Guidelines and considerations to follow when offering watermelon to your dog:

• Remove Seeds: It’s essential to remove all seeds from the watermelon before giving it to your dog. Seeds can cause intestinal blockages, especially in smaller dogs.
• Avoid the Rind: While the watermelon rind isn’t toxic, it’s difficult for dogs to digest. Consuming large amounts might lead to gastrointestinal upset or blockages.
• Moderation: As with any treat, you should give your dog watermelon in moderation. Although it’s low in calories, excessive amounts can still lead to an upset stomach, especially if it’s a new food for your dog.
• Wash the Surface: As with any fruit, ensure you wash the surface of the watermelon before cutting it to remove any pesticides or contaminants.
• Frozen Watermelon Treats: You can freeze watermelon chunks to create a refreshing, hydrating treat for dogs during the warmer months.
• Monitor for Allergies: While allergies to watermelon are rare, continuously monitor your dog after introducing a new food to ensure no adverse reactions.
• Sugar Content: Watermelon does contain natural sugars. While it’s not harmful in small amounts, be mindful of this if your dog is diabetic or prone to weight gain.

In summary, watermelon can be a refreshing and healthy dog treat when prepared and offered appropriately. As always, if you need clarification or have concerns about introducing new food to your dog’s diet, consult your veterinarian.

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Key features and types of dog water bowls include:

• Materials: They can be made from plastic, stainless steel, ceramic, or silicone. Each material has its pros and cons. For instance, stainless steel bowls are durable and hygienic, while ceramic bowls are heavy and less likely to tip over but can break if dropped.
• Size: The bowl size should be appropriate for the size and breed of your dog. Larger breeds will require bigger bowls to ensure they have enough water.
• Design: Some bowls have unique designs to cater to specific needs, like bowls with a slow-drinking feature for dogs that drink too fast, elevated bowls for taller breeds, or older dogs with joint problems.
• Portability: For dog owners who travel or go on hikes with their pets, collapsible or travel-friendly bowls are available.
• Automatic Refill: There are also automatic or gravity-fed water bowls that refill themselves from a connected reservoir, ensuring a constant supply of fresh water.
• Non-Spill Features: Some bowls are designed to prevent spills, which is helpful for dogs who tend to play with or tip over their water.
• Easy to Clean: The bowl needs to be easy to clean to maintain hygiene and prevent the growth of bacteria.

Here are the 9 Best Water Bowls for Dogs—

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• PetSafe Drinkwell Pet Fountain: PetSafe’s Drinkwell fountains are famous for providing filtered, continuously circulating water to keep it fresher than standing bowl water.
• Neater Feeder Express: Known for reducing spills and splashes by containing excess water in a lower reservoir.
• Loving Pets Bella Bowls: These bowls are often appreciated for their skid-proof bases and affordability and they come in various sizes and colors.
• Outward Hound Slo Bowl: Though it’s designed to slow down fast eaters, the ridges can also slow down fast drinkers, reducing the risk of bloat from drinking too quickly.
• Lixit Waterboy Travel Water Bowl: A functional bowl for travel, this bowl provides a spill-proof way to provide water to your dog while on the go.
• Torus Water Bowl: The Torus bowl has a reservoir that automatically replenishes the water as your dog drinks, keeping the water level constant.
• Pioneer Pet Big Max Stainless Steel Fountain: A stainless-steel alternative for pet owners who prefer not to use plastic bowls.
• Petmate Replendish Gravity Waterer: This bowl replenishes water from a reservoir as your dog drinks, ensuring a constant water supply without electricity.
• LumoLeaf Dog Water Bowl: Known for its design, it helps prevent wet ears and beards while dogs drink.

When selecting a water bowl for your dog, it’s crucial to consider your pet’s specific needs. A slow-feeder water bowl might be helpful if your dog drinks too fast. A fountain might be the best choice for dogs who enjoy fresh, running water. Ensure that the bowl you choose is made with pet-safe materials and is easy to clean.

The post What Are the 9 Best Water Bowls for Dogs? appeared first on Mutt Mommies.

