lifestyle
Paw Tested & Pup Approved Cleaning Products
If you have pets in your home then you probably need to clean...a lot! Not all cleaning products are created equal and many contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to you and your pup. It's incredibly important to poison proof your home and keep toxic products out your curious canine companion's reach. To help kick-start your clean-up, we've compiled a list of pet products that are safe for every member of your family.
Topics: Health and Wellness
K9 Veterans Day: Saluting Our Hero Military Dogs
Veteran’s Day is a holiday that all Americans recognize, celebrating the end of World War I and honoring all veterans who have served our country during all wars. However, a less known holiday is coming up on March 13th and that is K9 Veterans Day. It is on this day that we celebrate and commemorate the Military Working Dogs (MWDs) that have stood by our soldiers throughout history.
Topics: Lifestyle
Sidewalk Etiquette: 10 Dos and Don'ts for Walking Your Dog
Walking your dog is something that all dog owners do almost every single day. It's one of the most important and enjoyable things you do together. It's a fantastic time to bond with your dog and no matter where you go for your walk there are some things to do so we can all enjoy walks in peace with our pups. We don't want to slip into poor habits and these have a tendency to creep up on us in all walks of life. Here's our list of do's and don'ts to make your dog walking a great experience for all involved.
Topics: On the Go
It's Official: We'd Rather Be With Pets Than People
The results are in; more than half of American dog owners admit they flake out on social events to hang out with their pet. We recently surveyed 2,000 American dog owners and confirmed what most people already know - owning a dog makes us better humans and improve our mental, physical and emotional health every single day. The most surprising thing we learned is that almost ¾ of the people surveyed admitted they tell their dog secrets they don't tell anyone else.
Topics: Lifestyle
How to Celebrate Year of the Dog
Chinese New Year is almost upon us, this year it just happens to be Year of the Dog! We're all familiar with the zodiac calendar where your sign is based on the month you were born. However, did you know your Chinese zodiac sign is one of the 12 animal signs and is determined by the year of your birth? If you're wondering how to join in celebrating Year of the Dog, we've put together some ideas for you. Traditional Chinese New Year celebrations are generally noisy affairs that often include fireworks, which will likely not be enjoyable for your dog as we know from Fourth of July. However here are some other dog-friendly ways to enjoy the celebration.
Topics: Lifestyle
Honest & Loyal: Year of the Dog
In case you haven't heard or seen the adorable swag at Starbucks, 2018 is the Year of the Dog in the Chinese zodiac calendar. The calendar itself dates back to the Shang Dynasty (14th century BC) and is a cycle of twelve years that are each represented by an animal. Each of the animals has an associated list of attributes, fortunes, compatibility metrics and more. Here's our quick guide to the Year of the Dog and what it might mean to you.
Topics: Lifestyle
Safe BBQ Tips For Dog Parents
Father's Day is right around the corner and man's best friend can often be found at his side...waiting for a swift breeze to knock a treat (or two!) off of the barbeque. And while it may seem safe to "give a dog a bone," there are some hazards you need to know about when it comes to feeding your dog BBQ delights.
Topics: Health and Wellness
Winter Proofing Your Pup's Paws
Winter can be an extremely difficult season for your dog's paws. Not only are there environmental irritants, but also certain toxic chemicals that are more prevalent such as snow and ice treatments. Don't worry though, we have you covered with these tips to keep your pup's paws pampered and protected this Winter.
Topics: Health and Wellness
9 Nifty Mobile Apps For You & Your Pup
In the digital world we live in, it’s no wonder that pet related mobile apps are popping up all over the place. From a dating app for dog owners, to a photography app, and even an apps to help you find dog-friendly locations, check out 9 of our favorite apps.
Topics: Training
8 Tips For Running With Your Dog
Running with your dog is a great way for you both to stay happy and healthy. Did you know that your dog could be your best running buddy? Here's why. Dogs are always keen to spend more time with you, they have plenty of extra energy to burn after sleeping most of the day, and they don't complain. Dogs are the ultimate motivator - just one look at your pup waiting patiently at the door ready to go, will end any temptation to skip that run.
Topics: On the Go
Snow Days: Indoor Fun When You're Stuck Inside
When the weather outside is frightful, no one, including your dog, really wants to go outside for exercise. We've got five suggestions on how you can successfully entertain your dog in the comfort of your home and build the bond you share.
Topics: Lifestyle
Owner's Denial: Is Your Dog Overweight?
When you put on a few pounds, you feel it in your favorite jeans. But it's harder to know if your dog is overweight. Is your pooch pleasantly plump or unhealthily porky? Here are four ways to find out how to make the call.
