Modern Dog Spring 2022

Find your breed match! The Chihuahua, American Eskimo & Russian Toy Terrier + more!

The lifestyle magazine for modern dogs and their companions

YOUR PUPPY

QUESTIONS ANSWERED! springals i essen tour for y ! pup

INTERESTING DOG FACTS p88

16 SPRING SPRING 20222022

FUN DOG FINDS FOR

UNDER $100!

Meet the Havanese p30

FIND YOUR INSPIRATION

✔ Be a Volunteer Puppy Raiser ✔ Start Your Own Dog Biz! ✔ Dream Trip! Hunt Truffles in Italy ✔ Get Published!

p64 Low-Energy Dog Breeds

moderndogmagazine.com DISPLAY UNTIL JUNE ‘22

$6.95

p62 The Best Collars, Beds & More!

INSIDE: Amazing Reunions, Problem Solvers, Giveaways Galore, plus more!

VOL 21

NO 1

L E FT P H OTO

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Dogged Determination How I managed not to give up on our challenging adopted dog.

BY SUSAN KAUFFMANN

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Part-Time Dog Sitters Love dogs? Dog-sitting may be the perfect side hustle.

BY JANE MUNDY

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How to be Your Dog’s Best Friend Your dog is your best friend. But are you your dog’s bestie?

BY TEOTI ANDERSON

46

Lost Dogs, Amazing Reunions Missing pets and their unlikely, heartwarming reunions with their families.

BY TRACEY TONG

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Volunteer Puppy Raisers For these “serial” puppy raisers, raising service dog pups is a worthy addiction.

26

BY SUSAN KAUFFMANN

Dream Trip! Truffle Hunting With Dogs in Italy Canines have become the go-to companion for truffle hunting around the globe.

BY CASSANDRA GILL

THE GOODS 26

16 Fun Dog Finds Under $100 Staff favourites, all under $100!

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Spring Essentials Guide We’ve rounded up our favourite spring dog products, Modern Dog tested and approved!

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Dreamy Dog Collars Put some spring in your dog’s step with a delightful new dog collar made by a small company that cares about craftsmanship.

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Healthy Paws Solutions for everything from sore joints to stinky breath!

READ YOUR BREED 24

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Commonly Confused Breeds Say hello to the Chihuahua-like Russian Toy, one of the AKC’s newly recognized dog breeds in 2022.

Meet the Havanese This funny, lovey-dovey dog is great with children.

BY ROSE FROSEK

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The American Eskimo Dog Clever, kid-friendly, and among the most trainable of breeds, the Eskie is the complete brains-and-beauty package.

BY KELLY CALDWELL

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PA I N T I N G : E R I K A CH R I ST E N SE N

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R I G H T P H OTO

SPRING 2022

DOG LIFE

64

22

We’re Giving It Away!

We’ve got three months of incredible giveaways—from a gorgeous dog bed to lawn care services!—and winners every week! See what’s up for grabs on page 22.

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How to be The Worst Dog Mom in the World The case of the four-headed dog.

BODY & SOUL

BY TRACY BECKERMAN

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The Gassiest Dog Breeds and The Fix For Flatulence

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Are Prawns and Shrimp Safe For Your Dog?

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Hair of the Dog Good hair days ahead! Dog grooming tools matched to coat type.

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Is It a ‘Bones’ or ‘No Bones’ Day? A Pug on TikTok reveals the day’s mood.

BY ROSE FROSEK

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BY ROSE FROSEK

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10 of the Laziest Dog Breeds Lower energy dog breeds that don’t need tons of exercise.

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Why Does My Puppy…?

Answers to commonly Googled puppy questions, from biting and crying to chewing and more.

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Tiny Dog Stories Dog love in short form: miniature, reader-submitted dog stories of no more than 100 words.

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Connie’s Book Club Editor-in-Chief Connie Wilson’s round up of this season’s must-read book picks.

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Last Lick: Interesting Dog Facts Delight your dinner companions with fascinating dog breed trivia.

REGULAR FEATURES 6 8 10 12 20 86

Editor’s Letter Contributors Stuff We Love The Scoop Smile! Photo Contest Marketplace

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ON THE COVER

Is a Ketogenic Diet the Secret to Longevity in Dogs?

The keto proponents at Visionary Pet think so.

Master Chief, a four-month-old Havanese, photographed by Jason Krygier-Baum.

Cover insets: Top inset photo: Sarah Daloise Bottom inset photo: Lisa Garfinkle, teamphoto.ca

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In USA: MODERN DOG (ISSN 1703-812X) Volume 21, Issue 1. Published quarterly by Modern Dog Inc. at 142 Churchill Drive, Newington, CT 061114003. Periodicals postage paid at Hartford, CT and additional offices.

POSTMASTER: send address changes to Modern Dog, PO Box 310402, Newington, CT 06131-0402.

L E FT P H OTO SA R A H D A LO I S E ; R I G H T A N D R I I _ Z / B I G S T O C K . CO M

66

EDITOR'S LETTER

Social icon

Circle Only use blue and/or white.

For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.

CO N N I E W I L S O N W I T H P E N N Y, P H OTO K H A R E N H I L L

OUR READERS WRITE

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The Best Waiting Room Reading fter a bumpy start to the year, spring is finally here, and it couldn’t be more welcome! The return of warmer weather and longer daylight hours has us eagerly anticipating longer rambles with our dogs, witnessing the majesty of nature’s rebirth. It’s a time of rejuvenation and awakening!

#dogatthevet #inthewaitingroom Bibi the Chihuahua photographed at New Canaan Vet in New Canaan, CT by @rachelbmurdy.

Find Modern Dog at vet waiting rooms across Canada and the US.

To help you make the most of this season of promise and renewal, we’ve filled these pages with inspiration, from tested and approved gear for outdoor adventures to at-home grooming how-to! You’ll also find the latest must-read dog books, inspiration for a side hustle (anyone up for lucrative part-time dog-sitting?) and a vacation worth dreaming over: a trip to Italy to go truffle hunting with dogs.

Discover the charming, oracle Pug who has won over millions of viewers, and learn about what it takes to be a volunteer guide-dog puppy raiser.

Expert trainers answer perplexing puppy questions and provide an action plan for being your dog’s best friend. You’ll find out why you should consider a keto diet for your dog, along with all manner of natural fixes for common canine health problems.

We Have the Cutest Readers

Ace the Labradoodle enjoying the Fall issue of Modern Dog.—Submitted by Doug Johnson

As usual, adorable dogs pack the pages, we have months of cool dog stuff we’re giving away, and we share more reader-submitted Tiny Dog Stories. For how to submit your own story, turn to page 84. We hope you love the issue.

Wishing you and your dogs a spring season in which you rediscover the magic of the everyday.

With love,

Someone Enjoyed Their Copy of the Magazine a Little Too Much Connie Wilson, Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

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How Bob felt not being the cover model for @modern_dog_mag.

—@bobandpoppygoldies

C ONT R IBUTOR S SPRING 2022 • VOL 21

NO 1

Publisher

Modern Dog Inc. Editor-in-Chief

This issue’s adorable cover pup, Master Chief, a four-month-old Havanese, was photographed by professional animal photographer Jason Krygier-Baum. Based in Toronto, ON, Jason creates joyous, soulful portraits for pet owners and corporate clients alike. Inspiration abounds—Jason’s menagerie includes studio dog Ella, cats Walter and Hazel, and Stanley, the “friendliest snake you’ll ever meet.” Keep up with his latest projects on Instagram @jasonkbphoto.

Connie Wilson Editor & Creative Director

Jennifer Nosek Design & Production

Constance Elwes Sales & Marketing

Linda Helme Comptroller

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

Simran Parekh Audience Development Coordinator

Yaunna Sommersby Subscriptions & Office Administration

Becky Belzile Administration Assistant

Peter Eckersley GET YOURSELF A SUBSCRIPTION! Give us a call at 1-800-417-6289 or subscribe online at moderndogmagazine.com/subscribe

The very funny Tracy Beckerman writes the nationally syndicated column "Lost in Suburbia.” She is also the author of Rebel without a Minivan and Lost in Suburbia: A Momoir. Her latest book, Barking at the Moon: A Story of Life, Love, and Kibble, is an Amazon bestseller. Tracy has appeared on numerous TV shows, including NBC’s Today Show and CBS This Morning, and she recently joined Creators Syndicate, who will distribute her column worldwide.

Flip to page 28 for Tracy’s recounting of her “worst dog mom in the world” moment.

Advertising inquiries call (866) 734-3131 or email advertising@moderndogmagazine.com In Canada: MODERN DOG (ISSN 1703-812X) Volume 21, Issue 1.

Published quarterly by Modern Dog Inc. at Suite 101–2930 Arbutus St, Vancouver, BC Canada V6J 3Y9 POSTMASTER: send address changes to Modern Dog, Suite 101–2930 Arbutus St, Vancouver, BC Canada V6J 3Y9 In USA: MODERN DOG (ISSN 1703-812X) Volume 21, 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

Award-winning Canadian journalist Tracey Tong was formerly a proud dog owner, but these days, she gets her canine fix from Bluey, the title character from her toddler daughter’s favourite television show about a young Blue Heeler and her family.

The Burlington, ON native has written for dozens of publications across North America, including Modern Dog, Modern Cat, Canadian Running, Seventeen, The Toronto Star, National Post, and The Globe and Mail. Flip to page 46 for her heartwarming story about lost dogs who found their way home against the odds.

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

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 2022 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 $18CAD, U.S.A. $18USD, foreign $45USD. Subscription orders and customer service inquiries should be sent to Modern Dog Subscription Services, Suite 101–2930 Arbutus St, Vancouver, BC Canada V6J 3Y9

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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 Celebrate your heart-dog. Create a one-of-a-kind nose print pendant with Robin’s Loving Touch and receive a beautiful, custom pendant in 14 karat gold, white gold, sterling silver or solid chrome.—Connie (from $277, robinslovingtouch.com) 2 If you have skin problems like me, Banixx Pet Care Spray is a godsend, speeding healing. This multi-purpose wonder spray also treats ear infections, hot spots, ringworm, and wounds. Antiseptic and anti-fungal, it’s made without steroids or antibiotics and is sting-free.—Shakira the Foster Dachshund ($17, banixx. com/for-dogs) 3 Odie Pet Insurance allows you to build a custom policy to match your budget and your dog’s needs! With no breed or age limits to their policies, you can choose the plan that’s right for you, and have peace of mind knowing your dog is covered.—Becky (plans starting at $11 a month, getodie.com) 4 Put a spring in your older dog’s step with the Senior Dog Care supplement from WellyTails. This senior-specific blend of antioxidants, probiotics, and glucosamine helps maintain strong joints and provide immune and digestive system support.—Peter ($50, wellytails.com) 5 Customize this modern and timeless Bangle Bracelet from Buddies Pet Keepsakes with your dog’s paw or nose print and an engraving! Available in sterling silver or 14 karat white, yellow, or rose gold, this bracelet makes a wonderful memento.

—Simran (from $270, buddiespets.com) 6 Say goodbye to dull, dirty coats with the Super Bright Shampoo from John Paul Pet! Conditioning agents such as aloe, chamomile, and oatmeal moisturize and soothe the fur, while blue and purple tones help add vibrance.

—Cecilia ($13, johnpaulpet.com) 7 Uniquely vacuum-packed to ensure the food stays fresh, Intrepid Pet’s Chicken and Brown Rice recipe has chicken as the first ingredient and contains amino acids, antioxidants, and vitamins appropriate for all life stages.—Constance, (from $10, intrepidpet.com) 8 Diamond Is a Girl’s Best Friend is a harrowing, heartfelt memoir of Diamond the rescue dog and her human. Author Susan Hoffman wasn’t ready for another dog and the heartbreak that comes with losing a canine companion, but when her “granddog” Diamond needed refuge, they became fast friends.—Linda ($4 for the Kindle edition, $10 for paperback, amazon.com) 9 Give your pup’s dinner a fresh-food boost with the new Freeze-Dried Raw Toppers from Primal Pet Foods! Made with high-quality, natural ingredients and available in beef, chicken, fish, pork, and turkey, they can be added to any meal or used as a yummy treat.—Yaunna (from $9, primalpetfoods.com/freezedriedtoppers) 10 Feel good treats! Suzie’s CBD Soft Chews are softly baked and contain 2 mg of full-spectrum, human-grade, organic CBD oil from their USDA organic farm.

Choose from Chicken and Turmeric, Beef Bone Broth, and Peanut Butter Carob flavours your pooch will love!—Jennifer ($25, suziespettreats.com) 11 The Pet Dental Kit from Oxyfresh makes caring for your reluctant dog’s teeth a breeze. The kit includes their Pet Dental Water Additive, three gentle finger toothbrushes, and Pet Dental Gel Toothpaste that is free of harsh enzymes, flavours, and fragrances!—Poppy, ($26, oxyfresh.com)

Dogs Are the Medicine We Need Right Now Experience the healing power of dogs with photographer Grace Chon’s new photo series

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By Rose Frosek

nternationally acclaimed, LA-based animal photographer Grace Chon’s new photo series, Healer, is a balm for these anxiety-ridden times. In it, gorgeously shot, individual photos of dogs are paired with an invitation to pause for a moment and open yourself to the perceived message from the soulful-eyed pups pictured.

To spend a moment with these heartcentering photos feels like taking your first deep breath of the day.

“It’s an opportunity to fully open your heart and receive each dog’s unique and powerful healing energy,” explains Chon. “I invite you to take a moment and sit with each dog and experience the love they want to share with you.”

“Open yourself up to their wisdom and messages,” she continues. “Trust

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your experience. Allow yourself to receive their gifts of support, acceptance, and unconditional love.”

People have been posting their responses to the images—how the dogs pictured made them feel—and Grace then shares a selection in slides. The responses are heart lifting: “Everything will be okay!” reads one. “Eat all the cookies,” another.

“This work is so deeply meaningful to me and is an expression of everything I’ve learned from dogs in my 13 years of working with them,” says Chon. “It’s been a work in progress since 2019 and I truly cannot wait to share this work with all of you. They are the medicine we need right now.”

Find Chon, along with more of the Healer series, on Instagram: @thegracechon.

Hello, It’s Your Dog DogPhone allows dogs to video call their owners simply by moving a toy

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re you ready to receive phone calls from your dog? A scientist at the University of Glasgow has developed DogPhone, a toy that allows dogs to video call their owners simply by shaking a ball.

Dr. Ilyena Hirskyj-Douglas, a lecturer and assistant professor of animal-computer interaction at the University of Glasgow, became interested in developing technology in which dogs are active participants after realizing that current consumer technologies available to dogs—from games to trackers, health monitors, remote feeders, and video call systems—all have dogs playing a passive role.

