Modern Dog Spring 2019

Dog Greetings Gone Wrong: Are you making these mistakes?

The lifestyle magazine for modern dogs and their companions S P RI NG 2019

Your Dog Needs Toys

G FINDIN LOVE OG D YOUR HOW ELP! CAN H

Great finds, bargain prices

P 52

Healthy

FUN UNLEASHED!

Dog Treat Ideas

Publications Agreement Number 40743013 Return Mail Dept, 202–343 Railway St., Vancouver, BC V6A 1A4

ACTIVITIES FOR DOGS

THE BEST

BREEDS for, well, everything

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Dogs Bringing the Cuteness DOG TATTOO INSPIRATION HOW YOUR DOG SEES COLOUR KIDS AND DOGS: A PRIMER 8 THINGS YOU CAN DO FOR YOUR DOG’S JOINTS

p70

Could CBD help your dog?

Find Your Breed Match: Get to know the Labrador Retriever, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Belgian Malinois + more!

SPRING 2019

VOL 18

NO 1

92 FEATURES Dog Greetings Gone Wrong A trainer/behaviourist asks, when did we lose the aptitude to greet dogs?

BY STEVE DUNO

36

To Crop, or Not to Crop?

Altering your dog’s appearance affects perception— not just of your dog, but of you, too.

BY STANLEY COREN

42

5 Fun Sports For Dogs Get fit, have fun, keep your dog mentally and physically engaged, make new friends—why not try one of these popular dog activities? You may just discover your passion!

BY TRACEY TONG

52

88

Stair Masters How to teach your dog to climb the stairs.

BY TEOTI ANDERSON

44

26

Cold Noses, Warm Hearts Finding love (or even just a date!) courtesy of your canine cupid.

BY DARCY MATHESON

94

76

CBD + Your Dog Could CBD—a therapeutic, non-psychoactive component of hemp—help your dog? Increasingly, a whole host of dog lovers are singing the praises of CBD and its remarkable efficacy in treating everything from canine arthritis to anxiety.

Kids and Dogs What to teach kids and what to teach dogs so everyone gets along.

BY NICOLE WILDE

THE GOODS 40

The Dog Gear Look Book Your at-a-glance guide to the best stuff for your dog.

86

Look What We Found Want it! The Modern Dog team’s current faves, finds, and obsessions.

98

Your Dog Wants These Toys Great dog finds at bargain prices!

BY JANE MUNDY

70

The Road to Westminster A Tale of Two Dog Handlers

READ YOUR BREED

BY TRACEY TONG

20

The Best Breeds For, Well, Everything Running, cuddling, endless adoration… the AKC’s Gina DiNardo gives us the rundown of the best breed matches for all manner of activities and personality types.

The New Dog on the Block Meet the Azawakh, an ancient, elegant beauty hailing from West Africa.

26

Know Your Dogs Is the Labrador Retriever or the Chesapeake Bay Retriever for you?

2 moderndog

SPRING 2019

LEFT PHOTO TANYA KING

28

BY KELLY CALDWELL

50

BODY & SOUL 58

8 Things You Can Do To Help Your Dog’s Joints

60

Canine Mobility Solution

62

Shed Happens. Here’s How To Manage It

66

The Wonders of Apple Cider Vinegar

68

It’s a Heartbreaker: Congestive Heart Failure

90

The Find: Raw Goat Milk; How Your Dog Sees Colour

DOG LIFE 24

We’re giving it away!

Win great dog stuff, from self-warming pet beds to Heirloom leather collars, every week! Turn to page 24 to see what’s up for grabs.

34

Healthy Dog Treat Ideas, Straight From Your Kitchen!

Sardines, air popped popcorn, homemade liver treats… easy on the pocket book, these mostly single ingredient dog treats will have your dog begging for more.

50

Cute Overload!

Instagram dogs you need to follow.

56

Stars and Their Dogs Stars, they really are just like us! Candid snaps of celebrities out and about with their pups.

82

Juniper & Moose An Instagram famous fox and her canine BFF.

REGULAR FEATURES 6 Editor’s Letter 8 Contributors 10 Stuff We Love 12 The Scoop 22 Smile! Photo Contest 109 Marketplace

BY ALICE SEWELL

26

ON THE COVER Adorable Tiggy the Pomeranian was photographed by the incredibly talented Angie Wojciechowska of Off Leash Photography (off-leash.ca).

For more on Angie turn to page 8.

All about Pugs? The CBD curious cutie on the cover was shot by Tanya King (tanyaking.ca). For our dive into how CBD could help your dog, turn to page 70!

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SPRING 2019

92

DIY EAT: Easy Peasy Liver Cookies For Dogs Whip up this simple, dog tested and approved recipe for your pup!

BY JANE MUNDY

105 Connie’s Book Club Curl up with a good dog and good book. Editor-in-Chief Connie Wilson’s selection of spring must-reads.

112 Last Lick: A Love That Lasts Furever Find your dog tattoo inspiration here!

In USA: MODERN DOG (ISSN 1703-812X) Volume 18, Issue 1. Published quarterly

by Modern Dog Inc. at 142 Churchill Drive, Newington, CT 06111-4003. Periodicals postage paid at Hartford, CT and additional offices. POSTMASTER: send address changes to Modern Dog, PO Box 310402, Newington, CT 06131-0402.

PHOTO CREDIT MARK STEINES

100 The Belgian Malinois The complete package: beauty, brains, and brawn.

PHOTOS @WAT.KI @ITSDOUGTHEPUG @THEDAPPLE_

52

EDITOR'S LETTER

LOLA BOOTHROYD SUBMITTED BY ALEX

CONNIE WILSON WITH PENNY, PHOTO KHAREN HILL

OUR R E ADE R S WR IT E

We love our readers!

PHOTO WRIGHT BROTHERS FILMS

Tuesday afternoon is for relaxing and reading Modern Dog. #myfavoritemagazine —@emiliatheminischnauzer

S

pring is finally here! Is there a start to any season that our dogs embrace more enthusiastically? After a winter spent cooped up inside hiding from polar vortexes, there is something so incredibly life affirming about spring’s renewal that it brings out the puppy in all of us, human and canine alike. So, let’s jump right in and make the most of the season!

We could all use more connection in our lives, so in this issue we focus on finding love, courtesy of our canine cupids (p 52), as well as finding a tribe and a pastime you’re passionate about via participation in a dog sport. From dog dancing to disc dog, there’s an activity for everyone!

For older or infirm dogs in need of a new leash on life, CBD—a therapeutic, nonpsychoactive component of hemp—might just be the miracle you’ve been looking for. Increasingly, dog lovers are singing the praises of CBD and the amazing results they’re seeing in treating everything from canine seizures to sore joints. Turn to page 70 where we share some of these stories and explain how it works.

We’ve also packed these pages with all manner of fun finds and discoveries, from shelters that hold kids’ birthday parties to toys your dog will go crazy for. We’ve got healthy treat ideas found in your kitchen, training tips for kids and dogs, and, of course, a whole ton of adorable pups, including one that’s buddies with a rescue fox! (p 82) It’s my hope that this issue puts a smile on your face, improves your understanding of and partnership with your dog, and inspires you to get out there and connect with fellow dog lovers!

Paws in Prison “I thank you and anyone else involved in helping our program (Paws in Prison). By donating your magazine, you’ve given us ideals, entertainment, and hope.

Donations are our only means of support and I cannot explain the extent of help your donation provides. Thank you!”

—Jason Anthony The Dog Gear

The lifestyle

magazine

for modern

You Need +

dogs and

An Action Plan

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FALL 2018

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FIND YOURT PERFEC BREED MATCH

HELP! g…

Barking, Pullinthe Experts Solve ms Top 5 Proble

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Cannabis +Canines Could CBD your dog?

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DEC ‘18

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Canine Rescuer

Is the sassy

patient Chihuahua,

Great Dane

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Reveals All

out inside! you? find

How To Read Your Dog's Body Language: Body Language Basics

Much Love,

Helpful article, particularly for those bringing a dog into their family for the first time. The illustrations are great!

—Gail Gilmore

Connie Wilson, Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

6 moderndog

SPRING 2019

>> Find the article at: moderndogmagazine.com/bodylanguage

C ON T R IBUT OR S SPRING 2019

Dr. Gavin Myers graduated from the University College of Dublin in 2013. He grew up on a small cattle and sheep farm in rural Northern Ireland, which fueled his passion and love for both nature and animals. Currently, Gavin is a partner at Yaletown Pet Hospital in Vancouver, BC. He has a particular interest in small animal medicine and places a strong emphasis on building great relationships with patients and clients alike. In his spare time, Gavin enjoys playing guitar, golfing, and looking after his little Brussels Griffon, Harold. Turn to page 68 for Gavin’s break down of the signs and symptoms congestive heart failure in dogs.

•

VOL 18

NO 1

Publisher

Modern Dog Inc. Editor-in-Chief

Connie Wilson Editor & Creative Director

Jennifer Nosek Design & Production

Hayley Schmidt Social Media Strategist

Alice Sewell Affiliate Development & Marketing Strategist

Laura Sluggett Sales & Marketing

Alice Sewell, Linda Helme Audience Development & Digital Marketing Specialist

Jessica Linnay Accounting Services & Subscription Services

Yvonne Miller Copywriter & Subscription Coordinator

Kyrsten Downton Controller

Cecilia de Roca Chan, CPA, CGA Sales & Marketing Assistant

Georgia Riddle-Olsen

This issue’s cover was shot by the amazing New Westminster, BC-based photographer Angie Wojciechowska. Angie has been photographing dogs for over a decade—she loves what she does and it shows in her images!

Angie strives to capture her canine clients in their natural environment doing what they love the most, whether digging holes or lounging on the sofa. Find more of Angie’s joyous images at her Off Leash Photography website, off-leash.ca.

Editorial Intern

Ashley Lee, Jamie Hill GET YOURSELF A SUBSCRIPTION! Give us a call at 1-800-417-6289 or subscribe online at moderndogmagazine.com/subscribe Advertising inquiries call (866) 734-3131 In Canada: MODERN DOG (ISSN 1703-812X) Volume 18, Issue 1.

Published quarterly by Modern Dog Inc. at Suite 202–343 Railway St, Vancouver, BC Canada V6A 1A4 POSTMASTER: send address changes to Modern Dog, Suite 202–343 Railway St, Vancouver, BC Canada V6A 1A4 In USA: MODERN DOG (ISSN 1703-812X) Volume 18, Issue 1. Published quarterly by Modern Dog Inc. at 142 Churchill Drive, Newington, CT 06111-4003.

Periodicals postage paid at Hartford, CT and additional offices. POSTMASTER: send address changes to Modern Dog, PO Box 310402, Newington, CT 06131-0402.

PHONE

(604) 734-3131 OR TOLL FREE (866) 734-3131 (604) 734-3031 OR TOLL FREE (866) 734-3031

FAX

A proud dog mama to two very bark-y and stubborn terriers, Darcy Matheson is a journalist and editor in Vancouver, Canada.

She is the founder of PetFundr, an animal-only crowdfunding platform (p 16), and spends her free time cruising the seawall with her pups and baby, little Jack. In this issue, Darcy explores the journey to Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show via two of this year's competitors and their dogs (p 88), one a returning handler, the other a newbie.

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The publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, images, photographs or other materials. By accepting and publishing advertising the publisher in no way recommends, guarantees or endorses the quality of services or products within those advertisements.

Copyright 2019 by Modern Dog Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced by any means, electronic or mechanical, including the Internet or photocopying without the written permission of the Publisher. Modern Dog and its logotype are the trademarks of Modern Dog Inc. Modern Dog is published four times a year. One-year subscription prices: Canada $16CAD, U.S.A. $16USD, foreign $45USD. Subscription orders and customer service inquiries should be sent to Modern Dog Subscription Services, Suite 202–343 Railway St, Vancouver, BC Canada V6A 1A4

PRINTED IN CANADA

www.moderndogmagazine.com Publications Mail Agreement Number 40743013 We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada. Nous reconnaissons l'appui financier du gouvernement du Canada.

!

$ # @

STUFF WE LOVE Modern Dog staffers’ picks of the litter 1 If you love Dachshunds (and how could you not?), you have to check out Bean Goods. Inspired by their black-and-tan wiener dog, Bean, founders Chris and Claire create Dachshund-inspired clothing for both humans and dogs that are both quirky and stylish.—Jennifer (From $20, beangoods.com) 2 Increasingly, studies are linking gut health to everything from brain function to overall health.

Boost your dog’s digestive health and thus wellness with NomNomNow’s Probiotic Support supplement. This blend of 20 billion live cultures is designed to promote digestive and immune functions and have your dog feeling his best! Every batch is independently tested to ensure the highest possible quality.—Kyrsten ($45/30g, nomnomnow.com)

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3 Thunderworks’ pheromone diffuser is a drug-free way to reduce your pup’s stress. It has been tested to be over 90% effective at reducing anxiety and unwanted behaviour!—Cecilia ($45, thundershirt.com) 4 Memorialize your dog by commissioning a portrait of him by Pet Portraits Canada. Portraits can be done in graphite, coloured pencils, or acrylics. These make a perfect gift for yourself or a loved one so you can always remember your pup’s smiling face!—Linda (From $325, petportraitscanada.ca) 5 No one likes seeing urine patches on their grass so save your lawn with Dog Rocks! Adding these all-natural rocks to your pup’s water bowl helps filter out impurities which would otherwise travel through your dog’s body and out onto the grass. There are absolutely no side effects, other than a lush, green lawn!—Jessica (From $17, podiumpetproducts.com)

BM

^

6 Einstein Pet’s adorably heart-shaped, delicious, and healthy sweet potato treats contain no chemicals, artificial flavours or preservatives! We have yet to meet a dog at the Modern Dog office who doesn’t love these organics treats!—Laura ($11, einsteinpets.com) 7 Dyson’s new Cyclone V10 is a winner! This cordless light-weight vacuum with its long-life battery allows me to clean my whole condo in one swoop (up to 60 minutes!). It’s powerful digital V10 motor is small yet generates the suction power of a big vacuum and it removes 25% more dust than previous models (asthma and allergy sufferers rejoice!). Easily transforming to a handheld it make it makes tackling pet hair on upholstery, car seats and stairs a breeze. I just love it! – Connie ($600. DysonCanada.ca; Dyson.com.)

8 Jones Natural Chews are made by a family-owned company that has been making dog treats for six generations! 100% sourced and made in the USA, their treats are available in an array of delish flavours from turkey and beef to alligator and wild boar.—Ashley (From $4, jonesnaturalchews.com 9 Kennel and Crate creates custom dog kennels that match your home decor. These multi-functional pieces provide extra table top space and can be built with multiple drawers for additional storage space. Whether your dog is big or small, Kennel and Crate can make the perfect den.—Yvonne (From $995, kennelandcrate.com) 10 No one likes leaving their dogs home alone with no way to check up on them. Petzi allows you to watch and speak to your dog while away from the house. What’s even better is that Petzi can dispense treats for your pooch! No more worrying about what your pet gets up to when home alone.—Alice ($150, wagz.com)

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11 Take the guesswork out of what you’re feeding your dog. Redbarn Pet Products creates healthy dog food and treats with ingredients you know and trust. The Modern Dog office pack especially love the Barky Bark chews!—Georgia (From $11, redbarninc.com) 12 Long walks can be tiring for small dogs, and if you venture into a busy area, all those feet can be scary! If you find yourself carrying your small dog around, check out the Snuggit Pet Carriers.

They’re a comfortable yet stylish way to hold your pup, hands-free. Especially great for city dwellers!—Hayley (From $80, thesnuggit.com)

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&

THE SCOOP

Pawesome

BIRTHDAY PARTY IDEA for little (and not so little) animal lovers

Oreo the puppy gets lots of snuggles at a birthday party at the Humane Society of Broward County.

I

s there a birthday on the horizon? Why not mix it up this year with a fun event that helps shelter animals? The San Antonio Humane Society, Texas, hosts birthday parties for little pet lovers and their friends at their shelter. Guests meet the shelter pets, receive goodie bags, and partake in fun activities like reading to shelter pets or making enrichment toys for the shelter dogs.

The Humane Society Broward County, Florida, also hosts events, proclaiming, “Whether you’re 6 or 60, children and adults both agree that having a party at the Humane Society of Broward County is a tail-waggin’ good time!” If you’re over 21, check out their Yappy Birthday Parties,

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a perfect combination of puppies and booze.

Party activities include hands on time with some of their adorable shelter pets and making no-bake dog treats to feed to the shelter dogs. The birthday child and their guests can also Builda-Pet, creating their own plush pet to take home, including an adoption certificate and a wishing heart. There is no maximum age for their parties—they’ve even hosted Sweet 16 and Bar/Bat Mitzvah celebrations.

Follow the San Antonio and Broward County Humane Societies cue and ask the team at your local shelter if they host parties— increasingly Humane Societies and SPCA’s offer similar programs.

THE SCOOP

VICTORY FOR

GREYHOUNDS! Florida votes to end Greyhound racing in a major win for opponents of this cruel sport

C

ommercial Greyhound racing will be banned in Florida by 2020. This past November, Florida residents overwhelmingly voted to end Greyhound racing in their state. The initiative to phase out the so-called sport by 2020 passed easily with 69 percent of voters in favour.

While greyhound racing still exists in a few other states, this win was a definite blow to the industry—of the nation’s 17 remaining Greyhound racing tracks, Florida is home to 11, according to the Humane Society of the United States. Despite the number of dog race facilities, few Florida residents supported it. Over the last 30 years, state tax revenue from dog racing dropped by a whopping 98 percent. The reason that racing continues to exist in the state despite a lack of support from Floridians is due to an ill-conceived state dog-racing mandate that forced gambling facilities to hold dog races in order to offer more profitable forms of betting, like poker. In 2016, Florida dog tracks lost a combined $34.8 million on racing. According to a study commissioned by the legislature, the state is losing between $1 million and $3.3 million annually because regulatory costs exceed revenues, explains Animal Legal Defense Fund’s executive director, Stephen Wells.

The passing of Amendment 13 overturns that law, prohibiting racing along with betting on live dog races in Florida.

The Yes on 13 campaign was led by Greyhound protection group GREY2K USA Worldwide, which has been working toward this outcome for 18 years and raised more than one million dollars to make it happen, says the organization’s president Christine Dorchak.

