Wishing all our customers, families and friends a very Merry Christmas!

If your getting a new pet for Christmas make sure you get an ID tag early.  Order now at IDEngraving.com

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Swarovski Crystal GI Military Dog Tags

A great addition to our GI Military Dog Tag lineup.   These Swarovski Crystal Military Dog Tags come in five colors.  Engraving is offered on both the front and back.  As always it comes with a 24" ball chain and includes free shipping. Go to http://idengraving.com/GI-ID-Tags-Military-Dog-Tags/Swarovski-Crystal-Military-Dog-Tags.html

Do you have a child who will start their first day of school this September. Our shoe ID tags are the perfect accessory to place your emergency number or allergies on. Shoe ID Tags are one of our best selling tags. They come in your choice of color and can be engraved on both sides. Order one today.http://idengraving.com/Medical-Tags/Aluminum-Shoe-ID-Tag.html

Great gift idea for military children

A dog tag is a great gift for military children. It keeps them connected with their mom or dad who may be serving overseas. 
Visit our GI military dog tag page
http://idengraving.com/GI-ID-Tags-Military-Dog-Tags

Tips for you and your new puppy

http://idengraving.com/blog/Getting-A-New-Puppy.html

All of us remember our first puppy when we were kids. Bringing them home as they are crawling all over your lap. Licking your face with their cute little pink tongues. Of course what we remember as kids with our first dog is a lot different from what our parents remember about that time. As a lot of us have found out since we grew up and brought a puppy home for our family.

 We soon realize there is much work that goes along with the cute little guy. It’s not long before he is chewing everything in sight.  You find yourself moving everything in your house as if you had a toddler around.  Then there is the house training, lots of fun there.  With some dogs it could take weeks before your dog has mastered going to the door.  Which is why some people give up and just spend their time cleaning up after him.  But thankfully here are some great products out there to aid in house training your dog.

The biggest thing I have found though, is you need to be consistent with your puppy. Just like a child, puppies can easily learn to have a routine. The first thing every morning you take him outside, just before bed you take him out. You need to keep the puppy around you, if you spend most of your day on the lower level of your house, then that’s where the puppy should be too. You need to keep an eye on him. If he has a drink, you give him about 10 minutes than take him out and see if he will go. An hour after he eats, do the same thing.  Not only will he eventually learn to do his business outside, but also it will happen quicker because you are being consistent. 

The same with the chewing, you must catch him in the act and change his mind. Whether you do this by giving him a chew toy and luring him away from whatever it is he is chewing. Just tell him NO, and then give him something else to do.

The biggest problem today with people training their pets is that they don’t have time. You both work all day and are tired when you get home, the last thing you want to do is work on training your puppy. This is a terrible situation for the puppy though, because they are in a new environment. They were removed from their mother and siblings. Then people bring them home and leave them by themselves for 8 to 10 hours a day.  If there can be no one home for the first few months you have your pet then you should probably wait until the situation changes. This kind of set up will never work for you or the puppy.  Therefore if this is your household, don’t get a pet at this time.

Choosing A Suitable Collar For Your Dog

Google+ Author, Lou M at IDE

Choosing A Suitable Collar For Your Dog brought to you by IDEngraving.com your home for pet identification tags.

Dog collars are an important accessory of man’s best friend – they include your dog’s identification tags, rabies ID, and even leads (for leashes). When looking for the right collar for your pet dog, it’s nice to know you have lots of options. Here are some tips to guide your shopping.
You need to find a collar that will fit around your dog’s neck exactly. And as long as this is the case, you can basically choose whatever color, pattern, or style you like.
For small dogs, pick out a collar that is neither too heavy nor too light. For puppies, a thin, leather collar or a soft, nylon collar is ideal. As for bigger, stronger dogs, wider and heavier collars are best. To make sure that a collar is the right fit on your dog, make sure you can squeeze at least two fingers in between the dog’s neck and the collar. It should be a tight squeeze though, as you don’t want to the collar to be too loose. Finally, you will want to cut off the excess length of strap because otherwise, the dog might chew it.
A snap-on type fastener is the most common replacement for buckle collars, because it makes for easy adjustment of a collar’s length. As for choke collars, they are cool looking but shouldn’t be used on younger puppies – gentler, training collars are better.
Moreover, leather collars are long-lasting and are naturally softened by the oils of a dog’s skin and they come in a variety of styles, widths, and colors. Nylon collars are washable and durable and are perfect for dogs that like to swim and for smaller dogs and puppies that need a softer touch. For bigger dogs, a nylon collar is okay, but it will need to be one with heavy webbing.
There are other collars that suit very specific kinds of dogs. For surfers, there are collars that are made out of the same material as wetsuits! And for those impatient dogs that pull on your leash during walks, head collars are the best option and are often used in training. A harness can come in handy with an anxious or hyperactive dog as well, as it is positioned around the dog’s chest and ribcage to prevent choking – some harnesses even allow you to buckle your dog into your car!
There are all sorts of colors and patterns to choose from and most collars come with matching leashes. Because it is important for your dog to feel as comfortable as possible, put careful time and consideration into your search for the perfect collar.

