Windy, left, explains to Jake why shedding can be a problem.

Dogs make messes. Dealing with the clean up doesn’t need to be complicated.

Aside from waste management, hair can be a problem. Even shorthaired breeds, like Jake and Windy, will shed.

My dogs are allowed on the furniture. A throw or slipcover provides protection. Those rollers with the removable sticky cylinder are wonderful for not only furniture but also to give yourself a quick freshen up to remove hair before you head out the door. Keep one of these in your utility drawer or in the coat closet.

How anyone can live with dogs and not have a small, portable vacuum seems impossible. Fur, bits of dog food and toy particles can be picked up easily. I know of folks who can use those directly on dogs, but my guys could not handle that.

Now, if I could teach them to put away their toys.