Toys for Your Dog - Could Some Toys be Potentially Deadly?

By : BJones
Until he has been weaned, a puppy plays with his littermates and playthings aren't necessary. They are even uninteresting and possibly dangerous. From the age of 6 to 8 weeks, he starts to take an interest in toys. Almost anything will do, as long as it cannot be swallowed, or cause injury. Puppies enjoy pulling things, shaking things, carrying things around in their mouths, and as soon as they are able to run without tripping, they enjoy chasing things. This is the moment to buy you pet a rubber ball.

Not just any kind of a ball, and certainly not the soft foam rubber type, (which can be chewed to bits and swallowed), not the inflatable children's ball that can puncture with his sharp baby teeth. Buy him a hard rubber ball that is too large to be swallowed but small enough for him to hold comfortably in his mouth. Buy it, like all his toys in a pet store, not a toy store, there is a difference in the types of materials used.

A larger dog can be given a used tennis ball, but never give any dog a golf ball. Golf balls can be swallowed by some of the larger breeds, and they all contain a poisonous liquid core. Never give a puppy a stuffed animal, or an object of painted wood or flimsy plastic. Avoid toys resembling actual household objects like gloves or slippers, unless you are prepared to face the consequences of him going after the real thing. While children can be warned against putting harmful objects in their mouth, dogs are obliged to pick up everything with their mouth.

When a puppy is separated from his littermates, he misses them intensely at first. The best substitutes for his playmates are a few toys, (one is not enough), with which he can play alone, with children, or with you.

Try to schedule a regular daily playtime. Never right after a meal, because he needs quiet for proper digestion, and never after a long period of confinement, because the excitement of play will make him want to urinate. Before mealtimes is good, as well as before bed time too, but only if he is given an opportunity to empty his bladder before retiring for the night. Whatever the time, the 10 or 15 minutes you devote to playing with your puppy will be the high spot of his day.

During the puppy's teething period, (from 3 to 7 months, more or less), you should provide him with chewing toys of digestible rawhide or, even better, a harmless nylon bone of suitable size. They will keep him occupied for hours on end. They will also prevent a lot of destruction. When you spot him gnawing on a chair or table leg, it is much more effective to say "NO" and immediately offer him the alternative of a chewable bone or ball.

Biting and chewing are perfectly natural and instinctive traits of all dogs. Trying to suppress this activity by scolding and not offering an alternative is useless. At teething time, it is not only obsessive but also very practical in dislodging baby teeth to make way for permanent ones. Like a child, your puppy will become attached to his old toys to those, at least that he hasn't destroyed or lost. But as he grows bigger, you should think of replacing them with other more suitable to his size and strength.



Article Source: http://www.ArticlesandAuthors.com - THE Premier Site for Articles AND Authors



About this Article Author:


Randy Jones and his partner Brent Jones have been in the pet industry for a long time. Recently they formed Joncopets.com. On the site, customers can read articles about anything pets as well as shop for the latest designer pet carriers, dog accessories, dog harnesses , and more for their best friend. Feel free to check out the site at www.joncopets.com Submitted with

Playtime with Your Dog - Could be Just as Beneficial to You as it is to Your Pet

By : BJones
Play is one of the best forms of exercise for a puppy. Fifteen minutes of vigorous play can be equivalent to an hour's walk. Many owners do not realize that games are also good vocabulary builders. When it's all part of a game that he enjoys, your puppy will very quickly learn the meaning of many words long before he is ready for formal training.

Playing with your puppy provides an excellent opportunity to observe his actions and reactions and to become acquainted with his innate character. Games develop alertness and intelligence and can also satisfy instincts for hunting, retrieving, and tracking. Terriers like to dig, wrestle, and fight, generally going for their mock adversary's throat. Greyhounds chase, corgis nip heels, and many working dogs prefer practical exercises to playful games.

The earliest games of very young puppies are based on fighting, boxing, wrestling, biting, chasing, and tug of war. At 8 or 9 weeks, they develop an interest in retrieving - ball games, even all by themselves. Between 8 and 12 weeks, they enjoy playing with people as much as, or more than, with their littermates.

Your dogs playtime should be unrestricted pleasure, but for safety reasons, you need to find an enclosed area. Even a very intelligent dog, carried away by the excitement of his game will chase a ball right under the wheels of a passing car if that is where the ball rolls. If you cannot find a safe outdoor space, play with your dog only in your own home. He will enjoy almost as much.