“Dogs often had little to no choice in using these systems or controlling what these systems did,” she says. “I wanted to increase their choice and control.” She decided to flip the script and allow dogs to ring their owners.

Fitting a ball with a sensor, which triggers a call from a computer when it senses movement, Hirskyj-Douglas conducted a series of 16 study days over a three-month period with her dog, Zack, a 10-year-old Labrador Retriever. The results were perhaps exactly as one might anticipate.

Most of the time, it appeared that Zack called his owner accidentally, the study notes. Zack called Hirskyj-Douglas about five times a day and more than 50 times in all.

“Dog was playing with his pig and accidentally nudged the ball,” the record of one 30-second call reads.

“Dog rang me but was not interested in our call, instead was checking for things in his bed,” HirskyjDouglas wrote of one call.

“He was busy elsewhere.”

And in dozens of calls, the dog was asleep when he nudged the motion sensor: “Dog sleeping cuddling the ball.”

Zack also never picked

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Dr. Ilyena HirskyjDouglas and Zack

up when Hirskyj-Douglas called. “Originally, I kept thinking of that famous quote, ‘he's just not that into you,’ when I was ringing him and he was just not answering my calls,” Hirskyj-Douglas told CNN. But during several calls Zack made when he was awake, he showed her some toys and approached the screen, suggesting a desire to interact.

While the academic said she “can't know for sure that Zack was aware of the causal link between picking up the ball and making a call,” it was clear that sometimes he was “definitely interested in what he was seeing,” she says. “If he did not like the video calls, he could also have avoided touching DogPhone, so this implies some intent, but to what extent we do not know.”

Zack was purposely not trained to use DogPhone so that Hirskyj-Douglas could see what his natural interactions with it looked like. These ended up including classic butt-dialing (dogs, they’re just like us), sleeping with the system, playing, running, carrying, chewing, throwing, and more.

“We can build technologies for all these beautiful behaviours rather than training them to press buttons, which are made for humans,” enthuses Hirskyj-Douglas.

Currently there is no plan to develop DogPhone for sale, though Hirskyj-Douglas plans to build more devices for dogs, including technology that allows dogs to contact and play with other dogs while at home.

“DogPhone is the beginning of…dogs having more control and choice over their life through technologies,” she says. “We decide so much of their lives that maybe having this choice alone is kind of exciting in itself.”

Sophie, Alex, and Andy

Shock Reaction: Impromptu Video Plea Offering Dog Bandanas Goes Viral After her uncle suffered a stroke, 23-year-old Sophia Shock created a video asking for help. She was not prepared for the results.

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hen 23-year-old Sophia Shock’s beloved Uncle Andy suffered a debilitating stroke at age 57, she prayed for assistance—and then sprang into action. The Plainfield, Indiana native was sitting on the couch with her uncle’s dog, Alex, whom she now takes care of, when inspiration hit. “I had prayed many nights prior about finding a way to help Andy financially but didn’t know what that could be,” says Shock.

The medical bills were mounting and the family was looking at having to sell some of his belongings to pay for his medical care and therapy. “I looked down at his dog, Alex, who was wearing a bandana, and thought ‘that can’t be that hard to make.’” She had never sewn before in her life.

Shock created a TikTok video asking people to support her uncle by purchasing a bandana. She had around 500 followers at the time. “We thought we would maybe sell 20 bandanas,” she says. She may have surpassed that mark by just a little.

“This is the part where I get emotional,” she says. “I was completely in shock…never in a million years thought our video would go viral. I prayed many months after Andy’s stroke for something amazing to happen where I could financially help him with his care—and my prayers were answered and more.”

They’ve now sold over 9,500 bandanas in 13 countries, and every state in the U.S. The initial video raised $11,500.

What she wasn’t ready for was immediately taking actual

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orders. “After I posted the video, I noticed we were receiving comments from people wanting to order immediately. I had to quickly create a website where I could take orders because hundreds of people were wanting to order!” She didn’t even have a sewing machine yet. “I told my fiancé we needed to go to the store to purchase a sewing machine...and we did so that night,” she recalls. Alex & Andy Pet Bandanas was born.

Shock found herself sewing seven days a week for 12+ hours every day. “Sitting at the sewing machine every day taught me more about myself than I ever knew before,” she says. They now have a few people who assist in making the bandanas so she no longer has to do it all by herself.

She attributes their success to the fact that “our story touches home with many families across the world.” Stroke is a leading cause of death in the world over; every 40 seconds someone in the United States has a stroke. “I never truly realized how many people were impacted by this until this experience,” she says.

“We are all human and we all experience hardships and seeing everyone come together was so heartwarming. This experience has truly changed our lives. I can’t thank everyone enough for all of the love and support they’ve given us.”

They’ve now turned the initial fundraiser into a small business, “which helps give Andy a purpose again,” Shock says. They’ve branched into t-shirts as well, which Andy designs left-handed, due to right-side paralysis. Find them at alexandandypetbandanas.com and on TikTok @sophiarae98.

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.

C A RTO O N S BY J O H N K LOSSN E R ; J K LOSSN E R . CO M

AND THE WINNING CAPTION FROM THE WINTER ISSUE IS…

ai t

Po r tr

Pup Art

by E rika Christensen

Portrait by Fred Smith

Custom pet portraits are the surprisingly affordable gift that keeps on giving The best gift you could arguably give yourself? A custom portrait of your dog. In doing so, you’ll be joining the ranks of historic personages such as Marie Antionette and Queen Victoria, both of whom had portraits painted of their beloved pets.

Talented, contemporary pet portrait artists to consider: Artist Erika Christensen creates gorgeous custom oil paintings of pets. Just look at this Pug’s face. Send her your favourite photo of your pup and she’ll create a masterpiece. (Portraits by commission, erikachristensenscully.com).

Fred Smith of Pet Art 4U creates beautiful watercolour pet portraits from your personal pet photos. Just send him a photo and he’ll do the rest. A percentage of proceeds goes towards Heart 2 Heart, a no kill animal rescue based in Arizona. (From $199, petart4u.com)

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"At least it makes my legs look slimmer."

Submitted by Joseph A. Dewan RUNNER-UP CAPTIONS "It’s actually a puff pastry. I’m a purebread."

Submitted by Michael Holmes

"On the bright side, no more cone of shame."

Submitted by Andrew Hawkins

"It’s called fashion, look it up."

Submitted by Sharon

“Booties are so last year...”

Submitted by Xavier Ruel

!

E L I SM

Modern Dog’s Photo Contest Winners!

Winston Landseer

Benny waffles

Monkey

Mitzi

Basset Hound

Standard Poodle

Bulldog

BEA

Italian Greyhound

Freddie Labradoodle

Cash

Miniature Longhaired Dachshund

LUNA

Levi

Piper

Cooper

Labrador

Belle

Bernedoodle Tiny Kari

Border Collie

Wellington Goldendoodle

Reggie

Cockapoo

Husky Mix

Pug

Kali

Golden Retriever/Lab Mix

Titan

Kodak

Labrador

Rupert

Rza

Shih Tzu

Pomsky

Myrtle

Queso

Spaniel

Boxer Mix

Great Dane

Sasha

Black Lab Mix

Ruby

Beagle/Bluetick Coonhound Mix

Marley

Eva

Sheltie

Milo

Husky/Akita/Lab

Nana

Vizsla

Apollo

Black Lab/Heeler

Nola

Basset Hound

Siberian Husky

Glowy Corgi

Think your dog ought To be in Modern Dog?

Fred Maltese

KiKi

French Bulldog

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!

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

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

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

April

1st-7th

Win 1 of 2 Canine Hemp Solutions prize packs! Includes their Canine Hemp Pulp, Canine Derm Spray, Full-Spectrum Canine Tinctures, and dog chews.

May

1st-7th

Win 1 of 2 ALL-IN supplement prize packs from Vetericyn!

Includes a 90-day supply of supplements with your choice of puppy, adult, or senior formulas.

8th-14th

15th-21st

Win a Cool Season Lawn Care Program from Natural Alternative! Nourish your lawn with this natural, organic lawn care product that’s safer for pups!

Win 1 of 2 prize packs from Banixx! Includes a bottle of the Banixx Medicated Shampoo, Pet Care Spray, and Medicated Cream, plus a $50 Chewy Gift Certificate.

8th-14th

15th-21st

Win 1 of 2 goodie boxes from Dexypaws! The boxes include two plush toys, two chew toys designed for enrichment, and apparel for your pampered pooch.

22nd-30th

Win a Lounge Bed from P.L.A.Y.!

Featuring a stylish print and eco-friendly stuffing made from recycled bottles, this cozy bed is also machine washable. Winner will choose size and print!

8th-14th

15th-21st

22nd-31st

Win a Large Print Dog Tag from Buddies Pet Keepsakes! Styled after a traditional dog tag, it can be worn as a pendant or keychain and customized with a nose or paw print.

Win 1 of 2 adventure-ready prize packs from Lucky Dog! Includes two INDULGE stainless steel dog bowls, a 10 pack of Ultimate Poop Bags, and a canvas poop bag holder.

Win 1 of 4 prize duos from Bad Tags! Includes two stylish pet ID tags of your choice to show of your pooch’s unique personality.

Win 1 of 5 $50 gift cards from Vetnique Labs! Choose from their selection of canine supplements and grooming products to keep your pup healthy and happy.

22nd-31st

Win 1 of 3 prize packs from Walkabout Harnesses! It includes a Double Knee Brace + Chest Halter and a Buddy Belt car seatbelt.

No purchase necessary to enter or win. Beginning March 1, 2022 at 12:01 AM (PST) through May 31, 2022 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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Make Ro Your Heaom in Chihu rts, lovers. Mahua Chi-Like eet the Ru Toy Terr ssian ier

Chihuahua

Commonly Confused Breeds

Russian Toy Terrier

Say hello to the Russian Toy, one the of the AKC’s newly recognized dog breeds in 2022

Y

ou could be forgiven for confusing the Russian Toy Terrier for his better-known cousin, the Chihuahua.

Marked by diminutive size (up to six and a half pounds) and large bat ears, the breed resembles the Chihuahua and is still rare in the United States—there are currently just 775 Russian Toys in the U.S. But with the AKC newly recognizing the breed as of 2022, the Russian Toy and its fanciers are bracing for greater recognition.

Another key physical difference is head shape. A hallmark of the Chihuahua is a rounder, more apple-shaped head, whereas the Russian Toy has a narrower head and a slightly longer muzzle.

Like the Chihuahua, the Russian Toy comes in a long-haired variety which, with its tufted ears, resembles a Papillion.

Though most frequently mistaken for a Chihuahua, there are differences between the two, first and foremost being size.

Though both are undoubtedly small breeds (six pounds or less), the Russian Toy is yet more petite than the relatively stockier Chihuahua. Jo Buntrock, of Buchanan Dam, Texas, is a Russian Toy Terrier owner of 10 years. She shares, “Russian Toy bones are delicate and finer than a stocky little Chihuahua. Jumping off furniture can result in a leg fracture, especially before age two.

They can also be very territorial and possessive of their owners so early socialization is a must.” Homes without larger dogs or rambunctious kids would be a fit.

Both have winning personalities. The Russian Toy is known for being athletic, intelligent, loyal, humorous, and highly trainable. The coat is low maintenance, and the breed has a life expectancy of 10-12 years, states the AKC.

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As for origin, the Russian Toy hails from Russia, as the name suggests, whereas the Chihuahua comes from Mexico.

If you’re looking for a small dog with high energy, a sweet personality, smarts, and a desire to please, the Russian Toy could be for you!

LOOKING FOR YOUR BREED MATCH? Find more breed profiles at moderndogmagazine.com/breeds

P H OTO CH I H U A H UA K A P I N OS OVA / B I G STO CK . CO M ; R U SSI A N TOY T E R R I E R SK ROTOV / SH U TT E R STO CK

THE RUSSIAN TOY TERRIER VS. THE CHIHUAHUA

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HOW TO BE THE WORST DOG MOM IN THE WORLD

By Tracy Beckerman

“W

here’s Monty?” asked my husband, looking around our new apartment.

“He’s out with his new friends,” I said.

“Ahh,” he replied. “And how’s that going?”

“Well, in the beginning there was much butt sniffing and ball stealing,” I said. “But now everyone seems to be getting along great!”

Monty, of course, was our dog, an extremely gregarious and very energetic English White Golden Retriever. When we lived in the suburbs, Monty had plenty of room to run around, play fetch, and generally indulge in typical outdoor dog activities like finding dead things in the yard and bringing them home. But when we sold the house and moved into an apartment in the city, grass became a thing of the past, and our new backyard was a 5 x 8 balcony. Naturally, we were concerned he wouldn’t get enough exercise, or social time, or the chance to pose for selfies for his Instagram account. So, we did what many other city dog owners do to help their dog get more outdoor time—we joined a dogwalking group.

The group we found turned out to be a great fit for Monty.

In addition to Monty, there were two yellow Goldens who lived in our building, and they all bonded over mutual Golden exuberance and large quantities of dog slobber.

They were all doggone happy until one of the yellow Goldens moved away. Fortunately, the group quickly picked up a new white Golden like Monty. Then the other yellow Golden dropped out and a new white Golden moved into the building and joined

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the group. Finally, the dog walker himself decided that white Goldens were the bomb and he got one, too.

Now there were four white Goldens who looked like one fourheaded dog when they walked close together. At first glance, they all looked identical. But up close, it was pretty easy to tell them apart. Monty was the broadest, Stevie was the youngest, Max was the tallest, and George’s fur flipped under his ears so he looked like George Washington, which was probably why they named him George in the first place.

All was going swimmingly until one day as I was coming home from running errands, I saw the Golden posse standing together by the door to my building. As I got closer to the group, I looked at the dogs and discovered, much to my horror, that I didn’t know which one was mine.

I was horrified. What kind of dog-mom doesn’t know her own dog?

I squinted harder and was able to rule out Stevie, but the other three all looked the same.

Now I was starting to panic. What if I picked the wrong dog to greet? Would my dog be insulted? Would he chew up all my good underwear for revenge? This was a major dog-mom infraction. I suspected there was a good chance the authorities were going to take my Petco points away and sentence me to 36 hours of community pooper-scooping.

I knew I could cheat by shouting his name, but I felt it was my duty, as his human, to figure out which one he was. I walked closer and ruled out George Washington. The fur flip gave him away. Now it was just between two dogs. I looked back and forth between them and then I saw the telltale glint in Monty’s eyes that would twinkle when he caught sight of me. We locked eyes and I knew without a doubt it was my dog.

As I approached the group, the dog walker suddenly saw me coming, and yelled.

“Hi Sarah!”

I stopped and looked behind me but there was no one there.

“Hey Sarah,” he called out a second time.

