How a Wireless Dog Collar Works With an Electronic Dog Fence

By Brenda Minica

Your best friend Fido has a tendency to chase cars. You want to let him enjoy the outdoors, but sometimes he's too quick for you to catch, and before you know it, he's tearing down the street after a truck. You're left searching for options. What should you do?

Well, ensuring that your dog stays in your lawn can be a bit of a challenge. Of course, it seems like with some training you could keep your dog safe in your yard, but temptation can often strike. That is where a wireless dog fence and collar can come in.

Wireless dog fences are exactly what they sound like. An electric fence that doesn't have any cumbersome wires. This will allow you the flexibility of not having to dig several holes in your lawn. Instead, you will be able to simply place the fences transmitter into an outlet that is near where you want your dog to be contained.

Basically, a wireless dog fence and collar will keep your dog into a area that is circular in nature. To use it you fasten the receiver collar onto your dog's neck. This collar will receive the signals from the wireless fence transmitter. The transmitter will be placed indoors in an outlet near the area that you'd like your dog to remain in. If your dog starts to go outside of the area that you've mapped out for them then a signal will be sent to your dog's collar.

Of course you want to know how that signal is going to keep little Fido in the area that you've designated for him. Basically, on the transmitter you would set the size of the circle's diameter, then holding the collar you can verify exactly where the circle is when it beeps. Once your zone is set up if little Fido starts to head out of it the transmitter will send a signal to his collar and it will sound a warning sound to alert your dog that he's headed in the wrong direction. If he doesn't return to the safe zone then a small electric pulse is sent to him. The pulse is not at all painful, but instead serves to shock him out of his current mindset.

Most wireless dog fences have several different features that can make them more appealing to you. Many wireless fences are portable which will allow you the flexibility to take it with you if you need to. Additionally, some varieties allow you to have an unlimited number of dogs monitored by the system. Another great feature is that your wireless fence can have a run through protection. Meaning, that if your dog takes off chasing something a signal will be sent to your dogs collar letting them know that they need to return to their specific area.

Your dog is not called your best friend for no reason. Our pets mean the world to us, and their safety should be the top priority of any dog owner. By using a wireless dog fence and collar, you will be able to provide your dog with the guidelines that they need, but the truth is that your dog needs guidelines. Giving them a routine and signal that lets them know where they can be will help keep them safe and happy.

Setting up flags to mark the boundary and training your dog are essential parts of establishing the boundary in your dog's mind. For more information on wireless dog fences, or training your dog to know where the boundaries are, please use the links below or visit us at spoiled-pups.com. See you soon!

Click the following link to get more help with your Electronic Dog Fence needs. We have more information on the Wireless Dog Collar and other quality dog products.

The Truth About Conventional Treatments For Canine Urinary Tract Infection

By Ann Matthews

I was enraged after reading about this. About 14% of dogs get canine urinary tract infection at some point in their lives. Mainstream veterinarians are quick to prescribe antibiotics in order to treat the bacterial infection rather than teach pet owners how to maintain bladder and urinary tract health in their dogs through holistic treatment.

Antibiotics may get rid of dog urinary tract infection and struvite crystals in the urine quickly but they don't get to the root of the problem and prevent recurrence. Antibiotic treatment is very powerful and has dangerous side effects since dogs must take such high doses for long periods in order for the treatment to have an effect. This is because dogs metabolize most of the drugs, which then pass through in their urine.

Adding to the problem is the fact that the overuse of antibiotics has led to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria. In order to prevent this from happening and promote overall health, it is important to look beyond the mainstream treatments for canine urinary tract infection. Instead, pet owners should search for holistic solutions and implement dietary and lifestyle changes as help for dog urinary tract infections.

When a dog urinary tract infection is in its late stages and you notice symptoms such as lethargy, painful urination, and blood in the urine, it is necessary to take your dog to an expert and seek conventional treatment. If you don't do so, the infection can travel up to your dog's kidneys and become life-threatening. In this case, a homeopathic remedy can serve as a safe and effective complementary therapy that helps to strengthen the immune system and assist in the healing process.

If a canine urinary tract infection is in an early stage, opt for natural, holistic treatment and avoid the hard drugs. By doing so, you can safely and effectively get rid of the infection and keep it from coming back. In this case some dietary and lifestyle changes can be beneficial in addition to homeopathic treatment.

In order to make sure that your dog is getting enough fluid, make sure to provide ready access to fresh, clean water at all times. If at all possible, give your dog filtered water as opposed to chlorinated or fluoridated tap water. Also make sure that your dog has plenty of opportunities to empty his bladder by taking him out on walks at least twice a day. Holding it in too long can lead to dog urinary tract infection. Frequent walks are also beneficial because they promote health through exercise.

To help prevent canine urinary tract infection through diet, try to feed your dog as much unprocessed, raw food as possible. Aim to feed your dog food that contains enough essential minerals like niacin, thiamin, and magnesium. Avoid dry foods and foods that contain sugar. Also make sure your dog is eating a few small meals per day versus two big meals per day. These preventive lifestyle and dietary changes are highly effective and complementary to conventional treatments.

Most importantly, give your dog a homeopathic remedy every day for the best results. A homeopathic remedy can promote optimum bladder health, prevent infection, maintain the healthy flow of urine, and boost the immune system. Unlike medication, they are safe to use for long periods can promote the overall health of your dog. Dog urinary tract infection will not come to affect your dog anymore if you make these important lifestyle changes and give him a homeopathic remedy on a regular basis.

Now it's time to start putting this advice to use. Only give your dog strong medication as a last resort. If you want to promote permanent recovery and long-term health you need to stop relying on quick fixes. Diet, lifestyle, and homeopathic treatment will go a long way in ensuring that your dog's problems with canine urinary tract infection become a thing of the past.

If you want to make sure you are giving your pets the best health care available, please take time to read more about the many natural alternatives at my site: http://www.natural-pet-treatment.com BIO: Ann Matthews is a long time pet health enthusiast with Pet Alive who has a real passion for the well-being of all pets

Gourmet Dog Treat Packaging

By Vicki Jansen

Your dog treat packaging is a very important consideration in building your dog treats. We have put together some thoughts and options perhaps you have not considered. Take a look.

In selecting your gourmet dog treat packaging, some things to keep in mind are:

1. This is the first impression that a customer has of your product and your company.

2. Your packaging is a great place to advertise.

3. Different types of packaging may appeal to different consumers.

#1 - Your Package and First Impressions

When a potential customer finds your website, or your dog treats in a pet store, they may very well see your dog treat packaging first. And let me also say, the pet treat industry is very VERY competitive. If your packaging looks like the majority of other packages, then most likely a consumer will purchase based on price. If your packaging looks cheap, the customer may decide that your product is cheap, even if it is the best gourmet dog treat going.

Some things that consumers prefer are being able to see the product. You don't need to use a completely clear bag, but if your customer at least can see some of your treats, that is nice. If you go with a box, try to select one with a clear window in it. If your treats are not very attractive, then you may not want this option. Color is always a good thing for packaging. Consider professional, creative, clean looking lines but not distracting or confusing. If you like lime green and fuchsia that's great - but be objective when evaluating your package. Will those colors be more distracting and bring negative attention to your package? Or does it look nice and appealing.

Remember, your packaging reflects your company and your business. Is your business light-hearted and fun? Then use fun packaging. Is your business health conscious? Then use packaging that says that. Is your business about making the best, highest quality most elegant dog treats? Then you guessed it, use packaging that is elegant and very high quality. Putting your fine gourmet dog treats in a clear cello bag may not reflect what you are trying to communicate.

#2 - Your Package is an Advertisement

Don't forget to use your packaging as a place to advertise. And again, keep the tone of your advertising in line with the tone of your business. There is potentially a lot of space on certain types of packaging - use all of it so that everywhere a customer may look on your package, they are getting great information about you, about the product, about your company.

#3 - Remember Who Your Customer Is

Different types of packaging may appeal to different customers. Not all package types will appeal to everyone. Target your dog treat packaging to the right customer. If you are focused on healthy treats and your target market is environmentally focused, then offering a big plastic bag in a big plastic fish bowl may not make sense. But a carton from recycled paper may be very appealing to this group.

