Pet Dog Pets

Braided Bully Stick for Dog Treats

2008-10-12T10:15:00.000-07:00

Braided Bully Sticks

Natural beef muscles that are lightly smoked, braided and roasted. Highly palatable, they become chewy when wet and provide natural teeth cleaning. 100% digestible.

Ingredients:
Tendon

Guaranteed Analysis:
Crude Protein, min - 79.00%
Crude Fat, min - 1.30%
Crude Fiber, Max - 1.00%
Moisture, max - 13.00%
Read more >>

My Koi Pond

2008-07-06T08:45:00.000-07:00

I have a koi fish in my pond. It's a little pond in our garden, the dimension are 2 x 1 m and the water is 40 cm. It's not ideal pond for several koi with size 30 cm.

The most important thing to get healthy kois is water. Make a good water quality and get healthy koi, although with this pond dimension it's impossible to get better growth koi. But with good water quality, these koi are health.

Pet's Home

Pet Dog Pets Privacy Statement

2008-05-24T09:56:00.000-07:00

What follows is the Privacy Statement for all Pet Dog Pets websites (a.k.a. blogs) including all the websites run under the pet-dog-pets.blogspot.com domain.

Please read this statement regarding our blogs. If you have questions please ask us via our contact form.

Email Addresses

You may choose to add your email address to our contact list via the forms on our websites. We agree that we will never share you email with any third party and that we will remove your email at your request. We don’t currently send advertising via email, but in the future our email may contain advertisements and we may send dedicated email messages from our advertisers without revealing your email addresses to them. If you have any problem removing your email address please contact us via our contact form.

Ownership of Information

Pet Dog Pets is the sole owner of any information collected on our websites.

Comments/Message Boards

Most Pet Dog Pets websites contain comment sections (a.k.a. message boards). We do not actively monitor these comments and the information on them is for entertainment purposes only. If we are alerted to something we deem inappropriate in any way, we may delete it at our discretion. We use email validation on most of our message boards in order to reduce “comment spam.” These email addresses will not be shared with any third party.

Cookies

Currently we assign cookies to our readers in order to save their preferences. This data is not shared with any third party. Accessing our websites is not dependent on accepting cookies and all major browsers allow you to disable cookies if you wish.

Third Party Cookies

Many of our advertisers use cookies in order to determine the number of times you have seen an advertisement. This is done to limit the number times you are shown the same advertisement. Pet Dog Pets does not have access to this data.

Traffic Reports

Our industry-standard traffic reporting records IP addresses, Internet service provider information, referrer strings, browser types and the date and time pages are loaded. We use this information in the aggregate only to provide traffic statistics to advertisers and to figure out which features and editorials are most popular.

Legal proceedings

We will make every effort to preserve user privacy but Pet Dog Pets may need to disclose information when required by law.

Business Transitions

If Pet Dog Pets is acquired by or merges with another firm, the assets of our websites, including personal information, will likely be transferred to the new firm.

Links

Pet Dog Pets websites frequently link to other websites. We are not responsible for the content or business practices of these websites. When you leave our websites we encourage you to read the destination site’s privacy policy. This privacy statement applies solely to information collected by Magznetwork

Notification of Changes

When Pet Dog Pets makes changes to this privacy policy we will post those changes here.

Contact Information

If you have any questions regarding our privacy policy, please contact us.

Akita Puppy and Dog Information

2008-04-20T11:12:00.000-07:00

Akita Puppy and Dog Information Summary :

The Akita is a powerful, alert, large dog with a heavy build that can remind you of a bear. She does not need a tremendous amount of exercise and may even be suitable for an apartment if one is willing to enjoy daily vigorous walks with her.

-----
Akita Puppy and Dog Information by Mitch Endick

The Akita is a powerful, alert, large dog with a heavy build that can remind you of a bear. She does not need a tremendous amount of exercise and may even be suitable for an apartment if one is willing to enjoy daily vigorous walks with her. A properly fenced yard for exercise is preferable. She is good with the kids in her adopted family but she may not take to your kids friends, which scares me when you consider her size and potential for harm. She does not do well with other pets and is determined to be the top dog. She has no problem getting into a serious blood and guts dog fight. She must always be walked on a non retractable leash. As a general rule, never leave any young child alone with a dog for any period of time, no matter how short.

Sometimes the Akita is also associated with the name Inu which means dog in Japanese. The American Kennel Club lumps both the Japanese Akita and The American Akita together but many other countries consider them separate breeds. The Japanese version comes in four colors, Sesame, Red Fawn, White and Brindle. The American also comes in the Pinto color. The American type is larger and has shorter fur and more colors.

*Temperament. The Akita has devotion, alertness, dignity, large size, is fearless and was bred to be a watch dog. It can be very aloof with strangers and needs good socialization.

*Approximate Adult Size. The male stands about 26 to 28 inches tall at the withers (highest point of the shoulders) and the female stands 24 to 26 inches at the withers. The weight varies to around 75 to 115 pounds, the males slightly heavier.

*Special Health Considerations. The major health concern is hypothyroid disease (sluggish thyroid gland which can result in weight gain) which affects a high percentage of the breed and can be treated with hormone replacement drugs. Symptoms of this disease include itching, lethargy, sudden aggressiveness, and odd odor. There are also less common disorders such as hip problems, some blood disorders and degenerative myelopathy. Kidney disease can affect older dogs. Akitas require high quality meat and bone meal food, not grain based food.

*Grooming. This breed sheds twice a year. It has a short haired stiff coat that needs frequent brushing. Bathing should be infrequent as it removes the oils from the coat that waterproofs the dog.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease. To avoid health problems, her toenails may need to be examined weekly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.

*Life Span. The Akita lives to around 10 to 14 years with proper nutrition and excellent care.

*History. The Akita comes from the mountains of northern Japan and is considered an old native dog breed. Early on she was only owned by the elite, the Shoguns. This dog was bred to guard, herd, fight and hunt. The animals it hunted were large game including boar, antelope, elk and bear. The Japanese government has designated this dog as a national treasure in 1931. The American Kennel Club approved this breed on December 12, 1972.

*Training. The Akita is smart and will learn quickly. They need firm training. He can become bored very easily to vary the training routine enough to keep him interested. It is a very good idea to have him obedience trained. He is currently employed in guard and police work in Japan.

*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS
Very good watchdog.
Very affectionate and courageous.
They are not barkers unless there is a good reason.
They can have a calming influence in a house.
Very easy to housebreak.
Keep themselves very clean.

*SPECIAL BAD POINTS
Aggressive to other dogs.
Can be willful.
Can be aggressive about his food.
May not accept children from outside his family.
Easily bored, they need to be stimulated.

Mitch Endick is a short article writer for the popular pet site: http://www.petpages.com. He provides informative advice on all pets including dogs, puppies, cats, fish, reptiles, birds, ferrets, rabbits, mice and even pet bugs. Petpages.com also has an extensive pet classified ads section.

Article Source: ArticleRich.com

-----
Statistically Improbable Phrases In Akita Puppy and Dog Information:
Akita, Inu, puppy, dog, pet, dogs, puppies, pets

Pet's Home

(PetDogPets) Deluxe Solar Sipper - Wild Bird Watering Station / Birdfeeder Water Accessory

2007-06-02T13:38:00.000-07:00

(PetDogPets) Deluxe Solar Sipper - Wild Bird Watering Station / Birdfeeder Water Accessory - The Deluxe Solar Sipper from Happy Bird Corporation is the best product for clean, fresh drinking water for wild birds on the market today. This water station does it all. Unlike a birdbath, it covers the water to keep it clean. It insulates to keep water cooler in the summer and warmer in winter. It heats with a unique solar design against winter ice. Wild bird Deluxe Solar Sipper includes berry red footed base and solar back top. Holds 1 quart WildBird Magazine: "In many cases, winter water proves to be as popular as foods put out in feeders to attract a variety of birds. The trick is to keep the water from freezing; open water is a rare commodity in winter's freezing temperatures in northern climes. The Solar Sipper is one of those ingenious inventions that make you want to slap your forehead and ask, 'Why didn't I think of that?' It requires not electricity or extension cords. It is absolutely safe, and it provides fresh water in areas where they may be no potable water." Since 1985 our company has developed the original passive solar water container for wild birds, a more powerful greenhouse solar heated model, a solar container especially designed for pets and wildlife, a window mounted version that allows easy refilling from inside the house, and for cloudy days, a cordless electric heater for safe use with Solar Sippers or any water container favored by birds, dog, cats or wildlife.

It's a new concept in electric birdbath deicers or dog/cat water dish deicers, the Solar Sipper Water Warmer, the latest of our unique line of safe, environmentally responsible water products for animals, to make sure you add drinking water beside your feeder or food bowl. Remember to 'wet their whistles®'. Wild birds and pets need water as well as food and what could be a simpler, safer and more inexpensive way than a Solar Sipper Water Warmer with a couple of drugstore batteries?"

Pet's Home

Zanies CLIMBING AND SCRATCHING - Flower Power Towers Cat Condo

2007-05-31T03:54:00.000-07:00

Zanies CLIMBING AND SCRATCHING - Flower Power Towers Cat Condo - Get your cat grooving to the newest trend in cat furniture. Soft plush platforms and sisal-covered posts for climbing and scratching. Bright, Colorful retro '60's colors fit in with any decor. Our Flower Power Towers Measures 23 in diameter base x 40 in high.

Some assembly required with easy assembly instructions included.

Pet's Home

Pets - CitiKitty Cat Toilet Training Kit

2007-05-28T10:51:00.000-07:00

Pets - CitiKitty Cat Toilet Training Kit - Everything you need to toilet train your cat in one kit. Includes the CitiKitty Universal Training Seat, Quick Start Training Guide, and CitiKitty Tips & Tricks Brochure. The specially designed training seat securely sits on your toilet.

Your cat naturally uses CitiKitty as its new litter box. The rings are removed thus reducing the amount of litter. Once all rings are removed your cat is toilet trained! CitiKitty holds cats of all size - include cats over 25lbs. The proven training method is designed to help you reach toilet training success and a litter-free life with your beloved cat.

Pets - CitiKitty Cat Toilet Training Kit - Everything you need to toilet train your cat in one kit! Includes the CitiKitty Universal Training Seat, Quick Start Training Guide, and CitiKitty Tips & Tricks Brochure. The specially designed training seat securely sits on your toilet. Your cat naturally uses CitiKitty as its new litter box. The rings are removed thus reducing the amount of litter. Once all rings are removed your cat is toilet trained! Don't be fooled by imitation kits.

CitiKitty holds cats of all size - include cats over 25lbs. The proven training method is designed to help you reach toilet training success and a litter-free life with your beloved cat.

Pet's Home

PetDog - Gund Dog "Spunky" Comfy Cozy - Pink

2007-05-26T04:43:00.000-07:00

PetDog - Gund Dog "Spunky" Comfy Cozy - Pink

Pet's Home

Pet Cat Pets - CatGenie SaniSolution SmartCartridge

2007-05-13T10:32:00.000-07:00

CatGenie SaniSolution SmartCartridge - The cat-safe SaniSolution decontaminates the Granules and cat box of germs and odors. We recommend at least 1 cleaning per day per cat.

Cartridge lasts approximately 2 months for one cat and 1 month for two cats etc. Always keep an extra Cartridge. CatGenie can't run on empty.

CatGenie SaniSolution SmartCartridge - If you use the Cat Genie Cat Box (sold separately) for a maintenance-free, odor-free, and germ-free cat environment, you'll need to replace its Sani-Solution Smart Cartridge after each 60 washings.

This cartridge dispenses the exact amount of sanitizing solution needed to decontaminate Granules and Genie Bowl and to keep the CatGenie running properly. Made with same ingredients used by veterinarians to sterilize their exam and operating areas, the Sani-Soultion Smart Cartidge will even alert you when the solution runs low.

Pet's Home

Pet Dog Pets - Dogmatic GardenCrisps - Apple 2.5oz

2007-05-13T10:31:00.000-07:00

Dogmatic GardenCrisps - Apple 2.5oz - GardenCrisps 100% Apple Treat. Dogs have been eating fruits for over 10,000 years, only recently being exposed to highly-processed and artificial ingredients.

Garden Crisps are made completely from vegetables or fruits; they aren't wheat treats with added fruits or vegetables.

Pet's Home

Pet Dog Pets - Dogmatic Fish Sticks - Lobster 2.2oz

2007-05-13T10:30:00.000-07:00

Dogmatic Fish Sticks - Lobster 2.2oz - FishSticks. moist real fish snack: real Lobster meat...Bounty Bites Fish Sticks ultra premium moist cat treats are made with real fish- its the #1 ingredient!.

A treat worthy of your own table but made for your cat. Bounty Bites Fish Sticks are high in protein, Omega 3's and Omega 6's. Cats love the natural flavor of Fish Sticks since the fish comes straight from the ocean, that's why they recommend that you refrigerate after opening the package.

Pet's Home

Pet Dog Pets - Dogmatic Careful Clipper "guillotine" style

2007-05-13T10:28:00.000-07:00

Dogmatic Careful Clipper "guillotine" style - Careful Clipper is the world's first pain free clipper, with the patented nerve/vein indicator, it shines through the nail to avoid cutting the quick; no more bloody nails.

Teaches pets clipping doesn't have to be painful. Works with all companion animals. The Guillotine blade offers a clean cut every time. Careful Clipper is the solution for customers who want to maintain their pets nails without causing unnecessary pain; its the pet nail trimmer that will replace all others.

Pet's Home

Pet Dog Pets - Re-Leash Extra Leash (Black, 2.5' to 4.5')

2007-05-13T10:27:00.000-07:00

Re-Leash Extra Leash (Black, 2.5' to 4.5') - Shock-absorbing leash comes with a carabiner clip-in and quick release.

Pet's Home

Pet Dog Pets - Re-Leash All-in One (Black, One size)

2007-05-13T10:21:00.001-07:00

Re-Leash All-in One (Black, One size) - The hands-free Re-Leash adjusts to all body types for a stress-free walk with your dog. This shock-absorbing, retractable leash comes with a carabiner clip-in and quick release.

Also comes with an anti-glare swivel (for adding more dogs), reflective back padding, water-bottle and treat and baggie holders. Innovatively designed to reduce lower back stress. Gives both you and your dog freedom of motion !

Pet's Home

Pet Dog Pets - Re-Leash All-in One (Black, One size)

2007-05-13T10:21:00.000-07:00

Pet Dog Pets - The Free Leash - Hands Free Leash

2007-05-13T10:04:00.000-07:00

The Free Leash - Hands Free Leash - This ergonomically designed leash allows you to walk your dog without using your hands for added safety and convenience. The Free Leash is also unisex and fits waist sizes up to 55 inches.

Pet's Home

Pet Dog Pets - Fore! Bandana - XS - 14"

2007-05-13T10:02:00.000-07:00

Fore! Bandana - XS - 14" - Contoured to fit snugly around a dogs shoulders, this reversible bandana is machine washable and features a metal charm at one corner. Available in five different sizes, just fold and tie around your dogs neck for the perfect fit.

Size: XS - 14" (up to 15lbs) S - 20" (15 - 20lbs) M - 27" (35 - 45lbs) L - 32" (75 - 85lbs) XL - 39" (up to 150lbs) To calculate the size required, measure your dogs neck at the widest point and add about 4 inches to allow for a knot.

