Marinda Dechert

Chances are, if you own a purebred dog, you may come across a behavioral or health problem that is specific to that particular breed. For instance, is your lab being too mouthy? Is your beagle driving you crazy with his roaming and baying? How can you  prevent back problems in your dachshund?

Aside from your dog’s breeder or veterinarian, one of the best sources of information and help is other dog owners.  Web communities, made up of forums, message boards, and groups, can be an invaluable source of information for the purebred dog owner. Forum and group members share their experiences in various areas of dog ownership, such as behavior and training.  If your dog is driving you crazy with his incessant barking or you’re having trouble housebreaking your adorable new pup, chances are great that other dog owners have faced similar situations and will gladly offer advice and support.  Want to brag that your dog graduated valedictorian in obedience class? Your fellow posters will gladly join in the kudos.  If you’ve just had to help your beloved dog cross the Rainbow Bridge, they’ll also share your sorrow.

Forum topics vary from community to community, depending on the breed of dog. For example, forums dedicated to the Labrador Retriever also have topics on Hunting and Field Trials. On most forums, irresponsible breeding practices and the purchase of pet store dogs are hot topics and tend to stir up some heated debates. However, these are the most common topics of discussion:

Behavior and Training
Health
Breed Rescue and Adoption
Grooming
Food/Raw Diets/Recipes
Showing/Conformation/Obedience/Agility

Not only are these forums informative, they are also fun. Members may discuss the latest trend in fashionable dog collars or breed-specific accessories. Most forums have photo areas where you can upload those cute digital images of your purebred puppy. Others hold contests on a regular basis or conduct fun polls like, “Is Your Dog a Cuddler?”

When you join a forum or group, keep in mind that it is a community in every sense of the word.  Read the rules and guidelines carefully, and abide by them. Your very  first post should be an introduction. Tell the forum or group something about yourself and your dog. No doubt you’ll be warmly welcomed to the community. 

So, without further ado, these are examples of purebred dog forums and groups, based on the American Kennel Club's (AKC) ranking of the 10 most popular dog breeds:

1. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever Chatboard Forums
http://lab-retriever.net

2. Golden Retriever
Top Golden Retriever Sites
http://www.topgoldenretrieversites.net

3. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkie Talk
http://www.yorkietalk.com

4. German Shepherd
Home of the German Shepherd Dog
http://www.germanshepherds.com

5. Beagle
A Forum For People Who Are Owned By Beagles
http://www.abeagleworld.com

6. Dachshund
Dachsie’s Bulletin Board
http://www.dachsie.org

7. Boxer
The Ultimate Boxer Resource on the Net
http://boxerworld.com

8. Poodle
An Online Community of Pet Lovers
http://furkids.net

9. Shih Tzu
For Shih Tzu Lovers Everywhere
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/shih-tzu

10. Miniature Schnauzer
Simply Schnauzers
http://www.simplyschnauzer.net

Whatever forum you decide to join and whatever breed of dog you own, just remember to be yourself and have fun.  Share your experiences, good and bad, and help educate others.  Most importantly, joining a community devoted to your chosen purebred dog will make you a much better owner and you’ll make some great friends in the process.

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Berenice Strosnider

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Dog Body Language #1 Ducks head when reaching to pet. How do you usually pet the dog? On the top of the head? If so you are saying I am dominant, not I want to show affection. To show affection, pet the dog under the chin or stroke the side of the muzzle.

Dog Body Language #2 Grunting shows pleasure. A grunting dog is a happy dog. Many dogs will grunt when being pet or when eating an especially loved treat.

Dog Body Language #3 Blinking when commanded to perform. When a dog blinks they are thinking, hard. If your dog blinks when given a command he or she is thinking. Is she thinking do I have to or is he trying to remember what the command is? We will never know.

Dog Body Language #4 Circles before nap time. Many dogs have a routine of three, four, or more circles before lying down for a nap. This behavior is an instinct from when dogs were wild. In the wild the dogs needed to flatten the grass in their chosen spot before laying down for a nap.

Dog Body Language #5 Tail-chasing. Humans find it funny to watch a dog chase his or her own tail, but in reality your dog is trying to tell you, “I am bored.” Dogs with high predatory drives are more likely to chase their own tails. Give the dog a non-destructible chew toy or take him outside for a walk or a game of fetch.

