These Doggy Nail Polish Colors are in This Season

We are spoiling our dogs more than ever these days. We love to treat them like our own children! The options in making your dog absolutely fabulous are almost endless as doggie couture becomes more popular. Cuteness options range from plucky haircuts, bows & ribbons, and even some creative and vibrant strokes of dog nail polish. Dog nail polish is too fun! You can use it to match their personality or outfit! Most dog grooming salons now offer nail polish services so your pup can leave with toes that match their spunky personality.

Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique offer 26 different colors of dog nail polish and polish pens. We use Groomer’s Choice Nail Polish Premium Formula and Warren London Pawdicure Pens. Both brands are industry standards and are completely non-toxic and safe for animals. Our grooming salons have dozens of ways to accessorize your dog. Our grooming practices not only help them to be their healthiest but also their cutest.

Keep reading to find out more about dog nail polish, what to choose, pet safety tips, and how your groomer can help!

How to Choose the Right Dog Nail Polish

If you decide to paint your dog’s nails at home, finding the right dog nail polish can be a little overwhelming. There are tons of different brands and colors to choose from. We recommend starting with safety first. Find a nail polish that does not contain formaldehyde, toluene, or dibutyl phthalate—which are all toxic for dogs. Many popular doggie nail polishes have ingredients that are beneficial for a dog’s health. Ingredients like seaweed, green tea extracts, aloe, or Vitamin E are always a positive when shopping around. Also, try and find a quick-drying dog nail polish. This way your dog doesn’t have to sit still for too long.

Next, you will want to choose a color that will show up well on your dog’s nails. If your dog has dark nails you will want to look for bright colors. Dark nails seem to only absorb certain colors, so look for pastels, neons, and flashy colors. Some dog nail polish brands also sell a white base coat which helps make colors ‘pop’ more.

If you are planning an outfit for an occasion, let this be your guiding force. Your favorite sports team’s colors will look great at a tailgate party. Having a doggie birthday party for your princess? Flamingo Pink dog nail polish will match her tiara and princess outfit!

Popular Colors This Season Include:

  • Sapphire Shimmer
  • Tourmaline Shimmer
  • Raspberry Sorbet
  • Fire Engine Red

Polish Pens

At Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique locations, our groomers also use polish pens. We use Warren London Pawdicure Pens to draw on even more creative designs. The line comes in 13 colors from Black to Gold and everything between. Groomers can draw more intricate designs with polish pens because there is more precision when using a nib over a brush. Seasonal favorites like stars and stripes for Fourth of July or snowflakes for the Winter Holidays are always adorable on your pooch.

The pens only take around 40 seconds to dry so dogs are not under any strain while staying still. The pens are water-based and have no odor. Usually, it only takes one smooth application of polish to fully cover the nail.

Application is simple. Shake the polish pen, then remove the cap. Press the point downward on the nail and the polish will start flowing. Run the nub across the nail for an application.

Pet Safety

Never use human nail polish on a dog’s nails! Dogs lick at their paws and nails and even when the polish has dried it can still be harmful. Human nail polish contains formaldehyde, toluene and dibutyl phthalate, which are extremely toxic for dogs. Ingestion of these chemicals can lead to chronic conditions like asthma, developmental issues, and other illnesses.

Also, before applying nail polish, you need to inspect the condition of your dog’s paws. Open sores, tears, or cracks can be worsened by dog nail polish and remover. Make sure your dog’s paws are pristine before painting their nails. A groomer will perform a wellness check for you, making sure your dog’s paws are in the best condition.

Many believe that applying dog nail polish is as easy as brushing the polish onto a dog’s nails. In reality, it is actually a multi-step process even after trimming a dog’s nails to a healthy length.

First, a groomer needs to trim the fur around a dog’s nail so that stray hairs do not interfere with the brushing application. Some try to push the hair back with nylon but this is not very comfortable for a dog. Nails need to be cleaned. Wipe away any dirt or debris that will muddle the polish. Leaving dirt trapped underneath polish can also lead to nail fungus growing.

How to Apply Dog Nail Polish

The first step is always trimming the hair around the nail, then clipping the nail itself.  Even if you are not polishing your dog’s nails, they need to be clipped to a safe length. Overly grown nails force a dog to walk with unhealthy posture, limiting mobility and causing arthritic issues later on in life. Without trimming their nails back, paint flakes will chip off quicker as your dog walks on rough surfaces.

As with all grooming, the best time to do is when your dog is nice and calm. Make sure your dog is accustomed to having their paws handled and they are properly exercised before starting. If you do this at home, it’s a good idea to take baby steps and reinforce the process with treats and encouragement. Have a friend hold a chew toy filled with peanut butter for your dog to lick on while you polish their nails. Speak soothingly to them as you work. If your dog seems irritable, stop. You can paint one nail at a time until your dog is comfortable enough to let you paint a whole paw. Once you get all four paws done, you can apply a second coat to make the polish appear brighter or even out the lines.

Removing Nail Polish

You can let your dog’s painted nails grow out and trim them as the paint begins to flake off. This will take some time. Using dog nail polish remover is a more practical and safer solution.

Again, do not use human nail polish remover, which contains acetone, a chemical toxic to dogs. Dog nail polish removers are soy-based. These tend to be biodegradable and help provide moisture. Not only are they good for your dog, they’re good for the planet!

Removal is pretty much the same as wiping off human nail polish. Apply dog nail polish remover to a cotton ball and wipe away the polish.

Consider Letting Your Groomer Paint Your Dog’s Nails

Dogs are notorious for being sensitive when it comes to their paws. Unless your dog is accustomed to having their paws handled from puppyhood, they will more than likely make a huge fit over having their nails polished. If this is the case, as a responsible pet owner, you need to decide if it is even worth it to have their nails painted. Painting your dog’s nails should never be forced on a dog and the process might be tedious, but never uncomfortable.

A professional groomer has the expertise, training, and skill-set to use the highest quality dog nail polish combined with precise techniques for your dog’s safety.

The groomers at Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique do an amazing job painting your dog’s nails for any occasion. Click here to learn more about how our groomers can better your dog’s health through pampering and luxury.

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Five Tricks That Almost Any Dog Can Do

Simple Dog Tricks Your Dog Can Learn Easily

The saying ‘an old dog can’t learn new tricks,’ isn’t quite true. Older dogs, whether adopted or the dog you’ve had for years, can indeed learn new dog tricks. It just might be a little harder for her and you will have to adjust for a longer learning curve. Puppies, like human babies, are exploring the world for the first time and their minds are ripe to absorb new things. Obedience training, dog training tricks, and dog park socialization are learned while young. This doesn’t mean you can’t work with your dog to get her to learn some new dog tricks. The same is true when it comes to different breeds. Some dog breeds have been stigmatized to be stubborn and harder to train but the truth is any dog can learn new dog tricks.

