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Things That Make Life With Dogs Better
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items Life with Sheba, our energetic young German Shepherd, and Skipper, our little Papillon, has taught us that big dogs and small dogs can need very different things—and create very different kinds of chaos. This is where I collect the toys, walking gear...
Sections
7
Toys Dogs Actually Want to Play With
Walks, Leashes & Outdoor Adventures
Feeding, Treats & Mealtime
Grooming & Keeping the Fur Under Control
Beds, Blankets & Everyday Comfort
Car Rides & Traveling With Dogs
Toys Dogs Actually Want to Play With
Toys for chewing, chasing, tugging, thinking and simply having fun. This section includes durable favorites, interactive toys and other finds designed to keep dogs entertained, active and mentally engaged.
Affiliate disclosure: Some links in this collection are affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Some dogs don't want a complicated toy—they want something they can grab, chew and convince you to pull on the other end. I like this set because the different sizes and knot designs provide plenty of variety for tugging and chewing, especially for l...
A nine-piece set of heavy-duty cotton rope toys designed for medium and large dogs that enjoy chewing, tugging and interactive play. The assortment includes different rope shapes and multi-knot designs for tug-of-war, chewing, teething and everyday play, giving dogs plenty of variety in one set.
Sheba has plenty of physical energy, but sometimes tiring out the brain is just as important as tiring out the legs. A toy like the KONG Wobbler makes her work out how to get the reward instead of simply handing her another treat. And if it keeps her...
An interactive treat-dispensing toy for medium and large dogs that wobbles unpredictably as the dog pushes and paws at it. Food or treats are released gradually during play, providing mental stimulation while also allowing the Wobbler to serve as a slow-feeding alternative for dogs that tend to eat too quickly.
Sheba loves anything that gives her a reason to run, and at 20 months old there is still plenty of running to be done. I like having several fetch balls rather than constantly searching the yard for the one ball that disappeared somewhere. The storag...
A set of eight medium Chuckit! Ultra Balls made from durable, high-bounce rubber for energetic games of fetch. The 2.5-inch balls are designed for dogs in the 20–60 lb range, and the included cleaning/storage bucket provides a convenient place to collect muddy balls after outdoor play.
This one strikes me as much more Skipper-sized. She may be little, but our Papillon doesn't seem to have received the memo. She's our first-alert system and can go from peacefully resting to full-speed investigation at the slightest sound. A lightwei...
A soft, stuffing-free duck toy designed for dogs that enjoy squeaking, crinkling, carrying and tossing their toys around. The lightweight body provides plenty of sound and texture without the traditional stuffing that can end up scattered across the floor, making it a fun option for moderate chewers and interactive play.
I've actually been looking for a larger ball for Sheba, our young German Shepherd, which is why this one caught my attention. She has plenty of energy, and I've wanted something large enough for her to chase and push around rather than simply pick up...
An oversized 18-inch herding ball designed for active dogs that enjoy chasing, pushing and rolling toys around outdoors. The ball is inflatable and features a protective outer design intended to withstand energetic play while giving larger dogs something substantially different from an ordinary fetch ball. #CommissionsEarned
Sheba has plenty of energy, and ordinary dog balls aren't always very interesting for very long. That's why I've been looking at these oversized herding balls. I like the idea of giving an energetic dog something too large to simply pick up and carry...
25" XXL Herding Ball for Dogs
#ad I've actually been looking for a really large ball for Sheba, our German Shepherd, so this one immediately caught my attention. And when they say large, they mean it—25 inches across. At that size, the game changes from simply fetching a ball to chasing, pushing and herding something around the yard. It has an inflatable inner ball protected by a thick canvas outer cover and even comes with the pump needed to inflate it.
Walks, Leashes & Outdoor Adventures
Useful gear for everyday walks and time spent exploring outdoors with your dog. From leashes and harnesses to portable water, visibility gear and other practical accessories, these recommendations can make getting outside easier and more enjoyable.
A sturdy 6-foot rope leash designed for medium and large dogs, with a padded handle for a more comfortable grip when walking or training. The reflective threading improves visibility after dark, while the swivel clip helps reduce twisting and tanglin...
