Dog Treats - Cater To Your Pet

Dogs are no longer known as only pets.They are considered part of the family in many homes today.They are affectionately known as our fur babies,or grand dogs to name a few.Dogs go many places with their owners. They go on vacations with us and they sleep in our beds.Like human kids, some dress for Halloween and find Christmas presents from Santa under the tree. Some owners even buy or bake their own gourmet dog treats.All natural and gourmet treats are increasing in popularity. Most find that dog treats made with ingredients that are similar to those we find in our own food a satisfying change from what is found in commercial brand dog treats that we buy from the stores. Many alternative natural pet diet advocates are extremely pleased with gourmet dog treats, as are pet owners who want nothing more than to give their pet a variety of delicious, nutritious snacks that look better, no matter what they feed their dogs on a daily basis.Owners can now accompany their dogs to a special kind of bakery store which caters exclusively to pets. The two of them can browse together through all the different varieties of doughnuts, tarts, brownies, and biscuits available. Are you fortunate enough to have one of these pet bakeries where you live?There are a number of ways to get gourmet dog treats for your pet these days. You can find natural, preservative free treats at pet stores, gift shops, supermarkets, department stores and on the Internet. It is also possible to find treats that are vegetarian, low-fat or ones that are specially made for pets that have food allergies.Be careful with dog treats if your pet is overweight. Remember that "healthy" doesn't always mean "low calorie." Although gourmet dog treats are made with healthful, high-quality ingredients, they often contain a lot of fat and calories. If your dog is heavy, check labels and choose treats that are lower in fat, and restrict the amount of treats to less than 10 percent of his daily diet.If you are one who enjoys baking, then you can easily pamper your dog with these types of treats, straight from your own kitchen, and at a much smaller cost then buying them. For some of these dog food recipes you probably even already have the ingredients necessary, especially if you like to make bread.It usually takes more time to bake dog biscuits than it does to bake most of our cookie recipes. That is because, even though you mix and bake it the same way as other cookies, the dough is thicker than other cookie dough. Your dog may also like Flint River Ranch dog food.
By: Melinda Smith
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Dogs are no longer called just pets. In many homes, they are actually part of the family. They are considered our fur kids, our babies, and our grand dogs. Many pampered pooches are also eating gourmet dog treats. Many alternative natural pet diet advocates are extremely pleased with the available gourmet options. The food you give your pet is also vital to them enjoying a long life.

Dogs as Pets and Pet Dogs

by
Paul James

Mum, can I have a pet snake? Dad, mum won’t let me keep rats in the house! I dunno, kids and their animals. I remember having a pet mouse when I was a youngster (unbeknown to my parents), but it wasn’t really a pet as a pet is truly defined, as its home wasn’t a cage with a revolving wheel, a tray full of nibbles and a bunch of wood shavings, no, my mouse, Sniff, lived in a box at the bottom of the garden at night and the inside pocket of my school blazer during the day. Why? Well, I thought it would impress the girls. Ah well, we live in learn. I know now that all the lads with nice girlfriends had a family dog as their pet, and taking it for walks was a great way to meet up with their sweethearts of an evening.

Mum, dad, can I have a dog? I don't know why I kept asking as the answer was always a predictable NO each time the question was raised. Our neighbors had a dog called Trash and that’s exactly what it did. This mongrel bitch trashed everything she could during her conscious hours. Their furniture was torn to shreds, all the wooden doors were scored with scratch marks, the house reeked from top to bottom with doggy odors, including the fowl stench of pee, and the retched thing never stopped barking. I often wondered why they never gave it some kind of obedience dog training so that everyone, including them, would get a bit of peace and quiet into their lives. I used to despise the Smith family and always blamed them for my parent’s decision not to get a dog. That was until Elsa came into our lives one very cold, wet, and wintery day.

I remember returning home from the fish and chip shop one evening and hot on my heels was this floppy eared cross breed with a limp and a lop sided jaw. She’d obviously been out for a while as she was shivering and shaking with the cold. I felt so sorry for the poor little sod as this pooch was soaked through to the skin too. The young mutt appeared a little shy, even nervous perhaps, and I wondered if she’d attended some kind of dog training school at some point as she seemed to obediently walk by my side without any fuss whatsoever.

I allowed her to follow me home and that caused a right ole ruckus indoors. “You can take that filthy hound right back to where you found her”, screamed my mother. “Just look at the state of my lovely clean floor! Get that dopey dog out of the house NOW!” I was just about to guide this dripping dog back to the streets when she flopped herself onto the kitchen floor, rolled her big sad eyes up towards mum as if to say, “please misses, just let me stay for the night”.

Guess what? It worked! The lady of the house turned to me and said; “Don’t you think I’m going soft or anything, but we can’t really send her back out onto the streets on a cold winter’s night like tonight. We’ll clean her up a bit, give her a feed, and fist thing tomorrow morning, we’re taking her to the dog pound where her owners can collect her”. Of course, I was over the moon to have a dog in the house, even if was for just one night.

The following day, we took Elsa, as we had temporarily named her, to the dog compound. They said it was unlikely that anyone would come to collect her as it appeared she had been badly treated by the previous owners. They went on to say that they had most likely driven her miles from the family home and abandoned her onto the streets. They asked if we would mind looking after her for a couple weeks just to see if anyone did come for her. They explained that they were full to capacity and if she wasn’t collected and no one adopted her as a pet, it was very likely she would have to be put to sleep.

To cut a very long story short, she wasn’t collected, but she wasn’t returned to the dog compound for sudden death either. Over that fortnight, she won over the hearts of everyone in the house, including my anti-animal mother who went out and invested in some dog grooming supplies. She became a family pet for 13 long years and was permanently named Elsa. This much loved and pampered pooch really did live a dog’s life before she sadly passed away in the spring of 1986.

Paul James is a proficient webmaster and publisher of Pickingpets.com This is a brand new website which is to include all manor of pet related issues. His first pieces, including this one, are about pet dogs, taking them into the home, and the benefits of obedience dog training. Lots of new content to come in the weeks and months ahead.

