The Dreaded Dog Cone

My pack and I were out for a visit with a good and savvy dog friend of ours we often run to for advice. Our friend shocked us by admitting she didn't know there was an alternative to the evil dog cone, so I'm dedicating today's post to all the poor dogs that are forced to wear the lampshade. I would like to offer you a few alternatives.

Beyond the traditional clear KONG E-Collar for Dogs, that comes in sizes small (for cats too), medium, large, and extra large, there is a thing called a Comfy Cone. The comfy cone is not comparable to the old fashioned lamp shade dogs used to have to wear, the kind that would get stuck in doorways. The comfy cone is flexible and lightweight and much easier on your dog.

Another alternative for small dogs and even cats is the Trimline Veterinary Soft Recovery Collar. Again, a soft pliable collar that is gentle on the patient. This collar is also available in a range of sizes from puppies and kittens, for medium and large dogs, for small and medium dogs, and for large dogs.

Another humane and dog friendly cone, also known as a recovery collar, is the ElizaSoft that you can find in XS, Small, Medium/Large, and Large.

There are also inflatable dog cones such as the ProCollar Inflatable Elizabethan Collar you can find online as well as at many pet stores (such as Petco) near you.

These are only a few of the alternatives to the traditional uncomfortable dog cone. There are many more to suit your dog's life style.

Twinkie

Small Dog Treats

Small dogs are easy when it comes to treats. Think about it, a large or giant dog breed will demolish a solid piece of anything in a few minutes whereas a small dog will take much longer thus making most treats more cost effective and safer. I therefore picked three tested small dog treats that are my personal favorites to share with my small dog friends.

Pizzle, or bully stick is at the top of my list. It's a long lasting treat that has few calories and one of the safest small dog treats. It does not splinter and since it's so much work to consume (usually lasts days or weeks) you have the chance to remove the last small piece before it becomes dangerous. The one I usually buy is the All Natural 6 inch best bully sticks.

Duck or chicken strips are my second favorite treat. They don't last as long as pizzle and they are high in calories, considering the size of the small dog in relation to the chicken strip, but we break them in half on thirds for that reason. This is a highly digestible treat that does not pause any threat to most small dogs. My favorite chicken strips are the Waggin Train Natural Chicken Jerky Tenders and the Waggin Train Duck Jerky Tenders.

My final small dog treat pick is a old time favorite among dog chews: Cow Hooves. Cow hooves can last several months depending on the size of the dog. Many come pre-filed making them even more appealing because of their smell. My favorites are the Ranch Rewards Pork Filled Hooves Dog Treat and the Cheese and Bacon Filled Cow Hooves.

Small dogs may have their issues, but finding the appropriate treats isn't one of them. When it comes to small dog treats and dog chews, small dogs are easy and economical to please.

Twinkie

M vs. M

All rise for the honorable judge. Please be seated. The defense may make opening statements.

M's defense attorney: Your honor, everyone surrounding Ms. M is opposed to her keeping all of the kittens including their mom.  

Prosecution: Ehem. I would like the cons stated for the record. M has three cats already and they don't get along. She also has three dogs that occasionally get attacked by the cats. If she keeps the entire litter and their mother, M is going to end up with NINE cats. No outdoor cat enclosure is going to save her. 

Suspect #1

Name: Trouble

Age: 48 days

Color: tuxedo kitten

Race: feline

Gender: male

PROS: Trouble is special. He's the only male. He has a beauty mark and a goatee. He eats out of M's hand. He runs to greet M every time she enters the nursery. Trouble can do the splits.

Suspect #2

Name: Alley Alarm aka Allie

Age: 48 days

Color: pointed kitten

Race: feline

Gender: female

PROS: Allie is a riot. She's the wildest of the bunch and she keeps changing colors. She's got white and fawn toes. M loves a good challenge.

Suspect #3

Name: Lolita aka Loli

Age: 48 days

Color: calico

Race: feline

Gender: female

PROS: She's the baby. Loli spends her days on her back sucking on her toes. Sometimes, she rushes and attacks her siblings. M finds this behavior adorable. 

