Last-minute dog gift ideas

December 20, 2020|Dog coats, Dog situations

It's not too late!

Have you just come to the conclusion that you are out of time for getting that perfect gift for your friend or family with dogs?  Time is running short.  But there are still some things that you can do.

-   Choose gift certificates that can be purchased to allow the receiver to choose their gift.

-   Buy services like Bark Box, which get delivered monthly.

-   Make homemade dog treats, toys, etc.

-   Give a training session or other class for the dog/human team to participate in.

-   Buy services like Bark Box, which get delivered monthly.

-   Subscribe to a magazine or newsletter that includes topics of interest.

-  Promise a gift of your time for dog walking, washing, or pup-sitting.

You can still find a gift that you feel good about giving to your dog and human friends and family with a little creativity.  

Made by De offers gift certificates in any amount, available to use for any of my products. Take a look at my website or contact me for more information.

And while you're there, don't forget to sign up for the Made by De Insiders.  You'll save 20% on all orders, including gift certificates.

 

 

 

 

 

Five tips for giving a present to a dog that isn't yours.

November 8, 2020|Dog coats, Dog situations

So, you want to give a dog a gift for Christmas or some other special occasion.  If that dog lives with you, you know what works for them.  Probably pretty well. Since they're handy, you can measure them. You know what they like to do, their favorite foods, and their favorite toys.  Most likely, you know what bothers them too.  These are the things that help you give a good gift.  

But if you want to give a gift to the dog of a friend or family member, it's probably a little more complicated.  You may not know them as well. Plus, getting measurements can get tricky, especially if you want to surprise their person too. Since you aren't around them all the time, you can't possibly know all the little details. So what do you do?

Ideas for dog gifts

There are some workarounds so that you can give a gift that will be loved by a dog and their parent. Here are some ideas.  

A gift that a dog can open

If you want a dog to open your gift, you could put something in it that smells good to them, maybe a tasty treat. Make it easy enough for them to open because the gift's opening is probably the main point here.  After that, it probably won't matter to them as much.

A gift for a favorite activity

If you know that the dog enjoys agility, frisbee, scent work, etc., you could give something that can be used in their sport.  

Someone who has a service dog always needs gear to help their dog perform at the highest level. A cool coat can help keep their dog from overheating.

A sentimental gift

Sentimental gifts are more for the dog parent than for the actual dog, but they can be a nice touch.  You could pair it with something that smells good so that the dog can open it, sort of a two-for-one thing. Dog oriented Christmas ornaments or stockings or a cherished photograph could work well.

Gift certificate

Although this one isn't personalized, it can allow you to get things that require knowing measurements or other specifics.  Most companies offer some kind of certificate so that you can prepurchase and let the receiver of the gift (in this case, the dog parent) get the best item for them. Dog coats are a great example here (ahem!) Go to Made by De for more about my gift certificates.

A dog cool coat can make a great gift for your dog or for someone else's dog.

Subscription service

Companies like Chewy or Bark Box have some really cool subscriptions that the dog parent can customize for their dog.  

Giving the perfect gift to a dog

I don't know about you, but my goal is to give a gift that the receiver will really be able to use, which shows some thought and appreciation.  I hope these tips can help you figure out what that looks like for the dogs on your gift list so that you can feel good about the situation. The holiday season can be stressful, so checking things off that to-do list can make you feel downright festive!

What are your go-to gift ideas for dogs when you don't know what to give?  Tell me in the comments below.

When you go to my website, don't forget to sign up for my insider group here. You'll save 20% on all your orders from Made by De!    

A fleece dog coat can serve lots of purposes, from lounging around on the couch to layering under other coats on really cold days.

 

 

Ten best dog things in 2020.

December 27, 2020|Dog situations

Best of 2020 for dogs

The best thing about 2020 for many people is its end.  It's been a tough year for most of us.

However, as with most things, there has been at least some good to come out of the situation. I don't think dogs minded 2020 nearly as much as people in many ways. For example

1)  Dogs got to see a lot more of their people. Since people were restricted to their homes for much of the time, they were there for their dogs.  People weren't so crazy about it, but dogs liked it.

