DIY Spoiled Pup 'Howliday' Gift #TreatThePups

Today's post is sponsored by Lunchbox

It is the holiday season and the days are going fast! Like me, you have probably finished all of your shopping or are hopefully close to it. The one family member we make certain to include is our dog, Rocco. He spends his days protecting our home and keeping me company during the day, so I make sure I treat him extra special during the holidays.

This year I wanted to give him the gift of treats and toys. I decided that instead of putting everything in a basket or bag, I'd use an inexpensive dog bed instead. What dog wouldn't love having an extra comfy space to lounge?

The thing I love most about this little DIY gift is that you don't have to have any special talent to do it. All you will need is a few toys, a blanket, a dog bed or basket, a glass jar, festive stickers, ribbon, and of course, TREATS! I used Rocco's favorites including: Milk-Bone, Pup-Peroni and Milo’s Kitchen from Walmart.

I found some cute chalkboard adhesive labels and snowflake stickers in the craft store to personalize a plain glass jar to keep treats in.  This would be a simple thing to do for the neighbor's dogs- just add treats and a festive ribbon. I used mini Milk-Bones in Rocco's jar because they are wholesome and delicious treats I feel good about giving. Isn't it cute?

I put all of the items together in the little dog bed and it really came together nicely. You see, you don't need to have any special talent to make a thoughtful gift for your dog. I used some festive ribbon to make the whole thing look holiday-ish. I'm pretty sure that Rocco will sniff these treats out when Christmas morning rolls around. Pup-Peroni is his top favorite and Real Meat is the #1 ingredient, along with a mouthwatering aroma that dogs simply can't resist. I like to get the 2-pound bag from Walmart so we have plenty on hand to share with the neighbor's dogs at the fence each day. 

You can get more great ideas and inspiration for DIY crafts you can make for your dog this holiday season. And don't forget to stock up on Milk-Bone, Pup-Peroni and Milo's Kitchen treats from Walmart. They are the perfect gift addition for any dog.

So how do you plan to #TreatThePups this year?

Howliday Gifting For Your Pup (Giveaway) #TreatThePups

CLOSED- Winner is Adrian H. 
Can you believe we are almost halfway through the month of December? It has been so hectic around here getting our shopping done and attending holiday parties. We tend to always remember our family, friends, neighbors and coworkers when it comes to giving gifts. Don't forget your most loyal family member, your dog! They are actually the easiest ones to make happy during the holiday season when you give the gift of treats.

This Christmas, Rocco will be receiving a yummy gift basket filled with his favorite toys, a blanket and of course, treats! Milk-Bone, Milo's Kitchen and Pup-Peroni are his favorites. It turns out that I'm not the only pet mama to spoil her pup during this time of year.  That's why I love this super cute website called TheNosePrint.com from Big Heart Pet Brands (the makers of Milk-Bone, Pup-Peroni, Canine Carry Outs, and Milo's Kitchen).  They really know how to celebrate the holidays with your pup!

On TheNosePrint.com, check out some of the fun doggy do-it-yourself ideas. You can make some of the most adorable gifts that don't take a lot of items to make and are actually simple to do. We give our neighbor's dogs treats as gifts each year and this year I will be making personalized treat jars for both of them. Of course, they will be filled with yummy treats!  Be sure to check out the great articles on a variety of dog-related topics on the NosePrint. 

Finally, want to know which states have the most spoiled pups?

The 2015 TheNosePrint.com Santa Dog Index ranks states based on how much, on average, dog parents will spend on their furry kids:

Top 10 States That Spend the Most on Holiday Gifts for Dogs:

 1. New Jersey: $29.61 (average gift spending per dog for state residents)

 2. New York: $28.95

 3. Pennsylvania: $28.75

 4. Utah: $27.75

 5. Georgia: $27.04

 6. California: $26.07

 7. Washington: $25.81

 8. Florida: $25.13

 9. Illinois: $24.98

 10. Virginia: $24.58

Apparently, it's good to be a dog in the New York tri-state area.  You can find the complete rankings of all 50 states at www.TheNosePrint.com.

