Doghistory

Choosing The Right Dog Food To Keep Your Dog Healthy And Happy

2011-12-03T05:10:00.001-08:00

There are 72,114,000 dogs in the United States, according to the 2007 census. With over 72 million dogs in a sales demographic, you can see why there are so many different types and varieties of dog food. The dog food industry definitely has some competition.With so many different dog food companies vying for your dog food dollar, how do you know which dog food to choose to keep your dog healthy? Do you choose dry, moist, or a combination of both? High protein, low protein, other nutrients, what exactly do you look for?You want the best for your dog that your money can buy. You want to keep your dog healthy and satisfy his hunger at the same time. What do you do? Do you go with what everybody else is buying? Do you ask your family and friends?THE DOG, THE DIET, THE FOOD.The real issue when choosing a dog food for your dog is that every dog is different. I am not just talking about breeds, though they differ to, but two dogs of the same breed may not even have the same eating habits. There is no single silver bullet cure unfortunately.So to find the right dog food to keep your dog healthy, you are going to have to do a little detective work. Breed. Start with the type of dog you have. Obviously a small lap dog is going to have different requirements than say, a Great Dane. Size is a large factor in energy levels and digestive systems.Age. Puppies are growing and require lots of good stuff to help them grow and to keep their energies up. They should be feed small amounts many times throughout the day just like a baby. In the dogs prime, say 3 years old to about 6 years old, they might have a very healthy appetite at each feeding, but only eats maybe twice a day. On the other hand the older adult isn't running after everything he sees anymore and like the "early bird special" older humans, they eat earlier in the day and not so much. Then bed time is much more craved than a bowl of food after 7pm. Just saying.Activity. Is your dog one of those hyper sort of dogs that seems to be able to run all day long until they collapse at the end of the night? Or do you have a dog like mine whose greatest ambition is to stretch after laying on the bed all morning to walk 20 feet and go lay down on her favorite chair until she is hungry or has to relieve herself.Stage in life. Sort of like age, but much more specific and maybe not lasting. Things like growth spurts, recovering from an injury, recovering from a major surgery, extreme hot day, pregnancy, nursing, dieting, training, change in location like vacation or having to stay at a kennel, and other things that are a major change in their normal routine, but is only temporary.WHAT DO I LOOK FOR?Even though every dog is different, there are some basic ideas to sort of use as a guideline. You want to pick a high quality dog food. You will know it is high quality if while reading the nutrition facts, you are seeing some pretty high numbers. One thing to look at is serving size when doing the comparisons.What you are looking for is a food that will provide protein, vitamins, minerals, and some essential fat content in the form of acids. Dog foods have varying levels of protein in them. Some have more filler than anything else. If you are around 25% protein content, give or take, it is a real good start.Look to see if the dog food is recommended for active or in-active dogs. Most dog foods will even tell you if they are for puppies, adults, or older less active dogs. Most will also tell you if they are easier to digest for dogs of certain ages than others. An older dog may not be able to digest a food designed for dogs leaving the puppy stage and moving into adulthood.You might even be looking for a dog food that helps a dog loose weight. Overweight dogs are a common issue in the United States. So it is no wonder that there is a whole line of diet dog foods to keep your dog healthy and save them from being overweight. Serious heart and other health conditions, including joint pain and other body issues can be associated simply to the dog being overweight.Another point is that just because it is a much better overall deal, sometimes large bags of dog food is not the correct choice. For example, it does not make sense to buy a 50 lb bag of combination moist and dry dog food for a toy or lap dog. The chances are the food is going go bad before the little dog can get through it. On the other hand, you are going to go broke trying to buy little individual cans of moist food for a Mastiff.If you just do not have a clue what to do. Then contact your vet. Discuss with him or her your issues and tell him or her all you can about your dog, their activities, age, weight, and other things you can think of. This will help your vet decide the best type of food for your dog. Just be leery if he only recommends a certain brand and you can only get it from his office. It does happen. And I am not saying the dog food is not a good choice, but their choice might be motivated by keeping them in money, not to keep your dog healthy.SUMMATIONThere are several dog food brands to choose from. Even grocery stores have entire aisles now dedicated to pet/dog food alone. Choosing the right dog food depends on what sort of dog you have, what their activity is like, their age, and other special things going on at that time in a dog's life. The bottom line is you are going to have to do some reading of the labels, looking for around 25% protein and as many vitamins, nutrients, and digestion types. Size of the dog should be considered when purchasing the amount of dog food at one time. And finally, if you feel completely lost, then contact your vet and ask their advice as to which dog food would be best for your dog giving them any information you can to help them determine it.

New Dog Traning Method

2011-11-16T05:49:00.001-08:00

       Leash education or lead teaching is definitely the dialogue of a lot of puppy trainers in this modern-day age and discussions of tips on how to train your dog while in the nicest feasible way are aplenty. These discussions are brought about by people today and canine trainers believing that pulling about the leash to right a dog's conduct is producing injuries to your canine.I'm not right here to discus this also, but I obviously do not believe that there's something wrong with leash instruction if it can be performed within the right way and care is taken to not harm the dog or give any sudden forceful pulls around the leash.Leash puppy training is equally as common as every other form of puppy schooling in the pro dog education local community mainly because when completed appropriately it will get effects easily and effectively. Leash schooling is used by correcting your dog's movements and gently tugging about the leash to force the dog to go inside of a way they'd not have originally gone and also to immediate them within the favoured way for that education exercise in hand. Generally the issues of leash training are with acquiring your canine comfortable together with the leash and collar so I'll briefly discus the true secret features of obtaining your puppy to behave when going for walks on the leash and also the issues you could face.Some canines are fired up to obtain their collar on as well as other are usually not so fond of it, train your canine to sit and stay 1st previous to discovering to consider your canine on a leash, several canines wish to wriggle all around and run about wile you try to put a collar or lead on them so the sit stay commands might be critical.While executing any pre-leash physical exercises or walks in case your dog misbehaves by becoming also thrilled you must simply just continue being relaxed and not go for walks till they may be acting appropriately, this should calm your canine down and act as being a light punishment for them.When beginning leash schooling, get started within your individual household after which do the job your way up to additional populated and new and interesting spots, if your dog misbehaves or is pulling on the leash consistently when they are out then self-discipline accordingly, and as often apply might be the determining variable to how quickly your canine will complete very good habits.

Are You Feeding Your Pet The Right Dog Food;

2011-11-04T04:51:00.000-07:00

                    Your dog's health and well being is important to you and your family. Not to mention keeping down the cost of veterinarian bills! So you need to carefully consider the food that you give your dog. People sometimes just pick the first dog food bag they see at the store. It's easy to overlook the importance of dog food but it is essential to pick the right one for your dog.To keep your dog healthy he needs plenty of fresh water and should be fed good quality dog food in amounts just right to meet his energy requirements. Always follow the guidelines on the dog food package for recommended feeding amounts.Picking a dog foodThe first challenge in choosing a dog food is picking one that has overall quality. The term that comes up a lot about dog food is human grade. Human grade implies that the dog food is good enough for us to eat. Many commercial dog foods are made from materials unusable or less desirable for human consumption. Often the meat that is used in dog food is of a quality considered unfit for humans to eat.Major dog food companies try to provide balanced proportions of vitamins and minerals for maximum benefit to your dog. Although you may see that many brands of dog food have almost identical labels, a reputable dog food company will provide an explanation for each supplement and how it benefits your dog.Always read the label to see what proteins, vitamins and minerals are being provided to your dog. Try not to use store brand dog food they may short change your dog on much needed nutrition.Studies have shown that the primary ingredient in dog food should be meat-based protein, not corn meal, flour or corn gluten meal. According to reviews a better quality dog food results in a healthier coat, fewer digestive problems and firmer stools. Pet-nutrition experts agree that the best dog food is made from human-grade ingredients like meat, whole grains and vegetables. Premium dog food is so important because good nutrition is essential for a long, healthy life.Types of dog foodThere are many varieties of dog food to choose from. The three most popular types of dog foods are dry, semi-moist and canned products. Check the color of your dog food. Usually dog food made from natural ingredients will have soft earth tones and contain no preservatives, artificial colors and flavors.Raw dog food is becoming more popular. More and more veterinarians recommend feeding your dog with raw dog food. They feel that this is the best choice and is the healthiest food for your dog. After all, you've never seen your dog enjoy commercial dog food the way he enjoys a good meaty bone.Raw food advocates concede the diet costs more than traditional dog food, but they argue it's worth it. You may find that locating free natural home made dog food recipes is not easy. Try making a mixture of ground turkey, rice and carrot as your own dog food. Your dog will thank you for it.If you decide to go the commercial route, try and choose a good premium dog food since it contains more energy and protein than an economy brand. Unfortunately not all dog food brands contain high quality and natural ingredients, so always check the label. It is best if you seek advice from your veterinarian before deciding on which dog food to feed your dog or puppy. He will know your dog's dietary needs and you will find that veterinary offices and feed stores often carry excellent and natural dog food.All Natural Dog FoodMany natural dog foods contain only fresh, natural and wholesome ingredients for your dog. Not only are the protein ingredients digestible, but the carbohydrates in the dog food are digestible. Natural dog food has 100% nutritional value which is important for healthy strong dogs. Chicken, egg and fish are examples of protein that is provided in natural dog food. There are also ingredients in natural dog food that really help the health of your dog's skin and also your dog's coat. One of the main draw backs of natural dog food is that it has a shorter shelf life and may spoil before it is used.Dried Dog FoodA good high quality dry dog food will work out to be more economical than the generic brands even though they cost more per pound. A vast majority of dog owners go for dry dog food for its convenience and ease of storage. The cheaper dry dog foods are made from soybean, corn or rice, while many premium dry dog foods are made with all-natural, human-grade ingredients.Vegetarian dog foodsThere are dog foods specially formulated for dogs that are allergic to wheat, corn, and/or chicken. There are also vegetarian dog foods marketed to owners who do not want their dogs to consume meat products. Most vegetarian dog foods use soy as a protein source. If your dog has allergies consult your vet before putting him on a specialized diet.ConclusionOverall it's usually best to let dogs enjoy dog food and not our food, even though they may prefer what we're eating! Of course you can feed your dog treats from time to time, every dog needs some TLC from time to time!For More information please visit My Puppy Academy

Make Dog Training A Lot More Fun With Games

2011-11-03T02:44:00.000-07:00

What is the Secret to Dog Training? Domesticated dogs have been known as "man's greatest friend" for years and years. Just before a dog reaches maturity, an active puppyhood need to be dealt with. Dog training is essential it forms the basis of all future learning. Initial lessons contain learning to come when called, understanding the sit command, and dropping items on command. Potty training a puppy is also a challenge that requirements to be dealt with patiently and consistently.

Although dog training courses and dog obedience schools may be ideal for some dog owners, they are not for everyone. Dog training classes are usually only obtainable in huge cities or community colleges putting them out of the reach of millions of dog owners not residing in a key metropolitan location. Dog training classes also tend to be expensive an extra expense numerous of us cannot justify in today's tough economic climate.

There are, nevertheless, simpler alternatives for those searching to train their dogs in the comfort of their own houses. An straightforward, inexpensive and efficient way of training your pet at home is by utilizing dog obedience games. Dog obedience games have been shown to be extremely successful in resolving numerous dog behavioral issues, and best of all it does so with out having to punish the dog or making use of difficult leash or collar strategies.

Home training a puppy is one thing that is done by the pet owner at home. Ideas may possibly be learned by attending dog training school in regards to this matter yet repetition coupled with a reward program is usually the most productive approach. Dog obedience training is every bit as a lot of a learning procedure for the human owner as it is for the canine companion. Appropriate dog training is imperative for a positive relationship in between owner and dog to survive the ups and downs of daily life.

Although many are skeptical at very first, it should be pointed out that children and infants learn best via the use of understanding games many parents have first-hand experience of this. If you dog is pulling too frequently then you will also want to know the really specific techniques in which you can get your dog to quit pulling on the leash and walk in unison with you. Also, if you've ever skilled your dog dodging their collar, it can be quite an obnoxious factor. There are extremely detailed instructions available on how to get your dog to stop pulling out of its collar.

Have you ever attended a dog training class with your pet? If you have you'll see that the endless repetition training of 'sit', 'stay', and 'come' is draining both you and your dog. Whilst training your dogs via such repetition strategies can be successful, they can get exceedingly dull for all involved. A bored dog will not stick around, it will run off to discover some thing more fascinating to do than listen to you blather on about staying and fetching. When you use dog obedience games as an alternative form of dog training you will notice that the animal is much more engaged and actually interested in what you are trying to teach it. What's much more, you your self will be having enjoyable!

There are many dog training methods out there. Integrating fun doggy games with teaching techniques can be an effective way to train your pet. Not only is your dog a lot more engaged, you get to invest top quality time with it as you teach it new commands and habits. Check the nearby library or bookstore for books with a lot more details on dog obedience training games. You can even check pet owner forums online to learn about the games and techniques employed by other dog owners.

Numerous trainers these days are using visual and audio aids to assist them train the dogs brought to them, and one of the most popular today is dog clicker training. This clicker is created to make a small abrupt click when pressed, and the dog will learn that it is with this cue that they are to do as requested by the trainer.

Learning How To Train A Puppy - Part 3 - Puppy Crate Training Continued

2011-10-29T06:02:00.001-07:00

Continuing the Crate training process. Ok we have established how big the crate should be, where to place the crate and the cue words you should use to send your dog to his crate.Â Now lets go more in-depth into the crate training process and eliminate any common problems. Step 1 Start gradually, don't just throw your puppy/dog into his new crate. This will make him fear the crate and avoid using it. A good tip is to leave the crate door open and leave some puppy/dog treats (his favorite treats) inside the crate. Wait for him to go in and praise him loads - but don't shut the door after him yet as he is not quite ready - he is just starting to get the feel and smell of it. When you get his meal ready - make sure that you put the bowl of food inside the crate and shut the door with your puppy/dog OUTSIDE... At this point your puppy/dog will be getting excited for his meal - wait for the anticipation to grow... Continue waiting for the anticipation to really grow and then use the CUE words that we chose in Part 2 e.g "go to kennel" or whatever cue word you chose and then open the crate for him so that he can eat his food WITHOUTshutting the door YET Step 2 Your dog should now be going into his crate on request, however if he is still hesitant then continue step 1 until he is ready. There is no point pushing him too fast as it will only undo all the hard work you have both put in. Keep using the reward based methods. Hold a dog treat in your hand and show it to your puppy/dog. Use this to lure him into the crate and when he enters reward with the treat and lots and lots of praise. Repeat this method a few times a day. If he is not following the lure into the crate continue step 1. When your puppy/dog has started happily going into the crate every-time - start shutting the door for few minutes and then let him out - DO NOT let him out if he starts barking and whining - this will teach him that bad behavior works. Only let him out when he is behaving. Gradually increase the amount of time that he stays in the crate - start with a few minutes, then progress to half an hour and then to an hour. Give him plenty of breaks during the crate training process. Increase the times that he spends in the crate but vary the routine. You don't want your puppy/dog to only associate the crate with you leaving the House otherwise this will reinforce that the crate is a negative experience. Step 3 Your puppy/dog should now be happily going into his crate on your cue command - if he is still not going in to the crate on your command then repeat step 2. Ok so now he should be going into the crate readily and happily - but now you want to stop using a biscuit or a treat as a lure. This is how you do it... Use the cue word - "go to crate" or whatever you have chosen and point to the crate as if you have some treats in your hand - remember your dog is quite aware there is nothing in your hand because their sense of smell is so powerful - You are not fooling your dog but dogs associate hand signals and verbal commands together - consequently you are only repeating the movement that you have always used. Dogs always learn the art of body language faster than they learn vocal language. When he has gone into his crate give him lots of praise and a treat. This is teaching your dog that you won't always have a treat on you but he should still follow your commands as he will be rewarded.

Dog Traning and Puppy Traning; Find out how

2011-09-14T01:39:00.001-07:00

Training a puppy is not something everyone can do. It takes a lot of patience, a lot of work and a lot of understanding. Done right and you have a dog that will listen to every command and always do as they ask, done wrong and you could have a holy terror on your hands.Often, people will go with high-end dog training companies who think more about the profit and less about the dog. This is not a good solution for any dog owner, and when they want a company that takes the dogs to heart and shows you how to train them, then you need to check out Doggy Do Right.Doggy Do Right is a dedicated team of professionals who offer solutions on how to complete puppy training in a way that benefits both the dog owner and the dog. Through them, you will be able to learn how to train your puppy to go outside to pee, you will be able to teach them how to sit and stay and remain quiet when someone is at the door.Dog training is key when you live in an apartment. You need to be sure your dog will behave and do as they are told when they are around noise on a regular basis. No one wants to lose their dog because they are noisy or won't listen, and that is where Doggy Do Right comes in. They will provide you with all the information you need to train your dogs properly, through time-honored puppy training techniques.Through their online store, you will be able to order all the information you need to train your puppy, including a puppy training kit that gives you step-by-step instructions on how to train your dog.When you go to Doggy Do Right, you are going to experts who put the dog first and understand that they are not a possession in your house, but a valued family member that is loved by everyone in the house or apartment. They know you want only the best for them, and they will help you train them to become upstanding dogs that will serve as shining examples to other dogs and their owners.Dog training does not have to be a four-letter word, it can be an excellent bonding experience between you and your dog with help from Doggy Do Right.Dog Training Toolkit Free Dog Gifts

A Couple Of Facts You Should Know About Dog Traning

2011-08-29T14:34:00.000-07:00

Known as man's best friend, Dogs are the most loved domesticated animals in the world. Having a dog or puppy in a family is quite exciting for that family. But just having a dog or a puppy is not all. One should also pay attention to training his/her dog properly so that he can become an obedient and accepting part of the family. Dog training is not a simple job; it demands certain skills and approaches in order to make it useful, which can be learned in course of training. It is believed to be a good idea to train your dog yourself, though you can appoint or hire an expert or specialized dog trainer to look after the job. But both the ways have their respective merits and demerits. Though you might commit mistakes and there could be instability in your approach it is always helpful to train your dog yourself as it gives you a better chance of establishing that significant contact or communication between you and your dog. You will gradually understand how your dog is reacting to any particular situation or what cause them to do a specific action - like barking. On the contrary, appointing a skilled person gives you immediate results but does not allow you to experience the "trial and error" method possible when training personally, which can be useful at some point of time.






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Some will ask you to go for a blend of the two - train yourself, but also join a professional dog training class. This helps you to attend several things, its like eating your cake, and still keeping it. It also cuts down your expenses, needed in the case of professional trainer and still providing with the professional direction for the training. At the same time it also allows you to establish that special bond, which is possible when you train your dog by yourself. Always keep in mind that patience; environment, and rewards are very important factors, irrespective of how you chose to train your dog. These factors affect a lot and give you total success if properly maintained. While training you need patience, keeping in mind the fact that you are going to communicate with someone who does not speak your language or follow your way of using any communicative methods. If you see that your hard work is not yielding any satisfactory results or that you are not being able to proceed with it just do not give up. It will take some time to make your dog bark or sit by simply uttering or calling out some words to him as it is not a language which is natural or previously known to him. You have to go for many repetitions and must praise him, whenever he does something correctly, to get results. Environment also plays an important part in dog training as dogs are very much influenced by their environment. It is better to do the training session in a quiet place with fewer disturbances, as any disturbance at the time of training can easily distract their attention. On the other hand you can select a noisier place for advanced training, but only after he is trained in basic obedience. Dogs, being man's good friend, always try to please their owners and keep them contented. So in order to get a profitable result you must let know your dog when you are happy with him and reward him with cuddles or any treat after he performs anything, the way you wanted. This will give your dog an impression that you are happy with him and he will try to hold up this act of his in future. So, dog training can be equally challenging and easy, if you follow the instructions provided to you here.

dog traning

2011-08-27T16:37:00.001-07:00

Dog Obedience Training==================================Make the pups know who's in chargeDo you wish there was a way of teaching them not to do those things? Travelling on your whim sometimes, do you wish there were a language exclusively for you and your pup so that he can fully understand your complains?. Hunting the right houndThis is the list of dog Herding Breeds according to The American Kennel Club:Australian Cattle Dog, Australian Shepherd, Bearded Collie, Beauceron, Belgian Malinois, Belgian Sheepdog, Belgian Tervuren, Border Collie, Bouvier des Flandres Briard, Canaan Dog, Cardigan Welsh Corgi, Collie, German Shepherd Dog, Old, English Sheepdog, Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Polish Lowland Sheepdog, Puli, Shetland Sheepdog, Swedish Vallhund. Unfortunately, these are the dogs you're likely to find at the local shelter or dog pound, often the result of accidental breeding between two un-sterilized dogs. If you can't decide between a shepherd, a setter or a poodle, get them all adopt a mutt. Go-getting is the word most often used to describe terriers. Reliable, brawny and harnessing first-rate stamina, they make great companions for adults and children alike. Some breeds were even bred to finish the job themselves. Mixed breeds, random breeds, mongrels, mutts or curs - call them what you will, they make up the majority of the worldwide dog population. Non-sporting dog breeds. Children and dogs make potentially blissful partners, but choosing a dog that actually likes to play with children is your best bet in orchestrating a match made in heaven. Both routinely in the top five breeds, the Labrador retriever and the golden retriever together account for nearly one-quarter of the more than 1 million dogs registered with the AKC every year. Some of the oldest breeds of domestic dogs are the speedy sight hounds. Like anything else in this world, dogs come in various sizes, colours, paws, tails, fur, teeth and others. Combining the taut muscles and compact power of the bulldog with the tenacity and aggressiveness of the terrier, some controversial bull terrier breeds have been involved in some highly publicized biting incidents, several involving small children. Working Dog Breeds. A retired racer should be tested with small children or other pets, as some of these dogs make a habit of chasing them as they have chased mechanical rabbits in their earlier career. The Anatomy of a CanineConsider its body parts too Consider the most noticeable dog feature first- the hair. You probably would like to know why these canine chums want to stick out their tongue always. Typically, they sport solid grey, brown or black coats, composed of light to dark colour-banded hairs, called agouti, like grey wolves. The bloodhound can follow a four-day-old track using its highly developed sense of smell. But among domestic dogs, selective breeding has produced a number of different ear types, each with its own names, courtesy of dog breeders, fanciers and kennel clubs. Rose Ears. Even the size of a canid's ears plays a part in temperature control. Ears are third-quarters tipped over facing forward. Most hound dogs feature hanging or pendant ears, while many terriers have semi-erect button ears in which the tips fold over and hang in a V-shape, partially covering the opening. Long Hair. The wire-haired coat of the dachshund features a higher quantity and density of the harsh primary hairs in a dog's coat. Why the help?You would have a well trained obedient dog that obeys you. You also don't need to have a past knowledge of dog training. This program is designed for you to save all your resources and have efficient results immediately. Over 10 Fun Tricks for Your Dog - Learn over 10 tricks both you and your dog will love.

