Check out the redesigned ADG Explore


DEAR HELOISE: We are in the market for a new, furry family member of the canine variety, and we were wondering, do smaller breeds of dogs typically live longer than larger breeds?

-- Alexis J., Canton, Ohio

DEAR READER: Congrats! There's a lot that goes into determining the life expectancy of a dog, so it's difficult to say with certainty which breeds or sizes of dogs will live the longest.

Researchers at the university level are studying human aging by looking at dogs. They agree: Larger breeds can live shorter lives than smaller breeds. They've not yet been able to figure out why, because in general large animals tend to live longer than more compact critters.

Lots of factors go into choosing which dog is right for your family. Regardless of the life expectancy of your dog, though, make sure each day is filled with love, laughter and life!

DEAR HELOISE: A fun spring/summer activity? Bubble blowing! And it's made easier by using a dedicated fly swatter. It has tons of tiny holes and makes lots of magical bubbles!

-- Erin D. in Nevada

DEAR HELOISE: When I need a few slices of lemon or cucumber, I slice the end and set it aside. I make the slices and return the end piece (like a hat), securing it with a toothpick. This keeps the cut end fairly fresh and ready for the next use.

-- Renee W. in San Antonio

DEAR HELOISE: "Boutique" (cube-shaped) boxes of facial tissues cost more, with fewer tissues per box. I refill these boxes using tissues from economical flat-pack tissue boxes.

I open one side of the boutique box and a rectangular box of tissues. I remove 100 tissues, bend the stack in the middle with the pop-up side on top, and insert the stack into the boutique box. They will pop up properly!

-- Cynthia, via email

DEAR READERS: An extra vertical towel holder makes a good place to stack cookie cutters. If your drawers are cluttered with these seasonal items, give this a whirl!

DEAR HELOISE: You can use a travel toothbrush holder to organize eyeliner pencils and brushes in a makeup bag. No more dried-up eyeliners because the cap fell off!

-- A Reader, via email


HomeStyle on 05/19/2018

Print Headline: Helpful Hints


You must be signed in to post comments