As a dog approaches seniorhood, their mind slows—similarly to human minds. This is called canine cognitive dysfunction. One natural way to prevent this is to provide a healthy diet full of Omega 3 and Vitamin C & E. Another way is teaching new dog tricks to help keep your doggo’s mind active. Pet parents don’t need to worry about their senior dogs getting a little senile. It’s just another part of life. Besides, being a healthy practice, dog tricks can continue to establish the bond you have with your dog. She’ll love the attention, treats, and affection she gets during training sessions. Plus, when she’s mastered new dog tricks, you can show off how smart she is at parties.

The key to getting a dog to master any training is consistency. Everyone in the house needs to stick to a dog’s training program and follow the same steps. Some dog trainers prefer clickers, while others like verbal or visual commands. Everyone has their own preference. For instance, if you teach your dog to sit by saying the command “sit” and your partner says “bottom,” it’s really going to confuse your dog. Pick a style of cuing and stick with it. Training is also much easier when your dog is less distracted and exercised. Pick times in a quiet place, without distractions, and after a good walk. For the best results with these tricks, it’s easiest for your dog to already know ‘sit.’ From a sitting position, your dog will be more relaxed and less inclined to get distracted.

Read this article for some dog training tips on how to get your dog to learn some fun dog tricks!

Shake Hands

Some people call it ‘shake,’ some call it ‘paw’ but we all get the idea. Pet owners love this trick because it’s cute and very easy to teach. ‘Shake hands’ is usually the third trick a dog will learn after the bonafide ‘sit’ and ‘stay.’

When you have a treat in a closed hand, your dog will naturally paw at your hand because they sense the treat. From a seated position, let your dog paw at your hand. As soon as their paw makes contact with your hand, use the verbal command. This reinforces the association of your command with their act. Gradually, as they make the association, take the treat out of your hand and increase the duration of time with their paw is in your palm. As your dog  masters ‘shake’ you can begin teaching variations like ‘high five’ and ‘wave.’

Always reward her with a treat after she pulls off the desired dog trick.

Go To Your Place

This dog trick is handy and impressive. It helps prevent dogs from jumping up on guests and is a positive way of getting your dog out of the way while you’re cleaning or moving heavy things. You can use a special rug, crate, or dog bed for this dog trick as a target zone. Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique recommend using a dog bed when first starting out.

The first part of this trick is simple. Toss a treat into your dog’s bed and as they go to eat the treat, say the verbal command. Next, pretend to throw a treat on the bed. If your dog does not enter the bed, just wait a few seconds for them to try and sniff around in the bed. Once their feet are on top of their dog bed, give them a bunch of treats when all four of their legs are inside. After this, get your dog to lay down. Next, wait and see if your dog will go to the target zone on their own. A step toward the bed earns a treat. Once they enter the bed, they earn another one.

If your dog is hesitant to lay down once in the target zone, you can use a treat to lure them down into a laying position. To do this, hold onto a treat with your hand closed and lower your hand in front of their face. Dogs will naturally follow the treat.

Kiss

This dog trick is a classic. To quickly teach this one, you’ll need something sticky like post-it notes and of course, treats! In this variation, your dog will bring their snout to your face, without actually licking you. You’ll use the sticky-note as the target zone at first.

With your dog beside you, take a post-it note with it stuck to your hand. Your inquisitive dog will sniff the post-it note. As they do this, say the command, then reward. Keep moving the post-it note further away, getting your dog to inch forward. As her snout makes contact with the post-it note, reward her.

Spin

This is another dog trick that looks complicated but is actually super easy to teach. Since dogs can be lured—will follow a closed palm with a treat inside—you just have to train them to associate your command with the movement. Dogs are sensitive to directions. Pick a direction for them to spin and stick with it. A counter-clockwise spin is a completely different dog trick than a clockwise spin, so teach one direction at first.

With a treat in one hand, lure them onto all fours going in the requested direction. Keep your hand low and say your command once the rotation is complete. Slowly wean your dog off of lure movements by transitioning them to learn to spin without your hand as a guide.

Play Dead

If your dog knows the tricks ‘sit,’ ‘lay down’ and stay then they are ready to graduate to learning to ‘play dead’ or ‘sleep.’

First instruct ‘down,’ and as your puppy lays down, rub their belly for comfort. Gently roll your dog onto her side and reward her. After a few sessions, your dog will get comfortable on her side and anticipate this movement next. At this point, start adding the command ‘stay’ while she is on her side. As you go through the each individual trick with your dog, substitute the old commands with ‘play dead.’

Eventually, your dog will be able to ‘play dead’ in one fluid motion when she makes the connection between the words.

Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique wish you luck with teaching your dog new tricks! We advocate positive-reward methods of dog training. For a loving relationship with your dog, do not force dog tricks into their repertoire. Learning tricks takes time, patience, and positivity.

For great treat-rewards that are guilt-free, our shops offer all-natural chia seed pet treats that your dog will love and provides a boost of health benefits.

Live Dirty. Play Clean.

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Stylish Puppy Haircuts for the Fall

The Cutest Puppy Haircuts for Your Pup This Season

Regular grooming is absolutely essential for a pet’s overall health. Grooming keeps your dog and house clean, regulates body temperature, and is preventative care for overall health issues. A groomer will provide a wellness check to spot any issues like skin irritations, fleas & ticks, hotspots, or hernias. Puppy haircuts are important! Timid puppies need to get accustomed to foreign experiences like grooming visits. A puppy who is used to grooming is much easier to handle and the experience becomes enjoyable for them.

Think of your regular puppy haircuts as an essential step for their wellness. Many pet owners forego grooming during the cold months and shave their dogs down during the summer. This is not always the healthiest approach for your dog’s coat health. Shaving a dog with a double coat can interfere with the coat’s natural growing process and insulation. The coat might not grow back fully. The reverse of this is letting a coat get too long. Depending on your dog’s coat texture, longer fur is more susceptible to matting—painful knots that form in a dog’s coat.

The key to good puppy haircuts is discussing everything with your groomer. Know what you want stylistically for your dog, allows you and your groomer to discuss healthy options for length and maintaining schedule. The rule of thumb is to choose a length and let that be the standard despite the season. Another thing to keep in mind is that terms for puppy haircuts are often used interchangeably from pet salon to pet salon. A ‘kennel cut’ might mean one thing to a groomer in New York and a different thing to a groomer in California. Showing your groomer a picture and having a thorough conversation with your groomer will help avoid any miscommunications.

This article walks pet parents through the popular puppy haircuts to help you find the perfect look for your fur-baby!

The Puppy Cut

The puppy cut is accepted by the American Kennel Club for show puppies. This is a basic cut with a short crop often used with younger dogs. Older dogs can get a puppy cut too and may even look younger afterward. Pet parents love the puppy cut because it is super easy to maintain. Trimming a puppy cut doesn’t take time-consuming precision and looks good on smaller dogs and toy breeds like Yorkshire Terriers, Maltese, and Shih Tzus. The fur is cut in rounded fringed layers. This brings the coat down evenly across the body.

