Choosing The Right Dog Agility Equipment

Submitted By: Andrei Smith
With huge line of dog agility equipment that can be found in the market today, it is important that you know the importance of each and which equipment will suit your dog’s primary needs and your budget as well. Here are some useful tips that will help you in choosing the right kind of equipment to set up a comprehensive and effective agility course for your dog while giving you huge savings.

As you go along this article, you will be able to know the dos and donts in buying effective equipment for your dog agility equipment training. These tips will truly help you come up with a good buy without spending too much. If this is your first time to buy dog agility equipment, then you should continue reading this. A comprehensive line of dog agility equipment is really wonderful to have but that’s not necessary to start your home training.

Dog agility equipment is a kind of sport that requires body movement and smart strategies that’s why it can bring a lot of benefits to your dog. Aside from being totally entertained, agility course makes your dog vigorous and alert. This fun-filled activity even sharpens his mind and learns to make his own strategy on how to finish the course efficiently. Indeed, dog agility equipment gives your dog a great and exciting bonding time with you and other members of the family. Including it in your daily or weekly activities will surely strengthen your relationship with your dogs. There are different kinds of dog agility equipment that will complete your dog’s obstacle course. Every piece of equipment provides excellent improvement to your dog’s whole being and attitude.

Prior to making any buys, there are just several things that you need to consider. Below are just some of them.

Size of your backyard.

Before making a panic buying of dog agility equipment, you need to know first the size of your backyard. This is especially important in choosing the kind of equipment that your backyard can hold.

Size, Speed and Weight of your dog.

The size, speed and weight of your pet is also important before buying any equipment. Make sure that you’re purchasing equipment that can accommodate size and weight of your dog.

Age of your dog.

Your dog’s speed and capacity to finish an agility course also depend on his age. If you only want to have some fun with you dog and the whole family without even going somewhere from your place, then buy only the equipment that can be met by his age.

Quality.

Since there are thousands of dog agility equipment that claims they have the best and sturdiest construction, you must still be wise in your pick. Make sure that your choice will stand the test of time and made by the industry’s leading manufacturers.

Price.

Pick only the kind of dog agility equipment that is sold at a justifiable price.

About the Author:

The author is a pet lover and web copywriter connected to http://www.dogagilityequipment-4less.com/.
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Questions About Dog Health – What Every Dog Owner Should Know

Submitted By: Mike Lee
Are you a concerned dog owner? Have you been asking a lot of questions about dog health but don’t know where to find the answers? It’s normal for you to want to get the facts about your pooch to give it the best care possible. Here are the answers to your burning questions about dog health.

Question #1: How can I tell if my dog is sick?

It can be easy to tell if your pet is sick if you take the time to observe its appearance and its demeanor. As with people, it can be simple to spot if a dog is suffering from an illness. Unfortunately though, while people can say upfront how they’re feeling, dogs can’t. So it’s best for you to be extra attentive to your dog’s condition.

You should be alert to any changes your dog may be exhibiting. Take note of his appetite, his liquid consumption, urinary frequency, general appearance, sudden weight loss, and a significant in energy level. Ask yourself these questions while observing your pet: Does he refuse his food completely? Is he vomiting? Does he limp or have difficulty getting around? If you answered “yes,” then your dog may be suffering from a health problem and should be taken to the vet.

Question #2: How often should I have my dog checked at the vet?

The ideal number of checkups for dogs is once a year. Of course, this should be more frequent if your dog is very young or has a serious condition that requires monitoring and attention. Starting the age of six, you must take him twice yearly so that any health problems that may come with age may be detected and fixed straightaway, and that the right course of action may be taken to ensure good and continued health as he matures.

Question #3: Should I have my dog neutered/spayed?

Unless you’re planning on putting up a breeding facility, it is highly recommended that your dog be neutered (if it is a male) or spayed (if female) once it has reached six months of age.

This makes them less aggressive. It also boosts their health. A male’s chances of getting prostate and testicular cancer falls to almost zero, while the same rate holds true for females getting mammary cancer.

