Table Scraps in Your Dog's Diet is Bad News For You'er Dog

By Kelvin Williams
This interesting article addresses some of the key issues regarding you'r dogs diet. A careful reading of this material could make a big difference in how you think about.

We have all done it. Our cute, little furry friend is practically smiling at us from beneath the kitchen table. The ears are perked and the tail is wagging. We know what our dog is after. Just a tiny tidbit from dinner would be delightful, right. What could it hurt? It is just a bite or two after all.

Hold Fido's ears he will not want to hear this. A dog's diet really should not contain table scraps. People food is just that...for people. A dog's nutritional needs are not the same as a human's. Sure, we eat some of the same things, but feeding your pet from the table is one of the biggest mistakes for your pet. A dog's diet doesn't require all the added goodies we put into our meals.

People have problems with obesity. A dog can have this problem, as well. If your dog's diet consists mostly of scraps from the dinner table, chances are high that your dog will have trouble maintaining a healthy weight. Even a few pounds over weight can really make a difference in the quality and length of your pet's life. Curb the begging and stick to your guns. You can see that there's practical value in learning more about your dog's diet. Can you think of ways to apply what's been covered so far?

When you have a dog who is not a picky eater, it can be tempting to let your pet be the garbage disposal in the home, but really, this is not a good idea. Certain people foods can harm your dog and should never be a part of your dog's diet. Grapes, for example, have been known to cause serious problems for dogs, even death. Chicken bones and popcorn can also be a problem for your dog. Permitting large quantities of chocolate can be dangerous in a dog's diet.

A poor diet even shows up out in the yard. When your dog's diet is not at its best, your pet's outputs will be greater in size, smell, and mess. Benefits of choosing a healthy diet for your dog will be noticeable in your pet's health, as well as, during those walks around the block.

There are a few occasions when a supplement or treat from the kitchen may be alright, but never in excess. Talk to your veterinarian about healthy snacks for your dog's diet. If you simply must continue feeding Fido at the table, many vets recommend you give your pet ice cubes or pieces of carrot to munch on between scheduled feeding times. Providing your pet these healthy alternatives to pizza and cupcakes gives you the freedom to choose a healthy and nutritious snack for your dog's diet.

So, the next time your beloved pet starts eyeing your grub, redirect his or her attention. Don't reach for your fatty steak or chicken leg. Instead, toss your buddy a cool, refreshing ice cube to bat around and munch on. A couple of baby carrots will keep Fido happy and leave you feeling good about your choices for the nutritional value of your dog's diet. You will know that you are doing your best to maintain a high-quality diet for your pet.

Now might be a good time to write down the main points covered above. The act of putting it down on paper will help you remember what's important about your dog's diet.

For More Info. Go to Our Website at Information Unlimited

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Dogs Health

By Kelvin Williams
So what is a Dog's Diet really all about? The following report includes some fascinating information about your Dog's Diet --info you can use, not just the old stuff they used to tell you.

Your dog is your very best friend. Every single time you walk through the door your dog is so happy to see you that he wags his tail and practically smiles at you. How can you show your pet how much they mean to you? Well, one way is to take care of that smile for your pet. Did you know that your dog's diet can influence their oral health?

Humans need to brush and floss their teeth regularly to keep their teeth, tongue, and gums in good condition. Research has recently shown a link between good oral health in humans and a lower risk of heart disease. If good oral health can have such a profound affect on people, then it only makes sense to consider the impact it can have on man's best friend.

It is important to brush your dog's teeth frequently to keep plaque and tartar from becoming an issue. Even wiping his gums with a clean, damp cloth can be beneficial.

Your dog's diet also plays a role in your pet's oral health. Do you typically feed your dog canned or dry dog food? What kind of treats and toys do you provide for your pet? All of these things can affect the likelihood of trouble with your pet's teeth.

When your dog's diet is nutritionally sound, containing essential vitamins, nutrients, and enzymes, your pet's oral health will be at its very best. Feeding dry dog food rather than a moist canned variety is best for your dog. The tiny kibbles' hard surface rubs against the teeth to remove and reduce plaque. The simple act of moistening the dry dog food with water or gravy eliminates this property from dry dog food. Sometimes the most important aspects of a subject are not immediately obvious. Keep reading to get the complete picture.

The treats you give your pet are part of your dog's diet just like snacks are part of a person's diet. As humans, we tend to want to overlook our snacking habits, so it can be easy to overlook the treats you give your dog. This is not a good idea. Carefully consider any and all items your dog will consume.

Do you give your dog bones, rawhides, jerky treats, or dog biscuits? Maybe your pet prefers greenies or corn starch chews. You may not have considered it, but tossing Spot a rawhide chew is like giving him a candy bar. The rawhide, for example, contains calories and is often provided between meals.

Many of the treats and snacks you provide in your dog's diet can be just empty wasted calories. Some treats, alternatively, provide excellent opportunity to improve oral health. Greenies, rawhides, bones, and hard dog biscuits all help to keep tartar at bay. The softer snacks, such as jerky treats, do not provide much relief from plaque. The healthy treat, on occasion, will also prevent your dog from having bad breath.

Your dog's diet must be healthy to ensure excellent oral health. Dry dog food is best whenever possible. Don't forget to select treats for your pet that will enhance your dog's diet. Consciously monitoring your dog's diet will positively influence your best friend's oral health.

This article's coverage of the information is as complete as it can be today. But you should always leave open the possibility that future research could uncover new facts.

We are a small group of individuals that gather informative information. In hope of help you make better decisions in your everyday Life.

Post by Kelvin Williams

http://information-unlimited.blogspot.com/2007/12/dogs-diet-influences-oral-health.html

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Choosing Dog Food That Doesn’t Cut Your Dog’s Life Short

By:

Choosing the right kind of food for your dog can be a DAUNTING task... with so many pictures of smiling puppies and fancy labels staring back at you, how do you make an informed choice?

Well it's not that hard really, if you know what you're looking for. Here are my 5 essential tips for choosing the right of food for your dog:

1. Forget about brand names.

A bigger name brand does NOT equal better quality. In fact, the reverse is probably more true, but we won’t get into that right now.

2. Put Your Emotions Aside!

What do I mean by this? Simply, ignore the cute little dogs licking their lips and the ones with big grins on their faces. Do not buy based on how NICE or CUTE the packaging is. I know it sounds stupid to buy dog food based on the cool packing, but it's so easy to do. I've been guilty of this myself more than once.

3. Look at the ingredients

A dog's diet typically consists of 40% meat, 30% fiber and 30% starch. Next time you're in a store, pick up a tin of dog food (or look at one you've brought previously). Then take a look at the ingredient list.

The first ingredient on that list is the primary ingredient - so make sure it's a form of meat protein such as chicken, beef, etc (NOT meat by-products) Make sure the rest of the ingredients include a good amount of fiber and starch.

Also, the fewer preservatives the better.

4. Choose Super Premium Brand dog food or Premium Brand.

Do NOT choose Economy Brand dog foods. These are the ones you'll see in your general store. Go to pet stores and buy the quality stuff there. Buying a Premium or Super Premium dog food can literally add years to your dog's life.

I was in a big supermarket yesterday, one of those monster chain types, and I ventured down the pet food isle. (I always buy my dog food at the pet store).

Follow these rules next time you're shopping for dog food and I guarantee your dog will thank you for it!

Article Source: http://www.cajun101.com


Ethan K. Roberts is an avid dog lover and runs several dog food websites. For more advice on the best types of dog food, visit www.best-dog-food.info today. Note to publishers: You are free to re-publish this article in it's entirety, as long as nothing is changed and this resource box is left 100% intact and links are hyperlinked.

Tips For Choosing The Right Dog For Your Family

By: Dana Goldberg

Every family needs a dog, they are the perfect way to round out life at home. Kids love dogs and adults love dogs and lets face it they make for fantastic company. These are even the right animals to get you off your butt and exercising. Having to walk the dog each day is a great way to get yourself back in good health and good shape.

But what dog is the right one for your family? That is a good question, especially if you have other animals and children. Some animals are just not suited to be around kids or other pets. Pitbulls for example should not be owned if you have children. No matter how gentle and kind the dog seems to be, this is an unpredictable breed that you cannot depend on to stay kind and sweet. They can turn at any time and once they do, there is little that you can do. Every week there is another article in the papers about a deadly pitbull attack, you do not want this to happen to your family or neighbors so avoid pitbulls.

Labradors and retrievers make wonderful family pets. They are large and cuddly and sweet and always kind. These dogs are always tons of fun and energy and they are honest and loyal companions. When you have this kind of dog you will always get to feel safe and protected but also have the peace of mind knowing that your children will not get hurt by this animal at any time under any circumstances.

Dog truly are a man’s best friend and once you have your very own you will know why this saying has survived for so many generations. Make your family complete by getting a dog that the whole family will be bale to bond with and enjoy.

Article Source: http://www.cajun101.com


Dana Goldberg is the owner of Dog Enthusiasts. On her website you will find everything you need to know about dogs - their breeds, anatomy, history, diseases, and more.

Dog Health Checkups Are Essential For The Health Of Your Pit Bull Terrier

By: Tim Amherst

All responsible dog owners know that when your pet shows signs of feeling ill or gets injured that it's time for a visit to the veterinarian.

Naturally, it is important to take your pet to the vet when there is a problem, but many people forget the importance of taking their pets to the doctor when they are healthy! Taking your Pit Bull to the vet for routine well check-ups and vaccinations can prevent many serious medical conditions, and treat others early on before they have a chance to progress and endanger your Pit Bull’s health.