Dog Food Tips - How to Get Your Dog to Eat Food That is Good For Him

2011-08-14T04:55:00.001-07:00

Many dogs are very choosy about the kind of dog food they will eat. Are you having trouble finding a food that the dogs likes? This is a common problem if you ask your vet. Top quality dog foods are usually easier to get them to eat. Better nutrition and tastier is the key to your dogs eating habits. Popular dog food brands have been tested and proven to be loved by dogs. Your veterinarian is always your first choice when it comes to what you feed you dog.
You want something the dog will like and is also healthy. We all know they would much rather eat what we eat but it is not good for them and can lead to a fat dog very quickly.
If you choose a dog food that is available in a variety of types, you will find a food he will eat and then make sure and buy the same kind. Dogs don't like drastic changes in the pet food they eat every day.
A mix of flavors and ingredients are available for dog foods today. Chicken, turkey, fish and lamb are the most common. And you have dry dog food and canned wet dog food. Dry dog food is the preferred type because of cost and ease of feeding. Many vets suggest feeding once a day unless you have a large breed.
Large breeds should probably have a bowl out all day of dry food to keep them happy and make sure they eat enough. Measure how much you feed them every day so you can adjust it if needed. Watch them for weight gain or loss.
You can't go by when they are hungry, dogs will almost always eat!
Testing different brands is the best way to see what your dog loves. And then try to stick to that. It makes it easier on the dogs digestion if they have a usual steady type of food.
Your vet might suggest dry food available during the day and a nightly meal of wet food.
Dogs will get tired of the same food day after day just like people would. You might notice your dog starts ignoring his food. Don't keep trying to force him to eat it. Switch things up with another flavor or texture of the same brand. Also don't be afraid to give your dog special treats on occasion. Just keep an eye out for weight gain.
You can get bones at the butcher shop or pig ears plus there are tons of treats at the pet shop. You can even toss them a scrap from the table every so often to keep your dog happy.
The whole point is to have a happy dog and a healthy dog.
If your dogs eating habits change drastically be sure to run him down to the vet for a check up. It may not be the food at all.
When feeding your dogs, keep them on a usual schedule it will really help their digestion.
If you get a new dog, try to find out what the dog currently eats to make it much easier to get him the best food and something he already is used to. Sometimes, you will have to buy samples of several different types and give them a try.
Dog food is an expense that comes with being a dog owner so make sure you are ready for this. You don't have to buy the most expensive brands, try the lower priced brands and see if your dog likes any of them.
There are plenty of websites online to find out more about dogfood. Go to one of the dog forums and people will tell you their favorites and what works best for you

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Homemade Dog Food - Factors You Need to Consider

2011-07-19T13:15:00.001-07:00

My dog is my pet as well as my friend and my protector. To some of us, they are our only family. Think about the divorcees, the childless, the unmarried or the aged. That is why our dogs deserve the best of care. They deserve that same care, protection and love we extend to our human acquaintances.
The type of nutrition we serve our them therefore demonstrates one of the best ways of showing our love to our dogs. Most of the dog foods being sold in the supermarkets and shops today are really not what their manufacturers claimed they were. Most are complete rip-offs. For example, if they claim the food contains whole meat, check properly. Chances are that the canned dog food contains 35% meat and 75% water. Endeavor to always check the label of any dog food properly before purchase. For this reason, making your own dog food is the best if you could afford to do so. It is not everyone that has the time or the financial capability to do so. You understand your dog best. You know the likes and the dislikes in terms of nutrition and food types. You know what ailment or diseases it is suffering from. You are the one who knows your dog's age. Above all, you know what kind of nutrients and supplements will enhance its growth.
All these should therefore be taken into consideration when preparing your homemade dog food. However, it is advisable to consult your vet along the way. Try to mix raw foods with processed foods for the food. This way, you will know what food type the dog loves best. It is a known fact that dogs are carnivores. So give them enough meet or chicken to eat to boost their protein intake. Mix protein, carbohydrate and fats in the right quantity for your dog. Note however that too much protein is harmful for the older dogs. Too much red meat has been found out to be one of the causes of arthritis in older dogs. Therefore, you need to cut down considerably the amount of red meat you feed older dogs. As for your puppies and younger dogs read meat and other forms of protein are highly recommended.
Endeavor to feed your dogs with lots of food supplements. Just like human beings, they require it for their growth. Give your dog food supplements like glucosamine which prevents dogs from having joint pains and movement troubles is recommended. So also are calcium, phosphorous and vitamin B2 when mixed with glucosamine makes your dog more healthy and enhance growth.
Want to ensure Wellness in Your Dog Always, visit: http://www.dogfoodsyard.com/ and http://dogfoodsecrets.blogspot.com/

Are You Dogfooding

2011-07-17T06:20:00.001-07:00

The Bracelet
Last week my daughter came home from her job as a checker at a grocery store. She sat down and pulled a wad of money out of her pocket. I asked her where that came from. She said she had been getting a lot of compliments on a leather bracelet she wears sometimes and a lot of people wanted to know where to get one.
My daughter talked to the boy who made it for her and told him he should wear one because people would buy them from him. He really liked the idea of selling them since he enjoyed making them, but he didn't really want to wear them. My daughter and the boy figured out a good price and my daughter told him she would sell them for him.
The next day she wore the bracelet to work and sold 20 of them! She didn't "sell" any of them, she simply wore it. When people asked her where to buy one, she said she could sell them one.
The Router
A few years ago we were designing a network router for businesses. We had targeted small businesses of between one and fifty employees. The basic assumptions were that there would not be anyone knowledgeable about computer networks at these businesses. We made everything except plugging in the cables automatic. So we provided a big, colored diagram to show where to plug in the cables. We tested it many times in the office to make sure there were no problems.
We were happy with the test results and ready to ship the first order of 10,000 units. As a last minute gesture I said I would take one home and plug it in. It didn't work. What went wrong? I was up all night trying to figure out why it didn't work. The next morning I took all of my findings to our key engineer and explained to him that it didn't work. He looked at me puzzled and said they had tested it and there were no problems, but he would take a look at it.
About an hour later he sheepishly came in my office to tell me what was wrong. They had forgotten to put in a simple command. They never saw the problem in our labs because our network didn't require this, but most all other networks would require it. We fixed the problem and got our 10,000 unit shipment out later that day.
Dogfooding
Are you dogfooding? Whether you are making bracelets or complex routers, you need to use your own products, or dogfooding. I originally heard this stated as "eat our own dog food." Due to the negative nature of this, some now say "drink our own Koolaid" or "drink our own Champaign". One Microsoft executive calls it "IceCreaming."
No matter what you want to call it, the benefits of dogfooding are huge. These were just two examples involving a sales and a quality benefit. The benefits scale sales, marketing, engineering, quality assurance, public relations, and more. If you are not dogfooding now, I suggest you start today.
For more blogs by Dano Ybarra please visit http://www.mymark.com/blog/danoybarra

15 Ways to Become a Better Domainer

2011-07-16T11:29:00.001-07:00

The competition in the domain industry is steadily increasing as more and more people are becoming aware of it's global impact in today's financial marketplace. Professional investors and huge corporations are staking their claim of this internet real estate and have turned this once primitive name exchange into a booming multi-billion dollar industry.

Today's domainers are needing take their domain investing to another level in order to have continued success and profitability. Below are 15 Ways To Become A Better Domainer.

Utilize the forums

As I've said in previous posts, the importance of domaining forums in the domain industry are vital and serve as a great resource for beginners and professional domainers alike. Whether you are looking for some honest appraisal opinions or asking questions that only another domainer would know the answer to, the domain forums are there to assist. 24 hours a day, 365 days a week, this constant stream of domain information has shaped many beginner domainers into today's greatest professional domainers. If you're not a member of a domain forum you should greatly consider joining one today.

Are you a domainer or a domain developer?

Are you buying domains for quick profit sales? Are you buying domains for the long-term traffic revenue? Are you buying domains to develop and birth new traffic? Whether you choose to do one or all three, you must come to terms and clarify a solid game plan when it comes to your domain investments. It's reasonably okay to have a few domains being developed but your overall strategy needs to take shape and be narrowed down to a specific objective. Developing a domain name takes time, effort and more time, but the possible payoffs are always huge. Buying domain names in bulk for quick sales is also profitable but relies more on a constant sales initiative to be successful. Either way, you need a tactical approach on how you want to market your domains.

Dissect your portfolio

I once spoke to a guy who boasted a domain portfolio of over 3000 names. After hearing how he was considering selling a few of his "best" domains, I offered to peruse the list and maybe assist with finding some end users that might be potential buyers. He agreed and the next day he sent me a list of about 1000 of his best domains that he was willing to sell. To my surprise over 90% of them were, in my humble opinion, not worth much more than the reg fee. I contacted him back and explained that I was only to find about 75-100 names that could possibly be decent sales. He was stunned. He declined and stated that my appraisal was not correct and thanked me for my time. 3 days laters, I received an email from the exact same guy asking for assistance in selling the 75-100 domain names I previously found in his list. Seems that during those 3 days, he spoke to a few other domainers and received the same appraisal and evaluation of his so called "best" domains. This guy thought since his domains contained popular words like gamble, casino, sex and technology that it automatically made his domains super valuable. What he didn't consider was the multiple hyphens and terrible combinations of typos and keywords. Don't be the domainer with a huge list of terrible domains just to brag about how large your portfolio is. Trim your "extra" domains and streamline by selling or trading and use the profit for investing in quality names that are earmarked for immediate revenue or immediate development. Be proud of the overall quality of your portfolio and not just the number of domains it contains.

Know your rep

I amazed on how many people I encounter that in the domain industry that have no idea who their representatives are for such companies as Sedo, Moniker, Go Daddy and other big domain powerhouses. The representatives of such companies exist to assist their members who utilize their services and are hands-down the quickest and easiest way to get something resolved if you feel a mistake has been made. If you have domains either parked or offered for sale with a domain company, I highly suggest sending a quick email to find out who your representative is and do you best to maintain a professional and courteous relationship with them. It's easier to ask assistance from someone whom you know and knows you than it is to ask a complete stranger. And don't forget to vote for your favorite domain rep at next years Domainers Choice Awards.

Stay clear of Trademark Infringements

This should be a no-brainer. Time and time again I see domainers struggle with the headaches caused by trademark infringements and bad faith domain registrations. Not only do most of the trademark claims filed at the WIPO result in the domain being transferred to the appropriate party, but it also indicates that your choice in domains is questionable and therefore proving that you are still purchasing non-quality domain names. Domains that infringe on trademarks are not quality. Ask any lawyer. Save your registration fee and steer clear of legal woes.

Auto-renew

Now that your portfolio is streamlined and contains only select domain names, you definitely don't want to lose or let any of them drop and take a chance of someone else buying you lovely internet real estate. Do yourself a favor and set your domains for auto-renew at your domain register where purchased. It's a terrible feeling to have someone else scoop up one of your prize domains just because you didn't or couldn't find the time to renew the registration. Visit this great article by the Daily Domainer that explains the life-cycle of a domain name and don't let accidental "drops" happen to you.

Limit the hand regs

Hand regs or hand registrations are domains that are purchased from a publicly available source at a regular registration fee and are either brand new (never been purchased) or have expired and no longer owned by the previous owner. Go Daddy is a domain registrar that is popular with domainers and consistently used for hand regs. The possibility of stumbling along a unregistered domain is always there and the opportunity for someone to register a new domain name that never existed and create value to it is also conceivable, but in essence, most domain names that are hand regged are simply non-researched, impulse purchases that pad a domain portfolio with non-value names. Distinguish yourself as a profitable domainer and limit the amount of hand regs you add to your portfolio. One good way is to wait 24 hours before registering a hand reg domain and then re-evaluating before buying. You may lose a registration every so often but in the long run you will save on unnecessary registration fees and useless domain name ownership.

Stay current with news and sales

To be successful is to be informed. The pulse of the domain industry is constantly evolving and therefore it is beneficial to a domainer to know exactly what is the next potential opportunity or trend being created within our industry. If you buy domain names, you are an investor. If you are an investor, you need to stay current with the news of your investments and other people's investments. You can do this by monitoring the recent domain sales and news offered by many websites that are specifically geared towards todays domainers. One of my favorite websites is Ron Jackson's DNJournal. You can find great articles, news and the popular Year To Date domain sales. You need to know what domains are selling, which domains are being bought and how much they are being bought for. Invest time in your investments and reap the rewards. Predicting the next big trend is priceless.

Blog around

Domaining blogs are sprouting up everywhere with domainers eager to share their experiences, setbacks, lessons learned and tips with anyone who wants to listen. We all need to take advantage of this free and useful information by visiting various domain blogs and getting another person's perspective on our industry. And don't forget to subscribe to their RSS feeds, if it is offered, and have all this new information sent directly to you to read at your convenience... for free. Subscribe to this blog here.

Diversify with other TLD extensions

While some domainers swear that .com is the only extension worth being bought, there are others, like me, who think it's absolutely insane to dismiss all other TLD's and only buy one flavor of domain name. The popularity of .TV and .Mobi and the ongoing success of ccTLD's has risen and is playing a prominent part in today's domain marketplace. Generic domains in any of these extensions are being recognized as a highly sought after commodity with no signs of slowing. Familiarize yourself with other TLD's beside .com, .net and .org and evaluate your domain purchases on a global niche scale the next time you go to buy a domain.

Consider fractional domain ownership

Fractional domain ownership is simply a group of people that own a domain name and share in it's profits, development and use. There is not one sole owner because it is owned by the entire group. Owning a portion of a high value domain is a great way for a newcomer to the domain industry to begin and understand the ins and outs of professional domaining and share in the profit growth associated with that certain domain. It also allows "regular" domainers to group funds together and own a very premier domain name without one person having to pay the entire purchase price. Look for this trend to boom in 2008.

Optimize your parked pages

Once you buy a domain name, it is up to you whether your domain will contain a fully-functional website that you can customize/adsense or whether you will "park" your domain and allow targeted content to automatically be placed and monetized per visitor. If you choose to park your domains, it's imperative that you understand how domain parking works and how it can be optimized to bring better results. Sedo is a popular place for domain parking and allows users to see detailed stats and account information for each domain parked on the Sedo network. Revenue is shared with Sedo each time someone clicks on content on one of your parked pages and relies on consistent traffic to be a steady stream of income. Brush up on your domain parking information here.

Update your WHOIS information

The WHOIS database is sort of like a directory of purchased domain names that contains the owner's contact information, purchase date and expiration of a certain domain. One use of this information is being able to contact a domain owner and inquire about purchasing the domain. Without the correct information in the WHOis database, a potential buyer may not be able to contact the current owner and allow an offer to be placed. Contact your domain registrars and make sure your WHOis information is current and correct. If you opt not to be contacted by potential buyers, you may consider using a service that purchases domains for it's clients and keeps their information private. There is also an option to pay an additional fee at some domain registrars for private domain registration.

Contact more end users

So you have a great domain name that is considered gold in a certain industry. Great job. Now, if you have decided not to develop it and simply want to profit from a sale, I highly suggest contacting an end user. What's and end user? An end user is someone who would use the domain name specifically for creating brand recognition in a certain industry. Here's an example: Adam owns organicdogfood.com and Bob owns an organic dog food company in Texas but uses the domain BobsSuperGoodOrganicDogFood.com. Adam contacts Bob and offers a shorter, brandable and easier to remember domain name that can increase Bob's exposure on the internet for people searching for organic dogfood. Adam has just contacted a possible end user. A domain name can usually be sold to an end user for more since it is valued more by the actual user of the domain instead of a regular domain buyer.

Change your views on the domain industry

Are there still opportunities to be successful in today's domain industry? Yes.

Is there still time to take advantage of the booming domain sales? Yes.

Is it still possible for a domain newbie to come in and thrive even with a small initial investment. Yes.

Boxer Dogs - Your Strong And Energetic Companion

2011-07-11T02:49:00.001-07:00

Boxer dogs are an ideal addition to any family or individual. They are incredibly energetic and sociable creatures and are perfect for those who lead an active lifestyle. As a breed Boxers are inquisitive and devoted to their owners so if you are looking for a loyal companion, these dogs are perfect match. Their loyal characteristics make them excellent watch dogs and protectors.Even though these dogs are extremely lovable and loyal, they also require a fair amount of training. They are notoriously stubborn especially when it comes to training so be prepared to very patient. It is important to understand that boxers require a lot of exercise and without it may become bored and destructive. Therefore, it is essential to make sure that a Boxer dog is right for you and your family and that you will be able to look after it properly before making a decision. This is only fair for both you and the animal.The Boxer breed has been around since the 19th century and is thought to have been developed in Germany. Boxers are thought to have descended from a warrior breed of old fighting dogs known as Assyrian Molossian. This dog was notoriously strong and fearless and was often used in battles.The breed was very popular in Germany in the early stages of development and was known as the Bullenbeisser. The dog was mainly used to hunt and pin down a bull, bear or boar due to its strength and powerful build. The Boxer dog of today is still celebrated for its powerful build and the name "Boxer" was given to the dog as it was known to paw at the ground when playing.As well as being extremely strong and energetic, Boxers are also a humorous and intelligent breed who just loves to play. They like to be involved in whatever their owner is doing so be prepared to have a constant companion when you choose a boxer. Don't let the breed's fighting background put you off, even though Boxers are known for their strong build in actual fact they act just like energetic puppies! This means you need to be prepared to bring home a pet that will jump up on people, will play with other dogs and can chew through just about anything if bored! In order to counteract the destruction, it is important to provide your Boxer dog with full obedience training from an early age if possible, and stick with it. Also provide your dog with plenty of dog chews and dog toys to keep your pet entertained and away from chewing the sofa.Boxers are really sociable so if you have other pets in the home already it shouldn't be a problem. They are also great with children, but be warned they can get quite boisterous in play and may knock a small child over so always supervise play. These dogs can be quite distrusting of strangers and it is this that makes them excellent guard dogs, they are also very protective of their owners.It is important to keep your boxer entertained as much as possible as they can be quite destructive if left alone. Make sure you are taking them for plenty of walks on a regular basis and if possible, spend a lot of time with them as they are prone to separation anxiety. If you don't have lots of spare time to spend with your Boxer then may need to reconsider your choice. Boxer dogs tend not to make great first time pets as they do require a lot of attention and training. That being said, if you do have the time to devote to your pet you will be rewarded with plenty of affection and companionship. Remember that while Boxers are a handful, the rewards they will provide you with are priceless!

Breed of the Month - The Australian Cattle Dog

2011-07-04T06:50:00.001-07:00

The Australian Cattle Dog, or Blue Heeler, is also known as the Australian Heeler, Hall's Heeler, Queensland Heeler, or Red Heeler. The term "heeler" refers to the breed's instinct to snap and bite at the heels of the animals they are herding. They have alert and happy facial expressions, pointed ears, and although they appear small, they are muscular and agile. They come in a mixture of colors--mostly blue with tan and black, or mostly red speckled.They were bred as a combination of Scottish collies and Australian dingoes and blended with some Australian Kelpie, Dalmatian, and Bull Terrier to be an extremely hardy breed that can withstand long hours and harsh weather conditions with ease. ACD's are more 'work-minded' than other herding breeds and as a rule, are not as good as pets because of the aggressive characteristics specifically bred into them. But, as with every breed, there are often exceptions to the rule.Here's the breakdown:Temperament 2 out of 5The Australian Cattle Dog is an excellent companion and is always awaiting the next command from its master. But ACD's need a lot of exercise or they will become highly destructive. About two hours a day is ideal. They need to be with their pack (that means you!) most of the day or else they develop behavioral problems. These can include severe aggression, depression, or anxiety. This is not a breed to leave at home for hours on end, nor tied up in the back yard. If an ACD must be left alone, they will do best with one or two other dogs for companionship. They are bred to be highly sensitive guard dogs, so as a rule they do not like strangers coming onto their property. ACD's should be socialized regularly if you want them to be friendly toward other animals and guests. ACD's do not distinguish a difference between wild animals or your small pets, so they are not recommended around cats, rabbits, mice, or smaller dogs. Most of the time, a well-socialized ACD will do well with children, but they are not recommended. They often herd children, so keep an eye on them--you don't want them to snap at your child's heels. Even a highly socialized dog can be aggressive, depending on the child it interacts with.Training 5 out of 5ACD's have what I like to call, "extreme intelligence." Like Border Collies, they can be trained to do just about anything. The downside of a highly sophisticated breed, though, is that they become bored easily so you always need to have a job for them. The sky is the limit on what you can teach them. ACD's can be very independent and stubborn due to their intelligence, so firm training is a must. This breed responds well to consistent training and discipline, although they catch on quick and hate to disappoint their masters.Grooming 4 out of 5The ACD's short coat is weather resistant but they are average shedders so brush often with a firm bristle. You only need to bathe when necessary. They never need shaving or haircuts--their coat has been developed to endure all kinds of weather. Never dock their tail--they need it for work! Even the AKC recognizes a full tail, so there's never a need to dock.Overall Score 3.5 out of 5ACD's weigh about 30-55 pounds and live about 12 to 15 years. They do best on the farm with animals to herd, but if you don't raise cattle or sheep, a large yard will do, along with plenty of exercise. ACD's are great candidates for competitions such as agility trials, flyball, frisbee, and of course, herding. I recommend ACD's for owners who wish to work with their dog, compete with them, or give them a job on the farm. They are not suited for suburban or city life. They tend to be very vocal so its best not to have neighbors too close by. If you're buying your ACD puppy from a breeder, consider purchasing two or three from the same litter. They'll be happier pets in the long run having their brothers and sisters with them. Adopting an ACD is tricky if you have existing pets, so make sure you talk with the organization you're adopting from--they'll know if that particular ACD would do well with other animals.

Five Methods On How To Train Boxer Dogs To Become Your Best Friend

2011-07-03T14:56:00.001-07:00

One of the greatest fulfillment a Boxer owner can have is for their dogs to develop into well-rounded ones. Boxers are breeds that are clever, thus making it less cumbersome to train Boxer dogs, despite the possibility of being aggressive.It takes a handful of knowledge and patience to train Boxer dogs. Turning them into your loyal best friends does not happen in just one day. Nevertheless, before you consider Boxer training, make sure that you know the dog's background and plan ahead of time on what particular methods you are going to utilize.Five Methods to Train Boxer Dogs:Boxer Crate TrainingWhen you want to train Boxer dogs, consider potty training at the earliest time possible. Boxer crate training is one of the moost important things you should teach your puppy as soon as he arrives in your home. Provide a tidy crate for him and train him how to do his business outside so that he will not be messing around your house. In potty training, just like when training a child, take note of your pup's elimination schedule. See to it that he goes to his bathroom at the same time everyday. Soon, he will get the hang of it and will free you from the stress of cleaning up his mess. Become the master dog!Dogs are naturally pack oriented. In the wild, they have their male leader, the Alpha dog, to follow. If you long to efficiently train Boxer dogs, make him recognize that you are his boss. Do not tolerate his negative actions such as Boxer biting and Boxer jumping on others. If he does one of these, say "No" firmly.You should be the one to identify the food that he eats, his elimination area, his sleeping spot, etc. Take control over him and avoid opportunities for him to overcome your power. If you take him for an afternoon walk along the shore, see to it that he does not walk in front of you. If it happens, he might assume that he is your master and would make it harder for you to teach him in the long run.Boxer Leash TrainingIs your dog pulling his leash while you take him for a walk? Then, begin Boxer leash training now. This method will train Boxer dogs how to get used to choke chains. Making use of collars can be a source of Boxer's protection, as well as to human beings, from any harm or injury.There may be times that your canine gets annoyed with the leash and wants to get rid of it. In case he keeps tagging it while you are walking along with him, stop for a while and make him sit. He will then realize that you are unhappy with his behavior. As soon as he settles down, then continue to walk. Boxer Clicker TrainingBoxers, by nature, are playful and active. One way to repay them for their good manners is through rewards. Boxer clicker training sessions can be started as soon as your puppies come to life. In this method, breeders train Boxer dogs by introducing the click sound during their early days. This technique uses a small hand-held clicker and you should push a button to produce a clicking noise every time your Boxer does something good. Give him a bite sized treat afterwards. This click sound is constant and would make dogs associate it to a reward. Boxer Obedience TrainingDespite the Boxer's pleasing personalities, they may possess some Boxer aggression problems such as Boxer biting and growling, which could hinder the owners' goal to train Boxer dogs successfully. In case you are not able to handle this situation well, take your pup to a Boxer obedience training school. This allows him social opportunities with other canines and human beings.Obedience training sessions include teaching your dogs basic commands such as sit, stand, kneel and jump, thus stimulating his mind to think and respond.Boxer dogs can make good companions to the family. You would not want to waste your precious time with those costly methods on how to train Boxer dogs effectively. Therefore, the above tips should be carefully followed.

Beagle Dog Origins Revealed

2011-07-01T07:42:00.001-07:00

Researchers still have doubts about Beagle dog origins. Some say it can be traced back to the eleventh century and some say that they were there even before the Romans invaded England. What is known is that these are also known as the English Beagle and these dogs were used for hunting expeditions. These dogs have a strong smelling sense and that is why they were used to sniff the chase out. Mainly these were used for rabbit and fox hunting. This was more of a walking sport as the hunters used to walk and follow the trail of these dogs. Hence the game was called the poor person's fox hunting!Again the name Beagle may have been derived from either Gaelic or French words. This is still remains to be an unknown fact. However these are considered to be extremely friendly dogs. Beagle training can be done effortlessly provided one is attentive to them. Otherwise they have a tendency to be stubborn and disobedient.Anyways these dogs prefer going out for long walks and running a lot. In fact a good Beagle guide should take them out for exercise as they tend to gain weight. Putting on weight and obesity affects them adversely in many ways. It can cause joint and heart diseases, cancer and kidney failure at times. This breed is too much susceptible of these ailments more than any other canine species. This is why they need proper medical care besides deworming and vaccinations to keep these disorders at a bay.Apart from this what is known is that Beagle dogs have a connection to hounds. It is believed that their olden day ancestors that existed in the England did not look like the present ones. It is also said that this species has been around for nearly 2000 years now! It is an interesting piece of information that the origins of Beagles have been traced back to Ancient Greece. Some prominent texts from Greek literature have citations that actually sound like a Beagle. Rumor has it that William the conqueror had brought a white colored slow hound called Talbot. These were later cross bred with greyhounds make generate an active breed which is one of the ancestors of modern day Beagle.These started to be exported to the United States way back in the 1830's. Nevertheless it has to be added here that these were also not like Beagles that we see today. Several varieties of this breed were exported to different countries that made the breeding of dogs possible in different regions. If one needs to know more about Beagle dog origins than they can make use of the local libraries which may have various books on them. As an alternative one can browse the internet and get detailed information on this breed of dogs. The net is a great source of knowledge as it has all the updated information and one bank on that.Overall it can be mentioned that Beagle dogs can make great companions. They are a group of playful dogs who can happily become family friends in no time. If you think this breed is for you check out more beagle training tips.