I walked up to the group to greet my dog and I could see the confusion in the dog walker’s eyes.

“Oh sorry,” he said. “I thought you were someone else.”

P H OTO LU V O N A H A R N ESS

DOG LIFE

P H OTO RO D R I G O P U K A N / B I G S TO C K . CO M

BREEDS

MEET THE

HAVANESE This funny, lovey-dovey dog is great with children

By Rose Frosek

This extroverted small dog, known for its trademark silky coat and big brown eyes, is actually native to Cuba. Expect a social, playful, comic companion that will win the hearts of all he meets. Though small, the Havanese is sturdy—and smart. They

excel at learning tricks and make surprisingly good watchdogs to boot!

Did You Know?

The Havanese originated in Cuba and was once called the Havana Silk Dog. They make excellent trick dogs.

Havanese have moderate exercise needs and make great city dwellers, though they will thrive anywhere, provided they are with their people.

FIND YOUR BREED MATCH

For more breed profiles, visit moderndogmagazine.com/breeds

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AT A GLANCE 7 – 13 pounds 14 – 16 years life expectancy Wide range of coat colours, including black, white, red, cream, and silver

I N SE T P H OTO M D O ROTTYA / B I G STO CK . CO M

I

ntelligent, outgoing, and funny, this beloved member of the Toy group is an adored family member for good reason—the Havanese is incredibly charming and great with both kids and other dogs.

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DOG LIFE XXXXXX

DOGGED

DETERMINATION How I managed not to give up on our challenging adopted dog

By Susan Kauffmann

I

begged... I pleaded... I made promises... All in the attempt to convince my husband, Michael, to allow us to adopt “Bodie,” the adorable 18-month-old Australian Shepherd/Great Pyrenees cross I had fallen in love with on Petfinder.com.

Sure, Bodie was big, young, hairy, and mostly untrained, and yeah, I had all kinds of chronic pain issues that made it completely illogical for me to get such a dog, but that face! Who could resist it? Besides, I told Michael,

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Bodie's foster mom described him as “easy to have around,” and from everything I knew about him, I was sure he would bring us far more joy than trouble. Famous last words.

When Bodie arrived, he was every bit as cute and cuddly as I had imagined he would be. However, I was soon to learn that a rescue dog of unknown background might seem like the perfect pooch in one set of circumstances, only to turn into a mutt of mayhem in another. For example,

Bodie was polite and respectful with Alison's cats, but he launched himself at ours with alarming intensity, sending them fleeing for their lives. The difference was that Alison's cats were used to new dogs coming into their home and knew how to put them in their place immediately, while ours had no experience with unfamiliar canines other than the coyotes who had tried to eat them before we got our perimeter fencing up.

Our normally pampered indoor/

Michael is completely smitten with Bodie and doesn't discourage Bodie's notion that he is the perfect lap dog.

P H OTO S U SA N A N D B O D I E , M I CH A E L L A N E ; A L L OT H E R P H OTO S U SA N K AU F F M A N N

outdoor cats would spend most of the next two months shivering on top of the haystack in the barn, not daring to venture inside the house at all. I didn't blame them, as Bodie chased them at every opportunity. We tried to do some controlled cat/dog introductions, usually with Michael holding a barely contained Bodie on a leash and me attempting to wrangle an extremely reluctant cat, but the bright red scratches on my arms and torso bore testimony to just how badly most of those attempts had failed.

As bad as things were with the cats, there was a lot more to stress about in those first weeks of Bodiedom. There were the epic marks he gouged into our once lovely front door if we tried to leave him unattended in the house for ten seconds. There was the anxious chorus of whining and clawing whenever we shut him into his crate, which made us feel terrible and kept me awake half the night, every night. He had been fine being crated at Alison's where he always had other dogs crated in the room with him, but at our place, he was completely alone and anything but fine.

Unfortunately, there was no way we could leave Bodie uncrated overnight, as he had quickly proven himself a menace to anything within his reach, and given his size and prodigious counter-surfing skills, his reach was impressive. Ball caps, gloves, throw blankets, slippers, dog beds,

trash cans, food left unattended, bags of dog kibble, packages of toilet paper, and much more fell prey to Bodie's gleaming white chompers. The upside of Bodie's eclectic kleptomania was that I was forced to become a much better housekeeper, but I found myself constantly fretting that Bodie would

swelling that required treatment and bandaging. I ended up driving down our dizzying mountain road three times that day: first to the vet, then to get bandages and medication for the hot spot, then to find a collar to prevent him from ripping off the bandages, which I didn't think to get on the second trip.

Naturally, the collar didn't work, so I had to watch Bodie closely to try to get him to leave his leg alone. What little sleep I had been getting turned into next to none, leaving me feeling and looking like an extra from the set of The Walking Dead. For even more fun, a severe storm turned our property into ten acres of mud, which meant that every walk ended in a prolonged wrestling match as I battled to get the sticky clay off of Bodie's ginormous white paws. And since Bodie basically refused to "go potty" if he was on a leash, there were lots of these glorious walks every day!

Finally, I gave up trying to keep Bodie on leash, as I was getting too sore from his pulling, which nearly removed my arms from my body every time he saw something exciting. Our property was fenced with five-foot-high horse mesh that our other dogs had never managed to escape, so we gave Bodie the run of the place and hoped his leg would still manage to heal.

Imagine my surprise a couple of days later when I was out cleaning the horse paddock and saw a dog that looked 

Dig deep, find your inner Zen master, get help if you need it, and remember that it will all be worth it in the end. eventually destroy something really important or valuable, so trying to keep Bodie out of trouble became pretty much a 24/7 job.

And, just to add injury to insult, Bodie hurt himself soon after he arrived, so off to the vet we went to assess a troubling hind leg limp.

Rest and medication were prescribed, leaving us with a boisterous young dog who was supposed to be kept quiet and on leash, which only exacerbated the already daunting challenge of preventing Bodie from ransacking our home. That same day—but of course after we got back from the vet—Bodie started licking obsessively at a tiny scab on a front leg, creating a hot spot which quickly blew up into a large

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an awful lot like Bodie scampering around outside our fence!

This was the first of several offproperty escapades Bodie enjoyed before we discovered that he was somehow scooching his big body under some relatively tiny gaps that had been made under the wire by snow melt or digging rabbits. The good news was that he never travelled very far, though the frantic searches I conducted each time he went on a walkabout were not doing my blood pressure any good. We found and blocked every gap in the fence and were relieved when he didn't start digging under on his own, though we lived on tenterhooks, expecting that idea to arise in his fluffy noggin any day.

Then there was the charging and nipping at my horses whenever the horses were near the paddock fence, inevitably accompanied by vociferous barking that echoed off the surrounding hills and frayed every last nerve in my sleep-deprived brain. And the time he pooped in my husband's home office during an important meeting, somehow managing to get most of the horrifically stinky pile inside a new ski boot. And the time he flattened me when running full speed with his Irish Wolfhound girlfriend, leaving me limping and bruised all over. As such moments of chaos piled on, I kept hearing that line from the old Talking Heads song in my head: "And you may say to yourself, 'My god!

What have I done?'"

By the three-week mark, I felt completely overwhelmed. While there were many endearing things about Bodie, the joy/trouble scales were definitely tipped way off in the wrong

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direction. Though I felt terrible about it, I thought we should return him to the rescue, who had said he could come back any time if he didn't work out. However, to my utter amazement, Michael had fallen completely in love with Bodie and flat out refused to even consider that option. Michael, who had always been the tough one with our previous dogs, was putty in Bodie's paws, playing with him constantly and saying, “I don't know what it is about this dog, but I just can't get mad at him!”

While I was plenty mad, plenty often, I had to admit that Michael was right when he said that none of the behavioural issues we were experiencing were Bodie's fault, as he was simply a young dog that no one had ever taken the time to train, a dog who had been kicked around from place to place and who needed time to learn what was expected of him in our home. The bottom line, Michael asserted, was that we had chosen to take responsibility for this dog, so we had to find a way to make it work, whatever it took.

Turns out that what it took was a lot of patience, consistency, adaptation, and a couple of sessions with Trevor Wilson, an excellent local dog trainer who gave us strategies to work on everything from safe introductions with the cats to improving leash walking and behaviour in the house. The most important piece of the puzzle was teaching Bodie the concept of "leave it," which was incredibly helpful with the cat situation and many of the other issues we had been having. Once Bodie learned to let go of a thought or an object on request, he became much

more manageable.

While we still have plenty of work to do, we are making great strides, most importantly with the cats, with whom Bodie now genuinely wants to be friends. Sometimes, he even brings them his favourite toys, which is both adorable and heartening. And, as he is learning how to tone down his energy around them, the cats have finally started making tentative forays back into the house and will actually approach Bodie at times.

We also bought Bodie a larger, airier crate and have worked on making it a positive place. He chooses to nap in there sometimes, though he now sleeps quietly at the foot of our bed overnight.

Bodie still likes to make confetti out of dog beds, however, so we got him the "Chew Proof Armored Padded Elevated Dog Crate Bed," from K9 Ballistics, a company that specializes in supertough beds for the mayhem mutts of the world. Problem solved.

I am also pleased to report that Bodie is stealing fewer things these days, rushes the horses less often (and can be called off when he does), and can even be walked through the exciting sights and smells of nearby Virginia City without dislocating our appendages. I am now as besotted with the big floof head as my husband is and find myself telling Bodie what a great dog he is many times a day. I am so grateful that Michael pushed me to hang in there with this lovely dog when I was ready to give up, and I would urge anyone in similar circumstances to dig deep, find your inner zen master, get help if you need it, and remember that it will all be worth it in the end.

P H OTO S S U SA N K AU F F M A N N

Bodie on his K9 Ballistics bed.

IS IT A ‘BONES’ OR ‘NO BONES’ DAY? A Pug on TikTok Reveals the Day’s Mood

hen 30-year-old New Yorker Jonathan Graziano first started posting videos of his 13-year-old rescue Pug, Noodle, he had no idea the impact his elderly dog would have. The videos capture Graziano gingerly propping up his dog. If Noodle rises, ready to start the day, Graziano pronounces it a “bones day,” a day for getting things done. If Noodle sinks back

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into the bed, not so much.

Graziano began posting the videos to TikTok in August 2021, but they really started getting traction toward the end of October, with #nobones trending on Twitter and viewers eager for the day’s prophecy. “IS IT A NO BONES DAY OR DO WE HAVE BONES??” one user wrote while awaiting the video. Millions began referencing the videos to see what kind of day is in store for them.

“You’ve got to treat yourself today,”

Graziano narrates in a decidedly ‘bones day’ TikTok video viewed more than 13.7 million times. “The Japanese fried chicken you were going to order for lunch? Get the curry to dip it in. All those festive gourds? Buy them. That raise you deserve, but haven’t asked for yet? You totally deserve it. Ask for it.”

On the other hand, if Noodle simply refuses to stand up, softly collapsing back into the bed in favour of further slumber, it’s a ‘no bones’ day. “Be kind

P H OTOS @ J O N G R A Z / @ SH O WM E N O O DZ

W

Millions are checking in with an elderly Pug to see what the day ahead will be like | By Rose Frosek

Jonathan Graziano and his 13-year-old oracle Pug, Noodle.

Wear soft pants today. No hard pants on a 'no bones' day. Say no to plans to yourself,” says Graziano in a recent ‘no bones’ day video. “I’m talking kind, like order-a-bunch-of-candles-online kind. Right, I know it’s not the $10 sale, but that should not stop you from living your truth. Go to the gym today. But don’t go into the gym. Walk past the gym and into the Chipotle next door.

Get chips and guac, you deserve it. And remember, today is a day for kindness. If you were going to call your sister today and tell her the bridesmaid dresses she chose would better serve as drop cloths than garments, maybe save that.”

This doesn’t mean that ‘no bones’ days are a bummer. “I don’t think they’re bad days,” Graziano told the New York Times. “I think they are days where you just need to be very kind to yourself, sensitive of others, wear your sweatpants, take a bubble bath, selfcare. That kind of thing. That’s certainly how Noodle handles his no bones days.”

The videos have struck a chord, inspiring tribute songs (lyrics: “If it’s a ‘no bones’ day I just stay in bed, Noodle said it’s fine if I don’t get dressed”)

and even tweets from politicians, such as Gov. John Bel Edwards of Louisiana proclaiming a ‘bones day’ a great day to get a Covid-19 vaccine.

“All right, Louisiana: Today is a bones day,” the governor said in a tweeted video. “And while every day is a great day to get your vaccination, today is an extraordinarily good day.”

Pro hockey teams have also gotten in on the fun with the NHL’s Colorado Avalanche attributing a loss to a ‘no bones’ day.

Graziano credits the success of the videos to their lighthearted wholesomeness. They’re a bright corner of the Internet, which can frequently be a very dark, divisive place.

“I think people are just hanging on by a thread,” Mr. Graziano said. “I think people are tired. I think they’re scared.

I think they’re stressed out, and I think they really need a distraction.”

He receives countless notes from people who Noodle inspired, including an 80-year-old who got out of bed because Noodle did.

“Noodle has brought so much joy to

so many people online I can’t believe it,” Graziano said on the Today show. “This ‘no bones’ video is something that I would just do as a silly little ritual for us in the morning to check in and see how he was doing and then it took off.”

Graziano says he’ll continue posting as long as Noodle is comfortable, so if you’re in need of someone to tell you whether to seize the day or keep those sweatpants on, look no further than this oracle Pug.

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P H OTO

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PART-TIME DOG SITTERS Love dogs? Dog-sitting may be the perfect side hustle

| By Jane Mundy

Illustration By Michelle Simpson

D

espite remote work and a kibosh on travel, pet sitting during the pandemic didn’t completely ‘go to the dogs.”

And now, by all accounts, part-time dog sitters are getting even busier.

Newly dog-less and with time on my hands, I decided to test the waters.

My beautiful dog Lizzy had been with me 15 years when she passed away. I wasn’t ready to get a new pup—but I missed canine companionship. Lizzy had a lot of friends so I offered to dog sit.

Word got out at the dog park, which was packed with newly adopted “Covid pups.” Pet ownership has skyrocketed and there are more people with pets now than ever before. According to the American Pet Products Association, 11.38 million US households took on a new pet during the pandemic, with 75 percent of surveyed pet owners saying that spending time with a dog or cat helped to reduce their stress and increased their sense of well-being during the pandemic.

Requests from people at the dog park (at first I only knew the names of their dogs, you know how that goes) came pouring in, first to day-sit as they gradually went back to work and, later, for sleepovers when they began travelling again.

I worked full-time until Covid caused my travel writing to become nonexistent so I saw this as an opportunity to start a part-time job. I created a business Facebook Page called “Kinver K9s,” posting rates and testimonials, and I handed out business cards in the

dog park. Within a few months, I was turning down requests as I only take four “clients” at a time.

