This blog feature amusing and heartwarming stories about our late Leonberger dog Bronco, as well as other Leonbergers. It also has a lot of information about the Leonberger breed, the history, care, training, Leonberger organizations, etc. I also wrote a Leonberger book, which I am featuring in the sidebar.
Esther’s current prompt is Exercise. Dog owners tend to live longer than others and one reason for that is that dogs force you to exercise. You should walk your dogs every day because they need the exercise and they love sniffing around. Dogs really enjoy their walk and so should you. If you have a large adult dog, you should walk it at least one hour per day. A Leonberger dog should have at least 1-2 hours of physical activity each day, which can include walks, hikes, swimming, or interactive play sessions. Sometimes they make you run for better and for worse, and running is good exercise, as long as you don’t fall. See the story below.
Walking the dog (a Leonberger) through a forest. There’s peace, fresh air, and exercise for both of you, and objects to sniff for the dog. I generated this picture with the help of ChatGPT.
When Our Leonberger Bronco Made Me Run like Crazy
A couple of times, Bronco took advantage of the fact that the snap hook on his leash would come loose and detach from his collar. One day this became a big problem. Bronco ran off, and I chased him—across the street, across people’s lawns, across the street again, and back over neighboring lawns. When he ran in circles, I ran in circles right behind him, yelling at him. He would stop and wait for me, and then as soon as I got close, he would start running again. I even jumped to catch him a few times. But he dashed off both times, and I just landed flat on my belly.
I am running after our Leonberger Bronco, unable to catch up. I generated this picture with the help of ChatGPT.I am running after our Leonberger Bronco and I am falling. I generated this picture with the help of ChatGPT.
Bronco had a lot of fun doing this. I imagined him laughing at me, and I got angry. Dogs can’t laugh, of course, but his tail was wagging in excitement, and it was obviously a game to him—a dangerous game.
So, I asked him, “Do you want to be lost? Bad things happen to dogs who get lost.” I don’t know how much of that he understood, but I had to tell him the truth. Then I turned around and started walking home. I figured I’d never catch him, so it was better for me to go back and get help. (It was 2008, and I didn’t have a cell phone.) Naturally, I worried that Bronco would get hit by a car. I was also worried about the damage an energetic 130-pound adolescent dog could do to the neighborhood.
Me shouting at Bronco from a distance. I generated this picture with the help of ChatGPT.
As I stomped off, I turned around to look at Bronco. He stood still, around a hundred yards away, staring back at me. He seemed confused. I continued walking. After a while, I heard the soft slapping of big paws on the road behind me, accompanied by some distinctly noisy breathing. Then I saw Bronco walking next to me, so I carefully snapped the leash back onto his collar. He let me do it without protest. He was finished playing games. We walked home calmly, and the next day I bought a new and better leash.
Finally Bronco was finished playing games. I generated this picture with the help of ChatGPT.
Well sometimes the situation below may happen with a Leonberger. This happened to my wife and to my daughter. Our Leonberger Bronco was dragging them as they desperately tried to hold him. In this case the exercise the dog gets is of better quality than what the woman gets.
My wife Claudia and Bronco. This was not Claudia’s best dog walk. This picture was drawn by Naomi Rosenblatt.
A professional content writer by the name of Ryan Goodchild contacted me about me posting an article he had written on Small Daily Steps for Stronger Mental Well-Being for dog owners and others and how dogs and other pets can enhance mental well-being. The title of the article is “Try These Small Daily Steps for Stronger Mental Well-Being” it is below. Ryan wrote the article and I provided pictures.
Six Leonbergers and a birthday celebration. Photo by friend Jen O’Keefe. Our young Leonberger Bronco is giving me a hug. Digory and Obi two old sweetheart Leonbergers Saint Bernard dog Stock Photo ID: 1713912484 by fred12. The photo of five Leonbergers wearing patriotic hats lying on grass by a lake was taken by Jen O’Keefe, (from left to right; Obi, Delfi, Aslan, Gryphon, Digory). A majestic and well-groomed Leonberger on a grassy knoll. Shutterstock-ID: 731020957 by Peter Josto.
I also wanted to mention that today is National Dog Day and International Dog Day. I just found out. So happy International Dog Day and National Dog Day to all dogs and to all dog owners and dog lovers.
Our Leonberger Bronco at three months old. Happy National Dog Day!
Try These Small Daily Steps for Stronger Mental Well-Being
Busy parents juggling work and home life, caregivers, and professionals carrying full calendars often want better mental and emotional wellness but feel stuck in the same loop of fatigue, worry, and irritability. Between constant notifications, family needs, and financial pressure, everyday mental health challenges can make stress management for adults feel like another task that never gets finished. The truth is that general readers seeking mental health support don’t need a perfect routine or a total reset to start feeling steadier. With the right wellness motivation, small, realistic shifts can build emotional resilience.
Dogs can be used for therapy, including mental health therapy. Shutterstock asset id: 2169223279 by lala firdaa
Understanding a Holistic Wellness Toolkit
Calm, family-oriented breeds like Leonbergers often mirror the mood of the home. Shutter Stock Asset id: 1741753382 by Elena Podrezenko
A helpful way to think about mental health is as ongoing care, not a one-time fix. A mental health maintenance plan treats your well-being like daily nourishment, supported by small practices you can actually repeat. A holistic mental health treatment mindset simply means using more than one angle, because stress shows up in thoughts, feelings, bodies, and relationships.
This matters because one habit rarely covers everything. A quick walk may ease restlessness, while a two-minute breathing pause calms your nervous system, and a kind boundary reduces resentment. When you combine tiny supports, you build steadier moods without needing perfect conditions.
Think of it like keeping a car running smoothly: fuel, tire pressure, and oil changes all play a role. On a hectic day, you might pick one small action for your body, one for your mind, and one for your emotions. Audio habits can fit right in, offering calm cues and uplifting stories during everyday tasks.
Meet the Gentle Giant of Mental Health Therapy: The Leonberger
Five sweet Leonbergers, from left to right, Kuiper, Caspian, Rilian, Austin, Obi-Wan. Photo by friend Ira Van Order / Velvy the Lion.