Boxer Dog Obedience Training - 3 Easy Tips

2011-06-29T06:50:00.001-07:00

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.

Beagle Dog Breed Profile

2011-06-28T12:48:00.000-07:00

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.

Bernese Mountain Dog

2011-06-27T06:06:00.001-07:00

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.

Adopting A Dog - Points To Strongly Consider

2011-06-26T10:50:00.001-07:00

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.

3 Beagle Training Tips - Beagle Dog Training Done Right

2011-06-19T12:16:00.001-07:00

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.

All About the Basenji Dog Breed

2011-06-17T00:27:00.001-07:00

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.

Advice on How to Mentally Prepare for Rhinoplasty Surgery

2011-06-14T23:51:00.001-07:00

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.

Adopting A Dog - Finding That Perfect Dog

2011-06-13T05:51:00.001-07:00

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.

A Quick Intro To The Basenji Breed Of Dogs

2011-06-11T05:43:00.001-07:00

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

2011-06-11T05:42:00.003-07:00

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.

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A bizarre dog breed - The Besenji

2011-06-11T05:42:00.001-07:00

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

Adopting A Dog - Making The Right Choice Of Dog

2011-06-10T04:15:00.001-07:00

                    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.

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

2011-06-09T06:23:00.001-07:00

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.

All About Dog Beds

2011-06-08T07:04:00.001-07:00

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!

The 3 Things You MUST Consider Before Adopting A Dog

2011-06-07T05:53:00.001-07:00

Click this link to get a free 25 page dog training guide!
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!

When To Consider Not Adopting A Dog

2011-06-03T08:12:00.001-07:00

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.

So You Want To Adopt A Dog

2011-06-01T08:51:00.001-07:00

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.

Adopt a Dog for Free

2011-05-30T06:29:00.003-07:00

                    The number of orphaned pets throughout the world is continuing to escalate at a fast pace, and it is rapidly becoming an epidemic. The need for loving homes for these pets is greater than ever before, and the primary cause of the problem is owners who don't spay or neuter their pets. Some organizations are going so far as to reimburse the veterinary costs incurred by pet owners who do have their pet spayed or neutered.Some organizations run free dog adoption programs or clinics. These clinics entice people to come look at dogs who are in need of adoption. Assuming you find a dog you'd like at one of these clinics, you will need to complete an adoption application. You might need to pay for the dog's vaccinations and spaying or neutering, but these costs are typically under $200. In light of what a dog typically costs, this is a small price to pay. Some pet food and supply stores will give you a discount or enroll you in their reward program if you show them your dog's adoption papers. These stores are thanking you for adopting a homeless pet and are showing their support of your actions.These programs are commonly referred to as free dog adoptions, but in addition to the price for the dog there are other costs to take into account. Keep in mind that your new pet will need ongoing veterinary care, including vaccinations, along with food, a leash and a collar. You might even want to take your dog to training classes. However, if you're certain you'll be able to afford the necessary time and money a dog will require, check with animal shelters in your vicinity. Most shelters charge for the vet care their animals have had, but they don't charge for the pet itself. In addition to animal shelters, the classified ads in your local newspaper will probably have listings for free dog adoptions.When you're looking at a dog to possibly adopt, try to see how it has been treated. Make sure the kennel where it is kept is clean and food and water have been provided, because mistreated or neglected dogs might have behavioral problems. Also, do a little research and try to decide what type of dog you would like. Don't adopt a dog because you're unable to buy one. Instead, adopt a dog because you want to make it a member of your family.Basically, you'll need to decide what type of dog you might be interested in adopting and then look at that type's personality and temperament. After you do that, get in touch with your local dog rescue group or animal shelter and ask if they offer free dog adoptions. You should also inquire about the cost of their typical veterinary fees. Once armed with that information, it's time to look for the right dog, although you might need to go back more than once. After you do find the right dog you'll need to complete the application process, which might require an evaluation of your home. If this evaluation is necessary, someone from the organization will inspect your yard and home to make sure they are appropriate for a dog. After your application is approved, you will need to pay the applicable veterinary fees. Then, you'll be able to take your dog home.

Adopt a Dog, if You have Any Emotional Needs

2011-05-28T16:23:00.001-07:00

Emotions play a very important part in our lives. People who are alone and do not have anybody to relate to or share their feelings with, are the ones who especially need some kind of company that would help them get that emotional fulfilment. Down the ages dogs have proven to be man's best friend. People have used the services of dogs in every possible manner and in every possible domain. Right from guiding the cattle as well as the flock of sheep to the army on the battle-ground. Since the ancient and the mediaeval times right to the present times, the role of dogs as pets have evolved over the years. There is no other animal as loyal as a dog. Even if everyone leaves you, all your near and dear ones in the rough times, your dog will always be there standing by your side with that sensitive look in his eyes. But that is not the only purpose that a dog can serve. You can adopt a dog to play with your children. That dog can be the most trustworthy friend for your kids. You can adopt a dog to safeguard your home or your workplace. There are a myriad of purposes that can be solved if you adopt a dog. If you think that you have the patience as well as the temperament then you can also adopt puppies and rear them yourself. What is important is that you rear the adopted puppies in the right manner as well as give them the proper nutrition in their early stages so that they can grow up healthy as well as strong.Adopt a dog if you feel that you have the need as well as the desire to own a pet. It is really important that once you adopt a dog, you give him the best of care and love as possible. After all, it is the law of nature that what you give is what you get. There is no denial to the fact that your dog would give you the same love and affection through out your association with him, whereas something similar cannot be said about the other pets that you might have.

Should You Adopt A Dog

2011-05-26T08:47:00.001-07:00

At some point, any dog lover has probably considered the idea of adopting a dog or a puppy. For some people it's a way to get a pet for a reasonable price. For others it's the idea of being able to rescue a dog and giving him a good home.Of the many dogs that are available for adoption, most are mixed breed dogs. Only rarely will a pure bred dog be up for adoption. When it happens there is usually a special circumstance.If you've decided to look for a dog to share your heart and your home, adoption is a wonderful way to find that dog. A good place to start is you're the animal shelter and it's a good place to begin.If you are looking for a dog at the animal shelter, it will probably to easier to find an adult dog than a puppy. There are just fewer puppies brought to animal shelters. When you adopt a dog from an animal shelter, there won't be any health surprises. That's because they will have been checked out by a veterinarian.When you adopt a dog from a shelter you could be saving his life. There are a lot more animals available than can ever possibly be adopted out. Animals not adopted may face euthanasia.Puppies are easier to find by looking for lawn signs or in your local newspaper. You could also have friends keep an eye out for you. Contact a vet's office. Often their clients will post notices about dogs that are available for adoption.Realize that "free" puppies are really not free. Most free puppies won't have had all their shots, so a visit to the vet will be in order, to get all necessary shots as well as a checkup.Even though many people don't want to take on an adult dog, often these animals make the best pets. Not every adult dog that is available for adoption was turned over because of problems. In fact, if an owner's circumstances change, they may be forced into giving up their beloved pet.Before you do take on an adult dog, try to find out as much as possible about his past situation. If there is no information, you may want to be cautious. But if the past owner has had to move or can no longer care for their pet, you have probably found yourself a winner.If you are thinking about getting a dog, why not consider adoption? There are so many puppies and adult dogs looking for a warm caring family. And really, how can you leave him there when he looks at you so longingly?Choosing the right dog for your family is an important decision. Getting him a special bed is a great way to make him feel comfortable. With warmer weather fast approaching, a perfect bed for outdoor use is the coolaroo dog bed. Another great option for outside are washable dog beds

Precaution Should Be Taken Before Adopting A Dog

2011-05-25T15:41:00.000-07:00

There are now more then 300 different breeds of Dogs and these are classified according to their task. Many of us people had adopted Dogs and many are wanted to adopt. It’s good to adopt the Dog because they protect you but the question is you have any idea about their background, where he came from, how he reacts and how to understand him.If you want to know more information about types of Dog breeds, visit this link.In a country like India there are many stray Dogs, which are a common problem, adopting such Dogs is also a common practice. If want to adopt the Dog, then you have to be very careful about their background otherwise this it will create problem for you. Here are some questions which will help you in adoption of a Dog:1.You have to find the information about the Dog that he is a stray Dog or a shelter Dog so that you can understand him.2.Instead of a Dog you have to adopt a puppy and if you adopt the Dog then the age should be between 8 weeks to 15 years.3.Before Adopting A Dog check the medical and behavioral problem of Dog.4.You have to be always thoughtful about the Dogs problem like aggression, training and etc.5.If you are vegetarian then your Dog also have to be vegetarian and if you are non vegetarian then adopt according to it.If you take care of these points, you can keep your pet safe and healthy. It's exciting to have a Dog in your family. But there are certain precautions you should take when having a Dog. Now a days they are many sites which are providing facility of purchasing Dog, if you are confused then no worry. You can check out http://www.indianpetDogs.com and you can whole packed information about Dogs and you can also buy your favorite Dog.

How to Adopt a Dog; A Step-by-Step Guide

2011-05-24T06:50:00.000-07:00

So you've decided to bypass breeders and pet stores and Adopt a dog - go you! Some lucky pup out there is going to be thrilled, and the shelter or rescue you take your dog from might be able to accommodate one more pup thanks to your decision. So what's the next step? Fret not; we've got you covered:Step 1: Do Your Homework!Before you drop by the local rescue or shelter and fall in love with a dog that may outgrow the weight restrictions of your apartment building, invest some time researching breeds that will best fit your situation. Consider the dog's weight (and what he will weigh when fully grown), age and temperament. A puppy will require housebreaking, obedience training, while an older dog may be better adjusted. Some dogs have temperaments best suited to a family, others won't do as well with children, and so on. Step 2: Hunt for a dog that Fits Your CriteriaVisit the local pound or shelter if it's open to the public. Search online as well-researching breed-specific rescues in driving range and dog Adoption websites that allow you to search by breed, age and gender within your zip code. Step 3: Have Your Family Meet the dogIf you come across a dog online that fits the bill, arrange a visit. Some dogs may be in temporary foster homes and will either be transported to the main rescue location or to your house for a home visit. Make sure all the members of your household get to meet the dog. The same goes for shelter or pound dogs.Step 4: Fill Out The Application/Prepare for ScreeningWhether you find a dog from a rescue online or a shelter dog, you'll have to fill out an application. This may just be a formality for some places, but others will want a closer investigation - be it a reference check, extensive interview or a home visit to see the conditions in which the rescued animal is to live. Some breeds may require a fenced yard or certain number of square feet to be comfortable, so don't take it personally if the rescue declines your application based on the fact that you live in a studio apartment.Step 5: Pay An Adoption Fee/Sign An AgreementNo shelter or rescue dog is "free to a good home," and you'll be asked for an adoption fee that can range from $50 to $400 depending on the breed, age of the dog (puppies tend to be more expensive as they're in demand more often than older dogs), the kind of organization you adopt from and what part of the country you live in. This fee is usually a pittance compared to the work that's gone into the dog you are adopting - usually it offsets the price of spaying/neutering the dog, feeding and caring for it, as well as ensuring it has all the right vaccinations. dog adoption fees are also a screening measure used to weed out people who are unwilling or unable to spend money on their pets. Once you've paid the fee, you'll be asked to sign an adoption agreement, guaranteeing that the dog will be looked after and cared for indoors (rather than chained to a tree in the yard).Step 6: Take Your dog Home!Congratulations, you've done the research, found the dog and successfully wooed the shelter/rescue folks! You are ready to Adopt a dog! Be sure to buy a crate your dog will be comfortable in (and a soft blanket or bed to go inside it), as well as a leash and collar and a supply of food and treats before taking him home. Don't forget to get him tagged and microchipped to assure his safety. Then, give him plenty of hugs!

How to Adopt a Dog Safely

2011-05-23T07:11:00.000-07:00

There are several types of dogs that are not only different from each other with respect to body size and color but they are different with respect to qualities as well. Some dogs are quiet active and they like to chase as well.There is nothing more exciting and wonderful in this world then bringing a nice and cute dog into your home. However, dog adoption can be a frustrating and terrible experience for you if you know nothing about dog raising and dog adoption. So, before you plan out to adopt a pet especially a dog, here are some important things that you need to look out so that you can have a happy and smooth homecoming.Step 1Many people don't know that pet readiness is the first and the foremost step in dog adoption. You should understand that pet adoption is a long term commitment (approx 10-18years). Therefore, you really have to ask yourself whether, you are ready for a new member in your family or not.Step 2If you are interested in a specific breed then it is better for you to do proper research about it so that you will have clear idea that about the exact size and color of the dog. There are several types of dogs that are not only different from each other with respect to body size and color but they are different with respect to qualities as well. Some dogs are quiet active and they like to chase as well. However some dogs feel more comfortable to sit on a couch for a longer period of time.Step 3Once you have realized that you are almost ready for the dog adoption then the next important thing to do is to plan out all the accessories that you need for this new member of your family.Step 4Give so much importance to the medical care and general health and hygiene of your dog. Arrange a professional veterinarian for your dog so that you can take care of your dog's health.

How To Adopt A Dog A Step-By-Step Guide

2011-05-21T06:25:00.000-07:00

So what's the next step? Fret not; we've got you covered:

Step 1: Do Your Homework!
Before you drop by the local rescue or shelter and fall in love with a Dog that may outgrow the weight restrictions of your apartment building, invest some time researching breeds that will best fit your situation. Consider the Dog's weight (and what he will weigh when fully grown), age and temperament. A puppy will require housebreaking, obedience training, while an older Dog may be better adjusted. Some Dogs have temperaments best suited to a family, others won't do as well with children, and so on.

Step 2: Hunt for a Dog that Fits Your Criteria
Visit the local pound or shelter if it's open to the public. Search online as well”researching breed-specific rescues in driving range and Dog Adoption websites that allow you to search by breed, age and gender within your zip code.

Step 3: Have Your Family Meet the Dog
If you come across a Dog online that fits the bill, arrange a visit. Some Dogs may be in temporary foster homes and will either be transported to the main rescue location or to your house for a home visit. Make sure all the members of your household get to meet the Dog. The same goes for shelter or pound Dogs.

Step 4: Fill Out The Application/Prepare for Screening
Whether you find a Dog from a rescue online or a shelter Dog, you'll have to fill out an application. This may just be a formality for some places, but others will want a closer investigation be it a reference check, extensive interview or a home visit to see the conditions in which the rescued animal is to live. Some breeds may require a fenced yard or certain number of square feet to be comfortable, so don't take it personally if the rescue declines your application based on the fact that you live in a studio apartment.

Step 5: Pay An Adoption Fee/Sign An Agreement
No shelter or rescue Dog is "free to a good home," and you'll be asked for an adoption fee that can range from $50 to $400 depending on the breed, age of the Dog (puppies tend to be more expensive as they're in demand more often than older Dogs), the kind of organization you adopt from and what part of the country you live in.ย This fee is usually a pittance compared to the work that's gone into the Dog you are adopting โ€“ usually it offsets the price of spaying/neutering the Dog, feeding and caring for it, as well as ensuring it has all the right vaccinations. Dog adoption fees are also a screening measure used to weed out people who are unwilling or unable to spend money on their pets. Once you've paid the fee, you'll be asked to sign an adoption agreement, guaranteeing that the Dog will be looked after and cared for indoors (rather than chained to a tree in the yard).

Step 6: Take Your Dog Home!
Congratulations, you've done the research, found the Dog and successfully wooed the shelter/rescue folks!ย You are ready Adopt A Dog! Be sure to buy a crate your Dog will be comfortable in (and a soft blanket or bed to go inside it), as well as a leash and collar and a supply of food and treats before taking him home. Don't forget to get him tagged and microchipped to assure his safety. Then, give him plenty of hugs!

Guide to Adopting a Dog from a Shelter

2011-05-20T12:07:00.000-07:00

One of the best ways to go about acquiring a new pet is by lending a careful thought to the strayed and abandoned animals, specifically with regards to dogs.The sad reality is that many dog owners are not adequately informed on how to care for their pet, and more often then not, lack the necessary skills to train and raise them making them all the more prone to neglecting their responsibilities as owners, which result in unhappy, ill-behaved or bad-tempered dogs, and in the worst case scenarios, will lead to abandonment. When considering adopting a dog from a shelter, there are some important factors to take into consideration. First, realize that many dogs are impounded or surrendered because their previous owners failed to prevent or solve behavior problems. Now that does not mean this is particularly the dog's fault, more often then not, it's a question of the owner lacking the dog training skills or being misinformed on the compatibility of the dog's breed with the lifestyle of the owner. Remember that the breed of your dog will dictate much of his personality, health and training character. If the breed you have your heart set on is not available at your local shelter, there are plenty of shelter homes to look through. Nevertheless, know that every shelter offers a handful of wonderful dogs.One more way to help you in your adoption process is to inform yourself about the shelter, ask for references from other people you may know that have adopted a dog from the shelter you are thinking of adopting from. If you don't know anyone, ask the shelter for them to provide you with contacts of some of the adoptions they have had. One distinct disadvantage to adopting from a shelter is the uncertainty it involves. You do not have the benefit of knowing the dogs parents, whether your dog will grow up to be big or small, active or lethargic, outgoing or reserved. Not knowing the health background of your dog is probably the biggest disadvantage of adopting from a shelter. Nevertheless, your dog will have the same emotional and physical needs, and has the same capacity to learn new tricks and show you love just as any other dog.Another very important aspect to keep in mind is of course the physical state of the dog. Many shelters are limited in the health resources they can offer the dogs, so it is strongly recommended both for you and the dog, to consult a veterinarian within the first weeks after adopting.In addition to health issues, you must be aware that the background of the dog is mostly unknown so realize that the dog may have some emotional scars to recover from. These scars will be the most important thing to help him forget in the early stages. Many shelter dogs have unpleasant pasts, but if you work diligently and lovingly to gain his trust, you will create a valuable pet friend for many years. Once adopted, it is recommended that the transition be smooth for the animal. Do not dive him/her too hastily within an active environment, especially with kids around, until you see that it is comfortable with its surroundings. Fortunately, dogs are very forgiving and they will almost always respond to affectionate efforts. Keep in mind that your adopted dog will need extra doses of love, understanding and patience as he learns to place his confidence in you.So when the day arrives where you are ready to bring in a new “member into your family, realize that adopting a dog from a shelter is not only a cheaper solution, it is also a way to help the overpopulation of shelter animals and give “Man Best Friend a second chance, which will be very rewarding in itself.

Factors To Consider When Adopting A Dog

2011-05-19T11:03:00.000-07:00

Adopting a dog is quite similar to adopting a human being. The adoptive owners have to be prepared to look after the dog at this delicate stage of adoption. Changes are expected to be undertaken by the adoptive owners. They have to prepare themselves to provide the comfort and affection the dog needs as he adjusts to a new home. To effectively adopt a dog, one must be ready for his responsibilities. It is quite difficult to adopt a dog especially that in this case you have to maintain a certain level of continuity in the dog's life. As he embarks to a new life that may be different from what he had before, you must be patient enough to train him to adapt to your kind of life. House training may be a bit difficult if in case the dog has been trained differently in the past. It means you need to exert extra effort to impose a new set of training regimen. Despite of the difficulty, there are still many advantages of adopting a puppy. At a larger perspective, you are actually saving a puppy or a dog's life from being permanently "homeless". If you Adopt a dog, you will somehow make another dog happy by letting him have a family in you. Anyone who wants to adopt a dog will always find ways on choosing the right dog for himself. Of course, no dog owner would want to have a dog that he cannot handle. Adopting a dog is like getting your self a brand new puppy. You still have to consider the needs of the dog based on its breed, size, and character. If your chosen dog is the outdoor type, then ensure that you have plenty of space for him to play around or that you have the time to walk him to the park everyday. To further teach you how to adopt a dog, you may avail of some useful references on dog adoption. This will guide you how to go through the process, what things to prepare for, and possible concerns to be given attention to. Similar to getting a new dog, you have to consider the health condition of the dog you wish to adopt. It would be best if the dog has been properly diagnosed by a veterinarian to know his medical condition. Just like in buying a new dog, consider your options in adopting a dog carefully. If you are wondering where to get a dog for adoption, there are dog adoption directories that may be able to lead you to reliable sources of dogs for adoption. Getting a dog from dog shelters is like buying a new dog from a breeder. Only this time, you will bring home a pet that was somebody else's pet in the past. You have to be patient and consistent in teaching your adopted dog a new set of rules. By adopting a dog, you are saving one of the millions of homeless dogs. Aside from providing them a home, you also save homeless dogs from being killed simply because they cannot be taken care of anymore. So, take pride if you are raising an adopted a dog.

Adopting A Dog - Finding That Perfect Dog

2011-05-18T11:33:00.001-07:00

Adopt a Dog for Free

2011-05-17T10:40:00.000-07:00

Adopt a Dog, if You have Any Emotional Needs

2011-05-16T13:01:00.000-07:00

Emotions play a very important part in our lives. People who are alone and do not have anybody to relate to or share their feelings with, are the ones who especially need some kind of company that would help them get that emotional fulfilment. Down the ages dogs have proven to be man's best friend. People have used the services of dogs in every possible manner and in every possible domain. Right from guiding the cattle as well as the flock of sheep to the army on the battle-ground. Since the ancient and the mediaeval times right to the present times, the role of dogs as pets have evolved over the years. There is no other animal as loyal as a dog. Even if everyone leaves you, all your near and dear ones in the rough times, your dog will always be there standing by your side with that sensitive look in his eyes. But that is not the only purpose that a dog can serve. You can adopt a dog to play with your children. That dog can be the most trustworthy friend for your kids. You can adopt a dog to safeguard your home or your workplace. There are a myriad of purposes that can be solved if you adopt a dog. If you think that you have the patience as well as the temperament then you can also adopt puppies and rear them yourself. What is important is that you rear the adopted puppies in the right manner as well as give them the proper nutrition in their early stages so that they can grow up healthy as well as strong.Adopt a dog if you feel that you have the need as well as the desire to own a pet. It is really important that once you adopt a dog, you give him the best of care and love as possible. After all, it is the law of nature that what you give is what you get. There is no denial to the fact that your dog would give you the same love and affection through out your association with him, whereas something similar cannot be said about the other pets that you might have.

Most Aggressive Dog Breed

2011-02-03T10:19:00.001-08:00

Dogs can be cute as well as aggressive. Here is a list of some of the most aggressive dog breed that you might come across. Certain circumstances turns these breeds aggressive. Read more and find out which are those breeds.
They are cute, they are adorable, they are loyal and friendly, but if they feel threatened, dogs can turn pretty aggressive. There are certain dog breeds who have been termed as the 'most aggressive dog breed' and these dogs are best suited as guard dogs. It would be a mistake if we say that they are born aggressive; certain situations or when it's a matter of their safety, anyone will turn aggressive. You cannot blame your pet Labrador for snapping at you or for barking loudly at you if you try and hurt her puppies. If you are planning to buy a dog and if you have children at home, then it's important that you know which dogs have been termed as 'aggressive', so that you think twice before you get them.

Top 10 Most Aggressive Dog Breeds

I don't know how many of you will agree with me, but I do not think that there's any dog breed which can specifically be termed as most aggressive dog breed. I am sure most of you will agree that even gentle and cuddly dogs can turn aggressive when they want. But still, some breeds are considered to be far more aggressive than the others and you will get to know which are those breeds from the list of most aggressive dog breeds given below.

Chow Chows
Chows Chows are small and cuddly, but they can be pretty aggressive sometimes and they can often bite without any warning and are also great fighters. These dogs are independent and their first priority is their own needs and they hate being disturbed.

Lhasa Apso
If you have ever seen these dogs you will need a minute to differentiate between their tail and head, because their face is covered with long hairs and it is said that this is what makes these dogs more aggressive. Children often try to figure out which is the head and which is the tail and in turn they piss it off and in the bargain get bitten. Probably this is why they are often in a grumpy mood around children.