6 Great Tips For Getting Your Dog Toilet Trained

Google+ Author, Lou M at IDE

6 Great Tips For Getting Your Dog Toilet Trained brought to you by IDEngraving.com your home for pet identification tags.

One of the toughest jobs that a family faces when a new puppy comes home is getting the dog housebroken. This means that the dog will eliminate outdoors and not use your home and furnishings as a toilet. Lots of people think that getting doggy toilet trained is a tough task, but it doesn’t need to be. If you arm yourself with plenty of information for the best ways to get your dog house trained, you are on the right path to having a dog that goes to the bathroom where you want him to go.

When to House Train

A dog can be toilet trained at any age, but the best age to begin is between eight and twelve weeks old. If you set up a housebreaking routine as soon as you bring your puppy home, before long he will get the right idea of where to do his business. A crate is a great tool for toilet training a puppy. It keeps him confined when there is no supervision and most dogs learn quickly that if they make in their crate they will have to sit in it. Most dogs are fairly hygienic and won’t enjoy having to sit in dog doody or urine.

The Advantages of Using a Crate

Be sure there is enough room in the crate for your pup to turn around, but don't leave so much room that he will be able to eliminate and lie down far away from it. Many dog owners view a crate as a jail cell or to use as punishment, but your dog will love having his own space where he can escape from the hustle and bustle of the household for some quiet time. Make your dogs crate a happy place and don’t use it for punishment. You can feed your dog in the crate, or while he is in there, offer him some treats. Place a favorite chewy or toy in there with him, add blankets and he will have a cozy den to escape to whenever he feels the need. Utilizing a crate for your dog can keep him out of trouble and not only in housebreaking.

Keep Your Eyes Peeled

Keeping a close eye on your puppy is a key factor in getting him properly housetrained. Whenever you see that he is sniffing, circling or beginning to squat, immediately take him outside to the place where you want him to go and see if he eliminates. If he does, praise him lavishly. A good idea is to have a cue, such as “hurry up” so that your puppy knows what you want him to do. When he is going to the bathroom repeat the cue and then give your dog lots of praise for a job well done. It is better to take the dog out and nothing happens then take a chance of an accident happening.

Have a Schedule

Feeding, watering and walking your dog on a regular schedule will make housebreaking that much easier. Puppies are like children and they thrive on a routine. Try and take the dog out around the same time everyday so they will be able to adjust their bodily functions. The first thing you should do in the morning is take the puppy from the crate and don’t let his feet touch the ground. Bring him to the place where you want him to go, give the cue, and praise upon a successful completion. Take your puppy out at least every two hours, after eating or drinking and especially after play. Before you know it, your puppy will be letting you know it is time to go out and do his business.

Don't Let the Puppy Roam

Letting your puppy roam around the house is a sure fire way to have accidents. If you have decided you don't want to use a crate, and even if you do use one, confining the dog to certain areas of the house can make housetraining easier for everyone. It is difficult to keep track of a puppy when he has the run of the house, but if you gate him in the kitchen, he will still be able to be part of the action and can be better supervised in case of an accident.

Don’t Get Discouraged

There will be times when you first begin housetraining that you feel your pup is just not getting it. He may have accidents in the house as well on occasion. There is no need to be discouraged. If you stick to your routine, keep a good eye on the dog and make frequent outings to his outdoor bathroom, in no time your puppy will be housebroken. Another good idea is to use the same door all the time when you are taking him out so that when he has to go, he will scratch on the door to be let out. Once this happens, you can say hurray and know that your puppy truly is beginning to understand that going to the bathroom in the house is a no-no.