Pet's Home

Pet Dog Pets - Dogmatic WoofyPOP - Peanut Butter

2007-05-13T10:00:00.000-07:00

Dogmatic WoofyPOP - Peanut Butter - Woofy-Pop popcorn is a high fiber snack that is naturally healthier than other dog snacks & human microwave popcorn. WoofyPop is a natural snack dogs love.

Dogmatic WoofyPOP - Peanut Butter - Fresh popcorn made just for dogs. All natural, high fiber snack all dogs will enjoy. Choose from 6 flavors available in 1.6 oz. bags. Each bag makes 4 cups, and recommended serving size is 1 cup per 10 lbs. of your dogs weight.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Pet's Home

Pet Dog Pets - Dogmatic SnackShotz Treat Launcher

2007-05-13T09:58:00.000-07:00

Dogmatic SnackShotz Treat Launcher - SnackShotz - the world's first treat launcher- turning treat time into playtime. Its the only product of its kind that provides endless fun for you and your dog- the new game of chase. Just load SnackShotz with Discos low-fat treats (included in each package) and the fun begins. Launches treats over 10 feet. Dog Obesity is a growing epidemic.

Veterinarians estimate that 44% of their patients are overweigh; SnackShotz turns treating into a stimulating exercise, combined with low-fat treating. The treat launcher holds up to 10 treat discs at a time. "The only time you should play with your food"

Dogmatic SnackShotz Treat Launcher - Launches treats up 12 feet in the air with a pull of the treat launcher lever. Includes a box of assorted Discos - Flying Dog Treats that are the refillable treats for the SnackShotz Launcher.

Pet's Home

Pet Dog Pets - Dogmatic ReLeash All-In-One Hands Free Leash Extension

2007-05-13T09:56:00.000-07:00

Dogmatic ReLeash All-In-One Hands Free Leash Extension - Purchase an extra extension leash to add multiple dogs. Made from tough nylon the reflective bungee extension includes a sturdy quick clip-in carabineer, quick release, and manual restraint loop.

Pet's Home

Pet Dog Pets - Dogmatic CatZip Chase Toy Fish Version

2007-05-13T09:52:00.000-07:00

Dogmatic CatZip Chase Toy Fish Version - Cat-Fish has the same great features as the CatZip, but with a myler tail that cat's can't resist.

Dogmatic CatZip Chase Toy Fish Version - Soft fleece catnip toy on wheels. Mimics the action of a real mouse by running from your cat. It drives cats wild! The fish has a mylar tail.

Pet's Home

Pet Dog Pets - Discos Dog Treats - Chicken

2007-05-13T09:51:00.000-07:00

Discos Dog Treats - Chicken - Made for the Snackshotz Treat Launcher (also available on this site) Discos Flying Dog Treats are a must have product. If you haven't seen Snackshotz, go to our Dog Toy section and find it, it's really great fun.

Pet's Home

Pet Dog Pets - Discos Dog Treats - Beef

2007-05-13T09:50:00.000-07:00

Discos Dog Treats - Beef - Made for the Snackshotz Treat Launcher (also available on this site) Discos Flying Dog Treats are a must have product. If you haven't seen Snackshotz, go to our Dog Toy section and find it, it's really great fun.

Pet's Home

Pet Dog Pets - Chicken-flavored Woofy-Pop Popcorn Snack (3 3.5 oz. bags)

2007-05-13T09:48:00.000-07:00

Chicken-flavored Woofy-Pop Popcorn Snack (3 3.5 oz. bags) - Veterinarian-approved Woofy-Pop microwaves in a jiffy.

It's fresh every single time and is sure to please even finicky pups.

Pet's Home

Pet Dog Pets - Bacon-flavored Woofy-Pop Popcorn Snack (Three 3.5 oz. bags)

2007-05-13T09:46:00.000-07:00

Bacon-flavored Woofy-Pop Popcorn Snack (Three 3.5 oz. bags) - Veterinarian-approved Woofy-Pop microwaves in a jiffy.

It's fresh every single time and is sure to please even finicky pups.

Pet's Home

Pet Dog Pets - Discos Flying Dog Beef Treats - 12-pk.

2007-05-13T09:43:00.000-07:00

Discos Flying Dog Beef Treats - 12-pk. - A high protein, low fat treat best used with the SnackShotz Treat Launcher (sold separately). These 3/4" in diameter treats launch in the air giving you and your dog lots of fun.

The treats are 100% edible and digestable and cleans teeth, freshens breath, and reduces tartar and plaque. Contains wheat gluten, hydrolyzed protein, and rosemary extract in addition to other ingredients for a crunchy, yummy treat. Each package contains approximately 60 pieces.

Pet's Home

Pet Dog Pets - Dogmatic CatZip Chase Toy Mouse Version

2007-05-13T09:42:00.000-07:00

Dogmatic CatZip Chase Toy Mouse Version - CatZip- the world's only catnip motor mouse (no batteries necessary- just pull back and let it zip).

Simulate the thrill of the hunt. Even after a cat has catches the CatZip, they're continually attracted to the enclosed catnip- which they can never quite get to. Soft paw-sinking Polartec fleece in attractive colors.

Pet's Home

Pet Dog Pets - SnackShotz Treat Launcher

2007-05-13T09:38:00.000-07:00

SnackShotz Treat Launcher - SnackShotz is something truly revolutionary in Dog Toys and Treats! Treating will never be the same. The SnackShotz Treat Launcher is the ONLY product of it's kind that provides endless fun for both dogs and dog owners. It launches treats up to 12 feet

Pet's Home

Pet Dog Pets - Dogmatic Free Leash All-In-One

2007-05-13T00:03:00.000-07:00

Dogmatic FreeLeash All-In-One - Now you and your dog can exercise at the same time. Adjustable belt features anti-tangle swivel and shock absorbing bungee with a quick release to convert to a manual leash if desired.

Fits waist sizes up to 55 inches and lead extends up to 5½ feet

Pet's Home

Trained The Puppy - Pet Dog Pets

2007-03-29T05:23:00.000-07:00

So that the puppy grows and increased perfect, was needed the will and the sincerity by teaching him several exercises and certain procedure about the acting method.

Playing
After eating and sleeping, playing was the most important priority for the puppy, and of course playing really was good for his growth.
Apart from ourselves who were regarded as his playing friend, the puppy like that liked played with various toys (for example socks that were tied to be bitten by him).
The toy that was given must that was suitable for the age of the puppy, and you immediately must change him just as the toy was broken so that the puppy does not swallow the part or the toy discount that was broken because this could make his digestion be disrupted.
Increasingly often ourselves and the playing puppy together, he will consider you were the most important matter for him.
Increasingly often he want to together and pleased you, increasingly was easy he to be controlled.

Praise and gift

the Dog really liked to be given by praise and give a present to something if he did matters like that was wanted by you.
This method will make the Dog studying to behave good.
Besides this, gave praise and the gift was the method that was fast and pleasant to train your Dog.

Trained so that Obedient

the Interaction between you and your pet puppy must happy and pleasant, because that indicated you were the best friend.
Because he regarded you his friend then he will always try to please yourself.
For the atmosphere where the puppy could get the gift from you because of doing true matters and in accordance with your will, than allowed him to do matters that were not liked by you then was given by you the warning.
Show to him which true behavior and gave the gift when he carried him out exactly.
Warn the puppy while saying ’No!
’, ’Arghhh’, with the angry tone if he did matters that were not wanted by you.
Or startled himself with the scream, the molar, and slapped your two hands palms hard.
Gaze at and gaze at continued until him to go to move further away.
The other important matter was to adapt the level of the exercise that was needed for the puppy, don't be too excessive but also might not not all that.

Treated

So that the puppy always feels comfortable and happy was near you, gave attention more to himself by means of embracing and caressing him.
Increasingly often was treated like that, himself increasingly had the calm feeling, so as if at one time he was asked to his veterinary surgeon would not stress or biting when was held-held.
Besides this, when the puppy was used to be touched and caressed, will emerge the belief himself to you and the puppy more will be open to accept the presence of the other person or your closest family.

Mouth health

Just As you had the puppy, examined his mouth, pay attention to whether his gums had the problem and his teeth were clean from teeth coral.
To clean gums and his teeth, began with special toothpaste the Dog to the hands finger and rubbed him.
After that, you could make accustomed incited his teeth to use the special toothbrush for the Dog that often was available in pet shop.

Healty dog and lifestyle

2007-03-28T03:19:00.000-07:00

Mouth health

Just As you had the puppy, examined his mouth, pay attention to whether his gums had the problem and his teeth were clean from teeth coral.
To clean gums and his teeth, began with special toothpaste the Dog to the hands finger and rubbed him.
After that, you could make accustomed incited his teeth to use the special toothbrush for the Dog that often was available in pet shop.

Guarded the Dog During a Trip

2007-03-19T05:49:00.000-07:00

When you must go on a trip far to a place for several days, for example to go on holiday, to visit to your house or the friend outside the city, and to go on a trip for the business affair.

For you who maintained the Dog in the house, before and while going on a trip you must make plans to arrange your pet Dog in order to be not neglected, for example to prepare the special pen to go on a trip, ask help of relatives to arrange your Dog or to even lease the caretaker's power of the Dog.

The Caretaker Animal

When in the house had many dogs, there is good him you asked help of a caretaker of the Dog to arrange and guard pet dogs when you went on a trip. Ascertain the person who will arrange your pet Dog really a caretaker with the good reputation.

Give some information about your Dog to himself before going, for example the normal food kind was given by you (including how many and when the Dog ate, as well as should not forget to provide enough food before you went), sent matters that were connected with his medical problem, as well as any matter that might and not the Dog did.

Brought the Dog went overseas

went on a trip overseas was accompanied by your pet Dog at this time increasingly was easy because of the Pet Travel Scheme existence (PETS). However you continued to have to pay attention to the condition and the available regulation as well as to supplement your pet Dog with documents that were appropriate like the vaccination card and the other medical maintenance to facilitate left and entered a country.

Brought the Dog went Holiday

If indeed intended to bring your pet Dog went to go on holiday together, you must make yourself accustomed to going on a trip. If using the transport of the public when going on a trip, there is good him paid attention to available regulations.

If going on a trip by using the car, placed the Dog in the pen was the method that was safest while he could lie, proceeded, or stood inside. Don't forget to stop and rest for a moment for the trip, and don't leave your Dog was alone in the car without the supervision completely.

How To Give Your Dog A Bath

2006-12-21T06:32:00.000-08:00

How To Give Your Dog A Bath

REQUIREMENTS FOR REPRINT: You have permission to publish
this article free of charge in your e-zine, newsletter,
ebook, print publication or on your website ONLY if it
remains unchanged and you include the copyright and author
information (Resource Box) at the end. You may not use
this article in any unsolicited commercial email (spam).

You may retrieve this article by:

Autoresponder: dogbath@getresponse.com
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net/articles/dogbath.txt

Words: 335
Copyright: 2005 Marilyn Pokorney

Please leave the resource box intact with an active link,
and send a courtesy copy of the publication in which the
article appears to: marilynp@nctc.net
------------------------------------------------------------
------------
Bathing your dog helps to keep it healthy as well as clean.
Bathing helps reduce the amount of flea repellents you need
to use as well as prevents hotspots, a potentially serious
problem for your best friend.

Bathing too frequently can dry out the skin and coat so only
one bath a month is recommended by experts.

Brush the dog before giving it a bath. Be sure to get all
tangles and matts out because the water will make it worse.
If a comb or brush cannot remove all the matts use a
conditioner or detangler if necessary.

Gather up what items you need before you start the bath: A
brush, comb, collar and leash, shampoo, face cloth, and
several towels.

If bathing the dog in the bathtub, use a safety mat.
A hand held shower or pail for applying water and rinsing.
Use a dog shampoo which is formulated for the pH of a dogs
skin. Human shampoos can strip a dog's coat of essential
oils.

Use warm, but not hot, water.

Avoid getting water and shampoo in the eyes and ears. Use a
washcloth to wash the dogs face. Do not get water or soap
in the eyes or ears!!

Be sure to rinse all the shampoo and conditioner off the
dog. If you leave any of this on the dog, it will get itchy
skin.

If using a tub, open the drain and let the water drain.
To dry, put a towel over the head. Use another towel to dry
off its back and legs. Then gently rub or pat with the
towel. If your dog is long-haired don't rub vigorously
because you can put mats back in the coat.

To finish use a blow dryer on the lowest setting and hold at
a distance so the dog receives only warm air. Use a dryer
only if your dog isn't afraid of the noise. To some dogs,
the dryer is much worse than the bath.

For more information visit:
http://www.apluswriting.net/petcare/dogbath.htm

About the author:
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website:

Circulated by Article Highway

From Blog Owner : Read more articles about Car, Car Insurance, Young Science, Loan, Parenting, Dog, Basketball, Golf, Vacation Leisure, Fashion-Jewelry, Koi, Carp, Resources, Women.

Selecting a Labrador Puppy

2006-12-21T06:31:00.000-08:00

Selecting a Labrador Puppy

Labradors are one of the most well known and most popular choices for dog lovers across the nation. A Labrador puppy that is trained well will be a loyal and playful friend as well as a dependable hunter (if it is a retriever) for its owner. When choosing a Labrador, there are a lot of questions to consider. You have probably wondered if the color of the lab makes a difference in the quality of the puppy that you choose. You may also wonder how to find a Labrador puppy that has been bred well. To those questions and more, you will find the answers in the following article.

Finding a Labrador Puppy that Has Been Bred Well
One of the most important things to look for in a Labrador puppy is one that has been bred well. (http://mallardlanelab.com/page/15213/Home.html) Authentic breeders will:

1) Be members of the AKC (the American Kennel Club)
2) Will provide you with health records for each puppy
3) Will frequently handle pups
4) Will socialize the pups (e.g. the puppies will not be afraid to play with you)
5) Will in addition remove the puppies dew claws and provide them with their first shots at 6 weeks of age. Will also put the puppies through a 3 cycle de-worming program to eliminate parasites
6) Will not allow you to take the pup until he or she is approximately 7 weeks old

Does Color Make a Difference?
The beauty of a Labrador is often an initial attraction for potential dog owners. Labradors are available as chocolate labs, yellows labs (lighter colored yellow labs often appear to be white), silvers or black labs. Some people claim that black Labradors make the best Labrador retrievers, but this is untrue. When purchasing a Labrador from a professional breeder you should pay more attention to the genetics or the disposition (see paragraph below) of the particular puppy than to its color. However, if you would like a Labrador puppy for purely aesthetic reasons, then feel free to choose the color of your choice.

Choosing a Labrador Puppy with the Right Disposition
When choosing a Labrador puppy, most potential dog owners want a dog with a mellow yet playful disposition. Many well meaning people offer advice such as, “Let the puppy choose you.” They say this assuming that the puppy which runs to you first will probably be the puppy that would get along best with you. This is not necessarily true. That puppy may be the most aggressive puppy in its litter. Aggressive puppies do not make the best pets. Here are some tips for choosing your Labrador puppy:

• Evaluate the entire litter. If you notice that the entire litter is shy or overly reserved, then regardless of whether there are one or two ‘friendlier’ puppies, you should probably avoid that litter. The genetics found in that litter are not what you are looking for. The same goes for a hyperactive litter.

