Sometimes the flowers smell back.
Whimsical Adventures: Sophie's Shoe Fashion and Doug's Playful Surprises in 'Dog Eat Doug' Comic Strip
Yes indeed, that’s a vintage Wednesday Addams doll in Doug’s sticky hands. If you haven’t guessed, Charles Addams was one of my earliest influences. My dad had a book full of New Yorker Cartoons from the 40’s. As a kid, I was obesessed with the alien, vintage style of the drawings. And ike any kid, I generally “poo-poo-ed” anything that was old.
However, every so many pages was a single panel cartoon that didn’t fit. They were dark, not just in terms of the joke, but the artwork. I hadn’t seen anything like it, even in my modern Sunday comics. That was in thrid grade. I’ve been entranced ever since. Here’s a little more on the master of the macabre and a few links to see more:
Charles Addams (1912-1988) was an American cartoonist best known for his darkly humorous and macabre creations. He captivated audiences with his iconic characters, including Wednesday Addams and the Addams Family. Addams' distinctive style blended wit, irony, and gothic sensibilities, leaving a lasting impact on the world of cartoons. Explore his extraordinary talent and timeless work through his official website: Addams Foundation and discover the unique charm of his illustrations in The New Yorker archives: The New Yorker - Charles Addams.
Unmasking the Mischief: Sophie's Encounter with Holographic Cats in 'Dog Eat Doug' Comic Strip
One of my favorite cat strips. This one inspired several chapters in the upcoming graphic novels. However, unlike the comic strip, the graphic novels have allowed me to expand on the cats’ storylines. They get a secret base and even get to summon the ancient one, Cat-thulu.
Garden Mayhem Unleashed: Sophie's Hilarious Digging Adventure in 'Dog Eat Doug' Comic Strip
I have a lot of garden related comic strips. Now Sophie was never destructive in the yard. However, our foster dogs destroyed my entire irrigation system. I tried keeping up with the repairs, but in the end I ditched the tubes and the timer and went back to using a hose.
Irresistibly Funny: Dog Eat Doug Comic Strip Brings Joy to Readers of All Ages
Okay, this is not the real reason Sophie loved stripping tennis balls. But it’s funnier.
Unleash the Laughter: Exploring the Hilarious World of 'Dog Eat Doug' Comic Strip
This comic strip inspired a chapter in “Sophie”, book two. In chapter six, the latest group of foster dogs get adopted. Sophie got what she wanted: her house back to herself. However she wasn’t happy and didn’t understand why.
I saw this strip and thought it would be interesting, and hopefully funny if she went on a small self-exploration adventure. One of the squirrels tells her to climb Mount Mojojumbajamab and seek wisdom from the Yeti of Enlightenment. And of course it’s not going to end the way Sophie is hoping it well.
Dog eat Doug: The comic strip that will change the way you see your pet
I love the spiders. The main spider that Sophie chats with is named Carl. He’s getting a bigger, reaccuring role in the upcoming graphic novels.
"Irresistibly Funny: Dog Eat Doug Comic Strip Brings Joy to Readers of All Ages
Any time we were gardening, Sophie had her nose in the mix. I haven’t had any flower obsessed dogs since. Although Gunnar is determined to water everything in the backyard. I think he thinks he’s saving us the work.
From Barney to The Conjuring: Sophie's Hilarious Movie Preferences in 'Dog Eat Doug' Comic Strip
There’s always an alterior motive to Sophie’s movie choices.
Irresistibly Cute and Funny: Dog Eat Doug Comic Strip is a Must-Read for Comic Lovers!
I realized that as much as I love puppets, I don’t use them often enough in the comic. After I post this, I’m heading back to the sketchbook and working on a puppet chapter for the next book.
Laugh-Out-Loud Moments: Dog Eat Doug Comic Strip Delights Kids and Adults Alike
Sophie never stle a taco, I just needed a food item to make this joke work. However the last line is all Sophie.
Wholesome Entertainment for All Ages: Dog Eat Doug Comic Strip Brings Laughter and Joy
Get ready for a bubbly adventure as we dive into the world of dog bath time! In this fun-filled comic strip, we join Sophie, the lovable chocolate Labrador, as she hilariously expresses her disdain for getting a bath. But fear not, fellow dog parents! Here’s five tail-wagging tips to transform bath time into a joyful and bonding experience for you and your furry friend.
Pre-Bath Fun and Games:
Make bath time anticipation a positive experience! Engage your pup in pre-bath playtime, tossing their favorite toy or playing their beloved game. By creating excitement beforehand, you'll help shift their focus from the bath itself and make it more enjoyable.
