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...beautifully made and rather special...

...exquisitely made – workmanship is top notch...

...it’s gorgeous – thank you..

...how fabulous....
...the epitome of canine style....

...beautifully designed....

...the dog bed is fab....

....the new collar is perfect....

....loved the detail....

...the coats are really beautiful....

....the most beautiful collar....

...absolutely perfect....

 

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Rabbit: the Lovemydog muse and inspiration for the brand

Friday, December 15th, 2017

Our muse, Rabbit, joined the studio in 2007. He is half Norfolk Terrier and half Jack Russell, but
100% personality. Not to be confused, Rabbit does not actually contain any traces of the hopping
creatures, although he does spend his days bouncing around the office trying to see who will give
him a treat or a scratch.

Rabbit at the Lovemydog Studio

Rabbit’s typical day at the Lovemydog Studio

Lilly gets her best ideas when she is out and about in London with Rabbit, cycling around with him in the basket of her bike. He is always the first to try on all of the new designs. And, like any dog, he is really a human in disguise and has special ways to tell Lilly what he likes (or doesn’t!) about a new creation. Who knew a 10-pound pooch could have such an opinion.

 

Lilly and Rabbit cycling in East London looking for inspiration

Lilly and Rabbit cycling in East London looking for inspiration

Rabbit’s Favorite Picks? Well, he can often be seen donning the Hanbury RE16 Collar (and matching Lead when he needs to step out of the studio for a wee). For those brisk winter mornings, Rabbit loves his fashionable Watney Duffle Dog Coat. And most importantly, for lounging in the office, Rabbit nestles in his Sutton Pet Carrier, that doubles as a bed for the occasional afternoon snooze. After all, being the inspiration behind a business can be quite exhausti

Rabbit in his Harris Tweed Watney Duffle Dog Coat

Rabbit in his Harris Tweed Watney Duffle Dog Coat

Rabbit getting ready for his afternoon nap in the Sutton Denim dog carrier

Rabbit getting ready for his afternoon nap in the Sutton Denim dog carrier

Rabbit's favourite dog lead for his lunch time walks from the Studio

Rabbit’s favourite dog lead for his lunch time walks from the Studio

To see what Rabbit’s up to, follow him on Instagram at @rabbitlovemydog

 

Ada Liberty Print Dog Quilt Bed Protector

Monday, July 10th, 2017
Lettice the Mini Daxi on the Ada Liberty Dog Quilt

Lettice the Mini Daxi on the Ada Liberty Dog Quilt

Inspired by the kind of antique bedding you might see in your bohemian granny’s cottage in the rolling countryside, the LovemyDog Ada Dog Quilt features a vintage Liberty Print on one side and pure cotton chambray on the reverse. Hand crafted and lightly quilted it is ideal to protect your chairs and beds and so comfy for your dog – wherever they like to sleep. ” I particularly wanted something stylish but practical to go on my bed to stop Rabbit getting mud and marks on my bedsheets. Although he’s not really allowed in the bedroom he sneaks in there when I’m not looking!” says Creative Director Lilly Shahravesh.  Lettice the Miniature Dachshund is nestled in all cosy as you can see in the photo above but this bed spread is big enough for larger dogs like Labradors too. The Ada Dog Quilt is hand crafted in the UK and machine washable.

Lettice was a great model and as you can see was extremely relaxed in the photo shoot

Lettice was a great model and as you can see was extremely relaxed in the photo shoot

Matilda the Frenchie

Friday, June 30th, 2017
Matilda the Frenchie modelling the Hanbury RE16 collar and lead

Matilda the Frenchie modelling the Hanbury RE16 collar and lead

Countless hours go into hand-crafting each Hanbury collar from finest Italian Leather, softest nubuck and woven Scottish Tweed. The difference is in the details, from solid brass fittings, an extra loop to keep the leather tip flat and neat and the new LISH imprint – the hallmark of quality and luxury. Hanbury RE16 takes its design inspiration from the glorious blazers worn at Henley regatta which denote the club or country they represent and are often passed down through families.  The Hanbury collar and lead set seen here modelled by Matilda the Frenchie are from our LISH label, the high-end designs of our creative director and founder, Lilly Shahravesh under her new personal label.