The Teddy Bear Cut

This cut became famous after an adorable Pomeranian named Boo first got it and went viral on the internet. Although the look is popular for Pomeranians many different toy breeds look terrifically cuddly with this trim. Larger breeds like Standard Poodles can get the cut but it might look a little goofy. The teddy bear cut is similar to a puppy cut. The cut trims down the dog’s coat on the body, keeping fur even. The difference is the face. The hair around the face will keep its length with a rounded trim that blends into the body coat. The result is your dog now looks like an adorable little teddy bear!

The Lion Cut

This is another of the super cute puppy haircuts. The lion cut is good for dogs with thick coats whose hair can be tamed to give off the appearance of a lion’s mane—very fierce on Wheaten Terriers, Pomeranians, or any dog with a thick coat. We’ve even seen the lion cut on a Shar Pei. The lion cut has a short body-coat with the hair around the head and neck left longer and brushed out. Many groomers can trim a dog’s tail down except for the end where a brushed-out pom will look just like a lion’s tail.

The Topknot

The topknot; popular on hip humans but looks better on hip puppies. This haircut is more of a hairstyle. Many dog owners love having their dog’s coat long but worry that they can’t see through the fall—the hair covering a dog’s eyes. A dog’s topknot is made with a pup’s long facial hair around their forehead, eyes, and nose. This hair is brushed and pulled back toward the top of the head. The knot is cinched with a rubber band or even cuter, a bow. It’s a sweetheart look that’s practical. The most popular breed to sport a topknot is a Shih Tzu. Yorkshire Terriers, Maltese, Lhasa Apso, and Poodles who all pull of the look elegantly.

The Mohawk

If your dog has more a punk puppy personality then you could consider giving them a mohawk. There are several variations of the mohawk from a true strip of hair running straight down the middle to stylized strips of hair that are parted. You can style the hair any way you want and this shows off a dog’s spunky and punky personality.

A Pet Owner’s Job

Grooming is not just about style–choose humanity over vanity. We urge you to find a reputable grooming salon that practices ethical grooming techniques. Grooming extends beyond coat care. A dog’s teeth brushing, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and other hygienic treatments are taken care of at the groomers. Skipping out on a grooming visit is like skipping the pediatrician for your two-legged child.

Also important is to maintain brushing between visits. Brushing keeps mats from forming and distributes a dog’s natural skin oil throughout their coat. Daily brushing also removes dead hair and dander that is trapped in the coat. Not only is this healthy for your dog but it reduces symptoms of allergies for allergy-sensitive people and will keep your house clean.

If you are in search of a loving professional groomer, click here!

 

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Do’s and Don’ts of Introducing the Family Dog to a New Baby

Relieve the Stress of Introducing Dog to Baby with These Tips to Make the Experience Memorable

Dogs are innately attuned to their owners. Most likely, as the nine months has progressed, your dog has felt the change in the air. Whether you have a nervous dog, a temperamental one, or a lover—using good judgment when it comes time for introducing the dog to your baby will help relieve stress. Studies have shown that a dog’s dander is actually good for an infant’s immune system! Yet making sure your dog is ready for the transition is important. This is for your child’s safety and the dog’s too. There are a few tricks and behavioral approaches you can use with your dog to ready them for the change.

Once a baby enters the house, inevitably, the dog will lose the spotlight as the center of attention. Your newly born child is going to take up much of your time. Your dog might exhibit some jealousy. Dogs can become confused with the new stimulus—the sight and smells of a little human creature might throw him off. As the family’s routine changes, adjusting to the new baby, your dog’s schedule will change too.

Preparing for this can be a smooth transition with careful preparation. A few dog training techniques and a peaceful introduction will support the bonding experience between your dog and the baby.

Start Before You Bring Home the Baby

Before the baby arrives is the best time to begin the acclimation process. Gradual changes to your dog’s routine will help prepare him. The trick is for the dog not to associate these changes with the baby. This will alleviate any tension.

You might need to change when your dog sleeps or introduce a dog crate if you don’t already have one. If your dog likes to jump up, blocking him off from the baby’s room will be helpful. Teaching your dog the trick “go to your place,” will also be extremely helpful. During times when you need your dog to be relaxed and out of the way use this command.

You don’t need to “wean your dog off affection” but be aware that if your time spent with the dog lessens, he might get jealous or anxious. The best way to handle this is to not have any abrupt changes when the baby comes home. You want to establish a positive association with the arrival of the baby.

You can play baby sounds at increasing intervals for your dog to adjust to the new sounds. It might seem excessive, but remember a dog’s hearing is much more acute than humans. A dog can hear a frequency range between 67-45,000 Hz compared with a human’s range at 64-23,000. This means that a baby’s crying might be frightening for a dog or at the very least unfamiliar and strange.

This same positive association exercise applies to smells. Before introducing the dog to your baby, take an article of the baby’s clothing and let your dog sniff to get accustomed to the scent. Give him a few treats for the positive association.

How to Handle the First Day

Just to be on the safe side, it’s a good idea to introduce your two children—one four legged, one two—a few days after you bring the two legged one home. Greet your dog alone first. You don’t want him to get excited and jump up on the baby. Of course, your dog is going to know something’s up, but this gives you and your spouse time to prepare, and time for the dog to adjust. A meeting in closer proximity should happen a few days later, especially if your dog is anxious.

When the time arrives put your dog on the leash first and allow him to sniff the baby. Praise, treats, and pets! Make sure your dog feels the love so that he can associate this with the baby. Most dogs have no trouble adapting, but being precautious never hurt. If everything goes smoothly, next time, you can have the two meet without the leash. Always allow your dog to approach the baby—invites prevent bites. If your dog has the choice to interact, they will respond better.

As the family settles down, don’t forget to continue to give plenty of affection when the baby is around. You don’t want him to identify good things with the baby’s absence. Once your baby begins to crawl make sure you are always close by watching. Dogs are tolerant but babies are exploring the world for the first time. They might pull on a dog’s tail or ears. Natural canine behaviors for communicating warnings could be snapping or growling.

Most of these tips are provisions. More than likely your dog and baby will be pals at first sight. Your dog will recognize your baby as one of the family and even be protective of your child!

Get Your Dog Relaxed

One of the best ways to have your dog be in the calmest state is treating them to a day of luxury at the pet spa. Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique offers tons of therapeutic and cleansing services for all dogs. Not only will your dog be nice and clean for the first day they will be relaxed.

Splash and Dash has an aromatherapy relax treatment with Canary Islands Lavender and Soothing Chamomile. Lavender is used as a tonic for healing burns and deters fleas as a strong antiseptic while Chamomile has pure fatty aromas which work as a natural sedative with exfoliating properties.

The Splash and Dash signature service is also something to consider with a newborn. Most of your time will be preoccupied with caring for your two-legged child. You don’t want to neglect the ‘pupperoni.’ With the signature service, you can drop the dog off for unlimited bathing and brushing at your convenience. This will free up your time for the more fun parts of having a dog.

