5 Steps to Potty Training

Caring For A Dog: 5 Steps To Potty Training Success by: Michael Lewis
Potty training a dog is one of the most frustrating things you will have to do. Take heart in the fact that once your dog gets the potty training, you won't have to teach it again. In many ways, potty training can be rewarding too. Not only can you help your pets to stop making messes on your favorite carpeting, but you can develop a strong relationship of trust and bonding with them to.
Here are 5 steps to make potty training successful in your home.
1.Use a crate. Crate training is very effective. A crate is used to allow your pet to have a place to sleep and teaches them to control their bladder. They won't soil their bedding. Then, when it is time to get up and go out, you can easily do just that. The dog learns from the start that you control potty time.
2.After meals, give your pet 15 minutes and then take them out. Food is a trigger not only to eat but also to go. When it comes to potty training success, allow your pet to get outside when the urge is approaching. What's more is that you shouldn't leave food out. Put it down for them at the designated time and allow them to eat for 15 minutes to 30 minutes and remove the bowl. Soon he will learn and that again allows you to control potty time.
3.Pick a potty spot. Select the area of your yard that you want your pet to go in. Take them to that spot every time to go. This will help your puppy to learn that when he needs to go, he needs to come here. What's more is that the smell of urine is yet another trigger to your pet to go.
4.Don't reward them with food. Remember that rewards need to be emotional, and therefore it is more successful to give them a reward of a patting and rub down then it is for you to hand them a treat. Also, treats are food which triggers potty time again!
5.Reward success, but don't punish accidents. Although you will be angry and you will want to punish your pet, your pet does not see this as a bad thing. He sees it as attention. He also can become aggressive as well as not like to be around you. Dogs don't relate their potty mistake to the punishment you are given them. Instead, ignore them when they do something wrong. Don't speak to them or interact with them.
Caring for your dog is hard work, but when it comes to potty training, success can and will happen when you install these five tips into your program.
About The Author
Michael Lewis is an editor at http://www.clearlypets.com where you can find more articles about dog training.
Article Citywww.articlecity.com

Preventing Your Dog From Catching Diseases

by: Jack Russell
Like any other pet, dogs, if not properly cared and maintained, could get diseases. Here are some parasites that cause dog diseases.
- Heartworm. Mosquito bites cause heartworm to exist in a dog and will reside in your pet’s heart and nearby blood vessels. A dog infected by heartworms looks dull and may even have a chronic cough. If possible, ask your veterinarian if your dog could be given a heartworm medication when it is the season of mosquitoes.
- Hookworm. Hookworms can be given by the mother dog to a puppy during the nursing period or even before birth. Hookworms cause dog anemia and appetite loss.
- Roundworm. The transmittal of roundworms is very much like how hookworms get transmitted in a dog. An infected dog usually has a potbelly. Roundworms cause pneumonia, diarrhea, dehydration, stunted growth, and vomiting.
- Tapeworm. A dog gets tapeworms if it swallows fleas that are larvae-laden. Much of the symptoms that are obvious rarely show, but in the dog’s feces, you could see deposits of rice-like appearance.
- Whipworm. A dog infected with whipworms may have diarrhea and other ailments like, stool mucus, and serious bowel inflammation. Extreme weight loss is also a symptom caused by whipworms.
- Fleas. Fleas, the commonest among external parasites, cause the dog to continuously scratch various parts of the body. This results to fur loss. Ask your veterinarian on a good flea-control program, since fleas could become resistant to some products over time.
- Lice. Lice can infect less common compared with fleas. Plus, they can be controlled easier.
- Ticks. Ticks can pose more serious problems than fleas because diseases like Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, or Lyme disease, can be contracted with ticks. Tweezers can be used to remove ticks one by one. If you do not know how to remove ticks properly and carefully, ask your vet first. If you do know how, ticks should be placed in a can with soap and water.
Treating dog diseases
Some ways of treating dog diseases that your vet might use:
- Pills
- Liquid medicine
- Eye drops and ointment
- Ear drops and ointment
With proper care and prevention, your pet dog would be generally free and safe from various diseases. If you notice something’s wrong with your dog, immediately consult with your vet. You will never know what might happen.
About The Author
Jack Russell is a a long time dog fancier, visit his Dog Resources Blog and download his Free Dog Owners Handbook - it's Dog Gone Good! http://www.daveshealthbuzz.com/dogcare/.