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Dental Care For Your Dog—Sink Your Teeth Into It

by
Andrea Waggener

Dental care for your dog can get lost in the shuffle of daily life. Even if you really love your dog and give your dog great dog care, it’s easy to slip up on dental care for your dog. When was the last time you checked your dog’s teeth? I know—the inside of the mouth isn’t the cutest part of your dog. But it can tell you a lot about your dog’s health. Contrary to what non-dog people may think, not all dogs have bad breath. Bad doggy breath, in fact, can be a sign of disease. To look for signs of disease, check the color of your dog’s teeth. White is really good. Brown is really bad. You’re aiming for at least somewhere in between. Check for broken teeth, pus or bleeding gums, and look for any unusual growths. If you see anything that looks unhealthy, please take your dog to the vet. If you’re in a metropolitan area, you may be able to find a vet who specializes in dental care. Check the American Veterinary Dental College’s site to see a list of their graduates. You can find dog dental care products at nearly any pet store. The easiest way to keep your dog’s teeth healthy is with dental chews. The more your dog chews, on something meant for chewing (not on something like your furniture), the better dog dental health your dog will have. There’s been some debate about the safety of the well-known chews, Greenies. I’ve never given my dog Greenies, but some dog parents say they’re great. Be aware, though, that according to a CNN investigation, since 2003, 40 dogs have had to have pieces of Greenies surgically removed, and 13 of those dogs died. Of course, that’s a small number given that over 750 million Greenies have been sold since 1998. Better than chews are rinses or pastes that you put on your dog’s teeth and gums. Even better than that is brushing your dog’s teeth. You can find tooth brushes especially for dog dental care at any pet supply store. If you take just a little time to get the right supplies and just a bit of time to use them, you’ll be doing your dog AND you a big favor. Your dog will be healthier (and have fewer expensive problems) when you get dental care for your dog.
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Want to be a great dog care giver? Andrea Rains Waggener, author of Dog Parenting—How To Have An Outrageously Happy Canine, has created the ultimate dog parenting support center. To join FREE, click here: http://www.dogparenting.com.

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New Dog Strollers at Pet Stroller Mart

by
Daniel Daniel

The Central Park Pet Stroller is a fantastic stroller that's larger than our 4-Wheel Pink Pet Stroller. Offered at a great price, it comes in brilliant colors with a neon stripe that will make it easier to see on city streets. This dog stroller or cat stroller also has storage areas for pet treats and water. This is a wonderful pet stroller to go shopping with your pet, or for a relaxing stroll in the park. This pet stroller's wheels are durable, built to last, and are made for uneven or rough roads as well as smooth sidewalks. Our cat and dog strollers also make perfect gifts for birthdays and Christmas.

Future plans for Pet Stroller Mart include expanding its line of offerings beyond pet strollers. We are hoping to offer products that are specific to cats, dogs, and small creatures or other smaller animals. Pet Stroller Mart is committed to offering consumers innovative and cutting edge merchandise that some of the major retailers won't have. Check often for high quality pet beds, and even full pet bedroom sets, complete with hangers to hang up your pet's outfits. At Pet Stroller Mart, we plan to keep going with our expansion, and really hope that customers are happy with our products and their purchases.

PetStrollerMart continues to provide the newest and biggest variety of dog strollers and pet strollers out there today. We have got an amazing collection of new dog strollers that you're going to enjoy. Our newest stroller collection continues to be appealing to customers' demands of pet comfort, reliability, and easy travel storage. A number of our customers will also use these strollers for ducks, puppies and even guinea pigs. Consumers with disabled or hurt animals discover that products from Pet Stroller Mart are a perfect way to take their pets along with them everywhere they go.

Our new Jogger Pet Stroller is a perfect way for pet owners that are active to take their pets along with them when they're exercising. The stroller is built just for rough terrains and reliable for all kinds of running situations. Active adults can now go running and spend quality time with their kitten, puppy, or other pet as they stay healthy and in shape. This pet stroller comes with bigger wheels for speed, and was built to suit even the most advanced runners. Remember, joggers should always wear a good pair of running shoes because shoes that are worn can cause back or leg damage.

The portable pet house is the newest travel accessory for pets, and is a part of the growing product line at Pet Stroller Mart. Portable pet houses are designed to fold easily and be put away in the car or at home. Its solid design is built for use in yards, public places, and any other terrain as you are traveling. It is easily washed, and is constructed using material that's taken care of easily. Its well-built design is built to last a long time. The pet house is found in an assortment of colors, and best of all when you purchase it you'll get free shipping within the continuous 48 United States.


Dog crate beds offers a unique selection of dog beds, SlumberDogBeds.com allowing you to make a selection that matches your pet’s personality. Choose from our selection of dog beds that you won’t see at your local major retail outlet. We specialize in hard to find dog beds that truly match your environment.

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Defend Your Dog And Stop That Hurting Paw!

By: Blake Kritzberg
Of course, we humans use shoes to protect our feet. We insist on it! But dogs usually don't have that luxury, and routinely walk over ice, rock, grass, cement and soil on their bare paws. Their paws' thick pads give them protection we don't have, and that's why they're less susceptible to cuts and grazes. But this doesn't mean a dog's paws are indestructible. In fact, the areas between the pads are very sensitive and can suffer from cuts, burns, and other ailments.

One of the clues to a paw problem is when your dog comes back limping or favoring only one of its legs. The only way for you to narrow down the issue is to check his paw for any visible and physical signs of bleeding, swelling, redness or blisters.

Some dogs are very protective of their paws and don't like people touching them -- and they'll let you know! Keep persisting. One of my dogs, who just hates having her paws touched, will usually relax when I gently reassure her that I'm only trying to help. Although dogs don't understand many of our words, they do just fine at detecting our emotions, and sometimes intentions, from our actions and tone of voice.

If your dog has a cut, wash the wound with an antiseptic solution and apply a layer of antiseptic cream. Check the wound again the next day to see if it's getting better. If it looks infected, you should bring your dog to the vet. I was once shocked to discover maggots wiggling inside a paw wound on my dog -- ugh. Needless to say, we went to the vet immediately (she was fine after treatment).

