Modern Dog Winter 2021 by Modern Dog Magazine

INSIDE: Natural solutions to common canine health problems

The lifestyle magazine for modern dogs and their companions

Find “The One” Personality tests for dogs p78

WINTER 2021/22

TEACH YOUR DOG TO TALK

(Yes, really!)

the s ift best g og for d e! peopl

p84 Assistive technology for dogs

IS CBD RIGHT FOR YOUR DOG?

p28 Fight cognitive decline

Find out on p54

moderndogmagazine.com DISPLAY UNTIL MARCH '22

$6.95

p68 How to tire a high energy dog

Superfoods for Dogs: Healthy Kibble Additions + Getting a Puppy After Losing Your Heart Dog

NO 4

14 FEATURES The Dogs Most Likely to Show Mental Decline with Age A study of over 15,000 dogs pinpoints which factors— besides age—contribute to a dog’s loss of mental ability.

BY STANLEY COREN

Goodbye #Vanlife A travelling dog photographer bids adieu to life on the road.

BY TRACEY TONG

The Amazing Rescue Relay The all-volunteer feel-good feat of coordination that transports rescue dogs to awaiting ‘furever’ homes.

BY SUSAN KAUFFMANN

The Fix: How to Tire Out a High Energy Dog Tips, tricks, and strategies for tiring out a dog with “way too much energy.” BY SUE ALEXANDER

Getting a Puppy After Losing Your Heart Dog The dog that changed everything and the dog that comes next. BY SONIA JONES

‘Talking’ Dog Takes Over TikTok Bunny the Sheepadoodle uses assistive technology to communicate, wowing over four million followers and inspiring others to test their dogs’ ability to acquire language. BY CASSANDRA GILL

84 THE GOODS 26

Home is Where the Dog Is Fantastic finds for the dogfriendly home.

The Cold Weather Gear Guide Canine essentials built for adventuring.

Gift Guide Inspired suggestions for all the dogs and dog lovers on your list.

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

Dreamy Dog Beds We’ve rounded up the comfiest, coziest dog beds out there!

Healthy Paws Solutions for everything from dry skin and coat to digestive issues.

READ YOUR BREED 24

Commonly Confused Breeds: The Komondor vs. The Puli These dreadlocked dogs share a showstopping corded coat— but the similarities stop there. BY ROSE FROSEK

The Berger Picard Saved from extinction, a rare, ancient French breed is made famous by Disney. BY KELLY CALDWELL

10 Breeds that Look Totally Different As Puppies We asked Gina DiNardo, breed expert and AKC Executive Secretary, for her list of pups that look most unlike their adult counterparts. Prep yourself for some serious cuteness!

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C I RCL E I N SE T I L LU ST R AT I O N M I CH E L L E SI M PS O N

R I G H T P H OTO

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WINTER 2021/22

L E FT P H OTO A M A N D A J O N E S ; R I G H T P H OT O CO U RT E S Y O F L I L LY & A B B I E

88 38

BODY & SOUL

Short Spine Dog Stands Tall “Frog dog” Ivy takes social media by storm!

BY ISABELLE ORR

Like A Dog To Water: Hydrotherapy And Swimming Lessons For Dogs

How to Calm an Overly Excited Dog Restore calm with this one easy-to-teach cue.

BY NICOLE WILDE

CBD and Your Dog: Can this legal hemp derivative help your dog?

Healthy Kibble Additions Add these powerhouse foods to your dog’s dinner for a wellness boost—and a happy pup!

Unlikely Besties: Dog and Miniature Horse Become “Instant Best Friends” Miniature therapy horse and sheepdog share adorable bond.

BY ROSE FROSEK

BY JULIE ANNE LEE

Westminster 2022: The Return to Madison Square Garden Historic dog show returns home to the Big Apple.

BY YAUNNA SOMMERSBY

Find Your Dream Dog: Shelter Dog Temperament Testing How to assess the personality and temperament of your potential new best friend. BY TEOTI ANDERSON

Interesting Dog Facts Family gathering? Try these dog facts to get the conversation flowing! BY ISABELLE ORR

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

REGULAR FEATURES 6 Editor’s Letter 8 Contributors 10 Stuff We Love 12 The Scoop 20 Smile! Photo Contest 102 Marketplace

ON THE COVER Jack Russell Terrier Beacon photographed by Amanda Jones. Turn to page 34 for a look at Amanda's incredible 25-year streak photographing dogs. Top Cover inset: Joelle Andres and Bastian / @bastianandbrews

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100 Tiny Dog Stories Dog love in short form: miniature, reader-submitted dog stories of no more than 100 words. 104 Signs You’ve Officially Become a Dog Person An illustrated guide. BY MICHELLE SIMPSON In USA: MODERN DOG (ISSN 1703-812X) Volume 20, Issue 4. 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.

COV E R I N SE T P H OTO # 3 B E ST D O G P H OTO / SH U TT E R STO CK . CO M

We’re Giving It Away! We’ve got three months of fantastic giveaways—from a pet camera to a deluxe dog bed—and winners every week! See what’s up for grabs on page 22.

COV E R I N SE T P H OTO # 2 L I F E O N W H I T E / B I G STO CK . CO M ;

CI RCL E I N SE T P H OTO J U L I E TT E W E L L S

DOG LIFE

EDITOR'S LETTER

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Circle Only use blue and/or white. For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.

Aww, Shucks

appy winter! With the air crisp and the holidays around the corner, we’re in eager anticipation of all the season has to offer—including the potential of new canine family members. With reports of overcrowded shelters, this winter season could be the perfect time to add to your pack! Considering it? We help you find “the one” with personality tests for rescue dogs (p 78).

@moderndogmag wrote an awesome little article on us, and I couldn’t be any happier. To know that what I’m doing matters is the greatest gift I could ask for. Thanks to everyone for the continued support!! —@rumyhuman   Read our feature on the amazing Rescue Dog 'Cafe' in Bellingham, WA at: moderndogmagazine.com/rescuecafe

Looking for further proof of how amazing dogs are? We take a closer look at how dog owners are using assistive technology to teach their dogs to talk. Marvel at the sophisticated musings—and bathroom humour!—of Bunny the “talking” dog who forms incredible phrases by selecting buttons that say words when pressed. If you’ve been considering trying CBD, turn to page 54. We take a look at whether CBD is right for your dog and recommended organic, safely extracted, and third-party lab tested products to get started with! Interested in easily improving your dog’s dinner without making it from scratch? Add the healthy superfoods for dogs on page 56 to your pup’s regular meal and provide a beneficial boost. We also explore cognitive decline in dogs and provide mental exercises to help your dog stay sharp (p 28).

The Best Read!

So important to start the week by reading up on the news! #MondayMorning #moderndog—@oliviathefluffydog

Discover the dreamiest of dog beds on page 88, as well as staff favourites all under $100 on page 76. You’ll also find the best cold weather gear and inspired gifts galore. And we can pretty much guarantee the unlikely besties on page 16 and 46 will put a smile on your face! And that’s just the tip of the proverbial iceberg. There are heartwarming reader-submitted stories, giveaways, expert behavioural advice, and so much more. We hope you enjoy this issue as much as we loved putting it together. Thank you for being a part of the Modern Dog family! With love,

Holiday Reading

Connie Wilson, Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

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When it rains on vacay, be glad your dad packed the magazines.—@bodhibearonthe45

D E V I N PA R KS & H I S PA CK O F A D O PTA B L E D O G S , P H OTO A R E YO U M Y H U M A N ? LO U N G E

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

C ONT R IBUTOR S WINTER 2021/22 • VOL 20

SUSAN KAUFFMANN is an equestrian and canine journalist who lives on ten acres in the mountains outside of Reno, Nevada. She shares this little high-desert paradise with three horses, two dogs, two cats, and one husband. She enjoys doing obedience and trick training with her dogs, and her horses are pretty handy at doing tricks too. She's still working on the cats and her husband. On page 62 of this issue, Susan takes a heartwarming look at the incredible dedication and teamwork required to move rescue dogs (including her new shelter pup!) across the country to awaiting forever homes.

NO 4

Publisher

Modern Dog Inc. Editor-in-Chief

Connie Wilson Editor & Creative Director

Jennifer Nosek Design & Production

Hayley Schmidt Sales & Marketing

Linda Helme Comptroller

Cecilia de Roca Chan, CPA, CGA Accounting Services & Subscription Services

Vicki Szivos Marketing & Sales Assistant

Simran Parekh Audience Development Coordinator

Yaunna Sommersby Subscriptions & Office Administration

Becky Belzile Office & Circulation Assistant

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

Modern Dog's very own YAUNNA SOMMERSBY is our Audience Development Coordinator and an award-winning photojournalist. A lifelong animal lover and dog nerd, you will likely find her with her face in a book, a camera in her hands, or with a spoiled tuxedo cat or Beagle on her lap. Check out page 47 for her photo of Daisy the Maremma Sheepdog puppy, page 52 for her feature on hydrotherapy, and page 60 for her article on Westminster 2022. Check out her photography on Instagram: @yaunnaraephotography.

Advertising inquiries call (866) 734-3131 or email advertising@moderndogmagazine.com In Canada: MODERN DOG (ISSN 1703-812X) Volume 20, Issue 4. 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 20, Issue 4. 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

SUE ALEXANDER, CPDT-KSA, CBCC-KA, CDBC, has over 25 years of experience training and handling dogs. She shares her life with her husband John and their two German Shepherds, Friday and Goose. She has also participated in a variety of dog sports, including obedience, tracking, retrieving, Schutzhund, and agility. In this issue, she shares expert tips for dealing with high energy dogs, helping you restore sanity to your household. Turn to page 68 to learn how to tire out your crazy-energetic pup. (Hint: the solution may not be more exercise!)

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

FAX

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 2021/22 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

PRINTED IN CANADA

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

Stuff We Love

Modern Dog staffers’ picks of the litter! 1 Ditch the plastic bags and shop sustainably with this cool tote bag from Inkopious! Available in a variety of cute dog designs, it’s made from 100% cotton canvas with reinforced stitching for durability.—Yaunna ($30, inkopious.com) 2 As a Chihuahua mom, I worry about keeping ChiliCheese safe from predators and local wildlife while outdoors. The Raptor Shield Vest is talon and bite-proof and protects your dog from coyotes, hawks, and other birds of prey.—Becky ($76, raptorshield.com) 3 Curious about your dog’s genetics? Developed by veterinarians and PhD geneticists, the Canine HealthCheck test from Paw Print Genetics screens your pooch for over 250 inherited diseases and traits.—Vicki ($190, caninehealthcheck.com) 4 Worried your pup has too many carbs and not enough protein in her diet? Visionary Pet’s Low Carb, Keto Freeze-Dried beef recipe is made with humangrade ingredients like beef, beef heart, green beans, and coconut oil!—Connie ($59, visionarypet.com) 5 Dive into a lighthearted, inspiring read! Ginger: The Journey of Two Hearts, One Animal, One Human is a wonderful true story about the transformative adventures Ginger and author Hartford J. Hough went on together and the lives they affected in the process.—Linda ($8 for the Kindle edition, $22 for paperback, thefurbeneathmywings.com or amazon.com) 6 Keep your dog’s coat under control with the Easy Clip Whisper Clipper from Andis! Designed for single-coated breeds, this high-quality clipper kit comes with a blade guard, a blade brush, and six attachment combs.—Connie ($61, andis.com) 7 Honour any dog with a personalized, engraved brick paver at the Purina Farms Events Centre! The brick can be placed on the Walk of Champions or Path of Honour, and proceeds support the American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation’s canine health research and programs.—Isabelle (from $100, akcchf.org/brick) 8 Elsa Beatriz Art creates fun custom pet-photo art renderings from your photos. A perfect gift for family and friends!—Cecilia (from $175, oils4u-us.com) 9 Gently freeze-dried, Pure Pheasant’s Freeze-Dried Pheasant Breast for Dogs and Cats makes a great single-ingredient meal topper or treat you can feel good about giving your dog!—Yaunna ($8, purepheasant.com) 10 The cone of shame is never fun. The vet-recommended Recovery Suit from Suitical is a welcome alternative, comfortably protecting dogs recovering from medical procedures, skin conditions, and more.—Jennifer (from $33, suitical.com/moderndog2021) 11 Elevate your walk with the Handsfree Bungee Dog Leash and Waist Multi-Purpose Bag set from PetPonia—it makes your dog adventures hands-free! Designed for comfort and function, it has plenty of storage, too.—Hayley ($33, petponia.com) 12 Stay stylishly on schedule with a dog-breed watch from Celeste Watch Company! These gorgeous watches are made with sapphire glass, are water resistant up to 30 meters, and feature goat leather straps. Choose from a variety of breed designs—or customize your own!—Jennifer (from $160, celestewatch.com) 13 Maintaining your dog’s teeth doesn’t have to be a chore! Yummy Combs tasty dog chews work like dental floss as your dog chews them. Plus, they’re made with high-quality proteins and ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin, honey, and salmon oil!—Simran (from $20, yummycombs.com)

GET YOUR OWN ROBOTIC DOG FOR JUST $2899.99 Sony’s artificially intelligent dog companion is winning hearts By Becky Belzile

fter a 12-year hiatus, Sony has brought back aibo, its robotic puppy. Tech-loving dog people can score one for a cool $2899.99. Powered by A.I. and cutting-edge robotics, this robot pup learns and responds to its human family. It will get to know its name over time, respond to you when called, and develop a unique, evolving personality based on your interactions with it. The high-tech dog will even form “an emotional bond with members of the household,” states Sony. Employing sensors, cameras, and actuators, aibo interacts with and learns from its environment in a variety of ways. It can play with compatible toys such as a pink ball (included),

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dice, and aibone (sold separately). Much like a real dog, aibo will learn your schedule and interact with you accordingly, greeting you when you get home and gradually learning where and when to “potty.” With the ability to recognize faces, aibo will seek out and build relationships with each member of your household. This spry little fellow can even be “fed” and learn tricks! Reviewer GeorgeJack enthuses, “aibo is the smartest piece of tech while also being a member of the family. Give it a week and you won’t be able to live without it.” Though obviously not a replacement for the real thing, aibo may be the perfect option for people unable to welcome a living, breathing dog into their home due to barriers like allergies, apartment restrictions, and work schedules, but who still want a sense of companionship. (That said,

aibo can live in harmony with your other pets.) It’s also the perfect gift for the enthusiastic tech-savvy person in your life. This android doggy can hear commands, feel pets, and can even interact with other aibos it meets. When it tires out, it will return to its charging station for a nap. Over a decade of development, including earlier iterations, led to this version of the aibo, which, though incredible, is just the beginning of where robotic companions are headed. As these machines become increasingly sophisticated over time, they’ll likely become a regular part of our lives. Aibo owner Cari1994 writes, “My grandparents and I were a little skeptical about her at first but now Pepper is warming up to us and she is so adorable, I can’t stand it!” If you’re not sure if you’re ready for a dog, why not try aibo?

HEADS

UP!

ince 2013, German photographer Christian Vieler has been capturing dogs in the moment of purest anticipation: just as they’re about to snap a treat out of midair. The results are both hilarious and fascinating. Now, Vieler’s new book Treat Too!, a follow up to his original bestseller, Treat!, doubles the fun with an array of canine duos vying for the flying snacks. Some are successful in downing the treats, others not so much—but all are game to try! From an intent pair of Labs to jowly Bassets, an inherently dog-like optimism and enthusiasm is distilled in the beautifully odd photos, making for a funny and endearing collection that will delight any dog lover.

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P H OTOS CH R I ST I A N V I E L E R

German photographer snaps the hilarious expressions of dogs as they try to grab treats in midair | By Rose Frosek

Unlikely friendship warms hearts worldwide

veryone knows opposites attract, but two entirely different species? Not so much. In the case of Molly the Magpie and Peggy the Staffordshire Bull terrier, however, the two animals have formed an inseparable mother-daughter bond. Queensland, Australia couple Juliette Wells and Reece Mortensen were out walking Peggy when they found a baby

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bird on the ground. “She was very weak and very, very tired,” says Mortensen. They tried to reunite the baby bird with her parents, waiting hours, but were unsuccessful, so they brought the bird home to nurse her back to health. Initially, Peggy didn’t know what to make of the baby bird, whom they named Molly. While her owners kept a watchful eye, Peggy worked up the courage to get closer and closer. “They’d just lie next to each other, not touching,” Wells recalls.