Building A Dog Kennel

by: Simon Oldmann
Should I get into Dog Kennel Building? Anyone who owns a dog as a pet will tell you that maintaining one can make a considerable dent in your wallet. The expenses of keeping a dog includes dog food costs and vet bills. Some pet owners find these costs over whelming and as a direct result many dogs end up in animal shelters. Genuine dog lovers often refrain from getting a dog for themselves, simply because the costs of owning one are too high. However, there are several ways of cutting down on unnecessary costs and to keep your pet happy and healthy at the same time. For example, if you want a kennel for your dog, buying one can turn out to be an expensive affair. Building your own dog kennel cuts this cost half. Many dog owners share their living space 24x7 with their pets. This can result in a lot of hassles like cleaning up after your dog leaves muddy footprints on your floor or spending precious time vacuuming fur off carpets, sofas and other furniture. For those who like to give their pets their own cozy home, a doghouse or a kennel is the way to go. Now the best part about dog kennels, especially for do-it-yourselfers, is that you can build one your self. Although, you will still need to bear the costs of building supplies as well as give your own labor input, the biggest advantages here are that costs are a mere fraction of those incurred when purchasing a ready made dog house and that you can customize the kennel to suit your puppy’s needs. Most of the kennels available on the market are of a fairly standard size and if you have a particularly large or small dog, this may pose a problem. Building a dog kennel means you will have to make one large enough so that your pet can comfortably turn around, but at the same time not too large, since it helps retain your dogs body heat and allows self-insulation to a degree. Dog kennel building is a fairly easy task if you have even the tiniest bit of experience in carpentry. When building a custom doghouse, make sure the kennel is raised a few inches off the ground to prevent seepage of moisture into the wood. Also, when shopping for plywood, make sure to purchase exterior grade plywood instead of pressure treated plywood. At the same time, ensure that your dog is not in the habit of chewing wood because the chemicals used to treat exterior grade plywood may be harmful to your pet. When building dog kennels, keep these three factors in mind. That is, the size of the doghouse, the right type of wood and the height at which the kennel is raised from the ground. Once the basics are in place, you can do what you want in terms of design and building. You may even design the kennel according to your pet’s personality, giving it the ultimate designer home.
About The Author
Simon Oldmann is an avid dog lover, now living in the countryside he setup a dog kennel for his dogs, Simon currently writes tips and advice about dog kennels at http://dogkennel.zupatips.com/

Is Good Customer Service Going to the Dogs?

by: Trish Lambert
I had an experience the other day that has made me think about how too many customer service experiences unfold in the business world today, and about the difference that really good service can make. I have two dogs. Earlier this week, it was time for them to get their summer haircuts so that they will be able to comfortably cope with the Houston heat. The newest addition to the house is Jason, a miniature schnauzer who had been the prized pet of an old lady who had to give him up for adoption when she moved to a nursing home. She had chosen to keep him fully furred, not trimmed in the traditional schnauzer cut, so that he had a really nice wire haired coat to go with his bushy eyebrows and stubby tail. The other dog is Lucky, a schnauzer-poodle mix-poodle ears and body, schnauzer muzzle and curly tail-he gets the traditional cut. So, I took the two little guys to the groomers the other morning. I was the first client of the day, and the salon was nice and quiet. I explained what I wanted to the person who would be doing the job-traditional schnauzer cut on Lucky, but not on Jason. Just a trim for him. This is important, I told her, because I don’t want his coat shaved off-once that wire hair is gone it never grows back. Did she understand, I asked? Yes, she answered. But did I want Jason’s skirt trimmed? Skirt? I stared blankly and finally figured out that she was talking about the feathery bits on his chest and belly. Yes, fine, I said. Trim that area but just don’t shave him. She nodded. I went back a few hours later to pick up the boys. At that point the salon was buzzing with dogs, clients, and groomers. The fur was literally flying. First came Lucky, looking very dapper and neat. A few seconds later, out came Jason, and my mouth dropped open. He had been completely shaved!!! The groomer had given him a standard schnauzer cut-and that lovely wire coat was gone forever. I couldn’t believe it. I was angry and sad at the same time. What had happened? How could the conversation we had had in the morning have been so completely lost? After discussing the situation with the salon owner, she reluctantly refunded my money, which was very small consolation for the snafu. It should be no surprise that I will not be going back to that salon when the boys’ fur has grown out. This whole thing left me thinking about how this kind of customer service happens in other businesses. There were several points about the experience that translate: 1. Are we really listening to our customers? Do we ask the questions we need to ask to make sure that we understand what they want from us? Do we make accurate notes so that we retain instructions and deliver what was asked for? I got plenty of nods from the groomer during our talk, but my instructions obviously got lost somewhere between her ears and her shears. 2. Are we communicating clearly back to them, or do we use industry jargon that they may or may not understand? When the groomer asked me about trimming Jason’s skirt, I had to stop and think. It was MY responsibility to figure out what she was talking about. Not a great way to do business. 3. Finally, and very very important, when mistakes do get made on our side of the transaction, how do we make amends? Even the worst error doesn’t have to mean the loss of the customer. Respond to the mistake with restitution that matches its seriousness. In my case, given the extent of the mistake with Jason, and the permanence of the result, the salon owner fell far short in restitution and in terms of keeping my business. I had to struggle to simply get a refund, which was insufficient compared to the permanent impact this error has. I won’t be back to that salon. These three points--listening to the customer, communicating back in ways that they will easily understand, and making appropriate amends when mistakes get made on our end-are the core of excellent service and the key to keeping loyal and happy customers. (As a post script, I should note that Jason still looks darn cute, even without his fur. And I’m sure he doesn’t care one way or the other about all that wire hair!)
About The Author
Trish Lambert (http://www.trishlambert.com), principal of 4-R Marketing LLC, is an experienced marketing consultant and creator of the 4-R Marketing Model™ for service businesses. Very much a "non-conformist" in the marketing world, Trish produces measurable results with marketing that drives revenues for her customers.