“Amendment 13 represents the biggest victory for Greyhound advocacy and adoption anywhere at any time in history," notes Christine, who wrote the ballot language. With the end of dog racing in America's biggest racing state, her group will now intensify its focus on the five remaining states and six other countries where Greyhound racing yet persists.

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THE SCOOP

1. Ophelia, Labradoodle 2. Fawkes, Shiba Inu 3. Cinnamon, American Pit Bull Terrier 4. Coco, Dachshund-German Shepherd 5. Latayette, Bloodhound 6. Sirius, Labradoodle 7. Strauss, Yorkshire Terrier 8. Pignoli, Chihuahua 9. Toulouse, BeagleChihuahua 10. Myron, Pit Bull mix

W

e love stars that rescue dogs. Singer Ariana Grande is not only a superstar, she’s a super animal lover! She has 10—yes 10—dogs, all rescues.

Ariana is seen here with two of her pack, Toulouse, a Beagle-Chihuahua cross rescued from an animal shelter, as well as Myron, the dog she shared with the late rapper Mac Miller, her ex-boyfriend. The two adopted the dog in January 2017 when they were still dating and Myron remained with Ariana after the pair separated. After Miller’s death this past September, she got a “Myron” tattoo on her left foot. Now that’s true love! See more tributes to “furever” friends on page 112.

"I got involved with dog rescues by simply loving animals," Ariana Grande told Billboard. "Dogs are the most harmless, sweetest babes in the world.

They show nothing but unconditional love, so they deserve that in return."

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Animal-only Crowdfunding Platform Celebrates Four Years of Helping Pets A winning combination of kindness and social media has proven successful for a crowdfunding website that is bringing animal lovers together When reporter Darcy Matheson was covering stories on pets, she saw a common and difficult theme: expensive vet bills and people struggling to pay them.

With that in mind, the animal lover and mama to two terriers herself, decided to start a crowdfunding platform that would help people raise money for animal projects, whether it be individual pet owners paying veterinary costs, or rescue groups looking to expand to help more furry friends.

That’s when PetFundr was born. For Darcy, creating a platform for animal lovers to help each other was a no brainer.

“I was seeing pets being surrendered because people can’t pay their vet bills. That is a heartbreaking decision to make.

PetFundr keeps people and pets together and is making a difference in the quality of life of thousands of our beloved animals.”

Partnered with FundRazr, a leader in global crowdfunding, the online platform brings together animal lovers to support causes, harnessing the power of kindness and social media sharing.

Since starting in May 2015, it’s raised nearly half a million dollars for more than 150 individual campaigns from around the globe.

And it’s not just friends helping friends when they see the campaigns on Facebook. FundRazr CEO Daryl Hatton says PetFundr’s animal campaigns attract more donations from complete strangers than any other type of crowdfunding effort.

“People have a natural affinity to help care for animals, even ones that aren’t their own,” he says.

PetFundr has now helped animals in Canada, the US, Australia, Europe, Africa, Croatia, Great Britain, New Zealand, and Singapore.

Memorable campaigns include renovating a non-profit sanctuary that takes in old, unwanted and terminally ill dogs and farm animals, outfitting local fire halls with oxygen masks specifically designed to fit the faces of dogs and cats, and funding a flight to transport 80 dogs from an overcrowded California shelter and bring them to new homes in Canada.

Now celebrating its fourth anniversary, Darcy says their plans are expanding into more countries, with a goal of helping even more animals in need.

“The world is a better place with pets in it. Together we can help them all,” she says.

ARIANA GRANDE PHOTO BACKGRID

ARIANA GRANDE HAS 10—Yes 10!— RESCUE DOGS

THE SCOOP CAPTION THIS! Exercise your funny bone. Create a caption for this cartoon and submit your entry at moderndogmagazine.com/cartooncaption.

The most comic captions will be published in the next issue.

Benji Returns If you missed the 1974 Benji, the beloved flick is back and it’s still a family affair. The heartwarming retelling is a Netflix original picture directed by Brandon Camp, whose father helmed the heartstring-tugging classic that became an unlikely box office sensation.

This generation’s Benji is no less winning. It’s a tale of a young boy and his sister who befriend a scruffy stray who saves the day and helps heal their family. This is a real tear-jerker so you might want to shield your pup’s eyes when the widowed mum tells her children they can’t keep Benji. They tearfully put the pup back out on the street rather than let their mother take him to a kill shelter. But rest assured kids, it all ends well. When danger befalls the children, heroic Benji and his canine friend come to their rescue.

AND THE WINNING CAPTION FROM THE WINTER ISSUE IS…

i'm in doggie

heaven!

I told you to start on the "puppy slope!"

Vacation With Your Dog Barkwells takes dog-friendliness to the next level, offering dog-centric vacation rentals in Asheville, NC. Their pupwelcoming luxury cabins and cottages are just part of the equation. What makes it truly unique and, dare we say, magical, is the safe space it offers to run free, swim, and play with your four-legged friend. There are acres of fenced meadows and a pond to explore, all within a gated community that is a haven for like-minded dog lovers. This is the vacation your dog dreams of. barkwells.com

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SUBMITTED BY: JOSEPH A. DEWAN

RUNNER-UP CAPTIONS "What you will do for a treat always amazes me."

SUBMITTED BY:KERMIE

"Bad time to lift your leg, pal."

SUBMITTED BY: LESLIE HADDAD

C A R T O O N S © 2018/19 B Y D A V I D J A C O B S O N

A Netflix retelling of the classic family film

THE SCOOP

Such grace !

THE NEW DOG ON THE BLOCK The Azawakh, a member of the hound group, joins the pack as latest AKC-recognized breed

G

et to know the latest breed recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Azawakh! Pronounced ‘oz-a-wok’, this elegant beauty is an ancient breed that originated in West Africa. Although this leggy canine may look delicate, this breed was frequently put to use as a hunting sighthound, and was bred to be durable enough for hunting hare, antelope, and even wild boar! These athletic members of the hound group need their exercise, but they aren’t all work and no play—Azawakhs are affectionate and keen to bond with their owners. They’re cautious, however, and have a tendency to act aloof upon meeting strangers. In terms of exercise, these dogs make for calm indoor companions but do require a lot of outdoor exercise and play outlets to satiate their need to run and ‘hunt’. With a short, fine coat, they only need occasional brushing. The Azawakh was officially recognized by the AKC on January 1st, 2019, so be sure to keep an eye out for this beautiful hound! —Jamie Hill

The

AZAWAKH

Origin – West Africa

Speed – high

Weight – 33-55 Pounds

Grooming needs – low maintenance

Energy level – high

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Affection – affectionate with bonded humans

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E L I SM

Modern Dog’s Photo Contest Winners!

Bexley

Mila

Sheepadoodle

Dachshund

Bubba G

Snow

Jack Russel

English Golden Retriever

Murphy

Akira Husky

Inuit Husky Mix

Tito

Pomeranian Chihuahua

Freckles

Bassett Hound

Zypher Pug

Bear

Labrador

Butterscotch

Australian Cattle/Pitbull Mix

Archie Kya

Peanut

Pomeranian

English Cream Golden Retriever

Alaskan Klee Kai

Harley

Rodger

Mixed

Corgi

Romeo Pitbull

Labrador

Shetland Sheepdog

Sammy Guzman Brady Bichon Mini Poodle

Reggie

Charlie

Bear

American Akita

Misha

Siberian Samoyed

Think your dog ought to be in Modern Dog?

Lolo

English Bulldog

London

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Upload your dog’s photo at moderndogmagazine.com/ photocontest. Not only will he or she be entered to be our Dog of the Week, but a selection of the photos entered will appear on these pages!

ENTER TO WIN

We’re giving it away! Enter to win fabulous giveaways each and every week in March, April, and May. Go to moderndogmagazine.com/giveaways to enter! Lucky readers will win every week.

March

1st-7th

8th-14th

15th-21st

22nd-31st

1st-7th

8th-14th

15th-21st

22nd-30th

Win 1 of 4 prize packs from Puppy Cake! Your pooch will definitely love these make at-home tasty treats.

Win 1 of 5 PureLUXE Elite Nutrition grain-free holistic dog food prize packs. Includes two four-pound bags of food in your choice of formula.

Win 1 of 4 Mirage Pet Products gift certificates worth $50!

Spoil your puppy with a wide array of collars, harnesses, toys, outfits and more!

Win 1 of 8 hardcover editions of A Boy And His Dog At The End of The World. The perfect novel for the dog-loving bookworm.

Win 1 of 5 one-year subscriptions to Modern Dog magazine, chock full of helpful articles, heartwarming stories, and so many cute dog photos!

Win 1 of 2 premium Auburn Leathercrafters prize packs! Enter to win an Heirloom Studded Collar and matching leash or A Tail We Could Wag collar and matching leash!

April

Win 1 of 4 Dog Bundles! This bundle of premium quality dogtested toys and all-natural treats and chews provides hours of fun for your best friend.

Win 1 of 5 HandsOn Gloves—the massage your dog will beg for!

These gloves provide a more thorough shedding, bathing and grooming experience for you and your pup, now in purple!

May

1st-7th

Win 1 of 2 Vetericyn dog wellness prize packs. Each pack contains the essential Vetericyn products to care for your pet’s skin, eyes, ears, and grooming needs!

8th-14th

Win one of four warm and comfy Aspen Pet Self-Warming Beds from Petmate lined with a special material that generates warmth by reflecting your dog’s own body heat.

15th-21st Win 1 of 12 Furzoff, the new and better way to remove pet hair from your home and vehicles.

Made in USA of 90% recycled material, it's 100% durable!

22nd-31st Win a Scandinave Pet Sofa in Flint from Bowsers! This modern bed is the epitome of classy comfort.

Foam/Fiber base and machine washable zippered cover.

No purchase necessary to enter or win. Beginning March 1, 2019 at 12:01 AM (PST) through May 31, 2019 at 11:59 PM (PST), enter each day at moderndogmagazine.com/giveaways. Each week’s giveaway ends at 11:59 PM (PST). Each week, the specified number of winners for that week’s giveaway will win the prize featured in the giveaway calendar (ARV: $200). Odds of winning depend on the number of entries received. Contest is open to legal Canadian and US residents 18 and older as of date of entry. Void in Puerto Rico and where prohibited by law. Giveaway subject to complete official rules available at moderndogmagazine.com/giveaways.

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INSET PHOTO: MADDIE SUBMITTED BY MARTINA

s y a w a e v i G t a Gre

know your breeds

Is the Labrador Retriever or the Chesapeake Bay Retriever for you?

The Labrador Retriever Outgoing, spirited, affectionate family dog

F

amously friendly, this sweet, lovable breed is ranked most popular in North America for good reason. This easygoing, amiable family dog bonds with the whole family and gets along well with other dogs. His otter-like tail, wagging in enthusiasm, is likely to clear coffee tables.

And he’s a beauty. The Lab’s hard coat comes in yellow, black, and chocolate, and is slightly oily to bestow water repellency— these dogs love the water.

Bred to be an all-around, rugged and versatile retriever, the Lab is an athlete and needs lots of exercise—don't go out and get a Lab unless you are prepared to meet the needs of a high-energy breed developed to plow through densely tangled vegetation, churn through icy water, search around diligently to find what he's looking for, and charge back and ask, "What's next?"

Is the Labrador Retriever right for you?

Find out more at: moderndogmagazine.com/labradorretriever

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever: Athletic, intelligent, sensitive

F

amous for his wavy, waterproof coat and gorgeous amber eyes, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a tireless duck dog hailing from the Mid-Atlantic. Bred to retrieve waterfowl in an unforgiving, icy environment, this powerfully built breed (males can weigh up to 80 pounds) is strong yet sensitive. Bright, loyal, affectionate, and athletic, the Chessie is emotionally complex.

“Chessies take to training, but they have a mind of their own and can tenaciously pursue their own path,” notes the AKC. And compared to many Retriever breeds, the Chessie is downright aloof, particularly where strangers are concerned.

The Chessie is assertive and confident, but with a soft side. These dogs bond intently with their loved ones, and are smart, biddable, and eager to please.

So, is the Chessie the right dog for you? If you love the idea of a Labrador Retriever, but can’t stop thinking about those amber eyes and that dense curly coat… then no, the Chessie is not for you.

The Chessie wants to work. For those in search of “just” a companion, this is not the breed. The Chessie’s not just a version of a Lab or a Golden. He’s his own dog—and he’s a lot of dog.

The Chessie loves his people but this breed needs to be busy— runs, hunts, walks, playtime. The Chessie is an “up for anything” dog—especially if it involves physical or mental exertion.

Is the The Chesapeake Bay Retriever right for you?

Find out more at: moderndogmagazine.com/chesapeakebayretriever

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This is the ultimate natural, all-purpose utility dog: strong, active, agile, and enthusiastic. And hungry—these dogs love their food.

The breed’s popularity is well deserved: he’s amiable, versatile, and up for anything, including a cuddle on the couch with the family after a marathon fetch session.

DOG GREETINGS Gone Wrong

A dog trainer/behaviourist asks, when did we lose the aptitude to greet dogs?

By Steve Duno | Illustration by Ryan Garcia

N

o one seems to know how to greet a dog anymore. Every time I see a person gleefully crouch down to someone's whale-eyed, tail-down Lab mix or puffed-up Jack Russell, look them in the eye, then reach out a quavering hand, I want to scream. What is up with this? When did we lose the aptitude to greet dogs? I want to talk about this, not only from a practical standpoint, but from a cultural perspective—what it means about us, and our dogs.

Dogs have become conversation pieces, and as such, the centers of attention, especially when out with their owners, at the park or café, or on daily walks. When a person appears with a dog, it is almost mandatory for others to fawn all over it, as if it were a newborn cherub in a stroller, or else some canine incarnation of Justin Bieber. It almost seems compulsory that one pay reverent homage to someone's dog in order to honour its owner's beneficence.

It's hooey. The truth is, most dogs are not body-wagging Golden Retrievers in love with every stranger they see, but instead family-centric, loyal creatures who are almost always initially reserved around strangers. And there is nothing wrong with that. It's normal. They are programmed with default reservation, because it's their job to protect and serve the tribe. Period.

Of course, some dogs are more reserved than others, either by breed, history, personality, or a combination of all these. Others, because of poor socialization, lack of training and low confidence, will also be more apt to worry. But, by and large, all dogs need time to process a stranger and see if the new person meets with owner approval. Once they decide that the stranger is acceptable to the owner, all is well.

But most people never let this initial judgment occur. Instead, they dive right into the dog, crouching, pointing, kneeling, reaching, talking baby talk, staring— everything I would do to get a dog to bite me. How did this become the status quo?

For the record, you do not kneel down or bend over and offer your outstretched hand to a strange dog. Ever. All she knows is that someone outside of her tribe is trying to touch her, period. That dog doesn't care what your hand smells like. What is she supposed to compare it to, anyway? Some stock scent library of well meaning, philanthropic people?

I often see this scenario played out in front of supermarkets, cafes, and storefronts, with tethered dogs whose owners are inside shopping. People going in or out feel obligated to greet the dog, or, worse yet, have their kids greet the dog. And they have of course taught their children the same dysfunctional greeting procedure, nearly guaranteeing their kids gets nipped, either on the outstretched hand, or in the face. Even with the owner present, it is folly to greet a dog in this fashion, unless you have self-destructive tendencies.

Was this incorrect greeting methodology taught to us as kids, along with other inanities such as "duck-and-cover," or "healthy" tanning? If so, I don't recall. In any event, whoever endorsed this method of dog greeting certainly didn't know much about dogs.

The right way to greet a strange dog is not at all. That's right; ignore the dog completely, even if it seems friendly and open to it. Plenty of dogs give mixed signals with tails, ears, and body posture; I've had smiling Border Collies, Corgis, Samoyeds, spaniels—all manner of "happy" looking pooches try to bite the blood out of me, all the while projecting mock affability.

Yes, there are dogs whose intent is clear; that five monthold retriever with the serpentine body wag, or the thirteen year-old Gandalf-like Springer mix who keeps sweetly nosing his saliva-soaked tennis ball at you—they are pretty easy to read. But as a general rule, just ignore the dog, and greet the owner first. Don't even look at the dog.Just shake the owner's hand, strike up a conversation, avoid wild gesticulations, and let the dog sniff your leg and watch the moderndogmagazine.com

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proceedings. Very quickly it will discern that you are okay, and that you have two dogs at home with bad breath who rolled in poop the day before. Once that happens, you'll see the dog's body posture relax. She will wag, smile, try to take part in the greeting, maybe even nudge into you for a pat on the head. A casual scratch and a low key "good girl" is all you'll need to guarantee a future of safe greetings.

Don't go overboard, even if the dog seems open to it. At this stage, you're okay with polite interaction, not roughhousing, manic rubbing, or kooky, frenetic vocalizations. Push an insecure dog too fast, and it will react defensively. Just keep it low key, the same way a dominant dog would act if greeted by a subordinate dog. Be calmly indifferent. Be cool.

If you see a lone, tethered dog, just leave it be. Respect his right to reservation. You needn't prove to the world that you are Doctor Doolittle; it's just not worth it. At the very least, wait for the owner to appear, talk to him or her, then let nature take its course. Keep a few cookies in your pocket for casual dropping. But never think you have an obligation to be a dog ambassador.

More importantly, teach your children to do the same. Of

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the five million reported dog bites that occur in the U.S. every year, the majority of them happen to kids under the age of twelve, due in great part to us teaching them the crazy "hand reach" method of dog salutation.

With regard to loose dogs wandering the neighborhood, use your best judgment as to whether or not they need help. But realize that, even if lost, a strange dog will likely mistrust you, and perhaps bite if someone tries to corral or capture him. And if you see a group of bully dogs with switchblades and leather jackets coursing around, stay calm, don't run, and do not make eye contact. Move steadily to your objective. If their intent is clearly aggression, jump atop a car with your dog, or grab a trash can for defense. Yell out for help, call 911, and pretend to be more daunting than you are. Never openly confront, unless you have no options left. Carry a few cookies or a tennis ball and toss them into the bushes to distract the brutes. If you walk your dog in an area where strays often carouse, consider carrying pepper spray, a cane or umbrella, or something for defense. Or, perhaps, be squired through the neighbourhood by a brace of 180-pound, well-trained Harlequin Great Danes. 

