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There are many different breeds of dogs out there, and there is one especially for you. If a dog is in your future, there are some things you need to keep in mind before you jump in. First thing that needs to be done is research. Information is key in order for you to get a dog that will be right for you. Do some reading on the different breeds, and what they are like. The dog that you thought you might like, may not be what you ending up wanting after you do your research.
Many things need to be considered when choosing a dog. Some of the different things are the size of the dog, and the breed, and the color. There are also purebred dogs, and mutts, this decision may also have to do some checking with the pocketbook. Another thing to keep in mind is what the purpose of the dog is going to be. If you have small children a dog that is good with children is a must. Another thing to keep in mind is how much the dog sheds.
Shedding may not be something that seems like an important thing to keep in mind when making your puppy purchase, but it may just be more important than you think. Making sure you are ready for the time and responsibility commitment of a dog is a very important factor. A dog that sheds a lot is more work than one that does not shed a lot.
Keep in mind that all dogs will shed, but some shed way more than others. Most dogs have the seasonal fur that needs to be shed, but shedding all year around is something that some people are not prepared for. This is something that needs to be given some thought, and there are some questions that need to be asked before the dog is chosen.
If you are a person who needs everything to be clean all the time then a dog that sheds a lot is probably not a good choice. A dog that sheds a lot will leave hair everywhere! Hair will be found on the furniture, your clothes, and all over the floor. No matter how much you pick up and clean up after the dog, there is still going to be dog hair present in your house, and on your clothes. This is not something everyone wants to deal with.
Grooming is another big part of a dog that sheds a lot. Your dog will need to be brushed daily, so if you are not going to have time to do this, you may want to think twice. If you do not have the space to easily groom the dog daily, you may want to go another way. This task will also be repetitive, so be prepared.
Take time and ask yourself if you can handle the hair everywhere, and the time, and repetitiveness, before you get your dog. If you are not going to make the commitment that the dog is going to require you may as well get a different dog. If you choose the dog anyway you may be unhappy with the dog, and your decision. Make your decisions carefully for the sake of the dog, and yourself.
For more dog articles like this, visit http://www.ohmydogsupplies.com
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Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Tips When Training Your Dog
Training a dog is not always an easy task. Training a puppy can be frustrating as the he is so cute and cuddly, and it is hard to correct them when bad behavior is displayed. The puppy also tends to have a short attention span, and get excited very easily. On the other hand, the older dog may also be hard to train. The older dog is more set in his ways, and is resistant to make changes to his behavior. There are some things you need to keep in mind though when you are training your dog.
First thing that needs to be done is consistency. Make sure that the same thing is taught every day. If you do the same thing the dog will not get confused, and will respond better to the training. Make sure you concentrate on one command at a time. Once one command is mastered move onto the next. If you move on too quickly the dog will forget what he has already learned, or get the commands confused.
Next make sure that you are using a different command for each reaction you want to get from the dog. If you want the dog to go lay down make sure that is what you say, or if you want him off the couch tell him to get off. Many owners make the mistake of using one command to mean multiple things, which confuses the dog, and make the command meaningless. Owners use the command down to mean lay down, get off the couch, stop jumping on people, and down which generally means for the dog to be in the prone position. Make sure each command has its own meaning, and a better reaction will be seen.
Persistence is another important part of training your dog. If you and your dog start attending training classes, make sure that the class is finished. Do not quit the class before obedience is achieved. One mistake that many owners make is quitting the classes before they are over because the dog seems to not be responding. When you quit the class premature you are teaching the dog that he has won, and he doesn't have to listen. Your dog has now learned that if he keeps behaving badly you will just give up and let him do whatever he wants. Remember that you are the owner, and that you are the boss, which means you have to be more persistent than your dog.
Another thing to remember is to make sure that correction is made every time the dogs behavior is not good. If you are teaching your dog to stay off the couch make sure that he is told to get off every time he is on the couch. If you only correct him three times, and let it go the fourth time, the dog will learn that on the fourth time he will be allowed to stay on the couch. Once again, you need to be more persistent than the dog, and let him know that you are the one in charge. Persistence and consistency are very important things to remember when training your dog.
For more dog articles like this one, visit http://www.ohmydogsupplies.com
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First thing that needs to be done is consistency. Make sure that the same thing is taught every day. If you do the same thing the dog will not get confused, and will respond better to the training. Make sure you concentrate on one command at a time. Once one command is mastered move onto the next. If you move on too quickly the dog will forget what he has already learned, or get the commands confused.
Next make sure that you are using a different command for each reaction you want to get from the dog. If you want the dog to go lay down make sure that is what you say, or if you want him off the couch tell him to get off. Many owners make the mistake of using one command to mean multiple things, which confuses the dog, and make the command meaningless. Owners use the command down to mean lay down, get off the couch, stop jumping on people, and down which generally means for the dog to be in the prone position. Make sure each command has its own meaning, and a better reaction will be seen.
Persistence is another important part of training your dog. If you and your dog start attending training classes, make sure that the class is finished. Do not quit the class before obedience is achieved. One mistake that many owners make is quitting the classes before they are over because the dog seems to not be responding. When you quit the class premature you are teaching the dog that he has won, and he doesn't have to listen. Your dog has now learned that if he keeps behaving badly you will just give up and let him do whatever he wants. Remember that you are the owner, and that you are the boss, which means you have to be more persistent than your dog.
Another thing to remember is to make sure that correction is made every time the dogs behavior is not good. If you are teaching your dog to stay off the couch make sure that he is told to get off every time he is on the couch. If you only correct him three times, and let it go the fourth time, the dog will learn that on the fourth time he will be allowed to stay on the couch. Once again, you need to be more persistent than the dog, and let him know that you are the one in charge. Persistence and consistency are very important things to remember when training your dog.
For more dog articles like this one, visit http://www.ohmydogsupplies.com
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Friday, September 26, 2008
Dogs - Siberian Husky
The Siberian husky is included in the working group dogs. They are medium sized dogs with a double layer of fur that protects them from extreme weather conditions, the furs acts as insulations for their body against cold and heat. The fur is often pure white, gray and white, copper-red and white, white and black. The color of the eyes is usually ice blue, blue, brown or a combination of both colors, which is called complete heterochromia. Siberian huskies are medium sized dogs; they have strong chests and backs, a full muscled upper thigh and very athletic, graceful and elegant dog, they are ideal for pulling sleigh's, sleds, herding, companion and rescues. Due to physical attributes and great stamina they are used for racing, carting and sleigh ride competition.
The Siberian husky is a native of Siberia which is brought to Alaska. Since then they are used by the Chucki people for herding, as a means of transportation because are used to pull their sleigh a means of transportation. The Siberian huskies makes poor watchdog because of its gentleness to people and children, these dogs are very friendly even to strangers, playful sociable, docile and loving breed of dogs. Huskies do not want to live alone they want to live in a pack and hunt this is due to their wolf like lineage. So if you are considering this breed, it is advisable to have it in pairs. A single pet of Siberian husky tends to be lonely and may become very destructive. As pets, the Siberian husky are adorable, they like to go out to roam around, easy to train and house break, they are thrifty eaters unlike other working dogs.
The Siberian husky is an ideal pet for people or families with large yards and living in a cool climate. This is mainly because this breeds likes to roam around and play, they are an energetic, athletic bunch and needs a regular exercise. Their life expectance is 12 to 1 5 years. A common health issues that is encounter with the huskies are juvenile cataracts, corneal dystrophy, and progressive retinal atrophy.
In general Siberian huskies are intelligent, loving pets to have. They are very agile and strong and a great companion. However huskies are not suitable to be a watchdog due to its friendly nature even to strangers, this breed will gladly welcome anyone into the house, he exhibits no fear and aggression towards strangers and would likely greet would be thieves into the house. They are easy to take care of because they are not prone to any diseases and infections, they are by nature a finicky breed of animals that cleans themselves like cats, and therefore they are free from dog odors and parasites. In fact this breeds will instantly clean themselves if they are soiled, this is another one of their trait as being an independent breed. The Siberian husky sheds its coat twice a year, they shed their undercoats completely and it is a very intense shedding event and should be combed completely, however this phenomenon happens only twice in a year unlike those dogs that have fine hairs that shed hair everyday, which could be nuisance for owners.
For more information please visit : http://www.thedogcare.com/
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The Siberian husky is a native of Siberia which is brought to Alaska. Since then they are used by the Chucki people for herding, as a means of transportation because are used to pull their sleigh a means of transportation. The Siberian huskies makes poor watchdog because of its gentleness to people and children, these dogs are very friendly even to strangers, playful sociable, docile and loving breed of dogs. Huskies do not want to live alone they want to live in a pack and hunt this is due to their wolf like lineage. So if you are considering this breed, it is advisable to have it in pairs. A single pet of Siberian husky tends to be lonely and may become very destructive. As pets, the Siberian husky are adorable, they like to go out to roam around, easy to train and house break, they are thrifty eaters unlike other working dogs.