A sturdy 6-foot rope leash designed for medium and large dogs, with a padded handle for a more comfortable grip when walking or training. The reflective threading improves visibility after dark, while the swivel clip helps reduce twisting and tangling when an enthusiastic dog decides there is suddenly something very important to investigate.
With a large, powerful dog, there are times when having reliable control matters—for the dog, the handler and everyone around them. We use this type of collar with Sheba when appropriate because enthusiasm can turn into a lot of German Shepherd very ...
A heavy-duty Herm Sprenger training collar made from chrome-plated steel for larger dogs. This 3.0 mm version is designed for dogs with an approximately 18-inch neck and uses removable links so the fit can be adjusted. It is intended as a handling and training tool rather than an everyday collar.
A long lead gives Sheba some freedom to sniff, explore and burn off energy without giving her complete freedom to decide where the adventure is going next. I particularly like this type of leash for recall practice—you can increase the distance while...
A 20-foot training lead that gives dogs more room to explore while keeping them safely connected to the handler. Useful for recall practice, obedience work, backyard play, camping and other outdoor activities where a standard six-foot leash feels restrictive but completely off-leash isn't appropriate.
Sheba and Skipper may be very different sizes, but neither one cares whether bringing water is convenient for us. I like an all-in-one bottle like this for longer walks and trips because you can offer a quick drink without carrying a separate bottle ...
A portable dog water bottle designed for walks, road trips and outdoor adventures, with an integrated drinking bowl plus storage for food or treats. The built-in filter helps provide cleaner drinking water, while the compact all-in-one design reduces the number of separate containers you need to carry when traveling with a dog.
A solid everyday harness for dogs that need comfortable control on walks. I especially like the adjustable padded design and 360° reflective trim for better visibility during early-morning or evening walks.
A Comfortable Reflective Harness for Everyday Walks
A practical choice for dogs that need a little more control without putting all the pressure around the neck. The adjustable padded design is made to fit a wide range of dogs, while the 360° reflective trim adds welcome visibility for those early-morning and evening walks. A sensible everyday harness without a lot of unnecessary complication. #ad
A good option for owners looking for a sturdier collar for everyday walks and outdoor adventures. I like the combination of heavy-duty construction, adjustable fit and simple styling.
Embark Adventure Pro Dog Collar
Some dogs need more than a lightweight everyday collar. The Embark Adventure Pro is built with durable nylon and sturdy hardware for dogs that spend plenty of time walking, exploring and being outdoors. The adjustable fit makes it suitable across different dog sizes, while the clean green design looks good without being overly flashy. #ad
What caught my attention here is how many everyday situations one leash addresses. The bungee section, close-control handle and car attachment aren't decorative extras—they each solve a different problem that comes with taking a bigger dog out into t...
AIRUIDOG Heavy Duty Tactical Bungee Dog Leash for Large Dogs That Pull
Walking a large, enthusiastic dog can become a workout of its own, especially when something suddenly catches their attention. This heavy-duty leash uses a shock-absorbing bungee section to soften those abrupt pulls, while the padded traffic handle gives you a closer grip when you need more control. Reflective stitching helps with visibility on early-morning or evening walks, and the built-in car seat-belt attachment makes it useful when the adventure continues in the vehicle. #ad
What I like about this one is the combination of rugged construction and everyday simplicity. Rain, mud, snow and outdoor adventures can be hard on dog equipment, so a waterproof nylon collar designed for regular outdoor use makes sense. The substant...
Embark Dog Collar — Adjustable Heavy Duty Outdoor Pet Training Collar
A dog collar is one of those things that gets used day after day, so durability matters more than fancy features. This Embark collar is made from tough waterproof nylon with an adjustable fit and a heavy-duty D-shaped attachment point for the leash. The Aztec pattern gives it some personality without turning a practical piece of outdoor dog gear into something overly complicated. #ad
Feeding, Treats & Mealtime
Practical products for feeding dogs and keeping mealtime organized. Explore bowls, slow feeders, treat containers, food storage, feeding mats and other useful items that can make everyday feeding a little simpler and less messy.
Some dogs approach dinner as though there's a prize for finishing first. A slow-feeder like this turns mealtime into a little problem-solving exercise and makes them work their way around the bowl instead of simply inhaling everything in front of the...
A medium slow-feeder bowl with a two-cup capacity and raised notch pattern designed to encourage dogs to eat at a more measured pace. The non-slip base helps keep the bowl in place, while the BPA-free construction works with either wet or dry food and is easy to clean.