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A Dog’s World of Luxury

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moderndogmagazine.com

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HEALTHY DOG

TREAT IDEAS, Straight From Your Kitchen!

Easily up your homemade snack game with these easy-on-the-pocket-book, mostly single ingredient treats that are not only healthy but adored by dogs!

#1

#4

Cottage cheese. Take your dog’s dinner to flavour town by adding in a small spoon of cottage cheese. It’s a great way to add some extra protein and calcium to your dog’s diet. Just give a small amount though, as it is dairy and can upset some dogs’ stomachs.

Sardines. Keep a bag of these little fish—rich in

Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA—in your freezer and dole them out to your dog frozen for a treat he’ll go crazy for! Dogs also love canned sardines—just choose a variety packed with water and no salt added. Treated once a week, sardines are a great whole-food way to add fish oil to your dog’s diet!

#5

Sweet potatoes. Dogs love this

#2

Homemade liver treats. ‘Nuff said. Find the recipe on page 34 and earn some extra adoration from your dog when you whip up these easy treats.

#3

Air-popped popcorn is a healthy treat you can share with your dog! Skip the butter and salt and instead dust it with “vegan crack,” aka nutritional yeast for a nondairy nutty-cheesy taste you and your dog will both love.

Avoid giving your dog the unpopped kernels and never give your dog baker’s yeast.

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sweet tuber. In our experience, they even like the skin when the sweet potato has been baked in the oven! Add a bit of baked or boiled sweet potato to your dog’s dinner, or find our recipe for easy dehydrated sweet potato chews at moderndogmagazine.com/sweet-potato-chews

#6

Organic coconut pieces, sliced and dehydrated.

Dogs love the naturally sweet taste of coconut, which is— bonus!—great for their health as it’s high in fiber and healthy fats, promoting a glossy coat, among many other health benefits. Be sure to choose a nothing added, unsweetened variety, such as Cocotherapy's Coconut Chips cocotherapy.com

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To Crop, or not to Crop?

What you decide influences how others view you.

Science shows people are judging you by your dog: a new study demonstrates that docking a dog's tail or cropping his ears alters public perception—not just of the dog, but of the owner too

By Stanley Coren

S

uppose that you find yourself looking at a man standing next to a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. He is wearing a leather vest, but no shirt so that you can clearly see the multiple large tattoos covering his body. His face is scarred and he has a red bandanna covering his long, uncombed hair. Which pair of words do you think might best describe the personality you would expect this individual to have: "warm and cuddly" or "rough and dangerous?"

Appearances are important. They affect our first impression of people, how we judge their personality, and whether we respond positively or negatively to them. Scientific data shows that the same goes for dogs. This not only holds for the natural look of dogs but also how they look after human beings have intervened to modify their physical characteristics.

Typical modifications often involve medical procedures to change the shape of a dog’s ears or the length of its tail. It seems that such alterations also change our perception of the temperament of these modified dogs.

Recent scientific data suggests that docking the tails of dogs and cropping their ears causes people to judge the dog’s personality more negatively.

Perhaps equally interesting is the fact that this impression carries over to the way that people judge the temperament and personality of the individuals who own such dogs.

Certain breeds of dogs have traditionally been surgically altered either to assist them in their designated working function, or to meet the aesthetic standards set out by particular kennel clubs. Dogs that were supposed to function as guard dogs often had their tails cut short (technically “docked”) because the presence of a tail could provide a handhold for “the bad guys” to control the dog while at the same time avoiding his teeth.

These same dogs often had their ears surgically reshaped to minimize the size of the ear flaps (technically called “ear cropping”) because the flaps of the ears are very sensitive and could provide handholds for someone moderndogmagazine.com

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to control the dog's head position while still keeping away from the dog's teeth. These surgical procedures were also performed on dogs destined to be fight against dogs or other animals in the pit sports. Sometimes tail docking was done on hunting dogs in the belief that long tails were subject to damage as they went through dense underbrush and over rocky terrain.

University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada, investigated the effect that docked tails and cropped ears have on our perception of the nature and personality of dogs, and then extended their research to see if these factors also had any effect on our perception of the dogs' owners as well. The results of their studies appeared in the journal PLoS ONE.

Today such procedures are classified as medically unnecessary surgeries because their primary purpose is seen to be cosmetic. However, certain breed standards maintained by some kennel clubs include specifications regarding the length of the tail or the shape and position of the ears, and these can often only be attained by docking or cropping. It is likely that these aesthetic standards are still imposed upon these breeds simply because breeders have had their taste in what their breed of dog should look like shaped by the historical precedents.

When these breeds originated, they were surgically modified because it seemed to improve the dog's ability to function in its assigned work, and now that “look” has come to be what breeders and breed fanciers expect and prefer, even though in contemporary society these dogs are now more likely to be used only as pets and companions.

The researchers conducted several different surveys but I will concentrate on those which looked at the personality data. They presented pictures of four dog breeds that commonly have their tails docked and their ears cropped to their test subjects. Three of these breeds—the Boxer, Doberman Pinscher, and Miniature Schnauzer—are quite popular (in the top 20 registered breeds for the American Kennel Club) while the fourth, the Brussels Griffon, is not as common but provided them with an example of a toy breed that often undergoes these surgical changes. Researchers created two pictures of each dog breed, both in the same orientation and against the same background.

The difference was that one of these dogs had cropped ears and docked tail while the other was a surgically unmodified dog.

“Dogs with the appearance typical of cropped and docked dogs might now be seen as more combative, more dominant, and less playful and affectionate.”

The dogs which most typically had their tails docked or their ears cropped were the “tough guys of dogdom,” namely the guard dogs, fighters, and hunters. Because of that association it is natural that the attitudes of the average person toward individual dogs which have been modified in this way would be biased. Thus people would come to expect that any dogs that look like that will be ruffians and rowdies. In other words, dogs with the appearance typical of cropped and docked dogs might now be seen as more combative, more dominant, and less playful and affectionate.

Katelyn Mills, Jesse Robbins, and Marina von Keysrlngk, researchers in the Animal Welfare Program at the

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In one survey, 392 U.S. residents served as test subjects. To conceal the aim of their study, the participants were told that they would be participating in an experiment to see whether or not it was possible to accurately predict the personality of dogs using nothing more than a photograph. Each test subject saw only four images that included just one version (natural or surgically modified) of each breed. They were then asked to rate each dog on a set of personality traits that were selected from a previously published dog personality questionnaire.

The results were consistent with the idea that seeing dogs with docked tails and cropped ears evokes a stereotype in people—one in which the altered dogs are seen as more belligerent and mean-spirited. According to their data,

FIGURE: SC PSYCHOLOGICAL ENTERPRISES LTD.

A surgically modified and a “natural” Boxer.

such modified dogs are believed to be more aggressive, both towards people and other dogs. They were also seen as being more dominant than natural, unmodified dogs.

Furthermore, the natural dogs were reported as appearing to be more playful. Finally, seemingly flying in the face of any cosmetic purpose for the ear and tail surgeries, the natural unmodified dogs were rated as being more attractive than those who underwent docking and cropping.

Now here is where things get really interesting. In their final survey, the researchers decided to see if the way people judged the personalities of the surgically altered dogs also had an effect on how they judged the personality of the dogs’ owners. This time they surveyed 420 U.S. residents. The test subjects were informed that they would be participating in a study assessing whether an individual’s choice of a pet communicates information about their personality. In this study, a photo of either a natural or surgically modified dog was combined with a picture of a person. Participants were told that they would be seeing a picture of a real person (Karen or Brian) and their pet dog Pepper. In this study Pepper was represented by either a photo of a Doberman Pinscher in its natural state or as a tail docked and ear cropped dog of the same breed.

The research participants were then given a list of questions about the personality of the dog's owner.

The results of this study suggest that observers tend to view the dog's owner as having much of the same characteristics that they attribute to the dog. Overall, the participants perceived the owners of dogs with cropped ears and docked tails as being more aggressive. They were also seen as more “narcissistic” where the experimenters used the definition of narcissism as “excessive selfadmiration and feelings of superiority.” Furthermore, the owners of the modified dogs were judged as being less playful, less talkative, and less warm than the owners of the natural or unmodified dogs. The researchers summarize these results by saying that at least in the eyes of those individuals who observe the dogs and their owners together “it could be suggested that owners of modified dogs [appear to] have a greater risk of social conflicts, human interaction complications, and decreased approachability than owners of natural dogs.”

So if you are considering whether to dock your dog's tail or crop their ears this data suggests that by doing so you will be affecting much more than the way that your dog looks.

Following such surgical modifications people are going to view your dog as having a more aggressive personality. In addition if you are seen to be associated with such a dog you are less likely to be perceived as warm and cuddly and more likely to be seen as a hard case. If you are concerned about how people respond to you and your dog, this might be something to think about.  moderndogmagazine.com

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THE DOG GEAR LOOKBOOK

Your at-a-glance guide to the best stuff for your dog

APPAREL

Nantucket Slicker, $30; upcountryinc.com

Lacey Breezy Cover-up Hoodie, From $57; oscarnewman.com

Stretch Fleece, From $22; goldpawseries.com

Chevron Heart Screen Print Dog Shirt, $13; miragepetproducts.com

COLLARS

Dog Collar - Princess Crystal From $269; dogonleash.ca

Sparky’s Standard Buckle Collar, From $21; auburndirect.com

Stitched Leather Dog Collar, From $18; centralkentuckytackandleather.com

Decorated Leather Collar, From $20; Hotdogsalldressed.com

HARNESSES + LEASHES

Sugarplum Luxury Harness, From $48; buddy-belts.com

Paradise Found Navy 5ft Essential Leash, From $25; 2houndsdesign.com

Polygon Step in Harness, From $31; woofconcept.com

Funky Fish Lead, From $23; www.upcountryinc.com

FUNCTION

The BUSTER raincoat, From $22; kruuse247.com

40 moderndog

Walking Vest Medium - 600 denier, From $18; sturdiproducts.com

SPRING 2019

Royal Rain Slicker, From $70; chillydogs.ca

Recovery Suit Dog – Blue Camo, From $30; suitical.com

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STAIR

MASTERS How to Teach Your Dog How to Climb Stairs

By Teoti Anderson

I

was booked to do a live segment for my local television news station on dog training. As usual, I brought one of my dogs along.

This time it was my black Labrador Retriever Logan’s turn. We arrived at the station and the producer met us in the lobby.

“I’m so sorry, our elevator is broken.

We’ll have to take the stairs,” she said.

“No problem!” I replied, following her through the lobby. I started up the stairs. When the leash tightened behind me, I realized Logan wasn’t following me. Surprised, I looked back and saw his sweet face tense with worry. It was only then it hit me—I had never taught my three-year-old dog to climb stairs. Not only that, but these were floating stairs—the space underneath the staircase was open.

These can be scary for people, let alone dogs.

The facts leading up to my current situation flooded my brain. My home was a single story. My friends Logan visited had single-story homes.

Whenever we visited health care facilities as pet therapy volunteers, we always took the elevator. Surely there had been a staircase somewhere?

None. And now my deadline was a live television appearance. Yikes!

I pulled out my treats. Thank goodness my dog learned quickly that the stairs weren’t so scary after all.

We made it to the camera on time and the segment went without a hitch.

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And from that moment on, I taught all my dogs to navigate stairways. Lesson learned!

Stairs can be very daunting to dogs. Whether you have a young puppy or an older rescue dog who’s never tackled stairs before, teaching your dog to go up and down stairs is a useful exercise. Since you will not likely be under the pressure of live television, you will have the luxury of taking things slowly.

Going Up  It’s easier if you start by going up the stairs. Going up is one thing, and coming down is entirely another.

Your dog is likely to learn how to go up first. If you think about it, coming downstairs requires your pup to loom over the stair—that can be a scary view!

Get some delicious treats your dog loves. Where you start will depend on the size of your dog and your staircase. Choose a stair that is just within the reach of your dog’s mouth.

For example, if you are working with a little Maltese puppy, this will be the first stair. But if you’re working with a grown Greyhound, this could be the third stair.

Place a treat in the middle of the stair, within your dog’s reach. As he stretches to eat it, praise him. Repeat this a couple times, on the same stair.

When your pup is easily taking a treat

off the stair, place one on the next highest stair. It may help him if you sit on the same stair. He should have to stretch for this one, putting a paw or two up on a lower stair. Every time he climbs, praise!

Going Down  Start at the top of the stairs, and put a treat in the middle of the next stair down. Sit on that stair. Again, this might be scarier to your dog. He may whine, go back and forth at the top, even bark. Ignore this. Instead, praise him heavily for any brave movement towards going down.

If he goes down that first stair and eats the treat, immediately put a treat on the next stair down. You move down a stair, too. Repeat until you both reach the bottom.

Be patient. It may take one session, it may take several. If you go slow and make the process fun, before you know it, your dog will be racing up and down like a stair master!

Remember that as dogs get older, stairs can get scary for a number of reasons, from vision loss to reduced mobility. Always keep your dog’s nails short so they have good traction. A carpet runner can also help. If a dog that formerly managed the stairs without issue is suddenly hesitant, he may now need help up and down.

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HEALTH

5 FOR DOGS FUN SPORTS

Get fit, have fun, keep your dog mentally and physically engaged, make new friends—why not jump into 2019 by trying one of these popular dog activities? You may just discover your passion. Just ask these participants…

G

one are the days when keeping a dog active involved the backyard and simply a stick or a ball. Today, dog lovers can participate in a whole array of different dog sports, ranging from dock diving to even dancing.

Shortly after Tania Calverley and her husband, Tom, brought their English Shepherd/Border Collie mix, Burley, home in November 2013, they realized that they had a smart and very energetic dog on their hands.

Whether you and your dog commit to high-level competition, or would rather just have fun through casual participation, there is truly something out there for every pup. With so many options, it’s hard to know where to start, so we did the legwork for you: we’ve explored five of the most popular sports for dogs, speaking to owners all over the U.S. and Canada about what you need to get started, how much it will cost, the time commitment, and most of all, what you and your dog can expect to get out of it. Read on to explore which activities might suit you and your dog. All of these activities keep dogs happy, healthy, and stimulated, while adding extra meaning to participants’ lives. And stay tuned for part 2 in the next issue!

“I knew we needed something to work both his body and mind,” says Tania, an Ottawa, Ontario resident. “I’d seen dog agility before and looked into it.” They began taking classes. “He was so tired after class—it was a miracle,” remembers Tania. “But he also was having so much fun.

1

Canine Agility What it is: It’s an obstacle course gone to the dogs. You and your dog work as a team—under the direction of their handlers, dogs jump and make their way through walkways and tunnels and over hurdles, working towards flawless execution and a fast course-completion time.

Who they are: Tania Calverley and Burley

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“I’d never been a sport person, but agility was more about competing with yourself—getting better as a team versus beating someone else,” says Tania. They ran their first trial in 2016 and are now a Masters team, ranked No. 25 in Canada under the Agility Association of Canada.

Although Tania would “hands-down recommend agility to anyone who has a dog that is fairly obedient,” she recognizes that not all dogs are up to compete. “Some just want to do it for fun and not compete—you have to honour what works for you and your dog,” she says.

During the summer, the duo has classes, practice, or trials five days a week. Classes are usually between $20 and $25 an hour. The big cost comes at trials. Each run is about $15 - $21. “But it is always fun, supportive and you learn best when it costs you dearly,” she says. Tania has also bought equipment to allow Burley to practice in the backyard, but it’s all worth it. “Hands down the best thing I’ve gotten out of agility is an incredible bond with Burley,” Tania says.

“It goes beyond obedience training, it goes beyond a pethuman bond. We are a team. We run together, we flow together, we read each other’s body movement, sounds etc.

Sometimes you have a run where it’s like you and your dog are the only things that exist—those runs are amazing.”

AGILITY CREDIT TANIA CAVERLEY DISC DOGS CREDIT SCOTT JONES DOCK DIVING CREDIT SANDY BAIRD & GAIL SPIRO

By Tracey Tong

Gyms For Dogs!

Equipment to take your play session to the next level Gyms For Dogs, makers of natural dog park products, offers the coolest array of play equipment for dogs, providing activities regardless of ability or skill level and promoting healthy behaviour, confidence, and physical activity.

Available in pre-configured stations or courses, Gyms For Dogs items can be customized to fit your site. Popular play activities include Hill Climb, Jump Hurdles, Training Platform, and more. How fun is that? » Check it out at gymsfordogs.com.

2

Disc Dogs What it is: Frisbee has gone to the dogs in this competitive sport, where dogs and handlers receive points for distance and accuracy in their throwing and catching.

Who they are: Scott Jones and Rodeo, Tango, Denali, Onyx, Rebel, and Wylee Back in 1998, Scott Jones was just a regular guy, throwing a Frisbee to his dogs in the backyard. Seeing that they wanted more of a challenge, he started looking for more activities.

A search on the web for disc/Frisbee dog competitions turned up some results, and they began competing in 1999.

Fast forward 19 years and Scott has seen the sport change— and the sport changed his life. Scott now co-owns Disc Dogs of Michigan LLC, in Davison, Michigan with his wife, Deanna, a seasoned dog trainer. The sport “keeps growing,” says Scott, a three-time world disc dog champion with two different dogs. “(Twenty years ago), there were four to five events I could hit within a three-to-five-hour drive.

Now, in that same distance, you can find an event to go to almost every weekend.” He competes with six of his nine dogs—eight-year-old Rodeo, a Labrador and two-time single-disc world champion; eight-year-old Tango, and Australian Cattle Dog/Border Collie mix; six-year-old Denali, a miniature Australian Shepherd; three-year-old Onyx, a Labrador; and Border Collies Rebel and Wylee, both two.

This sport is very inclusive, says Scott. Any dog that likes to retrieve and has drive and focus can play. Depending on the area, the sport runs all four seasons. Those interested can start with a local trainer or by attending an event as an observer. Events are reasonably priced at $10 to $15 per event. As far as equipment goes, participants only need a dog-approved disc.

Scott loves to see the dogs get out and run and chase the disc. “That’s what they love,” he says. “You’re able to watch your dog grow along with your skills. It’s also a great bonding activity, and a way to meet fellow dog lovers.”

3

Dock Diving

What it is: Dogs jump from a dock into a body of water.

In distance jumping, the handler throws a toy to get the dog to jump as far as possible, and in ultimate vertical, dogs aim to touch a bumper that is moved higher and higher.

