Chill out: Suzy Azalea explains methods to keep your dog warm in winter

Suzy Azalea Photo credit: BaxterBoo.com

Suzy Azalea knows that the winter season can be harsh on animals. An independent dog breeder and trainer, she has seen her fair share of dog owners who are confused with which ways to care for their beloved pets when the cold sets in. While covering one's dog with a blanket is helpful, there are many other ways to keep one's prized canines feeling nice and cozy when the season of frost sets in.

Suzy Azalea Photo credit: cute-pets.net

• Outside dogs will need copious amounts of hay in their doghouses. This is done in order to prevent the pads of their feet from coming into direct contact with ice or snow.


• Inside dogs benefit the most from snuggling under a blanket during winter. Suzy Azalea explains that as they are used to living in a nice, warm environment, they cannot be placed outside for very long in winter weather. Doing so will result in them easily freezing to death or getting pneumonia.


• Keeping your pet’s heavy fur brushed is also important at this time. That prevents the forming of knots, which bare the dog's skin to the elements and could possibly pull hard enough to tear the skin loose.


• Small, short-haired dogs like chihuahuas and rat-terriers need special attention as they have very little built-in natural protection.

Suzy Azalea Photo credit: Petswelcome.com

For more helpful hints, follow Suzy Azalea on Twitter.

Bringing Gioia: Suzy Azalea on transcending stereotypes by bringing joy

Pit bulls are notorious for being temperamental and violent. Many are scared of adopting them because of the breed's unfavorable reputation. Canine expert Suzy Azalea begs to differ.

Suzy Azalea Photo credit: audreyjm529

Having lived in California most of her life, Suzy is familiar with the horror stories and stereotyping of pits. She owns a pit bull and enjoys bonding with the dog. Yet one day while driving along South Central Los Angeles, she witnessed a scene that's bound to change the way the world perceives pit bulls forever.


Suzy saw a small and dirty pit bull running up and down a street in downtown Los Angeles. The puppy was running from one person to the other, begging wordlessly to be picked up. Suzy was about to act when she saw a woman inside a car from across the street watching the stray dog earnestly.

Suzy Azalea Photo credit: tearsofscarletx

As someone who knew the strength of the bond between a dog and its owner, Suzy Azalea decided to watch what would happen next. The woman, Cora Palma, pulled over her car. The pit immediately ran up to her and almost leaped into her arms.


Suzy witnessed the initial bond between the two of them, and knew that the dog had then and there been placed in good hands. A week ago, as she was browsing the Dog Whisperer Cesar Millan's site, she read about the story of Cora and how she adopted Gioia, an Italian girl’s name that means Joy.


True to her name, Gioia proceeded to provide Cora as well as her friends and family with joy, given her boundless energy and innate friendliness. Their full story may be accessed here.

Suzy Azalea Photo Credit: ZooToo.Com

Suzy Azalea is a dog breeder and trainer. Additional information about her is available at SuzyAzalea.com.

Suzy Azalea on finding dog boarding facilities

From parkerblog.wordpress.com

Hi! I’m Suzy Azalea, your friendly dog trainer.

When the need for you to travel comes, as pet owners, you get anxious about leaving your dogs behind. Some of you hire dog sitters or ask help from relatives or neighbors. However, you are bothered whether your dogs are in the best of care while you’re gone. Here is one of the best ways that you can do to dismiss any thoughts of worries: doggie day cares.

The coolest and most reputable boarding facilities house will handle your darling dogs with utmost care and individualized supervision. Most of them don’t just provide temporary space for dogs but also give pet guests freebies like doggie treats and fun activities. With these, you can take that much needed worry-free vacation.

From anjuandirectory.com

However, I, Suzy Azalea, must warn you pet owners that not all pet accommodation facilities are competitive enough to provide the best in dog boarding. Read on and find out why. Veteran dog owners may even miss out on things that should be considered in choosing the facility. Before making that decision to enrol your pooch into a dog boarding facility, make a checklist like the one below:
• Plan and avoid drastic decisions. Visit the facilities to check their cleanliness and safety standards. Find out how much exposure your dogs are going to have with other animals.
• Know if your dogs will be provided with walking sessions, playing time, and grooming periods.
• See what your dogs are going to eat. If your pets need special diets, then provide food for your dog and be sure to leave instructions to those caring for them.
• Ask what happens if your dog gets sick while in their care.