Topics: Health and Wellness
How a Celebrity Trainer Stays Fit With Her Pup
Celebrity Trainer, Latreal Mitchell, shared her tips with us to help you get on track and treat your pup to a new workout or two in the new year. Getting up and out has never been easier and soon you'll be racing your best friend to the door in a step-for-step challenge.
Topics: Health and Wellness
Breaking Up With A Dog Walker, Groomer or Vet
As 2018 approaches, many people are starting to think about making changes. A fresh page on the calendar inspires fresh starts; it's a great time to make the best of your career and home life. This includes relationships with your pet care service providers.
Topics: Health and Wellness
Dog Christmas Cards
Mail your loved ones special dog Christmas cards this year. With planning and a little imagination, you can make an unforgettable holiday memory to share with friends and family.
Topics: Lifestyle
Dog Treats Made From Holiday Leftovers
Before you bite the bullet and toss our holiday leftovers, we've got a tasty way to let your dog in on the fun. Throughout the holiday season, there's one ingredient that's a staple in most households and a key protein in dog food. You guessed it, turkey! Turn this holiday trademark dish into healthy treats your pup will absolutely love. Here are three mouthwatering meaty treats to try out:
Topics: Lifestyle
15 Reasons We're Thankful For Our Dogs
Thanksgiving is the perfect time for reflection. Even with the ups and downs of every day life, there's always a lot to be grateful for. As you sit around your tables full of loved ones, take a moment to give thanks for the special canine companion in your life who makes every day a little bit brighter.
Topics: Lifestyle
9 Ways Pumpkin Can Help Your Dog's Health This Fall
As pumpkin-flavored treats fill local coffee shops and grocery stores, your dog doesn't have to and shouldn't be left out of the seasonal delights. There are great reasons to add pumpkin to your dog's diet that have nothing to do with being on trend and even better, pumpkin dog treats are easy to make at home. Be sure to always purchase plain canned pumpkin, nothing "pie-ready".
Topics: Health and Wellness
Holiday Must-Haves: Ultimate Pet Tech Gift Guide
Keeping your dog happy and healthy is one of the most important things you can do as a pet parent. You make sure they're eating the right food for their size, breed, and age, getting enough exercise and having treats that support all of their wellness goals. But what about when you're away from home or have plans after work with friends? There's a new trend in pet-tech and it involves toys, collars and more to give you peace of mind when you're with or away from your furry best friend. Some of these tech toys even make the not-so-great things about owning a dog (like their fur on the furniture) even better!
Topics: Lifestyle, Technology
Do Dogs Have a Sixth Sense?
Have you ever suspected Baxter was a secret genius? You might not just be playing proud paw-rent. It turns out dogs may have a sixth sense...of sorts. Before you dismiss the idea, consider these three reasons we think it's possible.
Topics: Training
Link Pack: Fall Adventures
There's nothing like crisp Fall air to spark a little adventure with your pup and our Link Pack has taken full advantage of the season. With Winter quickly approaching we are featuring some of our favorite Fall Adventures shared with us on Instagram this year.
Topics: On the Go
Canine Confidential: Why Does My Dog Do That?
For every answer the experts nail down about canine behavior, another question pops up. You can't read Roscoe's mind, but you can still settle a bet, lay rumors to rest and scratch that curiosity itch with these seven doggie dogmas.
Topics: Training
A Dog's Sense of Smell Is Nothing to Sniff At
Dogs have an incredible sense of smell; it's been common knowledge for centuries our canine pals can pick up on scents like no other domesticated animal. But how exactly do they do this? While scientists haven't completely figured it out, we do have many intriguing insights that explain a great deal about our dogs' sniffing super powers.
Topics: Health and Wellness
The Dog Agency: Turning Our Pets Into Celebrities
Social media and pets are a feel-good combination for people across all demographics. So when a feisty Shiba Inu or crazy-cute Cardigan Welsh Corgi suddenly joins that exclusive group of the most famous pets online, many owners turn to The Dog Agency to help them deal with the business offers arising from sudden celebrity. Because when each post by a famous pet can earn thousands of dollars, smart paw-rents know they need expert help. Founded by New York entrepreneur Loni Edwards, The Dog Agency represents this novel category of influencers, a select group of captivating canines sought out by companies for their voracious audiences.
Topics: Lifestyle
Dog Sleeping Positions Explained
You’ve probably envied your dog for his uncanny ability to fall asleep anywhere, anytime, in seemingly any position! Here are five dog sleeping positions and what they say about your pet.
Topics: Training
