Pawsitively Spoilt

Tanya Williams

How to raise a happy & healthy oodle - tips from from dog experts to help you with the day to day challenges of raising a happy & healthy dog with love. 

  1. 3d ago

    Heart Health for Oodles: Signs, Tests and Treatment

    Heart problems can affect Oodles of all ages, but conditions such as heart murmurs and mitral valve disease become increasingly common as our dogs grow older. In this episode of Pawsitively Spoilt, I speak with cardiology expert  Dr Brad Gavighan about protecting your Oodle’s heart health and recognising the signs that something may be wrong. They discuss: What a heart murmur actually meansWhy mitral valve disease is common in smaller dogsEarly warning signs owners should never ignoreCoughing, breathing changes and reduced energyHow heart conditions are diagnosed and monitoredAvailable treatments and medicationsSimple ways to check your dog’s resting breathing rate at homeHow regular veterinary checks can help your Oodle live a longer, happier lifeWhether you have a Cavoodle, Spoodle, Moodle, Groodle or another much-loved Oodle, this episode will help you better understand their heart health and know when it’s time to speak with your vet. About Dr Brad Gavaghan Dr Brad Gavaghan studied veterinary science at the University of Queensland and completed a cardiology residency program at the University of California and an externship at the paediatric cardiology unit at the UC Sacramento Med School. At UC Davis he was awarded the Myrtle Oliver Award for Research into Doppler Tissue Imaging in cardiomyopathic cats.  He returned to Australia and was accepted in 2000 via examination as a Fellow of the Australian College of Veterinary Scientists in Cardiology – all species. He is a co-director of Veterinary Cardiologists Australia (VCA) in Brisbane, in partnership with Associate Professor Dr Fiona Meyers. VCA has a staff of 7 cardiology clinicians, making VCA one of the world’s largest cardiology-only referral hospitals. Dr Gavaghan’s research and clinical interests include the quantification of diastolic dysfunction, interventional cardiology and the recent introduction of the Mitral Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair (M-TEER) procedure to Australia and the first patent ductus arteriosus occlusion utilizing a novel microplug device.   Find him and his team here https://veterinarycardiologistsaustralia.com.au/

  2. Aug 20

    Topic: Real v Fake grass for potty training – What is best for your oodle

    Real vs Fake Grass for Potty Training: What's Really Best for Your Oodle? If you're bringing home a new Oodle (or already have one), toilet training is probably high on your list of priorities. One of the biggest questions new puppy owners ask is whether they should use real grass, artificial grass or puppy pads during the toilet training process. In this episode, we're joined by Cameron Mitchell from Real Grass Puppy Potty,  to explore the surprising differences between real and fake grass and how your puppy's natural instincts can influence long-term toileting habits. We'll discuss whether dogs naturally prefer certain surfaces, why scent plays such a critical role in successful toilet training and how different surfaces can either support or slow your puppy's progress. You'll also learn why some puppies struggle to transition from puppy pads to outdoor toileting, whether artificial grass can create confusion and why odour is one of the biggest concerns for dog owners. Topics covered in this episode include: Do dogs naturally prefer real grass over artificial grass?Why scent is essential for successful toilet trainingThe biggest differences between real and fake grass from your dog's perspectiveWhether artificial grass can make toilet training more challengingHow puppy pads can affect the transition to outdoor toiletingThe truth about smells and hygieneHow real grass absorbs urine differently from synthetic grassHow to maintain a real grass potty areaHow often real grass should be replacedIf you're trying to decide between a real grass toilet patch, artificial turf or puppy pads, this episode will help you choose the best option for your Oodle while making toilet training easier for both of you. Find them here: https://www.realgrasspuppypotty.com.au/ Follow on Insta https://www.instagram.com/realgrasspuppypotty Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/people/Real-Grass-Puppy-Potty/100086451190539/ About Cameron Cam is the founder of Real Grass Puppy Potty, Australia’s leading real-grass dog toilet brand. He developed the product after struggling to find a practical toilet solution for his own dog, spending months trialling different options before creating one that actually worked. Since then, he has helped thousands of dog owners successfully toilet train their puppies, gaining practical insights into what works, the most common mistakes people make, and how to make the process easier and less stressful for both dogs and their owners.