• Look for puppies that are trusting. Well bred puppies are curious and trusting. Take out your car keys or make other noises. Do some of the puppies respond? Take this into consideration.

• Look for personality traits in the puppy that you would look for in a human roommate. Ask yourself which puppies are bossy? Which ones are noisy? Which puppies are shy? Which are submissive? Chances are, you will opt for the puppy that doesn’t bite or claw when he interacts with the other puppies in his litter but can still interact and hold his own with other puppies.

About the author:
About the Author: Boyd Norwood is a Web Content Specialist for 10x Marketing in Orem, UT. If you would like more information in regards to selecting a well bred Labrador puppy, please feel free to contact Mallard Lane Labradors.

Circulated by Article Highway

From Blog Owner : Read more articles about Car, Car Insurance, Young Science, Loan, Parenting, Dog, Basketball, Golf, Vacation Leisure, Fashion-Jewelry, Koi, Carp, Resources, Women.

Pet Dog Pets - 5 Great Tips for feeding a Happy and Healthy Dog!

2006-12-21T06:28:00.000-08:00

5 Great Tips for feeding a Happy and Healthy Dog!

Do you really know all there is to know about your canine companion’s nutritional needs? Many pet owners think they’re doing what’s best for their dogs when it comes to food, but in reality they rely on pure instinct more than science. Nutrition isn’t a guessing game, even when it comes to your pooch. Think about it – if you were left to feed yourself based only on what you craved and had no knowledge of what your body needs to function, would you be eating 5 servings of fruit and veggies or would you head straight for the Ding Dong case at the market?

1. Cover all of the bases.

A dog’s diet can be as complex as any human’s (including yours!), and it’s absolutely essential that you, as an owner, hit all of the vital nutritional bases. A deficiency of certain vitamins and nutrients can lead to upset tummies; overly dry or oily skin, brittle bones, weight issues, and, in some of the worst cases, death. A balanced and proper diet is the building block of your dog’s overall health – if he doesn’t get the right blend of nutrients, the most impeccable care otherwise won’t mean a thing. But with the right diet, his defences against disease and disorders are infinitely stronger than a dog whose owner hasn’t put much thought into an eating plan.

2. Mix it up!

For the most part, pre-packaged food will help you cover all of the major nutritional requirements a healthy, fairly young dog has. This where many owners trip up simply because of the ease of the decision; Most think that the major choice is between dry and moist food, when in reality the best diet you can provide your dog is one varied in ingredients, textures, and nutritional value. Wolves where carnivores, and that instinct remains with their our modern day dog; to this day. They continue to hunt prey (poor Kitty), love sausage-flavoured treats, and adore the great crunch they get when chowing down on a bone. Those varied elements should give you a little bit of insight into how diverse your dog’s diet can be.

3. Move beyond meat.

Building some portion of his diet from meat gives you many of the crucial nutrients he needs for energy and growth, but he also needs fiber and carbohydrates to aid in digestion and stability. You could throw down a bowl of dry food every day and maybe give him a “treat” of moist food once a month, but how would you like it if the tables were turned and he insisted on feeding you pancakes every day for the rest of your life? Not such a sunny outlook, is it?

4. Make it a real meal.

Listen, nobody ever said you had to rely on a bag or can of food to feed your dog. You cook for your family all the time. Doesn’t your dog deserve similar treatment? Most owners say they’d love to cook for their pups but just don’t know where to start, and that’s where I come in. Now you can help fulfil all of your dog’s nutritional needs as well as his taste desires with just one quick flip through my new book, 180 Delicious Gourmet Dog Recipes. I know, I know, you’re busy, and there’s barely time to cook your family a proper meal. That’s why you’ll love this book – in addition to covering all of the usual recipes like traditional dog chow and cookies, I’ve created several that are healthy and delicious enough for you, your dog, and your family. Being skeptical is natural; after all, I never dreamed I’d come up with recipes I could easily share with my dogs! But how can you pass up recipes like biscotti, muffins, omelettes, dinner mints, and even sushi?

5. Give him some green.

Your dog needs a well-balanced diet, and the best way to accomplish that is through a wide variety of ingredients. Did you know that many dogs love veggies? In fact, if your dog likes to nibble on grass, he may appreciate some of the veggie-oriented recipes in the cookbook. Give it a shot and see what you – and your dog – think. After all, the worst that could happen is an improvement in your pooch’s health!

The only set rule in feeding your pup is to make sure his meals satisfy the unique nutritional requirements any dog has. You don't have to stick to the bag or the can, and you don't have to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. Making dishes for your dog can be a family event, and nothing expresses gratitude better than a big, sloppy, wet kiss!

About the author:
Paul Duxbury owns a leading sources of free information and advice for all dog owners as well as

Circulated by Article Highway

From Blog Owner : Read more articles about Car, Car Insurance, Young Science, Loan, Parenting, Dog, Basketball, Golf, Vacation Leisure, Fashion-Jewelry, Koi, Carp, Resources, Women.

3 tips for being prepared for emergencies with your Dog

2006-12-21T06:27:00.000-08:00

3 tips for being prepared for emergencies with your Dog

Have you ever thought about what you need to do should your dog – or another dog – ever suffer a serious, life-threatening injury? What if they have a severe allergy to an insect bite or a bee sting? It’s great to know your vet’s phone number, but what if something happens during off hours? What if you don’t know where the closest emergency animal clinic is located?

Enough with the questions already, right? Any emergency is stressful and scary, and one involving that furry little four-legged member of your family is no exception. The toughest of owners can be instantly reduced to helpless balls of mush if something’s wrong with their dogs and they can’t figure out what to do.

1. Preparation is key.

The key to getting through a veterinary emergency is preparation. You may think you have that covered with a first aid kit and having the phone number to your vet handy, but what if there isn’t enough time to move your dog? You need to be well-versed in some of the more common animal emergencies just in case a situation ever arises. And hey, if a situation never arises, you’ll still feel more confident knowing that you have the ability to deal with one.

2. Know how to care for wounds.

Did you know that you shouldn’t use hydrogen peroxide on a bleeding wound? Nope. It slows clotting to the area, which means your dog could actually lose more blood than he would if you didn’t use the peroxide at all. In fact, the best way to treat a deep, severely bleeding wound is to apply a clean cloth and hold it in place for five minutes, then tape the cloth to the wound. That original cloth should never be removed – that also slows clotting – and should instead be layered with more clean cloths if blood soaks through.

3. Know what to do about poisoning.

Did you know that certain varieties of toads, salamanders, newts, and other amphibians are poisonous if licked? Hey, guess who loves to hold little woodland critters in his mouth! Your dog. If you notice your pup drooling, whining, and wiping at his mouth after a trip into the forest, get him to a clean water source and rinse his mouth thoroughly. While the poison can be fatal if left in the mouth, it’s fairly easy to cleanse from the tongue and glands.

Make sure you are prepared for any emergencies for that friend!

About the author:
Paul Duxbury owns a leading sources of free information and advice for all dog owners as well as

Circulated by Article Highway

From Blog Owner : Read more articles about Car, Car Insurance, Young Science, Loan, Parenting, Dog, Basketball, Golf, Vacation Leisure, Fashion-Jewelry, Koi, Carp, Resources, Women.

An introduction to caring for your Dog

2006-12-21T06:26:00.001-08:00

An introduction to caring for your Dog

A dog will require love, care, attention and a commitment to look after them during their life which could be 10-15 years or hopefully longer. The commitment required includes not only routine feeding, care and time spent with your dog but also the provision of veterinary treatment if the dog becomes ill. The following basic steps will get you off to a good start and ensure that your dog is a happy, healthy pooch!

Brushing your Dog’s teeth

First off you need to pick an appropriate pet toothbrush. Save yourself time by not buying a child's toothbrush which is usually too hard for dogs. The ideal dog toothbrush will have a long handle, an angled head to better fit their mouth and extra soft bristles. Another option to consider is the finger toothbrush that fits over the tip of your finger.

Having found the toothbrush that suits you and your dog you next need to select an appropriate toothpaste. The best dog toothpastes contain enzymes that help control plaque. Try to avoid toothpastes with baking soda, detergents, or salt sometimes found in human pastes. Fluoride may be incorporated to help control bacteria. Rather than placing the paste on top of the brush try to place it between the bristles. This allows the paste to spend the most time next to the teeth.

So having purchased your toothbrush and your toothpaste you are now probably thinking “so exactly how do I do this!” Well don’t worry it’s not as frightening or as difficult as you might be thinking! All we need to do is to get the brush with paste into your dog's mouth and all the teeth brushed. Easier said than done you are probably thinking as you anticipate calling your friendly pooch over to have his teeth cleaned! Well actually yes it is easier than you think if you adopt the right approach!

Most dogs accept brushing if they are approached in a gentle manner. If you can start when they are young, it's quite easy, but even older pets will accept the process. Start slowly, you can use a washcloth or piece of gauze to wipe the teeth, front and back in the same manner you will eventually be using the toothbrush. Do this twice daily for about two weeks and your dog should be familiar with the approach. Then take the pet toothbrush, soak it in warm water and start brushing daily for several days. When your dog accepts this brushing, add the pet toothpaste.

Dangerous Toys

Most dogs love to play and hours of enjoyment can be had by all concerned if that play is done in a sensible way and avoids what I will term “Dangerous Toys. ”Sticks and bones can splinter and cause choking or vomiting or they can perforate the mouth, throat or intestine. Hard bones can easily damage teeth. Instead, use hard, non-splintering chew toys to play fetch or to allow your pet to gnaw. A chewing pet can shred soft, latex toys. If the toy includes a squeaking mechanism, the squeaker can be easily swallowed or cause choking. Towels, socks, underwear and other similar clothing or materials can be swallowed by a pet, causing intestinal obstruction. Some dogs like to chew on or eat rocks-bad idea! Rocks can cause broken teeth and serious intestinal obstruction if swallowed. Be careful if you offer your pet rawhides, as these can also cause intestinal obstruction if swallowed, and some are preserved with arsenic, which is toxic to pets. Be aware of sharp objects that can cut skin, feet, eyes or ears.

Exercising Your Dog

Now every dog needs to be exercised and that again can be something that brings a great deal of enjoyment to both you and your little (or not so little!) friend. There are a few basic considerations when exercising your Dog. Whenever you are near a road, or wherever your dog is likely to cause a nuisance if he runs free, you should keep him on a lead. Both you and your dog will be much happier if he’s well trained. Remember that not everyone is as fond of dogs as you are and you must respect their feelings. Keep your dog under control at all times. Part of your walk should take your dog over hard ground, as this will help to keep his nails short.

Don't make the mistake of over-exercising your dog if he’s still growing, as his bones aren’t yet strong enough to cope with the extra stress this puts on him. Little and often is the rule until your dog grows to full strength. Remember that large breeds mature later than small breeds. Ask the breeder or your vet for their advice.

Regular and varied walks are not just essential to keep your dog fit. They also give him the chance to explore and to experience new stimuli, including meeting other dogs. This will help him develop into a contented and well-adjusted dog, and avoid developing problem behavior. Make sure you supervise your dog’s exercise. Do not allow him to stray and never put him outside for the day to fend for him while you’re gone.

Keep Your Pet Happy and Healthy

Once you've brought home your new pet, you'll want to have a long and happy life together. Here are some ways to make that happen. Eating well and getting enough exercise are as important for dogs as they are for you and I. Unfortunately, too often dogs pick up the same bad habits, and health problems, as people do. Diabetes, heart disease, and obesity related arthritis are problems that are often preventable with a good diet and regular exercise. A high quality dry dog food is a good centerpiece for a healthy diet. If your dog is active enough to burn the calories, most dogs love canned food. It can be mixed with dry food or put out separately as a treat. Some people like to leave food out all the time so that their pets can nibble when hungry while others prefer to have regular feeding times. Either way, make sure that dog always has access to clean drinking water.

If you look after him you will have a great life together!

About the author:
Paul Duxbury owns a leading sources of free information and advice for all dog owners as well as

Circulated by Article Highway

From Blog Owner : Read more articles about Car, Car Insurance, Young Science, Loan, Parenting, Dog, Basketball, Golf, Vacation Leisure, Fashion-Jewelry, Koi, Carp, Resources, Women.

Dog Training - Reinforcing the Dog / Owner Relationship

2006-12-21T06:26:00.000-08:00

Dog Training - Reinforcing the Dog / Owner Relationship

Finding the style of that works best for you is important for establishing the boundaries between dog and owner, and for training your dog to be an obedient, loyal and faithful member of your family. All dog training methods work to reinforce the relationship between you and your dog, and the foundation of any successful training program is getting the respect of your dog. Fortunately, dogs are wired by nature to seek out leaders, and to follow the direction of those leaders. You are your dog’s leader!

One of the most popular methods of dog training is the so called leash/collar style of training. Both leash/collar training and reward training have been used for many years, and both have established their effectiveness over time. While it is important to remember that each breed of dog has its own unique qualities, reinforced by hundreds of years of selective breeding, the style of training that works best often varies from dog to dog, and from breed to breed.

This is because personalities of individual dogs vary considerably, even within established breeds. You, as the owner of the dog, know better than anyone which style of dog training will work best, so it is important to work with the trainer you choose to achieve your goal of a willing, obedient and friendly dog.

Leash and collar style training usually works well with larger, heavier types of dogs, particularly where the dog needs to develop a high level of reliability. Dogs who have an important job to do, such as rescue dogs, police dogs and guard dogs, generally benefit from leash and collar training.

In leash and collar training, varying degrees of force can be used, ranging from slight prompts with the lead to very harsh corrections. The amount of correction used should be appropriate to the situation, since using too much correction, or too little, will be ineffective.

So how does it work?

In a collar and leash based dog training program, you will teach your dog a particular behavior, generally with the leash. After your dog has demonstrated that it understands the command, the leash is then used to correct the dog if it disobeys, or when it makes a mistake. The leash is the main form of controlling and communicating with the dog in leash and collar training.

If you send your dog to a specialized dog handler for training, the leash and collar method is probably the dog training style which will be used.

When using leash and collar training, the dog must be trained to trust the handler and accept his or her directions without question. In order for the dog to be fully trained, the handler must demonstrate the ability to place the dog into a posture or position he or she does not want to take. This does not mean using force, but it does generally require some level of physical manipulation. This manipulation is most easily and safely done using the main tool of leash and collar training – the leash.

It is important for every would be dog trainer to understand that the leash is simply a tool. While the leash is an important tool in this form of training, it is important for the dog trainer to be able to eventually achieve the same results using whatever tools are at hand.

Even when the only tools at hand are the owner’s body and skill, the dog should be willing to obey. Creating a leader/follower relationship between handler and dog is still very important, and it is important to use the leash as a tool and not a crutch. A properly trained dog should be willing to obey whether the leash is present or not.

Therefore, the end result that you’ll be wanting to achieve, whether you train your dog yourself at home, in an obedience training group, or by having your dog trained by a dog trainer, is for your dog to continue to obey your commands even after you take the leash and collar away.

Happy dog training!

