Shopping Guide: Dog Momma Essentials

Posted 04/05/2011 by Cyd in Pets \ 1 comment

A freshly minted newlywed, I am hopelessly in love with design, paper and stationery, photography, architecture, fine wine, honing my culinary skills, traveling, good books, my new husband and our four year old black lab, Nina. I work full time in the wedding industry at letterpress stationer extraordinaire Bella Figura and I also coordinate weddings in my "free" time. Daydreaming about pretty things and scheming pretty projects is what I am all about.

As momma to two adorable doggies, I thought it’d be fun to share a few of my favorite doggie essentials. Our house is essentially run by our two lovable little girls (Nina, a 6 year old black lab and Colby, a 9 month old golden retriever), so we have our favorite toys and pet gear, and our favorite go-to places to score the goods. First up, gratuitous cute puppy photos…

nina
{image credited to Alice G. Patterson}

colby
{image credited to Cyd Converse}

Awwww. So cute, right? To say these two rule the roost is a bit of an understatement. (I’m willing to bet many of you can relate.) Herewith, the contents of the Nina and Colby doggie treasure chest…

pet-essentials

{all images credited to vendors, see below}

Here’s the breakdown:

  • Our girls love something soft and cuddly to snuggle with or to tear to bits. It’s just how they roll. They love their teddy bear from Martha Stewart for PetsMart.
  • True girly girls, pretty collars and matching leashes are a must. I am loving the collars from Kiss My Mutt.
  • Good old-fashioned, durable but still sleek – stainless steel dog bowls are the only way to go with two retrievers in the house.
  • Typically we try to keep the girls to organic treats and food. (Yes, I’m one of those dog moms.) That said, they love Milk Bones so we allow them to indulge from time to time.
  • For overzealous pups, a Gentle Leader is your best friend. Your arms will thank you.
  • I love all things Harry Barker, but their dog food storage containers are a favorite.
  • Hands down, the girls’ favorite toys are their Kong and Kong Wubbas. Plus, these toys are super durable and can hold up to active chewers.
  • Cozy dog beds rule! I like LLBean’s dog beds, which are durable, customizable and available in neutral colors that work with most decor.
  • Of course, a comfy doggie blanket is a must, too. I like Crate & Barrel’s dog blankets.
  • Pawz dog boots keep feet dry and free from mud, salt, anti-freeze and ice. A must for doggies in cold and/or wet climates!

So there you have our household favorites for keeping our kids happy. Do you have any pet parenting essentials?

we heart your comments!
  1. Our must is Ikea fleece blankets. They’re mine, but my dog loves them. We think it reminds him of being wrapped up in a warm towel when he was a baby. When it gets chilly at night, I’ll find him wrapped in my blanket in which he did himself. Somehow he manages to wrap himself up. He’s a funny guy.

Leave a Comment