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Bake your own dog biscuits

Mar 12, 2025 | Dogs, General, Recipes

Healthy dog biscuits with sweet potatoes

Dog biscuits with sweet potatoes

Sweet Potato Cookies

The Christmas baking has been finished for a few days now. Now we can indulge our baking passion and make our own dog biscuits for our four-legged friends. Today’s recipe features healthy sweet potatoes and parsley. The complete recipe is available for free download as a PDF at the bottom of the page.

Ingredients:

  • 200 g sweet potatoes
  • 175 g spelt flour
  • 75 g buckwheat flour
  • 1 egg
  • 20 g linseed oil
  • ½ tbsp honey
  • ½ bunch parsley

 

Preparation:

  • Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into cubes. Boil them in a little water until the water is almost gone by the time the sweet potatoes are done. Mash the sweet potatoes with a fork until thin.
  • Finely chop the parsley.
  • Mix the egg, oil, honey and parsley together and add to the sweet potatoes.
  • Combine the spelt and buckwheat flour and knead with the sweet potato mixture until a smooth dough forms. If the dough is too soft, add a little more spelt flour.
  • Form a portion of the mixture into a roll (approx. 1 cm in diameter) and cut off small pieces. Place the small cookies on a baking sheet lined with baking paper.
  • Bake at 175°C for about 20 – 25 minutes.

After baking, let the cookies dry thoroughly and store them in an air-permeable bag or container.

Download recipe
Sweet potato

The sweet potato has only recently begun its triumphant march through German cuisine. This is due to its great taste and high nutrient content. The sweet potato (as it is also called) deserves a permanent place in our four-legged friends’ diets. The sweet potato has nothing to do with our potatoes and is not a nightshade but a morning glory. Unlike the German potato, it can be eaten raw. Its yellow to pink flesh tastes pleasant and slightly sweet. It is considered a true nutritional bomb and was declared the most nutrient-dense vegetable by the Center for Science in the Public Interest. In the evaluation, it achieved a score of 184 for the amount of vital substances and nutrients it contains. The potato, in comparison, received only 83 points. Chopped and cooked, the nutrients are optimally absorbed by dogs and cats. For our four-legged friends, the sweet potato is primarily a source of fiber and carbohydrates. As a grain-free alternative, it is ideal for animals with allergies. The nutrient caiapo, found in sweet potatoes, regulates blood sugar and cholesterol levels. The powerful antioxidants carotenoids and anthocyanins can protect against cancer-causing cell damage. And thanks to their anti-inflammatory properties, they can help with diseases such as asthma, arthritis, and gout. The tubers’ high potassium content has a positive effect on the body’s fluid and electrolyte balance. This can lead to stable blood pressure, which reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke. Potassium can relieve muscle cramps and supports consistent physical performance. Therefore, sweet potatoes should be included in our four-legged friends’ diets, as they are a true nutritional miracle.

Spelt flour

This easily digestible grain is particularly suitable for allergy sufferers and consists primarily of carbohydrates in the form of starch. It has a high protein content and contains many B vitamins, minerals, and trace elements, making it the ideal basis for dog biscuits.

Buckwheat flour

Although the name suggests it, buckwheat is not a grain. It is considered a pseudo-grain, is gluten-free, and, compared to grains, a very high-quality source of plant-based protein. It contains the flavonoids quercetin and rutin, which strengthen small blood vessels. It also promotes circulation and strengthens blood capillaries. Buckwheat contains all eight essential amino acids as well as proteins for the brain. It is rich in magnesium, and the B vitamins it contains have a positive effect on the nervous system. Buckwheat is very well tolerated by dogs and is an ideal source of fiber in dog food.

Egg

For the dog biscuits to taste great, an egg is a must. Dogs love eggs. They are rich in high-quality proteins, vitamins, trace elements, and contain high amounts of unsaturated fatty acids. However, only the yolk should be fed raw; the egg white should always be cooked. The egg white contains a protein that prevents the absorption of biotin. It contains an inhibitor that impairs protein digestion and can lead to digestive disorders. Both of these inhibitors are inactivated by the cooking process.

Linseed oil

Natural linseed oil contains the optimal ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. It promotes a shiny coat, moisturizes dry skin, can reduce the risk of allergies, and can soothe a sensitive gastrointestinal tract.