Suspect #4

Name: Teddy Smudge (did somebody mention cute kitten names?)

Age: 48 days

Color: pointed dilute calico kitten

Race: feline

Gender: female

PROS: Her name, for starters. She's also a quiet kitten that gets along with everyone. She's got a cute goatee, and amazing markings.

Suspect #5

Name: Puddles, named after you-know-who

Age: 48 days

Color: calico kitten

Race: feline

Gender: female

PROS: She is nuts over M. Puddles runs to greet M and then rubs herself all over her purring. She was the first of the kittens to purr at the human touch. She loves kitten treats. 

Suspect #6

Name: Farrah, aka Mama

Age: under a year most likely

Color: charcoal and white with beautiful markings

Race: feline

Gender: female

PROS: M bonded with Farrah the minute she arrived. Even though Farrah attacked M, rather aggressively causing quite a bit of damage, M feels Farrah was just being protective of her angels. She's worried about her the most since she may be the hardest to socialize in our multi-pet cross breed home. 

At the moment, M cannot bear the thought of breaking up this bundle of cuteness, help her do the right thing.

Defense and  Prosecution attorneys rest their case. It's up to you, the jury now. 

Twinkie

AKC Canine Good Citizen Exam

The moment you've all been waiting for! Roxie's Canine Good Citizen exam was this past Monday and the verdict is in! But first, I would personally like to thank you for all the encouraging, funny, and warm comments you all left for Roxie on my last post. I printed them out and handed them to Roxie's mom (handler) right before they were to take the exam, just around the time Roxie's mom mentioned that she felt she was about to take her SAT.

We kept up the tradition of the last Canine Good Citizen helping out with the next dog's exam. Frankie had to work not just with Roxie, but with three dogs. 

She was a trooper. Brave chiweenie!

Molly passed the canine good citizen test with flying colors.

She's a rescue dog. She wondered off the streets on her own into her new forever home.

Congratulations Molly, on your certification and your choice in homes.

This is Pete. Another rescue dog.

He was awesome. His least favorite part was "supervised separation". He missed his handler, but he behaved, therefore he too passed.

Maybe the chiweenie brings good luck.

Our beloved Roxie.

Notice the star on her pretty brindle boston terrier face.

She sure passed, no doubts about it. She was on her best behavior ever!

We're really proud of our Roxie. 

Despite the fact that her's is considered a "hyper" breed, and despite the fact that she's one of the youngest canines to pass the test, at 8 months, she was awesome!

Wait a minute! What's this about?

After she passed, Roxie tried to make friends with Frankie, once again.

While Frankie wasn't too pleased about it, she wasn't too upset either. 

Frankie and Roxie have a play-date scheduled in the near future. (BOL)

The GRAND FINALE

Roxie's mommy brought the chiweenie the best dog treat the brindle spaz had ever seen.

She didn't complain. She chose instead to delicately lick it.

Thank you Roxie and mommy. I had some too, and so did Linguini, and we still have some left. We're painfully aware of the dangers associated with dog obesity.

Roxie and Frankie had the same trainer. I have to tell you, both of them were not easy cases. Both were on the young side, particularly Roxie, and both had some difficult issues to work on. Neither would have made it without the help of one caring troubleshooting trainer. Our trainer is the best. She didn't just help with Roxie and Frankie, she helped with their handlers too, and only using positive reinforcement. Thank you Cyndy!

Congratulations Class of July 2010!

Twinkie

Dear Twinkie | A Dog Advice Column

A dog advice column

Frankie Furter asked...