If a pet visit steadies you, a trained therapy dog does the same thing with intention behind it. Therapy dogs are trained to give affection and support to people, and handlers bring them into hospitals, assisted living homes, counseling offices, and schools to offer comfort and ease stress. Some teams work directly alongside healthcare professionals to improve treatment outcomes, which is what animal-assisted therapy describes. The appeal is the same co-regulation you feel petting a friend’s dog: a warm, unhurried presence that asks nothing of you.
Seven Leonbergers by the beach. Photo by my friend Jen O’Keefe.
Not every dog suits that work, which is where breed temperament matters. The Leonberger, a large German working breed, is one of the most reliable choices. Its breed standard describes a dog defined by confident calmness, friendly toward children, neither shy nor aggressive, with self-assurance and superior composure, a good capacity for learning, and insensitivity to noise — that last trait matters more than it sounds on a ward full of alarms and commotion. The Leonberger Club of America has recognized this since 2002 through a Therapy Award for Leos and owners who log hours in pet therapy programs, noting their gentle disposition and a size that makes them easy to pet from a bed.
Ten Leonberger puppies. My guess is that they are about two months old. Shutterstock-ID:561107710 by Akbudak Rimma.
You can see it in practice. CBC News profiled a Leonberger named Scout who works with residents at a mental health hospital in Hamilton, Ontario — you can read more about him here. You don’t need your own Leonberger to borrow the benefit: ask whether a local hospital, library, or senior center runs therapy dog visits, or contact a national therapy organization to find a team near you.
By clicking on the video you’ll see the video about the therapy dog Scout.
Use Podcasts as a Mini Reset for Your Mind
A well-rounded wellness toolkit works best when some supports are easy to reach in the middle of a busy day, like something you can take in through your ears while you’re doing ordinary tasks. Listening to podcasts can be a simple, accessible way to support everyday mental and emotional wellness because positive audio content can offer encouragement, fresh perspectives, and a real sense of connection. When you hear true stories from people who have navigated challenges, committed to personal growth, or reached meaningful goals, it can remind you that setbacks are part of being human, and that change is possible.
Pod cast brainstorm panda. Shutterstock asset id: 2577846237 by Shutterstock AI
Educational and inspirational shows can also ease feelings of isolation by giving you a steady stream of practical insights and motivating ideas you can carry into your day. For example, the University of Phoenix podcast shares alumni journeys that can feel grounding and uplifting when you want a gentle mental reset.
Unexpected Practices to Boost Mood and Resilience
If podcasts help you “reset” your mind, think of these as hands-on resets, quick experiments you can rotate depending on your energy, mood, and schedule.
A 15-minute forest bathing loop. I generated it with the help of ChatGPT.
Try a 15-minute forest bathing loop: Walk slowly in a park or tree-lined street and give yourself one job: notice five textures (bark, leaves, air temperature). Pause twice to take three long exhales, as if you’re letting the environment “set your pace.” This gentle attention shift can downshift stress without needing a big workout or a perfect mindset.
Go birdwatching, without being “a bird person”: Step outside for 10 minutes and listen for three distinct calls before you even look up. Then scan for movement and pick one bird to follow visually for 30 seconds. The combination of listening + tracking is a natural focus anchor, similar to how a calming podcast keeps your attention from spiraling.
Do “service in sneakers” for volunteering and mental health: Choose one small, repeatable act of help you can do in under 20 minutes, dropping off donations, writing a supportive message, or picking up litter on your route. Make it specific: same day each week, same location, same duration. Consistency matters because it builds identity (“I’m someone who helps”), which can strengthen resilience on rough days.
Borrow calm from animal-assisted therapy (or a pet visit): If you have access to an animal-assisted therapy program, try a single session and notice your body cues before/after, jaw tension, breathing speed, shoulder height. No program nearby? Spend 10 mindful minutes with a pet (yours or a friend’s): slow strokes, match your breathing to the animal’s rhythm, and end with one minute of stillness. The goal is co-regulation, your nervous system learning “safe and steady” through connection.
Use art therapy techniques as a mood “release valve”: Set a timer for 12 minutes and do a “scribble-to-shape” page: scribble continuously, then outline 3 shapes you see and color them in. Keep it private and process-focused; it’s not about talent. A meta-analysis found a significant decrease in PTSD symptoms following creative arts therapy, which is a good reminder that creating can support the mind even when words feel stuck.
Practice tai chi for emotional balance with a 3-move mini-set: Do “standing posture,” “weight shift,” and “slow arm circles” for 5 minutes total, moving at about half your normal speed. Pair each movement with a simple cue like “soften” on the exhale. Tai chi works well when you’re anxious-but-tired because it’s grounding without being intense.
Try “micro-horticulture” (one plant counts): Water, prune, or repot one plant for 10 minutes, paying attention to color and scent. If you don’t have plants, start a windowsill herb or volunteer one hour monthly at a community garden. Research on nature-based therapy links it with improved psychological variables, and the “care + growth” loop can be especially stabilizing.
Build a sensory grounding kit you’ll actually use: Pick three items for three senses, peppermint tea (taste), a textured keychain (touch), and a calming sound clip (hearing). When you feel yourself speeding up mentally, use them in order for 2 minutes each. This works like an emergency playlist: predictable cues that tell your brain “we’re safe enough to settle.”
Do a “one-scene replay” after listening: After an uplifting podcast or story, write down one scene or line that hit you and answer: “What does this make me want to do in the next 10 minutes?” Then act on it, send a message, step outside, stretch, tidy one surface. Turning inspiration into a tiny behavior shift is how audio comfort becomes real-world resilience.
Wellness Habit Questions People Ask Most
Q: How do I fit mental wellness habits into a packed day? A: Make it “too small to fail”: 2 minutes counts. Pair one habit with something you already do, like a slow breath while the kettle heats or a quick walk after you lock the door. If you miss a day, restart with the smallest version.