Who they are: Alan Wright and Mary-Beth Ribble and The Canadian Lab Squad The large inground pool was meant for humans. But try as they might, Alan Wright and Mary-Beth Ribble couldn’t keep their two rescue Labradors, Jersey and Max, out of it.

Looking for an alternative, a quick online search in 2011 led them to the Ontario DockDogs club.

Today, Alan and Mary-Beth have six dogs—silver Lab Jemma, eight; chocolate Lab Jersey, eight; black Lab Marleigh, six; black Lab Louie, five; charcoal Lab Ashlyn, two, and yellow Lab Amber, two. All have earned World Championships invitations.

“The sport is very popular and just keeps growing each year,” says Alan. So popular, that the couple started up the K9 Fun Zone, a dock jumping facility, in Caledonia, Ontario. Although it’s a seasonal sport in Canada, there are some areas in the U.S. that are able to run year round or have indoor facilities.

For those who want to get involved, the investment is fairly low. Large equipment is provided by event organizers, and event registration fees vary by organization.

At K9 Fun Zone, Alan has seen breeds as small as Maltese and as large as Great Danes, St Bernards and Bernese Mountain Dogs participate. The reaction to the pool is the same regardless of the size of dog—they “get excited just seeing the pool and knowing that they are going to be able to go up on the dock. If you were at an event, you would hear a lot of barking and feel their excitement,” says Alan.

“We have so many clients tell us that when they make the main turn to head towards K9 Fun Zone, their pups know where they’re headed and get excited in the vehicle.”

Their own dogs “can’t walk past the dock without running up the stairs because they want to jump,” he says. moderndogmagazine.com

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modify choreography to the person or dog’s ability. Got a three-legged dog, they can dance. Got a deaf or blind dog, they can dance. You are in a wheelchair, you can dance too.”

The sport is growing. A plus is that the initial investment is very small—a clicker, and some treats (“the stinkier, the better,” jokes Deana).

4

Canine Freestyle What it is: Turn up the music and

the lights, and put on your dancing shoes—canine freestyle lets you dance with your dog to a choreographed musical routine. There’s more to canine freestyle than meets the eye. All those turns, jumps and twists (performed by both dog and handler) require hours of practice, communication, and above all, a connection between its canine/human team. Those who do this sport are rewarded with a creative, fun, bond-building activity and great exercise.

“There is no greater joy than that which comes from a happy dog,” says Deana. “By their very nature dogs are an unconditional loving creature who just want to make you happy. They bring joy into the room. Through freestyle they teach us to laugh at them, to laugh with them, and most important, to laugh at ourselves. It makes me smile and it fills my heart with joy every time I tell someone, even a stranger, that believe it or not, I dance with my dog.”

Who they are: Deana De Wolf and Chenille Deana De Wolf’s dance partner may not have the freshest breath, but she’s enthusiastic, always ready to cut a rug, and downright adorable.

She’s also a Goldendoodle and Deana’s best friend.

Deana was introduced to canine freestyle at pet expo in Tucson, Arizona in 2007. “I was mesmerized by what these people did with their dogs,” she says. “I had done obedience, but this just looked fun. What a partnership those people had with their dogs. I knew I wanted to be a part of it. I’m not much of a dancer, so at first, it was intimidating. But then I watched closer. The people doing demos looked like they were just having fun with their dogs.”

In early 2011, Deana got a new dog, a Goldendoodle she named Chenille. They did basic obedience with the ultimate goal of doing freestyle. When Chenille was two years old, they joined the Tucson Canine Musical Freestyle Club.

Now eight, Chenille has learned how to do moves with only a verbal cue. “The dance is much more impressive if an audience can’t see the physical cues, and at the higher levels of competition, it is a requirement not to use cues,” she says.

At the Tucson club, there are many different breeds participating. “Some breeds, of course, are either a little more confident, more agile or more dance-friendly,” Deana says. “Meaning, can a little dog push a prop around the run as easily as a large dog? Could a shy dog pull off a comedy routine or a spirited dog do a slow waltz? The answer is yes, as long as the owner’s expectation fits the dog’s ability.”

Same goes for the owners. All owners can do freestyle, even if they insist they can’t dance. “Dance ability, athletic ability, and training experience are all pretty irrelevant,” says Deana. “There are even divisions in competition to accommodate disabilities of both handlers and dogs. You

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5

Conformation What it is: Conformation is a competitive dog sport where purebred dogs are shown and judged in accordance with their ideal breed standards, as determined by organizations like the American Kennel Club (AKC) or the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) during dog shows.

Who they are: Jackie Monell and Frederico, Rosalie, Tina and Margot When Jackie Monell was a young girl, she loved to go to the library and read breed-specific dog books.

“In those books, they had win photos of dogs at AKC shows and there were chapters about showing your dog,” she says. “I wanted nothing more than to participate.”

She got her first show dog in 2002. Although they never won anything, that was fine by Jackie. “My dogs are always pets first,” she says. Her first dog “was a beloved pet for 12 years until she passed away.”

She now has four French Bulldogs—Rosalie, retired with CGC, CGCA, CGCU and TKA titles; Tina (retired); Margot (starting next year) and Frederico (L’Wolfranch Celebrates Frederico!), a one-year-old who is an AKC champion and is a little more than halfway to his grand championship.

Unlike other sports, the biggest investment in conformation is not the equipment or the fees, but the dog itself.

DEANA & CHENILLE CREDIT KEVILEE WATTERSON JACKIE MONELL AND ROSALIE CREDIT JACKIE MONELL

“Dance ability, athletic ability, and training experience are all pretty irrelevant."

They need to be OK with being put on a table, having a stranger look at their teeth, and having their hands all over them. They need to not just be OK with it, but enjoy it— a happy dog shows best. You can’t force this on them.

Temperament is important. “He or she needs to navigate a show with lots of people, dogs, clattering carts, blow dryers and buzzing clippers, and need to be OK with standing around, [yet remain] focused on their handler,” says Jackie, who lives in Malibu, California. “They need to be OK with being put on a table, having a stranger look at their teeth, and having their hands all over them.

They need to not just be OK with it, but enjoy it—a happy dog shows best. You can’t force this on them.”

As a result of their showing careers, Jackie has socialized dogs that are always at ease. “They can be brought anywhere because I know they will be focused on me and not worried about other dogs or strange noises, people, and dogs. I can take them anywhere and they’re not stressed out or worried,” she says.

After buying the dog, the second biggest expense is the food—most owners will want the best food and health supplements they can buy for their dogs—and then handling classes. After that, there are entry fees, roughly $30 per show, and any other accessories, like fancy show leads, beds and grooming tools. Many owners will travel to shows,

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but Jackie says she’s fortunate that Southern California has shows nearly every weekend. “My biggest expense is gas,” she says. “There’s also parking fees of $8 to $10 per day at most shows. Some people drive RVs to shows and there are fees for their hookups. I’ve flown and stayed in hotels for big shows, like Nationals (which moves its location every year, so the cost is whatever your flight and hotel is). The logistics are the hard part because you have to find pet-friendly flights and hotels. Usually, there are extra fees but these vary by airline and hotel. I’m about to fly with Tina to Washington state and it’s an extra $100 each way to have her under my seat.”

Jackie has also paid her handler to take Frederico to a cluster of shows in Kansas. After splitting the costs with other dog owners, she paid the handler $1,500.

Aside from having the right dog, the owners need to be well-suited to the conformation life.

“As a handler, you have to be gracious and respectful,” says Jackie. “You will lose more than you win, and you need to thank the judge and congratulate the winner even if you feel like it was unfair. Good sportsmanship is paramount.” 

4 Instagram Dogs You Need to Follow

#1

@wat.ki 681k followers

If your day needs a bit of brightening, this is the account to follow. This outrageously adorable account shares the adventures of Watson and Kiko, a pair of Golden Retrievers that are super-lovey best buds (those dog hugs! *heart melts*). Bonus cuteness provided by guest starring cats and beaniewearing hedgehogs.

#2

#4

Attention Corgi and Dachshund fans: you’re going to want to follow the Ween and the Queen, aka New York-based besties Dave the Dachshund and Elizabeth the Corgi. These two bring personality-plus (think Corgi smiles and that Dachshund je ne sais quoi) to stylishly composed shots for an Instagram win.

@norbertthedog 723k followers

This account is one of our very favourite Instagram follows. With his Gremlin ears and tiny tongue sticking out, Norbert, a three-pound therapy dog, author, and philanthropist is almost too cute for words.

Plus, he brings the feel-good. When he calls himself a “smol smile ambassador” he sums it up perfectly—this pint-sized pup is a volunteer at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

2,365 likes

#3

@itsdougthepug 3.7m followers

When Doug the Pug proclaims himself the “king of pup culture,” it’s no exaggeration.

This Instagram star has a whopping 3.7 million followers.

Why should you count yourself among them? A funny combo of extremely droll Pug-ness delivered in a whole variety of silly set-ups pretty much guarantees a smile.

38,890 likes

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105,862 likes

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@thedapple_ 30.9k

NORBERT PHOTO CREDIT MARK STEINES PHOTOS @WAT.KI @ITSDOUGTHEPUG @THEDAPPLE_

Cute Overload!

Cold Noses, Warm Hearts Finding love (or even just a date!) courtesy of your canine cupid

By Jane Mundy

S

o, you’ve tried regular dating sites like Plenty of Fish and Match.com and eyed doggie parks looking for the perfect match, but ruff luck. It’s not easy to find a soul mate who is also compatible with your dog—or maybe your dog is compatible and you aren’t.

If it’s a deal breaker when your prospective partner doesn’t dig dogs, don’t give up—there are online dating sites and apps geared to dog owners/lovers, each having different templates and algorithms to help you find “the one.”

Although your dog can be included in your profile picture on apps such as Bumble, many traditional dating sites and popular apps don’t allow you to filter to only see dog lovers.

Including your dog in your online dating profile is key, so prospects know upfront that your pup is a priority.

Dating Sites With Pets Chances are, finding romance with someone like-minded when it comes to animals is more likely on a dating site or app designed especially for dog people, such as Dig or FetchaDate.

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Casey Isaacson dated someone for two years. Though her partner tried to be a dog person, he didn’t want her Cava-poo in his apartment and he covered the furniture with towels (the dog doesn’t shed). In hindsight, Casey wishes she knew from the get-go that this relationship wouldn’t work.

“I knew Casey wasn’t the only one—many people had similar stories,” says Leigh, her sister. “Being a former investigative reporter I’m inquisitive, so I did some research and found that more than half of single adults in the U.S. are pet owners, and half of those consider dogs as a family member.” Those statistics led the sisters to found Dig, a dating app specifically targeting dog owners and dog lovers.

The dog park is always good for first dates, and Dig is designed to make sure you get out there, whether with your own pup, or your date’s dog (you don’t need to have your own canine, you just need to love them). You can plan a dog-friendly date in Dig’s chat centre and search for dogfriendly dates near your neighbourhood park. Bonus: you can also get a “daily deal” from a local pet store to ensure that you win over their dog with a unique treat.

Since its launch in February 2018, thousands of users have downloaded Dig, available for both Apple and Android users. Their goal is 100,000 by mid-2019, which seems

realistic judging from how popular their live parties have been. Casey and Leigh get the word out by introducing Dig city-by-city with a dog-friendly party. “We invite lots of dog businesses from a city to be part of our event, such as pet shops and pet lawyers and even a florist who makes flower collars for dogs, and of course local dog rescues,” says Leigh. “And then we have a party! Some events in New York and Boston attracted over 300 people and their dogs.” Users can look forward to more people to match with—and in more cities—in the following months with further events planned. This past winter saw events unleashed in San Francisco, Austin, and Portland, and Dig plans to party in Los Angeles, Denver, Dallas, Philadelphia, Miami, and Atlanta, and more this spring.

“It’s amazing to watch the dogs fall in love first and so much easier to start a conversation and relationship after that initial contact,” says Leigh. “Dogs can make people more human—if you are on a first date and picking up poo you can really understand each other from a more real and personal level. Dogs help break down barriers.” (Available free on the app store at digdates.com).

FetchaDate “The wonderful thing about dogs is how they can lead to humans dating—they are the perfect icebreaker for people to connect for friendships and/or love,” says Sheryl Matthys, the “dog lovers’ matchmaker” of Leashes and Lovers, a bestselling book and FetchaDate, an app and website for single dog lovers. A portion of the latter’s paid membership is donated to animal shelters, rescue groups, and animal organizations. (It’s free for dog lovers to create a profile, but to message one another requires a paid membership that starts at just $12.95/month.)

“As soon as I got a dog, everyone in New York City became friendly,” says Sheryl. “People stopped me in the street and asked about my Greyhound (retired from the racetrack) and I soon figured having a dog was the best way to make friends.”

Like the Isaacson sisters, Sheryl started out hosting live events.

“I went to martini lounges in Manhattan and held dog parties,” she explains. “People ask lots of questions at these events and soon I had enough information to write a book about what your dog can teach you about love and happiness.” After writing Leashes and Lovers, the FetchaDate website and app were a natural next step. 

FIRST DATE AT THE DOG PARK Still hesitant to jump into online dating? Watch the movie “Must Love Dogs;” it helps relieve many of the stigmas/anxieties some of us still have around online dating. Sure, your odds of hooking up with somebody who looks like Diane Lane or John Cusack are perhaps not overwhelming, but you’re definitely not going to meet someone sitting at home! At the very least, you’ll connect with a fellow dog lover and, if you arrange to meet at the dog park, your pup can romp with a canine friend. Why not give it a shot? Flirting at the dog park isn’t the typical landscape for pick-up lines but that’s what makes it so great. No pressure and if your dogs feel the spark, maybe you will too. moderndogmagazine.com

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Now with over 50,000 members, almost every state, and maybe Canada, has someone you can connect with.

Sheryl says dating through sites like hers attracts people more easily—friendships quickly form. Women have become such good friends they’ve gone to each other’s weddings. “You know you’re part of our club, we all get it,” she says. “And you can trust animal lovers; they are more empathetic and understanding, and more flexible.”

With your dog, you have already made a match. Sheryl notes that a few guys’ profiles say they never went on a dating site before but figured they stood half a chance of meeting the right woman on FetchaDate. “Reading between the lines—and I love reading their stories—they maybe felt intimidated and unsafe on traditional dating sites. Here they found a friendly zone with a better chance at romance.”

A few profiles: DollyJoJo: “Fit, fun doggy mama to a friendly, outgoing 11-month pup with TONS of energy. Would love to meet some single guys with dogs…seems like I’m the only dog owner in my area who isn’t coupled up…I love hip hop and live for beach days.

Chadly: I’m a gentleman who has a good friend (my dog). I like to go for a walk early in the morning and I like tea.

Christine: A creative, athletic, flip-flop wearing dog lover looking to meet someone new. I have a degree in Forensic Science and a love of technology….when I’m not at the skating rink, I find new adventures with my pup Kobe.

August: I’m a monogamous man who believes in old

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fashioned values and I’m looking for my big spoon. I love the beach, going to movies and my dog. I want a man who is full of compassion, is daring and considerate. A man who knows how to romance his guy is the ultimate.

Join the FetchaDate single dog lovers community at fetchadate.com.

Kathy (not her real name) tried online dating with Tinder without much success. She dated one guy for four years but he had no interest in her pets, and it put too much of a strain on their relationship. Being recently single, she’s into casual dating—for now. “On my profile I made a few dog and cat comments and they got the most response— more than food or football,” says Kathy, laughing. “People messaged me about their cat or dog, and on one date, whipping out our dog pictures was the first thing we did.”

Although that date didn’t work out, Kathy thinks she’ll have better chances on a dating site that involves dogs. “Even though I’m not ready to dive into a serious relationship, I look forward to meeting like-minded people,” she quips. “I found out the hard way that it’s not easy to connect with someone who doesn’t love dogs.”

Dating by Numbers Statistics show your dog can help you make a love match If you’re south of the border, you may be counted in the 55 percent of single adults in the U.S. that have pets.

Whatever dating site or app you join, follow up: one-third of people on dating apps never make it to a real date.

A study conducted by Wag, a dog walking company, found that: ♥♥ 86 percent of dog owners say they would break up with their significant other if they weren’t into their dog ♥♥ 50 percent say they’ve been flirted with while walking their dog, ♥♥ 70 percent are more likely to chat online or even go home with people who say they have a dog.

Pet ownership may make or break a relationship, according to a 2015 survey involving over 1200 Match. com pet-owning subscribers. Among the findings: ♥♥ Nearly one-third had been “more attracted to someone” because they had a pet. ♥♥ More than half said they would find someone more attractive if they knew he or she had adopted a pet. ♥♥ Most said they thought their date’s choice in pets said a lot about their personality. ♥♥ More than half said they would not date someone who did not like pets. ♥♥ About two-thirds said they would judge their date based on how he or she responded to their own pet.

“That people might let a cat or a dog influence the most important close relationship in their life—that’s phenomenal,” said Justin Garcia, scientific adviser to Match.com. ■ moderndogmagazine.com

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They have emotional support dogs

They take inspiration from their dogs Actress Natalie Portman enjoys a morning stroll with her dog in Los Feliz, LA. She started her production company, Handsomecharlie Films, named after her departed dog Charlie and Charlie Chaplin, to create more roles for women, by women.

Kelly Osbourne brings her emotional support dog, a tiny Pomeranian named Polly, along to meet a friend for lunch at Bubby's restaurant in Tribeca, NYC. The star has admitted to a fear of flying and social anxieties, which Polly helps with. “She just makes everything better,” she says.

! s r a t S y’re just

PHOTOS BACKGRID

The us! like

They take their dog along Jennifer Garner takes her son Samuel to get his hair cut at the barbershop and brings along Birdie, her adorable Golden Retriever. Birdie is the star of Garner’s Instagram feed thanks to the pup popping up in a series of posts called #BookswithBirdie in which the star and Birdie share a story and a reading list.

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Their best accessory is their pup!

Katy Perry rocks an all denim ensemble as she steps out with her dog Miniature Poodle Nugget.

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8

Dog Arthritis Relief:

Things You Can Do To Help Your Dog’s Sore Joints

M

ost dogs will experience some form of arthritic pain as they grow older, with many dogs beginning to show arthritic symptoms at just six or seven years of age. Signs of arthritis in dogs include difficulty or pain when getting up (indicated by stiffness or yelping), a reluctance to walk, play, or climb stairs, lagging behind part way through a walk, limping, a dislike of being touched, licking at joints, or a change in personality, such as snappish behaviour from a normally good-natured dog. Here’s how to help a dog with arthritis.