Dog Body Language #6 Barking with head held high. Your dog is showing that he or she is confident that they have control over their territory. The high head with hears perked forward says to the other dog, “I am here and this is mine.”

Dog Body Language #7 Barking with ears pinned down and tail tucked. A dog who is afraid will bark louder than a confident dog. However, you can tell he or she is afraid by the tucked tail and pinned ears. The dog will also take a few steps forward and then quickly back away. This shows that they do not want a confrontation.

Dog Body Language #8 Hair on back standing on end. A dog's fur can come to attention when he is excited or scared. The action can not be controlled by the dog each hair has a muscle attached and is controlled by the dog's nervous system. A dog's hair will also stand on end when the dog is extremely cold. Raised hair does not always indicate aggression, but caution should always be used.

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Boyce Stiff

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Although we humans use anise to flavour candy, tea, and absinthe, man’s best friend also finds the anise herb appealing. In fact, some dogs are attracted to anise in the same way that many cats are drawn to catnip – they enjoy pouncing, chasing, and romping with it until they tire out. If you’re looking to rile up your pup, try this canine catnip and see how the pooch responds to an anise dog toy.

You can make an anise dog toy using anise seeds or anise extract, both of which will result in a fragrant plaything. Should your loyal friend show an unusual interest in the anise dog toy, you can use this canine catnip to entertain your dog on a regular basis. Similar to cats with catnip, dogs who are affected by the herb will typically play with it happily, lose interest after some romping, and then regain interest as soon as a few hours later.

But just as not all cats respond to catnip, not at dogs respond to anise. It is likely that canine heredity determines which dogs are most excited by anise, yet research into the phenomenon is very limited. Some dog foods do contain trace amounts of anise, though manufacturers claim this is not for anise’s attractant qualities but for its role in doggy digestion: it supposedly reduces Fido flatulence!

To make an appealing anise dog toy for your companion, there are several options:

1. Purchase a bottle of anise extract from your local grocery store, take one of your dog’s current fabric toys, and dab it with the anise extract. A fabric toy, like a stuffed animal, is ideal because the anise extract will soak in nicely and the material will retain the scent better than plastic. I like this method because, even if your dog does not show interest in the canine catnip, the anise extract is still useful in cooking. In other words, this is a good way to test your dog’s attraction to anise, and you may even have the ingredient on hand! The down side to this method is that you’ll probably need to reapply the anise fragrance often to get the frisky behavior.

2. Find a plastic dog toy that somehow allows you to stuff anise seeds inside of it. Because some dog toys do have rattling mechanisms or hollow corridors, you may be able to access the interior of the toy and insert a handful of anise seeds, which are cheaply procured in the spice section of most grocery stores. The problem is finding a suitable dog toy that won’t pop open and spill seeds everywhere.

3. To make a “true” anise dog toy, you can sew one yourself! Simply gather the following materials: fabric, stuffing/cotton balls, anise seeds, and a sewing kit (or machine, preferably). Because you won’t want the toy to come apart from romping puppy play, it’s important to choose a sturdy fabric that does not tear easily. Select a simple pattern – maybe a bone shape? – and sew around the pattern line, leaving a hole for you to stuff the toy. Trim off the excess fabric so that you are left with the shape you desire, and then turn the fabric inside out. Inspect your seams to make sure they have some structural integrity, and you’re ready to begin filling the toy with stuffing and anise seeds. One it’s puffed out tightly, hand-sew the opening to complete the anise dog toy.

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Cary Moroz

anti bark dog collar

Before the economy tanked, I bought an English Mastiff. He is the greatest dog of all time, but he's 150 pounds, and, man, can he eat. My husband and I fed him premium dog food for most of his early life, spending sometimes hundreds of dollars a month. It was well worth it, as we wanted him to have only the best dog food.

However, times have gotten a lot tighter, and we have spent months researching and trying out other, less expensive dog foods. We've learned a lot of very interesting things.

Expensive dog food does not mean better dog food

You know what dog food I'm talking about. The two or three dog foods that you can buy at a discount chain or grocery store, that are in the 30 to 40 dollar price range. If it costs that much, it must be good, right?