The folks at TheNosePrint.com have generously offered to give away a FREE Christmas doggy care package filled with some of the most delicious stocking stuffer treats for your pup.

To be entered to win the care package, enter in the Rafflecopter widget below.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway ends on December 21, 2015 and one winner will be chosen at random and will be contacted via email to claim prize. Please read and follow giveaway rules in Rafflecopter. Good luck!

I received a prize pack in exchange for sharing information about how you can treat your pups for the holidays. All opinions are my own as always. 

3 Doggy Health Hazards to Avoid on Turkey Day

Every year, countless dogs head to the vet after Thanksgiving -- many suffering from digestive problems and canine pancreatitis -- because they've eaten things they really shouldn't.

So how can you say "Bone Appetit" to Fido on Thanksgiving while still keeping your hungry hound happy and healthy?

According to canine health and wellness experts at Milk-Bone, dog parents can start by avoiding these Top 3 major doggy health hazards:

1.  DOGGY HAZARD #1:  LEFT OUT LEFTOVERS

Many dogs get sick not from being fed directly but because they climb up on the table and eat huge quantities of food when humans aren't there.

2.  DOGGY HAZARD #2:  FOOD NO-NOS

Don't give your dog turkey skin, turkey or poultry bones, onions, grapes, raisins, fatty foods, or other holiday items that are harmful or toxic to dogs.

3.  DOGGY HEALTH HAZARD #3:  DENTAL DAMAGERS

Avoid plastic bones, ice cubes, antlers, and bully sticks -- all of which can cause painful doggy tooth fractures.

Get some great tips for your dog's health from this useful infographic provided by Milk-Bone . We wish you and your pup a Happy Woofgiving!

Milk-Bone Study Shows Dogs Are Ultimate Trick-or-Treaters #TreatsForAll

Although Halloween has usually been considered a children's holiday, these days increasing numbers of "furry kids" are getting in on the fun. I have been seeing so many dogs dressed in costumes in recent years. When I visit the pet department in stores, I'm amazed by the variety of Halloween costumes and accessories available for them.

Big Heart Pet Brands (the makers of Milk-Bone, Pup-Peroni, Canine Carry Outs and Milo's Kitchen) conducted an original survey of 3,000 dog parents nationwide to find the top 25 states that most like to include their pups, the nation's most popular "Doggy Halloween Tricks," and each breed's favorite special treats -- right in time for the spooky-fun holiday.

Fun Halloween Stats:

The State of South Carolina ranks #4 in the Milk-Bone and Milo's Kitchen Top 25 'Howl-O-Ween' States. Check out where your state ranks here.

PET PARENTS LOVE TO INCLUDE THEIR DOGS ON HALLOWEEN
44% of NY pet parents have dressed their dog in costume versus 28% of California pet parents
38% of NY pet parents have greeted trick-or-treaters with their dog while 18% of pet parents in California have
18% of Texas pet parents have given their dog extra treats for Halloween and 16% have taken their dog trick-or-treating.

DIFFERENT TREATS FOR DIFFERENT BREEDS
Big dogs like Dobermans and Great Danes prefer "real meat treats", while most small ones (Pomeranians and Pugs) choose "soft and chewy" snacks - like Pup-Peroni
Soft and chewy treats are also the all-time favorites of terriers (58%), and toy dogs (59%)
Biscuits and crunchy treats (like Milk-Bone) are the clear favorites of hounds (53%), herding dogs (56%), and sporting dogs (57%)

MILO KITCHEN'S HALLOWEEN "DOGGY TRICKS TOP 10 RANKING"
Because dogs are the ultimate tricksters, Milo's Kitchen brand dog treats wanted to uncover, for the first time, which tricks dogs are best able to perform. The nation's most popular doggy tricks are:

#1: Sit (77% of dogs can do this on command)
#2: Shake paws (58%)
#3: Lay down (57%)
#4: Stay (50%)
#5: Give a kiss (44%)
#6: Beg (31%)
#7: Roll over (27%)
#8: Speak or bark (26%)
#9: Spin (14%)
#10: Play dead (10%)