1

#

Keep the weight off. Arthritic pain can

couch or the car. And if your dog is increasingly reluctant to do the stairs, stair treads from Dean Flooring provide much appreciated traction to prevent older dogs from slipping on stairs. They install in five minutes without adhesives and can make all the difference for older dogs (deanstairtreads. com). Also, be sure to keep those nails short. If your older dog has trouble with hardwood floors and other non-carpeted surfaces, try Dr. Buzby's ToeGrips (toegrips.com), non-slip grips that fit on your dog's toenails to prevent their feet from sliding out from under them on slippery surfaces. By providing traction they improve the mobility of injured or older pets.

be managed—and in some cases prevented—by maintaining an ideal body weight. Extra weight puts extra pressure on already sore joints. How do you know if your dog could lose a pound or two? A dog at a healthy weight has a slightly defined waist and a soft outline of the rib cage.

If your dog could stand to lose a few pounds, mind those treats. Hills Pet Nutrition did the math: For a 20-pound dog, a one ounce cube of cheddar cheese is the human caloric equivalent of one-and-a-half hamburgers.

2

#

Adjust your dog’s environment with

supportive bedding and stairs or ramps. A bed designed to cushion joints, like the Bowsers' Oslo Ortho Bed (think cool gel memory foam plus a scooped front), is a godsend for older dogs. Hampton Bay Pet Steps makes ramps and stairs to help senior pups get around and access areas like the

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3

#

Controlled Exercise. It’s

important that you get your arthritic dog moving. Encourage your dog to get up and move around. Exercise should be short in duration and low impact—swimming is an ideal non-weight-bearing exercise.

Depending on your dog, short, slower walks are also good.

4

#

Supplements.

Glucosamine, chondroitin, and fish oils are the gold standards in promoting joint health. GlycoFlex Plus combines glucosamine, chondroitin and other anti-inflammatories to support your dog’s motion and comfort and has been clinically proven to increase

BODY & SOUL hind leg strength. Iceland Pure’s unscented salmon oil for dogs is an omega powerhouse. It is extracted at low temperatures, ensuring the fatty acids are not broken, meaning the quality of the oil is the best it can be. ($14, icelandpure.com).

5

#

Keep your dog warm and dry—cold and

damp conditions aggravate arthritis.

A thin bed on a cold floor is guaranteed to leave your arthritic dog feeling stiff and sore. Make sure your dog’s resting place is cushy enough to not transfer cold up from the floor, but also that’s it’s not so elevated that your dog has trouble getting into it. A cozy, well insulated dog bed with a dip in the bolstered edge provides draft protection while still being easy to enter.

spine and knees, using very little pressure. This technique is called effleurage and helps promote circulation and drainage.

Using a soft touch, gently massage the area around the joints—avoid putting any direct pressure on the joint itself; doing so can increase inflammation. You want to alternate gentle kneading with rubbing your dog’s skin to create friction and some gentle effleurage strokes to encourage drainage. Pay attention to your dog’s cues and lighten your touch if it appears painful. Start with sessions of five to ten minutes and work up from there, ideally massaging twice a day, in the morning to help your dog limber up after a night of inactivity and again at the end of the day.

Three of our top recommended dog beds for older dogs are: »» BuddyRest the Juliet Orthopedic Dog Bed utilizes LiftTex technology to promote joint health, while the waterproof Crypton suede fabric ensures the bed stays clean. From $175, buddyrest.com »» Bowser’s Oslo Ortho Bed features a revolutionary cool gel memory foam technology for maximum comfort for old joints. $125, bowsers.com »» Pet Play’s California Dreaming Memory Foam Bed provides ultimate support and relief from life’s daily pressures. From $199, petplay.com

6

#

Massages can

improve blood flow and dramatically help relieve the discomfort, stiffness, and muscle tension associated with arthritis. How to massage an arthritic dog: Situate your dog on a soft surface in a comfortable position. Start by petting your dog all over and then proceed to lightly stroke the affected areas, typically the hips, lower

7

#

Laser therapy. Cold laser therapy is a non-

invasive procedure that uses light to stimulate cells and increase blood circulation. It is also thought to reduce pain signals and decrease nerve sensitivity while releasing endorphins, aka natural pain killers.

Consult your vet—many offer this treatment modality.

8

#

CBD. The

hemp-based, non-psychoactive cousin of marijuana, CBD, or cannabidiol, has dog owners raving about the improvements they’ve seen in their dog’s mobility.

For more on this natural remedy for pain and inflammation, as well as anxiety and a host of other issues, turn to page 70.

CANINE MOBILITY SOLUTION For when your dog needs a helping hand Arthritis, old age, post surgery... there are numerous reasons your dog may need a little mobility support. The Back End Harness from Walkabout Harnesses is a great walking aid for your dog. Designed to easily assist senior and mobility restricted dogs so they can still enjoy the walks they love, this helpful harness has been recommended by veterinary and rehabilitation specialists for over 30 years. walkaboutharnesses.com

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BODY & SOUL

SHED HAPPENS.

Here’s How to Manage It.

S

hed happens. It’s a normal process—dogs naturally shed old or damaged hair, though the amount and frequency is determined by breed, your dog’s health, and the time of year.

Dogs that develop a thick coat in the winter will shed it in the spring when it is no longer needed for extra warmth. Dogs who are always kept indoors tend to shed evenly throughout the year.

That said, there are certainly things you can do to minimize the drifts of dog hair adhered to your pants and blowing like tumbleweed down your hallway.

First off is maximizing the health of your dog. Your dog’s skin and coat condition is overall a terrific barometer of how they’re doing health-wise. The quickest way to improve your dog’s fur and coat condition—and thus minimize shedding— is to improve their diet. At the minimum, make sure you’re feeding a high-quality diet low in filler like corn and high in quality, identified protein sources (say no to mystery meats!).

An absolutely terrific way to improve skin and coat health, and one that often yields fast and dramatic improvement, is to supplement with oils rich in omegas, such as NaturVet's Salmon Oil Gel Caps or Coco Therapy's virgin coconut oil.

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Next—and this is key—is regularly brush your dog to loosen fur that would otherwise be shed in your home. Depending on the season, you may well wish to do this daily. Quality bonding time plus less shedding! The brush you use should be based on your dog’s coat type. For long and heavy coats, use a rake brush, which is designed to remove tangles and get into the undercoat. For short-haired breeds, such as the German Shorthaired Pointer (these guys still shed, the hair is just short!), we suggest the Furbliss two-sided, veterinary recomended silicone pet brush that brushes, cleans and massages. ($17, furbliss.com) For long haired dogs use a pin brush. A pin brush is shaped like a paddle and has long flexible pins. A soft slicker brush is great for use on delicate areas like armpits and is only brush recommended for curly coated breeds. And a stripping comb is recommended for wiry coated breeds and is used to strip out the undercoat.

To deal with seasonal shedding, typically most experienced by double-coated breeds such as the Husky, Malamute, Akita, and Chow Chow, a de-shedding tool like the ConairPRO Undercoat Rake is your new best friend, after your dog of course. This tool allows you to remove excess and loose, about-to-be-shed fur from your dog’s undercoat before it falls out naturally all over your house, significantly reducing shedding. It’s also great at removing burrs. (From $11, chewy.com) The amount of fur a de-shedding tool quickly, easily, and painlessly removes is truly amazing. Check out these pictures. 

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BODY & SOUL And lastly, many breeds, like the Husky, Alaskan Malamute, the Akita, and even the Labrador Retriever, simply shed a lot. (If you’re looking for a breed that sheds less, consider a Poodle, Bichon Frise, Maltese, Yorkie or Chinese Crested.)

Investing in a quality vacuum such as the Dyson Cyclone V10 may simply be a key component in dealing with the shed. And after all, what’s a little dog hair compared to all that puppy love and unconditional adoration?

Manage the Shed: 3 indispensible solutions

SHEDDING: WHAT’S NORMAL AND WHAT’S EXCESSIVE Excessive hair loss or bald patches may be due to one of the following: • Food-related allergy • Fleas, lice or mites • A medical condition, such as kidney, liver, thyroid, or adrenal disease. Cushings, for one, causes tremendously itchy skin and hair loss. Our Rose, one of the Modern Dog office pack, had Cushings and extreme itchiness (along with increased water intake) was one of the first signs.

• Fungal or bacterial infections • Immune disease • Cancer • Obsessive licking

Contain the hair (and protect wounds) The Shed Defender prevents your dog from leaving a trail of hair all over the house, car, or office. This lightweight suit can be used in place of a medical cone to cover wounds, or to help reduce anxiety with its snug yet gentle fit. From $50, sheddefender.com

The massaging gloves that de-shed your dog These miracle gloves quickly and effectively remove about-to-be-shed hair while giving your dog a gentle, relaxing massage. HandsOn Gloves are especially great for dogs that don’t love tradition grooming—it’s like a big petting session that de-sheds! The unique design distributes your pup’s natural oils and promotes a healthy skin and coat. $30, handsongloves.com

Hot Spot Help

WHEN TO TALK TO YOUR VET Talk to your vet if any of these symptoms persist for more than a week: • • • • • •

Bald spots or thinning of coat Skin irritation Open sores Dull, dry hair that pulls out easily Incessant scratching Continuous foot licking and face rubbing

An underlining health condition could be the cause. 

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Speed up healing.

Vetericyn Plus Hot Spot Spray cleans, soothes, and relieves itchy, irritated skin affected by hot spots. The fast-acting spray is designed to provide quick relief by minimizing your dog’s discomfort and decreasing scratching, licking, and biting. $23, vetericyn.com

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BODY & SOUL Naturtahl Heal ts!

B e n e fi

WHY YOU SHOULD GIVE YOUR DOG APPLE CIDER VINEGAR ACV has enzymes plus gut-friendly bacteria for the win!

"M

any vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients and substances are available in Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) to improve the health of your dog,” says Dr. Alicia McWatters, Ph.D. and Certified Nutritional Consultant.

ACV provides dogs with enzymes and a whole host of important minerals and vitamins, including potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulfur, iron, bioflavonoids, betacarotene, and vitamins C, E, B1, B2, and B6. It also contains tannins from the crushed cell walls of fresh apples, as well as pectin (fiber) and malic acid.

How ACV can benefit dogs:

include brown, red or "off" colouring in the fur (especially below the eyes, on the chin, and in-between their paws).

Other signs include brown discharge in the ear, constant itching or licking of paws, rubbing head/ears against surfaces to relieve itching. If you notice these signs, there is a good chance that your precious pup is battling yeast and he/she should be examined by your vet to ensure a proper diagnosis.

Upon a positive diagnosis of yeast, ask your vet if it would be a good idea to start an Apple Cider Vinegar regimen.”

Want to give Apple Cider Vinegar a try?

Be sure to use organic, unpasteurized (raw), unfiltered, naturally fermented ACV. Look for the sediment in the bottom called “the mother” and you’ll know you’ve got the right stuff.

• Boost the immune system.

*Do NOT buy white distilled vinegar, as it has none of the beneficial elements of ACV.

• Improve skin and coat (i.e. hotspots, dander, itchiness, fleas).

Dosage:

• Fight urinary tract infections.

• Thought to help with arthritis, cancer, kidney and bladder stones, metabolism, and candida (aka yeast), among other conditions.

English Bulldog News (englishbulldognews.com) shares, “Yeast is a huge problem amongst this breed. One common denominator in combating canine candidiasis is ACV. The reason being is that ACV tackles yeast and fungus from the inside out by creating a more alkalizing environment which, in turn, encourages the growth of beneficial bacteria. By adding live cultures to your bully's diet, you are helping to combat and/or prevent yeast overgrowth. Signs of yeast in bulldogs

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Dr. McWatters recommends 1 teaspoon for small dogs and 1 tablespoon for medium-large dogs, added to their food once a day (others recommend adding it your dog’s drinking water but some dogs don’t like the taste).

You can also use it as a: Conditioning Rinse. Use diluted ACV as a final rinse after bathing your dog. Dilute 1 cup ACV with 4 cups of water. Pour the rinse over your dog’s coat. Always avoid the eye area and always dilute—ACV can sting if undiluted.

Paw soak. Fill a container (large enough to submerge paw in) with warm water and add a cup of ACV. Soak your dog’s paw for 5 to 10 minutes.

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Natural Doggie’s CBD infused soft chews provide an array of benefits to dogs, including calming anxiety. Your dog is sure to love the delicious bacon flavor and the hemp-derived CBD will keep him happy and healthy. Naturaldoggie.com

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All Natural Goodwinol Shampoo is gentle enough for kittens and puppies when they are six weeks old. It contains a natural insecticide and a clean bright scent that lasts. Made in the USA. Goodwinol.com

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BODY & SOUL

It’s a Heart

breaker: Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs Signs, symptoms, support & prognosis for dogs with congestive heart failure

By Dr. Gavin Myers, DVM

Q: What is congestive heart failure?

A: Similar to humans, dogs can develop

many conditions affecting the heart that may eventually lead to heart failure.

These could include abnormalities of the heart valves, heart muscle, or blood vessels entering or exiting the heart. As the condition progresses, fluid can build up in the lungs, chest, and abdomen.

This syndrome is called congestive heart failure.

Q: What are the signs of congestive heart failure?

A: Heart disease in dogs is commonly

first suspected after the dog develops a cough or decreased energy on walks (which is known as exercise intolerance).

You may notice that while your dog used to be able to walk the same route every day with good energy, they are now lagging behind partway through your normal route. You may also notice a soft cough, particularly after your pet has been lying down.

Q: How is congestive heart failure diagnosed?

A: Your veterinarian will listen to your

dog’s heart to assess the heart rate, heart rhythm, and whether they can hear a heart murmur. A heart murmur occurs when the valves of the heart do not close completely each time the heart beats, which results in the ‘whooshing’ sound through the stethoscope. They will also listen to your pet’s lungs and assess their respiratory rate. Your veterinarian will likely then recommend an x-ray to assess the size and shape of your dog’s heart, and to evaluate whether there is any fluid present in the chest. Depending on what is seen in

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the x-rays, your veterinarian may also recommend that your dog have a cardiac ultrasound done, which is called an echocardiogram.

Q: Does congestive heart failure shorten a dog’s life?

A: Average life expectancy varies

based on the cause of your dog’s heart disease, and how advanced it is. In most cases, it is possible that heart disease will shorten your dog’s lifespan.

This is why it is important to obtain a correct diagnosis early of heart disease to be able to begin the appropriate medication. The most important thing you can do to support your dog is to take your dog for regular physical exams.

This is usually done once a year for adult dogs, and twice a year for senior dogs over 7.

Q: What breeds are most at risk for congestive heart failure?

A: For some of the more common types of heart disease, certain breeds are known to be more at risk.

In the case of Degenerative Valvular disease, small breed, older dogs are more at risk. For example: Chihuahuas or King Charles Cavalier Spaniels.

In the case of Dilated Cardiomyopathy, large breed, older dogs are more at risk. For example: Great Danes, Irish Wolfhounds or Doberman Pinschers.

Q: What can be done to slow the progress of congestive heart failure?

A: Depending on what is discovered during your veterinarian’s exam, they will likely prescribe heart medication for your dog. The most common heart

medications used in pets support the heart in a few different ways: by dilating blood vessels which make it easier for the heart to pump blood through the body; by sensitizing the heart muscle to calcium which improves the contractility of the heart; or by lowering blood pressure. Studies have shown that dogs who were started on a medication before showing clinical signs of heart disease had a better long term prognosis. Based on this knowledge, it is important to more thoroughly assess your pet’s heart soon after your veterinarian can hear changes through the stethoscope, or as soon as your pet is showing signs suggestive of heart disease.

Q: Is a dog with congestive heart failure in pain?

A: No. Heart disease should not be painful for your pet.

Q: Can a dog with congestive heart failure still lead a relatively normal life?

A: Most dogs with mild heart disease can lead a normal life. Owners will need to be more aware of their activity level and not allow the dog to over-exert themselves. As the disease progresses, it is likely you will notice a decrease in their energy and that they tire more easily.

Q: At some point will my vet recommend putting a dog with congestive heart failure to sleep?

A: Unfortunately, there will come a time when your dog’s quality of life has deteriorated. You will need to make a decision together with your veterinary team regarding when the time is right to consider humane euthanasia.

Could CBD—a therapeutic, nonpsychoactive component of hemp—help your dog? Increasingly, a whole host of dog lovers are singing the praises of CBD and its remarkable efficacy in treating everything from canine arthritis to anxiety.

Jeff & Tiffany West with their dog Lily

S

hortly after Kylee Ryan adopted her six-month-old puppy, Rollo, the Blue Heeler/Pit Bull/Lab cross started showing signs that something wasn’t right.

“He was an extremely nervous dog,” says Kylee, who lives in Jade City, British Columbia. “He would pee if a male human was around or close to him. He also started having ‘episodes’ where he would rock back and forth and he would try his hardest to sit still. He would try to lay down but you could see he was struggling. The second he entered this state, he became even more skittish. The longest episode lasted four hours and he was dribbling urine the entire time.

Later, Kylee would find out that Rollo was having seizures, and was diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy, meaning the episodes arise spontaneously or for unknown reasons.

“We felt so helpless, as Rollo was obviously very scared when he had seizures,” she says. “He was getting them two to three times a week. We had just rescued this guy and it terrified us to see him this way.”

The vet wanted them to try phenobarbital, but “warned us the drug would basically make him a different dog,” Kylee says. “Although his seizures would go away, he would be more lethargic and anxious.”

Her Husky, Blu, was already taking cannabidiol, a cannabis compound derived from hemp—unlike THC, it's non-psychoactive, meaning it won't get you or your pet high—to help with his weight loss, vomiting, and poor appetite. She decided to try it with Rollo. Within a week, his seizures were gone, and his anxiety had improved.

Kylee is just one of the many pet owners out there turning to cannabidiol, more commonly known as CBD, to treat their dogs’ ailments.

