Puppy Stuff
This is semi-embarrassing for me to admit, but I’ve become obsessed with dog-themed décor.
Here’s what happened: I got a puppy. A Golden Retriever. And, yes, he’s adorable—even when he’s destroying my new Osborne & Little wallpaper. (Don’t ask.)
He LOOKS innocent enough...
Since I brought him home, I’ve found myself completely enthralled with doggy décor—something I’ve never before given a second thought. I’ve spent hours online searching for dog beds. Dog bowls. Dog pillows. Anything puppy-related. It’s an addiction really.
In honor of my new obsession, I thought I’d use this opportunity to share some of my favorite dog-themed items—for those of you not only infatuated with your dogs, but with design as well.
First, I wanted to mention a fabulous New York art gallery I visited on an AKC tour a few years back. William Secord Gallery specializes in nineteenth and twentieth-century dog and animal paintings and is a must-see for any dog lover. Filled floor-to-ceiling with animal paintings and bronzes, the gallery now also exhibits contemporary works by “modern masters of the genre.” It’s definitely worth a peek on your next trip east.
When it comes to quirky and creative canine-themed items for the home, I love Anthropologie’s “Barking Mad” wallpaper. It has just a dash of kitsch—perfect for an accent wall or hallway—and banishes the winter blues with its bright yellow hue. And for the kitchen, their appliquéd “Dog Walking” dishtowels might just make drying those holiday dishes a little less dreary.
John Derian "Dog Run" tray
John Derian "Pug Conductor" paperweight
John Derian, retailer extraordinaire, has decoupage accoutrements for just about any occasion—and featuring just about any subject you can imagine. His “Dog Run” letter tray and “Pug Conductor” paperweight are wonderful gift ideas—bound to brighten the day for any animal lover.
Jonathan Adler "Staffordshire Spaniel" figurine
Or for a modern twist on the oh-so-traditional Staffordshire figurine, check out Jonathan Adler’s new “Staffordshire spaniels”. They’re one part solemn Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, one part chic, sleek, playful pottery.
Serena & Lily's "Buddy" pillow
On the softer side of home décor, Serena & Lily’s homage to man’s best friend is their “Buddy Pillow”. I’m not sure if I’m more partial to the color combination or the steadfast profile of this stoutly pup.
These sweet dog prints by Vivienne and Sponge, available through Ballard Designs , include written remarks on each breeds’ unique traits. Golden Retrievers? “Dependable, loyal, and good-natured!”
C.S. Post & Co, as far as I’m concerned, has one of the most distinctive collections of pet products around. The drool-proof “Woof!” placemat, made from recycled rubber, is bound to keep any kitchen just a little less slobber-saturated.
Harry Barker's toile dog beds
Harry Barker "Safari" bone toys
And, of course, I couldn’t blog about dog products without including some pet-pampering items from Harry Barker. For the true traditionalist, they offer toile dog beds. Yep…you can indulge your dog and stay stylish at the same time. PLUS, they’re eco-friendly—made with recycled post-consumer plastics and azo-free dyes. (And my new puppy seems to have found a new favorite perch.)
He loves his toile...
So, yes, I’m obsessed, and will continue to scour the web for puppy products that go above and beyond the humdrum. I might just have to find something to replace that O&L wallpaper…I’m not sure it’s going to survive the puppy years.
One Response to “Puppy Stuff”
January 17, 2010 at 12:01 pm, by Ann Maine
Hey Jenny B, your obsession is only going to get worse as the little guy continues to take over not only your heart, but your house.