“And then one day I looked down, and they were both snuggled down on the floor together. From then on, it was just always snuggling together, and they were never apart. It was so beautiful.” Peggy took Molly’s care into her own paws—and then some. “Two weeks later, Peggy was producing milk for this baby magpie and the magpie was drinking the milk,” Wells told 7NEWS. Their vet said this is the result of a “phantom pregnancy” and not uncommon 

P H OTOS J U L I E TT E W E L L S

STAFFY ADOPTS & RAISES BABY MAGPIE AS HER OWN

CAPTION THIS!

s! thi

P H OTO S J U L I E TT E W E L L S

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.

AND THE WINNING CAPTION FROM THE FALL ISSUE IS…

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

in female dogs taking on a nurturing role; Peggy thought Molly was her baby and was producing milk in the same way as if she’d had puppies despite not being pregnant. From there, Peggy became very protective of Molly. Sunbathing, rain-watching, grooming, or just grabbing a nap, the duo does it side-by-side. Even chew toys are shared between the two! “Wherever Peggy goes, Molly is chasing behind her. Peggy’s brought her up, and she copies everything Peggy does,” says Mortensen. Molly has even begun “barking” like a dog to mimic Peggy. “We thought it was Peggy barking, but when we looked over at her, she was fast asleep, says Wells. “Then we saw and heard it coming from Molly. We started laughing so much because it sounded so much like Peggy. I couldn't believe it.” Wells and Mortensen have created an Instagram account @peggyandmolly to show their friendship. “In these times, especially in Melbourne and Sydney where they’ve been in lockdown for quite a while, people are looking for something positive,” Wells says. While Molly is uncaged and free to make a family of her own, the couple—and Molly, of course—would be happy to house her forever. Although they leave doors and windows open, it seems Molly isn’t going anywhere—even with changes to the family dynamic. Peggy gave birth to a litter of six puppies on August 6th. Molly refused to leave her side throughout the pregnancy and quickly became an “aunt,” playing with the puppies and keeping them out of trouble whenever Peggy needed alone time. While nearly all the puppies were adopted, Molly remained—best friends forever.—Isabelle Orr 

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"If it’s not too much trouble, could you get me the remote?" Submitted by Carl Koestner RUNNER-UP CAPTIONS "You're home early!" Submitted by Tom Cavalli and Sonja Tomic

"You can go for a 3rd walk if you want. I’m good right here." Submitted by Kirk Augustine

"Didn’t you say you wanted the cat to get off of the bed?" Submitted by Joseph A. Dewan

"Barb, I’ve thought about it, and I think it’s time for you to take the other bed." Submitted by Casi Maynard

! E L I SM

Modern Dog’s Photo Contest Winners!

Joey

Miniature Fox Terrier

Luna O'Connor

miss lUCY

Rottweiler/ Hound mix

Sheltie

Kya

Siberian Husky

Juno

Siberian Husky

Aliyah

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

millie

Jed

Dalmation

Soda

Tibetan Spaniel/Bichon Frise

Blaze

Golden Cocker

Missy

Havanese

Rough Collie

Riley

Golden Retriever

Waylon

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Biggie Samoyed

dodo

Pomeranian

Archie

Kabuki

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Bonnie

Japanese Chin

Hayes

Cosmo

French Bulldog/Pitbull

Pitbull

Mango

Golden Retriever

Huskador

Wellington Goldendoodle

Dion

English Cream Retriever

Bailey

Rat Terrier Seductress

Zak

Jack Russel Mix

mya

Jojo

Beagle/Dachshund

lexi Pug

lewis

Husky/GSD mix

Chihuahua

Rochelle Samoyed

Think your dog ought To be in Modern Dog?

Berkeley

American Dingo Mix

Luke Skye Weimaraner

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

ENTER TO WIN

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

December

1st-7th

Win 1 of 3 Nature’s Logic prize packs! Includes a bag of Distinction dog food, six cans of canned food, peanut butter with hemp seed oil, bone broth, and treats.

8th-14th

15th-21st

Win a fully customizable Orvis Memory Foam Bolster Dog Bed from Morris Animal Foundation! Your pooch will comfortably dream the day away on this luxurious bed.

Win 1 of 2 ALL-IN supplement prize packs from Vetericyn! Includes a 90-day supply of supplements (3 bottles) with your choice of puppy, adult, or senior formulas.

8th-14th

Win 1 of 2 prize packs filled with IMAGILIN’S premium plant-based, patented probiotics! Includes packs of their MitoMax, MitoMax Cranberry, and NutriLots probiotics.

15th-21st

Win 1 of 5 Supermax Green Tea Hoodies from Unicorn Petting Zone! Keep your stylish pup comfortable and warm with this lightweight and functional dog hoodie.

22nd-31st

8th-14th

15th-21st

22nd-28th

Win 1 of 3 smart pet product prize duos from Instachew! Includes a Puresight 360 HD Pet Camera and a PureSmart App Enabled Pet Fountain.

22nd-31st

January

1st-7th

Win 1 of 5 dog food and treat prize packs from Intrepid Pet! Includes 6 bags of Chicken and Brown Rice dog food and 4 bags of dog treats.

February

1st-7th

Win 1 of 2 prize packs from Lucky Dog! Includes two stylish and durable INDULGE stainless steel dog bowls and a 20-pack of compostable Poop Bags.

Win 1 of 3 prize duos from PURICA! Keep your pup happy and healthy with a bottle each of their Pet Recovery Chewables and Pet Curcumin+.

Win 1 of 12 FurZoff, the new and better way to remove pet hair from your home and vehicles. Made in the USA from 90% recycled material, it’s 100% durable!

Win 1 of 3 HandsOn Gloves—the massage your dog will woof for! These gloves provide a more thorough shedding, bathing, and grooming experience for you and your canine!

Win 1 of 3 animal supplement prize packs from Animal Necessity! Includes one box of Ocu-GLO 30 count capsules, one jar of Ocu-GLO 30 count soft chews, and one bag of Ocu-GLO 15 count soft chews.

No purchase necessary to enter or win. Beginning December 1, 2021 at 12:01 AM (PST) through February 28, 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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INSET PHOTO: OSCAR, A RESCUE PUP @KINGOINTHETO SUBMITTED BY ANNELIESE DIAMANTOPOULOS

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

KO M O N D O R P H OTO E R S H OV _ A N D R E Y / S H U TT E R S TO C K . CO M ; I N S E T

P U L I P H OTO D E J AV U D E S I G N S / B I G S TO C K . CO M

THE PULI

These dreadlocked dogs share a showstopping corded coat—but the similarities stop there

hese two striking breeds share a chief characteristic—those trademark dreadlocks— that can result in the two being confused. The telltale difference here is size: the Komondor can top the scales at over 100 pounds, whereas the relatively diminutive Puli weighs in at 25 to 35 pounds. Despite both being Hungarian flock dogs, there are major personality differences, too. Hailing from Hungary, the powerful Komondor is covered in profuse white cords from head to tail. The coarse curly adult coat starts to naturally mat at around six months of age and requires separation. Described by the AKC as dignified, brave, and loyal, this is an independent and protective breed—and a large one. Big males can weigh over 100 pounds and stand more than 27 inches at the shoulder. Despite their heft, they are very fast, agile, and light on their feet. They were bred to be flock guardians and are noted for their aloof personality, though they are loving and highly devoted to their person. Bred to be independent, they can be difficult to train. Unlike the Puli, they are always white.

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I N SE T P U L I P H OTO VAU VAU / B I G STO CK . CO M

Puli

Commonly Confused Breeds

THE KOMONDOR

I N SE T KO M O N D O R P H OT O CO L I N SE D D O N / SH U TT E R STO CK . CO M ;

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The Puli, on the other hand, was bred to herd, not guard, the sheep and is a much smaller dog. Loyal, intelligent, and home-loving, this compact herder is covered from head to tail in its most recognizable feature: profuse cords. The cords are naturally occurring at about 10 months to a year of age but can be brushed out. Once the cords are formed, they are relatively easy to maintain, though like the Komondor, the coat can mop up a fair bit of dirt and track in debris. Substantially smaller than the Komondor, the Puli, standing 16 to 17 inches at the shoulder and weighing around 30 pounds, is still noted for its power. They’re also agile, acrobatic, and light on their feet, making them a natural fit for Agility sports. Having been bred to work closely with their people, the Puli is smart, a quick learner, and bonds deeply with his owner. This is a dog that needs a job to do. Unlike the Komondor, they have a curly tail and come in solid colours of rusty black, black, gray, and white. They are also more vocal.

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

moderndogmagazine.com

THE GOODS

Upgrade your walls with Best in Show wallpaper by Osborne & Little, available through interior designers. This flocked beauty features silhouettes of favourite dog breeds. (osborneandlittle.com)

Artist Astrid Colton works from photos you provide to create gorgeous custom pet portraits using coloured pencils, graphite pencils, or acrylic paint. (from $325, petportraitscanada.ca)

s i e m o H e h t e r whe s dog i t it!” n a w “ r e d n File u

With its clean lines, convenient two door opening, and stainless steel hardware, the wooden Moderno Dog Crate from Bowsers Pet Products nails modern and stylish. (from $380, bowsers.com)

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Make mealtime more comfortable for your pooch with the Dexas Adjustable Feeder with stainless steel bowls. The legs allow you to adjust the height and the bowls are removable for easy cleaning. ($50, amazon.com or dexas.com)

Ultra-soft and supportive, the Sleep Zone Carved Plush bed from Ethical Pet Products features a raised wall, pillow-like edge, and is filled with 100% recyclable materials so both you and your dog can sleep easy. The step-in style ensures dogs can enter and exit the bed with ease. (from $55, ethicalpet.com)

{Great gift idea!} Make your home smell lovely while supporting canine cancer research with this sandalwood and lavender-scented Hope Candle from Smiling Blue Skies. Proceeds go towards the Smiling Blue Skies Cancer Fund and their continued work to raise funds for pet cancer research. ($40, smilingblueskies.com)

A study of over 15,000 dogs pinpoints which factors—besides age—contribute to a dog’s loss of mental ability | By Stanley Coren

s your dog grows older, you might notice lapses in memory and other behavioural changes. Similar to aging in people, older dogs can suffer from a disorder called Canine Cognitive Dysfunction or CCD, which is often compared to Alzheimer's Disease in humans because the symptoms are similar. These include forgetfulness, disorientation, not

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recognizing family members, sleep disruption, and other lapses in normal mental behaviour. Not only are the dog’s behavioral symptoms similar to that of people with Alzheimer's disease, the changes that occur in the aging dog's brain are also similar. At the neurological level, the similarities between Alzheimer's disease and CCD are quite marked, with both showing changes in the brain involving tangled clumps of neural tissue known as beta-amyloid plaques.

A New Study of Canine Cognitive Dysfunction The effect of CCD on the quality of a dog's life and its relationship with its owner is as devastating as the effects of Alzheimer's disease on the quality of human life and family relationships. There have been a number of studies that have looked at CCD, but most of them have been limited in size, so that broad conclusions, such as determining

L I F E O N W H I T E / B I G STO CK . CO M ; P H OTO #5 M A SA R I K / B I G STO CK . CO M

The Dogs Most Likely to Show Mental Decline with Age

F RO M L E FT TO R I G H T, TO P TO B OTTO M : P H OTO #1 K A R I D ESI G N / B I G STO CK . CO M ; P H OTO #2, #3, #4, A N D #6

DOG LIFE

By keeping aging dogs mentally active, the effects of agerelated mental deterioration on learning and problemsolving can be greatly slowed, or even reversed. P H OTOS L I F E O N W H I T E / B I G STO CK . CO M

which dogs are most likely to come down with the problem, could only be tentatively made. However, a new study by Sarah Yarboroughof the Department of Epidemiology at the University of Washington has now provided some answers that allow us to predict which dogs are most susceptible to the mental decline associated with CCD. In terms of numbers, this study is huge, comprised of 15,019 dogs. The data were obtained from the National Institute on Aging's nationwide longitudinal study on canine aging and mortality. The Dog Aging Project (DAP) was started in 2018. The study included administration of a number of surveys, including the Health and Life Experience Survey, which gathers a lot of health data and includes sections on dog and owner household demographic characteristics, dog physical activity, environment, behaviour, diet, medications and preventatives, and health status. In addition, participants were given the Canine Social and Learned Behaviour Survey, which is used to assess whether there is any

mental decline in dogs associated with CCD. Scores for this survey were split into two groups, and dogs with a score at or above 50 were classified as having Canine Cognitive Dysfunction. CCD is a disease of older dogs, so it is not surprising that age is an important factor in increasing the likelihood of its appearance. The increasing risk, however, is quite large. When controlling for all other characteristics, the odds of CCD increased 52 percent with each additional year of age. However, a number of factors play a role in susceptibility.

It's Not All a Matter of Age This study notes that poor overall health, including a number of different diseases and conditions, can slightly increase the risk of CCD. However, two sensory conditions pose a more significant risk. At any given age, dogs that have a history of neurological eye or ear disorders were found to be approximately twice as likely to be classified as having CCD. Similar findings have been found in humans, since individuals with marked hearing

loss or diminished visual ability have been shown to be more likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. Although sex did not have much of an effect, sexual status did. When a comparison was made between dogs that were spayed or neutered versus those which were sexually intact, it was found that the intact dogs were 64 percent less likely to be classified as having CCD.

Breed Matters Since it is known that in humans, genetics plays a role in your susceptibility to any form of dementia, it is a good guess that there would be differences among dog breeds. When the participant dogs were divided by breed it was found that breed group was an important predictor. Using American Kennel Club group designations, those dogs classified as terriers, toys or in the non-sporting group were more than three times as likely to be diagnosed with Canine Cognitive Dysfunction compared to the other breed groupings. moderndogmagazine.com

Walking Away from Mental Declines in Aging

Causes and Preventative Measures Nobody knows for sure what causes Alzheimer's disease or Canine Cognitive Dysfunction, however, evidence has accumulated which suggests that an individual's lifestyle may be important. One of the most significant factors in avoiding the decline in thinking ability involves keeping mentally active. In humans, people who engage in challenging mental activities, such as solving crossword puzzles, playing games, engaging in new activities, taking courses, traveling, reading, or engaging in social activities, tend to be more likely to avoid the usual age-related decline in mental ability. Norton Milgram of the University of Toronto has demonstrated that by keeping aging dogs mentally active (in his lab he uses Beagles), the effects of age-related mental deterioration on learning and problemsolving can be greatly slowed, or even reversed. At home, setting up new problems and experiences to keep your dog's aging brain from deteriorating can be a bit challenging. However, if we consider how and why evolution developed brains in the first place, a simpler, practical, alternative solution suggests itself. If we could jump back into the dim past, say half a billion years ago, we would see the first nervous systems starting to appear. The original purpose for a nervous system was to coordinate movement so an animal could go find food, instead of waiting for the food to come to it. Jellyfish are similar to the first animals that evolved connected patterns of nerve cells to communicate to their musculature. This gave them a tremendous advantage over animals like sponges and sea anemones that waited brainlessly for dinner to arrive. It can be shown that animals which move quickly and frequently tend to have larger and more complex brains than similar classes of animals which are not as active.

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If this line of reasoning is correct, then perhaps increasing physical activity may help to strengthen the brain and offset the effects of aging in the same way that increasing mental activity does. This seems to certainly be true for human beings. Studies of senior citizens who walk regularly showed significant improvement in memory skills compared to sedentary elderly people. Walking also improved their learning ability, concentration, and abstract reasoning in people who walked as little as 20 minutes a day. Furthermore, research from the Salk Institute demonstrates that physical exercise has a protective effect on the brain and its mental processes, and may prevent Alzheimer's disease. Their data was based on exercise and health data from nearly 5,000 men and women over 65 years of age and it showed that those who exercised were less likely to lose their mental abilities or develop any form of dementia, including Alzheimer's. This latest study on CCD seems to confirm that activity level has similar effects on the canine brain. Specifically, it found that among dogs of the same age, health status, breed type, and sterilization status the odds of showing Canine Cognitive Dysfunction were a startling 6.47 times higher in dogs that were not active, compared to those who were very active. So the implications appear to be quite clear. If you have an aging dog and you want to offset the kinds of mental declines that we normally expect in older canines, or even if you have a senior dog who is beginning to show signs of memory loss or other symptoms of Canine Cognitive Dysfunction, a simple way to slow the deterioration of his mind and perhaps offset the effects of aging involves simply clipping a leash onto your dog's collar and taking a walk. The more frequently you walk, and the longer the walks, the slower the mental decline with age. By the way, that same research suggests that your brain will also reap similar benefits and give you the same protection from aging-related mental decline that your dog gets while you are walking him. 

