Dogs Training - Dog Behavior Training - Training For Dogs

The Portuguese Water Dog - is it the right breed for you?

2009-04-29T22:05:00.000-07:00

So, the Obamas have finally added that new puppy to their family, and his cute little face is staring at you from every newspaper/magazine/website you come across and suddenly you find yourself thinking "Aawww... he's so sweet. I want one of those"

But wait.... just because the 'First Family' has one, it doesn't mean YOU should! Every dog breed is different, with different needs, behavior, and requirements - and every home is different too.
Portuguese Water Dog puppies are adorable teddy bear 'look-alikes', and their lively and affectionate personalities makes them very endearing. But before all those cute photos in the media have you searching for a breeder with a puppy to sell, it's a good idea to take a few minutes to learn more about the breed, and figure out whether it's the right 'fit' for you.
The Portuguese Water Dog is an old breed, know in it's native land as Cao de Agua (literally meaning 'dog of the water'). The ancestors of todays' PWDs played an important role in their country's' fishing industry, and were used to herd fish, retrieve lines/tackle, carry messages from boat to boat or to shore, and act as guardians when protection was needed.

A medium to large sized dog, an adult will measure anywhere between 17 and 23 inches in height, and weigh between 35 and 60lbs. A female will usually be smaller/lighter than a male, but both sexes should be solidly built and muscular.

This courageous, hardy and spirited dog still carries the attributes of a working breed, and in spite of it's cuddly looks, it is most definitely not a lap-dog. Portuguese Water Dogs need lots of vigorous exercise and an active lifestyle, but can be happy in an average-sized home/yard if given plenty of opportunity to run and play on a daily basis.

They bond closely with their owners and always want to be by your side. This isn't an independent breed who can be happy left alone for long periods inside or out, and your Portuguese Water Dog pup will want (and need) to be an integral part of your family's' life.
Outgoing, intelligent and eager to learn, Portuguese Water Dogs make great obedience or agility dogs, and although often considered too small to fill the 'service dog' role, they can be great therapy dogs. Regular socialization and obedience training are very important if you want your PWD to grow up to be all that it can be.

Portuguese Water Dogs can make excellent family pets, and their exuberance and energy levels make them a lot of fun but they can sometimes 'play rough'. They're also known to be a 'mouthy' breed, and may nip/bite more than usual.

Although consistent correction will eliminate the mouthing and rough-housing, if you have very young children you may want to take this into account. Generally this breed is fine with other dogs, and can live alongside cats if introduced to them early on.
Their tendency towards 'mouthiness' can also show up as excessive chewing, and you'll need to make sure you have a lot of very sturdy chew toys handy for your Portuguese Water Dog puppy (or your home and belongings will suffer!).

The long wavy or curly hair that makes them so adorably 'shaggy', needs regular grooming and a daily brush or comb is the best way to keep matts and tangles at bay. Regular clipping or trimming is also recommended.

Portuguese Water Dogs have a single layer coat which is very low-shedding and this means they are considered to be a hypoallergenic breed. If you or your children have dog hair allergies, this breed is less likely to trigger symptoms. However, it's important to remember that allergies vary greatly from person to person, and there's no such thing as an 'allergy-free' dog breed.
It's best to spend some time around any breed you are considering BEFORE buying a puppy, that way you can find out exactly how you're affected by them.

If this breed sees a sudden growth in popularity, finding a healthy puppy from a reputable breeder may become a bit more difficult. Poor breeding practices fueled by the prospect of a quick financial profit, have been responsible for a decrease in the overall health and looks of many breeds in the past.

If you decide that a Portuguese Water Dog is the one for you, take the time to find a responsible breeder with dogs who have been screened for potential genetic/hereditary conditions, and who offers a health contract.

Some conditions that may be found in this breed, and for which screening is available for breeding stock, include Hip Dysplasia, GM1 Storage Disease, PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), and Juvenile Dilated Cardiomyopathy. If the breeder you're talking to asks you a lot of questions, that's a good sign... it means that she really cares about the homes her puppies go to.
When it comes to the adoption v purchase issue, there are some very strong feelings on both sides! There are thousands of dogs in shelters and pounds all around the country who are in desperate need of loving homes, and they're almost always there through no fault of their own.
Adoption should always be considered when you're adding a new puppy/dog to the family, even if you have your heart set on a purebreed, because there are many purebred rescue organizations.

However, Portuguese Water Dogs are not in the same position as, say, Labrador Retrievers. There simply isn't the same number (or even close to it!) of puppies or dogs looking for new homes as there is with the more popular and well known breeds. Finding a Portuguese Water Dog breeder in your area is going to be a challenge, and the chances of finding a purebred PWD being in a local rescue center or pound are very slim.

There may be mixed-breed pups who have Portuguese Water Dog ancestry, and these will make just as wonderful a pet as any purebred puppy - but, if you want a purebred pup who can be registered, buying from a reputable breeder is probably going to be your best option.
So, IS the Portuguese Water Dog right for your family and lifestyle?

.... If you've read this whole article and can honestly say that you can provide a Portuguese Water Dog with a home environment where it can thrive, the time and attention it needs, AND you're still in love with that adorable teddy-bear look, I wish you and your new best friend a long and happy life together.

Learn more about the Portuguese Water Dog at http://www.the-puppy-dog-place.com/portuguese-water-dogs.htmlAuthor is a life-long dog lover, and owner and webmaster of http://www.the-puppy-dog-place.com , a website dedicated to helping new puppy owners raise happy, healthy puppies.