Some customers may want containers that they can re-use, or refill such as cookie tins, or canisters. Some customers may really not care about the package other than the impact it has on cost.

Bottom line - know who you are trying to sell your treats to, and build your package to meet their needs. Be aware of picking things you like, but that your customers don't really care about. Put your best paw forward in growing your business.

Learn more about baking your own dog treats, starting your own dog treat business and dog treat packaging at http://www.Everything-Dog-Treats.com

Bull Terriers Are Literally the Best Dogs Ever

By Ryan Critchett

Many of you, like me, are dog lovers and I can't praise you enough for that! Dogs are literally man's best friend! It doesn't always have to be a man either, my cousin is a girl, and her best friend is her dog. Today we are going to talk about Bull Terriers for a house pet.

My roommate has a Bull Terrier. In my day, I can't really recall ever seeing one face to face until I moved in and met this amazing animal. I heard stories about him, when he was a pup, chewing people's shoes and furniture, being rowdy all the time but hey, that's what puppies do. When I got here, he was well into his middle-older stages of life. We got acquainted and hit it off from there! He didn't even know me but gave me the benefit of the doubt right away and became my buddy. Now I have been around him for a couple months and just giving him treats randomly throughout the day makes me happy, because it makes him happy. I've been on walks with him, and here is the major difference between Bull Terriers and other dogs. They don't act like dogs. They are more like humans than anything, so really, you're taking a human for a walk. I remember passing other dogs in their yards and them absolutely going nuts barking at my buddy, he just turns his head, looks, and keeps walking. He only barks when he hears something close to the house or downstairs in the other apartment. Normally, for me, when he wants to go out he just takes me to the door and looks at me. When I take him out, he never tries to run crazy. He just does what he has to do, and that's it. Of course he likes to play still, and I give him that chance. Sometimes I get down on all fours and act like I'm a dog too and he gets a kick out of it, starts chasing his tail and running at me only to rub against me and lick me.

Lets quick talk about other dogs. Even the older dog will sometimes bark in your face when you don't want him too, will annoy you at times where you don't want to be annoyed and will do agitating things, like dogs do. However, Buddy is nothing like that. He is always cool calm and collect. It's like, for someone as laid back as myself, just enjoying life, this dog is the best dog to have period. They are rather costly but if you are looking for a great companion, an obedient well mannered best friend who just chills with you, get a Bull Terrier, its the dog to get.

http://www.ryelexx.com/bull_terriers_best_dog_to_have.html

Heated Dog Houses - Why Buy Heated Doghouse?

By Ricky Lim

Dogs are quite sensitive to weather changes. Heated dog houses aren't a luxury but a necessity especially if you want to keep your dog warm during winter months.

Installing a heated dog house need not be expensive. The prices of heated doghouses will depend on the type of structure and the setup you prefer. Also, the contractor prices will defer depending on who you hire.

Although most dogs have fur, typically most dogs fur cannot keep your pet warm during the winter, that is why a heated dog house is needed.

One of the best heating systems for dog house I have used is the PetCool Therm Assure. This system has both air conditioning and heater and is easy to setup and install. It helps to keep your dog house cool during the summer months and warm during the winter.

The price is affordable and it has automatically environmental controls keeping the temperature inside the doghouse cool all the time. If you don't have the budget, then you might want to consider getting a heated pet bed instead. Most pet supplies stores should carry these dog heating products.

Larger pet stores such as Petco and Petsmart have custom sized heated dog houses available. They should also carry most types of DIY doghouse heating systems as well as heated pet beds.

Another alternative to buy heat doghouse is to go online. There are a few specialised online pet retailers that carry custom sized heated dog houses and supplies. You can also visit eBay. Most online sites nowadays will provide shipping and delivery for a small fee or even free shipping.

If you are not sure about how to install the heating system in your dog house, it would be better to engage a contractor to do it for you. Alternatively, buy a heated dog house that comes with everything already installed.

Check out the best wooden dog house online. Learn where to buy custom cedar dog houses at my site.

What to Do When Your Dog Has Separation Anxiety

By Rex Krisinsky

Does your normally well-behaved pooch turn into a little monster the moment you leave the house to go to work? Do you often find your house in disarray when you get home? Do the neighbors complain of the ruckus Fido is creating while you're off slaving away in the office? If you answered 'yes' to any of these questions, you may have to start wondering what to do when your dog has separation anxiety because, chances are, he has it.

Like in humans, separation anxiety in dogs is characterized by the constant need to latch on to a person. Most of the time, this is caused by boredom and loneliness. If you want to know what to do when your dog has separation anxiety, here are some things that could help:

• It's tempting, yes, but don't make a big song-and-dance about departures and arrivals. Be casual and act like you're not going anywhere, or weren't gone at all. This helps when you're asking yourself what to do when your dog has separation anxiety because your dog picks up on subtle behavior signals such as these.
  



• If you want to know what to do when your dog has separation anxiety, you have to learn to interact with your dog under your own terms, not his. Play with him, or pet him when you want to, not when he demands it. Otherwise, he'll assume that he can demand anything from you.
  



• Your dog knows when you're about to leave because of subtle cues like picking up your keys, or putting on your jacket. You have to desensitize him from these actions by repeating them constantly without leaving the house. This helps when you are figuring out what to do when your dog has separation anxiety because eventually he won't be able to tell the difference when you're leaving or not.
  



• When considering what to do when your dog has separation anxiety, you must understand that your dog probably gets bored being cooped up alone in the house; hence, why he's so needy. Give him something to do while you're out. Rotate his toys every so often for variety, and let him find treats around the house. He'll realize that life can be fun without you around all the time soon enough, and you'll no longer have to wonder what to do when your dog has separation anxiety.
  

Indeed, if you think he has it, then you'll have to know what to do when your dog has separation anxiety. If you're not sure, or if you're dog's case is quite serious, it's always best to contact professionals to see you both through the ordeal of separation. They will know what to do when your dog has separation anxiety.

If you're ready to put an end to your dog's separation anxiety immediately, you're best bet is starting the step-by-step program at http://www.Dog-Training-Works.com. The site has techniques and tactics that will get your dog behavior problems under control fast and effectively. Check it out now!

Help For Biting Dogs

By Nedda Wittels

Nipping and biting are a normal part of interaction among pack members in the world of the wild dog, coyote, or wolf. These are natural ways in which dominance is established and puppies are disciplined by their mothers. In the human world, however, these same behaviors are completely unacceptable.

Dogs who nip or bite can cause lawsuits, earn you legal fines, and even be taken from their homes and killed by Animal Control. Also of concern is the pain and suffering of the individual who is injured and possibly scarred for life . In the human world, the dog owner (a legal term) is responsible for the behavior of their dog. Therefore, it is to everyone's benefit, including the dog's, to make sure your dog knows what behaviors are acceptable and considered "good manners" by the human standard.

This is why taking your new dog, whether a puppy or an adopted adult, to basic obedience class can be an essential part of building a relationship between the two of you. Even if you think you know how to train a dog, training techniques continue to evolve. There are always new ways to handle situations, and some techniques that work well with one individual personality are a disaster with another. Even if you have taken your older dogs to school and now have a new puppy, there can be the added benefit of building a stronger bond between you and your puppy by going to class together. Each dog has a unique background and will interact with you as an individual.

Please understand that I am not a dog trainer and have nothing to personally gain by recommending dog school for you and your dog. I make this recommendation because undoing a problem is much harder than never allowing it to develop in the first place. That having been said, it is important to understand the many reasons why dogs bite. Aside from the fact that this is a natural way of communicating among dogs, there are other reasons why your dog might be exhibiting this behavior and why you may have a problem eliminating it.

- Your dog may be an "alpha" dog and is expressing its dominance over you.

- Your dog is aggressive because he is fearful.

- You have taught your dog that nipping is OK because you have allowing her to chew on or play with your hand as a puppy.

- Your dog wants to dominate you because you or a previous owner have allowed him/her to do so in the past by not setting clear boundaries.

- Your dog may be in physical pain and snapping or biting is a reflex reaction to pain.