Q: Do I need to spend money for these to work? A: Not at all. Most calming practices are free or low-cost, and you can borrow resources through your library or community centers. If you have benefits, many workplaces also support wellness since 85% of large US employers offer wellness programs.
Q: Are unconventional options like art-based or animal-based practices safe? A: Generally, yes, when you keep it gentle and within your comfort zone. Start with short sessions, notice how your body feels, and stop if anything increases distress. If you have trauma history or severe symptoms, check in with a licensed clinician before trying new modalities.
Q: What if I feel silly doing these things in public? A: Choose “stealth” versions, like listening for sounds on a normal walk or doing a tiny grounding routine in the restroom. You can also practice privately first so it feels familiar. Confidence grows when the habit feels like yours.
Q: When should I get professional help instead of DIY habits? A: If you’re struggling to function, using substances to cope, or having thoughts of self-harm, reach out for immediate support. For ongoing stress, habits can complement therapy, not replace it.
Turn Small Daily Practices Into Lasting Emotional Resilience
When life is busy or stressful, mental wellness can slide to the bottom of the list, even when you know it matters. The steadier path is integrating mental wellness habits through personalized wellness strategies, simple, low-pressure experiments you can actually repeat. Over time, those daily mental health practices become ongoing emotional health support, building confidence in your ability to ride out hard moments and enjoy good ones. Small daily habits create long-term mental health benefits.
Imagine my delight when I saw the post above. Sally is sharing my super fact 56:
Super fact 56 : The Bermuda Triangle mystery is a myth. There is not a higher risk of disappearances in the Bermuda Triangle. To be specific, disappearances do not occur in the so-called Bermuda Triangle, or Devils Triangle, with any higher frequency than in other comparable regions of the ocean. The “mystery” of the Bermuda Triangle is largely a manufactured one, perpetuated by sensationalized accounts that often misrepresent the facts and downplay the role of natural hazards like storms.
In addition, she is promoting my Leonberger dog book for which D.L. Finn wrote a great review. Thank you so much Sally and D.L. Finn. Please click the link and see the Smorgasbord blog magazine post.
The Bermuda Triangle: It is approximately defined as a triangle Florida, Bermuda, and Puerto Rico. There is no exact definition. Alphaiosderivative work: -Majestic-, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons.
A professional content writer by the name of Ryan Goodchild contacted me about me posting an article he had written on designing a stylish and durable dog friendly home. The title of the article is “How to Design a Stylish and Durable Dog-Friendly Home That Lasts” it is below. Ryan wrote the article and I provided pictures.
Our Labrador Baylor and German Shepherd Baby. Bronco wearing a soft cone and accidentally clearing a table. Our Leonberger dog Bronco sleeps on our big leather sofa. Young Bronco is giving me a hug. Our Japanese Chin Ryu is licking our Pug Daisy’s ear. Our Leonberger dog Bronco is sitting in my wife’s lap. Bronco and our Pug Daisy are eating a gingerbread house in the kitchen. Our mini-Australian Shepherd Rollo biting Bronco’s tail.
How to Design a Stylish and Durable Dog-Friendly Home That Lasts
For design-minded dog owners and busy households with pups underfoot, home should feel welcoming without looking worn down. The real challenge is balancing pet needs and aesthetics when muddy paws, shedding, scratching, and daily mess collide with a polished space. Dog-friendly home design isn’t about sacrificing style; it’s about choosing durable home materials and stylish pet accommodations that hold up to real life. With the right mindset, long-term home functionality becomes a design feature, not a compromise.
Our Leonberger dog Bronco and our mini-Australian Shepherd Rollo when he was a puppy.
Upgrade Room by Room: 8 Dog-Proof, Design-Forward Ideas
A dog-friendly home doesn’t have to look like a kennel, or feel like you’re “settling.” Start with the rooms you use most, choose finishes that hide real life, and upgrade in layers so your style stays front-and-center.
Our German Shepherd Baby playing with our 4 months old Leonberger Bronco.
Start at the entry with a “dirt-control” landing zone: Put a washable runner (or indoor/outdoor-style rug) right inside the door and add wall hooks plus a closed bin for leashes, towels, and paw wipes. This keeps grit from traveling to your nicer surfaces and makes departures less chaotic. If you can, add a low bench so you can wipe paws without wrestling.
Choose scratch-resistant flooring where claws hit hardest: In high-traffic paths, entry, hallway, kitchen, prioritize tough, easy-clean surfaces and keep area rugs for warmth and style. If replacing floors, ask for samples and do a real test: drag a key lightly, spill water, and see if it shows. If full replacement isn’t in the budget, a long runner in the “zoomie lane” protects what you already have.
Upgrade to easy-clean fabrics (and make them work harder): For sofas and dining chairs, look for tightly woven performance fabrics or removable, washable covers in mid-tone colors that hide fur and smudges. The right pet-friendly upholstery fabric can cut daily maintenance and keep your room looking “done” longer. Add a throw you don’t baby to your dog’s favorite spot so you’re laundering one layer, not deep-cleaning cushions.
Build a feeding station that’s neat by design: Convert a lower cabinet, nook, or mudroom corner into a built-in feeding station with a wipeable surface and a pull-out bin for food. Add a washable mat under bowls and mount a small hook for the scoop so it’s never on the counter. This keeps crumbs contained, reduces slipping bowls, and makes the area look intentional instead of temporary.
Dog-proof storage with small hardware changes: Use lidded cans, add simple childproof latches to low cabinets, and keep tempting items behind closed doors. A few minutes spent removing personal items from reach prevents chewed shoes, shredded mail, and unsafe snacking. Aim for one “dog-safe” basket in each main room so clutter has a place without becoming a hazard.
Create a durable “rest zone” that protects your layout: Give your dog a defined spot, bed, crate, or mat, near where you actually hang out, not tucked away. Place it on a washable rug or low-pile mat to protect flooring and help anchor the room’s arrangement. When your dog has a predictable place to settle, you’ll see less pacing, less furniture-hopping, and fewer dirty paw prints on upholstery.