Learn more about dogs by following me on Twitter.

From europeanhavanese.com

A clean dog is a happy dog: Suzy Azalea shares some grooming tips for your dogs

This is Suzy Azalea, a dog trainer and breeder, and blogger. My friends have been asking me questions about proper dog grooming. Here are my answers to the FAQs regarding this matter:

From Suzy Azalea

1. Is it advisable to shave the coat?
While shaving can make you cut down on dog hair product expenses, it is not a good idea. Dog hair is there for a purpose – to protect the dog from cold and hot temperatures, and other elements that are harmful for them.
2. Is pulling hair from the ears harmful for dogs?
Hair growth is normal but too much of it can cause irritation or infection. Take special attention to this Suzy Azalea tip because a dog’s ears are very sensitive. For the dog to not feel so much pain, the best way to remove the unwanted dog hair is by pulling a few hair strands at a time and applying ear powder afterwards.

From Suzy Azalea

3. What is the proper way of brushing dog hair?
This is easy to do but if not done conscientiously, it can spell trouble. Slowly brush or comb the hair beginning at your dog’s neck moving down to his belly and then to his tail. Do this to create a flat and shiny effect on the coat. Always praise your pet after this by giving treats. This will motivate him to cooperate more whenever he is being groomed.

From Suzy Azalea

More Suzy Azalea blogs can be found atBlogspot.

Suzy Azalea cites the world’s friendliest dogs

Hi, this is Suzy Azalea, a dog breeder and trainer.
There are several dog breeds that are friendly to either humans or other animals, or both. However, there are breeds that are friendlier. This predisposition actually depends on the complexity of the dogs’ environment, conditioning, training, and other unique circumstances. The American Kennel Association recognizes certain breeds that are friendly to people and/or other pets.

From Suzy Azalea

Dogs that fit the description of friendly breeds manifest characteristics that pet owners would love to have in their dogs. People wouldn’t want to bring their pooches outdoors just to bark at everyone or destroy everything that gets in their way.
Which dogs belong to the friendly breeds? I, Suzy Azalea own a list of these four breeds:
1. Labrador and Golden Retriever – These sporting dogs’ loving nature, gentleness, and playfulness make them a top choice for many families. Even in adulthood, they retain their softness.

From Suzy Azalea

2. Shih Tzu – Children love this breed for its overall appearance. When you properly keep and comb its thick coat, it can be very attractive. A Shih Tzu is a companion dog and is highly sociable.
3. Pug – This breed is famous for its adorable and wrinkled face. It loves to play with and stay close to his master as much as it can. This breed is highly trainable and very loyal to its owner.
4. Great Dane – This breed may be a giant compared to other friendly breeds but gentleness runs in its blood. It is known for its mild manners and patience around people.

From Suzy Azalea

For more information about dog breeds, see SuzyAzalea.com.

Suzy Azalea unveils dogs’ priceless dexterity

From Suzy Azalea

Suzy Azalea, an independent dog breeder, believes that dogs are able to adopt or copy human actions. They eagerly follow their owner's orders, as if their tasks are permanently stamped on their minds. Such skills make them trainable by dog enthusiasts.



Like no one else in the animal world, dogs act as a close human companion; they have been by man’s side through hunting, herding, or just passing time. Reputed as highly intelligent and attentive, they’ve stood beside guards, sniffed bombs, and searched for dead or alive bodies.

From Suzy Azalea

With a variety of dog breeds that is out there, three kinds have made it to Suzy Azalea’s list of the most dexterous types.



Rottweiler. Ever imagined a dog in a cop’s uniform? Rottweilers certainly aren’t police officers but they are rigidly helpful in various police procedures like search and rescue operations, making them a most helpful partner in resolving crimes.