 

Splash and Dash Services Include:

  • Standard & Showroom Style Grooming
  • Bath & Brush
  • Teeth Brushing
  • Nail Trimming
  • Aromatherapy
  • Facials
  • Pawdicures
  • De-Matting
  • De-Shedding
  • Ear Cleaning
  • And More!

 

We hope you new parents found this article helpful and we wish you congratulations and best wishes! Play Dirty. Live Clean!

 

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Five Delicious Homemade Frozen Treats for Dogs

Chill Out With These Frozen Treats for Dogs That Provide a Refreshing Boost of Nutrients

Giving your frozen treats to your dog is great for a bunch of reasons! One, it helps them cool down from the pervading heat of the summer. Summer’s great for iced coffees for you and chilled treats for dogs. Everyone stays cool! It’s also a great way to sneak in some extra tasty nutrients that your dog needs. Stuffing frozen treats for dogs into a KONG ball will keep them preoccupied with some mental stimulation. The best part is they’re super simple and super cheap!

At Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique we are big fans of the rotational diet. Meaning we like to give our own dogs at home a diverse menu of dry kibble, raw food, canned food, and fresh foods. Switching up your dog’s diet provides for their holistic needs. Frozen dog treats for dogs offer a delicious snack that fits into every element of the rotational diet! We’ll show you how.

Here are five recipes to keep the summer heat and the doggie ailments at bay!

*All Recipes included are 100% safe and nutritious for dogs.

1. Frozen Peanut Butter Banana Pops

These are so good you’ll want to eat them!

Take three, six-oz containers of plain low-fat yogurt,  ½ cup of low-sodium peanut butter (No Xylitol!), one, four-oz. jar of banana baby food (a fresh banana works too), and one tablespoon of honey. Blend all these ingredients together and pour into a small paper cup. Place a small bone to work as a handle and put them in the freezer.

Once frozen, you can peel the paper cups away and serve them up!

2. Freeze the Kibble

This one’s best for the summer scorchers and is a simple way to get your panting pup some relief from the sun’s rays.

All you have to do is soak his kibble in a low-sodium broth. First, take a bowl and pour broth about halfway up. A protein broth is a great natural dietary supplement for dogs! Once the kibble has absorbed the broth go ahead and stick it in the freezer. (Some kibbles will start to disintegrate so you might want to keep your eye on it).

Before the tasty concoction freezes stuff the treat into his KONG ball. As the slush melts, your dog will have hours of entertainment and healthy frozen treats.

3. Doggie Mentos

This frozen treat for dogs is one that lets you have your cake and eat it too! Fun for the dog. Check! Gets rid of bad breath. Check!

You will need peppermint leaves or pure peppermint oil, a pinch of parsley, and plain old water. If you use peppermint leaves, finely mince these with the parsley and sprinkle the herbs into each cube. Freeze the tray and put the cubes into your dog’s water bowl.  

Other herbs that are great for dogs you could consider using: oregano, rosemary, basil, and parsley. Just don’t go overboard or your dog may not like the taste.

4. Carrot Sticks

I had had a dog that went crazy for carrots and a dog that was not the biggest fan. Either way, carrots are great for dogs for the same reason they’re a healthy snack for humans. If your dog is a picky eater when it comes to carrots, this might get him on the carrot band wagon.

Take a low-sodium broth and fill an ice cube tray or a paper cup. If your dog already loves carrots (most dogs do), then use the carrot as a handle. If your dog’s on the skeptical side you can blend the carrot into a pulp and go from there.

5. Bahama Mama

This recipe won a KONG Connect Recipe Contest for frozen dog treats for dogs! The Bahama mama is the brainchild of Nina Garcia of Orlando, Florida.

First, gather your ingredients. You will need one cup of shredded coconut (No Added Sugar), one cup of granola (No Raisins!),  ½  cup of fresh pineapple,  ½  cup of peanut butter (No Xylitol). Mix the ingredients together in a large bowl until all ingredients mesh together consistently. Spoon the Bahama Mama into a KONG and freeze. The leftovers can be frozen and stored for up to six months!

Once frozen, give the tropical delicacy to your dog and watch him enjoy!

For other tips to keep your dog cool in the summer heat click here.

 

 

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Best Dog Friendly Camping in Southern California

As the mercury rises and the sweltering summer temperatures urge us all to head to the fairer coastal climates of Southern California, the idea of camping sounds like an enticing cool down. Time to pack the kids, including the four-legged ones, in the car and head out. California is a gorgeous state! There is no shortage of dog friendly camping in Southern California. There are options for dog owners who really want to rough it and hike, to the ‘glamping’ crowd who want to camp and shop.

Pitching a tent in the great outdoors is a blast and a refreshing vacation spent away from our modern conveniences. Bringing the dog can help you tap into your primordial self. Also, he’ll probably bark if a bear shows up to the party. Getting the dog dirty is guilt free with the Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique membership. Get Fido nice and muddy then drop him off for a luxurious scrubbing afterwards. Easier than getting the pop up gazebo set up in the woods!

Here are Splash and Dash’s Top Ten favorite spots for dog friendly camping in Southern California.

1. Circle X Ranch

Circle X Ranch has beginnings as a Boy Scout camp and has not lost its rustic flair after opening to the public. Dog owners looking to camp under the stars and do some serious hiking should really check this place out. The novelties of this coastal Mediterranean ecosystem are abundant and Santa Monica Mountains offer adventurous sights for city dwellers’ sore eyes. Dogs will need to be kept on their leash while on the trails but are more than welcome at the ranch.

Visitors can enjoy hiking to the highest point in the Santa Monica Mountains with a view of the Channel Islands on clear days. You can explore the native plants along one of the six different trails including the Grotto Trail. The best part of about Circle X is it’s only $2 a night!

2. Campland on the Bay

For pet parents looking for more a theme park style of camping, AKA a place with WIFI, Campland is the place to go. This place is the vacation spot. Campland offers all kinds of exciting features like water sports, volleyball, arcades, live music & dancing, and even a skatepark. The park is tucked into the shores of Mission Bay close enough to Seaworld that you can see the nightly firework show from your campsite.

There is a $37 dollar pet free but the amenities of this place make it worth the added cost.

3. Fremont Campground

This site is a piece of land salvaged from the times before skyscrapers and concrete—an outdoor prize in dog friendly camping in Southern California. Fremont is simple, lush, and has a watering hole fed by the Santa Ynez River. Visitors can also enjoy horseback rides, hiking, and biking on the National Recreation trail which is a 2.5-mile loop, or the more challenging 18-mile Santa Cruz Trail. The land is open and dogs are free to roam.

4. Kirk Creek Campground

Whether you just finished Jack Kerouac’s Big Sur, or you and your pooch are in the mood for an oceanside paradise, Kirk Creek will give you that view over the bluff you’ve dreamed of. Standing on the coast at sunrise, watching the waves crash against the coast is an amazing experience. The campground is a short walk away from the area’s largest sandy beach and trails into Los Padres National Forest. Beach lovers and fans of fishing, surfing, and sunbathing will have a blast here! Dogs can splash in the shallows and run down the beach at their leisure.

