PAWSitively Petland Show

Ever wondered what’s really going on inside your dog’s head? From tail chasing to baby talk, our four-legged friends have some curious habits — and science is finally catching up to explain them!

In our latest segment, we explored some of the most common canine quirks with insights from animal behavior experts and the friendly staff at Petland Iowa City, who help local pet owners understand their furry companions every day.

What’s in a Name?

Does your dog really know their name — or do they think “Sit” and “Stay” are part of it? Research in canine cognition suggests that dogs don’t identify names like humans do. Instead, they learn to associate the sound of their name (like “Buddy” or “Bella”) with attention, rewards, and positive experiences.

If your dog doesn’t come when called, it might not be stubbornness. They could associate that sound with something unpleasant — like bath time or leaving the park. Their “real name” might feel to them like a joyful mashup of “good boy, sit, stay, no drop, come here!”

 Handshakes vs. Sniffs

Humans greet with handshakes. Dogs prefer... sniffing butts. It might sound silly, but for dogs, sniffing is a powerful social tool — they can determine another dog’s sex, health, diet, and emotional state with one quick sniff.

In comparison, our handshake — historically a way to show we weren’t hiding weapons — probably feels shallow to them!

Do They Love Baby Talk?

You might feel silly using a high-pitched “Who’s a good boy?” voice — but your dog doesn’t think so! Studies show dogs respond better to exaggerated, melodic speech patterns (similar to how babies react to “parentese”). That baby talk tone is often linked with affection, play, and positive attention.

The Head Tilt and Bathroom Follow

Why does your dog tilt their head when you talk? It’s not just cute — it’s functional. Head tilting helps dogs locate sounds and read facial expressions more accurately. The most common triggers? Words like “treat,” “walk,” and “food.”

As for that bathroom bodyguard behavior — it’s rooted in pack instinct. Dogs are social animals who seek closeness for comfort and companionship.

If you’d prefer some privacy, try setting up cozy dog beds in multiple rooms so your pup feels secure even when you step away.

earn More from Petland Iowa City Experts

For pet owners who love diving deeper into dog behavior, Petland Iowa City is a local gem. Co-owned by Ron and Wendy Soldier, the store offers friendly guidance, pet care tips, and even a party section for dog birthdays!

📍 Location: Marketplace Mall, 1851 Lower Muscatine Road, Iowa City

🕒 Hours:

• Sunday: 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
  

• Monday – Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. 🌐 Visit petlandiacity.com or call 319-351-9451 for more info.
  

Welcome to another edition of Positively Petland, where we highlight our favorite puppy breeds! This week, we’re shining the spotlight on the Pomeranian — a tiny dog with a big heart, fluffy coat, and fearless spirit.

If you’d like to explore more breeds, visit petlandiowacity.com, click on “Puppy Breeds,” and look under the letter P for “Pomeranian.”

Believe it or not, today’s pint-sized Pomeranian descends from powerful sled dogs in Lapland and Iceland. Their ancestors weighed up to 60 pounds! Over the centuries, breeders in the Pomerania region of Germany and Poland selectively bred them smaller, keeping their intelligence and spunk intact.

Their rise to fame began when Queen Victoria fell in love with the breed during the 1800s. She’s credited with popularizing the smaller Pomeranian we know and adore today.

Since then, “Poms” have been adored by many famous figures, including Mozart, Michelangelo, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Legend has it, Michelangelo even let his Pom watch while he painted the Sistine Chapel ceiling (though we hope the pup stayed safely on the floor!).

Don’t let their small size fool you — Pomeranians are fearless, loving, and confident. They have bold personalities and love to be the center of attention.

Early socialization is key to helping your Pom grow into a well-rounded, friendly dog. Without it, their loyal and protective nature can make them a bit snappy or territorial. But with plenty of love and training, Pomeranians thrive as affectionate, loyal companions.

💡 Fun fact: Pomeranians often think they’re much bigger than they are — they’ll stand their ground even next to large dogs!

A Pom’s signature feature is its luxurious double coat. The outer coat is long and puffy, while the undercoat is dense and soft — giving them their teddy bear-like look.

They come in over 13 color variations, including orange, cream, black, chocolate, merle, and parti-color.

Grooming Tips:

• Brush several times a week to prevent matting.
  

• Expect seasonal shedding, especially between 1–2 years of age (“teenage coat”).
  

• Regular professional grooming helps maintain their fluff and overall health.
  

Don’t worry if your Pom looks a bit less puffy during coat transitions — that thick fluff always grows back within a few months!