One of the best indoor games is find the object. The object which is hidden while the dog is told to SIT, STAY should be a toy or glove or some other small article that bears a scent the dog knows well. If you guide your dog verbally, he will learn many words: SIT, STAY, NOW, SEEK THE BALL, NO, NOT THERE, THAT'S RIGHT! and GOOD DOG!

The resources of your playground, your own ingenuity and your dog's will suggest many simple, harmless games, such as:

- Retrieving sticks and chew toys, all dogs enjoy this, and your dog will soon learn to watch your throwing motion in order to get a head start in the right direction.
- Playing ball, you roll it or toss it, but be sure to buy a ball that is right for your dog's size.
- Playing tag is a favorite game puppies love to play with each other, but it is not a good game for adult dogs. They can become overexcited and bring out the attacking instinct. It is just as bad to chase your dog. He should be trained to come to you, (you are the leader), not to run away from you. Let your dog play tag with other friendly dogs, or run after a ball, but not after you.
- Wrestling is another early form of puppy play but should be avoided in older dogs, as it brings out his aggression. Resist your own impulse to get down on all fours and behave like a puppy. You are the pack leader and there are lots of games you can play together and still maintain your standing in your dogs eyes.

Finally, do not think there must be something wrong with your dog when he loses interest in games and playthings, as overexcitement can lead to fatigue. Follow active playtime with the opportunity for a drink, food, and rest, (you may need them too). Do not expect him to get the same pleasure you do from watching television. He may be intrigued at first, but he soon loses interest. Most adult dogs get the greatest pleasure simply from following you around, keeping you company, or lying quietly at your feet.



Article Source: http://www.ArticlesandAuthors.com - THE Premier Site for Articles AND Authors



About this Article Author:


Randy Jones and his partner Brent Jones have been in the pet industry for a long time. Recently they formed Joncopets.com. On the site, customers can read articles about anything pets as well as shop for the latest designer pet carriers, dog accessories, fancy dog collars , and more for their best friend. Feel free to check out the site at www.joncopets.com Submitted with

Pomeranian Standard: Does Your Dog Measure Up and Does It Matter?

By : Steve Allison
Pomeranians are a special breed of toy dog. They are loyal, energetic and protective towards their owners. Pomeranians are full of character and many people fall in love with their friendly faces. They are also a happy dog most of the time and very noticeable as well. They like to jump and with their two front paws they will wave at you.

Pomeranians love to be shown off. Whether it’s during a walk and they insist of socializing with any dog in your path, or at shows. They are courageous to a fault and will not be afraid of even the largest dogs.

According to the American Kennel Club the ideal Pomeranian has the following characteristics:

General Appearance:

The Pomeranian is a compact active toy dog. The Pomeranian has a soft, thick undercoat and a profuse, harsher textured out coat. The Pomeranian has a thick plumed tail lies flat on his back. The Pomeranian has an alert character and has an intelligent expression. He has an inquisitive nature and can be cocky, commanding and animated in his gait.

Size, Proportion, Substance

The ideal show specimen is between 4 - 6 pounds. The Pomeranian shouldn't weigh any less than 3 pounds and no more than 7 pounds. The Pomeranian is medium boned and the length of his legs is in proportion to his well-balanced overall frame.

Head

The head must be in balance with the body. The muzzle of the Pomeranian is short, straight, fine and never snippy. His expression is alert. The skull is closed. The top of the skull is slightly rounded. The ears are small and mounted high. The ears are carried erect. The eyes are almond shaped, dark, bright and medium in size. The eyes are set well into the head. The Pomeranian has black pigmentation on the nose and around the eyes. The teeth meet in a scissors bite.

Major faults:

- Round domed skull
- Undershot mouth
- Overshot mouth

Neck, Topline, Body

The Pomeranian has a short neck well set into the shoulders. The head is carried high. The topline is level and the back is short. The Pomeranian has a compact. Well-ribbed brisket which reaches the elbow. One of the characteristics of the breed is the plumed tail, which lies flat and straight on the back.

Forequarters

The shoulders and legs are moderately muscular. The shoulder blade and the upper arm are equal in length. The forelegs are straight and parallel. The pasterns are straight and strong. The feet are arched, compact and straight. Dewclaws may be removed.