Breeding Labrador Retrievers

2009-04-28T12:38:00.000-07:00

Are you wandering if breeding Labrador retrievers is really for you? Most Labrador dog owners will, at some point, consider breeding their dogs but there are a number of things to consider before reaching a decision. Generally speaking, there are two main reasons why any owners would want to breed their dogs; either because they want some more lab puppies for themselves or because they want to make breeding a part time, or even full time, business.

Whatever your motivation it should be remembered that not all pregnancies result in a happy, healthy litter. be warned. If you are the owner of a female dog than breeding a litter at home for the first time can be a very steep learning curve. The most fundamental thing to get right when breeding dogs is to find the best possible match between the breeding pair of animals. It is important that both dogs have a suitable temperament, are in good shape and do not have any medical problems. Each animals lineage should be checked to ensure there are no inherited problems such as hip dysplasia.

The character of the two dogs is equally as important as their state of health. Labradors inevitably end up in a family home so it is essential that they are temperamentally suited to sharing a home with children as well as adults.

Another essential point to consider when breeding Labrador Retrievers is to check the pedigrees of each of the breeding pair to ensure the dogs are not too closely related. Breeding a pair of dogs that are closely related can lead to serious health problems in the puppies and will of course seriously dilute the dogs bloodline.

Ideally each dog should be over the age of two and they should not be strangers to each other. Try and give them time to get to know each other. By this time any temperamental or health issues should be apparent. Breeding Labrador Retrievers is not a decision to rush into but it should be remembered that finding the right pair of dogs is only the beginning of the process. Once the mating has taken place and pregnancy is confirmed the real work begins.

Caring for a female dog during her pregnancy will call for an awful lot of hard work and the whelping process will be just as difficult. After the mum has produced her litter taking care of the puppies, and finding good homes for the puppies is a time-consuming and potentially expensive undertaking.

The last point is the most relevant. It isn't always easy to find suitable new owners for tour puppies. Rest assured there is no way you will let the puppies go to just anyone. Don't be afraid to say 'no' to customers or potential owners if you are not 100% convinced that they will be able to offer the puppy a suitable environment in which to live and grow.

The Labrador Retriever Guide http://www.labrador-retriever-guide.com/ is the ultimate online resource for Lab owners. The site has a monthly newsletter to stay in touch with the Labrador Retriever Guide is just the place for Lab owners to hang out together http://www.labrador-retriever-guide.com/labradorreview.html

Your New Puppy - prevention and treatment for a constipated puppy

2009-04-10T07:30:00.000-07:00

Is your puppy having difficulty pooping? Are his stools hard or dry? Does he strain or cry when having a bowel movement?

If you answered "yes" to one or more of these questions, you may have a constipated puppy on your hands.

Although true constipation in puppies isn't very common, tiny and toy breeds seem to experience more than their fair share of discomfort in this area.

As with many health issues, it's easier and better to prevent constipation from happening, than it is to treat it. However, as many people reading this are looking for help with a puppy who is already constipated, I'll start with the remedies!

Remedies for a constipated puppy

The first thing to do when your puppy is having difficulty with constipation is to increase his fluid intake and his exercise level. Both of these help to keep his digestive system moving along.

If he's already straining unsuccessfully or is passing dry, hard stools, you may well need to try some other options as well. There are several different things you can add to his diet (don't add them all at once though, pick one and try that first!), that will help clear the 'log jam' inside him. These include:

CANNED PUMPKIN - this should be plain pumpkin, not the pie-filling variety. Add 1 tsp to 1 tbsp, depending on the size of your puppy.

BRAN - you can use regular bran, or Metamucil, oat bran, Grape Nuts and so on. Add 1/2 tsp to 1 tsp (depending on size of pup) to his food.

OIL - extra oil in his food can help to soften your pups' stools. 1/2 tsp of Olive Oil added to his meals is simple and safe. You can try 1 - 2 tsp of Mineral Oil for more stubborn constipation, but you need to be very careful about his. Never use Mineral Oil for more than a day or two as it can be harmful if used to excess.

MILK - dogs don't digest cows milk properly, and it would normally cause diarrhea or loose stools in a puppy. However, if your pup is constipated, a little cows milk (1/4 to 1/2 cup depending on the size of your pup) added to his food or water, may help get his bowels moving again.

OTC REMEDIES - never use a human constipation remedy for your dog! There are some specific products available to treat constipated dogs such as Laxatone to help with constipation due to hairballs. There are also natural, herbal remedies that keep bowel and digestive functions healthy.

Common causes of dog constipation

There may be one, or several reasons, why your puppy is constipated. Something simple like not drinking enough, or being a 'couch potato' can make your pups' bowels 'sluggish'. Other possible causes for constipation in dogs include :

Hairballs - these are more often seen in dogs with long hair. Or in dogs who have allergies or skin conditions and are constantly licking themselves.

Medicines - some medications can cause constipation in dogs, anti-histamines are common culprits.

Medical Conditions - this isn't very common in puppies, although a hernia or infection can sometimes be the culprit. However in older dogs, conditions such kidney disease or prostate problems can cause constipation.

Long Hair Around The Rectum - this is also sometimes called 'mechanical constipation', and it's basically an external physical obstruction that causes your pup to be unable to eliminate. If your puppy has long/thick hair, keep it trimmed short around the anus so that this doesn't happen.

Sometimes a more serious cause of constipation can arise, and this requires immediate veterinary attention.....

Ingesting Inappropriate Items - every puppy owner knows that a pup will try to eat just about anything! And often they succeed in swallowing something that is definitely not meant to be eaten. In many cases, these 'foreign object' pass through your pups' digestive tract fairly easily, and come right out the other end. However, occasionally something will get 'stuck' and can cause serious problems. If your dog seems to be in pain when he strains to poop, if he's vomiting or retching, his tummy is distended, or he seems distressed (panting, pacing, whining, drooling etc.) you need to seek veterinary help immediately. This sort of blockage can be life-threatening. Don't try constipation remedies if this happens, take your puppy straight to the vet.