Well, read the ingredients, and you'll see the true picture.

Ingredients to avoid in dog food

There are some known ingredients in dog food that you should be wary of. These include any non specific meat items. For example: meat, animal, poultry, vegetable oil. What type of meat? What animal? What kind of poultry? What vegetable are they getting the oil from? If they're not being specific, avoid the food.

Anything listed as by-product. You can imagine what this means. By-product is anything left after the meat is gone. Anything. Ick.

The corn controversy

I am not a corn fan, for humans or animals. It's low on nutrition and it doesn't digest well (oh, we're all familiar with corn poops). If you see a dog food loaded down with corn and corn derivatives, corn meal, corn gluten, etc, do not purchase it. This is a cheap, cheap filler that will cause your dog to poop mountains and can cause allergies in the susceptible dog.

This is why you shouldn't buy dog food from discount chains or grocery stores. Those 40 dollar bags of dog food are filled with corn, just like the 10 dollar bag of dog food sitting right next to it on the shelf. Don't believe me? Check the ingredients. I don't know how they get away with it.

The grain controversy

Super premium dog food is normally grain free. This is the dog food that costs anywhere from 50 to 70 dollars a bag and can only be found at specialty pet stores. The thinking is that a dog food should be similar to what their diet in the wild would be like. Therefore, meat, meat, meat, with some vegetables and starch thrown in.

And, to go one step further, there is the BARF diet (www.barfworld.com), where you feed your dog all human grade meats, starches, and bones (BARF is an acronym for bones and raw food diet or biologically appropriate raw diet). Again, as this is a diet the dog would eat if in the wild.

Ok. I'm not a vet, and I'm not a dog nutritionist, but, what? When's the last time a dog was in the wild? And if my dogs were in the wild, they'd be eating anything they could get their mouths on, including their own turds. But I will bow to the wisdom of people who obviously know more than I. And this diet is supposed to help with dogs that have allergies, so more power to them.

Really dangerous ingredients in dog food

There are some ingredients that are truly harmful. BHA, BHT, propyl gallate, propylene glycol and ethoxyquin. These ingredients are either toxic in large doses, or are known carcinogens. Ethoxyquin is used to preserve fish. So if fish is listed as an ingredient in your dog food, check to see if the label maintains that it is ethoxyquin free.

Dog food on a budget

Now this is tough. If you have the money and time to do the BARF diet, great. But most of us do not. So, what do you do? You have to do what works for you and your dog. There are good dog foods for less money out there, it just takes some research. A great website to try is www.dogfoodanalysis.com. They have a starred system, so it's easy to see how your dog food rates. But be warned. They are proponents of a grain free dog food diet, so the higher the stars, the more expensive the food.

And remember, your dog licks his own butt, eats tidbits from the cat litter and a hundred other disgusting things. If he gets a little grain in his diet, as long as he's not allergic, why not?

Sources: www.wisepet.com

www.dogfoodanalysis.com

www.dogfoodproject.com

www.barfworld.com

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Sharilyn Casale

Back ailments are an increasing problem as we grow older, and as a result, the market for comfort inducing pillows, mattresses and cushions designed to relieve back stress and provide soothing relief has boomed. Orthopedic mattresses and backrests are ideal for anyone suffering from back pain or simply desiring a comforting rest.

It only makes sense that as we have come to recognize the need for back pain relief in ourselves, we extend that courtesy to our pets. Large dogs have a tendency to also experience common muscle and bone ailments as they grow older, and so many pet supply companies have sought to alleviate your pet's pain and stress with the introduction of orthopedic dog beds.

An orthopedic dog bed is designed for maximum pet comfort, reducing joint stress and providing a relaxing cushion for your dog to rest and sleep on.

Available in a variety of sizes to suit the size of your dog, the Nature's Foundation Leatherette Snuggle Dog Bed comes complete with 1 1/2 inches of comfortable orthopedic foam, providing excellent support for your dog. The Nature's Foundation Leatherette Snuggle Dog Bed is an oval bed utilizing both orthopedic foam and an additional 2 inches of cedar bedding which will help to reduce odors and repel fleas. The multi-functional orthopedic dog bed has a removable bed covering that is reversible; fleece on one side to keep warm in the winter, and water-resistant nylon to help your dog keep cool in the summer. The bed cover is also machine washable.