There are specific tests that can be given to puppies to determine if they are "alpha" dogs, dogs who want to lead the pack. "Alpha" dogs are alpha because that's their personality. They will not easily settle for being No. 2 and require owners capable of handling this personality type. Good dog breeders will give this test to their puppies and make sure that the puppies only go to homes where that personality type can be managed. However, professional breeders are a small percentage of the places where puppies are obtained. When you take a dog home from a pet store or rescue organization the dog probably has not been tested in this manner. Therefore, if you suspect your dog might be an alpha personality, it is wise to have a trainer evaluate him or her.

There are, of course, many reasons why a dog might bite. In the following case the issue was chronic pain and the solution was acupuncture and chiropractic.

A client called about her elderly Golden Retriever who had never bitten anyone in her life, but suddenly nipped at everyone who tried to pet her. The dog told me she was in pain in her hips and her back. A trip to the allopathic veterinarian quickly revealed arthritis in the spine and hips. That veterinarian prescribed a pain medication, but it didn't seem to help. The situation was resolved when the dog received acupuncture and chiropractic treatments. Because she was more comfortable, the nipping/biting behavior disappeared.

If your dog nips or bites you or anyone else, it is imperative for both your sakes to take steps to identify and resolve the biting behavior. It is not the most loving thing to keep a dog whose behaviors are a problem to yourself and other people. Here are some approaches you can take to solving this problem.

- Have your veterinarian make sure your dog has not developed arthritis or some other painful, chronic condition.

- If you think your animal might be in pain, you can also ask an animal communicator to speak with your dog to gather information in that area.

- An animal communicator can also help clear up any confusion about your dog's role in the family and inform your dog of legal consequences to continued biting.

- Flower Essences can help in some situations and in combination with training and various healing modalities.

- If it seems that the issue is behavioral, get thee to a dog trainer, preferably one who is experienced with aggressive behavior in dogs. Make sure you check this person out thoroughly so that you are comfortable with the techniques the trainer uses.

- A diet change may be in order if your dog is not able to get sufficient nutrients out of his/her current food or if there are sensitivities or allergies to anything in the food or to the food itself. The old adage, "you are what you eat" is true, and poor diet can affect behavior.

Whether or not your dog is an alpha dog personality, telepathic communication can be helpful in clearing up what is behind aggressive behavior. The answers to some key questions may help everyone understand what approach may be most effective in bringing about a change in your dog's behavior. An animal communicator can ask your dog about these things.

- What is your dog feeling emotionally when she nips or bites?

- Is your dog arrogant about this behavior?

- Is your dog afraid? Angry? Depressed?

- Does your dog think nipping is OK but biting isn't because you call them "love nips"?

- Have you assigned your dog a role in the family that is inappropriate for his personality, emotional state, or personal life goals?

- Is your dog confused because you have been inconsistent in communicating what behaviors you expect and desire?

- Have you been clear (from your dog's perspective) about his role in the family?

- Has your dog been given the job of protector and doesn't feel up to it or doesn't understand how to be a protector without being aggressive?

- Is your dog expressing anger or aggression that actually belongs to you or to another member of the family who is not in touch with his/her own feelings?

- Has your dog experienced a trauma early in life or in a past life that has caused your dog to be "stuck" in the biting behavior?

- Is there a spiritual entity or being attached to your dog that is causing him to act aggressively?

While you are exploring these possibilities, careful management of the situation is recommended. A dog that bites or nips should not be allowed to be with visitors or in any situation which can become tense or filled with excitement, confusion, or a lot of noise. Don't hesitate to give your dog "time out" in a quiet place, such as a crate or another room. Keeping your dog on a leash when there are visitors or using a muzzle on walks might also be in order.

Most importantly, don't wait until you are at the "end of your rope" before attempting to do something about canine aggression. Ultimatums and violence on your part won't work very well, and when you approach the situation in anger, conflict is more likely to escalate than to defuse.

Rev. Nedda Wittels, M.A., M.S., is a telepathic Animal Communicator and Shamballa Master/Teacher offering private sessions in telepathic communication and in healing for humans and animals. She also offers Spiritual Empowerment Sessions for people awakening to new consciousness. Nedda teaches workshops in telepathic communication with all species and in Shamballa Multidimensional Healing. She can be reached at 860-651-5771 or at http://www.raysofhealinglight.com

Could That Rescue Dog Be a Miniature Poodle?

By Lisa A Collins

Could that dog in the shelter be a Miniature Poodle? Recognizing a Poodle type dog is a lot more than just looking at what clip their coat is in. Most Miniature Poodles in shelters or breed rescues are not in the fancy show clips. But there are still ways to recognize a Miniature Poodle. The Humane League of the United States estimates that twenty-five percent of all abandoned animals are purebreds. So, the odds of that shelter dog being a purebred Miniature Poodle are pretty high.

No Miniature Poodle will fulfill every requirement of the breed standard. If you are not sure what the Miniature Poodle breed standard is, even the one for Standard Poodles (the big guys) will suffice. They are identical except for size. A Miniature Poodle is between eleven and fifteen inches tall at the shoulder. They should ideally weigh from fifteen to seventeen pounds, but the shelter dog will most likely be less or more than that.

Miniature Poodles have the same body types and facial expressions and attitudes of their larger Poodle brothers and sisters. They possess lean and athletic bodies underneath the enormous coats. They are built more like small hounds, with a pointed nose, a profile officially described as chiseled, a rounder forehead than regular hounds and floppy rounded ears that naturally seem to hug the head. Their eyes are usually dark, but lighter colored eyes do occur, although not in show quality Miniature Poodles. They have a scissors bite, which is used just on food and toys.

Their long and strong bodies have a level spine (called a topline in the dog show world), although some pet-quality Miniature Poodles will have a topline that slopes down to their hindquarters. The tail and head are naturally held high. The feet are oval in shape, although pet-quality Miniature Poodles will have splayed feet. The overall look of the dog is that all of the body parts should be in proportion to each other.

The Miniature Poodle comes in many colors, but all of them are to be solid for show dogs. Even the lips and nose should be the same color. This is where a lot of Miniature Poodles fall short as show dogs, as they could have bi-colored lips, or more than one color in their coats. Some brown Miniature Poodles will go prematurely grey, so a grey-tipped brown Miniature Poodle may be younger than he looks. Other faults common to Miniature Poodles include large, protruding eyes, an overbite, ewe-neck, a too low tail carriage or a downward sloping topline.

The breed standard for any dog breed is an ideal representation of the breed, not necessarily based on any living example. But the breed standards can act as a good general guide for identifying dogs in shelters. Miniature Poodles are a pretty distinctive breed, and usually are easily and accurately identified by even newbie shelter volunteers. Miniature Poodles, no matter what they look like, will make wonderful pets.

Lisa Collins has published hundreds of articles about dogs, including dozens on Miniature Poodles There is a good reason for Poodle types being so popular, as they are so friendly and funny. Good Poodle information is at the tip of your fingers with the Internet.

Caring For Your Doberman Puppy

By Joseph M Sabol

It seems like you have been waiting forever, but its finally time for your new Doberman puppy to come home. Every puppy needs to be taught and trained on how to adapt to his new family, and the family has to adapt to having a new puppy in the house. The new puppy may be a little scared and sad to be away from his litter mates, or he may be excited and curious to explore his new home. Either way, there are some basics in caring for your new Doberman puppy.

It is important to have a crate for your puppy. Put a blanket or towel in the crate and introduce your Dobie to the crate as soon as possible. Leave the door open so he feels like he can go into his "den" whenever he wants. You can also put a toy in the crate. If your puppy gets tired, or overwhelmed, he will likely appreciate his own special place to rest. The first few nights at home can be difficult for the puppy and the family. You can expect the pup to cry and whine most of the night. Something we found helpful was to put a large stuffed animal in the crate. We found a stuffed dog that was bigger than our puppy, and she immediately cuddled up to the toy like she would with her litter mates. After a few nights your puppy will get used to sleeping in his crate. If you can place the crate in an area of your home where it will not be isolated, this is best, especially at night.

The best food for your puppy is a premium quality dry kibble, formulated especially for large breed puppies. This special formula insures the proper amount of protein and other nutrients while preventing the puppy from growing too big, too fast. Rapid growth does not allow the bones and joints time to develop properly, which will cause problems as the puppy matures. We also give our Dobermans a human grade, all natural pet vitamin. This provides supplements not in the dog food and not naturally produced by your dog. Omega fatty acids and antioxidants are beneficial for your dogs healthy immune system.