2)  More shelter dogs found homes. Many people who were stuck at home felt that they had the time to take in a new dog and make them part of the family.

3)  People did more training with their dogs.  Since people were at loose ends, they were looking for stuff to do with their dogs.  Many of them decided to work on training with their dogs.  

4)  People took more online classes, many of which helped them in their relationships with their dogs. Again, considering the lack of things to do at home, people turned to online classes to fill the time.  Many of these were dog-related, so dogs benefitted.

5)   For the most part, dogs didn't catch COVID-19. I heard about a couple of dogs that may have caught the virus, but I never heard about it causing any serious illnesses in dogs.

6)  Dogs got walked a whole lot more. People sought activity, especially outside, so dogs got to go on many more walks than they did pre-COVID.

7)  Dogs got to comfort their people more often. As people worried about the changes they faced, dogs did what dogs do; they comforted their people.  How can you not appreciate that love and care? Read this post for other things that dogs did for people.

8)  Dogs gave people a sense of normalcy in the crazy world that was 2020. Being dogs, they don't worry about all the things.  They appreciate the routine of eating, playing, walking, lounging with their loved ones.  That sense of calm is contagious to dog people. 

9)  Dogs didn't get left home alone as often.  Since people were home so much, dogs weren't alone nearly as much as pre-virus.  

10) People had time to shop online and buy their dogs lots of stuff.  I doubt any dogs were complaining about all the stuff.

I hope your dogs helped you make the best of 2020.  I know mine did.  Tell me about how your dogs made your life better in the comments below.

And while you're doing some of that online shopping, take a look at my website.  Sign up for the Insider Group to get all the insider information to save you money and help you give your dog their best life.  You can also save 20% on all of your orders.  Can't do better than that!

Purposes for dog clothes; they aren't all the same.

November 1, 2020|Dog coats

The purpose of dog coats depends on the needs of the dog.

Dog coats aren't all the same.

A dog coat is a dog coat, right? That isn't exactly a true statement.  It's what people usually think of when it comes to the term "dog coat."  But there's so much more to it than that.

In general, if you go to good old Google, when you look up "dog coat," you'll find lots of links that refer to a product that's intended to keep your dog warm.  But if you look a little closer, you'll see that the products have a whole bunch of differences.  You'll find dog clothes made of a wide variety of fabrics.  Each product will have different features.  They'll most likely be intended for different types of dogs; big dogs, little dogs, specialty dog breeds, etc. And their purposes may range from keeping warm to staying dry to cooling.

How do you decide what your dog needs, or if they need anything at all, with so many choices? Here are some factors to consider.

If your dog needs to stay cool, so they don't overheat, a dog cool coat is just the thing.

Your home climate

The first thing you'll need to do is consider the situation you and your dog live in. Do you have a long cold winter with lots of snow, ice, and wind?  Maybe you live someplace more temperate and only have the cold stuff once in a while.  Or do you live in a rainy climate? Some people and their dogs live in hot, dry places. Each of these places could place different demands on your dog. If you live

- in an arid climate, your dog may need something to help cool off.

- where there's a lot of rain, you'll want something waterproof but not necessarily warm.

- someplace that gets cool but not cold, you'll want something warm but don't need bulk.

- where it's freezing, you'll want to look for a more insulated coat, probably waterproof as well since getting wet makes it more difficult to stay warm.

Read more about keeping your dog warm in winter, here. 

If your dog doesn't get very cold but getting wet is an issue, a custom dog raincoat can help your dog be comfortable and dry.

Your dog's adaptations

Once you've considered climate, the next thing to look at is your dog.  Do they have a thick fur coat or a smooth one?  Big or little?  What is the heritage of their breed or breeds?  What purpose are they bred for?  A Newfoundland, bred to work in the North Atlantic's cold waters, will most likely enjoy cold winter weather.  On the other hand, a chihuahua that's bred to be a lap companion is definitely NOT suited for the cold. Factors include 

- Size: a small dog tends to get cold more easily than a big dog due to surface/body ratio

- Amount and color of fur; a dog with a thick double coat is less likely to get cold than a dog with a smooth coat. If staying cool is the purpose, a dog with a light-colored fluffy coat is more able to insulate itself from extreme heat, so cooling off may be easier for them than a dog with a smooth black coat.