For wacky DIY doggie costumes, ideas on how to treat your pet, or for downloadable decorations to show your neighbors you're celebrating with your pup, please visit this special Howl-o-ween website, from Big Heart Pet brands' Milk-Bone, Pup-Peroni, Canine Carry Outs and Milo's Kitchen:
http://treatingforall.com/

I made these little Dog Treat 'BOO-Quets' for our furry trick-or-treaters

For a chance to see your dog's Halloween photo in the Milk-Bone Halloween website and social channels, tag it on FB, Instagram or Twitter @milkbone with #TreatsForAll.

How can pet parents show they are celebrate Halloween with their pup? Download special pup decorations to show your neighbors you're celebrating with your dog at treatingforall.com

If you dress your dog up for Halloween, what will he/she be?

Milk-Bone Good Morning Treats For Your Pup (Giveaway)

If you are a pet parent, you know the importance of taking care of your dog like you would your child. We ensure a safe environment and provide plenty of fresh water, food and of course, love. Our dog is a very important member of our family and we do all we can to maintain his health. We take him to the vet for a yearly check-up and vaccinations, as well as make sure he gets ample exercise and fresh air. Our pups depend of their human parents to keep them healthy.

According to “Milk-Bone Human-Canine Health Study” — a survey of 2,000 U.S. dog parents conducted by Milk-Bone brand dog treats (in conjunction a partnership with Learndipity Data Insights) — humans and dogs positively impact the health of one another, from morning routines to physical fitness.

Milk-Bone's Good Morning Daily Vitamin Treats provide beneficial nutrients not found in most dog foods.

Dogs give us so much love that they deserve more than ordinary treats. They deserve treats with benefits.

Little Rocco loves his breakfast time treat! 

Consider this: According to the “Milk-Bone Human-Canine Health Study”— a survey of 3,000 U.S. dog parents conducted by Milk-Bone brand dog treats (in conjunction with Learndipity Data Insights) —pet parents who include their pups in family health routines lead healthier lives. In fact, 55% of dog parents say their lives are “full of happiness and joy,” compared to 39% of non-dog parents.

What are four tips to ensure that the entire family - including Fido - is healthy and well?

DOGGY EXERCISE
51% of dog parents say they get more exercise because of their dog -- but 1 out of 3 pet parents wish their dog would get more physical activity

TIP #1: Turn your pups’ morning or evening walking session into a fun, impromptu workout session for the entire family, so both you and Fido will get your daily fit fix.

PUPPY NUTRIENTS
1 out of 3 pet parents are concerned their dog isn't getting enough of the nutrients they need.

TIP #2: Start every day with a vitamin routine for the whole family. Your pup’s should include nutrients not found in most dog foods, like Glucosamine to support healthy joints or DHA to supplement overall wellness, which Milk-Bone’s Good Morning Daily Vitamin Treats provide.

PETTING SESSION CHECK-UPS
Pet parents conduct “well puppy” check-ups, as they would with their child. If a dog is rubbing his eyes, or has oily spots or bumps in his fur, something could be wrong.

TIP #3: Use fun petting sessions to give your dog a quick look over for possible health ailments, like gently rubbing the bottom of his foot pads for sores.

A FAMILY RITUAL
57% of dog parents who also have children involve the kids in their doggy caring care routines, with most reporting that it teaches them good life habits and responsibility.

TIP #4: Your pup needs just as much attention and care as you and your children. When it’s time for your kids to brush their teeth, brush his teeth too (or give him Milk-Bone Brushing Chews).

Giveaway:

One lucky Mom Files reader will win a Milk-Bone prize pack containing:

• Milk-Bone Good Morning Treats 
• Milk-Bone Brushing Chews
• Cool outdoor swag to keep your pup healthy and active

Enter below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway is open to U.S. residents only and will end on October 1, 2015. One winner will be selected and contacted via email to claim prize. Be sure to follow all rules in Rafflecopter widget for entries to count. Good luck!

