With Halloween only a couple days away, many people are gearing up for a night full of trick-or-treating, costume contests and a big mug of witch’s brew. While you’re putting on your makeup and false eyelashes, don’t forget about those mutts in your life because they too need some fresh digs for the evening. CostumeKingdom.com is one of the more comprehensive websites for pet costumes and are all reasonably priced, ranging from $10.99 to $17.95. Here are a few ideas for the best dog costumes for Halloween.

If your dog is a true gentleman, try on the Tuxedo Dapper Dog from CostumeKingdom.com. The costume includes a jacket with an attached bow tie, cape and top hat and is available in sizes extra small to extra large. The costume is perfectly paired with a princess dressed mate in the form of another dog, or even yourself.

Another cute dog costume is the Jail Hound, also from CostumeKingdom.com. The Halloween dog costume is ideal for a dog that isn’t always on its best behavior and has spent too much time in the dog house. The costume includes a striped prisoner outfit with the words “Bad Dog” on it, along with a matching hat. The costume is available in sizes extra small to medium. Make it a group theme and find a matching prison outfit to wear for the evening.

If you are a Disney lover at heart, you will be happy to find out that there are many costumes available to suit your fairy princess needs for your pup. CostumeKingdom.com offers Snow White, which includes a dress and red bow hair clip and Alice in Wonderland, which includes an apron dress with a matching bow.

If you are a Star Wars junkie and want to take your pet’s costume to an intergalactic level, Princess Leia and Yoda costumes are also available at CostumeKingdom.com. These costumes are sure to get a laugh out of any movie aficionado. The Princess Leia costume includes a head piece which mimics the infamous buns, a jumpsuit with attached arms and a matching belt. The costume is officially licensed by Star Wars makers and is available in one standard size. Yoda is another favorite in the Star Wars family and includes a headpiece and jumpsuit with attached arms. This costume is also available in one standard size.

One of the most popular choices for the best dog costume is the Hot Dog. This costume fits any personality and is also a favorite for pet owners who are foodies. The costume is ideal for dogs with longer torsos, so Dachshunds, Chihuahuas, and Greyhounds are a perfect fit. The outfit fits on your dog with Velcro straps. Your dog becomes the actual hot dog and mustard component, while the bun rests alongside their body. Dress up as a ketchup or mustard bottle and you will definitely be the talk of any Halloween party.

If you and your pet are fans of comic book and movie super heroes, check out CostumeCraze.com for their selection of pet costumes. The Batman costume includes a headpiece and jumpsuit with attached arms. It is available in sizes extra small to extra large. Adult Batman and Catwoman costumes are also available through the website so show up as a couple to the Halloween parties you will be attending. Wonder Woman dog costumes are also available through CostumeCraze.com for your lady and include a headpiece and jumpsuit with attached arms. The costume is officially licensed and is available in sizes extra small to extra large. Superhero costumes are also available in children’s sizes through this site so make it a family affair and become part of the Justice League.

One of the funniest sights to see is when a dog is dressed up as another animal as part of their Halloween costume. GlamourDog.com offers a wide assortment of animal costumes for your dog. If your dog is particularly friendly with your garden’s insects, check out the Caterpillar costume offered by GlamourDog. The costume comes fully padded and the Velcro straps make for an easy fit. If your pet has ever had a close encounter with a skunk, check out the Lil’ Stinker costume, also from GlamourDog.com. Your pet may be mistaken as a real skunk by spectators so keep your eye on your dog before people start fleeing!The possibilities are endless when it comes to pet costumes. Depending on you and your dog’s interests, there is a Halloween costume to fit any personality.

Popularity: 7% [?]

It’s one thing when your neighbor makes more than you, but it is pretty tough to swallow when you find out his dog is in a higher tax bracket than your household. Believe it or not, that is the case with many pampered pooches around the world that have either inherited their wealth from eccentric owners, currently live a lavish lifestyle thanks to celebrity owners, or earned it the old fashioned way – climbing up the Hollywood food chain.