Dobermans at any age do not like to be alone and away from their family. Your Doberman puppy will need lots of attention, but this is a good thing...who doesn't want to play with their puppy as much as possible? Socialization is especially important for a Doberman puppy. Any family members, neighbors, friends of your kids and neighborhood pets that will be around your new Dobie should be introduced early on. This way your naturally protective new family member will know there is no threat or danger to "his" family.

Puppy kindergarten is a good idea for your new Doberman puppy. This provides several important benefits. It will get your pup used to traveling in the car and being out in public. It will be an excellent, positive opportunity for socialization, and it will give your busy, active puppy someplace to focus his energy. Dobermans are very intelligent and highly trainable. They are happier if they are challenged physically and mentally. Basic obedience classes will help your puppy learn manners and will make him much easier for you to control. Believe me, a Doberman will try to be the boss if given the chance!

Dobermans are a working breed and they like to have something to do. This is a breed that requires a lot of attention, even beyond the puppy stage. They are great companions and family dogs. If you take the time to work with your puppy, he will grow up to be a cherished member of your family.

Joseph M. Sabol is a world class Doberman breeder. Please go to http://petvitamins4u.com or to http://theroadhousedobes.com for further information.

3 Tips on Dog Treat Recipes

By Jennifer P. April

Here's a really simple way to save money and your pet's health by baking your own dog treat recipes.

Dogs can eat a wide range of vegetables including tomatoes, carrots and squash. When you're baking your own treats you can experiment with different ingredients. Remember, Fido is much less picky than most people!

You can also add things like flaxseeds to your pet's treats for a yummy, nutty flavor and loads of healthy Omega 3's. He'll benefit with a healthy coat and skin, shiny eyes and strong heart.

It doesn't have to be complicated or time consuming but there are a few things you should know.

1) Dog treats can be meat based or grain based. For example, you could slice up some liver and bake it for a meat based treat or you could get out the flour and the mixer and mix up some cookies with pumpkin or shredded chicken.

2) You can make treats decorative with fancy cookie cutters and carob or yogurt icing drizzled on top or you can make them simple. One easy way is to make up a batter, roll it into a log and freeze it, when it's frozen, you can slice up dog treat rounds and bake away!

3) There are some ingredients that can make a dog really sick if he eats them. Raisins and grapes should be left out of dog treat recipes. A little onion or garlic is ok but go easy as a large amount can shut down their kidneys. Chocolate definitely is a no no as it can do the same thing.

Baking dog treat recipes is a great way to make sure your pet is getting healthy treats without toxic chemicals and animal byproducts.

Plus you get the see the look of sheer joy on your pup's face when he realizes you baked something for him! You think I'm kidding, try it and see.

So there you have it, 3 tips on making your own dog treat recipes. What are you waiting for? Your dog is waiting!

You can save money and bake healthy treats with over 30 dog treat recipes to choose from. Great gift idea too! Jen & Baggins have been testing and tasting for over 4 years.

Building an Underground Dog Fence For Cheap in Three Easy Steps (A DIY Install)

By Jay Stephens

So you want to install an underground dog fence and avoid paying the $1,500+ that a big national franchise like an Invisible Dog Fence, Dog Watch or Pet Stop installer would charge? Here's how you can do a DIY install of a dog containment system for a fraction of the cost in just three steps.

First, we will install the Dog Fence Controller and test that everything works. We want the controller to be located close to a power outlet and sheltered from the elements, most people put it in a garage. Attach the controller box to the wall and drill a small hole through the wall. Run the twisted wire that came with your system from the controller box outside to the perimeter of your property. Now run the single strand wire around the property joining each end of the single strand to the twisted pair with the provided wire splices. Now switch on the system and check that everything works well.

Second, we bury the wire. The fastest way to bury wire is to use a trencher with a cable laying attachment. This tool cuts through your soil, lays the boundary wire and then backfills. You can rent a trencher at bigger tool rental stores, the cost is modest (under $50) and the time savings is huge. The rental store clerk will show you how to best use the trencher when you go to pick it up. But basically, you will feed the boundary wire through the trencher and tie one end of the wire to a stake in the ground. You will then start the trencher, engage the cutting blade and drive it around your property. Now that the wires are buried you should reconnect the system and again check that everything still works.

Third, we set up the Dog Containment System. The Dog Fence Controller will have a dial to let you adjust the field width. This controls how far from the boundary wire the collars start beeping and delivering the correction. Adjust the field width so that the field width is between one and two yards. A bigger field width will keep your dog safer but also reduces the amount of space in which they can play. Owners with bigger yards and more stubborn dogs should aim for a wider field width and owners with smaller properties and more compliant dogs should head toward the narrower end of that range. Now mark the edge of the field with the provided flags, spaced out at two yard intervals. Perform a final check of the system, and check that the collar beeps whenever you move it past the flags.

Congratulations your dog fence has been successfully installed!

http://www.DogFenceDIY.com is a resource written by professional dog fence installers that includes 100+ pages showing you how to choose a system, install and maintain an underground dog fence. The site features detailed DIY advice with videos, pictures and illustrations, system reviews and a dog training program to make your installation a success.

Tips on Choosing a Puppy For Families With Children

By Jacques Andrew

When you have decided to get a puppy for your family there are a lot of decisions to be made, especially if you have small children. As you realise there really is no perfect breed of puppy for small children. There are just some that have a better temperament than others and get along well with kids. It comes down to the individual puppy as to whether they will be suited for children not the actual breed they are. This is a broad statement though and common sense should prevail as a Pitbull Terrier and Dobermann Pincher are not great choices for families with young ones. Likewise a Northern Inuit puppy may not be your first choice as although one of the most beautifull dogs on earth, they grow very quickly and after just 6 months would be far bigger than your average family dog. Size should also be considered when selecting a puppy.

No matter which breed of dog you decide to bring into your home. Make sure that the puppy and your child are well supervised during the getting to know each other stage. If your child has not been around dogs or puppies before make sure to take the time to show them how to treat and handle their new pet. On the other hand, puppies tend to be very clumsy and excitable, so it is wise to pay close attention when the pup is interacting with a small child. The puppy could unintentionally hurt your child when it is jumping and trying to show your child how happy he is to be in his new home. Puppies love to play games and sometimes they nip while playing, if you are around early on these situations can easly be managed and stopped from occuring by you setting the behavioral ground rules early on.

Since families tend to be noisy and busy, make sure that the puppy you bring home was raised around people and is used to the commotion of a happy hectic household. You should be able to tell by the reaction of the puppies when they notice a person is there to see them. Otherwise you might bring home a pup that is not used to noise and will become agitated and nervous around your family. Try to match your children's temperament with the puppy's. If your child is very energetic you would want to choose a breed of dog who likes a lot of activity. On the other hand if your child is quiet and shy you would want to select a breed that has a temperament that is mellower. Below is a selection of dog breeds that are known to have child-friendly reputations. You might want to look into some of these as choices for your child's pet.

Beagle - They are very sociable and happy. They can be a little hard to train but they make an ideal family dog.

Cocker Spaniel - They are affectionate and an intelligent breed. They do require grooming and some exercise.

Labrador Retrievers - They are very good natured and enjoy playing and fetching. Labs are medium to large in size and need plenty of room and exercise.

Shih-Tzu - They are small affectionate, intelligent, little dogs and are great with all ages of children.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel - They have a very loving nature and easily adapt to any type of household. They do need grooming for their long coat and regular exercise.

Border Terrier - They are great for families with active children. They are good watchdogs and enjoy lots of exercise.

Golden Retriever - They are very popular family dogs in both the UK and the USA. They have a gentle nature and are great with other animals and children. They are a medium to large sized dog and need grooming for their longer coats.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier - They are a compact, muscular dog who is affectionate with children and loyal to their owners.

Pug - They are an affectionate and friendly small sized dog. They are considered a low maintenance dog due to the fact that they need very little grooming and minimal exercise.