Canine Parvovirus - A Serious Cantagious Disease in Dogs

by: Jonni Good
Canine parvovirus, sometimes known simply as 'parvo,' is a serious contagious disease caused by a virus. This illness is spread when dogs come into contact with the feces of infected animals. Dog parks, highway rest stops and popular walking trails in cities are areas where dog feces are often found, and where an unvaccinated dog may pick up the virus. Humans may also unknowingly bring the virus home on the bottom of their shoes or on their car tires, so dogs who never go outside the yard can still be infected with this disease. The virus can live in the soil or other contaminated surfaces for as long as six months. Most animal shelters and kennels make every effort to avoid the spread of contagious diseases by cleaning the kennels with bleach, but any time that large numbers of animals are kept in close quarters, there is a possibility of infection, so keeping up on your dog's vaccinations is always a good idea. Although puppies are more commonly affected by this illness than adult dogs, both my brother and I once owned adult dogs who became seriously ill from canine parvovirus. Both animals had been vaccinated while in our care, but they were acquired after the dogs had reached adulthood, so they may not have received proper vaccination as puppies. Both dogs recovered, but only after several weeks of intensive in-hospital care. Since this virus attacks the lining of the dog or puppy's digestive system, the symptoms of the disease are diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, lack of appetite, and bloody, foul-smelling stools. In addition to severe abdominal discomfort, bloody diarrhea and vomiting, the dog may also have a high fever, and congestive heart failure is possible. Severe symptoms may follow several days of gradually decreasing appetite. Illness usually becomes apparent from three to 12 days after the dog was exposed to the virus. Obviously, this is a very serious disease, and immediate medical care is required to reduce the risk of death. The veterinarian will make sure to keep the dog from becoming dangerously dehydrated, which can keep the dog or puppy alive long enough for its own immune system to fight the disease. Antibiotics are not effective against this virus, but they are usually given to an infected animal to help prevent the occurrence of secondary bacterial infections, which can cause shock or septicemia. Secondary infections can occur without antibiotics because parvovirus suppresses the dog's ability to make white blood cells. A blood test showing a low white blood cell count is one of the ways a veterinarian can make a diagnosis of canine parvovirus. Because the illness causes severe dehydration, the dog will also be put on intravenous fluids, and the animal will probably need to stay under the doctor's care a week or more. Because the gastrointestinal tract has been affected, the veterinarian may withhold food and water from the dog until the virus has come under control. Unfortunately, some dogs and puppies who survive a bout of parvovirus can be affected by symptoms six months or more after the original symptoms, particularly if the virus has infected the heart. To prevent infection, puppies must be vaccinated under the proper schedule, and they should not be taken outside the yard or introduced to any other dogs until at least two weeks after the last puppy shots are administered. Some veterinarians and dog breeders suggest that you avoid dog parks entirely, even after your puppy has been vaccinated, because of the possibility of picking up this or other contagious canine illnesses. If you adopt an older dog from the local shelter, you should take him to your veterinarian for a checkup and ask that he be vaccinated, unless the shelter administered routine vaccinations while the dog was in their care.
About The Author
Jonni Good writes about dog health and older dogs on her website at http://www.older-dog.com

How To Build A Dog House

by: Robert Michael
Most of the population allow their dogs to live indoors and relax on the couch and sleep in their owner’s bed. If you are interested in building a dog house for your dog then follow these simple tips when starting this project. 1. Start building your dog house by finding out how big you need to make the house so when your animal reach their full adult size they will still fit in it. We like having a couple of feet of air above us so we don’t feel claustrophobic. Your dog will appreciate having that much room, as well. 1/3 of our standing height is where our comfort zone is. Take out a tape measure and measure your dog to find out how much room your dog will need. To figure this out measure your dog while standing up, sitting on his haunches and in his most relaxed position of lying completely stretched out. Whether your pet is standing up or sitting he should be able to see out the front entrance. The dog should not have to bend down and let his stomach touch the ground to see out. Measure the width of the widest point of your dogs shoulder’s while standing above him. 2. The dog house should be raised a few inches off the ground to let air and water go underneath it. Ventilation is important because it discourages pets to bother you dog in its house and keeps your pet healthier. Under the eaves you should have several small holes in the walls. Inside the house put in a wind block so your dog can warm up the house using its own body heat. Adding a partial wall to the dog house will allow him to get away from the cold and windy weather. This allows the dog to choose whether he wants to sleep in the entryway or in the other section of the house. Providing a pillow or bed would probably make your animal very happy and a lot more comfortable. 3. Build the floor so it is a bit slanted so it stops rain from coming inside the dog house. Also, build the roof at a bit of a slant for the same reason. If you want your dog house to be insulated well then do not paint on the inside. 4. Storms typically come from the south and west in the U.S. so making sure your dog house faces a different direction would make the most sense. Having the door of the dog house face to the east is highly suggested so the cold air cannot come through the door so easily. 5. By putting hinges on the top of the dog house it makes it easier for you to clean your dog’s living space. Every time you give your pet a bath it is suggested that you clean the dog house at the same time. Every dog really should have a warm, safe and comfortable living space where they are safe from severe weather. Follow these tips to help you build a great house for your dog.
About The Author
Robert Michael is a writer for De Pets which is an excellent place to find pets links, resources and articles. For more information go to: http://www.depets.com