However they achieved their lofty status, the following are some of the wealthiest pets in the world, and how they got that way.

Tinkerbell (Chihuahua – Lavish Lifestyle)
Tinkerbell is just an ordinary Chihuahua who happens to be the property and B.F.F. of one Paris Hilton. Never heard of her? She’s an heiress to the Hilton Hotel fortune who occasionally gets her name in the local papers. Tinkerbell wears jewelry that would make Mr. T blush and is known to gallivant around Beverly Hills wearing five-figure Louis Vutton collars and accessories.

The Taco Bell chihuahua, Gidget was one of the most memorable advertising mascots of our time. His punch line “yo quiero taco bell,” which means I want Taco Bell in Spanish was a smash hit! People all over the United States would be saying this demanding Taco Bell. Unfortunetely Gidget past away in 2005 due to cancer. Below is a classic video of Gidget in action:

Lassie was another hollywood celebrity dog who swept us off our feet everytime she was on that screen! Lassie had her own show and look including looks of sable coat with a white blaze, large white collar, and four white paws. Her show started in the early 1950’s, won two Emmy Awards, and was strong for nearly 50 years.

Trouble Helmsley
(Maltese – Trust Fund Baby)
Trouble was the one, true friend of Leona Helmsley, a wealthy heiress herself who during her life had trouble getting along with anything on two legs. Upon Leona’s death in 2007, Trouble received a $12 million trust fund that includes luxury accommodations and round-the-clock servants. When Trouble dies, she is to be buried next to Ms. Helmsley in the family mausoleum.

Oprah Winfrey’s Dogs (Spaniels and Retrievers – Lavish Lifestyle)
Talk about living! The richest woman in the world has five dogs – Spaniels and Retrievers – who enjoy an incredibly high-end lifestyle at Ms. Winfrey’s estates.

Flossie (Yellow Labrador – Heiress-in-Waiting)
Flossie is a Yellow Lab owned by actress Drew Barrymore. Flossie earned a place in Barrymore’s multi-million dollar will when she awoke the actress and then boyfriend Tom Green during a fire in their Hollywood home. Barrymore, quick to recognize a good deed when she sees one, ordered her attorneys to leave the house to Flossie upon her death. The home is valued at three million dollars.

Gunther IV (German Shepherd – Trust Fund)
Countess Karlotta Liebenstein was a true dog lover. So much so that when she died she left her $124 million fortune to her German Shepherd Gunther IV (Gunther I – III? Not so lucky.) The value of the estate has now grown to $374 million – which makes Gunther the richest dog in the world.

Mister Ed (Horse – TV Star)
Nobody had ever heard of a talking horse, until Mr. Ed rolled into American living rooms in the 1960’s. Although his verbal skills were the work of audio dubbing and some Hollywood sleight of hand, Mr. Ed make millions for his handlers, who in turn made sure that the horse lived a life of equine luxury until his passing of natural causes.

Kalu (Chimpanzee – Trust Fund)
Kalu was rescued from the South African jungle by the wife of Australian swimming great Frank O’Neil and bequeathed the couple’s $60 million dollar estate. One has to wonder if Frank had any say in the matter – he never cared much for Kalu after catching the chimp smoking one of his cigarettes and drinking a beer.

Popularity: 4% [?]

If you are looking to share your home with a dog, and your home happens to be in a large metropolitan city, you would be wise to do a little research before you bring any old pup home. Some dogs are not suitable for city life, either because they have a strong need for outdoor activities like running and playing, they are prone to barking, or because they are simply too big to be comfortable in a small apartment or condo.

So what dogs are good for city life? Below is a list of top dogs for the city, but be sure to look into any breed you want to take home to make sure you can provide them with a happy and healthy home.

Dachshunds are great small dogs. They are usually well tempered, and even though they are energetic, their small size doesn’t require a large space to run. Just be sure to give this dog some exercise and watch the liver snacks, because they can easily become overweight. This dog is commonly referred to as a wiener dog or a sausage dog.