Five reasons to love Harris Tweed

Friday, January 20th, 2017
Watney Duffle Coat, £145

Watney Duffle Coat, £145

Harris Tweed is a hallmark of LoveMyDog designs, used on everything from coats to carriers, collars and blankets. But what’s the story behind this wonderful woolly fabric? Here’s five things you might not know…

1 Made from pure wool, Harris Tweed is a breathable, non-allergenic fabric with amazing insulation qualities, so it will keep your dog warm all winter long. LoveMyDog founder Lilly Shahravesh has been working with it for over 13 years – her dog coats, blankets, beds and carriers all make use of this cosy material in cool tartan, checks and plain shades. The Watney Duffle Coat is a classic example, in Highland-chic red tartan.

Watney Duffle Coat, £145

Watney Duffle Coat, £145

2  Known in its native Scotland as ‘clo mor’ – or ‘big cloth’ – Harris Tweed is super practical, even for pooches who love to get into muddy scrapes. Just let the mud dry, then remove with a dry brush. Or, if walkies has been a really serious affair, a little soapy water and a damp cloth should do the trick. Our tweed is Teflon®-coated to repel stains – treat it well and it will last for years.

3 Harris Tweed is one of the most ecologically friendly fabrics in the world. It’s been made in the same way for over a century, using only hand looms. Almost zero energy goes into its manufacture and it’s made from all-natural virgin wool.

The Outer Hebrides, home of Harris Tweed®

The Outer Hebrides, home of Harris Tweed

4 So iconic is the fabric that it is protected by an Act of Parliament. The 1993 ruling decrees that Harris Tweed must by dyed, spun and woven in the home of an artisan weaver in the islands of the Outer Hebrides.

5 Despite its homely origins, Harris Tweed has made it onto the catwalks of Chanel and Prada – the ultimate example of heritage chic. LoveMyDog’s canine couture is just as carefully crafted, with tweed coats and carriers tailored to fit every size and breed. Why have anything else this winter?

Dog-friendly holidays: six boltholes you (and your pet) will love

Tuesday, July 19th, 2016

Have dog, will travel: we’ve selected our favourite pooch-friendly places to stay in the UK and beyond.

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There comes a time when you have to ask yourself: do I want to take the dog on a blissful luxury escape with me?

The answer is probably no. Until you see their face, mid-packing, that is. Sometimes, we just can’t shake the injustice: leaving our pooch behind riddles us with kennel guilt, but taking them opens realms of uncertainty. Where will we stay? Where will we eat? Drink? Relax?

Our holiday tips for happy dogs can provide you with plenty of alternative kennel options; but if you’re raring to take Buster on a doggy holiday, we’ve rounded up our the most beautiful places to stay.

The Devonshire Arms: Bolton Abbey, Yorkshire Dales, England

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Image source: The Devonshire Arms / Facebook

The Devonshire Arms claims to be the most dog-friendly hotel in Yorkshire – and we can see why. The country house and spa pulls out all the stops for four-legged friends: we’re talking a dog lounge, pet-concierge services (who think of everything), and even specially designed four-poster beds you can book to make your pup feel like Lord of the Mutts. Don’t let them get too comfy though; there is plenty of walking to be done in the Dales – the walk alongside the River Wharfe from the hotel to Bolton Abbey is an absolute treat.

Top tip: The great British weather has a habit of catching us out. Make sure your tail-wagger is suited out in the finest raincoat – this Liberty Print cotton raincoat is fully waterproof and exquisitely stylish.

 

The Thief: Oslo, Norway

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Image source: The Thief

Grab yourself a doggy passport and head to The Thief, Oslo’s art-laden luxury hotel that values woofs as much as its Warhols. Expect sleek design, unique spa treatments and even a disco-ball-inspired suite for boogie nights aplenty. Pups are treated to a VID (Very Important Dog) hamper with toy, treat and clean-up bags on arrival. All doggy amenities can be added to your room; including a special canine room service menu, dog-walking and sitting services (the pool beckons), and even birthday parties.

Top tip: Dogs can travel to continental Europe with the EU Pet Travel Scheme. Read our doggy holiday guide for more info on passports and other requirements.