Make your yard a secure outdoor dog space, not a stress zone: Check fence gaps, latch reliability, and sightlines at gates, then add a double-latch or self-closing hinge if you’ve had close calls. Define one “dig/zoom” area with mulch or gravel and keep the rest landscaped for looks. A shaded water spot and a clear path back to the door reduce tracking mud through the house.
Choose pet-safe landscaping that still looks polished: Skip plants known to be toxic to pets and avoid cocoa mulch; use sturdy groundcovers and hardscaping borders that won’t splinter or poke paws. Create a rinse-off station with a hose and spray nozzle near the door so muddy days don’t wreck your floors. These aesthetic home upgrades let the outdoors feel curated while staying practical.
Six Leonbergers and a birthday celebration. Photo by friend Jen O’Keefe.
If You’re Building New: Ask These Warranty Questions at Closing
After you’ve planned dog-tough finishes and built-ins, it’s worth protecting the structure those upgrades depend on. When you’re closing on a new build, ask your builder whether a structural warranty (or similar long-term protection) is included, and what it covers if defects show up after you move in. This kind of coverage can help safeguard the home’s integrity, which matters when you’ve invested in pet-friendly choices like durable flooring or built-in features that are meant to perform for years. Getting clarity up front on coverage expectations, and whether a third-party, insurance-backed option like a builder-backed warranty for new homes is part of the package, can add peace of mind as your dog settles in. Next, we’ll tackle the practical questions homeowners ask most about odors, stains, fences, and resale value.
A dog friendly house. Generated with the help of ChatGPT.
Dog-Friendly Home Design: Common Questions Answered
Q: What actually keeps dog odor under control without making the house smell like chemicals? A: Start with what holds odor: washable covers, low-pile rugs, and sealed floors that do not absorb. Use a HEPA vacuum weekly, launder soft goods often, and run a carbon air purifier in the main hangout zone. If odors persist, an enzyme cleaner beats masking sprays because it breaks down the source.
Q: How do I remove urine stains from floors or carpets without ruining the finish? A: Blot first, then apply an enzyme-based cleaner and give it enough dwell time before rinsing or blotting again. Avoid steam cleaners on fresh urine since heat can set stains and odors. Test any product in a hidden spot, especially on hardwood sealants.
Q: What fence type and height works best for most dogs? A: A solid, climb-resistant fence with minimal horizontal rails is a reliable choice for many homes. Many installers consider the ideal fence height 4 to 6 feet, with 6 feet as the industry standard for containment. Match the design to your dog’s jumping and digging habits, then add a buried edge or kick plate if needed.
Our Leonberger dog Bronco and fence you cannot dig holes under. Leonbergers are expert diggers.
Q: Can I keep resale appeal if I choose dog-proof materials? A: Yes, when choices read “durable and neutral,” not “pet-only.” Stick to classic colors, consistent hardware finishes, and quality flooring that any buyer would see as an upgrade. The best pet-friendly features look like smart maintenance, not a special-purpose remodel.
Q: How do I reduce everyday wear and tear from paws, nails, and outdoor mud? A: Create a simple entry drop zone with a washable runner, hooks, and a closed bin for towels and wipes. Keep nails trimmed and place scratch-friendly surfaces like washable mats near doors and feeding stations. Outside, use hardy groundcover or gravel in the main run path to limit dead grass and tracked-in dirt.
Leonberger dog at the entrance of a house standing on a washable runner. There are hooks and a bin for towels. Generated with the help of ChatGPT.
Finish-Strong Dog-Friendly Home Checklist
This checklist turns good ideas into repeatable habits, so your home stays stylish while handling real life with dogs. Use it to decide what to upgrade now, what to schedule, and what to maintain each week.
✔ Choose sealed, non-absorbent floors for high-traffic zones
✔ Add washable slipcovers and throws to the main seating
✔ Place low-pile, easy-clean rugs where paws land most
✔ Run a HEPA vacuum on a weekly calendar reminder
✔ Keep an enzyme cleaner stocked for fast accident response
✔ Set an entry drop zone with towels, wipes, and a closed bin
✔ Inspect fencing for gaps, dig spots, and climb points monthly. Check these off once, then protect them with routine.
Labrador in front of fence in the backyard. This is good fence but has a potential dig spot. Shutterstock asset id: 2485564001 by PeopleImagesThe fence needs to be fixed after a tornado went through the neighborhood. Bronco had just had a toe amputation.
Make Style Last With Dog-Ready Materials and Layouts
Living with dogs can feel like a constant trade-off between a home that looks pulled together and one that can take daily wear. The steadier path is designing for real life: choose materials supporting pet durability, use layouts for pet and people, and keep integrating pet features in ways that maintain home style with dogs. Design for the dog you have, and your style will last longer. Pick one high-impact change from the checklist this week, swap in a tougher surface, protect a high-traffic zone, or refine a room flow, then build from there. Long-lasting pet-friendly design protects comfort now and creates a calmer, more resilient home for everyone.
Rollo Go Look Out the Window – that is what we tell our mini-Australian Shepherd Rollo when we have to leave him home alone for a couple of hours. Whenever we say that he runs to the window and looks out the window. He isn’t happy about us leaving but he likes looking at all things that he can see through his window, and he barks at the things he sees.
But what does Rollo see? See the children’s story below. I should say that I will work on this story and try different kinds of images to go with it. For this attempt, the first and second photo in the story are taken with my cell phone. The photo of planet Earth is from pexels.com. All the other pictures in the story I generated with help of ChatGPT. The photos outside / after the story are all photos taken by me.
What does Rollo See out his Window ?
Rollo’s owners are usually with Rollo most of the time, but sometimes they have to leave him for a couple of hours. When that happens, Rollo is not happy.
However, Rollo’s Mama says, “Rollo go look out the Window” and Rollo runs to look out the window.
What does Rollo see? He sees the blue sky and the clouds; he sees birds flying and he sees the black crows walking on our lawn. He doesn’t like the black crows walking on his lawn, so he goes woof, woof, woof, woof.
He sees the green grass and the houses, he sees the jagged edges of the roofs and the chimneys, and he sees workers repairing shingles on roof tops, and that looks scary, so he goes woof, woof, woof, woof.