Pugs are very popular today, and are perfect for even a family living in the city. They are very affectionate, well-behaved, and they generally don’t demand much exercise. Another one to go along with the pug is the French Bulldog, a smaller breed than the better-known English Bulldog. Both the French Bulldog and the pug are pretty sedentary dogs, but they are loving and fun to watch and interact with.

The Basenji is a less common dog, but because it does not have a bark, it is growing in popularity among city dwellers. Originally trained for hunting this hound will compliment any family by providing some lively energy to the home. They can be trained easily, hence the reason they’ve been used for hunting. They are very passionate and loving dogs and we highly recommend these young pups.

The Whippet is a shy dog that looks like a miniature Greyhound. They are smart, affectionate, very playful, and with regular walks they could be a great asset to city life. They average anywhere from 25 to 40 lbs depending on age and gender. These dogs are quick so if you’re out of shape and can’t keep up, I’d stay away from this breed (laugh).

If you have your mind set on a larger dog, there are a few large breeds that are not very active, but they do come with their share of challenges. For example, the Newfoundland and the Mastiff are great big, friendly dogs that don’t require much exercise. However, you should expect these dogs to weigh over 100 pounds, they both tend to drool, and the Newfoundland will need regular grooming because of its long coat.

In addition to those listed above, there are a few more breeds that are worth mentioning. These breeds are great all-around dogs, but can be especially good for city life. These dogs are generally very smart and easy to train, and while they might require daily walking, they won’t run circles around your apartment: Toy Poodle, Miniature Poodle, Bichon Frise, West Highland Terrier, and Shih Tzu. Below are some sample pictures of the small dog breeds mentioned above:

Popularity: 5% [?]

For dog lovers there is no list more revered than the American Kennel club’s Most Popular Breeds of the year.  And while there are some pooches who seem to top the list decade after decade, each edition of the list always manages to deliver a few surprises.

1. Retrievers (Labrador) – The classic American dog.  Labrador retrievers are smart, lovable and great with kids.  They are the most popular “family” dog according to several breeder surveys.  Although they technically hail from the “Working Group” of dogs as classified by the AKC, Labs love to have fun and will knock you over in pursuit a good tennis ball.

2. Retrievers (Golden) – Golden Retrievers sit next to Labradors atop the “American Family Dog” pyramid of popularity.  Goldens are big, active dogs that love to play in the water with their favorite dog toys.  Males and females can grow as large as 90 pounds, so clear out an extra room in the house if you’re thinking about bringing one home.

3. Yorkshire Terriers – The Yorkshire Terrier, or “Yorkie” as it is commonly called, is the smallest breed of terrier in the world.  These little pocket rockets are actually some of the bravest dogs you will ever meet, and are fiercely loyal when it comes to their home and family.  Knock on the door of someone with a Yorkie, hold your ears and you’ll see what we mean!

4. German Shepherd Dogs – One of the most loyal breeds in the world, German Shepherds are known for their intelligence and temperament.   The most popular police dog breed, Shepherds can sniff out a bomb, a criminal or a shipment of drugs with equal ease.  Overbreeding and genetic issues have caused a large percentage of these dogs to develop hip problems, specifically dysplasia, over the past several years.

5. Beagles – Ever since Snoopy became a national icon (and MetLife pitch-dog) the Beagle has been a staple in American households.  A medium-sized dog that was originally bred to hunt game such as rabbits and fox, the Beagle is a deceptively strong animal.  Don’t look for any beagle to be finding work as guard dogs any time soon – their kind, gentle demeanor just wouldn’t be suited for the job.

6. Dachshunds – Dachshunds or “Weiner Dogs” have always remained a fascination with dog owners because of their unique appearance.  But don’t let their odd look fool you, these dogs will run and play with the best of them, and can really get a head of steam going when in pursuit of a ball or another dog.  The Dachshund is one of the most aggressive dogs on this list, and has been known to nip or bite at strangers or other dogs with some regularity.