In certain breeds, hair mats may grow between the pads, which can cause irritation. In these breeds, it's essential to trim regularly between the mats to keep the paws in good shape. Even in other breeds, dogs that run outdoors can get mud trapped between the pads. Again, this will irritate the paw, so it's best that you clean up with soap and water when you see mud between the toes.

Just as we humans get dry and cracked heels, dogs also experience dry and calloused paw pads. The solution for them is similar to ours -- apply moisturizers. In fact, you can even use your hand moisturizer on your dog! But there's a challenge involved: stopping your dog from licking it away after you apply it. A good trick is to apply the moisturizer right before your dog has his meal. This way, you can allow a little time for the moisturizer to settle in. Otherwise, you can play with your pooch to keep him occupied and restrain him if he starts licking his paws.

Finally, you probably have seen dogs in dog boots and wondered if these boots would effectively protect your dog's feet. But your dog may be better off without them, as they can easily walk out of these boots -- active, athletic dogs in particular. In the end, your dog will enjoy himself more walking on his own paws, with some occasional care and maintenance from you.

Blake Kritzberg is proprietor of Poodle-oo: Fashion for Toy Dogs. Stop by for toy dog couture and home decor, free toy dog postcards and the Toy Dog Blog. http://www.poodle-oo.com/

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A Shih Tzu Dog: All You Need To Know

by RebeccaSim
So you and your family have decided that you are ready to bring a Shih Tzu into your home and live with your. You have a nice home and plenty of love to give and that is all you need to know when picking a dog, right? Unfortunately, this is not the case, as many different types of dogs have different types of personality. If you select the wrong dog, you may have a situation you did not expect to happen. It is best to know what to expect before selecting a puppy.

The best thing that you can do to make sure that the expectations you have for your dog match and compare that to what the Shih Tzu dog will be able to give based on their personality. It is best to really sit down and think about your lifestyle and how much time you will have to devote one-on-one attention and time to your Shih Tzu dog. Some breeds of dogs require more attention then others so this is something you really must consider.

Write out a list of what would and would not be acceptable from your dog; after putting together your list of things that are and are not okay in a dog it is time to compare them to the typical personality of the Shih Tzu dog. At first glance, you already noticed that this dog is a small breed and even with their size, they are extremely sturdy animals. These dogs generally carry themselves with a dignified presence about them although they do remain happy and playful.

Something that makes these breeds so wonderful for certain people is that they do not require a lot of exercise and they are not as yappy as one may expect from toy breeds. And there is generally little or no fear of strangers or other animals, which makes the Shih Tzu dog a companion that is social and friendly. This proud dog does carry with them many qualities in their personality, which would make them a wonderful addition to your family.
But if you are looking for a breed that will not be prone to a lot of problems, which can require costly vet bills, then this breed may not be for you. The Shih Tzu dog is prone to many things but problems with their breathing are often the most noted issue. Because of their face structure and upturned nose, the Shih Tzu’s have a lot of breathing problems which can unfortunately lead to heatstroke if they are in hot and humid weather for too long.

Even though those beautiful, large, and shallow eyes are amazing to look into, they are very much at risk for infection and eye injuries. Disk problems also generally occur in these breeds because of their long backs and their joints are often times a cause of a lot of pain for them. The Shih Tzu dog is also known to have a variety of skin and kidney problems. So, in thinking of whether or not a Shih Tzu dog is right for you, consider all the good and bad and think hard about if they are truly a good fit for you and your home.

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Rebecca Simpson brings to this article extensive knowledge, love, and compassion for the Shih Tzu dog breed and aims to make sure that potential owners know exactly what to expect with their new dog. The Shih Tzu comes with not only a great deal of positive qualities, but some important issues as well. Everyone who is considering bringing this dog into their home should think about both the pros and the cons. Reading up on different Shih Tzu information is an important step in making sure that you know everything there is about your Shih Tzu dog not only before you bring him home, but after as well.

Fearful Dog - How I Handled Dog Fear of Water

By Rena Murray
Let's face it. Some dog breeds we just automatically expect to love the water, especially a Labrador Retriever. That was my general expectation for the beautiful, black Labrador retriever puppy a close friend gave me for my twenty-first birthday. Although a rescued dog, her assertive dog behavior was already evident by nine and ten weeks of age, not at all like a fearful dog. Who would have suspected dog fear of water?

Of course, as an experienced obedience dog trainer and dog owner, I know better than to assume that just because I have a certain dog breed, it is going to be or not be a certain way. Each and every dog has its own personality, wonderful points, and quirks. You have to feel each dog out and take the time to see what are the best training techniques for your specific pet so that your dog can have the best life possible for him … and for you.

My Labrador retriever puppy was beautiful but high strung and fiercely determined. In all things, she was absolutely one hundred percent one way or the other. There was never an in-between with her. If she didn't like it, she was going to show teeth, buck, the whole bit! She was not at all like the mellow Labs with which my friend grew up, the gentle ones who eagerly went duck hunting with her father and retrieved Frisbees from the lake… the personality expectation my friend had of this gift. My pup was uniquely individual.

My pup seemed absolutely fascinated by the running water in my shower. I introduced her slowly. I took my time putting drops on her to help her get used to the idea that the water would not hurt her, and to make it fun. This kind of slow, patient, systematic introduction is very important and usually highly successful.

Pups need baths, though. So I repeated the slow process, easing into the pleasure of the water … when without warning, she went into a complete panic mode! I quickly held her up by the scruff of the neck to calm her down.

Dog behavior tip in handling panic or tantrum -- Remember, mama dog says "stop" or "cool it!" She does not coo, "It's okay, baby." Mimicking mama dog's way of taking control makes the pup feel more secure and calms her down. The soft approach does not provide leadership, and confident leadership is what a scared dog or child needs to snap out of a panic state.

The bath took a very long time. The pup had several panic attacks. However, I had to follow through. Unless you want your dog to fear water forever, you have to stay there until you accomplish your goal. If they leave a situation in a fearful state, they will revisit it with that same level of fear.

Your mental state is very important, too. You must stay calm, authoritative, and fully in control. It all gets back to the calming effect of confident leadership. You must step up to the plate and provide that for your dog.