Dog Behavior Training

by: L. D. Mairet
Dog behavior training is a very important key to a happy, healthy, pet. Dog behavior training can help your dog stop excessive barking, biting, and whining. Dog behavior training can fix almost any behavior problem that your pet may be experiencing. If you want to put an end to the problems and stress that your dog is creating, you need to consider dog behavior training. Dog behavior training will help build a positive relationship between you and your dog.
When done properly, dog behavior training, will help your dog to behave in any type of situation. Consider what the key problems are when assessing your pet. Do you want your dog to sit when people come over? How about excessive barking and whining problems, are they getting annoying? All of these problems you can overcome with your dog and the proper dog behavior training techniques.
When your dog is having behavior problems and acting out, they are just begging for dog behavior training. Dogs are very smart animals and they need and thrive from the stimulation they get from the interaction with you. Do you need and want a better relationship with your dog? Dog behavior training will help get you off on the right start with your dog.
It's never to late to start dog behavior training your companion. Even if your dog is older and set in their ways, they will love the stimulation they get from a dog behavior training course. You don't even need to take your dog to some expensive, high priced, dog behavior training class. You can train your dog on your own from the comfort of your own home.
Your companionship between you and your dog can be wonderful but at the same time challenging without proper dog behavior training techniques. Check out the book now to get on your way to a healthier, happier pet. You might even find that your relationship with your pet will bring you to a whole new level.
About The Author
L.D. Mairet has a passionate interest in dogs. She has 2 Black Labs and enjoys spending time with them. You can read more articles by her at http://dog-food.blogspot.com Dog Food, http://premium-dog-food.blogspot.com Premiom Dog Food, http://dog--trainer.blogspot.com Dog Trainer, http://dog-behavior--training.blogspot.com Dog Behavior Training, and http://dog-training-basics.blogspot.com Dog Training Basics.

How to Prevent and Stop your Dog from Digging up the Lawn

by: Oscar Uzoma
Dogs can be the very best pets you can have around and also, the most exasperating. I have a lovely Terrier whose eyes can convey empathy, sadness, or delightful joy. How they manage to do that, don’t know. It may be due to their extra-sensory ability. In this case, they could be your best friends who mourn with you when you are in pain, and "laugh" with you when you are happy. But sometimes, they can take their toll on your patience. Imagine just having invested a lot of time, energy, and money on grooming your front yard and backyard lawn only to find your dog digging up everywhere. What can be more annoying?! When this unlikely but possible event occurs, how do you stop your dog from digging up your precious lawn? To start with, you need to understand the very nature of dogs. Dogs dig for a reason. You need to understand what the reason is because you might just end up making your dog unhappy by restraining it. Usually, dogs dig because of the perceived scent of something possibly buried in the lawn and they want to check what it is; or they may want to hide and protect their food or toys from intruders or other dogs. This is very common with dogs from an animal shelter. On the other hand, bringing a dog home the first time, they have a tendency to want to smell everything around them including the lawn and flowerbeds. They also smell for the presence of another dog. Dogs may also want to dig up our lawn for lack of anything to do. They have a tendency to dig when bored. So, how do you stop your dog from digging up your beautiful and well-tended lawn or yard? 1. Take your dog on a daily walk or run. Exercise has a calming effect on the dog and decreases the occasion of digging. 2. Do a research on their behavior. You never can tell, you might come up with something revealing. Usually, the more info you have on a dog, the easier it is to tame them, get them to respond to you and keep them from digging. 3. No scolding. Dogs tend to register scolding negatively. Avoid scolding it. If it does dig up your lawn, be patient. Train it not to dig up the yard. If it fulfills this command once, compensate it with a bone meal or something to make it realise that if it does not dig up the lawn, it will, be compensated 4. Finally, engaging the dog in an exercise training while maintaining yourself as the leader will enable it listen to you quicker and obey your commands.
About The Author
Oscar Uzoma Just completed a new interesting series on training your dog. You can get a new interesting 5-part free report on Dog training tips and at His Dog Training Tips and Information Blog and dog training products reviews here at http://dog-training-tips-and-resources.blogspot.com His Dog Training Tips and Information site

Dog Flea Remedy – What Effective Products Available?

by: Ann Wong
Summer brings holiday joy for most people but not exactly so for dog owners. In fact, it may well be the busiest time of the year for all dog owners and the cause of this is Fleas! Dog Owners are most likely to see their dogs scratching frantically and having skin rashes at its worst during this time of the year which prompted them to desperately go in search of a dog flea remedy. But there are hundreds of dog flea products in the market so, which is the “best dog flea killer” among all. If this is the dilemma that you are facing right now, then read on as we reveal some dog flea and tick treatment that are reported to be effective. If you are thinking of trying some flea powder and flea collars, forget them, these are products of the past and are simply not effective. Flea combs have been around for a long long time but have always been overlooked to be an effective first line of treatment for dogs with fleas. True that you won’t be able to eliminate all fleas simply by combing your dog’s fur but it helps in reducing the flea population greatly. It’s the safest way to keep flea infestation in your dog under control not to mention that it’s also cheap. Value these “grooming sessions” as it also helps in building a mutual bonding between your dog and yourself. Use of dog flea shampoo is common among dog owners. As with flea comb, flea shampoo would not eradicate fleas completely as they will be washed off shortly leaving no residual effects. But, again, it’s effective in helping to control flea population and it helps keep the skin of your dog clean and prevents secondary infections especially when inflammation develops from the constant scratching The use of dog flea medications has increase in popularity in recent years. Firstly, they are highly effective flea killer, which have reportedly been able to kill off 99% of the flea population within 24 hours after application. Secondly, these new range of flea medicines have long lasting effects enabling a single application to last for up to a month. Of these, the most popular ones are Advantage, Revolution, Frontline, Frontline plus and Advantix. Each of these is unique and the choice of which to use on your dog depends on what your dog is infested with. Revolution is labeled not only for use against fleas but also are also active against ear mites, scabies mites and heartworm while Frontline Plus controls both fleas and ticks. Added on to the list are the oral flea pill like Program and Sentinel. These are growth inhibitors, which serve to interrupt the life cycle of fleas, and it serves as long term preventive in flea control. To equip yourself with more information about the various types and forms of flea products before heading to get one suitable for your dog, make sure you check the section on "Flea Treatment For Pets" within my website at http://www.all-pets-info.com/fleacontrol/Flea-Treatment-For-Pets.html which covers in detail the advantages, effectiveness, side effects, how they should be used and what you should look out for when using any of them.
About The Author
Ann Wong owns an animal shelter housing 150 dogs and cats. Understanding the difficulty and frustration of pet owners in getting rid of fleas, she has publish a website on "Flea Control" at http://www.all-pets-info.com/fleacontrol with the purpose of helping people especially pet owners solve this problem completely.

