How To Avoid The Most Common Mistakes In Raising Dogs

By Dencho Denchev
Dogs do not come with an instruction manual around their
necks. Dogs need time, patience, and understanding.
Therefore new owners need information to train, and help
cope with the difficulties of the newest member of the family.

Common mistakes in raising dogs:

1. Not enrolling with the dog in "obedience school".

In any good school you can expect your dog to learn basic
commands and proper behavior. "Heel!", "Sit!", "Stay",
and
"Come!" are all examples of these commands. The dog will
learn how to associate with other animals and people. Don't
make the mistake of sending your dog to obedience school
alone. If you do, you will have a dog more obedient to the
teacher, instead of you.

2. Self-training using improper techniques.

Physical punishment and yelling are not good methods of
training. The best methods are stimulation and reward for
good behavior. This way the dog will be motivated to carry
out commands because it knows it will receive attention and
maybe a yummy treat. For this to work, it is important to be
patient and consistent.

3. Not researching breed characteristics.

When choosing a dog, do not judge by appearance alone.
Take some time to do research on several breeds, to find
one that will make a good match for you and your family.
If you have a small apartment, for example, a large dog may
be a poor choice.

4. Leaving your dog alone in your yard.

Dogs are social animals and naturally live in packs. Spend
plenty of time with your dog outside. Play together, make
your yard a fun place, not a doggie prison! If your dog is not
active enough, is bored, gains weight, gets sick, gets into
all kinds of mischief, barks too much, or bites: It is your job
to understand why it is happening and make it better.

5. Not giving the a dog a place of its own.

Dogs need an area that is only for them. When it gets nervous
or scared it will have a place of refuge. Make it a comfortable
place for your dog. It doesn't have to be fancy, just
comfortable.
Just like people, every living creature has times when it just
wants to be left alone to sleep or relax

6. Letting the dog think it is in charge.

The leader in your house is you, not the dog! Your dog will
receive food and attention when you decide. Not whenever it
wants. Your dog must earn its rewards, they are not a gift.

7. Making 'goodbye' a big event.

Do not make a big deal out of having to leave the house. This
is not the time to lavish extra attention on your dog. It will
only
be aggravated after you leave. A good idea is to leave your dog
with fresh food and water, and maybe a toy.

8. Feeding your dog 'people' food.

Constantly feeding a dog table scraps can be very unhealthy
for dogs. They are not recycle bins! There are many very
good dog foods available - buy those for your pet. People do
not eat dog food, why should it be the other way around?

9. Having unrealistic expectations.

Though at times it may seem like it, dogs are not human. Dogs
need logical and consistent training to live well with people.
They
do not understand when you explain to them 'why'. When your
dog misbehaves a simple "Don't!" or "No!" is enough and
suitable.

Avoiding these mistakes will assure you and your dog live a
long
and happy life together.

About the author:
Dencho Denchev is a dog lover from Bulgaria. He offers the highest
quality pet care products available. Rest easy knowing your special
friend will be taken care of. (Don't forget yourself too!)When you visit
http://www.ddenchev.com/pets/dogs.htm

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