2024 Holiday Gift Guides

The Holiday gift guide you’e been waiting for!! Whether you’re shopping for a dog lover or for your fur baby, we’ve rounded up our favorite finds!

Collar Charms- 'Tis the season! Celebrate the holidays with a "charm"-ing collar accessory. Double-sided and made of durable enamel, the gingerbread man and the red bow charm are the perfect festive accessory.

Benebone- We like to say we’re Benebone’s biggest fan! We buy one for each of our puppies for when they go to their forever homes. This bone will keep them busy for hours because they are SO durable and last weeks. Our dogs go wild over all of the flavors.

Lavish Dog Perfume- When I say you need this… you really do. This luxurious scent will have your pup smelling good for days.

Paw Hoodie- This hoodie will keep your pup warm and cozy all winter season. Don’t forget to get yourself a matching pair! Snag our 15% off discount when you use that link.

Collar- Foggydog makes the best dog collars. They are durable, comfy, and stylish.

Pupford- Your dog will go crazy for these. They are the perfect stocking stuffer!

Advent Calendar- Because your dog needs an advent calendar too!

OUAI- This gentle, vegan wash cleanses, hydrates, and leaves your pet’s coat in pawfection condition.

Christmas Cookies- Spoil your pup with the CUTEST dog cookies. Wufers makes them look so good that you’ll want to eat them!! They are healthy and safe ingredients for your dog.

PupParent Essentials: All doodle owners need this grooming kit. The best brush and dematting comb. Use code MLF to save!

Cross Body Bag- A Dog Treat Bag You WANT To Carry - Lets face it, most treat pouches for pet training are boring and industrial. This bag was designed to be the most stylish everyday bag for any Pup Parent. Perfect for storing poop bags & treats.

Comfrt Set- Twinning is winning! A cozy set that matches your pup? Why not? Snag our 15% off discount when you use that link.

Stain & Odor Remover: There is not a better cleaner! We have gone through bottles of this. 10/10!

Furbo Camera- Are you curious what your dog does all day? With this camera you can know! Added bonus- you can talk to them through it and give them treats!

Portrait- Yes, dog owners absolutely need this.

Silcone Treat Molds- Make homemade treats with our recipes.

How to Stop A Dog From Pulling on a Leash

Loose leash walking is a dream for most dogs and owners alike. The good news is, you can start teaching loose leash walking the second you get your puppy home. If you already have your puppy home, and they are pulling on your walk, don’t worry, this applies to you too. 

what is pressure/release training?

Pressure and release is the number one way to communicate with your puppy. So before we get to actual training, we need you to first understand this crucial concept. Pressure means that some sort of presence or force is applied to the situation. Release refers to the removal of that pressure. 

Dogs understand pressure and release! It is built into the real-life behavior of animals, especially dogs. It’s in their DNA—a natural form of communication for them. Since dogs are naturally incline to respond to pressure and release, we use it as a wonderfully effective training tool. 

A very effective way to communicate with your puppy is by using pressure/release through the leash. When you learn to use the leash this way, you can use it to give not only correction, but also direction. It is an amazing tool when used correctly. If used incorrectly, you often get undesired results. Have you ever had your dog pull on his leash while out on a walk? That is because the dog is responding to the improper, constant pressure of the leash. 

Best tool to help with leash pulling

To avoid this common training mistake we want to use proper tools. We like to use a slip lead, rather than a flat collar leash. (Which are included in Cornerstone Dog Training’s Puppy Training Program use code MLF20 for 20% off program). A slip lead is a pressure/release leash. Simply put, it is a leash that wraps back over itself and loosens up a bit when lax. The application of the leash is the physical pressure and the loosening of the release. 

The last concept to understand before we get into the “how” is, Opposition Reflex. You know the reflex you have when the doctor strikes your knee with the rubber hammer? Well, dogs also have a completely involuntary reflex that every dog owner should know about. It’s called Opposition Reflex. All dogs have it. When a dog feels physical pressure on their body(such as a collar being pulled tight at the front of their neck by a leash), they do a strange thing—they lean into the pressure further! Their brain, their reflexes, are telling him to go forward. They can’t help it! 

So, how do we fix leash pulling if it is natural for them to pull into that pressure? Let’s jump in. 

1. With your puppy on the slip lead, hold the leash with both hands in front of you, palms down like you are riding a bike, then relax your arms and let them hang down. 

2. Begin to walk. When you feel like you can sneak away the opposite direction without your puppy noticing, do so. 

3. Get as far away from your puppy (while holding the leash) as you can without them noticing. Then, just as the leash goes tight, give it a little flick in your direction and continue walking the opposite way as your puppy. 

4. As your puppy rejoins your side, reach down to him by your left leg and reward them with a piece of kibble. 

5. As you continue on your walk, your puppy may begin to notice when they are not headed in the right direction and correct their own course. Inevitably with puppies though, it wont be long before they are distracted again and you’re given another opportunity to practice. Sneak away in the opposite direction of your puppy’s focus, flick the leash, and reward your puppy right down next to your leg when he catches up with you. 

That’s it! Well, for now. While your puppy is really young (22 weeks or younger) we would caution against really trying to get somewhere on this training walk. If you have a destination you’re trying to get to , chances are you will get frustrated as you have to keep turning and walking the opposite direction of your goal. 