Golden Retriever. This breed of dog possesses an eager-to-please demeanor that makes it an ideal household pet. However, its versatile abilities make it a terrific buddy for hunting, guiding the blind, and even detecting illegal drugs.



German Shepherd. Considered as the 3rd most dexterous breed among the canine family, the German shepherd is primarily valued for its intelligence and strength. It has been crucially helpful in police and military roles around the world as it obeys the first commands 95% of the time.

From Suzy Azalea

More details about Suzy Azalea are found at SuzyAzalea.com.

Doggie Dental Dilemmas: Suzy Azalea Gives Tips on Keeping Your Pooch's Teeth Healthy

From Suzy Azalea

Humans aren’t the only creatures who need excellent dental hygiene. Suzy Azalea frequently gets questions about doggy dental problems from owners who say that their pets have been showing the following symptoms:

• Halitosis or bad breath
• Red and puffy or bleeding gums
• Increased salivation
• Reluctance to chew or crying out when chewing
• Missing or loose teeth

These are definitely signs of poor dental hygiene in dogs. A proper inspection of the dog’s teeth can be done by lifting the lips all around the mouth and looking at both front and back teeth as closely as possible.

From Suzy Azalea

What are the dangers of these symptoms? Plaque buildup can result into calculus, a hard coating on the teeth that is usually brown or yellow, which grows bacteria that slowly eat away onto the teeth. Suzy Azalea adds that the other symptoms, such as halitosis, periodontal disease, and tooth loss, can follow soon after.

Suzy also reminds owners that this kind of damage isn’t limited in the dog’s mouth—that same bacteria can do serious damage to a dog’s heart and kidneys as well. Addressing the dental problem immediately is always the best bet.

Suzy offers pet owners some very valuable tips about a dog’s dental care at this point. As plaque often turns to tartar and calculus from 24 to 48 hours, brushing is recommended. Use a finger brush or a long toothbrush designed for dogs. Never ever brush your dog’s teeth using human toothpaste. In many instances, what is good for a human is not good for a dog, and this is one of those cases. Use special enzymatic toothpaste specially formulated for dogs.

Find more excellent dog care tips and tricks from Suzy Azalea’s Facebook page.

From Suzy Azalea

Suzy Azalea: Dog Training 101

From Suzy Azalea

New dog owners always look for training tips from dog-breeder Suzy Azalea. The owners are often anxious to get their new dogs housebroken and used to attention expected to be heaped upon them. For most cases, it is recommended that training is started as early as possible. Older dogs can still be trained, but the best results often come from dogs that have been used to this kind of training and activity as puppies.

It is important to make sure training is done as gently and humanely as possible. Positive motivational methods are primarily advised as an upbeat training session will make the dog more comfortable and more motivated to continue. Owners should also carefully gauge how their dogs react to them on a normal basis indoors. Suzy Azalea says that if the dog isn’t responsive indoors, it is far more unlikely to respond outdoors, where there are many distractions.

From Suzy Azalea

As much as possible, commands that can’t be enforced should be avoided, as the dog might understand that such a command is optional and needn’t be done at all. The dog must understand that any issued command is imperative. One command to one response: it is advisable to give the command once, and then gently reinforce it. Avoid using a loud tone—the command needs to be calm and authoritative. Yelling at the dog, especially if it is still a puppy, will only frighten it and place it under even more stress.

More of Suzy Azalea’s dog training tips can be found at her Facebook page.

From Suzy Azalea

Suzy Azalea Defends Pit Bull Terriers: The Truth about the Most Misunderstood Dog Breed on the World

In evaluations conducted by the American Temperament Testing Society (ATTS), the pit bull terrier passed at a rate of 89.6%, 5 points higher than golden retrievers. Dog breeder Suzy Azalea agrees with the test and adds, “if pit bulls are dangerous and unpredictable animals, how can you explain this very high passing rate?”

Suzy Azalea’s Pit Bull Terrier Lance

Indeed, criticisms and negative stories about pit bulls are rampant and often hyped up by the media. But Azalea maintains that a dog’s character is not a reflection of its breed, but its training.