Three months later, my Labrador retriever puppy had learned to accept her monthly bath. She was not happy about it, but she acquiesced and was no longer terrified. She respected water, but no longer displayed strong dog fear of water.

About the author:
Dog Obedience Trainer - Dog Behaviorist, Rena Murray, dares to tell it like it is! Growing up with the Horse Whisper, avid wolf pack studies, Pit Bull and other dog training, Rena solves "impossible" situations, e.g., teaching an old dog new tricks, solving dog dominance and dog destructive behavior, even stopping a Doberman attack in mid-launch! Available for Consultations, Rena blends the best of the Dog Whisper and other techniques to each specific situation and will bring fresh insight to yours. See Rena's Expert Articles and subscribe to her FREE Ezine at http://www.PawPersuasion.com and comment on Rena's BLOG - http://www.pawpersuasion.com/blog/

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Dog Food Allergy – Saving Your Dog from Food Allergy Threats

By Michael Lee
If you’re allergic to any kind of food, then you already have a good idea how uncomfortable it is. At its worst, it’s even dangerous. So you can probably imagine how terrible dog food allergy can be for your pet. Dog food allergy is said to be the third most common form of allergy in dogs; but despite this, it remains that there is no one particular cause of this condition.

Some believe that ingredients like wheat and soy negatively affect dogs, while others think that certain proteins are the culprits. Nevertheless, you should be on the lookout for any signs of dog food allergy in your pet.

The most common sign of dog food allergy is excessive scratching. If you notice your dog scratching a lot or constantly gnawing at parts of his body, you must first check if it is being caused by fleas. If not, then you can assume that allergy is causing it. Other symptoms may include vomiting and diarrhea.

To check for dog food allergy, the food trial test is implemented. This involves modifying your dog’s diet for a period of time, usually under the supervision of a veterinarian who can make the observations and diagnosis, as well as any additional tests.

You should gradually introduce a different set of food, alternating it with your dog’s usual food items until he gets used to his new diet. You should observe your dog’s condition for about twelve weeks; and if he improves, that means a change in diet is needed.

It was believed that a combination of lamb and rice was the best option for dogs suffering from food allergy; but nowadays, this idea is rebuffed, particularly because commercially-produced lamb-and-rice dog food mixes contain substances that can further aggravate dog food allergy. Veterinarians suggest other options, like fish or rabbit. Homemade dog food is the better alternative, provided they’re well balanced.

If you find that your pet has a case of dog food allergy, don’t fret; it’s not the end of the world for your furry friend. This simply means that he just requires food that is different from the kind you usually feed him. In time, you’ll be able to find the perfect food that will keep your dog healthy and prevent dog food allergy from acting up.

About the author:
Prolong your dog's life and know the life-saving secrets that most dog-lovers will never know about detecting bad dog food and solving dog health problems at http://www.20daypersuasion.com/dogs-exposed.htm

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Dog Food Recalls – Coping with Life-Threatening Dog Foods

By Michael Lee
One of the biggest news that broke out in March was the dog food recalls that took place. This major occurrence caused a lot of panic among dog owners, who then stampeded to their veterinarians hoping to learn more about the issue. People learned more about the problem and as it turned out, even cat food have to be taken off store shelves. The dog food recalls are certainly a big problem; here’s some information to enlighten you and your pet.

This issue came to light when it was observed that many dogs and cats exhibited symptoms of kidney failure, such as sluggishness and nausea, as well as drinking frequently and urinating more often than usual.

These took place around the time when one of the largest makers of dog and cat food in America, switched to a different supplier of their pet food ingredients. Since then, the company recalled almost 100 brands of their pet foods.

It was found that the gravy-thickener, wheat gluten, imported from China, contained the chemical melamine, which is used in the manufacture of plastics and which was added to the wheat gluten to make protein levels seem enhanced.

After the initial dog food recalls, traces of melamine in yet another ingredient, rice gluten, were discovered just a month later, leading to further recalls. Other melamine-related compounds have since been found, along with cyanuric acid, which is used in pool chlorination.

Corn gluten, imported by South African pet food firms also from China, has likewise tested positive for melamine and has been blamed for the deaths of about 30 dogs due to renal failure. It was reported in May that corn gluten had reached Canadian soil as well.

As if all that wasn’t enough, in June, ExperTox, Inc., a Texas-based laboratory, detected lethal amounts of the pain reliever, acetaminophen, in pet food being tested for melamine and cyanuric acid.

Several other pet food companies have also recalled their products after an undetermined number of animals were either downed or even killed. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) puts the death toll at roughly 1,950 cats and 2,200 dogs.

Such staggering statistics, and those numbers were released back in late April. The extent of the chemical outbreak is confounding and has even led people to question whether or not humans are safe. So far, officials are quick to point out that none of the contaminants have been detected in human food.

What can you, the pet owner, do? Observe your dog closely. If you recognize the symptoms of kidney failure as mentioned above, do not hesitate to take him to the vet at once.

Do your own research and keep an eye on the constantly updated recall list to see whether or not your dog’s food may be included. Better yet, switch to premium, human-grade dog food purchased at feed stores rather than grocery stores.

If you have the time and means, there are countless dog food recipes available for you to prepare yourself, so you know exactly what goes into your dog’s system and you can be sure of his health and safety.

But most importantly, you have to stay in step with all the latest news and updates regarding any products for your pets. It’s not enough to simply read a few news items on the dog food recalls. You need to be more observant and learn more about the products you purchase for your pets. That’s definitely a big step in making sure that your pet stays healthy and well cared for.

About the author:
Get the controversial FREE course that reveals shocking truths about bad dog food and dog health problems at http://www.20daypersuasion.com/dogs-exposed.htm

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Choosing a Dog in Your Senior Years

Author: Andrew Kasch
As a person reaches their golden years they may want to have some companionship. Many of them look to owning a dog as a way to have a constant companion. This is a great idea, as a dog will give them unconditional and unrestricted love. Many people find that as they get older and they start to lose their friends that they need something such as this to fill a void in their life. If you are faced with the decision of choosing a dog to be by your side and to grow old with you then here are some things to keep in mind.