7. Boxers – This dog always seems to be wearing a serious expression, but in actuality it is one of the most fun-loving, energetic breeds on this list.  AKC reports extol the virtues of the boxer, stating that they have a great rapport with children, are relatively low maintenance and are “honest and loyal”.  Sounds more like a good husband than a great dog breed, but so it goes.  Boxers are extremely headstrong animals and as such require obedience training at a very young age.

8. Poodles – Standard and miniature poodles were the rich person’s dog of choice long before Paris Hilton ever stuffed a Chihuahua into a Fendi purse.  Now, these incredible animals are popular with all socio-economic groups because of the beauty and loyalty.

9. Shih Tzu - A dog everyone loves, with a name that only a fifth grade boy could love.  The Shih Tzu has been growing in popularity for years, and has finally cracked the “most popular breeds” list of the American Kennel Club.  This little wonder has even found a home in Hollywood, in both the mansions of the ultra-wealthy, and on the silver screen in Christopher Guest’s mockumentary Best in Show.

10. Miniature Schnauzers - Another miniature dog breed that is relatively new to the list of most popular breeds, having just cracked the top ten in 2008.  Miniature Schnauzers are obedient and rarely too-aggressive.  The generally engage in gentle play, which makes them ideal companions for children and chew toys alike.    The breed originated in Germany where they were originally raised as farming dogs used to chase mice and other vermin out of the area.

Popularity: 100% [?]

We all love dogs, but sometimes they can really test our patience.  Here are five of the most common annoying dog behaviors, and what you can do to fix them.

The behavior:  Pooping and peeing in the house

Why it’s so annoying:  Frankly, bodily functions released in your living room goes well beyond the annoying stage and can be categorized as downright rude, animal or not. Puppy housebreaking is one of the most challenging times in a dog-human relationship.  The stress level is high and can leave first-time dog owners feel like they are in over their heads.

Puppy housebreaking tips

1. Give your dog their last food and water a couple of hours before bedtime.  Then, take them your dog potty to go to the bathroom right before you go to sleep.  Remember to praise the dog when she does her business using the dog toilet.
2. Crate your dog at night.  Dogs love their crates!  It’s part of their cave-dweller past.  The more they feel like that crate is their home, the less likely they will be to use it as a bathroom.
3. Set a timer to ring every 30 minutes.  When the timer goes off, take the dog to her dog litter box (even if she doesn’t have to go).  Praise her when she comes follows you to the dog toilet.  This will help get your dog in the “flow” of making regular trips to go to the bathroom.
4. Consider a puppy litter box.   They’re not just for cats anymore and they can significantly help curb the behavior.

The behavior:  Barking into all hours of the night

Why it’s so annoying:   Because having your neighbors mad at you all the time is like living on the border of an unfriendly nation.  Maybe nothing will ever happen, but the more that dog barks, the more tension that builds below the surface.

Tips on how to stop problem barking:

1. When the dogs bark at night, come out and tell them “bad” in a loud authoritative voice.  When the dog does NOT bark at things in the night (and provided that you are still awake) always provide praise her immediately following the behavior.
2. Crate your dog at night, placing the crate in an area of your house that will minimize the noise your neighbors will need to hear.
3. If you are unable to control the barking after 2-3 weeks of trying to discipline the dog, you should probably consider a dog training school to control the behavior.

The behavior:  Unwanted “romantic gestures”

Why it’s so annoying:  Seeing a Jack Russell Terrier hump a vacuum cleaner is funny when it’s happening to someone else on YouTube, but in your world, not so much.

Tips on how to stop your dog from humping everything that moves:

1. If your dog is a male, you should really consider having him neutered.  It helps control the pet population and does away with most of the humping behavior.Get your dog more exercise.
2. This behavior is sometimes the result of pent up energy or restlessness.  Grab your dog leash and take her out to the park for a good long run, or at the least a nice walk every day.
3. If the behavior continues, visit your vet.  There are some cases where the humping behavior is caused by a serious hormonal imbalance that needs to be treated by a professional.