About the author:
Brigitte Smith runs two websites dedicated to dog training, dog care and dog health:
Grab your free special report here:
Healthy Happy Dogs
or here:
Dog Training and Wellness

Circulated by Article Highway

From Blog Owner : Read more articles about Car, Car Insurance, Young Science, Loan, Parenting, Dog, Basketball, Golf, Vacation Leisure, Fashion-Jewelry, Koi, Carp, Resources, Women.

Why Train Your Dog?

2006-12-21T06:25:00.000-08:00

Why Train Your Dog?

Understanding the manner in which dogs evolved, and how dogs interact with each other, is very important to understanding how to properly train your dog to be a devoted, loyal companion.

Originally, dogs were probably orphaned wolf pups adopted by early humans. These wild dogs probably learned to perform behaviors that their human protectors valued, such as guarding the cave or scaring off predators. In exchange for these valued behaviors, the humans probably provided their new companions with foods, protection and shelter.

That kind of relationship still exists today, of course, and dogs still can, and do, perform valuable jobs for their human benefactors. Those jobs include herding and guarding livestock, guarding property, guarding people, and finding game.

There are many reasons for teaching proper dog behavior, and teaching such behavior has many benefits for both you and your dog. Dog behavior training is vital to such life and death issues as preventing aggression, controlling dog on dog aggression problems and teaching dogs to interact properly with both their owners and with other members of the family.

When planning a dog training program, it is important to know that dogs are pack animals. In wild dog societies, packs are formed, and each member of the pack quickly learns his or her place in the pecking order. Except in the event of death or injury to the alpha dog, the hierarchy never changes once it has been established. The lower dogs know not to challenge the alpha dog, and the alpha dog understand his place as leader of the pack.

All the other dogs in the pack look to the alpha dog for leadership, in important survival issues like finding food and avoiding larger predators. In order to properly train your dog and gain its respect, it is important for you to become the alpha dog.

That is because a dog that sees its owner as a superior leader will follow the commands the owner gives without question. Getting the respect of the dog is the most important step to proper dog training, and it will form the basis of all subsequent training.

The reasons for training a dog properly are many, especially in today’s world. A well mannered, obedient dog is a joy to be around, both for the owner and his or her family, and for people in the community at large. In addition, seeing a well mannered dog sets people’s mind at ease, especially with breeds of dog thought to be dangerous, such as Dobermans, rottweilers and pit bulls.

When training dogs and dealing with unwanted dog behaviors, it is important to understand the motivating factors behind those behaviors. For example, many dogs exhibit unwanted behaviors such as chewing and destroying furniture due to separation anxiety. Dealing with the sources of problem behaviors is an important first step toward eliminating those problem behaviors.

Many dogs exhibit unwanted behaviors as a result of stress in the animal’s life, and its inability to cope with that stress. The goal of a good dog training program is to allow the dog to tolerate greater levels of stress without becoming a problem animal.

When dealing with dog behavior, it is important not to confuse human behavior with dog behavior. While there is a great temptation on the part of dog owners to see their dogs as almost human, in reality dogs and humans have very different motivations, and very different reactions to similar situations.

One trait that humans and dogs do share, however, is the need to form close social groups and strong bonds within those social groups. This bonding is important to both humans and dogs, but it has served vastly different ends as both species have evolved and changed over time.

Today it has evolved into what almost everyone agrees is a relationship between man and his best friend. Dogs truly can be trained to be a loyal and steadfast companion who will bring you many years of joy.

About the author:
Brigitte Smith runs two websites dedicated to dog training, dog care and dog health:
Grab your free special report here:
Healthy Happy Dogs
or here:
Dog Training and Wellness

Circulated by Article Grinder

From Blog Owner : Read more articles about Car, Car Insurance, Young Science, Loan, Parenting, Dog, Basketball, Golf, Vacation Leisure, Fashion-Jewelry, Koi, Carp, Resources, Women.

Reward Train Your Dog

2006-12-21T06:23:00.001-08:00

Reward Train Your Dog

Reward training is commonly thought of as a modern method of training a dog, but reward training is actually much older than you probably think, when compared to other methods of dog training.

Many principles of modern reward training date back many decades.
It is possible that reward training for dogs has been around as long as there have been dogs to train. Early humans probably used some informal kind of reward training when taming the wolf pups that eventually evolved into modern dogs.

However, what is called reward training today has only enjoyed is remarkable popularity for the past 10 or 15 years.

Many reward training enthusiasts are less enthusiastic about other methods of dog training, such as the traditional leash and collar method. However, the best approach to training any individual dog is often a combination of leash/collar training and reward training.

In addition, a training method that works perfectly for one dog may be totally inappropriate for another, and vice versa. Some dogs respond wonderfully to reward training and not at all to leash and collar training, while others respond to leash/collar training and are not at all motivated by reward training. Most dogs fall somewhere in the middle of these two extremes.

Clicker training is one of the most popular forms of reward training today. While clicker training is not the answer for every dog, it can be a remarkably effective method of training many dogs. In clicker training, the dog is taught to associate a clicking sound with a reward, like a treat. The trainer clicks the clicker when the dog does something good, followed immediately by a treat. Eventually, the dog learns to respond to the clicker alone.

Most reward training uses some sort of food reward, or a reward that is associated with getting food. In most cases, complex behaviors can only be taught using this kind of positive reinforcement, and you will find that the people who train dogs for movies and television use reward training almost exclusively.

Reward training is used in all forms of dog training, including police work and military applications. Most scent detection, tracking and police dogs are trained using some form of reward training. Reward training is also a very effective way to teach many basic obedience commands.

Reward training often incorporates the use of a lure in order to get the dog into the position desired by the trainer. The lure is used to get the dog to perform the desired behavior on his or her own and of his or her own free will.

It makes a great deal of sense to get the dog to perform the desired behavior without any physical intervention on the part of the handler. Getting the dog to perform a behavior without being touched is important.

After the dog has performed the desired behavior, it is given a reward, also called a positive reinforcement. Treats are often used as reinforcers, but praise, such as “good dog” or a pat on the head, can also be effective rewards.

Ensuring that a dog that has been reward trained is a reliable dog is important, especially when the dog has an important job, like police work or drug detection, to do. For that reason it is important to get the dog accustomed to working around distractions, and to properly socialize the animal to both people and other animals. Certainly it is possible to reward train dogs with important jobs to do, although often the leash and collar method is the preferred option for such dogs.

Many dog trainers make the mistake of only training the dog inside the house or back yard, and only when the handler is there. In order to become a reliably trained companion, the dog must be taken outside the confines of its safety zone and introduced to novel situations.

It is also important to teach the dog to pay attention to you at all times. Having the attention of the dog means having control of the dog. Reward training is very effective at getting the respect and the attention of your dog.

About the author:
Brigitte Smith runs two websites dedicated to dog training, dog care and dog health:
Grab your free special report here:
Healthy Happy Dogs
or here:
Dog Training and Wellness

Circulated by Article Grinder

From Blog Owner : Read more articles about Car, Car Insurance, Young Science, Loan, Parenting, Dog, Basketball, Golf, Vacation Leisure, Fashion-Jewelry, Koi, Carp, Resources, Women.

Dog Grooming

2006-12-21T06:23:00.000-08:00

Dog Grooming

Dog Grooming & Routine Care

All dogs need regular grooming. It improves the appearance of short coated dogs, and is essential for those with long coats. It also does much to stop unwanted hair on the furniture and carpets. Start as soon as you get your dog or puppy. If you get dogs used to grooming from an early age they will accept it as a normal routine and become to enjoy it.

For the shorter haired dogs a fairly firm clothes brush will be sufficient, but if you need one that's a bit stiffer your local pet store should have a wide choice of brushes. Regular brushing will remove the loose hair and give a shine to the dogs coat. For long haired breeds a strong steel comb as well as a brush is essential. So many owners think they are grooming their dogs when they are actually only running a brush over the surface of the tangled coat. A daily grooming should prevent the formation of matts and tangles, even in spaniels and poodles.

Parasites

Remember while grooming your dog to look for parasites such as fleas and lice which may have been picked up by your dog. To see how to deal with these, please visit our pet website which is shown below.

You may also find grass seeds in the coat, and especially between the toes. These, if not removed, may penetrate the skin causing painful abscesses. A daily examination of the coat will also give you the opportunity to check for skin irritations that may need attention.

Foot Care.

The feet should be examined daily, especially the hairy types of dog such as spaniels, for the presence of thorns. It is better to keep the hair between the toes and under the pads trimmed short, and to wash the feet after exercise in muddy weather. The accumulation of grit and hard packed mud under the pads may contribute to the formation of cysts or boils on the feet. Keeping your dogs feet clean is a must.

Author John Moore - Family man and animal lover. Thank you for reading my article. Please use my link http://www.pet-dog-cat.com

About the author:
Author - John Moore - Family man and animal lover. Please use my link

Circulated by Article Grinder

From Blog Owner : Read more articles about Car, Car Insurance, Young Science, Loan, Parenting, Dog, Basketball, Golf, Vacation Leisure, Fashion-Jewelry, Koi, Carp, Resources, Women.

3 Important Tips to Remember on Puppy Training

2006-12-21T06:22:00.000-08:00

3 Important Tips to Remember on Puppy Training

There are as many ways to raise a puppy as there are to raising a child. In fact, one way per family in general! But most of us agree that when it comes to children, certain things are universal and undisputed. Here are three things that a lot of people just do not think of when it comes to raising their dogs, however. How many times have we heard, "My dog just won't listen to me", or "He just won't behave!"

1. Dogs do not understand English until we teach them.

The thing we all love about puppies the most is the way they live for us, the way they focus all they have on us, the way our lives become theirs. in the beginning, they study us to learn our body language, our facial expressions and our language. Until we teach them the English language, it's all they have. If we say, "Wanna go out?" one day, "Have to go potty?" the next day, and, "Hafta pee?" the third day, if they DO figure out what we want, it is because we have picked up the leash and moved toward the door with a happy face! If you want to speed up his training by three-fold, teach him YOUR language. Pick a command for EACH behavior and stick with it. Tell all in your family to use the same words and commands, and your puppy will amaze you at how much faster he learns.

2. A young puppy's metabolism is racing along faster than we think.
The younger your puppy is, the faster he is growing, the more food and water he needs to fuel his metabolism, and the more often he has to go potty. Do not punish your puppy when he makes a house-breaking mistake. These are YOUR fault. Your puppy's age in weeks and his breed size determine how often he must go out. Once an hour is not too often for a large 6-week old puppy, especially if it is summertime. Dogs love the exciting smells outdoors, so there is no excuse to not have him housebroken by 7-8 weeks of age. Right after a nap, after he eats and after grooming are the key times, and he will signal you. If he is happily chewing a toy and gets up suddenly with his nose to the floor, move quickly! And every time he goes potty outside
, praise him to high heaven! "What a good BOYY!", "GOOD go potty!" and the like. Dogs love our happy faces, and they will do anything to get it.

3. Dogs live for our facial expressions and body language.
Because of this, the worst punishment you ever need to give your dog is a scowl and to turn away from him. You can see his tail fall down and his face get so sad. He will learn the lesson, I guarantee it. But his attention span is only 3-5 minutes, so do not scorn him any longer. Love him up and give him your happy face again. Physical punishment is never necessary. Use consistent commands and loving praise and he will know what you want of him before you know. He will become a master of your body language and facial expressions in no time at all.

Naturally there are many aspects of training your puppy well. Loving kindness works just as well for puppies as it does with children, creating a happy, well-adjusted and obedient dog for life. These three important tips, used consistently with confidence, will start him well on his way.

About the author:
Dy Witt has shown, bred and trained standard poodles for 25 years. Her puppies' manners and training were so impressive that their new vets and groomers sent word back that they had never worked on such well-adjusted dogs in their careers. To read more about her dog and puppy training techniques and her new ebook, visit:

Circulated by Article Highway

From Blog Owner : Read more articles about Car, Car Insurance, Young Science, Loan, Parenting, Dog, Basketball, Golf, Vacation Leisure, Fashion-Jewelry, Koi, Carp, Resources, Women.

Puppy Training and Puppy Play – the Importance of Socialization

2006-12-21T06:20:00.000-08:00

Puppy Training and Puppy Play – the Importance of Socialization

Puppy training is often considerably easier than training an adult or adolescent dog. One reason is that the puppy is essentially a “blank slate”, untroubled by past training techniques and other issues. Another more indirect reason is that you are probably more likely to spend more time and have greater patience with your new puppy than you would after the “novelty” has worn off somewhat. And it tends to be human nature to have greater patience with young (dogs and people), since we know that they’re inexperienced in life and they’re usually eager to learn.

In other ways, however, the puppy can be a little more difficult to train than an older dog. One challenge to training a new puppy is that puppies are more easily distractible than older dogs. Everything is new to a puppy, and every new experience provides a new chance for distraction. For this reason, it is best to keep training sessions short when working with a puppy, and to end each training sessions on a positive note.

It is also important to allow the puppy plenty of time to play, and to interact with other puppies and dogs. Socialization training is vital to making your new puppy a good canine citizen, as dog aggression is a growing problem in many areas. A properly socialized dog learns how to play properly with other dogs, and overly aggressive play is punished by the other dogs in the play group.

This type of play learning is something that happens among siblings in litters of puppies. As the puppies play with each other, they learn what is appropriate and what is not. Inappropriate behavior, such as hard biting or scratching, is punished by the other puppies, by the mother dog, or both.

Failure to properly socialize can be a major problem with your dog, and it is an important reason for always buying from a responsible breeder, and never taking your puppy home before he is 8 weeks of age. A large proportion of this important socialization experience occurs in those last weeks with the puppy’s mother and siblings.

A responsible and experienced breeder knows this, and will never allow prospective puppy owners take puppies home until 8 weeks of age, but it is nevertheless a very important and useful fact to be aware of yourself.

Unfortunately, many puppies are removed from their mothers and sold or adopted before this socialization has fully occurred. In these instances, even more than ever, puppy play sessions initiated by you are a very important part of any puppy training session. Most good puppy preschool training programs provide time in each session for this type of dog interaction.

Introducing your puppy to new experiences and new locations is also an important part of puppy training. Teaching your dog to be obedient and responsive, even in the face of many distractions, is very important when training dogs and puppies.

One great way to socialize your puppy both to new people and new dogs is to take it on a trip to your local pet store. Many major pet store chains, and some independent ones as well, allow pet parents to bring their furry children, and these stores can be great places for puppies to get used to new sights, sounds and smells. Of course you will want to make sure the store allows pets before heading over, and you will also want to keep the visits fairly short, both for your puppy’s sake, and in consideration of the pet store personnel.

It is important for puppy owners to structure their pet’s environment so that the puppy is rewarded for good behaviors and not rewarded for others. One good example of this is jumping on people. Many people inadvertently reward this behavior because it can be cute. While it is true that jumping can be cute for a 10 pound puppy, it will not be so cute when that puppy has grown into a 100 pound dog.

Laughing at your puppy, or paying any attention to him at all when he jumps up, will be interpreted as a reward by your puppy – he will learn that he will receive attention from you when he does this. So be very careful not to confuse your puppy. There are two strategies for undesired behaviors – firmly saying “No” to your puppy, and/or ignoring the behavior completely. For “repeat offenders”, the ignoring method works best, as it is possible that your puppy will be interpreting ANY attention (even you saying “No” to him) as a reward for the behavior.

