Domestic Beast

May 23

I wear a mask. And that mask, it’s not to hide who I am, but to create what I am.

I wear a mask. And that mask, it’s not to hide who I am, but to create what I am.

Collars: Dots vs. Doodles

Bark + Biscuit dog collar in Confetti

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Buy now >

Stunt Puppy Croakies® dog collar in Doodle Purple

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Buy now >

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At ease, Waldo. We’re not talking about you.

May 22

theamericankid:

This seems accurate to me.

theamericankid:

This seems accurate to me.

Drip Module® for dogs

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The Drip Module company is known for its modern designs for the home, inspired by the frozen shape of water droplets. They design everything from clocks to coffee tables…and now dog bowls.

These eye-catching bowls are made from custom-cut BirchPly and colorful acrylic; we love that they scream “modern minimalist” instead of “slobbery dog.” They’re not only functional, but also a perfect conversation piece for your home.

See our Drip Module dog bowls >

May 21

This office has gone to the dogs.

May 20

pleatedjeans:

via

pleatedjeans:

via

We have a deal.

We have a deal.

(Source: theamericankid)

Mine.

Mine.

(Source: goodassdog)

#SadBed

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Is your dog sleeping on a bed that’s seen better days? Show us. Tag your photo on Instagram with #SadBed and @DomesticBeast. One winner will win a new bed of his/her choice: dbea.st/bedszz.

Entries accepted until Friday, May 24th.

May 17

Can all dogs swim?

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Good question!  The answer: Nope. 

When it comes to swimming, dogs fall into three categories:

  1. Dogs that can doggie paddle.
  2. Dogs that can be taught to doggie paddle.
  3. Dogs that will sink like an anvil.

While dogs such as water spaniels, golden retrievers, Labs, Irish setters, standard poodles and Newfies are natural swimmers, some breeds are better off staying back onshore. It all comes down to anatomy…

For dogs with short muzzles, such as pugs, boxers and bulldogs, swimming is virtually impossible. When they get in the water, they have to lift their nose and mouth up in the air to breathe, which causes their backside to go down, putting them into a vertical position and causing them to sink.

Dogs with big heads and chests have a similar problem: Their upper body weight literally causes them to tip forward in the water and sink.

You’ll also want to watch out for dogs with super thick, heavy coats (imagine trying to swim with a gorilla suit on) and dogs with small legs, such as dachshunds or corgis (hello, exhaustion).

Here’s a list of dogs that are generally unable to swim:

Of course, if your dog isn’t on this list but has any of the physical characteristics mentioned above, use caution around the water. And if your dog is afraid of the water, don’t force them to get in. Some dogs may physically be able to swim but are so scared of the water that all they’ll do is panic when they’re submerged. As with humans, panic causes fatigue, which makes drowning much more likely.

If you’re planning to be around any body of water with your dog (including pools!), it’s a good idea to use a doggy life jacket, especially if your dog is skittish or unable to swim.

May 16

ID: For you, for them

For you. For them.

Is it me you’re looking for?

May 15

Time for spring training!

Does your dog need a crash course in outdoor etiquette now that spring is here? Help your dog get into tip-top shape with these easy tips from Just Paws dog trainer Molly Feeney.

Some dogs may have hibernated over the long winter months and their basic walking manners may have fallen to the wayside. Get back in stride by reestablishing some basic leash rules.

Before you hit the pavement, start indoors with threshold training. As you come to each doorway with your dog, use the Wait command before moving through.

Once you get out on the road, start out slowly with an easy walk, making more frequent stops.  An all-time favorite game is the Stop and Go routine, a simple exercise you can do anywhere.

If your dog pulls on the leash, stop walking. When they stop pulling and look up at you, go forward. To make the game even more fun, give your dog the incentive of a tasty treat each time they stop and look at you. You can also keep working on your Heel command by making numerous U-turns, which will help your dog stay focused on you. 

Bear in mind that as you walk you may encounter hazardous objects left behind from winter, so stay alert, keep your leash short and redirect your dog away from potentially dangerous stuff.

Is your dog more drawn to the yard than the sidewalk? New grass and gardening + pooches = a recipe for disaster, so avoid leaving your dog unattended in a freshly planted yard. If your dog loves frolicking around the yard but you worry they will begin re-landscaping, create a special digging pit area they can call their own. Fill the pit with scented chews to show your dog this special designated area is where they’re allowed to tunnel and burrow to their heart’s content.

May 14

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Give your cheerful pet A Cheerful Pet

Truth: When you find the perfect fuzzy dog toy, you don’t let it go. (Well, except maybe for a game of fetch.)

A Cheerful Pet dog toys come in all shapes and sizes…and they are so. darn. cute. Dinosaurs? Carrots? Yes, please.

Did we mention that they’re handmade by artisans in Nepal from100% all-natural boiled wool? Oh yeah, they’re a keeper. 

Check out the entire collection!

theamericankid:

Haters gonna hate

theamericankid:

Haters gonna hate