- Muscle mass: since muscle creates heat, a heavily muscled dog won't get cold as quickly as a more lean dog. Heavily muscled dogs are more likely to need help cooling off for the same reason.

AKC has a great post about this.

Dogs with a lot of muscle need help to stay cool. Get them a custom dog cool coat and help prevent overheating.

The activities the two of you participate in

If you and your dog stay in a temperature-controlled environment most of the time, they may not need any assistance in the form of clothing.  However, if you have a smooth-coated dog that loves to play in the snow with you, they may need some help staying warm so that the two of you can have fun together. 

- Activities:  If your dog is an indoor dog that only goes out for brief potty breaks, they probably don't need something as warm as a dog that spends a lot of time outside in the elements.

- Environment: A dog walking on a leash around the block probably doesn't need something as durable as a dog that's running off-leash through underbrush or forest.

- Sports: If your dog participates in strenuous activities, the clothes they wear will need to appropriately keep muscles warm, be durable enough to hold up, and allow freedom of movement.

Purposes of dog clothes

Each dog and owner team will have its own needs.  That's why you need to consider all the factors to decide what's best for you and your canine friend. Once you've considered the needs, you can choose something that suits your purpose.

At Made by De, I make dog clothes for a wide variety of purposes and dogs.  I'd be happy to work with you to get your dog the perfect clothing for your needs. I make each item custom so I can help the two of you get the perfect outfit. 

Don't forget to sign up for my insider group here. You'll save 20% on all your orders from Made by De!   

Sometimes a fleece coat is just right for cool but not necessarily cold weather. Or even better, layered under a winter coat on frigid days.

 

What do you do to make a difference?

January 24, 2021|Dog situations

Even though they are homeless, they are family. These coats help keep families together.

Making a difference for dogs

Helping dogs.  That's what I do. 

It's important to make a difference in the world in one way or another.  If you pay attention, you hear many people talking about doing all kinds of different things because they want to help.  Most of their causes, I believe, have merit.  I may not participate because, honestly, participating in each one of these great causes would be overwhelming.  

But I have found something that I can help with.  It's not going to change the world, but that's ok.  As the saying by Karen Davison goes, "Saving one dog will not change the world, but surely for that one dog, the world will change forever.” I like that.

Coats distributed to homeless people with dogs in need.

What I do at Made by De.

My one thing is to use my extra fabric and spare moments to make coats for dogs that need them, free of charge.  I started doing this shortly after my business started when I met a lady named Pam Dickerson of Colorado Citizens for Canine Welfare. 

One of the many things that Pam does is meet up with homeless people and have dogs. Most of these people have nothing else but their dogs and absolutely refuse to give them up.  Even though it makes their own lives harder, they do it because they love their dogs.  

One of the situations that get really difficult for them is getting into a shelter on a cold night.  Most shelters won't allow dogs to come in, so these dog lovers choose to stay outside with their canine family, even in the harshest of conditions.  

People on the streets have enough to worry about. Keeping their canine family warm doesn't always have to be one of them.

Giving dog coats to homeless dogs helps keep them with their people.

When that happens, their dogs need help staying warm, and my coats can help. They do whatever they can to stay warm, including using cardboard or wrapping their dogs in old pieces of fabric that they've found while scrounging.  Pam gets my coats to these people and their dogs so that they have one less thing to worry about.  

It makes my heart happy to know just how much this small thing I do gives them happiness. What do you do to make a difference?  Tell me about it in the comments below.

If you're interested in helping me give these needy dogs coats, please check out this listing.

 

 

How to keep your dog warm

November 15, 2020|Dog coats

Keep your dog warmer by keeping them dry too!

Keeping your dog warm.  

If your dog is cold, you put a coat on them, right?  Maybe you bring them inside.  It's pretty simple.  However, not all coats are the same.  Here's why.

A coat is NOT just a coat.

If you've ever felt a dog coat before, maybe you noticed that some of them seem to be thinner than others.  Some fabrics have a different feel.  You know that there are differences, but what does that mean to your dog?

