To my biggest Dog Blog fans...

I love you!

My friends Jenny, Tiffany and Jessie enjoying a beautiful day in NYC's Central Park with Remi, a playful and energetic Beagle/Dachshund puppy.




Thank you for your support!

Meet Hannah!

Hannah is a 5-year-old American Bulldog from Lakeview. This brave, loving and determined pup was taken in by Chicago Canine Rescue after her owners failed to properly care for her following a car accident. Unfortunately Hannah's badly damaged front right leg could not be saved, but this hasn't put a damper on her passion for life and affectionate personality. According to Hannah's new mom, there's nothing this pup can't do- you would never know that she doesn't have all four legs! Hannah's big heart and wagging tail teach us all to appreciate and respect the conquering of a disability.




Chicago Canine Rescue
2227 W. Belmont Avenue
Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 697-8848
Open for adoptions Monday - Friday from 5pm to 7pm and Saturday & Sunday from Noon - 5pm

Fortunately, someone had enough time on their hands to make this video.

Makes me excited for the dog days of summer!

Dogs are weird...

and make me laugh!

This guy really is the littlest Cubs fan!

Tyson is a 4-month-old Maltese puppy from River North. He enjoys the dog park, miniature tennis balls, befriending significantly larger dogs (think Newfoundlands and Great Danes!) and of course, watching the Cubs with his mama and papa!

For being so little he sure does have a lot of Chicago pride!

Belle of the Ball

What do I love most about visiting my home state of California? Bella!

Bella is a 3-year-old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel who loves to cuddle, snack, and stroll through the streets of Balboa Island. This little gal barks with an accent- she's originally from England! The breed (which was used as a lapdog and bed-warmer) became very popular with English nobility several centuries ago. It was King Charles II who lent his name to the breed; he would not leave home without his faithful companions!

Whistle while you work

He get's me every time...and can actually hold a tune quite well!

The littlest Cubs fan!

Ok...he's not so little, but he is a Cubs fan! In honor of Cubs opening week, I had to post this cute, pleasantly plump Pug named Charlie.




Go Cubbies!

Orphans of the Storm

If you're thinking of expanding your (furry) family, head to your local shelter or breed rescue. I'm always singing the praises of adopting, and to help you take the first step, I'm highlighting a Chicago-area shelter. Pay attention- you could find your next four-legged soulmate here!

Orphans of the Storm, one of the country's oldest and largest animal shelters, is located about 30 minutes north of Chicago in Riverwoods. Since 1928, the shelter has been caring and finding loving homes for northeastern Illinois' stray, abandoned, abused and neglected dogs and cats.


Some of the adorable canines available for adoption:






It breaks my heart to see these guys behind bars. Adopt today and change not only their lives, but yours as well!

Orphans of the Storm
2200 Riverwoods Road
Riverwoods (Deerfield), IL 60015
(847) 945-0235
Open to the public for adoptions from 11am to 5pm every day of the year, except major holidays.

Meet the Breed: Bouvier des Flandres

I met these unique pups while visiting Oliver Winery in Bloomington, IN (a winery in Indiana?!). Surprisingly, I enjoyed the wine just as much as the dogs!



The Bouvier des Flandres is a rugged working dog from Belgium. Originally bred by farmers, butchers and cattle merchants for hard labor, the fearless and even-tempered breed has transitioned into a wonderful family friend and guardian. Though the Bouvier is not overly active in the home, he does need plenty of exercise, so country and suburban living suits him well. The breed can weigh between 70 and 110 pounds, and ranges in color from fawn to black, passing through salt and pepper, gray and brindle.

I've always had one question about Bouviers: how do they see??

Happy St. Patrick's Day from Bear Howenstine!

One too many beers, Bear?




"A dog owns nothing, yet is seldom dissatisfied." -Irish Proverb

It's tough being a Basset...

Lounging in the sun, getting loved by humans- it's all very demanding. But these two seem to have it figured out!





2-year-old Basset Hounds Amos and Winston are rescues from Southern California's Daphneyland, an affiliate of the Basset Rescue Network. These boys love to couch surf, wrestle and (staying true to their name) pick up new scents. Amos is a carnivore (and won't go near veggies), but Winston isn't afraid of carrots and other healthy treats!

Um...could someone please get me a dryer sheet?

Harley is a 3-year-old Yorkie/Shih Tzu mix from the Gold Coast. He loves his toy octopus, Occo (which he takes everywhere), and static cling. I'll call the salon, Harley!

You are getting veeery sleepy...

Your eyes are hypnotizing!

Hugo is a 3-year-old rescue Huskie from Arlington, VA. He enjoys playing fetch with his soccer ball or anything that squeaks. And wooing the ladies, I'm sure!

Don't mess with this bitch!

All sled dogs need a leader...and that leader is Cheyenne.

Like her brother Hugo, Cheyenne is a gorgeous 3-year-old rescue Huskie. Always the Alpha Female, she enjoys teasing her brother by stealing his toys and playing coy. Her favorite snack? Socks.





Hugo and Cheyenne, enjoying the view.