5. Serrano Campground

Part of the San Bernardino National Forest and the stunning mountains scenes that accompany the park are Serrano’s claim to fame. Big Bear Lake is teeming with trout, bass, catfish, carp, bluegill, and more so if you’re an angler, this is the spot for you, and your dog. Serrano also is close to hiking and mountain biking trails like Cougar Crest Trail and Alpine Pedal Path. Dogs will have no problems adjusting from the cushy couch life to the wildness at Serrano.

6. Boulder Basin Campground

Boulder Basin is a sister campsite to the dog friendly camping in Southern California tucked in the San Bernardino Mountains. Dog owners looking for the solitude and peaceful stillness of a mixed conifer forest will find it here. The views here are serene and overlook the Banning Pass and Mt. San Gorgonio. You can take your pup hiking on the Black Mountain trail in the 7,300-foot elevation into thin air.

7. Cathedral Palms Resort

The 65-and-up RV crowd looking to for a great place to park and relax need to check out Cathedral Palms. It’s open to all species and ages of course, but this is definitely a lounging place. The RV resort has a pool, spa, and clubhouse for the less outdoorsy type. For those looking to get a little deeper into the environment, the resort is a close ride to Palm Desert and snow-capped Mt. San Jacinto. Cathedral Palms resort is pet friendly and very accommodating.

8.  Sequoia National Forest Campgrounds

Finding dog friendly camping in Southern California brings to the mind the images of gigantic red Sequoia trees and deep canyons that show the layers of the Earth. Yup, that’s exactly the scenery at the Sequoia Campgrounds! Not only are there tons of hiking trails, rivers, and rock climbing spots, but you can also explore an underground crystal cave! Keeping the kids distracted is also easy. The ranger programs where you and your young ones can take an informative tour of the park. Fido’s all set to enjoy the fresh air with you here!

9. Dorst Creek Campground

Part of the impressive landscape of the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National park is the site, Dorst Creek. After visiting you’ll want to keep this site top secret to keep it as untouched as possible. The cabins are charming, the road to get there is winding, and the air smells of alpine. This is your dog’s chance to get in touch with his ancestral wolf brethren. For hiking, there’s the Big Trees Trail and Moro Rock, a granite dome with a beautiful view of the Great Western Divide.

10. Jalama Beach County Park

The world is breathtaking and camping here reminds you of that. The land bordered by Jalama Creek was once a Chumash Indian settlement the natives called ‘Halama.’ The dog friendly camping spot has eye-candy for whale and bird watchers. Fishers will also love it here as the water has sweet spots for Perch, Bass, Halibut and the interesting-looking Cabezon. The dog fee goes toward park upkeep so that more humans and dogs can enjoy Jalama. This campsite is a postcard brought to life!

 

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High Tech Pet Gear You Didn’t Know You Needed

High Tech Pet Gear & Gadgets

One of the best times to own a pet is right now. Today’s innovation makes way for modern pet gadgets that can make your dog’s life better, and your life easier. High tech pet gear first started taking off in 2009 when the category first became popular on Amazon. Since then, inventors and pet enthusiasts have collaborated on some really cutting-edge pet products.

Ranging from the practical to the strange, tons of high tech pet gear is available for you and your doggo. Even those who can’t own a pet due to allergies or living-facility restrictions may have options soon. Robotics researcher, Steve Yohana, developed what he calls the Haptic Creature—a robot designed to re-create touch based communication. The robot looks like a rabbit, with short fur on its belly and two ears. The Haptic Creature simulates purring, breathing, and ear twitching. Peculiar, yes, but Yohana says he’s had enough requests to make him interested marketing the product after his research is completed.

The availability of the quirkier gadgets makes sense as the pet industry continues to swell. More people own pets in the U.S. now more than ever. Meaning, more dogs to care for with high tech pet gear. In 2016, pet owners spent $66.75 billion. As the Millennials replace the older generations as the primary pet owners, many want their dog to have the best care available. This means going outside of the traditional toy box to find some updates on old classics and new gadgets to teach an old dog new tricks.

High Tech Novelty Items

Market experts say that high-tech novelty items are the most widely sought after products from pet parents. Items like gear that translates your cat’s meows into human languages. Or, treat feeders that give you the power to launch treats across the room like a T-shirt cannon at a baseball game are filling up aisles at pet stores.

  1. The Woofer

Putting clothes on dogs is cute, but it’s old news. Most pet boutiques have all the stylish clothing your dog needs, but few have clothes that are also speakers. The Woofer is a dog jacket that plays music! Now you can play music as you run with your dog or even turn the dog park into a dance party.

Yes, we’re thinking what you’re thinking. Veterinarian specialists have approved The Woofer as safe for your dog’s acute sense of hearing. The speaker is located on the backside of your dog, away from their ears, and volume levels are in the safe zone. The jacket comes in four sizes to fit breeds from a Jack Russell to a German Shepherd.

  1. Pet Snack Launcher

There are few companies making these hand held pet treat launchers that make giving your dog a treat make you feel like you’re in Kubrick’s “2001 Space Odyssey.” Most treat launchers are pretty cheap, but not all function the same, so ask your pet groomer or read reviews to get the highest-quality launcher.

Simply load up your dog’s favorite treats into the top cartridge and push the button. This interactive toy makes treat-time more of a game. You can master launching the treats into the eager jaws of your doggo for a seamless chomp.

  1. The CATTERBOX

There are a bunch of apps available on smartphones to help you decipher your dog’s bark, or your cat’s meow, into human languages. The most popular of all these devices is a collar called CATTERBOX. The collar translates your cat’s meows and generates a human voice deciphering the point your cat’s trying to get across. Usually, feed me. The collar works with the developer’s app and gives you various options for your cat’s new reproduced voice.

Cats aren’t the only ones having fun. There are dog translator apps available on the smartphones and the What’s Yapp dog collar is in beta version. These items combine hard science, imagination, and a fun ability to suspend your skepticism.

Functional Items & Practical Gadgets

Novelty products aren’t the only things you might consider getting for your dog. A variety of new high tech pet gear designed to make tedious parts of owning a dog less effortful are entering the marketplace too. For therapy dogs working with owners that have limited mobility, there are products that perform the physical parts of fetch for you.

  1. GoDogGo

This is automatic ball launcher is the world’s first fetch machine. The launcher has been around since 1999 and is now in its fourth generation of development. The way it works is simple. Train your dog to place the ball into the upper bucket part of the toy. The ball is then launched into the air for Fido to catch. Different weighted balls determine how high the ball will fly. A tennis ball will launch 6 feet high and be propelled about 11 feet from the device. A weighted GoDogGo ball will launch up to 15 feet away at the same vertical height.

This piece of high tech pet gear is perfect for dogs that are obsessed with fetch and demand that ball is thrown every minute of every second of the day.

  1. MagneClip

This is a low tech innovation with high tech functionality. This is one of those products that’s so simple you’re hitting yourself in the head for not thinking of it yourself. The MagneClip is a clip that attaches your dog’s collar to their leash. It uses a magnet instead of a spring loaded latch. Simple, but very handy!

