The Deziner Dogs line of pet apparel and accessories for small-dog breeds was created by Heather Lehrman to fill a need for little dogs. She’s created a new line of hoodies, tank tops and leashes for small dogs.
The products have “I am a…” and the dog breed on it. President and CEO Lehrman said, “Dog owners are constantly being asked ‘What kind of dog is that?’ As the proud owner of a Boston Terrier, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been asked about my dog. On a walk, at the dog park, at the vet, everywhere I went with my dog, Herbie, people wanted to know what kind of breed he is.”
Lehrman continued, “After speaking with many owners of smaller breeds, I realized I wasn’t alone, everybody is constantly being asked the same question. Now, my dog Herbie proudly wears his ‘I am a Boston Terrier’ hoodie when we’re out and about, and people can’t help but want to know more about the breed.”
The products will be sold at Unleashed Pet Boutique & Spa, 160 Main St., in Port Washington. They will be the first to carry the Deziner Dogs line. Lehrman chose Port Washington to launch her businesses because the town welcomed her dog-walking business with open arms when she launched it four years ago.
“I have been a Long Island resident my whole life,” said Lehrman. “I moved from the South Shore seven years ago and bought a dog-walking and pet-sitting franchise that covered Manhasset, Port Washington, Roslyn and Glen Cove. I built many relationships with my clients and Port Washington seemed to become my main hub. Unleashed Pet Boutique carried my business cards instantly and I started walking the owner’s dogs when I opened four years ago. I like to send clients to Unleashed for dog grooming and natural and holistic pet food and supplies and they refer my dog-walking services. Laura Palattella, owner of Unleashed, was kind enough to let me launch my new line at her boutique since we have built a personal and business relationship over the years. I just moved to Glen Cove but run both businesses in Port Washington. It’s one of my favorite towns.” 
Dolphin Book Shop also carries Lehrman’s book, Bullied at the Dog Park.
“I love standing at the dock watching the sunsets in Port,” said Lehrman. “I love the local shopping in town and walking up and down Main Street.”
Deziner Dogs products not only look good, but they help protect the dogs from the cold.
“As dog owners know, it can be difficult to properly regulate body temperature for smaller breeds, who often don’t have thick layers of fur to protect them when temperatures drop,” said Lehrman. “But the most unique aspect of the ‘I am…’ line is how they spur conversations and connections between people. You won’t find a better conversation starter anywhere.”
The Deziner Dogs “I am a…” line includes fitted tank tops, hoodies and retractable leashes sized for the most popular small breeds, including Boston Terrier, French Bulldog, Maltese and Pug. Today’s most trendy breeds are also available, including Teacup Poodle, Westie and Cockapoo. In all, more than 20 breeds are represented by the “I am…” line. Items are available in royal blue and warm pink.
Additional merchandise, including fitted raincoats, will be added soon.
Deziner Dogs will donate five percent of all profits from the sale of “I am…” merchandise to SNORT (www.snortrescue.org), an all-volunteer nonprofit rescue organization based in the Northeast. Its purpose is to rescue brachycephalic dogs (mostly French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, Pugs and English Bulldogs) from shelters and owners who can no longer keep them and place them into loving homes.
Go to www.dezinerdogs.com for more information.