This is a serious mental workout for your dog. You will wear out your puppy faster through his brain the through his legs. Ten minutes of this can be very tiring for your puppy and quite possibly dizzying for you! 

If your dogs is older than 22 weeks, they may need some more help and direction. Cornerstone is here to help, you can get all the help you will need here. $700 discount will be applied at checkout for MLF families!

As always, consistency is key. Happy Training! 

victoria matthews
Gifts From Dog To Mom

Calling all dog moms!! It’s time to celebrate and show our love and gratitude for the incredible dog moms in our lives. Whether it’s their birthday, Mother’s Day, or simply a day to express our appreciation we’ve got the perfect gift guide for you.

Here are some gifts from Dog to Mom:
Pupwell Grooming Kit: Your ticket to turning grooming time into a bonding experience! Say goodbye to frequent visits to the groomer and hello to quality grooming at home! Included is 14 professional grade tools your groomer uses and 25 expertly crafted video tutorials guiding you through each step with ease. Use code MLF to save!
Dog Mom Hat: A neutral baseball hat that will go great with any outfit.
Customized Bandana’s: Make her melt by giving her a customized “Mama’s girl” or “Mama’s boy” bandana. The bandana’s are high quality and will keep your doodle looking stylish everywhere they go.
Silicon Dog Food Mat: This mat is 100% waterproof, has a non slip design, and is dishwasher safe! Win, win, and win!
Cozy Crewneck: For the dog mom that loves being comfy this crewneck is for you! It’s made with a high quality material and is buttery soft.
Stackable Bracelet set: This set has a swooning! Make a statement with these stacked bracelets.
Dog Slippers: Cozy slippers for the dog mom that loves being at home.
Coffee Glass: Every dog mom needs a glass that says “Dog Momma”.. am I right?

Dog moms deserve all the love and appreciation in the world for their unwavering dedication and unconditional love towards their pups. Let’s celebrate the dog moms in our lives and give them a round of applause.

Tips for Surviving the Puppy Teething Stage

The puppy teething stage can be challenging to get through. The pain caused by teething oftentimes leads puppies to chew on things they shouldn’t like your fingers, clothing, or furniture, but with the appropriate tips and guidance you can help your puppy through this and minimize any discomfort they may experience. Here is some advice from our trainers at Cornerstone Dog Training to help us dog owners navigate through this stage while minimizing damage, and promoting good beavioral habits for the future.

When will my puppy start losing teeth?

The American Kennel Club states that puppies will start to lose teeth around 3-4 months of age. Once your goldendoodle puppy is 6 months of age all of its baby teeth should have fallen out.

How to Relieve Tooth Pain for Puppies

During this time it can be incredibly painful for your puppy, so your job as its owner is to provide something your pup can chew on to soothe its gums.

Since a puppy is unable to destroy the house with their teeth, we like to recommend this trick for relieving tooth pain. Place raw carrots or cucumbers in the freezer overnight, and in the morning you will have a great soothing treat that is also healthy for them!

Tools you can get to teach your puppy not to bite/nip

Utilize toys and bones to sooth puppies teeth, but be sure not to over use them though! If your goldendoodle puppy always needs a chew toy, that becomes a habit. Obsessive chewing is a sign of stress. They are not stressed because they are not loved enough, but because they are looking for something to do, or have been given too much freedom too soon.

Another amazing training tool we recommend for puppies under 5 months in general is a slip lead. Your number one communication tool is a leash! A slip lead is the ultimate puppy tool because it gives them boundaries and understanding. It is designed to give small amounts of pressure, evenly, in contrast to a normal collar that puts pressure in one central spot. Puppies can get mouthy, and destructive. Dogs do what works. If chewing on the couch relieves teething pain, they will continue to do it, because it is working. We want to correct them with the slip lead if we catch them in the act, helping them understand that is not appropriate (not only is it not good for your couch, but for their stomachs…yikes!)

How to prevent a puppy from chewing on furniture

A lot of the destruction that comes with teething is out of boredom, and overstimulation. You can prevent destructive behaviors by utilizing the crate, your puppy needs it! They are growing rapidly, and they need a lot of sleep. Create a reliable but flexible schedule that you can stick to. You can checkout our puppy schedule for a reccomended puppy schedule. If they are not 100% supervised on the leash, they need to be in their crate. This will not only cut down on destruction, but potty accidents too! For more secrets on potty training, we’ve got you covered!

I gave my puppy a teething toy when they start to chew, but they still chew the couch?

Puppies are really cool creatures, they understand feedback really well. Where training goes wrong is the feedback we, the owners, give. If a puppy is chewing on the table, and we give them a toy to chew instead, we have said nothing about the status of the table. We have only fed the chewing habit something else! When they are done, or bored of the toy, they will go right back to the table. Giving good feedback will help your puppy know what is right and wrong. So next time puppy is chewing on the chair, calmly say “no” and correct with the slip lead. They can either go into their crate or you can do some training before crate time.

The puppy teething stage is temporary, you got this!

It’s good to remember that the puppy teething stage is just a short period of time in their lives. To get through it, you will need the right tools and knowledge. With patience and consistency you’ll both be able to navigate this stage successfully. Keep up the good work!