Is A Fibromyalgia Service Dog For You?

by: Jane Thompson
There have been numerous studies carried out that shows dogs and animals in general help alleviate stress and anxiety and lower blood pressure of hospitalized chronically ill patients. But what can a fibromyalgia service dog for you and are they a suitable addition to your life? First of all having any pet requires commitment on behalf of the owner. Dogs can live for 10 –15 years and they need to be feed, groomed, exercised and loved. You’ll also need to ensure that your garden, if you have one, is fully fenced and dangerous household items are placed out of dog-reach. Service dogs for fibromyalgia sufferers is not uncommon, however you will need to be legally recognized as having a disability under the ADA of 1990 (Americans with Disabilities Act) before you can apply for one. If you already have the necessary disability paperwork you’ll need to fill in forms at your chosen service dog center and be prepared for a long wait, there can be long waiting lists. It can also be an expensive procedure so ensure you understand what costs are involved. There may be the possibility of disability insurance covering all or some of the costs involved, so it pays to do some investigation into this first. Think about too, what you need your service dog for. Retrievers are common service dogs as they take well to training and can do things like retrieve items, help with household tasks, open doors and turn off and on light switches. All of which would be a great help if your mobility is impaired. But they also provide more than practical help, service dogs can provide a reason for getting up in the morning and help patients become more active. Having a constant companion can ease pain, as a dog gives you focus away from the pain and they have shown to improve energy levels and sense of well being. Smaller breeds are also being used as service dogs, but for very different reasons – their body heat. One sufferer with fibromyalgia, Nancy Gordon was introduced to a Xoloitzcuintli or Xolo (small Mexican hairless dog) and found that within 15 minutes of the dog lying on her wrists the pain with gone. Xolo’s are renowed for their exceptional body heat and she went on to have one as a service dog, trained to lie around her neck and shoulders. You can vist Nancy's site here:www.pawsforcomfort.com For information about natural methods of treating fibromyalgia symptoms continue reading and sign up for the free newsletter below. To find a dog trainer in your area visit The American Dog Trainers Network that lists dog trainers by state.
About The Author
Sign up for Jane Thompson's free Fibromyalgia newsletter - Overflowing with easy to implement methods to help you discover more about Fibromyalgia Service Dog at http://www.eliminatefibromyalgia.com?source=is

Shih Tzu Topknots, Eyes And Ear Care

by: Connie Limon
The standard coat of a Shih Tzu should be luxuriously long and dense with a good wooly undercoat. The hair on top of the head may be tied up. When a Shih Tzu is completely brushed and combed the Shih Tzu should have a sleek look. The beard comes to a point and a long, luxuriant moustache flows over the beard. Method of making a Shih Tzu or Shih Tzu puppy topknot: 1. Part the hair from the ear on both sides of the head. 2. Gather up in one hand the hair in the middle and slip on a latex band at the base. 3. The band may have to be wrapped around twice to make it secure. 4. A ribbon or barrette is recommended to be attached to latex band. How to make your own Shih Tzu or Shih Tzu puppy bows: 1. Cut one yard of ribbon. The ribbon can be any width you desire. 2. From this yard of ribbon, cut another piece about 5” long. Splice this in half lengthwise. 3. Cut the remainder of the yard in half. This material should give you enough for two ribbons or bows. 4. Wrap one of the long pieces around two fingers. Slip the folded ribbon off your fingers and double it over. 5. With a utility scissors, snip off a piece at the corners in a “V” shape, but not a sharp V, for you will lose any thread of support. There should be a piece of ribbon left at the centerfold to hold it all together. 6. Take one of the spliced pieces (5”) and tie the ribbon at the centerfold securely. 7. Separate each fold by gently pulling out and twisting each fold out from the center. Do both sides. When all the folds are pulled out and twisted, the bow is completed. All that remains is to fasten the bow to a tuft of hair, using the ends of the center splice to tie the knot. Cut off any excess ribbon that remains. Care of the Shih Tzu or Shih Tzu puppy’s ears: Because of the long hair covering the Shih Tzu puppy’s ears, problems can develop when the ear gets little air. Clean the excess hair out of your Shih Tzu puppy’s ear canal (not the ear flap) to improve air circulation and help prevent infection. Care of the Shih Tzu’s eyes: Shih Tzu generally has large eyes with shallow sockets. A Shih Tzu’s eyes are more prone to injury than most other breeds. If your Shih Tzu puppy’s eyes are red or cloudy or tear excessively, or if your dog squints and rubs at his eye, have a vet look at your Shih Tzu puppy’s eye to determine the cause. Professionalism in Shih Tzu grooming: The word professional means “one skilled in a profession, craft, or art. The word professionalism is defined as “the methods, manner, or spirit of a profession. To become professional at anything, one must have the skills appropriate to the art, craft or profession and must conduct themselves professionally. This article is FREE to publish with resource box.
About The Author
Connie Limon is a Shih Tzu breeder. Purchase Shih Tzu puppies and sign up for FREE newsletter at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com/ Collection of Pet Care articles http://smalldogs2.com/ShihTzuCastle Visit Camelot Articles at http://www.camelotarticles.com/