Temperature Matters:
Ensure the water temperature is just right, not too hot or too cold. Test it with your hand or a thermometer to avoid any unpleasant surprises. Lukewarm water is generally the most comfortable for dogs. A cozy bath mat or towel placed in the tub can also provide extra comfort.
Pampering Products:
Choose dog-friendly shampoos and conditioners that suit your pup's needs. Opt for gentle and hypoallergenic formulas to avoid skin irritation. Remember to protect their eyes and ears by using cotton balls or specially designed products.
Treats and Positive Reinforcement:
Who doesn't love a tasty reward? Offer treats and heaps of praise throughout the bath time process. Reward your pup's cooperation and calm behavior with their favorite snacks, making them associate bath time with positive experiences and tasty delights.
Post-Bath Bliss:
Once the bath is complete, embrace the joyous aftermath! Have a soft, warm towel ready for cuddly snuggles and gentle rubdowns. Engage in play or offer a special post-bath treat as a celebration of their good behavior during bath time.
With these five tips, you're ready to turn bath time into a fun-filled adventure for your furry companion. Remember, patience and positive reinforcement are key to creating a positive bath experience. So, grab your rubber ducky, put on your bathing suit (or not), and let the splish-splashing and wagging tails commence! Together, you and your pup will conquer bath time fears and create wonderful memories that will make every bath a tail-wagging success!
Tail-Wagging Adventures: Explore the Whimsical Universe of 'Dog Eat Doug' Comic Strip
Old socks make great toys for teething puppies. You can drop them in the freezer for a cold treat. I Always kept a bunch in the freezer for the younger foster dogs. Some people worry that it teaches dogs to steal your laundry. But none of mine ever turned into hamper thieves.
Adventures with Dog Eat Doug: A Delightful Comic Strip for Kids and Adults
This comic strip serves as a lighthearted reminder to find joy in life's little mysteries and quirks. Like Sophie, let's not get too caught up in the pursuit of answers but instead relish in the spontaneity and whimsy that surrounds us.
Barking with Joy: A Hilarious Comic Strip and five tips for Dogs Afraid of Fireworks
It’s firewroks time, which means I’ll have three dogs on my stomach tonight. We conditioned Sophie early and she never had issues. But my Gunnar and Luther are another story. Weezy was never afraid of fireworks or thunder, however, over the past couple of years she seems to have learned the behavior from her brothers.
Here are five valuable tips to guide you through this challenging time.
Create a Safe Haven:
Designate a safe and comfortable space in your home where your dog can retreat during fireworks. This could be a cozy room or a crate covered with a blanket to create a den-like atmosphere. Provide soft bedding, favorite toys, and soothing background noise, such as calming music, to help drown out the sound of fireworks.
Gradual Exposure to Sounds:
Help desensitize your dog to fireworks sounds by playing audio recordings or videos of fireworks at a low volume. Start with a low intensity and gradually increase the volume over time. Pair the sounds with positive experiences, such as treats or playtime, to create positive associations and help your dog feel more relaxed around fireworks noises.
Utilize Calming Techniques:
Consider using calming techniques, such as anxiety wraps or vests, which apply gentle pressure to your dog's body, promoting a sense of security. Additionally, natural calming aids like pheromone diffusers or sprays can help create a soothing environment. Consult your veterinarian for advice on suitable products.
Distraction and Positive Reinforcement:
During fireworks displays, engage your dog in fun and rewarding activities that capture their attention. Play their favorite games, offer puzzle toys stuffed with treats, or practice obedience training with positive reinforcement. Redirecting their focus helps shift their attention away from the fireworks and reinforces positive experiences.
Consult with a Professional:
If your dog's fear of fireworks persists or becomes severe, seek guidance from a professional dog trainer or a veterinary behaviorist. They can provide expert advice tailored to your dog's specific needs, offer additional training techniques, or recommend appropriate medications to help alleviate anxiety during fireworks.
Remember, patience and empathy are key when helping your dog overcome their fear of fireworks. By creating a safe space, gradually exposing them to sounds, using calming techniques, providing distractions, and seeking professional help if needed, you can make fireworks season less stressful for your loyal companion. With your support and understanding, they can learn to cope and feel more secure during these festive occasions.