No matter how good the care you provide for your Pit Bull is, you may miss early signs of disease that the vet would be able to spot at a routine visit. Catching many diseases early can help prevent them from becoming major health issues. Animals often try to hide any sign of illness, because it can be a sign of weakness to other animals. Your Pit Bull’s ability to hide symptoms makes them that much harder to catch early on.

Taking your Pit Bull for preventative care can often save you quite a bit of money. Diseases left untreated can be very costly to treat, amassing tremendous bills along the way. By early diagnosis and treatment, you can prevent it from ever getting to that level, therefore saving yourself a lot of money.

By having routine visits with your Pit Bull, your veterinarian will learn what is normal for your dog, as no two animals are quite the same. In learning what is considered normal for your Pit Bull, your vet will be better able to tell when something isn’t quite right, and provide prompt medical treatment. Your vet will keep records of every visit, so that he can refer back to them, which will help in treating old problems, and diagnosing new ones.

At your yearly well checkup, your vet will also check to see if your Pit Bull is getting the right diet he needs. The vet will suggest changes to help if your Pit Bill is overweight, or malnourished. This can be vital to your pet’s health. Obesity is a major problem that can cause your pet to suffer from a variety of medical problems. It is also crucial that he get proper nutrition, and your vet can prescribe supplements as needed.

Providing routine veterinary care is a vital part of taking care of your Pit Bull. You are responsible for his well-being, and your vet can help you make sure everything is as it should be. Please don’t take these yearly preventative check-ups for granted, your Pit Bull’s health depends on them.

Article Source: http://www.cajun101.com


To learn all about Pit Bulls and how to train a Pit Bull, visit www.pitbullsrevealed.com/ today.

Dog Training: How To "lick" Your Dog's Incessant Licking Habit!

By: Caroline Kent

Does your dog seem to spend an infinite amount of time licking himself? Why is he doing it? And how do you, as a dog owner, correct that annoying licking habit? Here are five of the most common reasons why your dog might be incessantly licking himself and the solutions to correcting the habit.

1. Your dog might have developed an unrelenting licking habit because he needs a bath.

If your dog spends alot of time outside, romping through the woods, tramping in the mud, rolling in the grass or wading in the nearest stream or pond, he is probably dirty. So, your dog may be constantly licking himself because the dirt is irritating him! Plus, all that outdoor activity may have gotten him infested with ticks, fleas, mites, or lice. Your dog’s incessant licking may be an attempt to rid himself of those nasty varmints!

Give him a bath with a veterinarian-approved flea and tick shampoo. Before bathing him, make sure you brush out all the mats and tangles from his coat or the bathing will make them worse.

2. Your dog might have developed a chronic licking habit because he has a skin disorder.

Some common skin disorders that a dog may develop are mange or dermatitis. Mange is a skin disease in dogs that is caused by various types of mites. The dermatitis could be caused by an allergic reaction to fleas, dust mites, mold or a certain brand of dog food. If you suspect that your dog has a case of mange or dermatitis, your veterinarian will be able to diagnose what the disorder is and prescribe a course of treatment.

3. Your dog might have developed a persistent licking habit because he is under stress.

The stress may be a result of a new adoption, physical abuse, separation anxiety, or even a reaction to a new food.

If you think separation anxiety might be the cause of his stress, there are several methods for solving the problem. Try exposing your dog to being alone for very short periods of time. When your dog has adjusted to being alone for that duration of time, gradually increase your departure period. If you must be away from your dog for a long period of time, while you are away at work, try to find a friend or neighbor who could come over and take him for a walk a couple of times during the day.

Perhaps a new dog in the family is causing the stress? It is very common to experience a period of stress and adjustment when a new dog is brought into a household that has an established pet. One way to help make the transition a little easier is to give your older dog alot of attention and love. It will let him know that he's still a vital part of the family. Just remember that it will take time for your dogs to adjust to one another and be one happy dog family!

Changing your dog’s diet can also cause stress. If you're thinking of feeding your dog a new brand of dry dog food, do it gradually and over a period of four days or longer. On the first day that you change the food, feed your dog one quarter of the new food with three quarters of the old food. Add in another quarter of the new food after a couple of days or so. After another two days, add in another quarter of the new dog food. Finally, after another couple of days or so, you will be able to leave out the old dog food entirely!

If you cannot determine the cause of your dog's stress, talk to your veterinarian. He'll be able to refer you to a dog behaviorist who will be able to determine the cause of your dogs stress. If your dog has severe separation anxiety, an anti-anxiety medication might be considered to alleviate the anxiety. Drugs are not a complete solution, however, and should be used along with a treatment program.

4. Your dog might have developed an incessant licking habit because he has an injury that has resulted in an open wound.

A dog that has developed an injury that has resulted in an open wound will lick himself incessantly in an attempt to clean the wound and keep it free from bacteria. Dog saliva has been proven to kill some germs and when your dog licks an open wound, it will aid in keeping the wound infection free.

Veterinarian treatment may be required if your dog appears to be in pain, the wound contains a foreign material and is deep enough to require stitches, is bleeding excessively or becomes infected.

5. Your dog might have developed a relentless licking habit because he has developed the bad habit of doing so.

Some dogs develop the habit of licking their paws incessantly despite them being clean, uninjured and parasite-free!

Your dog may develop the habit of constantly licking himself because he has alot of nervous energy and no way to alleviate the stress. He also may have learned this behavior because he is bored and this is a way to entertain himself!

Give your dog lots of time to play and run and work off any excess energy. If your dog is well-exercised and happy, he won't feel the need to relentlessly lick himself to relieve stress or boredom!

The information detailed above will help you discover and correct your dog's habit of chronic licking. With careful observation and a little attention to proper grooming, training, along with regular veterinarian visits, you can 'lick' your dog's incessant licking habit!

Article Source: http://www.cajun101.com


For a free dog training guide with more dog training tips, be sure to visit freedogtrainingguide.com/

Dogs Beg The Question: Is There Training Available For Our Human Friends?

By: Gary Allison

The focus of many pet owners seems to be directed towards their animals, which makes a great deal of sense in most cases. However, when trying to correct unwanted behavior in your dog you might want to point that finger inward sometimes and have a little glimpse in the mirror. It is easy to become annoyed with your pet when you feel as though you have tried everything and nothing seems to work.

Maybe your Boston Terrier continues to chew on your shoes or other objects while you are not at home. Perhaps the Maltese in your life still has accidents in the house rather than letting you know she needs to go outside. On the other hand, possibly you have a Yorkshire Terrier that snips at strangers, even guests in your home when they try to pet him. All of these and many other undesirable behaviors that dogs may posses can leave a pet owner feeling frustrated and at their wits end with their furry little friend.

Have you ever considered though when faced with one of these situations that the dog is trying to communicate something to you? Is it possible that Sparky just feels neglected during those long days alone at home while you are at work? Sometimes we can have a big impact on our dogs if we look at our own behavior and consider what the pooch may be trying to tell us through their difficult behavior. Obviously dogs can not talk or speak with us as a human can when they need to communicate their feelings. That is not to say that canines are not vocal because as many of us know they can express quite a lot at times through their barking, growling or whining. However, to really pinpoint what the issue is for your pet you may find that you are the one that actually holds the answers.

Dogs have a very keen awareness for their surroundings and the people in their environment. As most dog owners come to realize, the bond between your dog and you can be extremely strong. There are people who report that during a challenging illness or devastating time in their life that their dog responded as though they knew what was going on and they helped their owner through the rough time. Sometimes by just sitting near their owner or laying at their feet, other times dogs may whine and pace back and forth, especially when other people are around because they are trying to indicate that their owner needs help.

Experts have even confirmed that dogs do have an ability to detect several human emotions and many of them will respond in unique ways. For example; when there is a lot of anger or arguing occurring within a household your dog may respond by acting up in a number of ways, which is not a problem with the dog but rather your pet is responding to the hostility and unpleasantness it senses in the house. Everyone goes through difficult periods in their life and it is obviously impossible to avoid exposing your dog to any anger or hostile situations throughout their life. The important thing to remember is that your situation and how you handle it is not your dog’s choice or within their area of responsibility.

Dogs deserve and hopefully get, the majority of times anyway, a good, loving and stable home. They respond well to a structured environment, complete with rules and routines. If you typically get up each morning and walk your dog before you go to work and then you suddenly stop doing it all together, your dog will respond in some way, possibly a negative one. It is not the dog’s fault that you changed your behavior and they have no other way of communicating other than to chew up stuff or have an accident in the house as their way of saying, “hey what is going on.” In some cases dogs can even become depressed, this happens most frequently in situations where the dog was once loved and well cared for and then suddenly became ignored and forgotten about. It is really sad to see a dog that is in this form of doggy-depression because again, they did not ask to come to live with you, you chose them.

There are obviously other concerns you must deal with when you are going through a difficult time, like loosing your job or going through a divorce, and you should always take care of the important aspects related to these situations. It is understandable that a dog can suddenly become a lower priority in your life however, if you are unhappy with their behavior because they are acting out in response to their environment; take that into consideration before disciplining your pet or giving up on them all together.

Dogs may secretly harbor the desire to have all humans attend some sort of training school before they decide to become a pet owner, however, since that is not very likely to happen, remember to think about your own behavior when examining your dog’s. That precious pooch can sometimes be just what you need to get through a difficult time and maintaining their routine for their benefit can in many ways benefit you also.

Article Source: http://www.cajun101.com


Gary Allison is a third generation of professional dog breeders. It all started with his grandparents in 1970 with the Boston Terriers and has expanded to Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers, Pugs and Pomeranians. He is also actively involved with dog rescue and has a website where he showcases his puppies for sale at allmypuppiesonline.com

Why Should You Buy Dog Insurance

By: Craig Thornburrow


Recently, people wanting to buy dog insurance has seen a dramatic rise. The amount of money that Americans are willing to spend on the health and comfort of their parents has more than doubled over the past several years. At the same time, the cost of pet care has also increased, and the veterinary services have start to look more and more like human health services, with dogs and cats routinely undergoing ever more expensive and complicated procedures. And, as with humans, there's always the dread lurking in everyone's mind and heart that this will be the trip to the office where the vet will say "I'm sorry, but..."