We know this stage can be hard, if you need further assistance getting through it you can schedule a free consultation with Cornerstone Dog training. We are confident they will be able to help you with whatever obstacle you’re facing!

victoria matthews
Puppy Schedule

Need help establishing a daily puppy routine? Our expert dog trainers got you covered! Establishing a schedule for your puppy is crucial to their development, well-being, and your sanity. Here is a general outline (pictured on the left) and a more detailed outline (pictured on the right) to help with the process! If you need further training help contact our friends over at Cornerstone Dog Training. We highly reccomend their puppy program. Use code MLF20 for 20% off.

The Secrets to Potty Training a Puppy

The most important thing you can do as soon as you get your puppy is potty train them. Are you feeling overwhelmed and dont know where to start with the potty training process? With the help of Cornerstone Dog Training and their expertise they have figured out the secrets to potty training a puppy fast with these tips.

The crate is your #1 Potty Training tool

The crate is the best potty training tool there is!! Crate training and potty training go hand in hand. For a dog, the crate is their safe space. You will use the crate throughout their lifetime so we highly reccomend investing in a good crate. For more helpful tips on crate training visit here!

food schedule is key

Controlling the times when your puppy eats and drinks is key for potty training. The American Kennel Club reccomends, “Controling the diet, and to break up the puppy feeding schedule into three small meals.” If you feed your puppy around the same time each day your puppy’s body will establish a more predictable bathroom schedule.

Give Regular Potty Breaks

Take your puppy outside frequently. When should you? Before playtime, right after play, first thing in the morning, potty 20-30 minutes after a meal, potty a couples times before bed.. you get the idea!

supervise, supervise, supervise

Keep a close eye on your puppy. Anytime it’s outside of the crate it needs to be on a leash or closely supervised. It’s like letting your baby crawl around the house without a diaper and expecting there to be no accidents. When you can’t supervise, use the crate!

Don’t use puppy pads

At Matthews Legacy Farm our puppies are raised on an 8 week puppy curriculum where we do an intro to potty and crate training and more. Our puppies are used to going on grass at a young age! This helps speed up the potty training process tremendously. Do not use puppy pads. Puppies learn quickly that the pad absorbs pee and is a lazy convenience for them.

Night is for sleep, not play

Potty time should be simple and to the point. Keep your talk and touch very minimal. After your pup goes potty immediately put them back into the crate. Your well rested self will thank us for this tip!

downtime is essential.. give your dog breaks

New puppy owners often overstimulate their dog. An overstimulated and overtired puppy is going to have a hard time learning a new skill such as potty training. Similar to babies, puppies need lots of time to rest. Rest up pup!!

evaluate the accident, dont punish

Dogs live completely in the moment. Whatever a dog is currently doing is what they’re thinking about. It wont make sense to your puppy if you try to punish it for a potty accident that happened 10 minutes prior. All you can do is evaluate and try to take actions to prevent future accients. This can be done through more frequent potty breaks and implementing boundaries.

when an accident happens give calm and clear feedback

Since potty training requires very close supervision, you will hopefully catch the moment when your dog starts to go pee or poo inside. Immediately grab their leash, and quickly take them outside. Overtime your dog will understand to go to the bathroom outside. Dogs are SO smart and will catch on quickly if you are consistent! Speaking of which…

consistency is the biggest key to potty training

Puppyhood doesn’t last forever but the lessons you instill endure a lifetime. Consistency in potty training is cruical because it helps puppies understand what is expected of them. Being consistent with potty training will help you potty train your puppy fast!! You got this!

Christmas Gift Ideas For You And Your Dog

Christmas is just around the corner, and we couldn’t be more excited to share some paw-some gift ideas for all the dog lovers out there!! Whether you’re a proud dog owner or have a furry baby, we’ve rounded up our favorite finds.

Best Christmas Gifts FOR THE DOG owner

Gender neutral and soooo cozy!

Yes, this is absolutely necessary.

dog brush, dog comb, dog dematting comb

Save with code MLF

Best slicker brush & dematting comb ever.

4. Dog Camera

Always know what you’re dog is doing.

5. Wild One Pouch

Perfect for storing poop bags & treats.

6. Stain & Odor Eliminator

There is not a better cleaner! 10/10!

7. Storage Basket
Perfect for storing clutter and dog toys.

9. Dog Perfume
The best smelling dog perfume EVER!

dog hairspray candy coat scent from Henry spray

Save with MLF25

best christmas gifts for your dog

1. Stylish Bandanas and Bows

These bandanas and bows are top notch quality! But First, West has us swooning over their newest holliday prints.

These reduce anxiety, help mental simulation, improve digestion, and a great way to keep your dog busy. They are dishwasher and freezer safe!

This is absolutely brilliant and so important for your dogs safety! Get this Holder and Apple Airtag and you’ll never have to worry about losing your dog. Watch this video to see how it works.

4. Dog Bed

Save with code MLF10

Orthopedic memory foam dog bed that will keep your pup comfortable inside the crate or even in the open. All of our goldendoodle puppies use this starting at 4 weeks of age and LOVE it!

Our dogs go crazy over these treats and guaranteed your dog will too! They are clean, healthy, and organic ingredients.

This stuff is magic! It protects their paws from dryness and cracking.

7. Shampoo

Hypoallergenic shampoo that promotes a healthy, shiny, and silky coat.

I’m pretty sure we are Benebone’s biggest fan! We buy one for each of our puppies for when they go to their forever homes. This bone will keep them busy for hours because they are SO durable and last weeks. Our dogs go wild over all of the flavors.