 

The Byre: Exmoor, Devon, England

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Image source: Airbnb.com

Nothing says doggy holidays like an escape to the country. Airbnb property The Byre is straight out of a Beatrix Potter book; hidden away down the deep lanes of Devon. Plus, it’s all yours: the spacious cottage, tranquil garden and 27 acres of ancient woodland. As well as the surrounding wildlife, the property has a smallholding of horses, ponies, goats, chickens, cats and one dog (plus yours, when you get there).

Top tip: Is there a chance your dog may go slightly bonkers at the sight of a chicken be put on a lead? If so, The Byre hosts request you put your pooch on a lead. For something stylish, sophisticated and long-lasting, this red velvet dog lead is the one.

The Goodwood Hotel: Chichester, West Sussex, England

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Image source: Goodwood Hotel

 

This is British hospitality at its finest. As well as award-winning dining, elegant rooms and plenty of indulgence for humans, The Goodwood Hotel rolls out the red carpet for dogs. And that’s no overstatement – pooches actually gain access to their very own private members club here – The Kennels. Spend a night in the Hound Lounge where you will be serviced by a Goodwood butler, treating your pampered pup to impressive treats, such as organic pig ear. Dog-friendly walking maps are also on hand to plan out a brisk walkies in the beautiful surrounding estate.

Top tip: Make sure your hound looks the part, with this oh-so-British tweed dog collar.

 

The Cambrian: Adelboden, Switzerland

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Image source: The Cambrian

If there’s one thing you cannot put a price on, it’s crisp Alpine air. Take your dog for the trip of a lifetime in the heart of the Swiss Alps: rich, verdant meadows await in summer… and in the winter? Ski-heaven. The Cambrian hotel is your perfect base to explore that stunning landscape; offering a luxurious spa, restaurant, hydrotherapy pool and (very important) accommodation for dogs. Pets can stay at the ultra-modern hotel for CHF35 a night (about £27).

Top tip: If you’re heading out in snowy climates, make sure you’ve got your dog’s attire all wrapped up. We’re talking striking, showerproof, hand-cut coats; like this red harris tweed number inspired by the stars of the 1960’s.

 

Sheehys at Springfield B&B: Celbridge, County Kildare, Ireland

0c9e78a5_originalAny place that has two resident Great Danes and three pugs is a winner in our books. Even better if it’s located on 12 acres of glorious dog-walking grounds in the beautiful Irish countryside. The Sheehys at Springfrield B&B is a Georgian manor house in County Kildare – and a paradise for pet-owners. Expect fabulous rooms filled with antiques and art, pristine gardens and homemade baked goods from the Airbnb hostess, Libby. You won’t be short of things to do; horse riding, golf, fishing and shopping are all within a few miles with easy access.

Top tip: You’re staying at an Irish manor – what to wear? Not you, the dog! Keep your mutt nice and toasty from the wind in this yellow snood made from 100% pure wool.

 *Lead Image Source: The Devonshire Arms

Green paws: Garden designer Tommaso del Buono tells us how a squirrel-hunting terrier changed his life

Thursday, June 30th, 2016

Expert tips on creating a dog-tastic garden, plus tales of mischief with Rabbit’s sister Gina.
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Life goals: run your own design business, make that business garden design, absolutely take your dog to work with you.

Sounds like Chelsea gold medal winner Tommaso del Buono has pretty much nailed it. But how does having a slightly naughty Norfolk Terrier/Jack Russell cross really fit in with an international career designing high-end gardens?

We spoke to Tommaso about life with Gina, including squirrels, cat flaps and one particular disgrace involving baby deer.

“I’d been thinking about getting a dog for a long time but I travelled so much it was difficult,” he told us, “When I set up my own practice, I decided now was the time.”

“A friend’s dog was pregnant and once I saw the puppies that was it. I had wanted a boy dog – Gina was meant to be called Gino. But she was the one I loved.”

A cheeky little bundle of Norfolk Terrier/Jack Russell cross, Gina’s got a big personality for such a wee pooch.

“She’s very clever and very affectionate and she’s quite naughty,” said Tommaso, “She’s very small – but has no notion of her size.”

In fact, here at LoveMyDog we’ve got a pretty good idea about Gina’s personality; she’s the sister of our very own Rabbit, both pups of the lovely Tulip.

Once an unstoppable bouncing force of nature, Gina’s now a grande dame of 12 years old and has slowed down a bit – thank goodness.