When Buying Hunting Equipment Get Something For Your Dog Too!

by: Peter Curtis
One of the most fun experiences while hunting is spending time with your hunting dog. Hunting dogs aren't all about business. They are also a great companion with you when you are out stalking your prey. If you like to go hunting a lot, you should always bring a hunting dog with you so that you don't get lonely. Unfortunately, it can sometimes be hard to transport hunting dogs to the locations you plan to hunt at. The best way to do it is with hunting dog boxes. These are dog carrier units that can fit in the bed of a truck or can be towed behind a car. This is especially helpful for bigger dogs that take up too much space in the car. This can be a seeing hazard otherwise. In these situations, you should use a dog box to transport your dog in. There are even dog boxes that can be affixed to ATVs. If you are planning on getting a dog box to help with transportation, there are some hunting dog box supplies that you can get to help you along the way. One of the best hunting dog box supplies is a blanket. Most dog boxes are very hard and angular. This can be very uncomfortable for the dog. If you put a blanket on the bottom of the box before the dog gets in, it will likely have a much better time. Although it's a very simple idea, these hunting dog box supplies are super important to the well-being of the dog. It can be fairly stressful to ride around in a box, so their comfort is important. Other good hunting dog box supplies to get are those that help affix the dog box to the bed of a truck. If you are driving to the location in a truck, there probably won't be any room for the dog in the cabin. Instead, you should strap the dog box into the bed of the truck. This will ensure that it doesn't slide around or fly out. Again, this protects the well-being of your dog. You can also get hunting dog box supplies that hook it to a trailer that tails along behind your car. Not every hunter has the benefit of owning a truck. For those that use a car instead, a trailer hitch for the dog box is best. This is a much bumpier ride for the dog, so try to use this method only for short trips. This way the dog will still be up for hunting once you get there.
About The Author
Peter Curtis is a keen hunter and loves writing about it too. More information about about Hunting equipment and guides. http://www.huntingguideonline.com/

Choosing The Best Dry Dog Food

by: George Chao
Sometimes, the best dry dog food is the one that your dog will eat the most. It is easier to buy something that your canine will eat as opposed to having them eat dog food that may be better for them, but one that they may not necessarily like. However, there are a few things you need to consider when you walk down the pet food aisles at your local retailer. Consider the price of the dry dog food. Often, dry dog food that are cheap or are not branded are made with ingredients like fillers and seasonings that are not necessarily good for dogs. These ingredient may be tasty, but they can be harmful to your dog. These dry dog food often have too much preservatives, which can cause your dog to develop health problems that may eventually cause them to suffer later on in life. To increase the vitality and life expectancy of your dog, go with good quality dry dog food. You don't really need to purchase the most expensive dry dog food there is, but it is best if you stick with dry dog food that is manufactured by a reputable dog food company and is priced reasonably. The main ingredient in the best dry dog food is rice, corn or soybean. High quality dry dog food will also have other ingredients such as beef and chicken. Stores also sell dry dog food formulated specifically to a dog's age. Manufacturers classify the different types of dry dog food as being for puppies, adult dogs and senior dogs. Purchasing the dry dog food that's most suitable for your dog's age is always important. If you want to know what are the best dry dog foods, ask your veterinarian. Veterinarians would often recommend the branded dry dog foods. These brands are more expensive, but if you have an older dog, it may be to your advantage to pay a little more for the best dry dog food. You will know if you've picked the best dry dog food by the way your dog looks and feels. When you take your dog for yearly shots, his coat should be healthy, his eyes should be clear and he should be full of energy. If your pet doesn't look well and seems lethargic, there could be something wrong with his diet. It is always wise to keep notes about what your dog is eating on a daily basis. This way, a veterinarian can diagnose your dog more quickly and recommend the best dry dog food for your pet.
About The Author
George Chao, owner of Digital Excellent Free Online Magazine - http://www.digitalexcellent.com/ Help your pet live healthier and longer, find the right dog food for your dog. You can find more information at http://www.digitalexcellent.com/dog-food