Many dog owners know the struggle of holding waste bags in one hand, a water bottle in the other while trying to finagle the leash clip onto their dog’s collar. With spring loaded latches, the process becomes painstaking. Spring loaded clips jam and are meticulous. The MagneClip makes attaching a leash to a collar one fluid motion.

  1. Litter Robot II

This litter box looks more like a part of a space shuttle than high tech pet gear. But trust us, if you get one for your house, you’ll never go back to the low-tech life.  The Litter-Robot is a litter chamber that that has an upward-facing entryway where your cat can enter to do his business. The litter is sifted after every use and is automatically deposited into a drawer for reduced spilling and easy disposal which conserves litter.  A self-adjusting weight sensor detects a cat’s’ weight so every cat you own can use the Litter Robot. 

Pet Safety Items

Having a pet is almost the same amount of responsibility as having a child. Fortunately, there are awesome products out there to help pet owners mitigate that responsibility. As the future becomes the present, pet owners can care for their pets even when they’re not home.

  1. Petcube

This company is pioneering the ability for pet owners to interact with their pets remotely. Both the Petcube play and Petcube bite feature 2-way audio that lets your pet hear you and vice versa. Each also streams 1080p HD video equipped to rotate on a 138°  wide angle view with 3x zoom capability.

These features make it so that you can see your pet wherever he is in the room. Motion detection helps the family keep in touch and alerts you when your pet wakes up or if there are any disturbances in your home. The Petcube play comes with a built-in laser toy while the Petcube bites allow you to give your dog a treat from your phone.

  1. Komfort Pets Climate-Controlled Pet Carrier

For pet owners who find themselves frequently traveling with their animals, this climate-controlled pet carrier will keep their dogs cool even in scorching temperatures. The carrier can hold dogs up to 150 lbs and will cool and heat as needed with an LED monitor used to control the temperature.

  1. Voyce Dog Collar

The Voyce dog collar is a non-invasive and autonomous data health metric tracker. The collar uses IoT technology to give owners analytics on their dog’s health in real-time. It’s like a Fitbit for your dog!

Voyce Measures the following:

  • Heart Rate Variability
  • Blood Pressure
  • Quality of Rest
  • Resting Respiratory Rate
  • Resting Heart Rate
  • Distance Traveled
  • Calories Burned
  • Activity & Intensity
  • Light
  • Core Body Temperature

The data Voyce collects is seamlessly delivered in adaptable integration options with easy-to-navigate viewing dashboards. Voyce can also be integrated into other sensor technologies. Now pet owners have access to clinical data at all times which is backed up on the cloud.

The Future of High Tech Pet Gear

Every day engineers and inventors are dreaming up even cooler high tech pet gear every day. Stay posted to Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique for even more updates and reviews!

 

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10 Best Dog Breeds for Kids

Sometimes the difference between a home and a house are the rising crayon-drawn lines on the wall marking your kid’s age. As the lines move up, the next natural move is to get a dog. Dog’s are great for the whole family! Your kids can learn some responsibility, there will be an extra incentive to get out of the house, and studies have even suggested a dog can boost a child’s immune system. Dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and demeanor. Doing some research on the best dog breeds for kids can help your family find the perfect match.

We want to preface this article by saying that overgeneralizing any one breed can make problems. Some breeds like Pitbulls get a bad reputation from the media. The truth is, any dog that is trained with love will return the love. The same can be said of popular breeds. Just because a dog is a Labrador, or any of the dog breeds that make this list, doesn’t make that dog breed inherently good for your kids. It’s all situational. Every breed can be well-trained and a loving dog for your kids.

If you can avoid stereotypes and take a sincere look into the temperament of some dogs you can take a lot of guess work out of the equation. Finding the best dog breed for kids begins with researching the breed. Then visiting. Once the whole family’s on board it’s time to take home your doggo.

Some Characteristics to Consider

There a few questions to ask before getting a dog. How old are your kids? Is your family active and outdoorsy? Or, are you guys more mellow? Do you have a big backyard? Do you live in an apartment? All these questions will affect the best dog breed for your kids and lifestyle.

Size

With your kids, you will most likely want a dog with a medium-sized build. Sturdiness is a good for young kids who can be clumsy and are still figuring out ‘how to play gently.’ Rowdy kids and toy breeds aren’t always a good mix.

Energy Level

A perfect kid-friendly dog breed should match the energy level of your kids. If your kids love running around outside and your family goes on hiking trips on the weekends, go ahead and get a high-energy dog. Some dog breeds are more prone to lounging than hiking and you don’t want your dog to get over-exerted or irritated.

Intelligence

All dogs need training to learn their manners. This is for your kid’s safety and the dog’s too. Smarter dogs have less difficulty with training and can learn what ‘down’ means quicker. (They can also master tricks too!)

Friendly

Friendliness is a complicated thing to gauge. Most dogs are friendly but some breeds are known to be nervous or impatient. Adopted dogs with a bad past can also be problematic for kids. A few visits with your prospective dog should clear the air on friendliness.

The Best Dog Breeds for Kids

1. American Staffordshire Terrier

The Staffies are part of the terrier breeds and were originally used to control vermin like rabbits and rats. Unlike the Rat Terrier, the American Staffordshire Terrier has a more muscular build. This dog’s personality is confident, good-natured, and smart. The Staffie used to be the most popular dog in America in the early 1900s. They were the poster dog for WWI and more recently you’ve seen this dog play “Pete” from the “Little Rascals.”

A Staffies’ medium build pairs with the dog’s medium energy level. He’s going to need a good walk every day and can keep up with your kids but don’t feel like you’ll have to ‘wear him out.’ After a good walk, and run in the yard with the kids, Staffies are content to curl up and cuddle. These dogs are true sweethearts.

2. American Water Spaniel

The Water Spaniel is a truly happy dog. True to their name, yes, they do love the water. These guys are very active, eager, and charming. Some have said that Water Spaniel’s have a stubborn streak but this only adds to the aloofness of their personality. Many are eager to please which makes them fun to train. Introducing this dog breed to your kid as a puppy should not be a problem—the breed is great with kids!

The dog’s water-resistant double coat will need regular grooming maintenance so be aware of this. If you’re the ‘camping’ type, this dog is a great choice. They’ll be a loyal companion on hiking trips and with their medium build (30-40lbs.) makes them an agile rafting buddy.

3. Labrador Retriever

Everyone has a soft spot for Labs. These dogs are friendly, outgoing, and good-natured. The dogs come in three colors—yellow, black, and chocolate—and deriving from origins of hunting dogs these guys are super easy to train. Many Labradors become guide dogs for the blind or even use their sniffers for police work. We all first fell in love with these guys after seeing the loveable antics of Marley, from “Marley & Me” in the early 2000’s. 

A male Labrador can reach 70 lbs so you’ll want a big yard and enough room in the house for him to roam. Small apartments in big cities might get a little cramped. As America’s favorite dog your kids will have a blast playing fetch, tug-of-war, and maybe tackling agility courses.

