Author: Kylie

DIY Dog Toothpaste Recipe Made From Ingredients in Your Kitchen

DIY Dog Toothpaste Recipe Made From Ingredients in Your Kitchen

Dental health is important for not just humans, but for our dogs as well. Dental disease is one of the most common types of diseases seen in dogs by veterinarians, specifically, periodontal disease. If you neglect your dogs dental health you’re risking bad breath, teeth 

Valentine’s Day Themed Names for Dogs

Valentine’s Day Themed Names for Dogs

There’s no love greater than puppy love! With Valentines Day right around the corner, if you’re planning on bringing a new furry friend home for the holiday, consider choosing a name that comes right from the heart. Today I’m sharing 15 Valentine’s Day themed names 

Hot Chocolate for Dogs – 2 Ingredient Hot Chocolate Recipe

Hot Chocolate for Dogs – 2 Ingredient Hot Chocolate Recipe

Jump to Recipe

Nothing is better than a hot cup of cocoa after a cold day out in the snow. The sweet chocolate, marshmallows, and whipped cream create a delicious treat that is perfect for cold winter days. Next time you sit down to enjoy some hot chocolate by the fire, let Fido in on the yumminess too. January 31 is National Hot Chocolate Day! What better way to celebrate than with a dog friendly hot chocolate recipe? Today I’m going to be sharing a simple, two ingredient hot chocolate for dogs recipe.

Here in Virginia we haven’t seen a good snow storm in years. I was thrilled to wake up this morning to lots of fluffy white snow all over my yard, and so was my Siberian Husky, Luna. She spent the morning zooming around the backyard and digging in the snow. 

Siberian Husky playing in the snow

As I watched her I started to look back fondly on my childhood snow days. Nothing was better than finding out school was cancelled and spending the day sledding down hills and building snowmen. But the best part of every snow day was coming inside to a large cup of delicious hot chocolate. 

I don’t have kids of my own yet, but Luna is very much my baby. So I did what my mom always did for me, I whipped up some dog friendly hot chocolate. This recipe is super simple and only uses two ingredients: milk and carob powder.

Hot Chocolate Ingredients

ingredients used for hot chocolate for dogs

Most dogs can have milk in small quantities from time to time. Cows milk, almond milk, and coconut are all fine for your pup to consume. I used almond milk since that was what I had in my fridge, but coconut milk would make the treat a little sweeter. 

If your dog has had issues digesting dairy in the past, stay away from giving them cows milk and instead use a plant based milk.

milk boiling for dog hot chocolate

Carob is the perfect chocolate substitute for dog friendly recipes. Carob trees grow in the Mediterranean region and in the middle east. The pods that grow on the trees can be ground down into a powder that can replace cocoa powder. Because it does not contain Theobromine, the chemical in chocolate that makes it toxic for dogs, it is perfectly safe for dogs to consume.

To make the hot chocolate for dogs, you’ll simply boil a cup of milk and then add 1/2 tablespoon of carob powder and whisk. I frothed some more milk to add on top for a fancier look. 

carob powder being whisked into almond milk for dog hot chocolate

Make sure to allow the hot chocolate to cool to room temperature or slightly warm, before serving it to your pup. Pour it into your dogs bowl, and let them lap up the chocolatey goodness.

Now you can turn on the fireplace, curl up with some Netflix and a warm blanket, and enjoy some hot chocolate with your furry friend. 

Hot Chocolate for Dogs

Kylie
Dog friendly hot chocolate recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Course Drinks
Cuisine American
Servings 3
Calories 78 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup almond milk or milk of choice
  • 1/2 tbsp carob powder

Instructions
 

  • Bring 1 cup of milk to a boil
  • Whisk in 1/2 tbsp of carob powder
  • Allow hot chocolate to cool for a few minutes
  • Optional: froth some extra milk and pour on top
Keyword dog friendly hot chocolate, hot chocolate for dogs, hot chocolate using carob powder

This post contains affiliate links. All opinions are my own.