Spaying significantly cuts down their risk of contracting a form of diabetes, as well as womb infections or pyometra. On a more practical and humane note, it prevents overpopulation or the swelling in numbers of poor, unwanted puppies in rescue shelters.

Moreover, it saves you the trouble of having to deal with the horde of male dogs trooping to your house each time your female dog is in heat.

Question #4: Is excessive drooling normal?

Dogs drool. That is a given fact. But relative to his size, a good tip would be to take note of whether or not there is a sudden increase in his salivary output as this could be an indication of periodontal disease, tongue injuries, or even cysts, in which case you must take him to see the vet immediately.

Question #5: How do I deal with ear mites?

Before using your vet’s prescribed ear mite medication, first clean off the deposit of hardened debris in your dog’s ear by applying some drops of baby oil in the ear canal and letting it stand for a few hours.

Once the coating has softened, you can flush it away with vinegar and distilled water (avoid tap water) in equal parts using a rubber ear-cleaning syringe. Do this with extra care as too much pressure will cause pain.

Once clean, apply a few drops of the medication; after which, gently massage the ear’s base for a few minutes so that the medicine can be properly absorbed into the affected area.

Don’t forget to read the medicine’s instructions first before applying. When in doubt about the procedure, your vet could always do the cleaning and medicating for you, though it would be advantageous for both you and your pet if you knew how to do it yourself.

To get a handle on how this procedure is done, carefully observe the steps your vet is going through. You can take better care of your pet if you know how to do this yourself, especially if you live in a household with several dogs. If that is the case, then you will have to check them for any symptoms of ear mites.

Got more questions about dog health? You can get all the answers you need from your veterinarian.
About the Author:

Get the controversial FREE course that reveals shocking truths about bad dog food and dog health problems at http://www.20daypersuasion.com/dogs-exposed.htm
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Benefits From Leash Training Your Dog

Submitted By: Maria Coulson
Everyone knows that dogs love to go for a walk, but did you know that there are important health benefits to training with a leash?

Since many of our dogs are just as overweight and out of shape as their owners, taking your dog for a walk will give him all the same fitness benefits that people get from a walking program. The fact that you care enough about your dog to want him to keep him healthy will keep you on your own exercise program, too.

In addition to the fitness benefits, walking can also improve moods, for both people and dogs. Walking causes your brain to produce more serotonin, a mood enhancing chemical. Walking also causes your brain to produce less cortisol, a stress hormone. When the brain chemicals are re-balanced this way, both you and your dog be calmer and less anxious and less stressed out.

In other words, walking regularly will make both you and your dog happier, healthier, and perhaps even more enjoyable to be around.

Because a dog’s normal lifespan is so much shorter than ours, the effect of a sedentary lifestyle and too much food has an even more devastating effect on dogs than on people. The stress of excess weight and too much fat can cut a dog’s life short by as much as two years, according to Marty Becker, DVM, the author of The Healing Power of Pets. Walking daily will prevent many of the more common health problems in dogs.

Regular exercise, including a daily walk, will tone your dog's muscles, improve his digestion, and make him feel happily tired. It may also boost his immune system. And it could even prolong his life, because excess weight leads to chronic illnesses in dogs, such as heart disease and diabetes. Getting regular exercise helps your dog keep his weight down, so he can stay healthy.

Once you establish a regular walking program, your dog may experience some or all the following benefits:

A regular walking program will help your overweight dog lose the extra pounds, which will help him feel more energetic and enthusiastic about life.

The weight loss could help him live longer, and the regular, gentle exercise could help reduce any pain he now feels from arthritis, or simple inactivity.

The increased fitness could reduce the chance that he will get one of the chronic diseases associated with excess weight, such as heart disease, diabetes, and osteoarthritis.

Your dog will look up to you as the real leader of the household, and the two of you will form a strong, natural bond.

Some disciplinary problems may go away on their own when your dog starts getting the exercise he really needs and when he can use his brain and creative intelligence while discovering the world outside.

Your dog will sleep better.

So get out and walk every day with your dog. It will make both of you happier, and healthier.
About the Author:

Maria has been interested in issues related to dog health since she bought her first pup thirty years ago.For information related to many dog issues visit www.OfficialYorkieSite.com
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Organic Dog Food – Should You Feed Organic Food To Your Pet Dog?