Twinkie, I love the idea of More Roasts... Mango next??? I vote YES!!
As for letting that PeePee off the Roasting stick... just beclaws she bought a certificate for $7.99 after coupon.... NOT GONNA HAPPEN!!! I have ALREADY written my Roast Post, and that baby is 87 lines long!!!! hehehehe
NOW>>>> I have a very much impawtant question for you. Since PeePee RainX is going to be Co-hostessing MY GIRRRRLS' Bachelorette Pawty, I am pretty much worried about what SHE may have planned for Entertainments and Refreshments and Snacks and, Well I am pretty much worried about the whole thingy. I was wondering if you think SOMEONE (maybe ME) should go to the Pawty to... keep my girrrls safe? Ruby and Penny are so innocent and trusting and loving and mine, and sweet, that they could be easily lead "aSTRAY".

TVT: Dearest good furiend, Frankie Flirter. OMD what did you pass me for? A wedding planner? I mean, come on, this isn't Cosmo! In any case, just because of our long friendship, I'll respond to your question.  I understand your concern. Mayzie Lou is a bit too bright and that can be unsettling for you. You're going to have to deal like all grooms do. You are aware that traditionally the groom does not go to the bachelorette party, right? Tell you what, I bet you 87 pieces of pizzle that you'll only be happy if are there in person. Because I know how your mind works, I suggest an undercover appearance. You can go as Frankie the chiweenie, she said she's on board with that. But before I go, happy birthday to your Ruby, your blonde future wife.

And for those who are still not aware of what I'm talking about, do not forget Frankie's nuptials coming up on August 21st. As for the bachelorette party, you can find all the info right HERE! 

houndstooth asked...

I think you may be on to something there with that Chiweenie-German Shepherd sister connection!

Tonight I got in trouble for barking at Morgan when she put her paw on my back -- again! How is this fair? I have told her that I don't like it, but she keeps ignoring me. How can I get her to keep her big feet off of my dainty little self without getting in trouble?

Bunny

TVT: What is up with the houdstooths these days? Ever since Morgan joined the pack, you're all suddenly full of interesting questions. Bunny, apparently you've never had a roommate before. They're like relatives, the longer they stick around  . . . Now there's not much we can do about the humans, since they all think they know better, but let's work on Morgan. Since onions are toxic to dogs, try garlic. Chew on a few cloves and when Morgan tries to wrap her GS paw around you, just lean closer and tell her, "Hhhhhug me!" Please get back to us as soon as possible. This technique has yet to be tested on live animals. 

Bunny's dainty self contemplating what to do with German Greyhound

Baby Rocket Dog and Hootie asked...

Dear Twink,Great advice once again! Love the photos that accompany each letter too. Thanks for all the good info.
Smooches,
BabyRD and Hootie

Here's a question for you: Have we been under the (wrong) impression that you are a male? We are so sorry if your gender has been misunderstood by us.

TVT: ¡Ay, caramba! Just because I don't like girlie dog clothes and frou frou and bling, does not mean I'm male. It only means I'm a contemporary woman who choses to dodge all conventional and costly modern nuisances, such as the hair and nail salons. 

I am woman, hear me roar!

Lola asked...

Thank you as usual, Twinkie. Now, I have a deep question. My humans got my little brother partly so I'd have someone to play with and not just be a dog bed potato all the time. Well, it worked. I taught him all about playing and zoomies and we're doing it. Now the humans are complaining about our doing it in the house all evening. Just because we make a racket and sometimes crash into them - totally by accident - they want us to take it outside. But it's dark out there. My question is - What do humans really want, anyway?

Thanks much as always, Lola

TVT: Well, Lola, humans are unstable. For example, first they adopted your brother and then they opened the door to let him go. They can't ever seem to make up their mind. That is why there are so many human psychiatrists as opposed to canine ones. Mind you, some of us could use some therapy (take crazy Norwood for example) but in general, we're way more stable than bipeds. I think it has to do with the number of feet nature gave us to stand on. Two feet just aren't enough. Poor humans. Keep enjoying your zoomiess with "Franklin", if that's his final name, and nod affirmatively to your people. 

Lola and her brother trying to figure out what humans really want. Good luck with that . . .

Madi and Mom asked...