Comfort Zone also offers an orthopedic pet bed in a variety of colors and sizes. The Comfort Zone Orthopedic dog bed is a rectangular mat-like bed with an orthopedic foam base. The bed is designed with premium, comfortable fleece on one side, and a brightly colorful deep plush on the other side.

The Pet Care 152 SSS OrthoCare Pet Bed is designed exclusively for older dogs or dogs with joint and muscle ailments, but enjoyable by dogs of all ages and sizes. Also available in three different sizes, the Pet Care Ortho Care Pet Bed is made with a durable design for easy portability and function, built with dual density orthopedic foam and a removable fleece bed cover, that is also machine washable.

The Kreature Komfort Beasley Couch is a bed styled like a small couch exclusively for your pet's enjoyment and ultimate comfort. The three inches of convoluted orthopedic foam offers amazing support for your dog, as does the overstuffed bolsters. As with the other orthopedic dog beds mentioned, the cover is removable and machine washable, and the bed itself is available in various sizes and two fabric choices.

All of the above beds can be found at Amazon.com and at other reputable pet supply retailers.

small dog shock training collar

Ahmed Broking

For owners of chihuahuas, yorkshire terriers, pomeranians, toy poodles and other toy dog breeds, “fido” is just like one of the kids. When family vacation time comes, you don’t have to leave your small dog breed at home, at the vet, or with a pet sitter. Traveling with your toy dog breed can be simple if you do your research beforehand.

Safety First, Don’t Forget…
Your small dog breed needs to be up to date on all his or her shots. Make sure you have copies of proof of vaccinations and a health certificate if required. It’s very important that your small dog breed is wearing a rabies tag (that says when they have been vaccinated for rabies) in addition to the standard pet id tag. Additionally you want to have your vet’s number available and the number and address of a vet at your desired travel location.

Supplies you will need:
• A small dog carrier or travel crate. Whether you are traveling by car or by plane you will need a protective carrier for your small dog. It is not safe to let your toy breed roam around in the car. And airlines require that your small dog be kenneled. Whether you choose a cute Paris Hilton like carrier or a standard looking kennel is up to you.
• Small dog clothes. If you are going to a cool climate, your small dog breed will need a sweater or jacket. If you are traveling in the cold winter considered purchasing dog boots for your toy dog breed. If you are going to a warm tropical climate dog sunglasses are available.
• Dog leash. Do not forget your small dog’s leash. You will need it to take your toy dog breed for walks or pet friendly attractions.
• Food and water bowls. It’s best to travel light. Instead of lugging your at-home bowls, purchase a portable dog travel bowl.
• Don’t forget the premium dog food that your toy breed is used to. Small dogs can be picky so travel with the food your toy breed normally eats.
• Medications. Remember to bring any medications that your dog may need. Also bring flea and tick spray if your small dog is not already on preventative. 

General Air Travel Rules
• Make advanced reservations with the airline. Airlines are not required to carry animals.
• Some airlines allow small dog breeds that are 10 pounds or less to travel in the cabin if they fit underneath the passengers seat
• Most airlines require a health certificate
• Your pet should be at least 8 weeks old
• Do not feed your pet before travel
• Your small dog must be in a USDA approved pet carrier or kennel

Car Travel Tips
Traveling by car with your small dog breed can be pleasant. Be sure to take a few car rides with your toy dog breed before your actual trip. This will allow your small dog to get used to the car environment. When it’s time for your trip with your small dog be sure to have a kennel or small dog carrier. Your toy dog breed should always be safe while traveling. If you are crossing state lines, be sure you know the pet regulations. If it’s going to be a long trip, plan on making a few stops so your toy dog breed can stretch and use the bathroom.

Don’t give your small dog food prior to your trip. Feed your small dog in the evening and pack a few snacks and water for the trip. Be sure not to leave your pet in the car alone. During hot weather car temperatures can reach over 110 F rather quickly. During cold weather, the temperatures can decrease just as quickly.

If you are on the road and your pet needs emergency care, call the American Animal Hospital Association at 800-252-2242 for the location of the nearest AAHA-certified veterinarian.