Conversely, of course, good behaviors should be rewarded immediately (either with treats or simply with lots of attention and fuss – saying “Good boy” in a very positive tone of voice, and stroking your dog at the same time is often just as well received as treats are). This type of positive reinforcement will result in a well behaved adult dog that is a valued member of both the family and the community at large.

The positive reinforcement method can also be used in potty training the new puppy. Teaching a puppy to use a unique surface such as gravel or asphalt is a good technique. The theory is that the puppy will associate this surface with going potty, and therefore be reluctant to use other surfaces (like your kitchen carpet for example) as a potty. Many puppies can, with a little patience, be readily trained to use the same spot for toileting. This is a great technique, as it will train your puppy to go “on command”, and will save you having to scour the back yard when cleaning up after your puppy.

About the author:
Brigitte Smith runs two websites dedicated to dog training, dog care and dog health:
Grab your free special report here:
Healthy Happy Dogs
or here:
Dog Training and Wellness

Circulated by Article Highway

From Blog Owner : Read more articles about Car, Car Insurance, Young Science, Loan, Parenting, Dog, Basketball, Golf, Vacation Leisure, Fashion-Jewelry, Koi, Carp, Resources, Women.

Protect Your Cat With Vaccinations

2006-12-21T06:19:00.000-08:00

Protect Your Cat With Vaccinations

If you want to enjoy the companionship of a healthy and happy cat, 1 of the most important things you can do is to safeguard its health. Vaccinations can protect your cat from many common cat diseases.

Weaned From Mother's Immunity

When your kitten is 6 to 8 weeks old, you should begin his vaccinations. Before this time, the mother's antibodies have been protecting him. Once he is weaned, however, he will need to develop antibodies of his own.

The Vital First Visit

The first office visit is when your veterinarian will give your kitten a complete physical examination. A fecal exam is normally done to assure that your kitten doesn't have worms. Prior to vaccinations, your veterinarian should do a blood test to be sure the kitten is not already infected with Feline Leukemia. The vet may also test for Feline Infectious Peritonitis. These tests are quick, and your veterinarian will have preliminary results in minutes.

If your kitten is not already infected with 1 of these diseases, the vet will give your kitten his first Feline Leukemia and FIP vaccines, assuming if he is at risk for these diseases. An only cat who never leaves home may not need these vaccines, in which case your veterinarian may recommend against giving them.

Whether he leaves the house or not, your kitten should receive his first FVRCPC vaccine. This combination vaccine protects kittens from rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia and chlamydia.

Follow-Up Vaccines And Worming

Within 2 to 4 weeks your kitten should visit the veterinarian again, at the age of 8 to 12 weeks. This time he will get a second round of shots for FVRCPC, Feline Leukemia, and FIP. If your kitten was wormed during his first visit, the vet will give him his second worming. If your kitten is at least 12 weeks old and spends time outdoors, he should also receive his first Rabies vaccine.

Your kitten's third visit to the veterinarian takes place when he is 10 to 16 weeks old, when he will receive his third FVRCPC vaccine. Kittens who were too young for their first Rabies vaccine on their previous visit will receive it at this time.

The First Birthday Visit

After completing his third set of FVRCPC vaccines, your kitten will not need any more injections until he is 1 year old. At that time he will need Rabies and FVRCPC booster shots. If the Rabies shot is given to your cat within 1 year of his first Rabies vaccine, it will be good for 3 years. Your cat will need to return each year, however, for the FVRCPC vaccine. When your cat is 1 year of age, he will also receive boosters for FIP and Feline Leukemia if he received these vaccines as a kitten.

Rare Side Effects

Most of the time vaccines are quite safe, yet occasionally side effects can occur. Vaccines for Feline Leukemia can sometimes cause a form of cancer at the site of the injection. For this reason veterinarians usually do not recommend the vaccine for cats who are not at risk. A tumor can sometimes occur at the site of other vaccinations, as well. This type of tumor can often be removed before it spreads. Should you notice a lump developing at the injection site, call your veterinarian without delay. These lumps usually are a simple allergic reaction to the injection, but a lump can develop into a tumor, which, if caught early, can be successfully removed.

The risk of catching a disease without vaccinations is much higher than the risk of side effects. Just as with humans, shots are an unpleasant, but necessary part of growing up healthy.

About the author:
Visit New Cat to learn more. Copyright 2005 Ron King. Ron King is a full-time researcher, writer, and web developer. This article may be reprinted if the resource box is left intact.

Circulated by Article Emporium

From Blog Owner : Read more articles about Car, Car Insurance, Young Science, Loan, Parenting, Dog, Basketball, Golf, Vacation Leisure, Fashion-Jewelry, Koi, Carp, Resources, Women.

Jogging Car Seat

2006-12-21T06:18:00.000-08:00

Jogging Car Seat

Jogging Stroller Car Seat

One of the greatest innovations in stroller design in recent years is the travel system. These all-in-one systems have integrated car seats, strollers, and (sometimes) bassinets, which allow you to move your baby easily from car to stroller and back again.

The jogging stroller manufacturers have not missed this great design and parents are now able to buy a jogging stroller car seat for their infant.

The car seat in these travel systems is attached to a base which is permanently installed in the rear car seat.

The car seat (baby and all) can be attached to the base with a minimum of fuss and when you arrive at your destination it can be taken out of the car and placed on the stroller – all without waking baby!

Several jogging stroller manufacturers have models that can accommodate popular brands of car seats. This is a logical step to the jogging stroller as all-purpose stroller – meaning that parents need only buy one stroller for all their needs.

Although it is not advised to expose small babies to the jostling motion of jogging, jogging strollers can still be used for regular walks until your baby is old enough to support her head. After the age of 6 months parents can safely take baby with them on their regular jog.

Parents who buy a jogging stroller car seat right at the start can save the expense of buying two types of stroller. If you have (or are expecting) a new baby, look for jogging strollers that have this feature.

It’s worthwhile to get the best jogging stroller you can afford. You can expect to get almost 3 years of use from it for each child, and you child will enjoy these outing all the more if he or she is comfortable and secure.

Jogging strollers should have a 5-point harness system, a hand brake for controlling the stroller when jogging, a parking brake, and a tether strap. Other features that make the stroller more convenient include storage pockets for keys, cell phones, and toys.

About the author:

Linda is author of
http://www.baby-strollers-guide.comand

http://www.baby-product-guides.com/Visitus for more!

Circulated by Article Grinder

From Blog Owner : Read more articles about Car, Car Insurance, Young Science, Loan, Parenting, Dog, Basketball, Golf, Vacation Leisure, Fashion-Jewelry, Koi, Carp, Resources, Women.

Health Problems In Cats

2006-12-21T06:16:00.000-08:00

Health Problems In Cats

It may come as a surprise, if you're a new cat owner, that many health problems may befall your feline friend. Some problems are easily preventable, while others are hereditary.

Hairballs

Hairballs are among the most common of cat health problems. Cats groom themselves almost constantly, and swallow the loose hair that comes off their tongues. Occasionally, the hair gathers into a ball and lodges in the cat's digestive tract instead of passing on through the body. If your cat starts coughing and hacking, he probably has a hairball. While the end product is unpleasant for the owner, most cats don't have a problem dislodging hairballs.

However, hairballs can occasionally pass into a cat's intestines and cause a blockage. This can be a life-threatening problem. There are a few signs to look for to see if your cat's hairball is dangerous. If your cat is constipated, off his feed, or is lethargic with a dull coat, then he could have a serious blockage. A vet exam is definitely in order.

To prevent hairballs, groom your cat frequently to remove loose hair. In addition, feed your cat food that helps control hairballs.

Worms

For many cats, worms are a recurring problem. Roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms most commonly infect cats. Cats can occasionally develop heartworms, as well. If your cat seems unable to gain wait, is infested with fleas, or has white specks that look like grains of rice in his stools, take him to the veterinarian for worm testing.

Worms are easily cured with a few doses of medication, but if left untreated, they can be fatal.

Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections are another common health problem in cats. This infection is particularly common in unneutered male cats, although female cats can also develop this problem. If your cat suddenly stops using the litter box, a urinary tract infection is suspect. If your cat's urine smells strong, again a urinary tract infection may be the cause. These infections need to be treated by a veterinarian. Ask about cat foods that reduce the likelihood of another infection.

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)

FIP is caused by a mutation of the corona virus. According to some experts, cats living in multi-cat environments tend to test positive for enteric corona virus. Cats can live with that virus remaining quietly in the intestines with no sign of disease for their entire lifetime. In other cases, probably a genetic pre-disposition, the virus mutates into FIP.

Once a cat has contracted FIP, it will display symptoms of a mild upper respiratory infection: sneezing, watery eyes, and nasal discharge. It may also have diarrhea, weight loss and lethargy. Most cats fully recover from this primary infection, although some may become virus carriers. A small percentage of exposed cats develop lethal FIP weeks or even years after the primary infection.

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus

FIV, or cat AIDS, is not always fatal. FIV decreases the ability of the cat's immune system to fight infections. Cats with FIV may remain free of symptoms for years. It is when the cat contracts other illnesses in the chronic stage of FIV infection that FIV is first suspected. This long list of illnesses includes oral-cavity infections, upper-respiratory infections, weight loss, ear infections, kidney disease, and many others. Although there is, as yet, no vaccine, all cats should be tested for the virus. The virus is transmitted through saliva, usually when a cat is bitten in a cat fight.

Feline Leukemia Virus

FLV was, until recently, the most common fatal disease of cats. But with a vaccine now available, the number of cases is dwindling. Although the name leukemia means cancer of the white blood cells, this is only 1 of the many diseases associated with this virus, such as other types of cancer, anemia, arthritis and respiratory infections. FLV is preventable if the cat is immunized before being exposed to the virus. Although the disease is not always immediately fatal, cats with FLV rarely have a long life expectancy. NEVER bring other cats into your household when you have a cat with FLV.

Lyme Disease

If your cat spends time outdoors, you should check him regularly for ticks. If you find a tick on your cat's body and he has been lethargic and acts as if he is in pain, ask your vet to test for Lyme Disease. This disease is transmitted to people and animals by deer ticks.

Some cats may show subtle symptoms while others may show none -- symptoms are hard to recognize and often may be confused with other illnesses or old age. Be observant of your pet's behavior. It is the only way to know if your pet has contracted Lyme disease if no tick was found. Some symptoms of Feline Lyme Disease include:

(a) lethargy,
(b) reluctance to jump or climb stairs,
(c) limping, or reluctance to put weight on a paw,
(d) loss of appetite.

The key to dealing with Feline Lyme Disease is prevention and early diagnosis and treatment. You should reduce the tick population around your home with simple landscape changes and spraying.

Good Health Care

Taking your cat for a regular check-up with the vet, and keeping all vaccinations on schedule will help assure your cat a long and healthy life. Prevention is the first line of defense for most feline illnesses.

Many owners keep their cats indoors to protect them from cars, from cat fights which may expose them to deadly viruses, from ticks, and other hazards.

Outdoor cats will enjoy greater freedom, but require a watchful eye, loving attention to their health status, and regular visits to the veterinarian.

About the author:
Visit to learn more. Copyright 2005 Ron King. Ron King is a full-time researcher, writer, and web developer. This article may be reprinted if the resource box is left intact.

Circulated by Article Emporium

From Blog Owner : Read more articles about Car, Car Insurance, Young Science, Loan, Parenting, Dog, Basketball, Golf, Vacation Leisure, Fashion-Jewelry, Koi, Carp, Resources, Women.

Dog training - the basic commands

2006-12-21T06:15:00.000-08:00

Dog training - the basic commands

There are of course many reasons for owners to want a calm, obedient and faithful dog. For one thing, obedient and trained dogs are happier dogs, less likely to get into tussles with people or with other dogs. Another reason is that many communities require that the dogs living in their neighborhoods be well trained. This is especially true for many breeds thought to have aggression and behavior problems – dog breeds like pit bulls and rottweilers for instance.

And of course, training your dog well will also make he or she a much better family companion, especially in households where there are young children. Many studies have shown that proper dog training makes a big impact when it comes to cutting down the number of dog bits and other behavior problems encountered by dog owning households.

When considering training your own dog, or having someone else help you train it, there are certain basic commands that must be mastered in order for a dog to be considered truly trained. These basic commands include:

Heel – it is important that any dog learn to walk beside its owner on a loose lead, neither pulling ahead nor lagging behind
Respond to the word No – the word no is one word that all dogs must learn. Training your dog to respond to this important word can save you a ton of trouble.
Sit – Training your dog to sit on command is a vital part of any dog training program.
Stay – A well trained dog should remain where his or her owner commands, so stay is a very important command in dog training.
Down – Lying down on command is more than just a cute trick; it is a key component of any successful dog training program.

Dog training does much more than just create an obedient, willing companion. Training your dog properly actually strengthens the bond that already exists between dog and handler. Dogs are pack animals, and they look to their pack leader to tell them what to do. The key to successful dog training is to set yourself up as that pack leader.

Establishing yourself as pack leader is a very important concept for any potential dog trainer to understand. There is only one leader in every pack of dogs, and the owner must establish him or herself as the dominant animal. Failure to do so leads to all manner of behavior problems.

A properly trained dog will respond properly to all the owner’s commands, and will not display anxiety, displeasure or confusion. A good dog training program will focus on allowing the dog to learn just what is expected of it, and will use positive reinforcement to reward desired behaviors.

In addition to making the dog a good member of the community, obedience training is a great way to fulfill some of the dog’s own needs, including the need for exercise, the security that comes with knowing what is expected of it, a feeling of accomplishment and a good working relationship with its handler. Dog training gives the dog an important job to do, and an important goal to reach.

Giving the dog a job is more important than you may think. Dogs were originally bred by humans to do important work, such as herding sheep, guarding property and protecting people. Many dogs today have no important job to do, and this can often lead to boredom and neurotic behavior.

Basic obedience training, and ongoing training sessions, provide the dog with an important job to do. This is especially important for high energy breeds like German shepherds and border collies. Training sessions are a great way for these high energy dogs to use up their extra energy and simply to enjoy themselves.

Incorporating playtime into your dog training sessions is a great way to prevent both yourself and your dog from becoming bored. Playing with your dog helps to strengthen the all important bond between you – the pack leader – and your dog. Read more articles about dogs at http://www.doggies.ca or http://www.doggypost.com

About the author:
Webmaster of and

Circulated by Article Emporium

From Blog Owner : Read more articles about Car, Car Insurance, Young Science, Loan, Parenting, Dog, Basketball, Golf, Vacation Leisure, Fashion-Jewelry, Koi, Carp, Resources, Women.

Dog Training - How to Train Your Dog Effectively

2006-12-21T06:13:00.000-08:00

Dog Training - How to Train Your Dog Effectively

Some people believe that dogs need to be trained when they're young. To some extent for our own sanity that's true - especially with housetraining, and teaching your dog that chewing your shoes/slippers/anything that's accessible, is simple not acceptable.

But despite the old adage "You can't teach a old dog new tricks", it's perfectly possible to teach a dog of virtually any age new behaviours and even party tricks, if you like. Basically dog training boils down to rewarding your dog when s/he does something you like, and correcting your dog when s/he does something you don't like. Good training establishes an appropriate relationship between you and your dog, and it ensures that your dog understands what you want of him/her.