Rottweilers
Rottweilers are meant to be guard dogs and they are extremely protective about their masters and they have no patience for strangers or for other dogs. If you try to harm their owners, they lose their temper and turn aggressive. The only way to bring them back to the right path is by training and disciplining them from the time they are puppies.

Dachshunds
Frankly speaking, I was surprised to know that Dachshunds are referred to as aggressive dog breeds despite being so small and playful. But, these dogs are impatient and their small size also plays an important role in making them more aggressive.

Pit Bull
If you have to put any dog in the world's most aggressive dog breeds, then you simply cannot miss out the Pit Bull. They are fearless and if they catch hold of a prey, they will not release them till they are dead.

Alaskan Huskies
Alaskan Huskies are intelligent and they can withstand extremely cold temperature. But they can be aggressive at times and that is why they are not considered to be good guard dogs but they do make good sled dogs.

German Shepherd
German Shepherds are beautiful, gentle, loyal and extremely good with children. But when angry, they can be a very aggressive dog breed. But if they are trained properly from the very beginning, their temper can be controlled.

Alaskan Malamutes
Generally the Alaskan Malamute dog breeds are pretty friendly, but still sometimes they can be pretty aggressive. This happens because they are highly energetic and if they cannot use their energy, they turn violent. If you have an Alaskan Malamute, then make sure that you have a huge space at home where they can run around.

Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels often suffer from a genetic problem which is called the 'rage syndrome' and this is what leads them to act in a violent manner against strangers. Dogs suffering from this problem are often put to sleep.

Jack Russell Terrier
If Jack Russell Terriers are not trained from a very early stage, their violent behavior or nature of biting and digging remains, thus tagging them sometimes as the most aggressive dog breed. Sometimes due to their behavior, they can also be called 'Stubborn fellows'. Hence start training them from a very early stage.

This was some information on the most aggressive dog breed. Proper training and discipline can help them around strangers. As I have told you before that no dogs are born aggressive, situations make them so, hence make sure that you do not do anything that might piss them off. You can also go through the list of most dangerous dog breeds in order to know which are the dogs that most people fear the most. There's no need to be afraid of these dogs. If you love them and care for them, they will love you back in the same way.

By Ratnashri Dutta
Published: 2/1/2011

Schipperke -- Choosing The Breed Of Dog That's Right For You

2009-06-25T08:23:00.000-07:00

Getting a dog can change your life. If you get a dog that is compatible with your lifestyle, it can be a very rewarding experience, but all dogs require love, attention, care and training, so before you make that decision, ask yourself these questions:

Do I have time to give a dog the attention it requires?
Do I have the ability to provide proper grooming, exercise and training for a dog?
Can I afford the expenses that come with a dog?
Do I have what it takes to be a strong pack leader?
Do I want to buy a dog from a breeder or adopt a dog from a shelter or rescue?

If, after answering the above questions, you decide to move forward with getting a dog, it would be wise to learn about the different breeds and their characteristics, personality/temperament, possible health conditions and exercise and grooming requirements in order to make an informed decision.

This article is a basic overview of one particular breed -- a Schipperke. Read on to decide if this breed of dog is compatible with your particular lifestyle.

History/Background: The Schipperke originated in the Flemish provinces of Belgium. It was not derived from the Spitz or Pomeranian but, rather, bred down from the Leauvenaar, a 40-pound black Belgian sheepdog that was commonly used to tend flocks in neighboring Louvain and follow the wagons along the old highways in the provinces of Belgium. It was bred down smaller and smaller to be a miniature watchdog. This breed was also used for herding livestock, hunting game or guarding its domain and also used as a "ratter" on canal barges and was usually the captain's dog. It does very well on boats and is not prone to seasickness. It makes a great guard dog.

It was known as a Spits dog or Spitske until the name "Schipperke" became official in 1888, which is Flemish for "little captain" or "little skipper," also said to mean "little shepherd." This breed was popular with workmen along the canals but also with shoemakers and other workmen. It is said that a shoemaker cut off the tail of his neighbor's dog because he was tired of its repeated thieving. As this improved the appearance of the dog, it is said that this is the reason why all Schipperkes' tails are cut off at a young age. (Contrary to popular belief, they are not always born without a tail.) The Schipperke was first imported in America in 1888.

Physical Characteristics: The Schipperke is a small dog with a square profile. It is 10-13 inches high at the shoulder and weighs 12-18 pounds. Its face is fox-like in appearance and has a mischievous, questioning and alert expression. It has small oval eyes that are dark brown. Its triangular-shaped ears are small and erect, and its nose is black. Its body structure and solid black color resemble a little bear. It is strong and solidly built, with a thick double coat and ruff around the neck. It is sometimes born tailless but, if born with a tail, the tail is docked.

Personality/Temperament: This breed of dog is very tolerant of children and other animals. It is curious and interested in everything around it. It is an excellent and faithful little watchdog, ready to protect its family and property if necessary and backs down from nobody. It can be reserved with strangers if not socialized well. This breed is confident, independent and mischievous. It is quick, energetic, high spirited, alert and agile, with a high prey drive, chasing anything that moves. It is very devoted and loyal, especially with children, and bonds to its master. It is very intelligent, eager to learn and easy to train, although can be difficult to housebreak. The Schipperke does exceptionally well on boats. It can develop behavior problems such as guarding, obsessive barking, separation anxiety, growling, snapping and even biting if not given proper pack leadership. It likes to howl and can be destructive if bored or left alone too much.

Possible Health Conditions: The Schipperke is relatively hardy but can have the following health conditions: Legg-Perthes syndrome, problems with the eyes such as entropion, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), distichiasis (an eyelash that arises from an abnormal spot on the eyelid of a dog) and cataracts, as well as hypothyroidism, epilepsy, hip dysplasia and a newly discovered genetic mutation called MPS 111B. Life expectancy is about 15 years or more.

Exercise/Grooming: This breed is active and tireless and needs a daily long walk or jog. Its is fairly active indoors but does best if allowed to roam free in a fenced-in yard, although may try to escape. Grooming is fairly easy and requires a good brushing once a week with a firm bristle brush. It will "blow" its coat several times a year, losing the undercoat, which can last several days or weeks and can take 2-3 months go grow back, making it a moderate shedder. The toenails should be clipped. The teeth should be watched for decay. It can be dry shampooed when necessary.

Living Conditions: The Schipperke is a good dog for apartment life. It is very active indoors but does best with a fenced-in yard.

Summary: A Schipperke is an unusual-looking, relatively hardy little dog that makes an extremely keen watchdog and requires minimal grooming but is a moderate shedder with an extremely high activity level and needs strong pack leadership. So, now that you've learned a little about this breed of dog, one question remains -- Is a Schipperke the right breed for you?

By: Anita Funkhouser

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Anita Funkhouser is the owner of www.gogreendogbeds.com, offering high-quality, eco-friendly dog beds, toys and sweaters made from recycled materials, and pickofthelitterblog.wordpress.com/, a blog about various breeds of dogs. This article may be reprinted as long as the resource box is left intact.

Control Dog Barking

2009-06-02T09:24:00.000-07:00

Is trying to control your dogs barking getting a bit of a pain when all you want to do is get a decent sleep, leave your dog for 5 minutes, or have some respected guests round without having to get the earplugs out?

Training your dog to stop barking doesn’t have to be stressful, no one likes the loud barking sound coming from your dog, especially at 3 in the morning so lets go through some tips to control dog barking.

1. Need Attention huh?

Don’t give your dog the attention he wants from barking at you. if I was getting everything I wanted just for barking id probably do it too. You’ve got to teach your dog that barking won’t get him anywhere. If he wants something wait till he has stopped barking first.

2. Time to bark yet?

If your dog barks when you leave the house, 8 times out of 10 it will be because you’re making to much fuss over them when you leave. Dogs can’t fully grasp the idea of saying goodbye and may find it upsetting when you give them cuddles and play then go out the door and leave for 8 hours while you’re in work. For a dog that’s a good enough reason to bark and howl the house down for you to come back and play. Try leaving the house without any fuss, Leave the house without drawing any attention to yourself and the barking will lessen and stop.

3. Bored with nothing to do!

Dogs enjoy barking, it’s something they like to do. The barking sound might not be completely to your taste but dogs enjoy it and it’s a completely natural thing for them, so if your dog has nothing to do in his spare time then barking passes the time like nothing else. Keep your dog busy with lots of exciting toys if he seems to bark a lot at night, something to chew and play with when you’re not around will help comfort the dog and keep him from barking and waking the neighbours. With nothing else to do your dog will bark through the night until you wake up.

4. Visitor time

When visitors come round it’s an exciting time for your dog, new faces, new smells and more attention than usual. This often causes dogs to bark, they want all the attention they can get in the form of cuddles and play time. You can solve this by using the ‘Stop’ command, teach him this and praise him when he listens to you and you should have no more problems with your over excited dog.

5. Be Consistent

Unfamiliarity can trigger your dogs barking off a lot of the time so keep constant with the times he barks most, for a lot of dog owners this is at night time. Decide where your dog or puppy sleeps. If one night your dog is out in the cold and the next he’s all snug and warm in bed with you or your kids you can guarantee he won’t want to be back out in the cold getting no attention from anyone again. Stick to consistency with your dog and you won’t go far wrong, otherwise you may be in for another sleepless night shouting at your dog.

For more information visit our dog training website at this link... Dog Training

Dog Behavior Training – Choosing a Good Family Dog

2009-05-06T02:31:00.001-07:00

There comes a time in most home families when the children get a bit older and their dog or teddy is no longer the best thing in the world to play with, every new friend or existing friend your children make seems to have a cute little dog, and its only a matter of time before your children are going to start pestering you for one. So what should you look for is your serious about getting a family dog?

For starters your dog will need to be able to take everything your children can throw at it, children often don’t have any idea of how to handle a new pet dog so don’t expect them to play gently all the time, unknowing children have a tendency to be a little rough wile playing with dogs so a dog breed that can take some rough playing is essential.

Different dogs have different personalities just like humans do so be aware of this when purchasing a new dog, just because a dog breed is normally playful, energetic, and nice , this does not mean the one you get will be the same. Being prepared to put in work and time with your dog is also essential with a family dog because dog’s often take the things your children tell it to do as acceptable when this may not be the case, so dog behavior training will be needed at some point.

After considering the previous paragraphs I’m sure you will be pretty certain on whether you still want a dog for your home or not, if you do then here are some suggestions on different breeds that you may want to consider.

Golden Retriever. The golden retriever is a good popular choice for families because of their active and loyal personality and a good all round dog.

Boxer. Although the boxer may look big and intimidating to some, the boxer is a very good family dog in that they love being around people, they take care of the family members, and are always willing to play.

Labrador Retreiver. An extremely popular pet in many households across the world, the Labrador is a very friendly loving dog that loves to play and be very active for your kids to play with.

Beagle. The beagle is a very sturdy dog that can take plenty of roughness and playing, and loves to be active and meet new people. A very excited and curious dog that is great for family life.

Boston Terrier. The terrier is a gentle, well mannered dog and enjoys a challenge. Boston terriers are very easy to train and make for great family dogs and friends.

Irish Setter. A very affectionate dog, the Irish setter is a very good choice for families due to its liking for children and constant happy playful attitude.

For more information visit our dog training website at this link... Dog Training

Dog Health Care Tips To Keep Your Dog Healthy

2009-05-04T09:31:00.001-07:00

There are many reasons why a dog is considered man's best friend. Dog owners build a lifelong trust and bond with their dogs. To keep your best friend happy you need to know and be able to recognize some warning signs and symptoms that can affect his health. Finding resources to help you with this can be invaluable.

To keep your dog healthy and happy requires being familiar with the type of breed and general care needed for that breed. A nice comprehensive book on dog health care is one of the things that you need to invest in order to obtain these details. Skin care and grooming are some of the basics you need to know to care for your dog. “How and when to give your dog a bath” will make the experience better for you and your dog.

Getting to know your veterinarian and becoming familiar with the services and treatments they offer, as well as the office hours and any emergency phone numbers is also a must. Most veterinarians these days are using natural dog health care practices to complement their traditional practice. Vets will let you know about the latest natural dog products to help maintain your dog's health, as well as advised you on which dog product is best for your dog according to his breed, size, and other characteristics. Different breeds of dogs have different preferences and health issues, and the vet can guide you in making owning the dog much easier.

Enquiring about vaccination programs and feeding methods according to the breed and age of the dog. These methods and programs differ greatly with grown dogs as opposed to puppies. Researching some background information on a dog you are going to get can help you prepare and plan ahead to help care and treat the dog.

A very important factor in your dog's health is to build up a good relationship with your vet. Vets are excellent when you need advice or in emergencies, but ultimately it is your responsibility as a dog owner for looking out for his health. A dog owner need to take note of any changes in eating habits, less activity than usual, or sleeping more than usual. Early discovery of problems along with quick attention from your vet can help insure, they get the proper medical attention.
Your responsibility as a pet owner is to keep your dog healthy to ensure a long life. Using your vet along with arming yourself with the right information on dog health care will help your dog live a long life.

Pet Caring Tips gives you best ideas to take care of your pets. You can also find the best dog care guide that makes your pet healthy.

Dog Training – Train a Dog to Fetch

2009-05-02T02:55:00.000-07:00

The fetch game is probably the most popular and most used dog activity for rewarding your dog and giving him exercise at the same time. Giving your dog regular exercise is essential in keeping your dogs health up to scratch and helping them live a more exciting happy life.

Playing the fetch game with your dog is very easy and takes as much effort as you want to put into it. Simply take some form of ball, Frisbee, or stick and get your dogs attention with it, as soon as your dog has their eyes on the swinging stick, throw it as far as possible and command your dog to fetch the stick and pointing in the direction you threw it in with some enthusiasm to make it seem fun for your dog.

Dogs love this game and are happy to play it al day long with you, some dogs like the game more than others due to breed tendencies to please the owners. There are many different products available to help you with this command if you suffer from a bad back or similar and are incapable of bending down or throwing, this product is a long stick that cups the tennis ball and makes it easier to throw and pick up the ball.

This activity can be an energetic exercise for both you and your dog if you want it to be. Running around after your dog and throwing for your dog to fetch is a way used by many to keep fit and not just their dogs. A helpful two in one exercise to keep both parties healthy can’t be a bad choice!

For more information visit our dog training website at this link... Dog Training

Dog Training - Dog No Command

2009-05-01T03:33:00.001-07:00

The ‘no’ command is a widely used command throughout dog training and is used to tell your dog not to do something or to stop them in their tracks to avoid dangerous situations or general bad behavior.

I think of the no command as more of a training technique rather than a command and to perfect the technique you will need to be consistent for most of your time with your pet dog. The no command isn’t like other commands and is taught over several years rather than a ‘learn it and forget it’ dog training technique.

You can start to teach your dog the no command as soon as you see your cute little puppy doing something wrong for the first time, to most people the command will come naturally when they see their dog causing terror in the house and it will not be too hard for them to remember how to execute the technique.

The no command should come part and parcel with punishing your dog, the idea behind the no command is to teach your dog that ‘no’ means bad behavior and punishment, after teaching this command the end result will be that your dog should stop whatever they are doing when you say ‘no’.

So to make this command work you will need to enforce and recite ‘no’ in a very assertive way whenever you are punishing your dog or see your dog behaving badly that will result in punishment. By doing this your dog will associate ‘no!’ with being punished and making you the owner, unhappy.

If you do this consistently through your dogs earlier years, especially when your dog is a puppy and very impressionable you will gain respect from your dog and just saying ‘no’ alone will be enough to stop your dog in its tracks and save you punishing your dog.

For more information visit our dog training website at this link... Dog Training

Dog Traiing - Stray Dogs

2009-04-17T10:09:00.000-07:00

Hundreds if not thousands of stray dogs are found each year around the world with no one in sight and nowhere to go. These dogs are often in great danger whether it’s because of neglect on the owners’ behalf, or because of unforeseen circumstances causing the dog to become lost and scared.

What can be done in these situations can be a tricky choice, and a choice that will need to be done quickly. Simply driving past a suspected stray dog on the side of the road could end in the death of the dog minutes later.

What to do when you find a stray dog is different in almost every case, but there are guidelines to follow to help save the life of a scared stray, and put the mind of the loving owner at ease.

To begin you should always be aware that the dog in question may be very aggressive due to being scared, lost, and possibly very hungry, so approach with care. If you feel the dog is not a violent one then you should still be very careful not to startle or scare the dog in any way, a scared dog could easily run onto a busy road or dangerous area.

A good way to reassure the dog you are not there to harm them and to get them close is to use a strong smelling food such as tuna or other dog favourites as well as speaking gently and calmly to the dog.

When you finally get the dog under control and have no fears of aggressive behavior, reassuring the dog by stroking and talking to them will make it easier for others to deal with them. If you have leash or any other form of dog control with you then try and secure the dog with them, still being careful not to scare the dog.

When you have successfully captured the dog or if you have had other problems making it difficult to capture then you should phone for help from the local animal care or control authority to ensue the correct procedures are met and the safety of the animal will be secure.

For more information visit our dog training website at this link... Dog Training

Dog Years Human Years

2009-04-12T10:05:00.000-07:00

The life expectancy of any dog is commonly expressed in terms of dog years by us and it depends entirely on the dog's breed, size as well as the dog's surroundings. Various other factors affect the life expectancy of a dog. A dog's life span changes according to the diet provided to him and also by the number of medical problems the dog tends to face over the years.

The average life span of the small dog like Chihuahua is about 15 to 16 years, while medium sized the dogs like Border Collies have a life span of 10 to 13 years. It can be noticed big dogs like Great Dean live up to only 7 to 8 years. The calculation of the life expectancy of particular dog can be accurately done with the help of "size or the specific breed calculator", which is said to be one of the most accurate age measurement schemes available. The size or specific breed calculator gives approximate results about the dog's predictable lifespan based on the size as well as the breed of the dog.

It is generally assumed that, on an average, "one human year equals to seven dog years". This statement may not be appropriate, since the first two years are jointly represented by 18-25 years in such schemes and because the entire ratio cannot be generalized for all the dogs though, they belong to different sizes and breeds. An exact ratio of dog years vs. human year cannot be formulated. However, some obvious features remain similar between both aging humans and dogs.

It is generally assumed that the human equivalent of a one-year dog is supposedly fully grown by both mental and physical aspects. Dogs like humans tend to develop advance muscular features as they grow along with a similar mental development. Through a major dog study, it has been estimated for dogs of all breeds and sizes that, nearly "64 percent of dogs" were euthanized because they were affected with some kind of diseases. Only 8 percent of the total dogs live beyond 15 years and nearly 16 percent of them die yearly due heart diseases and cancer. Human lives are not terminated even if they suffer from rare and incurable diseases; and this is the main reason why the lifespan of an average human being is reasonably long.

The effects of aging in dogs is said to be dormant for several years. But like humans, dogs to undergo physical changes as well. The first sign of aging in dogs is said to be the decrease in its activity levels. The sleeping period in these dogs also becomes longer. The canines experience a drastic change in their skin condition, limb usage, appetite and they experience tooth loss as well. Their sense of hearing and vision also diminishes gradually. Older dogs tend to experience stiffness in their body. All these obvious signs of aging can even be found in humans. The human years are extended only because of advance modern medicine and various other drugs that are designed to deal with symptoms of old age.

Dogs and humans may not have the same physiology, yet some obvious similarities can be noticed when both species age. Dog years and Human years may not be directly related by some advance equation, but to the naked eye the equivalence of corresponding features of Dog years and Human years are quite visible.

Now that you know dogs grow old faster than we do, learn how to care for your dogs the best you can and give them a good life. They deserve it. Learn more at: http://www.2knowabout.com/dog/how_to_care_for_a_dog_with_a_broken_leg.php

Winter Dog Agility Training

2009-04-08T08:15:00.000-07:00

Yes, its cold outside, but don't stop your dog's agility training. Depending on where you live, there might be snow on the ground from November through March, but thats no reason to give up your agility training. Bring your training indoors, right at your own home.

Get creative with your training locations. Do you have a hallway, basement, or garage? Then you have a place to train! Before it snows and your equipment is frozen to the ground, store some in your garage, shed, basement, or put a tarp over it. Bring in one piece of equipment at a time, and begin your indoor training.

We do a lot of indoor training with a Pause Table. In fact, we keep one in our living room for both obedience training and agility training all the time. The Pause Table is a great obstacle for developing your obedience behaviors and teaching agility directional commands

Don't forget to work on your contacts. It's easy by having a Contact Trainer indoors. A 3-Piece Contact Trainer offers you versatility; you have an A-frame side, the Pause Table, and a Dog-walk plank. Practicing your two feet on and two feet off is convenient and quick when you have indoor contacts, only a few minutes a day to steady your dog's behavior.

Indoor jumping must be approached carefully. If you don't have indoor matting, don't jump. You don't want your dog jumping on concrete or wood floors. But you can use the uprights or posts to practice your handling. Use your Sit-stay or Down-stay and practice your lines or dogs path with no jump bars.

Weaves can be practice indoors. Are you training with a weave-chute or straight line weaves? Five minutes a day of weave training through out the winter will have your dog weaving smoothly by springtime. You can practice weave entries and weave sends or weave recalls.

There is also a variety of mini agility equipment that can be purchased, and don't require the same space as standard equipment. There are mini-teeters, mini-dog walks, and mini-A-frames. These are great obstacles for puppy training or indoor winter training.

So, during the cold winter months, don't give up on your agility training. Whether you are starting a young pup, working a novice dog, or an experienced titled dog there is always something that you can do indoors with your agility training.

About the Author: Brad Carlson is a Dog Trainer at Agility by Carlson. For more training details, visit our website at http://www.carlson-agility.com/

When Dog Training Really Matters

2009-04-07T06:20:00.000-07:00

Dogs can be very sociable. In fact, they sometimes get too sociable and get aggressive. That is why it is important to train the dogs to control their behavior.

Moreover, dog trainings are important to avoid dog biting incidents. Statistics show that 77% of dog biting cases are mostly those that are within the family.

Hence, with dog training, bad habits are removed and dogs have better control with their feelings and behavior towards environmental and social variables.

However, implementing dog training is not that easy. Certain things must be employed to have positive results. The thing needed in dog training is what most experts define as ?positive reinforcement.? This refers to the way people reward their dogs with treats, praises, or both whenever their dogs show positive behavior.

Through positive reinforcements, dogs will be able to comprehend that treats and praises will come whenever he shows good behavior. For example, when the owner gives his dog some treats for obediently obeying his commands, the dog will think that obeying commands when told equals treats.

But this does not necessarily mean that when the dog did not obey the owner?s commands, punishment is needed as counter-reinforcement. This should not be the case because punishments will only make the matter worst.

What will happen is that the dog will be confused and it will begin to doubt your feelings.

The next thing that humans must remember when training their dogs is that people should avoid training their dogs into bad habit. Actually, many people are not aware they are doing this but there are instances wherein the people?s reaction towards some behavior of the dogs will inadvertently train the dog in a bad way.

For example, when dogs bark, it is common especially when they do that because they see something strange or unfamiliar things. But, when dogs continue to bark, even if it includes a familiar person, that becomes a problem.

In this case, most people have the inclination to yell and tell their dogs to shut up. This particular reaction of dog owners will confuse their dogs and will only make them understand that the reason why their owners are yelling is because they are also enjoying the shouting scene and that they are ?barking? along with their dogs.

The key point here is to avoid paying attention to the dog. In time, he will stop. It?s when the owners should reward their dogs.

Boiled down, dog training is all about positive reinforcements. And, as they say, positive reinforcements reap positive results.

About the Author: Jack Russell is a a long time dog fancier, visit his Dog Resources Blog and download his Free Dog Owners Handbook - it's Dog Gone Good! http://www.daveshealthbuzz.com/dogcare/

Why You Should Never Hit Your Dog- Even When Training

2009-04-06T04:21:00.001-07:00

Dear Adam:

I will try and make this short and include only the details I think will help. I HAVE read the entire book on line. I will pick up all of the tapes along with the book when I come to USA in May.

I live in a third world country. Most of the dogs here are wild, mixed breed or mistreated.

We went to another part of the country to obtain a pure bred dog. He is bred to guard sheep... an older breed and very large. Our dog is 9 weeks old and most of the time is good... just regular puppy stuff.

My problem is that I cannot obtain a pinch collar or anything else for giving corrections until I come to USA in May. Sometimes our dog is very aggressive if wanting to do opposite of what we want. Seems he is challenging more often and with greater aggressiveness...snapping and biting. These dogs here are very UN-domesticated! Any suggestions on how to give a correction with hitting? I growl, spit in food. Don't have kennel or crate yet. Need to find materials and build one...difficult here. Help.