The Siberian husky is an ideal pet for people or families with large yards and living in a cool climate. This is mainly because this breeds likes to roam around and play, they are an energetic, athletic bunch and needs a regular exercise. Their life expectance is 12 to 1 5 years. A common health issues that is encounter with the huskies are juvenile cataracts, corneal dystrophy, and progressive retinal atrophy.
In general Siberian huskies are intelligent, loving pets to have. They are very agile and strong and a great companion. However huskies are not suitable to be a watchdog due to its friendly nature even to strangers, this breed will gladly welcome anyone into the house, he exhibits no fear and aggression towards strangers and would likely greet would be thieves into the house. They are easy to take care of because they are not prone to any diseases and infections, they are by nature a finicky breed of animals that cleans themselves like cats, and therefore they are free from dog odors and parasites. In fact this breeds will instantly clean themselves if they are soiled, this is another one of their trait as being an independent breed. The Siberian husky sheds its coat twice a year, they shed their undercoats completely and it is a very intense shedding event and should be combed completely, however this phenomenon happens only twice in a year unlike those dogs that have fine hairs that shed hair everyday, which could be nuisance for owners.
For more information please visit : http://www.thedogcare.com/
Recommended Article Directory
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Help Your Mastiff Master Social Skills
Because they grow up to be such large dogs and tend to be sensitive and quiet, training your Mastiff puppies in the social skills is absolutely crucial for the caring owner.
The Mastiff puppy develops most of his motor, sensory and learning skills in the first 12 weeks of his life. What he learns about his owner and other humans, interacting with a variety of people, other animals, and even places - these lessons will imprint on his brain, and will probably stay with him for the rest of his life.
It stands to reason, then, to devote as much of your time and energies as possible developing a close and loving bond between dog and owner and family. Get as much physical contact as you can, in play and in rest. Develop a planned timetable for these vital weeks, so that puppy Mastiff gets used to a routine from an early age.
A good opportunity to interact is grooming time. Have a fixed time for this exercise, and gently brush his coat and wipe his ears. Not every young puppy will welcome grooming, but gentle perseverance will win him over. Never shout or speak sharply at this stage - all communication should be gentle and kind.
Get him out in public as early and as much as possible, but avoid any situation that might pose a threat to a sensitive young dog mastiff puppy. Make a conscious decision to visit several locations a week, and introduce your young mastiff to many different people, so that he learns to cope with this strange animal that is Human, and gets used to the noise and bustle of daily life. And of course, see that he also gets to meet other non-threatening animals and dogs.
If at any time you sense that he is getting distressed or fearful, pick him up and gently reassure him that all is right, and try to put him back in the situation so that he accepts that he can cope, that his fears were unfounded.
Remember that he looks to you as the leader of the pack, so he will be extra sensitive to your emotions and behavior, and you must at this stage be a master of calmness and gentle strength. Avoid bad temper and angry words in his presence.
Often in his third month the young mastiff puppy may go through a "fearful" period of 2 or 3 weeks, when he can easily get distressed. If you experience this, best advice is to moderate his social outings so that you avoid particularly and very noisy or crowded situations.
If you follow these simple guidelines, then your young mastiff will be on his way to being socialized, so that he can be a faithful and confident companion by your side.
To discover more about bringing up or owning a Mastiff dog, visithttp://www.mastiffsbible.comAnd when over there, why not grab the free course on looking after your mastiff - easy reading for all the family.
Recommended Article Directory
The Mastiff puppy develops most of his motor, sensory and learning skills in the first 12 weeks of his life. What he learns about his owner and other humans, interacting with a variety of people, other animals, and even places - these lessons will imprint on his brain, and will probably stay with him for the rest of his life.
It stands to reason, then, to devote as much of your time and energies as possible developing a close and loving bond between dog and owner and family. Get as much physical contact as you can, in play and in rest. Develop a planned timetable for these vital weeks, so that puppy Mastiff gets used to a routine from an early age.
A good opportunity to interact is grooming time. Have a fixed time for this exercise, and gently brush his coat and wipe his ears. Not every young puppy will welcome grooming, but gentle perseverance will win him over. Never shout or speak sharply at this stage - all communication should be gentle and kind.
Get him out in public as early and as much as possible, but avoid any situation that might pose a threat to a sensitive young dog mastiff puppy. Make a conscious decision to visit several locations a week, and introduce your young mastiff to many different people, so that he learns to cope with this strange animal that is Human, and gets used to the noise and bustle of daily life. And of course, see that he also gets to meet other non-threatening animals and dogs.
If at any time you sense that he is getting distressed or fearful, pick him up and gently reassure him that all is right, and try to put him back in the situation so that he accepts that he can cope, that his fears were unfounded.
Remember that he looks to you as the leader of the pack, so he will be extra sensitive to your emotions and behavior, and you must at this stage be a master of calmness and gentle strength. Avoid bad temper and angry words in his presence.
Often in his third month the young mastiff puppy may go through a "fearful" period of 2 or 3 weeks, when he can easily get distressed. If you experience this, best advice is to moderate his social outings so that you avoid particularly and very noisy or crowded situations.
If you follow these simple guidelines, then your young mastiff will be on his way to being socialized, so that he can be a faithful and confident companion by your side.
To discover more about bringing up or owning a Mastiff dog, visithttp://www.mastiffsbible.comAnd when over there, why not grab the free course on looking after your mastiff - easy reading for all the family.
Recommended Article Directory
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Purebreds and Cross Breeds: Good Temperament vs Good Health
The world's dog population is mostly made up of undifferentiated varieties resulting from random interbreeding widely known as "mixed breeds" or "mutts". Yet most people, including dog owners only know or talk about purebreds in general. The mutts on the other hand are widely look down on and hugely neglected.
Purebreds are dogs that belong to a documented and acknowledged group of unmixed lineage. They are selectively bred dogs that produce a particular body type and specific behaviors that are relatively similar throughout the particular breed. To be recognized as a true breed, it must be proven that the mating of the two adult dogs have to be of the same type, and will have to pass on their exact characteristics, in terms of both appearance and behavior to their offspring - this is known as breeding true.
For people involved with professional breeding, there is a huge difference between purebreds and mutts. Some mutts might actually be purebreds but have no documentation proving that they are so. If you are looking for a pet and have no interest in entering competitions with your dog, this might be a viable option for you and the cost is considerably lower too.
Breeding of purebred dogs is selected with care. The pair is tested for every possible disease which includes having all the information regarding the pair's ancestors and health records on file. Should there be no problem in the history of the pair, then the breeding can begin. During testing, should the pair is not compatible due to diseases that are common in a specific breed, another dog will be selected as a match instead.
There are many places to get a dog such as a kennel or the pet store but if you want to get a purebred, it is advisable to seek a reputable breeder to get the best results.
Mixed breeds on the other hand could have been bred out of experimentation to produce a breed which could be better and stronger, without as much weakness as is found genetically in the two breeds. It is also very likely that they are the results of accidents. In general, mixed breeds are so diverse it is difficult for anyone to go through all their characteristics in full.
Health wise, purebred dogs that come from a line of strong parents could have lesser problems because breeders screen the pair before the process happens. Nevertheless, a very common issue with most purebred dogs is that they may suffer from inherited health problems such as bone and joint disorders that cause lameness, eye diseases that cause blindness, sudden heart disease that causes early death, epilepsy, seizures, or immune system diseases, just to name a few of the over 300 genetic health defects documented in dogs.
The incidence of inherited health problems is extremely high in purebreds due to two main reasons:
1. The AKC requires that all purebred offspring come from the mating of dogs registered with their club. This ruling reduces the huge majority of other dogs that would otherwise be available for breeding. Because of that, most breeds are bred on rather small number of founding dogs on a limited and closed gene pool. Without the introduction of new and unrelated genes in to the breed in the long run, purebred dogs suffer from "loss of genetic diversity," which inevitably leads to dogs with inherited health problems.
2. There are instances where certain breeders are more concerned about financial gain rather than the welfare of the animal. This is especially true of those breeders who do not practice the strict guidelines of proper breeding thereby producing inferior dogs.
To avoid getting a dog with inherited health problems, you should always look for responsible breeders who make their dogs go through medical tests as proof of good health. Some of these tests include - X-rays to detect hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, Ophthalmic exam to determine the presence of PRA and cataracts, Cardiac exam to detect certain heart diseases. Bear in mind that not all tests are required as certain inherited health problems are present in certain breeds only.
