Wednesday, October 31, 2007

Amazing must-have dog brush

If you have a short-haired dog like I do, you may have trouble finding the proper brush for their coat. Or if you have a long-haired dog, it may be hard for you to get to the shedding undercoat. The Zoom Groom brush, by Kong, is a great brush for all dogs. I tried the Zoom Groom rubber brush on my puggle Maggie and got amazing results.

The Zoom Groom is a natural rubber brush that helps promote healthy skin and coat. Flexible rubber fingers gently collect loose hair like a magnet on wet or dry coats. My dog loves this brush...its fingers massage her while I am brushing. She happily sits there for as long as I need her to, to get all of her shedding fur off. It helps to stimulate healthy skin and fur, too. And it is easy to use for me, too. There is a spot for your hand to rest, and you can go in a back-and-forth motion and easily capture all of the fur.

Currently on sale for 50% off at Amazon (for $5.29), be sure to pick up one of these great brushes for your dog!

Amazing must-have dog brush

If you have a short-haired dog like I do, you may have trouble finding the proper brush for their coat. Or if you have a long-haired dog, it may be hard for you to get to the shedding undercoat. The Zoom Groom brush, by Kong, is a great brush for all dogs. I tried the Zoom Groom rubber brush on my puggle Maggie and got amazing results.

The Zoom Groom is a natural rubber brush that helps promote healthy skin and coat. Flexible rubber fingers gently collect loose hair like a magnet on wet or dry coats. My dog loves this brush...its fingers massage her while I am brushing. She happily sits there for as long as I need her to, to get all of her shedding fur off. It helps to stimulate healthy skin and fur, too. And it is easy to use for me, too. There is a spot for your hand to rest, and you can go in a back-and-forth motion and easily capture all of the fur.

Currently on sale for 50% off at Amazon (for $5.29), be sure to pick up one of these great brushes for your dog!

Monday, October 29, 2007

Baby shampoo, not just for babies

If your dog is anything like my dog Harold, after 10 minutes playing outside he smells like he spent the afternoon rolling around in a dumpster. Either I put him in a protective bubble when he plays outside or bathe him weekly. (Although a dog in a bubble would be hilarious, weekly baths prevailed.)

Of course with so many baths I worry about dry skin. I tried a dog specific shampoo but after multiple baths his skin was dry and itchy. When Harold is itchy he rolls around in the grass to scratch his back making him smell even worse. To avoid drying out his skin I found that Johnson and Johnson's Baby Shampoo works best. It is gentle on his eyes and it gets him clean as well. Even though baby shampoo moisturizes his skin better then dog shampoo, during the winter his skin can get extra dry. After baths I brush in a spray on dog hair conditioner by EFA Hylyt. I originally purchased it from the Vet but you can also find it online.

The combination of Baby Shampoo and leave in conditioner keeps his hair soft as well and moisturizes his skin. No need for fancy dog shampoo that leaves the dog smelling like flowers. Even if your dog isn't as smelly as Harold, try Johnson's Baby Shampoo, it's cheaper then dog shampoo and smells great.

Baby shampoo, not just for babies

If your dog is anything like my dog Harold, after 10 minutes playing outside he smells like he spent the afternoon rolling around in a dumpster. Either I put him in a protective bubble when he plays outside or bathe him weekly. (Although a dog in a bubble would be hilarious, weekly baths prevailed.)

Of course with so many baths I worry about dry skin. I tried a dog specific shampoo but after multiple baths his skin was dry and itchy. When Harold is itchy he rolls around in the grass to scratch his back making him smell even worse. To avoid drying out his skin I found that Johnson and Johnson's Baby Shampoo works best. It is gentle on his eyes and it gets him clean as well. Even though baby shampoo moisturizes his skin better then dog shampoo, during the winter his skin can get extra dry. After baths I brush in a spray on dog hair conditioner by EFA Hylyt. I originally purchased it from the Vet but you can also find it online.

The combination of Baby Shampoo and leave in conditioner keeps his hair soft as well and moisturizes his skin. No need for fancy dog shampoo that leaves the dog smelling like flowers. Even if your dog isn't as smelly as Harold, try Johnson's Baby Shampoo, it's cheaper then dog shampoo and smells great.

Friday, October 26, 2007

Boo! 25% off Halloween Costumes


Still looking for a Halloween costume for your pup? Check out Funny Fur for some of the cutest costumes out there and get a great deal too! Trick or treaters at your door will be delighted by your swanky pup's unique and stylish costume. Even if you already have an outfit picked out for this year, prep for next Halloween and take advantage of this awesome sale. My favorites are the football fever and spirit paws costumes.