P H OTO G R A P H I C P H OTO / B I G S TO C K . CO M

After millions of years of evolutionary experiment, nervous systems evolved some complex ways of going out to eat. However, the goal of the brain remains the same, namely to coordinate movements. In this context, it is interesting to note that a diminished ability to move is a good indication of the effects of aging. You might say that inflexibility heralds the approach of death, while a flexible body that is capable of making fluid movements, which must be synchronized by an agile, active brain are the hallmarks of youth.

The Tundra Dog Coat from Shedrow K9 features a water- and wind-resistant outer shell and an inner fleece lining to keep your pup warm and dry! Adjustable chest and belly band closures and stretchy, adjustable leg straps keep the coat secure while reflective piping offers enhanced visibility. ($35, shedrowk9.com)

Dark winter walks? Let your dog light the way! The ingenious Headlight Harness is a super-reflective, comfortable, lightweight dog harness with an LED light at the chest. It projects up to 100 feet ahead, lighting your path and ensuring you are seen by vehicles. Bonus: use the harness with a seatbelt to keep your dog safe and secure in the car! (from $60, headlightharness.com)

The

Cold r e h t a We ear Guide G

entials Canine Ess nturing ve Built for Ad

No more wet, muddy leashes! The vibrant Hydro Leashes from Hot Dogs All Dressed are waterproof, easy to clean, and stink free. Add on adorable charms for extra customization! (from $33, hotdogsalldressed.com)

Protect your dog’s paws from snow, slush, and road salt with Walkaboots dog boots from Walkabout Harnesses! The rubber sole provides insulation while the waterresistant neoprene shell and moisture-absorbing liner keep paws dry. (from $17, walkaboutharnesses.com)

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No more frozen ears! Keep your dog’s ears, head, and neck warm in frigid weather with the MuTTuque from Muttluks, made from stretchy knit fleece fabric. (sale price $20, muttluks.ca)

Keep winter weather at bay with the water-resistant Winter Puffer Coat from UPZ Pet Products. Made with thick polyester, nylon, and organic cotton fabrics, this comfortable coat features snap buttons and an elastic four-leg style. ($54, upzone.ca)

moderndogmagazine.com

Goodbye #Vanlife: A Travelling Dog Photographer Bids Adieu to Life on the Road

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Dog photographer Amanda Jones packs in her mobile dog photography studio after an incredible 25 years of art and adventure

By Tracey Tong | Photos Amanda Jones or renowned American dog photographer Amanda Jones, “the end of a 25-year shooting streak is on the horizon.” She’s made the decision to do just 300 more sessions (there are currently 245 left) before ending them altogether, packing up the mobile dog photography studio she’s spent half of every month living out of for the past two-plus years. The daughter of two professional photographers, the Greenwich, CT native grew up “in a home filled with art” and “on a steady diet of Annie Leibovitz and Mark Seliger portraits.” She wanted to be a portrait photographer from the time she was young, taking photos at age ten with the family tabby cat, Oscar the Grouch, standing in as a model. After studying film and photography at Ithaca College, she began shooting family portraits, weddings, and corporate functions, but had an epiphany: “I realized, ‘I want to photograph dogs,’” Jones says. The ah-ha moment was sparked by photographing her friend’s yellow Lab puppy for fun. As soon as she saw the reaction of the pup’s owner, a light bulb went on. She started a mailing list—the Amanda Jones’ Dog of the Month Club—and with dog culture on the rise, she tapped into a market hungry for dog portraits. She found her work on display in San Francisco and New York, and developed a canine clientele, filling her calendar with photoshoots and scheduling appointments months in advance. She spent the next two decades travelling ten days out of every

month, but about three years ago, the mother of one had enough of spending her days in airports and hotels. The solution: Jones, along with Chris, her business partner and husband of 29 years, purchased a 21-by-9-foot camper van, which the couple and their three dogs —Dachshunds Benny, 13, and Fig, one, along with Chiweenie LadyBug, age six—take on the road for up to two weeks at a time. Covering up

The mother of one had enough of spending her days in airports and hotels. The solution? A 21-foot camper van. to 900 miles in one trip, Jones shoots 14 to 20 pre-booked sessions. The RV they’ve dubbed “The Dog Studio” houses them and all their gear. It proved a fortuitous set up in ways they couldn’t have anticipated. When COVID-19 struck in early 2020, most studio photographers had to put sessions on hold. While she went six months without a booking, the RV “allowed us to shoot safely”  moderndogmagazine.com

once things opened up a bit, says Jones. “We didn’t have to use public restrooms and we could get takeout and be self-contained. Instead of renting a studio, we could go to [clients’] homes and shoot in the garage. It happened to work out perfectly… The van has been truly transformative for work and life.” For the most part, the effect of the pandemic on her business left Jones unfazed. As a luxury business owner, Jones is aware that things can change along with the ups and downs of the economy. At one point, Jones had a 2,000-square-foot studio and several employees. “When the economy retracted, so too did our business,” she says. The ups have included being featured on countless national news outlets, including the New York Times and National Geographic, and

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becoming a dog expert and “loving every minute of it.” Jones has also published six books of dog photography — Greyhounds Big and Small, Frenchie Kisses, Dachshunds Short and Long, A Breed Apart, Dog Years: Faithful Friends, Then and Now, and Unleashed. After more than two decades shooting, the appeal of her métier has not diminished. “As subjects, dogs are as diverse as they are interesting visually,” says Jones. “Fluffy coats to smooth coats to wiry coats. The colour differences amaze me. Long tails, short tails. Tall ears, floppy ears.” Each dog, she says, whether they are national champions in their breed category or rescues, has something unique

“I’ve had people tell me I have the best job in the world, and I agree, absolutely.” worth capturing. She’s enjoyed working with pet parents, too, including numerous celebrities and their canine companions. She’s photographed Anderson Cooper and his Welsh Springer spaniel Molly; Mary Tyler Moore and her rescue dogs at her farm outside of New York City; and author Danielle Steele and her Dachshund and Chihuahua in a ballroom in the author’s San Francisco mansion, “but it’s always about the dogs, not the people,” she says. All told, the moments that touch her the most are when she receives calls from past clients who have recently lost a pet. “They’re so incredibly thankful,” she says, to have a lasting memory. “I’ve had people tell me I have the best job in the world, and I agree, absolutely,” says Jones. But all good things must come to an end. After a near 25-year shooting streak with more than 2,700 unique clients, Jones, now 54, recently announced that she will be doing her final 300 photo sessions—which she estimates will take her about three years —before closing out the travelling dog photographer portion of her life. She will be focusing on using her dog imagery (“We have amassed an enormous database of fine art photography,” she says) in a different way. She says she will miss meeting new people and their dogs, but not life on the road. While the couple will keep the RV as a mode of travel between their homes in Williamstown, MA and Tucson, AZ, Jones plans to devote her newfound time to “continue to photograph the things I love—my friends and the two amazing locations that we live in,” she says. And, of course, dogs. Like most canine owners, her life has been forever changed by them. “Dogs are now a central part of my life,” says Jones. “I love all breeds, sizes and shapes… I can usually produce a dog treat from any article of clothing that’s hanging in my coat closet.”  moderndogmagazine.com

STANDS TALL “Frog dog” Ivy takes social media by storm! By Isabelle Orr

“D

OG OF THE YEAR!” reads the top comment on one of @frogqueenivy’s Instagram posts. Like any dog, Ivy, a tiny Pitbull mix, jumps to catch a ball. Unlike other dogs, her leap is less agile and more like, well, a frog.

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The little dog has gained 2.9 million followers on TikTok (@ivyvibing) and 102K followers on Instagram. “Since the day I got her, I started taking pictures of her just for the memories. I had hundreds for myself and friends before I decided to post a few on TikTok,” says Ivy’s owner Luis (last name withheld for privacy). “I think it was our third video that went

viral, and I was definitely surprised about the number of views.” (The video has over 12.3 million views to date.) Many of Ivy’s videos show her playing with Luis, his partner Maria, and fellow pets Ortley and Gio, or relaxing in the sun. It’s easy to see why her accounts are popular. Ivy’s expressive face and

P H OTO S LU I S / @ F RO G Q U E E N I V Y

SHORT SPINE DOG

A rare condition that can affect animals and humans, Short Spine Syndrome (SSS), causes spine vertebrae to remain in a cartilage state and fuse together, compressing and shortening the spine. The result is dogs like Ivy have restricted movement and are at greater risk for an ingrown or infected tail. Despite their physical limitations, dogs with SSS can live long, healthy lives. To Luis, Ivy is completely normal, despite her unique looks. “I expected a few people to notice she looked different but was surprised that nearly everyone could see it. I suppose after spending days with her 24/7, I didn’t see that she looked very different anymore.” Ivy found her way to Luis and Maria when Ivy was rehomed through family friends. At first, Luis wasn’t sure about affording the cost of future treatments. “But after a day of having her, it didn’t matter,” Luis recalls. “She has brought only happiness to us and our other dog. Caring for her has been the highlight of our year!” Social media comments range anywhere from support and encouragement to genuine offers to buy the little dog (rejected, of course). Other users comment on how Ivy’s content has given them hope, helping them through challenging times. “A lot of people use her as their strength, their motivation to keep trying despite the odds against

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P H OTOS LU I S / @ F RO G Q U E E N I V Y

mischievous tendencies are adorable. But Ivy’s unique, frog-like build, due to Short Spine Syndrome, is also something that interests viewers.

them because Ivy does it too. We have gotten a few comments telling us that seeing our account, and knowing that dogs with disabilities can live happily if taken care of, has inspired them to adopt one and try to give them their best life.” Luis is optimistic about the interest Ivy has sparked in studying and treating SSS. “Ivy and many other short spine dogs are involved in research done at Purdue University, which aims to determine the cause of SSS. It may help them figure out why it happens to humans, as well.” Ivy’s fans don’t have to worry about a shortage of Ivy content, as her owners plan to continue her social media feeds. “We will definitely continue posting regular updates to our fans—it brings

us happiness to bring joy through Ivy’s posts. People just like seeing a dog be happy and enjoy life, even with her disability. People like seeing her enjoying things that other dogs do. She’s just a funny gal!” 

P H OTO N I A M H L I LY F I S H E R / S H U TT E R S TO C K . CO M

TRAINING

HOW TO CALM AN

OVERLY EXCITED DOG Restore calm with this one easy-to-teach cue By Nicole Wilde

“O

ut of nowhere, he starts racing around like a crazy dog!” “The kids want to play with her, but she gets so excited she won’t stop nipping!” “She keeps jumping on everyone and can’t seem to calm down!!” Does any of this sound familiar? As a trainer, I hear these types of comments not only from puppy owners, but from owners of adolescent and adult dogs as well. To understand how to calm an overly excited dog, we first must understand why the dog is behaving the way he is.

Is it just the “zoomies?” First, there are the “zoomies.” With my previous dogs, we used to laughingly refer to those sudden bursts of energy as the “couch races” because our dogs would suddenly start racing in

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loops around and around the living room couch. Your dog might do something similar, perhaps tearing around in circles in your yard as though he’s chasing an invisible bunny. Believe it or not, that’s perfectly normal behaviour! In fact, it’s in your dog’s very DNA. Dogs and wolves are very closely related genetically. Wolves are crepuscular, meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk. That’s when they would be out hunting, and it is the reason your dog’s zoomies normally happen around dawn and dusk. If your dog gets the zoomies, let him have at it! Toss a ball, chase him around, or just encourage him to keep running wild on his own. It’s a perfectly harmless way for him to expend energy, and he’ll be all the calmer for it afterward.

Play the “freeze!” game Speaking of playing with your dog, is that when he normally gets overly aroused? While he’s racing around, his system is

P H OTO SA R I O N E A L / B I G S TO C K . CO M

being flooded with adrenalin and other stress chemicals. If he lacks self-control, that over-the-top enthusiasm could manifest as jumping, nipping, or, if you have young children, even knocking them down. A great way to address this is to teach your dog the “Freeze!” game. I’m going to assume here that your dog knows Sit. To get your dog to “freeze,” begin by folding your arms and then immediately asking your dog to sit. Repeat a number of times and, if you have young children, ask them to do it as well. Your dog will soon anticipate that folded arms mean he should sit. Once your dog responds immediately to folded arms by sitting even without the verbal cue “sit,” it’s time to play the game.

Here’s how to teach your dog this behaviour: Let’s say you have two kids. With everyone having treats handy, begin walking around slowly at a distance from each other. No doubt your dog will start walking around as well, wanting to be part of the game. When you see that your dog is near one of the kids, say, “Freeze!” When you do, everyone should immediately stop walking, fold their arms, and stand still. Whoever the dog is closest to should face the dog and ask for a Sit. Once he does, a treat should be given, and the game continues. As you go, assuming your dog is doing well, the action should get more and more exciting, moving through rounds of faster and faster walking, working up to running, screaming, waving arms, or whatever your kids want to do. With practice, your dog will learn that anyone stopping and folding arms means he

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If he lacks self-control, that over-the-top enthusiasm could manifest as jumping, nipping, or, if you have young children, even knocking them down.

it when I pet him, but then he starts nipping!” The trick is in how you pet. If you use long, calm, gentle yet firm strokes and avoid coming down over your dog’s head, your dog should relax. If you pat, pat, pat, wildly scratch, or otherwise pet your dog in a less-thancalm way, he will respond by becoming excited and may even think you are soliciting play. Since he does not have opposable thumbs, he will instead use his mouth to respond. This happens especially when dogs are patted over the head. If your dog tends to get worked up when pet, pay attention to the interaction and try to take your own excitement down a few notches.

Is a lack of exercise the problem? should immediately stop what he’s doing and sit. Now, when your kids are playing and your dog starts getting overly aroused, chasing them, jumping and nipping, anyone can yell, “Freeze!” and everyone will freeze in place and fold arms, and your dog will automatically sit. This exercise is excellent for empowering kids, teaching your dog self-control, and putting a break in the action so it does not keep escalating unchecked. It is also helpful for when your dog jumps on your kids, as they can fold their arms in order to get your dog to stop and sit.

Is the way you’re petting your dog triggering over-excitement? It’s more common than you think! Another thing that can get a dog overly excited, believe it or not, is simple petting. I cannot tell you how many times I’ve heard someone say, “He loves

Lastly, if your dog sems to be hyperactive in general rather than only in specific situations, be sure he is getting enough exercise. Depending on his age, breed, and physical condition, he could require anything from a ten-minute walk to a minimum mile-long hike to meet his physical needs and thereby behave more calmly at home. (Most teenage dogs get nowhere close to enough exercise.)

Be sure, too, to provide plenty of mental stimulation in the form of: Chew items such as stuffed Kongs or bully sticks Puzzles where he has to move things in order to get to treats (always supervise) Training sessions, especially clicker training, which teaches dogs to think for themselves and offer behaviours. 

moderndogmagazine.com

UNLIKELY BESTIES: Dog and Miniature Horse Become “Instant Best Friends” Miniature therapy horse and sheepdog share adorable bond By Rose Frosek

ometimes, a bond transcends obvious differences. Such is the case with Sirius, a sheepdog, and Mercury, a blue-eyed American miniature horse. Like his equine friends at Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses, Mercury is a tiny, trained therapy horse, working in hospitals and hospice programs and with families who have experienced traumatic events. Sirius is a Maremma sheepdog, an Italian livestock-guardian breed. On the farm where Sirius lives, a team of eight adult Maremmas known as “the Guardian Angels” help protect the tiny miniature therapy horses. The dogs live with horses as part of the herd and are deeply bonded with their diminutive equine friends. But an individual attachment like that shared between Mercury and Sirius is unusual. “Mercury and Sirius are different” says Debbie GarciaBengochea, Education Director at Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses. “They became instant best friends.”