Submitted By: Mike Lee
These days, going eco-friendly and organic is all the rage, and you can see people striving to make a change in their lifestyles and their eating habits. So why not include dog food in the organic crusade? Sales of organic dog food are going up, and this is due to the fact that pet owners who are trying to eat well also want their dogs to do the same. People are starting to think that the usual commercial dog foods aren’t the best option (especially with the dog food recall), and that organic dog food is the key to keeping their dogs healthy.

Many dog owners are convinced that organic dog food ensures better health for their pets. However, there haven’t been any studies or reports that make such a claim, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) itself also states that the main difference lies in how the food is produced and processed, not in their nutritional content.

Nevertheless, this doesn’t stop people from helping their pets adopt an organic diet, and the fact that organic dog food uses more wholesome ingredients is already a major part of its appeal.

What goes into organic dog food? The manufacturers of these meals all have their own approach to the ingredients, and they promise that their products don’t make use of growth hormones, antibiotics, and artificial flavorings. Organic dog food made out of chicken, for example, usually uses free-range chickens. Even dog treats can be manufactured using organic whole grains.

If you’re thinking about switching your dog’s diet to organic dog food, there are a few things you should consider. First is the price. Organic dog food is more expensive than regular dog food, so you should first look at the food options available and determine which one is within your budget.

You should also do your research on organic dog food manufacturers and learn more about their production process and their reputation as well.

Don’t forget to consult your veterinarian first before making the switch. Making the change to organic dog food isn’t applauded by all veterinarians, so it’s best to find out from your vet how this change can affect your dog.

Organic dog food has many positive points, but you shouldn’t forget to look at the other side of it as well. It may turn out that your dog is most suited to what he currently eats, so do your research first and don’t rush him into a complete diet overhaul.
About the Author:

Prolong your dog’s life and know the life-saving secrets that most dog-lovers will never know about detecting bad dog food and solving dog health problems at http://www.20daypersuasion.com/dogs-exposed.htm
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Time For A Dog Bath? Dog Bathing Tips For You And Your Dog

Author: Teresa James
Cleanliness and proper grooming can be very important to the continued good health of our beloved pets. But bathing our puppy or adult dog can often prove to be a challenge. There are many questions, myths and opinions floating around when discussing the best care for different dog types and temperaments. Check out these dog bathing tips to get some great ideas so you’ll be prepared for your next dog bath and grooming session.

How often should you bath your dog?

How often your pet will need a dog bath will depend on the breed and what type of activities the dog is involved in. It’s best to bathe your dog only when your dog is really dirty. Just use your nose – that tell tale doggy smell will let you know it’s time for a bath.

If a dog is bathed too often the skin will be stripped of its natural, protective oils. This will result in dry itchy skin, which will cause your dog to scratch, further irritating the already sensitive skin. If you need to bathe your dog more frequently make sure to use a pet shampoo that will also moisturize your dog’s skin. You may also want to follow up with an after bath pet coat conditioner specifically formulated for dry skin.

Where’s the best place to bath your dog?

In warm weather you can bathe your dog outside. Pick a place that will not turn to mud when it gets wet. It’s a good idea a have a washtub large enough for your dog to stand up in and fill it with a few inches of water. Water straight from a garden hose may start off warm, but usually gets cold very fast. If your dog starts to resist and shiver, as the water gets colder, you may want to consider another option.

Many pet owners have overcome this problem by purchasing a raised dog bath. This convenient, back-saving dog bath is often used with a water temperature mixer valve assembly that completely solves this problem. With the proper equipment set up you’ll be able to save your back and control the water temperature of your dog’s bath. Some temperature mixer valve assemblies hook up to your existing washing machine water supply. At bath time just connect an ordinary garden hose to the valve assembly and run it outside to the bathing area. This convenient type of back-saving dog bath can even be used for bathing your dog inside.