  3. Aug 13

    The Hidden Parasite Risks Every Dog Owner Should Know

    Is your dog really protected from parasites... or are you just hoping they are? In this episode of the Pawsitively Spoilt Podcast, I'm talking to Dr. Liisa Ahlstrom as we  dive into one of the most important (and often overlooked) topics in dog health... parasites. From fleas and ticks to intestinal worms and heartworm, we explore the parasite risks every dog owner should know about, how dogs become infected, the warning signs to look for and the simple steps you can take to keep your dog protected all year round. We'll also reveal one parasite that's surprisingly common in Australia, can be life-threatening if left untreated, and is often overlooked because many owners don't realise how dogs become infected. It's one of those hidden dangers that every dog owner should know about. Did you also know some parasites don't just affect dogs? Certain parasites can be passed from dogs to humans, making parasite prevention an important part of protecting your whole family, not just your four-legged best friend. Whether you have a mischievous puppy, an adventure-loving adult or a senior dog, this episode is packed with practical advice, myth-busting tips and expert insights to help you make informed decisions about your dog's health. 🎧 Tune in now and learn how to protect your dog, your family and your peace of mind. Your dog can't tell you when something is wrong, but this episode will help you recognise the signs before parasites become a bigger problem. About Dr Liisa Liisa graduated from the University of Queensland (UQ) with a BVSc in 2001, before working in small animal practice in Brisbane and teaching veterinary anatomy in the Veterinary School at UQ. Liisa completed a PhD in the transdermal penetration of glucocorticoids in dogs, with the goal of improving the quality of lives of dogs with allergic skin disease.  Liisa lectured in Veterinary Anatomy in the Faculty of Veterinary Science, at The University of Sydney from 2008 until 2012, completed a Graduate Certificate in Higher Education and continued her research in the field of transdermal drug penetration. Liisa joined Bayer Animal Health as a Technical Services Veterinarian in 2013, and has since discovered a passion for companion animal parasites and vector-borne diseases. Now with Elanco Animal Health, Liisa continues to enjoy her involvement in teaching and research, and working with a team dedicated to improving the lives of pets and their companions. Read more of Dr. Liisa Ahlstrom work here.

  4. Aug 6

    The Rise of Luxury Dog Culture: Why Oodles Are More Spoilt Than Ever

    The Rise of Luxury Dog Culture: Why Oodles Are More Spoilt Than Ever Designer collars. Doggy "cocktails." Luxury daycare. Boutique hotels. Premium nutrition. Matching wardrobes. The world of dogs has changed dramatically over the past decade, and what was once considered over-the-top has quickly become the new normal. In this episode of Pawsitively Spoilt, we're exploring the rise of luxury dog culture and asking whether we're simply spending more on our dogs… or whether our relationship with them has fundamentally changed. Joining me are Katie from The Puptail Society and Nicole from Nicole & Baby, who share their insights into why premium pet products are booming, how social media has fuelled the trend, and what today's dog owners are really looking for. We discuss: Why the luxury dog market is growing so rapidly.How dogs have gone from pets to full-fledged family members.Whether premium products are driven by emotion, necessity, or both.The rise of functional luxury, where wellness meets indulgence.What to look for when buying high-quality accessories.The influence of Instagram and TikTok on dog ownership trends.Where luxury dog experiences are heading over the next five years.The luxury products that are genuinely worth investing in.And, of course… the most ridiculously over-the-top dog products we've ever seen!Whether your dog enjoys a puppuccino, sleeps in your bed, wears a designer harness, or simply deserves the very best, this conversation explores why we're entering what many are calling the Spoilt Dog Era. If you've ever wondered whether the luxury dog trend is a passing fad or the future of pet ownership, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Find our guests here The Puptail Society Katie Selby is the founder of The Puptail Society, Australia’s luxury dog lifestyle brand, redefining the way we celebrate life with our four-legged family members. Best known for its luxury wellness mocktails, beautifully curated charcuterie boxes and unforgettable dog fine-dining experiences, The Puptail Society brings together celebration, nutrition and connection like never before. Today, Katie is expanding Puptails internationally and is passionate about building one of the world’s most loved luxury pet lifestyle brands. https://puptails.com.au/ Current promotion 5/8 - 50% off the Hamptons range Use the code SUNSET50 to redeem https://puptails.com.au/collections/hamptons-range Nicole and Baby Nicole & Baby is a luxury dog fashion boutique redefining modern pet style. What began as Nicole's love for dressing her own dog, Baby, evolved into a premium lifestyle brand, offering a carefully curated collection of luxury dog apparel, accessories, and lifestyle products through shopnicoleandbaby.com. IG: shopnicoleandbaby Tiktok: shopnicoleandbaby Website: shopnicoleandbaby.com