Within no time at all, I found myself making $2000 a month from my side gig. It’s been a mostly wonderful experience. Amazingly, I’ve only had one troublemaker, an aggressive pandemic pup whose parents had zero experience (their first dog). Another time, I boarded two un-neutered large dogs and an un-spayed female—that was quite the workout. I paid a friend to help as the two males had to be separated. I’ll never do that again—talk about a learning curve!

I spoke with other dog lovers who recently started offering part-time doggie daycare services, along with a few seasoned sitters, but they all have something in common: they prefer working with dogs more than any other job. Here are their stories.

Rafi Shaik, San Jose, California “I began working from home when Covid hit. Because I spent so much time commuting back and forth—I’m a

software architect—I had lots of spare time, so my wife and I started dog boarding. We also wanted our kids to get involved—like me, they learned a lot by looking after dogs from a young age. My daughters, ages 11 and 16, walk the small guys and I handle the bigger breeds.

I signed up with Rover.com and got bookings right away, and after a few reviews, bookings snowballed. I now have many repeat customers and they tell their friends.

My limit is three dogs. And I keep my Rover calendar full for two weeks then block for two weeks because we want to give our Lab a break from other dogs’ energy and temperament.

Unfortunately, I turn down a lot of regular clients to keep those two weeks free, but they understand.

I started low at $45 per day and charged less for puppies—my girls love to play with pups and time away from their computer and phone is time they can learn. My sweet spot is now $55 for day-sitting and/or sleepovers.

Having never been exposed to the outside world, some dogs aren’t socialized and have fear issues. I can usually tell by the first phone call whether there will be a problem: if I hear anxiety in [the owner’s] voice, dogs tune into that anxiety. [Many pets, grown accustomed to being with their people 24/7, experience separation anxiety, which can lead to issues when owners return to work. Sadly, while pet adoptions rose 12 percent in 2020, many pandemic puppies were returned to shelters, in fact at double the rate in 2021, according to USA Today.]  moderndogmagazine.com

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While on the phone I ask about any behaviour and health issues; if a dog is coughing or on meds I turn them down.

Rover takes care of the rest, including vaccination checks and pet insurance.

Today I have a Labradoodle and German Shepherd mix— it’s gonna be a good day.”

Joseph Avalos, Brooklyn, New York “I moved to Brooklyn a few years ago to pursue a culinary career but soon realized I hate making wedding cakes and needed another career—and you need extra work living in New York. In high school I made pocket money taking care of dogs, including grooming, so when people asked if I could watch their dog on the weekends, it was a no-brainer.

And I loved staying at their homes rather than my shoebox-sized apartment. I volunteered at first but always got tips and referrals.

Having a flexible work schedule helps. I joined community groups, including Facebook’s “NYC Dog Walkers and Petsitters,” and people are always posting requests for dog sitting and boarding. I also offer full service, which includes house cleaning. In a typical week I’ll have four dogs, all one-onone. I charge a sliding scale, depending on what you can afford, so a walk is between $30-$50 and sleepovers from $50-$90. The latter includes cleaning or caring for multiple dogs.

I would love to work with dogs fulltime. My dream is to have a space where dogs could stay with me, with off-leash parks nearby. Like us, dogs don’t like being cooped up.”

SPCA and the Humane Society. Some

retired sled dogs dragged us around the neighbourhood!

We moved to Gabriola Island and met like-minded folks walking their fur babies. Someone asked if I could sit her puppy and that soon morphed into sleepovers for about six families. I often go to a client’s house for a few weeks, or their dog comes to our house. Nothing is regular—one week I won’t have any dogs and another week two dogs every day. I’m happy that way, but I’ll get busier with people travelling more, especially the snowbirds who don’t want to take their pets south.

I take all sizes, unless they are too rambunctious. And I said no to a woman who asked me to live at her house for three months—my husband wasn’t thrilled. Our house isn’t big enough for her three large dogs, but I’m sure she found someone.

I post on Gabriola Pet Sitters Facebook Group, but people mainly call from referrals. I’m not in this to make a lot of money and some people are living on their pensions so I charge $25 per day. Tips are appreciated.”

Dean Geatros, Calgary, Alberta

Diana Monks, Gabriola Island, B.C. “I’ve been walking dogs for about 50 years—we always had dogs in our family. When my husband and I retired we volunteered a few days a week with the

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“Back in 1998, I hurt my back at work, and the only place that hired me was a dog walking service, which turned out to be paid physiotherapy—I loved it. I started walking two dogs and soon had a six-pack at the off-leash park. The company changed hands, and I started my own business called “Dog Walkin’ Dean.” Fast forward a few years, and I had up to 24 dogs a day.

Here’s a typical day: I make a list of three runs with dogs’ initials so I remember which dog I had on which run. I leave the house around 9am and pick up the first pack (maybe eight) in my mini van—some dogs are waiting

"I prefer dogs rather than people, and hopefully I will never have to work with humans again" outside their house while others are inside, whatever makes the customer comfy. If I have the key, clients must let the neighbours know—I don’t want to get wrestled to the ground by the police, especially at my age (almost 60). We tear around the off-leash park for an hour and depending where the dogs live, they might stay for a second run or even the whole day, no extra charge.

Back home at 4pm with a few sleepovers and dinner at 5pm.

I’ve had up to 17 dogs sleeping over during Easter and Christmas—what a blast. My wife and I have a big backyard, but a 1,300 square foot house. We have several plastic kid’s gates strategically placed so the dogs are somewhat separated. Some are in the bedroom, a few in the hallway and maybe six in the kitchen with our dogs—they’ve moved up a notch on the pack ladder in the kitchen. And we replaced our dining room suite with critter furniture. After supper we have about a few hours’ playtime and settle down around 9pm.

We all fall asleep watching Animal Planet (kidding, sort of). Patty has a few pups on our bed and a couple on the floor—some dogs like women more than men.”

By all accounts, there’s no time like the present to offer doggie daycare and/or sleepovers, whether taking one or two at a time like Diana, offering additional services like Joseph, or developing your services into a full-time business. “I prefer dogs rather than people, and hopefully I will never have to work with humans again,” says Dog Walkin’ Dean, laughing. But for most of us dog lovers with employment elsewhere, it’s a perfect moonlighting job.

P H OTO LU L J O / B I G STO C K . CO M

DOG LIFE

How to Be Your Dog’s Best Friend Your dog is your best friend. But are you your dog’s bestie?

By Teoti Anderson

O

ne of the joys of having a dog in your life is that no matter how long you’re away, your dog will greet you like you’ve been gone a century. You probably have family members who barely acknowledge your arrival, but your dog throws a parade. He loves you on bad hair days, through different relationships, and even when you go on vacation without him. He wants to dig holes, pee where he likes, and chew your furniture. You tell him all these things are unacceptable, and he loves you anyway.

Your dog is your best friend. But can your dog say the same about you? Here are four ways you can ensure you’re upholding your end of the friendship.

1. Your Attention, Please If you get a puppy, your days pretty much revolve around him.

You worry about potty schedules and feeding times. You follow his every move to ensure he doesn’t make mistakes or get into mischief. It’s a new love, and you spend tons of time together.

As your dog gets older, it’s only natural to transition to spending less time with your furry friend. Though you probably can’t

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spend 24/7 with him, do make sure you are making time for him every day.

Days get caught up with multiple responsibilities. You have work, family, hobbies, friends. Your dog has you. You’re the center of his universe. He needs your attention. Play with him.

Snuggle. Explore activities to find his favourites. Best friends spend time together.

> Try the 10 Minute Miracle We get it, some days are just really busy. But even on the most over-scheduled days, you can still make time for The 10 Minute Miracle, a concept created by the toddler and Gentle Parenting experts at Big Little Feelings. Our dogs are basically toddlers, so applying this idea makes sense. It holds that quality time is more important than quantity, and a short period of focused attention can be transformative. So for 10 minutes—set a timer, if you’d like—put away your phone and focus solely on your dog and what he’d like to do. What’s his jam? Tug? Fetch? Petting?

Whatever it is that lights your dog up, do that, and only that,

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for 10 minutes, giving your dog your undivided attention.

2. Train Him Dogs are not born knowing how to follow our rules for behaviour. You need to teach them. It’s in both of your best interests; dogs with good manners get taken more places. Here are some core behaviours every dog should know: • Name recognition. Teach your dog to look at you when you call his name, giving you his full attention. You’ll use his name before cues, such as, “Fido, Sit.” If you don’t have your dog’s attention, he won’t listen to you. Make sure you’re not just using your dog’s name when he’s done something naughty or you want him to stop doing something.

• Come. Your dog should come when you call him, the first time you call him. This is convenient, like when you’re getting ready to take him for a walk. It’s also a safety issue, in case he slips his collar and gets loose in the neighbourhood.

• Sit. This has many applications, such as sitting nicely when you put on his leash or take it off, sitting for petting instead of jumping on someone, sitting so you can clean his ears or apply eye drops, etc.

• Walk nicely on leash. No one likes to be dragged down the street! If your dog is no fun to walk, we’re guessing he’s getting fewer walks. If you have a large dog, this is also dangerous—even if friendly, a big dog can pull you down if he sees a squirrel and gives chase.

• Down. If your dog is lying down by the dinner table, he’s not jumping up on it begging for food. It may be easier to groom your dog if he’s lying down.

You can also teach your dog to lie down in a specific spot, such as his bed, for a “Place” cue. This helps him learn to settle when there’s activity in your home, such as guests. If your dog is not a pest, he’ll be welcome more places, like Grandma’s house and book club, perhaps.

There are plenty of advanced behaviours to train, such as Leave It, Take It, Drop It, Fetch, and more. And don’t forget tricks! Shake, Wave, Sit Pretty, Spin, Play Dead… the list is endless. The more you train your dog, the more you strengthen your relationship. You’re also giving him much-needed mental enrichment.

Always remember, training should be fun! Keep your dog engaged so he enjoys learning.

3. Make Sure You’re Meeting Your Dog’s Exercise Needs All dogs need exercise. How much and what kind will depend on your dog’s age, health, and breed (or breed mix). For example, a teenage Golden Retriever is going to need a lot more exercise than an elderly Pug. Ever heard the saying, a tired dog is a good dog? There’s truth there.

Know that a lack of proper exercise often is the source for behavioural problems, such as destructive chewing and barking.

A bouncy, bored dog will find ways to be active, and you may not agree with his choices! Exercise requirements vary widely depending on breed, age, and condition, but a general rule of thumb is 30 minutes to two hours of activity every day—not just on weekends.

4. Teach Him How to Be OK Alone While you should give your dog attention every day, there can be such a thing as too much attention. If your dog is so dependent on you that he can’t be left alone, this is not healthy. A dog who won’t eat when you’re gone, hurts himself trying to escape a crate or house, tries to chew through doorways or windowsills, and screams himself hoarse is a dog having a panic attack. This requires professional help.

Early in your relationship, teach your dog to play with interactive toys to keep him occupied when you are busy. Give him

WARNING SIGNS YOUR DOG IS DEPRESSED Is your dog feeling down? There are several reasons why your dog may be depressed. There could be changes in your household’s routine that throw him off. He may have a physical problem that needs a veterinary checkup.

He could be suffering from fear or anxiety. Here are some signs your best friend may need some extra help.

LACK OF APPETITE VOIDANCE – he keeps A to himself and avoids interaction LINGINESS – he is more C attached than usual HANGE IN BATHROOM C HABITS. For example, he starts having accidents indoors when he has always been reliably housetrained.

TRESS SIGNS – lip licking, S yawning, whining, barking GGRESSION – he is A snarling, snapping, or even biting If your dog experiences unusual symptoms, consult your veterinarian first to make sure he is healthy. If all is well, then you may need to engage a professional trainer to help determine why your friend is feeling blue. time to take naps. Teach him that he can be ok by himself until you return. A dog who can self soothe is a mentally sound dog.

The bond you share with your dog is unique. There will never be another dog like him in your life. Be there for him, as he always is for you. That’s what best friends do for each other. moderndogmagazine.com

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LOST DOGS, AMAZING REUNIONS Missing pets and their unlikely, heartwarming reunions with their families | ByTracey Tong

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Lost Dogs, Amazing Reunions

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Missing pets and their unlikely, heartwarming reunions with their families

By Tracey Tong | Illustration by Michelle Simpson

arly July 21, 2021, Dwight Gary woke up to the sounds of the morning news after falling asleep with the TV on. Rolling over in bed, something took his breath away. “There was a lot going on in the world at the time,” the Milwaukee, WI resident recalls, but what he saw hit much closer to home—and his heart.

There, on a FOX6 News segment about the adoptable pets at the Wisconsin Humane Society, was his dog, Payday. The Cocker Spaniel-Chihuahua mix had disappeared from the sous chef’s front yard after being frightened by fireworks on July 7, 2019—more than two years earlier.

When Gary realized the dog on TV—who was introduced as Mason—was the beloved dog he’d adopted in 2016, he leapt out of bed.

“I jumped up and said out loud, ’Payday is on TV!’ I knew it was him because he has the most peculiar underbite I’ve ever seen on a dog.”

Gary, who in two years had never stopped looking for his dog, immediately called FOX6 News and the Wisconsin Humane Society. His mom and Payday (Gary himself had to work that day) had an emotional reunion that afternoon. “As soon as Payday saw my mom, he was hysterical… he was all over her,” says Gary. “The gentleman [that worked there] said to my mom, ‘that’s definitely your dog.’ After two years, Payday remembered all of us.”

"It gave me chills,” says Angela Speed, vice president of communications at the Wisconsin Humane Society, of how Gary found Payday on the news, of all places. “There was a Bucks championship game that went late the prior evening, and Dwight must’ve just dozed off after watching all the local coverage. He woke up to see a picture of his long-lost dog on the screen—it was nothing short of magical.”

Gary and his best friend made headlines across North

America for their story of hope, miracles, and puppy love, but Payday’s long journey home isn’t the only happy reunion tale out there.

Cara, a beloved Lab/terrier rescue, was five years old when she broke through a screened window at her owners’ Hopkins Landing cottage on B.C.’s Sunshine Coast in July 2016. After 71 days and sightings up to 60 km away, Cara was reunited with her loved ones, but not before non-stop work on the part of her family and the community.

That “moment of realization that she wasn’t in the house was terrifying,” says Cara’s owner, Melissa Sorge of Salmon Arm, B.C. “My stomach dropped and I went cold. It was the feeling you get when you hear the most horrific news and there’s nothing you can do. You feel helpless and the anxiety sets in immediately.”

Sorge and her husband, Manuel, immediately jumped into action. “As we started looking, I felt like I was in a bad dream, and I couldn’t quite focus on anything. I think I knew right away that she wasn’t going to be just hanging around waiting for us.