Of course, the dog may become somewhat set in his/her ways, and be less inclined to be interested in learning. My dogs tend to look at me a little suspiciously these days if I try to introduce a new command. But once they get the idea that I'm giving them a new way to please me, it doesn't take them too long to start to comply.

The idea is to teach your dog to make his own decisions (believe it or not!) Not complicated decisions, of course, - just whether to do something or not. If your dog makes the right decision, s/he'll be rewarded. If your dog makes the wrong decision, s'he'll receive a corrrection and the opportunity to then choose the right decision. Simple!

I've been reading some professional dog training secrets. They reminded me of an absolutely crucial point when training a dog - that consistency is critical with your dog. Because your dog is always looking for opportunities to elevate him/herself in the heirachy of your household, even just a little bit ... if you don't insist on a certain behaviour every single time, or conversely if you allow a misbehaviour even once, your dog gets a mixed message about what's acceptable and what s/he can get away with.

As an example, if you've taught your dog to come when called, the only way you can be certain s/he will come every single time you give the command, is if you don't give your dog a choice until you're 100 percent certain your dog will respond to your command every single time. That is, you must carry this training out with a long leash or rope, so you can make your dog come each time you call him/her.

Adam's ebook is over 300 pages long and explains all of this in much greater detail and not only tells you exactly how to train your dog to respond to specific commands, but also the most effective ways to prevent unwanted behaviours, and to have a much better behaved dog in general.

What I really like about Adam's strategies is that his methods utilise the dog's natural instincts and drives, and because you treat the dog as if s/he is a member of your pack, rather than a child of your household, you actually end up with a happier dog. Some of the methods described in the ebook are somewhat controversial, but I'd really recommend that you read the arguments he puts forward and make your own decision. I LOVE the ebook. Granted, it's not a literary masterpiece - actually it doesn't flow as well as it might, and it's somewhat repetitive - but the information contained in it is priceless.

(c) 2005, Brigitte Smith, Healthy Happy Dogs

About the author:
Brigitte Smith is a dog lover with a special interest in holistic dog health.

Pick up your special FREE dog health report - and your dog training information here - Dog Training Tips

Circulated by Article Emporium

From Blog Owner : Read more articles about Car, Car Insurance, Young Science, Loan, Parenting, Dog, Basketball, Golf, Vacation Leisure, Fashion-Jewelry, Koi, Carp, Resources, Women.

How to House Train Your Dog

2006-12-21T06:12:00.000-08:00

How to House Train Your Dog

House training is undoubtedly the one aspect of dog training that is essential to ensure that your dog becomes a valued member of your family. As with many other aspects of dog training, the best method of achieving a successfully house trained dog is to use your dog’s own nature to your advantage.
A wonderful thing about dogs that can make house training much easier, is that dogs are instinctively very clean animals. The majority of dogs would rather not soil the areas where they sleep and eat. In addition, dogs are very good at developing habits. This can be used to your benefit in relation to establishing a set place for your dog to urinate and defecate. For example, dogs that are used to eliminating on concrete or gravel will prefer to eliminate there rather than on grass or dirt. It is possible, and desirable, to use these natural canine tendencies when house training your dog.
The first step in house training your dog is to set up your training area. A small, confined space such as a bathroom, or part of a kitchen or garage, works best as a training area. This method of training differs from crate training. Crate training is great for puppies and small dogs, but many larger adult dogs find a crate too confining if they haven’t been used to it from an early stage.

It is important that you spend as much time in the training area with your dog as possible. Use this area to play with your dog, and let your dog eat and sleep in the training area. Provide your dog with a special bed in the training area – this can be anything from a store bought custom dog bed to a large towel in an appropriately sized box. At first, you will probably find that your dog will want to eliminate in this area, but once your dog has recognized the training area as his or her own space, he or she will be much more reluctant to soil it.

The next step in house training is to set up a toilet area for your dog. Your dog must have ready access to this place every time he or she needs to eliminate. It is also important for you to accompany your dog into the toilet area until he or she gets into the habit of eliminating in that area. This will help reinforce to your dog that there is one area for toileting, and no other.

Regular meals for your dog assists in making the house training process easier for both you and your dog. Feeding your dog on a regular basis will also have the added benefit of creating a regular schedule for your dog’s toilet habits. Once you know when your dog is likely to need to eliminate, it will be simple to guide your dog to the established toilet area.

Once you have your dog using the toilet area on a regular and systematic basis, it is very important to not confine your dog without access to the toilet area for long periods of time. If your dog is unable to hold it, he will have no option but to eliminate in the training area. And this occurrence will confuse your dog. He will no longer associate the toilet area with being the ONLY area in which he can eliminate. You will thus be making your job of house training your dog more difficult for yourself.

When your dog is consistently eliminating in the toilet area and not soiling the training area, it is time to extend that training area to the rest of the home. This process should be done slowly, starting with one room and slowly expanding to the rest of the house. The area should only be extended only once you are sure of the dog’s ability to control its bladder and bowels.

First expand the training area to another single room, and allow your dog to eat, play and sleep in that room, but only when supervised. When it is not possible to supervise the dog, place it back in the original training area. Then, after the dog has accepted the room as an extension of the original training area, the area can be extended.

Once your dog has become used to sleeping in the bed within the training area, you can move the bed around the house, relocating it from room to room. But when you are not with your dog, he or she should be confined to the training area.

You can speed up the house training process, but it is important to proceed cautiously. It will be much easier to take your time in the beginning than to have to retrain a problem dog later. You should always praise and reward your dog each and every time it uses the established toilet area. It is equally important not to punish your dog for mistakes. Punishment will only confuse the dog and slow down the house training process. You wouldn’t consider punishing a baby for soiling its diaper, would you? Or even a toddler for soiling his or her pants from time to time? Your dog is the same as a human child in this respect – he needs time to learn both to control his toileting, and what you require of him.

About the author:
Brigitte Smith runs two websites dedicated to dog training, dog care and dog health:
Grab your free special report here:
Healthy Happy Dogs
or here:
Dog Training and Wellness

Circulated by Article Highway

From Blog Owner : Read more articles about Car, Car Insurance, Young Science, Loan, Parenting, Dog, Basketball, Golf, Vacation Leisure, Fashion-Jewelry, Koi, Carp, Resources, Women.

Shampoo for Dogs - How to Find a Good One

2006-12-21T06:10:00.000-08:00

Shampoo for Dogs - How to Find a Good One

Does your dog always having a lush, soft coat?

Does your dog's skin remain rash and itch free?

If you said yes to either or both of the above questions, yours is a very fortunate dog.

More likely, like me, you said "No", or, perhaps "Sometimes".

Most of our dogs suffer from a dull coat and/or a skin irritation of some type from time to time. Some poor dogs seem to be plagued by skin problems, which often causes them to molt, or even to pull their own fur out in an attempt to relieve the itchiness.

This can be caused by a number of things, including a vitamin deficiency.

Even if you think you're feeding your dog an ideal diet, it may not be so. For years my vet complimented me on the great health of my dogs due to the largely raw diet I fed them, but little did I realise that down the track they would begin to develop degenerative conditions which I can now only attribute to a failure to supplement with vitamins and/or balanced holistic food.

Yes, diet can impact on your dog's skin condition and the look and feel of your dog's coat in a big way.

And fleas also, of course, can cause major skin irritation for your dog.

But for now, back to the external, and non-parasitic, causes of an irritated, dry or itchy skin.

Kara, my Rottweiler, has pretty sensitive skin - she gets a rash from coming into contact with the pollen from certain plants.

My Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Jet, is more hardy in the coat and skin department. Jet's pretty lucky. She doesn't get incessant itches very often at all, although she has been known to molt once or twice in her 10 years.

To keep your dog's skin and coat in tip top condition and health, a good dog shampoo is really important. When my dogs were younger I sometimes used cheap shampoos from discount stores. I came to the conclusion that this was really false economy. They cleaned the coat reasonably well, but weren't particularly beneficial to the skin.

Now I use an all-natural, enriched shampoo which helps relieve itching and dry, flaky skin. And the coat comes out really silky and it really seems to have a lovely shine. And it has a tearless formula, so it's kind to your dog's eyes! If you'd like to check it out, see below, at the end of the article.

If your dog is anything like my Rottweiler, Kara, your dog's fur is often dusty and not so great to stroke. Kara loves rolling in the dirt outside. When the dirt in the backyard is dry, I can brush out the dust and dirt without too much trouble.

But when it's damp Kara needs to be washed to really get her coat clean again. And when it's been pouring rain for a day or two, I actually try to keep her inside the house as much as possible. Because, yes, she rolls in the wet, sticky mud, when she gets a chance. You should see the mess she gets in. She can be covered in mud from head to toe. And she's most put out when I won't let her in the house in that state!

That's when the shampoo really comes in handy!

(c) 2005, Brigitte Smith, Healthy Happy Dogs

About the author:
Brigitte Smith is a dog lover with a special interest in holistic dog health.

Pick up your special FREE dog health report - and the dog health shampoo link - www.DogShampoo.BrigitteRecommends.com

Circulated by Article Highway

From Blog Owner : Read more articles about Car, Car Insurance, Young Science, Loan, Parenting, Dog, Basketball, Golf, Vacation Leisure, Fashion-Jewelry, Koi, Carp, Resources, Women.

How to Find a Sitter for your Dog

2006-12-21T06:07:00.000-08:00

How to Find a Sitter for your Dog

Whether your dog is old or a just a puppy, there will come a time when you have to out of town for business or a vacation where dogs aren't allowed. Therefore, you will need to leave your prized pet in the care of a pet sitter. Where can you find a pet sitter? What types of pet sitter services are available? How much will it cost to hire a pet sitter? These are some of the many questions that you need to answer before you hire a pet sitter.

You have two main options of where to leave your pet when you are away. You can take them to a boarding kennel or you can hire a pet sitter. By hiring a pet sitter it means that your dog will stay at your home and a pet sitter will visit your home several times per day to take care of your dog. The following questions and answers are geared toward those pet owners that decide to hire a pet sitter to take care of their dog.

Question #1: Where do I find a pet sitter? You can find a pet sitter through a number of means. Consult your veterinarian, groomer, and breeder for recommendations. Often times they know of a reliable pet sitter in your area or they can point you in the direction of pet sitter services. You can also check with your friends and family to see if they can refer you to a pet sitter. Word of mouth referral is a common way to find a pet sitter.

You can also take a trip to your local pet store or a chain pet store such as PETCO. Many pet sitters advertise their services at these places so you can find their contact information. The pet store owners and staff may know of a great pet sitter as well.

Another option is to call Pet Sitters International at (800) 268-SITS or check out their website at http://www.petsit.com/. Pet Sitters International is the world's largest organization of pet sitters. Pet Sitters International is highly respected organization. They offer a multitude of services including finding a pet sitter based on your zip and giving advice on how to prepare your home for the pet sitter.

Also spend time researching information about the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters by calling them at (800) 296-PETS. You can peruse their website at www.petsitters.org. Not only can you find a pet sitter based on your zip code, but you can find a "certified" pet sitter. They offer a certification program that ensures a pet sitter is knowledgeable about business management, animal care, and animal health issues. This type of certification can be a comfort in the event that your dog has a health problem.

Question #2: What type of tasks does a pet sitter do for you and your pet? A pet sitter is there to provide comfort, help, and care for your dog while you are away. They will visit your home on a daily basis to feed your dog, take them for walks, and let them out to go the bathroom. They can help your dog with any health ailments or continuing care such as medicines while you are away.

A pet sitter needs to be informed if your dog has any special needs. For example, your dog may be elderly and blind or deaf. Your pet sitter must know this so they can properly help your dog. Or your dog may be just a puppy and require more exercise then most dogs. Let your pet sitter know and they can increase the frequency of visits each day. The pet sitter should be able to work with your needs.

Your pet sitter will also take the responsibility of taking your dog to the vet if an accident occurs or the need arises. You need to let your pet sitter know how you want them to handle these types of situations and how to contact you in the event that this happens.

Question #3: How do I find the “best” pet sitter for my dog? Only you can determine the best pet sitter for your dog. Follow the same procedures you would as if you were hiring a babysitter for your children. Check out their references, interview them, and inquire about past work history. How do they interact with your dog? Speak to former or current clients to determine if they are right for you.

Also make sure the pet sitter has been certified and/or bonded and insured. Your dog's life is priceless so you definitely want a serious professional pet sitter to take care of your pooch.

Question #4: How much does a pet sitter cost? The cost of a pet sitter varies based on their experience, your location, the number of dogs you are leaving, and the level of care you need for the dogs. Some pet sitters charge on a per visit basis while others can work with you to determine a reasonable price. Make sure to have their scope of services and fees in writing. This will safeguard you against any miscommunication.

Question #5: How should I prepare my home and dog for the pet sitter? First of all, your dog needs to meet and get to know the pet sitter before you leave town. Have the pet sitter visit a few times until your dog is comfortable with their presence. You don't want to leave and suddenly have a new person show up to take care of your dog. Your dog may confuse the pet sitter for an unwanted stranger.

Provide emergency numbers of your veterinarian and also a number at which they can reach you. You want to make yourself available by phone in case an emergency pops up. Make sure your home is clean and the dog food bowls are clean. Speak with your pet sitter about feeding, walking and other pet care procedures first, but also leave all the directions in writing. Verify that this is plenty of dog food for the length of time you will be gone.

If you following these tips you will find the best pet sitter for your dog and have a comfortable time on your trip knowing your dog is in good hands.

About the author:
Katie, a lifelong dog lover, owns which is the ultimate dog lover's resource. Research dog breeds & get free tips on dog training, dog supplies, dog health, dog grooming, dog books & dog products.

Circulated by Article Highway

From Blog Owner : Read more articles about Car, Car Insurance, Young Science, Loan, Parenting, Dog, Basketball, Golf, Vacation Leisure, Fashion-Jewelry, Koi, Carp, Resources, Women.

8 Tips on How to Train a Dog

2006-12-13T10:05:00.000-08:00

8 Tips on How to Train a Dog

Having a dog as your companion can be a true joy. However, you don’t want your beloved buddy chewing your new shoes or going to the bathroom in the house. Therefore, you need to create a dog training plan to help your new puppy or dog understand the rules of the house.

What things should you focus on in dog training when you want your dog to understand the expected behaviors and even some fun tricks? Should you take dog training classes or complete dog training all on your own? The answer to these questions is that it depends. Take a look at the following dog training options to determine what type of dog training you want to provide for your canine best friend.

Possible dog training options include: a beginning obedience class that you can take through your local human society, dog supply stores such as PETCO, community recreation departments, and local colleges. These dog training classes can vary in price, time commitment, and personal attention. They are usually affordable and meet once a week at a community park. It is a great way to not only have your dog experience basic dog training, but socialize with other dogs as well.

If you have the financial resources and time you can hire a personal dog trainer. This type of trainer may be necessary if your pooch is having a hard time in basic classes and your dog training efforts aren’t making a difference. Before you invest in a private dog trainer it is important to make an accurate assessment of your dog training methods. Often times a dog that is not following directions is the result of the poor dog training by the dog’s owner.