How Long Do Dogs Live

by: David Beart
>From the time we bring them home as wriggling bundles of joy, we all want our puppies to live forever. As they bond with us and grow into full fledged family members, we tend not to think about the end of their life or how many precious years we have with our canine friends. However, when picking out our new puppy it is rare that we give adequate consideration to the average lifespan of the dog. There are distinct factors that play into whether our puppy will be with us until our children graduate from high school or if they give us a few good years. Most experts agree that small breeds tend to outlive large breeds. The general rule of thumb is the larger the dog the shorter the life span. Large medium to large breed dog tend to live about ten years, although there are exceptions to every rule. We have a feisty-willed large breed mutt who is determined to see his fifteenth birthday. Smaller breeds tend to live longer, anywhere from twelve to fifteen years. Occasionally you will run into the nearly twenty year old Scottie, but most don’t make it past their sixteenth year. Again, every rule has its exceptions. The Irish Wolfhound isn’t expected to make it more than six or seven good years although there really isn’t a conclusive reason as to why this is so. Of course these figures are taking into consideration overall good health and quality care. Genetics play a vital role in longetivity, but those we can’t control. There are a few factors in our favorite little guy’s life we can do to help him get to his ripe old age. Some of them can even combat predisposition to genetic diseases. One of the fastest ways to shorten a dog’s life is to keep him outside all the time. Dogs that live outside tend to be missing a few key ingredients in their overall care that impact their life span. Even with a shelter available, dogs do wear down and age quickly when they are dealing with constant element exposure. While some can adjust, most dog bodies find the extremes the environment can dish out at them to be exhausting and threatening. Dogs who permanently reside outside tend to receive less over all care. Since people spend the majority of their time at home inside, often small health problems go unnoticed until it becomes an overwhelming problem. Even the responsible pet owner can forget to feed or water the dog who is permanently engaged in outdoor activities when the lifestyle inside the home becomes stressed or busy. Outdoor dogs also lack the essential strong emotional connection with their owners that indoor dogs benefit from. Having their human friends to please and play with goes a long way in their overall happiness and health. Often a sick dog who has no emotional connection will stop eating and caring for themselves long before those who have families who love and care for them. If you want your little guy to live a longer, fuller life, bring him inside and let him be part of the family lifestyle. Whether you are bringing home a purebred puppy or a distinguished gentleman of questionable descent, their life span can be about the same. Barring any health problems, each should live as long as the other and it really just comes down to personal preference. >From birth to about two years old your puppy is learning and growing. Every day your little guy is reaching new miles stones and his body is very busy. High quality puppy food packed with nutrition can help set him on the foundation for a healthy life. These foods are a little more expensive, but they can be well worth the cost when considering the effects of malnutrition. If your little guy comes from a family or breed history of hip and back problems such as hip dysplasia, excessive exercise in the first two years can put added stress on the joints in question and actually exacerbate the potential for later problems. Exercise is good, over doing isn’t. Regular veterinary check ups and of course vaccinations during the first two years can help to catch problems early on, which will increase his overall health. This is the time when your puppy really needs you to watch out for him, whether his body is having health problems or he is ingesting things that can cause long term problems, staying on top of him now reduces health effects in his later years. >From his second year through his fifth we can consider this his basic years of good health and maintenance. Watch for signs of growing obesity and make sure he is receiving ample exercise and fun play time. If he is a healthy dog then these years should be stress free. Keep at least annual appointments with the vet for check ups and updated shots. His food should be a high quality protein based variety, but if he’s showing signs of to much happy eating either cut back on his portions or switch to a low calorie variety. Once he gets into his fifth to eighth year we can consider him a middle age to aging dog. These are the years when small but manageable health problems are likely to show up. If he’s a really good eater but hasn’t shown signs of obesity before, these are the years when his activity will slow down some and he may develop a weight problem now. Again, a good low calorie food and a few perhaps coaxed walks should be enough to help him keep his youthful figure. Other problems such as cataracts, arthritis, or even heart murmurs are most likely to show up during these years. They are not catastrophic events and can typically be handled with a trip to the vet and either simple procedures or medication. Ignoring problems now however, are likely to grow into unmanageable problems quickly. Stay on top of his check ups and vaccinations to ward off any potential disasters looming about. Most dogs that are generally healthy should make it through these years just fine. Depending on the size, breed, and overall health of your not so little guy, once he reaches eight years old he may be starting to push toward borrowed time. Smaller breeds won’t get there until about ten, but even medium dogs are now starting to wear down. Just because he’s getting old doesn’t mean you have to start thinking about euthanasia. There is a possibility that he will have health and happiness for a few more years to come. However now is the time when health problems can erupt quickly and strike hard. Eight years old and beyond is when you are most likely going to face making tough decisions about your faithful canine’s quality of life. The care you gave him as a puppy is now doing its part to take care of him as he ages. Some older dogs need to be encouraged to eat. If your once upon a time eating machine is suddenly losing weight, switch to a higher protein, higher fat content dog food to help him maintain his energy. Our care for our dogs all the way through their lives can make a huge difference in how long they live a full and happy life. When bringing a new puppy home remember that how you treat his body right now will carry a direct effect to his life span down the road. Many dogs outlive their life span and are happy and energetic the whole way through. A little love and responsibility can go a long, long way. Any dog that has touched your life will certainly live forever.
About The Author
David Beart is the owner of http://www.professorshouse.com/. Our site covers pets, dogs, finances, family, cooking and other household issues.

