National Hug Your Dog Day – Holiday Review

Hug Your Dog Day is held on April 10th each year. The day was created by Ami Moore, a professional dog trainer and behavior expert.

This day was designated for dog owners to shower their dogs with love to show appreciation for the joy dogs bring them.

Grandson Tyler & GrandPuppy Pepe the Poodle

Of the dozen plus contributing writers on ReviewThisReview.com, a large percentage of them are dog owners and/or dog lovers. Thus, there have been many, many articles and reviews written about things that are dog-related.

For National Hug Your Dog Day, we shall gather these articles together from the archives of Review This Reviews and list them on this one page for your reviewing pleasure.  

DOG ARTICLES & REVIEWS

Dog Books and Movies

Image Source: Pixabay

• Joy Unleased (The story of Bella, the Unlikely Therapy Dog) reviewed by Renaissance Woman
• Doctor Dogs reviewed by Wednesday Elf
• How to Speak Dog book reviewed by Mary Beth Granger
• Recommended Summer Reading for Dog Lovers reviewed by Dawn Rae
• As Good As Gold (A dog's life in poems) reviewed by Olivia Morris
• Rescue Road reviewed by Renaissance Woman
• Food Pets Die For book reviewed by Renaissance Woman
• Catching Dawn (A search for a dog and the discovery of a family) book reviewed by Renaissance Woman
• No Ordinary Dog reviewed by Renaissance Woman
• Pet Tracker book reviewed by Renaissance Woman
• The Art of Racing in the Rain book reviewed by Treasures by Brenda
• The Spirit of Animal Healing reviewed by Renaissance Woman
• Togo (2019) Movie reviewed by Sylvestermouse
• The Art of Racing in the Rain movie reviewed by Renaissance Woman
• Marmaduke (2010) movie reviewed by Sylvestermouse

Dog Foods, Dog Treats, Dog Bowls, Dog Toys

Treat Time!

• Cooking For Dogs reviewed by Sylvestermouse
• Disposable Feeding Bowls for Dogs reviewed by Sylvestermouse
• Slow Feeding Dog Bowl reviewed by Mary Beth Granger
• Easy Carry and Collapsible Travel Dog Bowl reviewed by Sylvestermouse
•  Durable Dental Dog Chew reviewed by Brite-Ideas
• Are Rope Tug Toys Good For a Dog's Teeth? reviewed by Susan Deppner
• Whimzees Natural Dog Treat reviewed by The Savvy Age

Dog Holidays

• Dog Days of February – dog holidays in February reviewed by Wednesday Elf
• Bringing Home A Puppy Day reviewed by Olivia Morris
• National Lost Pet Prevention Month reviewed by Renaissance Woman

Products for Dogs

Abbi the Boston Terrier

• Dog Raincoat reviewed by The Savvy Age
• Ortho Sleeper Comfort Couch For Dogs reviewed by Sylvestermouse
• Veehoo Elevated Dog Bed reviewed by Dawn Rae
• Donut Dog Bed reviewed by The Savvy Age
• Indoor Dog Gates reviewed by Sylvestermouse
• Dog and Cat Strollers reviewed by Olivia Morris
• Best Choice 2-in-1 Dog Trailer/Stroller reviewed by Renaissance Woman
• Backyard Dog Agility Kits reviewed by The Savvy Age
• Paws and Pals Dog Ramp reviewed by Renaissance Woman
• Puppia Dog Harness reviewed by The Savvy Age
• Wahl Professional Dog Cordless Clipper reviewed by The Savvy Age
• Greeting Cards for Pet Lovers reviewed by Wednesday Elf
• Mothers Day Cards From the Dog reviewed by Lou16
• Frontline Flea and Tick Drops for Dogs and Cats reviewed by Sylvestermouse
• ID Tags for Dogs and Cats reviewed by Susan Deppner
• Patriotic Dog Bandanas, Collars and Clothes reviewed by Susan Deppner
• Embark Dog DNA Test reviewed by Renaissance Woman
• Earthbath Totally Natural Pet Shampoo reviewed by Susan Deppner
• Ruff Relief Organic Pet Paw, Nose, and Skin Balm reviewed by Renaissance Woman

Summary

So, give a 'hound hug' to your favorite pooch on this National Hug Your Dog Day (April 10), then give them their favorite treats and check out the helpful dog products and entertaining dog books and movies listed in this review.