Whether it's cancer, stomach diseases, liver problems, or any of a whole host of other new ailments that vets can now find--and often cure--the pet owner can be sure of one thing; it's almost a given that it's going to be expensive. This is where dog insurance comes in. Just as with health insurance for humans, you pay a premium each month; in return, should your pet come down with any of the ailments covered by your policy, the insurance company will pay all or part of the bill. The problem is in those two clauses; "covered by your policy" and "all or part of the bill".

It's essential that you do your homework when looking into purchasing any kind of insurance for your pet; again, much like insurance for humans, what the policy does and doesn't cover varies widely from one company to another, and even from one policy to another within the company, and the insurance company may or *may not* pay all of the bill, when it does cover the particular ailment.

Most insurance companies, for example, will not cover the cost of medication or regular checkups--which may include checkups after surgery to make sure the dog is doing well. And you may be required to pay a certain amount or a certain percentage of things that the insurance company does cover.

Again, do your homework and always read the fine print. Make sure that the company provides what you think they provide. Know in advance what you'll have to pay for, if anything (there's usually something) and what they'll pay for. Know what diseases and treatments they cover, and whether they will pay for all or part of preventative measures (for example, yearly rabies shots or regular checkups).

Even when the company doesn't actually pay for these things, they may be willing to lower your premium if you have them done; speak with a representative from the company and find out. Like insurance for humans, dog insurance can be a huge blessing, but it can also be a huge headache.

And, above all, be sure to keep your dog healthy. Encourage him to eat right, and give him lots of exercise by going on long walks together or playing in the back yard for a couple of hours a day. If you buy dog insurance, it can be a nice thing to have, but it's even nicer when you don't actually need to use it!

Article Source: http://www.financemanual.com


Craig Thornburrow is an acknowledged expert in his field. You can get more free advice on pet insurance and cheap uk pet insurance at www.petinsurancegroup.com

Not Your Dog's Masterpieces

By: Luat Tran Van


Something that on a first impression may seem laughable but is a serious matter indeed is the concept of a 'coprolite.'

Coprolites are nothing more and nothing less than fossilised faeces of animals vanished long ago, and while it may seem odd that anybody may be on the look for such produces of nature, there are actually many scientists in the field of palaeontology that are very happy when they come across one of those treasures - so to speak. Indeed, coprolites are highly valuable not only because they are hard to find, but for the information that is contained within them.

The difficulty of finding them lies in the mechanisms of fossilisation: in order for this long process to take place, decomposition must be stopped by a variety of means; however, faeces are usually ripe with bacteria so it is unlikely that such a thing will somehow, be left suddenly sterile. Then, you have to have the eye to find one.

But many coprolites from a wide variety of species have been found during exploration expeditions searching for fossils on purpose, or just by chance. These fossils yielded a lot of information on the habits of those animals that first produced them.

In some cases, particularly with coprolites generated by herbivorous species, the semi digested contents indicated the presence of plant species for which nothing else is known. Also, illnesses, bacteria and even parasites have been identified, co coprolites really fill gaps in our knowledge about the past, for which we presently have no alternative sources.

For something as simple and prosaic as dung kept inside rocks for aeons we can start to see seasonal changes during the life of animals, changes of diets due to possible migratory movements, and may other things. Besides, this kind of fossil is studied over time repeatedly, because as new fossil evidence is discovered elsewhere, so does appear the need for new comparative studies.

And there has been at leas one case in which coprolites have actually been eaten: some settlers travelling thorough the United States were starving, and just by chance they ran into a cave where they found some stuff that appeared to them like caramel or syrup, and for the dissatisfaction of their digestive systems, they ate it.

It was not exactly a coprolite, but on the process of becoming it: the 43.000 years faces and urine of rodents combined looked like food fallen from heave, but they were not. This may seem hard to believe but it is a true fact: there are scientists that actually spend years looking at this produce of mother Earth, hoping to gather new information.

So, the next time you come across a coprolite, you will know: it is not your dog's masterpiece.

Article Source: http://www.articlemanual.com


Please review further information and references at Andinia.com. You can also get in touch with Don Pablo Edronkin directly to learn more and exchange views about these topics.

Dog Insurance: Be Careful Which Dog You Choose

By: SeanH-9584


If you are thinking of getting a dog, you probably already know how important dog insurance is. So one thing you need to guard against is getting a breed of dog that is hard to insure.

There are some breeds of dog that some dog insurance providers refuse to insure altogether. These are mainly dogs that are listed under the Dangerous Dogs Act. Some of these of course are illegal in any case. Even if you did find an insurer who would cover such a dog, third party liability insurance would be extremely expensive.

As well as dogs that are virtually uninsurable, there are some breeds for which dog insurance is harder or more expensive to obtain.
• Some pedigree breeds cost more to insure because they are more likely to be stolen. Also some breeds such as lurchers are frequently stolen for dog-fighting purposes.
• Some breeds incur higher premiums because their health care costs more. These include bulldogs, deerhounds, Great Danes, Irish wolfhounds, mastiffs, Old English sheepdogs, Rottweilers and St Bernards. But check the policy – dog insurance providers have different policies towards different breeds.
• Some breeds are more prone to certain conditions. For these breeds be very careful as that condition could be excluded from the dog insurance policy.
o Boxer dogs have a high incidence of tumours.
o Alsatians and Golden Retrievers can be more prone to arthritis and hip dysplasia.
o Golden Retrievers and Labradors have a tendency to develop progressive retinal atrophy.
o Spaniels are extra susceptible to heart problems.
• Some insurers won’t insure dogs over 8 years old – in fact some exclude them as early as 5 years old.
• Very few dog insurance providers will cover a bitch for breeding – there are so many things that can go wrong.
• A number of dog insurance providers won’t insure racing greyhounds or any dogs used for trade or business, such as security guard dogs.

Before signing up to a dog insurance policy, check it out extremely carefully. It’s important to ensure your dog insurance covers everything you need. Otherwise you could be in for a lot of expense. Owning a dog should be an enjoyable and rewarding experience – don’t let it be a time of worry and stress.

Article Source: http://www.financemanual.com


Sean Horton is a director of www.petquote.co.uk who offer comprehensive dog insurance

Can A Dog Improve Your Health?

By: Janet Winter


There's nothing that relieves stress and makes us laugh like watching a new puppy chasing a ball on wobbly legs. And what fun to play 'tug of war' with a favorite toy! Just having your dog in your lap to pet and cuddle brings soothing relaxation.

Maybe there's more to the phrase "man's best friend" that we realize.

For years care givers have been inviting pets into nursing homes. Not only does this promote social interaction for the residents as they pet and talk to their furry friend, but they also become less withdrawn and begin talking to the other residents even after their pet's visit is over. This seems to help break the cycle of loneliness and depression that many of them feel. And stroking a dog or cat can actually reduce a person's blood pressure! Petting a dog encourages the use of hands and arms and encourages stretching and turning movements, especially if your visiting dog is a bit active. What a wonderful gift a dog can offer, but the dog benefits, too, by receiving loving affection in return.

For those who would like to work with such a program, either with your own dog or with dogs provided by a service, the first rule is that visiting dogs must be social. The whole idea is to facilitate positive interaction between the dog and the people who are visited by them. If the dog doesn't seem eager to participate, the interaction will be less than ideal, and the rejection felt by the person could be more harmful than no visit at all. They truly need to feel that the dog accepts them and likes them. When selecting a dog for one of these programs, look for one that is calm, friendly and tolerant. The visit shouldn't be forced on the person or the dog. Successful visits should be pleasurable for both.

Because of the successful results with nursing home residents, this concept has expanded to hospitals, where many studies are now exploring the health benefits of association with companion animals. Pet-facilitated therapy (PFT) is now being used often as a treatment method for patients with physical and emotional problems.

The Red Cross has begun using dogs and other animals following traumatic events to help people feel better and have something to help divert their attention from their suffering. Children especially can benefit from having a puppy to play with. It temporarily takes the place of a pet that may have been left behind until they can be reunited. Playing with volunteer animals gives people a break from their mental and physical stress and makes them more able to cope with what they are going through.

Children love animals of all kinds - particularly dogs. One amazing study is finding that dogs play a big part in helping children who are learning to use prosthetic arms and legs. They can use their new arm to brush and groom a dog, which helps them learn to grasp objects and become more confident with their ability to use their new limb. For those with a new leg, playing ball with a dog helps them to improve their balance and maneuverability. The emotional therapy is priceless, too. The children begin to gain self-confidence again and learn to focus on their abilities rather than their limitations. In return, the dog learns to interact with children and receives some TLC, too.

For autistic and mentally disabled children, health workers and teachers are discovering that playing with dogs motivates them to learn and develop new skills and try new things. They find ways to interact with the world around them that didn't exist before.

But what if someone is feeling a bit down and depressed, and they aren't in a situation where a companion dog is part of their therapy. There are lots of options. A visit to the local animal shelter may find them adopting a dog who has that irresistible 'please take me home with you' look. What a joy for both the dog and the new owner.

If having a dog isn't the best solution, the animal shelters and local veterinarians love to have volunteers to walk the dogs and pet them. Maybe a neighbor travels a lot or works long hours. They would love to have someone take their dog for a walk. Visit a local dog park and laugh as the dogs execute their playful antics. Find a doggie frisbee contest to watch the amazing skills of these highly trained dogs. Or just visit a friend who has a dog that's cute and friendly. The possibilities are endless.

