Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Boxer Dog Obedience Training - 3 Easy Tips

Boxer dogs are playful, strong, smart and highly energetic to such a degree that training is absolutely necessary; because without any discipline, a boxer can be this relentless, unbridled ball of energy. The best time to start training, is when he is around thirteen weeks of age. Boxer dogs, though very intelligent, lose focus very quickly when there's a lull in the training session. So, owners who are routinely lenient will have the toughest time training their boxer, as their pet is accustomed to resisting their owners commands without any consequences. And repetition is key when training this wonderful breed of dog - constantly drilling the desired behavior will to keep him from drifting back to old habits. Given their phenomenal levels of energy, a boxer needs wide open spaces to run & play; keeping this pet in close quarters isn't the best idea (if you're fond of your furniture and sleep); a larger yard will go a long way in helping your boxer to use up his energy.For example, if you send him on a scavenger hunt for dog snacks that you planted throughout the yard, you can keep him busy for hours. Before training, a few things should be pointed out. First, you have to let your boxer knows you're the boss - establishing this command-structure automatically entitles you to their attention. Also, a boxer will need to be trained in areas that are quiet and free of distractions. Try not to skip lessons- successfully instilling new commands require consistency. Lastly, there's no such thing as too much positive reinforcement.Teaching Your Boxer How To SitWith a treat in your hand, hold it above his head to entice him to look up. Naturally, as his nose goes up, then the rear will go down. Right before his rear touches the floor, you utter the word: 'Sit'. When the boxer is completely seated, praise him, feed him the treat and praise him again. As you continue to repeat theses step several more times, continue to make your movements less obvious (to the point where you're no longer holding the treat over his head). With enough practice, you should be able to get him to sit without the treat.Teaching Your Boxer To ComeCommand your pet sit, then step a few feet away from him. Turn towards him. With treat in hand, lean forward and utter the word: 'Come'. When he complete the trip towards you, praise him, feed him the treat and praise him again. Continue to repeat these steps, making your moves less dramatic each time - to the point where you're standing straight up without presenting the treat. You can also use other means of positive reinforcement, (like a noisy toy) to get the same desired result.Potty Training First establish a schedule by feeding & giving them water at certain times of the day - making their bowel movements more predictable. If you wish to trigger their bowel movements by linking it to a phrase, you can utter your "special phrase" every time you dog goes potty; after hearing it enough times, your boxer will be induced to potty when you simply utter your "special phrase". And after he's done going potty, praise him effusively (be real over-the-top about it) for the sake of positive reinforcement.Training you boxer works really well when you keep your teaching method familiar to your pet, thus, giving him a chance to learn a new command (as opposed to a whole new methodology). If your time constraints or patience makes it difficult to train your pet, obedience school or digital materials have proven to be other viable options.

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Beagle Dog Breed Profile

Description: The Beagle is an active small to medium sized dog used as a companion or for hunting. The dogs stand up to 16 at the shoulder and generally weigh between 18 to 35 pounds. As with most breeds, the bitch is smaller. The Beagle has a strong head and floppy ears. The dog has a short-haired coat and many color variations can occur. The most prevalent is the tricolor Beagle with its black saddle, but lemon, black and tan, orange, or red and white are all acceptable.History: The Beagle rose from the anonymous ranks of 'hound-dom' in the 1500s in England. Packs of dogs were used at the time to hunt small game such as rabbits and pheasants. The Harrier, which is not only taller than the Beagle, but weighs almost twice as much, provided the foundation stock for the Beagle. Originally, Beagles were used by people who would be unable to follow a hunting pack in the usual headlong manner. The infirm or elderly were able to ride at a leisurely pace, and the Beagle provided hunting opportunities for those who had no horses. The dogs could be followed on foot. This is the way Beagles are used today for hunting. The French word "be'guele" is probably the source of the dog's name and referred to the sound of the hunting bay.Temperament: The disposition of the Beagle is famously good. These dogs are cheerful and gentle. Beagles are intelligent and brave dogs and get along well with other dogs. They can be trusted to behave beautifully with children. However, as they are hunting dogs, it is best to accustom them to any household cats or other pets while they are puppies. Beagles are usually difficult to train as they are easily distracted by interesting smells or sights. The Beagle loves to wander, and if the owner is not a hunter, every effort should be make to stimulate him at home. A fenced yard is the best way to assure the Beagle's safety.Health Issues: Fortunately, the Beagle is seldom afflicted with hip dysplasia, but they make be subject to spinal disk ailments. Epilepsy is somewhat common in Beagles as are eye and heart diseases. Because Beagles often roam in fields and brush, they should be checked carefully for ticks and fleas. Ticks can spread Lyme Disease and Tracker Dog Disease. The Beagle will normally live for up to 15 years.Grooming: The Beagle's short coat does not require extensive care, one brushing a week is adequate to keep shedding under control. The floppy ears can give rise to ear infections, so care should be given to keep them clean and dry.Living Conditions: The Beagle loves to be outside, preferably with human or dog friends, but will be happy indoors if given adequate exercise. Beagles are companionable and like to be around others. The Beagle is best kept in the house during the winter in northern climates, although a well-made dog house will suffice in warmer areas.
               