Sheba and Skipper have worked out their own mealtime routine. They free-feed from the same bowl during the day, but apparently dog food becomes much less interesting when we're eating. Then they hover nearby and patiently wait for us to finish becaus...
A compact 4-litre airtight container for storing dog kibble, treats or other dry pet food. The pop-top lid helps keep contents fresh and easy to access, while the stackable design saves space and the included 130 ml scoop makes portioning food convenient.
Sheba and Skipper share a food bowl and have their routine pretty well established—but tidy eating isn't necessarily part of the agreement. A mat like this gives spilled kibble and water somewhere to land other than the floor. And after we've eaten, ...
A waterproof silicone feeding mat designed to sit beneath food and water bowls and contain the inevitable spills around mealtime. The raised edge helps keep water, kibble and other messes from reaching the floor, while the BPA-free silicone surface is easy to wipe or wash clean.
Treats have a remarkable ability to improve Sheba's hearing when something more interesting has caught her attention. 😄 I like a pouch like this because rewards are immediately available during walks or training instead of buried in a pocket. The ma...
A silicone dog treat pouch with a magnetic closure for quick one-handed access during walks and training. The waist belt keeps treats close without occupying your hands, while the included clicker makes it convenient for reward-based training, recall practice and reinforcing good behaviour.
I like liquid supplements for dogs because there's no tablet to convince them to swallow. This beef-flavored multivitamin provides several vitamins in one formula and can be added easily to a dog's everyday routine.
10-in-1 Liquid Multivitamin for Dogs
An easy-to-use liquid multivitamin for dogs of all ages, with a blend that includes vitamins C, D3 and B-group vitamins. The beef-flavored formula is designed to be simple to add to a dog's regular routine and provides nutritional support for areas including skin, coat, digestion and bones. #ad
Grooming & Keeping the Fur Under Control
Brushes, grooming tools, towels, paw cleaners and other practical products for keeping dogs clean and comfortable—and keeping some of that fur, dirt and mud from taking over the house.
Sheba is a German Shepherd, which means fur isn't something we occasionally discover—it is practically part of the household décor. 😄 A good deshedding brush is especially useful when that undercoat starts coming loose. The comb makes this set usefu...
A two-piece grooming set designed for dogs and cats with longer or thicker coats. The deshedding brush helps work through loose undercoat and tangled fur, while the metal comb is useful for finishing, detangling and checking areas that need a little more attention.
Skipper's fine Papillon coat needs a different touch than Sheba's heavy German Shepherd undercoat. A slicker brush like this is useful for regular brushing and catching loose hair before it becomes part of the furniture. I especially like the self-cl...
A self-cleaning slicker brush designed to remove loose fur while gently working through everyday tangles in dogs and cats. The fine bristles help collect shedding hair from the coat, while the push-button design releases the collected fur from the brush for easier cleanup after grooming.
Sheba can cover an impressive amount of ground outside, and unfortunately some of that ground occasionally comes back inside with her. 😄 A paw cleaner like this is a lot easier than trying to negotiate four muddy German Shepherd paws with a wet clot...
A large paw-cleaning cup designed for dogs with wider paws, using soft silicone bristles to loosen mud, dirt and debris. Add a little water, place the paw inside and gently twist the cleaner to wash around the pads and between the toes before drying.
With Sheba and Skipper, having dedicated dog towels saves us from wondering which household towel became the dog towel this time. 😄 These are especially handy by the door for wet paws, damp coats and those days when the dogs come inside carrying con...
A two-pack of soft microfiber dog towels designed to absorb water quickly after baths, rainy walks or muddy outdoor adventures. Sized for small and medium dogs, the lightweight towels dry quickly between uses and are handy to keep near the door, in the bathroom or with your dog-travel supplies.
Anyone who lives with dogs knows the fur doesn't stay on the dog. It ends up on the couch, clothes, bedding and somehow in places the dogs haven't even been. 😄 I already have hair-removal tools in this collection, but this glove caught my attention ...