He sees rabbits running, cats hiding, children playing and laughing, and he sees squirrels running up the trees, so he goes woof, woof, woof, woof.
He sees people walking by our house. Do they see him? Maybe not. But there, someone sees him, and he goes woof, woof, woof, woof.
He sees people with dogs walking by the house and that makes him mad, so he goes woof, woof, woof, woof.
Then the cat asks Rollo if he could come out and play with her. But Rollo can’t. He is stuck inside behind the window, so he goes woof, woof, woof.
Rollo looks out the window and he sees the world, and he knows that the world was made for him, but he has to stay inside.
Rollo’s owners left him alone in his despair for nearly two hours but now he sees them coming home and he runs to the door, and he goes woof, woof, woof, woof.
They ask him, Rollo, what did you see out your window today? And he goes woof, woof, woof, woof.
Photos of Rollo Looking Out the Window
Rollo is looking out the window. Photo taken by me.Another photo of Rollo looking out the window. Photo taken by me.Rollo is looking out the window. I am standing a bit further away from the window.
Daisy and Rollo Looking Out the Window
Rollo grew up with two dogs, our big fluffy Leonberger dog Bronco and Daisy our Pug. Bronco sometimes stood and looked out the window, but Rollo and Daisy loved doing that together. They stood on the sofa and barked at everything they saw outside.
Daisy’s and Rollo’s knock knock joke.Finally, I just wanted to point out that Rollo is named after the Viking king who tried to sack Paris, not the Rolo candy.
A professional content writer by the name of Ryan Goodchild contacted me about me posting an article he had written on daily health habits for busy dog owners. The title of the article is “Simple Daily Health Habits for Busy Dog Owners to Boost Well-Being” and you can see the article below. Ryan wrote the article and I provided pictures.
Hachi a Canadian Leonberger with my book. The owner and photographers are Brenda Saito and her husband. Mak another Canadian Leonberger with my book. Photo by Debbie Ireland. Black and white photo of our Leonberger Bronco when he was three months old. Baylor our Labrador. Baby our German Shepherd. Ryu our Japanese Chin. Daisy our Pug. Rollo our mini-Australian Shepherd.
Simple Daily Health Habits for Busy Dog Owners to Boost Well-Being
Are you a busy dog owner? Shutterstock-ID: 561107650 by Akbudak Rimma.
For busy dog owners balancing work, family, and constant pet needs, personal health often gets squeezed into whatever time is left. The pet owner lifestyle brings common health challenges, irregular sleep, skipped meals, nagging aches from walking and lifting, and stress that builds quietly across the day. Daily health routines that focus on simple, consistent head-to-toe care help turn scattered self-care into a steady baseline for energy, mood, and recovery. The payoff is holistic well-being that holds up even when the dog’s schedule runs the day.
Build a Simple Day Routine Around Dog Care
This day structure helps you care for your body from morning to night without adding extra “projects” to your schedule. It matters because small routines done consistently are easier to keep even when your dog’s needs interrupt your plans.
Start the day with stretching Pexels free photo by Maksim Goncharenok
Start with a 3-minute morning stretch reset Start right after your first dog outing with a quick sequence: neck rolls, shoulder circles, gentle hip hinges, and calf stretches while the coffee brews. Focus on slow breathing and comfortable range of motion, not intensity. This is a simple way to reduce stiffness from sleep and make walks and lifting feel easier.
Choose a 60-second mindfulness “pause point” Pick one reliable cue you already have, like clipping the leash, washing your hands, or opening your laptop. Do one minute of box breathing or a quick body scan from jaw to shoulders to hands, then relax what you notice is tense. This tiny reset can lower stress spillover before it snowballs into the rest of your day.
Pair your hydration with your dog’s water routine Each time you refill your dog’s bowl, drink a full glass yourself and keep a bottle where you feed them. Learning the signs of dehydration in pets like dry gums and lethargy also helps you stay alert to your own needs, since busy days often mask thirst as fatigue. The goal is steady sipping, not chugging at night.
Lock in oral hygiene with two “anchors” Tie brushing to two non-negotiable moments: after your first meal and after your final dog walk. Follow the simple rule to brush your teeth twice a day so it becomes automatic instead of optional. This protects your mouth and supports overall health with almost no scheduling friction.
Use a dog-friendly bedtime routine that protects sleep Set a fixed “last call” window: final potty break, dim lights, prep tomorrow’s leash and poop bags, then phone on charger outside the bed. If your dog wakes you, keep it boring and brief with low light and no scrolling, then return to bed immediately. Consistency trains both of you to settle faster.
Digory with Leonbergers friends on the beach. Photo by friend Jen O’Keefe.
Keep Your Mind Sharp With Lifelong Learning You Can Schedule
Lifelong learning keeps your mind active and engaged, which can strengthen mental well-being over time by promoting personal growth and building confidence. As you practice remembering and applying new information, you reinforce memory retention and create a steady sense of progress that can reduce stress and make busy weeks feel more manageable. An online degree can deliver these benefits no matter what career track you’re on, because it offers a structured, self-paced path you can fit around dog walks, work, and home responsibilities. For example, a bachelor’s in information technology online can provide hands-on knowledge in networking, cybersecurity, cloud computing, data management, and systems administration, building practical skills alongside personal confidence.
Neural Networks. Black Hole Stock Illustration ID: 2476711459 by Vadim Sadovski. Malware, Shutterstock asset ID: 1916985977 by Sashkin. Artificial intelligence, Shutterstock Asset id: 2314449325 by Stock-Asso. Stock Illustration ID: 1372134458 by Boris Rabtsevich
Tiny Habits That Boost Health and Your Dog Bond
Small, repeatable actions work because they lower the friction of self-care on busy days. Give each habit time to stick, since 59-66 days is a realistic window for many routines to feel more automatic.
Our Leonberger dog Bronco as an adult. He is coming up to me. He wants my attention.
One-Minute Skin Sweep
What it is: Notice new spots or irritation while brushing your teeth.
How often: Daily
Why it helps: Early awareness keeps you proactive and reduces health anxiety.