The acronym is getting better known, but misinformation is still out there. “Sure, it’s controversial, but unfairly so,” says Dr. Patty Khuly, a companion animal veterinarian at the Sunset Animal Clinic in Miami, Florida and a pet health writer. “It’s only because of marijuana’s reputation as an illicit drug and the fact that this product happens to be derivable from the marijuana family of plants. The reality

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By Tracey Tong is that if this product came from any other plant family, it wouldn’t be controversial at all.”

Dogs are highly sensitive to THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, which is the principal psychoactive component of marijuana, but CBD is derived from hemp and is non-psychoactive. It’s a natural product—its value is in its ability to offer relief from anxiety and seizures for patients like Rollo, as well as treat pain and inflammatory diseases, including arthritis and bowel diseases; depression, stress, poor appetite, tumours and cancers, allergies, and nausea.

“The THC gets you high and is toxic to dogs. The CBD does not get you high and is perfectly safe,” says Dr. Khuly, whose blog, drpattykhuly.com, has won accolades from the veterinary community as one of the Ten Best Blogs in Pet Health by Fox News. She’s been voted one of the 25 People to Watch by Pet Product News, has won the Veterinary News Network’s Rising Star Award, and was selected by Veterinary Practice News as one of 13 Veterinarians to Watch in 2013. “In fact, we’ve learned that most of the effects of these plants aren’t related to the high at all. A sense of well-being, relaxation and some anti-inflammatory effects are some of the CBD molecule’s effects on the body.

These have nothing to do with the high we associate with marijuana.”

Hemp derivatives, including CBD, have been used in dogs for as long as they have in humans, says Dr. Khuly. “Hemp supplements for dogs, but not the purified CBD molecule, have been available for decades. Now that we have a better understanding of how the CBD molecule works on the body, it’s being made available as a single-ingredient product.”

And according to Dr. Khuly, CBD oils, tinctures, and treats are here to stay. “For comparison, its efficacy has already been shown to surpass that of our ubiquitous joint supplements (containing glucosamine and chondroitin, among other additives), which means it’s no mere fad,” she says.

Grits, a deaf and vision-impaired male terrier mix with severe anxiety and behaviour issues, is another dog who benefits from CBD. The shelter dog was likely headed

PHOTO CREDIT: PAGE 1, TIFFANY WEST PAGE 2, KYLEE RYAN

CBD + your dog

Kylee Ryan's pups from left to right: Rollo, Mama, Blue & Bandit.

Want to Give It a Try? CBD-infused treats & oils make delivery delicious MediPets CBD’s naturally flavoured turkey and sweet potato treats are infused with over 16mg of CBD oil per treat.

Made in the US from industrial hemp, these treats are great for dogs with anxiety and come in a range of different flavours and strengths. $40, medipetscbd.com Your dog can now experience the benefits of two amazing superfoods with Natural Doggie’s CBDinfused coconut oil. This product can help your dog in a variety of ways, from maintaining healthy skin and coat to improving digestion. $40/ 8oz, naturaldoggie.com Suzie’s CBD oil is mixed with Organic Safflower Oil for a great way to give your pet higher doses of CBD that will last for a longer period of time.

From $50/250 mg, suziespettreats.com

towards euthanasia when he met Megan Masters through an animal rehabilitation program.

“His anxiety was the worst I’ve ever seen,” says Megan, a trainer who specializes in deaf dogs. “Grits has a severe case of anxiety and barrier frustration.

He can’t be left alone. He can break out of crates and injure himself.”

She did the only thing she thought she could do—she brought the rescue dog home.

“I couldn’t stand the thought of him being euthanized because someone didn’t train him properly, communicate with him in a way he understood, get the proper medical intervention for him in a timely manner, and let his condition spiral out of control,” she says. “On the other hand, his condition has made me a more patient and empathic person.”

Although he is on the prescription medication Clomicalm, which already helps him quite a bit, Grits’ condition “makes me feel overwhelmed, alone, alienated, and like a failure,” says the Huntersville, North Carolina dog trainer. “I know how to train dogs, but this is beyond anything I have experienced.”

Determined to help, Megan tried three kinds of CBD oil before she found one— Colorado-grown Suzie’s CBD—that worked for her dog.

“Everything you read makes it seem like a miracle cure for everything.

It doesn’t cure him or make him not have anxiety. It takes the edge off and decreases the severity of his symptoms,” she says, noting that she saw immediate improvement with the right oil.

Lily’s owners also saw her amazing recovery from being unable to walk to being fully mobile again within two months—something they credit to CBD. The 10-year-old Pug was diagnosed with a form of intervertebral disc disease in March 2018. When a complication made surgery out of the question, Lily’s owners, Tiffany and Jeff West of Tacoma, Washington, helplessly watched as their dog deteriorated.

“To get around the house and the backyard, she would drag herself with her front legs to get from point A to point B,” Tiffany says. “Stairs are completely out of the question and her days of sleeping with us on the bed were over. We were also expressing her for poop and pee which she was not happy about at all… We were also incredibly sad that our daily routines were changing.”

Lily was prescribed medication for her pain and inflammation, but the Wests were reluctant to keep pumping chemicals into her body. “If she lives for another five years, that would be five years of constant chemical medication and I didn’t see that as a good option for her,” Tiffany says. “They were keeping her comfortable, which was important, but we wanted her to walk again.”

Tiffany had read numerous articles about CBD oil, and, cautiously optimistic, the Wests did their research. They gave themselves a six-month timeline to see results before ordering a wheelchair for Lily, but changes happened quickly.

Within one month, they saw improvement, and two months later, Lily was fully mobile. “She is a little wobbly, especially on the hard floors, but she has no problem keeping up with her little sister (also a Pug). Considering where she was before we started CBD, we consider it a huge win. She pees on her own so no more expressing her bladder, which is great for us and for her,” says Tiffany. moderndogmagazine.com

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Kylee Ryan & Rollo

Casey Painter & Sweets

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Megan Masters & Grit

distribution, but there is no longer the possibility of federal criminal charges for the possession or use of CBD. Even before that, Dr. Khuly says she’s never heard of any law enforcement action against any veterinarian or pet owner for using CBD. For the growing number of pet owners for whom CBD has benefited, doing their own research has been worth it.

“A year ago, we thought Lily would never walk again,” says Tiffany. “CBD oil gave Lily her legs back. She’s a normal 10-year-old Pug with normal 10-year-old Pug issues, but she can walk and her quality of life is so much better than we ever expected, given her condition.”

Rollo, too, is enjoying a better life. Now three years old, he has been seizure-free for two years. “We still have to be wary of his epilepsy as loud noises, commotion and lots of people can trigger it,” says Kylee, who also has a CBD prescription to treat her own anxiety, loss of appetite, and insomnia.

Plenty of humans are using CBD, and as New York University School of Medicine assistant professor Dr. Esther Blessing told The New York Times in an interview for an article titled, ‘Why Is CBD Everywhere?’ October 2018, “CBD is the most promising drug that has come out for neuropsychiatric diseases in the last 50 years,” she stated. “The reason it is so promising is that it has a unique combination of safety and effectiveness across a very broad range of conditions.”

That’s what Kylee has found for herself and Rollo. “CBD has allowed him to come out of his shell and be a normal dog. CBD has not only changed my life, but my two dogs’ (lives) as well. I am so thankful for this medicine and the ability it gives me to enjoy more adventures with my dogs.”

PHOTO CREDIT FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: CASEY PAINTER, KYLEE RYAN, MEGAN MASTERS

Sweets, a toy Poodle mix, also has physical conditions that CBD has helped.

Diagnosed with arthritis at only four years old, she also suffers from Cushing’s Disease and a heart murmur that causes the now 11-year-old dog to be restless.

“Some days, (the arthritis) would be so painful, she would become aggressive,” says her owner, Casey Painter of Grand Haven, Michigan. “She would not allow us to pick her up. If we tried, she would nip at us. She also became very stiff and struggled to jump at all. This was very hard to watch her be in that much discomfort. We never felt upset with her for lashing out at us. We were just concerned and wanted her to get relief,” says Casey.

Sweets had been prescribed Meloxicam for pain and Alpraxolam for anxiety, both worked, but had negative side effects—and had undergone laser therapy. Like Lily’s owners, Casey and his wife wanted a treatment that was both natural and safe. They found CBD was effective for Sweets’ arthritis, restlessness, and anxiety. She wasn’t as stiff, her muscles felt more relaxed, and she slept more soundly.

With all the positive outcomes being reported, many pet owners are still hesitant to try CBD. There is a lot of misinformation out there, and it doesn’t help that many veterinarians, like Kylee’s and Megan’s, are hesitant when pet owners broach the subject. Dr. Khuly agrees. “Most veterinarians are not yet on board with CBD,” she says.

She adds that “while it’s a popular topic,” “veterinarians continue to be more concerned with the product’s legality than with its potential medical uses.”

The World Health Organization (WHO) has found that there are no adverse health effects from use of CBD. You’re also safe from legal issues: both recreational and medicinal use of marijuana and marijuana-derived products like CBD are legal in Canada, and as of December 2018, with the passing of the Farm Bill, it is federally legal both to possess and use hemp and its derivatives (including CBD) in the United States as well. The Senate passed the bill 8713 on Dec. 11, and it was signed into law on Dec. 20, 2018.

CBD still isn’t FDA approved which limits its production and

PHOTO TANYA KING

Want to Give CBD a Try? These CBD products are designed especially for dogs.

Pet Health CBD’s Muscle and Joint tincture delivers non-GMO broadspectrum hemp CBD extract in MCT oil. It has been lab tested for purity to ensure your pet is getting the best quality possible, providing optimum pain relief and reduced inflammation via specifically chosen plant-based terpenes. $40/ 300mg, pethealthcbd.com

Medix CBD’s bacon-flavoured CBD oil tincture for dogs is recommended by leading vets. These oral drops are available in dosages for small, medium, and large dogs. From $30/30ml, medixcbd.com

Bailey’s CBD Oil for Dogs is a fullspectrum hemp oil tincture made from non-GMO) organically grown hemp in coconut oil. Designed for daily use, this phytocannabanoid-rich CBD supplement has been specially formulated to help dogs with any pain, stress, or age related issues. $50/30 ml, baileyscbd.com

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CBD Oils + Tinctures Canis World CBD’s bacon-flavoured tinctures are made from hemp seed oil, US-sourced CBD, and bacon flavouring, making it easy to administer to your dog (did someone say bacon?!) Their tinctures come in different strengths (500 and 1000 mg) to meet your pooch’s individual size/ needs. $48/30ml, canisworld.com

Iceland Pure’s CBD tincture is made in the US from organic cannabis-rich hemp and pharmaceutical-grade sardine and anchovy oil. This omega-rich combo is ideal for improving skin, coat, and overall wellness. $105/ 1000 mg, icelandpure.com

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RETURN

THE LOVE

The Best Breeds for, well, everything!

We’ve shortlisted the best breeds for running, cuddling, active owners, apartments, cats, therapy work, endless adoration, and a whole lot more! We asked Gina DiNardo, American Kennel Club Executive Secretary and expert on all things breed related, for the low down on which breeds are the best fit for a whole array of activities and situations. Read on to find out which breeds are the best match for all manner of things!

#1 Running:

#2 Apartments:

• Dalmatians are strong, active, and athletic.

Known for their endurance, speed, and intelligence, this breed has great stamina and can keep up with a fast runner.

• A Bichon Frise’s confidence and size make them ideal city dogs. They function well in confined spaces and a walk in the neighbourhood is usually enough exercise to make them happy.

• A high energy breed with a weather-resistant and water-repellent wiry coat, the German Wirehaired Pointer makes a great running partner who won’t mind the wind and rain.

• The Vizsla is extremely athletic and thrives on hard exercise. Eager and graceful, their impressive stamina makes them ideal jogging companions.

• Originally bred to hunt lions in Africa, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a strong, muscular, and active dog capable of great endurance at a fair speed. Their natural gait and internal engine makes them the perfect companion for medium length jogs.

• Known for their speed and power, Whippets are capable of running at speeds up to 35 mph. Originally used for racing, they need daily exercise and are great for sprinters who want to try to keep with the pace of their dog.

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• The Bulldog is a medium-sized, quiet dog with a moderate level of energy. Regular activity is necessary and beneficial, but the breed has a low tolerance for exercise in hot and humid weather.

• The Greyhound is a couch potato at heart.

Though this breed does enjoy a good run, they are happy in general with a few daily walks.

• Their adaptable nature, social skills, and strong but sturdy bodies make the Havanese an ideal city dog, but they are content to be anywhere that they can command the attention of admirers young and old alike.

• Boston Terriers have a gentle disposition.

They are easy to train, people-oriented, and sturdy but portable. They need moderate exercise and require little grooming.

#3 Active Owners: • Siberian Huskies are powerfully built dogs with lively spirits and are always ready for adventure at any time. A true endurance breed, Siberians make an excellent choice for those looking for a dog that will keep them entertained on long hikes.

• The Australian Shepherd is an intelligent, adventurous breed that is always ready to go.

Originally used as herding dogs, Australian Shepherds make excellent hiking partners, as they are very athletic, friendly, and well suited for long hours of strenuous activity.

• Due to their innate power and drive as a hunting dog, Vizslas have maintained their need for exercise and a love of the outdoors. Vizslas are energetic and athletic dogs, very friendly and affectionate, and always ready to go.

• German Shorthaired Pointers enjoy long hours of strenuous activity in various climates, making them suitable for long hikes and adventures. They are social and willing to please, eager to work with their owners, and make new friends.

• The Weimaraner is a hunting dog that was bred to work long hours outdoors, which it still enjoys today. Weimaraners are loyal, affectionate, and fun-loving dogs that make excellent hiking partners. Built for speed and stamina, they do well on short and long excursions.

#4 Cuddling: • Skye Terriers enjoy daily interaction with their family. They love to cuddle and expect it.

• English Toy Spaniels are generally quiet, affectionate, easygoing dogs. They particularly enjoy cuddling on laps and snuggling into soft pillows.

• Known as the “gentle giant,” the Great Dane likes to be cuddled all the time and will nudge you with their big head to get your attention.  moderndogmagazine.com

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• Mastiffs will try to be a lap dog, despite their size. They are especially affectionate towards children even though they can unintentionally knock them over.

• Bichon Frise are the happiest when you cuddle and give them attention.

They are extremely attached to their humans and don’t like to be separated from them.

• Greyhounds are very affectionate with their humans and are well-mannered quiet house dogs. They love to cuddle, and their favourite spot to be cuddled, is their belly.

#6 Endless Adoration/Most Loyal: • Great Pyrenees are one of the most loyal breeds. They are fiercely protective, whether it’s with livestock or humans.

• The Shetland Sheepdog, often referred to as a “personal shadow,” lives 100 percent for its owners.

• Akitas are intelligent and strong-willed, but will do anything to protect their family.

• Collies are known for being very loyal, but without the reserved nature. However, this dog will be your “personal shadow” as well.

• The Brittany is an energetic breed that will follow their owner for miles without straying.

Their devotion makes them easy to train for any sport.

#5 Protection: • Doberman Pinschers are vigilant, courageous, and relentless. They are also supremely trustworthy, loyal, and protective of their people—they need to be part of the family.

• German Shepherd Dogs are poised, confident, self-assured dogs with a protective nature. They make excellent watchdogs and are typically reserved with strangers.

• Bullmastiffs have excellent instincts and a fiercely protective nature. The Bullmastiff is an ideal family watchdog because they rarely bark, but will attack if they sense that their owners are in danger.

• Rottweilers have strong protective and territorial instincts, which make them excellent watchdogs. Owners must train and guide these protective instincts in a positive manner, so as to avoid these dogs becoming bossy and domineering.

• Akitas are quiet, fastidious dogs. Wary of strangers and often intolerant of other animals, Akitas will gladly share their silly, affectionate side with family and friends.

The large, independent-thinking Akita is hardwired for protecting those they love.

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#7 Take Everywhere/Travelling: • Chihuahuas are the perfect travelling companion because they don’t take up much space, don’t eat a lot of food, and fit under the seat on an airplane. They’re tolerant of handling and adoring strangers.

• The Yorkshire Terrier’s loyal nature makes them easy to travel with, since they like sticking with their owners. They are small and easy to transport so they’ll do well on a flight or in a car.

• Pomeranians seem right at home in a purse or a stroller.

• French Bulldogs are ready to take on anything. They have a spunky personality and adjust to new situations.

• Bichon Frises are a happy-go-lucky breed that easily adjusts to new surroundings, making them great traveling companions.

#8 Canine Sports: • A Papillon’s small stature may fool you but they’re great agility competitors. Papillons can be very fast and are great jumpers for their height.

• Border Collies seem to be created with the sport of agility in mind. They are outrageously smart, driven, and quickly agile.

• American Staffordshire Terriers are strong, athletic, active dogs who love to have a job to do. They are highly trainable and appreciate both physical and mental challenges.

• Shetland Sheepdogs are full of monstercrazy energy but can also be calm, shy, and introverted. Their eagerness to work, innate intelligence, speed, and spunk are the reason they dominate agility tournaments.

• Collies have been known to detect seizures in advance.

They are excellent psychiatric service animals for conditions like anxiety and PTSD. • German Shepherd Dogs were bred to be versatile, trainable, willing workers.

They have a great ability to ignore distractions and focus on work, which make them suitable for service work. They have been trained to perform an incredible range of jobs.

• Pomeranians have a special talent as medical alert dogs to detect diabetes, asthma attacks, and heart attacks. They are also particularly good as hearing dogs for the deaf.

• Poodles are originally water retrievers, so their athletic background comes naturally to them. The public associates poodles as fluffy show dogs, but their brilliance and athleticism make them dominant in obedience and agility trials.

#10 Emotional Support: • Golden Retrievers are known for being energetic, loving, and comforting. Extremely loyal, they know how to bond with their owners. For any therapy dog, this factor is crucial since you can rest assured that your dog will always be by your side.

#9 Service Dogs: • Labrador Retrievers are well-suited for so many different purposes including working as guide dogs, members of search and rescue teams, and narcotics detection. This makes them a very popular breed for service work.

• Golden Retrievers are equally well-suited for different purposes. Golden retrievers are also hardworking and very good at retrieving objects, which make them suitable for working with those with disabilities.

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• Labrador Retrievers love companionship and are very loyal, eager to please, and super trainable. They love to get outside and be active, which encourages their owners to do the same.

• Poodles love being around their owners. They are also born performers, super social, great with kids and are excellent at adapting to their surroundings.