Tommaso explained, “She still to this day likes chasing sticks, balls and squirrels. In no particular order.”

Just one look at Gina’s beady little eyes and you know it: that doggy boisterousness has landed her in hot water more than once.

One particularly epic squirrel hunt saw her scurry enthusiastically into the undergrowth in hot pursuit, only to scurry out equally swiftly sporting a nasty bite on her neck. It seems that Gina had accidentally trespassed on the property of a large and fearless rat.

And sassy Miss Gina’s not afraid of taking on much bigger creatures.

“On one occasion she chased some baby deer,” grimaced Tommaso, “I was working on a project in Berkshire, near Newbury. Luckily she didn’t catch them but that was the last time I could take Gina to that particular project …”

 

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Gina-free zone: del Buono Gazerwitz Landscape Architecture’s gold medal-winning Chelsea Flower Show garden for the Telegraph.

Obviously Gina is queen of the castle when it comes to her own garden, though. Tommaso and his partner have a country place where Gina has room for lots of doggy manoeuvres – and she makes sure the humans don’t get too comfy after a tough week at work.

“She always tries it on!” exclaimed Tommaso, “We’re constantly having to throw balls and sticks for her.

“Dogs and gardens don’t necessarily mix very well. She’ll dig where we’ve been digging and she runs through newly-planted beds – but she’s a small dog so the damage is limited.”

Even in the urban sprawl, the pair make the most of London’s green spaces. When Tommaso lived in Bayswater, Gina was a regular in Hyde Park. Her favourite hang-out now, though, is hip Victoria Park, which is particularly well-stocked with squirrels, not to mention a temptingly big lake for cooling doggy paddles on a sweltering day.

Having a four-legged best buddy has actually helped Tommaso when working with dog-owning clients. There’s nothing like experience to give you a special insight when asked to design pooch-friendly areas, so he’s all over important touches such as non-toxic planting and dog-friendly ponds.

“We don’t design around the dog but you have to bear the dog in mind,” he explained, “One thing that’s really important is making a place secure for a dog.

“I used to have a cottage in the middle of a field and Gina could get through the cat flap. She was very used to letting herself in and out and dogs are quite curious – they do like to explore.”

Sometimes more unusual challenges come up. Tommaso’s business del Buono Gazerwitz Landscape Architecture recently completed a garden where they uncovered an old air raid shelter.

Everyone agreed the shelter should stay, so they left it in situ but designed a bespoke metal grille to prevent the owner’s inquisitive Pomeranian dogs from wandering in.

Overall, it sounds like a bonus to us – hire Tommaso to design your garden and you get to hang out with Gina too.

“Still to this day Gina and I are quite inseparable,” he said, “She’s come with me to many sites, on many projects. Many clients know her and she’s come very much part of the office – and part of me really.”

For more proof that gardens can be dog-tastic havens AND gorgeously designed, check out the Dogs Trust garden at RHS Hampton Court Flower Show on Tuesday 5 – Sunday 10 July.

 

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Image source: Dogs Trust

 

Designed to celebrate the charity’s 125th year, this contemporary space includes sneaky sniffer tracks woven into the herbaceous borders for dogs to forage and sniff out treats. We might even have a try ourselves.

Walkies (and drinkies): the UK’s best dog-friendly rambles

Tuesday, June 21st, 2016

Wilderness rambles and an English country pub: it doesn’t get much better. Unless you’ve got a dog trotting alongside. Here’s our guide to the UK’s best pet-friendly pubs and nearby walks.

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From Cornwall to Cumbria, there’s little to beat stretching the legs and lungs in the good old English countryside. Add the tempting lure of a traditional pub garden on a sunny afternoon and all’s right with the world.

Here’s our edit of the best dog-friendly pubs with a handy stroll close at hand.

 

The King’s Arms and The Rattlebone Inn, Didmarton and Sherston, Cotswolds

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Image source: King’s Arms Didmarton

There’s a two-for-one on this circular walk, with the Rattlebone Inn at beginning and end in Sherston, with the King’s Arms at Didmarton marking the half-way point. And they’re both seriously chic.

The King’s Arms is all leather armchairs and picture windows, looking out onto a voluptuous country garden for sunny days. And they know their weekend market: supper is served until 10pm on a Friday night, so you can whiz down straight from the office after a long week and not go hungry.