Gentle Face Cleanse
What it is: Wash with a mild cleanser after your last dog walk.
How often: Daily
Why it helps: It removes sweat and grime without overdrying skin.
Leash-Up Breathing Reset
What it is: Take six slow breaths while clipping on the leash.
How often: Daily
Why it helps: It downshifts stress before the next task.
Food-as-Training Microgame
What it is: Use a few kibble pieces to practice name and recall.
How often: Daily
Why it helps: It builds trust and mental stimulation in minutes.
Our Leonberger Bronco and our mini-Australian Shepherd Rollo.
Common Questions Busy Dog Owners Ask
Q: How can dog care actually help my sleep quality? A: Aim for a consistent last potty break, then keep lights low and screens off after you come back inside. A short, calm walk can reduce restlessness for your dog and help your body shift into wind-down mode. Many owners find that predictable evening cues lead to fewer middle-of-the-night wakeups.
Q: What are easy hydration tips when I forget to drink water? A: Tie your water to your dog’s water: every time you refill their bowl, take 6 to 10 gulps from a bottle you keep nearby. If plain water feels boring, add ice or a squeeze of citrus and keep it visible on the counter. A “first drink before first scroll” rule also helps.
Q: When my routine gets interrupted, how do I keep up with oral care? A: Use a two-minute minimum: brush once, even if you skip floss. If you truly cannot brush, rinse well with water and set your toothbrush out so it’s the first thing you see next time.
Q: Can a quick walk really count as self-care when I’m exhausted? A: Yes, because movement and daylight can improve mood and energy without needing a full workout. Even long walks with your dog can support physical fitness for both of you when you have time.
Q: Should I feel guilty if I only manage one tiny habit a day? A: No. Consistency beats intensity, especially on chaotic days. Pick the smallest action that keeps your identity as “someone who takes care of themselves” intact.
Paintings of our Pug Daisy and Leonberger Bronco.
Lock In One Week of Health Habits With Your Dog
Busy dog owners rarely struggle with knowing what’s healthy, it’s the constant handoffs between pet needs and personal needs that break consistency. The health strategy reinforcement here is simple: commit to health routines that are small, repeatable, and designed to survive imperfect days, so sustainable wellness habits become automatic rather than aspirational. Over time, that approach supports a balanced lifestyle for dog owners with better energy, steadier sleep, and fewer “start over Monday” cycles. Consistency beats intensity when life is crowded. Pick one one-week upgrade you can keep during your busiest days and do it daily. That ongoing self-care motivation builds resilience for both you and your dog, week after week.
Today we started looking for a new car for our daughter, so we visited some dealerships and she test-drove some cars. This reminded me of when we bought our Subaru some years ago. We felt that it was very important that our Leonberger dog Bronco, or Le Bronco von der Löwenhöhle, which was his full name, was happy with the car. So, we let him take the car for a test drive. My wife and I sat in the back seat. Naturally, we had him in a leash. There are leash laws here in Dallas and we are not crazy.
More recently the Texas Legislature passed HB64 and SB14, which made Texas the first US state to allow dogs to drive. Any dog of any breed is allowed to drive a car as long as they are two years or older and are facilitated by a DDAD, a dog drivers assistance device. The Texas legislature isn’t crazy after all.
A DDAD is a device that reads traffic signs for the dog and takes cues from the dog’s body language to turn the car and control it in other ways. DDAD utilizes a multi layered neural network (deep learning style neural network, like LLMs) that has been trained using several thousand dogs that included all of AKC’s approved dog breeds as well as 100’s of mixed breeds. Rollo, our mini-Australian Shepherd, passed his driver’s ed test and now he has a driving license. In the picture below he is coming back from a visit to grandma and grandpa. He drove there all by himself.
Rollo coming back from a visit to grandma and grandpa. He is driving our old Toyota Prius. We are not letting him drive our new car. We are not crazy after all.
The True Story
OK, I must confess, the stories above are not entirely true and the picture of the Leonberger driving a car, that is not a photo of us. That is a picture I generated with the help of ChatGPT. So, the top part of this post is not 100% truthiness. However, below is the true story of when we bought our Subaru and our Leonberger Bronco was part of the decision.
Do you remember the old joke about the man who heard a woman speak to her cat as if the cat understood her? He thought it was so funny that he went home and told his dogs about it, and they laughed and laughed. Well, it sorts of happened at the Subaru car dealership. We had our Leonberger dog Bronco with us. He was going to help us test cars. We wanted him to be comfortable in the back seat.
Well, the salesman at the dealership told us a story about a woman who kept talking to her dog as if he was a person. He was laughing and told us that she was probably crazy. He put his finger to his temple and twirled it in circles to underscore his point. But we didn’t think his story was funny. I mean, what dog owner doesn’t talk to their dogs?
Anyway, that day at the dealership, we let Bronco walk in and out of the various cars we were considering, and he sat in the back seats. The salesman didn’t seem to mind. But at the end we told him that Bronco had told us which car to buy. I mean in practice, you can say that it was Bronco who chose the car we bought. Maybe the salesman thought we were crazy too. Below are some photos of Bronco.
Very young Bronco is giving me a hug.Bronco in the back seat. Going for a car ride. He is almost 13 years old.Bronco in the back seat again. He is almost 13 years old.
I think there are many great quotes, so it is difficult to pick a specific one. However, I think that one quote by Richard Feynman, the physicist who won the Nobel Prize for his work on Quantum Electrodynamics (QED), stands out.
The first principle is that you must not fool yourself—and you are the easiest person to fool.
The quote means that people naturally tend to believe what they want to believe, making self-deception much easier than tricking others.
The first principle is that you must not fool yourself—and you are the easiest person to fool. Don’t believe what feels right. Scrutinize your beliefs. Picture created with the help of ChatGPT.
Ask yourself, what if one of your beliefs isn’t true. How likely is it that all of your beliefs are true? It is pretty much impossible that all of our beliefs are true. If we want to align our beliefs about what is true as much as possible, then we need to scrutinize our beliefs. If they are true, they will withstand the scrutiny. Yes, we need to understand the topic in question and the evidence. Once the facts and the science have given you a conclusive answer you have to accept it. Rejecting an answer that is based on evidence because you don’t like it is not critical thinking.