• Yorkshire Terriers are naturally intelligent and can pick up cues related to your feelings.

They also have great personalities and can cheer humans up when they are feeling depressed.

• Pembroke Welsh Corgis are friendly, sensitive, intelligent and affectionate companions. 

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Think having dogs makes life interesting?

Try adding a couple foxes into the mix!

By Alice Sewell

T

hink having dogs makes life interesting? Try adding a couple foxes into the mix! For most of us, rescuing a dog is a life-changing decision. For Jessika Coker, that’s just the beginning. She took it to the next level—and then some—when the animal in need of a home was a red fox.

How, exactly, does one come to have a fox in the house?

Little Juniper descended from foxes bred in captivity and had lost many of her natural instincts. Unable to be released in the wild, she ended up in Jessika’s care and that’s how their story began. Today, this sweet snaggletooth, nicknamed “The Happiest Fox,” has captured not only Jessika’s heart but also that of millions of social media followers. She even has her own book, Juniper: The Happiest Fox, and a range of adorable merch, including her own custom paw-painted art works.

Along with another fox, Fig, whose backstory is a lot sadder than Juniper’s (she was rescued near death from a fur farm), Juniper lives with her “Insta Boyfriend,” Australian Shepherd mix Moose, and nine other animals, including sugar gliders, baby squirrels, and cats.

In case you’re wondering, looking after all these animals can be a little overwhelming. Jessika telling us that just the foxes

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are equivalent to “having furry twin toddlers that never grow up” and that it is difficult to leave them unsupervised when they’re indoors. “Need to talk on the phone?” she shares, “Prepare for interruptions or the sound of destruction in the background.”

She nurtures their natural instincts (and gives herself a little alone time!) by making sure they have a safe outdoor space to spend some time in.

Though the foxes need to be kept strictly separate from the smaller animals— family love isn’t in the cards due to the foxes’ natural prey drive—Juniper and Moose have a special bond. Juniper and Fig grew up with Moose, and Jessika says that “Juniper especially loves Moose. I’ve

PHOTO CREDIT: JUNIPER: THE HAPPIEST FOX, BY JESSIKA COKER, PUBLISHED BY CHRONICLE BOOKS

Juniper the Fox and her BFF Moose the Dog

never seen two animals love each other more.” Their mutual adoration is captured through the images Jessika posts to Juniper’s Instagram account with Juniper and Moose grinning up at the camera epitomizing interspecies best friend love and silliness.

Though not without its challenges, Jessika says her relationship with the foxes is extremely close. Despite sleepless nights and destruction of furniture, she “loves them more than anything.” Key to this is embracing Juniper’s “wild and unapologetic nature.” Her love for the foxes is truly unconditional: “I learned that loving something meant loving every aspect of it, the good and the bad.”

If Juniper’s cuteness has left you considering adding a fox to your family, Jessika advises thoroughly doing your research.

Many foxes cannot return to the wild and do need a suitable home but she warns that they are not for everyone or any lifestyle. “They are not anything like keeping a dog or a cat,” she stresses. “Even the worst behaved dogs are typically more behaved than a fox.” Additionally, they are almost never able to be fully housebroken, they need a large outdoor enclosure to truly be happy, and a permit and access to an exotic animal vet are required. If you do decide to take on the commitment, however, she says that foxes are wonderful companions for those willing to put in the work.

To see more of Juniper and, of course, Moose, check out Jessika’s website and Instagram page, @juniperfoxx

Jessika & Juniper

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Babies & Children

Healthier in Homes With Dogs Cats are of benefit too, and the more pets the better

ave you ever wondered if there are any health risks to having dogs and cats around infants and children? We asked the amazing Dr. Katy Nelson, DVM, veterinarian, mom, and advocate, whether dogs and cats pose a health risk to babies and kids. Turns out there are some significant health benefits, from fewer childhood illnesses to a reduction in allergy development. Read on for a compelling reason to add to your pack.

Q: Is it okay to have pets around a new baby?

A: Parents will move mountains, part seas, and do pretty much anything humanly possible to protect their little ones. Preventing common illnesses like colds, flus, and infections is no exception, so it makes sense that some parents are wary around potential “germ hubs” like animals or other children. However, when it comes to household pets, shielding your child from dirt and dander from pets isn’t doing him any favours.

While it is true that dogs and cats are generally considered dirtier than humans because of their exposure to unsanitary floors and the great outdoors, science has proven that their presence actually helps young children stay healthier during childhood and develop fewer allergies as adults. A large body of research suggests that this protective effect may be due to early exposure to the various bacteria carried by dogs and cats. Exposing young children

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to these bacteria early in life helps prime and train their immune systems early so that they’re stronger and better able to resist illness and allergies down the road.

To determine the correlation between family pets and childhood illness, Finnish researchers asked a group of parents to record health information about their children during their first year of life. The researchers found that compared to kids in pet-free homes, kids in homes with dogs had fewer respiratory tract infections, were less likely to develop ear infections, and needed fewer treatments of antibiotics. The study’s lead scientist explained that this might be because of exposure to dirt brought inside by dogs—especially because they found that children saw the greatest health benefit where the family dogs spent a good deal of time outside.

This positive health effect could also be because of the microbiome hypothesis, which states that early-life exposure to a variety of good microbes improves the immune system by altering the microbes in the intestine to protect against allergies and infections.

Living with pets can also help lessen the chance of developing an allergy later on, but only if the pet is living with the child during the first year of life. In a large study conducted by Bill Hesselmar of Sweden’s University of Gothenburg, they looked at the data of two previous studies covering 1278 children overall. Even when accounting for

DR. KATY NELSON: MOSE ZUSMAN PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO

H

numerous outside factors, these studies found the reports of allergies in children decreased as the number of pets in the household increased.

In one of the studies analyzed, 49 percent of the children with no pets in the home during their first 12 months of life had allergies. That number dropped to 43 percent for kids who lived with one pet as a baby, and again to 24 percent for children who grew up around three pets. Children lucky enough to spend their early childhood with five or more pets had no reported allergies.

Data from the smaller study that Hesselmar examined backs up these numbers, with kids who grew up with two or more pets showing less reports of allergies at eight and nine years old versus their counterparts who were born into a home with one or no pets. “The prevalence of allergic disease in children aged seven to nine years is reduced in a dose-dependent fashion with the number of household pets living with the child during their first year of life, suggesting a “minifarm” effect, whereby cats and dogs protect against allergy development,” the study’s conclusion reads.

Numerous studies over the years have echoed these findings.

One found that children who were raised on farms with animals were less likely to develop allergies. Another found that children ages five to 11 in three schools in England and Scotland had fewer sick days if they had pets at home. A survey of 11,000 Australians, Chinese, and Germans found that pet owners made up to 20 percent fewer visits to the

doctor per year than non-pet owners. Couple these health benefits with the plethora of emotional and social benefits, and it’s no mystery why more and more families welcome furry four-leggers into their homes.

Of course, there are always exceptions to the trend. Certain children are more prone to illness due to immune system weaknesses or other variable circumstances, and parents of these children should always follow their doctor’s advice about how to manage interactions with pets, other children, and even adults. In addition, children who have already developed allergies to dogs or cats should not be exposed to fur and dander if it’s avoidable.

For most young children, being around a pet does not pose any additional risks to their health. When introduced early in life, a pet can actually strengthen a child’s immune system, keep her healthier, and lower her chances of developing allergies in the future. This information certainly doesn’t mean that you should get a dog or cat simply to improve your child’s immunity or lower the risk of allergies, but it’s definitely another reason to show man’s best friends a little extra love.

Dr. Katy Nelson is an associate veterinarian at the Belle Haven Animal Medical Centre in Alexandria, VA, animal health expert, and host and executive producer of “The Pet Show with Dr. Katy.” She’s also the expert for the second season of the popular show “Unlikely Animal Friends,” on NatGeo Wild! Find her on Instagram and Twitter @drkatynelson and at thepetshow.tv.

SOMETHING FOR EVERY DOG IN ANY SPACE.

KENNEL AND CRATE office@kennelandcrate.com | (405) 624-0062 | kennelandcrate.com

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Look

WHAT WE FOUND! The Modern Dog team's current faves, finds & obessions

Add some sparkle with one of Carrie Cramer’s lovely dog-silhouette necklaces. They come in a whole array of breeds, from Poodles to Corgis and Rottweilers, and can be ordered in sterling silver, gold or rose gold, with or without diamonds. From $95, carriecramer.com Make bath time a breeze with the ingenious Dexas ScrubBuster!

The built-in shampoo reservoir makes lathering up easy while the silicone bristles give your dog a gentle massage that loosens dirt and debris. $13, dexas.com

Raised Right’s human-grade dog food only contains ingredients you can pronounce (think beef, carrots, cranberries, cod liver oil, organic kelp powder etc.) for food you can feel good about giving your dog. They even offer a subscription service!

From $80, raisedrightpets.com

Protect your dog’s sensitive paw pads!

Muttluks all-weather dog boots are leather-soled to protect your dog from the likes of rocky trails, hot pavement, and burrs.

They’re designed for a soft, flexible fit, and selftightening reflective straps keep them securely on your dog's feet. $55, muttluks.ca

Protect your car’s seats with 4Knines seat covers, the perfect preventative for shedding, dirt and scratch marks in your car.

Their products are durable and built to last. Their products are high quality, durable, and built to last! From $40, 4knines.com

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Created by one of Beverly Hills top hairstylists, Spina Organics dog shampoo and conditioner are all-natural, vegan, and sulphate and parabenfree, providing nothing but the best for your dog’s coat. From $25, spinaorganics.com

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The Road to Westminster

a Tale of Two Dog Handlers

The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is the Super Bowl of dog competitions. We follow two handlers, a newbie and a returning favourite, on their journey to Madison Square Garden

By Darcy Matheson

F

or first-time Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show handler Barbara Fleischmann, there are a million unknowns about stepping into the ring at Madison Square Garden. But there’s one thing she knows for certain: What she will be wearing.

“I saw it in Macy’s and was like, ‘I need to have this for Westminster,’” Barbara laughs. “When the light hits it, it’ll just be like… ahhhh.”

Like many in the show circuit, complimenting your dog is a major consideration when it comes to what you wear in competition. And the owner-handler’s shiny black blazer and skirt set, with grey embossed flowers, will perfectly visually complement her black and gray Kerry Blue terrier.

The key, Barbara says, is standing out and looking elegant, while not clashing with or distracting from the real star of the day—the dog.

“It’s a package. We’re a team. You want your dog to look good and you want to look good too,” says Barbara.

That’s not newbie sentimentality. Breeder-owner-handler Shawny Cirincione, who has made an astounding 25

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appearances at Westminster, chooses outfits that will make her dog stand out in the ring.

And with her crisply-coated Scottish Deerhound, Violet (competition name: GCHG. Hobarra's I Dreamed A Dream), she opts for blues and greens. Sometimes even cream.

“No reds, it doesn’t look good behind her,” Shawny says, adding that she’s very superstitious. So this time around she’ll be in the big ring in a royal blue St. John suit that she was wearing during her last competition win.

“If I win big in a suit at a dog show I have to wear it for the next show. Period,” she says.

The Super Bowl of Dog Shows Celebrating its 143rd anniversary, the annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is the gold standard when it comes to dog exhibitions worldwide. With 203 dog breeds competing, it draws the creme de la creme of top talent when it comes to canines and handlers.

Thousands of handlers and trainers and owners make their

way to Manhattan for the better part of a week of events, with the dog show the jewel in the crown.

For handlers, the road to Westminster starts months—even years—in advance, on the show circuit, striving for qualifying rankings, wins and championship titles in order to capture the top rankings necessary to enter.

That’s on top of the countless hours of obedience training, showing, and, depending on the breed, a whole lot of meticulous grooming.

More than 3000 dogs and handlers are enrolled each year in Westminster’s week of events, with the showpiece being its famed all-breed benched dog show at Madison Square Garden—the Super Bowl of showmanship.

Gail Miller Bisher, the director of communications for the Westminster Kennel Club, says the beauty of the sport is the fact people from all walks of life come to show their dogs, and a newbie with a great dog has just as much chance of winning as a veteran handler with decades of experience.

“I think that’s why the show has survived so long,” she says. “The show is a community. Everyone is accepted. We all have one major thing in common: It’s that we love our dogs.

I’m very proud of that.”

‘Best of Winners.’

The owner-handler spends four nights a week at classes with Dugan: Monday and Thursday are agility; Tuesday is obedience; and Wednesday is confirmation class to learn how to show in the ring. This is where those show skills are honed—how to run with your dog, how to walk your dog to show off their gait, learning how to have the dog on their toes and not get excited, not to jump, not to bark. Then everything learned in classes gets reinforced and practiced at home. There’s an agility course in the backyard, and lots of confirmation training.

“It’s a lot easier to show a well-behaved dog so they’re not jumping on people, they’re not aggressive. It’s all about building your connection with the dog,” she says.

Although the first-timer doesn’t think she’s going to win Westminster with her relatively young pooch, she’s very excited: “He has a lot to learn still and I have a lot to learn too. But I’m 59 years old and it’s on my bucket list to go to Westminster.”

The stakes are much higher for Shawny Cirincione, whose dog Violet is currently the number one Deerhound in the United States and was ranked #1 Scottish Deerhound All Breed at Westminster in 2017 and 2018. Violet’s list of accomplishments is impressive: She’s the all-time winningest hound in the history of the AKC National Owner Handler series, and has dozens of titles under her belt/collar.

And to top it all off, this will be Violet’s last year at Westminster. So a win would be a spectacular end to the sixyear-old dog’s very impressive career.

“It’s a feeling that is indescribable to have a dog like this,” she says. “You’re walking into the breed competition with the best of the best. When your dog wins the best in Westminster you know you have arrived.”

Barbara Fleischmann & her Kerry Blue terrier, Dugan, took Best of Breed at this show.

The Newbie vs. the Veteran The dog show circuit is very new for Barbara Fleischmann.

An eight-year devotee of dog agility to burn off energy for her terriers, Barbara decided to take up showing her three-yearold Kerry Blue terrier, Dugan (competition name: Adare Don’t Worry Be Happy), just last fall, in October 2018.

“I run around the agility ring so I thought ‘how hard can it be?’” she says.

Her first time showing was at the Philadelphia Dog Show, where she took a major win. Since then she’s done about 10 shows, many with impressive results, taking ‘Best of Breed’ or

Violet winning Best of Breed at the AKC National Championship for the 4th year in a row.

Westminster: A Show Like No Other Situated in the busiest metropolis in the country, Westminster is like no other American dog show. Whereas most dog competitions are spread across outdoor fairgrounds or convention centres, Westminster is a spectacle smack dab in the middle of Manhattan.

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HOW YOUR DOG SEES COLOUR Jodi Wheeler-Toppen, author of National Geographic's Dog Science Unleashed, lets us in on how our canine companions see colour:

Past Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show competitors.

the grooming gear, it’s hard work. You need to embrace the chaos, says Gail Miller Bisher.

“It can be a little alarming for these dogs with the traffic, the noise. We tell people you need to enjoy it. It’s the kind of thing once you’ve done it you’re so thrilled and wish you could go back and experience it all over again,” she says.

“It’s just magical.”

For Shawny, showing at Westminster is a dream come true, and something she literally dreamed about from when she was a little girl.

But even after decades of appearances, stepping out onto the green carpet is still nerve-wracking. Even as a junior handler, Shawny arrived early so she could step out onto the green carpet to calm her nerves and mentally prepare herself.

“It’s excitement, nerves, and a little fear,” she says. “But once you step in the ring it’s just you and your dog and you just take a deep breath and go to work.”

Battling nerves isn’t just limited to the handlers. Barbara takes active steps, including chewing gum or eating Life Savers, so her dog Dugan can’t smell her nerves.

The handler believes nerves and anxiety go right down the leash to the dog, so it’s important not to be nervous or visibly rattled. She’ll also play ball with Dugan backstage to keep him relaxed.

Barbara said she would be “ecstatic” if she won but is really looking forward to going into the ring with the top dogs and handlers in the world. “Even if we don’t win we’ll do our best and try again next year,” she says. “People don’t realize the work that goes into this.”

Shawny agrees. At Westminster, Violet is “all business” and a “total diva.” But after every competition she is rewarded with a McDonald’s ice cream cone before returning home to two of her puppies, her brother, Buck, and seven Wirehaired Dachshunds. At home, “she’s a wild woman outside and a couch potato inside. She’s like a big gray pillow,” Shawny laughs.

Win or lose, Shawny says her dog is always a winner and she loves her no matter what.

“At the end of the day you know in your heart that you are going home with the best dog and the dog you want to spend your life with and give your heart to.” 

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Finally, a sense where humans outrank dogs! Humans have three kinds of cone cells to detect colour. One senses purple and blue light, one responds most strongly to green, and one picks up a range from green to red. Dogs have only two types of cone cells. One is similar to our purple/blue cones. The other picks up light that is yellowish green. So a red ball lying in green grass is camouflaged!

what you see

What your dog sees

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eat D.I.Y.

RECIPE

Easy Peasy

PHOTO TANYA KING

Liver Cookies for Good Dogs!

By Jane Mundy

Ingredients dog doesn’t care) and bake for about 10 minutes or until you can smell them. At this point your dog is likely sitting by the oven, drooling.

• 1 pound organic beef liver • 2 eggs • 2 Tbsp blackstrap molasses • 1 cup coconut oil or olive oil

3.

Cool and divide into a few Ziploc bags. I always leave a few cookies in the fridge for immediate consumption and freeze the rest.

• 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour • ¼ cup powdered kelp (optional)

Directions 1.

In a food processor, add liver, eggs, and molasses. Pulse (on-off) until smooth. Slowly add the oil and blend for a few more seconds. Add the dry ingredients and blend until the mixture is completely smooth.

2. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the mixture at a time over the baking sheets (the drops don’t have to be perfectly shaped, your

Super Food Ingredients Liver is a wonderful dog treat and a good source of vitamin A and iron, but it should only be a treat. An overdose of Vitamin A can cause hypervitaminosis, a condition where chronic toxicity builds up in the body over a long period of time. Feed your pooch up to 1 oz. of liver per day for a medium to large dog, and up to 0.5 oz. per day for small dogs.

Blackstrap molasses has a wide range of uses, including as a dietary supplement because it contains vitamin B6, calcium, magnesium, iron, manganese, and potassium. Be sure to use blackstrap and not just molasses, which is made from sugar beets and is mostly sugar.