Once you've treated the constipation in your puppy, it's important to take steps to make sure that this doesn't become a regular condition.

Plenty of water and exercise are an important part of keeping his digestive system healthy. You can add a herbal supplement or pro-biotic to his food on a daily basis to keep his bowels 'regular'.

For pups or dogs who seem to have regular problems with constipation, there are some special dog foods that are formulated to help with this. These contain more fiber than the average food, and Hills Dog Food has two different formulas available from most veterinary offices.

The author is a life long dog-lover and has many years of experience in breeding, raising and training puppies.Read the full article 'A Constipated Puppy', and find all the tips and advice you need to raise a happy, healthy puppy at http://www.the-puppy-dog-place.com

Dog Skin Problems: How to Treat Dog Skin Rashes

2009-04-09T07:22:00.000-07:00

Say you have an itch that just won't stop. What you will most likely do (after almost scratching your skin off!) is go directly to the nearest pharmacy and ask the pharmacist for the most potent cortisone or antihistamine that their store has. Then you lather or drink that drug up like there is no tomorrow.

Having an excruciating back ache or a smashing headache is a nuisance but if you have a skin rash you feel very, very itchy and it's like you're in living hell and your nails aren't doing justice to what you feel.

Now imagine the same unbearable skin rash, only this time, you cannot go to your favorite pharmacy and you cannot just tell a doctor to treat you up because you cannot speak. Sounds like a real dreadful situation? Well, this is how your four-legged bundle of joy actually feels when he or she has a dog skin rash!

Causes

Dog skin rashes are very difficult to treat because you never know what causes them. So, really the best thing you can do for your beloved dog is to prevent the skin rashes from occurring. Here are some ways on how you can avoid this from happening:

1. The number one cause of dog skin rashes are external dog parasites such as ticks, fleas, lice and mites. To avoid these external parasites, do not let your dog play with strangers' pets unless you are sure they are not infected. Always keep your furry friend's house parasite free by cleaning it well and in case that parasites do attack, treat your dog with a tick and flea shampoo or cream.

2. Internal parasites can also cause dog skin rashes so to avoid intestinal parasites, make sure that both the water and food that your loyal dog takes in are clean.

3. Comb or brush the coat of your dog regularly especially if your pup has thick and long hair. Tangled hair can cause the skin to become irritated which can lead to scratching.

4. Find a shampoo that does not dry out your dog's skin if you like to bathe your doggie regularly.

5. Make sure you buy good quality dog chow to boost your dog's immune system. Commercial grade dog food is usually just filled with extenders that have no additional nutritional value unlike good dog food.

Solution

But a dog cannot avoid skin rashes forever. Even if you are the most attentive, cleanest and most caring dog parent, he or she will still get skin rashes at one point in his or her doggie life. So what do you do in times when your furry friend is scratching and gnawing at his or her skin like crazy?

1. First of all, give your dog a bath. Find a shampoo that is both medicinal and at the same time, anti tick and fleas.

2. Check the food that your dog eats. If you've just changed your dog's food brand, and he or she seems to have acquired the habit of scratching, then you may need to buy your old brand back because the new one is making your poor pooch itch. Better yet, consider some of the natural diets. Type in "BARF diet" on the Internet and you'll find a lot of great resources. Keep in mind that certain breeds are pre-disposed to certain allergies (I.e. Shih Tzus tend to be allergic to chicken). If, in any doubt, talk to a holistic minded veterinarian or nutritionist who can show you the proper meal plan.

3. Some dogs are itching because they are restless. Giving your dog enough exercise might just do the trick.

4. You may also consider purchasing products that specialize in treating dog skin rashes. There are a variety out there but one of the most effective ones I've ever seen contains the Mayan traditional herb Tepezcohuite. (In fact, I was so impressed with its natural abilities that I created an all-natural dog balm called K9 KlearUp around this compound - www.k9klearup.com. It's guaranteed to help clear up the 17 most common canine skin and coat problems).
So there you have it, some simple solutions to help get rid of a severe dog skin problem: skin rashes. Your dog should be wagging his tail again in no time!

Brandon Roe is the author of "The Official Dog Coat and Skin Care Guide", a comprehensive guide to help your dog maintain a beautiful and healthy coat and clear skin. Get your FREE copy today at http://www.k9klearup.com/guide .He is also the developer of K9 KlearUp, the worlds only pet balm that helps clear up the 17 most common canine skin and coat problems... Guaranteed or your money back.

Tips For Training A Rescued Dog

2009-04-07T21:52:00.000-07:00

Training a dog takes patience and dedication. To achieve the desired results in rescued dog will take double the dedication and patience. However, the rewards will be worth the effort.

The practice of neutering and spaying of dogs has been around for many years but unplanned births continues to be a reality. As a result of this there are just not enough homes for all of the puppies that are born. When we add the number of dogs that get lost or wander away, rescue missions and shelters everywhere are filled to capacity. For many of these dogs being euthanized will be the sad reality.

For a some lucky dogs, there is a second chance. They could be adopted from shelters or missions or taken in off of the street and into the care of a willing family. The new owners, however, are often not quite sure how best to deal with the rescued dog.

Dogs that are brought to shelters are generally not in the best condition. It is not uncommon for them to be victims of neglect, abuse of even terrible living conditions. And in some circumstances dogs are released into the wild to take care of themselves.

In nature a dog is a pack animal. Even wild dogs don't do well on their own. Released domesticated dogs do very poorly in the wild, without any animal or human interaction. Dogs such as these can still learn to be less fearful with proper training.