Being warm AND dry

Temperature isn't the only thing that affects whether your dog is warm or not.  It's a good place to start, but there's more to it.  However, 32 degrees and dry doesn't feel the same as 32 degrees and wet or 32 degrees in the wind.  Both water and wind affect the way your dog's body can regulate its internal temperature.  

Water evaporates, which has been proven to decrease the immediate area's temperature by a few degrees. Wind decreases the temperature by blowing away the warmer air that's around your dog. Either of these can make 32 degrees feel much colder, and when they're combined, they really make a difference. And whenever the temperature is decreased, your dog's body has to work harder to stay warm.

Read this post from WebMD about keeping dogs warm in the winter.

A smaller dog has different needs. That's why they need custom dog coats too!

Getting the right coat for your dog's needs

If you have decided to get your dog a coat, it's helpful to consider the conditions your dog will be spending time in.  If they spend time in the rain, snow, or other wet conditions, you'll want to make sure the product is waterproof or at least water-resistant.  And if the wind is a factor, make sure to address that too.  

Even though there are some adorable and/or fashionable coats available,  they aren't all going to help your dog in the same way.  If your purpose is to truly keep your dog warm, be sure to select a product that will be the most helpful. Take a look at Made by De for more info.

When you go to my website, don't forget to sign up for my insider group here. You'll save 20% on all your orders from Made by De!     

A custom dog coat can cover the right amount of dog without adding too much bulk. And whether they are big or little, dogs need the right coverage to keep them dry as well as warm.

A fleece dog coat like this one can help keep your dog warm by itself or layered under another coat for added warmth.

 

 Are you buying gifts online this year?

November 22, 2020|Dog coats, Dog situations

Shopping online for gifts

Shopping online has become much more popular lately, especially now that going to a physical store comes with some restrictions.  If you can go at all, you might not find the same variety available.     

Do you find yourself in this situation?  If so, there are some things to be aware of.  While you can find almost anything you want by doing a search, you can't put your hands on it, and you have to wait for it to ship to you. It takes more steps to make sure you have the right gift, and it will reach your intended recipient in time.

Buying online for your dog can be tricky.

Things to know

Maybe you're an old pro at this ordering online thing.  Some of us have been with Amazon for YEARS!  Even if you are used to the usual routine, things have changed due to the volume of people shopping online. And if you're new at it, the process can be confusing. Here are some things to watch out for so you can be the perfect gift giver.

1)   Shop reputable sellers.  Not all sellers are the same, even on group sites like Amazon.  It pays to check ratings and read their particulars.

2)  A "sale" isn't always a sale.  Sometimes, just the word sale is used to attract buyers.  There are many ways of coming to a final price. 

3)  Prices vary.  Comparing the same product on different sites can help you save money.  You may also find shipping times to be different, as well as customer service.

4)  Free shipping isn't exactly free.  Shipping has a cost.  Period.  Many sellers, Made by De included, make that cost part of the initial purchase so that you don't have extra charges popping up.  It can be a convenience, but not always the best savings.

5)  What is the required shipping time?  Ordering online makes shipping a necessity, and that takes a certain amount of time.  These time allowances can vary by quite a bit.  When you place your order, you'll need to figure in this time so that your gift arrives on time. The seller may update shipping times after your order, so you'll want to keep an eye out.

6)  Since you can't put your hands on the item, be sure to read the description and other available information.  You can usually contact the seller if you have any questions.  It's disappointing for you and your gift recipient if the wrong thing comes and you have to reorder.  That takes time and effort.

7)  Know the return and exchange policy.  It has become somewhat expected that gifts can be returned or exchanged if needed.  Online practices can vary significantly from one seller to another, so if you suspect a return or exchange might be required, you'll want to make sure you buy from a seller that allows it, 

8)  If you can, buy from a smaller company.  There are many of them with their own sites or appearing on larger sites, like Amazon.  These companies have a more challenging time staying afloat in difficult financial times and could use the support.  Plus, you have a better chance of finding something unique and special.

Here's another site that has some helpful info for buying safely online, in general.

A dog coat that's made just for your dog will be more likely to fit. If you're ordering one for someone else's dog, custom can still make it work better.