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P H OTOS CO U RT ESY G E N T L E C A RO U SE L

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The Maremma Sheepdog

I N SE T M A R E M M A SH E E P D O G P H OTO YAU N N A S O M M E R SBY

Mercury was born on the farm just three months after Sirius. Wherever Mercury went, Sirius was not far behind. “Mercury, with his tiny little hooves, needed to practice walking on different floor surfaces,” recollects GarciaBengochea. “Sirius had huge fluffy paws that look too big for his body. He needed to practice good indoor manners.” Together, they learned how to walk up and down steps, ride in a truck around the farm, and to walk and stand on a lead. When Mercury traveled for a hospital training visit with his mother, Sirius would wait on the farmhouse porch for him to return. Maybe it was because they were both babies at the same time. Maybe it was because Mercury's mom was very comfortable with Maremmas and didn't mind Sirius spending time with her foal. They started playing together, and when they got tired, sleeping together. Now both full grown, the two are almost the same size—Sirius weighs about 100 pounds; Mercury is 120 pounds. (The therapy horses of Gentle

Carousel are on the very small side of miniature horses, many weighing under 100 pounds.) The pair even look alike. Maremma sheepdogs are usually solid white—but not Sirius, who was born with spots. Mercury has spots, too, and an unusual pattern: three white legs and one grey leg; one white ear and one grey ear. “It’s hard to tell them apart from a distance when they are moving together,” says Garcia-Bengochea. As adults, their bond remains undiminished. Mercury and Sirius work together at Gentle Carousel reading programs focused on young, at-risk readers. Sirius is the only dog to attend the reading programs with the horses. The duo even has their own children's book with a positive message about friendship. Meeting them helps bring the story to life for the children. “There is always laughter and excitement,” says Garcia-Bengochea. “They teach an important message for the times: just because we are different doesn't mean we can't be friends.”

Mini Horses, Mighty Hope, a new, inspirational book about the therapy horses will be released this Fall. It includes more stories about Mercury and Sirius and the other Maremma sheepdogs.

“Maremmas are an active breed that need a job to do to stay happy,” says Debbie GarciaBengochea, Education Director at Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses. “They are independent thinkers and behave very differently from herding breeds or livestock guardian dogs that patrol…they feel a strong attachment to the animals they protect.” The breed dates back over 2,000 years to the Italian region of Abruzzo, where they protected herd animals from thieves and wild predators. At the farm, due to the small size of the miniature horses, predators can pose a risk to the herd. Coyotes have become an increasing problem on farms near Gentle Carousel, even in daylight hours—but not at Gentle Carousel. “If one of the dogs barks out an alarm, the entire team of dogs come running, ready to stand together against any intruder,” says Garcia-Bengochea. “Nothing tells predators that they are not welcome like a team of Maremma sheepdogs!”

Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses Based in Ocala, Florida, Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses is an all-volunteer-based nonprofit and one of the largest equine therapy programs in the world. Teams of tiny horses visit over 25,000 adults and children each year, bringing hope and brightening days. The therapy horses have comforted survivors and first responders of the mass shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, CT, and the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, SC. They helped the tornado survivors of Moore, OK, families in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma, and families and first responders after the condo collapse in Surfside, FL. Each year they visit thousands of patients in children's and veteran’s hospitals across the US. moderndogmagazine.com

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CBD Living Pet CBD Soft Chews for Dogs combine CBD and nutritious prebiotics, probiotics, and enzymes with delicious flavors your dog will crave. Available in Peanut Butter Calming, Sweet Potato + Organic Apple Immunity Support, and Bacon Flavor Mobility Support. cbdliving.com

“Dog medicine for the soul.” These 38 poems by Jane Marla Robbins are intimate, funny, moving, insightful and inspiring. The perfect gift for every dog lover. Available at amazon.com

These tasty Bacon Soft Chews from Creating Better Days deliver just the right dose of CBD to your doggo at treat time, every time! Each batch is third-party lab tested, so get some now! creatingbetterdays.com

Get ready for winter walks with Shedrow K9’s waterresistant and fleece-lined Chinook Dog Coat! Use promo code MDSHED15 at checkout for 15% off their entire collection! Visit shedrowk9.com

Dogs deserve a shampoo specially formulated for them! J.R.LIGGETT’s Dog Shampoo for Sensitive Skin is all-natural and 100% detergent-free, helping relieve itchy skin and leaving them feeling clean and silky soft. jrliggett.com

This cute and practical pet feeding mat makes a perfect gift! Made from easy-to-clean, premium-quality neoprene, this mat will last for years. Created by Washington-based artist Sherry Scharschmidt. etsy.com/shop/catsdogswords moderndogmagazine.com

SPECIAL PROMOTION

Gift Guide Inspirational stories about assistance dogs like Freedom, who helps a disabled vet regain her independence and saves her from a house fire. Get 40% off with promo code: DOG40. bakerbookhouse.com Keep your furry friend close this holiday season with custom pet nose pendants from Precious Metal Prints. Modern Dog readers save 20% by entering the code "Modern Dog" at checkout. preciousmetalprints.com

Look stunning in Montana Blue and Clear Swarovski crystal beads necklace and earrings! Each piece features delicate Tibetan Silver Greyhound pendants. Your purchase helps end Greyhound racing worldwide. grey2k.org/jewelry

Anyone with a love of dogs and a desire for clarity, have a source for those reflections in this “DogDala Coloring Book.” Over 50 dog mandalas, mantras, and affirmations are included. leftpawpress.com

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Keep your pet safe, seen, and comfortable anywhere you go in a Headlight Harness. Highly reflective, water-resistant, and lightweight, it is the only dog harness you will ever need! headlightharness.com/shop

Give the gift of health by purchasing a personalized engraved brick at the prestigious Purina Events Center (includes a keepsake replica brick). Proceeds support canine health research funded by the AKC Canine Health Foundation. akcchf.org/ brick-gift

SPECIAL PROMOTION

Gift Guide

Take care of your pet’s holiday style and the planet with the new EarthStyle Dog Collar from 2Hounds Design. The webbing is made of recycled plastic bottles! Available in 5/8", 1", and 1.5" widths. 2houndsdesign.com Modern, classy, and affordable, Sassy Woof offers high-quality pet products in unique and fashionable designs to make walkies fun while looking stylish from head to paw. Use code MODERNDOG for 10% off at sassywoof.com

Spread the love with the Love Always collection. Cute, lovable designs of your favourite breeds printed on the comfiest sweatshirts and tees. inkopious.com

Discover your dog’s genetic health with the Canine HealthCheck! Test for 250 + diseases and traits commonly found in dogs, with quick results in 14 days or less. caninehealthcheck.com

More toys than FAO Schwartz, more treats than a Mrs. Fields’ warehouse and yet PD thinks he isn’t spoiled. Laugh over PD’s (not!) ruff life in “Get Me Out of Here! Reflections of PD The Put-Upon Pug.” Use code PD123 for 10% off at PDThePugProductions.com or find it on Amazon.com These unique compositions from Elsa Beatriz Art are created by arranging photos of your pets on a chosen background and turning the image into a fun scene! Makes a pawfect gift. oils4u-us.com moderndogmagazine.com

Charlette the Pit Bull

Border Collie Luna with swim instructor Kya Bam.

LIKE A DOG TO WATER: Hydrotherapy & Swimming Lessons For Dogs Written & photographed by Yaunna Sommersby

ontrary to popular belief, not all dogs can swim. Yes, breeds like the Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, and Portuguese Water Dog, bred to work in the water, are often natural-born swimmers and drawn to water. However, most dogs are not natural swimmers and need to be trained before they are completely comfortable being in the water. Top heavy, brachycephalic, or short-legged breeds, such as Bulldogs, can have particular difficulty staying afloat and may require a swim vest. What does it take to train your dog how to swim? “Tons of patience, that’s the number one rule. You cannot throw your dog in the water and expect them to just be okay,” says Kya Bam, an

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instructor and dog trainer at Dog Swim Vancouver. The key is creating a positive environment for your dog through finding ways to make swimming fun and ensuring they actually want to be in the water, says Bam. Paying attention to your dog’s body language during training sessions is crucial. If they are scared or uncomfortable in any way, it will not be a positive experience and they will become afraid of the water. “Find their favourite toy and find what motivates them,” suggests Bam, adding, “It is very difficult to teach a dog who is not food motivated or toy motivated because what we want to do is make sure they want to swim. Get in the water with them, make sure they know it is okay, and take your time.”

Why Teach Your Dog to Swim? Swimming is a great skill for dogs to have in case of an emergency, as a confidence booster, and as a low-impact form of exercise. Swimming can also help dogs rehab from injury. According to the American Kennel Club, hydrotherapy can be beneficial for dogs with neurological problems, ACL issues, and other orthopedic injuries or conditions, as well as those dealing with post-surgical healing and recovery, desired weight loss, and metabolic conditions like Cushing’s and diabetes that can cause muscle atrophy. It’s also great for senior dogs in general. “Hydrotherapy is beneficial for older dogs because when they are between the ages of 10 to 15 years old, they start to have a lot of pain in their joints and muscles. It is easier for them to get the exercise they need without having to stand and have gravity pull them down,” explains Bam. During hydrotherapy sessions, the handler is ensuring the dog is moving their legs and joints properly and creating slight resistance as the dog swims to make sure they are getting the right form of exercise. “Hydrotherapy is different from just a regular swim because an instructor is making sure the dog is doing a constant swim for 30 to 45 minutes in a safe way,” says Ed Light, owner of Dog Swim Vancouver. If you are thinking about trying hydrotherapy sessions at home, be patient with your pup and work in a safe, isolated environment to keep them comfortable and focused, he advises.

CBD & YOUR DOG

CBD is a hemp derivative that contains no more than 0.03% THC and won’t get your dog high. What it does contain is cannabinoids, which interact with the endocannabinoid system to provide the medical and therapeutic benefits seen from CBD oil and treats.

Ways CBD Can Help Your Dog

Pain management

Chronic inflammation

What to look for in a CBD product Is it independently tested? Look for a CBD company that independently tests its products and provides a certificate of analysis.

Nausea

Seizures

What’s the THC level? Hemp-derived CBD should contain no more than 0.03% THC. More could harm your dog, so make sure it falls below this level. Is it organic? Organic products are free from pesticides that could harm your dog. How is the CBD extracted? Safe extraction methods include cold press and carbon dioxide extraction. Steer clear of companies using toxic solvents like propane, hexane or butane to extract the CBD.

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Anxiety & Stress

Arthritis & Joint Pain

Digestive Problems

Cancer symptoms

Oven-baked and crunchy, the Mini Dog Bones from Creating Better Days are made with organic CBD oil and natural ingredients like salmon oil, chicken, oatmeal, and apples. Perfect for dogs of all sizes. ($32, creatingbetterdays.com) CBD Living’s completely water soluble Pet Calming Water Booster can simply be added right to your dog’s water bowl! Made with MCT coconut oil and a broad-spectrum CBD complex, it easily dissolves and doesn’t leave a lasting taste. ($40, cbdliving.com) Pet Releaf Calming Edibites are CBDinfused soft chews with a peanut butter and carob flavour dogs love. Calming ingredients like baobab and chamomile are combined with full-spectrum hemp extract to ease canine anxiety and stress. Available for small, medium, and large breeds. (from $9, petreleaf.com)

D I G E ST I V E P RO B L E MS SI R . V EC TO R / B I G STO CK . CO M ; C A N CE R SYM PTO M S P E N T I -STO C K / B I G STO CK . CO M

The Bacon Flavour Hemp CBD Oil from Happy Buddies Hemp is formulated specifically for dogs who are 25 to 60 pounds. Made with C02 extracted hemp terpenes and organic cold-pressed hemp seed oil, it has a delicious bacon flavour for easy dosing. ($51, happybuddies.org)

I N SE T I CO N S : CH RO N I C I N F L A M M AT I O N D O U B L E B R A I N / B I G STO CK . CO M ; SE I ZU R E S N I CE 17/ B I G STO CK . CO M ; A RT H R I T I S & J O I N T PA I N W I SE _ A N T / B I G STO CK . CO M ;

Suzie’s CBD Soft Chews are softly baked and contain 2 mg of fullspectrum, humangrade, organic CBD oil from their USDA organic farm. Available in Chicken and Turmeric, Beef Bone Broth, and Peanut Butter Carob flavours your pooch will love. ($25, suziespettreats.com)

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All of the following are organic, safely extracted, and third-party lab tested.

Can this legal hemp derivative help your dog?

n the last couple of years, there’s been a lot of buzz around CBD, with many pet parents singing its praises. But just what is CBD, and can it help your dog?

CBD PRODUCTS TO TRY

SPECIAL PROMOTION

WHOLESOME HOUND Products to enhance a healthy canine lifestyle

Keeping your dog well-fed means more than just satisfying their hunger. WellyChef “Homemade Dog Food Done Right” Base Mix makes it easy and simple to make your dog a nutritious meal to feed raw or cooked. Choose a unique recipe and add fresh meat for healthy, balanced dog food. wellychef.com

NOBL Himalayan Cheese Treats with Mint are ethically and sustainably sourced and crafted with only five natural ingredients. All chews are long-lasting and smoked for a distinctive flavour and texture, with their own unique shape to help maintain canine dental health for both small and large dogs. noblfoods.com/chews

I’m-Yunity for dogs is the only clinically proven medicinal mushroom extract of Coriolus versicolor. It helps to reduce your dog’s pain and fatigue while improving energy levels, mobility, and appetite. Start improving your dog’s immunity and quality of life today! Use code "moderndog" for 5% off, and learn about clinical results and rewards programs at buyimyunity.com!

Happy Buddies Hemp CBD oil for Dogs and Cats is a wonderful option for many ailments. From anxiety and stress to pain and inflammation, these completely vegan, all-natural hemp oil products give your pet a healthy alternative that alleviates their symptoms. Dosing is easy with small, medium, and large breed options! happybuddies.org

PetPonia’s hands-free dog leash provides comfort and functionality! Zero-shock technology absorbs bone-jarring jerks between you and your dog. The leash can be attached to the waist or used on its own and the multi-purpose waist bag comes with a cell phone case, a headphone hole, key holder, and a money pocket. petponia.com

Taste the health benefits with Pet Releaf Edibites. Along with the full spectrum hemp extract with naturally occurring CBD, Pet Releaf includes all-natural ingredients in the soft chew Edibites to support a dog’s overall health, as well as functional ingredients in select Edibites products to target specific ailments. petreleaf.com moderndogmagazine.com

Healthy Kibble Additions Add these powerhouse foods to your dog’s dinner for a wellness boost—and a happy pup! By Julie Anne Lee, DCH

If you’re feeding kibble, fear not. It’s easy to add whole, fresh foods that provide

a variety of antioxidants, omegas, and diverse proteins to your dog’s diet, increasing nutritional value.

Healthy Kibble Additions When it comes to giving kibble a healthy boost, you can’t beat these foods. No brainer: meat! Dogs are in fact omnivorous but have a natural carnivorous bias, meaning their ideal diet is primarily meat. If you eat meat, so long as it isn’t full of fat or spiced, save some for your furry family member.

FERMENTED FOODS Fermented foods help support a healthier gut microbiome, which leads to a stronger immune system, decreased inflammation, and increased metabolites that actually turn your dog’s food into vitamins. One of my favourites is raw kefir. I haven’t met a dog yet who didn’t lick their bowl clean. Start off with a tablespoon per 10 pounds of bodyweight. Make sure you’re getting kefir that isn’t flavoured! Fermented vegetables are also a great addition but go slow. Some dogs just don’t like the taste while other dogs love them, so you need to start slowly to see. You also want to introduce slowly to see how your dog digests it. I like to add fermented greens. You can often find these in the frozen food section at your pet store. Other great options are sauerkraut and fermented beans. Carrots are okay, just be careful because they’re high in sugar. This is particularly important for dogs with yeast. Stay away from added salt, sugar, and spices, and, of course, no onions. To feed, simply add a teaspoon or so to your pet’s food a few times a week.

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SAU E R K R AU T P H OTO AT L A SST U D I O / B I G STO CK . CO M

o matter what species you are, eating more fresh fruits and vegetables and less processed foods is vital for health and longevity. This includes our dogs. Factors that age a human’s cells and cause disease also do the same for dogs, so it’s only natural that your dog will also benefit from eating food that is less processed.