Like most dogs, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier or a pit bull is a pack animal that needs a dominant leader. A pit bull only shows aggression when it is not properly trained, or if it's abused or provoked. In fact, the breed is known for its compassionate demeanor, so much so that it was the closest thing the United States had to a national dog.

Suzy Azalea Photo Credit: Pitbulls.Org

Suzy Azalea, who also trains dogs, says that she has trained hundreds of pit bulls in the past, but not one of them turned on her without severe provocation. “Pit bulls are very affectionate dogs. Once you’ve established who the leader in your home is, the pit bull would do nothing but to try its best to please you,” she adds.

Suzy Azalea Photo Credit: ZooToo.Com

Azalea owns a slew of dogs of different breeds, including dachshunds, golden retrievers, and pit bulls. More information on the dog breeder and trainer is available at her blog.

Suzy Azalea Photo Credit: Sports Illustrated

Cavorting Past Canine Cavities: Suzy Azalea Teaches Doggy Dental Care

From Suzy Azalea

This is Suzy Azalea, breeder, trainer, and lifelong lover of dogs. One of the most common afflictions to which our frisky, furry friends are prone is gum disease. In fact, studies have proven that nearly 85% of cats and dogs over 3 years of age will show signs of either gingivitis, which is the inflammation of the gums, or periodontitis, which refers to the inflammation and infection of both the ligaments and the bone supporting the teeth, as a result of a lack of proper dental care and hygiene. This blog contains a list of steps that help maintain your pooch’s 10,000 megawatt smile.

From Suzy Azalea

• Breath Test –If poor Max has unusually offensive breath and has been experiencing a loss of appetite, frequent vomiting, or excessive drinking and urinating, I, Suzy Azalea, recommend that you take him to the vet.
• Gum and Teeth Inspection – Once a week, lift your dog’s lips and check the situation out. The gums should be pink – not white or red – and should show no signs of swelling. The teeth should be clean and devoid of brownish tartar.
• Toothbrush Kit – Have your vet make a specialized brush or use a fresh piece of soft gauze wrapped around your finger to brush Maggie’s chompers. Never use human toothpaste because this irritates dogs’ stomachs. Instead, ask your vet for a good formulation for your pet, or make some yourself out of baking soda and water.
• Brushing Technique – With your brush or gauze-wrapped finger at a 45-degree angle to Sam’s teeth, clean each tooth in small, circular motions, 2 to 3 times a week. Work one area at a time, lifting the lips if needed. Use downward strokes on the sides that touch the cheek, where tartar accumulates the most.

Follow Suzy Azalea on Twitter and Facebook.

From Suzy Azalea

Suzy Azalea Warns Pet Owners: Certain Home Food Are Hazardous to Dogs!

From Suzy Azalea

As an experienced dog breeder, Suzy Azalea has found that many dog owners are not completely well-informed when it comes to feeding their dogs. To begin with, it has always been not advisable to feed dogs solely table scraps because not only could they ruin their appetites, they also do not provide balanced nutrition. Dogs have a physical makeup that's different from that of a human's. Thus, they need specifically formulated food—created for their type and breed—that will provide them with the nutrients they need to stay healthy and strong.

From Suzy Azalea

However, few pet owners know that some human food are not just inappropriate for dogs, some have also been proven to be hazardous and even fatal to them. According to Suzy Azalea, owners should be made aware of this even if they do not feed their dogs table scraps, so that they can make sure that these particular food and substances are kept away from their pets’ reach.

Food to keep out of reach of dogs

Alcoholic beverages can cause intoxication in dogs, even coma and death. Avocado leaves, seeds, fruit and bark contain persin and may induce vomiting and diarrhea. Meat should also be carefully checked before given to dogs as bones from fish, poultry, and other meat sources can in fact lacerate a dog’s digestive system.