Funny Comics and Dog Training Tips: Three Easy Steps to Teach Your Dog to Retrieve Items
Teaching dogs to retrieve items can be fun, if the dog enjoys it. Sophie, being a retriever, loved it. However, her favorite game was hide and seek. She’d wait patiently while I hid one of her toys. Then I’d say, “find it!” and she’d charge off on her mission. I’ve tried teaching that game to every dog since, but haven’t found one as passionate as her yet. It’s a reminder that every dog is unique. That’s part of the joy of dogs.
Here’s three super simple ways to get started teaching your dog how to retrieve:
Start with small and familiar objects: Begin by teaching your dog to retrieve objects they are already familiar with, such as their favorite toy or a simple ball. This will make the training process more enjoyable for both of you.
Use positive reinforcement: Whenever your dog successfully retrieves the object, reward them with praise, treats, or a combination of both. Positive reinforcement helps them associate retrieving with a positive experience and encourages them to repeat the behavior.
Gradually increase difficulty: Once your dog has mastered retrieving simple objects, gradually introduce more challenging items, such as a newspaper or a specific toy. This progressive approach will help build their skills and confidence over time.
Remember, training takes patience and consistency. Enjoy the process and celebrate each small victory along the way. And most importantly, have fun bonding with your furry friend!
Cuteness Overload: Unleashing the Hilarious Adventures of Dog Eat Doug Comic Strip
Navigating the world of parenting while tending to your furry friend can sometimes feel like a juggling act. I thought I had it down until one day, a fox darted out of the woods straight at the stroller. Just an innocent mistake on the fox’s part, however, Sophie didn’t see it that way. In less than a second she transformed into a mama bear and exploded after the distraught fox.
That was the moment I was thankful I never thought of attaching the leash to the stroller. My son would’ve gone on the ride of a lifetime.
Here are three tips that will help you master the art of walking your dog while pushing a baby stroller. So let's leash up, buckle in, and embark on this hilarious adventure together!
1. Strut Your Stuff with a Double-Duty Leash
Walking your dog while pushing a stroller requires some serious multitasking skills. Say hello to your new best friend: the double-duty leash! This pawsome invention allows you to keep your hands free while giving your pup the freedom to explore. Attach one end of the leash to your dog's collar and the other to your waist, and voila! You're now a professional dog-walker-stroller-pusher extraordinaire. They make some that attach to the stroller, but after my little story above, you can see why I don’t recommend it.
2. Timing is Everything
Babies and dogs have different energy levels and attention spans. To avoid a tug-of-war situation (literally!), try syncing up their exercise and nap times. Take advantage of those precious moments when your little one is napping soundly in the stroller to give your furry friend the undivided attention they deserve. Trust us, a well-exercised dog is a happy dog, and a happy dog means a happier stroll for everyone involved.
3. Treats and Distractions, Oh My!
Let's face it, walking with a stroller can be quite the sensory overload for your four-legged pal. To keep them entertained and focused, pack some doggy treats and their favorite toys. Use these goodies strategically, rewarding your pup for good behavior and redirecting their attention away from squirrels, pigeons, and other fascinating distractions. Who knew that dog treats could double as doggy diplomacy tools?
Walking your dog while pushing a baby stroller might seem like a challenge worthy of an Olympic event, but with a dash of creativity and a whole lot of humor, you can transform it into a memorable adventure. Embrace the chaos, enjoy the precious bonding moments with both your fur baby and human baby, and don't forget to cherish the little things along the way. Happy strolling, super parents!
Remember, the key to success lies in finding a balance that works for you, your dog, and your baby. These tips are meant to be a lighthearted guide, so feel free to adapt and improvise based on your unique situation. Now, get out there and conquer the sidewalks like the dog-walking, stroller-pushing superstars you are!
Sophie the Chocolate Lab vs. the 'Invisible' Squirrel - A Comic Strip Filled with Laughter and Playful Pursuits!
I have to admit, the squirrels might be my favorite characters. They add insanity and unpredictability that even I don’t see coming. That’s been expanded in the upcoming graphic novels. The squirrels go on crazy adventures with Sophie but also break the fourth wall and interact with the reader. This is something I never did in the comic strip. Just you wait.
In the meantime, I’m going to keep taking a break from the comic world and share more dog and cat related information. While today’s comic strip is funny, a dog with a strong prey drive can present unique challenges for pet owners. I’ve been lucky and haven’t come across any severe cases, which I’m thankful for given I have cats.
Understanding how to effectively handle and manage this instinctual behavior is crucial for the well-being of both your dog and those around them. In this blog post, I’ll share five valuable and basic tips to help you navigate and control a dog with a strong prey drive. But if you have a dog with a severe prey drive, I’l direct you straight to the last tip.