After you have settled into a routine with your puppy and know you have found the right family dog. You might want to consider getting dog insurance on the newest four-legged member of your family. When you buy pet insurance it can help ease the cost of unforeseen medical expenses in the years to come. This will give you peace of mind knowing you will be able to get any medical treatments he may need in his lifetime. This is just a guide to let you know of some of the most common breeds of puppies that have been shown to grow up to be good family dogs. There are many other breeds out there that are good with children. Puppies that are mixed breeds or "mutts" as they are sometimes called make good family dogs too. Every puppy has its own personality and traits and there is no one dog that is better than another. It is definitely a personal choice of which breed or type a dog you choose for your family.

So please visit us to see how we can help protect your pet - you can buy online easily too at Pet Insurance by Animal Friends or simply call our friendly staff if you prefer on 0844 55 70 300; the policies won't cost you more and you won't be disappointed!

Why Should You Get a Puppy Training Book?

By Greg Tomson

Puppy training can be either fun or mind wrecking depending on how knowledgeable and experienced you are as a dog owner in training and disciplining your puppy. Teaching puppies to be obedient, well-behaved, and disciplined requires patience and the right tactics to get them to achieve these ideal behaviors as soon as possible.

Using incorrect or improper discipline training techniques can damage your puppy in a way that they might react badly towards you and other people. They could be vicious and mean when treated badly during training, so as much as possible responsible dog owners and professional trainers offer advice, tips, and suggestions on how to properly train your puppy. These can either be given by word of mouth or through puppy training books.

Bookstores have puppy training books written by renowned dog and puppy trainers from all over the country who have taken the time and liberty of writing excellent outlines of tips and tricks on how to train a misbehaved canine member of the family.

Some of the topics covered in most of these books include titles such as "How to Raise a Well-behaved Dog", "Raising Puppies", "Before Getting a Puppy", "After Getting a Puppy", and the list goes on. Pick out the most useful, easy to read, and effective puppy training books because these ensure you of a well-behaved puppy and long-lasting effects through their various tips and techniques in puppy training. You can also do some background research before buying a particular book by browsing through book reviews or testimonials by other dog owners.

Puppy Training Books gives tips and advice on training your puppy, plus a review of the best puppy training books - http://puppy-training-books.com

The Scenario of Puppy Training Techniques

By Greg Tomson

Having a puppy at home adds warm and joy to the surrounding. Play time with your puppy is not only beneficial to your pet as it hone its skill but it is also beneficial in your part as you are able to smile and laugh for a moment. Studies show that a happy person is also a healthy person.

Adopting a puppy on the other hand may not that easy at first. Since the puppy is just starting to learn many things, the only thing that you can expect from him is the slight trouble that it could give you such as chewing your favorite rubber shoes. Learning the puppy training techniques can help you avoid this worrisome situation.

Teaching your puppy where to do business, to behave and to obey when you reprimand him, and also to praise him for being obedient and a good puppy are some of the things included in puppy training techniques.

Puppy training techniques include several other things. You may also be required to buy or to have certain stuff to help you with your puppy training techniques. To give you some background, look at the three examples below:

· You need leash and dog collar to be able to perform leash training.

· You must have bundles of newspaper to teach your puppy not to poo just anywhere in the house.

· Perhaps you may also want to invest on chew toys so that there will be something available when your puppy feels like teething. This will also save your stuff from getting worn out.

Puppy Training Books gives tips and advice on training your puppy, plus a review of the best puppy training books - http://puppy-training-books.com

Consider a Puppy Training Book

By Greg Tomson

Taking care of a puppy can be fun and at the same time a lot of hard work. Sure, you play with it, cuddle it, and give it all the love and attention it needs, but taking care of a puppy would also mean spending time and effort to feed it, take it for walks, bathe it, etc. It is a very big responsibility and should not be something dealt lightly.

A puppy is still a living thing, an animal that deserves all the love, care, and training it needs in order to grow up healthy and strong. Though they can be difficult at times, especially when they are too playful or too mischievous, this is where proper training and handling should come in. Sadly though, most new dog owners do not know what to do or how to perform puppy training properly. Puppy training books are great solutions to these problems since they cater to almost every problem and issue regarding puppy training and information about your puppy's overall personality/breed/characteristics.

Bookstores and online bookstores sell all kinds of puppy training books to dog lovers, both newbies and professionals, that handle topics like "How to Raise a Puppy", "How to Raise a Well-Behaved Dog", "How to Survive Your Puppy's First 5 Months", and the list goes on. They are very helpful because these puppy training books are written by dog owners based on experience, tried and tested techniques, and even include other written works of other dog trainers from all over the country.

Puppy Training Books gives tips and advice on training your puppy, plus a review of the best puppy training books - http://puppy-training-books.com

IBD in Dogs

By Frederic Robinson

Inflammatory bowel disease is also known as IBD, and is very unpleasant for any dog to have. It is when a situation occurs that the provocative cells penetrate the intestinal or stomach wall. IBD normally affects old or middle-aged dogs.

The exact causes of IBD in dogs is not definite. Dogs may have inflammatory bowels for a number of reasons, usually down to their own specific set of circumstances. However, certain factors may lead to an augmented risk for creating this condition. These factors comprise of genetics, immune system and diet deficiencies. Your dog also may be allergic to a certain food protein which may also be the cause of inflammatory bowel disease.

Signs of IBD

Inflammatory bowel disease may affect certain portions of the gastrointestinal system of your dog. If the condition distresses the stomach of the dog or the upper part of small intestine, vomiting will be the most noticeable symptom. Inflammatory bowel disease affects the intestines which will cause unceasing diarrhea. Sometimes, blood or mucus will appear in the stool of your dog.

In some situations, both the intestines and stomach of your dog can get infected with IBD. This will result in both diarrhea and vomiting. If the situation becomes too cruel, your dog can lose weight, lose appetite, and show signs of a fever.

Diagnosis of IBD

Your vet may have a first guess of the illness being inflammatory bowel disease if the dog has chronic diarrhea and vomiting. First, your vet will test other causes of vomiting and diarrhea. A biopsy may be the best method to confirm a situation of IBD.

Treatment

Inflammatory bowel illness is usually most efficiently treated with corticosteroids. They are medications that assist the gastrointestinal system to get rid of the provocative cells. You may also be advised to change the food of your dog to a hypoallergenic diet. If it is mainly the colon that is getting affected with IBD, then you may be advised to include more high fibre foods in your dogs diet.

But more importantly, speak to your vet in the fist instance if it looks like your dog is displaying any symptoms of IBD.

If you have ever experienced the stress and anxiety of having an ill dog, then you know the importance of doing everything you can to keep your pet healthy. For tips and advice, visit Dog Symptoms of Illness

Kennel Cough in Dogs - How Worse Can it Get?

By Florin Albu

A lot of dog owners disregard kennel cough. The reason for this is because of the fact that the disease can possibly heal on its own. But this is such a very big risk to take. Dogs suffering from kennel cough need medical care and attention. Kennel cough could get worse any minute. Furthermore, it can just be a symptom of a much severe disease lurking inside your dog.

You know that your dog has kennel cough if it makes hacking cough sounds every now and then. There may or may not be white to yellow mucus forming in its nose. Some people mistake kennel cough for retching. However, kennel cough tends to occur chronically. Besides, your dog would look ill if it has kennel cough. It may even develop fever because of the disease.

The moment you discover that you dog has kennel cough, you have to take it to the veterinarian. To treat kennel cough, the viruses and bacteria that are causing the disease should be eliminated. The most effective way is to do so is to use antibiotics and similar oral medical treatments. Depending on the severity of your pet's condition, the vet may administer intranasal vaccines or inoculations. These modes of treatment can provide dogs with an almost immediate relief to kennel cough.

Dogs that are very prone to acquiring kennel cough are better off taking continued natural medications. Natural medications may come in the form of tinctures, oils, herbs, and teas. The preparation is similar to humans and you've got to administer it to your pet to improve its defenses against the disease. Tinctures should be added to water. With the use of a medicine dropper, give your dog several drops of natural herbs such as wild cherry bark, yerba santa, peppermint, or honey.

Kennel cough is a very common disease. Dogs tend to suffer from it at least once in their lifetime. However, it can easily be prevented. Keeping your dog healthy and strong is the first step. Also, you shouldn't let your pet stray away too much because kennel cough is a highly contagious disease. Mere association with other dogs suffering from it may cause your dog to acquire the disease. Direct contact is not necessary for kennel cough to be transmitted from one dog to another. Furthermore, such a cough may be transferred from cats, birds, or rabbits. The carrier of the disease doesn't have to be another dog.