As the first step in rescuing a dog you should take it to your veterinarian for a full exam. You will not be able to start training your new dog if he is sick or in pain. Take the time to restore the dog's health and bring it back to a healthy weight.

It may be a tall order, but whenever possible try to get the dog's history. Your training efforts will be helped if you have information on the dog's past abuse or medical history.

Slow and steady is the order of the day when establishing trust with the dog. Try to avoid imposing yourself on the dog. The animal will begin to seek you out once they have learned to trust you. A suggestion would be to work on trust with a treat. Try stepping back a bit after putting a treat on the floor. Staring directly at the dog should be avoided at this point. Once the dog takes the food make sure they get enthusiastic praise.

It is not uncommon for some rescue animals to initially seek out physical contact . Some can take weeks or more. But once you have established it, try to roll the dog over onto his back and place your hand on their chest. You can expect that the dog will either resist if they tend to be aggressive or a fearful dog will accept. Neither behavior is good. In normal training, you would force the aggressive dog to take on a passive role. This technique typically does not work for rescued dogs. Establishing trust will take time. By speaking in a soft and calm tone of voice and gently rubbing the belly a fearful dog will know that being on its back is a positive experience and not a punishment.

Be patient as it is often difficult and slow to train a rescued dog. They are often older dogs, mixed, and with difficult temperaments which makes training more challenging. Don't give up. You will be rewarded in the end.

Don't feel sorry for the dog. This is counter-productive and will only hinder the training. Be patient, loving and understanding but don't let the dog have the run of the house. By letting the dog know that you are in charge you are establishing yourself as the pack leader.
It's a lot of sweet and hard work but you will have a companion for life.

Stefan Hyross writes and provides information about dogs and puppies. Correct common dog behavior problems and other issues. Visit the site to discover proven puppy potty training methods and other tips and trick for you and your pooch.http://www.allaboutdogsnpuppies.com/

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2009-04-07T21:15:00.000-07:00

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Separation Anxiety For Your Dog

2009-03-26T10:19:00.000-07:00

Lots of people feel anxious when they re alone for long periods of time. But you may not realize that dogs feel the same way sometimes, too!

If you come home from being away to find your dog has torn up furniture, soiled the floor, or you get a report from neighbors that your dog barked and howled the whole time you were gone, your dog probably has separation anxiety problems. Unfortunately, many dog owners think their dogs are acting out of anger at being left alone or because they are bad dogs. This leads to you handling the problem as bad behavior, which won t solve it. One of the keys to dealing with separation anxiety in dogs is understanding what it is, and why some dogs don t deal with being alone as well as others.

First, you should know that dogs are social animals. Their mentality is based on living in a pack (much like our family structure), so when they re left alone, they don t handle it well. Their instinct is to find the rest of their pack, and when they can t do that, they become agitated. This leads to the behavior that frustrates owners when they get home.

If you suspect that your dog has separation anxiety, there are some signs and symptoms you can look for that can help. When you re home, does your dog cling to you and demand constant attention? Does your dog start to get upset when you re getting ready to go out? When you re away, does your dog whine, bark, or howl the whole time you re gone? Is your dog restless while you re away? Is your dog destructive, or does your dog soil the carpets or floor in several areas while you re gone? If so, your dog most likely isn t simply bored, but is having anxiety at being separated from you.

It takes a lot of patience and love to deal with your dog s separation anxiety. Essentially, you have to train your dog to know that it s safe when home alone, and help your dog to know that you ll always come home, no matter how long it thinks you ve been gone.

If your dog has mild separation anxiety, one way you can help is to make sure your dog has a variety of dog toys to play with while you re gone. A good selection of dog toys will help keep your pet occupied while you re away, distracting it from looking for you.

Getting dog toys may sound too easy, but with mild separation anxiety, it could be that all your dog needs is something to occupy its time until you get home. Making sure there are lots of toy options available could save a lot of anxiety for your dog, as well as frustration for you!

In addition to helping to keep your dog occupied while you re gone, dog toys can also help keep your dog from chewing on objects and furniture in your home. If there s a dog toy to chew on, you may save yourself from having to replace things at home.

Separation anxiety can be a serious issue for dogs, but with patience, love, and some great dog toys, you shouldn t have any problem helping your dog feel safer alone, and keeping your home from being destroyed. And that will mean a happier home for everyone!

Author Resource:- Article by Kelly Marshall of http://www.ohmydogsupplies.com, your top spot to buy dog clothes online.

The Different Phases of Dog Training

2009-01-28T09:51:00.000-08:00

It is a common scenario - someone, maybe a single person or maybe a family, walks into a pet store or animal shelter. They hem and haw, pet and cuddle, and make all sorts of exclamations. A few moments later, they walk out with the "perfect" dog or puppy in tow, ready to start out on their new life together. It may be a big dog or a small dog, an older dog or a younger puppy - everyone's idea of the "perfect" dog is a little bit different. However, all dogs, big and small, young and old, can benefit from dog training. Puppy potty training can take your puppy from a cute little mess to an ideal housemate and beyond.
The start: Puppy Training
The majority of training for puppies is designed to make them better household companions. For the average family pet, training will often not extend beyond this phase. Trainng your puppy to use a potty pee pad is one of the most daunting challenges for most new pet owners. For working and competitive dogs, this aspect of training is only the beginning. The most popular type of training for dogs(so popular, in fact, that many people do not even realize that it is training) includes things like training your dog to walk on the leash, house and potty training your dog, and simple commands like "sit" and "drop it," as well as basic social behaviors. It is easiest to begin puppy training at an early age, though if you acquire an older dog, you can train with him or her as well. Dogs are happiest when they know what is expected of them, and training helps to make those expectations clear. Training your dog is also a great way to strengthen the bond between dog and owner.
Competitive Dogs
The next step in training would be for competition. Some owners use dog training to teach their dogs tricks, like catching Frisbees on command, fetching items, or helping them with a freestyle routine. Other dog owners will use training to teach them to run agility courses, pull sleds, or do other activities. This level of training requires a strong bond between dog and owner, as well as a willing subject. Puppy training at this level is not something that you can do once and then go on with your life - it requires daily practice and commitment. Many of the professionals you see competing in agility trials or other competitions have been working with their dogs for years to conduct the training required.
Working Dogs
An even more stringent dog training method is required for working dogs. Working dogs assist people in a variety of fashions - they can be trained to sniff out drugs or contraband in airports, trained to assist the handicapped or disabled, or even trained as members of the police force or military. The dog training required for these dogs often takes months, if not years. Specific dogs are chosen from a young age to participate in this type of dog training, and often specific breeds are preferred due to breed characteristics. Only a few of the dogs that start on this dog training program end up being successful enough to have a career as a working dog. Training can come in a variety of styles for a variety of purposes. Even so, nearly any dog and owner can benefit from dog training.