Mixed bred dogs on the other hand are surprising generally healthier than purebreds. Most mixed breeds have a good genetic diversity that tends to promote overall health and vigor. This is mainly because their genes are usually unrelated, chances are high that the parents of a mixed breed puppy will not have the same defective genes. It is usually the pairing up of the same defective genes that cause inherited health problems to occur.
Some people prefer purebreds to mixed breeds. The primary reason is that it carries a certain prestige with it, often glamorized by television, movies and breeders. They are also constantly featured at dog shows where mixed dogs are not allowed to compete in without a compelling reason.
These events led to the mixed breeds being seen as inferior dogs compare to the purebreds and therefore generate lesser interest among the public. It is a shame to see most of them being round up frequently and left to die in animal shelters.
To conclude, purebreds will give you predictable characteristics that you are looking for in a dog, but suffer from higher potential for genetic defects and inherited health problems.
Mixed bred dogs will tend to be healthier in general, but you might have to deal with the unpredictable characteristics, temperament and appearance that comes with it when it grows up. One can only make good guesses by observing its parents. Nevertheless, you also know that your dog is truly unique and one of its kind.
Adding a dog to your family is a life changing and long commitment. You should not make a decision based on whether it is pure or mixed breed alone but also consider carefully the breed type that is most suitable for your lifestyle.
Moses Wright has been a dog lover since young and now he loves to help fellow dog owners solve their dog problems whenever he can. You can get a free copy of his book filled with useful and practical tips here:http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/dogger_enews.htm
Recommended Article Directory
Purebreds are dogs that belong to a documented and acknowledged group of unmixed lineage. They are selectively bred dogs that produce a particular body type and specific behaviors that are relatively similar throughout the particular breed. To be recognized as a true breed, it must be proven that the mating of the two adult dogs have to be of the same type, and will have to pass on their exact characteristics, in terms of both appearance and behavior to their offspring - this is known as breeding true.
For people involved with professional breeding, there is a huge difference between purebreds and mutts. Some mutts might actually be purebreds but have no documentation proving that they are so. If you are looking for a pet and have no interest in entering competitions with your dog, this might be a viable option for you and the cost is considerably lower too.
Breeding of purebred dogs is selected with care. The pair is tested for every possible disease which includes having all the information regarding the pair's ancestors and health records on file. Should there be no problem in the history of the pair, then the breeding can begin. During testing, should the pair is not compatible due to diseases that are common in a specific breed, another dog will be selected as a match instead.
There are many places to get a dog such as a kennel or the pet store but if you want to get a purebred, it is advisable to seek a reputable breeder to get the best results.
Mixed breeds on the other hand could have been bred out of experimentation to produce a breed which could be better and stronger, without as much weakness as is found genetically in the two breeds. It is also very likely that they are the results of accidents. In general, mixed breeds are so diverse it is difficult for anyone to go through all their characteristics in full.
Health wise, purebred dogs that come from a line of strong parents could have lesser problems because breeders screen the pair before the process happens. Nevertheless, a very common issue with most purebred dogs is that they may suffer from inherited health problems such as bone and joint disorders that cause lameness, eye diseases that cause blindness, sudden heart disease that causes early death, epilepsy, seizures, or immune system diseases, just to name a few of the over 300 genetic health defects documented in dogs.
The incidence of inherited health problems is extremely high in purebreds due to two main reasons:
1. The AKC requires that all purebred offspring come from the mating of dogs registered with their club. This ruling reduces the huge majority of other dogs that would otherwise be available for breeding. Because of that, most breeds are bred on rather small number of founding dogs on a limited and closed gene pool. Without the introduction of new and unrelated genes in to the breed in the long run, purebred dogs suffer from "loss of genetic diversity," which inevitably leads to dogs with inherited health problems.
2. There are instances where certain breeders are more concerned about financial gain rather than the welfare of the animal. This is especially true of those breeders who do not practice the strict guidelines of proper breeding thereby producing inferior dogs.
To avoid getting a dog with inherited health problems, you should always look for responsible breeders who make their dogs go through medical tests as proof of good health. Some of these tests include - X-rays to detect hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, Ophthalmic exam to determine the presence of PRA and cataracts, Cardiac exam to detect certain heart diseases. Bear in mind that not all tests are required as certain inherited health problems are present in certain breeds only.
Mixed bred dogs on the other hand are surprising generally healthier than purebreds. Most mixed breeds have a good genetic diversity that tends to promote overall health and vigor. This is mainly because their genes are usually unrelated, chances are high that the parents of a mixed breed puppy will not have the same defective genes. It is usually the pairing up of the same defective genes that cause inherited health problems to occur.
Some people prefer purebreds to mixed breeds. The primary reason is that it carries a certain prestige with it, often glamorized by television, movies and breeders. They are also constantly featured at dog shows where mixed dogs are not allowed to compete in without a compelling reason.
These events led to the mixed breeds being seen as inferior dogs compare to the purebreds and therefore generate lesser interest among the public. It is a shame to see most of them being round up frequently and left to die in animal shelters.
To conclude, purebreds will give you predictable characteristics that you are looking for in a dog, but suffer from higher potential for genetic defects and inherited health problems.
Mixed bred dogs will tend to be healthier in general, but you might have to deal with the unpredictable characteristics, temperament and appearance that comes with it when it grows up. One can only make good guesses by observing its parents. Nevertheless, you also know that your dog is truly unique and one of its kind.
Adding a dog to your family is a life changing and long commitment. You should not make a decision based on whether it is pure or mixed breed alone but also consider carefully the breed type that is most suitable for your lifestyle.
Moses Wright has been a dog lover since young and now he loves to help fellow dog owners solve their dog problems whenever he can. You can get a free copy of his book filled with useful and practical tips here:http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/dogger_enews.htm
Recommended Article Directory
AKC - The Official Registry for Purebred Dogs
Shop for any dog and you will soon see the acronym "AKC Dog Breed" used over and over again. What does "AKC" mean? The AKC is the American Kennel Club, which is the registry for all purebred puppies in the United States.
This club holds obedience competitions and dog shows, maintains dog standards and registers puppies of AKC-recognized breeds. In other words, it is the standard by which all dogs live to qualify as a purebred breed. There are over 100 different dog breeds registered with the AKC.
If you would like to register your puppy with the AKC, you will need papers from both parents. Purebred litters are registered shortly after the puppies are born. When they are eight weeks old, the breeder receives a registration application to enter each puppy into the AKC registration. When the new owner of the puppy names their pet, they can register and send the application into the AKC for official recognition.
There are eight different types of AKC dog breeds, including the Hound Group, the Sporting Group, the Working Group, the Non-Working Group, the Toy Group and the Terrier Group. Each dog competes within their group and within its breed during competitions.
The Hound Group is dogs that work as excellent hunters and love to chase other animals. They can be either slow and methodical or fast and impatient like the Greyhound.
Next, the Sporting Group is active, hard-working dogs. They need a lot of exercise and will spend hours retrieving and spotting objects for their owners. Both the Cocker Spaniel and Golden Retriever are examples of the Sporting Group.
The Working Group is breeds such as the Doberman Pinschers or Rottweilers. They are highly concerned with protecting their home and family. They typically have plenty of power and energy with strong protective instincts.
The Non-Working Group, on the other hand, is a collection of dogs that do not fit in the other categories. Everything from the Standard Poodle to the Boston Terrier belong to this group.
As the name suggests, the Toy Group features dogs that are smaller in size, such as the Miniature Pinscher.
Finally, the Terrier Group shows animals that love to hunt mice, including Yorkies and Scottish Terriers.
There is yet another group called the Miscellaneous Group which is where the AKC puts new breeds that are still establishing themselves in the registry. While the AKC is still the most popular club in the United States, there are a number of other clubs, including the United Kennel Club, the American Canine Association, the Canine Kennel Club and the North American Purebred Dog Registry.
For any dogs born outside the United States that wish to be considered in the AKC, they owner can apply and allow the AKC to consider their application. British dogs, for example, go through the Kennel Club, while Australian dogs are registered in the Victorian Canine Association and Canadian dogs apply to the Canadian Kennel Club.
Moses Wright is a pet lover and loves to help new pet owners deal with their pet problems at home. You can find more pet problems and solutions for free here: http://www.petquery.com/
Recommended Article Directory
This club holds obedience competitions and dog shows, maintains dog standards and registers puppies of AKC-recognized breeds. In other words, it is the standard by which all dogs live to qualify as a purebred breed. There are over 100 different dog breeds registered with the AKC.
If you would like to register your puppy with the AKC, you will need papers from both parents. Purebred litters are registered shortly after the puppies are born. When they are eight weeks old, the breeder receives a registration application to enter each puppy into the AKC registration. When the new owner of the puppy names their pet, they can register and send the application into the AKC for official recognition.