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Kefir

Sardines may be little, but they pack a punch! First off, they’re full of omega-3 fatty acids, which support skin, joint, immune, and heart health. They also contain vitamins B12 and D, calcium, coenzyme Q10, minerals (niacin, iron, potassium, zinc, magnesium, and phosphorus), and protein. You can serve fresh, frozen, or canned sardines. If you choose canned, make sure they’re in spring water, without salt, and not oil or hot sauce or with any type of seasonings. You can add a tin of sardines a few times a week for variety!

FRUITS & VEGGIES

These foods speak for themselves. The more diverse, the better. Different fruits are packed with antioxidants, vital vitamins and minerals, and polyphenols. Stay away from onions, grapes, and tomatoes, and keep peppers and carrots in moderation. Remember to keep fruits and veggies at around a max of 10 percent of your dog’s diet.

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Your dog can eat an entire egg—shell and all. In fact, the shell and the thin membrane on the inside of the shell are packed full of nutrients. When you crack the egg, gently peel back that thin eggshell membrane and add that to food, and then dry out the shells and

“YOUR DOG CAN EAT AN ENTIRE EGG—SHELL AND ALL. IN FACT, THE SHELL AND THE THIN MEMBRANE ON THE INSIDE OF THE SHELL ARE PACKED FULL OF NUTRIENTS.” crush them into a powder and sprinkle on top (just make sure you only feed shells from organic eggs. Eggs you get from the grocery store are often washed in disinfectant). Add an egg to your pet’s bowl once or twice a week. If you’re not comfortable with raw, lightly cook eggs (no oil or butter) before serving.

BONE BROTH

I love bone broth, especially for senior dogs, because of the collagen it contains. All that collagen in the broth helps support healthy joints! It’s also beneficial for skin health, digestion, detoxing the liver, and it’s just generally full of healthy nutrition. An added bonus is that bone broth is hearty, but gentle, and is ideal for pups with an upset stomach, or as a reintroduction to food after a bout of diarrhea. You can buy ready-made bone broth or make it yourself. If you buy one, make sure it’s for dogs. To make it, place a few bones in the crockpot with some water and apple cider vinegar and you’re off to the races! Find a recipe at moderndogmagazine.com/bone-broth. To feed, just spoon a tablespoon or two on top of your dog’s regular food. Bone broth can be added to every meal. When I look at health and wellness, mental health and joy are equally at the top of my list. Adding additional yummy foods can not only exponentially enhance your dog’s health, but the joy they get from not having to eat the same thing every day speaks volumes. And remember, when your dog is happy, all those happy hormones multiply in the body, providing vitality you can’t find anywhere else! 

Bone broth, ready to serve! Give your dog’s dinner a boost with the Pork Bone Broth from Primal Pet Foods! Organic ingredients like collagen-rich broth, carrots, butternut squash, and turmeric help support joint health, digestion, and liver health. (from $10, primalpetfoods.com)

B LU E B E R R Y P H OTO N . SA M O RO DSK A I A / B I G STO CK . CO M ; EG G P H OTO M O H A M E D G H A Z Y / B I G STO CK . CO M ; B O N E B ROT H P H OTO QWA RT / B I G STO CK . CO M

2 SARDINES

Eggs are one of the most complete and nutritious foods on the planet! They’re a powerhouse, packed with vital nutrition, including protein, essential amino and fatty acids, vitamins, folate, iron, selenium, antioxidants, taurine, zinc, and riboflavin, all of which provide an array of health benefits for dogs.

SA R D I N E P H OTO DA B O O ST / B I G STO CK . CO M ; CU CU M B E R P H OTO R E E FA S / B I G STO CK . CO M ; B E A N P H OTO N ATA L I A Z A K H A ROVA / B I G STO CK . CO M ; ST R AW B E R R Y P H OTO N E W A F R I C A / B I G S TO C K . CO M ;

EGGS

WESTMINSTER 2022: Historic dog show returns home to the Big Apple

By Yaunna Sommersby

og fanatics who annually watch the historic Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show know the 2021 show featured some major event changes. Moving the show to the Lyndhurst Estate in Tarrytown, New York marked the first time Westminster was held outdoors and not in the heart of New York City. The regular February date was bumped to June. And due to Covid, spectators were not allowed; attendance was limited to show personnel and exhibitors only, which meant the show also did not feature the usual benching area where spectators can meet and greet (and pet) the canine competitors backstage. For the upcoming show—the 146th annual—the WKC team is heading back to Madison Square Garden for the evening events, and Pier 36 will be used for all of the daytime events throughout Westminster week. Of note, this will be first time in Westminster history that the event is being held in January. Mark your calendars: the show takes place January 22 – 26, 2022. Westminster week will kick off with the Masters Agility Championship being held at Pier 36 on Saturday, January 22. Daily breed judging, Junior Showmanship preliminary rounds, and the Masters Obedience Championship will be held during the day at Pier 36 Monday through Wednesday, January 24 – 26. The evening events at Madison Square

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Garden on Tuesday and Wednesday will include the Junior Showmanship finals, judging of the seven groups, and Best in Show. Like the year before, the 2022 show will be unbenched, though “we are excited to invite spectators back for the evening group judging and Best in Show at Madison Square Garden,” says Gail Miller Bisher, Director of Communications for The Westminster Kennel Club. (Pier 36 events will be limited to essential show personnel.) The WKC team is currently anticipating that nearly 3,000 champion dogs (and their humans) will be travelling to New York City to compete in the conformation, agility, obedience, and junior showmanship events. “There will not be any new breeds joining us this year, but both the Russian Toy and Mudi will be eligible to compete in the 2023 show. For 2022, we want to encourage our fans to learn about some of the rare breeds that will be at the show like the Skye Terrier and Sussex Spaniel,” notes Miller Bisher. Planning to watch from home and root for your favourite breeds? Select daytime Breed Judging will be telecast live on FS2 while pre-show coverage and evening Group Judging and Best in Show will be telecast live on FS1. More updates will be available at westminsterkennelclub.org and on the WKC App.

P H OTO J . G R A SSA F O R W KC

THE RETURN TO MADISON SQUARE GARDEN

INSPIRE

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THE AMAZING RESCUE RELAY The all-volunteer feel-good feat of coordination that transports rescue dogs to awaiting ‘furever’ homes By Susan Kauffmann | Illustration by Michelle Simpson

hen I found myself smitten with Bodie, an Australian Shepherd cross available for adoption on Petfinder.com, I was downcast to learn that Heartstrings Animal Advocates (HAA), the rescue organization that had him in their foster care program, was in Kansas, over 1,500 miles away from my northern Nevada home. Since many rescues only adopt pets to homes within a small local radius, I figured I didn't have a chance of getting Bodie. Even if HAA was willing to let my husband and I adopt him, I had no idea how we would get the dog to Nevada. Still, I sent an inquiry, as I just couldn't get Bodie's happy, intelligent face out of my mind.

Imagine my joy and surprise when HAA said that they actually do adopt pets to good homes all over the country, and that they could even arrange to get Bodie to me—for free. While this sounded too good to be true, it turns out that this phenomenal group of people often take time out of their busy lives to drive pets to their new homes, but when the distances are too great, they work with several volunteer transportation organizations that coordinate drivers in elaborate "relays" to get the pets to wherever it is they are going. One of the organizations that HAA frequently works with on transportation efforts is Just A Girl Moving Dogs (JGMD). However, don't let the humble name fool you: While JGMD might have started out in late 2019 with

moderndogmagazine.com

just one girl, they are now a wellcoordinated network of nearly 2,700 volunteers who have transported more than 600 animals all over the United States in just two years of operation. While most of the animals they move are dogs, they have also transported cats, birds, hedgehogs, turtles and tortoises, and, once, even a piglet. JGMD's founder is Eryn Avis (on Facebook as Eryn Leather), a disabled U.S. Marine Corps Veteran who started coordinating transport runs when a degenerative spine condition made it too painful for her to keep driving dogs herself every weekend. “I still wanted to be involved,” she says, “and doing transport is a really uplifting, rewarding aspect of animal rescue work, as we are taking these animals to their new start in wonderful ‘furever’ homes.” Yet as rewarding as it is, coordinating these rescue runs is a complicated endeavor that requires time, dedication, and serious organizational chops. Asked about how it all works, Avis explains, "JGMD is a volunteer relay group that offers a no-fee transport service to rescues, fosters, adopters, military personnel, and we also assist with domestic violence cases and 'return to owners' (lost & stolen animals). We build our runs as a string of ‘legs,’ where one driver will drive 70 to 100 miles (1 - 1.5 hours) to the next driver, who takes the next leg and so on, until we come to an overnight, where the fur baby (or shell baby, as we are partnered with a tortoise rescue as well), rests for the night to start all over again, until we reach the final destination.” Moving so many animals—some coming out of difficult situations that may have led to behavioural issues— means that each run is different and comes with its own obstacles and challenges.

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“

Getting that many people of all different backgrounds and beliefs to come together for a common goal is such a positive— especially these days. "We build each run specific to the animals we are transporting, so we try to head off any potential problems before the run even starts,” says Avis. “For example, if the animal has a high level of ‘stranger danger’ we take a little longer on transfers so they can get to know the next driver and feel safe. We also treat all the animals on transport as if they were extreme flight risks, which means always doing twoleash transfers using both a harness and a collar, tethering from a harness when needed, and crating the animal while in motion when needed.” Another constant challenge is dealing with so many different human personalities on every run, though for Avis, this is one of the greatest joys as well. “We consistently have 200+ volunteers under our belt at any given time,” she says, “and it can be a bit to wrangle them all, but it always works out in the end. Getting that many people of all different backgrounds and beliefs to come together for a common goal is such a positive— especially these days.”

P H OTO C I N DY RO G E R S

Susan Kauffmann and Bodie

Each trip also presents logistical complexities, especially when the journey is thousands of miles. JGMD does several coast-to-coast crosscountry runs each month (their longest was Key West, FL to Lodi, CA — 3,546 miles), and the routes can get a little convoluted at times. “We can't always build the runs the shortest way, as we have to go where the available and willing volunteers are,” says Avis. Filling the runs can be difficult, which is why, despite the number of people they already have on their lists, JGMD desperately needs more volunteers. “People simply can't imagine how great the need is, now more than ever," states Avis, “and when you realize that every dog we move to their new home opens up a spot for a rescue to save another dog's life, it is heartbreaking to have to say no.” The volunteers at Heartstrings Animal Advocates are also dealing with the gut-wrenching reality of overwhelming numbers these days,

in part due to the Covid pandemic. According to Alison Hoover, a board member who has fostered 237 dogs for HAA and spends every weekend transporting, event coordinating, and more, “a lot of people who were staying home during the first part of the pandemic adopted pets, but now that they're heading back to work, they're dumping those animals right and left. Vets also couldn't keep up with spaying and neutering, so we're seeing an unbelievable increase in the numbers of puppies and kittens, too." The sad fact is that rescues are never able to keep up with demand, but the current situation is taking a toll on volunteers like Hoover. “The hardest thing for me,” she relates, “is having to say, ‘I'm sorry, we don't have any available fosters to take that dog in,' knowing the dog will be put to sleep that day because I personally didn't take in just one more. It doesn't matter that I have six of my own and anywhere from five to 18 foster dogs at a time.  moderndogmagazine.com

Makenna with one of the JGMD rescues.

Dolly with Denny

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When you draw a limit on what you can handle, innocent dogs die, and that hurts. It's frustrating to feel that guilt when the irresponsible people who contribute to the overpopulation problem and those who dump their animals feel none." Hoover's 17-yearold daughter, Makenna, shares her mother's dedication to helping animals and also struggles with the life-anddeath decisions that are such a large part of animal rescue. Yet despite the heart-rending and sometimes exhausting work, Makenna absolutely loves helping the ones they are able to save. As she explains, "Seeing dogs that have never felt a kind hand, dogs that duck and run when you go to give them a gentle pat—that's always so sad. But when you see the most damaged dogs go from being scared, starved, injured, and emotionally shut down to being happy dogs that get to live their best lives carefree—that is incredible and makes it all worth it.” HAA board member Missy Driscoll adds that sometimes, it's the little things that keep volunteers like her going. “For me,” she says, “the rewards come from watching a shutdown animal play for the first time ever in their life. Seeing the look of sadness, fear, confusion, and defeat leave their eyes. That first lick/kiss showing they trust and love you. Watching them slip into a relieved, deep sleep when they're out of the shelter and in a foster home because they know they can finally relax. Finding the most amazing family and knowing the pet's life will only continue to get better. Getting pics of an adopter's children playing ‘foster’ and ‘adoption,’ and hoping we've planted a small seed in the next generation that may continue to change the world.”

—Eryn Avis If you also hope for a better world for companion animals, the volunteers at HAA and JGMD invite you to explore ways to get involved. Wherever you live, there is likely a rescue group that could use more hands-on help with things like fostering and fundraising events, and they can always put donations to good use. Short of cash? Consider asking the rescue if they could use donations of toys, towels, and blankets, then see what you can rustle up from your friends and neighbours. And, if you would like to be part of Just A Girl Moving Dogs' incredible network of rescue relay drivers or help with coordinating runs, get in touch with Eryn Leather on Facebook. Lastly, Amazon shoppers can choose to automatically donate to a non-profit of their choice through the Amazon Smile program, and it costs you absolutely nothing! Check it out at smile.amazon.com. 

I N S E T P H OTO # 2 H E A RT S T R I N G S A N I M A L A DVO C AT E S

Foster transport is a team sport, saving babies one leg at a time!

I N S E T P H OTO # 1 A N D # 3 J U S T A G I R L M OV I N G D O G S ;

Over nine days, King, pictured here with Eryn Avis, travelled more than 2800 miles through 13 states to get to his new home. The trip required 26 volunteers over 34 legs, two overnights, and one short-term foster.

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THE FIX: How To Tire Out a High Energy Dog Tips, tricks, and strategies for tiring out a dog with “way too much energy” | By Sue Alexander “My energetic dog is driving me crazy! How can I tire my dog out?” I often hear this from my clients when their young dogs hit adolescence. Your lovely puppy—the one who used to sleep through the night with a quick walk around the block twice in a day—has suddenly turned into an exercise-consuming monster! It can often feel like we just can’t tire our dogs out. If your couch cuddle buddy is racing around your living room like a Tasmanian Devil, here’s what to do:

Is your dog actually over-tired? Before adding in another walk or trip to the dog run, it is important to take stock. Many dogs who seem to need a lot of exercise are in fact overtired, so before increasing exercise, make sure that your dog has sufficient time to rest each day and overnight. The easiest way to find out if rest is the real issue is to give your dog a nap for one to three hours in his crate or quiet space every day for two weeks to see if this makes a difference. The first few days may be rocky with this

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new regime; however, many people find that their previously energizer puppy becomes much more settled when he starts getting a daily nap.

What exercise is your dog actually getting? (a leashed walk = zero aerobic exercise) Next, look at what you are already doing. Do you walk your dog on leash? This is effectively no aerobic exercise at all for most dogs. Participating in dog sports such as agility or disc dog can really help to increase your dog’s aerobic capacity and burn off some of the edge. Both sports will introduce you to activities such as fetch and tug as part of the game, and these activities are great for tiring out your dog a couple of days each week. (Note: If you use them as your only exercise, though, they can actually create a tug or fetch monster who demands the game when ever he or she is at loose ends, but playing vigorously every other day can often substitute for a real run a few times a week.)

P H OT O #1 , #3, #4 , #6, #7, #8, A N D #1 0 L I F E O N W H I T E / B I G S TO CK . CO M ; P H OTO #2 E R I K L A M / B I G STO CK . CO M ;

P H OTO # 5 C A R M O N A G U E R R E RO / B I G S TO C K . CO M ; P H OTO # 9 M A SA R I K / B I G S TO C K . CO M

A dog who gets exercised when they are already racing through the house will learn very quickly that barking, running, jumping the coffee table, and generally tearing up your life results in fun activities for dogs. Don’t reward jumping around

of the Most Energetic Dog Breeds, according to AKC Executive Secretary and dog breed expert Gina DiNardo 1. Border Collie: The Border Collie is intelligent with a high drive and tons of energy. They make great running partners. 2. Australian Shepherd: This expert herder is very energetic. Aussies need daily vigorous exercise.