Honey

Cold-pressed honey is an important source of minerals, enzymes, and vitamins for both humans and dogs. It strengthens the immune system, has anti-inflammatory effects, and stimulates the metabolism.

Parsley

Parsley contains high levels of antioxidants and flavonoids, which add flavor to the dog biscuits. Parsley is also used in natural medicine for bad breath, stomach problems, and to purify the blood. Parsley has anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and antispasmodic properties.

Your four-legged friend will love these healthy dog ​​biscuits. Since you prepare all the ingredients yourself, you know exactly what’s in the biscuits and what your dog is consuming.

Healthy dog cookies in a bag from pet-interiors

Dog biscuits as a small thank you from pet-interiors

Which cat is best suited to me?

Mar 12, 2025 | Cats, General

tabby domestic cat in portrait

House cat Gisela is a typical shelter cat.

The decision has been made: a cat should enrich our lives and move in. But which cat breed is best suited to me? Each breed has different personality traits and needs. It’s important to carefully consider what conditions I can offer a cat. What do I expect from living with my new roommate? Because one thing is clear: not every cat breed is right for everyone.

Before your house cat moves in with you, you should consider whether you can meet the needs of the particular cat breed. Some breeds are very independent and freedom-loving, while others are calm and happy as indoor cats. Also, think carefully about what type of cat you’re actually looking for.

 

Answering these questions honestly will help you narrow down the cat breeds that are right for you.

How much space do I have?

If you live in a city apartment without a balcony or garden, quiet, people-oriented breeds such as the Ragdoll or Bombay are suitable. These are relatively quiet indoor cats with smooth and elegant movements. They are considered friendly, even-tempered, curious, and affectionate. They can follow people everywhere and are well-suited to children.

Ragdolls - cat race

Ragdolls are very people-oriented and are well suited to a city apartment.

Can I offer my cat free access?

If you can allow your cat to roam freely, a Norwegian Forest Cat, a European Shorthair, or a traditional domestic cat is more suitable. These active and freedom-loving animals love to roam in the garden and outdoors and lead an independent cat life. They have a great temperament and retain their playful nature well into old age.

How much time do I have and how much of it do I spend at home?

Many cats enjoy being in company and hate being alone. If no one in your household is at home all day to talk to, it’s advisable to keep a second or more cats. The Siamese or Balinese prefers to spend time with its feeder rather than with other cats. This breed of cat is very affectionate and reluctant to share attention with other creatures. They are strong-willed and assertive. They must be able to devote plenty of time to care and attention. Grooming long-haired cats like the Persian is just as time-consuming. Daily, thorough grooming is necessary and time-consuming.

Siamese cats with designer bed from pet.interiors

Siamese cats are considered to be entertaining cats and enjoy talking to their owners.

Which character trait is important?

The decision should definitely not be based on appearance, but rather on the personality traits the new pet brings to the table. A lively and adaptable breed like the Selkirk Rex, Ocicat, or Singapura thrives in a lively family. If you lead a quiet, stress-free, and structured life, the Korat, Snowshoe, and Nebelung are the right companions.

How much experience do I have with cats?

If you’re new to cats, you should choose a sociable breed like the German Angora or the Raga Muffin. In that case, it’s not advisable to choose a Balinese or Russian Blue. These breeds are considered stubborn and not suitable for beginners.

Purebred Russian Blue cat in designer cat basket | pet.interiors

The Russian Blue cat is not a good choice as a beginner’s cat.

How much communication is possible with a cat?

You should also consider whether you want a cat that communicates with you. A Siamese or Sokoke is considered quite talkative. If you’re bothered by constant meowing and whining, you might want to opt for a quiet Devon Rex or Siberian cat.

Domestic cat or would you prefer a pedigree cat?

Domestic cats are considered to be healthy and less susceptible to disease. The selection of colors and patterns is large and varied. When you give a new home to a feline from a shelter, you’re also doing a good deed. There are countless domestic cats, including kittens, waiting in shelters for their beloved pet. Domestic cats generally have a strong desire for freedom, which they enjoy pursuing in a garden or in nature.

Pedigree cats, on the other hand, require more care and are more susceptible to breed-specific illnesses. It’s all the more easy to assess their character traits before purchasing. A breeder must be chosen carefully to avoid falling victim to a seller who engages in illegal breeding or unscrupulous breeding.

 

House cat Fynn with beautiful markings

Fynn is a beautiful house cat with great markings.