TVT once again you have cracked us up. Madi believes someone shipped off their Cat sibling to parts unknown. If we see said cat we'll let you know.
Madi and Mom

Question for next column.
Mom and Dad are taking a mine vacation in early Aug. My beloved sitter, Miss D, moved back to her homeland in the frozen north. I have a new sitter Miss G coming to look after me. I have a few questions.
1. Should I run to greet her like a beloved friend
2. Should I show her my Diva-ness
by ignoring her OR
3. Should I should I be very humble, meow pitifully, prance around her feet and act as if the best thing to arrive in my world since Mom's cornbread?
Respectfully submitted,

Madi

PS they are taking a mini vacation not a mine vacation...although that sounds pretty darn interesting...

TVT: Dearest Madster, what a pleasure to be able to assist you in any way! Let's see . . . 

1. Absolutely not. You have your diva status to preserve. You can always run the other direction though.

2. (see 1)

3. Absolutely not. Let Miss G first produce the cornbread and then we reconvene. She's going to work hard to understand the intricate workings of a diva's mind, and I know I can count on you for that. I wonder what happened to Miss E and Miss F.

I suggest you wait it out in your private quarters.

mayziegal asked...

Twinkie bo Binkie! Your wiseness never ceases to give me the amazements!

Now, for my questions. As you prolly know, me and my BFF Preacher Puddles are going to be giving Ruby and Penny a bachelorette pawty. I want it to be fun but not too wild since youngsters like Ciara will be there. How do I achieve a Most Perfect pawty balance? (Um, I did mention that Puddles is involved in this, right?)

Wiggles & Wags,
Mayzie

TVT: OMD more questions for the wedding planners, but again, I never turn down a furiend, by now you prolly all know that. I knew I could have faith in your wisdom about the party not getting out of control. I already told Frankie, but don't worry about him. He's prolly really nervous by now, that's all. Having said that, I really appreciate your concern about Ciara, Abby, and the rest of the young ones. But you're going to have to deal with bigger problems I'm afraid. I did not really care for the houndstooth comment about them not being responsible for Morgan. Perhaps the solution is to hire a good Chihuahua Security Company. We make superb fun-police dogs, plus we're so small we can infiltrate ourselves anywhere thus being more effective in maintaining the balance and harmony. 

It's sad but true. The party planner gets short circuited over a snack!!!

Sally Ann asked...

Hi Miss Twinkerson,
Sally Ann said I must be polite. Why must I go potty outside when the floor is much more convenient?
Andy

TVT: A potty training question! Have you ever heard of the expression: "Don't talk about rope in a hanged man's house"? Apparently not. You see, my dear Andy, we're still dealing with occasional "accidents" in my own home. However, I totally understand your question. You obviously don't like going outside because afterwards you get accused of being dirty and you get a bath. I admit that in the wintertime, when it's cold outside, the last thing I want to do is leave my warm abode and the floor sure looks tempting. This is just a silly silly human rule we chose to abide by. Why? It's simple and once I've explained it to you, you'll be all for going potty outside. You have the power to train your humans to give you one or more treats every time you go potty outdoors. That is the only reason why we all go potty outside. Dog treats are big motivators and they make the world go round. Now, go turn your pretty puppy eyes on your humans and accept the first installment. Your lovely sissy should be more than willing to help you put your dog training tools to good use.

Exasperated older sissy with younger brother who is not yet a proper dog!

Sam and Pippen asked...

Twinkie,

Some of us boys would like to 'police' the bachelorette pawty... Pip and I are wondering if we should wear the full uniform or go shirtless?

Sam and Pippen

TVT: Oh, bully sticks! If they don't go with my Chihuahua Fun Police idea, by all means… What do you take me for? Huh? You think I don't know what you two rascals are up to? Huh? You think I don't know what you're up to? You guys can't even find the bogeyman and you think you can control an all girl's party? 

Besides, you already know what to wear.

Mango asked...

Dearest Twinkie,

I have gotten so far behind in blogs that I almost missed another most informative installment. So I have a question.