Pet therapy works because dogs and other animals create joy in people's lives, and they help them to enjoy that life more. Dogs are non-judgmental and willingly provide exercise, play and laughter. So get healthy - play with your dog and pet them often. They truly are "man's best friend."

Article Source: http://www.thehealthmanual.com


Janet Winter is a web designer, owner of three e-commerce sites, and writer on many topics including dogs, babies, wild birds, the Internet and travel. Her e-commerce sites are: APamperedDog.com , WildBirdGoodies.com and WelcomeBabyGifts.com

The Essentials About Dog Training

By: Darrin Ng


All dog owners would probably want their dogs to be well behave in any instance and wherever the dog is taken to. However, some dogs can simply test your patience which makes dog training a challenging job for non-professional dog trainers. Don’t despair because there are easy dog training tips that will help your dog be the best of what you want it to be.

Consistency is one of the biggest key in dog training. For example, if you allowed your dog to sit on the couch yesterday and got yelled at this morning for sitting on the same spot, instinctively, your dog will be confused. This is when consistency pays a large role in the dog's training. It is suggested that you point out your rules clearly and stick to it.

There are many ways to carry out dog training, from the basic behaviors, such as potty training to more complex tricks or command. If you don’t have the patience to do it yourself, you may signup your dog in dog training courses apt for his level of ability.

Another important factor that must be included in dog training is socialization. This is extremely essential for your fury friend. Dogs may possibly lead a miserable life if they are not given the opportunity to mingle and interact with other species. Dog training class will expose him to other dogs too. However, the best approach to have your dog socialized is to bring it and expose it to varied situations and settings that happen daily. If something upsets him, constantly be firmed with it. He must learn to get accustomed to anything, whether he likes it or not, for this is the only way to make things easier for the both of you. Make it your goal to bring dog along wherever you will go, if possible, for him to be exposed to the real world and be taught to react with things in a more positive manner.

Among the things that dog owners should keep in mind, despite the rigors of training, is keep it fun at the same time. Remember that learning doesn’t have to seem like a chore for neither you nor your dog. Aggression during training causes more damage than re-enforce good behavior and learning. Instead, your dog will have a negative vibe on the training. Dog training should be based on mutual respect even though you’re dealing with an animal, but it must keep your roles between you and your dog clear.

If you do not know where to begin, you can always ask a fellow dog owners for dog training tips or take dog training classes. As a rue of thumb, sensible dog owners don’t need complex dog training because dog training is usually a matter of common sense.

Article Source: http://www.articlemanual.com


Darrin is passionate about dogs. For more information on dog training class, please visit www.puppybud.com .

Shih-tzu:-a-dog-that-takes-your-heart

By: Mike Mathews..



While choosing a small dog breed, there are many factors that need to be taken into consideration and one of them is the looks. The Shih Tzu has the look that will make you take him back home with you. When those imploring eyes are going to look straight at you, you will feel weakened in your knees.

Despite its miniature size, the Shih Tzu possesses a hearty and courageous attitude in defense of itself and its master. Although he may look like a toy of a fur ball, members of the breed are highly energetic and playful you'd think they run on Die Hard batteries! They are very lovable and friendly and would gladly give back all the attention and love that is showered on them.

Shih Tzu dogs revel in their importance and glory in the attention that is accorded to them. They desire attention so much that they would go to any extent to catch their master's attention any time by running around, jumping up and down and performing antics just to make you laugh. They are a cross between Beijing gou and the Tibetan Lhasa Apso; their history goes back almost two thousand years!

Compatibility and Usage: The breed is categorized as a toy group. It feels at home in almost any surrounding and does not require much exercise due to its diminutive size.

Physical Appearance: A small sturdy dog covered with an abundant double coat of long hair. It has a round head, a generous beard and mustache, short hairy muzzle and generally, a black nose. Their eyes are large, round and wide-set, and pendant ears that are covered with hair and a tail curled over the back. Any color is acceptable for the Shih Tzu. Their height anywhere from 9 to 10 inches and an adult weighs between 9 to 16 pounds.

Temperament: The Shih Tzu is very observant and animated and behaves in a stately manner although it can also be very stubborn. Since they bark incessantly when strangers are around, they also make a good watch dog. They totally enjoy the attention and babying they get from their owners and children. They can provide hours of fun and enjoyment for children and all members of the family.

Caring & health: A Shih Tzu has a maximum life span of 11-14 years and within their life span they can be prone to different types of diseases and suffer from mostly portosystemic liver shunt, hip dysplasia and renal dysplasia. Eye problems are also frequently seen especially when they age.

As a family dog, the Shih Tzu will surely liven up any home especially if you live in the city or a small house. Choosing a Shih Tzu will surely be one of the best decisions you have made.

Article Source: http://www.acmearticles.com


About the Author: Mike Mathews is the owner and editor of the acknowledged Dog-Breed-Facts.com website. His new ebook titled "Choosing a Dog For Your Lifestyle" is a great resource for the new dog owner.

A-guide-to-dog-diseases

By: Gerry Ronson



Taking care of your dogs is extremely important. You will find that dogs need to be taken care of to avoid certain diseases and that some of the other diseases are genetic. With genetic diseases you will find that they are difficult to prevent, which means that if your dog is susceptible you will be unable to prevent the disease, but there is much that you can do to help your dog through such diseases. When you are talking about prevention of dog diseases you do need to understand the inner workings of some of the more popular ailments of dogs. We will look at a brief overview of some of the dog diseases that you can prevent.

First it may be a surprise to you, but there are many dogs that have issues with the ears and eyes. Most of the dog breeds that suffer from ear or eye infections tend to have long hair that gets in the way of these two areas. Dogs that have long fur tend to have hair that will grow around the eyes and fall into the eyes. While the hair is part of their body it can cause infections based on the oils as well as the dirt that may be on the hair. You will want to make sure that when you groom your dog you remove any hairs that are near the dog’s eyes. Poodles, some terriers, and English Sheepdogs tend to be a few of the breeds that suffer from eye infections. To prevent these eye infections grooming around the eyes should be done once a month. In other words that means that you should check their eyes daily for infection and remove any hairs that have grown in the way, and once a month you should trim around the area. For ear infections you will find that ticks and other small insects can get into the ears. This means that you have to keep the ears clean on a daily basis. You should check to make sure there are no insects in the canals and that any dirt is removed. Hair can also cause ear infections in certain breeds like the Mexican Chihuahua that tends to grow hair in the ears and cause infections. When you are worried about eye and ear infections for your dog breed you should make sure to use a soft wet cloth around the areas each day to prevent any such infection from occurring.

Another dog disease that can be a difficult is hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is one of the most common ailments you will find in large dogs. Hip dysplasia is caused when the hip bones do not form properly. There really is no reason for the bones not to form, but most believe it has something to do with a calcium deficiency during the puppy stages. Hip dysplasia can be treated in a variety of ways. In English Sheepdogs they tend to cut the tail short to prevent the issues. In some cases they offer nutrition and calcium supplements to help your dog grow the bones as a puppy that they need.

Diabetes is another common ailment in dogs that has been seeing an increase like it has in people. You see with most diabetes cases there is a direct link to an improper diet as well as improper exercise. Diabetes is luckily treated with medication as well as changing the diet of your dog so it can be prevented. In some cases after a dog has suffered diabetes and the nutrition and exercise has been fixed the dog may not need to have medication for life. You will find that most dog breeds can suffer from this disease.

Article Source: http://www.acmearticles.com


Gerry Ronson has been working with dogs for over twenty years and now works as a writer for the websites dog supplies and dog beds.

The-dog-or-the-owner-who-is-in-control

By: Amy Nutt



It is common sense to think that people are in control of their dogs. We feed our dogs, walk them on a leash, tell them to sit and stay, and give them the love and affection they crave. But some dogs display dominant behavioral traits, insist on doing things their way and try to take power away from their masters. These are called Alpha dogs.

An Alpha dog is predisposed to be the leader of the pack and expect to be in charge. If your dog routinely tries to intimidate you or other dogs, is aggressive around food or generally disobedient, you probably have an Alpha dog.

Ultimately, well-trained dogs should believe their owner is the Alpha, not them. Some people think they can regain Alpha status over their dogs by being mean and aggressive. This can put even more strain on the dog/owner relationship and lead to more problems.

Here are some good ways for you to gain control over your Alpha dog once again.

Play games with your dog that encourage cooperative behavior. Fetch is a great example. When you throw a ball or stick for your dog to retrieve, the game can only continue if the dog brings the object back to you. This shows the dog that you are not an adversarial figure.

Do not play tug-of-war with your dominant dog. This game encourages adversarial behavior, pitting you and your dog against each other. And if your dog routinely wins tug-of-war matches, he is learning that he is stronger than you and that his teeth are powerful, which will encourage more disobedience and aggression.

In a pack situation, one of the ways Alpha dogs express their dominance is by eating before all other dogs. If you can, try to feed your Alpha dog a few minutes after you begin eating your own meal. This will teach the dog that you come first in the pack and encourage patience and obedience.

Do not be overly affectionate to your dog. One very common mistake people make with Alpha dogs is constantly petting, rewarding and using baby talk with the dog. Doing so gives the dog a very powerful message -that he doesn't need to earn your respect and love. This will lead an Alpha dog to yet more dominant, disobedient acts.

Use your affection and attention as a training tool. As you teach your dog to come, sit, stay and heel, reward him with a moment of your affection for each success. Treats can be a powerful incentive too, but the best way to teach your a href="http://www.barkbusters.ca/">dog obedience is by using yourself as an incentive, rather than a treat that you can run out of. Dogs absolutely love our attention, and when you use it as a reward you will see definite results.