The first thing that you should consider when choosing a dog to have in your older years is how active you need that dog to be. There are seniors that are extremely active, sometimes more active than people that are 20 years younger than them. These seniors would benefit from having a dog that can be active for things such as walks but also would be happy just to lie around at their feet when necessary. Other seniors will benefit from having a dog that will just be a companion but does not need a lot of activity to keep it healthy.

Another thing that you would want to keep in mind when choosing a dog is if it will be around a lot of children. If you have an active family life and your grandchildren, or great grandchildren are around frequently the you would not want to choose a breed that has a reputation of not liking little children. Some smaller breeds that are perfect for many seniors also are very protective of their owners. While this can be beneficial, as the dog will no doubt be able to hear things that the owner can't, you also need to keep in mind that this kind of dog might not warm up easily to others.

All things considered, here are a few all around good dog breeds for you to choose from. These dogs make good companions that require little exercise and will give you many years of happiness.

The Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is a great choice for seniors. It not only requires little exercise but it is very faithful and will be a loyal companion that will stick by your side through thick and thin.

The Poodle

The poodle is one of the most intelligent dogs that there is. They make a fantastic pet, are very loyal to their owners and warm up to people easily. If you have family members visiting on a regular basis then a poodle would be a good choice for a senior dog.

The Papillion

The Papillion is a fantastic breed, although they do have a little bit more energy than other breeds. They will not only make an enjoyable pet but they will also be very faithful and are good around other people. At times they can be a little bit standoffish but all in all they make a fantastic companion.

These are just a few of the many breeds that are well suited for those who are reaching their golden years. It is a personal decision that you will have to make but by owning a dog at this point in your life you will have a constant companion for years to come.



About The Author

Andrew Kasch

To keep your dog healthy please visit the homemade dog food recipes at http://www.barkbarkimhungry.com/dogdinners.html

Lost in Dog Treats Variety?

By Keith Londrie
If you have had a dog you already know why dog treats are so popular. If you have adopted your first dog, it is time to educate yourself about the most popular dog treats and their use.

Pig and Cow Ears Although pig and cow ears may look disgusting the first time you see these, your dog is likely to love them. Pig and cow ears are delicious for your dog. Usually they are made without the use of any chemical ingredients such as preservatives or artificial colours. Pig and cow ears are perfect for the growing puppy that is eager to chew everything on its way because of teething problems.

Knotted bones Knotted bones are another type of popular dog treats. They are available in various sizes – from small ones to huge ones. You should get a size that corresponds to your dog size. Also have in mind that knotted are quite hard thus unsuitable for puppies. When buying a knotted bone for your dog ask what are its ingredients. Avoid buying treats that contain artificial colorants or any other chemical substances. Try to stick to natural products instead. They might be a bit more expensive however are much healthier for your dog, which is saving you money in the long run.

Dog chips Dog chips is great for dog training. There are various kinds of dog chips – plain, beef, chicken, pork, butter and so on. You can have several tastes – this way you will keep your dog addicted to his new treat for a longer period of time.

Chews Chews are one of the most popular dog training treats. As with the rest of the dog treats the variety is huge. There are meaty chews with various flavors, vegetable chews, and even chews that are good for your dog's dental hygiene.

Since there is a vast choice of dog treats available you should also learn to be alert of certain things when buying. First of all always buy dog treats of famous and proven brands. Cheaper products or products with unknown origin can be harmful and even lethal for your dog.

Second – look at the ingredients list. A dog treat type is good when it contains natural ingredients only. Artificial colorants, preservatives or other substances are bad for your dog's health. Avoid greasy treats as well as treats that contain a lot of sugar or spices.

Finally if you are not quite sure which dog treats are suitable for your dog, ask your vet or dog trainer.

Keith Londrie II is the Webmaster of http://www.dog-treats.info/ A website that specializes in providing tips on Dog treats that you can research on the internet. Visit http://www.dog-treats.info/ now!

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How to Make Dog Treats In Your Own Kitchen

By: Jessica N

Are you tired of spending money on dog treats that leave you wondering exactly what kind of ingredients were pumped into them? It might be time to think about making some of your own treats for your dog.

Sound too hard or time consuming? Actually, it's easy to whip up some homemade dog treats. However, if you are not quite sure how to make dog treats, the following is a great recipe that will help you make some tempting treats for your pooch.

First thing's first: You need to get all your ingredients together. Here's what you need for these treats: an egg, 1/2 cup margarine, 3/4 cup of cornmeal, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp chicken flavor, 3 cups whole wheat flour, 1/2 cup shredded cheese, 1 cup oatmeal, and 3/4 cup milk.

So now the next thing you need to do when you're learning how to make dog treats is to mix all these ingredients together. Mix together all the dry ingredients (except for the flour), then mix together the wet ingredients in another bowl.

Then take the wet and dry ingredients and mix them together. Everything all nice and mixed? Great. Now we come to the flour: Add 1/2 cup of flour at a time, stirring after each 1/2 cup.

Next thing you do is get out those cookie cutters and cut out the treats. See, just like making cookies! Alternatively, you can just drop them on the cookie sheet by the spoonful.

After you've got your treats spread out on the baking sheet, bake them for 30 minutes at 325 degrees F. As you can see, it is really quite simple when it comes to knowing how to make dog treats.

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Help you dog stay healthy by making Homemade Dog Treats. Visit Make Dog Treats and learn more about how to Make Your Own Dog Food.

How to Make Dog Treats at Home

By: Jessica N

So, are you tired of buying those dog treats that have mysterious Lord-knows-what-they-are ingredients? It may be high time to consider making some treats for your dog on your own.

Believe it or not, it is quite easy to make up some homemade treats for your dog. But if you have no idea where to begin when it comes to learning how to make dog treats, you can take advantage of the great recipe below. Your dog will love these treats.

First of all, you'll need to get together some ingredients. Here's what you need for these treats: an egg, 1/2 cup margarine, 3/4 cup of cornmeal, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp chicken flavor, 3 cups whole wheat flour, 1/2 cup shredded cheese, 1 cup oatmeal, and 3/4 cup milk.