Just enter the code TRICK25 at checkout to receive the discount and start shopping while sizes are still available!

Boo! 25% off Halloween Costumes


Still looking for a Halloween costume for your pup? Check out Funny Fur for some of the cutest costumes out there and get a great deal too! Trick or treaters at your door will be delighted by your swanky pup's unique and stylish costume. Even if you already have an outfit picked out for this year, prep for next Halloween and take advantage of this awesome sale. My favorites are the football fever and spirit paws costumes.

Just enter the code TRICK25 at checkout to receive the discount and start shopping while sizes are still available!

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

Beautiful and hip ribbon collars

I absolutely love my dog's collar. It is so stylish, comfortable for her, durable, and wasn't too expensive. It's this adorable pink and brown spotted ribbon collar from Lindsay Designs.

Lindsay makes collars of all sizes for all types of dogs (and cats, too). There are tons of ribbon styles to choose from in all colors, including polka dots, preppy stripes, and fun novelty prints. The collars are adjustable (so if you have a fat puggle like me you can increase it as her neck gets thicker!)

Also, check out her cool harnesses and leashes to complete the look for your dog.

Now through October 31st, all of her collars are at least 10% off. Plus, she is giving away fabulous goodie bags with each and every order, including a scratch-off card for a discount on your next order! Check out the options for your big dog, mid-sized dog, or toy dog and shop away!

Beautiful and hip ribbon collars

I absolutely love my dog's collar. It is so stylish, comfortable for her, durable, and wasn't too expensive. It's this adorable pink and brown spotted ribbon collar from Lindsay Designs.

Lindsay makes collars of all sizes for all types of dogs (and cats, too). There are tons of ribbon styles to choose from in all colors, including polka dots, preppy stripes, and fun novelty prints. The collars are adjustable (so if you have a fat puggle like me you can increase it as her neck gets thicker!)

Also, check out her cool harnesses and leashes to complete the look for your dog.

Now through October 31st, all of her collars are at least 10% off. Plus, she is giving away fabulous goodie bags with each and every order, including a scratch-off card for a discount on your next order! Check out the options for your big dog, mid-sized dog, or toy dog and shop away!

Monday, October 15, 2007

If only dogs could talk...

Do you ever look into those big brown eyes of your dog and wonder just what in the world he is thinking? You are not alone! Most people have no idea what their dog is thinking considering we do not speak the same language. In Stanley Coren’s book How to Speak Dog he helps break down this language barrier to give us humans insight into what’s going on in that furry little head.

This book is very well written and a great resource for the average dog owner with lots of examples and a handy translation section in the back. It breaks down dog communication into barks, growls, howls, whimpers, body language and ear, eye and tail signals so you can decode the noises that come out of your dog and the body language he uses. Not only is this book a great resource and tool, it can improve your relationship with your pooch since you will better understand what he is trying to tell you.

For example, my un-cuddly sheltie Buster would often turn his face away from me and yawn when I would get down on the floor to snuggle with him. Now, thanks to Stanley Coren, I know he is not just getting ready to take a nap but basically telling me he is uncomfortable and to go the heck away. I am pretty sure Buster is happy I finally got the point and your dog will be glad that you understand him too once you learn how to speak dog!

If only dogs could talk...

Do you ever look into those big brown eyes of your dog and wonder just what in the world he is thinking? You are not alone! Most people have no idea what their dog is thinking considering we do not speak the same language. In Stanley Coren’s book How to Speak Dog he helps break down this language barrier to give us humans insight into what’s going on in that furry little head.

This book is very well written and a great resource for the average dog owner with lots of examples and a handy translation section in the back. It breaks down dog communication into barks, growls, howls, whimpers, body language and ear, eye and tail signals so you can decode the noises that come out of your dog and the body language he uses. Not only is this book a great resource and tool, it can improve your relationship with your pooch since you will better understand what he is trying to tell you.

For example, my un-cuddly sheltie Buster would often turn his face away from me and yawn when I would get down on the floor to snuggle with him. Now, thanks to Stanley Coren, I know he is not just getting ready to take a nap but basically telling me he is uncomfortable and to go the heck away. I am pretty sure Buster is happy I finally got the point and your dog will be glad that you understand him too once you learn how to speak dog!