Use your dog's sense of territory to show your dominance. Keep certain areas of the house off limits to the dog, and keep the dog off certain pieces of furniture. If the dog breaks these boundaries, show him that he has encroached on your territory. When you go through doors and thresholds, walk ahead of your dog. The pack leader always walks in front. By placing yourself in front of your dog, you will show your Alpha status.

Hopefully this article will help you sort out your dog dominance issues. Remember, the best way to train your dog to respect you is to start young.

Article Source: http://www.acmearticles.com


Bark Busters offers in-home dog training and puppy training solutions across Canada for all dog breeds and ages. Get results in less than three hours!

The-psychology-of-dog-abuse

By: Gerry Ronson



Dogs are one of the most wonderful pets you can add to a home. Not only do they show a lot of affection, but they can also be therapeutic for children with issues. Dogs should be loved and treated well, but as we all know that is not always the case. There are over 12,000 cases of animal abuse in the abuse database. Of that amount you will find that more than half is usually dog abuse. We may feel badly about the dog abuse that has been inflicted, but if you are considering going to a rescue shelter to adopt one of these dogs you have to be prepared for certain ramifications. Dog abuse even though it is physical can have lasting psychological effects on the dog. We will explore some of the psychological effects for dogs that have been abused below.

First dog abuse is usually considered to be yelling, screaming, hitting, or injuring the dog in some way. This means that most often dogs who have suffered abuse will have at least some type of psychological effect from verbal abuse and may also have physical damage. In some cases physical damage can actually leave the dog handicapped for the rest of its life or at least with severe health problems. When adopting an abused dog you have to be prepared to Dogs are one of the most wonderful pets you can add to a home. Not only do they show a lot of affection, but they can also be therapeutic for children with issues. Dogs should be loved and treated well, but as we all know that is not always the case. There are over 12,000 cases of animal abuse in the abuse database. Of that amount you will find that more than half is usually dog abuse. We may feel badly about the dog abuse that has been inflicted, but if you are considering going to a rescue shelter to adopt one of these dogs you have to be prepared for certain ramifications. Dog abuse even though it is physical can have lasting psychological effects on the dog. We will explore some of the psychological effects for dogs that have been abused below.

First dog abuse is usually considered to be yelling, screaming, hitting, or injuring the dog in some way. This means that most often dogs who have suffered abuse will have at least some type of psychological effect from verbal abuse and may also have physical damage. In some cases physical damage can actually leave the dog handicapped for the rest of its life or at least with severe health problems. When adopting an abused dog you have to be prepared to take care of all aspects, especially the health issues they may have. So, if you feel you are prepared for the physical demands of the dog care needed for abused dogs let’s look at psychological effects.

Psychological effects generally present themselves as shy or aggressive behaviors. The behavior of the dog may also be extremely destructive to your physical property. Let’s look at the shy behaviors first. In most cases the dog will shy away from being touched or petted. They will hide under beds, in closets, or other spaces they feel you will not notice them in order to keep them from being harmed as that is what they were trained to recognize as human behavior. In some cases the dog may latch onto one person of the household. Typically if the dog has been abused by a male they will be extremely shy and will not approach or be in the same room when a male is present. It is the same if the abuser was a woman. In some cases the dog may stay in the room, but they will not allow the gender of the person to pet them unless they are sitting down. For an example a German Shepherd mix was abused. The history is unclear, but it was plain to see the dog was abused by the behavior of avoiding any large man in the room unless they were sitting down. Only then would the dog hesitantly approach to be petted, even though the dog had been in the vicinity of this person for several months.

Aggression is another way to show the effects of abuse. In most cases the dog will snarl at anyone who tries to approach and they may even attack. In this case of abuse or psychological break it is best to have the dog enter a training course to be rehabilitated. Dogs that have psychological issues can have a behavior therapy that will re- teach them proper behavior. It will also help them to overcome their fears. Lastly when discussing dog abuse we need to look at destructive behavior. Some dogs may not display destructive behavior right away in a new home. It may take time to come to the forefront. In the same example as above a dog began to slowly destroy things around the home. In one instance the dog actually broke through the backdoor. Part of the problem was that the dog needed attention during the day that the owners were not supplying, but the other part was the actual abuse. They needed to show destructive behavior in the hopes that they would get any attention and that it would be several hours worth of that attention good or bad. Again therapy is needed as well as a more active roll.

Article Source: http://www.acmearticles.com


Gerry Ronson has been working with dogs for twenty years and now writes for the website dog training.

Search-and-rescue-dogs

By: Gerry Ronson



Did you know that there are a lot of private owners of search and rescue dogs? Well there are. Many people find they need to do something during catastrophes and because they love dogs they decide to adopt and have a dog trained for search and rescue. If you are interested in adopting a search and rescue dog or just in knowing how to care for one you will want to read the below article.

Search and rescue dogs are very hard working heroes. They can work in earthquake aftermaths, hurricane rescues, and even as water rescue dogs. They are very loyal, lovable, and determined dogs. They also require special training, handling and care above other dogs. You will find that most often a search and rescue dog will go through training on a daily basis to make sure they have not forgotten any skills and to keep the dog’s minds active. In some cases new training is added. As a private owner of a search and rescue dog you have to keep them in tune. This means you need to go through the class with them, and provide as much support and skill to the session as they do. You should also know that a search and rescue dog usually thinks of the training and actual rescue situations as play. This means that if they aren’t having a little fun, and being useful they will want to quite- in other words it is too much like work.

There are certain dogs that work really well as search and rescue dogs. First the dog have to be a good tracker, hunter, hound, and good swimmers. Since dogs often have to smell for blood, or human scent they have to have great noses. This means that bloodhounds, Labradors, German shepherds, Old English sheepdogs, and St. Bernard’s are usually the best. Golden retrievers are also really great at working as search and rescue dogs. Keep in mind that the dog thinks it is a game; for the owners you have to be sure you can handle the issues you will be dealing with. Most people are great in rescue situations, but some individuals may have lasting problems of the death and destruction they have had to deal with. So it is not just find a dog to go with the owner, but making sure the owner can handle the job required as well.

Most of the time search and rescue handlers are volunteers, like the private dog owners we have been discussing. This means they show up when they can and must also be physically fit. They are going to be training with the dogs, working a lot of hours at a seen, and of course need to have a handle on rescue criteria for survival as well.

Training as mentioned above is very important. You can not just watch a video and say “I have a search and rescue dog.” In fact what you need is a training facility that will help you learn how to be a handler as well as how to train the dog. You must have certification as well as rescue equipment. Training will last for the dog’s lifetime in the service. This means that you must keep up with the training on a daily basis and be extremely committed. Search and rescue dogs are heroes and so are their handlers, but remember you should be fully prepared for the tasks at hand.

Article Source: http://www.acmearticles.com


Gerry Ronson is a writer for Kong Dog Toys and Accessories for Dogs.

Dog Games for Winter Fun

Author: Elyse Grau
During long, cold winters, dogs and their owners may need a little more exercise. This article shows you some fun ways you can play with your dog indoors.

Some of you may have been told never to play tug of war with a dog. The fear is that it might make a dog aggressive or aggravate any possessive tendencies. Other trainers feel that there is nothing wrong with the game, as long as you follow certain rules: 1)The toy you choose must be long enough to avoid accidental injury. A thick rope with knots in the middle is good.

2)The game should be played only with the tug toy. Teach your dog a command such as "drop it" or "leave it" before you start playing. (It's a good idea to do this even if you never intend to play tug. That way if he wants to play with your shoe, you can simply ask him to drop it.) Never try to pull anything away from the dog, use your command instead.

3)You must be in control of the game. You decide when to play. Keep the toy out of sight in between games. You should win at least most of the time. When you decide you've had enough, simply say "that's enough" and ask the dog to "drop it." Always stop immediately if the dog gets too excited or puts his mouth on your hand.

Another game you can play is hide and seek. There are two ways to play this game; either you can hide and encourage your dog to find you, or you can hide toys or treats around the house and ask the dog to find them.

If you are to be the target, simply have the dog stay while you go into another room. At first don't go far, and hide in an easy spot. Then call the dog with "Come find me!" or something like that.

Continue to call as long as you need to. Reward the dog for finding you with treats, excited praise, belly rubs ' anything he loves. Once your dog gets the idea, you can hide in more difficult spots, and call less often.

To use treats or toys as the objects to find, start by hiding a treat under or behind something while your dog watches, then exclaim, "Find it!" in an excited voice. Once he gets the rules of the game, have the dog stay in one room while you hide treats in another.

If your dog likes to use his nose, try hiding the treats inside shoes, under rugs, between couch cushions and places like that. For other dogs you may want to put most of the treats in plain view.

Break up large treats so that you are not giving him too many. Toys can be used if your dog has a strong prey drive, or if the he is overweight.

You can also try some brain teasers with your dog. For one, find three boxes of the same size. Have the dog sit and stay, facing the boxes. Place a treat inside or underneath an overturned box.

Release the dog and allow him to find the box the treat is in. Eventually you can begin hiding the treat with the dog facing away from the boxes.

Here's another puzzle the dog can work on. Place a morsel of food on a flat plate. Cover the plate with a towel or inverted foil pie tin. If using the tin, make a small lip in it so the dog can smell the food. If the dog is good at working things out, he should soon at least try to get the towel or pie tin off of the plate to get to the food.

You can increase the difficulty by placing the plate under a chair or other obstacle. Give him a way to get it out, such as placing it on a towel or attaching a rope to the plate. Don't let the dog get too frustrated with these games ' if he's not quite up to it, help him along and let him have the treat anyway.

