My Fancy New Going Out Collar

A few weeks ago my mom came across a bow time that she though I had to have.  Well guess what?  She decided to buy it for me (!) so that I could be prepared in case I did have somewhere fancy to go.  So the other day it came in the mail and my mom made me try it on (along with some other goodies we got for some future holidays - she said we were playing dress up - all I know is that she kept giving me chicken so I cooperated).

I think I need an ascot now too.

I can't wait to have somewhere to where it too . . . maybe I will wear it to my Obedience Two class tonight and show those other dogs that I am a serious student.

Where would you wear a doggy bow tie?

Ain't Nothing But A Hound Dog

There is not a lot of art (or at least art I am willing to put in my house) that is related to hound dogs, specifically coonhounds. I am constantly perusing websites that specialize in custom pet portraits or pet photography that is to die for but these items can be a bit pricey (the photo shoots start at $500 but I have already identified several photographers in the area who are great). So until Chopper starts making his own money we may need to settle for something a little less pricey.

One example I found at the BirdAve shop on Etsy:

This comes in several different types - working dog, toy dogs, to name a few, so chances are you will find your dog on one of the posters. Even better the price is right - only $20.

Chopper Needs This

I think this is one of the most adorable dog accessories (not to mention how cute is that dog) I have ever seen and I am exercising extreme self-control to not get it for Chopper.

This can be found in the SillyBuddy shop on Etsy. At first I thought I would never really use it and thought about just getting the collar version BUT the bow tie is removable so really you are getting two different looks here - one everyday and one fancy. Chopper doesn't go too many fancy places but if he had this bow tie I think he would.

I wouldn't be surprised if one of these makes its way to our house very soon.

Valentine's Day

So it is only a month until Valentine's Day.  I have no idea what to get my mom and honestly I'm not feeling that much in the spirit since she made me a vet appointment for that day.  But if you are looking for a gift for your pooch then here are some gifts any dog would like.

For the dog that has everything how about a little blue box.  My mom has boxes like this on her dresser at home so I figure it must be a good gift. 

My mom loves these little blue boxes!

For those of you that will still be buried under snow come Valentine's Day, how about a lovely sweater for your dog.  This one is pink and blue and I think it would look good on either a boy or a girl dog.  And it comes in larger sizes.

I wouldn't mind wearing this sweater if it was cold where I lived.

A personal favorite, my mom got this for me a few months ago, is this "Mommy Dearest" collar (there is a leash too) that lets everyone know how much your dog loves you.  Also it looks like a tattoo but I'm going to guess it is a lot less painful.

This is one of many collars my mom has bought for me.

If your dog is going to a party (like me) he is going to need at least an accessory.  How about this little collar attachment? And they even have a matching collar (more up my alley than a bow). These little beauties are pretty reasonably priced ($6-$9) so almost any dog can feel special on Valentine's Day. 

This "bow" snaps right on your collar - it's like a doggy corsage!

And if you think your pet is even more festive check out these Valentine's Day "hats" or the cupid wings (but don't tell my mom about those or I may have to wear them).

Dog Accessories on Etsy

So one of my favorite websites is Etsy. I love finding handmade treasures. Chopper has been the recipient of more than a few presents from various shops. Here are a few of my favorite items that we may be taking home soon.

So up first is a lovely collar that is good year round for either boy or girl doggies. It reminds me of some of my favorite Orla Kiely designs. And ringing in at only $20, it's a steal.

Next up we have a fully customizable dog collar id tag. I am a big fan of wood grain in design so this one is probably going on our wish list. This is a bit pricey for an id tag, at $10, but it is just so darn cute.

And here's a great leash that will match your new id tag ($38).

Here is a fun one. We hardly ever use store bought doggy waste disposal bags so my pockets are often full of plastic bags when it comes time for a walk. This little contraption solves all that. Just stuff your own plastic bags inside and you are ready to go. And because it has multi-colored polka dots it will match any leash or collar.

The final item is a treat pouch ($15). We have a pretty intense treat pouch at our house that is bordering on a fanny pack but if you are looking for something a bit more stylish this is just too cute to pass up.

Lots of these items would make great stocking stuffers for that dog lover in your life if you don't have a pooch of your own to spoil. I know Chopper loves getting presents from other people.