July 2, 2003

Schwag the Dog

A Guide to the Best Dog Products

You’ve heard it a million times. Dogs tend to resemble their owners.

So ask yourself this: Why should your beloved canine doppelganger be restricted to a life of culinary and sartorial monotony while you dine out, groom obsessively, and gussy yourself up all the livelong day? It’s just not right. Time to give a little back to your best friend.

You’re not the only one in dire need of a manicure. (Think about it: They walk on their paws all day.) OPI’s new line of polish for dogs is appropriately called Pawlish. Fifi can choose from colors like Poodle Pink, Yuppy Puppy, and Fire Hydrant Red.

 

 

Letting Buster sleep in the bed may be a time-honored tradition, but it’s not doing much for your love life. A spiffy dog bed by Eloise Pet Accessories will accommodate him in the manner to which he’s become accustomed.

 

 

Even we draw the line at indulging your doggie with a Japanese straight perm. But there are days when a deep-conditioning treatment wouldn’t be unheard-of. Flip makes Pamper Packs for your pup’s tresses with nonallergenic ingredients. Downtown Doggie with Lemongrass Softening Shampoo and Spray-On Conditioner, Let Sleeping Dogs Lie Lavender Relaxing Shampoo and Calming Conditioner, and Little Stinker Shampoo and Leave-On Conditioner are sure to make bath time more enjoyable. (Flip products available via phone at Fred Segal Santa Monica’s Zero Minus Plus Boutique, 310-395-5718.)

Most people don’t realize that their dogs are naked all the time. How embarrassing! Pass on the Ralph Lauren four-ply cashmere sweater (perspective, people), and turn to Park Avenue Paws, whose jackets have been spotted on some pretty fashionable pups. But if your Pug snubs or turns its nose up at the gaudiness, then a Tres Chic Amis T-shirt is what you’re after.

 

 

Why should humans have all the fun with high-end accessories? Cinopelca Italian-leather leashes and harnesses are the only way to outfit your beloved for a stroll down the avenue.

 

 

When a reward is in order, don’t settle for just any old biscuit. Latka’s De-licious Homemade Doggie Treats is a sure way to show you care. Just make sure you have the Good Breath Kit for that after-dinner halitosis.

 

 

What better way to bond with your terrier than a leisurely afternoon hike? Until, that is, she gives up on you halfway up the hill. Better bring a sporty backpack. PuchiBag has a jazzy selection.

In this day of nanny cams and bug implants, overprotectiveness is the norm. Protection charms attached to the dog collar just might help — if you’re neurotic enough to believe in them.