How to Make Your Dog Instagram Famous in 2021

How to Make Your Dog Instagram Famous in 2021

Today it seems as though everyone is working to become “Instagram famous” or a “social media influencer”. In a world of social media, posting your life to the internet can earn you millions of followers and a large chunk of change. Everyone from fitness gurus 

6 Popular Dog Sleeping Positions and What They Mean

6 Popular Dog Sleeping Positions and What They Mean

There are very few things cuter than a sleeping dog. But have you ever looked at your pup while they were sleeping to find them in a strange position? Dogs, like humans, sleep in a variety of positions based on multiple different factors such as 

Must-Have Dog Products on Amazon 2021

Must-Have Dog Products on Amazon 2021

Are you bringing a new puppy or dog into your family this year? Amazon is my go to destination for every day essentials, including items for my dog. With it’s reasonable prices and quick shipping, Amazon is a perfect one stop shop for pet parents. Today I’m sharing my top 20 must-have dog products on Amazon. 

Bedding and Crates

Comfort is just as important to dogs as it is too humans. Check out these must-have dog beds and crates on Amazon so your pet will be comfy too.

1. Pet Sofa Lounger Bed For Dogs or Cats

This memory foam bed is perfect for small dogs or cats. The water resistant covering is removable for easy cleaning and the three walls provide optimal support and comfort. 

2. Cooling Elevated Pet Bed

The easy to clean, elevated pet bed elevates pets 7 inches off the ground to keep them cool during the long, summer days.

3. Premium Folding Portable Soft Pet Crate Carrier

Collapses for easy storage, this crate is perfect for all your pet traveling needs.

4. XL Dog Crate

Standard metal dog crate for large breed dogs with divider for housing multiple pets.

5. Memory Foam Dog Bed

Memory foam pet bed that provides joint support for more restful sleep. Removable cover makes for easy cleaning.

Potty Supplies

Whether you plan on taking them out for daily walks, or want to teach them to use a pee pad, potty supplies are a must-have dog products on Amazon.

6. Unscented Dog Poop Bags with Dispenser

540 dog poop bags that will last you for a very long time with a dispenser for easy access.

7. Leak-Proof Potty Training Pads

This 100 pack of potty training pads turn liquid into gel as it reaches the surface for a leak-proof experience that won’t damage floors.

Grooming Supplies

Skip the groomers and get your dog looking picture perfect at home with these must-have grooming supplies for dogs on Amazon.

8. 8 Piece Grooming Set

This 8 piece dog grooming set comes with a slick brush, double pin brush, small comb, flea comb, scissors, rubber grooming mitt, and nail clippers for all your dog grooming needs.

9. Burts Bees Natural Dog Shampoo

Made with high quality ingredients, this natural dog shampoo soothes and softens your dogs skin and coat.

10. Pet Friendly No Rinse Shampoo

For dogs that don’t enjoy the rinsing part of baths, this no rinse shampoo allows you to bathe your dog water free.

Feeding Supplies

Keep your pet full every day with the perfect dog bowls from Amazon.

11. Gravity Pet Food and Water Dispensers

2.5 gallon dispensers that use gravity to provide a constant supply of food and water to your pets.

12. Silicone Mat and Pet Bowl

Stainless steel pet bowl and silicone mat combo catches food and water spills and provides a no slip performance.

13. Stainless Steel Dog Bowls

Rust resistant alternative to plastic bowls. The rubber base protects floors and keeps bowls from spilling.

Harness and Leashes

Make walks a breeze with the perfect leash or harness for your dog.

14. Dog Harness Leash

Extra large dog harness for large breed dogs, comes with a 10 foot lead.

15. Double Handled Padded Dog Leash

Padded handle allows for a comfortable hold. Reflective stitching for nighttime visibility.

Miscellaneous

Amazon has every must-have dog item you could need to be the ultimate pet parent.

16. Car Back Bench Seat Cover

Waterproof car seat cover to keep your car clean from pet hairs while transporting your dog.

17. 18 Piece Dog Toy Set

This 18 piece dog toy set comes with a variety of toys such as chew toys, rope toys, plush toys, and more.

18. Furbo Dog Camera

The Furbo dog camera allows you to see and talk to your dog while you’re away as well as toss them treats and be alerted when they’re barking.

19. Best Bully Sticks

Long-lasting chew made from all natural, 100% beef. These bully sticks promote dental health and are a great alternative to rawhide.

20. Wag Dog Food

Similar to Blue Buffalo dog food, Wag dog food is made from real meat first and is a high quality dog food.