Momma claims I had something called a Caesar which doesn't sound quite right to me. Ever since, she has become what you call super stitch us because everybody keeps asking what happened differently the day of the alleged Caesar. Now she is like some dorky baseball player thinking that she has to do everything exactly the same every day so as not to disrupt my brains. Well that is just boring even for me. Plus she freaks out when I do my active sleeping and sometimes wakes me up in the middle of a really good dream "just to check." As if. How can I convince her that I am fine?

Slobbers,
Mango

TVT: I think you need to tell all that to your mom. Have you ever sat momma down and had a heart to heart recently? You need to open up and express your innermost thoughts to her. No to favoritism, yes to walks and momma and RH time. Enough already. It may help your case if you mention that a true Ceasar should only be afraid on one day a year, the Ides of March. One day of overprotection won't harm you. You see, your momma wasn't the only one worried, the animal blogdom felt your ceasar, as it shook us all up. I'm glad you are well my furiend; the more you complain the more we know you're going to be a-o-kay!

Who said cute face doesn't work?

Frankie the Chiweenie asked…

Could you tell our furiends about Sarge's Animal Rescue Foundation's important contest? Oh, oh, and our furiend's birthday too, please.

TVT: Brindle-bum is repeating herself, but this time I won't get mad since it's for such a great cause : "Walking With The Herd Contest". Sarge's goal is to increase adoption rates, hurry! Besides, who wouldn't want to walk with the Thundering Herd? And of course, I doubt anybody who blogs can forget this one: Da Puddelicious birthday is coming up tomorrow!!!

Hint hint!

Now, go take on the day!

Twinkie Von Twinkerson

Dachshund Pictures | Piebald Dachshund

I have quite a fondness for doxies. In my opinion they are one of the most expressional and comical breeds. I'm acting tough, because I have the teacup chihuahua reputation to live up to, but I'm nuts over the miniature dachshund puppy, Tanya. She's only 2.5 months old, and I'm looking forward to watch her develop into a fine young lady. And without further ado . . .

Miniature piebald dachshund pictures! Because dachshund puppies are irresistible!

Beautiful Tanya

All puppies play hard until they can't keep their heads up

They fall asleep in all sorts of interesting positions

On a cold night, feel free to stick your miniature doxie in an equestrian helmet bag

The comedian

I hope you enjoyed today's edition of doxie cuteness. As for my sister, Frankie, the brindle chiweenie, she's "working" tonight. She's going to be assisting other doggies trying to get their AKC Canine Good Citizen certification. One of those puppies is Roxie, our brindle boston terrier friend. Good luck to the chiweenie and good luck to all the hopefuls. May you all grow up to become the best service dogs. 

Twinkie

Clash of the Titans

Clash of the Titans

aka

Chiweenie v. Miniature Piebald Dachshund

Saddens me to have to admit, our chiweenie, Frankie, is afraid of the miniature dachshund puppy, Tanya, the latest of the barn's rescue dogs. Poor chiweenie! She's scarred and scared for life it seems. One day she's hiking with large dogs and yet the minute she is confronted by a small one, she tenses up. We'll make sure that she's introduced to many good natured dogs, like Tanya, the doxie, and hopefully she'll improve with time. If she doesn't after a few months, M is going to stop trying--there are limits to everything, and we love our Frankie too much. 

Twinkie

The Marrow Bone Feast

I often talk about the ease with which all of us small dogs devour marrow bones. I finally got the opportunity to get photos and video of the most noteworthy marrow bone technique. Unfortunately, just like my extra large dog friends can surf the countertops and I can't, my technique applies to small dogs only.
Get your bibs out!

CHIWEENIE DEMONSTRATES MARROW BONE EATING TECHNIQUE

Passion

Dedication

Determination

Devotion

And now I will demonstrate with a video

1. my expert paw scooping technique

2. the fact that the chiweenie isn't as innocent as you all think (she has food aggression issues)

And as the brindle-bum chews away . . .

Spotted dog is only interested in belly rubs

While I'm working on my strength of character.

Any questions?

Twinkie the stoic teacup chihuahua