4. Bulldog

“Spike,” the Bulldog from “Tom and Jerry” always was the one breaking up the fights. Or at least settling the fights. The English and French Bulldogs are very different dogs but both are great with kids. Frenchies and Bullies are both pretty low-energy. A brisk walk will keep them in shape but the rest of the time they’ll be lounging. These dogs are playful, intelligent, and calm.

A Bulldog can reach 50 lbs—short and stocky. While the Frenchie will at best make it to 28 lbs. Both types will need weekly grooming and can be trained easily. If you want a pupperoni to grace the couch cushions, these guys make one of the best dog breeds for kids.

5. Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherds are the more kid-friendly version of their German cousins (although I had a very sweet German Shepherd as a child). Aussies are mild in gentleness but spirited in activity. As a former herding dog, they’ll need to run around daily. They have beautiful eyes and beautiful coats with black, blue merle, and red merle markings.  

Aussies’ pretty coat fits their demeanor—smart, exuberant, and loving. They are the kind of dog you’ll wake up to with their nose inches from your face. Males can reach 70 lbs while females max out at 55 lbs. Despite a lush coat these dogs only need occasional grooming and respond well to training.

6. Boxer

A Boxer is great for kids because they are goofy, fun-loving, and loyal. They will be protective. I have met both bright Boxers and some, that, well let’s just say I wouldn’t use ‘bright’ to describe them. Still, a very loveable dog! Boxers are muscular athletes and will need some good physical challenges but will be content with daily walks.

A male Boxer can reach 80lbs while females will be at most 65 lbs and a few inches shorter. Part of the endearing quality of these dogs is that they do have a tendency to snore from the wrinkles in their snout. They also shed seasonally but this won’t be a problem with good brushing habits and grooming.

7. Beagle

Anyone who remembers “My Dog Skip” will remember the adorable little Beagle who won our hearts over alongside Frankie Muniz. These dogs are on the smaller side at under 20 lbs but what they don’t have in weight they make up for in playfulness. Beagles are comical, friendly, and inquisitive. They were bred to hunt in packs and pack bonding hasn’t left. They love to be around the family!

Because these dogs are energetic they’ll need long walks and plenty of exercise. They are known to be vocal and will need some loving training to stop excessive barking. As former hunting dogs, they are easily trained and loyal—perfect for family outings to the dog park.

8. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

This prestigious little bundle of tail-wagging joy first got its name from King Charles II who loved the dogs most likely because they shared the same hair style—long and curly. It’s easy to see why this breed is so popular. Cavies are affectionate, graceful, and delicate. Their frame never exceeds 18 lbs, making them the perfect ‘lap dog.’ They’re amazing with kids and will soon replace the stuffed animals.

If your kids are game for lots of affection this is the dog for your family. Training a Cavy is part of his eager to please disposition. Grooming is important with these guys so teaching your kids to gently brush the dog is a fun life-lesson, as they do shed seasonally.

9. Shetland Sheepdog

On a personal level, I love Shelties! These guys are stoic, intelligent, and energetic. As another from the herding group, they will need good runs, especially as a puppy. Like all dogs, they’ll become more and more of a couch potato as they age. Shelties are loyal and will probably follow your children around the house, protecting them.

A Sheltie I’ve met once could out perform most circus animals when it came to obedience training and cool tricks. Shelties shed seasonally and need weekly grooming. Some have a tendency to bark—staying true to their herding heritage—but the ones I’ve met were very calm.

10. The Mixed breeds!

A list of the best dog breeds for kids would not be complete without some advocacy for the mutts! Some of the most amazing dogs I’ve owned and had the pleasure of meeting have been mixed-breeds. Genetic diversity is a good thing and mutts actually have a slight advantage in health over the purebred counterparts.

The best part of choosing a mixed breed is you get the chance to adopt. There are over 70 million animals entering shelters every year. These loving animals need a home! Often, adopted dogs make the best companions. Of course, you’ll want to bring your kids in to meet the dogs as you search. We at Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique encourage you to look at your local shelters for a dog that will change you and your kid’s lives!

Owning a dog on top of kids can be a little tricky at first. For some extra help with care, it’s always a good idea to visit your local Splash and Dash. The signature service membership can save your family time and money so that you can get back to enjoying the more fun parts of owning a dog.

 

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Best on the Go Water Bottles for Dogs

Providing water for your dog when walking, hiking, or camping is essential for their health. I remember in my younger (and dumber) days, using my own hands as a makeshift bowl for my dog to get a drink. We’ve come a long way since then. The market is full of awesome water bottles for dogs that makes traveling and exploring so much easier.

Instead of dragging around wasteful amounts of plastic bottles and pouring most of the water on the ground, instead of it being slurped up by your dog’s tongue, you can get an eco-friendly water bottle once and for all. This is much more efficient and convenient for everyone. Water bottles for dogs won’t take up valuable space while hiking and are better for the environment.

When it’s hot outside, even short walks around the neighborhood need to be punctuated with water breaks. If your pet becomes dehydrated this can lead to adverse health effects. Make sure your dog is adequately hydrated at all times. Know the signs of dehydration and heat exhaustion just in case.

Signs of Dehydration:

  • Tiredness/Lethargy
  • Excessive Panting
  • Sunken Eyes
  • Dry Mouth, Nose, Gums
  • Lack of Skin Elasticity

The best water bottle for your dog will ensure your dog can always get a cold drink if needed. This helps save the planet one plastic water bottle at a time. Now your dog can be hydrated, fashionable, and green! This list reviews our top favorite water bottles for dogs.

1. The H204K9

There is nothing worse than buying a new gadget—getting really excited about it—just to have it break after a few uses. This is not going to happen with the H204K9. This combo pack neosling and 25-ounce water bottle and travel bowl is very durable. The bottle is made of stainless steel and the twist top lid is BPA-free! The sling makes it easy to carry while walking or hiking.

Giving your dog a drink is easy with this water bottle. Simply unscrew the top and pour. The few downsides this product has is that you have to hold the bowl up for your dog. Some have also commented that the lid was too small for their large dog’s snout but we haven’t had any problems.

2. Water Rover Bowl and Bottle

The rover is awesome for walks to the dog park or around the neighborhood. We loved it because you can clip it to your belt, which makes this hands-free option convenient when you’re already holding a leash in one hand. This water bottle for dogs can also lay flat so you can put it down at the park without holding it.

If your dog doesn’t drink every drop in the bowl, all you have to do is tilt the water back toward the bottle and you won’t waste any water. The Rover comes in 10 different colors and four sizes for any dog breed. The only con of this product is that the plastic the bottle is made with doesn’t seem the most durable.

3. Aqua Dog Travel Water Bowl Bottle

This water bottle has one of the coolest designs. The Aqua dog is a BPA-free plastic squeeze bottle that fills the bowl that sits on top with pressure. Once a dog is done drinking, the water will drain back into the bottle. The water bottle holds 18-ounces of water and can fit easily into most cup holders.