               

Monday, June 27, 2011

Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain dog breed stands from 23 to 28 inches in height depending on the sex, with the female being the smaller. This is an agile dog despite the fact it is a large and sturdy breed. It is slightly longer than its height. The head is flat on the top. The muzzle is well-built and straight. The teeth meet in a good scissor bite. The eyes are brown with the fur being rust over each eye. The ears are of medium size, high setting and rounded at the tips of the ear, they are triangular in shape. The straight legs are strong and will have fawn on all four legs. Their feet are round with arched toes. Their coat is fairly long, slightly wavy or straight and should be thick. This is a weather- resistant coat. The coat is tricolour with good symmetrical markings of black, rust, and white. They will have a white blaze on the chest, and white on their heads, tip of the tail and toes. Rust is on their face reaching the corners of the mouth and under the tail.History: This dog comes from Switzerland, in the Swiss mountains. Art work dating back to the 18th century shows this dog. They are working dogs and were used to pull carts to market. In addition, they were used to drive cattle, be a companion to the farmer and a watch dog. This breed's gifts are also, tracking, herding, search and rescue and competitive obedience.Temperament: This is a dog that loves children. With good intelligent brains, they are easy to train. Here you have a friend that is full of confidence and a great natured dog. It is slow to mature, staying puppy like for longer than other breeds. Socialize this breed as well as possible, then this dog will be better with anything new in the future. Firm but kind training will work best. Natural leadership is a must, as a dog is a dog, that way your dog will be much happier. Due to their slow maturing some owners have not worked with this breed to give clear rules and leadership, this can give many problems later, and so it is best to be the Alpha at all times.Health issues: Sadly, this dog suffers from cancer and their life expectancy has dropped from 10 to 12 years down to 6to 8 years. This is being researched, but for now, is a fact that needs consideration by the buyer. This breed can suffer from bloat, eyelid problems, hip and elbow dysplasia and weight gain. Portion sizes need to be controlled.Grooming: For its long coat, daily grooming is required, taking extra care when the dog is shedding. This is a heavy shedder. Bathing is fine but only when needed.Living conditions: This dog is not recommended for an apartment. They need a large garden and due to the full and thick coat would rather live in cooler climates. This is a large dog that needs regular long daily walks.      

Sunday, June 26, 2011

Adopting A Dog - Points To Strongly Consider

There are some very important tips to keep in mind when you're adopting a dog. These tips can make a huge difference in whether you will regret your decision to adopt or enjoy your new found friend.One mistake is to avoid making a hasty decision in purchasing a dog at the spur of the moment. This is never a good decision. Instead a better choice to would be to thoroughly research all that you can about the dog that you are thinking about purchasing and make a decision as to if the dog will make a good fit for your lifestyle and home.Another common mistake is not knowing if you can afford the upkeep of your new dog. As you probably already know, there are expenses involved in keeping a dog in good condition. These expenses include, food, supplies such as flea collars, accessories and veterinarian visits.Avoid at all cost getting a dog just because another family member wants a dog. When a dog lives with a family, that dog actually becomes a part of the family. You want to avoid purchasing the dog if the dog is not welcomed by everybody in your family.When considering a purchasing a dog, you may want to compare breeds and come to a conclusion as to you and your family's needs and your prospective pet's needs. If you have small children in your home, you may want to consider a dog that is playful and gentle rather than a dog that is tough.Health issues are another strong point to take into consideration when deciding on the best choice for you and your family. Some dogs, especially purebreds are sometimes prone to health related issues. These issues can really cause you to spend a lot more money in your dog's upkeep. Before making your final decision, you should know what to expect from the breed you choose. Making a good decision can reduce the high cost of veterinarian bills as well as heartache.Another option of dogs to consider is a mixed breed. This may be the type of  dog that you really want after taking consideration of the cost and upkeep of different breeds. Contrary to popular belief, there is nothing substandard about mixed breeds dogs. Mixed breed dogs are almost always less expensive than there purebred counterparts. This is good in the fact that they will not break the bank. You will also find that mixed breed dogs often don't have the health issues that purebreds have.Normally, there is a number of places that you can find mixed breed dogs to purchase. You can look anywhere from advertisements in just about any local newspaper to visiting your local animal shelters. Animal shelters usually have an abundance of mixed breed dogs and they also in many if not most cases will give incentives for dogs that are adopted such as spaying or neutering, immunizations and de-worming.Being reasonable about you and your family's expectation will lead to a successful adoption.