Fall Essentials You Need For Your Doodle
bows, sweater, bandana's paw wax, toys, bones, collar, interactive puzzle.

Hey there, fellow dog lovers! As the leaves start to change and the air gets crisp, it's time to prepare our furry friends for the fall season. Here are some must-have essentials to keep your pup comfy and extra stylish during this cozy time of year.

Cozy Sweater: As the temperatures drop, a cozy dog sweater is a must-have for your four-legged friend. Not only do they provide warmth, but they also make your pup look adorable! Opt for soft, lightweight sweaters that are easy to put on and take off.

Pawsome Paw Protection: With fall comes wet weather and chilly pavements. Keep your pup's paws protected with booties or paw balms. These will shield their paws from cold, wet surfaces and prevent them from picking up any harmful substances during walks.

Fall-Themed Bandanas: Who doesn't love a dog in a cute bandana? Embrace the autumn vibes with fall-themed bandanas that showcase pumpkins, leaves, or even cozy plaid patterns.

Comfy Bedding: Fall is the perfect time to update your dog's bedding. Provide them with a cozy, plush bed to curl up in after those long walks in the crisp autumn air. Make sure it's easy to clean and offers enough support for their joints. We use this one. Use code MLF at checkout to save!

Bows: You already know how much we love adding bows to puppies for photoshoots! Get one, you won’t regret it!

Treats with Fall Flavors: Spoil your furry friend with seasonal treats! Look for pumpkin or apple-flavored goodies that will make their taste buds tingle with delight. Just remember to choose treats that are suitable for your dog's size and dietary needs.

Interactive Toys: With shorter daylight hours, it's important to keep your pup mentally stimulated indoors. Invest in interactive toys, puzzle games, or treat-dispensing toys to keep their minds sharp and boredom at bay.

Classy Collar & Leash: Fall is a great time to upgrade a leash or collar. Use code MLF at checkout.

Benebone: Bones are a great way to keep your dog busy and it helps clean their teeth too. It’s a win win!

Secrets To A Shiny & Healthy Goldendoodle Coat

If you’ve ever wondered how to keep your furry friend’s coat looking radiant and healthy, you’ve come to the right place! Today we’re sharing some secrets to unlock the Golden Glow!

  1. Regular Brushing: Brushing your Goldendoodle regularly is an absolute must! Not only does it prevent matting and tangling, but it also helps distribute their natural oils, giving their coat that luxurious shine. Plus, it's a great bonding activity for you and your pup! This is the slicker brush we use and love!

  2. Omega 3: Adding omega-3 fatty acids to your Goldendoodle's diet can work wonders for their coat's health. Whether it's through fish oil supplements or incorporating fish like salmon into their meals, omega-3 helps promote a soft and shiny coat from within.

  3. Frequent Grooming: Getting your Goldendoodle groomed regularly will help maintain their coat's health. Pupwell Kit + Education Class (use MLF at checkout to save) helps you groom your doodle from your own home and saves you time and money at the groomers.

  4. Bathing Routine: Establishing a regular bathing routine is key to keeping your Goldendoodle's coat squeaky clean and smelling fresh. Opt for a gentle, hypoallergenic shampoo that won't strip away their natural oils. Remember, too much bathing can dry out their skin. Studies recommend bathing doodles every 4-6 weeks but it can vary depending on coat, lifestyle, etc. Pro tip: brushing before bath time helps remove any loose fur and tangles!

  5. Probiotics: Did you know that a healthy gut can contribute to a healthy coat? By adding probiotics in your Goldendoodle's diet it can improve their digestion and nutrient absorption, leading to a silky healthy coat. Talk to your vet about the best probiotic options for your goldendoodle.

victoria matthewsGoldendoodle coat, shiny goldendoodle coat, healthy goldendoodle coat, how to get a shiny goldendoodle coat, how to get a healthy goldendoodle coat, Goldendoodle shiny coat, how to get a goldendoodle coat shiny, Goldendoodle coat tips, Goldendoodle coat tips and tricks, Goldendoodle healthy coat, how to get a goldendoodle healthy coat, secrets for a shiny and healthy goldendoodle coat, goldendoodle food that helps their coat, Goldendoodle coat that shines, how to help your goldendoodles coat, how to help your goldendoodles coat shiny, how to help your goldendoodles coat be soft, goldendoodle coat tricks, how to get a shiny goldendoodle, goldendoodle coat, how to make your goldendoodle fur shiny, how to make your goldendoodle fur soft, goldendoodle fur, goldendoodle shiny fur, goldendoodle fur shine, shiny goldendoodle fur, how to get a shiny goldendoodle fur, how to get your goldendoodle fur to shine, how to get your goldendoodle fur to be healthy, what food to feed your doodle so it has a shiny coat, what food to feed your doodle so it has shiny fur, what food to feed your doodle so it has a healthy coat, what food to feed your doodle so it has healthy fur, how to make your goldendoodle have a shiny coat, how to make your doodle have a shiny coat, how to make your goldendoodle coat shine, how to make your doodle coat shine, how to make your goldendoodle have shiny fur, how to make your goldendoodle coat shiny, how to make a goldendoodle coat shiny, how to make a goldendoodle coat shine, shiny Goldendoodle coat
Benefits of Crate Training

Crate training is a valuable technique that provides numerous benefits for both you and your new furry friend. In this blog post, we will explore the advantages of crate training!