The water bottle has a hard time staying vertical in the grass and can be easily knocked over by your dog, but other than this we loved this product.

4. Gulpy Dispenser for Dogs

This water bottle essentially works the same way as a gerbil’s water bottle dispenser—gravity. The bottle holds 20-ounces of water and transforms from a clip-on pack to a functional water bottle by flipping open.

The Gulpy is perfect for the outdoorsy type that likes to conquer hiking trails on the weekends. The collapsible bowl can easily clip onto a waistband or backpack and is mostly leak-free. The one downside is sturdiness. If you drop this product it might not make it.

5. Lixit Waterboy Travel Water Bowl

Lixit claims that this water bottle will not spill, even when flipped upside down. As long as you tighten the lid it didn’t seem like leakage would be a problem. This water bottle is perfect for road trips. The BPA-free plastic design lays flat so it can be set up in a car. This water bottle also works for dogs that like to knock their water bottle over.

The design of the bottle lets just enough liquid rush toward the bowl section of the bottle so that a dog can get a drink without leaking. The Lixit holds 3 quarts of water and ice can be added to keep water fresh and cool for your doggie!

Although we didn’t have any problems, some customer reviews said they had issues with the water bottle leaking.

We hope you and your dog get an awesome water bottle that keeps them from getting too thirsty and keeps the landfills free of plastic this summer.

 

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Top 10 Dog Friendly Beaches, Los Angeles

Whether you’re a Los Angeles resident or soaking up the sun as a tourist, lounging on the beach is a must for the California summer. From the rocky west coast shores to the local surf spots, LA County beaches just have that salty magnetism we all crave. But who wants to leave the poor dog at home while we’re lying out at the beach? Our dogs deserve a good soak too! No worries, LA County, and the surrounding area have plenty of dog friendly beaches outside of the city.

Dog owners and their furry four-legged kids can both share the fun in the sun thanks to this list of off-leash dog beaches and leashed dog friendly beaches all species can enjoy!

Here are the top 8 dog friendly beaches in the LA County area. Enjoy!

1. Rosie’s Dog Beach

Rosie’s is the most popular off-leash dog beach in the LA County. The public art of “Dogs at Play” pretty much makes this stretch of sand the official canine hot spot to throw a Frisbee and build sand castles right off Ocean Boulevard.

Rosie’s is usually full of dogs but are never too packed that you’ll be cramped for space. The off-leash area is clearly marked off so you can rest assured your pooch will be fine while you tan. Dogs of all sizes and breeds are welcome here!

The beach has all the human and doggie amenities like trash cans, bags, scoops, and restrooms for the pet parents. Parking is 25 cents every 15 minutes (this is LA we’re talking about) and is free after 5 p.m. The only downfall is that during the summer months the place can be a little trashed. If you do choose to visit, please do your part and pick up after yourself and your dog.

2. Granada Beach

Also, a part of Belmont Shore Beach, like Rosie’s, is Granada Beach which shares the same dog friendly attitude that it’s sister beach does. The official dog beach zone is between Roycroft and Argonne avenues. This stretch runs along Ocean Boulevard. You can’t miss it. Sometimes the area is marked off by cones but it there is no clear fence to show the boundary lines.

Also just like Rosie’s, dogs can go without a leash—free to run and play along the shores beating the heat. The beach has lively spirits and has several large events year-round that draw in big crowds. On an average day, you can relax while your dog plays, play volleyball at one of the many courts, or ride bikes down the paved trails.

3. Del Mar Beach

The locals call the North side of this place the ‘the dog beach’ because it has an open coast line for all-things-Rover. Not only does Del Mar have an amazing beach, there are also two state parks tucked in its crevice—Seagrove Park and Powerhouse Park.

The North beach spans from 29th street to border with Solana Beach and dogs are fine to be off their leash in this area. The leash policy is dependent on the time of the year. Dogs must be leashed June 16th through Labor Day. Dogs able to run under ‘voice control of owner’ from the day after Labor Day through June 15th.

4. Huntington Dog Beach

A little further south, in Orange County, rests Hunting Dog Beach which is another amazing dog beach. Dogs are allowed between Seapoint Street and 21st Street. Although there are signs indicating the city ordinance of a six-foot leash requirement, locals know this is not enforced. The reality is, if you have a dangerous or rowdy dog then it will be a problem. If your dog knows how to play well—everything will be fine. Remember this is California!

Huntington dog beach is great because there is plenty of room for dogs to run and splash in the waves. A grassy park, picnic tables, restrooms & showers are all there for your enjoyment. In the rear, the Pacific Coast Highway is barricaded by palm trees and an eroding bluff. Purrfect weather!

If you get hungry, take a quick drive up Goldenwest and you will land at the Park Bench Cafe—a dog friendly joint that serves up some really delicious specialties.

5. Coronado Dog Beach

For vacationers willing to drive or already visiting San Diego County there is a picturesque beach called Coronado Dog Beach. Like all beaches in California, the scenery is gorgeous, but the Point Loma skyline floating on the horizon just makes the place feel special. On the other side is the elegant Hotel Del Coronado giving each periphery a great view. Trust us, your Pug appreciates the scenery.

The dog beach itself is off-leash and has plenty of room for dogs to run in the sand and in the shallows. Be prepared for a long walk from Ocean Boulevard, where parking is available to the beach, and make sure you keep your dog leashed until you get to the actual beach.

Leo Carrillo State Park

6. North Beach

Part of Leo Carrillo State Park is North Beach which lowers down into South Beach and finally Staircase Beach. The beaches are tucked into Western Malibu and are dog friendly so long as Fido stays on his leash. This a perfect place to take a lovely stroll with your dog and you can always use a life-hack method and tie their leash around your umbrella.

7. South Beach

Just a little further down in the Leo Carrillo State Park, beach visitors find a rockier point of the beach—South Beach. This area is also dog friendly but your dog still must remain on his leash. This area is really cool! There is a cavernous-rocky area known as Sequit point with tidal pools and caves to explore.

The best time to do this at low tide. If you take your dog with you to explore, make sure they have some doggie booties to protect their paws from the rough edges of the rocks. There are also some hiking trails you can take your pupper on to explore.

8. Staircase Beach

This beach is a famous spot for surfers to paddle out in the waters that parallel Malibu’s coast, but dogs are more than welcome too! There are two ways to access Staircase beach. The first is by parking at the state park’s manager residence and the other way is to park at North Beach’s parking lot and walk down the beach. There is a zigzag trail through the bluffs but this is a rocky area and might be tough for your dogs to walk through.

If it’s too rocky, keep heading south and it will turn into sand. Dogs are fine here as long as they are on the leash.

 

There you have it. The eight spots that have the California-citrusy-sun and have open arms to the dog friendly crowd. These dog friendly beaches in Los Angeles are fun for the whole family, even the furry ones.  Remember to wear sunscreen, bring extra water in a bowl for your dog, and enjoy the summer!

 

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