The behavior:  Aggressive behavior towards people and other dogs

Why it’s so annoying:    If you got a dog to try and attract members of the opposite sex, it’s kind of hard to grab their digits when they’re running away, stricken with fear.  Nope, dogs who lunge at other dogs, small children, attractive adults or clothing store mannequins are just plain no fun to be around.

Tips on how to curb your dog’s aggressive behavior:

1. Don’t punish aggressive behavior with additional aggressive behavior.  If you strike your dog for acting in a violent manner it will only perpetuate that cycle.  You might want to consider a special dog collar instead.
2. Reward your dog for submissive behavior.   Provide lots of praise when your dog lets a situation pass with growling or lunging.
3. If the problem continues, it is absolutely vital that you get professional help for your dog.  A dog training program can help you solve the aggression problem before it puts you, your family or your dog at risk.

The behavior:  Chewing up everything in the house

Why it’s so annoying:  How a dog can bypass everything you’ve ever bought at Target to specifically destroy your Louis Vutton purse or Lacoste shirt is a mystery of behavioral science, but whatever the value of your worldly possessions may be, you don’t want them chewed to shreds my your (mostly) loveable pup.

Tips on how to stop unwanted chewing:

1. Get your dog some chew toys!    Dogs love toys like Kongs and Nylabones, and will chew on them for hours.  They’re safe, good for the dog’s dental work and give them something else to do besides laying waste to all your material possessions.
2. Praise your dog when she uses the chew toys.  Tell her “good girl” when she starts gnawing on the toys your supply.
3. Teach your dog to drop things that are not hers.  In a low, assertive voice, tell your dog to “drop it” or “leave it” when they begin to chew on your possessions.  Praise her extensively when she does what you ask her to do.

Popularity: 33% [?]

Picture someone spending time and playing with their dog. In most cases, you might imagine the dog owner playing fetch out in the backyard with the dog, or something close to it. But sadly, not all climates offer outdoor time with your dog. In many places, there are long stretches of time where the dog simply may not be able to handle the weather, particularly colder climates. This means some adjustments may need to be made, including housing your dog indoors, training your dog to use a UGODOG indoor dog potty, and playing indoor dog games.

Indoor dog games are a great way for your dog to enjoy physical and mental stimulation. Read on for some examples of fun games that you and your dog can enjoy. Some of these games offer dog training tips for the owner, so pay attention!

One of the noisier, yet more fun games is doggy hide and seek. Have your dog sit in a different room for a second while you hide, and then call the dog. Your dog can then run into the room and run around until he or she finds you! Certain dogs can be fooled for a while, and the excitement causes the dog to run around and get good exercise while hunting you down!

If you and your dog enjoy playing fetch, then consider playing hide the toy with your dog! Show your dog the toy (usually a squeaky one), and then hide it – perhaps under a rug or something similar. Just like the hide and seek game, the dog gets excited running around looking for the toy. You can even tease the dog by squeaking it with your foot if he or she is having trouble tracking it down.

If you want to combine an indoor dog game with a little obedience training, have your dog sit, and then go across the room (or to a different room if you don’t have enough space). Then, call for your dog to come running. Once the dog approaches, immediately tell him or her to sit – the excitement may be too much for your dog, but if well-trained, your dog can hold it in long enough to obey.

Don’t let a colder climate keep you from getting the dog you want. By combining some indoor dog games for stimulation and a UGODOG dog toilet, your dog can live a full and exciting life – just as much as an outdoor dog would!

Popularity: 6% [?]

Are you proud of your dog and want to share his or her qualities with the world? Here is your chance. While browsing CBS.com I found this new series which puts teams of dogs together in search for America’s Greatest Dog. We are obviously dog lovers so I thought it would be interesting to look into this new series that is beginning soon. It sounds like a hit to me, and I’m sure any other dog lover will agree. I am curious to see what type of exercises and games these dogs will participate in. I’m thinking the show will be similar to American Gladiators, but for dogs. There is no official starting date, but I have already submitted my application to participate, and I am looking forward to the show. Below is a overview of the show:

About the Show:

Calling all talented dogs! CBS is looking for the most extraordinary teams of dogs and owners across the nation to compete for the title of “America’s greatest dog.” From purebreds to mutts, show dogs to stunt dogs, Pugs to Great Danes and agility dogs to dogs who dance the Tango - we want all types of talented canines. The winning team will walk away with bragging rights and a significant cash prize!