There are eight different types of AKC dog breeds, including the Hound Group, the Sporting Group, the Working Group, the Non-Working Group, the Toy Group and the Terrier Group. Each dog competes within their group and within its breed during competitions.
The Hound Group is dogs that work as excellent hunters and love to chase other animals. They can be either slow and methodical or fast and impatient like the Greyhound.
Next, the Sporting Group is active, hard-working dogs. They need a lot of exercise and will spend hours retrieving and spotting objects for their owners. Both the Cocker Spaniel and Golden Retriever are examples of the Sporting Group.
The Working Group is breeds such as the Doberman Pinschers or Rottweilers. They are highly concerned with protecting their home and family. They typically have plenty of power and energy with strong protective instincts.
The Non-Working Group, on the other hand, is a collection of dogs that do not fit in the other categories. Everything from the Standard Poodle to the Boston Terrier belong to this group.
As the name suggests, the Toy Group features dogs that are smaller in size, such as the Miniature Pinscher.
Finally, the Terrier Group shows animals that love to hunt mice, including Yorkies and Scottish Terriers.
There is yet another group called the Miscellaneous Group which is where the AKC puts new breeds that are still establishing themselves in the registry. While the AKC is still the most popular club in the United States, there are a number of other clubs, including the United Kennel Club, the American Canine Association, the Canine Kennel Club and the North American Purebred Dog Registry.
For any dogs born outside the United States that wish to be considered in the AKC, they owner can apply and allow the AKC to consider their application. British dogs, for example, go through the Kennel Club, while Australian dogs are registered in the Victorian Canine Association and Canadian dogs apply to the Canadian Kennel Club.
Moses Wright is a pet lover and loves to help new pet owners deal with their pet problems at home. You can find more pet problems and solutions for free here: http://www.petquery.com/
Recommended Article Directory
Wuff Treatment for Dogs
As anyone who has seen the popular BBC TV series "Dog Borstal" will know, getting your dog to listen to you is, well, all about communication. You may think you know how to get through to your mutt – but if he isn't paying any attention, he could be trying to tell you something...Once you have established basic communication you are ready for basic training. Establishing contact.
Your dog has to know right from wrong, before it can obey you. Your first aim will be to let it know which behaviors are acceptable and in which contexts. In order to do this, you will have to learn to give clear, comprehensible commands and to provide decent feedback, so that the animal can understand if it has done what you wanted or not.
Understanding how to communicate with your dog is critical to any training that you do. The goal of the handler is to let the dog know which behaviors are correct in certain situations, and which behaviors are not. The handler must also learn to give commands to the dog effectively and provide feedback so that the animal understands whether it was successful or not. It is also very important that the handler understands how to read the dog's reactions to certain situations and to learn what motivates the dog to obey or disobey.
There are four basic communications that the handler must establish with the dog. For good behavior there is a reward signal and a continue signal. The reward signal tells the dog that they have behaved properly and deserve a reward, and the continue signal tells the dog that they are behaving properly and that they should continue to behave in this manner in order to get a reward.
For bad behavior a no reward signal and a punishment signal are used. The no reward signal tells the dog that it has behaved incorrectly. Without a change in behavior, they will not get a reward. A punishment signal tells the dog that they will be punished if they continue their current behavior.
The initial period of training with your dog will be the most important phase of all, because it will establish the pattern for all subsequent training. For this reason, you should be well informed before embarking on the task – and armed with a great deal of patience. It is no use rushing the building up of trust between handler and dog, so try not to be neurotic about it. The dog will come round eventually, but only if you give yourself and the animal time to develop and adapt. Consistency means everything to your dog. If you have punished him once for a particular type of behavior, for example, you must continue to do so until he desists, otherwise the dog will become confused. This will be distressing for him, because he really wants to please you.
Once you and your dog have mastered the basics of sit, stay, come and heel, you will be ready to embark on more advanced training, such as tricks or "remotely" controlling your dog's movements with distance commands for right and left. It should be noted that human language in itself is not always clearly distinguishable to the dog's ears. After all, a dog's barking sounds pretty much the same to us, whatever the animal is trying to say. For this reason, "left" and "right" are probably inappropriate words to use, whereas the command in Welsh, "come by" seems to work very well for a left turn.
Some owners may wish to resort to an electric shock device as an aid to obedience. These have been the center of a certain amount of controversy in Britain recently, where a private members bill tried to have them banned. Welfare minister Ben Bradshaw has spoken out in favor of electric collars, which he says some owners maintain have saved the dog from nasty accidents or from being shot by farmers when they stray onto land with livestock.
Funding is being provided for an investigation later this year, aimed at establishing whether or not the collars can make dogs aggressive.
Pet portrait artists like Jerry Carpos from http://www.portraitkingdom.com can make eternal pet portraits from your treasured photos. These eternal oil painting portraits will doubtlessly surpass any language used to train dogs.
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Your dog has to know right from wrong, before it can obey you. Your first aim will be to let it know which behaviors are acceptable and in which contexts. In order to do this, you will have to learn to give clear, comprehensible commands and to provide decent feedback, so that the animal can understand if it has done what you wanted or not.
Understanding how to communicate with your dog is critical to any training that you do. The goal of the handler is to let the dog know which behaviors are correct in certain situations, and which behaviors are not. The handler must also learn to give commands to the dog effectively and provide feedback so that the animal understands whether it was successful or not. It is also very important that the handler understands how to read the dog's reactions to certain situations and to learn what motivates the dog to obey or disobey.
There are four basic communications that the handler must establish with the dog. For good behavior there is a reward signal and a continue signal. The reward signal tells the dog that they have behaved properly and deserve a reward, and the continue signal tells the dog that they are behaving properly and that they should continue to behave in this manner in order to get a reward.
For bad behavior a no reward signal and a punishment signal are used. The no reward signal tells the dog that it has behaved incorrectly. Without a change in behavior, they will not get a reward. A punishment signal tells the dog that they will be punished if they continue their current behavior.
The initial period of training with your dog will be the most important phase of all, because it will establish the pattern for all subsequent training. For this reason, you should be well informed before embarking on the task – and armed with a great deal of patience. It is no use rushing the building up of trust between handler and dog, so try not to be neurotic about it. The dog will come round eventually, but only if you give yourself and the animal time to develop and adapt. Consistency means everything to your dog. If you have punished him once for a particular type of behavior, for example, you must continue to do so until he desists, otherwise the dog will become confused. This will be distressing for him, because he really wants to please you.
Once you and your dog have mastered the basics of sit, stay, come and heel, you will be ready to embark on more advanced training, such as tricks or "remotely" controlling your dog's movements with distance commands for right and left. It should be noted that human language in itself is not always clearly distinguishable to the dog's ears. After all, a dog's barking sounds pretty much the same to us, whatever the animal is trying to say. For this reason, "left" and "right" are probably inappropriate words to use, whereas the command in Welsh, "come by" seems to work very well for a left turn.
Some owners may wish to resort to an electric shock device as an aid to obedience. These have been the center of a certain amount of controversy in Britain recently, where a private members bill tried to have them banned. Welfare minister Ben Bradshaw has spoken out in favor of electric collars, which he says some owners maintain have saved the dog from nasty accidents or from being shot by farmers when they stray onto land with livestock.
Funding is being provided for an investigation later this year, aimed at establishing whether or not the collars can make dogs aggressive.
Pet portrait artists like Jerry Carpos from http://www.portraitkingdom.com can make eternal pet portraits from your treasured photos. These eternal oil painting portraits will doubtlessly surpass any language used to train dogs.
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An Extremely Intelligent Dog, The Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier, (nicknamed Yorkie), is a breed of small dog in the toy category. The long-haired terrier is known for its playful demeanor and distinctive blue and tan coat. Yorkies can be very small, usually weighing not more than 7 pounds. The American Kennel Club does not specify the minimum weight accepted nor does it specify a height. Based on registrations of the American Kennel Club, Yorkshire Terriers became the second most popular dog breed in the United States in 2006, following the Labrador Retriever.
Yorkies originated in Yorkshire and Lancaster, England in the nineteenth century. The Yorkie was bred as a ratter, used to kill mice and rats in small places. They may have been used for hunting as well. Terriers specialize in hunting animals (usually vermin) that live in dens or burrows. Animals that are cornered and defending their young will fight ferociously. Any dog that would willingly pursue them must have a great degree of courage; terriers are bred for that quality.