A private dog trainer might be necessary if you are going to show your dog at dog shows. You can hire a dog trainer/handler or you can become one yourself. If you do, you must know the proper dog training techniques. You don’t want to have Fido jump up on the judges during the competition so he must be trained thoroughly and correctly.

You can also search through dog training books, guides, and various resources. There are products that will help you complete dog training such as special collars and muzzles. You can effectively go through a dog training regime with your canine if you follow these eight dog training tips.

Tip #1: Many people start their dog on the path to dog training success by enrolling them in a basic obedience class. This is a great idea because you will learn how to teach your do basic commands such as “sit”, “stay”, and “heel”.

You can teach these dog training commands by using verbal commands and physical actions. For example, right after you say the word “sit” you gently push your dog’s bottom down onto the ground and put them in the sit position. Immediately say “good” and smile. Give them a tasty treat as well. Basically, you want to do as much as you can to reinforce the action of sitting when you say “sit”.

Tip #2: Dogs act like absorbent sponges when it comes to learning proper behavior and tricks. If you do your job properly then dog training should be a hit. Your dog is ready and eager to learn proper behavior. They want to please you. Therefore, if they aren’t following your instruction it might not be their fault. You might be giving confusing dog training instructions.

Tip #3: Dogs thrive on positive reinforcement and encouragement. Positive reinforcement such as acting excited and petting your dog when they do the right behavior help with your dog training efforts. It is a dogÃ¢Â™s nature to want to be close to you and make you happy. Showing encouragement and praise will help your dog much farther, much faster in their dog training. Make sure to encourage a dog through each dog training accomplishment, no matter how big or small.

Tip #4: Food is a powerful motivator when it comes to dog training. You will be hard pressed to find a dog that passes up food or a tasty treat. Dogs are always hungry and welcome any situation where food is involved.

Tip #5: Dog training should be a gradual process with regards to skill level and learning more complex commands. Give your dog time to understand new commands. They most likely won’t learn it the first day you teach them. You will have to review the commands and proper behaviors often.

Tip #6: Have dog training sessions at various times throughout the day. Your dog needs periodic training to reinforce the proper behaviors. You dog’s attention span can wane, so make sure to keep the training sessions to five to ten minutes long.

Tip #7: When you first start dog training work in environment that is free from distractions so your dog can focus on their behavior. Once your dog understands the basic commands you can try to use the commands in a busier environment.

One thing you may find is that your dog is distracted and seems to have forgotten the commands. Don’t fret. This can happen because dogs tend to be situational learners and your dog just needs to work on the commands in the busier environment.

Tip #8: Too many treats equals an overweight dog. Dog training is a process that involves tasty treats, but too many of these treats can be a bad idea for your dog’s waistline. Use small treats and wean your dog off treats as they understand the different commands. They will then rely on your praise as the positive reinforcement for each behavior.

These eight dog training tips will set you on the road to happy, healthy, obedient pooch.

About the author:
Katie, a lifelong dog lover, owns which is the ultimate dog lover's resource. Research dog breeds & get free tips about dog care.

Circulated by Article Highway

From Blog Owner : Read more articles about Car, Car Insurance, Young Science, Loan, Parenting, Dog, Basketball, Golf, Vacation Leisure, Fashion-Jewelry, Koi, Carp, Resources, Women.

How To Take Care Of A Dog: 21 Key Factors You Should Know

2006-11-28T07:17:00.000-08:00

By Mike A. Jones
It is crucial to learn how to take care of a dog well before taking ownership. A dog requires a serious investment of the following resources:
1. Time
2. Energy
3. Finances
By the time you finish reading this article, the first level of your education on how to take care of a dog will be complete.
Below you will find 21 key factors involved. 11 are under Basic Needs, 5 under Equipment, and 5 under Treatment.
Section 1: Learn how to take care of a dog by being aware of their BASIC NEEDS
Dogs need:
1. Toilet and obedience training. A lack of training in these two areas can result in frustration and inconvenience for the owner to say the least, and at worst the dog could become a danger to their owners, the public, and to themselves.
2. To be with other dogs or people. Leaving them alone for long periods can have a serious effect on their health and well being. Even being left alone for 4 or more hours a day can contribute to destructive behavior.
3. To be brushed every day. This is especially important if their coat has long hair.
4. To have their teeth brushed and cleaned regularly.
5. Regular walks. How far and how often will depend on the size and nature of the dog.
6. A well thought out, balanced diet. You may need to get advice from your vet. A good range of high protein, fat, and carbohydrates is needed to ensure the dog remains healthy. Often the prepared foods available in pet shops or supermarkets contain the needed balance.
7. Plenty of water: A bowl of fresh, clean water should always be available.
8. Space: a fenced in area for play and exercise. The area will need to be kept clean of dog waste to avoid a health hazard.
9. A dry, warm place to sleep out of a draught. The bedding should be aired each day and preferably washed or replaced weekly.
10. Arrangements to be cared for when the owner take a vacation.
11. A vet so you can quickly take them in case of sickness or emergency. Think out carefully your choice of a vet. What equipment and facilities does the surgery offer? What costs are involved? Does the vet communicate well with you so you feel relaxed asking questions?
Section 2: Learn how to take care of a dog by obtaining the EQUIPMENT they need
Dogs need:
1. A lead for walking in urban areas.
2. A collar and/with an identity label or tag.
3. A bed and a dog blanket.
4. A scoop to collect dog waste for disposal.
5. A good quality dog brush.
Section 3: Learn how to take care of a dog by arranging for the TREATMENT they need
Dogs need:
1. Regular checks and treatment for worms and fleas.
2. Injections to protect against serious diseases: check with your vet.
3. Regular teeth checkups by the vet.
4. Optional: Neutering.
5. Optional: Microchip implanting.
Regarding the last two optional procedures, keep these points in mind:
Apart from avoiding unwanted pregnancy, some authorities say neutering can make a dog a better pet. For example, neutered dogs tend to be less dominant, and have a lesser tendency to roam and mark territory.
Dog microchipping will allow you to easily locate your dog in the event it gets lost or stolen. Regretfully many dogs end up with new owners, or are taken to dog shelters, because their owners cannot find them. The microchip can forestall that heartbreaking scenario.
The microchip is no larger than a grain of rice. The procedure is no more painful than a vaccination as the tiny chip is implanted under the loose skin over the dog's shoulder.
The guidelines above emphasize the need to carefully think out dog ownership. However, this is just the first part of the education.
To have an in-depth understanding of how to take care of a dog, you are well advised to have a good talk with a local veterinary surgeon who can answer specific questions relating to the type of dog that is best suited for your circumstances.
Once you have decided on a particular breed, seek out other owners of that breed and learn more about the characteristics of the dog and considerations you will have to keep in mind. You will get a very accurate perspective by talking to other dog owners.
Learn how to take care of a dog well before ownership and you will be rewarded with an intelligent, loyal friend who will give you unlimited fun and enjoyment!
5 tips for choosing the best vet - check Mike's tutorial =>http://www.vitalstop.com/PuppyTraining
Get the right leash =>http://www.vitalstop.com/PuppyTraining/3-RightLeash.htm
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_A._Jones
From Blog Owner : Read more articles about Car, Car Insurance, Young Science, Loan, Parenting, Dog, Basketball, Golf, Vacation Leisure, Fashion-Jewelry, Koi, Carp, Resources, Women

Puppies As Pets - Don't Forget About

2006-11-07T09:06:00.001-08:00

By Chris Campbell
Bringing a new puppy into your home is one of the most exciting moments in you and your families life. There are several important things you should consider before bringing the little guy home, or even before making a decision to buy a puppy dog in the first place. Here are a couple of things to think about.
The dog belongs to who? Dogs are pack animals, and will behave and learn best, if they understand who is the overall leader for responsibility for the dog. That's not to say that others won't or shouldn't have roles when it comes to the new puppy. It's just better for everyone involved, including the puppy, that there is one leader of the pack.
Is your puppy knowledge up to par? This is an especially important consideration for first time dog owners. You old dogs that have had pets before can skip this piece. While feeding, exercise, and grooming are important things for your dog, there are several other important points to consider as well. Health care for the life of the dog is important, and even more so as it gets older. Younger dogs will require much more of your attention in its training. Good training at an early age, is something you and your puppy will benefit all the years of your pets life.
Who's got time for a new pet these days? While in the earliest years of a dogs life, the training and attention a new dog requires is huge, the later years can be just as time consuming as well. Even for a less active and demanding older dog, companionship is important for the physical and emotional well being of your dog. You will be investing thousands of hours over the life of your dog, so make sure yourcommitted to this important relationship.
Is your level of commitment strong? Commitment to someone or something else requires a certain amount of sacrifice, and some loss of freedom on your part. While we've all made commitments in the past, most dogs live ten to fifteen years. That's a pretty long term commitment to be making. Longer than some marriages these days. So be sure your ready.
While it's important to consider all these questions and more, don't let them scare you away from your new puppy purchase. Many have done it in the past, and the rewards, companionship, and good times will more than pay you back for the time and love you give to you puppy. Careful consideration to all these questions, will only enhance your puppy experience and bring a lifetime of joy.
Read more great information on your puppy dog and puppy breeders, or visit foolishmumbles.com/category/puppy-dog
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_Campbell

New Puppy - What You Need To Know

2006-11-07T09:06:00.000-08:00

By Chris Campbell
Previous dog owners are all very well aware of the unique bond that can be formed between master and dog. Previous dog owners could also tell you about the responsibility, the long term commitments, and responsible consideration for society and the people in it, when it comes to your dog. Of course most people, whether they have owned a dog or not, realize what a loyal and affectionate friend a puppy can be if treated properly and taught the difference between good and bad behavior. Choosing a new puppy, is not just a matter of the heart, but firstly a matter of the head when making this important decision. You need to logically consider things like how big the puppy will grow to, what potential health issues there could be, what the temperament of the dog will be, and how well that will fit into you and your families life style. Of the many important questions you should ask yourself before choosing a new puppy as a pet, probably the most important question is one you should ask yourself.
Puppy Expectations
That questions is, what exactly is it that you want from a dog. Or perhaps what are your expectations for this new member of your family. Your dog will in essence become a new member of your family. Are you willing to share your home, and your life with this very new, very dependent family member? Some people expect a dog to carry out a specific task as a new member of their family. Such as expecting the dog to become a watchdog. Dogs, regardless of size will almost definitely sound some kind of warning, when your home or family members are approached by a stranger. Of course if you have more exacting requirements, than just having a poodle that barks at the mailman, then there are several things to consider. Certain breeds are excellent for guarding family and property, but specific training and handling are required to train and teach a dog to behave in this manner. Perhaps your expectations revolve around competing in dog shows and other competitions. If so, consider why you would enjoy this, and perhaps talk with someone who has done this type of thing before. Perhaps you looking for a dog that can be a playmate, and confidante to younger members of your family. Having a dog can be a great way to teach responsibility to young and growing members of your family.
Do Some Doggy Homework
These are only a few of the possible expectations you may have for a dog in your life. The best thing you can do at this point, would be to sit down and carefully consider all the reasons why you want a new pet, and all the expectations you will have for the dog. Once you've done this, then you can start looking at the different types of breeds, and find the dog that will be right for you, your lifestyle, and your family. Happy puppy hunting.
Read more great information on your puppy dog and puppy breeders, or visit foolishmumbles.com/category/puppy-dog
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_Campbell

The Australian Cattle Dog - Intelligent and Hard Working

2006-11-07T09:05:00.000-08:00

By Lee Dobbins
If you are looking for an intelligent dog that will act as a guard dog, then the Australian Cattle Dog may be perfect for you!
Bred in the 19th century by early settlers, the Australian Cattle Dog is a mix of Collies imported from Scotland and Australian dingoes with a few other breeds thrown in for good measure. This dog, also known as the Blue Heeler, the Australian Heeler in the Queensland Heeler is one of the best herding breeds known and gets his name due to the fact that he nips at the heels to herd.
That being said, as a pet you may find your Australian Cattle Dog exhibiting herding behavior. This dog can be a one-man dog so to speak, and may nip at the heels of your friends when they come to visit trying to herd them. Proper training needs to be done in order to have a pet that does not chase off everyone you know.
The Australian Cattle Dog is one of the most intelligent breeds and along with this intelligence comes the need to be kept busy and useful. If you a lot of time in your hands and want to work with a dog for agility training this breed might be your perfect match. He can be easily trained to be an obedient dog but you must vary the training so that he doesn’t get bored.
The Australian cattle dog is a medium-size dog about 17 to 20 inches and around 35 pounds. He is a powerful, compact dog and is very agile on his feet. Ears stand up straight and pointed at the top of his broad head. He has intelligent oval eyes that are dark in color. He has a short double coat that can be either red with speckles or blue with speckles. The blue variety is sometimes seen with blue, tan or black markings.
The Australian Cattle Dog does need a lot of exercise and will do well with a house that has a large fenced in yard. If he doesn’t get enough exercise you will probably see behavioral problems. This breed is very loyal to his master but can be dominant of other dogs and suspicious of strangers. He will do well with children that he’s been raised with since he was a puppy but might not be so good with new children introduced after he is an adult.
This breed is easy to grom and just needs brushing with the firm brush and a bath when needed. He’s a moderate shedder, shedding twice a year. Health problems to watch out for include deafness and hip dysplasia.
Just like any other dog, the Australian Cattle Dog needs love and attention from his family. Early obedience training as a must and to keep the dog interested it is advised to have activities or jobs for him to perform. Agility and ring training are perfect activities for this dog. With good quality food and proper veterinary care this dog can live to be around 15 years of age.
Lee Dobbins, a pet owner and dog enthusiast, writes for dogs.pet-breeds.com where you can learn more about dogs and see photos of different dog breeds.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lee_Dobbins