With proper care, Pomeranians typically live 12–16 years. Their small stomachs mean they don’t need large meals; feeding three smaller portions a day helps maintain energy levels.

Pro Tip from Ron Soulstrud, co-owner of Petland Iowa City:

“Pumpkin is the great equalizer — whether your dog is constipated or has loose stools, pumpkin helps regulate digestion naturally.”

Pumpkin-based treats are a healthy, delicious option — especially during the fall!

If you’ve fallen in love with this fearless fluffball, we invite you to visit Petland Iowa City! Our knowledgeable team can help you learn more about the Pomeranian breed, their care needs, and whether they’re the right fit for your family.

📍 Location: The Marketplace Mall, Lower Muscatine Road, Iowa City

🕒 Hours: Monday–Saturday 10:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m. | Sunday Noon–6:00 p.m.

📞 Phone: (319) 351-9451

🌐 Website: petlandiowacity.com

🍂 Getting Your Pup Ready for Fall: Essential Transition Tips for Health and Happiness

We've officially moved past "fourth summer" and are settling into the real fall season, heading toward Thanksgiving! This seasonal shift provides a perfect opportunity to adjust routines and focus on the health and wellness of your beloved pup. Being proactive now sets your dog up for a healthy and happy transition into the colder months.

🩺 Proactive Health and Wellness:

Expert pet owners know that autumn is the best time to address health needs.

• Vet Visits Now, Not Later: Fall is typically a low-traffic period for veterinarians, as most people wait until spring. Take advantage of this quieter time to easily schedule necessary checkups and vaccinations. Doing this now ensures you won't be delayed in the spring when you need items like heartwormer products, or if your pup needs grooming but lacks required vaccinations.

• Fight the Fleas and Ticks: Many owners ease up on prevention during the summer, but spring and fall are prime seasons when flea and tick activity is at its highest. Put flea and tick products on right now. As outside temperatures drop, these parasites seek warmth and can easily be brought inside your house, where they may propagate in the 70° interior throughout the winter. Remember that ticks are often transferred by deer and are found underneath broad, leafy things along paths—they feel vibrations from walking and jump on!

🍎 Grooming and Nutrition:

As routines change, so should how you manage your dog's coat and diet.

• Fall Grooming: Catch up on grooming to prepare for the season. When a dog's hair is shorter, it is much easier to manage, as leaves and grass cling less to their fur during outside walks, making clean-up a breeze.

• Pumpkin—The Great Neutralizer: As you notice more fall treats in pet stores, be mindful of changes to your dog’s nutrition. Pumpkin is highly recommended because it is a fantastic regulator: it stiffens loose stool and loosens stiff stool. Incorporating pureed or high-fiber canned pumpkin (even a small teaspoon every morning) can help regulate bowel movements and aid digestion.

• Adjusting for Activity: Dogs often slow down as we slow down, which means they might eat less in the winter. If you continue feeding the same amount, they could gain weight. If cold or snow keeps you indoors, ensure your dog remains active and stimulated by using indoor solutions, such as balls or active treat bowls where they have to work to get the kibble out. This prevents boredom, which can often lead to destructive behavior.

🎃 Training and Holiday Safety: Preparing for Guests and Treats

The upcoming holiday season brings joy, but also new hazards and social challenges.

• Holiday Hazards: The holidays (Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas) mean more chocolates and candies in the house. Be vigilant about harmful products like chocolate and the artificial sweetener xylitol, which is extremely toxic to dogs. Safer sweet alternatives for dogs include blueberries (which have almost no sugar) and carrots, as well as green beans.

• Guest Training: As the holiday season approaches, you’ll likely have guests. To prevent "pandemonium" and stress, train your dog to accept strangers calmly. First, exercise your dog until they are worn out before guests arrive (make them run!). Then, slowly work on training with strangers so they learn that guests are a positive, calm experience.

Ready to make these essential fall transitions?

If you're ready to stock up on supplies, flea prevention, or get some expert grooming done, Petland Iowa City, located in the Marketplace Mall, 1851 Lower Muscatine Road in Iowa City, has all the supplies and services you need—from nail clippings to tracking your pet food purchases. Visit petlandiacity.com or call 319-351-9451 to explore how to keep your pet happy and healthy this fall.

We are excited to share exclusive, expert insights from Petland Iowa City's "Positively Petland" segment, where Doug Wagner and Ron Soulsrud, long-time authorities in the pet industry, discuss the history and unique characteristics of the incredible Pug. As the seasons change and we prepare for the cool-downs of autumn, it’s a wonderful time to learn about falling for these furry friends!