Happy National Hug Your Dog Day! 
April 10

Golden Retriever (Tofu), Pepe (Poodle), Golden Doodle Puppy (Pinkie)

*Summary of Dog-Related Reviews compiled for you by Wednesday Elf from the archives of Review This Reviews!

 

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Let's Review the Dog Days of February

Abbi, a family Boston Terrier (c)

I know, you think of those hot, steamy days of August when you hear the term 'Dog Days', but you'll be surprised to learn how many February dates are related to the lovable pet known as DOG.

There are quite a few dog-related holidays in February alone. Perhaps this is because the Westminster Dog Show is held this month, putting the focus on dogs. 

Although there are numerous days throughout the year dedicated to dogs in one form or another, we present here just a few celebrated in February. 

“Walking the Dog Day” - February 22

 

Abbi, a family pet Boston Terrier

Dog owners walk their dog every day, but on February 22nd I guess they get to have an extra-special walk.  My brother's dog, Abbi, the Boston Terrier, loves her walks every day.  There's just so much for a curious dog to sniff and see and enjoy while walking along a trail in the woods or just around the neighborhood. As Abbi's 'aunt', I've gotten in my share of dog walks with her. Walking is good for both dog walker and dog. 

Abbi is a rescue pup who has found her 'forever home' with my brother & sister-in-law and she is a happy dog indeed.

"Love Your Pet Day" - February 20

February 20th is “Love Your Pet Day”. While not limited strictly to dogs, one of the most popular pets is a cute puppy and the grown up dog he becomes.   No one knows who created this 'love' day for pets, but probably it was a pet lover (or the pet of one). It's definitely a day to lavish extra attention on your pet, be it a dog or other kind of animal you love. 

Our own Dawn Rae wrote this delightful story about her Rat Terrier, Daisy and you can just feel all the love she had for Daisy the dog. Put February 20 on your calendar each year so you don't miss out on 'Love Your Pet Day'. 

“International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day” - February 23

 

Another 'dog day' to celebrate in February is “International  Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day” on February 23rd.  

I can't think of a better way to let your dog know you appreciate him/her than with a favorite doggie treat. Dog biscuits are snapped up immediately by dogs and the best kind are homemade. 



Try the recipe in this article filled with homemade dog food recipes and helpful tips for making your own homemade dog biscuits for your furry friend on a day we appreciate the dog biscuit.  The shape is easy to make with this dog biscuit cookie cutter from Amazon.

Dog Bone Cookie Cutter, Premium Food-Grade Stainless Steel, Dishwasher Safe

 

Besides dog biscuits, your favorite puppy might enjoy a special cupcake made especially for a doggie palette with ingredients just right for a dog diet. The recipe by Susan Zatautas is found in another review by Sylvestermouse called “Cooking for Dogs”.

Celebrate all the Dog Days in February and Thoughout the Year. 

My crocheted dogs, Paulie and Petunia, hope you (and your dog) get to take advantage of all these special February days for dogs!

For more dog stories and reviews of products for dogs, check out the DOG section here on Review This Reviews.

*Article written by Wednesday Elf on 2/21/2015. Updated on 2/21/2024

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Dog Agility Reviewed!

It is winter here in the Midwest and I already thinking warmer weather and fun activities in the yard with my pup and dog agility!

A backyard agility course for your dog is fun with a F! Fun for you, fun for the dog and a fun activity both you and your fluffy friend can enjoy.

The Agility Obstacle Course

Dog agility is the running of an obstacle course. The sport originated in the late 1970's in England. There have been many organizations through the years as the sport has evolved; the goal of the organizations were shared, though the rules and obstacles slightly differed.

Years ago when agility was a relatively new sport I enrolled in a dog agility class. The difference between the backyard agility equipment and professional equipment is size. As you can see from the video below of a professional agility competition the obstacles are BIG!

Backyard agility obstacles are smaller, portable and easy to assemble. The starter kits are easy to set up, store and all you need is grass! The agility kits are easily transported so if a backyard is not available any nice sized section of grass will work.

