Doggy Style! Lifestyle Tips for the Fabulous Pooch

Living in Los Angeles, one becomes acclimated to many sights: Hollywood, convertible cars, movie stars - and the requisite pampered pooch. It's the happening little accessory these days, and one must be in the know when it comes to keeping your lovable mutt in style - Doggy Style, that is!

Here are a few tips:

Doggie Grooming

Smelly fur and bad breath don't get you far in this town - which makes grooming your pooch a necessity. Regular baths and teeth brushing are recommended at least once a month - more or less, depending on breed and behavior. (Doggies who sit perched on a couch all day vs. doggies who prefer to play in the dirt) A professional groomer will happily provide your pooch with services such as bathing, nail clipping, and coat trimming; as well as special goodies like delightful oatmeal conditioner for pooches who suffer from dry skin. Find a qualified groomer at your local pet store or in the local Yellow Pages.

DoggieWellness

Every pampered pooch must have a doctor on hand - not for regular psychotherapy (although I'm sure you could hire a pet psychic), but for general health and wellness. Ensure that your canine has a regular vet on hand, for annual vaccinations and other health related issues. Many pet parent's opt to purchase insurance for their four-legged loved ones, which usually requires a small monthly premium which covers everything from flea meds to major surgery.

Doggie Exercise

Gotta keep that four-legged bod looking fab…so in keeping with the Doggystyle Lifestyle, exercise is a must. Take your pooch out for regular walks - around the block, the park, the beach, or even during your morning or evening job. If you'd like your pooch to gain some equally fabulous friends, try locating a dog park in your area. This is a designated park where your pet is allowed to run and roam, (some parks are leash-free, some are not) or just kick back and bask in the canine social life.

Doggie Apparel

What's the fun in being fit and sweet-smelling - if you can't strut around and look like a star? Delight your pooch (and yourself!) to a wide array of doggie apparel that fits your dog's personality and style. Is your pooch a bona fide diva? A faux-diamond studded tiara, collar, and leash will make the look complete. Have a dog who's always at your side and ready for an adventure? That motorcycle jacket and bandana will make the trip even that much more exciting. Other fun accessories include hats, sunglasses, scarves - and even shoes. There are also a variety of pet carriers in which to tote our truly pampered little friends - bags and backpacks which can be highlight any pooch's style, from simple to designer.

Doggie Cuisine

Not to suggest that a pampered pooch ought to have a gourmet style meal at every turn, but there are plenty of ways to provide treats of the edible variety. From flavored snack biscuits to full-fledged doggie-style omelets and stews, this is another way you can make your canine feel like a star.

Doggie Spas and Vacations

No one to keep Precious while you're out of town on a last minute business trip? Wondering how to provide care for your pooch while away on vacation? Another way to keep her in the pooch-tastic lifestyle, is to arrange for a doggie vacation! (Pet-sitting is for the days of old) Chances are, there's a facility in your area which offers doggie daycare as well as top-notch accommodations to care for your pet while you're away. These doggie spa's offer short and long term boarding accommodations, with services such a special menus, activities like hikes and swimming - and to help your pet attain a certain "Zen" - you can even arrange for a doggie massage!

Dog Friendly Hotels

So, you want to take your pooch along for the ride (or trip.) There are hotels chains nationwide who would love to have you and your pet for a stay - Holiday Inn, Red Roof Inn, and Best Westin to name a few. Dog-friendly accommodations are at your fingertips - some even tout a V.I.P. (Very Important Pooch) program! Be sure to call and confirm the terms before your stay - some hotels require a small deposit for pets.

Doggie Manners

The fabulous Doggystyle Lifestyle going to your pooch's head? Won't sit or come or fetch at your command? Take advantage of obedience training, if deemed necessary. Nobody likes a doggie with bad manners. From the challenges of housebreaking, to addressing other bad habits like excessive barking and digging, a class or two might make the difference between a mulish mutt and a pristine pooch.

Now go forth, and keep your pooch in style - Doggystyle, that is.

Aaarf!