Do the funky chicken

Looking for a dog toy that will make you laugh and keep your pup happy? Meet Earl! He is a crazy rubber chicken toy for your dog featuring flaming shorts, a tattoo that says “Mom”, some bling around his neck and an Elvis hairdo (did I mention he makes a fart-like noise when squeezed?).

This toy was a hit with my dog (the noise made him nuts) and my friends, who got a big kick out of watching my pooch drag him around. Earl comes in two sizes so dogs large and small can enjoy this crazy toy. Earl is not for rough chewers unless you supervise or do not care if he gets destroyed quickly since it is made of hand-painted, poly-filled latex. My dog ate Earl’s face off after about 10 minutes but since then has taken to playing fetch with him instead of going the destructive route. If you like Earl, check out his “chick” Henrietta (she is a bit more lady-like and does not fart).

Do the funky chicken

Looking for a dog toy that will make you laugh and keep your pup happy? Meet Earl! He is a crazy rubber chicken toy for your dog featuring flaming shorts, a tattoo that says “Mom”, some bling around his neck and an Elvis hairdo (did I mention he makes a fart-like noise when squeezed?).

This toy was a hit with my dog (the noise made him nuts) and my friends, who got a big kick out of watching my pooch drag him around. Earl comes in two sizes so dogs large and small can enjoy this crazy toy. Earl is not for rough chewers unless you supervise or do not care if he gets destroyed quickly since it is made of hand-painted, poly-filled latex. My dog ate Earl’s face off after about 10 minutes but since then has taken to playing fetch with him instead of going the destructive route. If you like Earl, check out his “chick” Henrietta (she is a bit more lady-like and does not fart).

Thursday, October 11, 2007

Comfort and style in one, please.

After using this Puppia soft harness on Raul, a Boston Terrier, for about a month I was extremely happy with it. It is made of a soft mesh material so it was gentle on his shoulders and looks very cute at the same time. I dressed him in a red one to match his coat but it comes in a wide variety of cool colors and patterns as well, making it more stylish than the average harness. It was also very easy to take on and off of him with an adjustable chest belt and quick-release buckle and he did not mind wearing it for long periods of time (so it must be comfortable)!

If your dog is a puller this will certainly be gentler on their chest and shoulders than the average harness, but it does not offer any features to help train your dog to stop pulling. Also, if your pooch is a little Houdini when it comes to slipping out of harnesses this may not be as secure as you need, though with the average pooch this should not be a problem. I enjoyed using the Puppia harness on Raul and we got many compliments and people asking about it when he wore it. If you are looking for a soft, comfortable harness for you pup this may be the right choice for you.

Comfort and style in one, please.

After using this Puppia soft harness on Raul, a Boston Terrier, for about a month I was extremely happy with it. It is made of a soft mesh material so it was gentle on his shoulders and looks very cute at the same time. I dressed him in a red one to match his coat but it comes in a wide variety of cool colors and patterns as well, making it more stylish than the average harness. It was also very easy to take on and off of him with an adjustable chest belt and quick-release buckle and he did not mind wearing it for long periods of time (so it must be comfortable)!

If your dog is a puller this will certainly be gentler on their chest and shoulders than the average harness, but it does not offer any features to help train your dog to stop pulling. Also, if your pooch is a little Houdini when it comes to slipping out of harnesses this may not be as secure as you need, though with the average pooch this should not be a problem. I enjoyed using the Puppia harness on Raul and we got many compliments and people asking about it when he wore it. If you are looking for a soft, comfortable harness for you pup this may be the right choice for you.

Have a dog who is a major shedder?



I bought this Ultimate Touch 2-in-1 Brush with Shedding Blade for my Sheltie Buster after getting sick of hair flying off of him every time I pet him. Those that have long-haired breeds or dogs with undercoats can sympathize with the amount of hair that comes off of my dog everyday and usually winds up stuck to my clothing, furniture and carpet. Since brushing Buster with this brush though the situation is finally getting under control.

It features a wire brush on one side and a shedding blade on the other with a comfortable rubber handle to grip. I felt the rubber handle was an especially important, since I wanted to have a good grip when working with a “blade” near my pup. I had no idea how to use a shedding blade before getting this brush but it was actually very easy to use after googling instructions and was delighted to see how much dead hair it removed. There is also a manufacturer’s guarantee on the brush, which always gives me peace of mind when buying a product. I highly recommend this brush especially to those who have serious shedders, but if your dog has short hair or does not shed much this brush may be a bit too heavy-duty for you.

Have a dog who is a major shedder?