If you disagree with the world’s experts on a topic on which you lack expertise, then that is a good indicator that you are wrong. Respecting expertise is not the appeal to authority fallacy. It is just common sense. Denial or outright dismissal of a fact you don’t like is not critical thinking, that is denial.
I’ve been there. I grew up in a religious environment that did not accept evolution. I thought evolution was a hoax. However, I loved science, I was good at it, and I went to the natural science high school (naturvetenskap) in Sweden before studying physics at the University. I came to realize from my studies that the various claims, and the faulty evidence I had accepted, that Earth being 6,000 years old, etc., was nonsense, that the second law of thermodynamics did not contradict evolution, that evolution was not “just a theory” but a scientific fact as well. I did not come to that conclusion by arguing with people. I came to that conclusion by learning about the related science. It turned out that my creationist beliefs were not because I knew something others didn’t. I had just been bamboozled.
About 15-20 years ago I was very skeptical about climate change, global warming, climate disruption, whatever you call it. That was the result of me almost exclusively reading rightwing news sources and blogs. But I did not really know much about the science, and I was not even aware of the scientific consensus, and for ideological reasons I did not want global warming to be true.
However, I came across a few red flags, and I was curious, and I took a deep dive into the topic. After listening more carefully to the climate scientists and learning about the topic, I came to realize that global warming was real, and that the evidence that the current rapid warming was not natural but caused by us, chiefly because of our burning of fossil fuels, was for all practical purposed conclusive. I had been bamboozled again, because I trusted the wrong sources, and because of what I wanted to believe.
In think most of us do these kinds of mistakes. The many implausible conspiracy theories out there and all the anti-science are a result of that. But we need to be willing to scrutinize our beliefs and try to understand the topics. Sometimes that is difficult, but at least you can try not to be dismissive, or think you know better than the experts in a field where you lack expertise. And second guessing the motives of most scientists in a field is a trap. You will only fool yourself doing that. Intentionally seek the truth not confirmation of your belief.
I have a second blog, I call it superfactful. The goal of this blog is to create a list of what I call super facts. That is important facts that are true with very high certainty and yet surprising, misunderstood, or disputed by many. This blog is educational and fun but challenging. Below I am listing a few of my blog posts that fall in the category of being disputed by many non-experts for various reasons. They might be challenging, perhaps even provocative facts.
A professional content writer by the name of Ryan Goodchild contacted me about me posting an article he had written on how to launch a mobile Pet Grooming Business. The title of the article is “How to Launch a Successful Pet Care Business in Simple Steps” and you can see the article below. Ryan wrote the article and I provided pictures.
A woman is grooming a small hairy dog. From pexels.com by Tima Miroshnichenko. Photos from Pexels.com by Nataliya Vaitkevich. Ten Leonberger puppies, about two months old. Shutterstock-ID:561107710 by Akbudak Rimma. Our mini-Australian Shepherd puppy Rollo playing with an orange ball. Grooming French Bulldog. Shutterstock asset id: 1340980898 by hedgehog94. Dogs and volunteers at dog shelters. Shutterstock asset id: 1817304344 by miniwide
How to Launch a Successful Pet Care Business in Simple Steps
For practical new business owners who want flexible income without a steep learning curve, pet care entrepreneurship is getting easier to enter and easier to validate. The tension is real: many small business startup ideas feel risky, crowded, or misaligned with day-to-day life, and it’s hard to tell what people will pay for consistently. At the same time, pet industry growth and shifting work habits are expanding pet business opportunities in neighborhoods, apartment buildings, and online communities. With the right fit, startup pet services can become a steady business built around real demand.
Animal shelter volunteer takes care of dogs. Animal volunteer takes care of homeless animals. Shutterstock asset id: 2390820575 by andysavchenko
Choose a Pet Business Model That Fits Your Life
Pet care is growing, and flexible work schedules make it easier than ever to build a small service business that starts simple and scales. Use the ideas below as a “menu” to match local demand with your skills, time, and comfort level.
Shutterstock asset id: 2469644009 by PeopleImages
Start with the simplest schedule-friendly service (dog walking): If you can reliably show up and handle leash manners, dog walking services are a low-setup way to test demand fast. Try two “time blocks” you can commit to (for example, weekday lunch walks and early evenings) and offer 20–30 minute walks within a tight radius. This works because convenience is the product, busy pet parents pay for consistency more than fancy add-ons.
Add pet sitting opportunities for higher-value bookings: Pet sitting turns your time into longer appointments, which often means fewer clients for the same revenue. Decide whether you want drop-ins (10–20 minutes), half-hour visits, or overnight stays, then write clear boundaries: how many pets, medication comfort, and how far you’ll travel. A practical starting package is “2 drop-ins/day + photo updates,” which fits the trust-building expectations many owners have.
Choose a pet grooming business model that matches your space and stamina: Grooming can be strong demand, but it’s physical and quality-driven, start with a narrow offer you can deliver safely. Consider basic services first (bath, brush-out, nail trims) before full haircuts, and set a realistic daily cap (like 2–4 appointments) while you learn timing. The pet grooming services market crossed $11.5 billion, which helps explain why many owners are willing to pay for regular care, especially when you’re reliable and gentle.
Layer in ecommerce pet products only after you know what clients request: Ecommerce can be great, but inventory guesses get expensive, let real customer questions guide you. Track every “Do you sell…?” request for two weeks, then test with a small batch (like a month’s worth) of one or two items that pair with your service, such as paw balm after winter walks. This approach turns your service clients into your first product customers instead of starting from zero.
Try niche pet services to stand out in a crowded area: Niche services help you become “the obvious choice” for a specific need, which can raise prices and reduce competition. Options include senior-pet support visits, puppy potty-break plans for remote workers in meetings, cat-only drop-ins, or fear-free handling for anxious dogs. Pick one niche, write a simple checklist for what you do each visit, then ask your first five clients what they valued most.