Keep your pet safe from kennel cough by boosting its immune system. Don't skip regular checkups with the vet either. There are also kennel cough vaccinations for puppies available these days. If you really want your dog to be cleared from this disease, give it the shots that it needs.

Dogs, whenever they are sick, demand care and attention from their masters. They are not too different from humans that need companionship if they are ill. As such, you should do what it takes to restore the good health of your dog. If your dog is well and lively, it will be in its usual joyful self, which can brighten up even your gloomiest day.

For more information related to the kennel cough infection, visit us at http://www.KennelCoughInDogs.com and read more about the main causes of kennel cough.

Are Ear Mites Dangerous to Dogs?

By Florin Albu

So, will ear mites propose a danger to my dog? The simple answer to this question is yes. Ear mites may affect your dog greatly.

While it can rarely cause accidental death, it would certainly affect your dog's joyful nature. Ear mites are small inconveniences for your pets. Worse, they are living organisms that are thriving on their body for food.

It is possible to find ear mites in dogs and cats, as well as other small animals. Ear mites can be considered as parasites, which actually feed on the epidermal wastes of your pet's body. In this case, they found food in the ears. And there they will stay for as long as they are getting the proper nourishment.

Ear mites may or may not be seen by the naked eye. There are species that are big enough to be seen floating about the hair and the skin of your pet. However, there are also some that can only be observed under a microscope. But then again, you don't have to see ear mites just to know whether or not your dog is suffering from it. There are telltale signs to watch out for.

Dogs that are very irritable and are scratching their ears a lot are most likely to be suffering from this condition. And most of these dogs would have brownish discharges coming out of their ears. The discharges are excessive ear wax. The mites trigger its production.

Generally, you don't have to clean the ears of your dog frequently because they can do it by themselves. So if you see a build up of ear wax in your pet, there's every reason to be alarmed. Your dog could be suffering from ear mites and you have to provide a quick solution to it.

Ear mites rarely lead to death. But that doesn't mean that it is not possible. The most common problem with ear mites is the fact that they can trigger the loss of your dog's hearing. Mites penetrating deep into the ears may cause damage to the ear drums. Keep in mind that the ear is responsible for keeping the body's balance. This is true with both dogs and humans. Ear mites could disrupt that balance and cause seizures to your pet. And if your dog suffered from a bad case of seizure, that's when sudden or eventual death may arise.

Ear mites are highly contagious. So you definitely want to keep your other pets away from the infected ones. This is also the reason why it is very important to address the problem early on. If you are not careful, the disease may spread to all of your pets. And in which case, the mites become harder to eliminate.

Keep your dog clean. That's the first line of defense against ear mites. Make sure that it gets is daily bath. Groom your pet as frequently as required. A healthy, hygienic dog is not likely to acquire any type of diseases - especially not ear mites.

DogEarMites.net - resources and articles dealing with the dog ear mites infection and dog ear mites treatments and cures.

Be a Proud Owner and Show Off the Cute Dog Pictures

By Eliza Maledevic

If you have a dog and is able to give you cute dog pictures as output, you should know that there are ways in the Internet that can help you out in making your dog more popular. This is possible though uploading your dog pictures in the Internet.

As an owner, you would want other people to know how attractive and cuddly your dog can be. Normally the dog pictures are used as computer wallpaper or displayed in the websites. You can also share the cute dog pictures by uploading it in the Internet. However, you should remember that there are many some pointers that you should follow before uploading any picture.

To help you have more desirable pictures, you should set a theme for the dog pictures. This will help you in making your dog gain more popularity and also to have your dog gain an identity. You can even set a story that will help your audience to be more interested in the pictures. In taking the pictures, you should enjoy your time as it is also a way for you to enjoy the time with your dog. Also, you should remember that being creative is necessary to make your dog look more interesting. It would also be needed that the pictures look good and has good quality. Blurred pictures should also be avoided since you would not need to share undesirable pictures of your dog.

One tip that you can have is to create a story like when your dog is taking a bath. This can be interesting and can even be made more colorful. You should simply have a good angle of your dog and snap a shot that looks good. Your dog can also show its different emotions and this can even more desirable to its viewing public. You don't have to worry about the audience since there are many people who want to view the pictures. You just have a twist in the picture that will get the attention of the public.

You should also learn that there are pointers that you should follow to make the pictures that you take more desirable. The quality, angles, and the subject in itself should already be interesting. You can use high angles but it would be better if it is taken the angle that is leveled with your dog. Once you have the pictures ready, you can get connected to the Internet and share to others what you have.

Dog Picture

Article Author Eliza Maledevic from http://www.Jump2top.com, a SEO Company.

Know Your Pets Behavior Patterns and You Will Know How Your Pet is Feeling

By Derek Wood

All pets have their own basic personality traits. Some dogs are vibrant, energetic and seem like they are running on way to much caffeine. While other dogs you might have are simple aloof, laid back or downright lazy. As dog owners we need to be aware of changes in our dog's behavior patterns, what they might mean, and how we can deal with them.

On most days your pets will exhibit their normal patterns of behavior. They run to meet you when you get home, lick your hands, wag their tails and are generally in good spirits. But what should you look for when this does not happen? Well, let's take a look at some common behavioral change reasons and see what they could mean.

A dogs behavior will change for many reasons.

Dogs Moodiness. Like humans, they can exhibit sadness, anger, aggression, timidness, and a host of other emotions and moods. They could simply be tired, had a poor reaction to food they ate, or other biological mood swing.

Dogs Surroundings. Canine behavioral patterns can also change because of their environment or general surroundings, Changes such as new crates, moving to a different home, or chaining them up outside when they normally run loose can and will have some form of impact on their behavior.

Dogs Friends. Many people underestimate the level of friendship a pet can have with both it's owners, it's family, and other dogs. If you are in an area with other dogs that your dog has contact with, and that dog moves, your pet will likely miss that playmate.

Dogs Health. A very common reason animal behavior changes is because of a health or injury issue. This can often come on quite fast and can be an extreme difference in your pets behavior. This is commonly seen when a pet snips or bites when you touch a sensitive area.

Dogs Eating Habits. A key factor to noticing a pets behavior is how they eat. Loss of appetite, fighting over food, or constantly foraging may be indications of more adverse behavior.

What behavior patterns are really a problem?

All behavioral changes can be addressed, but not all of them need to be. It will depend on your pet and what motivated those changes. For example, if your pet is tired because he has a new friend to play with all day, this could be a good change if your busy. If your pet is showing signs of lethargy over several days with no known cause, then you should consider taking action.

Recently our female German Shepherd, Abie, was reacting quite out of character. She is quite hyper by most standards. She runs like the wind, jumps all over when excited, and needs lots of run time. However one night she was exhibiting the following behavior.

She walked slowly, held her head down. She would then push her nose up to me softly, give me a sad look, a slight whimper and wait for attention. What could possibly make her change to such a timid and nearly fearful expression? I was unsure. So the diagnosis had to take place. I proceeded to see if she showed interest in her favorite tennis ball. The reaction, while better then timid was still quite lukewarm. Next I checked to see if she was interested in her special favorite treats. She would not even open her mouth.

When she would not open her mouth for a treat that she would gobble down by the truckload if she could, I started to really worry. I placed my hand gently in her mouth and checked her gums, teeth, throat, and still she would not open her mouth, even if I tried to pry it open. This is when It became serious.

Within an hour she was at our local veterinarian's office. She needed to be sedated in order to be able to open her mouth. When this was done the vet found that she has a small piece of a stick she was playing with jammed into the under side of her tongue. This was promptly removed, cleaned and received seven stitches to repair the damage.

She was obviously in quite a bit of pain. While I did not know the exact cause, I did know that she was trying to tell me something about how she felt. It was up to me to understand that this behavior pattern was not normal for her. By taking the time to learn how your pet acts, what things they like to do or eat, and how they display their emotions when presented with these things, you will be better able to understand their needs when something changes or goes wrong.