Pet Friendly Lodging

Never sneak your toy dog breed into a hotel. There are plenty of hotels that provide pet friendly lodging for a nominal fee. Resources like Fido Friendly, Petswelcome and AAA can provide you with a list of pet friendly accommodations. Additionally books such as Pets Welcome: , and The Pet Travel and Fun Authority of Best-of-State Places to Play, Stay & Have Fun Along the Way: 35,000+ Accommodations, Pet Sitters, Kennels, Dog Parks & Camps, Beaches, Boating, Skiing, Festivals, Events, Attractions, Pet Bakeries, Tons-of-Pet Fun & More Guide! by M.E. Nelson, can provide lots of hotels that not only allow small dogs, but cater to them.

However, sometimes the lists can be outdated so before you make your reservation, be sure to ask if they allow pets, the regulations and the cost. When making your reservation, keep in mind that it will be easier to take your toy dog breed outside for bathroom breaks if your room is on the ground floor.

Make sure you completely understand the hotels regulations. Some hotels do not allow pets to be left in the room unattended. But if this is not the case, and you leave your toy dog breed in the room, be sure to put the “do not disturb” sign on the door. If possible, leave your small dog in his kennel or small dog carrier and be sure to leave the TV or radio on so your small dog feels you are still there.

Before you take your small dog for a walk, be sure to ask the hotel management where you can walk your dog.

When it’s night time have your small dog sleep in their crate, small dog carrier or on the floor. Even if they are used to sleeping in the bed with you, doing so at a hotel is not appropriate.

Most importantly, be sure to clean up after your toy breed.

Extras
A few extra things you may want to pack for the trip include:

• A list of pet friendly activities
• Window shades for hot days
• Towels to wipe muddy paws
• Dog treats
• Dog cleaning wipes
• A few dog toys
• Puppy pads
• Dog waste removal bags
• A first aid kit
• A dog brush
• Your toy breeds favorite blanket
• Travel drops to help with motion sickness
• A recent photograph in case your toy breed wanders off

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Tegan Souvannasap

Generally, you may think that dogs only need to be bathed when they get to the “stinky” stage. That's when you can't stand to smell them anymore. Actually, according to the experts who know, a dog needs a bath every month…no matter if they want it or not. A monthly bath will not only keep your dog clean, (at least, relatively clean, depending on the activities of your dog),
but it will also help keep flea infestation under control.

To bathe your dog properly, you should use a bath tub or a utility tub if you're going to bathe him or her outside. A shower sprayer hose is a great device to use in an inside bathtub. But, if you're going to wash them outside, your garden hose needs to be able to provide hot and cold water together. Place a rubber mat in the bottom of the tub. This will make your dog feel secure because their feet won't slide around uncontrollably. Most dogs don't like taking a bath anyhow, so you need to make them feel as comfortable as possible.

Brush your dog's fur out first before you give him or her a bath. The brushing will get rid of tangles and matted places that might be in their fur. If his or her is a tangled mess, there are detangling products on the market that are made especially for dogs.

Fill the tub with about three inches of lukewarm water, and gently place your dog into the water. Next, place a cotton ball gently into each of its ears. The cotton balls should extend just inside the ear canal. The purpose of the cotton is to keep water out of their ears.

Wet his or her coat down thoroughly with a garden hose. Then, start with their main body and lather it up with a good quality dog shampoo. Work the shampoo into a rich lather with your fingers. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's directions on the bottle in order to achieve the best results. For example, many flea shampoos recommend that you leave the lather on your dog for a certain period of time.

Then, lather up your dog's stomach, legs, feet, and tail. It's a good idea to soothe your pet by speaking to him or her in reassuring tones.

Finally, finish the washing process by pouring a bit of the shampoo into one hand. Rub your hands together and carefully wash his or her face and head. Be careful not to get any shampoo into their eyes, nose, or mouth. If you do, use a soft, clean towel to wipe it off.

To rinse your dog, start with their head first. Rinse your hands off. Then, cover their eyes by cupping one hand over them. Carefully hold their head back at a slight angle so the suds don't run into their eyes or into their nose. Next, cover your dog's nose and rinse off the rest of their head.
Repeat this process as many times as need be in order to remove all of the shampoo and suds from their fur.