The Beginner Backyard Agility Sets

Staples in a backyard agility kit are the jump, tunnel and weave poles.

Tunnel

The tunnel is usually one of the first obstacles to teach your dog. A few treats and encouragement and the tunnel can be easy to master for the confident dog. As with every new activity a little practice goes along way and the dog will give you cues as to how comfortable they are with the tunnel.

I have seen very skittish and less confident young dogs who at first look at the tunnel as a looming foreign object turn into tunnel loving runners with the right encouragement and practice.

Jump

The jump is adjustable and can be set very close to the ground to begin acclimating your dog to the desired height. Dogs who love to run and jump can take to the jump quite quickly. I happen to have a dog who loves to jump so the jump was quickly mastered and the height could be increased.

To teach and acclimate the dog to the jump you can see in the photo below the dog is on a leash and I am gently guiding the dog through the jump with a treat in hand ( why the dog is looking to my hand).

Last Fall we had a few doggie buddies over for backyard fun. 

The three Amigos

Within a few minutes of practicing individually we put the medium size dogs sitting at the start line and were amazed as they took off together taking the jump in unison!

 It was a race to the treat and the owners.

Because of size, as one of the three amigos was only six pounds, she was an observer while the two medium sized dogs navigated the obstacle course, and we practiced with her separately. 

She enjoyed watching and learning from afar however!

Weave poles

Weave poles can be tough! Where my dog took to the jumping very quickly, the weave poles not so much. The poles are set up for the dog to zig zag - weave in and out in a straight line. We are still working on the weave poles, but in the spirit of this is purely for fun, I think the pup and I have decided ... no on the weave poles.

But weave poles are alot of fun to watch. The video below shows a full sized Agility Course and look at those pups weave!

Sit stay box

This is a great exercise , especially for younger dogs, to practice sit/stay and down/stay. The “box” is either a marked area in a box or an actual raised solid box.

The dog either enters the box or jumps up on the box and does a sit/ stay or down/stay for a set number of seconds. If training a young dog, this exercise works right into practicing sits and stays.

Dog Personality

Of course it is imperative the personality and physical capabilities of your dog are of the greatest importance when considering agility obstacles. Dogs of any age, breed or height can participate in dog agility. The obstacles are 'sized' to the dog.

Age: Agility courses are not for puppies as their growth plates must be fully developed. Obviously this varies per breed, per dog. Pre agility exercises such as the sit stay exercise are pup friendly.

Does your dog love to run ? Try new things? Enjoy activity? Loves to figure out a puzzle? Agility may be a great fit.

Is your dog apprehensive to try something new but with proper training enjoys a new activity ? Agility could be a great confidence booster !

Backyard agility can just be plain ole good fun for the owner and pet. No need to compete, just enjoy the obstacles your dog likes and making a home agility course provides great exercise for you and your pet.

Where To Find Backyard Agility Kits

Online is where the kits can be found, this is a beginner kit I like.


DIY ers  can also make agility equipment! Here is a good resource in making obstacles for a backyard agility course .

I’ve been lucky enough to have dogs which naturally seem to enjoy agility which makes training much easier!

Whether it is one obstacle or a backyard of obstacles, I highly recommend dog agility for a few hours of amusement, exercise and bonding with you furry friend.

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Whimzees Natural Dog Treat Review

My little furball is in love with his new friend Whimzees Dog Treats! I am in love that I found a dog treat my dog can actually eat due to his new friend the low protein dog diet. Whimzees brand of dog treats are actually all natural dental treats so one a day is the recommended serving.

 All Sizes All Shapes

One of the fun features are the different sizes and shapes of Whimzees. Every dog has their unique preference of the size and shape of a dog treat and then there are those dogs which are generalists. My dog is a generalist; not necessarily picky, but does prefer the chew stick or chew round as the first options.

 Low Protein All Natural Dog Treat

Unfortunately due to a tangle with bladder stones my dog had to be switched to a low protein menu which included low protein dog treats and chews. The treats were not an issue as I had always restricted the types of treats; but taking away the favorite dog chew was a huge issue!

