Pets Product Review - Linda Pickens Chocolate Lab Best Buddy Porcelain Collector Plate

Well today is the first official work day back after the long, fun filled, and sometimes hectic holidays.  So great to be back on schedule.  With that I thought what product should I discuss? and althought its a gift that would have been perfect for the holidays, its one that I just love for the whole year.

The people at CollectiblesToday.com sent me an assortment of dog-lover gift items.  All of them were very unique, and of the highest quality.  But today the one that stuck in my head was the Chocolate Lab Best Buddy Porcelain Collector Plate crafted by well known artist Linda Pickens.  I couldn't help thinking what a better way to start the new year than with a hug hug and sloppy kiss from a big labrador.  And this plate conveys all the warmth and love our labs give to the whole world.

If you have a Chocolate Lab, this plate is a must.  Its only $39 but will be one of your prized decorations for years.  Go to www.collectiblestoday.com for more info.

If you've got a product you think will pass the Secret Shopper test, send an email to SecretShopperBlog@gmail.com

Living in the city with a BIG, BIG DOG!

I've heard it before,

I've said it myself,

and I am repeating it again.

Dogs are time intensive, NOT SPACE INTENSIVE.

A big dog can be just as happy in a city as a small dog.  Honestly, I think they may even be easier to provide exercise and stimulation for than some of the smaller, more active dogs.

Not all SMALL dogs are LAP dogs.  Lap dogs were selected and bred for their companionship (aka: Toy Breeds) They include dogs like the Pug, Papillon, King Charles Cavalier, Brussels Griffon, Pekingese, Shih-Tzu, Maltese, Japanese Chin, and Silky.

This does not mean that I have not had the pleasure of meeting a marathon Pug or that there aren't Yorkies out there that can fetch for hours.  But in general, these breeds enjoy their snuggle-time, like napping and being pampered.

More importantly, there are plenty of small dogs, like terriers, that prefer active lifestyles.  Breeds that come to mind are the Jack Russell, Fox Terrier, West Highland, Boston and Manchester Terrier.  

Again, not to discount the testimonies form those with Scotties that snuggle with kittens or JRT's that act act like 50's housewives on valium, but generally speaking the consensus would be terriers need ACTIVE PEOPLE & MORE EXERCISE THAN a newly-single gym rat.

SO, DOES SIZE MATTER?  

Not really. I have seen just as many frustrated, under-exercised, under-stimulated, small dogs as I have big dogs.  If you are thinking a small dog might be happier in your urban apartment, think again.  

I know many Akitas, Danes and Sighthounds that are content to chew on bones, eat their breakfasts from Kongs, and snooze away the day while waiting for their afternoon walk.  And, I know many Jack Russels, Dachshunds, Corgis and Fox Terriers that would sooner pull all the stuffing from your couch (for the third time) than to take a nap!

There are plenty of big dogs that could care less about riding in elevators, busy streets, and loud noises.  And, there are plenty of small, fractious dogs whose nerves are shattered by the thought.  

There are also many large dogs that could easily take food from a counter and don't.  And, small dogs that leap, launch, pounce and propel themselves onto the tallest surfaces.

The only thing I know for certain...Big dogs, will always have bigger poops!

But, size is just one factor.  Tthere are other more important considerations.  Stay tuned for more information on Choosing The Dog For You.