He is smart and I don't want to give up yet, but I feel like I am doing everything wrong without proper correction tools. Thanks in advance.

- Paula

Dear Paula:

Never hit your dog.

I have no idea why you cannot order dog training supplies from somewhere in Europe or have them shipped from America?

But regardless, hitting your dog is never appropriate.

In the meantime, you could go to a hardware store and make yourself a make-shift slip collar from either chain or rope. And improvise either a cord or rope as a leash. However, Id probably be remiss in stating that this should have been something you thought about BEFORE buying a dog.

Regardless, it is possible to train a dog without the proper tools. But its a lot harder especially for a beginner.

In the meantime, if he nips at you, you should say, No! and then grab the scruff of his neck and give a firm, quick pull and release. You may also try grabbing his ear and giving it a quick tug/pull.

Neither of these techniques are optimal. But given the circumstance, its the best I can recommend.

Also, please be aware that you should only be correcting biting and for housebreaking. Don't start formal obedience until the dog is 4 to 4 1/2 months old.

Good luck,
Adam.

To read more of my dog training ramblings, read about my book (click below): http://tinyurl.com/4efaq
Secrets of a Professional Dog Trainer!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Author, Secrets of a Professional Dog Trainer! which you can read more about at: http://tinyurl.com/4efaq

#BREAK#

Dog ebook for training and grooming

2009-03-29T06:30:00.000-07:00

The dog ebook is a tremendous asset when learning about care giving and grooming your best pet. There are numerous simple and easy to understand manuals to assist you in your new task. House training, obedience, jumping, how to of tricks are all covered in a variety of simple easy to follow instructions. Nobody should be without a dog ebook.

You'll also get some very valuable information on how to pick a do trainer if that is your intent. Know what to look for and establish common goals right up front. Know how to praise your little sweetie at the right times and how. Maybe a little goodie once in a while goes a long way? Learn about a nice little bag of tricks.

Some doggies are aggressive and dominant by nature and dealing with them requires a little special and extra knowledge. Your best pet friend needs to understand why you're correcting him and how to do it properly.

The idea with this learning on your part is to minimize the stress for your lovable little friend. Not to say the least that you'll probably hundreds if not thousands of dollars heading off those training expenses.

It's estimated that over 90% of the trainers don't know what their doing and those that do charge you big bucks for something that you can fix yourself by the simple purchase of a dog ebook. So, give it a try first and you'll most likely be very successful and your best pet friend will love you for it.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

More good info about the doggies we love
at www.dog-stuff4u.com

Golden Moments and Dog Training

2009-03-26T09:32:00.000-07:00

Let me introduce my dogs. I have 3, Nikki and Benny are my therapy dogs, and Dukie is my blind dog. Nikki is a 1 1/2 year golden retriever and Benny is my 5 year old black lab. Dukie is now 10 years and also a black lab.

Today I saw a picture of a ceramic rabbit statue for the garden; boy did it bring back loving memories. It also made me think of the importance of training your dog. That is why I am writing this article.

When we first took our golden retriever up north to the cottage she loved it. Of course she would, she was a golden after all, and goldens love cottage life, the outdoors and the lakes!!

Now, my golden was running around lose, just having a great time. My husband, Chris and I were sitting outside talking with our friends who had a house beside the cottage.

All of a sudden my golden comes running right over to us, all exited and happy. Our golden always ran to us when she had something in her mouth, never away from us. WOW, she had gone hunting, and she was proud of it.

There in her mouth, was a rabbit!!

I started to freak, of course, but then on closer inspection (from my husband) we saw it was a "plastic rabbit" out of our friend's garden. This was one of those golden moments. My Katie Bear is gone now, I still miss her so much, and I will always miss her. I have a new golden, and I love her very much, but she does not replace my Katie Bear....

I shed a few tears of sadness because I still miss my Bear.

Thanks for letting me share my memories. Dog obedience, has always been very important to me. So, please please, train your dog. I can just never say this often enough. Your dog must obey you. Simple commands like: come, sit, stay, STOP! It is so important for the safety and enjoyment of your dog, especially during the holiday and travel season.

There are many training methods available. You need to find the method that will work for you and your dog, (a humane method of training, of course.)

I was thinking about this as I was taking my 3 dogs (one is blind) out for a walk today. Just as we were getting into the jeep (I drive to where I walk), a lady pushing a stroller came past my house.

Now, you need to understand, that my now golden retriever, Nikki, seems to think the whole world is out to play with her. She is only 1 1/2 years old. I thought to myself...WOW! What if she had decided to take off and play with the lady and her stroller? Would she have come back to me instantly when called? Stopped instantly on command? I am not sure. This gave me reason to reflect seriously about obedience training. Now, you may be thinking that because she is a therapy dog, she is a well behaved trained dog. And yes, she is. But even a therapy dog gets their moments when out and running lose. And for some reason, my dogs can be total pests at home, and total angels when visiting the seniors.

A dog must, for their own safety and security, and I will repeat myself here, a dog MUST stop and come on demand. This can never be an option. Whether your dog is a therapy dog, like mine, or a house pet the same rule applies.

Check your neighborhood for training classes. Also, there are many different types of programs available, including online downloadable programs, which are very,very good.. Check them out. Find the one that suits your lifestyle. And, do it. Both you and your dog will be happier!

http://www.mimfreedom.com/dogtherapy.htm

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

My two passions, health and pets.
Doing therapy dog work is one of the most rewarding activities I can do with my dogs. Pet health care is one of my passions.
http://www.mimfreedom.com/dogtherapy.htm

8 dog training tips for you and your dog.

2009-03-26T09:31:00.000-07:00

You have permission to publish this article electronically
or in print, free of charge, as long as the bylines are
included. A courtesy copy of your publication would be
appreciated. fayolap@yahoo.com

Dog Training Tips
8 dog training tips for you and your dog.

By Fayola Peters

Dog training requires simple persistence to be a successful and
delightful experience for you and your dog.
Here are 8 dog training tips to guide you along the way.

1. Dog Training Tips - Get your dog's attention
Before you can start training your dog you first need to get its
attention. You can do this by talking to him and offering him a small treat.

2. Dog Training Tips - Use the correct dog training supplies
If you have a well behaved dog a six foot training lead and a regular
buckle collar will do. However if you dog is uncontrollable you should
use a training collar. For the right collar size measure the dogs' neck
and add 2 inches.

3. Dog Training Tips - For safety in vehicles
Before you introduce your dog to the inside of a moving vehicle you
should teach him the 'down!' and 'stay!' commands. This ensures that he
spends the ride on the floor of the vehicle.

4. Dog Training Tips - Elimination
When your dog got to go it got to go. To prevent your dog from getting
busy on the carpet you should train him to eliminate on command.

5. Dog Training Tips - Praise
Always praise your dog when he learns a new command.

6. Dog Training Tips - Reprimand
Do not hit your dog! Any time your dog is engaging in bad behavior, use
the opportunity to teach him the 'stop!' or 'no!' command. Using the
'stay!' command can also be effective in these situations.

7. Dog Training Tips - Play with your dog
This will help in building the bond between you and your dog.

8. Dog Training Tips - Do some dog training everyday
Don't rush dog training. Teach your dog one command at a time and don't
move on until he gets it. A little dog training everyday is all that's
needed.

Well that's it for my dog training tips. Enjoy training your dog and
remember that it takes simple persistence.
or in print, free of charge, as long as the bylines are
included. A courtesy copy of your publication would be
appreciated. fayolap@yahoo.com

Dog Training Tips
8 dog training tips for you and your dog.

By Fayola Peters

Dog training requires simple persistence to be a successful and
delightful experience for you and your dog.
Here are 8 dog training tips to guide you along the way.

1. Dog Training Tips - Get your dog's attention
Before you can start training your dog you first need to get its
attention. You can do this by talking to him and offering him a small treat.

2. Dog Training Tips - Use the correct dog training supplies
If you have a well behaved dog a six foot training lead and a regular
buckle collar will do. However if you dog is uncontrollable you should
use a training collar. For the right collar size measure the dogs' neck
and add 2 inches.

3. Dog Training Tips - For safety in vehicles
Before you introduce your dog to the inside of a moving vehicle you
should teach him the 'down!' and 'stay!' commands. This ensures that he
spends the ride on the floor of the vehicle.

4. Dog Training Tips - Elimination
When your dog got to go it got to go. To prevent your dog from getting
busy on the carpet you should train him to eliminate on command.

5. Dog Training Tips - Praise
Always praise your dog when he learns a new command.

6. Dog Training Tips - Reprimand
Do not hit your dog! Any time your dog is engaging in bad behavior, use
the opportunity to teach him the 'stop!' or 'no!' command. Using the
'stay!' command can also be effective in these situations.

7. Dog Training Tips - Play with your dog
This will help in building the bond between you and your dog.

8. Dog Training Tips - Do some dog training everyday
Don't rush dog training. Teach your dog one command at a time and don't
move on until he gets it. A little dog training everyday is all that's
needed.

Well that's it for my dog training tips. Enjoy training your dog and
remember that it takes simple persistence.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Fayola Peters is the webmaster of The-Dog-Training-Guide.com
(http://www.the-dog-training-guide.com)

he Right Way to Use Electronic Dog Training Collars

2009-02-13T14:22:00.000-08:00

The Right Way to Use Electronic Dog Training Collars
By Kevin Simmons

As with every training tool used to modify a behavior in your pet, electronic dog training collars need to be used correctly in order to be effective.
Some dog owners buy an electronic dog training collar because their pooch doesnt follow orders consistently, or at all. As soon as they get home, they strap it on, expecting some sort of miracle. And when doggie decides to do something special, like growl at another dog, his owner zaps the animal.

However, with no conditioning, the dog wont know what to do, and will immediately be scared. What hell learn from this process is not to stop growling, but instead, how to avoid the pain. Quickly hell figure out one of probably three different methods of avoidance:

RUN as far and as fast as he can, until the zapping stops;
FREEZE and do nothing until the zapping stops; or
FIND his owner.
None of these three responses to the electronic dog training collar, however, teach the dog anything new. If anything, they reinforce more bad behavior: if he RUNS, or FREEZES, he learns an avoidance technique of the pain, but doesnt change the behavior, or he FINDS his owner, and starts to associate safety with the owners presence, and loses his independence.
This article will detail the proper ways to modify your dogs behavior using an electronic dog training collar, so that you dont encounter these frustrating mishaps.

Learn the Proper Command

Before you start using an electronic dog training collar, your dog must first understand what is being asked of him. There are no shortcuts during this step, and it can take longer or shorter depending on your dogs temperament, breed, and time allotted. Be patient.

At this stage, the only thing that needs to be done is to show the dog what you want them to do, along with constantly repeating the action. So, if you want your dog to kneel, you would show the dog what kneeling is, and say, Kneel, kneel, kneel.

This stage is NOT a punishment stage, so no disciplinary action should be taken. Just work with your dog a lot until he understands what you are trying to tell him, and associates the word with the action.

Once this has been achieved, now is the time to test your electronic dog training collar. Find out at what level your dog responds to, and do NOT use a level higher than that. Watch your dog carefully during this testing phase; he should not be in pain, yelp or get scared, he should only be mildly uncomfortable.

Now you are ready to try all of what youve learned, together. Before you ask your dog to kneel, push turn on the electronic dog collar. Then, immediately say, Kneel, until your dog responds. After a couple of tries over an extended period of time, your dog will start responding to the command faster than he does the stimulation. Soon, youll only be using the electronic dog collar to remind your dog to listen to your Kneel command, instead of using it each time.

[ Submitted with ArticleSubmitter Pro - http://www.articlesubmitterpro.com]

About the author:
(c) 2005 dog-training-info.com This article may be republished as long as these bylines are included. Kevin Simmons is the webmaster of Please visit the site for more free dog training articles.

Dog Training for Competition

2009-02-13T14:20:00.000-08:00

og Training for Competition
Part-1
Competition Obedience

By
Joseph L. Bickel

As your dog training progresses, you might be wondering where and how you can apply the dog training you and your companion have learned. You have completed your puppy training. You have begun to master your obedience dog training. What can you do next? This article will give you information about taking your dog training to the next level. Competitions can assist you in fine tuning your dog training, open you to a world of fun, and earn titles, ribbons, and trophies for your efforts.

Competition Obedience

Competition obedience gives you the chance to show off the hard work you have done dog training your partner. Competition obedience is point based, A minimum score of 170 out of 200 points is what is required in order to qualify. You must acquire at least 50% of the points for each exercise. Repeated commands are not allowed. Over emphasis on commands are not allowed.

Most organizations offer three levels of competition: Novice, open, and Utility. You must achieve three qualifying scores to earn a title at each level. At the novice level, you can earn the title of Companion Dog (CD. Open dogs can earn the title of Companion Dog Excellent (CDX), and utility dogs can earn the title Utility Dog (UD). Dogs winning first or second place in Open or Utility classes are awarded points toward a title of Obedience Trial Championship (OTCH). The points for Obedience Trial Championship are based on how many dogs are defeated. It takes 100 points to earn the title of Obedience Trial Champion.

Heeling is an important component at all levels of competition to receive good scores. Precision is a key focus of this exercise. A pattern is predetermined by the judge for the handler and dog. This pattern includes straight heeling, left and right turns, about-turns, slow, normal, and fast heeling, and halts. The dog must heel on the handlers left side. The dogs shoulder must be even with the handlers leg. The dog must automatically go into a sit when the handler stops. At the Novice level, the heel will be done on and off leash. At the level of Open and Utility, all heeling is done off leash.

At the Novice level, each team does their predetermined pattern, including a figure 8 around two humans. The team must also perform an off lead stand for examination. A recall must also be performed. A recall consists of the dog in a sit and stay. The dog is then called to the handler, and then sits facing the handler. The dog , on command then returns to the heel position and sits. This exercise is done individually. The next phase is the dog in a down-stay for a minute and three minute interval. The down-stay is done with up to 12 other dog teams in the ring..
In the Open class, all the exercises are done off lead, including the figure 8. The recall requires a drop in place half way in ( on the handlers signal the dog drops to a down position).

In addition, the dog must also complete a broad jump, a high jump, and a retrieve of a dumbbell. The Stays in the Open Class are three and five minutes with the handler out of site.

In the Utility Class, heeling is performed with had signals only, no voice commands. The judges may also require the handler to have their dog sit, stay, stand, down, and come by hand signal.

The dogs must also retrieve two objects that have been scented by the handler. The objects are placed with eight similar objects that are not scented. The dog must then identify and retrieved by the dog. In addition, the dog must retrieve one of three identical gloves. The glove to be retrieved is designated by the judge. The dogs then compete in a send out and directed jumping exercise.

If you are looking to take your dog training to the next level, consider entering your dog in an obedience trial. Along with a great learning experience, it can be a lot of fun. You will also gain a large amount of dog training information from your fellow handlers.

Copyright 2004 Joseph L. Bickel

About the author:

Joseph L. Bickel has worked as a dog trainer and handler for over 15 years training police k-9's.

A Guide To Dog Training Collars

2009-02-05T09:35:00.000-08:00

As more breeds of dogs are domesticated, the number of available dog training collars are also steadily increasing. Sometimes, it is so hard to keep up on what dog collars to use for your dogs.

As more breeds of dogs are domesticated, the number of available dog training collars are also steadily increasing. Sometimes, it is so hard to keep up on what dog collars to use for your dogs.

Let me guide you through the maze of Dog training collars. Let us take a look at each of the available collars we can have for our dogs.

First, there is the buckle collar. The buckle collar is really like a buckle that we use for our trousers. Buckle collars have buckle fasteners too to secure it over the dogs neck. The buckle collars for dogs come in different varieties. There are buckle collars that are flat, rolled, made in nylon, or made in leather. The most preferred buckle collars of owners are the ones made in nylon. They are easier to clean, dont shrink and they come in different colors and styles. The leather ones, although it has been popular, is not very easy to clean and if wrongly washed they may shrivel or shrink.

Another Dog Training Collar especially used for flyball training and sled dog racing is the Martingale collars. Martingale collars provide limited choke on the dogs neck. These collars are not so easy to come off as they really fit the neck of your dog in a very nice way. Martingale collars are so flexible and they eliminate the danger of choking even if the dog gets very excited.

Next is the, Limited Choke Collar. These collars are more like the choke chain but they have rings at the end to make room for a few inches of allowance. To use these collars, you just have to ease the dog training collar from the head of your dog and slip it down its neck and tighten it a little.

An outdated Dog training collar is the choke chain. This was formerly used by dog owners before the invention of the other types of collars. Mostly, choke chains were used for punishment and correction. When a dog misbehaves, the owner would just jerk on the leash and the dog would choke, letting him think twice of what he is doing. Before, choke chains were really made of chains but now they are mostly made of nylon. Choke chains really are a torture to dogs, in some cases when the jerking is very hard, it can damage the windpipe of the dog.

An innovation of the choke chain dog training collar is the Snap-around choke. This is like the choke chain but designed so as not to damage a dogs windpipe. The snap-around choke is very snugly fit and it is worn up high the dogs neck and when the leash is jerked, it does not damage the dogs windpipe and does not jolt the dog that much.

Most of the collars we have discussed are worn around the dogs neck. However, there are also dog training collars that are worn on the head. These collars are fit on the dogs head with a leash attached under the dogs muzzle. The principle of this is that, where the dogs head is, its body will follow. The dog may not adjust that easily to wearing these kinds of dog collars and they may look like a pony halter or a muzzle.

Next is the Pronged or the German Pinch dog training collar. This collar is especially made for dogs that are wild, unruly and difficult to control. These collars apply pressure on the protruding areas in the dogs neck therefore it effectively catches the dogs attention. This kind of dog training collar does not damage the dogs windpipe

Another dog training collar is the electronic collar. These collars set off radio waves that shock the dog. The consequence of using this kind of collar is that your dog will always leave on fear and negative anticipation of the next shock. Electronic collars should not be used by novice trainers as they may not know how to properly make use of this collar.
There is also this thing called the no-bark collars. These are generally not really collars but they are used to train dogs not to bark. It is oftentimes very damaging and not beneficial on the dog to use this kind of collar.

There are still so many dog training collars available. They are constantly evolving to make collars as comfortable and as dog-friendly as possible. Other dog training collars include: light-up collars, they light up or glow at night; ornamental collars; schutzhund training collars and many others.

An important thing in choosing a dog training collar is that they must cater to your needs and should not be damaging to any of the dogs anatomy. It is also important to weigh the pros and cons of each kind of collar so that both you and your dog will be benefited from that dog training collar you have chosen.

About the Author: Gina Marie Capatar writes on a variety of topics. She is a freelance writer and the head writer for http://www.isnare.com You may contact her at gina@isnare.com or visit http://outsourcing.isnare.com for writing job proposals.

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How To Maintain Your Love Affair ... With Your Dog Part One - Training

2009-02-02T01:28:00.000-08:00

How to Maintain Your Love Affair with Your Dog - Training

How to Maintain Your Love Affair with Your Dog - Training
Tips for a Happy and Healthy Relationship with Your Canine Companion
2004-2005 by Peggie Arvidson-Dailey

When I first laid eyes on my little ball of black fluff at an adoption fair, I knew there was no turning back. My husband and I had been looking for just the right dog for months, and all the research and networking had finally paid off. There was no doubt in my mind that we had found the most perfect, precious four-legged family member in the world.

As luck would have it, the adoption fair was right around the corner from our home, this gave us a great opportunity for a home visit at the end of the event. I ran home, scrubbed and cleaned and did everything I could to make sure our home was puppy worthy. As soon as she arrived with her foster mom, the puppy made sure to let us know she was in the right placebut more about that later.

Because both of us had lived with dogs before, I was sure we knew everything we needed to start off on the right foot and have a loving and healthy relationship with our dog. I was only partially right. Through lots of hands-on experience and a great deal of patience and training, Ive learned a number of ways to maintain that original love-at-first sight feeling.

Training and Behavior

□ Train your dog. Whether you are dogs should always walk appropriately on leash, type of person, or one who lets your canine companion cuddle up in bed with you, you will benefit from appropriate training. Not only do you want to potty train your puppy so that he understands the appropriate place to relieve himself (not on the new carpet!), you also want to establish and maintain a set of expectations early. Good training is based on positive reinforcement and takes into consideration the age and breed of your dog. You may find a trainer through referrals of friends and family, through your vet, or pet-specialty store. You can also read a number of excellent books on dog training. Some great books are, How to Be Your Dogs Best Friend, and The Art of Raising a Puppy, by the Monks of New Skete, The Power of Positive Dog Training, by Pat Miller, and The Other End of the Leash by Patricia B. McConnell, PhD. (Any book by these authors are great places to start your self education.) A good place to look for more information about training your dog is the Association of Pet Dog Trainers.

□ Be Consistent. According to Training through Positive Reinforcement, learning consists of trying out new behaviors and seeing what happens as a consequence of those behaviors. If your dog has been taught to avoid jumping on people, allowing him to jump just this once on his favorite person is going to confuse him hell think the behavior is okay. However, by withholding attention or treats from him until he learns to sit and wait for a stranger or his favorite person you are maintaining consistency in his training regimen. As long as your pet understands what you expect and you behave in a consistent manner throughout your relationship, you will have a blissful relationship.

□ Learn a New Trick. Just because you and your dog have been maintaining your earlier training and sticking to the basics, doesnt mean that you cant find something new to do together. Clicker training and agility training are quite popular and are a great deal of fun for you and your dog. You can find local classes through your Parks and Recreation Department or visit The Dog Agility Page on the internet.

□ Introduce Your Dog to Strangers. The time will eventually come when you and your pet will need to be separated at least for a short time. If you ever plan to vacation, travel for business or even attend to a family emergency, your dog is going to be under the care of someone other than you. Prepare for this by introducing him to many new people throughout his life. The simple act of letting your pet meet and greet new people will help socialize him in the event that you need to leave. Also, if you live in an adults-only household, you may want to take the time to introduce your dog to children. The more positive experiences he has around kids, the better off you are when your sisters kids come to visit. But remember never leave children alone unattended with dogs.

□ Take A Ride. Teach your dog early that riding in the car is a fun way to go places. Take them on short trips in your car and always make the destination a fun or interesting place for them to be. Make sure you have proper pet-carriers for smaller dogs and appropriate seat belts or harnesses for larger breeds. You want your car rides to be safe and fun for both of you. If the only time your dog gets in a car they end up at a vet, it wont take them long to decide that cars are bad -- making it difficult to crate them or load them into the car when you need them to come with you.

□ Establish Your Pecking Order. Your dog needs you to let them know where they stand in the family order. It may sound cruel to say that you are the Alpha or the Leader of the Pack. But the truth is if you do not set up a plan to show your dog who is boss, he will walk all over you. It may seem cute when your 8 pound puppy demands your attention by pawing you while you work, but when your puppy is an 80 pound dog who is demanding you drop everything to play with them, it can be distracting at best and dangerous if you are carrying a hot pot to the table or healing from a medical procedure of your own.

About the Author: Peggie Arvidson-Dailey, The Pet Care Business Expert, is author of Surprisingly Simple Sales Steps: What Every Pet-Care Business Owner Needs to Know to Build Their Business in a BIG Way! To learn more about her book and sign up for tips, hints and sneak peeks at ways to run your pet-care business smarter visit http://www.peggiespets.com

Dog Training Collars -- Proper Selection Leads To Training Success

2009-02-02T01:26:00.000-08:00

The proper selection of a training collar can have a significant impact on the success of any dog training program. Most new dog trainers make the mistake of choosing a dog collar that does not allow for adequate control during the training sessions.

During my nearly four years of working with dogs, I have seen dog collars in numerous sizes and shapes. From head leaders to pronged choke collars, the choices available to dog owners are endless. However, in my training experience, I have not seen a dog training collar as effective as the classic choke collar.

The basic choke collar is an effective training tool that can be used on almost any size dog (for very small dogs, a nylon dog collar might be preferred). When used properly, the correction and response of the dog is almost immediate.

The key to using a choke collar effectively is to keep the dog collar loose when the dog is exhibiting proper behavior. For example, if the dog is heeling without pulling ahead, the choke collar should remain loose. If the dog begins to pull ahead, a quick "pop" or tightening of the collar will teach the dog that unwanted behavior has occurred. As soon as the dog's behavior has corrected, the collar is once again loosened.

By using the tightening & loosening technique, the dog quickly learns to associate good behavior with a loose collar. If the collar were to remain constantly tightened, the dog would only learn to fight against the choking feeling.