Excessive racing and running around is often not the same as excessive energy. Dogs can learn that racing and running around the house results in more fun things to do with you, leading to more racing and running around the house. Before any exercise, I recommend to my clients that they teach their dogs to do a ten-minute down stay. This does not mean that the dog must play statue for ten minutes; it means that you have tethered your dog to something solid and told him to lie down. As long as he is lying down, he gets treats, delivered one at a time by you. In between treats, you can take a few steps, whistle a tune, do a jumping jack or even clean the kitchen. I know my dogs are aching for their walks when they go lie on their mats and relax really deeply because they have never had vigorous exercise when they have been throwing themselves around the room. Dogs who gets exercised when they are already racing through the house will learn very quickly that barking, running, jumping the coffee table, and generally tearing up your life results in fun activities for dogs. If this sounds like your dog, you may want to exercise him a little to take the edge off, and then do a down stay before taking him out for his main fun exercise!

3. Irish Setter: The Irish Setter is an extremely high-energy breed. They love to run and need plenty of exercise.

Starting and finishing with quiet time is essential to avoiding the exercise monster! More than 90 percent of the dogs in my practice who are excessively energetic are operantly energetic—they have never learned to be quiet and calm unless they are physically exhausted. That is why rest plays such a crucial role in managing overly energetic dogs.

7. Golden Retriever: Goldens have a lot of energy, are intelligent, and active.

Also remember that what looks like excessive energy can actually be an attention issue in which the dog has not yet learned the ability/discipline needed to self-regulate. Enforced rest before and after exercise helps.

Strength training & stretching Aerobic exercise is important, but too often we neglect activities such as strength training and stretching. Teaching dogs tricks such as sit pretty and high five help them to stay limber and that is an important part of exercise too. Other ways to get your dog to stretch include going around things (trees, fire hydrants, and traffic cones make excellent obstacles), high-stepping slowly over obstacles such as children’s playground equipment, and creeping and crawling under obstacles. 

4. Siberian Husky: Huskies have incredible endurance, needing daily running in a safely fenced-in area. They do great with cold weather outdoor sports, such as sledding. 5. Dalmatian: This is a high-energy breed known for its speed and endurance. Dalmatians need daily, vigorous exercise. 6. Labrador Retriever: Labs are wonderful family dogs and are very high energy. They are smart, eager to please, and love to run around.

8. Russell Terrier: The Russell Terrier is a good choice for an active family. These dogs have a lot of energy and need plenty of interactive play. 9. Pembroke Welsh Corgi: Pembroke Welsh Corgis are a lot of dog in a little package. They’re athletic and love physical activity. 10. Beagle: These curious dogs are quick and energetic. Beagles need plenty of mental and physical stimulation to keep them from following their noses into trouble.

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• Try a flirt pole (Essentially a long pole with a long string attached and a lure, such as a dog toy, attached at the end) • Teach Frisbee • Make a date with another dog; trail hiking in the company of dog friends is the highest quality exercise you can give your dog!

Tire out your dog inside the house with these exercises: Strength training can be achieved with core challenges such as sit/down/ stand/stand-on-your-hindlegs/down/ sit/stand reps. These changes of position can be easily achieved in your den, without ever leaving home. Once your dog can easily do twenty five reps, you are ready to decrease the number of reps and increase the difficulty by getting your dog to work with an unstable surface such as a Fit Paws or even an old couch cushion. Another great strength training game is to teach your dog to do stairs. This is an incredibly energy consuming exercise. Ten minutes of up and down and the dogs are wiped. (Don’t use stairs that are slippery!) Here’s how it works: have your dog sit and wait at the bottom of a flight of stairs then let them take a treat off the bottom step. Call your dog back off the stairs to repeat, but this time put the treat on the second step. Keep increasing one step at a time until your dog starts to take the steps two or more at a time. At that point, go to the top of the stairs, and repeat the game going down the steps. Keep changing your starting point every time the dog stops climbing the stairs and starts bounding.

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Cycling With Your Dog Cycling (and blading!) has the potential to tire a dog out quickly. When I cycle with dogs, I choose cool days where the pavement is not going to blister feet, and I stick to trotting. With cycling, safety (for you and your dog) needs to be the foremost concern. Be sure to work up to longer work outs to avoid injury. I start dogs with five minutes of trotting and one minute of walking X 4, three times a week and work up. Dogs are “blood doped” meaning that they have more red blood cells per unit of blood than we do. What this means is that dogs can do the weekend warrior thing quite easily, however, that does not prepare their muscles and joints for zero to full-out exercise. {Editor’s Pick} The Bike Tow Leash bike-leash attachment allows you to safely cycle with your dog, giving you the ability to tire out even the most energetic canines in a short period of time. Installed in seconds, this attachment keeps your dog at a safe distance of 29 inches and prevents bike tipping, entrapment, tangling, and inadvertent release. With its low mounting point, Bike Tow Leash is stable even when large dogs lunge at, say, a squirrel. And it can be used with bikes, trikes, scooters, and wheelchairs with dogs weighing 10 to 185 pounds. ($146, biketowleash.com)

E D I TO R ' S P I C K P H OTO CO U RT E S Y O F B I K E TO W L E A S H

• Swap the food bowl for a treat puzzle

E D G A R B U L LO N / B I G S TO C K . CO M ; R E D B A L L P H OTO E L B U D / S H U T T E R S T O C K . CO M ;

5 T I PS F O R H I G H - E N E RGY D O G S P H OTO S M R M 19 7 7 / B I G S T O C K . CO M ; H I T T H E W AT E R P H OT O

5 TIPS FOR HIGH-ENERGY DOGS

Hit the water! Perhaps my all-time favourite exercise for dogs combines aerobic, strength, and flexibility: swimming! Swimming is a wonderfully low impact, high output exercise for dogs. If you have a natural body of water, getting your dog into the water and helping them to learn to swim can really burn off the energy quickly and safely. Swimming leads to all sorts of fun with your canine friend. You can do dock diving (formally or informally; all you need is a dock and something for your dog to fetch), being pulled on a stand-up paddle board, throwing a floating toy from the shore, or just swimming together. 

YOUR NEW

morning ROUTINE

• 10 minute down-stay while you prepare for your walk. Tether your dog before starting and feed treats. • 30-minute walk at a brisk pace • 5-minute training session (tricks, behaviours, tiny treats) • 5 minutes of quiet time together once you return home • Breakfast in a puzzle toy or slow feeder while you get ready to go to work.

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

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DOG LIFE

GETTING A PUPPY AFTER LOSING YOUR

HEART DOG The dog that changed everything and the dog that comes next

inding your heart dog is one of the most profoundly beautiful things you can experience in this lifetime. It’s such an unexpected gift—wrapped in fur and tied with a poop-bag closing bow. Just when you think you have yourself all figured out, a dog finds you, cracks open the hard, real-world exterior you’ve worked so hard to build, and together (without even meaning to) you expose your hopes, dreams, and ambitions. It’s a rollercoaster, a love like no other, a oncein-a-lifetime connection that opens up a portal to your soul. Sometimes it takes you back to your childhood self to breathe life back into old dreams, and in others it pushes you forward, forcing you to engage in life, live in the present, and actualize new goals and aspirations. The by-product of either path is a deep inner knowing that is often lost in the busy hustle-bustle of adult life… and, in that, you find yourself; you find home. But time is a funny villain and eventually the thing that once built this magical connection, this bond you never knew you needed, then turns around and steals it away. And when you lose that dog—your heart dog, your everything—it’s like the world collapses around you. You want to scream about the unfairness of it all: Why him? Why her? Why me? Why now? And you swear you will never open yourself up like that again. How could you? It’s not a bond that could EVER be duplicated or replaced. And you wonder how other people move on and get new dogs. The short answer is: they don’t. At least not easily and sometimes not on purpose. The reality is that the decision to get a puppy after losing your heart dog is a hard one, filled with doubt and mixed emotions. Maybe you feel like you’re ready, that you’ve

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given it time and embraced the grieving process. Or maybe the lingering sadness that you so desperately wish would go away remains, haunting you with every “on-this-day” memory that pops up on your iPhone. More than likely—and depending on the day—it’s both. And as you cling to your other pets, or adopt friends or family’s pets as surrogates in the wake of your profound loss, there are just so many questions: When IS the right time? Will a new dog make it better or worse? Am I betraying the memory of my heart dog? And if I do fall in love again—if that’s even possible—am I ready for the pain that accompanies the inevitable truth that the lifespan of a dog is eclipsed by human years? Can I go through that again? But dogs are tricky: they find you when you least expect it (and often when you need it most). And as you contemplate the impossible decision of getting a new dog, that same “dog-magic” that brought you your heart dog starts to quietly buzz again. Everyone has his or her own version of it. Some people think that a new puppy is a love letter from their heart dog— your dog’s way of softening your grief. Others think it’s a

P H OTOS CI N DY H U G H ES , M U D DY LOV E P E T P H OTO G R A P H Y

By Sonia Jones

reincarnation of the same dog, sent back with a slightly different purpose and lesson. But as you cling to the guilt you feel, beating yourself up for even considering that your heart dog could be replaced, a puppy “appears.” Maybe on a site, or someone sends you a link to a puppy with the note “I know you’re not ready, but…” And at first you think, no, it’s not the right time. “It’s not my puppy,” you tell yourself. “It’s meant for someone else.” “But maybe…? In another lifetime… if only…” Pretty soon you can’t stop thinking about it, that puppy… someone else’s puppy. “It looks like a Charlie. Or a Lucy.” "Is it a boy or a girl? It wouldn’t hurt to check…” And as you start to read the stats, something in your heart shifts. At first, it’s painful, part of a series of emotions you’d carefully tucked away when you lost your heart dog. Followed by a twinge of guilt for pushing past the pain to even look. And finally on the back of that comes the excitement and sheer joy of possibly knowing the love of a dog again. And maybe Charlie’s not yours, but the page that seemed so permanent, so stuck, starts to turn, making way for the story to begin again… Dog magic.

The next pup doesn’t have to be like your heart dog, but if you’re lucky some of his/her traits will help you remember your dog in the best possible way, in a way you might not have without a nudge of remembrance from your new pup. And even if this isn’t the case, you’ll love your new puppy ridiculously, go on new adventures, and have new experiences you’ll never EVER regret. And it’s okay to miss them, this magical mythical creature called a heart-dog. It’s okay to wish your dog back at any cost and feel like your loyalties are torn between past and present, then and now—to be willing to give up ANYTHING to mush all of your dog chapters together and have them all at once, layered on top of each other like a security blanket. They are the dog that changed everything and the dog that came next— and that’s okay. They’re both part of the greater love story that exists when you allow your life and your heart to be transformed by the love of a dog. And if it helps, just know a dog chose this life for you, this legacy of hair encrusted dinners, of muddy paws—of love. And before you know it, you’re back in it… heart completely invested in this next chapter of your journey, the next 12 to 15 years of your life, bookended by the lifespan of a dog.

The next pup doesn’t have to be like your heart dog, but if you’re lucky some of his/ her traits will help you remember your dog in the best possible way.

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16 FUN DOG FINDS UNDER $100 Staff favourites, all under $100!

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FIND YOUR DREAM DOG:

SHELTER DOG TEMPERAMENT TESTING How to assess the personality and temperament of your potential new best friend By Teoti Anderson

“Great watchdog” means the dog barks at everything. “Would be perfect for agility” sounds like the dog is hyper and treats furniture like a trampoline. “Would prefer to be an only dog” is a nice way of saying Fido hates other dogs and might eat them. When deciding on a new canine companion to bring home, you need to bypass the propaganda. How can you figure out who a dog really is? Start with the Rescue Group or Shelter Before you even look at dogs, it’s important to research where he comes from. There are many wonderful, ethical rescue organizations out there. There are also some terrible ones who may not be honest about a dog’s health

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or temperament. Rescue groups are experiencing increased scrutiny these days for placing dangerous dogs in homes, with no warning. A big-hearted, unsuspecting family takes a dog into their home, only to find out he is not as advertised. It may be a minor inconvenience to choose a dog who is allegedly housetrained, only for him to have accidents throughout your home. It’s another thing entirely to choose a dog who is supposed to be safe with your kids, only to find out he’s not at all. Here is a question to ask: How many of your dogs are returned? Rescue groups love to tout adoption rates, but those numbers can be tricky. If a dog is returned three times, that may count as three adoptions. You

want to find out how many dogs don’t work out in their homes and come back to the organization. There will always be cases in which it was an honest effort that didn’t turn out, but if you see high percentages of return, it may mean the shelter is not very good at screening potential adopters. It could also mean they are adopting out dogs that are frankly unadoptable. If a group won’t even tell you its return rate, look elsewhere. Playing Matchmaker It’s easy to fall in love with a pair of brown eyes in a fluffy face, but when adopting a dog, it’s important to use your head as well as follow your heart. If you see a dog that catches your fancy, ask these questions:

P H OTO H E D G E H O G 94/ SH U TT E R STO CK . CO M

ave you ever shopped for a house? Real estate advertising can often be misleading. A “charming home, perfect for firsttime buyers” translates to the house is the size of a shoebox. “Quaint cottage” means the plumbing is ancient and electricity nowhere near to code. When looking for a home, you need to learn to read between the lines to find the real house within. Is it your dream home or a disaster? This also applies when looking through the ads for rescue dogs.

• Does he ignore you and only explore the room, sniffing everything? This dog is not as social. He could be independent, a good fit for someone who works out of the home or doesn’t want a dog that follows them around. He could also be anxious. Keep in mind a dog that is not social to people is not invested in working with them. Proceed with caution. • Does the dog actively avoid you? A fearful dog may be cowering in the corner with his tail between his legs. Remember that shelters are inherently stressful. Ignore him. Give him space and see if he gains confidence enough to approach and be social. 1. Why is this dog in rescue? 2. Why did the owner surrender the dog to rescue? 3. What is the dog’s current health status? Does he have any health issues that require medication, special diet, physical restrictions, etc.? Ask for copies of all veterinary records. 4. Has this dog ever been adopted out before? If yes, why is he back? 5. Has the dog ever growled at anyone to your knowledge? Ever bitten anyone? Is he friendly towards children? 6. Is this dog friendly with other dogs? Cats? 7. What kind of training has he had? Does he know any behaviours? 8. Is this dog housetrained? 9. Would you adopt this dog if you could? 10. If the dog has been fostered, can you speak with the foster parents and find out more about his personality? If you like the answers to these questions, now it’s time to actually screen the dog to see if he will be a good match for your family. Sociability for Success A dog who is social enjoys people. This is a common key to successful adoptions. You want a dog who cares about you and wants to work with you. When you meet your potential friend, try to meet in a room he’s never been in before. Give the dog a minute or two to get comfortable and familiar with the new surroundings. Sit in a chair and relax and see what he does. (Keep in mind that all shelter dogs are in a stressful situation and this affects their behaviour.)

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• Does the dog try to nip you? Growl when you approach? Dogs can act aggressively due to fear, but this dog will need work. If he is barking and lunging, these are major red flags. Remember that if you end up having to return the dog to the shelter, his return history will make it harder for him to find another home. Tests: Drop your keys on the floor and see how the dog reacts to a sudden noise. Ask if there is a play area where you can see how the dog interacts with other dogs. Ask if you can take the dog for a walk. Observe how the dog reacts to cars, bikes, sirens, children you may pass. Just because a dog is in rescue doesn’t mean he’s broken. Dogs end up in rescue for tons of reasons. You deserve a dog that will work well for your family. Please don’t let guilt be your guide. It’s easy to melt into a puddle when you see a dog cowering under a chair, flinching at your every move, but realize this dog will be a project. Love is never enough to fix a dog. Extremely fearful dogs require behaviour modification, sometimes medication, training, compassion, money, and patience in order to make progress. A dog that already has a bite history may be “misunderstood,” but he’s also a legal liability. If you want a “fixer upper,” by all means adopt a challenge. But know what you’re getting into before you bring the dog home. Talk with your veterinarian and a professional trainer or behaviourist to find out what it will take to work with a dog who is aggressive or fearful. Otherwise, you could be taking on more than you can handle. Will it take time to find the perfect companion? Yes. Once you have your new best friend home and he fits so well into your life, you’ll understand he was totally worth the effort! 