Sunday, June 19, 2011

3 Beagle Training Tips - Beagle Dog Training Done Right

One of the cutest dogs out there is the Beagle. Beagles are a small dog that have a lot of energy, are loving and great to have in a family. To have the best Beagle possible, you will need to look into Beagle training. This training will help make your Beagle listen, and it will give you fewer headaches.Be Fair With CorrectionsWhen you are involved in Beagle puppy training, you should be fair with the corrections. You want your Beagle to know what you want before you do it...and before you have to correct them. You should never be suddenly angry with your Beagle because they will not understand that.Make the Beagle part of your human pack by using these types of corrections:1. Do not praise.2. Use a stern voice.3. A slight tug on the leash if needed.Have FunIt is important that when you do Beagle training that you have fun. Training Beagle puppies can be difficult, but if you have fun with hit, the puppies will be more apt to listen to you. Beagle dog training should involve praise that is well-timed and appropriate to what the dog has done. With a good relationship with your Beagle, a stern "no" is all that is needed to set them straight.Work TogetherOne of the best Beagle training tips is to work together with your Beagle. When the two of you work together and are on the same team, things can go a lot quicker. Let your Beagle learn to play by having fun with you. Show them love and affection and make sure you show them that you care for them.If the Beagle thinks that they are in a well-loved pack with an alpha who cares, they will be more apt to listen to you and that helps your Beagle training.

Friday, June 17, 2011

All About the Basenji Dog Breed

The Basenji: A curious, warm climate dog originally bred in AfricaThe Basenji is an African dog breed that was originally developed in Zaire. It is sometimes also referred to as the Congo Dog or even the Congo Terrier. These unique dogs are not typically barkers, however, they do have a range of strange vocalizations that they make including crows and keening wails. They were developed for hunting to help flush game birds from the bush.Characteristics, behavior and health concerns of the Basenji breedThe Basenji is a small breed dog that will not grow taller than 17 inches, or weigh more than about 24 pounds when fully grown. They have a short, smooth, silky fur coat that is appropriate for the warming climates. Common fur colors of the Basenji include copper, red, black and tan, and black and brindle. The health problems that are associated with this breed include PRA, intestinal problems, and often kidney problems.Routine health care and grooming of the BasenjiTo care for and groom this breed you will want to bathe and brush their fur coat only as needed. They will need daily physical exercise to keep them from putting on too much weight. They have a naturally curious nature so you will want to make sure that you either keep them on a leash when at the park, or keep them in a securely fenced yard. Basenji do OK in apartment settings as long as they receive appropriate exercise. Average life expectancy for this breed is around 10-12 years of age.

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Advice on How to Mentally Prepare for Rhinoplasty Surgery

 Rhinoplasty is a cosmetic procedure applying various techniques for reshaping the appearance of nose. Patients who are dissatisfied with the size, symmetry or contours of the nose can benefit from rhinoplasty surgery. However, not everyone is a good candidate for rhinoplasty. The following advice will assist you with ways to mentally prepare for rhinoplasty surgery and discover if itโ€™s right for you.



The Importance of Taking Rhinoplasty Surgery Seriously



Rhinoplasty falls under the category of elective surgery. Many patients choose rhinoplasty to achieve aesthetic results. However, a nose job is surgery nonetheless. As with all surgical procedures, a rhinoplasty should be taken seriously. Mental preparation is a necessary element of success.



Mentally Prepare for Rhinoplasty Surgery With Research



Preliminary mental preparation for rhinoplasty surgery should incorporate some research on the procedure. The more you understand about rhinoplasty surgery, the better your chances at making an informed decision. Gather all available information and assess the pros and cons.



You can search online to find great resources for conducting research on the risks and benefits associated with a rhinoplasty procedure. Helpful articles are available for determining your candidacy, before and after surgery preparation and various questions to ask your cosmetic surgeon. You can also review rhinoplasty pictures and get help locating a qualified cosmetic plastic surgeon.



Preparing for the Cost of Rhinoplasty Surgery



Another important thing to consider is rhinoplasty cost. Cost varies depending on geographic location, the surgeonโ€™s qualifications and complexity of the rhinoplasty procedure. When calculating cost, bear in mind the potential necessity for rhinoplasty revision surgery. Financing options are available. However, be sure that the cost of rhinoplasty surgery is realistic for you.



Advice on Mentally Preparing for Rhinoplasty Surgery: Have a Consultation



A consultation is necessary prior to rhinoplasty surgery. This gives you an opportunity to learn more about the procedure and ask questions. Discuss details regarding your unhappiness and expectations from rhinoplasty surgery. Understand that it may not be feasible to achieve your specified expectations. A realistic outcome will be described in full.