There are toys that you can buy that will keep the dog busy on his own. A number of toys are now made to dispense treats. These are balls or cubes in which you place small treats. When the toy is overturned, the treats come out. You can even feed the dog this way, placing his daily ration in the treat toy.

Also on the market are some puzzle toys such as the Iqube and Puzzle Pup by Kyjen. These are similar to those made for toddlers. Instead of putting rings on a stick, or shapes in a box, the dog takes the toys out of a container. Most of these are plush toys, and might not be suitable for some aggressive chewers.

These are just a few suggestions, use your imagination and your dog's abilities to come up with even more games you can play indoors.



About The Author

Elyse Grau is an herbalist and a long-time pet owner, well-versed in pet nutrition and feeding. She is the author of Pet Health Resource, your web guide to a healthy, happy dog or cat. For more information on this subject, visit: http://www.pethealthresource.com

Foods Toxic To Dogs

Author: Lillian White

Some human foods that should not be consumed by dogs include:

Intoxicating Beverages, Such as Beer, Wine, Spirits:

Consumption of these beverages may lead to coma or possibly death. Symptoms of alcoholic beverage overdose may include, excitement, depression, sadness, stumbling, cardiac arrest, and death.

Chocolate, Tea, Coffee, Coffee Beans:

Their content of caffeine, theophylline, or theobromine affects the nervous system and the heart. Chocolate overdose symptoms may include, excessive panting, hyperactivity, vomiting, diarrhea, irregular heartbeat, and death.

Grapes, Raisins:

Kidney failure may be caused by an unknown toxin which is present in grapes in raisins. Syptoms of poisening from grapes or raisins may include abdominal pain, vomiting, anorexia, diarrhea, and a halt in the production of urine. Ingestion by your pet may be fatal and even cause death.

Macadamia Nuts:

An unknown toxin present in macadamia nuts may experience undesired affects of the nervous and digestive systems. They may also have negative affects on muscles. Symptoms may include muscle tremors, stiffness, weakness, sadness, gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, and lethargy.

Garlic, Onions:

Onions and Garlic contain contain substances which damage red blood cells. Symptoms include, anemia, lethargy, weakness, discolored urine, diarrhea, and vomiting. Processed, fresh, cooked, and powdered forms should be avoided.

Mushrooms:

Different mushrooms contain different toxins which affect several body systems. Symptoms may include, abdominal pain, shock, kidney failure, liver failure, hallucinations, diarrhea, vomiting, coma, and even death.

Prevention is the key, keeping these foods away from your pet to avoid possible toxic poisoning and overdose. If your dog is suspected of eating any of these foods get them to a veterinarian immediately.



About The Author

Lillian White

White's American Bulldogs
http://www.petads.bappy.com

Top Reasons For Dog Crate Training

Author: Jeremy C.W
Often, many pet owners misunderstand the concept and the importance of crate training. Believing that crating an animal for any length of time is a cruel thing to do. Infact, dog crate training is actually one of the best things you can do for your pet. It gives him his own personal place that no one else invades. If you think about it, you probably like having your own space, so why wouldn’t your dog?

One thing you need to remember about your pet. He is going to want to be with you so it’s best to either make sure his crate is where he can see and hear other people. If it is going to be an extra load on you to move his cage all over the house purchase an extra cage. This will allow him to have one in the bedroom and one in another part of the house.

Another advantage to crate training your dog is that if you have somewhere he can be confined when you are away, you do not have to worry about coming home and finding a mess. Older dogs normally will hold their bathroom trips for a longer period of time. However, puppies will pretty much go anywhere until they get accustomed to going out or using puppy pads.

Dog crate training can be great if you are planning on taking your pet with you somewhere that you have to fly. This can keep them from being so nervous if they are already accustomed to being in a crate. Traveling in their own crate that is familiar to them will not be as upsetting either. Taking along a favorite blanket or toy helps too.

A great advantage to crate training if you have a larger breed dog such as a boxer is that he can go to his crate when company is visiting. Some people are afraid of big dogs and it makes them uncomfortable to know the dog can get to them. If he is in a crate, it will ease the feelings of your guest and your dog.

Some dogs are just natural born chew machines. They will chew anything and everything they can get their teeth into. So crate training is a blessing if you have a job or places you need to go. Then you won’t have to come home to all of your belongings chewed to pieces.

Just take into consideration when you do put your dog in his crate that you don’t make him stay inside for hours upon hours. He needs to be able to get out and stretch his legs and go to the bathroom. The crates can be comfortable but your dog needs to be able to get out and stroll around to keep his muscles from getting cramped.

We love our dogs, once you've successfully house-trained your dog, remember to reward your dog for using his crate in the correct manner! You have just taken the long rewarding road towards creating a positive bond with your dog!



About The Author

Jeremy C.W is a Pet Fanatic and Write Information Articles for Websites like http://www.DogNpuppies.com =>Visit http://www.DogCrateTraining.net for More Insider Dog Crate Training Secrets

Sighthounds. Fast, Agile And Powerful. "Step Aside For The Sight Hound Breed Of Dog!"

Author: John E Adams
SightHounds: The History of the Sight Hound

Historically, sight hounds have often been called gaze hounds. In history, they have been working dogs and people were not so much worried about their appearance.

Once the 19th century approached, people began to breed them for appearance making them look like they do now; long, lean canines that almost look royal in appearance. They have even been known to be the favorite pet of many an Egyptian Pharaoh or world king or emperor.

Sight hounds are a breed of dog deeply rooted in history

Not only have they been used for a long time but many dogs could probably trace their roots back to the very first dogs that were domesticated for human use. That is quite a family tree.

Many people have heard of the notorious scent hound dog breed type. They are notorious for their great smellers, and for good reason; they have the ability to smell through thick grass, over a river, and for a very long time at that. A sight hound is the vision-worthy equivalent of a scent hound. While scent hounds are a type of hound with great noses, sight hounds are notorious for their impeccable sight.

SightHound Appearance

While scent hounds are notoriously short and stocky, sight hounds are just the opposite: long, elegant necks and legs, thin bodies, and strong muscles. They have high stamina levels for chasing and hunting and they must be exercised a lot, so they tend to be rather tight and muscular in appearance.

Sight Hounds in Your Community

While sight hounds are great hunting dogs, they make excellent family dogs as well as do other herding dog breeds. They are great for families with kids who can provide them with a great deal of exercise and attention. If you have ever seen a Whippet, a Borzoi, or a Saluki, you have laid eyes on a sight hound without even knowing it!

Note how deep a Sighthounds chests is and how long their necks are; these features and traits allow them to see far and over things that other dogs may not be able to. This is what they are famous for, after all!

While sight hounds make awesome family dogs, they are great for sport as well. Outside of regular hunting sport, they are good in dog shows and races as well due to their speed and agility. If you see dog shows on Animal Planet or the Discovery channel or you have ever been able to attend one, chances are that a great majority of the dogs who were the strongest competitors were sighthounds!

These days they can be great guard dogs, family dogs, and even herding dogs as well and are infamous for having good temperaments as well. Whether you are a man or woman of sport, a pet lover, or just looking for a great breed of dog for your family it is hard to argue that sight hound dog breed types are excellent choices for any person.

Sighthound. Lovely, dependable, friendly and protective—what more could you ask for in a dog?



About The Author

Copyright John Adams. Dog Breeds Explained The Sighthound breed of dog is trustworthy and loyal. But only for the right owner. Get the facts before you get the dog! http://www.dog-breeds-explained.com

Dog Training Tips

by: Andrei Smith
One of the reasons for doing an obedience dog training is to establish a foundation between you and your dog. Many dog owners believe that dog training is only for those who wish to compete in obedience trials, but they are wrong.

Dog training requires only a simple persistence to be successful and can be useful to help fulfill some of your dog's basic and social interaction needs. Here are some dog training tips to guide you along the way.

1. Firm and Friendly

When you give commands such as come, you want to use a happy and friendly voice. While on the other hand, you'll want a lower firmer voice for sit, down, and stay commands.

2. Praise & Reward

Always praise your dog or offer him when he learned new commands.

3. Be Patient

Patience is the key when you are training your dog. Focus on a single command a session and end it on a positive note. Dog's are incredibly smart and will pick up all your commands. After each session, spend some time playing. He will associate the time with you as positive and anticipate his training again.

4. Use the correct dog training equipments

If you have a well-behaved dog, a lead and a buckle will do on your obedience training. However, if your dog is uncontrollable with undesirable and distracting behaviors, you should use a training collar. You don't have to worry about the size as most electronic training collar now clearly indicate what size of dog the training collar is intended for.

5. No Distractions

Try to pick a quiet area when training your dog to do tricks or commands. A secluded back yard works best if you want to train your dog for basic obedience commands only.

6. Reprimand

Do not hit your dog! Any time your dog has undesirable behavior, be firm and friendly. Remember, dogs are man's best friend.

7. Be Positive

It is necessary to use positive reinforcement when training your dog by offering some dog treats and a lot of praise if he performs correctly and learn new commands.

8. Play with your dog

Dogs which are trained are a pleasure to take for a walk and a pleasure to own.



About The Author

Andrei Smith is a pet lover and web copywriter connected to http://www.DogTrainingCollar-4Less.com, a company that specializes in dog training collar at a low cost. Visit http://www.DogTrainingCollar-4Less.com for more dog training collar tips and other popular dog training collar products.

Information About The Labradoodle Dog Breed

Have you ever heard of a Labradoodle? If not you will find the below information not only interesting, but you may convert to a new dog breed for your family. The Labradoodle is a hunting dog that is a cross between a poodle and a Labrador. You will find there are seven colors you can have with a Labradoodle. They can be chalk, cream, apricot, chocolate, cafÈ, or black and silver. You will also find they can be a mix of these colors. They are one of the most interesting breeds despite being a mixed breed. You will find they usually weigh between 25 and 90 pounds. They stand about 13- 22 inches from the ground making them a short dog.