She’s never been a great listener when outside, and she’s an explorer. This is when the tears really started flowing.”

Manuel got an extra week off work to look for Cara. The couple put up hundreds of posters, handed out flyers, created a Facebook page, bought ads, put up night-vision cameras, and planted clothing with their scent outside. “When we weren’t physically looking for her, we were on the phone with people, emailing, posting, praying, everything,” says Sorge. Volunteers, which included a woman and her tracking dog, came forward to help, Sorge says, conducting multiple search parties and driving around the coast. Generous donors contributed to a GoFundMe that raised $5,500 to help cover a portion of the $8,000 CAD costs the couple incurred.

A happy reunion was in store for Sorge, but first, the obstacles of limited finances, a look-alike dog, and a new  moderndogmagazine.com

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baby (Sorge was on maternity leave with their 10-month-old daughter Harlow when Cara went missing) complicated the search. But Sorge didn’t give up. “Deep in my gut, I knew that she was meant to be with us and us with her,” she says.

The community also supported Charlotte Hanington after her 14-year-old Manchester terrier was stolen from her parked car in Ottawa, ON. Hanington was “overwhelmed with sadness and anger and worrying all at once” after she discovered Ellie, who she calls her best friend, was missing.

The security team at the store where Hanington was parked searched the area and a police report was filed. A friend helped her to put up posters, and Hanington offered a $1,000 CAD reward for Ellie’s return.

With thousands of people sharing social media posts, word of Ellie’s dognapping quickly spread. To Hanington’s amazement, PETA heard about Ellie’s story and issued a press release, offering a $5,000 reward. “So many dog owners in the Ottawa area reached out to me to offer supportive and kind words… total strangers were offering to add money to the reward. I even had someone offer to bring me food, understanding eating and cooking were probably the last things I was thinking about.”

After “the longest seven days,” during which she felt “absolutely exhausted, devastated, and hopeless,” a stranger offered Hanington the address of Ellie’s whereabouts in exchange for the $1,000 reward. Keeping her promise not to ask questions, she retrieved Ellie, who was unharmed and soon back to her old self, eating, sleeping most of the day, and wanting to play fetch.

The $5,000 reward from PETA was never claimed. “In order to claim it, the person would have had to go to the police, which they didn’t do,” Hanington says.

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Mellisa Sorge and family with their Lab/terrier rescue, Cara.

In Payday’s case, a sixth sense may have played a role in his reunion. Surrendered to the Wisconsin Humane Society on July 2, Payday would hide behind staff members when introduced to prospective adopters, says Speed.

“It was as if he was just waiting for the right person to come along.”

Shyness didn’t stop people from being interested, Speed says. Payday was adopted— and returned—twice between July 2 and 21, the date when Gary saw him on TV. “Payday was anxious and unsettled in both adoptive homes,” says Speed. “I think maybe he knew it just wasn’t right and was just waiting for his family to find him.”

As for Sorge, she credits a Holland-based spiritual coach/animal communicator for tracking Cara to a tiny area along the Sunshine Coast. Homeowners there managed to convince Cara—still in excellent health after 71 days on the run—to come into the house to be fed after she’d entered their yard to play with their dog.

Cara, now 10, has been sticking close to her family since her adventure. As for Sorge, the experience has changed her, she says. “I used to be an introvert, but through this process I was forced into being an extrovert,” she says. “The process helped me a thousandfold in my life.” She’s paying it forward by helping others find their lost pets. She’s also learned that there are many good people willing to help. “The kindness of strangers was such a beautiful experience for us. It made us have faith in humanity.”

“It had to be fate,” says Gary of Payday, now four years old and thrilled to be back with his human family and canine roommates Hazel, Diamond, and Mellow. “It had to be a miracle. You wouldn’t think that something like this— someone loses a dog, and then wakes up and the dog is on the news on TV—could happen, but it did.” 

P H OTO R I G H T E L I Z A B E T H T R E M B L AY O F AV I VA ST U D I OS

Charlotte Hanington happy to be reunited with Ellie after being stolen from her car.

The Gassiest Dog Breeds and The Fix For Flatulence

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oes your dog frequently clear the room? Where flatulence is concerned, there are a number of factors that could be at play.

“There are not scientific studies on this, but you are what you eat, and diet can play a large factor in flatulence,” says AKC Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Jerry Klein.

“A few breeds that are anecdotally (not

scientifically) known to be gaseous are Boxers, French Bulldogs, Bulldogs, Pugs, Neapolitan Mastiffs, Mastiffs, Beagles, and Golden Retrievers. Also, dogs that eat fast and gulp air are prone to pass gas. There are devices like slow eat bowls that may help, and as always, consult your veterinarian if the problem seems excessive.”

Breeds known to be Gassy

Neapolitan Mastiff

Pug

Golden Retriever

French Bulldog

Beagle

Boxer

English Bulldog

Mastiff

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Probiotics to Restore Gut Function The patented, plant-based probiotic from Imagilin supports and restores your pet’s digestive health and can work concurrently with antibiotics.

Simply give their MitoMax For Cats and Dogs capsules directly or sprinkle on your dog’s food! (from $18, mitopets.com) Is your dog’s dinner the culprit?

Try gradually switching to a high quality, grain-free or low carb food.

B E AG L E G U L N A R A 22/ B I G STO C K . CO M ; B OX E R E D G A R B U L LO N / B I G STO CK . CO M ; E N G L I S H B U L L D O G I R Y N A M E L N Y K / B I G STO CK . CO M ; M A ST I F F A N G I E K E R I N S © A M E R I C A N K E N N E L CLU B

Slow Down Your Chow Hound Slow feeders like this Slow Feeder from Dexypaws are designed for dogs who eat too fast, preventing them from bolting their food, thereby reducing gas and instances of bloat. Sustainably made from a plant-starch-based thermoplastic, this feeder is both food safe and environmentally friendly. ($33, dexypaws.com)

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Combat The Gas With This 3-Pronged Approach

hy Does My W Dog Stare at Me?

Though some people are unnerved by their dog staring at them, it is actually a sign of fondness and affection. For a mood boost, gaze into your dog’s eyes in return. It’s been shown to boost oxytocin, the feel-good “love hormone,” in both you and your dog, and promotes bonding. Note that this kind of staring is characterized by soft eyes and a relaxed body and is the expression of a happy dog. If a dog is giving you a hard stare, marked by unblinking eyes and stiff posture, this is a threat. Back away and don’t make eye contact.

Crustaceans and your canine

Y

ou may be wondering if it’s safe for your dog to indulge in the tantalizing meat of prawns and shrimp. The good news is your dog can eat these delicious crustaceans.

Not only are they safe, but they’re also healthy!

Prawns and shrimp are an excellent source of protein, omega oils, and B vitamins, and can make great high-reward treats.

They’re packed with protein, which is essential for healthy muscle growth, while their B vitamins nurture the brain and metabolism.

These shellfish are also high in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Omegas 3 and 6 have been proven to have an antiinflammatory effect, which can help dogs suffering from osteoarthritis or inflamed skin conditions.

Shrimp and prawns are also low in fat, calories, and carbo‑ hydrates, making them a great treat for dogs on a diet. They are, however, high in cholesterol. This means that while an occasional shrimp is a healthy treat, too many can contribute to unhealthy levels of cholesterol in your dog's diet.

Caveats: Shrimp and prawns should be fully cooked and peeled.

Raw shellfish can carry harmful pathogens and parasites, and, while the shells and tails are not poisonous, they are a choking/ intestinal blockage hazard and should be discarded before feeding your pup.

When cooking prawns for your dog, it’s best to gently simmer them until they are fully cooked. Grilling or frying with addi‑ tional fats and oils is unhealthy for your pet and can lead to pancreatitis or obesity.

Q

When Do Puppies Lose Their Baby Teeth?

Puppies start teething around two to four weeks of age.

Their baby teeth are fully developed by six weeks. Once your puppy is three to four months old, the baby teeth fall out and are replaced by permanent teeth, a process which is usually complete by six to seven months of age. This teething process is one of the reasons puppies chew so much. Give your pup a soft-on-gums yet durable, puppy-approved chew toy, such as the Kong Puppy Binkie, a soft rubber treat-dispensing dog toy designed for teething puppies. $11, amazon.com.

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Pro Tip: consider purchasing dried shrimp and prawns to give to your dog. Dried prawns last significantly longer than fresh and retain all of their essential nutrients. They also come in a variety of sizes to match the size of your dog. Tiny, dried shrimp can make great high-reward training treats. Puppies should NOT be fed dried prawns as their stomachs are more sensitive as they are developing.

Serving size: Just like all novel treats and foods, it is extremely important to feed them in moderation. Too much at once can overwhelm your dog’s digestive tract, resulting in vomiting and diarrhea—not to mention discomfort! Feed as a treat—one or two occasionally depending on the size of your dog and the size of the shrimp/prawn—not as a meal.—Becky Belzile

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Q

Are Prawns and Shrimp Safe for Dogs?

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HAIR OF THE DOG

P H OTO ZU Z A N N A PA LU C H / S H U T T E R ST O C K

A pin brush is best for long, silky hair.

A wide tooth comb is for finishing.

mats in medium-to-long-haired and curly or wiry haired dogs. It features rows of angled, fine wire pins spaced closely together to remove loose fur and detangle.

We like the CONAIRPROPET Medium Slicker Brush, $11 on Amazon.

Rake. An undercoat rake resembles a pin brush, except it's pins are longer and fewer. It's designed to reach deep into fur of dogs with heavy double coats—Huskies and Malamutes, we're looking at you— and remove the excess undercoat.

Pin brush is a lot like the slicker brush but the pins are tipped in plastic or rubber. It's most useful for dogs with long, silky hair.

A slicker brush works for all coat types.

Slicker brush. This brush is the most versatile. It works on all coat types but is especially useful for removing 54 moderndog

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We like the Andis Pet Medium Pin Brush. It stimulates the skin and helps spread natural oils through the coat. $11, andis.com.

A de-shedding tool easily and effectively removes excess undercoat.

Bristle brush. If your dog has a short or wiry coat (hello, Vizsla), this is the brush for you. It removes lose fur, conditions the skin, and adds lustre to the coat.

De-shedder. If your dog sheds (Goldens, Labs…), you can likely use a de-shedding tool, though they work best for medium to long haired breeds with a thick undercoat, like the Newfoundland. Dogs with very short coats, like Italian Geryhounds, don’t need this tool.

Flea combs should be in every dog owner’s arsenal and can be used on all coat types.

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hough the pin brush (it looks a lot like a human paddle-style hairbrush) is the most commonly used grooming tool, it's actually not the most useful for all dogs.

Different types of dogs have different types of hair and thus require different grooming tools—just reflect on the coat of a Weimeraner versus a Husky for a visual. Find out what you should be using on your dog with this at-aglance guide to grooming tools.

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Good hair days ahead! Dog grooming tools matched to coat type

Is a Ketogenic Diet the Secret to Longevity in Dogs?

The keto proponents at Visionary Pet think so

A

ketogenic diet is touted as one that can help you lose fat, lower your appetite, improve mental focus, and even treat epilepsy and help fight cancer. But what is a keto diet, exactly? And most importantly, is it right for your dog?

“Keto is a metabolic state in which your body switches from primarily burning glucose and carbohydrates to fat and ketones as fuel,” explains Paul Raybould, one of the self-professed “lifelong nutrition nerds” behind Visionary Pet, makers of the first commercially available ketogenic diet for dogs. “This way of eating typically involves consuming a low carbohydrate, moderate protein, and higher fat diet. When you do this, your body starts to increase breakdown of fat which produces ketones in our body and puts us into a state known as ketosis.” It’s this state of ketosis that confers the health benefits associated with a ketogenic diet.

“We searched high and low for a commercially available low carb, ketogenic dog food,” says Raybould, whose partner started Quest Nutrition, a powerhouse player in the world of human nutrition. “And you know what? We couldn’t find one. So, we created our own.”

The resulting keto dry dog food is high in fat and protein, and very low in digestible carbs (less than one gram per cup). It was inspired by several years of dog food nutrition research at their nonprofit, KetoPet, focussed on

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improving canine health through nutrition.

Since 2014, KetoPet has rescued dozens of dogs from kill shelters and placed them on a ketogenic diet as a form of cancer therapy, coupled with other best-in-class cancer therapies. KetoPet found that a low carb, ketogenic diet could not only improve outcomes for dogs with cancer and other illnesses, but that it could also support optimal health and well-being for all dogs. In some cases, they found the effects of implementing a ketogenic diet for dogs to be nothing short of amazing. “While we don’t call it a cure, we’ve found that a ketogenic diet can be effective in improving outcomes when treating dogs with cancer,” says Raybould. “As well, our data supports the idea that a raw keto diet can lower blood glucose, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce inflammation.”

Remarkably, 55 percent of the dogs who graduated from the KetoPet program—some of whom were given just weeks to live when they arrived at KetoPet—are still going for long walks, enjoying belly rubs, eating a raw keto diet, and experiencing a quality of life far beyond their original prognosis. “We now believe that a ketogenic diet is the optimal diet for all adult dogs,” says Raybould.

*

ead about our visit to the incredible KetoPet Sanctuary and R the amazing results they are seeing tackling cancer by changing their dogs' diets at moderndogmagazine.com/ketopet.

P H OTO TA N YA CO N SAU L P H OTO G R A P H Y / B I G STO C K . CO M

By Rose Frosek

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P H OTO

Ashley Wilt and Phil

Volunteer

PUPPY RAISERS For these “serial” puppy raisers, raising service dog pups is a worthy addiction

By Susan Kauffmann

A

ll remarkable individuals were once babies in need of upbringing—and that includes service dogs. Before going on to guide the visually impaired, alert to impending seizures, or help veterans with crippling PTSD, service dogs need someone to raise them from wriggling balls of fur to competent dogs ready for school. Before they enter their formal training program at one-and-a-half to two years old (they’ll receive up to two years of highly specialized

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training to meet the needs of the owner they will serve), future service dogs are often brought up by volunteer puppy raisers. Most of us can't imagine doing everything it takes to raise a puppy, forming an emotional attachment, then giving up the pup just as it is turning into the perfect dog. But according to the people who volunteer for this important task, raising a service dog puppy is more than worth it—it might even be addictive.

On average, the puppies spend 18 to 24 months with

P H OTO J E SS I E & S E H A J H U N D A L

Jessie Hundal and Westy

their volunteer raisers, starting at about eight weeks of age. Depending on the organization, the volunteers may be responsible for covering the expenses for the puppy while with them. There are detailed training protocols that must be followed, which can make the challenging task of raising a puppy even more demanding than usual. Yet despite all that, most puppy raisers would tell you it’s more than worth it, and many do it again and again.