If you choose to bathe your dog inside, regulating the water temperature shouldn’t be a problem. But deciding where to bathe your dog might be. Small dogs and puppies can usually be bathed easily in a sink or a washtub. For bigger dogs you will need something bigger like a bathtub or a large shower stall. And of course, the bigger your dog is the bigger the potential hassles.

Are you tired of chasing and wrestling with your dog at bath time?

Many dog owners solve this problem by purchasing a raised dog bath. An ergonomically designed dog grooming bathing tub elevates your dog to a level that’s comfortable for you and keeps your dog securely contained, taking the hassle out of washing your dog. You’ll get the job done in half the time, save your back and stay dryer. The raised dog bath that is available in most pet shops and online stores will also save your dog stress at bath time. No more slipping and sliding. Your dog will really feel secure standing on the padded non-slip surface. This type of raised dog bath has been recommended by Dog World Magazine in their "Notable Products for the New Millennium".

Does your dog tend to get away from you during a bath?

Bathing your dog is a challenging, but essential, part of dog grooming. It’s funny how your dog will cleverly evade you when you try to get him into a dog bath, but will be just as determined to get past you when you don’t want him to jump into the water at the beach.

If you’re washing your dog in a room with a door make sure to close it so that your dog will not see an escape route or get very far if he prematurely gets out of the bath. This way you’ll have an easier time getting him back in the tub to finish the job. It can be a challenge bathing a dog that’s wiggling around but the challenge gets a little tougher when your dog is an escape artist. If your dog takes any opportunity to get away from you at bath time you may want to consider restraining your dog.

Restraints are used during bath time to avoid injury to you as well as your pet. Some pet bathing tubs come with restraints included. With these your dog will be safely and securely restrained and you will be able to give your dog a quick and hassle-free bath.

Is your dog slipping and sliding in the bath?

Slipping and sliding can be the most stressful part of bath time for a dog. Put a rubber mat down on the bottom surface of the tub to prevent your dog from sliding and getting hurt. A sure-footed dog will be less resistant and much more at ease during bath time.

Things to have on hand at bath time:

Raised Dog Bath - This is a fantastic idea for a dog bath. It’s ergonomically designed for both you and your dog’s comfort. Your local pet groomer is likely to have just such a bathing station set up in their shop. If you’re thinking about buying a tub or basin to bathe your dog in, ask them if you can check out their tub set up. If you have the room or more than one dog, you may find it worthwhile.

Pet Shower or Plastic Pitcher - A Pet Shower is great, but if that’s not possible make sure you have a large plastic pitcher for wetting and rinsing your dog.

Drain Screen - Make sure to protect your plumbing from hair clogs with a simple to use drain screen.

Cotton Balls - Can be placed in each ear to prevent water from running into your dog's ears.

Pet Shampoos - There are many different pet shampoos each formulated to work on problems such as dry itchy skin, inflamed or dry scaling skin, fleas & ticks, doggy odor, skunk odor, abnormal shedding, quick rinsing for dogs that don't like to take a bath, whiteners for white coats, color intensifiers for dark coats, and coat shine to bring out the natural luster of your dog's coat. You may want to try a hypoallergenic shampoo/conditioner that will gently clean and conditioner your pet's coat in one step.

Coat Conditioners - There are many pet coat conditioners that will help manage and or improve the appearance of your dog's coat like crème rinse, grooming spray, after bath dry skin treatment, and herbal mist conditioner that will soothe, re-moisturize and detangle your pet's coat.

Pet Drying Towels - If you want to get your dog dry faster check out a specialty pet-drying towel. Some are available that will absorb 10 times its own weight in water!

Eye Protective Gel - Are you concerned about shampoo making its way into your dog’s eyes? Just put a little protective eye gel in each eye just before bath time to prevent burning and redness.

Ear Drying Solution - If your dog is prone to ear infections make sure you have some ear-drying solution on hand. Using an ear drying solution will assure that the ear canal is nice and dry after bathing.

Brushes/Combs - There are many different styles and sizes of traditional dog grooming brushes and combs that you can choose from. If your dog has very sensitive or irritated skin you may want to consider a higher quality brush that will not scratch the skin or aggravate existing skin irritations.