Fish in general is not advisable to be fed to dogs exclusively because of thiamine content that could lead to seizures and even death in severe cases. Chocolate, coffee, and tea also contain toxins that could affect the heart and nervous systems of dogs. Even fat trimmings can cause pancreatitis. Finally, onions and garlic should be watched out for, as their sulfoxides and disulfides can cause red blood cell damage and cause anemia.

Follow Suzy Azalea on Twitter for more pet care updates.

From Suzy Azalea

Suzy Azalea’s Helpful Tips on Bathing Your Dog

I am Suzy Azalea, independent canine breeder and trainer. I have worked with countless dogs over the years, and I know from experience that some of them can be quite resistant during bath time. Bathing dogs can be a very messy affair, but when done properly, it can be a tolerable – even pleasant – experience for both you and your dog.

From Suzy Azalea courtesy of http://www.dogsontheblog.com

How often you need to bathe your dogs and what products you need to use depend on their breeds and lifestyles. If your dog plays outdoors a lot, he might need more frequent baths. Dogs with smooth coats require fewer baths, while some breeds like poodles require more. According to Suzy Azalea,'s Dog Bathing 101, however, you should avoid giving dogs baths as frequently as once a week – this is because bathing too often can cause their coats to dry out.

From Suzy Azalea courtesy of http://www.dogsgossip.com

Brush your dogs well before they get near the water, because dead, shedding fur has to be removed from the coat and undercoat and make sure that knots, tangles or mats are removed. Dirt and shampoo can remain in the mats, making them tighter, and water won’t be able to clean them completely. Invest in a gentle dog shampoo to keep your dog’s skin and coat in top shape. Wet the dog from neck to the tail, and then shampoo the hind legs, then the tail and the rear end. Next, shampoo the body, chest, and front legs. Very carefully wet the head, face, and ears and be careful not to get any suds in the dog’s eyes. Rinse the dog thoroughly, starting from the head, face, and ears, then to the body and legs. To rinse the underside of the dog, have him stand on his hind legs by lifting his front paws. Follow the same order when toweling the dog dry.

From Suzy Azalea courtesy of http://www.petsfoto.com

Learn more dog grooming tips at www.twitter.com/suzyazalea.

Suzy Azalea on the Smartest Dog Breeds in the World

Hi there, my name is Suzy Azalea. I am an independent canine breeder and trainer, and to say that I am absolutely in love with dogs would be a gross understatement. Ever since they were first domesticated over 15,000 years ago, dogs have quickly made themselves invaluable to the daily functions of human settlements the world over, earning roles in societies as guards, laborers, herders, aids, hunters, pets, sniffers, and companions.

From Suzy Azalea courtesy of istockphoto.com

As descendants of the gray wolf, dogs have inherited the same complex social hierarchy innate in a pack of hunters, in which a pack is led by the dominant “alpha wolf,” and situations are addressed via an instinctive dexterity for non-verbal communication.

From Suzy Azalea courtesy of istockphoto.com

I, Suzy Azalea, believe that the reason dogs have been indispensable to man lies in the fact that they are extremely intelligent creatures. Dogs are naturally capable of interpreting and responding to signals and gestures correctly, and this makes them easy to teach and train.

From Suzy Azalea courtesy of cutepuppiesforsale.net

The Rottweiler is one of the best guard dogs because of its intense acumen and courage, but it also makes a great family dog on account of its staunch loyalty.

From Suzy Azalea courtesy of 3.bp.blogspot.com

The Golden Retriever, on the other hand, is the most energetic and playful breed. It is also the most affectionate and most intuitive of humans’ feelings; it is as good at performing tricks as it is at frolicking among children.

From Suzy Azalea courtesy of webmd.com

From Suzy Azalea courtesy of istockphoto.com

The German Shepherd is a prompt, loyal guard dog; not only is it smart and brave, it is also fiercely protective of its master. Popular as a police search or rescue dog, German Shepherds need a purpose in its life in order to be truly happy, just like humans.

From Suzy Azalea courtesy of 123f.com

Learn more of my thoughts on the smartest dogs in the world as well as other canine ruminations of mine at suzyazalea.livejournal.com.