P H OTO S I M X A / S H U TT E R S TO C K . CO M

• Does he try and engage with you? Kiss you? Act all wiggly and curvy, eager for you to pet him? Excellent!

moderndogmagazine.com

8 DOG FACTS

Though a slower sprinter than the Greyhound, the Saluki is faster over longer distances, running upwards of 35 mph. It is one of the oldest dog breeds. Remains of this ancient sighthound have been found in Egyptian tombs, and depictions of a slender dog with feathered ears, tails, and legs have been discovered on Middle Eastern artifacts dating back more than 5,000 years. Though delicate looking, these dogs can go the distance. They hunted with their nomadic owners, Arab tribesman who applied nut oil to harden and protect their dogs’ feet against harsh terrain.

By Isabelle Orr

Poop Preference

Dogs do their business in alignment with the Earth’s magnetic field, a study published in the journal Frontiers in Zoology revealed. In a free-roaming environment without directional variables, dogs preferred to “excrete with the body being aligned with the north-south axis.”

Your Empathetic Dog Blue Bloods Chow Chows are known for their ink-blue tongues. However, the unique breed is initially born with a pink tongue, and the blue pigment develops as their eyes open.

Have you ever caught a yawn from someone else? You’re not alone. Psychologist Ramiro Joly-Mascheroni from the University of London demonstrated that the sight and sound of human yawns are also contagious to domesticated dogs. This is thought to be indicative of dogs’ capacity for empathy towards humans.

This Breed Takes the Plunge As their name suggests, Otterhounds were bred for hunting otters across water and land. Not a breed to shy away from a plunge, Otterhounds drink from the bottom of their water bowls, submerging their whole head (and making a huge mess!).

Want Her Number? Get a Dog A Bull Terrier’s Enduring Legacy

There’s a Dog in our Midst!

Patsy Ann, an English Bull Terrier, was dubbed the “Official Greeter of Juneau, Alaska.” Though Patsy Ann was born deaf, she had a knack for “hearing” ship whistles before they were visible to the human eye. From 1929-1942 she would wait on the correct dock and welcome ships as they pulled in. 50 years after her death, her statue was commissioned by the Friends of Patsy Ann and installed on the wharf she knew so well, where she continues to greet locals and visitors alike.

The Komondor’s unique coat isn’t just a chic style choice—it’s camouflage! Unsuspecting wolves would target a flock of sheep, only to find a fierce, woolly Komondor hidden in their midst.

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Turns out having a pet does make you more attractive. A study undertaken by Nicolas Gueguen, a psychology professor at the University of Bretagne-Sud, and his colleague Serge Ciccotti revealed that women were three times as likely to give their number to a man if he had a dog with him.

G E T H E R N U M B E R I CO N X A N SA / B I G STO CK . CO M

An Ancient Beauty with Fleet Feet

YO U R E M PAT H E T I C D O G I CO N V KO O K D ESI G N / B I G STO CK . CO M ; OTT E R H O U N D P H OTO LO U R D ES P H OTO G R A P H Y / SH U TT E R STO CK . CO M ; KO M O N D O R P H OTO E V D O H A / B I G S TO C K . CO M ;

Social gathering? Try these dog facts to get the conversation flowing!

SA LU K I P H OTO I Z E M P H OTO / B I G STO CK . CO M ; D O G P O O P P H OTO PAU L P R ES COTT / B I G STO CK . CO M ; B LU E B LO O D P H OTO MVO LO DYMY R / B I G STO CK . CO M ; PATS Y A N N P H OTO PATS YA N N . CO M ;

Interesting Dog Facts

P H OTOS F LU E N T P E T / W H ATA B O U T B U N N Y

Alexis Devine and her dog, Bunny, a Sheepadoodle who “talks” using assistive technology.

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‘TALKING’ DOG TAKES OVER TIKTOK Bunny the Sheepadoodle uses assistive technology to communicate, wowing over four million followers and inspiring others to test their dogs’ ability to acquire language

By Cassandra Gill

alking dogs aren’t just a thing in books or TV anymore. Thanks to the brilliance of talking-button-assisted communication and TikTok, plenty of super smart pooches are showing off their newfound abilities— including internet star Bunny. The adorable Sheepadoodle shot to stardom after her owner Alexis Devine started a quarantine social media account in June 2020. Alexis, who works as an artist and jewelry designer in Tacoma, Washington, got the idea to train two-year-old Bunny after being inspired by some other famous pups—including the one-and-only Stella the dog. Stella’s owner, speech pathologist Christina Hunger, can be credited for popularizing the use of assistive technology for language acquisition (circular buttons that can be pushed to say words) in the pet world. Her New York Times best-selling book How Stella Learned To Talk documents the process. “We were inspired by the many animal language studies that came before us. Koko, Kanzi, Washoe, Alex the Grey Parrot, Chaser and Rico the Border Collies. And most recently Christina Hunger, her dog Stella, and Alexandre Rossi and his dog Sophia who both learned to communicate using buttons,” Alexis tells Modern Dog. “We started with a single button by the door which said ‘outside,’ and no expectation of success,” she explains. Bunny caught onto the unique communication style fairly quickly, and to much fanfare: in under a year, her TikTok account grew to have over four million followers. With nearly another million on Instagram, it’s safe to say Bunny is officially a celebrity pooch.

“

For Alexis, though, training Bunny was less about her speedy learning abilities and more about what she had to say. “To me, the most remarkable thing is not how many buttons she has or how quickly she learns them, but what she chooses to communicate about. I would expect a dog to mostly chat about walkies and toys, but Bunny seems to explore much deeper concepts,” she adds. In TikTok videos, Bunny is downright impressive: in one particular video, she uses a combination of buttons to say ‘stranger paw’—meaning she felt something caught between her toes (it was a thorn). And she doesn’t always just talk about herself: Bunny has also proven to have a propensity for, erm, some invasive inquiries of Alexis and her husband Johnny. “There was a period of time, it lasted months, where Bunny's primary focus was calling out my husband when he went poop—sorry, Johnny!” Alexis hilariously reveals. “She started referring to farts as ‘poop play,’ and even asked where I poop. Hours of embarrassing entertainment.” If it’s not already obvious, the Sheepadoodle has gone far beyond basic communication—even coining some of her own phrases. “I'm regularly surprised…for example, [she came up with] ‘night talk sleep’ to mean ‘dream’,” Alexis says. Other interesting combos include ‘settle sound’ to request her humans to ‘be quiet’ or the words ‘water hippo’ for ‘seal’ (one of Bunny’s favourite toys). Notably, Alexis doesn’t come from a professional background when it comes to training dogs. “I'm objectively underqualified to be teaching my dog how to ‘talk,’” she admits. “I’m not a scientist, dog trainer or speech language pathologist, but I am endlessly curious and an artist, 

We started with a single button by the door which said ‘outside,’ and no expectation of success.

”

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P H OTO S F LU E N T P E T / W H ATA B O U T B U N N Y

and I believe those qualities have allowed me to think outside of the box in many ways in regards to my work with Bunny.” Bunny has proven to be “clever” and an “independent thinker” since Alexis brought her home. The dog lover first adopted her furry BFF when Bunny was just eight weeks old. “I met her for the first time when she was a month old, in a whelping pen with her mother and all of her siblings,” Alexis remembers. “She was the smallest in the litter by far and so sassy. Her mother laid down in my lap and Bunny crawled into the crook of my arm and stayed there for two hours.” The rest is history, and the sweet dog and Alexis have been inseparable since—likely because they have many things in common. “Bunny is a very sensitive and thoughtful dog. She has big feelings which she expresses both with and without buttons. Like me, she is introverted, but forms strong attachments,” the dog owner says of her four-legged companion. “She is sweet and spicy.” Social media stardom, however, was never in the plan for Bunny and Alexis. “It's been a rollercoaster and was completely unforeseen,” Alexis says. “We get a lot of really lovely feedback and some not so lovely feedback as well. We are rolling with it and our goal throughout has remained the same—to explore the depth of connection and communication with a non-human animal.” Bunny’s fans have been loving the inside look at her life over the past year, which recently included one major life change: a new sibling named Otter. The standard Poodle puppy has fit right into the family, though change of routine is par for the course with any new addition. “Our routine right now consists of a lot of play between the two of them, but I'm sure to give ample individual time to both; as well, Bunny and I try to experience something or somewhere novel at least three times a week,” Alexis says. “Recently we've been walking around the outside of our local zoo to experience new sounds and smells. The howler monkeys were having a party the other day, and it was one of the few times I'd wished for travel buttons. Her face spoke volumes.”

I would expect a dog to mostly chat about walkies and toys, but Bunny seems to explore much deeper concepts. Otter has been part of the family since August 2021, but Alexis hasn’t trained him on button communication just yet. The puppy has, however, already shown some interest. “He has pressed a few, of his own accord, in contextually appropriate ways. It'll be very interesting to see how much he is able to pick up just by watching Bunny,” she says. Bunny’s celebrity career has continued to skyrocket in the past year, also leading to a popular YouTube channel and merch line, available at whataboutbunny.com. Fans can shop branded hoodies, t-shirts, and other accessories featuring the adorable pooch—but it doesn’t stop there. Bunny has also formed a partnership with innovative technology company FluentPet, which allows pet owners to customize record-and-play buttons for their own canines with the goal of enriching pet and human relationships.

Bunny’s specific board has over 40 words but continues to grow. A book deal is also on the horizon for Alexis and Bunny. “I’m writing a book right now. Bunny may as well have written it herself, but I got the thumbs,” Alexis says. “It documents our trials and tribulations, successes, and relationship. She's currently redlining it and I owe her some edits ASAP. Bossy boss!”

DOG BEDS From orthopedic to burrow, beds to best suit every type of snuggler

ORTHOPEDIC RELIEF Made with a human-grade orthopedic mattress, the Le Bed leather dog bed from Le Dog Company (pictured in python print) is designed to elevate your dog and relieve pressure points. A cooling gel memory foam top helps regulate temperature. No laundering needed—just wipe to clean! (from $330, ledogcompany.com)

SLEEK COMFORT

PLUSH VERSATILITY

HANDMADE LUXURY

The sleek Urban Lounger Diamondback bed from Bowsers Pet Products features durable fabrics and an orthopaedicfibre-topped bottom insert for ultimate comfort and support! (from $120, bowsers.com)

Versatile and cozy, the Snuggle Bed from P.L.A.Y. combines dirt-resistant canvas and plush faux fur and converts from a mat to a bolster bed and even a sleeping bag! Available in a variety of colours. (from $55, petplay.com)

Lilly & Abbie's luxurious, custom dog beds are made by hand in Kennebunk, Maine. Design a custom dog bed from over 200 fabrics to perfectly complement your home décor. (from $330, lillyandabbie.com)

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BREED PROFILE

The Berger Picard Saved from extinction, a rare, ancient French breed is made famous by Disney

P H OTO T M A RT _ F OTO / B I G S TO C K . CO M

By Kelly Caldwell

ith his rakish good looks and effortless charm, the lanky and shaggy browed Berger Picard may be the ultimate French export. This is an intelligent breed with an interesting past. First things first, let’s get his name right. The breed’s French moniker is pronounced as bare-zhay peeCARR. The Berger Picard—or Picardy Shepherd as he is also known—is the oldest of France’s sheepdogs. He’s named for the Picardie region of

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northern France where he originated. Most experts speculate that the Berger Picard came to northern France during the second invasion by the Celts, around 40 BC. As with so many older breeds, we must rely on what we can—including illustrations and various forms of art—to gain a sense of early development. Dogs closely resembling the Picard are found in tapestries, engravings, and artwork dating back to the late 1300s. As for the breeds that ultimately produced the Picard, this is a matter of some debate. Some believe that he’s

closely related to the Briard and the Beaucercon, and the resemblance is certainly clear. Others point to close ties to Dutch and Belgian Shepherds. From his earliest days, the Picard was a popular choice for herding sheep and cattle. By the middle of the 19th century, France’s herding dogs were classified into two types: the long-haired varieties, known as Berger de Brie or Briard; and the short-haired herders, called Berger de Beauce or Beaucercon. For whatever reason, dogs with mid-length coats were ignored. Eventually, however,

P H OTO D O R A Z E T T / S H U TT E R S TO C K . CO M

ed, spirit l, a comic ate tion affec

they became known as the Berger de Picardie or Picard. The Berger Picard’s first dog show appearance in France happened in 1863. Alas, his scruffy appearance failed to impress the conformation crowd. While Picards continued to be entered into dog shows and herding trials, it wasn’t until 1925 that the breed was recognized by the French Shepherd Club. At that point, he was still a very popular choice among farmers—a true natural at herding and a tremendous help to farmers. After achieving formal recognition, the Berger Picard started to gain popularity outside of his region. However, this increase in interest coincided with the events of World Wars I and II—both of which had a devastating impact on the breed. This breed’s population was heavily concentrated in northeastern France. In both wars, food rations made the simple act of keeping dogs healthy a significant challenge. In World War II, Picardy’s beautiful pastures— throughout the valley of the river Somme—were the scene of extensive warfare. This beautiful pastoral land became unrecognizable. Ravaged by conflict, serene vistas of the Picard’s

region were turned into barren wastelands of death and destruction. Human and animal casualties were astronomical, and the Berger Picard was literally on the brink of extinction by the end of the Second World War. As with so many breeds that faced the threat of post-war extinction, the Picard’s survival came down to a handful of dedicated fanciers who made a very concerted effort to save their breed. Bouviers des Flandres breeders, searching for stock to save their breed, ventured to the Picardy region of France. Among their canine discoveries were a pair of dogs that would become the foundation stock of the Berger Picard. Through these efforts, the breed survived although, even today, he continues to be quite rare, both within and beyond France. In 1959, the Club Les Amis du Berger Picard obtained recognition and an updated breed standard was approved in 1964. By the 1970s, Americans had developed some awareness and interest in the breed. Several attempts were made to establish the Berger Picard in the United States, but this proved a challenge with so few dogs. In the dawn of the Internet age, progress was

Most Popular Dogs in the U.S. According to the most recent AKC registration statistics [1]

Labrador Retriever German Shepherd Dog [3] Golden Retriever [4] French Bulldog [5] Bulldog [6] Poodle [7] Beagle [8] Rottweiler [9] German Shorthaired Pointer [10] Pembroke Welsh Corgi [151] Berger Picard [2]

made. Suddenly, breeders and fanciers could find each other. So, they did, and they worked together to further establish the breed. The Berger Picard Club of America was formed in 2006 and the breed was accepted into the herding group by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2015. Today’s Berger Picard is a lanky, medium-sized dog with a scruffy appearance characterized by upright

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The Disney Touch: Because of Winn Dixie In 2005, Because of Winn Dixie hit American movie theatres and the Picard was thrust into the spotlight. Makers of the film needed a lead canine actor that fit the bill of a scruffy, playful dog. Appreciating that no two mixed-breed dogs look identical, the film’s makers researched and discovered the Picard. Several dogs were brought from France to work on the movie, which turned out to be a huge hit. Suddenly (finally, fanciers might say,) the Berger Picard was in the spotlight.

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Activity level: This athletic breed requires quite a lot of exercise and the bored Berger Picard is likely to act out in frustration. Daily walks are a bare minimum; sporting activities would serve well. Grooming: This breed sheds minimally and is one of the less malodourous breeds! Regular brushing is required. If he requires a bath, a shampoo formulated for crisp coats is suggested. Heritage: Developed in northern France, this is an old breed that was sought after for its prowess with herding sheep and cattle. For more information on Berger Picard rescue in the United States, visit picards.us/picard-rehome. In Canada, visit bergerpicardclubcanada.com/rescue.

If you like the Berger Picard, you might also consider the...

Briard

Dutch Shepherd

READ YOUR BREED

Beaucercon

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

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T H E B E RG E R P I C A R D P H OTO T M A RT / SH U TT E R STO CK . CO M ; T H E B R I A R D A N D D U TCH SH E P H E R D I N SE T P H OTOS T H O M A S P I T E R A

Profile: The Berger Picard Size: Medium. This muscular dog is slightly longer than tall. His long tail is carried with a distinctive J-curve at the tip.