The doctor will conduct a medical examination, which includes an evaluation of your physical health and mental well-being. You will also learn more about the possible risks and complications associated with rhinoplasty surgery. Complications may include infection, scarring, nerve damage and adverse reactions to anesthesia, among others. You will also be informed of any individual health conditions that can magnify your risk.



Advice on Mentally Preparing for Rhinoplasty: Understanding Recovery



Before deciding if rhinoplasty surgery is right for you, have a clear picture of the recovery process. During the early healing period, you may experience significant swelling, bruising and discomfort. Healing from rhinoplasty surgery also requires rest and minimal activity throughout the first postoperative week. Full recovery and surgery results often occur gradually.



Mentally Preparing for Rhinoplasty: The Ideal Candidate



The best candidate for rhinoplasty is a patient who has thought on and researched the procedure for some time. Rhinoplasty is suitable for a healthy, confident individual, who just so happens to be dissatisfied with the appearance of his or her nose. Those with realistic expectations and a clear understanding of the potential risks and results are appropriate candidates for rhinoplasty surgery.



Mentally Preparing for Rhinoplasty: Do it for the Right Reasons



Rhinoplasty surgery can restore confidence, but it must be chosen for the right reasons. Cosmetic surgery will not result in a job promotion or rekindle a failed relationship. Rhinoplasty is not appropriate for patients suffering from depression and low self-image.

Mental preparation for rhinoplasty surgery is essential for making the right decision.

Monday, June 13, 2011

Adopting A Dog - Finding That Perfect Dog

When adopting a dog, it is best to ensure that you and the dog is a perfect match. No amount of preparation though can limit your dog to the characteristics, temperament, and behavior that are ideal for you. Nevertheless, several small preparations can help minimize the odds that you are adopting a wrong dog for you or your family. Adopt the perfect dog using the following criteria:The dog breed.The dog's breed is critical in choosing a dog that will fit the credentials you are looking for. Sure, the breed's temperament and characteristics are just approximations of how the dog would turn out when it's full grown and that individual dogs have individual personalities. Still, the dog's breed can still give you an idea of what to expect.The dog's function.Not all people who adopt a dog do so only to make them as a pet. There are owners who seek to put their dogs to use according to the dog's activity or training. Some are made into therapy dogs, others as guide dogs. If you are considering a dog for specific purposes, you are advised to pick ones that have undergone special training or, in general, have the traits suitable for the function.The dog's source.There are plenty of places you can go to when looking for a dog ready for adoption. There are the rescue groups, the animal shelters, and local humane societies for dogs. These have individual preferences about the dogs they take in, which should give you an idea of what to expect in the dogs they shelter.Animal shelter is the way to go when wanting to save a dog's life. Animal shelters don't necessarily keep track of the dog's history so you can expect surprises as the dog grows old with you. Also, they often accept mixed breed dogs or mutts who possess unexpected characteristics. If you are not a big fan of surprises, you can look into the selection of dogs rescue groups have.Rescue groups are, in general, the best sources for dogs that are good for adoption. These keep tabs of their dogs' history and the dogs' previous owners. So if you are interested in knowing the conditions from where the dog you are planning to adopt came from, a rescue group is the best place for you to begin your search. On top of these, rescue groups are very specific about the breeds they accept. They also shelter their dogs in actual homes, not in kennels. Your home. Where the dog is going to is also crucial factor when adopting a dog. Some dog breeds are not suitable for families with children, others are not comfortable in confined places.If you have kids in the family, the size and activities of the dog you are planning to adopt should be considered. Small dogs are likely to be abused when kids are around because more often than not, kids treat their dogs like they would their toys. Very huge dogs, on the other hand, are a big no-no for small kids. Children could be hurt around powerful, muscular, and oversized dogs. Also check into the policies of the neighborhood you are living in. If you are living in an apartment, check with your apartment owner for their pet regulations. You don't want to adopt the perfect dog only to give it back to the shelter because of your living area's no-pet clause policy.
               

               