The Fluff (as I call my dog in jest, as he is not a wash and wear type dog and needs to be groomed and fluffed!) absolutely without hesitation indicated that a daily chew was a necessity.

The Search For A Low Protein Dog Chew Or Snack

It was very difficult to find any dog chews that were "low protein" as defined by under 15-20% protein content. When I was roaming up and down the treat aisle at the local pet store I lucked into one of the employees who was also a dog nutritionist. I was reading the ingredients of Whimzees and as we together went through the ingredients the dog nutritionist explained each ingredient and its' benefit. The Whimzees Vegetable Sausage is a dental dog treat so the Fluff eats the stick quickly, but is very satisfied.

Switching From A Protein Dog Chew To Whimzees

It was absolutely no problem to switch to the Whimzees Dog Treats. I chose the Vegetable Sausage as it was a chew stick and suitable for the size of the Fluff. The Fluff approved immediately and is a happy little chewer with the added bonus of helping to keep his teeth clean and his breath fresh.

Whimzees can be purchased in variety packs of different shapes or a  pack of the same type of dog treat. I began with the Vegetable Sausage and next time will order the variety pack for small dogs for a change of pace. Dog owners seeking a grain free treat will love Whimzees too!

The Fluff and I highly recommend Whimzees! 

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Indoor Dog Gates Reviewed

As the summer months are fast approaching, I am reminded of how much we need our indoor dog gates once the hot days arrive. 

When we have workmen or company, it is simply too hot to leave the pups outside for more than a few minutes.  Actually, the same is true during the winter months.  Extreme weather conditions of any kind make indoor dog gates essential. 

We have 2 different dog gates that we use regularly in our home.  One that requires hardware mounted on the door facing.  And, one that is held in place by tension.  Both are fabulous dog gates and I can highly recommend either one depending on your preferences. 

Dog Gate with Hardware Required

 Kidco Safeway Gate, Top of Stairs Gate, WhiteThis doggie gate is more secure.  Unless a dog jumps over the gate, they aren't going to get past it.  We have had one dog who was capable of jumping over the gate, but age has slowed that desire and ability.  I am quite certain he could still jump the gate if needed, but he is a really good dog who understands the reason for the gate and tries very hard to be obedient.  To be completely honest, I am reassured to know he could get over it if needed.  After all, the workmen are most often strangers and I am more comfortable having my guard dog only a shout away. 

Features:

• Metal
• Adjustable Width to Fit Doorway
• Locks 
• Hardware Required (but you only have to install it once, unless you move)
• Gate Can Be Removed when Not in Use (hardware remains on door facing)

This gate is also fabulous when we have had bad weather and the dogs come in wet.  I can close the gate and they will stay on the tile just inside our back door until they are dry enough to enter the rest of the house. 

Tension Dog Gate 

 Evenflo Position and Lock Tall Pressure Mount Wood GateThe tension dog gate is the one we use when we want the dogs to stay in an area of the house without locking them behind a door.  I have used it many times in the doorway between the kitchen and the den.  It allows them the freedom to move around in a larger area of the house, but to still be limited.  This gate was especially useful when we had our bathroom re-tiled.  That process took several hours over several days.  The dogs were "penned" in the kitchen area where they had access to their food and water all day.  Plus, they had plenty of room to walk around or lay down without being literally on top of each other.

Features:

• No Permanent Hardware
• Wood (beware, some dogs will chew wood frame)
• Location can be Moved to Different Doorways
• Adjustable Width

We also use the tension gate at the foot of the stairs when we have overnight guests.  It keeps the pups for going upstairs to visit with our guests.  Trust me, that makes for happier guests and happier dogs!

The downside to this gate is obvious.  Since it is only held in place by tension, a heavier dog, or one who was really persistent, could knock it down.  The few times I have seen that happen, the noise of the gate crashing to the ground stunned the dog momentarily and alerted me instantly that the gate was down.  That allowed me enough time to get the dog and the gate back when they were supposed to be without incident.  Fortunately, our dogs understand the gate is a boundary and they are really good about not crossing the boundary regardless.  I have even been able to simply set the gate against the doorway without locking it into place and they understand to stay on their side.