I bought this Ultimate Touch 2-in-1 Brush with Shedding Blade for my Sheltie Buster after getting sick of hair flying off of him every time I pet him. Those that have long-haired breeds or dogs with undercoats can sympathize with the amount of hair that comes off of my dog everyday and usually winds up stuck to my clothing, furniture and carpet. Since brushing Buster with this brush though the situation is finally getting under control.

It features a wire brush on one side and a shedding blade on the other with a comfortable rubber handle to grip. I felt the rubber handle was an especially important, since I wanted to have a good grip when working with a “blade” near my pup. I had no idea how to use a shedding blade before getting this brush but it was actually very easy to use after googling instructions and was delighted to see how much dead hair it removed. There is also a manufacturer’s guarantee on the brush, which always gives me peace of mind when buying a product. I highly recommend this brush especially to those who have serious shedders, but if your dog has short hair or does not shed much this brush may be a bit too heavy-duty for you.

Stinky dog? No longer!


My dog stinks. Really. She smells awful! I don't know what she does outside but when she comes back in my whole house starts to smell. And visitors comment on how stinky she is too! So every 2 weeks or so I stick her in the shower with me and I give her a nice long bath.

I have been bathing her with the same shampoo since she was a puppy because I absolutely love it. It's called Puppy Love Shampoo by Veterinary Formula. Not only is it gentle for my dogs eyes and skin, but it smells great and is easy to dispense when things get a bit messy in the shower. It is also well-priced at around $7-8 per bottle.

I had a lot of problems with my dog having sensitive skin when she was a puppy. This shampoo (and matching conditioner, made with oatmeal) have never irritated her skin or caused her any problems.

When I use the shampoo and conditioner her coat is so soft and she smells wonderful. When people come over and I hear a lack of smelly comments, I always ask them to smell Maggie. Initially afraid, they bend down and find a pleasant, clean smelling dog (at least for a few days!)

Currently it is on sale at Petco for $8.09. They are also having a great promotion right now where you get free shipping and a free 20-page album from Shutterfly when you spend $60 or more. So stock up on some items for your pets, pick up some shampoo, and enjoy this great deal!

Stinky dog? No longer!


My dog stinks. Really. She smells awful! I don't know what she does outside but when she comes back in my whole house starts to smell. And visitors comment on how stinky she is too! So every 2 weeks or so I stick her in the shower with me and I give her a nice long bath.

I have been bathing her with the same shampoo since she was a puppy because I absolutely love it. It's called Puppy Love Shampoo by Veterinary Formula. Not only is it gentle for my dogs eyes and skin, but it smells great and is easy to dispense when things get a bit messy in the shower. It is also well-priced at around $7-8 per bottle.

I had a lot of problems with my dog having sensitive skin when she was a puppy. This shampoo (and matching conditioner, made with oatmeal) have never irritated her skin or caused her any problems.

When I use the shampoo and conditioner her coat is so soft and she smells wonderful. When people come over and I hear a lack of smelly comments, I always ask them to smell Maggie. Initially afraid, they bend down and find a pleasant, clean smelling dog (at least for a few days!)

Currently it is on sale at Petco for $8.09. They are also having a great promotion right now where you get free shipping and a free 20-page album from Shutterfly when you spend $60 or more. So stock up on some items for your pets, pick up some shampoo, and enjoy this great deal!

Wednesday, October 10, 2007

Welcome to The Swanky Pup!

Welcome to The Swanky Pup! Here you will find all different kinds of non-biased reviews on products and services for your dog. Of course we will review swanky, stylish items... but you will also find practical, unique, and necessary items and services for your pet.

Please check back often for new content from our team of writers. We welcome your feedback and suggestions for products to review. Please contact us and let us know your thoughts!

Sincerely,

Allie and Jen
Founders of Swanky Pup and Fellow Dog Lovers

Welcome to The Swanky Pup!

Welcome to The Swanky Pup! Here you will find all different kinds of non-biased reviews on products and services for your dog. Of course we will review swanky, stylish items... but you will also find practical, unique, and necessary items and services for your pet.

Please check back often for new content from our team of writers. We welcome your feedback and suggestions for products to review. Please contact us and let us know your thoughts!

Sincerely,

Allie and Jen
Founders of Swanky Pup and Fellow Dog Lovers

Sunday, October 7, 2007

Hairstyles for Oblong (Rectangle) Faces

What is Oblong Face?

You have an oblong face if your face is much longer than its wide. Generally you have a high forehead but narrow chin with straight (almost the same width) forehead, cheekbones and jaw line, and sometimes with a longish nose.