The Yorkie being a toy breed does not necessarily mean fragile. Yorkies have an athletic build and are very playful. As a working dog a Yorkies intelligence makes them wonderful for agility and obedience. Yorkies are generally easy to house train. But sometimes because of their independence they can be hard to housebreak. For their own safety it is better to crate train them and to leave them in a crate when they are left alone, e.g. during the night or if their owners are out of the home. Always leave them some toys and fresh water, and be sure they have a cosy bed inside the crate. Remember that as they do enjoy human company they will not appreciate being left alone for long periods.
They have long hair with no undercoat which means less shedding. Their coat is alot like human hair which only falls out when broken or brushed. Yorkies have little dander, good for allergy sufferers. The coat is silky, glossy, fine, and should be straight. The traditional coat is extremely high maintenance and needs several hours of brushing daily. For pets the coat is usually kept in a shorter pet clip. Anyone obtaining a pet Yorkie must remember that there will be additional grooming expenses to take into consideration. A Yorkies ears stand erect and it's tail should be docked medium length. The hair should be plucked from inside the ears, and checked regularly for excessive wax and for mites. The hair should also be kept out of their eyes. Also the tarter from the teeth needs to be removed regularly, especially because the Yorkie is a Toy breed. Even though there is an extra expense for grooming, Yorkies eat very little, thus the owner saves money.
Yorkies are often very susceptible to hypoglycemia especially in puppies, but often carrying over into adulthood. Because of their small size they also are sometimes intolerant to anesthesia. The lifespan of a Yorkie is generally 12 to 15 years but can be shorter in the smaller ones (three pounds or less).
The temperament of a Yorkie varies greatly depending on how it's been socialized by its owner. Some are timid and shy, while others are bold and confident. But most are intelligent, inquisitive, and self assertive. Alot of Yorkies have a big dog attitude not realizing their small size, which can get them in serious trouble and danger. This fact not always making them suitable pets for younger children.
Before buying a Yorkie, find a reputable breeder. Learn all you can about the breed. And make sure your reputable breeder or yourself has the Yorkie vet checked to make sure it is healthy. Also, Do not buy any puppy unless it has had a bile acids test run before and after eating and you have seen the results of the test. Liver Shunt is running rampant in many breeds of dogs right now and especially in Yorkshire Terriers. Any responsible breeder will be more than happy to have their veterinarian run this very simple blood test on their puppies. Breeders please start testing your puppies before you sell them. Even with the extra expense of grooming and the extra care they need the Yorkie can make a wonderful pet and companion.
Randy and Penny Taylor - Expert Breeders and Ownershttp://www.passionforpuppies.comhttp://www.ourpetsupplies.com
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Yorkies originated in Yorkshire and Lancaster, England in the nineteenth century. The Yorkie was bred as a ratter, used to kill mice and rats in small places. They may have been used for hunting as well. Terriers specialize in hunting animals (usually vermin) that live in dens or burrows. Animals that are cornered and defending their young will fight ferociously. Any dog that would willingly pursue them must have a great degree of courage; terriers are bred for that quality.
The Yorkie being a toy breed does not necessarily mean fragile. Yorkies have an athletic build and are very playful. As a working dog a Yorkies intelligence makes them wonderful for agility and obedience. Yorkies are generally easy to house train. But sometimes because of their independence they can be hard to housebreak. For their own safety it is better to crate train them and to leave them in a crate when they are left alone, e.g. during the night or if their owners are out of the home. Always leave them some toys and fresh water, and be sure they have a cosy bed inside the crate. Remember that as they do enjoy human company they will not appreciate being left alone for long periods.
They have long hair with no undercoat which means less shedding. Their coat is alot like human hair which only falls out when broken or brushed. Yorkies have little dander, good for allergy sufferers. The coat is silky, glossy, fine, and should be straight. The traditional coat is extremely high maintenance and needs several hours of brushing daily. For pets the coat is usually kept in a shorter pet clip. Anyone obtaining a pet Yorkie must remember that there will be additional grooming expenses to take into consideration. A Yorkies ears stand erect and it's tail should be docked medium length. The hair should be plucked from inside the ears, and checked regularly for excessive wax and for mites. The hair should also be kept out of their eyes. Also the tarter from the teeth needs to be removed regularly, especially because the Yorkie is a Toy breed. Even though there is an extra expense for grooming, Yorkies eat very little, thus the owner saves money.
Yorkies are often very susceptible to hypoglycemia especially in puppies, but often carrying over into adulthood. Because of their small size they also are sometimes intolerant to anesthesia. The lifespan of a Yorkie is generally 12 to 15 years but can be shorter in the smaller ones (three pounds or less).
The temperament of a Yorkie varies greatly depending on how it's been socialized by its owner. Some are timid and shy, while others are bold and confident. But most are intelligent, inquisitive, and self assertive. Alot of Yorkies have a big dog attitude not realizing their small size, which can get them in serious trouble and danger. This fact not always making them suitable pets for younger children.
Before buying a Yorkie, find a reputable breeder. Learn all you can about the breed. And make sure your reputable breeder or yourself has the Yorkie vet checked to make sure it is healthy. Also, Do not buy any puppy unless it has had a bile acids test run before and after eating and you have seen the results of the test. Liver Shunt is running rampant in many breeds of dogs right now and especially in Yorkshire Terriers. Any responsible breeder will be more than happy to have their veterinarian run this very simple blood test on their puppies. Breeders please start testing your puppies before you sell them. Even with the extra expense of grooming and the extra care they need the Yorkie can make a wonderful pet and companion.
Randy and Penny Taylor - Expert Breeders and Ownershttp://www.passionforpuppies.comhttp://www.ourpetsupplies.com
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Common Golden Retriever Health Problems and Diseases
There are around six major conditions or diseases that Golden Retrievers most frequently suffer with. Golden Retrievers are by no means unhealthy animals. In fact, they are one of the healthier breeds out there. But there are common problems that Golden Retrievers can struggle with and it behooves the owner to know what they are in order to keep an eye out for them.
Skin diseases are one of the top problems with Golden Retrievers. They can have something as simple as a mosquito bite or a flea itch that will cause an itchy part of their skin. These dogs will then chew the area until they create a lesion or something known as a hot spot. A hot spot is a raw, red and moist patch that will get larger every time the dog messes with it. It will usually require a bandage or a special collar to keep the dog away from this area in order to give it a chance to heal.
Golden Retrievers can suffer from allergies faster than most other breeds. Wheat is typically an offending factor and a lot of commercial dog foods have wheat in their recipes. It's not toxic for the animals, but it can cause them some digestive issues or cause them to itch uncontrollably. If the dog licks its face excessively or scratches constantly, you might have a dog that is allergic.
Underneath the outer layers of skin, more serious forms of skin disease can be formed. There are different types of fatty lipomas and the severe liposarcoma that can become common as the dogs grow older.
Fatty lipomas are typically benign and will be able to be removed the next time a dog gets his teeth cleaned and gets general anesthesia. They might grow bigger, but they are not a health concern and can be left alone without worry. Liposarcomas, however, are malignant and need to be removed as quickly as possible. They need to be treated as soon as they are diagnosed.
Eye problems, such as cataracts, can be common in Golden Retrievers that are older than the age of 10. These eye problems can lead to blindness or at least reduced vision in the animal. There is no treatment for these conditions.
Heart conditions are less common in Golden Retrievers, but if they do occur, you will see either subvalvular aortic stenosis or cardiomyopathy. Subvalvular aortic stenosis is an obstruction in the ventricle left vein that will cause a reduction in blood flow. Sometimes, the condition is harmless, although the dog will not be allowed to run around as much. When the condition is serious, the heart has to work harder due to the heart muscle thickening. This heart problem is usually genetic and the treatment can be beta blockers to mild antibiotics. Surgery is always a possibility but unlike human heart surgery, it has had limited success.
Cardiomyopathy is an acquired disease which is more serious. It tends to happen in dogs that are 4 to 10 years old and the cause is unknown. The heart muscle will become thin and flabby, progressively getting worse until the dog passes away.
Nevertheless, most Golden Retrievers live a long and healthy live. With the right diet and plenty of exercise, your animal has a better shot at living a wonderful life.
Moses Wright is a pet lover and loves to help new pet owners deal with their pet problems at home. You can find more pet problems and solutions for free here: http://www.petquery.com/
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Skin diseases are one of the top problems with Golden Retrievers. They can have something as simple as a mosquito bite or a flea itch that will cause an itchy part of their skin. These dogs will then chew the area until they create a lesion or something known as a hot spot. A hot spot is a raw, red and moist patch that will get larger every time the dog messes with it. It will usually require a bandage or a special collar to keep the dog away from this area in order to give it a chance to heal.
Golden Retrievers can suffer from allergies faster than most other breeds. Wheat is typically an offending factor and a lot of commercial dog foods have wheat in their recipes. It's not toxic for the animals, but it can cause them some digestive issues or cause them to itch uncontrollably. If the dog licks its face excessively or scratches constantly, you might have a dog that is allergic.