If everything is right, then living together will be great!

Consider all important factors such as space, time, environment, temperament, and noise level. It won’t be easy, but it will be worth it. A temperamental cat in a much too small apartment, or a reserved animal in a noisy extended family, won’t be happy. Cats can react aggressively or apathetically to the wrong living conditions, which in turn makes the cat owner unhappy.

A well-considered choice of cat that perfectly fits your living situation will enrich your life indescribably. They will quickly become very good friends and remain so for life.

Weimaraner with Norwegian Forest Cats

If everything is correct, they can even live together with Weimaraners and Norwegian Forest Cats.

Paw Care for Your Dog

Mar 12, 2025 | Dogs, General

Paw care for dogs

Paw care for dogs

The cold season is just around the corner, and paw care for your dog is especially important. Unfortunately, we don’t only have the opportunity to spend time with our dogs in freshly snow-covered forests and fields. For shorter walks, we have to take them on sidewalks treated with loose gravel and road salt.

Dog paw health is a year-round concern. In winter, wetness, road salt, grit, ice, and frost take their toll on dog paws. Road salt and grit particularly damage the skin between the toes. In the hot season, dogs are particularly affected by overheated tar, coarse asphalt, thorns, glass splinters, grain awns, and grass seeds.

With the right care for their sensitive paws, your four-legged friend can enjoy every season without worry.

Ideally, your dog has been accustomed to paw care since puppyhood. This should definitely take place in a relaxed atmosphere. Most dogs love having their paws massaged, especially since your pet will quickly notice how good this procedure is for them. Make paw care a shared ritual with your dog; it will strengthen your bond.

If the pads are regularly rubbed with paw ointment, especially in winter, the oil forms a protective film against moisture, unpleasant grit, and heat. This keeps the paws soft and preserves the natural protective film.

For long-haired dogs, it is important to have the fur between the toes trimmed by a professional. This will prevent ice, grit, or grass seeds from accumulating. Comprehensive paw care also includes nail care, which should also only be performed by a professional.

Is your furry friend licking or nibbling their paws noticeably often, protecting one paw, or perhaps limping? These are clear symptoms of problems with your dog’s paws. To prevent this from happening, care should begin before the walk.

After a walk, especially in winter, it’s recommended to wash the paws with warm, clean water. This removes any foreign matter. Then, thoroughly dry the paws and massage Vaseline, lanolin, hish tallow, or a special paw protection ointment into the paws.

Some dogs begin to lick their paws after applying the cream. To keep the dog occupied until the cream is absorbed, you can give him a chew bone.

Homemade nourishing paw balm?
… no problem 😉

 

You need the following ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons shea butter
  • 2 tablespoons beeswax
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil
  • 2 tablespoons almond oil
  • If desired, add a few drops of lavender essential oil.

Preparation

  • Combine all ingredients except the shea butter in a tall bowl or glass jar. Melt slowly in a double boiler over medium heat.

  • Once all ingredients are melted, remove the bowl from the boiler and add the shea butter.

  • Mix everything well and pour the balm into a screw-top jar. The paw balm will harden completely there.

Download recipe

The dog’s sleeping behavior

Mar 11, 2025 | Dogs, General

Sleeping dog with pillow on the divan

Nothing is more calming than watching your dog sleep. Observing his sleeping habits, how relaxed he is lying in front of you and wondering what he is dreaming about. How many photos do you have on your phone of your dog lying deeply relaxed on his bed? Have you ever thought about why he sleeps on his stomach, back or side? And what these sleeping positions say about your dog?

We have put together a few things here; we wanted to know how dogs sleep, what sleeping position do they like and do dogs actually dream?

The different sleeping and lying positions for dogs.

The side sleeper

The side sleeping position exudes a lot of calm and serenity. Many dogs love this position. They feel very comfortable and completely at home in their surroundings. Dogs also like to use this sleeping behavior in the summer to cool down on the cool ground after sunbathing, playing or romping.

Sleeping behavior of the dog - side sleeper

Side sleeper position: The dog lies very relaxed on his dog cushion and radiates calmness.

The Fox Roll

This sleeping position is popular with dogs. They lie curled up on their stomachs, with their snout above or below the base of their tail. This position is adopted when the chosen sleeping place is not very big. It is also used when the dog wants to be particularly cozy and when the surroundings are not very warm. When sleeping in this position, the dog naturally protects its body, face, neck and internal organs.