Saturday, June 11, 2011

A Quick Intro To The Basenji Breed Of Dogs

The following paragraphs summarize the work ofย  Basenji dog breed experts who are completely familiar with all the aspects ofย  Basenji dog breed. Heed their advice to avoid anyย  Basenji dog breed surprises. The dog Basenji goes by many names, some of which include Belgian Congo Dog, Bongo Terrier, Congo Bush Dog, Zande Dog, and Congo Terrier. What makes this breed particularly special is that he is the only breed who has no bark. But other than the absence of bark, this breed will whine and growl like other dogs, and can express his feelings with a unique yodel or chortle sound. The Basenji does have a vocal cord. However, it is believed that the past thousands of years in training to hunt game silently may explain his characteristic quietness. Nevertheless, this breed is recognized for its gentle nature and love of children. He is very inquisitive, mischievous, does not have any doggie smell, and adaptable to most climates. He can be wary around strangers and does not like the rain. He has a number of appealing features, including his curling tail, high set and lying over to one side of the back, his wrinkled forehead that gives him a worried-like look, and his habit of washing with his paw similar to a cat.Size: The ideal height for the male Basenji is 17in at the shoulder while the ideal height for the female Basenji is 16in. The ideal weight is 24lb for the male and 21lb for the female.History and origin: This type of breed has been depicted in many carvings in the tombs of the Pharaohs. It is said that these dogs were brought as valuable presents by travelers from the lower reaches of the Nile. The breed almost disappeared from public sight during the ancient Egyptian times until the middle of 19th century, when the Basenji was again discovered by explorers in the Congo and Southern Sudan. If you find yourself confused by what you've read to this point, don't despair. Everything should be crystal clear by the time you finish. Feeding: Recommended feeding for Basenji is about 11/2-2 cans of quality dog food (13.3oz size) with equivalent amount of biscuit or 3 cupfuls of dry food. This breed will also enjoy an occasional serving of green vegetables. In addition, the Basenji is a grass eater and should have plenty of access to fresh grass.Exercise: This breed is a terrific hunter and has a tendency to put on extra weight unless he gets plenty of exercise. He is tireless, fleet-footed, and loves to take regular walks and runs. He is an indoor dog that should not be put in an outside kennel. He would love to just relax next to you and lie down in a corner. He is a great apartment dog as long as he is given enough exercise.Grooming: A hound glove is recommended to keep his coat in great condition. There's no doubt that the topic ofย  Basenji dog breed can be fascinating. If you still have unanswered questions aboutย  Basenji dog breed, you may find what you're looking for in the next article.

A few thing About Basenji dog

The following paragraphs summarize the perform of Basenji dog breed experts who're completely familiar with all the aspects of Basenji dog breed. Heed their guidance to avoid any Basenji dog breed surprises.
 
The dog Basenji goes by several names, some of which include Belgian Congo Dog, Bongo Terrier, Congo Bush Dog, Zande Dog, and Congo Terrier. What makes this breed particularly unique is that he may be the only breed who has no bark. But apart from the absence of bark, this breed will whine and growl like other dogs, and can express his feelings having a exclusive yodel or chortle sound. The Basenji does have a vocal cord. Nevertheless, it is believed that the past a large number of years in coaching to hunt game silently may possibly clarify his characteristic quietness. Nonetheless, this breed is acknowledged for its gentle nature and adore of youngsters. He is very inquisitive, mischievous, does not have any doggie smell, and adaptable to most climates. He may be wary about strangers and doesn't such as the rain. He has several appealing functions, such as his curling tail, high set and lying more than to one particular side with the back, his wrinkled forehead that gives him a worried-like appear, and his habit of washing with his paw related to a cat.
 
Size: The perfect height for the male Basenji is 17in at the shoulder although the perfect height for the female Basenji is 16in. The perfect weight is 24lb for the male and 21lb for the female.
 
History and origin: This sort of breed has been depicted in numerous carvings within the tombs from the Pharaohs. It's mentioned that these dogs had been brought as beneficial presents by travelers from the lower reaches of the Nile. The breed virtually disappeared from public sight in the course of the ancient Egyptian occasions until the middle of 19th century, when the Basenji was again discovered by explorers within the Congo and Southern Sudan.
 
In case you discover yourself confused by what you've read to this point, do not despair. Anything ought to be crystal clear by the time you finish.
 
Feeding: Recommended feeding for Basenji is about 11/2-2 cans of high quality dog food (13.3oz size) with equivalent quantity of biscuit or three cupfuls of dry food. This breed will also appreciate an occasional serving of green vegetables. Additionally, the Basenji is often a grass eater and ought to have lots of access to fresh grass.
 
Workout: This breed is really a terrific hunter and has a tendency to place on extra weight unless he gets plenty of physical exercise. He is tireless, fleet-footed, and loves to take standard walks and runs. He is an indoor dog that need to not be place in an outside kennel. He would adore to just unwind subsequent to you and lie down in a corner. He is a great apartment dog as long as he is provided sufficient workout.
 
Grooming: A hound glove is advised to help keep his coat in wonderful condition.
 
There's no doubt that the subject of Basenji dog breed can be fascinating. In the event you still have unanswered concerns about Basenji dog breed, you might locate what you are searching for within the subsequent article.
 