1. A Comforting Safe Place:

A crate serves as a den-like sanctuary for your puppy, offering a secure and comforting space they can call their own. It becomes their private retreat where they can relax, sleep, and feel safe when they need a break from the outside world.

2. Powerful Potty Training Tool:

Crate training aids in potty training by teaching your puppy to hold their bladder and bowels. Dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area, encouraging them to develop bladder control. Gradually increase the duration your pup spends in the crate, taking them outside to eliminate immediately after being released.

3. Valuable for Various Situations:

A crate-trained puppy is easier to manage in different situations. Whether you're traveling, visiting the veterinarian, or having guests over, a crate provides a familiar and secure place for your pup. It prevents them from getting into mischief or feeling overwhelmed in unfamiliar environments.

4. Teaches the Importance of Settling:

Crate training teaches your puppy to settle down and relax. By providing a consistent routine of crate time, your pup learns to associate the crate with downtime and rest. This skill becomes invaluable as your dog grows, ensuring they can calmly settle in various settings.

5. Reduces Separation Anxiety:

Crate training can help reduce separation anxiety in dogs. When properly introduced, the crate becomes a positive association, providing a safe and familiar space when you're away. It alleviates stress and helps your puppy feel secure, reducing the chances of destructive behaviors caused by separation anxiety.

Crate training offers a multitude of benefits for both you and your puppy.. Remember, crate training should always be done with patience, positive reinforcement, and never used as a means of punishment. Embrace the process, and you'll develop a stronger bond with your furry companion while enjoying the many advantages that crate training has to offer!

Pictured is the Diggs Crate. Discount is automatically applied at checkout!

Summer Essentials You Need

Summer is here and so are the hot temperatures!! It’s important to keep our loyal companions in mind, especially when the weather gets hot and unbearable. Don’t sweat it — we’ve got what you need to help your dog stay cool and comfy.

181056-Boomer-Dog-Bowl-Website-Assets-Studio-Boomer-8-Dog-Bowl-Navy-Front-1680x1024.jpg
  1. Provide plenty of cold water. Whether you’re taking your dog on a hike or just playing in the back yard, it’s important to have cold water available and accessible. The Yeti dog bowl holds 64 oz and has a double coated wall that helps keep the water cool. If you’re not wanting to fill up the dog bowl frequently then you should get a dog water fountain. It holds 2.8 liters!!

2. Play in the water. If you are wanting to play in a pool, sprinkler, or even a lake we have the items for you.

Dog Skipping Stones | Dog Pool | Turtle Toy | Flying Squirrel | Sprinkler | Flamingo Toy

3. Give a summer hair cut. A doodle can benefit from having a summer cut. We love the teddy bear hair cut but during the summer months we ask for it a little shorter around the muzzle. Avoid shaving if possible to protect your dogs skin.

4. Make a Frozen Treat

Ingredients:
5 strawberries
1/4 cup of plain greek yogurt
4 tbs water
1 tsp coconut oil

Directions:

1. Remove stalks off of strawberries
2. Put strawberries, greek yogurt, water, and oil into blender
3. Pour mixture into molds and freeze for 1-2 hours. We use the Groov for molds and snagged a discount code for you. Use MLF to save!

Make more of our dog friendly summer treats here!

5. Avoid the asphalt. Check the pavement for heat before taking your dog on a walk. Place your hand or bare foot on the surface for 5 seconds. If it’s too hot for you to keep your hand or foot on it then it is too hot for your them.

protect paws-01.jpeg
How To Teach A Puppy Their Name

Teaching a puppy their name is one of the first things it will learn! It’s easy, fun, and it will help you train your puppy in the future.

Teaching a puppy their name—

1. Get a handful of small soft treats. We love pupford.

2. Make sure there are no distractions in the area.

3. Put the treat near your eye and say the dogs name in a happy tone.

4. As soon as your dog looks at you mark the behavior with “Yes!”

5. Give the puppy a treat + praise.

6. Wait for the dog to look away and say it’s name again. Reward with treats.

7. Repeat! Repeat! Have another family member try and add distractions!

It’s important to keep it a positive game. Give it a try!


Dog Easter Basket Ideas
Easter item ideas to get your dog.

It’s Easter season and every dog deserves an Easter Basket full of goodies! We've hunted down the best dog-approved goodies that will provide hours of fun on Easter Sunday.


Dog Cookies: Spoil your pup with the CUTEST dog cookies. Wufers makes them look so good that you’ll want to eat them!! They are healthy and safe ingredients for your dog. They even have a DIY cookie box that you can decorate the cookies. We had so much fun doing this with my kids. Watch it here.

Carrot Toy: Durable chew toy that has fun textures for your dog. It helps reduce anxiety and boredom and even helps clean their teeth.

Bunny: Saw this bunny and had to get it! I mean… every dog needs a stuffed animal to get in their basket.

Easter Bandana: You know how much we love Doodledoodanas! They have the cutest spring prints.

Poop Bag Holder: Classic poop bag that attaches perfectly to any leash.

Groov: The Groov has endless possibilities! It attaches to your puppy's wire crate to make crate training easy by encouraging licking and reducing stress. It can also be a frozen popsicle mold. We love making our own healthy dog treats to put in the mold.