Major fault:

Down in pasterns
Hindquarters

The hindquarters are angled in such a way as to balance out the forequarters. The Pomeranian's buttocks are well behind the tail. The thighs are moderately muscled with stifles that are moderately bent and well defined. The hocks are set perpendicularly to the ground. The legs are straight.

Major faults:

Cowhocks
Lack of soundness in hind legs or stifles

Gait

The Pomeranians gait is smooth and free. His gait is balanced and vigorous. He has a good reach with his forequarters and strong drive with the hindquarters.

Coat

The Pomeranians coat is its glory. The undercoat is thick and fluffy; the top coat is long and straight.

Colors

The American Kennel Club recognizes 13 colors and color combinations in Pomeranians.

Temperament

Pomeranians are energetic and lovable. They are rated the 23rd most intelligent dog (out of 79 breeds) by Stanley Coren is his publication "The Intelligence of Dogs".

Pomeranians require regular grooming. They house train and are easier to train than the other toy breeds. They are suitable for people living in apartments and those with limited space for a pet. With proper care the Pomeranian can live a long life - until 15 or 16 years.

Finally please note that just because your Pomeranian or the one you plan on purchasing may not quite measure up to these standards. These are the standards if you plan on showing your Pomeranian and if you don’t then these guidelines don’t mean anything. Every Pomeranian is perfect just the way it is.

Intelligent, courageous and loyal - what more could you ask for in your furry companion?



Article Source: http://www.ArticlesandAuthors.com - THE Premier Site for Articles AND Authors



About this Article Author:


Steve Allison is a third generation of professional dog breeders along with his brother Gary. It all started with his grandparents in 1970 with the Boston Terriers and has expanded to Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers, Pugs, Shih Tzu’s and Pomeranians. He is also actively involved with dog rescue and has a website that showcases the puppies they occasionally has for sale at All My Puppies Online Steve is also the co-author of two consumer guides

Gifts for Dog Lovers, and Dogs

By : Cinneide
There is a plethora of dog gifts available in the marketplace, with each gift type celebrating a different breed of dogs - man’s faithful companion. You would be overwhelmed by the sheer variety of gifts and the fact that you could easily find a gift pertinent to any dog breed on earth.

The simplest of such gifts can be a canine care guidebook strictly specific to a particular dog breed of your choice.

Another viable dog gift can be a set of canine feeding bowls or a comprehensive dinner set, with your choice of breed being hand-painted on the bowls. A similar gift may be a calendar with picturesque backgrounds, featuring your favorite dog breed. Another special gift item is a dog breed greeting card. Dog lovers would be happy to receive a greeting card with a beautiful image of their favorite dog breed, along with a nice thought to mark the occasion.

You will be glad to know that there is an enormous collection of figurines shaped after different breeds of dogs. Beautiful hand blown glass figurines, crystal figurines and Christmas tree ornaments also make fine breed gifts. Dog breed mugs and coffee cups, notepads, postcards, placemats, spoon rests, salt and pepper shakers, among others are also viable gift options.

Several household items can also be modeled after your favorite dog breed. You could have dog breed embroidered towels, welcome mats and other door mats, and window and car stickers as well. Tote bags, bearing a beautiful image of your favorite dog breed, not only suggest your love for the particular dog breed but are also a cool fashion statement. If your budget allows a bit of leeway, you may buy an expensive breed specific jewelry item. There is a huge selection of breed specific rings, earrings, and necklaces that would certainly bring a smile to a woman who happens to be a dog lover.

As far as dog breed gifts are concerned, there is no dearth of possibilities. The only restrictive aspect would be the amount of money you are willing to spend on a dog breed gift. Every item you imagine could either be modeled after your favorite dog breed, have a picture of the breed painted on it, engraved or embossed on it, or affixed onto it in one or the other manner.

Choices abound when it comes to dog breed gifts. The only aspect that you need to ensure is that the gift is to the receiver’s liking.



Article Source: http://www.ArticlesandAuthors.com - THE Premier Site for Articles AND Authors



About this Article Author:


Best Pet Health Information is a resource that brings you information about dog medication. www.Best-Pet-Health.info. Dog News Center - Dog Article Directory - Submit Your Articles Now Copyright Best-Pet-Health.info All rights reserved. This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links are included intact.