The Pug was featured as the Breed of the Week, a breed that truly stands out. A long time ago, The Gazette published an article differentiating between "dog owners" and "pug owners," suggesting that Pugs are almost a different species due to their unique nature.

Pugs are known for their striking physical traits: a fine coat, a curled tail, bulky muscle, and that famously wrinkly face. Their colors are typically fawn (a light fawn), black, and increasingly, brindle is being seen.

The Pug boasts a fascinating history with two primary origins: China and the Netherlands.

The earliest breeds originated in China. Pugs were highly treasured by the ruling families and emperors of the Chinese imperial court. They were even assigned guards to protect them, allowing them to live in extravagance.

Pugs eventually made their way west. They have long been a top choice for royal families in both England and the Netherlands, even capturing the passion of Queen Victoria.

In Europe, the history of keeping pugs began in the House of Orange in the Netherlands. One pug even saved the Prince of Orange from assassins, leading the breed to become the official "pug of the house." The modern style of pugs seen today was brought to Britain from China in 1886. They arrived in America around the late 1800s or early 1900s

Loyalty and Affection: A key trait of the pug is their unwavering loyalty. They are generally suitable to keep in many houses because they will do anything to please their owners. As companion dogs, they thrive when kept close to the families they own and naturally want to be with their owners. While dogs shouldn’t be ignored, it is generally okay to leave a pug alone for about eight hours if necessary.

Pugs and Kids: Pugs typically do well with children. Their sturdy physique and natural calmness allow them to easily tolerate kids. Unlike some breeds, they are generally not known to be nippy.

Training and Alertness : Pugs can be described as stubborn, but this characteristic does not translate into aggressive behavior. This stubbornness may simply mean they are a little slower to learn. However, this difficulty can be a good thing, as once a pug learns something, they are likely to remember it forever. Their alertness also makes them good security dogs because they will bark, though they are not predominantly used for security purposes.

Environment and Exercise: Pugs are decidedly indoor dogs. They cannot tolerate extremes in temperature, meaning they do not thrive outdoors in hot and humid regions, nor can they handle cold weather. An apartment or condo is an ideal environment for them.

They do not require high-intensity exercise, though moderate activity is sufficient. Owners should be mindful of their diet, as many pugs become overweight.

Grooming and Shedding: Pugs are known to be shedding dogs. However, since they are smaller, the shedding may not be tremendously noticeable unless vacuuming is infrequent.

Health Notes: Due to their short, brachycephalic noses, pugs have difficulty breathing and are known to snore heavily.

If you want to find out if the pug is the right breed for you, head over to Petland Iowa City and pull a pug out to play!

Location and Contact: Petland Iowa City is located at 1851 Lower Muscatine Road in Iowa City.

Hours: • Sunday: Noon until 6:00 p.m. • Monday through Saturday: 10:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m.

You can call Petland Iowa City at 319-351-9451.

Meet the Shiba Inu: The Independent, Fox-Like Companion

If you’ve ever thought a dog could resemble a fox, the Shiba Inu is your answer! With its small size and striking appearance, this breed’s fox-like features have a certain wild charm. Their stocky little bodies, similar to a Corgi but with a more upright stance, make them incredibly adorable. And don’t forget about that curly tail—referred to as their “little curly thing” that’s always held high!

For those who love the high-energy vibes of a Siberian Husky but prefer a smaller dog, the Shiba Inu is the perfect alternative. This breed packs all the energy of a Husky into a small, compact body, which makes them both playful and fun to have around.

The Shiba Inu is one of Japan's oldest dog breeds, and it’s the smallest member of the six Spitz breeds. Known for their role as hunting dogs, Shibas were originally used to flush out small birds and rabbits from the mountainous terrain of Japan’s Shabu region.

The breed faced near extinction a few times due to a combination of crossbreeding with Western dogs in the early 1900s and the devastation caused by World War II. Despite these challenges, dedicated efforts to preserve the breed have kept the Shiba Inu alive and thriving today.

Some alternative names you may hear for this charming dog include Shiba Kin, Japanese Turf Dog, Japanese Small-Sized Dog, and Japanese Brushwood Dog.

If you’re looking for a dog with a strong sense of independence, the Shiba Inu may be the perfect fit for you. This breed is often described as embodying the disciplined, self-reliant spirit of pre-war Japan. While Shibas love to be around their families, they’re equally happy to spend time doing their own thing. Unlike more social breeds like the Beagle or Labrador, Shibas tend to be a bit more self-sufficient.