http://www.cheappuppypads.comOur pee pads are designed with a super absorbent polymer and eco-friendly material to assist in making your potty training task a success. Please visit our section on training tips for more information on how to potty train your puppy.

Puppy Training Tips. Basic Puppy Obedience.

2009-01-27T08:07:00.000-08:00

Training your puppy may be time consuming, but the rewards will be felt for a lifetime. Any doubters should catch the "Marley and Me" movie for reinforcement of this statement. Your cute little squirming bundle of joy will not be so lovable as an out of control grown and rambunctious dog. Puppy training is a great way to nip behavior problems in the bud as well as developing bonds of respect and love.
We are just going to cover a few simple but effective aspects for training puppies here.
Who am I?
Once you have decided on a great and unique moniker for your new best friend, you need to teach it to your puppy. There is no point giving your pup a great name if your dog never realizes it is his name. After selecting the world's best name you will need to start calling your new puppy by this. If your dog looks totally clueless start by calling "Puppy" as well as the new label. Most pups will happily respond to the word puppy. When you get your puppy's attention with the new name it is important to praise, reward, treat or cuddle. This way your dog understands that when you call his name it is worthwhile for him to pay attention.
If you are going to rouse on your dog just say "No", do not add their name as well. Most puppies should pick up on their new name within a few days to a week. Be sure to use the name frequently when talking to your puppy.
Coming on command.
It is vital that your dog will eventually come every time you call him. Once your dog recognizes his name it is time to start teaching him to come . Call your dog's name in a friendly voice. For example "Rover come here". When your dog comes over reward with praise, food or a cuddle. Your dog needs to associate "Come" with pleasant things. If you call your dog over for a beating or a rousing he may never come again when you call him.
Sit.
Another extremely important concept for your dog to understand is "Sit". This can be a lifesaver later on when your overgrown pup is jumping on everyone in sight. It will also be easier for you to leash train when your dog understands the meaning of the word "sit". Luckily, teaching "sit" is relatively simple.
Start off by saying "Sit" and pushing gently on your dog's butt. Your pup will naturally be forced to sit. At this moment reward your pup. Try this technique a few times at a go. It will not be long before your puppy totally understands the meaning of the word "sit". Once your puppy has learned this trick be sure to keep practicing a few times a day.
Training a puppy need not be frustrating. Use puppy training time as an opportunity to build love and respect between you and your puppy. Dogs need boundaries to keep them as man's best friend. Puppy obedience is as important to your dog's well-being as food and shelter.

Author Billy Baker has supplied more detail on puppy training including eleven tips here -http://www.easy-puppy-training-tips.com/Eleven-Helpful-Puppy-Training-Tips.html

The language your dog speaks

2009-01-26T04:54:00.000-08:00

RECOGNIZE WHAT YOUR DOG IS TELLING YOU WHEN HE IS BARKING, WHINING, WHISTLING OR WHIMPERING.
If you've seen some of my previous articles you know we have littermate Miniature Schnauzers. A sister, Steffi who started out black but is now morphing into black and silver and her brother, Stanley who is a breed definitive Salt & Pepper.
She is the Alpha Dog.
Stanley was originally Alpha up till they were about eight months old. Then Steffi grew tired of his hassling and beat up on him. The second time she beat him he got the message. He's a surfer dude who cares nothing for the state of the nation so she didn't have much trouble establishing the new hierarchy.
We've gone through it all between the two pups and they each sent a different message. Even brothers and sisters speak a different language.
When he was a pup he whined, whimpered and whistled. When he wanted something for himself he whined. When he thought the world was dumping on him he whimpered and made us feel sorry for him. Although we caught onto that very shortly and let them both know the guilt trip wouldn't fly.
Whistling was Stanley's most interesting phenomenon. It became a mark of fear mixed with what I call 'first call'. As a puppy when he was really confused and frightened he would whistle in panic and console himself and notify us at the same time.
As an adult he does not whistle, rarely whines and doesn't whimper. Occasionally he barks, but he is Omega Dog so he generally concedes that noise is Steffi's prerogative.
Girl dogs evidently do not whistle; at least Steffi hasn't. She made little noise until she read Stanley's beads. Now she does the barking, and when she thinks they need a change of scenery, she whines...which is a mixture of a screech and a whine.
Within the time frame of her epiphany over Stanley she introduced a low, guttural, angry growl. When they are wrestling and she hits those notes Stanley retires immediately to a corner of the couch until her voice comes back to normal.
When Steffi is at our front louvers which open up onto the front communal space she is protecting us from the squirrels. I have verbally chastised her about her frenetic barking, so she has authored this special (for better word) 'utterance'. She sounds a little like a small raptor with a bone caught in her throat; or maybe a rooster who is trying to crow and swallow water at the same time.
We have never allowed uncontrolled barking but it is a continual battle to curb it. The presence of two squirrels on the front lawn is overpowering and so both have to be cautioned in that event.
Steffi, being Alpha always sounds the signal requesting reentry into the house when they have been outside in the patio. Stanley, as befits his status in the hierarchy sits patiently in waiting.
I am still trying to figure out if he has us all fooled and is just letting her do all the doggy work or if he really is subject to her. He grooms her; she rarely him. He drops whatever he has in his mouth when she approaches; never her...so we'll just have to wait...and watch.