It's time to plan

Being the end of November, Christmas and the other winter holidays are right around the corner. If you plan to shop online, keep these tips in mind when you're working your way down your list.  You'll enjoy the holidays more if you're not worried about whether the right gift will arrive on time or not.

Made by De has been selling online for many years. My goal is to help you get just the right item for your dog, whether it's for your own dogs or for someone else's dogs.  Take a look at my site and let me know how I can help.  I make all of my products right here in Wyoming. 

Don't forget to sign up for my insider group here. You'll save 20% on all your orders from Made by De!      

A custom dog coat can help you and your dog

 

Why should you choose a dog cool coat from Made by De?

March 20, 2021|Dog cool coats

Why does your dog need a dog cool coat from Made by De? Read on to find out more.

If you're looking for a dog cool coat, you already know why you need something like that for your dog.  Now you have to decide which cool coat to buy?. You don't want to waste your money.  You also want something that actually works for your dog.  How do you choose?

Made just for your dog

A Made by De dog cool coat is custom-made just for your dog using your measurements and input about what your dog needs in a cool coat.  You can find others, but how well will they fit your dog?  If the cool coat doesn't fit right, it's not likely to be very comfortable for your dog to wear.  

A coat that's custom made means that your dog will be able to move or lie down comfortably. The coat will be the right length and will not bind or be too loose so your dog doesn't have to work against it. When your dog isn't bothered by an incorrect fit, they can concentrate on being a dog.

Your dog can run, play, or work more easily in a cool coat that fits!

The most effective, comfortable fabric

What's that cool coat made of?

You can find cool coats made of terry cloth, high-tech space or reflective materials, or a variety of chamois fabrics. It's important to know what the product is made of because it affects the way a cool coat works, how it feels and how it holds up to use.  

Most cool coats use evaporation in one way or another since it's a proven method of cooling the air.  You can feel evaporative cooling by holding your hand close to something that's wet.  The air around it will be a few degrees cooler because of this natural process.

Terry cloth

-  Terry cloth cool coats are soft and easy to care for.  They cool using evaporation, which definitely provides cooling.  However, they get heavy when they're used because they have to be wet.  And they also drip, potentially making a wet mess if you're not careful.

-  Another version of the terry cloth coat uses little beads that are supposed to absorb cool water and extend the cooling time of the coat.  These beads usually shift and cause the coat to get lumpy in places.  And if your dog chews it, the beads can be toxic or cause intestinal blockage.  

High tech sources

-  Some companies have started using more space-age technology for their coats. These coats don't use evaporative cooling. Instead, each one has other methods for cooling off your dog.  The problem is that it's difficult to get a good fit if your dog doesn't fit the standard mold.  And with that technology comes a higher price tag.

-  Another approach is to use reflective fabric to deflect the sun's rays and therefore some of its heat.  Deflecting the heat is somewhat effective, but it is only a partial solution.  Plus, the feel of the fabric and the sound your dog hears when it's on can be unnerving for your dog.

Chamois (pronounced sham ee)

The original chamois is a sheepskin that's been tanned.  This type of chamois is soft, durable, and effective.  It has a downside, however,  When the fabric is wet, as is needed to use evaporative cooling, it's soft and pliable. When it's dry, however, it gets stiff and brittle.  This means you have to keep it damp in order to have it ready to use.  If you're not careful about refrigeration, the dampness will lead to mold, leaving your chamois useless.

Automotive shops have a version that's synthetic.  This fabric comes in beautiful colors and can be effective for cooling, it also gets brittle or stiff when dry. It also requires that you keep it damp to make it pliable enough to put on your dog.

Made by De uses a version of chamois that's made of 100% rayon fabric. I chose this fabric because it is washable, it doesn't get stiff when it's dry and it's durable.  It also stays damp without being heavy.  If you wring out the extra water, you can put it on your dog for hours of cooling while your dog stays dry underneath.  These qualities make for the best cool coat, in my opinion at least.  

If your dog needs a cool coat, you want to be sure you got the best one for the job. A Made by De dog cool coat is made to fit and cools for hours without getting your dog wet and messy.

Working with a small company

When you buy a Made by De dog cool coat, you work one on one with the maker of the coat.  You can personally discuss any concerns you have, make requests and ask any questions you need to so you can be sure you're going to get the product you and your dog need.  