The Picard is known for being intelligent, playful, and more than a little bit of a comedian.

prick ears and thick, expressive eyebrows. Males stand as high as 26 inches and females as low as 21 inches. The standard emphasizes a lively and alert temperament, effortless movement, and a spirited expression. The Picard’s coat is of medium length, naturally waterproof, and comes in a variety of colours; the AKC accepts fawn or brindle coats. When it comes to temperament, frankly it is just as endearing as this breed’s appearance. The Picard is known for being intelligent, playful, and more than a little bit of a comedian. The fact that the Picard is known for having a great sense of humour shouldn’t come as a surprise—after all, this is a dog that—literally—smiles! This lively disposition combined with a generally relaxed demeanour makes him an excellent choice as a family companion. He has a reputation for being exceptionally good with kids. The Berger Picard is a family pet and not suitable at all for outdoor living. He bonds very closely with his families and tends to be reserved with strangers. This is a rather stubborn breed, so it’s important that socialization and training start at an early age. Positive reinforcement training only, please! He’s fun and outgoing but he’s also very sensitive. Harsh commands will not work. It’s not surprising, given his prowess as a herding dog, but the Berger Picard is extremely athletic. He has lots of energy and requires plenty of exercise. The bored Picard can act out with household destruction. He will need—at an absolute minimum—one long walk a day and lots of play time. The more exercise, the better. This is a dog that’s happiest when he has a job to do, and while you may not have a farm that requires a herding expert, canine sporting activities are right up the Berger’s alley and will give him the physical and mental stimulation that he craves. From a grooming standpoint, this is a low-maintenance breed that requires routine brushing, nail trims, and of course the occasional bath. Health-wise, like all purebreds he can be prone to some genetic conditions, so it’s important to work with a breeder who is dedicated to the health of their dogs. With his natural, rustic elegance, a loving nature, and a quirky and comical disposition, it’s hard in some ways to imagine why this breed remains so very rare. He’s easy to be around and, quite simply, a whole lot of fun. This spirited rare breed is definitely worth a close look, and we can only hope that he continues to thrive in the years to come.

moderndogmagazine.com

We asked Gina DiNardo, breed expert and AKC Executive Secretary, for her list of pups that look most unlike their adult counterparts. Prep yourself for some serious cuteness!

PUPPY

ADULT

#1 Dalmatian Dalmatians are actually born without

spots! The snow-white pups’ trademark coat pattern starts to emerge in the first two weeks. Dalmatians were originally bred to guard horses and coaches. They’re strong athletes with great stamina.

PUPPY

ADULT

#3 Afghan Hound Despite its elegant and

regal appearance, the Afghan Hound is a true athlete capable of running at immense speed. Afghan puppies don’t have the long, elegant coat that adults have.

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PUPPY

ADULT

#2 Komondor Bred to guard sheep at pasture, the

Komondor’s trademark coat lets it blend in with its flock, giving it the element of surprise. The cords start to form around nine to ten months old, so Komondor puppies look very different from the adults.

PUPPY

ADULT

#4 Puli The Puli is very agile and light on its feet, earning a reputation as the “acrobat of the dog world.” The breed’s natural cords don’t start forming until the undercoat comes in at around eight to ten months old.

# 3 A F G H A N H O U N D P U P P Y SE RG E Y T I K H O M I ROV / B I G STO CK . CO M , A F G H A N H O U N D A D U LT W I L DST R AW B E R R Y / B I G STO CK . CO M ; #4 P U L I P U P P Y & A D U LT VAU VAU / B I G STO CK . CO M

Breeds That Look Totally Different As Puppies

# 1 D A L M AT I A N P U P P Y D I KOVA M A R I A / B I G STO CK . CO M , DA L M AT I A N A D U LT C A R M O N A G U E R R E RO / B I G STO CK . CO M ; #2 KO M O N D O R P U P P Y VAU VAU / B I G STO CK . CO M , KO M O N D O R A D U LT E V D O H A / B I G S TO C K . CO M ;

B E RG A M A S CO A D U LT VO LO F I N / B I G S TO C K . CO M ; # 7 K E R R Y B LU E T E R R I E R P U P P Y G O LU B K A 57/ B I G STO CK . CO M , K E R R Y B LU E T E R R I E R A D U LT H A R H A L AVACH / B I G STO CK . CO M ; #8 SA LU K I P U P P Y N ATA L I A F E D OS OVA / SH U TT E R STO CK . CO M ,

# 5 S O FT CO AT E D W H E AT E N T E R R I E R P U P P Y L I N D A S J 2 / B I G STO CK . CO M , S O FT COAT E D W H E AT E N T E R R I E R A D U LT SE R EG R A F F / B I G STO CK . CO M ; #6 B E RG A M A S CO P U P P Y M I C H E L A N G E LO O P / B I G STO CK . CO M ,

SA LU K I A D U LT I Z E M P H OTO / B I G S TO C K . CO M ; #9 G I A N T S CH N AU Z E R P U P P Y & A D U LT F R A N K 11/ B I G STO CK . CO M , #10 G SD P U P P Y L I G H T M A N _ P I C / B I G STO C K . CO M , G SD A D U LT C Y N O CLU B / B I G ST O CK . CO M

PUPPY

ADULT

#5 Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

This breed is a versatile Irish farm dog that held a lot of jobs in its native Ireland. Among the chores the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier was responsible for are ratting, guarding the chicken coop, and even herding. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier puppies don’t have the breed’s trademark beard when they’re born.

PUPPY

ADULT

#7 Kerry Blue Terrier Kerry Blue Terriers

are actually born black. Their coat begins to fade to grey and acquires its adult color by 18 months.

PUPPY

ADULT

#9 Giant Schnauzer Originally used to drive

cattle from farm to market, Giant Schnauzers later worked as European police and military K-9s. Giant Schnauzer puppies don’t have the highly recognizable beard that the adults have.

PUPPY

ADULT

#6 Bergamasco The Bergamasco’s eye-catching

coat is made up of three different hair textures that form naturally occurring loose mats, or flocks. Its coat provides protection from the bitter cold and wild predators of the Italian Alps, where the Bergamasco originated. You wouldn’t recognize the Bergamasco as a puppy–it doesn’t have its flocks!

PUPPY

ADULT

#8 Saluki One of the oldest breeds, Salukis were

favourites of kings throughout history. They are highly adaptable. The feathered Saluki coat type features the beautiful long ear hair that people recognize. Puppies do not have the long hair when they’re born.

PUPPY

ADULT

#10 German Shepherd Dog

The German Shepherd Dog’s ears are floppy when they are born and stand up as they get older. GSD’s are highly intelligent, loyal and courageous, excelling in many different areas. moderndogmagazine.com

Healthy PAWS

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Solutions for everything from dry skin and coat to digestive issues

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1. HEART HEALTH

2. BETTER BATHTIME

Give your pup a natural taurine boost and cardiac support with the Nature’s Logic Beef Crumble Meal Topper for Dogs and Cats! Made with natural, real meat protein and taurine, cystine, and methionine, it is a delicious and heart-healthy treat. ($19, natureslogic.com)

J.R. Liggett’s Botanical Dog Shampoo Bar contains saponified olive oil and coconut, castor, rosemary, tea tree, and lavender oils for a soothing bath time experience. All-natural and detergent-free, this shampoo bar is also biodegradable! ($8, jrliggett.com)

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3. ITCHY EARS Looking for a gentle way to soothe and clean your dog’s itchy, irritated ears? The Oxyfresh Advanced Dog Ear Cleaner helps remove wax, dirt, and mites while eliminating odours. ($12, oxyfresh.com)

4. URINARY HEALTH & BLADDER CONTROL Earth Animal’s Urinary and Kidney Relief Organic Herbal Remedy helps normalize bladder and kidney muscle function, helping maintain bladder control and health. ($22, shop.earthanimal.com)

5. HIPS & JOINTS Formulated with glucosamine, chondroitin sulphate, green lipped mussel, and Omega-3s, WellyTails Cartilage Hip and Joint Dog Rx supplement supports dogs suffering from osteoarthritis, worn cartilage, and hip and joint pain. (from $40, wellychef.com)

8. HAPPY MOUTHS Made with antifungal and antiviral flavonoids, Natures Dentist dental powder promotes and protects your dog’s oral health without harming digestive flora or staining teeth. (from $24, mcintoshproline.com)

9. DRY, TANGLED COAT This Lavender Mint Detangling Spray from John Paul Pet calms, moisturizes, soothes, and replenishes dry, unruly dog hair with conditioning ingredients like oatmeal, chamomile, sweet almond oil, and panthenol. ($13, johnpaulpet.com)

10. SORE, ITCHY EYES Relieve eye ailments with Vetericyn Plus Antimicrobial Eye Gel. This non-irritating gel formula lubricates the eyes, alleviating allergy symptoms, itchiness, stinging, irritation, and pain. ($20, vetericyn.com)

6. SENSITIVE TUMMY

11. EASY DEMATTING

Prebiotic power! The Optagest Digestive Aid from InClover is a prebiotic formulated to provide GI support, settle upset tummies, and support healthy digestion. Simply sprinkle onto your dog’s food! (from $22, eshop.inclover.com)

Is your dog’s coat prone to matting? The Andis Dematting Rake features a non-slip grip, a wide-tooth design, and is made with pro-grade stainless steel to help gently break up matted fur. ($14, small-animal.andis.com)

7. HEALTHY HEART, SKIN & COAT

12. BONES & JOINTS

Intrepid Pet’s Goat Milk Healthy Hearts treats are made with anti-inflammatory ingredients like fresh goat milk, tapioca, chickpea, and sunflower oil to promote heart health. These nutrient-dense treats are also an ideal way to support the skin and coat! ($7, intrepidpet.com)

Maintain your dog’s healthy bone and joint function with Dog Almighty Elixir’s Mobility formula containing ingredients like collagen peptides, L-Carnitine, turmeric, and vitamins and minerals. Choose from chicken, turkey, and beef and mushroom flavours. ($5, dogalmightyelixirs.com) moderndogmagazine.com

Editor-in-Chief Connie Wilson’s Winter selection of must-read books for dog lovers

Barking at the Moon: A Story of Life, Love, and Kibble Get Me Out of Here! Reflections of PD the Put-Upon Pug By PD the Pug and Marilee Joyce PD the Pug has every luxury a dog could possibly beg for—but still feels he isn’t spoiled enough. Dog parents will laugh at the woes of this pampered pooch and perhaps recognize a bit of themselves in this hilarious, playful story told from the perspective of one very spoiled dog.

The World According to Dogs: An Owners Manual By Adrian Raeside Do humans really have their dogs all figured out? In The World According to Dogs, bestselling cartoonist Adrian Raeside lampoons dog parent antics in hysterical, spoton cartoons and captions, while sharing hilarious dog care tips from a dog’s point of view.

A Reason for Hope By Kristin von Kreisler This timely, harrowing novel explores resilience, love, and the healing power of dogs after librarian Tessa Jordan’s life is turned upside down following a traumatic assault. You’ll root for Tessa as local prosecutor Will Armstrong and his yellow Labrador Hope help her find justice.

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By Tracy Beckerman In her new memoir, Barking at the Moon, award-winning humour columnist Tracy Beckerman details her family’s hectic and entertaining misadventures with their retriever Riley. This hilarious, witty, and heartwarming true story shows that welcoming a new dog into your home isn’t always a walk in the park—but it’s always worth it.

Sacred Sendoffs By Sarah A. Bowen With humour and grace, animal chaplain Sarah A. Bowen shares her invaluable insight and advice on pet loss, animal welfare, and environmental issues. Looking at human relationships with pets, wild creatures, marine life, and more, Bowen, via thoughtful research, illustrates how we can move through our emotions when dealing with animal loss, and how we can help the animal kingdom.

Conservation Canines: How Dogs Work for the Environment by Isabelle Groc; foreword by Anjelica Huston Through a series of fascinating success stories, Conservation Canines explores how dogs are being trained to assist researchers with pressing wildlife conservation and environmental issues, while also celebrating the extraordinary ancestral human-animal bond between dogs and their people.

P H OTO S I LV E R K B L A C KS TO CK / S H U T T E R S T O C K . CO M

CONNIE’S BOOK CLUB

LOVE LETTERS

Could things get any worse? My marriage almost ended when I brought two three-month-old Chihuahuas home after working at an event. I had to save them from going to the pound. Husband walked eight miles home he was so mad. Three other dogs already at home. One, sick with pancreatitis, vomited on the floor, and I slipped in it and broke/ dislocated my ankle in three places creating a $100,000 medical bill. Husband out of work, us living on my retirement already. He had to take care of us all and ended up bonding with the new pups!—Sharlene Plescia

Magnificent Mochi

Tiny Dog Stories Dog love in short form: miniature, reader-submitted dog stories of no more than 100 words. Inherited Happy Dog Roxy, deaf and blind now, is almost 19 years old. She was my mom’s dog. Mom didn’t want a dog, but at my urging we went to meet Roxy. It was love at first sight. Roxy was my mom’s “peanut” and gave her a purpose for staying healthy for a long time. In February my mom passed away and Roxy and I grieved together. I frequently hold her and feel like I am holding a piece of mama with me. Her “smile” is so cute and so joy filled, it never fails to make me smile.—Kerrie Larson

Joie de Vivre is Boomer

I adopted eight-year-old Mochi, the Japanese Chin, from a rescue on November 22, 2014. Mochi was thought to be healthy, but I quickly noticed that she was very sick. She was diagnosed with bilateral, laryngeal collapse six weeks after the adoption and required a tracheostomy. Mochi and I had an amazing four years together. Although it was filled with breathing treatments, medications, and around the clock care, she thrived. She loved food, toys, car rides, and lounging on the patio. Mochi went to heaven on September 4, 2018, but will always live on in my heart and soul.—Mary Clare Houghes

Cleft Paw Cutie “My little cleft paw cutie,” is what I call my puppy, Alfie. At three-weeks-old, Alfie entered my home as a foster with his mama and nine siblings. Spoiler alert: he never left. Alfie is physiologically unique and this made finding him an adopter difficult. His front left leg is shorter than his other legs and the paw attached has three toes with two fused together. Alfie walks with an adorable hobble. He loves everyone he meets and vice versa. He radiates humor and happiness. We can all learn something from Alfie. Different is fun so live your authentic self.—Victoria Lily Shaffer

Freya and Cosmo

When Boomer needs to go out at night, she is happy. When she’s going for a walk, she’s exuberant—all eagerness and smiles. When family from overseas arrived recently, she actually hyperventilated with joy. What makes Boomer’s infectious happiness and love of life so extraordinary is that she is 16 years old, deaf, and virtually blind. I can't help thinking that many humans can learn from this little dog—whatever your life is like, it’s the only one you have. It's up to you what you do with it.

Freya’s time ran out at two shelters before she came to live with us. She was reactive and attacked other dogs. Then we brought a new rescue puppy home. Freya adopted Cosmo the day they met. She would leave kibble in her bowl for him to eat after he finished his own food. She tore up big cardboard boxes and gave him pieces to gnaw on. She let him win races and wrestling matches. She taught him doggie manners. We will never forget how our tough girl Freya became a protective, gentle and thoughtful dog mama to sweet little Cosmo.

—Salomi Odendaal

— Jennifer Jones

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Silver Linings

“I cried with her head on my shoulder all the way home.” Button Saves the Day Button is spunky four-pound Yorkie who loves everyone she meets—dog, cat, and human. However, the miracle is how she saved me from a potentially devastating fire in my home. I work from home with Button on my lap. She sleeps until I take my headset off. One day she sat on my lap whining, barking, and digging at the computer. I was irritated with her until I noticed my power chord sparking and smoking where it plugs into the computer. Thanks to her, I stopped the fire before it started. She’s a miracle.—Marci Watts

Merlin the Migraine Wizard Merlin is my 10-year-old blue merle Chihuahua. We’ve been together since he was weaned. Merlin can tell when I have a migraine coming and “herds” me to my medication. I used to have three to four major migraines a year, but I haven’t had any for years! He’s my hero.—Fawn Frazer

Love At First Sight Piper is my two-year-old Pomeranian. She is my love, my heart, and my best friend. She was shipped to me in Florida from Arkansas on an all-day journey, having been delayed in Texas for four hours due to bad weather. Finally, her crate slid down the airline chute. Talk about love at first sight. I cried with her head on my shoulder all the way home. Pure love in a little white furry “package.” We have never been separated since.—Deborah Gillert

Peter Tater Tot Once there was a tiny Chihuahua who was very, very little. He was taken from his mother way too early. I found him at a shelter. He only weighed two pounds at the time! I begged the shelter to let us adopt him. When I arrived to pick him up, they said, “Well, we figured since you alone asked us over and over for him, he was meant to be yours!” We have lived happily ever after ever since!—Jean Baldridge Yates

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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Must-haves for you & your dog

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moderndog marketplace

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Illustration by Michelle Simpson