TEAL LAUREL Hair Removal Glove for Pets, a reusable electrostatic pet-hair removal glove designed to pick up loose dog and cat hair from clothing, furniture, bedding, carpets and car seats. The glove format lets you sweep your hand directly across fabric and upholstered surfaces, making it useful for those places where pet hair seems determined to stay behind. #CommissionsEarned
Beds, Blankets & Everyday Comfort
Comfortable places for dogs to sleep, rest and claim as their own. This section includes beds, blankets, crate pads, cooling products and other everyday comforts for dogs of different sizes and sleeping preferences.
Sheba is a big dog with an equally impressive ability to occupy whatever space she chooses. 😄 I like a bed with bolster sides because it gives a dog somewhere to curl up or rest their head while still leaving plenty of room to stretch out. The remov...
A large orthopedic dog bed with supportive cushioning and raised bolster sides that give dogs somewhere comfortable to rest their head. The waterproof lining helps protect the bed from accidents and moisture, while the removable washable cover and non-slip bottom make it practical for everyday use with larger or older dogs.
This one is much more Skipper-sized. Our little Papillon likes comfort just as much as Sheba does, but she certainly doesn't require German Shepherd-sized accommodations. 😄 I like the deep, rounded shape because a little dog can curl right into it a...
A soft donut-style bed for small and medium dogs up to 35 pounds, with fluffy faux fur and raised sides that create a cozy place for curling up. The anti-slip bottom helps keep the bed in place, while the washable design makes it practical for everyday use.
Blankets in our house tend to become dog blankets whether that was the original plan or not. 😄 With Sheba's fur, Skipper curling up wherever she finds a comfortable spot, and the occasional wet or muddy paw, I like having something washable that can...
A reversible waterproof dog blanket with soft plush fabric on one side and cozy Sherpa fleece on the other. The 40 x 50-inch size works well for dog beds, couches, chairs or car seats, while the waterproof layer helps protect furniture from wet paws, moisture, fur and everyday dog messes. It's also machine washable for easier cleanup.
A German Shepherd comes with a substantial fur coat that Sheba can't exactly hang in the closet when the weather gets warm. 😄 A cooling mat gives her somewhere more comfortable to stretch out without needing to prepare or freeze anything first. I li...
A large self-cooling dog mat designed to provide a cooler resting surface without freezing or refrigeration. The breathable, washable material can be used on the floor, in a crate, on a dog bed or in the car, and the included travel bag makes it convenient for taking along on warm-weather outings.
Car Rides & Traveling With Dogs
Practical gear for taking dogs along for the ride. Explore seat protection, travel restraints, portable water and feeding solutions, ramps, travel beds and cleanup essentials that can make trips easier for dogs and their people.
Taking Sheba and Skipper anywhere means accepting that part of the outdoors may eventually come home in the vehicle with us. With Sheba there's also plenty of German Shepherd fur—and usually a little drool—to add to the experience. 😄 I like a hammoc...
A waterproof back-seat dog hammock made from durable 600D Oxford fabric to help protect vehicle seats from fur, muddy paws, scratches and everyday mess. Side flaps provide additional door and seat protection, while the non-slip design, zippered access and included dog seat belt make it practical for regular trips with dogs.
Sheba and Skipper don't understand that an unexpected stop can turn an ordinary car ride into a dangerous situation very quickly. A restraint gives them enough room to get comfortable without giving them the entire back seat to wander around. With a ...
A three-piece set of adjustable dog seat-belt restraints designed to help keep dogs secured while traveling in a vehicle. The durable nylon straps include an elastic section to provide some flexibility during movement, while the retractable design allows dogs enough freedom to sit, lie down or change position without roaming freely around the vehicle.
Traveling with both Sheba and Skipper means one water stop can quickly become a two-dog operation. 😄 I like having two collapsible bowls because each dog can have their own without us hauling regular bowls around in the vehicle. They take up almost ...
A two-pack of collapsible pet bowls for food or water while walking, traveling, camping or spending time away from home. The lightweight bowls fold down for easy storage, and the included carabiners make them simple to clip onto a leash, backpack or travel bag so they're available when needed.
Sheba is only 20 months old and certainly doesn't need convincing to jump into things right now. 😄 But a big dog won't always be a young dog, and repeatedly jumping in and out of a higher vehicle can become difficult with age. I like knowing a sturd...
A 63-inch folding dog ramp designed to help dogs get into and out of cars, SUVs and trucks without making a large jump. The wide ramp supports dogs up to 270 pounds and features a non-slip rug surface for better footing. It folds for easier carrying and storage when not in use.