Kelp is an excellent source of iodine and other minerals that help promote thyroid function, and it can help maintain your dog’s shiny coat and healthy skin. Dogs with dry skin, skin allergies, and alopecia (hair loss) can benefit from eating kelp. Powdered kelp can be found in many drugstores, health food stores, and grocery stores where organic food is sold.

TEST EN KITCH R E HELP

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Editor's Pick: Treats Made From Crickets

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What to Teach Kids and What to Teach Dogs So Everyone Gets Along

By Nicole Wilde

Q:

My family will soon be adopting a year-old, medium-sized marvelous mutt from the shelter.

We have a seven-year-old daughter and a five-year-old son. What should we teach the kids to ensure that we will become one big happy family?

A:

I’m so glad you’re asking this question!

Let’s get everyone off on the right foot. First, although your kids will naturally be anxious to pet and play with the new family member, there’s a right way and many wrong ways to do that. Little girls in particular often want to hug dogs. To humans, hugs signify affection. To dogs, however, they are a form of restraint; just ask any vet tech how well dogs like that! It’s true that a small percentage of dogs actually enjoy being hugged, but many more simply tolerate it. Others not only won’t tolerate it, but will snap or bite to show their displeasure. Teach your kids, along 94 moderndog

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with any visiting children, not to hug the dog, but to pet him properly instead; we’ll get to specifics in a moment. As for boys, many love to wrestle with dogs.

And why not? It’s fun! Unfortunately, it’s all too easy for a child to get hurt, since classic canine wrestling maneuvers include using the mouth. As excitement builds, teeth tend to contact little fingers and limbs, and pretty soon you have a crying child and a dog who is being punished for doing what dogs naturally do.

Speaking of games, one things dogs love is jumping on kids, especially when it results in the child waving their arms around and making high-pitched sounds.

It’s even more fun when the child runs away! The dog gives chase and may nip as well, resulting in a not-sohappy child. Teach your kids that if the dog jumps, to stand still, fold their arms, and look up and off to the side. Little girls in particular really seem to love this

Teach your kids to begin with long, gentle strokes on your dog’s chest and, as long as the dog is accepting of it, move on to other parts of the body, avoiding the paws and tail. drama-queen pose! The dog should quickly lose interest and move on to something more exciting. But if he persists, step in and redirect him to another activity. Teaching your dog to sit as an alternative to jumping is also helpful. Your dog should learn that if he wants attention, sitting is the way to get it, and your kids should be taught how to ask for the sit, including using hand signals to do so.

Now let’s talk what your kids and everyone else should know about how to pet—and how not to pet—your dog. Never approach a dog with your hand palm down over the dog’s head. An overhead approach, whether a hand coming down or a face bending to kiss the top of the head, can be frightening to dogs and can result in a nip or a full-on bite. Instead, teach your kids to begin with long, gentle strokes on your dog’s chest and, as long as the dog is accepting of it, move on to other parts of the body, avoiding the paws and tail.

Have your kids practice on a stuffed animal before you even bring the real dog home. Keep in mind, however, that despite all of your excellent instructions, even if your kids are generally compliant and responsible, mistakes do happen. 

The Best Breeds for Kids & Families Gina DiNardo, American Kennel Club Executive Secretary and expert on all things breed related, shares which breeds are best for littles and families. »» A breed described as “merry” by its fanciers, Beagles are loving, happy, and companionable—all qualities that make them excellent family dogs. »» Boxers have a history of working alongside humans, so they thrive on interaction and are patient, protective, and playful. If you have young children, teach them to properly interact with larger dogs so that they don’t get unintentionally knocked over. »» Golden Retrievers are easy to train and easier to love. They are frequently used as service dogs and thrive on outdoor play. »» Labrador Retrievers are loyal, have great temperaments, are easily adaptable, and have good energy levels. »» Despite their size, the Newfoundland is famously good with kids. Their sweet temperament is their most important characteristic. »» Leonbergers have a gentle nature and serene patience. They relish the companionship of the whole family.

Follow for fun contest, giveaways, DIYs, training tips & cute dogs galore!

You need more cute dogs in your life! moderndogmagazine.com

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So, create a safeguard by desensitizing your dog to the things kids may do, such as pulling ears and tails, rough petting, and so on. You—not your kids—can, for example, tug your dog’s ear gently and then feed a treat in order to get him used to this handling. Repeat, eventually tugging a bit harder.

The same goes for other things kids are apt to do.

Monitor your dog’s body language to be sure he seems happy with the “game,” stopping immediately if he does not. If necessary, go more slowly or gently the next time. Build gradually to the point where your dog has a positive association with the things your kids or visiting kids might do.

House rules should include never bothering the dog when he’s eating, and not taking his toys or chew bones away. Some dogs come complete with resource guarding issues that need to be addressed, but even if yours doesn’t, it’s all too easy to create one if a dog feels threatened. Another time to leave the dog alone is when he’s sleeping. Some dogs become startled when awakened and may snap. Letting your dog have his space and allowing him to decide whether he wants interaction is very important. When your dog is in his crate, for example, it should be considered his safe spot, and kids should not approach. The same goes for any time your dog is behind or under furniture, or in a corner. Even the nicest of dogs might bite if he feels sufficiently threatened or cornered.

Teach your kids that any time the dog wants to walk away, to let him. You should also share the basics of canine body language. This is a topic I wish was 96 moderndog

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taught in every school, as it would avert countless bites. For an illustrated guide on how to read a dog’s body postures, go to moderndogmagazine.com bodylanguage.

Explain that if the dog growls, your kids should stop whatever they’re doing at the time and back away slowly, then call for you. Explain that a growl doesn’t mean the dog is bad, but that it’s his way of saying that he’s not happy. Of course, you will need to figure out what the underlying issue is and address it, with the help of a professional if necessary. Teach your kids too that if they catch the dog doing something wrong, such as putting paws up on the kitchen counter, to come find you right away. Kids mimic their parents, and if they’ve seen you push the dog down and reprimand him, they might try to do the same. Make it a game by telling them they’re the house police, or spies, or whatever would appeal to them, but the idea is for them to watch the dog and report any bad behaviours to you immediately rather than taking matters into their own hands.

This all might sound like a lot, but it’s really not.

Having simple ground rules in place will go a long way toward making sure that your dog integrates smoothly into your family, and that everyone stays safe and happy.  Nicole Wilde is the award-winning author of 11 books on canine behaviour. You can find her books, seminar DVDs & blog at nicolewilde.com.

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BREED PROFILE

The Belgian Malinois The complete package: beauty, brains, and brawn

By Kelly Caldwell

• Medium Size • High-Energy • Low Maintenance Coat • Confident, Smart & Versatile

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TIC, E G R E N E NT, E G I L L E INT + HA R D G !

WO R K I N

I

f you like the German Shepherd, check out the Malinois!

Intense, muscular, and sleek, the Belgian Malinois is a ‘stop you in your tracks’ kind of dog. The arresting Malinois is tough, with a one-track mind focused on work, work, work. But contrarily, it’s also an elegant breed; the females especially are downright dainty. The Mal may be the toughest pretty-face in the dog world, and the story of the breed’s development is fascinating.

Existing records pertaining to this breed’s origins date back as far as the late 19th century. The Mal was developed in Belgium, where fanciers sought to create a uniquelyBelgian sheepdog. Their goal was a skilled herder, a dedicated protector, and devoted family companion… all bundled into a manageable, medium-sized package.

The breed they developed was known as the Belgian Sheepdog, and four varieties emerged—all named after the various areas from where they came. A wire-haired fawn variety was similar to the Malinois, but lacked the black mask and ears. It became known as the Laekenois, for its native region of Laeken. The short-haired variety—today’s Malinois—was named after Malines, its city of origin. The long-haired fawn is the Tervuren, named after its village east of Brussels. And lastly, from the village of Groenendael came its namesake—a long-haired black version of the Belgian Shepherd.

The original intention of the Malinois was to assist farmers with herding and protection, but the breed quickly became a runaway success, making a name for itself as arguably the most versatile over-achiever of the dog world. The Mal accepts virtually any new task with enthusiasm. Being highly intelligent, easy to train, strong, and agile, it’s no surprise that this breed caught the interest of police and military canine handlers in the earliest days of its development.

Even by the turn of the Twentieth Century, Belgian Shepherds were working in a wide range of capacities for law enforcement and military agencies throughout Belgium, Europe, and, soon after, North America.

Records indicate the Malinois first made its way to the United States in 1911. By then, debates were emerging among breeders, fanciers, and different clubs with regard to

the various colours and types within the Belgian Sheepdogs, as well as the ethics of inter-breeding among them. The AKC separated the four varieties in 1959. In some other countries, the varieties are still classified and shown in the same category.

After its debut in North America, the breed gained in popularity, but during and following World War II, imports ceased and the breed’s development in North America was uncertain. Over the years, fanciers worked to re-ignite interest in the breed, with its most notable surge in popularity occurring in the 1960s. The American Belgian Malinois Club (ABMC) was founded in 1978.

Most Popular Dogs Today’s Malinois is in the U.S. medium in stature—a very According to the most recent AKC manageable size for a tough registration statistics working dog. The AKC [1] Labrador Retriever standard accepts ranges [2] German Shepherd Dog from 40 to 80 pounds.

[3] Golden Retriever Females are not as tall or [4] French Bulldog heavy and should have a more identifiably-feminine [5] Bulldog appearance.

[6] Beagle The coat being the [7] Poodle distinguishing factor among [8] Rottweiler the varieties, it is short and [9] Yorkshire Terrier straight on the Malinois.

[10] Pointers The top coat is weather [47] Belgian Malinois resistant, and the undercoat is dense and warm. The AKC accepts the coat in a range of colours from fawn to mahogany, with black tips on the hairs. Black ears and mask are important features in that beautiful face and do a great job of accentuating the Mal’s soul-piercing eyes.

While he bears a resemblance to and shares some genetic history with the German Shepherd Dog, the Belgian Malinois is sleeker and more fine-boned. His lighter frame and smaller stature has made him the preferred choice for military work, especially tasks that involve parachuting or rappelling.

The breed has, for many years, played a vital role in moderndogmagazine.com

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Profile: The Belgian Malinois Size: Medium The AKC accepts this athletic breed at a height of 24-26 inches or 22-24 inches at the withers, for males and females respectively.

Weights range from 60-80 and 40-60 pounds.

Activity level: These dogs need considerable exercise and an outlet for their mental energy as well. Daily walks alone will not suffice. A lot of exercise, walks (or jogs,) and sporting activities will keep the Malinois content.

Grooming: His waterproof coat is short and requires just occasional brushing.

He’s quite a tidy breed, minus a couple of times a year when that coat needs to be shed to make way for new hair.

Heritage: Herding Bred to herd cattle and sheep in his native Belgium, the success of the breed has led it into countless other working roles, including law enforcement and military service worldwide.

Life Expectancy: 14-16 Years For more information on Belgian Malinois rescue in the U.S., visit malinoisrescue.org. In Canada, visit rescue.bsdcc.org.

If you like the Belgian Malinois, you might also consider the:

Belgian Sheepdog

German Shepherd Dog

READ YOUR BREED

Belgian Tervuren

For more breed profiles, go to moderndogmagazine.com/breeds

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police and military K-9 service across the globe. The strength, fearlessness, agility, and intelligence of these dogs—along with their high prey drive—makes them ideally suited to serve in a wide range of capacities. Malinois served in both World Wars, in various capacities, ranging from carrying messages to protection work.

Certainly, the most famous military Malinois was ‘Cairo,’ a member of US Navy Seal Team Six and a key player in the assault on Osama bin Laden’s compound. But that’s just one example of the kind of work these dogs undertake on a daily basis. Their contribution to law enforcement and human safety is impossible to quantify—but it, like these dogs, is extraordinary.

Can he be a good choice as a family pet? Perhaps. But it should be clear by now that the Malinois is not the right dog for everyone.

For starters, he’s a dog that needs a job. Every day, he’s mentally “on” and needs guardians who can give him what he needs to thrive. Any number of canine sporting activities will provide him with a challenge and a sense of purpose. Agility, herding, tracking, protection work, obedience… this breed has the smarts and stamina to excel in these and countless other activities.

The Malinois guardian must be committed to training and socialization, ideally from the puppy stage onward. It’s important to remember that the traits that make this breed ideally suited for herding and protection work can also make him a challenge as a family companion. Ongoing training and a daily commitment to providing outlets for mental and physical exertion are key.

Work-mode aside, the Mal does have another side—a surprisingly soft one. This is a breed that bonds very closely with his family. He’s good with children, though perhaps most notably with kids who’ve been in the picture with him since day one. Supervision with kids and Malinois is advised, but that rule applies for any breed of dog. Do not leave children and pets unattended.

The Mal wants to be with the ones he loves. If you’re active and would love a canine companion for hiking, running, biking, or other activities, this may be a great choice for you. If you’re not and don’t plan to be active, or if you anticipate being away from your dog for extended periods of time every day, he’s simply not right for you. And he’s tough, yes, but he is definitely not suited for a life as an outdoor dog.

You may choose him as a pet, but the Malinois will be the one to choose you as his soulmate. If you’re lucky enough to be chosen, it can be a bond unlike any other, and one that’s virtually unbreakable. Is it an easy ride? No. But it is one of the most satisfying and rewarding, to be sure. The bond between Mal and man is quite a remarkable thing to behold or, for the lucky few, to experience firsthand. 

Connie’s Book Club Curl up with a good dog and a good book

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF CONNIE WILSON’S SELECTION OF THIS SPRING'S MUST-READS.

A Boy And His Dog At The End of the World

By C.A. Fletcher This heartwarming novel tells the tale of a young boy named Griz and his dog on a life-changing journey.

In a post-apocalyptic world with no laws, the two must survive while attempting to save their stolen family dog, Jess. Griz and his faithful companion struggle to maintain hope in a world where all seems lost. A Boy And His Dog At The End Of The World movingly portrays this desolate world and asks readers to question where our own world is heading.

Wed, Read & Dead

By V.M. Burns The fourth installment in the ever-popular Mystery Bookshop series, Wed, Read & Dead deliciously delves back into the life of Samantha Washington, author, bookstore owner, and amateur sleuth, as she solves the murder of her mother’s wedding planner. She wouldn’t be able to juggle all these responsibilities without help from her toy Poodles, Snickers and Oreo. Sam’s friendly pooches make sure she stays on track with writing her book, planning her mom’s wedding, and solving the wedding planner’s murder. This charming page-turner is a must-read for any animal lover who loves a good mystery.

The Wonder of Lost Causes

By Nick Trout Veterinarian Nick Trout astounds once again with his new book The Wonder of Lost Causes. The novel follows veterinarian and single mother Kate and her son, Jasper, as they try to come to terms with Jasper’s incurable cystic fibrosis. As a vet, Kate helps many injured strays in any way she can, including bringing home a mistreated mutt named Whistler who repays her kindness in an unexpected way. Her son Jasper instantly forms a unique bond with the dog and can communicate with him in a way no one else can. What makes this story truly special is the familiarity Dr. Trout has with the tragedy of disease: his own daughter has cystic fibrosis. For anyone in need of a heartwarming story, we highly recommend picking up a copy of Dr. Trout’s new book. moderndogmagazine.com

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Find the Poo

By Joe Shyllit Sometimes, inspiration is found in the most unlikely of places. Joe Shyllit’s Cockapoo, Farfel, would “do his business,” but on occasion Joe wasn’t paying attention and couldn’t find the poop to scoop. The solution? Train your eye. Joe took photographs of 22 nature scenes with a piece of dog poo hidden in each and published them for the world to enjoy! This hilarious (and surprisingly challenging!) search-and-find book is the perfect, odourless way to train your eyes to detect poo. But don’t worry if you can’t find them all. Unlike in real life, the answers are included in the back.

Fur & Grrr

By Craig and Erich Pearson This hilarious, relatable collection of quick-witted quotes from famous dog lovers across the globe is perfect for when you need a good laugh. Fur & Grrr contains the pet-related musings, reflections, rantings, and ravings from some of today’s biggest celebrities, like Ellen DeGeneres and Jerry Seinfeld. Not only is this book good for a laugh, but humorous facts are inserted as well, meaning you might actually learn something! This quirky collection is perfect for your bedside table or a great gift for a dog-lover in your life.

Unleashing Your Dog

By Marc Bekoff and Jessica Pierce In Unleashing Your Dog, biologist Marc Bekoff and bioethicist Jessica Pierce take you inside the minds of dogs to reveal how they sense the world around them.

This book offers fascinating and important insight into how we can let our dogs be themselves in a world where they live on our human terms, and gives tips for improving your dog’s quality of life while discrediting popular myths about dogs and dog behaviour.

This is a must-read for all dog owners. We could all do with understanding our canine companions a bit better.

The Way of the Dog

By Eva A. MacDonnell This thought-provoking novel follows Eros, a Poodle puppy, on his hunt for happiness. As he grows, he must learn about life while simultaneously navigating complicated relationships with other animals. Eros’ many life questions prompt readers to look at their own lives and their relationships with others and the world around them. With his curious and innocent nature, this small pup teaches about compassion and empathy. Look to Eros and his adventures to help strengthen your bond with your own pup and encourage you to accept everyone the way they are. After all, like Eros, we’re all on a journey of discovery.

Dog Training Diaries

By Tom Shelby Dog Training Diaries has something for new and experienced dog owners alike, teaching us how to create better relationships with our furrier family members. Author Tom Shelby reveals the best, most effective ways to teach your dog—and how your dog can teach you in return. This training handbook provides insight on dealing with common issues such as leash pulling, separation anxiety, and aggression in a comprehensive and compassionate way. Shelby’s interspersed real-life stories, including those of celebrity clients, make the training how-to’s both personal and compelling.

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Please Don't Feed the Mayor

By Sue Pethick What happens when a dog runs for mayor? A bit of chaos and a whole lot of fun! Inspired by the real-life stories of canine politicians, Sue Pethick tells the tale of Shep the Border Collie who runs for mayor in a small American town.

This unlikely candidate draws the attention of big-city reporters, a romantic interest for Shep’s owner, and an escaped convict.

This winning novel is filled with unexpected passion, small town charm, and even intrigue, leaving us wanting more. 

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Must-haves for you & your dog

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