Remember to provide your new puppy with proper identification tags. You have many options of pet tags to choose from and kind find a wide assortment at IDEngraving.com .

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Just because you have a dog doesn’t mean you have to stay home all the time. If you plan ahead and take a little care, it is easy and fun to travel with your dog.
Here are some tips to make the trip easier on both you and your pet brought to you by IDEngraving.com:
1. Get your dog used to riding in the car by taking him on short trips. Go to fun places like the dog park, the fast food drive through (where you can feed him bits of meat from your burger), or to visit friends. You want him to think that trips in the car are fun. You don’t want your dog to think that all car trips end up at the vet’s office.
2. If your dog tends to get carsick, don’t feed him the morning of the trip. Having your dog travel with an empty stomach will help to prevent any car sickness.
3. Bring plenty of water and a water dish along. You will need to give your dog periodic drinks of water when you stop for a rest. It will be easier to get your dog to drink if it is familiar water from home. Water in different places often smells or tastes differently, and your dog may not want to drink it.
4. Be sure to pack your dog’s food, treats, favorite bed, toys, and leash.
5. If your dog uses a crate, bring that along too. If you don’t have a large vehicle, you can buy crates that fold up. When you get to your destination, you can put your dog in his crate while you go somewhere that you can’t bring him along.
6. How should your dog travel in the car? Some dogs like to sit or lay on the seat, so bring a blanket to protect the upholstery. Other dogs may need to be kept in a crate in the car. Be sure the crate can’t slide around and scare the dog while you’re driving. You can also purchase dog seat belts to keep your dog safe while sitting in the car.
7. Make a stop every few hours to walk your dog and give him some water. Some dogs are frightened by the noisy trucks driving by, so try to walk in a quiet area. Be a good citizen and bring plastic bags along to pick up the mess.
8. If your dog is anxious about staying in a hotel or strange house at your destination, he might not eat or drink. You don’t want him to get dehydrated, so be sure to get him to drink, at least. You can mix chicken broth or gravy into the dog’s water. That will usually get him to lap it right up. You can mix chicken broth or gravy into the food too.
9. Don't forget your dog will be away from home so make sure you have a current up to date pet identification tag.  You can chosse from many types such as aluminum, brass or stainless steel.  The shapes are plentiful from round to dog bone shaped.  Go to IDEngraving.com to explore the many types of custom pet tags available.
The first trip will be the hardest, because your dog will not realize that you are coming back. With the first trip behind you, if you have taken the time to make sure it is pleasant for your dog, future traveling with your dog should be a breeze. .

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IDEngraving.com has added two great new items to our product line. The first is our Bottle Opener Key Chain.  This metal key chain has a chrome finish with a sturdy bottle opener at one end and a key ring at the top.  The center has a contrasting gold colored round disk made from aluminum.  The center disk can be customized with your choice of engraving.  This is a great for gifts or yourself.  Also suitable for promotional gifts or party favors. 
Our second item is a beautiful Gold Plated Golf Marker and Divot Key Chain.  This classy key chain is in the shape of a golf divot tool with a chain and key ring.  The center has ball marker that snaps off for use on the course.  You can have your initials engraved on the ball marker for the personalized look.  This is the perfect gift for all your golfing friends or yourself.  Attached it to your golf bag and stand out at the club.  They also make the perfect gift for groomsman.  Key chain comes packaged in a black box.  Don't hesitate, get yours today.
   

Five Common Natural Food Sources For Dogs

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Brought to you by IDEngraving.com

Eggs: for feeding dogs can be bought by the dozen in the grocery store, by the hundreds from hatcheries or by the thousands from egg ranches. Regardless of how many or where they are obtained, an egg should never be fed to a dog raw. Raw egg whites react with the vitamin, biotin, and prevent a dog from using it. In fact, feeding raw egg whites is the exact way scientists produce experimental biotin deficiency in a laboratory.

Milk: Much controversy has raged over feeding milk to dogs.  Milk has been accessed of causing diarrhea and other digestive upsets. While it may produce these problems in large amounts, if milk is kept to about two ounces of fluid milk or two tablespoons of dry milk per pound of food, few problems will be encountered.  The value of the milk, when fed in proper amounts, exceeds the risk of upset. Milk supplies calcium and phosphorus in the proper ratio and amounts, a host of vitamins, and also a protein which approaches the value of whole egg.