This post contains affiliate links. All opinions are my own.

“The Office” Themed Names for Dogs

“The Office” Themed Names for Dogs

Netflix did everyone a disservice recently by removing the hit TV show, The Office, from its streaming services. If you, like many Americans, miss binge watching your favorite show, consider a Dunder Mifflin inspired name for your pup. Today I’m sharing my top 15 The 

6 Signs Your Dog is Bored and How to Cure It

6 Signs Your Dog is Bored and How to Cure It

You probably think your dog has it pretty good when it comes to their daily life. They don’t have to cook for themselves, do any chores, or go to work. But while lounging around all day may sound like fun to you, it’s probably not 

How to Throw the Ultimate Birthday Party for Your Dog!

How to Throw the Ultimate Birthday Party for Your Dog!

The other day it occurred to me that my pups second birthday is only a month away! What?! It feels like just yesterday that I picked her out from her litter and started planning to bring home my new puppy. I immediately began prepping for the big day by ordering presents and finding the perfect “pup”-cake recipe to bake. In the midst of placing Chewy orders and scrounging Pinterest, I had an idea for the perfect way to celebrate, a dog birthday party! But with any party comes a lot of planning so today I’m sharing 9 tips to throw the ultimate dog birthday party!

Prepare a Guest List

The first step to throwing the ultimate dog birthday party is to put together a guest list. Are you inviting furry friends, human friends, or both?

Consider your dog and how well he gets along with both people and other pups. If your dog is known to be overwhelmed by lots of people, plan to only invite a few close friends.

If your dog has a history of being reactive towards other dogs, consider only inviting their favorite humans to celebrate their special day. If you aren’t sure how they’ll react to new dogs, stick with pups that they already know.

Whatever you choose, ensure that your dog is going to feel comfortable with the amount of people or pets involved. It is their party after all!

Pick a Party Venue

An indoor party may be great if your guests are mainly humans or just a couple of dogs. However, if you plan to have lots of pups running around, an outdoor venue may be best.

group of dogs playing in a park

A dog park or beach is a great place to gather a group of furry friends for a party. If you plan to have lots of humans, along with their pups, a dog friendly brewery or outdoor restaurant is a fantastic option for a doggy birthday party.

Party in Style

Every birthday boy or girl needs a birthday outfit! Pick a birthday bandana or sweater for your pup to wear on their special day.

You can also purchase birthday hats for your pup and his guests to wear during the party!

Decorate, Decorate, Decorate!

The ultimate birthday party for your dog would not be complete without some paw-some decor! Decorate the party with dog themed balloons, streamers, or banners!

Note: Make sure all decor is hung high enough to avoid someone mistaking it as a snack!

Set Out Refreshments

Purchase some of your pups favorite treats to serve as refreshments for the party. You can even serve some extra special treats such as bites of chicken, sliced veggies, and peanut butter!

Bake “Pup”-Cakes!

No party is complete without a cake! Bake some peanut butter “pup”-cakes for your pooch to share with all his friends. 

dog friendly peanut butter cupcakes

Fill Some Kiddie Pools

Kiddie pools are the perfect addition to ultimate dog birthday party. Fill some pools with cool water for the pups who love to swim! If you have some guests who don’t enjoy water, you can fill a kiddie pool with balls for them to jump in and choose from. 

Play Games!

Plan some games to keep the pups entertained! A couple ideas include:

  • Scavenger hunt: hide treats around the area for the dogs to sniff out
  • Obstacle course: set up agility equipment and see which pooch can get through it the fastest
  • Brain games: bring some dog puzzles and let the dogs attempt to solve them
dogs competing in an obstacle course

Send Home Party Favors

Send all your guests home with favors to remember the fun day! Fill a goodie bag with yummy treats and a couple fun toys. 

If you have a polaroid camera or printer, take a picture with your pup and each of their guests to send home as a special keepsake. 

4 Ways to Get the Most Out of Your Dogs Walk

4 Ways to Get the Most Out of Your Dogs Walk

One of the most crucial parts of dog ownership is ensuring they get outside for a daily walk, or two. Walking your dog is important for a variety of reasons such as exercise, mental stimulation, and bonding time between you and your pet. Taking your