It’s got spot-on canine credentials too. Resident dog-in-chief Spoof the Jack Russell is on standby for playtime and they even serve a doggy beer, Snuffle (yes, really). If you decide to hole up here for the weekend, four-legged guests are as pampered as their two-legged pals, with dog beds and treats available in the super chic rooms.

As for the Rattlebone Inn, no-one can say it lacks pedigree. A former favourite haunt of Prince Harry and friends, its modern bistro cuisine and real ales continues to attract the smart set. If you’ve any energy left after your walk, there’s a skittles alley and three boules pitches in the garden.

Ramble route: Start your walk at picture postcard-pretty Sherston, taking a circular route, mostly through open farmland. The walk follows the River Avon upstream through the gentle slopes of a valley.

Grab a leisurely beer at The King’s Arms and you’ll head back towards Sherston on a different path, ending up back at the Rattlebone Inn. If you’re lucky, they’ll have fired up the spit roast and be serving Argentinian Lamb Asados in the garden.

 

2. The Black Bull Inn, Coniston, Cumbria

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Image source: http://www.geog.port.ac.uk/

 

Thirsty travellers have been stopping in (and stumbling out) of this historic coaching inn for more than 400 years and they’re more than happy for pooches to pop through those historic doors, too.

The Black Bull doesn’t have the Farrow and Ball chic of the Cotswolds pair but it does have one big plus point. Out back, the pub has its own brewery, the home of Bluebird Bitter.

The Old Man mountain serves as a dramatic backdrop as you enjoy a fresh pint with your dog at your feet. But go easy, you’re going to be climbing that bad boy.

Ramble route: This circular walk is a proper hike, rather than a Sunday stroll, so it’s not for wimps or pups. You’ll zig-zag up the side of Stubthwaite Crag and finally peak the Old Man of Coniston, which clocks in at 803m. The stunning views are worth it though – and you’ll welcome that drink when you head back to the Black Bull.

 

Strike out into the countryside kitted out in the best of British design.

Treat your dog to a little something from the Appleby range, made from genuine Harris tweed. There’s a reason this fabric’s an enduring fashion favourite: as well as being super stylish, it’s tough enough to cope with snags from thorns, lasts for ages and washes beautifully.

Perfect for the four-legged countryside gent (or lady).

Appleby dog collar (from £52)

Appleby lead (from £62)

The Red Lion, Burnsall, Yorkshire Dales

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Image source: Red Lion

Looking for the authentic Yorkshire Dales experience? Burnsall’s just the baby. Historic stone buildings, Instagram-wowing river views and a slightly bonkers feast day (with games) every August.

The Red Lion is in the heart of the village, where it’s been packing ‘em in since the 16th century. The food has an AA rosette and the menu goes on for ever… (fussy eaters take note).

There’s a resident Jack Russell called Totty (what is it about pubs and Jack Russells?) and say hi to the Grayshons; they seem to rope in every generation to work in this genuine family business.

Ramble route: This is proper walking country. Wharfedale is on your doorstep and Burnsall is the first stop of the Dales Way, which runs from Ilkley to Windermere.

Ask the right people in the bar and they’ll tell tales of trolls that haunt a nearby limestone gorge, a wolf-infested ravine that inspired The Hound of the Baskervilles and caves housing flesh-eating boggarts (no, we don’t know either). Personally, we’re more nervous of the mad fell runners, who race up Burnsall Fell every August.

Instead, strike out along the side of the glittering River Wharfe, with plenty of spots to jump in for doggy paddling. There’s a set of notoriously-slippery stepping stones (don’t worry, there’s a creaky but fun cable bridge if you don’t want to get wet) but other than that, the going is easy.

There’s a circular 2.4 mile journey that takes in the best views in Burnsall, or press on to Bolton Abbey, the gorgeous, sprawling Yorkshire estate of the Duke of Devonshire. Dogs on a lead are welcome in most areas – check out the exclusions here.

4. The Boathouse, Falmouth, Cornwall

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Falmouth Harbour from the Boathouse

Image source: The Boathouse

It’s a clamber up to the Boathouse but the view down across Falmouth Harbour makes it worthwhile. The hearty seafood-with-a-twist menu is a pretty good incentive too.