I like the balance of structure and ventilation here. The reinforced frame helps the carrier hold its shape, while the mesh panels, locking zippers and washable pad are practical features for trips with a small pet.
Traveling with a small pet is easier when the carrier is secure without feeling completely closed in. This Petsfit carrier has a reinforced frame, three mesh panels for ventilation and visibility, locking zippers, and a washable two-sided pad for easier cleanup. Designed for small pets, with the manufacturer listing pets up to 9 lb and specific interior-size guidance worth checking before ordering. #ad
Practical Things Every Dog Owner Eventually Needs
The less glamorous but incredibly useful side of living with dogs. From cleanup supplies and gates to storage, training aids and everyday problem-solvers, these are the kinds of things you may not think about until you suddenly need them.
Living with dogs means accepting that occasionally something is going to happen where it wasn't supposed to happen. 😄 Between muddy paws, upset stomachs and the occasional accident, I like having an enzyme cleaner available rather than trying to dis...
A 32-ounce bio-enzyme cleaner designed to break down pet stains and the odors associated with everyday accidents. Rather than simply covering smells with fragrance, the enzymatic formula targets the organic material causing them and can be useful for keeping pet areas, floors and other washable surfaces fresh.
With a German Shepherd in the house, dog hair isn't really something you eliminate—it's something you negotiate with. 😄 Sheba can leave enough fur behind to make you wonder how she still has any attached, and Skipper contributes her share too. I lik...
A reusable pet-hair remover designed for lifting dog and cat fur from couches, carpets, bedding, rugs and vehicle upholstery. It uses a reusable roller rather than disposable sticky sheets, collecting loose hair into an internal compartment that can be emptied and used again.
Picking up after the dogs isn't exactly the glamorous part of dog ownership, but it's certainly part of the deal. 😄 I like having the bags attached directly to the leash so there's no discovering halfway down the road that they're still sitting at h...
A two-pack of dog waste-bag dispensers that clip onto a leash or bag with the included carabiners. Each dispenser has a built-in LED flashlight for better visibility during early-morning or evening walks and comes with rolls of leak-resistant waste bags, keeping the essentials together whenever you head outside.
Sometimes the easiest way to manage dogs is simply to decide where they're not going for a little while. 😄 A freestanding gate is useful when visitors arrive, doors are open or we're working on something and don't need two curious supervisors involv...
A freestanding metal dog gate designed for flexible use around the home or yard. The extra-wide folding panels can help block stairs, hallways, doorways and other areas without requiring a permanently installed barrier, while the foldable design makes it easier to reposition or store when not needed.
This could be especially handy for puppies, apartment dogs or days when getting outdoors is difficult. I like that the large artificial-grass surface gives dogs a more natural-feeling place to go while remaining reusable and washable.
A practical alternative to disposable pee pads when you want something that feels a little more like the outdoors. This large artificial-grass mat can be used for puppy training, apartment or patio potty areas, or situations where getting outside isn't always convenient. It's reusable and designed to be cleaned rather than continually thrown away and replaced. #ad
Nobody likes putting a dog in a cone, but sometimes keeping them away from a healing area is necessary. I like the flexible construction and adjustable fit of this one for smaller dogs.
SILVER GRADE Adjustable Dog Cone Collar
A useful item to have when a small dog needs some protection from its own licking or scratching. This adjustable Elizabethan-style collar is made from flexible polypropylene and is designed for puppies and toy breeds during post-surgery or everyday recovery periods. Size M fits necks approximately 12.2–14.2 inches, so measuring before ordering is important. #ad
What interested me here is the soft-chew format and combination of familiar joint-support ingredients rather than making promises about what a supplement will accomplish. Supplements aren't a substitute for veterinary care, particularly when a dog de...
PureJoy Pets Advanced Hip and Joint Supplement for Dogs — 90 Soft Chews
As dogs get older, many owners start paying closer attention to products designed to support everyday mobility and joint health. These chicken-flavoured soft chews combine commonly used ingredients including glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM and collagen in an easy-to-give format for dogs of different sizes and ages. For anyone exploring joint-support options for an aging or highly active dog, this is one worth looking into and discussing with their veterinarian. #ad