Even if you’re not putting your pup up to the challenge of racing 1,150 over rugged and snowy terrain, you can still keep him strong as a sled dog by choosing the most health-smart pet products. Instead of buying the standard supermarket chow, go for a “gourmet” meal like Merrick Natural Dog Foods. “Merrick doesn’t contain any meat by-products, so it’s healthier,” says Donna Vanderhoff of the brand, which mixes whole grains, fruits, and veggies with turkey, duck, and chicken.

When rewarding your dog for a sweet trick, toss him a Dogswell Dog Treat. Most treats are loaded with fat, but Dogswell offers a baked, protein-rich alternative that helps keep your pet nice and nimble. “This product is great,” says Kristine. “Chicken jerkey with glucosamine to help their bones, especially their hips. Super for large dogs, but they do need about six a day.” Amanda Thompson dubs Dogswell “one of the best treats on the market,” noting that you can help a “dog in need” get his own bag when you purchase an animal-rescue-supporting Oh My Dog Calendar from the company.

Another treat designed to enhance your pooch’s health, Greenies Smart Biscuits provides super breath-freshening power. Selected by Gotham Chopra and Kimberly Fowler, the biscuits are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and protein, but low on fat and calories. “Everyone who has dogs has to get some,” Kimberly swears. “My pal Lucky loves them and they are my favorite color (green)!”

...continued: Dynamo Dog Health

My puppy, East, would like to tell you something: “Arf, arf aroof. Woof bow wow.”

Isn’t he brilliant? And eloquent? He’s so right to remind us that dogs like Chrismas as much as people do and shouldn’t be overlooked when it comes to gift-buying.

What’s that, East?

“Yip, woofity arf arf!”

Of course, buddy. You do give us the gift if unquestioning devotion every waking moment. None is more deserving of a holiday treat than you, my fine, furry friend.

“Arfoomph. Woooofoofoof.” 

Yes, we know you’re capable of the world’s most dramatic guilt trip if ignored. We remember your ability to lay on the floor and sigh the saddest sighs all too well (drama queen alert!). So, no, one present is not too much to ask. You were so polite you may deserve two. Just, maybe, in return, would it be possible for you to not say, “I love you,” to the mailman quite so loudly next year?

“Grrr! Grrroof! ThisNext wish list!”

What’s that, boy? Did you say, “ThisNext wish list?” Aren’t you a clever online shopper! Of course I’ll refer to your ThisNext wish list for gift ideas!

East’s wish list:

See more of my for the love of dogs list at ThisNext.

Cuteoverload is a well-known and weeeeird blog with just about the cutest pictures and the funniest headlines/commentaries you’ll ever find.  It never fails to make me laugh, and hey, I don’t laugh easy these days.   They also recently pointed to one of the strangest products in the world: a Poodle Disguise for Dobermans – which includes (1) Fake fur pieces (4 leg pieces, one body piece, and head piece), (2) Black face paint (safe for dogs), and (3) Safe suit-fitting method statement and instructions.  You can even get an under-harness (sold separately).  It’s not entirely a joke; the Australian folk at attackchi.org.au behind all this really are trying to make a point about how certain breeds are wrongfully considered unsafe and even have laws made to restrict their keeping and breeding, while other equally dangerous (or non-dangerous) breeds are virtually ignored.  So it’s kind of a social statement, kind of a product, kind of a joke, and really very funny.  Coming soon: Golden Retriever disguises for German Shepherds and Old English Sheepdog disguises for Mastiffs.  Don’t miss ‘em!

Petville wins my cutest pet blog banner for the day compeition… LOOK at that! And that dog with the for rent sign, is only one of many reasons to go check out this pet blog filled with products and services you didn’t even know you needed (but will once you get  there.) They have a great round up of places to look when hunting for a pet friendly rental - here. 

I was just reading the Embrace Pet Insurance Blog (don’t be fooled by the name, the content is very ThisNext, a lot of really helpful links to browse, and a range of products and services which may surprise you!) And according to them Friday June 23 (TOMORROW!) is Take Your Dog To Work Day. So don’t let your dog miss out on the fun tomorrow. They are also featuring this Fetching Dog Tags deal - they are hand made and donate a portion of each sale to Canine Rescue.