Indoor Dog Gates 

I have no doubt that these gates have saved our dogs lives on several occasions and saved me a tremendous amount of stress over the years.  Because we have larger breed dogs, I've never felt a kennel was a good option.  I wouldn't want to be trapped in one, therefore, I know my dogs don't want to be locked in a cage where they can't even stand up either.  

The indoor dog gates allow our dogs to be happier, healthier and safer.  They allow us to have the freedom to have our dogs live indoors with us, but be securely contained in safe areas when we have guests.

For all of us in our home, these gates are considered essential and worth the cost.  

To new dog owners, I recommend having these gates as soon as you bring a new puppy home.  It really is best to train them properly from the very beginning.  Puppies are much easier to train than an older dog.  However, I can tell you from experience that an older dog can and will learn the boundaries set by a indoor dog gate if you will simply be patient and give them time.  Like any other form of training, start out with short periods of time and keep them company.  Then work up to longer stretches of time and walk into another room for a few minutes.  They will learn that they are safe and that you are coming back.  It just takes time and gentle effort! 


Different Styles of Indoor Dog Gates - Select the One that Fits Your Personal Needs

 Best Choice Products Freestanding Adjustable Pet Dog Gate FenceCheck Price Folding Wood Pet Gate- 3 SectionsCheck Price Carlson Extra Wide Walk Through Pet Gate with Small Pet DoorCheck Price Pet Trex 24" Exercise Playpen for DogsCheck Price

 

 

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Zack & Zoey Nor'easter Dog Blanket Coat Review

When you live in the mountains, the weather can turn on you without warning.  My adventure companion, Toby, has to be prepared for a wide range of conditions on our daily hikes.  One of the most important pieces of outdoor gear for my dog is his all-weather jacket.  Toby’s new Zack & Zoey Nor’easter Dog Blanket Coat just arrived and we gave it a test run this afternoon.  Here’s our review of the coat’s performance.

First, I must mention that I specifically looked for a dog coat that came in a high visibility orange color.  With hunting season in high gear, Toby’s safety was my top priority.  Having a dog that loves to root around in the brush for rabbits and bones made it imperative that he not be mistaken for wild game.  I am extremely happy with the color of Toby’s new coat.  He can be seen from a great distance and the reflective stripe and paw logo on his coat provide for additional safety with darkness coming on so early these days.  Score: 10/10

Next, I wanted a waterproof outer fabric that would offer a shield from the wind that blows down off the 14,000-foot peaks here in our stomping grounds.  Toby's new Zack & Zoey dog coat has a polyester shell with just the right weave and weight to keep him comfortable.  Any hiker at high elevations knows that every ounce counts.  You need to find performance gear that won't weigh you down.  The weight of Toby's new jacket is just perfect.  We didn't have any precipitation to contend with during our test today, but we'll score this based on wind-breaking capacity.  Score: 10/10

The third feature on our must-have list for a new dog coat was that it be fleece-lined.  We found that the Zack & Zoey Nor’easter Dog Blanket Coat offers just the right amount of warmth.  Being a rugged, outdoorsy kind of guy, Toby really likes the camo print lining, but you can select another lining style if your dog has different fashion tastes.  As an added bonus, this coat is reversible.  We flipped the jacket inside out during our test so you could see how it looks when reversed.  You can choose from eight different coat colors and lining prints.  Score: 10/10

Our final expectations, in terms of the dog coat’s features, centered on the ease of getting it off and on, as well as on the sizing adjustability.  The chest and belly straps on this dog coat make it quick and simple to gear up.  I’m pleased with the quality of the Velcro closures.  Some brands of dog coats have leg openings that require a dog to step into his jacket.  That would never work for us.  Those kinds of openings constrain movement and rub the wrong way on a dog’s body.  Toby and I much prefer the Zack & Zoey style of strapping.  We found the sizing to be very accurate.  I ordered an XL coat for Toby and it fits just right.  Score: 10/10

In summary, we couldn’t be happier with the Zack & Zoey Nor’easter Dog Blanket Coat.  The coat is everything we wanted and the price was extremely reasonable (much less than other dog coats).  I will definitely buy this same coat again.  Highly recommended.  Toby gives this dog coat an overall score of 10/10 bones.

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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