We have 2 standard poodles, Rogue and Ranger. But over the years, we've had mutts, mixes, and fosters! All with different needs, temperaments, and personal preferences. This is a quick list of the things that have helped us care for our canine kids!...
The best comb for standard poodles - lost one and had to replace it. There's no going back. Yes, it's more expensive than many but worth it.
Chris Christensen 9" Coarse Poodle-Style Buttercomb #004
Peach of mind for lost pets! plus, the collars and leashes they sell are great. I've had 2 for Rogue in 6 years - The attached collar has your pet's name, the AKC Reunite name with phone number AND the unique pet ID number.
AKC Reunite
A new addition to our kit, but well worth it following the removal of a large mass from Rogue's flank, that left a 5" incision to protect. It's protected the site from dirt and our other dog, Ranger, while reducing “cone time”. Comfortable, washable, east to open for potty breaks.
BUSTER Body Suit
Our boys don't like grooming, and going to a groomer stresses them out! We've learned to groom at home and love these trimmers. Variable speed is nice! affiliate link
ANDIS ProClip Excel
We have standard poodles, and the plastic guards were awful! Switching to this metal set has been a big help! affiliate link
Andis Wide Blade 8-Piece Dog, Cat & Small Pet Grooming ...
Just get your pets 'chipped! Our local humane society offers reduced cost microchipping - check with your local shelter or your vet if your animal is not already chipped
Microchipping FAQ - American Veterinary Medical Association
Training happens at both ends of the leash. You don't need expensive classes, local obedience training is often available locally thru the AKC or even your nearby pet store! Every dog should have a reliable sit, stay, drop it, and down. affiliate link
Basic Obedience Training at Home
We have a fantastic trainer at our local PetSmart! I encourage you to stop by your local pet store and watch a class or 2!
Dog Training: Puppy and Adult Dog Training Classes at PetSmart
I swear by this slicker brush! Rogue has tender skin and would get irritation from other brushes, but never this one. Really easy to work out the snarls
Chris Christensen Big G Dog Slicker Brush
Nice quality towels and enough to use a new one each time. Especially nice in Indiana springs. Well, fall too. Lets face it… winter as well.
Dog Towels for Drying 20 x 40 Inch Pet Bath Towels
We like the Lavender Coconut shampoo and conditioner. We dilute both down somewhere between 1:12 and 1:16 for easy use. affiliate link
Lillian Ruff
We had a very anxious and reactive foster fail. We used this in our living room and the bedroom she slept in. I don't know if it helped but it sure didn't make her worse. affiliate link
ThunderEase
Again, for our reactive dog - our vet recommended we try it. We all fell it did help her, not a lot but some. If you have a reactive dog, you know you'll take any port in the storm to ease their minds. It's time to work but we used until she passed. affiliate link
Calming Care powder
A cute, easy to digest intro to doggie body language. Especially helpful for new pet owners and those with young children.
Doggie Language: Understanding Your Dog
We've had this for about 6 years now. Has variable speed/force (nice for face and feet!) and heat (on/off). Came with extra filters and several attachments. affiliate link
Dryer- Flying Pig
Much easier option that bathing at home. We wash and dry there and clip and style at home. They supply towels, shampoo, treats and raised wash tubs (so nice!)
Self-Serve Pet Wash @ Pet Supplies Plus
Check AAHA to find an accredited animal hospital near you. With standards of care, just like human healthcare, you get the care that's right for your family. We love our vet team! We've been with our practice for almost 30 years. They seen us thru the usual ups and downs of pet parenting and our fair share of heartbreaks, too. High quality care and compassion are worth it.
AAHA Accredited Animal Hospital
You know long toenails are uncomfortable. Now, imagine how your dog feels! Get a pair that is comfortable for you to hold and can be cleaned easily. I like this style, not the guillotine style, because our boys have thick poodle nails. We wipe the blades with alcohol for easy clean up. Replace when dull. affiliate link
Nail Clippers
This can be a nice tools for pets who don't like pressure on their paws, are wiggly during clips or people who are very worries about clipping the wick. We've had dogs that love and hate these, in about even amounts. We do like to use them to round off the clipped nails, if they let us! affiliate link
Nail Grinder
A quick how-to on trimming your pup's nails, with info for dark nails, dew claws and what to do if you do accidentally nick the wick. And, it happens, trust me. Have some corn starch on stand by (covered ub the video, too!)
ASPCA Grooming 101 - Trimming Nails for Dogs
There are loads of options for feeding your dog. I have my faves, and you'll have yours. There's a lot of hype around dog food. I want you to think about what matters to you, talk it over with your vet team and make the choice that's best for your family! The most expensive is not necessarily the best. Your dog needs food, water and love! affiliate link
Dog Food: lots of options!
People feel strongly about crate training. I'm Team Crates, 100%. Crates help with training, transportation and safety. It's not doggy jail. It gives your pup a place that's all their own, a safe quite zone to hang out in. Ours are trained to “kennel up” when they are over excited - like a self regulated time out! affiliate link