  5. Jul 30

    What Is Anaesthesia-Free Dog Dental Cleaning and Could It Be Better for Your Oodle?

    What Is Anaesthesia-Free Dog Dental Cleaning and Could It Be Better for Your Oodle? Wondering whether anaesthesia-free dog dental cleaning is safe and whether it's better than a traditional veterinary dental? In this episode, we answer the most common questions dog owners ask about dog dental care and oral health. We explain what an anaesthesia-free dental is, how it differs from a veterinary dental procedure performed under anaesthesia, and why these treatments have become increasingly popular with dog owners. We also clear up common misconceptions, discuss which dogs are suitable candidates, and share the warning signs that indicate your dog may need a full veterinary dental procedure instead. Many pet parents worry about the risks of anaesthesia, especially for senior dogs, so we explore how safe modern veterinary anaesthesia really is and what owners should ask before booking any type of dog dental treatment. You'll also discover how to prevent dental disease in dogs, the biggest mistakes owners make when it comes to oral health, and simple at-home dental care routines that can help reduce the need for expensive dental procedures in the future. If you're looking for expert advice on anaesthesia-free dog dental cleaning, veterinary dental care, preventing dental disease in dogs, and keeping your dog's teeth healthy for life, this episode is packed with practical tips every dog owner should know. SPECIAL DISCOUNT FOR LISTENERS: get $10.00 off all orders in their shop. Use the code SPOILTDOG   - No minimum spend + all orders get a free toothbrush and finger brush to get them started with dental care at home ! Haidee and her husband Caeser set up Australian Animal Oral Care in 2016 after seeing a gap in anything Natural for Pet owners for Dental Cleaning. Dr Cesar had been working in Clinic for over 15 years where he was offering patients with medical conditions a safer non sedative dental cleaning and wanted to expand his services around Australia. AAOC was born Find them here: https://australiananimaloralcare.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Australiananimalcare/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/doggydentalaustralia/   You tube: https://www.youtube.com/@Australiananimaloralcare

  6. Jul 23

    Why More Dog Owners Are Choosing Gently Cooked Dog Food

    One topic that comes up time and time again is food. As dog owners, we all want to feed our dogs the very best, but with so many options on the market, it can be hard to know what's actually good for them. You've probably heard terms like raw, air-dried, fresh and gently cooked, but what do they really mean? And is one actually better than another? Today we're taking a closer look at the science behind gently cooked dog food. We're talking about what it is, how it compares to kibble and raw feeding, whether it's suitable for all dogs, and the real health benefits owners are seeing after making the switch. We'll also chat about allergies, sensitive stomachs, transitioning from kibble, and whether feeding fresh food really has to cost a fortune. These topics align with the planned discussion points for this episode.  Joining me today is veterinarian & Founder of 5 Hounds, Dr Will, who has spent years helping dog owners better understand the role nutrition plays in their dog's overall health and wellbeing. I'm looking forward to diving into this conversation because I know so many of you have questions about what's really in your dog's bowl. Find 5 hounds range here https://5hounds.com.au/  About 5 Hounds Dr. Will Maginness is a veterinarian and founder of 5 Hounds, a premium Australian fresh dog food brand offering gently cooked, human-grade meals. Drawing on his clinical experience, Will started 5 Hounds to give dog parents a real alternative to ultra-processed kibble, working with local Australian farming partners and bringing a vet's perspective to conversations on raw and gently cooked nutrition Follow on Insta https://www.instagram.com/5hounds.bydrwill/ Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/5houndsbydrwill