Derek Wood breeds and trains large breed dogs through the use of healthy and humane techniques. He is a life-long pet advocate and animal friend. Get free pet training tips by visiting: http://German-Shepherd-Obedience.com

Canine Injuries Do Happen - Be Sure You Understand the Total Cost of Dog Ownership

By Derek Wood

One common mistake many people make when purchasing new pets is knowing exactly how much it is going to cost them to take care of their new pet. The initial thoughts are to consider the immediate cost of the dog, some food expenses, and even the cost of a few things such as collars, leashes, and toys. However many pet owners fail to realize the true total costs involved with owning their new pets.

The biggest cost to pet ownership is also the one cost that we hope to never have to pay, the cost of a major health problem for a pet. Recently one of our German Shepherds broke his left hock or rear ankle bone and started a chain of costly events.

The day started out like any other day. Taking the dogs outside for a pleasant session of chase the Frisbee. Like most days our male, Axel, would simply run after and catch the Frisbee. Unfortunately this day he decided to jump straight up and catch the Frisbee that was over his head.

It almost happened in slow motion. He twisted in midair. He caught the Frisbee. It was a spectacular catch. Then he landed extremely hard. The snap was so loud I could hear it from thirty feet away. He yelped like crazy for what seemed like an eternity. Then he actually got up and wanted to play more. But I knew immediately there was a big problem.

Within minutes he was on his way to our local veterinarian's office. The trip only took a few minutes, and he actually seemed calmer then we were. The diagnosis was a broken bone that hold the ankle in place. While that was painful for him, it was not going to be the most painful part of the experience. That came for us.

The very next day he was brought to a specialist for surgical pin placement into the bone that had cracked. That is when the true pain hit us. the cost of the procedure was anywhere between $2000 and $3000 dollars. How were we going to afford that? What other options were there? We were not even going to consider putting him down, he is our family.

So we took out a loan application at the vets office to cover the cost of the surgery and proceeded to have him start his recuperation period. Now that he was ready to go home with a nice brand new cast on his leg, we felt the worst part was over. Little did we know that his road back to good health would double the cost of his care.

Nearly ever week he started chewing on his cast. Oh how he was getting irritated to no end with that cast. He chewed on the top and the bottom eventually getting toes uncovered and putting his leg at risk of further injury. The problem for us was that each time he chewed it off, we had to have the vet put a new one back on. The cost to have this replaced each week averaged to nearly $400 each time it was replaced.

All told he chewed his cast off a total of 7 times over the course of 12 weeks. That is a cost of nearly $2800 just to keep replacing the cast. Add that to the $2100 cost of the surgery itself and various other costs and this one day playing Frisbee cost us over $5000 for one pet.

All this and he is only 1 and 1/2 years old and has many years ahead of him in which he could get hurt. As always we hope he never gets hurt, but unlike before, we will take more steps to better prepare ourselves for the costs involved to care for him in the eventuality that he does.

Derek Wood breeds and trains large breed dogs through the use of healthy and humane techniques. He is a life-long pet advocate and animal friend. Get free pet training tips by visiting: http://German-Shepherd-Obedience.com

Choose a Dog That's Right For You

By Demosthenes Damon

As you consider what type of dog to bring into your home think about your life style. If you're an active runner or a couch potato the dog you chose can an impact on your day to day routines.

The activity a dog needs from day to day doesn't matter on his size but rather his attitude. Some large breeds prefer to lie around and smaller dog breeds need attention often throughout the day. Frisky dogs are more in tune with hikers than with a quilting disciple.

Whatever you're into, you can find a great "friend" to enjoy your activities with. Some dogs are content to lie on a sofa, while others require regular, exhaustive exercise.

My Rottweiler loved wrestling the ball out of my grip and wrestling with me as an adolescent. Most children are easily excitable and high energy. They run, yell and love to play. They can make even the most patient parents nerves stand on end. Some calm breeds will love to join in the fun. Nervous and excitable dogs can be overwhelmed and stressed out from all the activity.

My boys wanted a larger dog that they can physically play with and not worry about hurting the dog. If you are single you may want a calm easy-going dog to welcome you home but not destroy the house while you are gone. I recommend buying a book from the Dummies Series. "Choosing a Dog". For a few bucks it can be a great resource for helping you choose the right dog.

Of course no matter which dog breed you choose you will require some training. Training can make almost any dogs' desire to please, into quality attributes you can benefit from. No matter which dog you chose it is paramount to train your new friend. Both you and Fido will enjoy quality bonding time. Even if you pick a pet that doesn't quite fit your life style, training can bring the expectations into perspective Please visit my independent reviews of the best dog training programs available on the internet.

Demosthenes Damon is an article writer and dog lover. To learn more about his the reviews of dog training products please visit http://www.dogbookdoubter.com/ or click Dog Training

Train Your Pup Early

By Davidton George

If you wish to have a very well-trained dog, better start dog training early while your pet is still a puppy. As your pet grows older, the more he or she will exhibit mastery of your command since training started early. Your dog will instantly be accepted as member of your family if he learns to obey quickly and properly.

Since you are training your dog early, you are beginning on a clean slate, unlike when you train an older dog for he can troublingly respond in a disturbing manner. However, given you are training a puppy, you are up for more challenges in making your pet obey you.

Puppies' attention is very short so they are more distracted than the adult dogs. Just like a little child, they too are stubborn and you should stretch that patience a very long way for your pup to learn a new trick. Keep the training short so you do not exhaust your puppy as well as yourself. When you end the training, give your puppy a pat as a way of conveying you are pleased with his performance.

Do not browbeat your puppy into training. Give him time to play around and interact with other dogs. Your little dog also needs to socialize to make him familiar with people and other dogs so he will not display aggression.

Do not confine your puppy in just one place if you want him to be really well-trained. Walk your puppy to new places. Your dog will be more reactive when exposed to different environmental settings even under several distractions. One tip is to bring your puppy to a pet store where there are other dogs around.

If you find your puppy adorable when he jumps on you, think again. Once it has grown, the behavior can really be dangerous to people who do not know your dog and vice versa. As your puppy grows, do not encourage the jumping behavior by giving him reward. Instead, reward your dog for sitting and just wagging his tail whenever a member of the family arrives.

The reward system actually works for the different types of behavior that you want your dog to perform. You can do the reward trick when potty training your puppy. When doing this, introduce your dog in a surface that he can habituate. As time goes, your puppy will look for the same familiar place and spare you all the trouble of looking after his dirt.

Training a puppy or dog can be fun, as long as you have some idea of what you are doing! For tips and advice, visit How to Train a Puppy

Dog Ear Infections - A Look at Ear Infections in Dogs

By D Swain

Dog ear infections are relatively common. The infection can affect just the external ear canal, or progress into the middle ear. Dogs with hairy or pendulous ears have an increased risk when compared to dogs with neither of these features. So, what exactly causes this condition?

Causes

Ear infections in dogs can be caused by various things. Some of the most common culprits include excessive hair growth in the canal, ear mites, and foreign objects. Some dogs also have allergies are experience ear infections because of other medical conditions. Too much wax leads to more moisture which helps bacteria grow in the ears. You can also cause an infection in your dog's ear when you pluck hairs out. Doing this causes serum to come out of the pores which helps bacteria grow. So, what are some of the signs that you should look out for?

Symptoms

Dog ear infections cause your dog a lot of discomfort. You will notice him rubbing or scratching his ears on various objects or shaking his head. As mentioned earlier, the infection can reach the middle ear. If it does, your dog will experience a lack of balance and unusual eye movements. You will also notice him tilting his head a lot.

Diagnosis

The veterinarian will examine your dog's ear to try to determine the cause of the problem. He will need to use a special instrument to take a close look in the ears. This can be painful to your dog, so your veterinarian may have to sedate him. This allows him to ensure that the eardrum hasn't been damaged. A sample of the substance will also be removed to determine what it is under a microscope.

Treatment

If dog ear infections are caused by a foreign object, they will have to be removed. Heavy accumulation of wax will have to be cleansed thoroughly. If the infection is caused by bacteria, your dog will have to take antibiotics for a few weeks. You will also need to clean his ears on a daily basis. Since they will likely be painful, you will need to be careful not to upset your dog too much while doing this.

Prevention

As an owner, there are certain things you can do to prevent ear infections in dogs. You can clean your dog's ear with a special cleansing solution. This will need to be done on a weekly basis. This is especially important for dogs that have hairy or pendulous ears.