Now comes our next step for learning how to make dog treats: Mix all your ingredients up. But not all together! Mix together all the dry ingredients (except for the flour), then mix together the wet ingredients in another bowl.

Then take the wet and dry ingredients and mix them together. Once they are well mixed, start adding the flour ½ cup at a time and stir it up after you add each ½ cup.

You can use cookie cutters to cut these treats or you can drop them on the cookie pan like drop cookies.

After you've got your treats spread out on the baking sheet, bake them for 30 minutes at 325 degrees F. So there you have it. Once you have the right recipe, it's a simple matter to know how to make dog treats.

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Popular Topic that Dog Whisper - But What is Dog Whispering Really?

By Rena Murray
Dog Whispering, Dog Whisper Secrets, whatever you choose to call it . . . "Dog Whisper" is very common in America today. Just about everybody has heard about National Geographic's "Dog Whisperer" and Cesar Millan. But what is it really?

Although the term "Dog Whispering" is widely used by many and is a hot topic of discussion, it is seldom understood and is often misused in many ways. There are variations even among those who apply this approach, lending greater confusion to the public at large.

Dog whispering is a method that has been around since the 1700's. (Probably before, but that is the earliest time I know of.) It is communication without words with your dog. Dog body language is the way he speaks and says: "Yes, No, I want, please . . ." and so on.

Dog whispering is essentially communicating with your dog on his level and working with him from his point of view, as a dog Pack Leader would do. It's a familiar communication system your dog understands instinctively and to which he will respond appropriately if you are a consistent, trustworthy leader.

Rather than shout at my dog, or use a tool such as a clicker, choke chain, or electronic collar, I give him a physical touch with my hand. This imitates a Pack Leader's bite to show my displeasure of an action. If I use "No," it is with a low, authoritative voice much like a growl to him.

Let's say that I am working with a possessive dog. He is snarling at me to leave his toy or food alone. I maintain eye contact with him until he releases the toy. Then I "claim" it, and return it to him only when he is calm.

How do you "claim" something? Hold your posture with an air of authority as though you were in the military, and hold steady eye contact with your dog until he releases the object. (Never take something from a dog until he has released it.)

When the dog has released the object, place your feet between the dog and the object, so that the object is immediately behind you. (Use another object to block the dog if you are the least bit nervous - Your nervousness will cause you to be bitten.) Your feet should be about half-way between a military "At ease" and "Atten-hut!"

Hold the eye contact, your feet, and your posture until the dog has calmly walked away or laid down and turned his head and eyes away. This shows that the dog has surrendered the space or object. Never move before the dog has given in. The results can be painful!

As you see, "dog whispering" is much more about leadership, focus, and taking your time than anything else. It's far more humane and effective than most other methods. You need to do it right, though - so with difficult or threatening situations, no one short of a professional should try. Get help from a dog whisper trainer!

About the author:
Dog Obedience Trainer - Dog Behaviorist, Rena Murray, dares to tell it like it is! Growing up with the Horse Whisper, avid wolf pack studies, Pit Bull and other dog training, Rena solves "impossible" situations, e.g., teaching an old dog new tricks, solving dog dominance and dog destructive behavior, even stopping a Doberman attack in mid-launch! Available for Consultations, Rena blends the best of the Dog Whisper and other techniques to each specific situation and will bring fresh insight to yours. See Rena's Expert Articles and subscribe to her FREE Ezine at http://www.PawPersuasion.com and comment on Rena's BLOG - http://www.pawpersuasion.com/blog/

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Your Dog Is Older Now, So Treat Her With More Consideration And Respect

by Darren Lintern

You offer your dog shelter and food in order to keep her healthy and content. There's also three other points that she requires in order to stay happy, fit, and improve the quality of life.

Firstly, she requires day-to-day exercising to keep her body in shape. Secondly, her mind will need to be stimulated to keep her occupied and alert. And thirdly, she requires to be socialized often in order for her to stay in high spirits and confident.

Keep Your Adult Dog Amused And Stop Punishing Her For Sudden Faults.

Dogs will feel sadness if their family are apt to ignore or don't spend sufficient time with them. And once dogs become sad, they play up by showing negative behaviours. This may include barking incessantly; digging, chewing, and they might even run off. These adult dogs aren't acting in a negative manner on purpose. They're simply reverting back to their natural canine behaviours in order to entertain themselves. As they can't communicate with words, they will take action to communicate.

Do Not Simply Love Your Pet When She's Being Good.

Learn to love your dog totally and if she misbehaves, attempt to seek out the reason for the behavioural concern instead of punishing the pooch. Remember that she is now an adult and is in all likelihood well behaved the majority, if not all the time. That signifies that when she lashes out and does something amiss, it's often associated to an underlying reason which you could treat successfully. Something might be missing or out of balance with your family pet. Locate the reason and then offer a solution.

Always Keep Your Adult Doggy Socialized.

Often as our dogs become older and get more mature, we are inclined not take them out for walks as much as when they were pups. This is quite understandable as adult dogs tend to enjoy simply lounging around the home in their adult years. Nonetheless, to keep the pet's social skills intact and her mind stimulated, do your most to take her outside the dog shelter as much as possible to meet other dogs and individuals.

About the author
If you're interested in getting a more detailed look at dog ownership (like care for adult dogs), including a huge variety of detailed information on canine problem behaviors, dog psychology, and the most effective ways to train your dog, you ought to take a look at http://www.dogs-for-all.com

Dog Diabetes Treatment Decisions To Be Made

Author: Darren Lintern

If your have a family pet that's ever been diagnosed with a dog diabetes symptom, treatment at an early stage by a veterinarian can aid in preventing additional difficulties from this disease. The dog might be saved from the awful occurrence of any nerve damage in addition to averting the prospect of blindness. The conventional dog diabetes treatment can go a long way in maintaining the dog's health.

Diabetes Dog Insulin Injections

Dependent on your dog's requirements, injections of insulin will often be given one to two times per day. The measure of insulin applied in every dose and the frequency of these doses will depend on your veterinary surgeon. Some dogs can take tablets rather than being given shots in their daily dog diabetes treatment.