They’re big on live music and guest ales. Oh – and apparently they’ve got a bonsai tree that looks like Kim Kardashian’s most famous asset.

Ramble route: There’s no wilderness quite like the Cornish coast, with the unpredictable sea making it a different experience every time. There are dozens of walks, from town strolls to clifftop excursions, via beach safaris but we like the unique views from the historic Pendennis headland

Follow these feel-good pooches – immediately!

Tuesday, June 21st, 2016

You know what your Instagram needs? More dogs. We’ve put together five of Instagram’s best pets :)

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Some people think Instagram is a place for food, sunsets and legs in the bath. They’re wrong. Instagram is the place for dogs. From tiny corgis to hipster pugs, there’s no shortage of loveable canines to make your feed the happiest ever. Too many to choose from, in fact; so we’ve narrowed it down to five of our favourites to get you started.

Tuna Melts My Heart

Who is he? The underdog with the overbite.

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Image source: Instagram/ Tunameltsmyheart

Chiweenies are a cross between a chihuahua and a dachshund. They’re also obscenely cute, as you’ll learn if you spend as much time as we do fawning over Tuna Melts My Heart’s Instagram feed (which is a lot). With his pronounced overbite and wrinkled-up chin, Tuna is an endless source of reaction faces for every situation. Oh, and did we mention he has impeccable fashion sense?

Chiweenie chic: Channel Tuna’s off-duty cool by wrapping your pooch in this corduroy dog blanket. Raffishly retro.

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Doug The Pug

Who is he? The self-declared king of pop culture.

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Image source: Instagram/ itsdougthepug

It’s official. Doug the Pug is our spirit dog. If he’s not basking his wrinkles on the beach, he’s dressing up as Harry Potter, salivating over wine and pizza, or meeting Dolly Parton on the red carpet. But his life isn’t all about the glitz and glam: Doug is a also registered therapy dog with a charity called Pets As Therapy; showering care homes, hospitals, hospices and schools with pug-tastic joy.

Puggy style: With so many celebrity jamborees to grace, Doug needs to travel like a VIP. This Sidworth tweed designer pet carrier is oh so smart – and ridiculously cosy.

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Sir Charles Barkley

Who is he? A Frenchie, and complete and utter heartbreaker.

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Image source: Instagram/ barkleysircharles

The hippest name in the doggy world, the sharpest dress sense and the biggest smile; Sir Charles Barkley the French bulldog is a joy to follow. There are also excruciatingly adorable throwbacks of baby Barkley on a regular basis too (just in case you weren’t smitten enough).

Frenchie dressing: Got a Sir Charles B of your own? Treat them to this grey harris tweed dog bed for wrinkly snuggles galore.

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Maru

Who is he? The happiest, fuzziest shiba inu on Earth.

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Image source: Instagram/ Marutaro

Can we be honest? We’re really, really jealous of Maru. Not just because he has the most chilled life ever with his owner in Japan, but because he’s more photogenic than we’ll ever be. Follow him for his joyous smile, infinitesimal fuzz of fur and general handsomeness.

King of Shiba: Maru, are you reading this? We really need to see you modelling this Bow Wow handmade dog bow tie ASAP. You gorgeous devil, you.

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Marnie the Dog

Who is she? 14-year-old shih tzu that’s gone from stray to star. Completely fabulous.

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Image source: Instagram/ marniethedog

Young pups often take the limelight in dog shelters, but Marnie The Dog is changing all that. This senior lady, famous for her cheeky tongueand head tilt (caused by vestibular syndrome) is raising awareness of older dog adoptions, having been adopted herself at age 10. She was found partially blind and in a frightful condition. Now, she can be found occasionally falling into the arms of celebs like Taylor Swift and Tina Fey. Amen to that.

 

If the shih tzu fits: Give your pooch some sartorial flower power with this Amberley Liberty print dog collar lined with buttersoft suede.

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*Lead image source: Instagram/ DougThePug

Seven signs you’re a Whippet owner

Friday, June 17th, 2016

Fast and curious: here’s what life is like when you share it with a sighthound (clue: they’re not for everyone).

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Whippets are far from a poor man’s greyhound. Though they strongly resemble the breed they originate from, they’re a creature of very unique quirks.