Ashley Wilt, 22, is a “serial” puppy raiser who volunteers with the U.S.-based non-profit Canine Companions. She began puppy raising when she was in high school, having convinced her parents to jump into the adventure with her. As she recalls, "I loved dogs, and putting that passion towards a project that had the chance to provide independence for someone seemed like a wonderful opportunity.” Wilt is now raising her sixth puppy and has become even more devoted to the cause. "The feeling of seeing lives changed and experiencing all the good these dogs do is truly addicting,” she says. “I don't see myself hanging up the leash anytime soon!”

Joanne Simpson and her husband Jay shared Wilt's motivation to help others, but they also realized that a puppy could bring something special to their lives. "We were at a point where we wanted something more, and we saw an ad in the paper for BCAGD (Canada-based non-profit BC & Alberta Guide Dogs) needing puppy raisers,” says 53-year-old Simpson. “We thought it would give us what we were missing—a chance to help our community and have something to share our love with at the same time.”

It certainly did both of those things, so much so that the Simpsons are raising puppy 13 right now.

Jessie and Sehaj Hundal only recently made the decision to co-raise their first puppy, a black Labrador puppy named Westy with BCAGD. For them, it was a way to support the interest their eldest daughter showed in entering the veterinary science field, but as it turns out, the entire family is benefiting from the experience. “Westy has been a bundle of joy for all of us from day one,” says Jessie Hundal. “He’s also changed our lives tremendously by enforcing a healthy routine,” says Hundal. The family takes him outdoors twice a day, plus there are additional activities over the weekend, exploring of the city's hiking trails, parks, malls, and taking public transit. “The kids spend lots of time playing and

bonding with Westy, and we all enjoy his unconditional love, endless cuddles, and companionship,” she says.

But raising a service dog puppy isn't all cuddles and games, as the Hundals have discovered. "Raising a service dog has a rigorous training schedule and requires a very disciplined approach," explains Hundal. She finds that the repetitive nature of the training can be exhausting and frustrating at times but understands that it is necessary in order to teach all the commands the puppy needs to know.

And, adds Hundal, “You have to abide by certain rules and regulations, especially regarding play time, which can be quite contrary to normal dog play routines. For instance, the BCAGD handbook states: We do not want the pup to chase a ball, frisbee or stick. These are things that are seen regularly out in parks and we do not want to have our dogs distracted by them. They can also become obsessed by chasing these, which is an undesirable behaviour." The pups are hardly deprived of play, though. They get to play “fetch with rules” with other kinds of toys, as well as tugof-war games, and their raisers are encouraged to regularly take them off leash.

There are also some special perks to raising a future service dog. One is being able to take the puppies just about anywhere. Gayla Cruikshank, another Canine Companions volunteer, says, "It's really great being able to take the puppies to so many different places. I especially 

Gayla Cruikshank and Orinda

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59

Ashley Wilt and Phil

Puppy Phil

The feeling of seeing lives changed and experiencing all the good these dogs do is truly addicting.

love bringing the pups to speaking engagements to introduce them and show off their skills. I also love bringing them to stores and watching them be super obedient and well-behaved."

The Hundals are also greatly enjoying this aspect of having a service dog puppy. "It's a lot of fun exposing Westy to different places and situations," says Hundal, "which gives us the opportunity to practice things he will need to know in the future. He's been to the shopping mall, where he learned about using elevators and escalators, and to several restaurants, where we have worked on maintaining a down and stay. He's also visited a dental office and has accompanied me to my office at the University of British Columbia campus. You can take him anywhere indoors with his jacket that reads ‘Puppy In Training - BCAGD’."

The flip side to that is that you may find yourself rather red in the face when you are out in public representing an agency and your dog decides to misbehave—which, being puppies, they undoubtedly will. "We've had incidences where a puppy went pee or pooped in the mall, and one who would just flop over and refuse to walk when he didn't want to leave a place," recalls Simpson. And then there was the incident when Simpson and her husband were in a restaurant with the puppy tucked under the table, and the waitress came up to take their order. "She didn't know we had a dog with us," recalls Simpson, "and while she was taking the order, she felt something move up her leg. The woman shot poor Jay a dirty look before she realized the dog was there and had sniffed its way up her skirt! Good thing the pup was cute."

Of course, putting so much time and effort into these cute puppies inevitably leads their temporary caregivers to become attached to them, which can make it hard to give them up when the time comes. As Wilt explains, "Sending the puppy off to the next step in their journey is definitely the most difficult part for me. Even though you go into the experience expecting it, it is still difficult to imagine until it is happening. I just try to keep in mind that while I am saying goodbye to this puppy, someone else is out there waiting for the day that they get to bring their new service dog home. The magic of their union can’t happen unless I say my goodbye. I've also found that the best way to cope while missing your previous puppy is to throw yourself into raising another!"

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Simpson relates to these feelings, saying, "You always get emotionally attached—you can't help it—which means it is always heart-wrenching to say goodbye. You have thoughts of running away with the dog and changing your address so they won’t find you." Still, she tries to keep her heart in check to some degree. "When you raise these dogs," she says, "it is helpful to remember they do not belong to you. You have been given these dogs to get them started on a wonderful journey, and there is such satisfaction in seeing how they change the life of others. And when they leave and you go through empty nest syndrome, you just have to do it all over again!"

The Hundals haven't had to say goodbye to Westy yet, but they are trying to keep the purpose of having him in the forefront of their minds. As Simpson says, "We went into the program with a very clear intention to raise a service dog and fulfill the duties and responsibilities that came along with that. Our main goal is to provide him with all that he needs to be successful in becoming a service dog."

When asked how they think they will feel when the time comes for their first service dog puppy to move on, Hundal says, "It will be incredibly tough to say goodbye to Westy, but we’ve made many great memories together. And we will be cheering him on all the way from the sidelines."

Indeed, getting to cheer on the dogs they have raised once they “graduate” from formal training and are matched with the people they will serve is one of the greatest rewards of this kind of volunteerism. While Covid has restricted in-person graduations, Cruikshank fondly remembers seeing her pup, Orinda, on the video she received from Canine Companions. "When I watched the video of the matching process," says Cruikshank, "I lost it. I was so happy and full of emotion, knowing she had reached the pinnacle of what we worked so hard for. I just cried and cried happy tears. Then we had a Skype video introduction with her new family, and I eventually got to meet them in person this year. It was so fantastic to see her doing everything she was meant to do, but I have to admit that I was also pleased that when Orinda saw me, she remembered me!"

All of the volunteers we spoke to enthusiastically recommend the experience to those considering doing it.

As Simpson states, “It’s a lifetime opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life.” 

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10

of the Laziest Dog Breeds

L

ooking for a canine companion with low to moderate exercise needs? These 10 breeds fit the bill! We asked AKC Executive Secretary and dog breed expert Gina DiNardo for the 10 “laziest” dog

breeds. She complied but was sure to specify that “these aren’t lazy dogs.

They just don’t need as much exercise as other breeds. Dog breeds have differing activity levels. Just because a breed has a lower activity level than

another doesn’t mean they’re lazy—it means they require less exercise to meet their needs. These breeds will thrive on a few walks a day or a quick run around the yard.”

10 lower energy dog breeds. Just don’t call them lazy.

1

# The Skye Terrier requires daily walks or play with its owners and is relatively calm and quiet when at home.

3 Dandie Dinmont Terrier

#4 English Toy Spaniel English Toy

# Neapolitan Mastiff The massive Neapolitan Mastiff enjoys daily walks and play. The breed is peaceful, steady, and quiet.

# While they require moderate exercise, Dandie Dinmont Terriers are less energetic than other terriers.

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2 Skye Terrier

Spaniels tend to have a low activity level, requiring daily walks.

They are easygoing dogs at home.

#1 N E A P O L I TA N M A SAT I F F M A D R A B OT H A I R / B I G STO CK . CO M ; # 2 SKY E T E R R I E R A N D #3 DA N D I E D I N M O N T T E R R I E R SA R A H DA LO I SE ; #4 E N G L I SH TOY SPA N I E L A N G I E K E R I N S © A M E R I C A N K E N N E L C LU B

Lower energy dog breeds that don’t need tons of exercise

I S L AV N E N I N / S H U T T E R S TO CK . CO M ; #9 M A S T I F F M I K A N A H / S H U TT E R S TO C K . CO M ; #10 T I B E TA N SPA N I E L B I G A N T _ P H OTO G R A P H Y / B I G STO CK . CO M

# 5 B U L L D O G P U P P Y A N P E T 2 00 0 / B I G S TO C K . CO M ; # 6 P E K I N G E S E P H OTOV E LU M / B I G STO CK . CO M ; #7 CH OW CH OW E LW Y N N / B I G STO CK . CO M ; #8 F R E N CH B U L L D O G B R A N -

5 Bulldog

# Bulldogs have a low energy level. They enjoy brisk walks but shouldn’t be exercised in hot weather.

“

6 Pekingese

# Pekes have a low activity level. Daily walks and play sessions will suffice. They should always be kept cool.

These breeds will thrive on a few walks a day or a quick run around the yard.

#7 Chow Chow

”

#8 French Bulldog

Chow Chows require moderate exercise to keep them happy and fit.

Frenchies are not very active. A daily walk will meet their exercise needs.

#9 Mastiff While they are big,

#10 Tibetan Spaniel

powerful guardians, Mastiffs actually have a low to moderate activity level.

Daily walks and play will do the trick.

Tibetan Spaniels enjoy a daily walk but are also just as happy lying around as they are running in a fenced-in yard. moderndogmagazine.com

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Answers to commonly Googled puppy questions, from biting and crying to chewing and more

Q

By Nicole Wilde

Why does my puppy eat his poop?

Let’s get the most “distasteful” question out of the way first. Poop eating, also known as coprophagia, is not uncommon in puppies. There can be a variety of reasons for the behaviour including stress and anxiety, attention seeking (your pup learns that mom comes running when he starts ingesting it), and medical reasons, including nutritional deficiencies. There is also a theory that dogs do it because it’s in their DNA. As behaviourist Steven R. Lindsay says, coprophagia “…may be one of several appetitive survival behaviours that have evolved to cope with the periodic adversity of starvation.” Regardless of the reason, a vet exam can address any medical issues, and keeping your yard as clean as possible can help with the rest.

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Q

Why does my puppy bite me so much?

Greetings, human pin cushions! I feel your pain. No one likes being on the receiving end of little sharklike puppy teeth, but it can help to understand why your pup is behaving this way.

Puppies don’t have opposable thumbs, so they explore the world with their mouths.

Mouth wrestling is common between puppies, and those who haven’t been taught differently tend to put their mouths on everything, including people. Puppies also nip to get our attention…and it works! Pups will nip during play with people as well. You may find that your puppy’s nipping gets more intense when he is overtired, frustrated, or overstimulated.

Q

Why does my puppy cry at night?

If it is very soon after you brought your puppy home, he may be crying because he is away from his mom, littermates, and everything he knows.

If you crate your pup at night, he may be crying to let you know he has to go potty. Dogs have an instinct not to soil in their own area, so your puppy is letting you know he would prefer to

P H OTO S L E FT H A N N A M A R I A H / B I G STO CK . CO M ; CE N T R E LU L J O / B I G STO CK . CO M ; R I G H T LU B O I VA N KO / B I G STO CK . CO M ; CE N T R E B OTTO M LU L J O / B I G STO CK . CO M

Why Does My Puppy...?

P H OTO S TO P TATYA N A G L / B I G S TO C K . CO M ; B OTTO M L E X I M A G ES / B I G STO CK . CO M

Experts agree that it is absolutely normal for a young puppy to sleep even 18 to 20 hours a day! do his business outside. Even if it is not shortly after bringing your puppy home, he may cry at night because he is anxious about being alone, and would much prefer to be sleeping with you. This is especially true if he is not normally left alone during the day. Waking up and being by himself in the dark can be scary for a young puppy! The good news is that puppies do adjust, and as long as their needs are being met, the nighttime crying tends to stop fairly quickly. If it doesn’t, schedule a vet visit just to be sure all is well. If your pup is crying, take her for a quick potty break to ensure a bathroom visit is in order and then settle her back in her crate— or your bed, if you’d both prefer.

Q

Why does my puppy sleep so much?

Healthy growth requires quite a bit of sleep, and puppies are growing both physically and mentally. Although it may seem excessive to us, puppies sleep a lot, just like human infants.

Experts agree that it is absolutely normal for a young puppy to sleep even 18 to 20 hours a day! When they’re awake, those bursts of the “zoomies” require a lot of energy expenditure, muscle, and brainpower.

Racing around and around and then collapsing into an immediate nap are

par for the puppy course and are not anything to worry about; so long as your pup is otherwise healthy and is alert when awake, it’s perfectly normal. Being awake for only four hours a day may seem strange, but it simply means your pup is giving his body the rest it needs for healthy growth.

Q

Why does my puppy get the hiccups?

People sometimes wonder whether dogs can get hiccups. Well, they can! Just like in humans, a spasm in the diaphragm causes the opening between the vocal cords (the glottis) to close abruptly, causing that distinctive hiccupping sound. Puppies may get hiccups when they eat or drink too fast, when they’re very excited, or even when they get cold. There is also a theory that hiccups might be your puppy’s way of relieving gas or an upset stomach. If hiccups do not

subside within a few hours or change into a wheezing sound, take your dog to the vet. The good news is that hiccups are less common in adult dogs, so with a bit of time and growth, your puppy should hiccup less often.

Q

Why does my puppy chew his paws?

It is not abnormal for a puppy to chew on his paws from time to time, whether to groom himself or because pups tend to teethe on just about anything! But if your puppy chews on his paws often, the first thing to consider is whether he might have a skin allergy. He could be allergic to an ingredient in his food or treats, grass, a chemical used to clean your carpets, or a variety of other things.

More obvious reasons puppies lick their feet is because something irritating is stuck between the toes, or because a paw is hurting. But some pups lick their paws when anxious, and in extreme cases, the behaviour can become obsessive. The bottom line is that if you’re not sure why your puppy is licking his paws, a vet visit is in order, along with an assessment of whether his food, an environmental allergy, or stress might be the culprit. If the cause turns out to be anxiety, a professional behaviour specialist can help. moderndogmagazine.com

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DISCOVER A short-haired Uzi happily lounges next to some freshly hunted black truffles.

TRUFFLE HUNTING WITH DOGS

Canines have become the go-to companion for truffle hunting around the globe | By Cassandra Gill

T

ruffles have been a culinary delicacy for thousands of years. The tasty fungi have been a staple in the Mediterranean diet dating back to ancient times. Per Greek lore, the hard-to-find mushrooms can be credited to god Zeus and one of his powerful thunderbolts: philosopher Plutarch penned that the heat from the bolt combined with moisture in the ground created the perfect environment for truffles to grow.