Cottage cheese: Cottage cheese is little more than the major protein fraction of milk casein. It does not have the same value as the protein of whole milk because the lactoalbumin, normally present in whole milk, has been washed away in the whey. The value of the protein in cottage cheese compares favorably with that of horse meat.Cottage cheese offers the dog feeder an inexpensive, readily available source of quality protein for his dog.  

Cheese: Another dairy product made from casein is cheese.  Cheese, unlike cottage cheese, also contains a considerable amount of fat. The fat makes cheese a valuable source of energy as well as of protein. Because they are made as human foods, and are sold in competition with other human foods, cheeses are among the more expensive protein sources for feeding dogs. For dog feeders who wish to spend the extra money, cheese is a worthwhile consideration.

Fish: Fish is not commonly used in dietary formulations for dogs, but there is no logical reason to eliminate it from consideration as a protein source for a dog. Indeed, fish protein is one of the better proteins, for the money, that a dog feeder can use. Fish, too, should always be cooked before being fed. In this case the heat destroys a chemical found in many fish that will destroy vitamin B1 (thiamine) if left unchanged.

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Aluminum shoe ID Tag

Aluminum shoe ID Tag

IDEngraving.com has new and improved Aluminum Shoe Identification Tags.  These tags are perfect for adults who participate in sports.  Also get some for your children, with your contact information.  Have medical alerts?  This tag can list your or your child’s medical condition; Diabetes, Autism, the possibilities are endless. The new tag is approximately 5/8” x 1 5/8” with slots that are 3/8” in width, perfect for shoe laces.  You can choose from seven vibrant colors of red, blue, pink, purple, silver, gold or black.  The tag is fully colored even around the edges.  This is the perfect tag when you can’t wear a bracelet or necklace.  Simply attach the tag to your shoe laces.  You can see the Aluminum shoe ID tag at http://idengraving.com/Medical-Tags/Aluminum-Shoe-ID-Tag.html.  If you need a larger tag you may go to the Aluminum Collar Slide-On Tags at http://idengraving.com/Collar-Slide-on-Tags/Aluminum-Slide-On-Collar-Tags.html.

GI Gold and Nickel Clad Tags

GI Gold and Nickel Clad Tags

Someone has posted a new tag review for GI Gold and Nickel Clad Military Dog Tags. The review gave five stars and states, "This tag is definitely high quality at half the price. Tag is high polished and is nice and thick. I received my order within three days. I am very satisfied and would recommend this product" . You can check it out by clicking here GI Gold and Nickel Clad Military Dog Tags

Swarovski Crystal Round Tags

A new review for Swarovski Crystal Round Tags has been submitted at IDEngraving.com.  Kim B stated, "The engraving is very nice and I love the crystals, they sparkle a lot. The tag is light as its described but it seems like it will hold up well. Overall very happy".  You can check it out at Swarovski Crystal Round Tags

Glitter Enamel Paw Tags

IDEngraving has added a new tag to our product line.  Sparkling aluminum round tags with a glitter filled paw.  They come in three bright colors, purple, pink and blue.  You will want to see them.  Check them out by clicking here Glitter Enamel Paw Tags

     Selecting a new pet tag can be somewhat confusing.  The three main types are aluminum, brass and stainless steel.  Each of the types have their own benefits.
     Aluminum is a great choice for several reasons.  The choices of colors are certainly appealing.  Colored tags show great contrast on the engraving which makes for a nice tag visually.  They are very lightweight and they offer the largest selection of shapes.
     Brass tags are the traditional pet tag.  They are strong and wear very well.  Engraving looks better in a bold font due to the lack of contrast between the tag and engraving.  Brass will oxidize to a dull finish and last for years. The choice of shapes may be more limited than aluminum.
     Stainless steel tags are the strongest and hardest pet tags.  The finish stays similar to the day it was purchased.  Like brass, bold fonts are more visible than standard fonts.  Shapes and sizes may be limited but this tag is certainly the most durable.
     For tips on engraving a pet tag visit our Engraving Tips page at http://idengraving.com/Engraving-Tips.html