Types of Dog Water Bowls

• Standard Bowls: These are simple, open bowls made from various materials like stainless steel, ceramic, or plastic. They are the most common type and are suitable for all dog breeds.
• Automatic Water Dispensers: These water bowls connect to a reservoir that automatically refills the bowl as the dog drinks, ensuring a constant supply of fresh water.
• Travel Bowls: Designed for convenience while traveling, these bowls are often collapsible or have a design that prevents water from spilling.
• Elevated Bowls: These are raised off the ground, often beneficial for larger breeds or dogs with joint issues, as they don’t have to bend down as far.
• Slow-Drink Bowls: These have obstacles or structures inside the bowl to slow the drinking speed of dogs who drink too fast, helping to prevent choking or bloating.

Materials

• Stainless Steel: Durable, easy to clean, and often dishwasher-safe. They are also less likely to harbor bacteria.
• Ceramic: Heavy and stable, they come in various designs. However, they can chip or break if dropped.
• Plastic: Lightweight and inexpensive, but they can harbor bacteria and may not be as durable as other options.

Considerations for Choosing a Dog Water Bowl

• Size: The bowl should be large enough to hold adequate water for your dog’s size and drinking habits.
• Cleanliness: Some materials and designs are easier to clean and more bacteria-resistant.
• Durability: A sturdier bowl might be necessary if you have a playful or large dog.
• Dog’s Needs: Consider any special needs your dog might have, such as a preference for moving water (in which case, a fountain-style bowl might be ideal) or physical limitations that make an elevated bowl a better choice.

Regularly cleaning the water bowl and ensuring fresh water is always available is crucial for your dog’s health. Experts recommend changing the water, rinsing the bowl daily, and thoroughly cleaning regularly.

Click below to see a video of our boys drinking from a bowl we used in the past for their outside water. It is NOT an example of a good water bowl. We have since replaced the bowl with the Neater Big Bowl. It holds a LOT of water and no more spills!

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Freshness

Storing dog food in an airtight container helps preserve its freshness and taste by preventing it from getting stale. This preservation ensures your dog receives the intended nutrients from the food, as nutrients can degrade over time when exposed to air.

Protection from Pests

Containers prevent pests like rodents, ants, and roaches from accessing and contaminating the food.

Moisture Control

Containers, especially airtight ones, help prevent moisture from getting into the food. Moisture can lead to mold growth, making the food unsafe for consumption.

Odor Control

Good containers can prevent the food’s odor from permeating your living space, especially if the food has a strong smell.

Cleanliness

Using a container helps prevent accidental spills, making your storage area cleaner and more organized. It also reduces the chances of your dog accessing and potentially spilling the bag.

Efficiency and Convenience

Containers with a scoop or larger openings can make feeding time more efficient. They can also be more manageable and ergonomic compared to handling large, bulky bags.

Economic

By preserving the quality of the dog food, you prevent waste, ensuring that every bit of the food you purchase is suitable for consumption.

Protection from Light

Some nutrients in dog food can degrade when exposed to light. Storing in an opaque container can help preserve these nutrients.

When choosing a container:

• The container should be made of food-safe materials.
• Clean and dry the container thoroughly before filling it with dog food.
• If possible, keep the original packaging inside the container. The packaging often contains essential information like expiration dates, batch numbers, and feeding guidelines. It can also offer an additional layer of protection for the food.
• Choose an appropriately sized container so the food doesn’t sit for extended periods, which might decrease its freshness even if stored correctly.

In conclusion, using a container for dog food storage can help maintain the food’s quality, offer convenience, and ensure the safety and health of your pet.

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1. Core and Seeds: Always remove the apple core and seeds before giving apples to your dog. The seeds contain a small amount of cyanide, which is toxic in large quantities. The core can also pose a choking hazard.
2. Moderation: As with any treat, apples should be given to your dog in moderation. Too much can cause stomach upset or diarrhea, mainly if your dog isn’t used to eating them.
3. Wash Thoroughly: Make sure to wash the apples thoroughly to remove any pesticides or chemicals from the skin.
4. Suggestions: Apples can be served raw, sliced into bite-sized pieces, or frozen for a crunchy treat. Avoid processed apples containing added sugar or spices, such as those in apple pie or apple sauce with added sugar.