Training a Shiba Inu can be a rewarding challenge. They’re intelligent, but that independence means they may test boundaries from time to time. They may ask themselves, “Can I do this differently?” So consistency and patience are key when training.

Training Tips:

• Use repetition and positive reinforcement to help them learn.
  

• Be prepared to set clear boundaries and stay firm.
  

• Be patient—Shibas love to learn, but they’re known for being a bit stubborn!
  

Shiba Inus are high-energy dogs that love to run around and explore! They’re excellent companions for anyone who enjoys an active lifestyle. Whether it’s a jog around the neighborhood or a play session in the yard, these pups need regular exercise to stay happy and avoid destructive behaviors.

Fun Fact: Shibas are famous for their “zooies”—that’s Shiba slang for the zoomies! Watch out when they start darting around the house or yard in a burst of excitement. It’s hilarious!

Good news for families—Shiba Inus are known to be great with kids! These dogs are sturdy and durable, so they can handle some rough and tumble play. They may tire your little ones out before they even have a chance to catch up!

While Shibas aren’t typically aggressive or ideal guard dogs (due to their small size), they will let you know when something’s up with a bark. Their energy and affection make them wonderful family pets.

• Weight: Shiba Inus typically weigh between 17 and 23 pounds.
  

• Lifespan: These little dogs live a healthy 10 to 13 years, with some living even longer.
  

Visit us:

• Location: 1851 Lower Muscatine Road, Iowa City.
  

• Phone: 319-351-9451
  

• Store Hours:
  

• Sundays: Noon to 6:00 p.m.
  

• Monday - Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

As pet owners, we all want our dogs and cats to live long, vibrant lives. The key to this is preventive care and a consistent routine. To help you stay on track, the team at Petland Iowa City has compiled this comprehensive pet wellness checklist to cover all the essential areas of your pet's health and happiness.

Routine vet visits are the most important part of your pet’s health plan, ensuring early detection and protection against common ailments.

• Schedule an annual wellness exam with your veterinarian.

• Stay up-to-date on all core vaccinations.

• Ensure year-round parasite prevention for fleas, ticks, and heartworm.

• Include an annual dental checkup and cleaning.

• Ask your vet about bloodwork and lab screenings, especially as your pet ages.

• Check and update your pet’s microchip registration.

A proper diet is fundamental to your pet’s overall vitality. It's crucial to maintain a healthy weight to prevent complications like diabetes and arthritis.

• Feed a complete and balanced diet that is appropriate for your pet's age and current health status.

• Always measure food portions to prevent overfeeding.

• Limit treats to less than 10% of your pet's total daily calories.

• Provide fresh, clean water daily.

• Monitor their weight and body condition regularly.

Oral hygiene is often overlooked but is a critical aspect of your pet's overall health. In addition, physical activity keeps both their body strong and their mind sharp.

• Brush your pet’s teeth several times a week.

• Provide appropriate dental chews or toys.

• Schedule professional dental cleanings as recommended by your veterinarian.

• Provide daily walks or play sessions for dogs.

• Use interactive toys and climbing structures for cats.

• Rotate toys to maintain interest and provide mental stimulation.

• Practice basic training or teach new tricks regularly.

• Socialize with other pets and people when appropriate.

These simple daily and weekly tasks can help you notice small changes before they become major problems.

• Brush your pet’s coat regularly to reduce shedding and matting.

• Bathe as needed based on their breed and activity level.

• Trim nails every 3–4 weeks.

• Clean ears and check for signs of infection.

• Inspect their skin for any unusual lumps, bumps, or parasites.

• Provide a clean, cozy bed in a quiet area.

• Ensure access to safe, pet-proofed spaces.

• Keep hazardous items like foods, plants, and chemicals out of reach.

• Always update ID tags and contact information.

If your pet is entering their golden years, consider adjusting their routine:

• Schedule more frequent wellness exams.

• Monitor for changes in mobility, appetite, or behavior.

• Discuss joint support supplements and mobility aids with your veterinarian.

Keep a dedicated folder (digital or paper) with all medical records, vaccination dates, and emergency contacts. It's also helpful to note any recent changes in health, behavior, or routine to discuss during your next vet visit.

This guide is brought to you by Petland Iowa City1851 Lower Muscatine Rd, Iowa City, IA 52240(319) 512-7949www.petlandiowacity.com

Ron and Wendy's journey with Petland Iowa City began in 2006 with a vision that extended far beyond running a pet store. They didn’t just want to sell puppies—they wanted to make a difference in the pet industry, particularly in Iowa, where concerns about unethical breeding practices and puppy mills were rampant. For them, the issue was not just about pointing fingers or complaining about the problem; it was about taking action and being part of the solution.