Underneath the outer layers of skin, more serious forms of skin disease can be formed. There are different types of fatty lipomas and the severe liposarcoma that can become common as the dogs grow older.
Fatty lipomas are typically benign and will be able to be removed the next time a dog gets his teeth cleaned and gets general anesthesia. They might grow bigger, but they are not a health concern and can be left alone without worry. Liposarcomas, however, are malignant and need to be removed as quickly as possible. They need to be treated as soon as they are diagnosed.
Eye problems, such as cataracts, can be common in Golden Retrievers that are older than the age of 10. These eye problems can lead to blindness or at least reduced vision in the animal. There is no treatment for these conditions.
Heart conditions are less common in Golden Retrievers, but if they do occur, you will see either subvalvular aortic stenosis or cardiomyopathy. Subvalvular aortic stenosis is an obstruction in the ventricle left vein that will cause a reduction in blood flow. Sometimes, the condition is harmless, although the dog will not be allowed to run around as much. When the condition is serious, the heart has to work harder due to the heart muscle thickening. This heart problem is usually genetic and the treatment can be beta blockers to mild antibiotics. Surgery is always a possibility but unlike human heart surgery, it has had limited success.
Cardiomyopathy is an acquired disease which is more serious. It tends to happen in dogs that are 4 to 10 years old and the cause is unknown. The heart muscle will become thin and flabby, progressively getting worse until the dog passes away.
Nevertheless, most Golden Retrievers live a long and healthy live. With the right diet and plenty of exercise, your animal has a better shot at living a wonderful life.
Moses Wright is a pet lover and loves to help new pet owners deal with their pet problems at home. You can find more pet problems and solutions for free here: http://www.petquery.com/
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German Shepherd Grooming Tips and Guide
Despite its double layered coat, the German Shepherd does not require a lot of grooming. The outer coat of the German Shepherd is coarse with a medium-length. The undercoat, on the other hand, is soft and dense. This inner level is responsible for keeping the dog warm during the winter months and protected from the sunshine during the summer.
The best way to take care of your German Shepherd is to make sure that he is getting the right nutrition he needs. The German Shepherd is, after all, a strong carnivore and you need to make sure that the food he is getting is high in protein and vitamins. The dog requires a high-protein, high-fat diet. Chicken, lamb or beef are excellent choices. If you decide to make your own dog food, be sure that it has the right balance and all of the components the dog needs to stay as healthy as possible.
Vegetables are more difficult for dogs to eat. Rather than the curved stomach like a human, dogs have a straight stomach. This can cause them to have problems while digesting their vegetables. Wheat, corn and other plant-like materials can be tough for the animal and they should only make up a small portion of the dog's overall digestive diet. Once you are sure that the dog is getting an excellent diet, you can move on to the grooming needs.
It is generally recommended that you brush your dog's hair at least twice a week. You want to be sure that the oil in the fur is evenly distributed to prevent matting and tangles. You can also be sure to remove the dead skin cells and loose hair clogging the coat. A standard metal brush or slicker will work well if it is used properly. You must take care not to cause a lesion or scrape the dog's skin while brushing.
When you start to brush, take the brush in the same direction as the coat hair. Using a variety of brushes with different size brush heads will help to ensure you reach all parts of the dog.
Depending on the dog's typical routine, you will have to bath your dog more or less once a month. The bathing will depend on where you live and what your dog loves to do. For example, if your dog loves to be outside in the dirt and dust, he will require a bath more frequently than an animals that loves to be indoors. If the dog is an indoor dog, taking a bath every few months will be sufficient.
If you pat your dog and dust puffs off his skin, that's a good sign he needs a bath. Also, if he is starting to smell, a bath will quickly solve that problem and make him more enjoyable during cuddle time. If the coat is very greasy, that can be another sign that he needs a bath.
Proper shampoo can be important to the dog's coat hygiene. German Shepherds can be very sensitive to wheat and other allergic reactions, so the right shampoo can be important. Oatmeal shampoo, for example, can provide soothing relief to your animal, but they can also allow material to build up on its coat faster, causing you to bathe it more frequently. An aloe shampoo might be a good solution if you are not worried about fleas. Nevertheless, with regular care, your German Shepherd is bound to look beautiful all year long.
Moses Wright is a pet lover and loves to help new pet owners deal with their dog problems at home. You can find more dog problems and solutions for free here: http://www.petquery.com/dog.htm
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The best way to take care of your German Shepherd is to make sure that he is getting the right nutrition he needs. The German Shepherd is, after all, a strong carnivore and you need to make sure that the food he is getting is high in protein and vitamins. The dog requires a high-protein, high-fat diet. Chicken, lamb or beef are excellent choices. If you decide to make your own dog food, be sure that it has the right balance and all of the components the dog needs to stay as healthy as possible.
Vegetables are more difficult for dogs to eat. Rather than the curved stomach like a human, dogs have a straight stomach. This can cause them to have problems while digesting their vegetables. Wheat, corn and other plant-like materials can be tough for the animal and they should only make up a small portion of the dog's overall digestive diet. Once you are sure that the dog is getting an excellent diet, you can move on to the grooming needs.
It is generally recommended that you brush your dog's hair at least twice a week. You want to be sure that the oil in the fur is evenly distributed to prevent matting and tangles. You can also be sure to remove the dead skin cells and loose hair clogging the coat. A standard metal brush or slicker will work well if it is used properly. You must take care not to cause a lesion or scrape the dog's skin while brushing.
When you start to brush, take the brush in the same direction as the coat hair. Using a variety of brushes with different size brush heads will help to ensure you reach all parts of the dog.
Depending on the dog's typical routine, you will have to bath your dog more or less once a month. The bathing will depend on where you live and what your dog loves to do. For example, if your dog loves to be outside in the dirt and dust, he will require a bath more frequently than an animals that loves to be indoors. If the dog is an indoor dog, taking a bath every few months will be sufficient.
If you pat your dog and dust puffs off his skin, that's a good sign he needs a bath. Also, if he is starting to smell, a bath will quickly solve that problem and make him more enjoyable during cuddle time. If the coat is very greasy, that can be another sign that he needs a bath.
Proper shampoo can be important to the dog's coat hygiene. German Shepherds can be very sensitive to wheat and other allergic reactions, so the right shampoo can be important. Oatmeal shampoo, for example, can provide soothing relief to your animal, but they can also allow material to build up on its coat faster, causing you to bathe it more frequently. An aloe shampoo might be a good solution if you are not worried about fleas. Nevertheless, with regular care, your German Shepherd is bound to look beautiful all year long.
Moses Wright is a pet lover and loves to help new pet owners deal with their dog problems at home. You can find more dog problems and solutions for free here: http://www.petquery.com/dog.htm
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Dog Body and Mouth Odor (how to get rid of it effectively)
If you have ever owned a dog, then you have smelled it – dog breath. It can knock you over, bring strong-stomached men to their knees, and even overpower small children, and it's nothing to laugh about. Right along with "dog breath" comes that other great smell - "dog". There is no need to explain it any further, everyone knows what "dog" smells like. Getting rid of that "dog" smell or dog breath is no small feat either, as every pet owner knows. There are many great dog grooming tips and techniques that have been tried over the centuries, and few have stood the test of smell. There are so many products to choose from, dog deodorizers and colognes, dog dryers, dog toothbrushes, but they all seem so odd. So, how do you get rid of dog odors for good? Well, here are a couple of tips to help you find the cure.
That "dog" smell – If you have a dog that just smells terrible, and you feel like you have tried all the old wives tales out there, then you need to head down to the local dog groomer and learn some dog grooming tips that you can use at home after a bath or brushing. Your local dog groomer can suggest some great dog grooming accessories that you can purchase to help keep your pet smelling less like a dog when you get home. And, they can tell you the best shampoos to use on your pet to keep them smelling, looking, and feeling their best.
That "dog breath" - There are many products out there that advertise that they help to cure "dog breath" and then don't cut the mustard. So, once you have tried them all, where do you turn? Well, your local vet can help you here. The vet can suggest some great dog grooming tips for "dog breath" that will help to knock it out. If these fail, then your vet can suggest and prescribe some medications that you give your pet daily that will help to knock out the dog breath before it knocks you over. Some dog grooming supply shops will have these medications in stock in an over-the-counter dose, so you can also check there before purchasing expensive medications.
If your pet has "dog breath" or smells like a dog, don't fret. Just remember that there are plenty of dog grooming techniques and tips that you can learn from local groomers and vets that will help you to keep your dog on the sweet smelling side of life. You can also purchase some great dog grooming accessories that will help you accomplish this as well. Knowing how to treat and prevent these less than wonderful smells will help you, and your pet, to have a more loving relationship!