Treats: Store-bought vs Homemade

As a Goldendoodle owner, you want to give your furry friend the best treats possible. When it comes to treats, you have two options: store-bought or homemade. Both have their own pros and cons, so it's important to weigh your options and decide which the best choice is for you and your Goldendoodle. In this article, we'll explore the benefits and drawbacks of each option.

Store-Bought Treats

Store-bought treats are pre-packaged dog treats that you can purchase from a pet store, supermarket, or online retailer. They come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and flavors, including soft treats, crunchy treats, and everything in between. Many store-bought treats are formulated to meet specific dietary needs, such as low-calorie or grain-free options, and contain all the essential nutrients that your dog needs to thrive.

Store-bought treats offer convenience to pet owners, as they are readily available and easy to purchase. They also provide a wide variety of options, making it easy to find something that your dog will enjoy. However, there are some downsides to store-bought treats. They can be more expensive than homemade treats, especially if you opt for premium brands. Some store-bought treats also contain low-quality ingredients, preservatives, and artificial colors and flavors that may not be the best for your dog's health. Additionally, when you buy store-bought treats, you have no control over the ingredients that are used, which means that you cannot choose treats that are free from specific allergens or preservatives.

Cons:

  • Cost: Store-bought treats can be more expensive than homemade treats, especially if you choose premium brands.

  • Quality Control: Some store-bought treats contain low-quality ingredients, preservatives, and artificial colors and flavors that can be harmful to your dog.

  • Lack of Control over Ingredients: When you buy store-bought treats, you have no control over the ingredients used, which means you can't choose treats that are free from specific allergens or preservatives.

  • Overconsumption: Store-bought treats can be highly palatable, which means that dogs may overconsume them and gain weight.

  • Allergies and Dietary Restrictions: Some dogs may have allergies or dietary restrictions that require a special type of treat that cannot be found in stores.

 Pros:

  • Convenience: Store-bought treats are easy to find and purchase. They can be found in pet stores, supermarkets, and online retailers, making them a convenient option for busy pet owners.

  • Wide Variety: Store-bought treats come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and flavors, so you can find something that your dog will love.

  • Nutritional Value: Many brands of store-bought treats are formulated to meet specific dietary needs and contain essential nutrients that your dog needs to thrive.

  • Ready to Eat: Store-bought treats are usually ready to eat right out of the bag, which can be helpful if you're on-the-go.

  • Long Shelf Life: Store-bought treats have a longer shelf life than homemade treats, which means that you can buy them in bulk and save money in the long run.

Homemade Treats

Homemade treats are dog treats that you can make in your own kitchen using a variety of ingredients. When you make your own treats, you have complete control over the ingredients that you use, which allows you to choose high-quality, nutritious ingredients that are safe and healthy for your dog. Homemade treats can be customized to suit your dog's individual tastes and dietary restrictions, making them a great option for dogs with food allergies or other dietary concerns.

Making your own treats can be a fun and rewarding activity for both you and your dog, and it allows you to bond with your pet while providing them with a tasty and nutritious snack. There are many different recipes and ideas available online or in pet care books that can help you create homemade treats that are both delicious and healthy for your dog. While making your own treats can be time-consuming and may require more effort than buying pre-made treats, the benefits of knowing exactly what your dog is eating and tailoring the ingredients to their needs can be well worth it.

Cons:

  • Time-consuming: Making treats at home can be a time-consuming process, particularly if you are making them from scratch.

  • Limited shelf life: Homemade treats typically have a shorter shelf life than store-bought treats, so you may need to make them more frequently.

  • Lack of variety: Homemade treats may be limited by the ingredients you have on hand, which could mean a lack of variety for your pet.

  • Inconsistent results: Homemade treats may not always turn out the way you want them to, particularly if you are experimenting with new recipes.

  • Food safety: If you are not careful with food safety practices, homemade treats could pose a risk of foodborne illness for your dog. It's important to follow safe food handling procedures and store the treats properly.

Pros:

  • Customization: With homemade treats, you have complete control over the ingredients you use. You can tailor the treats to your dog's taste preferences and dietary restrictions.

  •   Quality control: You know exactly what is going into the treats, and can ensure they are made with high-quality, nutritious ingredients.

  • Cost-effective: Homemade treats can be less expensive than store-bought treats, particularly if you buy ingredients in bulk or use leftovers from your own meals.

  • Freshness: Homemade treats are made fresh and do not contain preservatives, which can be beneficial for your dog's health.

  • Bonding experience: Making treats for your dog can be a fun bonding experience, allowing you to spend quality time together and show your pet how much you care.

In conclusion, both store-bought and homemade treats have their benefits and drawbacks when it comes to treating your Goldendoodle. Store-bought treats offer convenience, a variety of options, and nutritional value, but can be expensive and have questionable ingredients. Homemade treats are cost-effective, customizable, and offer quality control, but can be time-consuming and limited in variety.

At AltPet.net, we understand the importance of choosing the right treats for your Goldendoodle, and we offer a wide range of options to help you make the best choice for your pet. Whether you choose store-bought or homemade treats, you can be sure that your Goldendoodle will love that treats.

The choice between store-bought and homemade treats ultimately depends on your personal preferences and your dog's dietary needs. If you're looking for convenience and a wide variety of options, store-bought treats may be the best choice for you. However, if you're concerned about the quality of ingredients and want to customize your dog's treats to suit their specific needs, homemade treats may be the way to go.