Proper Socialization and Obedience Training:
Start early: Socialize your dog from a young age to expose them to various environments, people, and animals.
Enroll in obedience training classes to establish a strong foundation of commands like "sit," "stay," and "leave it."
Consistently reinforce positive behaviors through rewards and praise, redirecting their attention away from prey.
Secure Fencing and Leash Control:
Ensure your yard is securely fenced to prevent your dog from chasing and potentially harming wildlife or other pets.
Use a sturdy leash when walking your dog outside, maintaining control and preventing impulsive dashes after prey.
Consider using a leash designed specifically for dogs with a strong prey drive, providing additional control and security.
Environmental Management:
Minimize exposure to triggers that activate your dog's prey drive, such as wildlife or small animals in your yard.
Close windows or use curtains to limit visual stimuli that may trigger excitement and chase behavior.
Keep your dog leashed or in a secure area when visitors or delivery personnel arrive to prevent impulsive chasing.
Engage in Physical and Mental Stimulation:
Provide ample physical exercise through regular walks, runs, or playtime, helping to drain excess energy.
Offer interactive toys, puzzles, and mental stimulation games to redirect your dog's focus onto constructive activities.
Engaging their mind and body will help channel their energy away from instinctual prey-driven behavior.
Seek Professional Guidance:
If your dog's prey drive poses significant challenges, consider consulting a professional dog trainer or behaviorist.
They can provide tailored strategies, behavior modification techniques, and personalized guidance for managing your dog's prey drive.
Expert advice can make a substantial difference in understanding and addressing this natural instinct.
Handling a dog with a strong prey drive requires patience, consistency, and a proactive approach. By implementing proper socialization, obedience training, secure fencing, leash control, environmental management, providing physical and mental stimulation, and seeking professional guidance when necessary, you can effectively manage your dog's prey drive. Remember, each dog is unique, so be prepared to adapt these tips to suit your dog's specific needs. With time and effort, you can foster a balanced and harmonious relationship with your furry companion while keeping their prey drive under control.
Exploring the Hilarious World of 'Dog Eat Doug' Comic Strip - A Must-Read for Pet Lovers!
Welcoming a new puppy into your home brings immense joy, but it also comes with the challenge of dealing with their natural chewing instincts. Here are five valuable tips to curb your puppy's chewing habits. By implementing these strategies, you can protect your belongings and promote a safe environment for both your furry friend and your possessions.
Tips to Keep Your Puppy from Chewing:
Provide Appropriate Chew Toys:
Offer a variety of durable and puppy-safe chew toys specifically designed for teething pups.
Choose toys that are enticing and interesting, such as ones with different textures or hidden treats.
Rotate the toys regularly to keep your puppy engaged and prevent boredom.
Puppy-Proof Your Home:
Create a safe space for your puppy by removing tempting objects from their reach.
Keep shoes, socks, electrical cords, and small items off the floor or securely stored away.
Use baby gates or barriers to restrict access to areas with valuable or potentially dangerous items.
Positive Reinforcement:
Praise and reward your puppy when they chew on appropriate toys.
Use verbal cues like "good boy/girl" and offer treats to reinforce their desired behavior.
Redirect their attention to a toy whenever you catch them chewing on inappropriate objects.
Exercise and Mental Stimulation:
Engage your puppy in regular physical activities and play sessions to burn off excess energy.
Provide mental stimulation through puzzle toys or interactive games to keep their minds occupied.
A tired and mentally satisfied puppy is less likely to resort to destructive chewing.
Supervision and Crating:
Keep a close eye on your puppy, especially during their early stages when they're more prone to chewing.
Use a crate or playpen when you're unable to supervise them closely, ensuring a safe and controlled environment.
Gradually increase supervised free-roaming time as your puppy learns appropriate chewing behavior.
Conclusion: Preventing your puppy from chewing on household items requires consistency, patience, and a proactive approach. By providing appropriate chew toys, puppy-proofing your home, using positive reinforcement, offering mental stimulation, and supervising your puppy diligently, you can redirect their chewing instincts and create a harmonious living space. Remember, training takes time, so be persistent and celebrate small victories along the way. With these tips, you'll pave the way for a well-behaved and happy furry companion!
Unleashing Laughter: Dive into the Hilarious World of 'Dog Eat Doug' Comic Strip
Spoiler alert for the new book, Sophie and Doug take a trip to where these monsters live. And trust me, it won’t be like anything you’ve ever imagined.