The diabetes dog insulin dose is often given in smaller measures at the beginning of treatment in order that the level of blood sugar may become stable. In extreme conditions this might involve your dog requiring treatment at a hospital for a couple of days. If her diabetes has become more stable, then the doggy could accept outpatient treatment.

Throughout this period, your pet's blood sugar would be monitored each hour to verify the precise dosage of insulin she will require on a day-to-day basis. Once the ideal diabetes dog insulin measurement has been achieved, the vet's will teach you to monitor the dog by checking her urine and on occasion, the blood.

Best Food For Diabetic Dog

After a dog diabetes symptom has been detected, there's nothing more significant to step-up your pet's life expectancy than with a rigid diet. In truth, it's so essential to your doggy to eat appropriately when she has this ailment, as there is a possibility that the diabetes could go into complete remission simply from an alteration in diet alone.

The best food for a diabetic dog includes food that's low to moderate in carbohydrates and high in fibre. This is the moment to begin cooking your pet's meals from home with raw ingredients and meats.

Prior to deciding on what to feed her, it might be sensible to discuss with a holistic vet that has knowledge on nutrition. Your intention here ought to be to apply food as "medication" as part of the dog diabetes treatment in order to one day put a stop to your dog needing "official" medicine.

For a complete, encyclopaedic survival guide to all elements of dog health (like dog diabetes treatment), from the initial preventative care to selecting a vet to First Aid for your doggie, you ought to take a look at http://www.dogs-for-all.com
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Tips For Making Your Own Homemade Dog Meals and Treats

Author: Rose Smith

Dog meals and snacks don't have to hard to make or take a lot of time. Many snacks can be grabbed straight out of your refrigerator and are much healthier than baked goods.

However, there are a few things that I have noticed regarding many homemade dog food recipes that you should avoid doing.

1. Don't microwave your dog's food. Microwaving kills vitamins, minerals and nutrients. The radiation also alters the cell structure of the food. Scientific studies have shown that humans that eat microwaved foods have significant and disturbing changes in their blood cells. Microwaving has many serious side-effects, including altering the minerals in vegetables into cancerous free radicals. It's bad enough that we humans continue to use microwaves to cook our food... let's not subject our animals to it as well.

2. Many recipes that I've seen promote using beef/chicken bouillon cubes and/or canned beef/chicken broth. These products have very high and unhealthy sodium levels. Either use sodium reduced broths or better yet make your own.

3. Obviously, some sort of flour is needed to bind together baked dog biscuits. However, instead of using white flour, whole wheat flour and/or cornmeal in your recipes, substitute spelt flour instead. It's much more easily digestible for both humans and animals. Flour and cornmeal are hard for animals to digest and many are or can become allergic to these grains.

4. Don't feed your dog too many "baked" treats that contain flour and cornmeal. Opt for more natural, healthy, and uncooked treats (some recipes are listed below).

Healthy Homemade Dog Food Recipes

You can make up several days worth of dog food at one time or cook them up while you prepare your own supper. Here are a few recipes to try out:

*****

Shepherd Pie

6 oz beef or chicken broth (low sodium or make your own)
1 pound ground beef, chicken or turkey
1 cup mashed potatoes
1/2 cup mixed vegetables (no onions or mushrooms)

Mix broth, meat and vegetables together. Grease casserole dish and pat mixture into dish. Top with potatoes. Bake at 300 degrees for 30 minutes.

*****
Sometimes your dog may have a slightly upset stomach with possibly some diarrhea involved. The following recipe is a nice bland mixture that still tastes good and should help to solve your pup's tummy problems.

3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut up (either raw or cooked)
1 cup cooked brown rice
1 cup cooked carrots
1 cup non or low-fat cottage cheese

Mix together and serve according to you're dog's size, weight and activity level. This recipe should be good for one large dog for 1 main meal or 2 smaller meals. If you desire, you can also add 1 tbsp of flax seed oil for added essential fatty acids.

*****

Quick Dog Treats

Dogs, like humans, like to have their snacks. The following two snacks are healthy and quick to prepare:

*****

Frosty Cube Treats

1 large container plain yogurt (make sure it contains live acidophilus cultures and no sugar or artificial sweeteners)
1 cup ground carrots OR ground apples OR lightly cooked ground liver

Mix together and fill ice-cube trays. Freeze. Pop one out for a treat when frozen.

*****

Banana Mash

1/2 cup low fat cottage cheese
1 ripe banana, mashed
1 tbsp flax seed oil

Mix together and serve for a nice, quick, healthy snack.

Rose Smith operates several sites featuring natural and organic relief solutions for everyday health problems - both in humans and animals. If you would like to know more about natural dog health care visit http://www.caringforcanines.com.
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Picking the Right Dog Chews and Treats for Your Pets

Author: Avrum Elmakis

With all of the options available for dog chews and treats both online and at your local pet store, it's hard to know which one is your best option. Which one will your dog not only enjoy, but will be healthy for them at the same time. It's not unlike picking out an afternoon snack for a small child. In light of the recent pet food recalls, many pet owners have turned to bully sticks as an all natural treat for their dogs. But not all bully sticks are created the same. Here are some things to keep in mind when picking out a bully stick for your dog.

There is a Difference in Quality

Bully sticks are made out of beef, and like all meat from cattle, there is a difference in the quality of the beef. The better the cattle are raised, the better the quality of the product from those cattle. Choosing bully sticks that come from quality, free-ranging cattle, like those raised in Brazil and other parts of South America, creates a superior bully stick than those produced in countries like India, China, and even the US.

Where They're Raised Matters

Cattle raised in countries like India, China, and the US are often raised in feedlots, where they are given antibiotics to stave off disease, and hormones to increase their growth at an unnatural rate. Cattle from these locations are also used to create bully sticks and other dog treats and chews. However, most of the cattle raised in Brazil and other parts of South America are free-ranging cattle, and the bully sticks created from them isn't subjected to the same hormones and antibiotics as those from the US, India, and China.