Regardless of which option you choose, always make sure to read the labels carefully to ensure that the treats are safe and nutritious for your dog. Also, remember to give treats in moderation to avoid overfeeding and to maintain your dog's overall health and well-being. With a little bit of research and effort, you can provide your Goldendoodle with delicious and nutritious treats that will make them wag their tail with joy!

How To Safely Socialize A Puppy
red goldendoodle dog on couch

Socializing a puppy safely is an important part of the process of raising a happy, healthy, and well-balanced dog. Lets go over why socializing is important, when to start, and how to do it correctly.

Why Socialize Your Puppy?

“Your dog’s brain is most capable of processing and accepting new experiences between 3 and 14 weeks old.”

During a puppy’s first three months of life, they will experience a socialization period that will permanently shape their personality. Gently and carefully exposing them to people, places, sounds, and situations makes a great difference in the dog they will become.

When to socialize your puppy?

When you get a puppy from a responsible breeder, the socialization process should start before you even bring your dog home. Gentle handling by a breeder in the first several weeks of your puppy’s life is helpful in the development of a friendly, confident, and well balanced dog. Breeders can do so much to begin the socialization process. Here at MLF we do Neurological Training, Scent Training, sound training, and so much more to ensure the puppy is off to a good start.

As soon as you bring your puppy home you should continue socializing.

How to SOCIALIZE your puppy?

red goldendoodle on a beach holding a seashell

Introduce puppy to new environments, sounds, and people

It is crucial that your puppy is socialized safely with people (young and elderly), sounds, places, vehicles, animals, and other environments. Some fun socializing ideas include: go to a friends house, listen to our sound training playlist, go for a drive, meet a young and old person, and someone in a wheelchair. Think of it as fun game! Here’s a checklist that we send home with our puppy families.

red goldendoodles exploring the city

Keep it brief and fun

It’s important to keep outings and socializing brief and fun! Give your puppy plenty of treats and positive reinforcement for good behavior. The best way to socialize a puppy is to avoid frightening experiences as your puppy learns what’s normal and safe. Puppies’ minds are very impressionable, especially during the puppy socialization period. Bad experiences can make as much of an impact as good ones. An encounter with an aggressive dog, for instance, could leave your puppy with a phobia of other dogs that can be very difficult to overcome.

red goldendoodles in a shopping cart

Challenge them

Once your puppy is fully vaccinated and cleared by the vet you can now move outside of their comfort zone and expand the amount of new experiences it will have. Take them to dog friendly stores, over to a friend’s house for a doggy playdate, on different streets in the neighborhood, etc.

Safely exposing your puppy to all the world has to offer will set them up for a successful happy life. Begin today and start going down our “Puppy Socialization Guide”. Happy socializing!

Holiday Gift Guide for Dogs 2022
A list of dog items. Such as, bones, blankets, spray, poop bags, lick mats, grooming kit, dog camera, training treats and more!

Christmas is around the corner and we have rounded up some of our favorite dog finds!!

Saranoni Pet Blanket- If you’ve been following us, you know how much we love Saranoni!! We own several blankets and even send home a small scented blanket with each of our puppies. They just recently launched their new plush pet blanket. We guarantee your pup will love it! Do yourself a favor and get a matching one for you too!

Pupford Treats- ONLY 3 ingredients! These treats are the perfect size for training or to top on kibble. We have tried other treat companies and some are too big, messy, and filled with junk. With Pupford treats, you know exactly what you’re giving your pup. The bag will last a long time as there are over 475 treats.

Benebone- I’m pretty sure we are Benebone’s biggest fan! We buy one for each of our puppies for when they go to their forever homes. This bone will keep them busy for hours because they are SO durable and last weeks. Our dogs go wild over the bacon and chicken flavors.

Pupwell Grooming Kit- Doodles need regular brushing, it is essential to their health and well-being! The Basic Grooming Kit will keep your dog clean, fluffy, and mat-free! Included is a slicker brush, de-mating comb, fine tooth comb, and metal comb. Want to save time and money at the groomers? Pupwell also offers an Ultimate Grooming Kit. Use code MLF to get 10% off.

Henry Clean- Nothing is worse than a stinky dog. This product will keep your dog smelling fresh 24/7. They have 3 scents and we can’t decide what one is our favorite. They smell THAT good!

Airtag Holder- This is absolutely brilliant and so important for your dogs safety! Get this Holder and Apple Airtag and you’ll never have to worry about loosing your dog. Watch this video to see how it works.

Holiday Bandanas- Keep your dog looking stylish all holiday season with a Christmas Forest Bandana or a FaLaLa Bohemian bandana. The Love Paw has us swooning over their holiday prints.

Furbo Camera- Are you curious what your dog does all day? With this camera you can know! Added bonus- you can talk to them through it and give them treats!

Shampoo- Helps so much with itching and keeps your dogs coat shiny and soft.

Poop Bags- Tired of struggling to grab a poop bag on walks? Meet DIGGS first-ever no-tear poop bag roll. When we say these are a game changer, we’re not kidding! Plus these make a great stocking stuffer. Use code MLF10 to save!

Lick Mat- Lick Mats have SOO many benefits. They reduce anxiety, help mental simulation, improve digestion, and a great way to keep your dog busy. They are dishwasher and freezer safe!

Paw Wax- This stuff protects your dogs paws from being dry and cracking. It is magic and the reviews are amazing!