Elegant, powerful, shapely and sweet, the beautiful dogs are just as up for snuggles as they are for adventures.

It’s these precious idiosyncrasies that present a series of life lessons, hilarities and heartfelt moments for Whippet owners. Here are just a few.

1. Unleashing your Whippet is always a hysterical affair

The Whippet is independent, often aloof and never lost his prey drive. Should anything small, moving and furry catch his eye – he’s off. Leaving you to enjoy a long romantic walk on the beach… with yourself. They are racing masters, after all. However, they do have two speeds: lightning and out cold on the sofa. Which brings us to…

2. You’re used to living with two shadows

Hands up if your furry friend follows you from room to room like he’s attached to your calf? Or cosies up under your blanket? We thought so. Whippets love nothing more than being snuggled up – and are extremely adept at finding cosy spaces where none seem to exist, much to our constant bewilderment.

 

WhippetBed

Whippets love: With their slender physique and sensitive skin, Whippets need luxuriously soft, padded beds to catch up on their beauty sleep. Treat yours to this tweed dog bed with thermo-regulating filling.

3. You’ve experienced a proper tail whipping

Any Whippet owner can relate to the eye-watering lash of the dog’s tail as they pelt pass, Speedy Gonzales style. Like a whip across the thighs. And as for the furniture? That happy tail can clear lampshades, coffee tables, you name it.

4. Your favourite shoes are hidden out of sight, always

If there’s one thing Whippet owners know (and have probably learnt the hard way) it’s to keep your favourite items up high. Waaaay up high. Your lovable critter will chew everything you own and you’ve come to accept that that’s just the way life is now.

5. Bike rides are out of the question

You know those dog owners that breeze by on their bicycles, leash attached to the handlebars, as their pooch gracefully gallops by their side? You are not one of those dog owners. As the fastest accelerating dog in the world, Whippets challenge even Greyhounds for top speed – and you’re likely to hit a bush at 80mph if you even attempt such a thing.

6. You get more excited buying outfits for your dog than you do yourself

Due to their svelte figure and lack of body fat, Whippets get cold easily. To a Whippet owner, this can only mean one thing – a complete and utter fashion frenzy. Wrapping your pooch in a properly-cut coat feels as momentous as Prince Charming bestowing Cinderella with her glass slipper.

Whippets love: End shivering in style with this hand-woven Whippet dog coat in pure wool tweed. Ultra smart, with a soft fleecy lining especially for sensitive Whippet skin.

 

WhippetCoat

7. Your dreams of having a watchdog are well and truly quashed

All strangers are welcome in a Whippet’s world. Great for when you have company – not so great if you ever wanted a guard dog. If you were ever burgled, you know fine well the criminal in question would be met with a friendly wagging tail and the soulful smile of your little whip. If they hear a can of dog food opening, however, that’s another scenario entirely…

 

 

 

Something for the weekend… The Whippet Hotel

Friday, June 17th, 2016

While it’s not strictly JUST for the weekend, we have recently come across The Whippet Hotel and wanted to share it with our Whippet friends :)

Seb on the bed

Image source: The Whippet Hotel

The Whippet Hotel is owned by Caroline Patey-Johns and her family. They have lived and worked with Whippets for 19 years, and they own three of their own – Flippit, Basil and Sebastian as well as Luna, an Italian Greyhound Whippet cross.

There isn’t anything they don’t know about the breed and how to take care of them. And as the hotel is also their family home, guests truly enjoy a home from home environment. They offer walks in the surrounding countryside and games, and the Whippet guests sleep upstairs with the rest of the family.

Caroline says ‘Our guests live with us as one of the family… They have access to all the comfiest places – sofas, chairs and laps are all at their disposal!

Screen Shot 2016-06-15 at 12.52.42

Image source: The Whippet Hotel

They are based near Gatwick Airport, so handy for trips abroad. And they offer day care, and overnight stays. They also have their own range of yummy looking peanut butter biscuits that are given to all guests on arrival!

 

Screen Shot 2016-06-15 at 12.44.10

Image source: The Whippet Hotel

 

The Whippet Hotel

East Amberley, Paynes Place Farm

Cuckfield Road, Burgess Hill

West Sussex, RH15 8RG

01444 258339 | 07884 433477

caroline@thewhippethotel.co.uk

 

 

 

 

 

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