Hairstyles for Oblong Faces

If you want to dress your face, the goal is to make your face appear oval, shorter and broader. Short to medium length hair with bangs will cover your forehead & shorten your face. To make your face look broader, you can add fullness to the side using sideburns. Layers, wavy, & curls hair can make your straight face look soft & smooth.

Right Eyeglasses for Oblong Faces

If you wear eyeglasses, you can wear round or square eyeglasses that have a top-to-bottom depth. It works well to minimize the length of face. If you have a larger nose, low-bridge eyeglasses frames will help you.

Hairstyles to Avoid

Long hair with the same length will make your face look even longer. If you want to wear long hairstyle, wear a layered look. Avoid very short hair close to the scalp. Avoid long spike hair with short sideburns.

Male celebrities who have oblong face: Russell Crowe, Eminem, Shaun White, and Ricky Martin.

View yourself with thousands hairstyles at TheHairStyler.com >>

Classy Emo Hairstyle

Haircut pictures by Shadowhut.

The fusion of classic & modern fashion to form classy emo hairstyle. Long fringe (bangs) curly brushed to left side of the face, dyed black, some pomade, shiny, straightened hair, & business fashioned.

Friday, October 5, 2007

David Beckham Crew (Buzz) Cut

David Beckham crew cut hairstyle

Beckham often changed his hairstyle. On this hairstyle, he is wearing a low-maintenance military haircut: crew cut. Crew cut is suitable for men who look for an easy maintenance, "wash & go" hairstyle.
Beckham crew haircut

To wear this cut, you have to trim it with scissors first approximately a fingers width from the scalp if you have a long haircut. Then you can use most standard electric hair clippers. Shear your hair very closely to the scalp but leave a little longer in front and on top of your head.Hairstyle photos by greyjimbo.

Wednesday, October 3, 2007

Extreme Short Shaggy Hair

Short extreme shaggy hair for men
Cool layered messy hair
Short layered shaggy hair with short bangs & extreme texture. Sideburns just below the ears. For best practice, you should direct hair before cutting. Define it by using additional product, such as gel, into the damp hair and applying finger-styling for a finished matted choppy look.
Extreme men's hairstyle
Hairstyle picture from the back
Back hair also with extreme texture in all over parts resembles rough.
Hairstyle photos by gaijin4life.

Monday, October 1, 2007

Online Virtual Hairstyles Makeover for Men



















10% off when you sign-up! Use code holidayhair. Expires 12/31.

Some people seem to chop their hair off or dye it amazing colors without any qualms at all. If that's not you, then a virtual hair makeover can help you feel more confident before you actually head to the salon. In fact, some salons actually do this for you before you even get a haircut.

Essentially, a virtual haircut will show you what you'd look like with different hairstyles without you having to do anything. You can do this on your own or get a studio to do it for you. There are online programs that will let you upload a photo and test the various hairstyles that they feature on the site. When you find one that suits you, you can just print it off and take it to the salon with you!

For best results, try the following tips:

First, try to put your hair back in a ponytail or else wet it for the photo so it is close to your head. This ensures that the sleeker styles in the virtual makeover program won't look odd with your real hair sticking out. Keep your hair off your shoulders, as well. It is best if you can't really see your hair except on top of your head.

Next, take the photo face forward. Don't tilt your head or even turn it slightly, since this will look odd later on the site. The hair pieces that you will be looking at are designed to go on top of a face, not to the side.

Remember that there are controls and use them. When you try a type of hair on, try tilting it slightly or resizing it to make it look more realistic. A virtual hair makeover can really change the way you look, without having to take the drastic lea. Once you're satisfied with a look, head to the salon with it and let them go wild.

Sign-Up Online Virtual Hairstyles Makeover Membership! This online hair imaging makeover allows you to view yourself with tons of hairstyles & hair colors. Upload your photo and see exactly what you will look like before getting new cut. 10% off when you sign-up! Use code holidayhair. Expires 12/31.

David Beckham Fauxhawk Hairstyle

David Beckham faux hawk hairstyle

David Beckham is a popular football player who once played for Manchester United and Real Madrid. Now, he plays for LA Galaxy. He is also a full-blown metrosexual who often changes his hairstyle.

Beckham fohawk hairstyle

Beckham worn faux hawk in around 2005. His hair on the top of the head is combed to resemble a small fan mohawk without buzzing or shaving the both sides of the head. Hair, surrounding his fauxhawk is quite short. So, it is called fauxhawk, or fake Mohawk.

To apply the style, you need hair wax/gel to keep your fake mohawk in place.