 
For more information on Maltese Puppy Training go to Maltese Problems Site
 
 

A bizarre dog breed - The Besenji

The Basenji Does not bark similar to normal dogs, as an alternative it emits a noise rresembeling that of a yodel Furthermore it cleans itself similar to a cat and trots similar to a thorough bred horse. A oddness in the dog's larynx is believed to be accountable for the dogs lack of bark. Yet the Basenji is a long way away from being mute. It expresses itself with a variety of noises, including its characteristic "chortle" that is half way between a joyous laugh and a Tyrolean yodel. It is Versitile as a hunting dog, as it can point, retrieve, drive game, and pick up a smell 75m away and this assured its admiration amoung the tribes of Central Africa, its land of Origin.Europeans knew nothing of the Basenji until the 1970's, when English explorers discovered the dogs in an area of Africa still moderately unknown, between the Congo river and Sudan. The Basenji has been watchfully breeded over the years and now serves as bushtrackers and watch canines. Breeding of the dog outside of Africa proved to be quite easier said than done, as foundation stock was frequently dying from deseases such as distemper. A strong litter was first presented in 1936 when an imported Braced producd a strong litter. These puppies were shown at the world renound Crufts show in 1937. They generated such excitement that guards had to be called in to control the enthusiastic crowds. The Basenji has a cheerful character and punctuates its odd conversation by means of gay tail wagging. At the slightest occurrence, it is on the alert with its ears pricked and the skin on its skull creased to create that irresistible look of shock that is so characteristic of the dogAditional Resources: The metal cut off saw is a must have tool in the Garage. Bedlington Terrier Lamb Dog    

Friday, June 10, 2011

Adopting A Dog - Making The Right Choice Of Dog

           
           
               
                    With so many stories in the news lately about animal abuse, a lot more people are looking to adopting a dog. It's unfortunate that every dog doesn't get to live in a loving and caring environment, but by adopting you can help make this right. Dogs find themselves in shelters for a whole host of reasons from being mistreated, neglected, abused and abandoned, and it's very difficult for the rest of us to fathom why.Dogs, like humans, don't tend to make themselves at home right away in strange surroundings. Not only will adopting a dog satisfy the wants and needs of the adopter, but also, the dog is given a second chance to a happier and healthier life. Some dogs may end up staying in the shelter indefinitely as it may not be desirable to others, while this may not be ideal for the dog it will at least be given the best possible care and attention a shelter can give.It's very likely that your new rescued dog will have numerous behavioural problems, so be ready for a lot of chewing and possible destruction to your furniture. When adopting a dog, one should be prepared for almost anything. Dogs that find themselves in new homes can be very quite and with drawn or be aggressive and bark endlessly.Badly run shelters can further damage the health of an already poorly dog. There is a whole host of reasons why one should visit a shelter prior to adoption, for one, you wouldn't buy a suite of furniture for your house without visiting a showroom. While a suite of furniture and a dog aren't remotely the same, visiting the shelter will give you a much better appreciation for the look, size and temperament of your potentially new best friend!Adopted older dogs tend to settle in much faster that a new puppy. Another major benefit of adopting an older dog is that it is less likely to feel the urge to chew your furniture.Another important thing to consider if you have children is whether or not you want to introduce an adopted dog that may have some aggression problems, therefore it is vital you check this out at the shelter. You need to question why the dog is left in the shelter in the first place, has the dog some behavioural psychological problems that you need to be aware of.Remember, there are no hard and fast rules to follow when adopting a dog, but try not to make the mistake of taking things for granted as you'll never realize fully what your new dog has been through before. Don't be too disappointed if your newly adopted dog doesn't take to you or it's new surroundings right away, some may, just give it time.
               

               

Thursday, June 9, 2011

Adopt a Dog - 3 Reasons For Rescuing a Dog From a Shelter

3 Reasons to Adopt a DogWhen a person or family decides to add a new pet in their home, most of us would usually think of buying one from a pet store or breeder. Few consider checking their local pet shelter or pet adoption/rescue agency. Before you decide to head out to your nearest pet store, below are the 3 reasons why you should think about adopting a dog.Save LivesIf you want to save pet lives then adopting one from a pet shelter or pet adoption agency would be the best choice. Although pet shelters and agencies try their best to keep their pets alive and put them in loving homes, some of these pets are euthanized for the fact that there are more homeless pets and only a few loving homes that are willing to take them in. When you adopt a pet, not only are you saving a life but also opening a spot for another pet in need.CostThere are a lot of people who misconstrued that animals in pet shelters have bad behavior. The truth is that these animals end up in shelters since their owners abandoned them due to the inability to take care of them or as a result of divorce or relocation. And since these animals have been previously owned, pet shelters can ensure that these pets are safe and have received all of their vaccinations and have been spayed or neutered. There may be a cost involved when you adopt a pet however it is not as costly as when you purchase one and have to get these veterinary services on your own.VarietyPet shelters take in pets of all ages and breeds and whether you believe it or not, there is often a better selection of animals compared to a pet store. There are a lot of puppies to choose from as well as adult dogs that need a home. Most of the shelters have websites where you can see pictures and information about the animals that are available for adoption which then would save your time in finding the pet you have in mind.Although many of us would like to purchase a new dog from a pet store, it is still a good idea to check your local pet shelter or pet adoption/rescue agency. Not only are you able to save animal's lives, you might also be able to find the perfect pet that would best suit your personality.