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Even with modern advancements, though, hunting for these prized mushrooms is an arduous task. The truffles grow underground attached to tree roots, meaning they can’t initially be seen or smelled by people.

This led humans to enlist the help of pigs, who are known for their innate sense of scent. In recent decades, however, the stout porkers have been more or less replaced by dogs.

“In the beginning, people discovered truffles through the pigs and they started to find truffles using them—until someone figured out that

the dog, after a training period, could find the truffle as well,” Italian truffle hunter Matteo Lavorini explains to Modern Dog. Canines not only have more stamina, they’re also less likely to gobble up the fancy fungi upon finding them. For context, the rare and highly sought after white Alba truffle can sell for over $2,000 a pound, while black truffle can run you over $300 a pound.

“Slowly, people stopped to find truffles with pigs, as with the dogs it’s much more convenient to find both a good amount as well as better

Cool guy Uzi holds onto one of his black truffles.

Uzi proudly poses with her owner Matteo after a day of winter truffle hunting.

truffle quality,” Lavorini explains, joking that fighting off a hungry 300 pound pig is also not likely a fun experience.

Lavorini is a well-known truffle hunting pro just outside of Rome, who has the help of three companions: Italian Water Dogs (or in Italian, Lagotto Romagnolo) Uzi and Julietta, along with Cocker Spaniel Wendy.

Uzi, the oldest of the trio at ten, is an expert truffle hunter, according to Lavorini. “She doesn’t like to work with other dogs, because she is jealous and wants all the attention!” he explains.

Four-year-old Julietta is also a talented pooch, who is good at finding the truffles in any condition.

He describes Spaniel Wendy, five, as “smart and a good hunter,” however, she is at times “stubborn and disobedient.”

Uzi, Julietta, and Wendy aren’t just working pups, they’re also fabulous and friendly pets who like to be cuddled after hours just like any dog.

While Lavorini says any pooch has the potential to be a hunter, certain breeds—like the Italian Water Dogs and Spaniels—just do it better. “We generally always use specific breeds that were selected for many years for this type of work—so they have the DNA for hunting,” he explains.

Beagles, German Shepherds, and Poodles can also be seen as working pros online.

Lavorini himself comes from a multi-generational family of truffle hunters, starting with his grandfather Bruno Lavorini.

“I started truffle hunting because of my family—my grandfather was a truffle hunter and my father is still a hunter today. I got this passion from them as a kid, and it soon became my biggest love in life,” he says, noting his father Furio has five truffle hunting pups of his own.

Lavorini became a full-time truffle hunter at the age of 25, just under a decade ago—which began with the training of his own dogs.

Julietta takes a whiff of the truffle she found.

“The training starts at two months—and it’s just a game for them at the beginning,” Lavorini says of the process.

“They have to learn by playing with truffles, so we start with simple exercises then build up to harder ones until they’re able to find them underground through smell,” he adds.

As with any dog training, treats play a key role.

“To motivate the dog during the training, we give a reward any time the dog does well,’” Lavorini explains.

“They become super familiar with the truffle smell and they know that for making the owner happy and for getting the reward, they have to find that smell.”

There are eight types of truffles found in Italy, with the white ones being the rarest and the black ones more common (but still expensive).

“A good truffle dog is able to find all the types of truffle—even though every dog will excel with a specific one,” Lavorini shares.  moderndogmagazine.com

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Matteo's Truffle Experience

Matteo hosts a unique truffle hunting and lunch experience for visitors to the Rome area: head out to a forest just outside the city with him and his trained dogs for a two-hour excursion where you can learn all about truffle hunting with a pro.

Matteo Lavorini truffle hunting outside of Rome

While the story about Zeus’ lightning bolt is a bit far-fetched, it’s generally believed that the mushrooms began growing under trees thanks to natural evolution and a bit of science. Truffles specifically grow near the roots of certain trees— mainly willow, poplar, hazelnut, and oak—thanks to a symbiotic exchange of nutrients called ectomycorrhizae.

Generally, a truffle hunter will head out with their dogs to a forest in the early mornings or late afternoons, particularly during hot summer months. Lavorini specifically works in the countryside and mountain areas around Rome, about two hours out of the city.

“In Italy, we are allowed to go out and find truffles with a maximum of two dogs,” he explains of the law.

“In the colder temperatures, dogs can work longer—so sometimes we’ll spend the day out hunting.”

Dogs don’t typically bark when they find what they’re searching for, instead going to their natural instinct: to dig.

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“When the dog smells the truffles, they’ll start to dig—which is the traditional way of finding them,” he says of the actual hunting. Depending on how hard the soil is, a truffle hunter will assist with a special tool—or the dog will dig the truffle out themselves and bring it to their companion (in exchange for a treat, of course).

While Italy is the primary country where luxe truffles are found, they also grow in other European countries like Romania, Bosnia, Switzerland, and Hungary—as well as in the Pacific Northwest region of North America.

Oregon hosts an annual truffle festival with the intent of fostering community among those with trufflehunting dogs, along with two-day truffle dog training for would-be enthusiasts.

On his YouTube page, Lavorini can also be seen enjoying some of his findings—whipping up recipes like truffle pasta, truffle risotto, fried eggs with truffles and buffalo mozzarella with truffles.

Guests are then welcomed to join Matteo in preparing and enjoying a seven-course meal, accompanied by wine, using the freshly found fungi.

Experiences are capped at 10 participants and usually take place between 10:30 am and 4:30 pm. Priced at 90 euros per person.

Available to book via Airbnb, matteotruffles.com, Trip Advisor, or Instagram.

“I like the classical recipes,” he says, pointing to his videos.

Beyond being a tasty status symbol, truffles are also believed to be a natural aphrodisiac— prompting more interest in them from wealthy consumers of past and present.

These days, Lavorini has grown his truffle business to be more than just hunting. He’s a wholesaler who supplies restaurants abroad, organizes truffle hunting experiences for private groups, and has a farm where he hosts truffled themed meals—but still hunts in his free time.

“It’s something you can’t stop,” he concludes.

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Editor-in-Chief Connie Wilson’s Spring selection of must-read books for dog lovers Show Me the Bunny

By Laurien Berenson

Everything I Know about Life, I Learned from My Dog

By Kristin Ann Jones

Pairing charming watercolour illustrations with dog-inspired life lessons—Stand firm when you are being pulled in the wrong direction; A lifelong friend can be made in a single day.—Kristin Ann Jones’ book, Everything I Know about Life, I Learned from My Dog, is heartwarming, inspirational, and funny. Flip to any page for a reminder of the wisdom that lies at your feet.

A Light Beyond the Trenches

By Alan Hlad This poignant historical fiction novel is based on the true story of the first school to train guide dogs for the blind. It’s 1916 Germany and things are bleak. World War One Red Cross nurse, Anna Zeller, no stranger to the horrors of war, clings to a spark of hope when she and Dr. Stalling, director of the Red Cross Ambulance Dogs Association, see an ambulance dog guiding an injured, sightless soldier. Inspired to help those blinded in battle, Stalling starts a school to train guide dogs as helpers, and Anna is determined to take part.

This story of heroism and resilience provides a moving example of the healing power of our canine companions, even in the darkest of circumstances, and a reminder that no one escapes war unscathed.

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March in Connecticut brings more than Easter baskets when the benefactor of the Gallagher House estate and women’s shelter mysteriously falls to her death. Melanie must work closely with her stern, not-fond-of-dogs Aunt Rose to solve the mystery. Despite their differences, will they be able to work together to uncover the truth of the untimely death? In this page turner, award-winning author Laurien Berenson has another hit on her hands.

Sentient: How Animals Illuminate the Wonder of Our Human Senses

By Jackie Higgins In the fascinating Sentient, author and zoologist Jackie Higgins explores the extraordinary sensory powers animals possess. Through 13 entertaining case studies, Higgins illustrates how humans are not limited to just five senses. Find out how animals can help us unlock unrecognized powers of perception in this captivating read that challenges what humans are capable of.

Inside Animal Hearts and Minds

By Belinda Recio; read by Hayden Panettiere Marvel at the amazing emotional and cognitive abilities of our animal friends, as revealed in Inside Animal Hearts and Minds.

Through engaging storytelling, author Belinda Recio showcases these incredible abilities while highlighting the importance of these compelling animal cognition studies in creating empathy for our animal friends. This audiobook read by Hayden Panettiere is truly fascinating.

I L LU ST R AT I O N K R I S T I N A N N J O N ES

CONNIE’S BOOK CLUB

Intel lig Playf ent.

Affec ul. tiona te

The American Eskimo Dog Clever, kid-friendly, and among the most trainable of breeds, the Eskie is the complete brains-and-beauty package

By Kelly Caldwell

W

ith that glorious coat, adorable ears, and dark, almond-shaped eyes, it would be easy to focus solely on this dog’s good looks. But the American Eskimo Dog’s keen expression offers a glimpse of what lies beneath. This breed is inquisitive, intelligent, loyal, and loaded with personality.

Is the American Eskimo Dog right for you?

Notwithstanding his name, the American Eskimo Dog’s development has no connection to northern indigenous peoples. In fact, he hails from Germany. The Eskie, as the breed is commonly known, is a member of the Spitz

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family—a group of dogs whose development began 6,000 years ago with a variety of Nordic dogs who were used for sledding, hunting, guarding, and general-purpose work on farms and homesteads. Among the Spitz breeds are several northern sledding dogs, as well as the Keeshond, the Pomeranian, the Shiba Inu, and others that were bred for harsh climates.

Spitz (German for “pointed”) breeds typically have a somewhat wolf-like appearance. Common physical traits include pointy ears, eyes that are more almondshaped than round, double coats, and a tail that is

P H OTO A L E KSA N D R S I M O N OV / S H U TT E R S TO C K

BREED PROFILE

P H OTO H S T E P H A N I E L L E N / S H U TT E R S TO C K

The Eskie is widely regarded as one of the easiest breeds to train. carried over the back.

The American Eskimo Dog was developed in Germany. Prized as a versatile working dog, the Eskie helped farmers with general-purpose tasks, guarding, hunting, and herding. At the same time, this was always a dog who lived in the home as a member of the family.

So devoted were the Germans to these dogs that, when they immigrated to North America in the 19th century, they brought their dogs with them. At this time, the breed was known as the German Spitz and remained as such until the end of World War I. Anti-German sentiment was so widespread at that time, fanciers agreed a name change was in order. Ultimately, the breed was renamed the American Eskimo Dog, after the name of an Ohio kennel.

Around the same time, the breed started to gain in popularity, owing to their participation in various circus shows throughout the United States.

Beautiful, clever, and extremely agile, they were natural performers. Their tricks and feats delighted crowds.

One dog even became famous for walking across a tightrope. With all the breed has going for it, it’s no wonder that the Eskie has remained a relatively popular breed.

The American Eskimo Dog Club of America was founded in 1986 and the breed received formal recognition by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1995. The AKC accepts the breed in Miniature, Toy, and Standard sizes.

Measuring at the height of the withers, the range is 9” to 12” for Toys, 12” to 15” for Miniatures, and 15” to 19” for Standards.

It won’t be a surprise to learn that this dog’s coat bears a lot of weight in the AKC standard. The Eskie must always be white (preferred) or white with cream-coloured markings. The fur on the ears is smooth, with flowy tufts coming from the ear’s entrance.

Extra fur around the neck is desired, while the muzzle is sleek. Feathering on the legs is important—as is, of course, that very fluffy tail. The breed is not meant to be trimmed; the natural coat is exactly as it should be.

The American Eskimo Dog vs. The Samoyed From a distance, the Eskie bears quite a resemblance to the Samoyed, but the two are very distinct. The American Eskimo Dog was bred as an allpurpose dog who could herd, hunt and guard livestock, while doubling as a loving family companion. However, a sled dog he is not. The larger Samoyed loves to work and race in the snow, but the Eskie’s enjoyment of the white stuff is strictly limited to rolling and cavorting around.

Most Popular Dogs in the U.S. According to the most recent AKC registration statistics

Labrador Retriever French Bulldog [3] German Shepherd Dog [4] Golden Retriever [5] Bulldog [6] Poodle [7] Beagle [8] Rottweiler [9] German Shorthaired Pointer [10] Dachshund [122] American Eskimo Dog [1]

[2]

What’s it like to live with an American Eskimo Dog? Well, for starters they are strikingly handsome and great conversation starters when you’re out and about with your dog. As for the puppies, I am fully prepared to say that I believe American Eskimo Dogs produce the cutest puppies in all of dogdom. Quite simply, they are perfect little powder puffs of floof and sweetness.

Training and socialization should begin at the earliest stages. Sweet and comical this breed may be, but this is a working dog whose instincts  moderndogmagazine.com

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Size: Small to Medium. The breed is accepted in three sizes.

Measuring at the height of the withers, the range is 9” to 12” for Toys, 12” to 15” for Miniatures, and 15” to 19” for Standards.

Weights are roughly 10 pounds for Toys, 20 pounds for Miniatures, and 30 pounds for Standards.

Activity level: The Eskie is an active breed and a long daily walk should be considered the bare minimum. Access to space to run, dog sports, and lots of play time are ideal.

Grooming: That glorious double-coat does require brushing—ideally daily.

Getting your pup used to baths is wise; when out and about, dirt tends to find these dogs, and vice versa.

Heritage: This Nordic breed was developed in Germany and used to help with general-purpose farm work, hunting, and guarding— all while doubling as a family companion.

For information on American Eskimo Dog rescue in the United States, visit eskierescuers.org. In Canada, visit heartbandits.com.

If you like the American Eskimo Dog, you might also consider the...

Keeshond

Finnish Spitz

READ YOUR BREED

Icelandic Sheepdog

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

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Profile: The American Eskimo

remain strong. The well-mannered American Eskimo Dog is a delightful companion, but one that isn’t properly trained (or worse, neglected) can be quite a challenge and the cause of considerable household destruction.

The good news is that the Eskie is widely regarded as one of the easiest breeds to train. They’re very smart, inquisitive, and eager to please the people they love. And they’re easily one of the most versatile breeds, capable of excelling at almost any activity they tackle. Learning tricks comes naturally to this breed, a true canine entertainer at heart.

While they may look like some of their tougher Nordic counterparts, these dogs are not suited for outdoor living.

They are devoted to their people and will not thrive unless they are a true part of your family. Of note is how patient this breed tends to be with children.

The Eskie is an ‘up for anything’ breed. Walks, running or hiking, canine sports, goofing around… you name it—the Eskie will do it, probably very well, and most likely entertaining you the whole time. This breed requires a long daily walk at a minimum, but ideally also has a fenced-in yard and room to run—the more exercise, the better for this athletic breed.