Sleeping behavior of the dog - fox roll

Fox roll position: The dog lies curled up on its stomach.

The stomach sleeper

This is a popular sleeping behavior when dozing. They do not fall into the absolute deep sleep phase. The dog wants to rest, not sleep, and just rustle around a little. The dog usually positions its legs to the side of its body. It can then jump up immediately, full of energy and adventurously ready for fun and action.

Sleeping behavior of the dog - stomach sleeper

The stomach sleeper position is a popular sleeping position for dozing.

The back sleeper

In order to sleep in this position, your dog must be deeply relaxed and have absolute trust in its surroundings. This sleeping behavior is only seen in the deep sleep phase and in very young dogs. A fearful, insecure or traumatized dog will certainly not adopt this sleeping position. We now know that a dog’s sleeping position depends on its condition and environment. So what should we consider when it comes to its sleeping and lying place?

Dog's sleeping behavior - back sleeper

Back sleeping position: To be able to sleep in this position, the dog must be deeply relaxed.

The dog’s sleeping and lying place

Dogs love a pleasant and comfortable place to sleep. The place where the dog lies is pleasant if it is protected from drafts and cold ground. The dog also loves its sleeping place to be protected and preferably with back protection. When it retreats to sleep, your four-legged friend wants to feel safe and well looked after. The dog finds its sleeping place pleasant if it is comfortable. It should not be too hard and not too soft, but preferably a little higher. Of course, the dog always wants and should be with its pack of family. But especially in families with small children or where there is a certain amount of unrest, the position of the sleeping place is of great importance and has a big influence on its sleeping behavior. Find your dog a place a little away from the hustle and bustle. You will be surprised how often it chooses this place to sleep.

Comfortable dog basket in exclusive design-pet.interiors

Dogs love a comfortable place to sleep, preferably with back support.

Sleeping and dozing of the dog

Dogs doze most of the day. They need a lot more sleep than humans and take lots of little naps throughout the day. The need for rest varies from dog to dog. If your dog takes a little nap, he really doesn’t want to be disturbed and expects us humans to respect that. Your home should be a place for your dog to rest, a stress-free and judgment-free zone. Play, fun and excitement should only take place outside of your house. If dogs can trust that nothing particularly exciting is happening in the house, they fall into a light sleep more quickly. As soon as the dog’s eyes are closed, the nose and ears take over. If you then give him the rest he needs, he will feel safe and undisturbed and will fall into a deep sleep phase within a short time. This deep sleep phase accounts for 20-30% of the total sleep time for an adult dog. This means that your dog needs 5-8 hours of deep sleep, the rest of the sleeping time between 10-20 hours is reserved for dozing, snoozing and relaxing.

Comfortable dog cushion in exclusive design-pet.interiors

The place where the dog can lie down should be comfortable and pleasant.

Do dogs dream?

From what we know to date, dogs dream. If you watch your dog sleeping, you can easily recognize the REM (Rapid Eye Movement) phases. The dog’s eyes move quickly back and forth under closed eyelids. The dog is lying in front of you in a deeply relaxed state, its paws twitch and the dog appears to be walking or running. The jaw moves up and down, the lips tremble and the ears move quickly back and forth or twitch. What your dog dreams about will remain a secret. If the dream phase becomes too intense, you can wake your darling very gently. Don’t let your dog have bad dreams and be trapped in a nightmare.

What is a good cat basket?

Mar 10, 2025 | Cats, General

Exclusive designer cat basket RONDO made of leather | pet.interiors

The most important criteria for choosing a cat basket.

Since cats sleep up to 16 hours a day, the cat basket should be an ideal place for your cat to sleep and retreat. It is therefore important to pay attention to good features and criteria when buying. To ensure that your cat likes the place to sleep, the cat basket must first and foremost ensure that your cat feels comfortable. Ideally, you should offer your cat several sleeping places to choose from.

 

These are the most important factors when choosing a cat basket:

  • Is the cat comfortable in the cat basket?
  • Does the cat feel comfortable in its cat basket?
  • What size should I look for when choosing a cat basket?
  • How easy is the cat basket to clean?
  • What materials are used to make the cat basket?
  • Does the manufacturer of the cat basket have good references?
  • Are there suitable accessories for the cat basket?
  • Does the cat basket look good?
  • What happens if the cat does not accept the basket?
Liegt die Katze bequem im Katzenkorb?