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

All About Dog Beds

  If you are like anybody else in the world, when you have had a long hard day of work or play, you probably crawl into your bed every night thankful that you have it. Don't you think your pet might feel the same way? We all need a good night's rest in order to have a great day, and what better way to give your dog the pampering he deserves than to make sure he's got a comfy dog bed all his own. Whether you are in the market for a large dog bed, a designer dog bed, or just a fluffy pillow Fido can call his own, you have a variety of options before you.Large dog beds run about $15 to $50 at your local pet store. The purpose for a dog bed is very similar to the purpose for a human bed; they keep your pet off of the floor directly, away from any creepies or crawlies that might be down there at night and away from the draft. Another purpose for a dog bed is to keep your dog from wanting to sleep with you, so if you have that problem, it might serve you well to look into a bed for your loyal pooch companion.If you've got a picky pooch, there are even some beds that can warm or cool based on whether or not your dog is in the bed, and the temperature of their surroundings. This means that when it's a bit warm inside, your dog's bed cools itself and vice versa. These types of fancy beds can get up there in price. If you just want to make a dog bed for your pet instead of going broke on one (or just feeling like you did), consider making one for them. This is a great activity for the family and a good way to involve your kids in the project and teach them some of the responsibilities that go along with owning a pet. It can be done with a large cloth sack or sheet stuffed with shopping bags (for that cushy effect). Tying up the ends of the sheet or sack and stuffing plastic grocery bags into them is a great way to make a dog bed because they can fit the form of your pet, making it more comfortable for him. This is similar to the idea of a beanbag, but not quite as involved (or potentially disastrous, when it comes to pet beds).If that doesn't work, using a few pillows and a large basket (for the small to medium sized breeds) will do just fine. Line the inside of the basket with pillows and blankets to make it comfy enough for your canine friend, put it in a comfortable space (anywhere they might normally lounge) and voila--you have a homemade dog bed!
               

               
           
           
               
                 

Tuesday, June 7, 2011

The 3 Things You MUST Consider Before Adopting A Dog

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If you're looking to adopt a dog, then pull up a chair, grab a cup of coffee, and relax because you're going to want to read this article.
In the next few minutes, we're going to look at three crucial elements that you MUST consider before you adopt a dog. First, we're going to talk about the differences between adopting a purebred or a mutt. Next, we're going to discuss factors that have to be considered when deciding on the size of the dog. Finally, we're going to finish up by talking about the pros and cons of adopting a puppy or an adult dog.
First, let's start by talking about purebreds and mutts. If a dog is considered a mutt, it doesn't necessarily mean the dog isn't purebred.ย  It just means the dog has no papers or documentation of breed. If you are interested in entering your dog into shows and competitions, a purebred is the best choice. However, purebred dogs are in high demand, and are often very costly.ย  Usually the breeder will also pre-screen potential owners, so even though you see a puppy you want, it's not set in stone that you will get it. It can take several tries before you are selected.
Next, let's talk about size.ย  There are several factors that are important.ย  The size of your home is one of them.ย  Larger dogs need more space to roam.ย  You'll also want to decide if you want a dog that is super playful or gentle and mild.ย  That will depend on you, and how active you are.ย  The same general responsibilities exist with a larger dog, except they are intensified.ย  For example, they'll require more food.ย  They will take longer to groom, and they will be harder to clean up after.ย  In short, caring for a larger dog is much more work than caring for a lap dog.
Finally, let's talk about the differences between adopting a puppy and an adult dog. With a puppy, you'll be able to guide it's growth and mold it's behavior to your liking.ย  Adult dogs, however, have set behaviors.ย  While it's true that you can teach an old dog new tricks, it's not a very easy thing to do.ย  Puppies, on the other hand, are easily adaptable, and with a little training you can get them to behave the way you want.ย  Another thing to consider is appearance.ย  With an older dog, what you see is what you get.ย  Puppies change greatly as they develop. There is something to be said about adopting an older dog.ย  Most times, you'll get an appreciative old gal or fella who will shower you with undying love.ย
These are the three critical elements you MUST consider before you adopt a dog. First decide if you want a purebred or a mutt, then consider size.ย  All that's left to consider after that is whether you want a feisty young pup or a loyal older companion.
Keep these three tips in mind, and you'll make the right decision and bring home a dog that you and your family can enjoy for years to come!
       