Tips On Choosing The Right Sized Dog Bed

by: Jerry Brecken
Have you ever noticed how your pet dog loves sleeping beside you in your bed? You frequently tell your dog to get off but it just wont listen to you. Yes, you adore your pet, there's no question about it. However, you just can't let your dog sleep beside you no matter how adorable it may seem. Admit it, the way your dog snores and drools in your bed really keeps you up at night. In situations like this, you should finally get your dog its own dog bed. Getting your beloved pet its own place for sleeping is as essential as a man having his own bed. However, you can not just choose any dog bed products for your pet. There are some things that you need to consider first such as the right size of the dog bed. Keep in mind that it's more comfortable for dogs to lie on a bed that is just the right size for them. The following are some helpful tips when it comes to choosing the right sized dog bed: 1. Consider the size and breed of your pet dog first. Since you are going to choose a bed for your dog, always keep in mind the physique of your beloved dog. If you own a small dog such as a Teacup Poodle, then of course, you will be looking for a small-sized dog bed. However, if your pet dog is a large one such as a St. Bernard, then you are set to look for a large-sized dog bed. Also, if your canine pet is still a puppy, then you have to choose an adjustable bed for your dog to grow up with. Bear in mind that dogs have different life spans as compared to humans. This means that dogs grow up faster than we do. 2. Make sure that the dog bed product you choose has enough space so your dog can move easily in it. Sleeping on a dog bed should be a soothing moment for your pet and not an exhausting one. Your dog must be able to fit in the bed yet still has enough space to stretch its body. Take note that space is what pets are usually looking for in a dog crib. Dogs are hyperactive and have the tendency to move around even while they sleep. Also, there might be instances when pet dogs other than your own, such as the ones owned by your neighbors or friends, may drop by at your place and share the dog bed with your pet. Make them as comfortable as possible by providing a dog bed with the size just right enough for them to share together. 3. Know your dog well. If you really know your dog, then shopping for the right sized dog bed will not be that hard to do. Everything will have to depend on your pet dog's preferences and needs. When buying a dog bed for your pet, it is better to ask specialty stores for a sleep trial using your prospect dog bed product. This way, you will know the most suitable size of dog bed that best fit your beloved pet dog.
About The Author
Jerry Brecken is a writer for dogbedsforyou.com, a website where you can choose among the varieties of pet supplies such as dog beds for your beloved pet. For more information about dog beds and accessories, visit http://www.dogbedsforyou.com/.

Hunting Dogs

by: Graham Taylor
How does one choose good hunting dogs without getting stung? Many dog breeders are like horse traders—you get what you get, and that isn't what was listed. So a dog breeder's reputation, letters of reputation or phone calls, and looking at siblings or mother and father of the dog means a lot when looking for good hunting dogs. Make sure they have some form of guarantee and for how long they guarantee the puppy or dog. But what is good for one hunter may not mean the same for another, so make sure you know what you want before going out and looking. Do you want versatile good hunting dogs for all-purpose hunting, or one that is excellent at squirrel hunting or coon hunting? Look at where they will be living the remaining time—will it it he be a family member? Make sure the breed you want is one you have information on and have done your homework on. Just because grandpa had one doesn't mean you know what you need to know regarding the purchase of good hunting dogs. Good hunting dogs need to be disease from and have clean genetic lines, regardless the breed. Make sure routine worming has been done as a puppy—which has usually been done from two weeks. Also, look at their shot records—did they receive a two-week puppy shot series with only two weeks between them, beginning around five or six weeks? Once the puppy is weaned from its mother, its immune system becomes compromised, and it is up to the breeder to maintain that system up to eight weeks of age when it leaves the next. A breeder who sells before then is not worth his/her weight in salt. Good hunting dogs mean that—a good hunting dog, not one that is haphazardly bred to make a quick buck. Georgia is famous for good hunting dogs, as most Georgia hunters think more of their dogs than anywhere else, but make sure you don't get a bad breeder anyway. More info http://www.hunting-pro.com/
About The Author
Graham Taylor author of http://hunting-pro.com/

What The Shih Tzu Owner Should Know About Grooming Part I

by: Connie Limon
The show dog Shih Tzu owner who does not want to groom his Shih Tzu himself should know what must be done and when. This knowledge is necessary so he/she can take the Shih Tzu to a professional groomer or handler for show grooming at the right time. All Shih Tzu owners should know several basic grooming techniques. It is very important to use the right equipment. There are many different types of brushes, combs, clipper blades and other tools. If you use the wrong brush, brushing technique, comb or clipper blade you can easily break Shih Tzu’s hair or give the Shih Tzu brush burn. Some knowledge of anatomy is useful. You will need to maintain proper control of the Shih Tzu while grooming. Control points are used to alert the Shih Tzu to what the groomer wants him to do. Shih Tzu puppies are especially important for the groomer to control properly while grooming. Take care not to frighten the Shih Tzu during early grooming sessions. The grooming sessions should be fun for both the Shih Tzu puppy and the owner. Introduce your new Shih Tzu puppy to grooming as soon as you bring him home. At the young age of 8 weeks Shih Tzu puppies usually learn proper grooming manners quickly if they are handled properly. Aspects of grooming that contribute to a Shih Tzu’s good health: 1. To prevent ear infection keep the Shih Tzu’s ears clean of hair. 2. Remove excess wax promptly. This can be done with a piece of cotton that has been dipped in alcohol. 3. Be careful not to pry deep in the ear or stick anything small into the ear. If there is reason to do so, the Shih Tzu should be taken to a veterinarian. 4. Keep toenails trimmed and filed. This helps the Shih Tzu to walk easier and more comfortable as well as keeps him from snagging furniture or scratching owner’s legs and arms. 5. Anal glands should be expressed to avoid discomfort to the dog by your veterinarian if you groom your Shih Tzu at home. The professional groomer can do this if you have your Shih Tzu professionally groomed. 6. All Shih Tzu owners should have some knowledge of ticks, fleas, and lice and know what to do if the Shih Tzu becomes infested with any of these parasites. Shih Tzu can very easily be groomed completely at home if you learn some basic grooming techniques, use the right equipment and have some knowledge of anatomy of your Shih Tzu. This article is FREE to publish with resource box.
About The Author
Connie Limon I raise Shih Tzu. Purchase Shih Tzu puppies and sign up for FREE newsletter at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com/ Pet Care articles at http://smalldogs2.com/ShihTzuCastle For a variety of FREE reprint articles visit http://www.camelotarticles.com/