Build your pet care business models like building blocks (then decide what to keep): For 30 days, run a small experiment: one core offer (walks or drop-ins) plus one add-on (nail trim, medication support, or “last-minute coverage” fee). Review what sold, what drained you, and what you can repeat weekly without burnout. Your best model should fit your life as much as it fits the market. Once you know your core offer and niche, it’s much easier to choose a business name, colors, and a simple look that pet parents instantly recognize.
Our Leonberger Bronco at three months old.
Build a Simple Brand Kit That Pet Parents Remember
Once you’ve chosen a pet care business model that fits your life, a simple brand kit helps people recognize you quickly and feel confident booking.
A well-designed logo is one of the easiest ways to market your new business because it makes a strong first impression, builds brand awareness, and helps separate you from the competition. It doesn’t need to be complex, just clear and memorable so it looks good wherever pet parents see it.
Pet Business Logo. Shutterstock asset id: 2312035167 by stivesmith
If your startup budget is tight, you don’t have to pay for logo design services right away. Explore and compare logo design options. You can use online logo maker offerings to create an appealing logo yourself: pick a style, choose an icon that fits your vibe, add the name (and any short text you need), then browse the options and fine-tune details like fonts and colors until it feels right.
Once you have your logo and basic visuals, keep them consistent across flyers, social profiles, and booking pages so your business looks established from the start.
Next, you’ll turn that polished first impression into action with a step-by-step launch plan to go from idea to first clients.
From pexels.com cottonbro studio
Build a Simple Launch Plan for Your Pet Care Business
Pet care can be a real business when you treat it like one from day one. Use the steps below to turn your idea into clear operations, smart funding choices, a ready-to-go launch checklist, and practical marketing that helps you get your first paying clients.
A launch plan. Shutterstock asset id: 2684334261 by Master1305
Step 1: Write a one-page business plan Start with what you offer, who you serve, how you’ll deliver the service (hours, service area, supplies, policies), and what you’ll charge. Add a simple money snapshot: expected monthly bookings, basic costs, and a break-even target so you know what “good enough” looks like.
Step 2: Pick a starter budget and funding path List your must-have startup items (insurance, leashes and crates, booking system, basic marketing) and decide what can wait until revenue comes in. Because the forecasted growth of 2.9% suggests a steadier pace in parts of the market, plan for a lean start: self-fund first, then consider a small loan or low-limit credit only if you can cover payments with conservative booking estimates.
Step 3: Turn operations into a launch checklist Create a checklist you can actually run every week: onboarding steps, intake questions, meet-and-greet flow, safety rules, cancellation policy, and how you handle emergencies. Then set up your back office basics: a way to track bookings, collect payments, store client notes, and follow up after each visit.
Step 4: Pre-sell with local-first marketing Start with the channels that build trust fastest: a simple service page, a Google Business Profile, and a consistent social presence that matches your brand kit. Offer one clear first-time booking incentive and ask every happy client for a short review, since proof beats promises when pet parents are choosing care.
Step 5: Run a two-week client acquisition sprint Set a target like 10 conversations, 5 meet-and-greets, and 3 paid bookings, then block time daily for outreach and follow-ups. Track what works, and adjust your offer and messaging quickly because the pet care market reached $188.3 billion and competition is real, so clarity and consistency win early.
You don’t need perfection, just steady action that turns interest into booked visits.
A modern pet shop cafe bar. Shutterstock asset id: 2473075763 by DuxX
Quick Answers for New Pet Care Owners
Wondering if you’re missing something important?
Q: What are some simple pet care services I can start with limited experience? A: Start with low-risk basics like dog walking, drop-in visits, feeding and water checks, and litter box or yard cleanup. Keep services short, repeatable, and easy to price so you can build confidence fast. Add a clear safety routine: leashes you trust, a simple pet profile, and an emergency contact plan.
Q: How do I manage the initial steps without feeling overwhelmed? A: Shrink the launch into one weekly “must-do” list: set your offer, set your boundaries, and book one meet-and-greet. Use one place to track inquiries, schedules, payments, and client notes so nothing lives in your head. Stress drops when you decide what “good enough” looks like for week one.
Q: What kind of local permits or certifications do I need to begin pet care work? A: Many pet care businesses need a basic business license, and some areas require a home-occupation permit if you work from home. The average price ranges from $25 to $550, so budget for it early. Certifications for pet sitters are often optional, but pet first aid training can boost trust.
Q: How can I attract my first clients while keeping marketing efforts manageable? A: Choose two channels you can stick to, like a simple service page and a Google Business Profile, then post one helpful update weekly. Ask every early client for a short review and referral, because local trust compounds quickly. A focused approach matters since 19% of startups die because they get outcompeted.
Keep it simple, keep it steady, and let small wins build your certainty.
Build Momentum With One Simple Pet Care Business Step
Starting a pet care business can feel like a tug-of-war between caring for animals and handling the business details that keep you legitimate and paid. The most reliable path is a steady, service-business mindset: validate demand, set clear boundaries, and put simple systems in place so the work stays sustainable. When those pieces align, the pet care business benefits show up fast, predictable bookings, calmer days, and entrepreneurial motivation that comes from real progress. Start small, stay consistent, and let trust do the heavy lifting. Choose one concrete action today, draft your basic service list and pricing, or schedule the license and insurance tasks for a single hour this week. That small move builds stability, confidence, and a business rooted in community care.
Digory and Obi two old sweetheart Leonbergers sending all of your pets their love and sending all of you their love as well. Photo by Jen O’Keefe a friend.
Imagine my delight when I saw the post above. Sally is sharing my super fact 57: Super fact 57 : Half the World’s Population live within a circle that covers 2% of the world’s surface, or 10% of earth’s land area. This circle is often referred to as the “Valeriepieris Circle” or Yuxi Circle, and it is centered on southeast Asia. In addition, she is promoting my Leonberger dog book for which Robbie wrote a great review. Thank you so much Sally and Robbie. Please hop over to that the Smorgasbord blog magazine and read it.
Leonberger Life 