In addition to being the leading supplier of cattle raised in a free-ranging environment, Brazil and the rest of South America have been recognized as the world's number one source of "Green Cattle" for years. The bully sticks, and other all natural dog treats and chews, created from these cattle are much healthier for you dogs.

Recalls Are a Factor

When the pet recalls swept through the US, many people turned to bully sticks because they were lead to believe that there were no recalls associated with the treat. This is only half true. While bully sticks, and really all treats and chews for dogs, from those cattle that are raised free-range like those in South America were free from the sweeping pet recalls, those created from cattle raised in the US, India, and China were still subject to the same pet recalls that caused panic amongst pet owners.

Do the Research

The best advice for finding the perfect all natural dog treats and bully sticks for your dog is to do some research. If you're buying from a store, look at the label and see where it comes from. If you're buying from an online retailer read their product description to see if they list where their bully sticks come from. If they don't, contact the company and ask them. Don't settle for less when it comes to picking out a bully stick for your dogs.

About the Author

Avrum Elmakis is the president of Best Bully Sticks, a leading provider of bully sticks and all natural dog treats and chews. Best Bully Sticks offers all natural bully sticks and dog treats and can be found at: http://www.bestbullysticks.com .
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Understand Your Dog Body Language. What is Your Dog Saying to You?

Author: mayra

If you are owner of a dog, it is very necessary to understand your dog’s body language. This will make you aware of what your dog’s telling you. Regular interaction with your dog is very important to keep him happy and make him stay away from aggressive behavior. Remember that dogs depend on body language to express themselves.

Dogs possess a peculiar kind of body language of their own. You need to understand this vocabulary in order to have a successful communication with your dog. Here are some of the most common Canine body language messages:

a) Tail and ears down:
Whenever your dog wants to exhibit submissiveness, he will sit down with both his ears down and tail tucked between his legs. Here, he acknowledges you as his master and surrenders. Your dog will also sit in this position if he has done something naughty or done something that you don’t approve of. He wants to curb your anger and hence sit in this position. Another situation where your dog sits with his tail and ears down is when he feels down, gets sick or injured.
b) Tail and ears up:
Whenever your dog approaches a new visitor, with his tail and ears up, he is excited and happy to meet this person. The body language is a way to express his happiness and gratitude. This is a playful behavior and you don’t need to worry about the safety of your visitor in this case.
c) Play bow:
This is a body language your dog exhibits whenever he wants to play with you or his fellow dogs. He will lay his front legs flat on the ground and stick his back end in the air. This body language is followed by a happy bark. He will also jump towards his side. In short, this body language of a dog is to ask someone to play with him.
d) Whining:
Whenever your dog gets frustrated or angry it will whine. This behavior is common whenever your dog is tied to a leash for a long time or not able to do what he wants.
e) Growling:
This is a warning to you. Here the dog becomes aggressive and warn you. This is common when someone tries to invade his place or privacy. It is natural for your dogs to growl at strangers. However, you need to know that dogs who growl at their owners have some problem. You should seek a professional help immediately. Growling is a sign that the dog is going to bite soon. Hence, this behavior should be taken seriously.
f) Barking:
This is one of the most common body language for dogs. This can mean different things depending on the circumstance. Dogs may bark to greet their owners, warn someone, or indicating a stranger’s entry to your home.

Pay attention to the body language of your dog will help you have a good relationship with your dog.


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How to take care dog to make it happy?

Author: Kendy Smith

Taking care dog keep an importance role in family. Dogs are apart of a family and deserve our respect and care. If you have never been a dog owner before you probably have lots of questions regarding the care of your new member of the family. If you do you will find this article looks at some of the available dog supplies and offers a few tips for proper care. In some instances proper care can be solely based on the dog breed you have, but most of the time general tips can help you pick the right dog supplies for the proper care.

When you are choosing your dog you have to decide where it will sleep, how much training you will be giving it, and of course the proper nutrients they will need. Some dog breeds have special needs to do digestive issues they are born with or can develop. This can make finding the right foods a little more difficult. It is best to speak with a vet or a dog breeder regarding the proper nutrition. You will also find that proper nutrition is based on age. Growing puppies are going to need softer foods that have plenty of nutrients, while older dogs may still need some nutrients, but a different formula.

Pet food is just one of the dog supplies you will need to buy for proper care. Grooming is also an essential part to owning a dog. You will need to take care of their teeth, give them vaccinations, clip their nails, and of course brush them. Some dogs, especially those with long hair or thick coats will need to be brushed more often. Sometimes you will find brushing them once a day is essential to that dog breed, while others can be brushed twice a week. Dogs have very sensitive skin so before giving them a bath you will need to understand the type of shampoo you should use and how frequent a bath should be. For dog grooming you will need the proper dog supplies at home from different brushes and of course the nail clippers for dogs.

Part of the proper care for your dog is having enough space. Some dogs tend to be very active, such as Alaskan Malamutes, German Sheperds, and Terriers. For these dogs you will need plenty of space to let them run and expend that energy. When you are talking about pet supplies for an active dog you will need to have fencing and even a runner in some cases. You may feel a runner is enough for the dog to stay out of harms way, and often it can be. However you don’t always want to hook them to the runner, but give them the entire backyard, so a fence can help you keep them inside the yard without restrictions.

You may also want to have a kennel or crate for your dog to sleep in at night and during the day. Some of us don’t mind our pets sharing the bed, while others want to teach their dogs as puppies that they have their own bed. Crates can also help you take them to the vet or on vacations so they can serve two purposes. You can also purchase softer bedding for them to lie in around the house.

Other essentials include dog toys, food bowls, and water dishes. Dog toys will help you exercise your dog physically as well as mentally, which is important to having a healthy happy dog. You will want to choose food dishes that allow for the proper amount of food intake during the day as well as water. This dish can be made from anything or purchased at a dog store. It is just important that it has enough room for your dog to get the nutrients and water he or she needs in a day.

Having a lot of methods to make dog health and happy. But the most important that you have to supply for proper care. Taking care a dog is not difficulty. If you love them, it is very easy.

Find your pet care and many useful information about pets at this pets directory.
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