Consider All Factors: Choosing The Family Dog

By: Steve Allison
There are generally three ways to select the family dog:

-Many people select the family dog based on their experiences with dogs from their past. They may have a fond memory of a dog once owned by someone they knew or of a family dog owned by their family when they were children, and that's it --the selection process is over! That's certainly one way to do it.

-Another way many people select a family dog is by going to a pet store or an animal shelter and taking a walk past the cages; they're all so special, it’s almost guaranteed that you'll fall in love with one of them. This method, as easy as it is, is so much easier when you have your children along; dogs seem to know just how to behave to steal a child's heart.

-The third method is less heart-warming but it's probably the surest way to select a family dog that is just right for your family -- it’s called 'considering all the factors.'

Considering All The Factors

Before deciding on the dog that will become a part of your home and family there are several questions that you'll need to ask yourself and honestly answer:

How much time do you have for a dog? Some dogs require a lot of attention -- they get very nervous if there is no one home with them and when they get nervous it usually winds up either with a mess to clean up or with something chewed up or scratched up. Some long-haired dogs need daily grooming or that beautiful coat will be a tangled mess in just a very short period and every dog, especially a dog that spends any time in the house, should be bathed, brushed, and have its teeth and ears cleaned about once-a-week. Every dog also requires some degree of one-on-one attention every day; talk to them, scratch their head, feed them, walk them and generally treat them like they are family.

How much space do you have for a dog?

Dogs need space to move around in and, most importantly, to get the exercise that they need to stay healthy. If you have a large house and yard almost any dog will fit in fine. Larger dogs take up space and eat a lot; also requiring lots of exercise. There are many smaller breeds, however, that are known to be 'apartment dogs;' these smaller dogs can get all the exercise they need in a one bedroom apartment -- but they still need to be walked at least twice a day to take care of their biological functions.

Do you have very small children?

Sometimes younger children are a little rough with their pets; they'll want to carry them around and squeeze them and play dress up and expect full cooperation from the dog. Some dogs have the 'laid back' temperament that allows them to tolerate these things; some breeds even seem to thrive on the attention. There are some small breeds, however, that are too delicate to be handled as roughly as children are likely to handle them, some breeds of all sizes that just don't enjoy being picked up and carried around or being hugged and other larger dogs that have both the patience and the temperament for life around small children, but are also large enough that they might unintentionally hurt a small child. Any dog under 7 lbs is not suitable for children under five. Any dog 10 lbs and over are usually suitable for all ages.

Do you have room in your budget for a dog?

Dogs have needs just as people do -- adding a dog to your family will add expenses. Some of these are: the initial purchase of the dog; the shots that are required by the city or county where you live; the grooming needs such as brushes, shampoo and etc.; professional obedience training is required for some dogs; of course every dog needs food -- the bigger the dog, the bigger the food budget; don't forget water and food dishes and collars and leashes; and, as the dog ages, there are sure to be some additional medical expenses. Some medical expenses will be necessary just because of the breed, for example, big dogs have a tendency to develop hip and bone problems just because of their size and some smaller breeds, especially the ones with the short muzzles and large eyes, develop eye problems and respiratory problems.

Are you ready to do some research?

Obviously, the “Considering All The Factors” method of selecting the family dog will require some research. There are many books in the library, many Internet resources and many experts (breeders, pet shop owners, etc.) that can make your selection process easier.

In the end, however, any choice will be a gamble. Every dog is an individual and the 'breed characteristics' you get from your research will only be guidelines. And in the end you may select the family dog by using one of the other selection methods mentioned before or you may have some other criteria but hopefully the information presented here has helped you understand that owning a dog is more than just buying a dog. Owning a dog is a responsibility and a commitment.



Article Source: http://www.ArticlesandAuthors.com - THE Premier Site for Articles AND Authors



About this Article Author:


Steve Allison is a third generation of professional dog breeders along with his brother Gary. It all started with his grandparents in 1970 with the Boston Terriers and has expanded to Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers, Pugs, Shih Tzu’s and Pomeranians. He is also actively involved with dog rescue and has a website that showcases the puppies they occasionally has for sale at All My Puppies Online Steve is also the co-author of two consumer guides,