Regardless of which collar type you choose, it is imperative that the dog collar fit properly and give you, the trainer, maximum control over the dog.

About The Author

For nearly four years, David Dunlap has been working & training dogs from puppyhood to more advanced levels. For more information on dog collars, visit http://dogcollarinfo.com

Dog Training: Common House Training Problems

2009-01-26T05:43:00.000-08:00

By: Phil Donahoe

In terms of dog training, house training is one of the areas of dog ownership and one of the most common dog training problems that is most subject to misunderstanding, confusion, and just plain dread boy dog owners and even dog training experts.

In today's dog training article we are going to examine and learn how to deal with two of the most common problems surrounding the issue of house training your dog:

- Submissive and excited urination

- Scent marking behavior

Common house training problem #1: Submissive and excited urination

What is it a 'submissive urinator'?

A 'submissive urinator', in dog training terms, is a dog that urinates on the floor and himself (and sometimes on you or any guests you may have!) in situations of extreme excitement or stress, like when you return home at the end of the work day or when the dog is being told off for some bad behavior.

Why does this happen?

Puppies are the most usual candidates for submissive/excited urination, but it is also not uncommon to see this behavior in adult dogs as well. Usually, these are highly sensitive and timid dogs, and/or ones from a shelter/with a history of abuse (often these last two go hand-in-hand and one of most common things we see as dog training professionals.)

When does it happen?

Situations which are likely to trigger an excited/fearful dog to urinate:
- Greeting time after a prolonged absence of owner
- Play time where a dog gets too excited
- The arrival of guests (particularly unknown guests)
- Stressful situations at home, eg arguments involving owner
- During a behavior correction such as you’re telling him off
- Sudden and unexpected loud noises such as thunder or fireworks

What can I do about it?

Luckily as dog training experts will tell you, it is not difficult to prevent your dog from doing his submissive or excited urination.

Firstly and most importantly, you should take him to the vet to make sure there is no unknown medical reason for the issue (such as diabetes or a hidden bladder infection.)

Next, it’s time to take use good dog training techniques to control the problem:

- Try to limit his intake of water to help him control his bladder more effectively, this is very important. Don’t restrict his water intake over a prolonged period of time, but if you know there is a situation coming which would normally result in a loss of bladder control, for example, you have guests coming over, or are planning on a play session soon, take his water bowl away for a period of time (maybe half an hour to an hour) before the event.

- When greeting your dog, keep it calm and mellow. The more excited he is, the harder it is for him to control his bladder, so don’t encourage him to get worked up: ignore him for the first few moments, or give him a very neutral "hello", a quick and gentle pat, and then go about making yourself at home.

- It’s important that you DO NOT punish or harshly correct your dog for this behavior. It is not something that he can easily control, and he’s certainly not doing it on purpose. Punishing a dog for this behavior can cause emotional distress and lead to more problems for you and the dog in the long run. When you catch him in the act, you can interrupt him (a firm "No!" followed by praise when he stops should suffice) but don’t punish him. Keep your cool, and try to be sympathetic: he doesn’t mean to do it, after all!

- If he urinates out of fear (submissiveness) when scolding him for another offense, try to take the stress levels down a notch by keeping a firm, authoritative, but not angry tone. Remember, you’re dealing with a sensitive, highly-strung dog: if you get angry or worry him further, the problem will worsen.

Common house training problem #2: Scent marking

In dog training terms 'Scent marking' is where a dog 'marks' his or her territory with urine. Technically this is not actually a house training problem, since it’s based on the dog training issues of dominance and territoriality rather than insufficient house training. A dog can be perfectly house trained but still feel the need to mark inside the house.

However, because – since the problem centers around the unwanted presence of urine in the house – it seems logical, in a way, to link this problem with house training. Since this is one of the most widespread problems among dog owners, we as dog training professionals thought it worthwhile to include some practical advice.

Scent marking and lack of house training: how to differentiate between the two

Your dog is most likely scent marking their territory, rather than genuinely relieving himself, if:

- The amount of urine produced is relatively small, and tends to be directed against vertical surfaces such as doors, walls or furniture.

- If your dog is an unneutered male and at least five or six months old. Unneutered dogs are much more territorial than neutered ones. If you have an unneutered dog in the house, you can pretty much expect a certain amount of scent marking as he defines his own areas. It should also be noted that unspayed females also mark, but it is much less common. Spayed and neutered dogs can also exhibit marking behavior, but it’s relatively rare but should not be discounted.

- It makes little difference how often he is taken outside for a toilet break

- He frequently targets items that are new to the house such as new possessions, guest clothing/footwear, etc that do not carry some form of his scent

- You live in a multi-dog household and there is conflict between two or more of the dogs. In this case it is a dominance issue between the two and they may both mark.

- There are other, unneutered or unspayed pets in the house

What to do about the problem?

From a dog training perspective the first thing you need to do is spay or neuter your dog(s) as soon as you possibly can. If you can do this early enough, ideally, at six months of age, this often halts marking altogether. If this is not possible or if your dog’s been marking for a prolonged period of time, he or she may continue to do so after being spayed or neutered, since a pattern of behavior will have been established.

Ensure you clean soiled areas thoroughly. Use a non-ammonia based cleaner, because it smells just like pee, and stay away from vinegar too, it smells similar to pee as well. Oxi-Clean mixed with warm water is particularly effective on these areas and there are also plenty of commercial cleaners designed specifically to lift pet stains and odors, which you can buy from pet stores and some supermarkets.

Because dogs tend to re-mark the same places, you’ll need to redefine the places that you know he's marked to prevent repeat offending.

Many dog training experts will recommend the following ways to do this:

- Feed him next to or on top of the spot
- Play with him there
- Groom him there
- Put his bed over or next to it
- Spend time there yourself: hang out with a book or sit down and work

Finally, one particular aspect of dog training that is often overlooked is if there is rivalry between dogs in the household. In this case you will need to take steps to resolve it. Any conflict is likely to be hierarchical in nature (a 'power struggle'), which means that all you have to do to stop the tension is pay attention to which dog seems to be more dominant than the other one (which one eats first, gets the toys he/she wants, 'stares down' another dog), and reinforce this position to establish the hierarchy.

So how do you do this? From a dog training perspective it is relatively simple. First, feed the dominant dog first. Pet him/her first. Give him/her a toy before anyone else gets one. This makes it clear to all dogs in the house which one really is the dominant dog. When this hierarchy’s been recognizably established, territorial and dominant behaviors like scent marking often vanish overnight.

If you like this article, you will find much more useful dog training information on our dog training website Dog Training Success where you will find useful tips, tricks and an amazing guide that will help you train your dog with immediate results. No matter what your dog training problem there is a solution and this fantastic dog training guide will show you how to handle each and every situation in detail. Can you afford not to find our more? Click Here Now!

7 Dog Training Tips to Should Know Prior to Starting Dog Training

2009-01-25T05:41:00.000-08:00

By: Keith S.G. Gilbert
Dog training is very important if you would like to ensure that you and your new pet will be able to live in harmony. Dog training can correct or modify a number of the dog's natural behaviors, making the dog much more suited to life being taken care of in your home. There are a number of different ways available to train your dog and by following these 7 basic dog training tips, you will find that the training goes smoothly and is fun for both you and your dog.

1. If you are unsure of how to train your dog, seek help.
Individuals that would like to train their dog often have no idea how dog training is conducted or how the personality of their dog will factor into the training process. There are a number of different books and reference materials available to help a person train their dog, and if the owner is still unsure or uncomfortable with the training methods, they can ask a professional dog trainer for assistance and additional dog training tips.

2. Negative reinforcement is the least effective training method.
One of the dog training tips that most dog training professionals wish more people knew is that using negative reinforcement or punishment to train the dog is the least effective way to get the dog to obey you, but is the most effective way of making the dog fearful or aggressive towards you and others.

3. Making dog training fun also makes the training more effective.
Another one of the most important dog training tips to remember is that dogs love to please and are eager to learn in all stages of life, so making the dog training fun for the dog not only makes the training more enjoyable but also makes the lesson easier to learn for your dog.

4. Don't be afraid to use small treats as rewards.
Giving the dog a small treat for a job well done will not hurt the training process and will make the training more enjoyable for the dog. The treat chosen as the reward should only be given during the training process and on the successful completion of the task the dog was asked to do.

5. Research training products extensively before deciding which to purchase.
There are a large number of different training products on the market today and some of these products are intended for a specific use, not for general obedience training. Some of the products will have features that are not necessary to the training that you are trying to conduct, while some others may have features that will make your training sessions easier.

6. Dog training takes time.
Just as you didn't learn how to read in a day, your dog will not master a command or a trick within the space of a day. It takes time for a dog to remember and execute a desired behavior after it has been introduced to them, so this important dog training tip is to give the training time to work and the dog time to understand what you are asking him to do.

7. If at first you don't succeed, try again.
This last tip of the important dog training tips is that if your dog fails to understand a training method or a command, try a different teaching method. Just like different people learn in different ways, different dogs learn in different ways as well.

To find more dog training tips, visit the following site: Free Dog Obedience Training Wisdom. You'll find free articles that will teach you more about how to train your dog to obey you.

Dog Training - Training Man's Best Friend

2009-01-24T05:39:00.000-08:00

By: Rio Morales Morales
Training Your Silky Dog:

It is essential to have a dog that knows how to follow the right rules and how to live around your house. To achieve this, dog training must be considered.

Most people think that training a dog is hard and expensive. Moreover, dog training requires a lot of patience and creativity for your dog. We have to remember that dogs may be intelligent but they can not be as intelligent as us. The article provides some of the basic things dog owners need to know so they can do the training themselves. However, to maximize the full potential of your dog, a dog trainer should be hired instead.

What are the differences between a submissive dog and a dominant dog?

A submissive dog normally:

- avoids eye contact.
- rolls on its back.
- crouches down, ears back and tail lowered.
- is comfortable on its back in your arms.

On the other hand, a dominant dog:

- maintains eye contact.
- is unwilling to move from his place on the couch.
- dislikes grooming and petting.
- is possessive of dishes and toys.

Training your silky terriers requires kindness and consistency. Silkys respond actively to praises and to rewards. In addition, they become harsh and unresponsive towards punishments and animosity, respectively.

Trainings with obedience classes can be intensely beneficial in petting your silky terriers. In many dog training schools, classes for puppies are available. Young dogs are taught to get accustomed with other dogs and people using limited trainings. However, there are areas that do not conduct formal obedience training unless the dog is at least half a year old. Always remember that a dog is never too old to benefit from training when a good trainer is available, or if the owner is fully committed to the task.

Here are the recommended ways of training silky terriers:

1. Reiteration or Repetition

Reiteration is the name of the dog training game. In here, dogs are asked to do a task over and over again to achieve mastery. Dog tricks are best learned when reiterated and reinforced through rewards.

2. Persistence
Patience is a virtue that requires you to tolerate hardships. Persistence is trying to be patient for a longer time until a goal is achieved. Apparently, dog training requires a loof persistence from the owner or from the trainer Physical and psychological aspects of the owner and/or the trainer must be sound.

3. Commendation and Emendation
Simply put, if a dog does the right thing, it should be said aloud. Otherwise, the dog should hear, "No, that's not it!" when the trick is not complete or appropriate for the command given. These words reinforce correct responses and diminish the unwanted ones.

4. Rewarding

Bits of cheese would really be good treats for dogs who responded correctly to a given command. Other food can be bought at pet sores. However, if you are able to get the respect of your pet, commands will be executed even if there are no longer involved treats. Likewise, these things reinforce warranted responses.

If your lifestyle permits being in charge of training your own pet, you can do the training as long as you have gathered enough patience and commitment by:

1. Spending time grooming your dog.

2. Having regular training times on the leash.

3. Stroking its belly and toes and rolling it on its back

4. Hand feeding some food to ensure that the pet is taking treats gently and slowly.

In asserting dominance, always practice consistency and firmness

Dogs are man's best friend. Despite that, sometimes they can grate on your nerves; barking, chewing, and the occasional nip can sour a relationship very quickly. That's why it's important to establish boundaries and make sure your dog is well-trained!
http://bossbiz.bezoogle.com/pp/dog-training/

The Importance of Dog Training for a Happy, Balanced Pet-owner Relationship

2009-01-23T05:37:00.000-08:00

By: WoodCreek Pet Products

First Principles
Teach respect, a dog has to be taught to respect its owner. You have to be his leader and not let him be yours. As you communicate with your dog he learns to understand you, he will forever be willing to please. Once the dog knows you are his leader, he will be a happy follower by teaching your dog the basic training commands and discipline.
It is next to impossible to have a normal, well-behaved, even-tempered dog without discipline and some training. Once a dog is trained he is a better pet and greater companion, and he himself will be happier for knowing that his owner is pleased with him. There are many books devoted to discipline and training and free online resources for dog training than ever imaginable! There are also many great obedience-training classes for low cost to no cost, one for example is PetSmart and I highly recommend this form of training, it helps your dog or puppy learn to socialize as well as get his basic obedience training from a professional source, helping you and your dog learn together. You must be willing to accept the fact that if your dog fails the course and becomes a dropout, it is entirely your fault not the dogs. He is a willing subject, it is your complete responsibility to ensure you and he complete all training classes and continue to adhere to the lessons learned.
Any sincerely interested dog owner can train their dog, and it can be a most rewarding educational experience for both. Patience and consistency is the key to successful training, at times you will have to be firm, but gentle and always, always give praise for each and every one of his positive efforts.Basically dog training is built on reward, repetition, reprimand and again praise. Although it can be too early to begin training, it is never too late. Most puppies form a strong attachment to an individual which may persist or wane, and there is often a phase of disobedience and defiance. Discipline is needed during this crucial period, but it must be with patience and never overbearing or intimidating. Don't listen to the old cliché "You can't teach an old dog new tricks". There is nothing further from the truth, I don't for one moment believe that you can't teach an old dog new tricks, he can be taught new tricks and all the basic commands whatever his age.

It is bound to be a more difficult to break old habits like barking, chasing cars, sleeping on furniture etc., and can be resolved with proper training aids, such as no-bark collars, sonic bark control devices, citronella spray collars, indoor radio fences, and scat mats, if all other resources have been exhausted to resolve these and various other undesirable habits develop or exist. You and your dog must be relaxed before you begin any training session. He can and will know when you are tense or uncomfortable, he can't learn while he is tense or timid and if your dog or puppy is showing signs of stubbornness or defiance they may be more resistant to teaching, but don't give in, stay firm, consistent and have a routine, all animals are creatures of habit, so stay with the training. In essence complete relaxation is essential for both dog and trainer, also, make lessons fun for both you and your dog. He will learn much faster, and give you a greater reward for your training efforts, vise-versa.

Getting To Know Your Dog or Puppy

To train your dog or pup to the best advantage for both, you must get to know their personality, for example there are sensitive or shy dogs who squeal at the slightest noise with disciplinary action and the merest jerk of a training lead, grooming comb or word of discipline, causing you to hurt his feelings and mistrust. Take caution and try to understand this dog or puppy’s personality, this is vital to their mental health and needs to be taken in a very slow, easy manner. If a stronger, more aggressive training method is used with this type of personality it cannot be reversed, and will ultimately result in a very scared, confused pet. Then there is the more assertive type dogs, they may need a stronger form of training and attention spans may need to be focused on, "Fearless" Fun loving, and go for it types of dogs always pushing himself at you for your attention, he jumps on your guests, slobbers on them, forces his "Here I am" on you, your guests, children or the elderly. This personality may or may not need a more aggressive training method, depending on the breed and the owner's training abilities.
Make the Lessons Fun
Dogs get bored with long training sessions. If you work them for over 20 minutes at a time, they will lose interest and stop listening to you. For a younger dog or puppy, 5 to 10 minutes is long enough for one training session. But do it frequently, and again with, praise or training reward treats.
Basic Dog Training Commands
(1) Leash Training: This is the first and foremost of all dog and puppy training. Say you need to take your pet to the Veterinarian for a check up...this cannot be done without a well leash trained dog or puppy. Work with your dog or puppy daily DO NOT: pull, drag or force your dog to follow the leash, take it easy.....let them walk to you, stop...say "Good Dog" Reward them with a treat, and let them sit, then, pet, praise them. Give them time, always be patient, they will respond soon to your leash training, it is so very important not to scare them while leash training!!!! They will never feel safe with you!!

(2) Heel: You teach your dog to walk on you left side without pulling in front of you; he always walks beside you, comfortably, easily and will never pull at the leash. When he tries to walk in front of you, you jerk back on the lead and say the word "Heel". Use this command with easy, gentle commands, do not "Yank" on the lead, be very, very gentle or this will cause your dog to become scared and try to bolt and make the "Heel" command frighten your dog, therefore, reversing your training and all trust established with your dog or puppy. Please always use good sense and respond to your dogs action or "Reaction" to "Leash and Heel" Training.
(3) Sit: Pull the leash straight up and while pushing down on his hindquarters, saying the word "Sit". Most dogs learn this very quickly.
(4) Down: You don't want your dog or puppy to jump on people, especially, elderly guests, children or anyone else that is coming to visit your home. Your dog needs to learn this after he is confident with his leash training. Grasp the leash or collar just under the dog's neck and while gently pulling in the downward motion as you say, "Down"
(5) Stay: This is a very important command, as it can save your dog from a situation were harm or injury may occur, and this can be beneficial to the both of you. This command can save you or your dog from being hit by cars, or any other dangerous situation, this can your dogs life. To teach the "Stay" command put your dog in a sitting position and talk a few steps away, and if he attempts to come to you, firmly say "Stay" and stop walking, ask your dog to sit, and start again, keep repeating this procedure until he stays, this may take some time, remember keep the lessons short, and be consistent.
(6) Come: Be sure to do this with a leash or long lead. First put him on the "Stay" command, use the word "Come" and give the leash a light tug toward you, when he responds a comes to you give him praise and or a reward treat and repeat this lesson until your dog is responsive to the command, then you can remove the leash or lead and repeat the lesson. This is one of the easiest lessons dogs learn very quickly. With all said and these simple, easy to follow training guidelines, you should have a long and happy relationship with your dog or puppy. Note: Never give up, be patient, consistent and always praise!!!! Love your dog like he loves you.
YOUR DOG
"He is your friend, your partner, your defender, your dog.....You are his life, his love, and his leader. He will be yours, faithful and true, to the last beat of his heart. You owe it to him to be worthy ofsuch devotion. "

WoodCreek Pet Products
http://www.woodcreekmall.com/TrainingAids.html

Dog Training - Dog Exercise

2009-01-22T05:10:00.000-08:00

By: John Williams Dog Training
Exercise is one of the main way in which dogs keep their muscle tone, bones, joints, and mind healthy, there are plenty of ways in which to exercise your dog. Some exercises are good for keeping you healthy as well, and others are more relaxed and effort free for those times when you get back from work and your dog is staring at you all excited and ready to play.

Some breeds of dogs are more active and need more exercise than others, and sometimes more than a lot of owners think they can give them due to other commitments like work and there not being enough hours in the day. But this doesn’t have to be the case as many professional dog trainers will tell you, and keeping your dog in shape can be fun and rewarding for both parties.

Here are some of the exercises that are popular in the dog community and reasons why –

Fetch

Starting off with the most well known of exercises, the fetch game involves you throwing a ball and your dog running after it and returning it to you. This can be little exercise for you and a lot for your dog if you use any throwing enhancing products that are on the market today.

Tug

The tug game involves both you and your dog pulling on either end of a tugging toy, requires little effort on your behalf and can be played while you sit and watch telly or between breaks of other activities.

Jogging

Jogging is a highly active sport and helps keep your health up as well as your dogs, your dog will love to pay this game with you and it will ensure a healthy and happy dog.

Cycling

Although cycling may seem like a difficult exercise for your dog to follow and keep an interest in, there are special leashes for you to use on your dog to maintain hands free control over your dog giving you a more subtle form of exercise. Care may be needed and basic dog training should be given to make sure your dog will be in no harm during the task.

For more information visit our dog training website at this link... Dog Training

Dog Trainign - Dog Bad Breath

2009-01-21T05:15:00.000-08:00

By: John Williams Dog Training
Bad dog breath can be a bad problem for your dog and you, at times a dogs breath an be unbearable and make bonding with your dog a chore you’d rather avoid at all costs. This may not be due to your dog and more down to the care you have not realized that your dog should have.

Dog’s bad breath like most other dog symptoms can be the cause of many different issues separately or together, this makes the cause hard to diagnose without a proper examination from a professional dog carer or vet.

Common causes of dog bad breathe –

Maybe your dog is finding it hard to eat or swallow which can lead to dog’s bad breath and other illnesses that are related.

Saliva drooling from your dog’s mouth may also be a cause of bad dog breath, as more saliva gets built up in your dog’s mouth is makes it easier for bacteria to breed resulting in bad breath.

The last and most common form of bacteria build up is from not cleaning or not properly cleaning your dog’s teeth, this enables tartar to form and make the bad odor you are forced to smell day in day out.

Many believe that food choice and what you feed your dog is a problem when dog breath is concerned, as this may be true to an extent this is more of a temporary short term problem and the reason above is more likely to be the problem cause.

There are plenty of dental hygiene products available in pet shops and online, some work better than others on different dogs but you best bet is to clean your dog’s teeth regularly to stop the bacteria build up, this is where the problem begins and where you should target your efforts.

If you fear the problem has got too far to recover or damage or the gums and teeth is visible you should contact your vet as soon as possible for help and a proper diagnosis of your pet.

Control Dog Barking

2009-01-20T23:21:00.000-08:00

Determine Why Your Dog is Chewing Before You Punish Him

2009-01-19T05:46:00.000-08:00

By Kim L Smith

Dog chewing is a major problem, but in puppies it can be a common occurrence. To figure out why your dog is chewing you have to get to the root of the problem. The first step is to figure out what your dog is chewing on, if it is his bones then no need to worry, but if it is something other than his bones or chew toys then you have another issue to deal with. Okay so now you have determined what your dog is chewing on is something other than his toys or bones then you have to figure out why he is chewing on everything you can think of.

One of the main reasons that a puppy might be chewing on everything is because they could be teething. You probably cannot remember how painful teething is, but you do know that if you had kids you had to buy expensive teething rings for them to chew on. That is because the chewing motion will help soothe the gums and help allow the teeth to come up into the mouth easier. This could be a natural reason for the dog chewing and might mean he either doesn't like the bones or toys any longer or you need to get him more of them.

Another reason that your puppy or older dog could be chewing is because he is bored. If he is bored then he will want to chew on whatever is available for him to chew on. That might mean you need to get him some more bones or toys to help with that as well. If it is not boredom that is causing them to chew up everything that is in their path then you will need to consult with your vet to rule out separation anxiety or some illness.

If after you talk to your vet and rule out some type of illness or separation anxiety then you will probably want to invest in a dog obedience course to help you train your dog to stop chewing. Remember though that the key is to find out the reason why your puppy or dog is chewing in the first place. Once you find out what is causing the chewing to happen then you will be better able to address the problem that your dog is giving you. Another key to helping your dog is praising him when he is chewing on the proper item and not on your expensive items.

I live in Ohio with my wonderful husband and two beautiful children. I have two English Mastiff puppies, a Lab-Retriever, and a Yorkie Poo. I also have two cats who came to us as strays. I love sewing, crocheting, and managing to take care of my zoo at the house. Since I have so many pets I have a strong interest in animal issues. For more great information and training advice check out Kimberly's page at http://howtotrainmydog.weebly.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kim_L_Smith

Understanding Your Dog's Communication

2009-01-19T05:43:00.000-08:00

By Jane Dinunzio

Learning to read your dog's body language is pretty simple. They have limited actions and verbal noises, that once you can interpret, will make both your lives easier. You will then know when your pet is happy and when they are distressed.

Most devoted dog owners can immediately tell what their dogs are feeling by different body language signals. Most dogs have similar and repetitious signals that are generally easy for someone who understands their dog, will then help understand a friendly dog on the street, or in a dog park, from a potential enemy.

If you are not sure of what a dog is saying check out these few different examples that I have learned from my dogs, Lady and Lola.

A Happy, Friendly Tail Wagging Dog:

The tail will make wide sweeps or almost a circle movement, with the tail hanging down, and not held straight up and wagging stiffly. The ears are relaxed and fur will be smooth down the spine and shoulders. A happy tail wagging dog won't look another dog or you in the eyes, but will be busy with the task of sniffing, usually first nose to nose, then nose to butt, moving in a relaxed manner. Ask the owner if it is okay to pet their dog after the sniffing routine is finished, then offer the back of your hand to smell first before petting. I usually just stand with my fist turned towards the unknown dog at this point, staying fairly still with my arm hanging down at snout level. I allow the dog to approach me rather than sticking my fist out towards him. So far I haven't had a problem with misinterpreting this action as aggressive.