Life with the Shih Tzu Part I

2006-11-07T09:04:00.001-08:00

By Connie Limon
If you want that perfect show dog look in your Shih Tzu you might as well relax to the fact that it involved brushing, brushing, brushing, and daily brushing. A thorough head-to-tail groom is often needed at least every other day if not “daily.” However, Shih Tzu coat textures are very different. You might get by with once weekly brushing if the Shih Tzu’s coat is the type of texture that does not mat and tangle easily.
If you have only one Shih Tzu, grooming should not be a problem. It can be quite pleasurable for you and your Shih Tzu. It can be an excellent time to bond with each other, and have nice close little chats with each other.
Where do you start?
A good place to start grooming your Shih Tzu is on the tummy, the chest and inside the legs…….perhaps……there are other opinions of course, but in this article I will direct you to start with the tummy, the chest and inside the legs.
You will need to have your Shih Tzu lie on his side on the table (be sure you have a nice, sturdy table to groom your Shih Tzu). There is nothing worse than a grooming table that wobbles around, except of course a grooming area that is not organized. You also need to have all your equipment organized and ready to use.
So now that you have your Shih Tzu lying on its side on the table, with his legs towards you (this can be an accomplishment in itself that may take several short training sessions to get done). If the Shih Tzu just will not cooperate with you, you can start trying to train him by having him lay tummy upwards in your lap with his head facing your chest. Do this exercise first for a few days if he absolutely refuses to lie this way on the grooming table.
If the above fails, you might try to groom the chest and tummy while the Shih Tzu sits on the table facing you, holding him up into a begging position by the front paws; this is not easy, since both hands are needed for some parts of the grooming, but you might have to try this as a last resort. If your Shih Tzu mats the tummy will be a prime target for matting.
The tummy side of a Shih Tzu is sensitive also, so be gentle in this area. Check where the legs meet the body, this is a prime target area for severe matting as well. Something you don’t want to deal with is severe mats in these areas. These are extra sensitive areas on your Shih Tzu. The best rule to follow is pay close attention to these areas on a daily basis and never allows the mats to occur. The hair around the male penis can also be a very sensitive trouble spot. It is best to keep this area clean and shaved off. Your male Shih Tzu will give you a sigh of relief when you remove the hair in this area.
How do you remove knots and mats?
If you come across a mat or knot first try to tease it apart with your fingers. Then take a comb and use the end with coarse teeth to tease out the tangle slowly, working from the outside inwards and holding the hair between the knot and the body between your fingers so that you don’t pull too hard and hurt the Shih Tzu. If all else fails, a knot may have to be cut out. Cut into the knotted hair away from the dog several times before gently using the comb to clear away the knot. Never cut across the coat. This will leave an obvious hole. If you will cut down through the length of the coat you will cause much less damage. Note: The hair on the legs is more likely to tangle than anywhere else. So…..pay particular attention to these areas as well to avoid those awful and painful mats.
This article continues in Part II of “Life with the Shih Tzu.”
This article is FREE to publish with the resource box.
Author: Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu puppies in a variety of colors especially the silver blues, reds and solid blacks. We have the AKC small standards, imperials and teacups at reasonable prices. Our website provides you with an educational experience all about the Shih Tzu. Please visit us at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com and sign up for our newsletters.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Connie_Limon

Your Best Doggone Choice

2006-11-07T09:04:00.000-08:00

By Chris Campbell
Your particular specific circumstances and your skills at caring for a dog are the single most important traits to consider when purchasing a dog as a pet. I've heard it said that there is no such thing as a bad dog, only bad dog owners. Seems to me I've heard the same analogy applied to children and parents. But, I digress. While some dogs have the potential for temperamental issues, it is rarely the dogs fault. The same thing could be said about owner temperaments. What would probably be more accurate, is to say that the temperament and needs of the dog do not mesh well with the temperament and needs of the owner. And, following along logically, since the dog didn't pick the owner, the problem must have been when the owner picked the dog. In short, pay careful attention to the needs of your self and your dog before making a decision.
Puppy Love On The Rocks
It can be most unfortunate, but the truth of the matter is, that when a bad match is made between dog and owner, it is usually the dog that suffers. And of course, as the dog is not living in ideal conditions, it is bound to act out in response to such a situation. This can only lead to excaserbate the problem, as neither owner or puppy will be enjoying the situation. Take for example a terrier whose owner is an avid gardener that spends lots of time away, and leaves puppy in the backyard. Terriers love to dig, and once the owner returns home, there will be issues when all the prize winning tulips are uprooted. Dogs that crave a lot of attention, but have an owner who is away for eight hours every work day, are not going to be happy puppies. Unhappy puppies grow to be older unhappy dogs with plenty of issues.
All Things Considered
Sure, you may want a big strong dog to protect the house and valuables while your gone. Big strong dogs are great for this, but need particularly good training to ensure that all that strength and size stay in check. Big dogs can become difficult to control, even when they are on a leash. As a result the owners become reluctant to walk them, and they end up alone in the backyard. Alone in the backyard, scaring the wits out of anyone who walks by with their loud deep throat barks. Not a good situation, with the potential to lead to something worse, if killer ever breaks out of the backyard.
A Happy Tail Ending
So, consider all the reasons why you want a dog. Think about what you like in a dog, think about what you don't like in a dog. If you do your research thoroughly, you will be sure to find the right dog with the right needs and temperament for you. There are as many different types of breeds, as there are many types of owners looking for a dog. The perfect match is not that hard to make.
Read more great information on your puppy dog and puppy breeders, or visit http://foolishmumbles.com/category/puppy-dog/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_Campbell

All About Dog Kennels

2006-11-07T09:03:00.001-08:00

By Kelly Marshall
A dog kennel is a great way for your dog or dogs to spend time outside without chains or tied but still secure and safe. This allows your beloved pets to see what is going on around them while still giving them plenty of room to run about and move around freely. A kennel keeps your pet safe and out of danger as well as keeping them from endangering others even if they are aggressive. This gives the owner peace of mind. Dogs are great escape artists and even with a completely fenced yard, they sometimes find ways to escape. Tying a dog up is a worry because everyone has read of incidents where they accidentally become tangled up or hang themselves, which is a frightening thought. Dog kennels also reduce your dog’s change of getting into a fight with another dog, contacting diseases or being poisoned. Unlike a cage, where the dog has very little room, dog kennels provide your pet with enough space to exercise, see the sights and enjoy some fresh air safely.
Here are some important precautions and guidelines to follow when building a dog kennel that helps keep your pet safe, healthy and happy:
· A dog kennel needs to provide shelter for your pet from the outside elements, such as extreme heat, rain or snow. If the dog will be outside for more than twenty minutes, provide shelter such as a doghouse or even indoor access.
· There should always be fresh water available, even if they are only outside for five minutes.
· Provide your dog with a comfortable place to lay or sit, such as a blanket, dog bed or even a piece of carpet.
· Kennel floors made of cement hold both heat and cold. Provide your pet with a place to stand that protect your dog’s paws from this.
Portable dog kennels are great for people that travel or visit a lot and love taking their dog along. Pet stores and large department stores usually carry a wide selection of dog kennels, normally in standard sizes. If you have a very large dog, you may have to ask them to special order one for you, that is big and secure enough. Portable kennels are quick and easy to set up and take down. Some come with a screen, to block the sun.
Permanent dog kennels are usually constructed of metal or aluminum screens and steel posts set into the ground. Often the floor is cement but some people prefer earth floors. For a dog or dogs that spend a fair amount of time outdoors in their dog kennel, some owners add a dog run to give their pets more room to play and exercise. Permanent dog kennels are sturdy enough to withstand a dogs jumping and pushing, without collapsing.
Custom made dog kennels are fabulous as you decide what shape, size or special items you want. Designed to your specification, some cost a bit more but are certainly worth the money. Many people have and enclosed area added to allow their dog to get out of the elements. Usually the company or people working with you on designing your pet’s kennel, install them also.
Searching for high end dog supplies, but only finding low quality junk at the local pet store? The top selection of dog furniture and raised dog feeders is at Oh My Dog Supplies. Also find more great pet articles by Kelly Marshall.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kelly_Marshall

Bringing A New Pup Home

2006-11-07T09:03:00.000-08:00

By Javier Fuller
So you got a little cutie puppy in your hand. He looks so cute with his little sweet nose and playful eyes. So what next? Naturally, you'll take the little one home...Wait for a second. It may not be as easy as it seems. Being a pet lover, you have many pets at home as well, and this one is a new pet and not the only one!
In that case it is you who is responsible to build comfort between your pets. They after all have to coexist peacefully under one roof. If you are concerned as to how your other pets would take to their new companion, your concerns are valid because different animals react differently to the presence of an additional pet. So the introduction can be a lot more tricky than the Hello-I-am-Alice kind of very human introductions.
Ensure that you give an entire day to the animal to warm up to its surrounding and to get accustomed to the presence of other pet(s). When you bring it home make sure that you keep him company. Don't leave him home alone. That could make him very, very uncomfortable.
Now, if you have a cat at home, you need to be extra careful. Not too much, just a little prudence would do. On the first few times when the puppy and cat come face to face, make sure that the puppy is on lease so that you could pull him clear of the cat in case he reacts unpredictably. Cats are normally very territorial and tend to assert their territorial rights. The puppy must be made to understand early that he is not supposed to intrude into the cat's personal space, neither should he meddle with cats things. They'll eventually grow friendly, but if they do not contact your vet as soon as you can.
If there is another dog at home, the lease rule remains so that no uncalled for harm is done. If there are many dogs at home, ensure that the puppy gets to know each of them separately and there is no collective introduction. The little one should not be taken to the big dog, for in that case the big one will be meeting the young one in his territory, which could be rather menancing the newcomer.
A little bit of growling and sniffing is natural but snapping and biting are not. So, if they indulge in any such unacceptable behaviour, they must be disciplined. Make sure that your current dog does not feel left out on the account of the new pet. So, make sure that your affection towards him increases.
Seniority must be maintained in eating and playing. So, when it is time to eat, the new one should eat separately and its food should be served only after the older ones. The new toys must also first go to the senior pets.
They'll gradually grow into good companions and you'll have a nice little happy family of friendly pets.
To get more information on pet dogs, dog breeds and dogs visit http://www.thepetdogs.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Javier_Fuller

Shock Collar Training: Is It Right to Use a Shock Collar and Dog Shock Training?

2006-11-07T09:02:00.001-08:00

By Ben Ehinger
Have you used a shock collar to train your dog ever wondered if you did the right thing or not? Does a shock collar train a dog or does it harm them? If you are thinking about trying to train your dog and are thinking about shock collar and dog shock training, then read on, please.
Experienced dog trainers will tell you that shock training is not the best method out there and definitely not the only method. What is there to gain from shock training? Basically you will gain a very unhappy and confused dog.
Dogs are suppose to bark. It is in their nature and a lot of times there is not much you can do about it. If you decide to use a shock collar to stop the barking, yes, it will work, but you will have to leave that collar on all the time. There is a better way and please find it.
Shock collar training is harmful to your dog’s psyche. It makes your dog think that barking is wrong. Barking is just like you or I talking, it is part of nature. I would be like taking away a cat’s meow. You will not be happy with the results you get from a shock color or from dog shock training.
If someone was to take away your freedom to be a human you would be upset, and this is exactly what happens to dogs that get trained with a shock collar. They become upset and it becomes harder to keep them potty trained and trained for other things.
Please think about what kind of damages you would be inflicting on your loving puppy before you attempt shock collar training. Please find it in your heart to find a better and less hurtful method of training for your puppy.
Are you ready to train your dog and have decided that shock collar training is out of the question? Do you want to train your puppy or dog without having to pay an expensive dog trainer? Go to the following website to learn more about dog training methods.
http://www.ready-repair-my-credit.com/dogtraining.htm
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ben_Ehinger

Is The Alaskan Malamute The Perfect Pet For You?

2006-11-07T09:02:00.000-08:00

By Lee Dobbins
If you want hardy winter outdoor dog then the Alaskan Malamute may be the one for you!
This breed, descended from the Arctic Wolf, has roots in Alaska where it has been used by Alaskan Eskimos to pull sleds for over 2000 years. These hard-working dogs have great strength and endurance and have pulled sleds on many expeditions including Admiral Byrd’s expeditions to the North Pole.
Weighing in at around 80 to 95 pounds ( 70 - 85 for females) and growing to 24 to 26 inches ( a few inches shorter for females), the Alaskan Malamute is on the large side and part of the AKC Working group. Alaskan Malamutes have an average litter size of six puppies. With good care they can live to be 15 years old.
The sweet expression on these dogs make them just about the cutest puppies ever and they grow into beautiful sweet adults as well. Their disposition is just as sweet as it looks and they make loving pets, but a bit strong willed. they have a thick coat on a solid well-built body. Ears are held erect on a wide head and eyes are dark and almond shaped. There may be some Alaskan Malamutes with blue eyes, however this is a fault which would disqualify your dog in the show ring. The coat can be from 1 to 3 inches long and comes in Wolf Gray, solid white, black and white, red and a red undercoat with gray outer coat. Many dogs have a dark mask and other dark markings and the legs and muscle are usually white.
These dogs are loyal and affectionate, a great family pet and good with children. They are friendly to strangers but may not get along with small animals as they have a strong prey instinct. They also may not get along good with other dogs and early socialization and firm training are important to raising an obedient pet.
Alaskan Malamutes love the outdoors, especially in winter time. Taking your Malamute on a winter walk or bringing him with you when you are snowshoeing or cross-country skiing is a real treat. They can be happy in a fenced in yard but they do like to be around their "pack" so you need to be sure to spend lots of time with your dog even if you keep him outside. this is an act of dog that needs plenty of exercise and will do best with a large yard. It is not advised to let them run free, as this breed will roam in his territory. They can withstand cold temperatures well but in hot climates you need to make sure that the dog does not overheat. Be aware that they are diggers and if you do not bury your fence quite a bit under the ground you will soon find a large hole and no dog inside the fence.
This is a fairly hardy breed with few health problems. They can have hip dysplasia just like any other breed and may be prone to dwarfism. They are rather clean dogs and virtually odorless. they are heavy shedders and grooming consist of brushing twice a week and an occasional dry shampoo.
Lee Dobbins is a dog lover who writes for http://www.dogbreeds123.com where you can learn more about dog care and dog breeds as well as see pictures of different breeds like the Alaskan Malamute.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lee_Dobbins

Buying A Dog - It's Easy Right?

2006-11-07T09:00:00.000-08:00

By Chris Campbell
We make purchases all the time. Walk into the store, pick your favorite, slap some money on the counter and head home. So why the hesitation when it comes to buying a dog? Don't worry, that hesitation is a good and healthy thing. It means your thinking. Much better than buying a puppy on impulse. We make enough impulse purchases for the little things. A new new puppy dog on the other hand, is a member of the family, and adding to the family is not something to be considered lightly. Here are a few points to mull over, that could make that future purchase a joyful one.
Is your home a puppy friendly environment? How large or small is your home? The size of your dwelling should have an important weight in the type of dog you can live with. A energetic, large dog will need plenty of room to roam, and exercise in. While if you live in a small apartment, something smaller than a GreatDane puppy might be in order. How your going to keep your dog on your property, without it running around the neighborhood is something to think about as well.
There are more costs to having a puppy, then just the initial purchase. Not much of a surprise there. It seems like everything we buy these days has a whole list of accessories,peripherals, and add- ons that come along. Puppy dogs are no different. The list can be long or short, but there are a few unavoidables. Food, immunizations, health care, and neutering are some of the most obvious things your dog will need. If your dog will not travel with you on long trips, then kenneling will be an expense to look into. Depending on your experience with dogs, perhaps dog obedience school is important. It can teach the owner more than the dog you know. Most cities, have some kind of registration that is required, and it's not usually a free service.
A stable home can be important for a dog, as well as people. If there are any major life changes in the near future for the perspective dog owner, it could have an impact on the dog. Going of to university, moving to a new home, marriage, or lengthy overseas travel can all detract from an owners ability to care for a dog. Owner health problems, while often not foreseeable, can also change the life of a pet. If you know this is possible, it should be taken into consideration.
Consider the sex of the dog before you make the purchase. Females are usually smaller, and a little easier to control then the males of most breeds. Females will come into heat every six months, so neutering may be an option here.
Once you consider all the factors, a number of species will seem like a good choice, and others will not. It's an important exercise, but once you have carefully considered all these points, your purchase of a new puppy should be somewhat easier. It certainly won't be an impulse buy, and that's good for both you and your newest four legged member of the family.
Read more great information on your puppy dog and puppy breeders, or visit http://foolishmumbles.com/category/puppy-dog/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_Campbell