Next, work your way down their body with the garden hose or shower sprayer hose. Once you have finished bathing your dog, wipe your hand over their fur to remove the excess water.

Then, remove the cotton balls from his or her ears. Use thick, absorbent towels to dry your dog off completely. If the weather is warm enough, you can allow him or her to air dry afterwards. If the weather outside is cold, you should use a hair blow dryer to finish the drying process. Just be careful not to hold the blow dryer too close to their fur or they can get burned.

And, finally, your dog may not be too happy, be you should be! He or she is clean, their fur is detangled, and they are once again smelling good!

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Maritza Baillargeon

TV shows, rewritten content articles for profit and trainers competing in a slumping economy are helping to perpetuate dog training myths. The pet industry is big, big business and no stranger to popularity and profit at any cost. Dog owners represent their furry canine family members who cannot argue the validity of who you choose to listen to. How high do you score on the following test? Answer yes or no and keep reading for the answers below:

1. Is it important for humans to be the dominant pack member?

5. Can obedience training help separation anxiety?

1. Answer: NO – Dominance is an overused and misunderstood term.

Dominance training is on the rise again due to popular TV shows, but animal behavior studies have shown it to be ineffective and in some cases abusive. Though dominance exists; it is not the kind of relationship you want with your pet. The training methods you see on TV are not easily replicated and they can do harm to you and your dog. Understand the difference between dominance and leadership; do your homework. Then, choose the path of leadership for a healthy relationship with a stable dog.

2. Answer: NO – Dogs are not dumb.

If you think your dog is not learning you should first rule out physical and emotional disorders with your veterinarian. All dog problems are caused by humans; humans breed them poorly, humans treated them bad or humans train them wrong. In my experience, most dogs are smarter than dog owners and better trainers that dog trainers. Why? Because they effectively train people to feed them, clean up after them, open doors for them and play with them on command. I personally have never met a dumb dog.

3. Answer: YES – There are ways to protect your dog from disease prior to vaccination.

The optimum socialization age for a dog ends at about 14 weeks old. Get a doggie stroller, buy a doggie backpack, take your dog to friend's houses where you know the dogs are vaccinated, go for car rides; but get them out of the house. Just avoid places where your dog is exposed to unvaccinated dogs or places where stray dogs have access.

4. Answer: NO – Taking a group training class is not proper socialization.

Taking a group training class to socialize your dog is like having a glass of milk for dinner. A glass of milk can certainly be a part of your meal but it alone is not a whole meal. Socialization means giving your dog the opportunity to build a relationship with all things in our world (people, places and things). Socialization teaches your dog what is and is not a threat. Group training classes are usually held in one location with the same dogs and people for a number of weeks. Your dog will learn to accept that place, those people and those dogs but that is habituation not socialization.

5. Answer: NO – Separation anxiety is not a behavioral issue.

Sometimes what a dog owner thinks is separation anxiety is not. If it is determined that your dog suffers from separation anxiety then there are behavior modification programs and treatments that will help. Behavior modification for anxiety is not the same as obedience training. Obedience training can enhance a behavior modification program but alone it will not help an anxiety. If you are seeking help make sure you know the difference because a lot of trainers do not.

So, how did you do? If you got all 5 questions right then, congratulations. If you did not then you need to do some work. Every dog owner needs to understand;

> The difference between dominance and leadership
> Just how smart and social dogs are
> The difference between habituation and socialization
> The proper training for different dog problems

Keep reading my articles, you'll learn!

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Marcela Swadling

The pet industry has become a billion dollar industry. Our pets are our children , Leona Helmsley left most of her wealth to her dog. If you have a particularly pampered pooch or kitten who needs to stay behind when you galavant off to the Riviera The Chateau Poochie in Lighthouse Point, Florida, is the place to board them. It is luxurous, splendid , opulent, over the top is what it has to offer you're beloved furry baby. It's located on Federal Highway. A beautiful white building, it's set back comfortably away from the highway with a very large parking area.

You can leave him/her for the day, have them nor a private lesson ($150.00), the 6 pack series for $850.00 or sign them up for a Masters Degree in the Canine Higher Education program for $2,400.00. They also offer group classes at only $30.00 per class and up for a series of 6 lessons. You're pet will be exposed to the best training available.