Toy Organizer- Dog toys end up everywhere in our house so having a designated bin is the best thing to keep an organized house.

Training A Goldendoodle

Training is an essential part of owning a dog. We teamed up with professional dog trainers at Cornerstone Dog Training to talk about all things dog training!

why is it important to train your dog?

Dog training is so vital to a dog and owner relationship. Boundaries make relationships thrive, and also help meet expectations. Dog training helps families and dogs live in a harmonious home.

What is your experience with training doodles?

“Doodle” breeds are on the rise, and we train a lot of them. In fact, a lot of our trainers are doodle owners themselves. It is no secret that certain breeds have been bred to do certain tasks. Golden retrievers, for example, were bred to hunt and retrieve. Poodles, were bred to be water wicking sport dogs. Both have amazing qualities, when bred together we see a variety of traits pull from both. One common trait we see pulling from the doodle gene pool is their eagerness to please. Sometimes, when a dog is eager to please, and they don’t understand the expectations, that’s where we see the anxiety because the rules aren’t clear. If your dog does have that anxiety, have no fear, dogs are survivors and once the boundaries are set, that anxiety fades.

What age should you start training?

The moment you get your dog home! Training is a lifestyle. There are many things you can do when your dog or puppy joins the family. We designed a program that helps you from day one get a dog of any age get through the first two weeks. As for professional training for puppies we recommend starting at 12 weeks old, there is a lot of patience and practice that goes into puppy training.

Dogs, at about 5 months (22 weeks) start to really grasp concepts. This is where the training gets really good. They are able to hold commands longer, with more distractions at greater distances.

 

online training program options

Kennel & Potty Training

Designed to train your dog from the moment they come home. This challenge trains them to be potty and crate trained in just 14 days!

Puppy Training Course

Designed for puppies 8-22 Weeks. This 8 week course comes with step-by-step instructional videos, training book, and puppy package. This gives you and your puppy a foundation to build on. Use code MLF20 for 20% off.

Chaos to Calm Course

At 5 months your puppy is ready for advanced training. This Online Program is 8 weeks and will help you navigate as your puppy is older. $700 off will be applied at checkout.

 

in-person training programs

One-on-one

Meet with a personal dog trainer every week for a personal training session. This is a 10 week program that will take you through all of the commands, on a field trip, and through to puppy graduation.

Mention MLF in person for $200 off

Board and Train

Don’t have time to do the initial work of training? This option is for you! Let the professionals take over.

Mention MLF in person for $200 off

What types of things will a puppy learn from your program? 

The biggest thing that we teach is Focus. Focus kills chaos. We put that focus to work! Focus allows us to teach place (sitting on a pillow), sit, lay down, socialization, heel, and to wait at the door. By teaching these things with focus, that means we can ask the dogs to do these things for long periods of time, no matter what the distraction. Puppies have a lower mental celling than older dogs, so we really push learning to focus and adding in the distractions, distances and durations during our advanced course.

Why should people choose cornerstone as their dog trainer?

At Cornerstone Dog Training, we are here to serve you. We have put countless hours of effort, thought and heart into our program. We recognize that there are a lot of trainers out there, what we offer is guaranteed results and satisfaction. Nothing makes us happier than an “underdog” story, a good dog that seemed unmanageable, but in the end, both owner and dog were in harmony. We encourage you to consider training and hope you can see how it can bless your life.

MLF puppy families + followers get a discount!

So excited that Cornerstone is giving all of our families a special discount!!
For online puppy training use code MLF20 for 20% off. For puppies over the age of 5 months we reccomend the Chaos to Calm Course a $700 discount will be applied at checkoutf!

For in-person training: Mention MLF for $200 OFF!

What Comes With A Puppy?

What is included when you get a puppy a puppy from us? TLC Dog Food, Saranoni Scent Patch, Training treats, Benebone, Cow toy (resemble the farm they grew up on), Vaccination records + health certificate, and go home instructions. As a cherry on top, we offer a 2 year health guarantee and lifetime support!!

Best Birthday Gifts To Give Your Dog

Is your dog’s birthday right around the corner? Our furry friends birthdays are worth celebrating!! Here’s a list of some fun gifts and treats they will enjoy.

Classy Bandana & Bows

Have your dog look in style on their birthday with some fun apparel. Cabbie (one of our previous puppies) has a discount. Use code: Cabbie15!

Dog Pad

Give the gift of comfort with this orthopedic dog pad that is made with high-quality memory foam. Both the cover and liner are fully removable and washable. This pad goes perfectly inside the Diggs crate too. We were able to snag a discount code for you! Use code MLF10 to save.

Homemade Cake

If you’re looking for a homemade treat for your pup’s birthday, check out this bone shaped cake mold + cake mix for $20! They have several different cake mixes to pick from: peanut butter, banana, pumpkin, and red velvet. Your dog will go wild over it.

Dog Ice Cream

Another fun treat your pup will love is ice cream! Puppy Scoops is an ice cream mix that you just add water to and freeze.

Birthday Toys

You can never go wrong with getting new toys! This fun birthday themed toy set is is only $14.99.

New Collar & Leashes

Having a birthday is always a great time to upgrade the collar and leashes.

Henry Spray

NOTHING is worse than a smelly dog! Henry Spray keeps your dog smelling fresh and clean 24/7. They have a few scents and we’re not exaggerating when we say they smell AMAZING.