When Ron and Wendy took ownership of Petland Iowa City, they saw an opportunity to reshape the narrative around pet retail. They were determined to combat the negative stigma associated with puppy mills by ensuring every puppy in their store came from USDA-licensed breeders who adhered to the highest standards of care. They work with breeders who go above and beyond, who achieve the prestigious Canine Care Certification through Purdue University—a program designed to promote ethical breeding practices and prioritize the well-being of animals.

For Ron and Wendy, it isn’t just about selling puppies; it is about educating their community. They want customers to understand the importance of responsible pet ownership and the difference between ethical breeders and puppy mills. Through transparency, they share the stories of their breeders, offering insights into the care and love these animals receive before finding their forever homes.

But their mission didn’t stop there. Ron and Wendy knew that simply providing healthy, happy puppies isn’t enough. They want to create a comprehensive support system for pet owners to ensure long-term success. This led to the implementation of robust programs like health warranties, lifetime training, microchip registration, and nutrition kits. Their goal is to set both the puppies and their new families up for a lifetime of happiness.

Beyond the walls of their store, Ron and Wendy are advocates for change in the industry. They work tirelessly to improve breeder standards in Iowa, engaging in conversations and initiatives that push for better regulations and ethical practices. They believe that real change could only happen from within the industry, and they are committed to leading by example.

Over the years, their efforts have paid off. Petland Iowa City has become a trusted name in the community, known not only for its adorable puppies but also for its unwavering commitment to animal welfare. Ron and Wendy’s store, Petland Iowa City, stands as a beacon of hope, proving that it’s possible to run a successful pet retail business, while prioritizing the well-being of animals and promoting responsible ownership.

Their journey is a testament to the power of action over complaint. Instead of merely criticizing the system, Ron and Wendy chose to be the change they wanted to see. And in doing so, they’ve not only transformed their business but also made a lasting impact on the lives of countless pets and their owners.

Join host Doug Wagner as he sits down with Ron Solsrud, the owner of Petland Iowa City, to debunk popular Christmas pet myths in this festive episode. Discover the truth behind common misconceptions, such as whether dogs help Santa deliver presents, the dangers of feeding pets holiday treats, and the reality of pets interacting with Christmas trees. Learn how to keep your furry friends safe during the holidays with tips on pet-proofing your Christmas tree and understanding the impact of loud noises on pets. The episode also highlights Petland Iowa City's special offers, including a buy-10-get-1-free deal on dog food and free nail trims for pets purchased from their store. Tune in for a fun and informative discussion that will keep your pets happy and healthy this holiday season.

Petland Iowa City

Call 📞 (319) 313-5190

Check us out on the internet 🔍 tinyurl.com/PLIowaCityPups

Or just come in & play📍 1851 Lower Muscatine Rd, Iowa City, IA 52240

Looking for a way to make Valentine's Day fun for your pet?  Petland Iowa City has some fantastic ideas on how to make Valentine's Day or any other special day of the year for that matter, extra special.  Listen on or read the description below for more great tips!

For more great tips visit Petland Iowa City's website here.

To visit our amazing pets or play with our paw-some pals, visit us today!

1851 Lower Muscatine Rd.

Do you have a new puppy or even an older dog that likes to chew on things in your household?  If you do, you're not alone!  Petland Iowa City is back with great tips and this time we're talking about pups that like to chew!  

There are a number of reasons your puppy or dog might be chewing.  Most commonly it will fall into one of these two categories:  

1.  Puppy Teething - Yep, puppies experience discomfort when they are losing their puppy teeth just like children.  

2.  Anxiety Teething - Boredom is a big part factor when it comes to anxiety teething.  

So, what can you do?  You want toys in your house that they can chew rather than the furniture or the rug.  These chews need to be really attractive and you'll want some soft & plush toys, different texture toys, and then you can get into the harder categories for stronger chewers like Nylabone or other Natural options for instance.  

Let's say your dog is going through a particular-sized chew really fast, you will want to go up to the next size.  Check out this podcast for more tips on how to beat that battle of K9 "chewing" habits.  

For more pet ownership tips, subscribe to our podcast channel for more valuable tips and tricks.  

Check out our website for available pets, pet supplies & more:  https://www.petlandiowacity.com

Visit Petland Iowa City for all your pet needs. Our pets can't wait to meet you!  

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