There is a Social Lounge and Fitnss Center your pet can visit for the day starting at $33.00 for the day or up to $300.00 offer a twenty day monthly pass. If you are living in an area where your pet does not have access to an area for exercise this is an excellent way to let them have some socialization and exercise in a safe , celan environment. There are little stairs to climb on and a large expansive room to romp in. If you want you can add on a visit to The Wellness Center for a therapeutic massage, rehabilitation services if needed, treadmill therapy, or exercise, Holistic Healing Therapy, Yoga, Reflexogoy, Accupressure or a Chiropractic session. If your pooch has weight issues you can have them put into the diet and exercise program with a weight loss consultation included. You will have the healthiest, happiest dog around. The Chateau Poochie obviously has an uncompromising dedication for attention to detail and care for your animal.

When you enter this magnificent Hotel you are in a lounge area with a round seating center. To the left is the bank of boarding rooms. They are dramatic mini dwelling, designed for relaxation and for making sure your dog is comfortable. The dogs are “guests” and the staff is there to make sure they are happy and well cared for. Each room is one color, peach, orange, blue, green and is named for a jewel. Each room has a completely see through glass front. In the Crown Jewel Suite ($87.00 to $109.00 a night) there is a webcam so you can observe your pet, a flat screen TV, custom monogrammed bed with luxury linens, crystal chandeliers, art and accessories. Your pet will get bottled water, evening classical music and if you'd like for an additional $4 turn down service, a peanut butter Kong ball evening snack ($3.00) and even a bedtime story or belly rub ($6.00 each).

In the Royal Suite ($185 a night) the suite is 16 x 20 feet and offers a designer sleigh bed with luxury bedding and 24 hour concierge as well as all the above amenities.

The Ambassador Suites surround the Dog Social Lounge and FItness Area so your dog can watch the goings on or participate depending on what program you've enrolled him in. Thats $76.00 a night. It's located in the heart of the social area.

The Parlor Suites have an Asian theme and are 4 x 6 glas suites with comfy fleece bedding (no fur throw). It still offers the webcam, flat screen and bottled water. That is $69.99 a night.

The least expensive but still luxurious rooms are the Parlor niches they range in size from niche to luxury and offer ample room. They have elevated beds, filtered water (not bottled but yes , filtered), classical evening music and a daily housekeeping service as opposed to a concierge. These are available for only $47.00-$59.00 a night.

If you want your dog to or have “the run of the palace” they will sign him up for the Luxury Unleashed program but they have to belong to the Social Lounge, Fitness Cub to participate. This gives them an in room attendant while they romp and is $89.00

All this is of course, over the top but not for serious, wealthy pet owners. One can certainly leave one's pet and not have to worry about them missing anyone.

Some of the incredible, adorable, posh services available that can be added to your pet's stay are: Individual Play Time, Royal Walks ($15.00), Daily brushing, Rallxing tummy rubs, Bed time story, Tuck in service, Tooth brushing, extra luxury blankets, or a relaxing 20 minute massage ($30.00) which I think is extremely reasanable compared to the price of a human massage.

The food offered can be Holistic premium food for only $4.00 a day or gourmet prepared meals for $5 -$18.00 a day. This is offered with a menu selection.

If you want to just stop in and do some shopping continue pass the boarding suites and enter the well stocked clothing boutique. They offer adorable outfits, pajamas, leashes, collars and accessories you could want to outfit your pet with. When I was there a large black Afghan was wearing a 4 inch wide black leather collar completely studded with rhinestones and a matching leash. It was sumptuous.

The Grooming are, The Salon, is impeccably clean and large. It literally sparkled it was so clean. They offer special dog cologne, one for males, one for females. The cologne was very pleasant and clean smelling. They bathe the dogs with Isle of Dogs No 20 Shampoo and Conditioner.My Chihuahua came out smelling better than I do.

I've seen other boarder groomer places that look nothing like this. Stacked cages, very industrial looking yet advertised as being a notch above the rest The Cateau Poochie is everything it states it wll be and more. It is something you would expect to see on Kimora's Fab show on television. It is elegant, posh, lavish and absolutley stunning. I highly recommend a visit and certainly recommend a stay .

The staff there were lovely,friendly, informative and very happy to be there it seemed.

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