Do you brag that you have the most talented dog in America? Well here’s your chance to prove it! CBS is looking for the most extraordinary teams of dogs and owners across the nation to compete for the title of “America’s Greatest Dog” (working title). Owners and their pets - from “pageant dogs” to those simply trained at home - will live together and compete against each other in games that put the dog’s rapport with their trainer to the test.

Popularity: 6% [?]

Date: Saturday, June 28, 2008
Location: Imperial Beach, CA

Event Overview:
See Spot surf during the Loews Dog Surfing Competition – the nation’s original surfing competition for man’s best friend. There’s no “dog-paddling” for these surf dogs. Canine counterparts are invited to hang 10 (errr, 20) for a great cause. Last year, 47 brave surf dogs took to the waves and more than 1,000 spectators gathered to watch the dog surfing event unfold. The competition garnered national and international media attention, and more than $10,000 was raised for a great cause. This year’s event should be even better.

Ugodog is an official sponsor of the 3rd Annual Loews Coronado Surf Dog Competition

Schedule:
9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Optional surfing lessons by the Coronado Surfing Academy for less experienced canines
11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. Heat One: Small Surf Dogs (40 pounds and under)
11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Heat Two: Large Surf Dogs (41 pounds and over)
12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Heat Three: Tandem Surfing for Surf Dogs & Owners
1:30 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. Furry fashion show with doggie couture by Lucky Dog Boutique
1:45 p.m. to 2 p.m. Awards ceremony
Please RSVP by June 27, 2008 to avoid late fees.

2007 Loews Surf Dog Competition Event Video

Popularity: 6% [?]

1. Walk your Dog

This is the easiest and most efficient way of exercising your dog is taking him for walk. It is recommended that you take your dog for long walks twice daily. The length of the walk depends on the size, and fitness level of the dog. Find a local trail or park and progressively increase the length and speed of the walks on a weekly basis. Make this part of your daily routine because you owe it to your best friend.

2. Play Fetch

A fun and highly effective form of exercise is playing fetch. Grab yourself a frisby, tennis ball, stick, or any other dog toy and have yourself a blast! This provides great exercise for your dog, while not wearing you out.

3. Take a Jog

Next time you go for a run take your dog along. Keep yourself in shape, as well as your fellow canine. Hopefully you can keep up with your dog!

4. Take a Dip

With summer coming along soon take your dog for swim in your local pool, pond, river, or lake. Swimming is a great source of exercise for any canine or human. Next time you take your dog for a mid-day swim, join him!

5. Put your dog on a treadmill

If your going to be a couch potato, don’t let your dog suffer. I would have never thought of this 20 years ago, but there has been a recent trend in Dog Treadmills. You can purchase a treadmill specifically for your dog, or just put him on yours!

6. Take a stroll to the local Dog Park

Dog Parks have grown in popularity throughout the past years.

7. Cycle

Next time you ride your bike, take your dog along side of you jogging. This is not for your average canine, but for the more active and fit dogs.

8. Dog Classes

If your dog is getting bored with the exercises mentioned above, enroll your dog in a fitness class. This provides a competitive environment and can challenge your dog not only physically, but mentally.

9. Stair Climbing

This is one of the easiest exercises for your dog, and it can conveniently be done indoors or outdoors. Stair Climbing burns a high amount calories, and increases your dogs fitness level.

10. If you can’t do it, OUTSOURCE!

If you can’t dedicate enough time to your dog, hire someone to substitute for this missed exercising. Dog Walking Services have become popular in recent years and are easily accessible and convenient. Prices range for $10 to $30 dollars for a 20 minute walk.

Popularity: 9% [?]

Hilarious clips of dogs talking, or attemping to!

Popularity: 8% [?]