Friday, June 3, 2011

When To Consider Not Adopting A Dog

        A dog is irresistible for people who love dogs, a puppy much more.ย  Occasionally, however, when adopting a dog is not suggested. The following suggestions will help you.- A dog is never a good gift. This is not only true for the dog but also for the person receiving the gift. To many people, even with dog lovers, dogs take too much time and a lot of work to have around especially so because a dog as a gift is an unplanned responsibility.- Often, the worst time to give a dog is to a person that has just suffered the loss of a loved one, in order to cheer the person up. This is a well-meant gesture but always the person who has suffered a loss will need human companionship.- Adopting a shelter dog is never good for those who are having financial worries. The maintenance that is required by a dog is very much like the expenses incurred by having another toddler around the house. Like people, dogs need grooming, training, exercising, caring aside from food and shelter. Other expenses are also incurred when the dog is ill. Puppies even cost more to care than large full-grown dogs.- Too many times, a dog is claimed to relieve stress because of their loving presence and loyal nature. Dogs also appear attentive when talked to and have a calming effect to many people. This is true. However, many families are too stressed with work, often pressed for time and many other obligations that caring for another creature, adds up to more unwanted pressure. When this happens, the dog becomes an added issue.- People who constantly travel should not adopt a dog. Dogs are very social creatures and love interacting with people.- It is not always wise to give dogs to people who have just lost a pet. Dogs by large are treated much like members of the family. The person may not welcome or is not yet ready to replace a well-loved pet.- Never adopt a dog when there are foreseeable changes in your life. A change in job, moving to a new location, getting married, major health concerns and limited time due to more responsibilities will only add up to the pressure where the dog is likely to suffer.- Older pets do not always welcome new pets in the house; on the contrary, older pets tend to be wary with new, younger ones. Dogs are also basically predators. This has not been shed off even through centuries of domestication. As such dogs practice hierarchy. Larger dogs often occupy and have the alpha male attitude and will bully any new pet that is added to their group. When decided to adding a new puppy, be sure to watch out that this does not happen.- Do not adopt a new dog without the agreement of all members of the family.There are different dog breeds with different attitudes and temperaments. Dog sizes also matter. Larger dogs are best when there are children in the house as they are generally more placid. Small dogs on the other hand are high energy and fast rambunctious creatures that the children may not be safe to be around with.     

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

So You Want To Adopt A Dog

 Adopting a dog from a Humane Society, or a private shelter, can be a great gift to the dogs fighting for survival on the streets, abandoned by owners, or mistreated before they were rescued. However, this should not be done naively, or with the heart alone. Any new purchase of a dog needs to be done carefully, and not on impulse. There is nothing worse, for the family or the dog, to take a dog into your care and then discover that problems arise which you are unable to handle. This ultimately contributes to the sad fate of abandoned dogs.
There are many factors to consider when thinking about getting a new pet. There are the ongoing costs of food, vet bills from routine operations like desexing and minor illnesses or mishaps, as well as the time and money involved in training dogs. Depending on your experience with dogs, you may need to take your dog along to an obedience school. Dogs need to be trained so that they know how to behave around people, to prevent any biting or aggressive behaviour around neighbors or small children, and to establish a harmonious and understanding relationship with their owners. Many of the reasons people abandon dogs and other pets can be avoided if they take the time to train their dog, and understand where the behaviours that exasperate come from – and what to do about them. That is responsible dog ownership.
One of the advantages of adopting a dog from a shelter or humane society is that the animal will usually be desexed. Despite some lingering mythology around the subject, desexing does not psychologically or developmentally harm the dog in any way. That is a projection of a human response onto an animal of a completely different species.
Some private dog shelters have a 'No Kill' policy. This means that unlike many others that euthanase a dog if they are not rehomed within a certain period of time, these shelters place dogs in foster homes until a new owner is found. The advantage of adopting a dog from one of these places is that the temperament of the dog will be more well known. Plus, many of the behavioral issues that can come from the trauma of being abandoned, or being abused, are healed in a loving environment by the foster carer before the dog is available for adoption. Things like how well a dog interacts with other dogs will generally be known, which is essential if you have a multi-pet household.
No Kill shelters also rehabilitate very sick or malnourished dogs before they are put up for adoption. Most shelters and humane societies check a dog's health before letting them get adopted, so you at least know what you are getting in to. They can also provide advice on whether a dog is suitable for a more experienced dog owner, whether a dog is suitable for a family, and can provide tips on how to smoothly integrate a dog into a new household.
To decide to adopt a dog is a very noble thing to do, especially given the huge number of unwanted dogs in the world. As well as that, by adopting a dog from a shelter, you're actually helping that shelter help other animals. Whilst these dogs are not free, the charge is nominal, and generally covers health care costs for the dog. Many dogs may be given away free 'to a good home', but going this path is risky. You won't know if the dog has a serious or contagious illness, which can be a disaster if you have other pets. Plus, you won't get unbiased advice on that dog's temperament, or history. Many times these owners really just want to get rid of the dogs in their care, and not all are scrupulous about to whom they give the dogs to.

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