Whether the cat lies comfortably in its cat basket depends primarily on the lying surface. The cat basket should have a cushion with healthy lying properties. It is important that the cushion material does not sag over time. It should be a point-elastic, healthy filling so that the spine and joints are supported. Good cat cushions, e.g. those filled with latex, usually keep this promise for the cat’s entire life.

Exclusive designer cat basket BOWL made of felt | pet.interiors

Customer image: Cat basket BOWL in felt with latex cushion

Does the cat feel comfortable in its cat basket?

Whether the cat feels comfortable in your cat basket depends on the location and the materials used. Basically, the sleeping place should be warm and in a protected place. Your house cat wants to sleep in peace and also retreat to be alone from time to time. The optimal location depends on the cat’s preference. Some cats love to sleep a little higher up so they can keep an overview. Other animals that are not so mobile are happy if the basket is placed in a somewhat protected place next to the sofa or in a small alcove.
If you have several cats, there should be plenty of sleeping options available. The cats will certainly sleep together in a basket, but every now and then the animals want a place to retreat to all by themselves. If you only have one animal, you can also provide it with an alternative place to sleep.
Cat caves offer a well-protected, warm and undisturbed oasis of well-being. Cat houses made of felt are particularly recommended for anxious and noise-sensitive animals.
A drafty, busy place like the hallway is not suitable for a place to relax.

Cats love it soft, warm, cozy and, above all, clean. Therefore, the materials used should correspond to these preferences. Baskets with comfortable cushions (e.g. made of fleece, brushed cotton…) and with a cozy outer cover (e.g. felt) are ideal. Plastic cat baskets are not suitable as a place to sleep.

 

Felt cat caves - design for cats - pet.interiors.de

Designer cat house made of felt with latex cushions (from left to right: Berta, Mood, Pina).

What size should I pay attention to when choosing a cat basket?

A cat basket should be large enough for the cat to lie comfortably stretched out in it. Depending on its condition, the time of day and its inclination, the cat will sleep curled up tightly or stretched out in its basket. The cat bed should be large enough for both lying positions.

Design cat basket made of felt | pet.interiors

Customer photo: Little MAU is sleeping visibly relaxed!

How easy is the cat basket to clean?

Cats love cleanliness. When buying a basket, make sure it is easy to clean. Ideally, the cushion cover or the entire basket can be machine washed so that the sleeping area is always clean. Some manufacturers offer replacement covers. This way, the cat bed is easy to clean and has a fresh cover.

Exclusive designer cat basket MILA in imitation leather | pet.interiors

Customer image: MILA cat basket in imitation leather is easy to clean and beautiful.

What materials are used to make the cat basket?

When buying, pay attention to where it is produced and whether the materials used are of natural origin. You should also check whether all materials are Oeko-Tex certified. This way you can be sure that your cat is sleeping in a bed that is free of harmful substances.

Exclusive designer cat basket SIRO | pet.interiors

Customer photo: Eldorado is very satisfied with his cat basket SIRO „Handmade in Germany“.

Does the manufacturer of the cat basket have good references?

Take a look at the reviews and references of the manufacturer. There you can get an idea of ​​how cats have reacted to the baskets and cushions on offer. On these pages you can find out a lot about the manufacturer. Is the manufacturer well established in the market, competent in pet products and a good contact for questions about cat beds?

Are there suitable accessories for the cat basket?

If you can buy additional pillows, pillowcases, etc., this has the advantage that you don’t have to replace the entire cat basket if necessary. You can also keep the basket clean with an additional pillowcase.

Does the cat basket look good?

The look of the cat basket is only of interest to you. Your cat will not care about the shape and color. You choose the design that best suits you and your living conditions. Your furry friend will only care about comfort.

Exclusive designer cat basket RONDO in felt and leather | pet.interiors

Customer images: Design cat basket RONDO in felt & leather | Nominated for the Design Award of the Federal Republic of Germany.

What happens if the cat doesn't accept the basket?

Generally speaking, cats are very curious and like to try out new things. Once they have discovered the advantages of the cat basket, they will accept it. Sometimes, however, it takes a little patience until a new cat basket is taken over by the house cat. You can give it a helping hand by sprinkling some catnip or valerian in the cat basket. House cats are magically attracted to it. In an emergency, good retailers will take back unused cat baskets without hesitation.