While the American Eskimo Dog is not aggressive, many value him for his consistent ability to let out a warning bark any time someone comes to the home.

As for that gorgeous coat of his—yes, it requires some effort. The American Eskimo Dog is, after all, the posterdog for floofiness! Daily brushing is recommended to keep that fluffy, feathery topcoat and dense undercoat in shape and to minimize shedding, which is part and parcel of life with an Eskie.

As with all purebreds, the potential for some genetic diseases exists, and working with a reputable breeder who is committed to the health of their dogs is critical. That said, the American Eskimo Dog is known as a very hearty breed with few health issues and good life expectancy.

Beautiful inside and out, the American Eskimo Dog is clever, ever so pretty, and extremely fun to be around. With that dazzling smile and those piercing eyes, it’s clear to see that there’s a lot of substance to this breed. Brains, beauty, and oodles of personality—the American Eskimo Dog is quite simply the total package.

B OTTO M I N SE T P H OTOS : K E ESH O N D, F I N N I SH SP I T Z & I C E L A N D I C SH E E P D O G T H O M A S P I T E R A © A M E R I C A N K E N N E L CLU B ;

The American Eskimo Dog comes in three sizes: Toy, Miniature, and Standard.

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Spring Essentials

We've rounded up our favourite picks this spring, Modern Dog tested and approved!

Put a spring in your step with our favourite, tested and approved picks to jumpstart the season.

Life is short! Have fun!

en& Chickfles, Woo ne? anyo

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Fetch Brunch

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Spark Joy with this spring's cutest accessory upgrade—a matching scarf/bandana combo for you and your dog. Dogily’s Serene square scarf is made from silk twill with hand-hemmed and hand-stitched edges for a luxurious upgrade to your every day. Other lovely patterns available as well. $49, dogily.com

Fall in Love With Grooming Gloves Spring shedding season is upon us. Why brush loose hair when you can de-shed by simply petting your dog?

HandsOn grooming gloves are a game-changer. Simply pet/ massage your dog and supereffectively remove loose hair with these comfortable gloves.

Dogs and owners rave: Best grooming session ever. $25, handsongloves.com

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with P.L.A.Y.’s delectably adorable Brunch Collection of plush, squeaky toys. Choose from favourites like Chicken and Woofles or a Buddy Mary to start your day right. From $9 each or snag the whole collection for $45, petplay.com

Adventure No Matter The Weather Road trips and outdoor adventures with your dog don’t have to leave your car messy! Protect your backseat or cargo area with 4Knines’ essential backseat cover or cargo liner. Heavy-duty and multi-sized, they’re easy to install and clean and feature a non-slip waterproof layer. From $60, 4knines.com

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Playtime!

Cool Tugs’ fun and super-durable Puller toys are ideal for interactive play. They come in a two-pack so you can have fun, condition recall and drop, and quickly wear off energy all at once. Safe, light, and very durable, they hold their shape even in robust play, and come in sizes from Micro all the way up to Maxi, making them a perfect fit for Chihuahuas all the way up to Cane Corso! From $16, cooltugs.com

Let Them Eat...Crickets!

Thanks to an alternative protein source, you can treat your dog and be kind to the planet at the same time! Marley’s Greener Treats are made from, yep, crickets, and dogs love them. (Online review: "I tried the parsley & mint with my two dogs and they both go absolutely bonkers for them. If they smell these treats on me, they'll start doing any trick they can think of to try and get one.") These protein-packed dog treats are grain-free, all natural, easily digestible, sustainable, and, most importantly, tasty. The crickets come from Entomo Farm in Canada and are eco-friendly (way less resources and no methane emissions). And right now, get 25% off your first order at marleysgreenertreats.ca

A Better Poop Bag Upgrade to a better poop bag. Lucky Dog’s plant-based, zero-plastic poop bags are entirely compostable, meaning every time you scoop you’re doing mother earth a favour.

The reviews – “best poop bag ever!!!” – say it all. These corn-based bags are strong (no breaks or leaks), easy to open, have no wasteful core, and one percent of sales are invested in cleaning up the planet.

Try them and get 50 percent off and free shipping with code poopbag50.

Was $14.95; $7.47 with code, luckydogdirect.com

Let Sleeping Dogs Lie Give your dog a comfy

new bed. On average, dogs spend as much as half their day asleep—that’s 12 hours a day. On top of that, they tend to spend another 30 percent awake but relaxing, and only 20 percent being active. Puppies, older dogs, and bigger breeds spend even more time dozing. All of which is to say that if you’re going to invest in one thing, make it a comfortable and supportive dog bed.

Bowsers makes excellent, next-level dog beds in an array of styles, from orthopedic to donut. Their Shibori-patterned microvelvet donut bed, pictured, is made with upholstery grade fabric, a removable tufted cushion, and a zippered, washable cover, perfect for curling into after a long day being a good dog. From $89, bowsers.com moderndogmagazine.com

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Healthy PAWS

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Solutions for everything from dry skin and coat to digestive issues

1. ANCIENT SKIN REMEDY

2. BYE, BYE PAIN & ANXIETY

Heal your dog’s wounds and scrapes with Dragon’s Blood Natural Healing Spray. It contains a high concentration of dragon tree resin, a natural extract revered by the Indigenous tribes of South America for promoting accelerated healing. This spray’s powerful antioxidants soothe the skin and create a protective film. ($20, kawellusa.com)

The Bacon Flavour Hemp CBD Oil from Happy Buddies tackles pain, inflammation, anxiety, and more. Made with CO2 extracted hemp terpenes and organic cold-pressed hemp seed oil, it has a delicious bacon flavour dogs love, for easy dosing. ($55, happybuddies.org)

SPRING 2022

3. HELP FOR UTIs & KIDNEY STONES

8. BANISH ITCHIES

The Pet-Tek Bladder Support Formula features ingredients like pumpkin seed powder, wild yam, and olive leaf to reduce the occurrence of bladder and urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and incontinence. ($48, pet-tek.ca)

Is your dog suffering from dry, itchy skin or brittle fur? The VetGen Maximum Skin and Coat supplement for dogs is beef flavoured and has flaxseed oil powder, vitamin E, and zinc to provide relief for itchy skin, prevent fur loss, and promote a healthy coat. ($30, vetgenpharmaceuticals.com)

4. IMMUNE SYSTEM BOOSTER

9. EFFORTLESSLY GET RID OF PLAQUE

Boost your dog’s immunity with I’m-Yunity’s powerful medicinal mushroom supplement for dogs.

It’s clinically proven to boost energy levels, stabilize white blood cell counts, and provide immune support. (from $95, buyimyunity.com)

Made with sustainably sourced sea kelp, all-natural ProDen PlaqueOff Powder effortlessly tackles tartar and plaque—simply sprinkle it on your dog’s food and reap the benefits. (from $23, swedencareusa.com)

5. THE FIX FOR PICKY EATERS

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Encourage your picky eater with Tailspring’s Goat Milk Meal Toppers!

Designed to be added to your dog’s meal, these delicious toppers are made with human grade ingredients and come in Probiotic and Hip and Joint recipes for added health benefits. (from $25, tailspring.com)

Relieve irritated ears and reduce the chance of ear infections with the Vetericyn Plus Antimicrobial Ear Rinse. Designed to remove pollutants, clean discharge, and reduce ear odours, this non-toxic ear rinse won’t sting and is safe for pets. ($15, vetericyn.com)

6. ONE CHEW TO DO IT ALL

11. BANISH THE VET BILL SCARIES

Yummy Combs work like floss as your dog chews while improving cardiac, digestive, skin and coat health via high-quality proteins, glucosamine, chondroitin, honey, and salmon oil. (from $20, yummycombs.com)

Unexpected accidents and illnesses happen. Nationwide pet insurance plans let you visit any vet and get your money back, so you can rest easy knowing your dog is covered! (Plans starting at $35 a month, petinsurance.com)

7. REDUCE INFLAMMATION

12. HAPPY HIPS

Address respiratory issues, poor circulation, osteoarthritis, and hip dysplasia with PureForm Pet Health’s Restore supplement.

Delivering glucosamine, curcumin, vitamin C, and magnesium oxide, it reduces inflammation, promotes healing, and strengthens ligaments and connective tissues. ($100, pureformpethealth.com)

The Activebliss Hip and Joint Supplement includes all-natural, mobility support ingredients like Omega fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin to keep your dog active and their joints healthy. Vet recommended and available in a Hickory Chicken flavour dogs love! ($30, vetniquelabs.com)

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LOVE LETTERS Years ago, I saved $3000, with which I was going to buy a used Porsche 944, my dream car. Then our dog Harry, a Cocker Spaniel, became ill with a heart condition. The specialist told us what we already knew: that our dog had a heart that was so very big. There was a chance that, with treatment and meds, he could have at least another six months. It cost us over $3,000, so I never got the Porsche. Our dog lived almost exactly six more months. I miss him every day.—Joseph A. Dewan

Believe in Magic

Tiny Dog Stories Dog love in short form: miniature, reader-submitted dog stories of no more than 100 words.

Lady & the Tramp Tramp, the wolf-like Husky we rescued from the street, became my fierce guardian, gatekeeper, and matchmaker after my divorce. He screened my dates by snarling when his instincts detected a Mr. Wrong, saving me a lot of grief. On my first date with Jim, I had to leave them together for a minute to take a call. I returned quickly, half expecting the man to be cowering in a corner, but he was happily giving my ecstatic pup belly rubs. When Jim proposed, Tramp welcomed him into the family and went from being my protector to Jim’s adoring companion.—Lucy Iscaro

Red is my Heart Red, one of 11 unsocialized, terrified puppies of questionable parentage, was surrendered to a shelter by a backyard breeder. My rescue chose Red because he was the most frightened of the pack. After leaving other foster homes, Red came to live at my house. Red adored my husband and hated me! After a year of living with us, my husband passed away unexpectedly. Six months to the day after my husband passed, Red put his little paws on my knees and allowed me to pet him for the very first time. Still particular about his people, but he loves me!—Karen Conover

I never expected the challenges of adopting a Labrador Retriever would inspire me to write a book, but Magic led me on a road to self-discovery, testing my will to love him regardless of the consequences. When his determination to do things his way turned our family upside down, I wondered if I should give him up. But despite Magic’s destructive behaviour, I started to see his other characteristics— loving, protective, and loyal. We taught each other unexpected lessons that changed our lives forever. My emotional journey encouraged me to take a risk and believe in Magic and myself.— Amy Ahrensdorf

Lessons From Poppy My Lakeland Terrier Poppy was the light of my life. When she died last year, I realized she had taught me much: Don’t apologize for your fierce passion(s). Rest when you’re tired.

Growl when someone disrespects your boundaries. Ask for what you want when you want it. Learn to listen to other pack members, even though you might be the alpha. Snuggle as close as you can to those you love and trust.

Honor your instincts. Be yourself. Everyone makes mistakes—don’t let yourself be shamed. Wag your tail when you’re happy—it might brighten someone’s day.— Nan Scarborough

Dry Cleaning We used to take our dogs for indoor play sessions. The main rule was to be watchful that they behaved. One winter’s night, there was a lady sitting cross-legged on the floor wearing an oversized, thick sweater. Our Teddy Bear went running behind her, paused, and before we could stop him, lifted his leg and unloaded on her back. She was oblivious. We were mortified. My husband apologised profusely and offered to pay her dry-cleaning bill. She laughed, declined, and graciously said she had had worse things happen to that sweater. Kids— whadaya gonna do?—Cheryl Taylor

Get published in Modern Dog! Submit your dog story of no more than 100 words (word count strictly enforced) to tinydogstories@moderndogmagazine.com. By submitting, you are consenting to publication of your story.

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Cost

Must-haves for you & your dog

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moderndog marketplace

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LAST LICK

Interesting Dog Facts Delight your dinner companions with fascinating dog breed trivia

By Isabelle Orr

Fancy, schmancy!

Don’t be fooled by the precious hairdo. Belying its looks, the Poodle is a star athlete through and through. The classic “Continental” poodle cut was actually created to optimize the breed’s hunting performance—the Poodle was originally developed to hunt ducks and other waterfowl. The frequently perceived as fussy trademark haircut allowed Poodles a full range of motion when in the water while keeping the joints warm and the eye-line clear. (The pom-poms over the kidney area are called rosettes.) The finishing touch, the jaunty ball on the tail, kept the tip from getting frostbite.

What the Dickens Author Charles Dickens owned a Havanese named Tim, who was beloved by Dickens’ ten children. Many speculate the dog was the inspiration for “Tiny Tim” from A Christmas Carol.

Meet the 6-toed Norwegian puffin hunter that can scale rock walls!

No, it’s not a Yorkie

Looking for a rare dog? Look no further than the Norwegian Lundehund, an agile breed that has adapted to hunt puffins around its native coastal cliffs of Norway. Aided by its well-padded six-toed front paws, flexible shoulders, and an “elastic” neck that can bend backwards to touch their spine, the unique build of the Lundehund allows them to scale massive rock walls and wiggle into small crevices to snap up their prey.

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THIS TRUFFLE HUNTING DOG COULD MAKE YOU RICH Also known as the Romagna Water Dog, the Lagotto Romagnolo is the world’s oldest water retriever. Like other water dogs, the Lagotto has a weatherproof coat and muscular build that helped it hunt fowl through the Italian marshlands. Unlike other water dogs, their hyper-sensitive nose is now used for a more delicate purpose—sniffing out delicious truffles! In locating this ‘edible gold,’ your Lagotto could help pay the bills; a single truffle can cost up to $3,800.

The first Biewer (pronounced “beaver”) Terrier was born in 1984—a relative newcomer compared to breeds like the Akita, whose lineage can be traced back 10,000 years. Bred

by Mr. and Mrs. Biewer, two passionate Yorkshire Terrier lovers, the Biewer Terrier has a “piebald” gene, giving it a distinctive spotted coat. Genetic testing determined the Biewer possesses genes distinguishing it from the Yorkshire Terrier, and in 2021, the American Kennel Club recognized the Biewer as a distinct breed.

For a behind-the-scenes look at what we’re up to in the MD offices, the latest breaking stories and videos, cool contests, events, & exclusive giveaways, become a fan of Modern Dog on Facebook & follow us on Twitter, Instagram, & Pinterest. Go to facebook. com/moderndogmagazine, twitter.com/moderndogmag, instagram.com/modern_dog_mag & pinterest.com/moderndogmag.

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Though known for its adorably diminutive stature and lion-like fluffy coat, the Pomeranian actually hails from the same Spitz family as the much larger Samoyed and Malamute. In 1888, Queen Victoria brought the Pomeranian to England and bred them to compete in dog shows.

Her preference was for smaller Poms, and during her lifetime, the breed's size decreased by half.

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Fit for royalty