For more interesting fiction see Rus Morgan on Kindle. Visit http://www.minischnauzeresx2.com . Order your free copy of our newsletter for info on dogs and doggy bargains. Add warmth to your day & put a smile on your face by ordering your free copy (normally $14.95) of 'Truthful Teddy' -- the tender short story of the friendship between an ugly three foot rag doll and a tan Teddy Bear.

Top 10 most popular Dog Breeds as family pets

2009-01-14T06:50:00.000-08:00

I know we all love to Dogs because they are like our family members and well known companion but their are some breeds which are most popular they are following.

1- Golden Retrievers :- This breed is most popular in the world. That breed has a status of "true American family dogs". Golden Retrievers are very intelligent and loveable. They are very devoted companions. Golden Retrievers are easy to train.

2- Labrador Retrievers :- This Breed is from Newfoundland. Having very well balanced athletic body. Labrador Retrievers are highly intelligent, loyal, and deeply devoted.

3- German Shepherds :- German Shepherds are also very popular Dogs. they are multipurpose dogs used in Police works, Protection works, Drug or Bomb Detection, Military works and many others. They are also a very good Family pets.

4- Beagles :- Beagles are "Big Dogs" in small size but very loving, kind & gentle dogs. They are also very popular in America. Beagles are not only good Family pets but also Good hunters.

5- Yorkshire Terriers :- Yorkshire Terriers, also called Yorkies. This is smallest in all Terriers. Very intelligent Breed and very quick to learn.

6- Boxers :- This Breed is from Germany. They are very Strong, loyal and used in police work, and military work. They having very low maintenance.

7- Shih Tzu :- Shih Tzu is a Toy Breed. It is very popular in Hollywood celebrities. It is also known as "small lion".

8- Dachshunds :- This breed having Small size. They are also called as "Dachs". They have long body shape but small legs. They love to run & play with their family.

9- Pomeranian :- They are also very popular as Family dogs. They learn very fast. having good loving nature. but needs obersvation with small childrens.

10- Poodles :- They having 3 breed standards one standard & second is miniature & also in toy. They are beautiful, loyal and extremely intelligent dogs.

French Bulldogs Make a Fine Choice

2008-11-05T08:50:00.000-08:00

The overused cliché tirelessly tells you that a dog is man's best friend. Indeed, many folks take this principle by heart. There is no doubt that you likewise equate your pet with your best friend. Yet you can't simply jump into the decision of purchasing a pet dog. The size of your home, the health, feeding, characteristics, and lifestyle conditions, to name a few are some considerations that must be looked into when choosing the breed of dog to rear. There is an array of choices when it comes to dog breeds and one of the bestsellers is the French Bulldog.
The Origin of French Bulldogs
The roots of the French Bulldogs could be traced back to England as they are known to be the descendants of the English Bulldogs which were not at all into the craft of dog fighting. The English artisans who reared them soon took off for France during the heights of the Industrial Revolution and in the latter part of the 1800s, the French showed interest in raising them. Eventually, the breed evolved as French bulldogs or Frenchies, and thereby acquired characteristics which were far different from those of their English bulldog ancestors.
By the time that many of the well-off American families visited Paris, they were captivated with the Frenchies and began to import them in the United States. In 1896, the French bulldog breed was initially listed in the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.
French Bulldog Appearance
The French bulldogs are endowed with compact body muscles, snub nose, smooth and dense coat, and a sturdy bone structure. What sets their appearance to be unique are their bat-like ears which are round shaped on top and wide based. They have inherently short, screwed or straight tails.
French bulldogs are mainly stocky breeds and their weight play at approximately 28 pounds. Their eyes are bright and expressive. Their legs are stout and short. Their common colors include the blending of brown and black. Grooming them is not a regular requirement. As most dog raisers claim, the French bulldogs are maintenance-free.
French Bulldogs make Wonderful Pets
If you've got a small-spaced home, then French bulldogs would just be perfect. As long as they are allotted a space where they can play and run about and you don't necessarily require them to exercise, then you have no problem at all. This breed loves being cuddled and treated like one of the human members of the family. They love to stay indoors especially when it is very warm outside. They are not fit to be exposed to heat. Their average lifespan ranges from 12 to 14 years.
Also, they serve as effective watchdogs and companions. They are also friendly and intelligent. They easily make friends and often wag their tails at strangers.
The dogs' personality is much of the outgoing type, playful, affectionate, warm, and loving. French bulldogs love getting the attention of their masters. As pets, they find no hassles in adapting to any new surroundings.
French Bulldog Breeding
Breeding French bulldogs is quite a task and that explains why there are not much of them around. Only three puppies at the most could be borne by a mother. If caution is not taken with the size of the head, a Caesarean delivery may come about. The smaller breed of the French bulldogs must not likewise be overly done.
If you are then settled with getting a French bulldog for a pet, be sure of its breeding quality. There are too many unscrupulous breeders around who only care about the money leaving out the genial quality of the pet. Enjoy taking care of your pet and reap the rewards out of it as he showers you back with gratitude.