You will find the Labradoodle is intelligent, intuitive, and very full of energy. They do very well as companions, but doesn’t make a service dog. In other words while they can be great hunting dogs they don’t make for good therapy dogs or seeing- eye dogs. They tend to have both a poodle and Labrador mentality making them very excitable. You will also find they can make a great family pet as long as they have been trained. They can be excessively energetic and sometimes don’t make the best pets for smaller children. Training as a puppy is very important to help them learn proper techniques and reign in the energy just a little. If you do train them properly they can be around children.

Training should be for both a lab and poodle since they are mixed. You should be able to combine sport activity along with obedience. Labradors tend to be very energetic and without proper training they will continue to be disobedient because they would rather play. The poodle in them can make them a little anti social. You will find they are very easy to train for indoors, but consistent training and a firm hand is needed. You should always take your Labradoodle for walks daily to offer them plenty of opportunity to play and have fun. You will also find a medium yard is needed. They do not do well in condos or apartments. If you work during the day you should have them tied to a runner in the yard to let them explore and play. They require at least two hours of interaction such as walking, running, and playing with toys for the best health and happiness.

Care of the Labradoodle is fairly easy. They require regular brushing as the hair can become quite tangled. They have the poodle style coat, which means longer hair, rather than the Labrador coat which is usually short. In order to keep shedding down you will need to brush them. You should be able to clip them just once a year. You will also find this dog breed to be hypo- allergenic. In other words they tend to suffer from several allergies so they can have health problems due to respiratory issues.

As long as you train your Labradoodle and offer plenty of affection and activities you will find them to be a great addition to your family. You should start of with a puppy, especially if you are planning on having children to help them adapt to the social requirements they will need to have. If you purchase an adult Labradoodle you may find it harder to train certain behaviors out of them, especially if they have had no formal training. Labradoodles are one of the most interesting breeds because they have been mixed. They are recognized as a breed by the dog association.


Gerry Ronson - Hair Salons In Leicester and Dog.

by Gerry Ronson

Cockapoo Dog Breed

You will find the temperament of the Cockapoo makes a wonderful pet. Some dogs have aggressive sides or they tend not to be the best companions for families. The Cockapoo dog breed is the opposite. They are very intelligent, affectionate, and often very loyal. You will find that this type of dog likes to please the owner, and spend a lot of energy in play. They will also make a fine lap dog during nap hours. You will find they don’t mind little children and often have fun with other dogs. You don’t want to leave a child unsupervised because their high energy can make them a little too rowdy at times.

There are several dog breeds a person has to choose from and one of the smaller dogs in the entire species list includes the Cockapoo. The Cockapoo is considered a highly intelligent dog with a mix of poodle and cocker spaniel characteristics. You will find the Cockapoo dog breed weighs at most nineteen pounds and as little as six. They also only reach a height of fourteen or fifteen inches. The Cockapoo is often white, cream, tan or a combination of these colors. It helps you recognize the breeds when you see them in public because they are rarely any other color. You will also find the coat or hair on the dog is very wavy, almost curly. The coat is a soft, but dense coat to help keep them warm and make them soft.

While it is not a breed recognized by the American dog association because it is a mix of poodle and cocker spaniel they are still becoming a widely accepted breed to have around the home. You may even wish to study up on both of those breeds to figure out where the temperament can be derived. Both the poodle and cocker spaniel tend to be more aggressive, which makes training at a young age for the Cockapoo imperative. While they don’t usually display aggression training can have a lot to do with that. Training should be handled properly. It is important that you seek either a breeder to help you or a training school. They take to training really well, but you do need to learn how to handle the dog breed. When training a Cockapoo you have to have a firm hand, but a gentle voice. They don’t respond to anger or impatience as their nature is more loving and affectionate. Upset tones will make them unhappy.

Care is very important with every dog breed you choose. It will depend on the type of dog how much time you will need to spend grooming as well as exercising them. For the Cockapoo you will need to brush them once a day for the best results. Their hair can get very tangled and dirty when they play. You will find that small shedding may occur, but typically they don’t shed. During the grooming process you will need to attend to their nails at least once a year. If you are unsure about the grooming aspects you can visit a pet store with grooming facilities to find out more about the care required. As for exercise they are very active. If you don’t have a yard for them to play in everyday you will need to walk them. You will also want to have play times with plenty of toys to avoid boredom. You will also need to monitor how much they eat. Unlike some dog breeds that you can leave a bowl of food out for a few days the Cockapoo tends to overeat. You should have a regime for feeding your Cockapoo daily and stick with it. This will help with overeating issues.


Gerry Ronson runs the sites Luxury Dog Beds, Dog Toys and Dogs for Sale.

by Gerry Ronson

Creativity as Mediator Between the Worlds, or Wild Dog’s Kingdom

Creativity is a mysterious journey that connects us to the unseen worlds. There was a time when all people had access to the unseen worlds, although it was the shamans, story tellers and healers who mediated between the worlds as they journeyed into the Mystery and interpreted the images found there. Today we have our contemporary journeyers into the cosmic unseen worlds--many creative people are such journeyers--but as a culture we have lost the connection to our instinctual nature. With the development of the human brain and the march of history, the pendulum has swung so far that an overwhelming majority of people do not consider the journey into the unseen worlds a possibility, much less a necessity.

It has become trite to say that modern society has lost its soul, but in truth, that's just what has happened. Soul is something that cannot be experienced in the outer world. It cannot be understood, evaluated, judged. Soul is the groundswell of the inner world, and the eyes with which we view the outer world are blind when turned inward. It is only with the eyes of the heart--the instinctual nature of our deep internal knowing--that we traverse the inner landscape and find our way to soul.

If our outer eyes are perceptive, however, and guided by our inner knowing, we can see the outcome of mystery. This happens when, for example, the invisible becomes suddenly visible, or the impossible becomes suddenly possible in ways that cannot be explained by the rational mind. Such things often happen on both a small and large scale, but in Western culture we are quick to attribute them to coincidence; if coincidence isn't sufficient, then the doubting Thomas is convinced it can "figure out" a rational explanation of the mystery.

How much richer life can be when we are open to Mystery. But to do this, we must be brave warriors of the spirit, with creativity as both our fire and our sword. I see Creative Soul Works as a community in which we support each other as we journey into the unseen worlds to bring back sacred knowledge. We support each other despite our fears and insecurities. We guide one another as we reclaim the role of mediator between the worlds.

What follows is a recent experience from my life in which the Mystery was revealed and, I believe, I unexpectedly became a mediator between the worlds.

About six months before my husband's beloved dog D'Art died, he had two dreams. In the first dream, D'Art ran off with a pack of dogs. My husband, Ned, feared he would never see D'Art again, but finally the pack reappeared. The first two dogs ran past him, neither of them D'Art. The third dog thankfully was. As D'Art raced in great joy he called out (in English!) "Dad, I went to my kingdom and it was so wonderful!"

In the second dream, about a month later, Ned was walking down a road when a pack of wild dogs raced by him. One wild dog broke suddenly from the pack and, looking up at Ned with great love, said, "I missed you as much as you missed me." My husband drew back in fear and wild dog ran off. When he woke up, he was very sad that he hadn't embraced Wild Dog. To this day, whenever he thinks of these dreams, tears come to his eyes.

About six months later, D’Art became seriously ill. When the decision to ease his passing was made, the vet, who is a family friend, came to the house. It was about 8 pm on a lovely summer evening. Any thoughts of Wild Dog and D'Art's kingdom were far away. We were grieving for the loss of D'art, and I was concerned about the impact D'art's passing was having on my husband. But we knew the time had come, and Ned, myself, my son and the vet formed an ad hoc circle around D'Art.

I saw this circle of connection forming as Ned placed his hands on D'Art. I knelt by his side with one hand on Ned and another on D'Art. My son had his hands on D'Art. The vet administered the drug into D'Art with one hand while laying her other hand on D'Art. We were all connected through D'Art, who slipped into blessed calm as the vet administered a sedative. We sat in the deep silence of the unfolding mystery, and finally, the vet quietly asked Ned if he was ready. Ned nodded and within seconds D'Arty was gone.

Relieved by the stillness and the knowing that D'Art's suffering was at an end, I closed my eyes. It was then that the inner world flew open. Instantly I saw a pack of dog spirits racing across a sun-drenched field. D'Art, freed of a sick body, was bounding with the energy of a pup. He was racing to join his pack, and all of a sudden he turned toward me and sat, as if waiting. Our eyes met and I saw that gleefully naughty expression D'Art wore when he was about to take off for parts unknown in the outer reality. But this time, he seemed to hesitate, and I felt he was asking me if it was all right to go. I nodded and called to him, "Safe journey, Darty! We love you!"

He looked at me one last time with such love and joy, then was on his feet and off and running with his pack of wild spirits, most assuredly to his kingdom! This was very real for me, but not something I felt Ned, our son or the vet would let in, and so I said nothing. We finally decided it was time to continue with the burial. Ned wrapped D'Art in a sheet and carried him out to the grave my son had dug. It was a very big grave. D'Art, a Rhodesian Ridgeback, weighed almost 100 pounds.

Ned laid him in the grave, we all said our goodbyes and began to shovel in the dirt. That's when we heard the first howl.

We live in the country, on a mountain, and there are only a few other houses near by, none of which had dogs. The howling was clearly coming from the woods that abuts our property. Now, however, there was not one but several dogs howling. It was an eerie, otherworldly sound and we all stopped and listened.

"Those aren't dogs," I said.