A Tail Wagging Dog that is Showing Aggression:

If you meet another dog while out with yours, or even if you are just out alone don't assume he is friendly because his tail is wagging. Although the strange dog is not growling, showing it's teeth and snapping at you, he can be dangerous. If his tail is stiff and held high, and the ears seem alert, and he stares directly into your or your dog's eyes, then you are encountering a hostile dog. The hackles are raised. - ( the fur down the spine and around the shoulders ). To prevent attack you should try to quietly remove yourself and your dog quickly, without running of course.

A Happy Playful Pup:

This is my favorite way for Lady or Lola to show me their "mood". Most people will recognize this type of dog language, even people who aren't dog people. Let's play. Your dog bows down and rests on the chest and front elbows, with the butt swinging happily up in the air. Sometimes after a short display of this, they get up, bark, run in circles, do a quick roll around, and return to the position. I can never resist this request.

A Very Unhappy Fearful Dog:

The whole body will be lowered, and tucking the tail to cover it's scent will be a good indication that your dog is afraid of something. The ears are usually laid back and tight against his head, and the fur is raised along the back and shoulders. Fear biting is sometimes a result when a dog is afraid. This is a dog you want to retreat from quietly and quickly.

A Submissive Dog:

When a dog is being submissive, it may lie on his back and expose the belly. This is not a sign of cowardice. This way the dog gives you the power of pack leader he can relax and enjoy his life of belly scratches, walks, getting a regular meal and playing. These dogs aren't looking for a fight, and are usually laid back and relaxed pets. This type of personality makes a good family member. As long as there are no other symptoms to go along with this behavior that would indicate the dog shows obsessive behavior along with this body language, or is so timid that is hides all the time and is truly a "scaredy dog". I had a sweet, sweet beagle named Susie that was so submissive and afraid of everything that it took over one year just for her to trust me enough to approach me. She stayed mostly under the bed and I was always hunting around the house for her. I rescued Susie from a horrible existence in a puppy mill, at the age of 6 months. Even with all the her quirky and difficult behavior, I loved her dearly, and patiently she learned to trust the immediate family. She was a wonderful addition to my life for 10 years, before succumbing to cancer.

Obviously these few examples above of "dog body language" are just that - a few. Dog's have many actions, expressions and stances that indicate different wants and needs. Most of these are genetically passed on from wild ancestors.

Learning to read the different variations within your dog's body language makes living together a very rewarding endeavor.

Check out more about dog health, behavior, and nutrition here along with my pictures of Lady, Lola and my Susie's bio here: http://recipes4gourmetdogs.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jane_Dinunzio

Four Great Tips to Prevent Your Dog From Barking

2009-01-18T12:02:00.000-08:00

By Kim L Smith

You hear your neighbor's dog barking again and are wondering why he does not stop the dog from barking. You do not realize that your neighbor has tried everything that he can think of to stop his dog from barking. So after talking to your neighbor about the barking dog you decide to try to help him out and research the internet for tips and suggestions. Here are four tips on how to get your neighbor's dog to stop barking.

The first tip that you can give to your neighbor is to have you over more so the dog will not bark at you when you stroll out to get your newspaper in the morning. This does not mean to invite yourself over, but do it as a subtle suggestion to help the dog get used to you.

The next tip that you can do is walk over to your neighbor's house to check on the dog. The dog could be barking constantly because something is wrong or your neighbor is sick. If this is the case you would want to praise the dog for his hard work and effort at alerting you.

The third tip would be to help your neighbor out and buy some toys for the dog that your neighbor can give him. The giving of toys will help your neighbor by giving the dog something to play with instead of barking at everything.

The fourth tip would be to talk to the dog. Talking to a dog that is barking at you may sound odd, but you have to remember that a way that dogs communicate is by barking. So he could be trying to talk to you, but because he was never taught how to talk and not to mention unable to talk he will take to barking to carry out his conversation.

A barking dog can be annoying especially if it is your neighbor's dog and you live within a close enough distance that you can hear it through the walls, but you have to find out why the dog is barking. If your neighbor's dog is barking for the proper reasons then you will want to praise the dog for his efforts at alerting you to the problem. However, not all the time will the dog be barking for the proper reasons so you will want to talk to your neighbor and possibly use one or all of the tips mentioned above.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kim_L_Smith

A Reason Why Your Dog Might Be Biting

2009-01-18T08:48:00.000-08:00

By Kim L Smith

You scream in horror as your realize that your mailman is running in fear down your driveway with your dog in hot pursuit. This is the third mailman that your dog has ran down and your hoping he doesn't bite this mailman because your running out of options on what to do with your dog biting other people. So you start chasing after your dog and hope you're able to catch him in time before he bites.

Now after you have caught your dog you decide you want to try to find out what you can do to prevent your dog from biting other people. Well the first thing that you have to do if you're going to prevent your dog from biting other people is to find out why he is biting people. Now one of the things about your dog biting people or yourself is that it can be linked to dog aggression.

If you think that your dog's biting problem is linked to him being an aggressive dog then you will need to consult with your vet about what you can do. Typically you will want to place your dog in a training program that will help you learn basic obedience of how to control your dog and his biting habit. However, if your dog still bites even after he has been through an obedience course you will want to ask the instructor what else you can do to prevent the dog from biting.

A suggestion that was given before to other people has been a gentle leader or muzzle. The gentle leader is basically a type of lead that will let you have total control of your dogs head. Not only that the gentle leader is easy to use, but you will want to have one that is sized properly for your dog because they can be difficult to adjust. However, you will have control of the head and as you know wherever the head goes the body has no choice but to follow. You will also need keep your dog on a leash when he has the gentle leader on. Remember though to follow the recommendations on the package for wear and use of the gentle leader to prevent harm to you and your dog.

Dog biting can be a very powerful problem that dog owners will have to face. You have many options available to help you address the dog biting problem, but you will almost certainly need obedience courses of some type to help you control your dogs biting habit.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kim_L_Smith

When Teaching Your Dog Obedience, Positive Reinforcement is a Must

2009-01-17T06:26:00.000-08:00

By Craig Vic

Teaching dog obedience becomes a lot simpler when you understand how important positive reinforcement is. It really is the cornerstone of any kind of dog training course. But it's also important that the dog trainer has a lot of patience, because some dogs pick it up faster than others.

If your dog doesn't pick it up quickly, try not to get upset at him. He's not doing it on purpose, just to spite you. He really is trying his best.

First off, understand that dogs tend to learn by association. So in the dog's mind, if he did something and got a treat for it, he realizes that he's done a good thing. So it's important that the instant your dog does something that you want him to do, whether it be to sit, "gimme your paw", or comes to you, reward him instantly with a treat. The more times this happens to the dog, the more times he'll recognize the pattern.

You also want to keep the sessions short but try to do a few sessions a day, if you can. Also, if its possible, try to do the sessions in different environments, whether it be at home, in your yard, or when you are taking him out for a walk. But when the sessions are active, try to keep distractions away from the dog. You want to make sure you have his undivided attention.

The rewards can also come when the dog does something partially right. Eventually, he'll realize what he's not doing, and correct it.

Is you dog driving you crazy? Don't get mad at them. It's not their fault. They just need a little push in the right direction. Come visit How To Train My Dog to get a bunch of tips that can save you a lot of frustration. Also be sure to pick up my free report: The Top 5 Dog Training Myths.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Craig_Vic

Medium Sized Dog Breeds Rated For Your Family - Grooming, Shedders - Which is Best?

2009-01-15T06:43:00.000-08:00

By Terry K Russell

When selecting a dog for yourself or your family, you have to take into consideration many factors. Does your home accommodate the size dog you wish to bring home? Do you have the time to give to that dog? Will the dog fit into your family? Can you afford to feed and maintain the dog properly? Medium breed dogs are popular around the world. Breeders around the world have incorporated large breed dogs with medium sized breeds to come up with some very wonderful pets and unique looking dogs.

The top ten medium breed dogs on the American Kennel Club list are:

Siberian Husky
Poodle
Border Collie
Brittany Spaniel
Australian Shepherd
American Eskimo
French Bulldog
Airedale Terrier
Australian Cattle Dog
Sheepdog

Medium sized dogs are wonderful companions, great pets, and easier to maintain compared to the large and giant breed dogs. While looking over the list of medium sized dogs on the American Kennel Clubs' site I did notice a large amount of the dogs on the list require extensive grooming or brushing. Not all the dogs require a ton of grooming, but a large amount of the dogs that compiled the list do require regular brushing or visits to the groomer in order to be properly maintained. This should be taken into consideration when selecting a breed that follows into any category.

Medium sized dogs are well kept in small yards; some can be kept in apartments or townhomes without issues. Daily walking is recommended due to some of the breeds being very energetic and needing that 'play time' to keep them from becoming bored and destructive while inside your home.

As with any dog, medium sized dogs will require your attention and regular veterinarian visits to keep them healthy and happy. As stated above, dogs like the Poodle, Sheepdog, and Husky are going to require grooming. Poodles will need to be clipped, shaved and sculptured regularly. Sheepdogs have a massive amount of hair... if you are looking for a non-shedding dog; a sheepdog is not your best choice for your next pet. Husky dogs also seem to be shedders. They will require regular attention with a brush and matting comb.

In the medium sized category there are so many wonderful breeds to pick and choose from. The decision needs to be based around what you or your family is wanting in a dog.

Allergies or sensitivity to pet hair and dander needs to be addressed first when selecting a medium sized breed of dog. Then consider the amount of space your dog is going to need at full adult size. Food costs will be less then a large or giant breed dog, however it is still much more then a small or toy breed dog. Lastly, if your medium sized dog weighs over 50lbs the veterinarians usually charge more for any surgical procedure.

Educate yourself on all the wonderful breeds that fit into the medium sized category, there are many to choose from, however some can be eliminated quickly by allergy suffers or a family that doesn't want to commit to grooming requirements.

If you have a dog already or are thinking about getting one soon, it's good to know how to understand and easily solve the toughest dog behavior problems. Terry is offering a FREE eBook on Solving Dog Behavior Problems click this link to sign up now and learn all about dog behavior for free!

Have you ever been embarrassed by your dog jumping up on your guests as they arrive? Find out how to easily end this behavior for good. Dog Obedience

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Terry_K_Russell

Dog Nail Grinder - A Good Option For Dog Nail Care

2009-01-15T06:38:00.000-08:00

By Daniel J. Scott

Dog nail care represents one of the important grooming actions which are necessary for the safety and the well being of your favorite pet dog. There are a considerable number of tools and a vast selection of techniques on the market today that can provide you with many successful nail trimming sessions. Proper nail care often requires several different specialty tools and each of these tools does a particular job. In only a short period of time you can quickly accumulate many diverse nail care tools such as nail clippers, nail trimmers, nail files and nail grinders.

Occasionally the process of nail trimming can become a traumatic experience for your dog particularly since the "quick" in the dog's nails are affected and can cause extreme pain and considerable bleeding. This is the reason that upon your next trip to the pet salon or perhaps by merely seeing the clipper or trimmer your usually friendly dog starts to be uncomfortable and panics. It doesn't have to be this way since there are several clippers and trimmers today that do the trimming quickly and gently. Even then however, sometimes the clipping motion can cause excessive pain on your precious pet.

If your dog is already afraid of having his nails trimming and scared of the trimmer itself then you still have one additional option available to you. You can provide nail care to the animal through the use of dog nail grinders. Basically, a dog nail grinder resembles the familiar sandpaper grinder often found in the woodworking shops. It sands the nails of your dog until the nail is properly trimmed to size and shape. Some dog nail grinder comes with several speed selections making it very useful for several different animals while others are simply the good ole on or off type of style. Since most of these nail grinders produce a certain amount of noise it is understood that you will need to condition your dog to this noise and should only employ this grinder when your dog is ready for it.

Nail care for your favorite dog need not be a painful experience for him or for you. Using the dog nail grinder is but one way of providing a painless option that would be available to you in order to make your dog's nail trimming safe and rapid.

Stop hurting your beloved best friend! Learn the proper ways to tend to your dogs nail. Learn which dog nail grinder is kindest for your lovely dog. Do you want the best for man's best friend? If you do then come check out the proper way to care for your dogs nails.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Daniel_J._Scott

Innova Dog Food Review

2009-01-14T06:57:00.000-08:00

By Goh Wei Liang
Innova dog food is the first true holistic health food launch in the market and is designed in such a way that it provide different level of nutrition at every life stage. But do you know what is holistic food?

Holistic food is actually food in its most natural state - unprocessed and without any artificial ingredients. As such, nutrients are well preserved in the original state of the food. Comparing this with other dog food which contain by product which you will never want your dog to eat. Problem with such food is that the by product might be contaminated and thus passing certain diseases to your dog.

To avoid this problem, choosing the holistic food for your dog is the best choice.

Innova dog food are formulated with ingredients from the six basic food groups, including fresh fruits and vegetables, and whole ground grains which give Innova a wide variety of pet food ingredients and flavors. Innova also features added ingredients which are known to promote health. This shows the optimal mix of ingredients to provide your dog not only with protein but also fibre. Dogs do need fibre to avoid intestinal and anal sac problems and this are all covered in Innova dog food.

Read up more about providing the best nutrition for your dog.

We love our dogs and we want it to live healthily. Be aware of the type of ingredients that can help the growth of your dog and those that can possibly negatively affect his health. When you understand the purpose of certain ingredients used in the dog food, you will be able to select the best food for your dog. Try the Innova dog food and you will realise the benefit of it. I am sure your dog will love it.

Wei Liang

Read more about Innova Dog Food and start choosing the right type of food for your beloved dog.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Goh_Wei_Liang

Can Onions Kill Your Dog?

2009-01-13T06:09:00.000-08:00

By Jen Moore
Everyone has heard that dogs shouldn't eat chocolate but has anyone heard of onion toxicity?

There are a number of foods that can create serious health problems for your dog and unfortunately not many people of aware of this. These foods include cooked as well as uncooked chocolate, onions, bones, mushroom, macadamia nuts, garlic, avocados, grapes, raisins, and all spicy or greasy foods.

Most pet owners have, at one time or another, fed their dog foods containing onion such as pizza, hamburger, general table scraps or gravy. A small amount is not likely to cause a problem since onion toxicity depends on the quantity of onion ingested. However, onions in any form including cooked, raw, dehydrated or powdered can create a serious life-threatening form of hemolytic anemia in dogs.

All red blood cells carry a protein called hemoglobin which delivers oxygen to our tissues and organs and our dog's tissue and organs. Onions contain a substance called thiosulphate which dogs and cats are unable to digest. Garlic also contains thiosulphate but in much lesser amounts. Thiosulphate causes oxidation of hemoglobin in your dog's red blood cells, which then forms lumps and weakens the cell membranes. These lumps, called Heinz bodies, protrude from the cells and eventually cause the cell to rupture and die. When enough red cells are destroyed the body becomes starved for oxygen and goes into a state of anemia.

A decrease in the red blood cell count can cause a multitude of health problems for your dog including heart failure. The number of cells destroyed usually depends on the quantity of onion consumed. However, some dogs have developed serious reactions even after eating just a small amount of onion. Furthermore, small amounts of onion fed over an extended period of time can create illness just as a one-time larger dose can, due to the gradual accumulation of Heinz bodies.

Sometimes it takes several days for symptoms to begin to appear. Symptoms include but are not limited to: vomiting, weakness and lethargy, difficulty breathing, diarrhea, cyanotic (pale or bluish) gums, blood in the urine or feces urine, decreased appetite, jaundice, and rapid heart rate. Severe onion toxicity can be fatal for your dog.

If you suspect your pet has onion toxicity contact your vet immediately. If the onion ingestion was recent, intravenous fluids are generally a sufficient treatment. If the state of anemia is severe, a lengthy hospital stay and a blood transfusion might be needed.

Using common sense is the best way to prevent onion toxicity in your dog. Onions are very common in many human foods including even baby foods. Onions can be found in everything from sandwich meats, fast foods, spaghetti sauces, salsas, gravies, to vegetable juice. Check the ingredients carefully in any table scraps before giving them to your dog. Never add onions in any form to homemade dog food recipes. Lastly, make sure your garbage is kept covered and dog-proofed.

Please visit my website for more information on dog nutrition and homemade dog food recipes.

Jen Moore is a pet health expert on ezinearticles. Look for other pet health related issues at http://my-dog-has-fleas.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jen_Moore

Find A Reputable Dog Breeder

2009-01-11T15:49:00.000-08:00

Dog breeders can be found anywhere. However, buying the best-looking puppy in the pet store does not necessarily guarantee that you bought a pet with a top breed.

What are the different types of breeders? Which of them provide the best dog breeds?

1) Look for reputable breeders. Well known breeders know specific details about their specialized breed. They examine genetic diseases that are known to have physical and emotional impact on that breed, perform veterinary maintenance and sustain breeding records.

A breeder of good reputation will provide you with both the good and bad points about the breed you prefer. They offer useful advice and assistance to new dog owners.

You can spot a reputable breeder by the way they maintain the dogs they personally own. They will let you observe the kind of care they give the dogs and allow you to see where the dogs live.

Most outstanding breeders are not just out to make money. They provide a written health guarantee with all the dogs they sell.

The majority of reputable dog breeders belong to local or national breed organizations and clubs.

2) Avoid backyard breeders, puppy mills and pet shops.

* Backyard Breeders. These people have limited education about the breed standards. Commonly, backyard breeders do not maintain a regular check-up on the dog's health and genetic makeup. Usually, these people breed to make money and that is their focus.

* Puppy Mills. This is a term commonly used to describe a business that produces large quantities of dogs. The majority of the puppies born and trained in puppy mills do not usually follow a regular veterinary care and appropriate feeding. Puppy mills do not sell directly to the public. They only allow sale to pet shops, brokers and dog auctions.

There is no generic breed testing conducted in puppy mills. The dogs born here have not been adequately socialized and trained. Most of the puppies are sold in large numbers at the age of 3 to 4 weeks and could later give the dogs emotional and health problems.

* Pet shops. Many pet shops grant guarantees. However, these guarantees last for only a year while majority of genetic diseases found in dogs materialize when the animal is over a year old. Most pet shops buy their dogs from puppy mills at a very young age for a cheap price. Young puppies that are not suitably socialized could cause behavior problems and poor health.

Finding the best dog breeder means your pet could live a longer life. Find a reputable breeder now and spare yourself from possible heartache.

By: John Samson

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Information on beagle training can be found at the About Beagles site.

Affenpinscher - Dog Breed

2009-01-08T11:46:00.000-08:00

Affenpinscher (Toy Group)

The Affenpinscher, whose name literally means “monkey”, certainly lives up to that name because it loves to monkey around, so to speak. With its bold and independent personality, this dog is always clowning and having fun. They love to stay busy, and unlike most members of the Toy Group, Affenpinschers tend to get along well with other dogs.

The breed is certainly a favorite among families that love to have an entertaining pet that can make everyone laugh. But don't get the idea that the Affenpinscher is only good for smiles - they are also excellent watchdogs!

Brief History Of The Affenpinscher

With its spunky attitude and lively personality, the Affenpinscher certainly acts in accordance with its name. The word “Affen” means monkey and “Pinscher” means terrier. The French refer to the dog as the diablotin moustachu, which means “mustached little devil”.

Although we know that the area of origin of the breed is in Germany, it's exact specific origins are still obscure. One of the oldest toy breeds, its history has been traced back to the 1600s in paintings from the old Dutch Masters who displayed dogs that resembled the breed.

By the 17th century, the Europeans used small terriers to help catch rats. The Germans also used the little dogs to keep rodents away from kitchens and other areas where food was stored. There were even smaller versions of the dogs that were bred as lap dogs and mice killers. It was these smaller versions that became the Affenpinscher.

As time passed, the dogs were refined through crosses with the German Silky Pinscher, Standard German Pinscher, and the Pug. The Germans claimed the breed as its creation due to the high popularity it had with the people at that time. The AKC recognized the dog in 1936. After World War II the breed's numbers declined, making them one of the rarer toy breeds seen today.

Upkeep Requirements For The Affenpinscher

Although this dog can be a bit boisterous and seem to have an endless amount of energy, the exercise requirements for the Affenpinscher can be met with daily playtime and a few brisk walks on the leash. They love playing outside but these little guys should not stay outdoors, but rather sleep inside at night.

Affenpinscher dogs need lots of love and attention. They thrive off of human contact and absolutely love to be the center of the action. They make great watchdogs because of their need to bark at any unknown sound, but should not be counted on for protection ability. Grooming requirements consist of a thorough combing, three times per week (due to the harsh coat). Clipping should be done about four times yearly.

Health Concerns

The average life span of the Affenpinscher is between twelve and fourteen years. They are a healthy breed with absolutely no major health concerns. Minor issues may include corneal ulcers and patellar luxation. Rarely seen are respiratory problems, open fontanel, and PDA. Veterinarians suggest that Affenpinscher dogs get tested for potential cardiac and knee problems.

By: dogsearcher.com

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Find Affenpinscher dogs for sale at DogSearcher.com

What Every Dog Owner Should Know About Canine Cystitis

2009-01-07T16:10:00.000-08:00

You may already know that bladder infections in dogs are a very common problem. But quite a few dog owners have questions about canine urinary tract infections. Here are answers to your questions.

What Is Canine Cystitis?

It's a bladder inflammation caused by bacteria infecting your dog's bladder. Your vet may refer to it as an "ascending" infection. Most of the time the bacteria that cause bladder infections in dogs come from the dog's own intestinal tract. The bacteria start out at the skin around the anus, and "ascend" through the urethra to the bladder.

Are There Other Causes Of Canine Urinary Tract Infections?

Yes. Your dog may have bladder stones, which can make it easier for him to develop a bladder infection.

Other factors include tumors in the bladder, not being able to empty the bladder completely, and diseases like diabetes or Cushing's disease. If your dog is being given drugs that suppress the immune system, like cortisone or chemotherapy, he may be more prone to a bladder infection.

What Symptoms Should I Be Watching For?

Blood in your dog's urine, straining to pass urine, and frequent urination are common signs of a bladder problem.

But sometimes it's not so obvious. If your dog is acting restless and wants to go out all the time, or starts urinating all over the house, this may not be a behavior problem. It could be signs of a canine bladder infection.

How Does Your Vet Diagnose Canine Cystitis?

Ideally, your vet will run a urinalysis first to determine if there are bacteria or bladder stones in your dog's urine. If bacteria are present, the next step should be a dog urine culture and a sensitivity test.

A urine culture is necessary to identify which bacteria are present. The sensitivity test tells your vet which antibiotic is the best one to do the job.

Do I Really Have To Give My Dog ALL The Antibiotic?

Absolutely. If you stop treating bladder infections in dogs too soon, the infection can come back. Plus, stopping the treatment too soon encourages antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria.

If your dog has side effects from the antibiotic, contact your vet. Don't just stop giving your buddy the medication.

Why Does My Dog Keep Getting Bladder Infections?

It's possible that it's the same infection that was never completely eradicated. A dog urine culture and sensitivity test should be done before you treat him again. After treatment is over, you can see if it was successful by repeating these tests.

How About Natural Remedies For Pets?

People have been using safe, effective, natural treatments for bladder infections for centuries. Many dog owners ask if natural remedies for pets can help dogs with canine cystitis.

Make no mistake about it, the answer is yes. But you do need to be sure you're using remedies gentle enough for animals, not people. Do your homework and purchase your remedies only from a company with a great reputation for producing the highest-quality herbal remedies for pets. These remedies are safe and effective, and are easy to give your dog every day to prevent bladder problems from happening in the first place.

Take the next step and learn how these remedies can help protect your best buddy from canine urinary tract infections.

By: Darlene Norris

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Darlene Norris has combined her long-time interest in natural healing with her experience working at a vet clinic to bring you her new website, Natural Pet Urinary Health. Here you can discover how herbal and homeopathic remedies can help prevent and treat painful canine urinary tract infections. Find the best place to buy these remedies at naturalpeturinaryhealth.com

Using A Guide Dog For Normal Life

2009-01-06T20:37:00.001-08:00

Aging alone is hard on us all, yet being blind too does not make life easier. You have support however. Being blind makes it hard to be independent, feel safe and secure, which could lead into stress and depression. Even if you have blurred vision but can't read, a guide dog might just be the answer for you or someone you know.