Visit http://www.petseverywhere.com/ for more fun ideas to spend time with your pets.
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That "dog" smell – If you have a dog that just smells terrible, and you feel like you have tried all the old wives tales out there, then you need to head down to the local dog groomer and learn some dog grooming tips that you can use at home after a bath or brushing. Your local dog groomer can suggest some great dog grooming accessories that you can purchase to help keep your pet smelling less like a dog when you get home. And, they can tell you the best shampoos to use on your pet to keep them smelling, looking, and feeling their best.
That "dog breath" - There are many products out there that advertise that they help to cure "dog breath" and then don't cut the mustard. So, once you have tried them all, where do you turn? Well, your local vet can help you here. The vet can suggest some great dog grooming tips for "dog breath" that will help to knock it out. If these fail, then your vet can suggest and prescribe some medications that you give your pet daily that will help to knock out the dog breath before it knocks you over. Some dog grooming supply shops will have these medications in stock in an over-the-counter dose, so you can also check there before purchasing expensive medications.
If your pet has "dog breath" or smells like a dog, don't fret. Just remember that there are plenty of dog grooming techniques and tips that you can learn from local groomers and vets that will help you to keep your dog on the sweet smelling side of life. You can also purchase some great dog grooming accessories that will help you accomplish this as well. Knowing how to treat and prevent these less than wonderful smells will help you, and your pet, to have a more loving relationship!
Visit http://www.petseverywhere.com/ for more fun ideas to spend time with your pets.
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Dog Training Using The Praise and Reward System
The Praise and Reward System is without any doubt the most animal friendly approach to train your dog. This method, often referred to as positive reinforcement training, is considered by experts to be the correct method of dog training.
In the same fashion as parent reward and praise a child for good behavior so it is with training your dog. The difference in dog training is, you praise your dog when the dog does something you approve and ignore your dog's behavior when you disapprove.
Some shocking methods for training dogs were once used. Unacceptable and cruel methods such as beatings, electric shocks were once common practice in dog training. Luckily these methods are no longer used as more and more people educated themselves about animals in general and more specifically about humane training methods.
The Praise and Reward System takes your dog temperament into consideration. This method is such that the dog has a chance to absorb the commands you are asking him to do. The praises and rewards make the dog understand that certain behaviors please you and dogs thrive on pleasing their master.
The training thus becomes more meaningful for the animal and soon you will see the dog behaving in a way you want him to. With time, the behaviors become more natural for the dog as the dog has a chance, in fact the opportunity, to use his own brain in deciding how to act.
The following are tips and tricks to increase the chance of success with the Praise and Reward System.
The use of food treats and showing affection to the animal work much better then simple verbal praise followed by a pat on the head.
The giving of the reward must immediately follow a behavior you want repeated. It must be clear to the dog as to why he is being rewarded. When the dog exhibits a proper behavior, immediately mark this behavior with a significant distinctive noise (such as a clicker) or by simply saying yes in an excited tone of voice, either will work. The treat needs to follow immediately so that the dog can understand that if he behaves in such a way, a treat is going to be given. Always use the same marker when the dog repeats the behavior and soon no treat will be needed for the dog to repeat the behavior. You need to be consistent for proper training to take place.
The commands used for training must be the same all the time. The animal needs to know what action is expected with what command. Do not vary your commands as this will only confuse the dog. It is simply a matter of repetition until the dog associates behaviors with commands. A good idea is to pre-determine what commands to use, write them down and use them all the time.
You need to reward your dog in a fashion that is meaningful to the animal. Most dogs have a preference as far at what treat they like and as to what demonstration of affection they prefer. Some dogs will do back flips for a certain treats; other dogs just aren't big eaters and prefer to be rewarded through a game with a favorite toy, or through some physical affection from you.
You probably already have a good idea of how much the dog enjoys being touched and played with. Each dog has a distinct level of energy and demonstrativeness, just like humans do.
The following are good ways to stroke your dog: most dogs really like having the base of the tail (the lowest part of their back, just before the tail starts) scratched gently; having their chests rubbed or scratched (right between the forelegs) is usually a winner, too. You can also target the ears: gently rub the earflap between your thumb and finger, or scratch gently at the base.
As far as food is concerned, just experiment with different food treats until you find one that the dog really likes. Some dogs actually respond most reliably to training commands when they receive treats sporadically instead of predictably. Intermittent treating can keep dogs on their toes, not allowing them to grow tired of the food rewards. Some dogs could make a conscious decision to forego a treat.
The great thing about the praise and reward system is that it doesn't require you to use any harsh punitive measures.
With this type of training, all you have to do is ignore the behavior that you don't wish to see repeated. Not giving any attention is enough to make just about any dog miserable and is therefore an adequate deterrent. The dog will stop the behavior of his own accord.
The more you give attention to the dog when it behaves properly, the clearer the connection will be between a bad behavior with no response and the good behavior where you give positive attention and rewards.
Emil Desnoyers is a freelance writer and a researcher who contributes content for sites like:http://theincomeportal.com/For more dog training tips visit:http://traindogtobehave.com/
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In the same fashion as parent reward and praise a child for good behavior so it is with training your dog. The difference in dog training is, you praise your dog when the dog does something you approve and ignore your dog's behavior when you disapprove.
Some shocking methods for training dogs were once used. Unacceptable and cruel methods such as beatings, electric shocks were once common practice in dog training. Luckily these methods are no longer used as more and more people educated themselves about animals in general and more specifically about humane training methods.
The Praise and Reward System takes your dog temperament into consideration. This method is such that the dog has a chance to absorb the commands you are asking him to do. The praises and rewards make the dog understand that certain behaviors please you and dogs thrive on pleasing their master.
The training thus becomes more meaningful for the animal and soon you will see the dog behaving in a way you want him to. With time, the behaviors become more natural for the dog as the dog has a chance, in fact the opportunity, to use his own brain in deciding how to act.
The following are tips and tricks to increase the chance of success with the Praise and Reward System.
The use of food treats and showing affection to the animal work much better then simple verbal praise followed by a pat on the head.
The giving of the reward must immediately follow a behavior you want repeated. It must be clear to the dog as to why he is being rewarded. When the dog exhibits a proper behavior, immediately mark this behavior with a significant distinctive noise (such as a clicker) or by simply saying yes in an excited tone of voice, either will work. The treat needs to follow immediately so that the dog can understand that if he behaves in such a way, a treat is going to be given. Always use the same marker when the dog repeats the behavior and soon no treat will be needed for the dog to repeat the behavior. You need to be consistent for proper training to take place.
The commands used for training must be the same all the time. The animal needs to know what action is expected with what command. Do not vary your commands as this will only confuse the dog. It is simply a matter of repetition until the dog associates behaviors with commands. A good idea is to pre-determine what commands to use, write them down and use them all the time.
You need to reward your dog in a fashion that is meaningful to the animal. Most dogs have a preference as far at what treat they like and as to what demonstration of affection they prefer. Some dogs will do back flips for a certain treats; other dogs just aren't big eaters and prefer to be rewarded through a game with a favorite toy, or through some physical affection from you.
You probably already have a good idea of how much the dog enjoys being touched and played with. Each dog has a distinct level of energy and demonstrativeness, just like humans do.
The following are good ways to stroke your dog: most dogs really like having the base of the tail (the lowest part of their back, just before the tail starts) scratched gently; having their chests rubbed or scratched (right between the forelegs) is usually a winner, too. You can also target the ears: gently rub the earflap between your thumb and finger, or scratch gently at the base.
As far as food is concerned, just experiment with different food treats until you find one that the dog really likes. Some dogs actually respond most reliably to training commands when they receive treats sporadically instead of predictably. Intermittent treating can keep dogs on their toes, not allowing them to grow tired of the food rewards. Some dogs could make a conscious decision to forego a treat.
The great thing about the praise and reward system is that it doesn't require you to use any harsh punitive measures.
With this type of training, all you have to do is ignore the behavior that you don't wish to see repeated. Not giving any attention is enough to make just about any dog miserable and is therefore an adequate deterrent. The dog will stop the behavior of his own accord.
The more you give attention to the dog when it behaves properly, the clearer the connection will be between a bad behavior with no response and the good behavior where you give positive attention and rewards.
Emil Desnoyers is a freelance writer and a researcher who contributes content for sites like:http://theincomeportal.com/For more dog training tips visit:http://traindogtobehave.com/
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Does Your Dog Have Hip Dysplasia?
You may well be assuming that Spot is just getting old when you see him getting a bit stiff and possibly limping. However, if your Spot is a large to giant sized dog breed he may well be suffering from hip dysplasia or dog arthritis.
What is canine hip dysplasia?