  7. Jul 16

    Tips for Grooming Your Oodle at Home

    Think grooming is just about keeping your Oodle looking cute? Think again. In this episode of Pawsitively Spoilt, we're joined by founder of MyCavoodle Bella Moro, to share practical, easy-to-follow grooming tips every Oodle owner should know. From brushing and bathing to preventing painful matting and choosing the right shampoo, we cover the simple habits that can make a huge difference to your dog's comfort, skin health and coat. So if you have an Oodle, you'll learn:  How often you should brush and bathe your Oodle  The most common grooming mistakes owners make  What matting really is and why it's more serious than it looks  How to choose the right shampoo for your dog's coat and skin  Why proper drying is just as important as washing  The essential grooming tools every Oodle owner should have  How often your dog should still visit a professional groomer If you've ever wondered whether you're grooming your Oodle the right way, this episode is packed with practical advice that will help keep them healthy, comfortable and looking their best.  About MyCavoodle Mycavoodle is a proud Sydney-based business, 100% Australian owned and operated. Our mission is simple: to give Cavoodle parents the confidence, knowledge, and premium Cavoodle grooming products they need to keep their pups looking and feeling their best. They have a growing community of 20,000+ Cavoodle customers worldwide and backed by over 1,000 five-star reviews - making us Australia’s go-to destination for Cavoodle grooming.  Join the Grooming course waitlist here https://6r1qqcpi1eq.typeform.com/to/a6PD5jcG Find MyCavoodle here: https://www.mycavoodle.com.au/ Follow on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mycavoodle.com.au/  Facebook  - @mycavoodle.com.au - https://www.facebook.com/p/Mycavoodlecomau-100094669761055/ Join their Groom your Cavoodle at home Waitlist

  8. Jul 9

    Why Does My Dog Do This With Lara Shannon

    Why Does My Dog Do That? Understanding Your Dog's Weird and Wonderful Behaviours Ever wondered why your dog steals your socks, gets the zoomies, eats grass or insists on sitting on your feet? You're not alone. In this episode of the Pawsitively Spoilt Podcast, Tanya is joined by dog behaviour expert Lara Shannon to answer some of the most common (and often hilarious) questions dog owners ask. Together, they unpack the science and instincts behind everyday canine behaviours, helping you better understand what your dog is trying to tell you. From quirky habits to behaviours that may signal something more, this episode is packed with practical insights for every dog owner. In this episode, we cover:  Why dogs eat grass  Why they carry food away from their bowl before eating  How they always manage to spit out tablets hidden in treats  Why dogs twitch, bark or run in their sleep  Why they spin in circles before lying down  The reason dogs dig on couches and beds  Why they bring you toys but won't let you have them  What paw chewing could mean  Why dogs steal socks and other household items  What causes the famous "zoomies"  Why some dogs love sitting on your feet Whether you're raising a Cavoodle, another oodle, or any breed of dog, this episode will help you understand the behaviours that leave so many owners scratching their heads. Tune in to discover what your dog's quirky habits really mean—and when they're perfectly normal versus when it's worth seeking professional advice.  About Lara Shannon  Lara Shannon is one Australia’s leading animal welfare advocates and canine experts, reaching over five million Australians each year through her education work, books and TV shows to help improve the lives of companion animals. A certified dog trainer, behaviourist and pet food nutrition specialist, Lara has been a regular on Australian TV and radio stations for the past three decades promoting important animal conservation, dog training, behaviour and other pet care issues.  She is the Executive Producer and Host of the popular Channel 10 TV shows, Pooches at Play and The Dog Down Under, as well as 7TWO’s Animal SOS Australia and Editor of Poochesatplay.com. Through her TV shows, digital platforms and books, World of Dogs and Eat, Play, Love (Your Dog), as well as her work with animal shelters and pet charities, Lara’s mission is to help reduce the needless euthanasia of adoptable shelter animals to zero, and to help dog owners provide their dogs with the healthiest, happiest life possible. Further resources and to order Lara’s books visit:  https://poochesatplay.com/ To learn more about Lara visit: https://larashannon.com/ FInd her on social media:  Instagram:  @poochesatplay @larashannon Facebook: @poochesatplay @larashannonau TikTok: @larashannon01

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How to raise a happy & healthy oodle - tips from from dog experts to help you with the day to day challenges of raising a happy & healthy dog with love.