With the help of a guide dog, one could live independent and go about living a normal life. Imagine living in darkness. This is when a qualified Seeing Eye dog could give someone the healthy life they deserve by guiding them to the light of safety. The feeling of being safe and still be able to have a social life could make one safer and healthier knowing they have protection with them at all times. The giving of dignity and self-confidence that a guide dog can give a person is the most wonderful thing that has ever happened for the blind.

There are also hearing ear dogs trained to keep their masters safe and help them live a normal and healthy life. Hearing ear dogs are trained just like the Seeing Eye dogs to listen and watch for danger giving their master a safe environment. They too are to protect them and help give them a healthier and happy normal life.

A seeing eye dog and the hearing ear dogs have the life of 7-10 years and than is retired and can be replaced. These seeing and hearing guide dogs are trained to watch where the master is walking, to hear and see things that might harm them in some way. People even work regular jobs with their friend beside them guiding them through the everyday working tasks. Seeing and hearing dogs are trained to work not play at all times taking care of their master always watching and listening.

As we age, we need our exercise and socializing to keep us healthy. Being blind and not being able to hear are two very emotional things that can be very depressing especially if they were not born this way. If at one time a person could see or hear normally and all of a sudden diabetes or maybe even a stroke happens to cause them to lose their independence they are naturally going to feel lost and be afraid. A dog is man's best friend and will give protection where and when it is needed.

When someone decides they might want to have a guide dog but are afraid it might not work out for them or can they trust each other enough to feel safe. The dogs and the new owners are trained together once the dog has learned their manners. The trainer will supervise during the training to teach the dog all your needs and the area so he can guide you through a large city street even. Don't worry these dogs are trained to keep you healthy and happiness will help provide you with healthy aging?

Healthy aging means many things and one of them is the independence, dignity, safe feeling of protection at all times. What better way to aging if you can't see or hear than to have a guide dog be your best friend?

If you can't see or hear and thinking about getting you a guide dog do it soon. You will not forget the experience. Just think you'll become more independent and will be able to stay alone to have your own personal life again. Keep safe with guide dogs, since being blind puts you at a deeper and higher risk in society.

By: Jason Swanson

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

To read about arctic wolves and wolf habitat, visit the Wolf Facts site.

Enjoy Teaching Dog Tricks to Your Dogs

2009-01-06T02:23:00.000-08:00

By Alex De La Cruz
It is such a pleasure for any dog owner to show off his pet's talents to other people. That is why many pet owners also strive to teach dog tricks to their pets so that they will have talents to show off. Along the way of rearing dogs, dog owners may lose enthusiasm towards their pets since they have sort of gone through the excitement phase. However, this is not supposed to be the case. For one, taking care of a canine is not supposedly a boring routine. It must remain exciting as years pass. So, teaching dog tricks to give your house pet some responsibilities in your household can be a good alternative to your usual routines.

Teaching a dog trick usually starts with the basic tricks that are easy to teach. Puppies usually learn new things faster and easier than more matured dogs. It is quite difficult to teach dogs that have already developed certain habits. Thus, it is most ideal to teach cool tricks for dogs. However, it is not safe to say that all puppies are easy to teach and older dogs are quite difficult. This situation can be altered by the type of dog breed. There are breeds that have good personalities for teaching dog tricks, while there are some that are not too compatible with tricks.

If you wish to teach your beloved pet, you may start with easy tricks for dogs. The easiest and the most common among the list are "sit" and "stay". After teaching the basics, some pet owners would teach more complicated and fun tricks for dogs. Some pets are taught how to bring a TV remote, ride a skateboard, flush the toilet, and many other interesting talents that can be entertaining as well. Teaching dog tricks is not for entertainment purpose only, but you can actually let your dog ease up your life for you. In what way can your pet ease up your life? Well, you can teach them how to do basic chores at home.

Many canines are actually capable of opening and closing doors for you, some can fetch newspapers at your porch, and even search for lost items in your homes. With the right training for a dog, you may not only impress your friends with your pet's one-of-a-kind talents but also make your pet a responsible member of your household. According to canine experts, dogs actually love to be given a set of task for them to fulfill. This way they feel more important and needed. So, do not hesitate in assigning tasks to your dogs. With proper training and enough patience, you would be able to benefit from teaching dog tricks.

The time you spend in teaching your beloved pet can also be the best time to bond with him and nurture your relationship with them. You don't only train them but you're also giving them the chance to exercise. Apart from that, dogs are said to learn a lot of discipline and behavioral trainings when you teach them tricks. Your pet can become more calm-mannered as a result of constant training. Furthermore, you will also be able to monitor your pet's progress in terms of health and behavior when you spend more time with him.

The author of this article Alex De La Cruz is a Dog Trainer who has been successful with several dog training courses for many years. Alex decided to share his knowledge and tips through his website http://www.doggyweb.info. You can sign up for his free newsletter and enjoy a healthy and submissive dog.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alex_De_La_Cruz

Dogs Training Series - Why Protect Your Dog From Fleas?

2009-01-04T19:02:00.000-08:00

By Yuki Shoji
You might think that fleas are nothing more than a minor irritant, like mosquitoes, but if you've ever seen a dog with a severe flea infestation, you'll think otherwise. Dogs can develop skin allergies, balding, skin rashes, dermatitis and other conditions including worms if fleas are not controlled. In severe cases, the dog will become restless.

Flea bite allergy is a common condition that causes the dog to scratch incessantly. If the scratching does not provide sufficient relief, the dog will bite at his skin and tear out patches of hair trying to get rid of the itch.

Dogs can become extremely irritated and sensitive to other disturbances, such as a family member attempting to play with the dog or even to pet him. Dogs in distress are likely to bite family members out of frustration.

It's important, therefore, to make sure that your dog is clear of fleas. This can be difficult if your dog has the run of the yard or goes on frequent trips to the park or is allowed to run free. Fleas are everywhere and are spread by wild animals. Squirrels are a particularly troublesome source as they tend to carry them from nest to ground on a regular basis.

While it's not feasible to eliminate fleas from your yard, it is relatively easy to rid them from inside your house and from your dog.

There are many products available that will do the trick. You can get flea collars for your pet, use a flea spray or bathe your dog with flea soap. Some products that you give your dog orally will protect your dog for up to a year. If you have multiple pets, treat them all so the fleas have nowhere to hide and cannot be transferred to your treated animals.

Of course, treating the dog isn't enough. Fleas jump off your dog from time to time and hide in carpets, bedding, and other soft materials. If your dog has his own chair or is allowed on your furniture, the fleas will take refuge there until feeding time. Then, they will seek the closest source of food which includes humans, dogs and other household animals.

To be sure you get rid of as many fleas as possible, take the animal bedding outside and shake it out, then spray it well with a flea repellent. Better yet, wash it if possible. Spray into the carpets and along the baseboards of your rooms, especially those where the dog and any other house pets hang out.

Follow the directions on the flea treatment products for best results. It will likely take several treatments before the fleas are all gone, but they will return. It's important to maintain monthly spraying during the warm months when fleas proliferate to ensure the best protection for your animals and your family.

For more great dog training tips and resources to help you train your dog, or puppy, visit Dogs Training Site at http://DogsTrainingMadeEasy.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Yuki_Shoji

Importance of Keeping a Indoor Dog Active

2009-01-03T14:09:00.000-08:00

By Donna Forney
You need to keep your dog active indoors, for one thing, so he or she will stay calmer indoors. But during long winter months when playing outside in certain parts of the country is not an option this is the only way to make sure your dog stays physically fit. Just like humans, a dog can gain weight and have heart problems if not allowed to have enough exercise.

5 Dog Activities

These 5 dog activities are ones that we do in our house from time to time.

• Fetching a ball is one of my dog's favorite activities. We have stairs and one of us throws the ball down the stairs and she runs down and retrieves the ball. This gives her such good exercise. A tennis ball is perfect for this activity.

• Sometimes, my dog loves to play keep away from us with one of her toys. She will grab one of her toys in her mouth and we try to get it from her. She actually runs away from us! It is a hoot.

• Other times she loves to just have us chase her. We get exercise this way too!

• We have a good (made for a dog) tug of war rope that she loves to do. We hold one end and sometimes she holds so tight that we can lift her off the ground. (She only weighs 22 pounds though.)

• If you have an open enough space in part of your house you could get a Frisbee and have your dog catch it when you throw it.

Walking Your Dog

When the weather permits, though, it is always great to take your dog for a walk. It is a bonding experience for you and your dog. It also makes both of you healthier. All dogs also need to learn to walk on a leash with today's leash laws too.

So play with your dog indoors to keep them healthy and calm. It is truly important to work on keeping indoor dogs active indoors for their health and well-being.

Donna is an indoor dog lover based in Eagleville, PA.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Donna_Forney

Blue Buffalo Dog Food Review

2009-01-02T00:18:00.000-08:00

By Robert Playoll
This article is a review of the Blue Buffalo dog food. It is a dog food that has been a trusted name by dog owners and pet nutritionists alike. It is an excellent choice for dog owners searching for a healthy, nutrient dense product to feed their dogs and/or puppies.

Blue Buffalo dog food is a formula based upon utilizing natural, healthy and organic ingredients. All of the Blue Buffalo foods for dogs contain premium meat, fish, or poultry as the first ingredient on the label, meaning it's most prominent in content. All of these formulas are further enhanced by incorporating wholesome whole grains, healthy and garden fresh vegetables and nutritious fruits.

All of the Blue Buffalo pet foods contain a proprietary blend of nutrients and antioxidants chosen by veterinarians and nutritionists called life source bits. The ingredients found in this exclusive blend have been proven to help strengthen the immune system, support the specific life stage requirements and to assist in protecting dogs from the negative impact of environmental toxins.

Another benefit of this dog food is that it leaves all the bad stuff out. They never use by-products, just healthy, premium meat, fish or chicken. These recipes also do not contain any artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives - just wholesome goodness.

Blue Buffalo dog food uses only the best natural ingredients for its holistic dog foods. The goal is to provide all dogs, whether it's a puppy or a senior dog, with a food that incorporates all the same nutrition and supplements that we humans eat. They come in several different formulas including chicken, lamb and fish recipes. So if you are looking for a nutritious dog food made with nutrient dense ingredients leaving out all the bad stuff, look no further than Blue Buffalo dog food.

Dog food provides detailed information on adult dog food, puppy food and more. Dog food is affiliated with Blue Buffalo dog food.

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Best Ingredients For All Natural Dog Foods Using This Simple Homemade Dog Food Recipe

2008-12-26T21:43:00.000-08:00

By: Sherrie Chastain
Making your own homemade dog food with this recipe is easy and will give your dog the best all natural dog foods available. Just remember that in the wild your dog would catch small prey and eat the whole thing. This consisted of the meat, bones, organs, even the heart, brain and eyes (which are high in taurine). The vegetables they would get were in the stomach and digestive tract of the animals already partially digested. If you make your all natural dog foods to imitate your dogs prey hey will enjoy optimum health and love you for it.

Meats need to be fed one animal at a time. In the wild your dog would not eat more than one kind of meat at once. The meat should be ground or served in chunks which are easier to eat. Larger pieces will cause your dog to hold them with their feet to rip the meat apart, which can get messy.

Do not feed any fat that has been cooked which can lead to problems with your dog’s pancreas. Remember in the wild your dog would only get the fat that was on the animal and eaten raw. Use the skin that comes on the meat of in the case of beef the fat riddled throughout the meat.

Meats that cause trichinosis should never be fed like pork, bear, seal, ground squirrels, etc. However specialty meats like moose, ox, venison or bison are very pure and nutrient dense and can be fed in smaller quantities occasionally. Soft boiled eggs are also a good protein source, feed shells and all.

Organ meats are also very nutrient dense so use organ meat sparingly in your homemade dog food recipe. Either feed organ meats a couple of times a week for the meat portion or feed small amounts daily. Brains, heart and eyes are very high in taurine which is an essential amino acid for a healthy dog.

Vegetables are also essential in the best all natural dog foods. Remember to shred vegetables in a blender or food processor, your dog was used to getting them predigested in the wild. Use 3 or four different kinds of vegetables, preferably different colors to receive a wide variety of nutrients. The darker the vegetable, the more nutritious it will be in your all natural dog foods homemade dog food recipe.

It is best to avoid vegetables from the nightshade family like eggplants, green peppers, potatoes, onions, chives, garlic and tomatoes. These vegetables are associated with arthritis problems. Spinach also has a high oxalic content which can lead to kidney stones.

The best ingredients for the best all natural dog foods in your homemade dog food recipe are free range or organic meat because of the amount of toxins in meat and organic vegetables or peel the skin or wash with a spray to remove pesticides. Organic is always the best choice for all natural dog foods. Warm purified water is also an essential element in the best homemade dog food recipe. If these ingredients are not available use what you have, because it will make better all natural dog foods than you can purchase. Do not make your homemade dog food recipe because you cannot get all organic, what you make will be much more nutritious than any all natural dog foods you can buy.

Mix the meat at about 75% with the vegetables about 25% of the homemade dog food recipe. Puppies need a little more meat to vegetables since they are growing. Mix enough warm water to make a stew consistency. Meat and vegetables should be raw with the vegetables shredded finely. If you see vegetables in your dogs stool they are not chopped fine enough.

Your dog will eat until he is full. A good rule of thumb is about a pound of all natural dog foods per fifty pounds of your dog’s body weight. Do not feed your dog again until he has eliminated the previous meal or this can cause digestive problems for your dog. Always introduce any change in your dog’s diet slowly, increasing the new food daily until you have switched your dog over to the new all natural dog foods.

Using these simple guidelines you can make your dog the best all natural dog foods from your own homemade dog food recipe so your dog can enjoy optimum health. Your dog will love you for it.

About the Author
Sherrie Chastain Free All Natural Flea Extermination Report More Free info about Dogs and Puppies

Published At: www.Isnare.com
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Using a Dog Crate to House Train Your New Puppy

2008-12-26T10:38:00.000-08:00

By Jen Moore
During the first few months in their new home, puppies require a great deal of supervision. Using a dog crate can help you to prevent accidents during times when the puppy can't be watched. Housebreaking is easier to accomplish when accidents are prevented in the first place! Using a dog crate combined with a regular feeding and exercise schedule will make housebreaking go smoothly.

If puppies could have their way, they'd choose to run free all the time, so you should expect some initial resistance to the dog crate. Puppies have to learn to accept periods of confinement. They won't like it right away but acceptance will come.

Most puppies will whine or bark during the first few days of being put in their crate. Once they begin to accept this new restriction on their freedom, they quiet down and actually learn to enjoy it. Growing puppies need to alternate between periods of activity and rest throughout the day. By keeping the puppy on a regular schedule of feedings and exercise, you can control his natural rest periods. If you put the puppy in his crate when he's already tired, he'll get used to his new bedroom even faster.

In the beginning, the puppy should only be expected to stay in the dog crate for 2 daytime hours at a time. During his periods out of the crate, your puppy will need plenty of playtime, attention and loving. Puppies should be given at least an hour between crating periods when they can play and explore and romp. This helps to burn off their seemingly unlimited puppy energy and helps them understand that crating will only be temporary.

Special treats can help make his new bedroom a pleasant place to stay. Give your puppy a small treat every time he has to go into his crate. Make his new bedroom comfortable. Get him a soft clean but durable blanket. Get him a selection of toys and rotate them. Puppies can get bored easily and switching the toys around makes them seem always new. Teething puppies love chew toys and all dogs love a Kong stuffed with peanut butter. They can spend hours trying to clean it all out.

Puppies learn quickly when their behavior is associated with a reward. Behavior that doesn't result in a reward often disappears. It's normal for many puppies to bark or whine when first being crate-trained. If you let your puppy out of the dog crate while he's upset, you'll be rewarding him for barking. The next time he's supposed to go in his crate, he will bark again because that's what got him out the last time. Be patient and the whining will stop.

For many puppies, just ignoring their whimpering will be enough to make them stop. Some puppies might need a harsh-sounding "No!" to help them get over their tantrums. Remember: don't take him out of the crate until he's had some quiet rested time.

A dog crate is a fabulous tool when it comes to housetraining your puppy. The discipline aspect comes from a puppy's innate urge not to urinate or defecate in its den. Even young puppies prefer to move as far away from their sleeping quarters as possible to relieve themselves. Usually, a puppy who relieves himself in his crate was sick or just couldn't wait any longer.

Also, crating a puppy when the family is away during the day, administers a passive form of discipline by preventing a curious puppy from chewing up things he shouldn't chew. A dog crate will keep your puppy safe and out of trouble.
Best of luck in house training your puppy. For more information of choosing a dog crate please visit our website. Best of luck in house training your puppy. For more information of choosing a dog crate please visit my site: choosing a dog crate at my dog website.

Jen Moore is a pet expert on ezine. Look for other pet training related issues at http://my-dog-has-fleas.com

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Factors to Watch Out in Commercial Dog Food

2008-12-24T18:08:00.000-08:00

By Alex De La Cruz

Dogs just like human beings also need a balanced diet. It is never enough to just feed your dogs with fancy looking commercial dog food. Not all canine foods that are advertised extensively may be good to your pet even if they promise to contain the right nutrients for a canine's need. Choosing commercial dog food is not a difficult task since the market is actually flooded with many brands to choose from. However, canine experts advise pet owners to be very careful in feeding their dogs with these commercially made goods. There were dark secrets of dog food discovered a couple of years back that even led to big companies recalling their products from the supermarkets.

This is after incidents of canine deaths or contamination after eating commercial dog food. A responsible pet owner ought to read a guide to healthy canine food. It is important that you must know the nutritional needs of your pet and at the same time make yourself aware of ingredients that you must avoid giving to your dogs. There are many commercial dog foods that contain too much ingredients that is an excess to your dog's balanced diet requirements. Be aware that some commercial dog food can actually cause obesity to your pet. These types of canine meals could cause your pet to become over weight and make it prone to diseases such as heart disease or diabetes.

For pet owners who want to save on their budget, they tend to settle for cheap dog food. Commercial dog food is the easiest and cheapest alternative for a pet owner. It is very convenient to buy and to feed. You don't need to cook; all you need is to scoop and feed. It is important that dogs are fed with a balanced meal at a certain frequency that is required. It is discouraged to feed dogs with one heavy meal. It is better to feed them light meals about two times in a day. Though canines love meat, choosing the right meat is important since meats are prone to contamination as well.

A pet owner must know how to detect when his pet is suffering from a certain illness or from a certain food allergy. It is a fact that there are certain components in canine meals that may cause allergy to your dogs and even cause death in worse circumstances. When this was found out by canine experts, veterinarians and dog owners became more conscious in feeding quality food for dogs. Practicing this safe feeding method would simply show your concern towards your house pet. Show your sincere concern and love to your pet by not feeding commercial dog food that may worsen their health conditions.

The meal must contain with balanced nutrients. Dogs may look cuddly with its appearance but don't be too confident because they might be obese. This situation is not a good one since you are just putting your dog's health at risk. Be a conscious owner of dogs. Educate your self with the right meals to sustain a good health for your pets.

The author of this article Alex De La Cruz is a Dog Trainer who has been successful with several dog training courses for many years. Alex decided to share his knowledge and tips through his website http://www.doggyweb.info. You can sign up for his free newsletter and enjoy a healthy and submissive dog.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alex_De_La_Cruz

Why Raw Meat Should Be Used in the Best All Natural Dog Foods and Homemade Dog Food Recipe

2008-12-23T19:16:00.000-08:00

By: Sherrie Chastain
ogs have not changed very much in the past couple of hundred years. It is their surroundings and environment that has changed the most, especially their dog foods. All natural dog foods a hundred years ago were the raw kitchen scraps and any table scraps that were left over. Many dogs also hunted their own food.

Wild Dogs and Why Raw Meats are Best for All Natural Dog Foods

Does your dog walk in circles to pack down the tall grass before sleeping even if there is no grass?

Have you noticed your dog’s sharp pointy teeth used for ripping meat? A dog’s neck muscles are still their strongest muscle for ripping and tearing the meat off their prey. Your dog will also eat his food as quickly as he can and protect it from other animals even if there are none.

Your dog’s sense of smell is 1000 times more powerful than a human’s sense of smell, which enables them to hunt.

Your dog’s digestive system has not changed since the wild; it is designed for high protein, fat and moisture meals. Your dogs jaws only go up and down to tear meat or swallow it whole, hence the saying “wolf your food down”, they do not move sideways like cows or horses that grind vegetation.

Warmth and Moisture in Your Homemade Dog Food Recipe for the Best All Natural Dog Foods

If you feed raw meat with normal fat content and hot purified water to make it moist and make it warm (since cold food shuts down the digestive system), you will be giving your dog the same all natural dog foods dogs have eaten since the beginning of time.

Meat should be fed raw because it also helps to stimulate the carnivore's highly acidic digestive system.

Bones should only be included if they are raw and fresh. Old or cooked bones become brittle and will splinter easily while fresh bones are still pliable.

Do you know of any animals that cook their food before they eat it?

All Natural Dog Foods Dogs Have Eaten for Centuries are Your Best Choice for Dog Foods

Since humans changed the way dogs have eaten since the beginning of time, dogs now get the same diseases humans have. The same diseases humans began to get after they began to eat so much processed food.

Coincidence? I think not. Remember Nobel prize winner Otto Warburg discovered in people that all disease ties back to a mineral deficiency. If we are getting sick because we began to eat processed foods that are nutrient and mineral deficient does it seem so odd that our pets are suffering from the same processed foods?

This alone should be enough to make us question the high grain content commercial dog foods available today and at least look for high quality all natural dog foods or use a good homemade dog food recipe so you will know exactly what is going into your dog. Your dog will Love you for it.

About the Author

Sherrie Chastain Health and Beauty Consultant Free Time Management Tool Here More All Natural Dog Foods Info here

Published At: www.Isnare.com
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Heated Dog Beds - A Great Way to Beat Arthritis in Dogs

2008-12-21T03:50:00.000-08:00

By Ian Patterson

Arthritis in dogs is more common than one may think. It is one of the most common health problems seen by veterinarians. Unfortunately, dogs that suffer arthritis are unable to tell us about it.

Arthritis in dogs is quite common in older dogs, and it is more noticeable in the larger dogs than in the smaller ones. That does not mean smaller dogs do not suffer joint problems, it is just more pronounced in the larger breeds. The larger dogs have greater difficulty moving around than the smaller ones when affected by arthritis. It is important for dog owners to be observant of their dog's behavior and recognize the symptoms when their pet is ailing.

Your dog may have arthritis if you notice:

Your dog is favoring a limb
Your dog has difficulty sitting down, getting up or standing
Your dog sleep more than usual. Animals reduce their metabolic rate to reduce pain.
Your dog appears to have stiff or sore joints and difficulty in walking.
Your dog doesn not want to jump, run or climb stairs anymore
Your dog is gaining weight due to less exercise
Your dog is less active or less interested in play

Unfortunately the early warning signs of arthritis in dogs are rarely noticed by dog owners and veterinarians because animals have the tendency to ignore the discomfort until the arthritis affects the joints significantly. Arthritis in dogs can be very difficult to diagnose since the dog may not limp or appear to be in pain. Arthritis causes swelling in the joints and movement becomes restricted.

Joints have a susceptibility to any number of diseases, including arthritis. Any damage to a joint may produce arthritis. It can occur in any joint but is seen most often in the hip, elbow, knee and stifle.

It is important for your dog to rest comfortably on a bed that will help to ease the discomfort. Heated dog beds are great for dogs with arthritis or older dogs suffering from other aches. There are few better methods of letting your dog sleep off the pain than with one of these beds. Heated dog beds are equipped with built-in thermostats which allow you to control the temperature and create a snug warm place for your dog to sleep. Many have built-in thermometers that automatically adjust the warmth according to your dog's temperature and the ambient air temperature to provide heat when needed.

I have been using heated dog beds for years for each of my dogs as they have grown older and are terrific for dogs recovering from sickness or injury. Most dogs enjoy cuddling deep into their heated beds when the weather is terrible and the nights are cold. Heated dog beds are a great idea during the winter months.

Heated dog beds have been specially designed to deal with dog's nails and claws and are very durable.

Contrary to the belief of many people, not all dogs like to be outside and certainly no dog likes to be cold. They suffer from the cold just as we do and suffer arthritis just as we do. Do your dog a favor and ease their joints with warm and comfortable sleeping conditions. I recommend using a heated dog bed.

Ian Patterson has over 30 year's experience with dogs and gained extensive knowledge in dog behavior and obedience training.

For more information about dogs, their behavior and training, visit his website http://www.obedient-dog-behavior.com where he gives information on dog behavior, care and obedience training.

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