For more information please visit : http://www.petcyber.com/

The Best Dog Food is Organic

2008-11-03T09:42:00.000-08:00

What is Organic? Organic refers to environment-friendly farming methods using no artificial pesticides, fertilizers or chemicals to produce the purest and most natural foods possible. Organic, earth-friendly farming practices promote the sustainable value of our natural resources and produce beneficial nourishing foods for our families and companion pets.
Since the advent of grocery store commercial dog food, there has been an explosion of pets dying from tumors, growths, cancers, and diseases that were unheard many years ago.
I truly believe this has been caused by the unhealthy chemicals, pesticides, hormones, fats and preservatives used to make this cereal based kibble palatable and long lived. Would you want to eat from a menu that consisted of food that had an indefinite shelf life and can sit out unprotected, collect dust, and you were then expected to eat it.
Changing to organic dog food, whether it is home made organic, with the same all natural ingredients you eat for supper, or buying the premium high grade organic dog food that has become increasingly popular, is the best you can do for your four legged companion. An organic dog food marked 95% organic meets the same guidelines as organic food produced for humans. The food won't contain pesticides or antibiotics, and it's preserved with natural substances like Vitamins C and E. As with any food, the organic option will be more expensive, but it's healthier for your pet, and the way it is produced is definitely better for the environment.
Organic dog food will say it is using certified organic ingredients, and should say which agency has done the certification.
Foods with a lot of fillers are cheaper but less nutritious. Just as with human organic food, natural organic ingredients will go a long way toward giving your pet a long, healthy life.
Some of the benefits of switching to organic dog food are: - More energy, glossier coat and fresher breath. - Helps prevent itching and irritating skin conditions, because organic dog food is free of artificial colors and flavor enhancers, chemical additives and toxic pesticides that could cause many of these skin allergies. In some cases completely eliminating these allergic skin reactions. - It is easier to maintain a healthier weight, because organic dog food is superior in nutritional value, and this prevents overeating in you dog as they are more satisfied eating smaller amounts. There are no bulk fillers in organic dog food. - Better overall health and a stronger immunity. Even if you dog seems healthy he/she can still benefit. Boosting you dog's immunity may help prevent costly infections and illnesses that require a vet's care. - Quality of life and longevity are increased by feeding organic dog food as opposed to the cereal filled cheap dog food.
Organic dog will be formulated with human grade meat, not ground bits and pieces of animals that are unfit for human consumption, or rancid road kill, as the cheaper store bought commercial food industry uses. Also you should find an organic dog food that boasts using no corn, wheat, soy, grain fractions, fillers or by-products.
Learn to decipher labels on commercial pet foods. They are purposefully deceiving us into buying low grade, unhealthy food all for profit, not for the health of our pet.
To buy organic dog food or to make home made organic dog food will guarantee what you pet is ingesting and give him/her a better chance at a healthy, longer, happier, more energetic life.

I am an animal lover and advocate of raising healthy, happy pets, as part of the family. I truly believe this starts with proper, adequate nutrition, which in turn extends your pets life.Check out what is the best of the best for you dog here: http://www.recipes4gourmetdogs.com

Weight Loss for Dogs

2008-11-02T06:54:00.000-08:00

Tips for Overweight Dogs
An overweight dog does not look healthy, and this only occurs because of overfeeding, not because they choose this lifestyle. It is only through overfeeding that we make this happen to our pets.
DISEASES CAUSED BY DOG OBESITY
If you want to learn about weight loss for dogs, the first thing you should do is consult your vet and get his approval and advice. That said and done, there are many reasons and tips to help you achieve the goal of a healthy pet.
Obesity in our pets is ultimately our responsibility. After all we are in control of their nutrition. It has become an epidemic that is associated with our own "couch potato" lifestyle. There are many problems that can be caused by obesity in our dogs which can be prevented if they are fed an all natural healthy organic diet. Some of these ailments (which mimic our own problems with over indulgence) include:
JOINT AND WALKING DIFFICULTIES - this is due to added weight and stress put on joints, bones, and muscles. This can cause back problems, hip dysplasia, lethargy, and aggravation of arthritis.
HEART AND RESPIRATORY DISEASES - Obesity causes extra stress on the heart and lungs, making them tork harder than a dog that is physically fit.
DIABETES - This is more prevalent in obese pets.
LIVER DISEASE - This is also associated with obese pets.
SKIN PROBLEMS - Being fat causes difficulty in your pet's grooming ability. Just as overweight humans have trouble reaching their feet to tie their shoes when a fat belly is in the way, a dog can't reach all areas that need self cleaning. Dirt and bacteria can become embedded in fat rolls and cause infections.
STOMACH PROBLEMS - There is a painful and life threatening condition, called pancreatitis, which is seen more and more in obese pets.
As you see the above conditions described, you should notice that most are easily preventable, just as with us, if you keep your pet fit and healthy.
WEIGHT LOSS TIPS FOR DOGS
Putting your pet on a fat reducing diet and increasing exercise, as prescribed by your vet, is the best way to show your love to your pet. There are many excellent healthy organic dog foods available that are high in protein and low in fat. Check the labels carefully and make sure you buy the best organic dog food you can afford, with the highest amount of organic ingredients and low fat content.
Elimination of bad high calorie treats and table scraps is the easiest weight loss for dogs tip there is. Extra calories from treats pile up quickly. Dog treats don't always mean bad for your pet, but if you choose the wrong treat it can be. Choose healthy!
TREATS
At 40 kcals is KARMA ORGANIC DOG TREATS
Bonz treats for small dogs 70 kcals
Milk Bone Dog Biscuit - one large 115 kcals
Fresh Carrot - baby size 3 kcals
Green Beans - 1 cup canned (this in my girls favorite) 25 kcals
Air popped popcorn (1/2 ounce) 54 kcals
1 slice Pizza Hut Cheese Pizza (NOT RECOMMENDED) 259 kcals
20 Dorito brand chips (NOT RECOMMENDED) 260 kcals
At 17 kcals is: MOTHER NATURE NATURAL DOG BISCUITS
At 45 kcals is: SOLID GOLD NATUR-BONE BISCUITS
At 50 kcals is: INNOVA HEALTH BARS - SMALL SIZE
Oreo Cookies - 2 (NOT RECOMMENDED) 130 kcals
McDonalds Quarter Pounder with cheese (YUCK!) 525 kcals
A kcal is a kilo calorie per unit or calorie as we call it in every day terms.
(A 20 pound dog needs 690 kcals daily for optimum health.) A few Doritos here, a Oreo cookie there and sharing a Quarter Pounder will equal your dogs total calorie need for a whole day. This on top of his regular dinner is simply unhealthy and easy to change.
Sometimes, just eliminating the unhealthy treats and going on a daily walk is all that is necessary is helping your pet become fit and energetic again.
Remember, we speak for our pets, and taking proper care and giving them the best that we can is what makes our bond with animals so special.