Canine hip dysplasia is a disease that can occur in a dog's hip. Basically, the hips are not formed correctly, leaving the dog hugely susceptible to canine arthritis in their hips. Hip dysplasia in dogs can occur in puppies from as young as 5 months, but the ensuing arthritis in the hips generally doesn't strike Spot until he is middle aged.
Dog breeds susceptible to hip dysplasia.
Some breeds of dogs are well known for being genetically susceptible to hip dysplasia. Mixed breed dogs can also suffer from hip dysplasia. Good breeding practices has seen a decline in hip dysplasia numbers, but these dogs still have a higher than average chance of having dysplasia:* Rottweilers.* Golden retrievers and Labradors.* German shepherds.* Great Danes.* Mastiffs.* Saint Bernards.* Dobermans.
It is also important to remember that small and medium sized dogs can also suffer from hip arthritis.
Signs of hip dysplasia include:
* early morning stiffness.* personality or behavioral changes.* reluctance or difficulty with steps.* unable to exercise as much as before.* disinterest in fetching.* problems getting up from lying down or sitting.* limping, favoring one or both back legs, or stiff or unusual gait.* opting to sleep away from others.* pain when back leg is extended.* discomfort or sensitivity when lower back or back legs are prodded.* can't or won't jump into the car anymore.
Hip dysplasia treatments.
There are many treatments, dog medicines, dog supplements and aids for Fido to assist with all stages of dog arthritis. One of the most popular options is glucosamine, which has been incredibly successful in aiding humans with osteoarthritis. Dog supplements containing glucosamine chondroitin have become one of the first treatment options. Dog ramps and special orthopedic dog beds can provide your dog with day to day independence with steps and vehicles, and a good night's sleep. For further information on glucosamine, treatments and aids click here.
Weight Management.
Apart from the genetic factors, the most crucial factor in determining the severity of your dog's arthritis is his weight. The more your dog weighs, the more strain is being placed on those hips. Keeping your dog in his healthy weight range could save him from immense pain and suffering down the track.
For further information on treatments and resources for the dog suffering from hip dysplasia click here.
Author Billy Baker who has years of experience with many breeds of dogs has supplied more information on what you can do about Hip Displasia and improve your dog's health on the next page at this link http://tinyurl.com/4m7q4z
What is canine hip dysplasia?
Canine hip dysplasia is a disease that can occur in a dog's hip. Basically, the hips are not formed correctly, leaving the dog hugely susceptible to canine arthritis in their hips. Hip dysplasia in dogs can occur in puppies from as young as 5 months, but the ensuing arthritis in the hips generally doesn't strike Spot until he is middle aged.
Dog breeds susceptible to hip dysplasia.
Some breeds of dogs are well known for being genetically susceptible to hip dysplasia. Mixed breed dogs can also suffer from hip dysplasia. Good breeding practices has seen a decline in hip dysplasia numbers, but these dogs still have a higher than average chance of having dysplasia:* Rottweilers.* Golden retrievers and Labradors.* German shepherds.* Great Danes.* Mastiffs.* Saint Bernards.* Dobermans.
It is also important to remember that small and medium sized dogs can also suffer from hip arthritis.
Signs of hip dysplasia include:
* early morning stiffness.* personality or behavioral changes.* reluctance or difficulty with steps.* unable to exercise as much as before.* disinterest in fetching.* problems getting up from lying down or sitting.* limping, favoring one or both back legs, or stiff or unusual gait.* opting to sleep away from others.* pain when back leg is extended.* discomfort or sensitivity when lower back or back legs are prodded.* can't or won't jump into the car anymore.
Hip dysplasia treatments.
There are many treatments, dog medicines, dog supplements and aids for Fido to assist with all stages of dog arthritis. One of the most popular options is glucosamine, which has been incredibly successful in aiding humans with osteoarthritis. Dog supplements containing glucosamine chondroitin have become one of the first treatment options. Dog ramps and special orthopedic dog beds can provide your dog with day to day independence with steps and vehicles, and a good night's sleep. For further information on glucosamine, treatments and aids click here.
Weight Management.
Apart from the genetic factors, the most crucial factor in determining the severity of your dog's arthritis is his weight. The more your dog weighs, the more strain is being placed on those hips. Keeping your dog in his healthy weight range could save him from immense pain and suffering down the track.
For further information on treatments and resources for the dog suffering from hip dysplasia click here.
Author Billy Baker who has years of experience with many breeds of dogs has supplied more information on what you can do about Hip Displasia and improve your dog's health on the next page at this link http://tinyurl.com/4m7q4z
Dog Disease - Understanding The Basics Of Pyometra
What is the dog disease Pyometra? Pyometra in short means a pus-filled uterus which affects primarily dogs that are five years and older; more common older female dogs. If not surgically removed, Pyometra will often result in death for most dogs.
The main cause of Pyometra is usually an imbalance of female hormones, primarily progesterone which results is an overactive uterus lining. Secretions accumulate in the cavity of this organ and cause distention. Bacteria entering through the vagina may cause secondary infection in some cases; however, many of the pus-filled organs are sterile when cultured.
Pyometra usually occurs from one week to three months after a heat (but may occur at any time during any heat cycle) and may concur with a Pseudocyesis (false pregnancy) but there has not been enough evidence to suggest an establishment between these hormone-controlled diseases. The disease occurs in female dogs who have not bred for a prolonged period of time and those having produced litters.
Diagnose of Pyometra can be detected form the clinical signs and the history of a recent heat. The most common signs are digestive disorders such as loss of appetite, diarrhea, and vomiting. Owners might also want to be watchful of symptoms which may include swollen abdomen, excessive drinking of water, listlessness and vaginal discharge; which is often foul-smelling. Discharges indicate that the cervix is still open and this will reduce some of the abdominal pressure and toxicity associated with Pyometra.
Radiographs and blood counts will be necessary to confirm the disease. An x-ray (radiograph) will show the large, pus-filled uterus quite clearly in most cases. The white blood cell count may increase (indicating infection) two to ten times over normal limit.
The best way to avoid Pyometra is of course spaying your dog. This prevents the disease from developing as the uterus and ovaries are removed.
Is surgery going to be safe?
As most veterinarians will agree, Pyometra is a surgical disease that requires the diseased organ to be removed for an increased chance of a complete recovery. As surgery suggest, there are certain potential risks to be held into consideration especially if performed on an older dog. Heart disease, kidney disorders, and other medical conditions may increase the risk of surgery. If proper supportive therapy is carried out, even the highest risk patients stand a good chance of survival and recovery. Consult your vet for their advice and best recommendations.
All About Dogs - http://www.dognpuppies.com/ . A place for all dog lovers. With 100's of articles covering more than twenty topics. Popular topics include dog training, dog health and much more.
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The main cause of Pyometra is usually an imbalance of female hormones, primarily progesterone which results is an overactive uterus lining. Secretions accumulate in the cavity of this organ and cause distention. Bacteria entering through the vagina may cause secondary infection in some cases; however, many of the pus-filled organs are sterile when cultured.
Pyometra usually occurs from one week to three months after a heat (but may occur at any time during any heat cycle) and may concur with a Pseudocyesis (false pregnancy) but there has not been enough evidence to suggest an establishment between these hormone-controlled diseases. The disease occurs in female dogs who have not bred for a prolonged period of time and those having produced litters.
Diagnose of Pyometra can be detected form the clinical signs and the history of a recent heat. The most common signs are digestive disorders such as loss of appetite, diarrhea, and vomiting. Owners might also want to be watchful of symptoms which may include swollen abdomen, excessive drinking of water, listlessness and vaginal discharge; which is often foul-smelling. Discharges indicate that the cervix is still open and this will reduce some of the abdominal pressure and toxicity associated with Pyometra.
Radiographs and blood counts will be necessary to confirm the disease. An x-ray (radiograph) will show the large, pus-filled uterus quite clearly in most cases. The white blood cell count may increase (indicating infection) two to ten times over normal limit.
The best way to avoid Pyometra is of course spaying your dog. This prevents the disease from developing as the uterus and ovaries are removed.
Is surgery going to be safe?
As most veterinarians will agree, Pyometra is a surgical disease that requires the diseased organ to be removed for an increased chance of a complete recovery. As surgery suggest, there are certain potential risks to be held into consideration especially if performed on an older dog. Heart disease, kidney disorders, and other medical conditions may increase the risk of surgery. If proper supportive therapy is carried out, even the highest risk patients stand a good chance of survival and recovery. Consult your vet for their advice and best recommendations.
All About Dogs - http://www.dognpuppies.com/ . A place for all dog lovers. With 100's of articles covering more than twenty topics. Popular topics include dog training, dog health and much more.
Recommended Article Directory
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