Pet Dryer - If your dog has a thick, long or double coat it’s best to use a pet dryer. Unlike “people” hair dryers, pet dryers are designed to use less heat and more air volume so they quickly and safely dry a dog without damaging the coat or burning the skin. If you use a "people" blow dryer be very careful since you can easily burn your pet!

Plastic Bucket - It’s very convenient to have a waterproof container that will keep your dog grooming supplies close at hand.

Remember to get all your dog grooming supplies ready before hand and let your dog sniff everything.

Why you should brush your dog thoroughly before bathing.

Depending on the type of coat your dog has you may need an assortment of grooming brushes and combs to properly care for your dog's skin and coat. Before you bathe your dog it's always a good idea to brush your pet's coat thoroughly to remove any tangles or matted areas as well as any other foreign debris. Many dog owners know first hand that if they don't spend time removing old, established tangles and mats before bathing many times they just get worse. If your dog's coat tangles and mats easily make sure to look for shampoos and conditioners that are formulated to prevent and break up mats.

If your dog has gotten into any sticky or gooey substances like tar or gum never use commercial solvents or industrial cleaners on your dog’s coat. Many of these are toxic to your dog. Try dissolving these substances with mineral oil. If you’re unable to remove something from your dog’s coat carefully snip away the affected area. It’s always best to sacrifice some hair or fur since it will grow back rather than risk damage to the skin. Brush your dog thoroughly between baths, daily if you can, to distribute the natural oils and remove tangles, mats and foreign matter.

Choosing the best pet shampoo/coat conditioner for your dog.

Always use a pet shampoo that is specially formulated for the pH of your pet's skin. Never use “people” shampoos since our skin pH level is much more acidic than our canine friends and could irritate your dog’s skin.

Start bathing your dog at the beginning: Your Dog's Head.

A popular bathing technique is to start at your dog’s head and work your way toward the tail. This is especially the case if it’s possible that fleas are present. If you know that your dog has fleas you may want to use a flea & tick shampoo. Starting at your dog's head forces any fleas to gather away from your dog’s face, eyes, and ears. It is much easier to dunk the rear of your dog into the tub than your dog’s face. As you may imagine, your dog is likely to be much more cooperative by following this simple bathing technique.

Let your dog get used to the sound of the running water. If you’re using a tub or basin fill it with a few inches of warm water. Then get your dog into the bath. If you’re using a raised dog bath just secure your dog into the dog bath. Starting from the head thoroughly wet your dog with warm water. You can use a plastic pitcher or a spray nozzle for this task. If you’re using a spray nozzle make sure the spray is not too strong. Never spray water directly onto your dog’s face or genitals.

Apply a pet shampoo/coat conditioner. Follow the instructions on the package. Work it in from the head to the tail. Be sure to get all those nooks and crannies; like the rectum, between the toes, behind the ears and under the chin. Be careful not the get shampoo in your dog’s eyes. If this is a concern you can protect your dog’s eyes by putting some protective eye gel in each eye just before getting your dog into the bath.

Rinse your dog thoroughly with warm water. Shampoo residue can cause skin irritations so make sure you give your dog’s coat a thorough rinsing. Towel drying your pet’s coat in the dog bath will remove some of the excess water before you take your dog out of the tub. Some breeds should never be rubbed, only patted, since their coats easily tangle. Dog owners often prefer to use dedicated pet towels. There are pet drying towels available that will absorb 10 times their weight in water. These are very handy towels to use for a dog bath and can also be used any time your pet gets wet.

Although many dog owners think of bathing their dog as a challenge, with the right approach, supplies, and equipment, you can get through it relatively unscathed. And don’t forget to reward your dog’s good behavior in the bathing process with treats and plenty of loving kindness.

Copyright 2004, Dog-Supplies-Advisor.com, all rights reserved. Reprinted with permission.
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Article courtesy of: http://www.dog-supplies-advisor.com/home-dog-grooming.html dedicated to providing quality dog care advice on a broad range of dog-related topics. Includes articles, frequently asked questions, recommendations, and Free Ezine. Publication is permitted so long as the resource information remains intact and the link is live.
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