v 4 issue 14: Furry Friends

We have chosen some fun items that will have your little ones showing off their love for four-legged tail-waggers. Is your child ready for a Doggie of their own? Check out our list of best dogs for toddlers.


Cover by Shalla Melton







1 Fabio longs for a sibling's companionship, and when it finally arrives...he's a little disappointed. Nonetheless, the whimsical pictures and rhymes of this delightful story continue on to teach us family, love, and friends come in all shapes and sizes. Find this heart-warming story written by Gillian Johnson @ tundrabooks.com for only $16.95

2 Karen Eileen Designs definitely added the whimsy factor to this tee. You can't help but giggle when you see this pooper of a dog. Fun, as always, Karen Eileen brings old-fashioned flair to all her products.

3 Who couldn't love a face like this? Mini-London is a cuddly polka-dot pooch from the expert knitters of blabla. White with gray and black spots, he's made of all natural fibers sown, grown and knitted in Peru.

4 Oink? That's right. Chirp Daddy shirts seems to pay homage to the misfit animals of the world, and we like it! The dog shirt and it's matching lunchbox are equally fantastic. And, considering you get two great products for the price of $32.-, you just can't lose.

5 Smart-e-dog is the interactive cuddly companion designed with fun and education in mind. With a quick connection to the internet, kids and parents can add new games, songs, and stories for ever-changing fun. A super upgrade from good 'ole Teddy Ruxpin.

6 Colette Kids has a knack for creating eye-pleasing graphic designs both girls and boys can enjoy. Rufus, a sweet version of man's best friend, happens to be our favorite. Just remember, you're getting a whole lotta love with this shirt, since each one is screen-printed by hand.

7 The quality of this boy's make noise canvas print has us barking with joy. It's an original, as is all the artwork you'll find at Kelly B. Rightsell. Sure to add a sparkle of fun to any child's room.

8 Follow Mo's Nose through the pages of a great little story with an even greater trick up it's sleeve. With press-2-smell technology, readers can actually smell what Mo the dog smells. A wonderful story inspired by the love of a rescue dog.


This weeks mom tips:

Financial Tip:
Installing an insulating jacket around your water heater and pipes can result in savings, as can turning the temperature of your water heater down to 110-120 degrees (no need to run it hotter).




Green Tip:
Have a plugged or slow-draining sink? Search a hardware store's plumbing shelves for a bacteria-based product. Its goal is to establish colonies of goop-eating, human-friendly bacteria that are supposed to keep drainpipes clear. To allow the critters time to establish themselves, pour in a little just before bedtime, after everyone has quit using the sinks.

Time Saving Tip:
This game is perfect for families with young kids. If the parents always pick up the toys, dirty laundry, etc. the kids will never learn how to do these tasks on their own. Instead, set a timer for 10 minutes. Have the kids run around picking up their things and putting them away. If they get everything done by the time the timer sounds, they win small prizes, such as being able to choose that afternoon's video to watch, or baking cookies with mom, or something else fun and enticing.

Organizing Tips:
Gels, sprays, curlers, combs and hair dryers take up a lot of space in the bathroom. For quick organization, buy a plastic tub for under the sink and load it up with your supplies.


Thinking about bringing a dog into your family?
Bringing a dog into a family is a great way to add fun and excitement to life. Having small children means that you have to take special care when choosing the dog for your family.

Choosing the right dog for your family and toddler is kind of like finding the missing piece of the puzzle. There are many pieces that may go with the overall look, but there will be one perfect fit. Looking at the general characteristics of a breed is a good starting point. As important as the breed characteristics, however, are the individual dog's bloodlines, health and temperament.

The Top 5 Dog Breeds for Families with Toddlers:

Number Five-
The golden retriever is one of the favorite dog breeds out there. They are a great type of dog for a family with young children. Their personality is one that is full of patience.

Number Four-
Labrador retrievers are lovable dogs that will make a great addition to your family. These dogs have a sweet temperament. They are playful and very smart. This helps them to be very protective of the family and children that they belong to.

Number Three-
The Newfoundland is surprisingly a good dog for families with small children. This giant is as gentle as a lamb. Teach your toddler at a young age to be respectful of the where the dog is and this breed of dog will be a great new family member.

Number Two-
The Collie was TV’s answer to the ultimate family dog. These wonderful family dogs are very protective of the family that they live with. They are also very intelligent. Think of Lassie saving Timmy from the well. Your Collie may not be that heroic, but the love that it will give your family will set it in a class all by itself.

Number One-
The Brittany Spaniel is a medium dog with a big heart. These dogs are intelligent and full of energy. The nice thing about their size is that they are easily handled and trained.

When you are out looking for that perfect fit, think about pet adoption. Home4theHolidays specializes in pet adoption.

By looking into adoption, you will be helping out a dog that is in need of a loving home. One of the worse places to look for that perfect fit for your family is the puppy mills. These places breed dogs that are mistreated and often sold to unsuspecting families sick. Beware- some pet stores buy from puppy mills.
If you are looking for a full breed dog check out reputable breeders. Ask for references!

Sent in by one of our Tot Trends Readers:










We want to see your adorable tots with their pets! We will post them in the next few weeks. (Please be sure to send web sized files) contact@tottrendsweekly.com