"Coyotes," said my son.

"Really?" asked the vet. She listened again and nodded. "Yes, I think they are coyotes. Do you often hear them?"

"No," I said. "There are coyotes around but we've never seen or heard them."

The whole time we were burying D'Art, the howling continued, its song rising and falling. No one spoke. We were connected by this call of the wild. We haven't heard or seen another dog, much less a coyote, on the mountain since that night.

Were these coyotes? Were they wild dogs from Ned's dreams? Had D'Art run into the wild of spirit with them? Were they welcoming him home? Thoughts such as these don't hold much interest for me; rather I am honored to have been a part of this mysterious opening. Even my husband and son, who are staunch believers in the what you see is what you get world, remain awed by this event. We don't speak about it often.

My family is fortunate to live in a place where silence and nature are ready companions. The most noise we hear are the birds, occasionally the neighbor's children, a lawn mower, snow blower, or helicopter, and the distant hum of a nearby parkway where no trucks are allowed. I feel certain that having the privilege of having the vet come to the house, of being by ourselves on the mountain on a serene summer evening, are part of what made this experience possible. Perhaps D'Art's spirit and I, with my comfort in the unseen and my absolute belief in the power of creativity to mediate between the worlds, became the necessary mediators that night.


Emily Hanlon is a novelist of seven works of fiction and a book on the creative writing process. She has been a writing and creativity coach for over 25 years. Her website, www.creativesoulworks.com, is based on her belief that the multifaceted journey of creativity is not limited to the arts, but nurtures life at the most profound depths, those of the soul journey. Her website, www.thefictionwritersjourney.com explores writing through her dual pronged method of teaching technique while unleashing the imagination.

by Emily Hanlon

Train your dog in a humane manner with one of our dog containment ...

Dog training is imperative. Consider the fact that dog owners (and not only them, because we have also seen cat owners or smaller pet owners that do this) take their dogs all over the place. Proper use of dog containment systems and of a bark control collar will guarantee the raising of a “well-mannered” dog. With the suitable level of training, your dog will know how to behave properly even when it faces various diversions. Your training efforts will know increased diminishing if you opt for one of the dog containment systems available.

Training will yield superlative results if you start it at the puppy stage. Your training technique will instruct your puppy about what suitable behavior means right from the start. If you start it early, the heel-and-sit stage will pass unnoticed, i.e. you will not pay to much trouble to teaching your puppy about what this stage is. After having completed the essentials of training, you two can move on to the advanced levels – just as you did it yourself throughout school years and took it gradually.

However, do not worry excessively if you have not started early the training process. Dog training will be easy enough if you choose one of the dog containment systems and a bark control collar. Such devices will take care of the aspects that you most likely want covered by the behavior of your dog, namely knowing where it is permissible to walk and knowing the allowed levels of barking.

The number one issue is pointless barking. Your dog may bark for an incredible array of reasons. However, it does not mean that it will always bark with a good point to make. With a bark control collar and the necessary amount of positive reinforcement, your dog will know when it is proper for it to bark and when it should remain quiet. It will learn the difference between necessity and annoyance. A bark control collar will apply a certain level of annoyance for the dog, which will distract it from barking excessively.

You can prompt your dog to stop barking or to stop wandering where it is not permissible for it to wander by verbal means, as well. However, you will see that this is not always successful. You need something that is more powerful. In addition, you need something that could always “keep an eye” on the dog’s behavior. Dog containment systems are the “thing.”

Such devices are secure for your dog. In addition, they will frequently lessen the amount of time necessary for your dog to complete training. It happens for some pet owners to worry that dog training devices would bring harm to their dogs. However, such devices are very gentle and do not cause but a minor level of irritation for the dog. Such irritation is enough for the dog to want to avoid it in the future. To avoid the irritation, the dog will understand that it needs to avoid the behavior that has led to the triggering of the annoyance.

In other words, dog containment systems function according to the basic rules of training. An action will trigger a reaction. Such reaction is definitely an annoyance for the dog. With positive reinforcement, a bit of patience and the suitable dog training systems, the training process will no longer be a load. Of course, you can always consult with a dog trainer and see that he or she also uses the help of such devices. This happens simply because such devices do their job without harming the “learner.”


Ask around and you will see that dog containment systems are preferable when you want to ease the dog training efforts. In addition, by choosing a bark control collar, you will also be able to supervise the barking of your dog in an easier manner.

by Clint Jhonson

Personal Development - A Dog's Life

It must be morning; I'm hungry.
Then again, I'm always hungry, so it could really be any time.
I can hear the shower and feel the sun on my back, so I'm guessing the Boss is awake.
I lift my head off my bed and look down the passage.
I want a shower too.
Sometimes I try and get in but he won't let me.
Boring.
He's not so happy in the mornings any more.
He used to be, but things have changed.
I think it's stress.

Not really sure what that is, but I know it's not good.
It's a human thing.
I've heard him talk about it on the phone.
Don't really know what a phone is either, but I know they're good to chew.
Chewing's one of my favourite things.

In the old days we wrestled every morning.
He'd pull my ears and I'd jump on his head.
These days, not so much.
Before he went to work, we'd play ball.
After work too.
He'd throw, I'd fetch.
He'd throw, I'd fetch.
Forever.
What an amazing game.
Such fun.
He'd laugh and talk human. I'd growl.
I'd laugh if I could.
Mostly, I'd just wag my tail.
I think it's sad that humans don't have tails.
Sometimes he'd lose focus, so I would nudge him.
Maybe a little nip on the hand just to keep his head in the game.
How much fun can one Golden Retriever and one human have?

But lately he seems grumpy.

Sometimes, I wonder if he still loves me.
I lick him anyway because he's my favourite human in the world.
I get so excited to see him.
When he hugs me, my tail wags all by itself.
I wonder why my kisses don't make him happy like they used to.

In the good old days, we would walk to the park every day.
We'd hang out with other dogs and humans.
I mostly played with Kelvin the fat Labrador and the Boss would laugh with Kelvin's human; a female who smelled like vanilla.
I licked her once.
She didn't taste so good.
We don't walk together much these days.
And when we do, he talks on the phone.
I hate that phone.
I'm gonna eat it when he's not looking.

I liked it more when we lived in the first house.
The little one.
Three houses ago.
He played with me the most in that house.
I loved that place.
He was happier and he didn't yell at me for getting on the couch.
Or chewing his shoes.
We used to watch TV together on the couch every night.
Well, I slept, he watched.

He would rest his hand on my head.
I like that.

Now we live in a big house, with a big stupid couch.
A stupid couch for humans only.
Not dogs.
I don't like the big house or the big couch.
He makes me stay down on the stupid slippery polished floor boards.

The other day I slid into the table and hurt my nose.
Stupid floor boards.

When I was puppy we used to go everywhere together.
We would both ride in the old station wagon and I would put my head out the window.
Or on his lap.
It was the most fun ever.
I don't know why humans don't do it.
Head out the window, that is.
Don't they know?

No more head out the window action for me these days though.
Mr Serious has a new fancy schmancy car.
Apparently, it's a dog-free zone too.
On the rare occasion that I do get a ride, I have to lie on three blankets.
And no wind in my face.
What's the point of that?
Like having a bone you can't chew.
Stupid.

We used to go to the beach every weekend in that old station wagon.
We surfed together.
Well, he surfed, I chased seagulls, played in the waves and rolled in the sand.
He liked talking to the girl humans who wanted to play with me.
They only talked to him because I was there.
Sometimes he got kisses but I always got more.
On the way home I would put my wet, sandy, hairy body on the front seat and he was happy I was next to him.
I loved that car too.
Those were the days.
We haven't done that since I was four.
Five years ago.

Too busy apparently.
Too busy being successful and important to have fun with me.
Glad I'm not successful, it doesn't look like much fun.

But I'm so adorable, I don't understand why he doesn't miss me.
In fact, I don't really understand him sometimes.
He's meant to be smarter than me but lately, I'm not so sure.
I know I'm just a dog and I don't really understand a lot of human stuff, but I do know about fun and happiness.

He's rarely happy these days.
And he's always too tired to do anything.
Even when I pull his sleeve.
Or lick his face.
If he got rid of the stupid slippery floor, the dumb couch, the dumb car and played with me more, then he would be happy.
Me too.

I used to sleep on the end of his bed.
Used to.
(heavy sigh)
But now he has a new dog-free bed too.
Of course.
It's expensive and apparently I moult.
Whatever that means.
I hate that bed.
I chew the legs when he's not around.

Next year we're moving to another house.
A bigger one.
Maybe that will make him happy.
Hope so.
Doubt it though.
If I could speak, I'd tell him that too.
I don't get the big house thing; there's only him and me.
Us dogs don't really care how big our kennel is, we just want to be near our human.

Anyway, I'm very excited about today.
I'm gonna hang out with Charlie for a while.
He's my buddy from over the fence.
We made a hole so we can visit each other.
I'm not really sure what kinda dog he is, but it doesn't matter.
He's pretty smart but not quite as handsome as me.
We do fun stuff together every day.

Mostly we chase birds.
I hate those birds.
And we chew old lady Jacobs' laundry baskets.
We've eaten three of them.

Baskets not birds.

Then I might lie in the sun.
And chew my foot for a while.
I might have a power-nap too.
Chasing birds makes me tired.

I reckon the Boss should lie in the sun with me.
And chew his foot for a while.
It's relaxing.
It might help with his stress.

Whatever that is.


Craig Harper (B.Ex.Sci.) is the #1 ranked Motivational Speaker by Google. He is a qualified exercise scientist, author, columnist, radio presenter, television host and owner of one of the largest personal training centres in the world. Motivational Speaker - Craig Harper

by Craig Harper