Another benefit of working with a small company is their commitment to quality and customer service.  Should you have a problem, need a special order, or wonder how to get accurate measurements, you have someone to ask directly.  You do not have to flip a coin and hope.

Get a Made by De dog cool coat. 

You won't be sorry. Take a look at my website, www.madebyde.com, to see what I offer.  Message me from the site or email coatsmadebyde@gmail.com with any questions, concerns, etc.  I'll get right back to you.  And don't forget to sign up for your 20% discount. Just click the header and fill in your email to get your coupon code.

No matter the size of your dog, you can get a cool coat that fits properly and works well.

 

Why a custom dog coat isn't expensive

March 27, 2021|Dog coats

A custom dog coat can fit your dog better than any other coat because it's made just for them!

The term "custom" when used with "dog coat" can sound expensive.  It says "special" or "unique" or "hard-to-come-by."  But that's not exactly the case when you look at the whole picture.  While it's important to get the best value, there are some assumptions made that could be cleared up with a little information.  

What is a custom dog coat?

A custom product is one that is customized to the specifications of the buyer.  In this case, it's a dog coat that's made just for your dog.  Since it's made just for your dog, this coat should fit better than any other coat out there.  It should have all the features and colors too.

A Made by De coat is made specifically for your dog, using your measurements.  I am personally available to answer any questions you might have.  And I work with you to come up with the perfect creation for your dog.  I also alter or repair it as needed.  My goal is to provide you and your dog with a coat that will be well-loved and well-used for years to come.

A dog coat that's made just for your dog allows your dog to be a dog. It should fit so well that they can do whatever they do and not worry about the coat.

Is it more expensive to buy a custom dog coat?

Well, the answer is yes and no.  Yes, because the initial cost to buy a custom dog coat from Made by De versus one at PetSmart or Chewy, for example, is probably a bit higher.  And no, because that isn't the whole story.  That less expensive product probably isn't just what you wanted. When you buy a product that has a lower price tag, it doesn't end there.

Sure, that product is less expensive when you first charge your credit card. But then you get it home to try on your dog.  Does it fit well enough that your dog likes wearing it or can you "get by" with it?  Did they have the colors and features you wanted, or did you have to settle for something else that isn't quite it?  

The problem is, if you're not quite satisfied or if your dog doesn't like wearing the coat, you'll be looking for another one before long.  Either your dog will chew it up or refuse to move in it, or you'll try again to get the "perfect" coat.  That means pulling out the credit card again.  Now, was that less expensive coat as inexpensive as you thought? 

Buying custom is an investment that's worth it.

Some people can afford to pay top dollar for their dog stuff and don't worry about the money.  They'll pay for convenience, quality, and status.  

Other people would like to be able to pay top dollar, but they're careful.  They don't want to pay any more than necessary for the quality they're desiring.  They might pay top dollar in a pinch, but they consider pretty carefully what they're buying.

Then there are the people who want to buy at the lowest cost or not at all.  It's sort of a badge of honor to get the lowest price possible.  These people look at paying the lowest price possible.

If you think about it, buying a custom coat meets the needs of all three of these people. The first set of people get something that's quality and unique, meeting the status goal.  The second set of people get something that is, overall, the most product for the money.  And the last set of people end up saving money by not having to purchase again and again.

The size of your dog is not a problem when the pr

Buying a custom dog coat is a good investment.

Buying a custom dog coat sounds like an extravagance, but it's really wise.  The price paid initially is more than made up in the savings of not having to purchase something else because the first item just wasn't quite right. And buying quality the first time around means that you won't have to buy a new dog coat every year (although I'd love to sell it to you).  

If you add up the cost of one custom Made by De dog coat versus the several you'd have to buy because the coat doesn't fit, it wasn't exactly what you and your dog needed, or it just wasn't made to hold up very long, the answer is easy.  Buying custom is actually less expensive!

So......if you're in the market for a dog coat, take a look at Made by De. And while you're there, don't forget to sign up for the Insider Group.  You can save an additional 20% off your orders and get some useful inside information on sales as well as tips for dog parents.