Always observe your dog the first few times they eat apples to ensure they do not have an allergic reaction, and consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns about introducing new foods into your dog’s diet.

Click below to see a video of our dogs eating apples.

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Thanksgiving Meal For Your Dog

• Turkey Treats: Cook some plain, boneless, skinless turkey. Avoid onions, garlic, and rich spices.
• Veggie Side Dish: Offer steamed carrots or green beans. These are healthy and safe for dogs.
• Pumpkin Surprise: Plain, canned pumpkin (not pie filling) is great for dogs’ digestion.
• Sweet Potato Chews: Bake thin slices of sweet potatoes to make chewy treats.

Safety Tips

• No Bones: Turkey bones can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries.
• Avoid Toxic Foods: Grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, chocolate, and artificial sweeteners like xylitol should be off-limits.
• Moderation is Key: Even dog-safe foods should be given in moderation to prevent gastrointestinal upset.

Fun Activities

• Thanksgiving Day Parade: Many dogs enjoy watching parades. Settle in with your dog and enjoy the colorful floats and bands on TV.
• Gratitude Walk: Take a long walk with your dog, reflecting on what you’re thankful for, including their companionship.
• Playtime: Engage in your dog’s favorite games. Whether fetch or tug-of-war, it’s a great way to bond.

Themed Photo Shoot

• Dress your dog in a cute Thanksgiving-themed outfit or bandana for a festive photoshoot. Remember to reward your dog with treats for their patience and cooperation.

Special Doggy Decor

• Set up a small dog-friendly area in your home with Thanksgiving-themed dog toys and a comfy bed.

Involvement In Traditions

• Giving Thanks: Include your dog when everyone shares what they’re thankful for.
• Watch Football Together: If your dog likes to lounge, watching a game together can be relaxing.

Thanksgiving Dog Parade Or Event

• Look for local Thanksgiving dog parades or events where dogs are welcome. It can be a fun outing for both of you.

Health & Wellness

• Schedule a check-up around Thanksgiving to ensure your dog is healthy and ready for the holiday season.

By incorporating these elements, you can make Thanksgiving an inclusive, fun, and safe holiday for your furry friend. Always consider your dog’s needs, preferences, and health conditions when planning your festivities.

The post How Can I Celebrate Thanksgiving With My Dog? appeared first on Mutt Mommies.

Benefits:

1. Low in Sodium and Cholesterol: Bananas are naturally low in sodium and cholesterol, making them a relatively heart-healthy treat.
2. Dietary Fiber: They contain dietary fiber, which can help if a dog has minor digestive issues.
3. Natural Sugars: Bananas have natural sugars that provide a quick energy source.

Considerations:

1. Calories: Despite being healthy, bananas are relatively calorie-dense, so they should only be given as an occasional treat.
2. Sugar Content: While safe for dogs, the natural sugars in bananas can still contribute to weight gain if given in large quantities.
3. Texture: Some dogs might find the texture of bananas odd or unappealing, while others may love it.
4. Peels: While banana peels are not toxic, they can be challenging to digest and might pose a choking hazard. Be sure to remove the peel before giving a banana to your dog.

How to Serve:

1. Raw: You can give your dog a few fresh banana slices. Make sure it’s in manageable pieces to prevent choking.
2. Mashed: Some owners like to mash up a banana and mix it into their dog’s food for a sweet treat.
3. Frozen: Freezing banana slices can make for a refreshing summer treat for dogs.
4. In Recipes: Many dog treat recipes incorporate bananas, often combined with ingredients like peanut butter (ensure it doesn’t contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs) or oats.

Always introduce any new food into your dog’s diet gradually and in small amounts to watch for any adverse reactions. If you are unsure or if your dog has specific dietary needs or health concerns, consult with your veterinarian.

Check out this video of our dogs eating bananas!

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