Big Paws Only Dog Forums

Ok all Big Paws members, we are actually in the midst of changing our forum slightly so that every breed (23 inches or taller) is represented. We originally thought that this site should only cater to the giant breeds but have learned that many of you have large breed dogs in addition to your gentle giants. We love them as well and didn't want to leave them out of any part of this forum- especially with some of the large dogs working harder than some of the giants (like our Bear who sleeps all day, tells us when he is ready to be in or out, demands that we share food with him and makes us play whenever he is ready despite the time of day). Therefore, we are going to seperate our forum into two sections: one for the giant breeds and one for the large breeds. I hope this helps to clarify things.

P.S.
Labs will be added!

Just wondering, with the weather warming up, what methods you use to keep your dogs cool in the late spring/summer. We have heat waves that reach into the upper 100's so Bear is pretty confined to staying in the house all day. He sleeps on the tile floor in front of his own fan. When he does go out for extended periods of time there is always water involved- swimming in the pool, lake, river or taking a water hose bath. What lengths do go to in order to keep your dog comfy and cool?

Here are some pics of one of the most dog friendly places in Ca. In Carmel, dogs are welcome anywhere (stores, restaurants, etc). The first pic is at Bear's favorite eatery where he gets giant hamburbers and the second is of a water fountain where dogs can drink. It's called the Fountain of Woof!

I think Doggles are a great invention because they actually fit the dogs, stay on their head, and protect their eyes when they stick their head out of a moving car...not to mention how cute they make them! So, what do you think of Doggles? And throw in some pics if you have them so we can see other totally cool dogs!

Lately Bear has been letting his personality out in full force! We are trying to break him slowly of his "taking over the couch" habit, but it is not working as well as we would like it to. Here is the scenario: I sit on the middle cushion on the couch which leaves little room on either cushion to my sides. When he comes to the couch he looks at me, growls a little growl then pouts with his face on the cushion. He then will growl louder as if that will get my attention. Since that fails too, he will take his paw and slap the couch with it. (It really is quite funny!) Finally, he gave up with his antics, got onto the couch anyways and then had the nerve to look at me saying " Okay...you can move now Mom". I swear, he is such a character.