I received products samples from Milk-Bone. All opinions are my own as always! 

DIY Dog Treat "BOO"quets For Halloween #TreatThePups

Today's post is sponsored by Lunchbox

#TreatThePups

It's hard to believe that it is already October!  This month is generally dedicated to Halloween and I can already see decorations around town. At our house, we get our pumpkins carved, costumes picked out and of course, the mountain of candy to hand out to the cute trick-or-treaters in the neighborhood. Many times, the kids are not only accompanied by an adult, but also their dog. There's nothing cuter than a dog in costume. How nice would it be to have a special Halloween treat just for them? Check out this cute idea for an easy goodie to hand out to the furry visitors-- Dog Treat "BOO"quets.

What you will need:
Halloween ribbon
Lollipop sticks and small wooden skewers
Cellophane bags
Assorted dog treats. I used Milo's Kitchen, Pup-Peroni and Milk-Bone treats.

The key to this fun project is to have a bundle of dog treats on sticks that can be gathered into a bouquet or as I call it, BOO-quet. I start with cutting the treats down just a bit so they fit better on the sticks. You can leave some whole if you want to make a bigger bouquet,

For your cellophane bag, you can trim the top to the size you want. I then fill the bottom of the bag with small size Milk-Bone treats, about 6 of them. I add enough of the chewier type treats that were skewered on sticks and gather them in the center and tie off with a bag tie. Those generally come in the package of cellophane bags.

Next I add a couple decorative picks. I was lucky to find some cute ones from the Halloween cake decorating section of the store that matched my theme perfectly. You can also make them very spooky by using little skulls, spiders or ghosts.

The final touch is tying the bouquet with Halloween themed ribbon. The end result is super cute BOO-quets that dogs will love! I am quite sure their pet parents will love you for thinking of their fur baby.

This is a very easy craft that you can do with your kids. You can also use alternate materials like tulle, tissue paper or paper you want to repurpose. Be creative, it's all about treating our doggie friends! There are many varieties of Big Heart Pet Brand of dog treats available at Walmart stores to add to your special DIY Halloween dog goodies.

If you need some inspiration, be sure to check out the Walmart site dedicated to DIY Halloween dog treats. There are so many simple ideas. So go ahead and take a peek. How will you #TreatThePups?

Feb 13th is Valentine’s for Dogs – Say I LOVE YOU with treats! #ValentinesForDogs (Giveaway)

It's officially the Valentine's season and we give flowers, chocolates and gifts with those we love the most. Of course, we can't forget our fur babies. Dogs give so much unconditional love to their families that we must give some love back. This year, let's celebrate our wonderful animal companions by making February 13th Valentine's Day For Dogs (#valentinesfordogs).  On this day, we make sure we're also giving our pups the attention they deserve. How? I might take them out for a special walk at their favorite dog park, buy them a fluffy and comfy pet bed, or give them Milk-Bone dog treats. The good folks at Milk-Bone, Pup-Peroni, Milo's Kitchen, and Canine Carry Outs have made it easy for you this year with a doggie Valentine's Day card.

Aren't these cards adorable? Aside from my dog, I think the neighbor's dogs would appreciate a special Valentine's treat from their dog buddy.  Get yours today at https://www.bigheartpetvalentines.com/  They are super easy to download and print. All you do is cut them out, insert a special treat and share with your favorite dog pals.

Also, check out this fun info graphic with hilarious findings about pets and their pet parents. It is guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

If you participate in any Valentine's activities with you dog, be sure to share on social media using the #ValentinesForDogs hashtag directed at @milkbone.

How would you like to win an assortment of treats to spoil your pup with? Enter below:
a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on February 18, 2015. Winner will be contacted via email to claim prize. Mom Files does not directly ship prizes and is NOT responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

Disclosure: I received a prize pack in exchange for spreading the word about the doggy Valentine's from Milk-Bone and hosting a reader giveaway. All opinions are my own.