I am an animal lover and advocate of raising healthy, happy pets, as part of the family. I truly believe this starts with proper, adequate nutrition, which in turn extends your pets life.Check out what is the best of the best for you dog here: http://www.recipes4gourmetdogs.com

Dog Training - Training Man's Best Friend

2008-10-26T10:59:00.000-07:00

Training Your Silky Dog:
It is essential to have a dog that knows how to follow the right rules and how to live around your house. To achieve this, dog training must be considered.
Most people think that training a dog is hard and expensive. Moreover, dog training requires a lot of patience and creativity for your dog. We have to remember that dogs may be intelligent but they can not be as intelligent as us. The article provides some of the basic things dog owners need to know so they can do the training themselves. However, to maximize the full potential of your dog, a dog trainer should be hired instead.
What are the differences between a submissive dog and a dominant dog?
A submissive dog normally:
- avoids eye contact. - rolls on its back. - crouches down, ears back and tail lowered. - is comfortable on its back in your arms.
On the other hand, a dominant dog:
- maintains eye contact. - is unwilling to move from his place on the couch. - dislikes grooming and petting. - is possessive of dishes and toys.
Training your silky terriers requires kindness and consistency. Silkys respond actively to praises and to rewards. In addition, they become harsh and unresponsive towards punishments and animosity, respectively.
Trainings with obedience classes can be intensely beneficial in petting your silky terriers. In many dog training schools, classes for puppies are available. Young dogs are taught to get accustomed with other dogs and people using limited trainings. However, there are areas that do not conduct formal obedience training unless the dog is at least half a year old. Always remember that a dog is never too old to benefit from training when a good trainer is available, or if the owner is fully committed to the task.
Here are the recommended ways of training silky terriers:
1. Reiteration or Repetition
Reiteration is the name of the dog training game. In here, dogs are asked to do a task over and over again to achieve mastery. Dog tricks are best learned when reiterated and reinforced through rewards.
2. Persistence Patience is a virtue that requires you to tolerate hardships. Persistence is trying to be patient for a longer time until a goal is achieved. Apparently, dog training requires a loof persistence from the owner or from the trainer Physical and psychological aspects of the owner and/or the trainer must be sound.
3. Commendation and Emendation Simply put, if a dog does the right thing, it should be said aloud. Otherwise, the dog should hear, "No, that's not it!" when the trick is not complete or appropriate for the command given. These words reinforce correct responses and diminish the unwanted ones.
4. Rewarding
Bits of cheese would really be good treats for dogs who responded correctly to a given command. Other food can be bought at pet sores. However, if you are able to get the respect of your pet, commands will be executed even if there are no longer involved treats. Likewise, these things reinforce warranted responses.
If your lifestyle permits being in charge of training your own pet, you can do the training as long as you have gathered enough patience and commitment by:
1. Spending time grooming your dog.
2. Having regular training times on the leash.
3. Stroking its belly and toes and rolling it on its back
4. Hand feeding some food to ensure that the pet is taking treats gently and slowly.
In asserting dominance, always practice consistency and firmness

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

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Shedding Dogs & How To Deal With Them

2008-09-30T02:10:00.000-07:00

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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Tips When Training Your Dog

2008-09-30T01:55:00.000-07:00

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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Dogs - Siberian Husky

2008-09-26T09:47:00.000-07:00

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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Help Your Mastiff Master Social Skills

2008-09-24T07:08:00.000-07:00

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.

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Purebreds and Cross Breeds: Good Temperament vs Good Health

2008-09-23T05:40:00.000-07:00

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

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AKC - The Official Registry for Purebred Dogs

2008-09-23T05:36:00.000-07:00

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/

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Wuff Treatment for Dogs

2008-09-23T05:34:00.000-07:00

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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An Extremely Intelligent Dog, The Yorkshire Terrier

2008-09-23T05:28:00.000-07:00

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.com http://www.ourpetsupplies.com

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Common Golden Retriever Health Problems and Diseases

2008-09-23T05:22:00.000-07:00

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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German Shepherd Grooming Tips and Guide

2008-09-23T05:19:00.000-07:00

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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Dog Body and Mouth Odor (how to get rid of it effectively)

2008-09-23T05:15:00.000-07:00

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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Dog Training Using The Praise and Reward System

2008-09-23T04:50:00.000-07:00

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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Does Your Dog Have Hip Dysplasia?

2008-09-23T04:45:00.000-07:00

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

Dog Disease - Understanding The Basics Of Pyometra

2008-09-23T04:41:00.000-07:00

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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