Dog ear infections may cause pain, but they're rarely very serious. Now that you know some of the things to look out for with this condition, come learn about various other dog illnesses that can affect your pet. So, stop by http://www.dog-illnesses.com today to learn about some of these conditions including canine parasites.

Canine Allergies - Five Types of Allergies in Dogs

By D Swain

Humans aren't the only ones that can develop allergies because dogs can too. There are five common types of canine allergies. They include flea, food, contact, inhalant, and bacterial. Let's take a look at these different types of allergies in dogs.

Food

One of the first things that your dog can be allergic to is food. Most allergic reactions to food cause diarrhea and vomiting. However, skin reactions can occur in some cases. Some of the common foods that dogs can be allergic to include wheat, corn, dairy, beef, lamb, and oats. This type of allergy can take a while to become a problem.

Fleas

One of the most common types of canine allergies is to fleas. Instead of being allergic to the flea itself, your dog will be allergic to the flea's saliva when bitten. The affected area will swell, itch, and turn red. This will prompt your dog to scratch at the area constantly which causes hot spots and hair loss. As most dog owners know, controlling fleas in the environment can be extremely difficult, so this type of allergy can be very troublesome.

Contact

Allergies in dogs can also occur when something touches their skin. Common culprits include topical medications, carpet, and bedding. Some dogs can also have a reaction to flea collars. This type of allergy usually causes redness and pus-filled welts. It can be prevented by recognizing the problem material and keeping your dog away from it.

Bacterial

Canine allergies can also be caused by bacteria. Dogs have various species of bacteria present in their bodies that normally causes no harm. However, some dogs can develop an allergy to this bacteria and be prone to infections. The main symptom is hair loss that looks very similar to canine ringworm. Treatment involves giving your dog antibiotics.

Inhalant

One of the final types of allergies in dogs is the inhalant variety. It is characterized by a reaction to something that your dog breathes in. Common substances include mold, dust mites, and pollen. Since some of these substances only occur seasonally, your dog will only have problems at certain times of the year. Other substances are present throughout the year, so they can cause problems anytime.

These are some of the common types of canine allergies. There are many other dog illnesses that can affect your beloved pet. You owe it to your dog to learn about these conditions in case your dog is affected by one. So, stop by dog-illnesses.com to learn about some of these diseases like canine hyperthyroidism.

Understanding Hip Dysplasia in Your Canine Friend

By CS Swarens

If you have a larger-sized dog, you may be concerned about hip dysplasia - and rightly so. Although hip dysplasia is most commonly found in larger breeds, it is important to keep in mind that the crippling disease can affect dogs of all sizes. Therefore, it is important to know how to recognize the signs and symptoms, what you can do to prevent it and how it should be treated.

What is Hip Dysplasia?

Hip dysplasia is a serious condition that results in a weakened hip. When your pet becomes affected by the disease, the hip actually begins to deteriorate and becomes arthritic. Depending upon the severity of the arthritis, the disease can be only slightly disabling or it can be severely crippling. Regardless, the condition occurs when the ball-and-socket joint of the hip develops and the femur is unable to fit properly into the socket.

How Does Hip Dysplasia Develop?

Certain breeds of dogs are genetically predisposed to developing hip problems, particularly larger breeds such as rottweilers and retrievers. In addition, male dogs are more likely to suffer from the disease than females, but there are other factors that contribute to the development of hip dysplasia as well. These include the rate of your dog's growth, the speed at which it gains weight and the type of diet you feed your pet.

What are the Signs of Hip Dysplasia?

The initial signs often begin to develop in dogs while they are still young puppies between the ages of 3 and 12 months, but the onset can also occur after your beloved pet becomes older. Signs to watch for include:

• Apparent lameness in one or both hind legs

• Staggering or swaying when standing

• Signs of discomfort when attempting to stand up or lie down

• A general reluctance to jump or run

• Problems with getting up

• An unusual gait when running, including a bunny-hopping type of gait

• Changes in running and jumping behavior

In addition to these visible signs of hip dysplasia, you may notice a clicking sound when your pet walks and gets up. You may also notice a decreased amount of muscle mass in the rear legs of your pet.

How Can Hip Dysplasia Be Avoided?

While genetics play a significant role in whether or not your pet develops hip dysplasia, and ultimately responsible breeding can help to minimize the chances your pet will develop hip problems, there are some steps you can take to help prevent the disease from manifesting in your canine friend. First, take steps to control the growth rate of your puppy by avoiding overfeeding. Follow the feeding guidelines on the food package closely and cut back on the calories if your puppy seems to be getting overweight. You should also provide your dog with plenty of opportunities for exercise throughout its lifetime in order to prevent obesity.

It is also important to keep a close eye on your canine friend and to notify your veterinarian if you notice signs of hip problems. The sooner your pet receives treatment for the disease, the better its chances of recovery and leading a long, healthy and active life.

CS Swarens is the CEO of Find a Pet Online. 800 998-7065 For additional information on dogs, cats, birds, horses, and exotic pets visit the internet's resource for pets for sale. Research over 240 dog breeds.

Life With Brutus

By William S Greene

I remember the first time I saw Brutus...it was love at first site. He had curly black fur and big brown eyes. He was a stray puppy that a family friend had rescued from the streets.

Our friend said she kept him hoping to find the owner. We offered to take him from her.

It was the beginning of a lifelong friendship.

Brutus and I became companions for many years.

I used to enjoy his fixation on his water bowl as he treated it like a swimming pool instead of a drinking bowl.

He was quite the entertainer.

Brutus also had some type of a sixth sense. Whenever I experienced moments of sadness or depression, Brutus would lay his head on my lap or extend his paw to me in friendship. He seemed to know about my thoughts and fears.

Brutus was my friend through grade school, high school and college, which were some of the toughest years of my life.

As a child, I attended a private school with many wealthy children. They enjoyed tormenting me about my second hand clothing. Brutus, a genuine friend, only cared about me and the time we spent together...not my clothing.

Growing up with a dog as a best buddy is an experience I will never forget. As the years passed, many of my other friendships and relationships came to an end.

Regardless, Brutus and I maintained our friendship.

He was also my bodyguard. He sat on the foot of my bed ready to defend me against any sounds going bump in the night. I felt safe around him because I knew he would give his life for me without hesitation.

I always thought of him as a part of our family. He lived with us for nearly 18 years.

I first saw him through the eyes of an eight year old child and last saw him through the eyes of a twenty-six year old adult.

Towards the end of his life, Brutus became ill. He lost weight and vision in both eyes. His big brown eyes became grayish-white cataracts. He could no longer walk or feed himself.

Unfortunately, Brutus was at death's door which left me with a difficult decision. I knew it was time to show him compassion and let him die peacefully.

I took him on his final ride to the local vet who had cared for him for most of his life. While sitting in the waiting room, I held Brutus on my lap and stroked his fur for the last time. At one time it was black and shiny, now it was gray from old age.

Finally, the veterinarian was ready for Brutus.

I held Brutus's paw so the veterinarian could euthanize him.

By this time, the tears started to roll down my cheeks. The veterinarian told me Brutus went peacefully and didn't feel any pain.

I took one final look at Brutus's lifeless body knowing I was leaving behind 18 years of loyalty, friendship and love.

...William Greene

William Greene has a B.S. degree from I.W.U. and has made a career of working with the public. He has over 10 years experience in social services, including casework. William works with people of different nationalities and education levels. He operates a social dating website titled http://www.socialhearts.com He also posts his thoughts on dating, relationships and social issues on his blog at http://www.socialhearts.blogspot.com

The Number One Killer of Dogs - Cancer and What You Can Do About It

By Rob Metras

Did you know that the number one killer of dogs today is cancer. Some may have thought it was accidents, heart disease or parvovirus. It is poor dog nutrition and it is getting worse not better. Why you may ask? Well we got a warning call during the recent pet food recall. It is startling to know that many pets succumbed to the hands of the pet food manufacturers either knowingly or unknowingly.

It seems as though the more fancy dog foods that come out, the more sickness and cancers veterinarians see every day. Anne Martin's book "Food Pets Die For: Shocking Facts About Pet Food." is shocking, well researched, and very disturbing and tells an interesting story about pet food safety and nutrition.

Her two dogs became very sick after eating a dry dog food. The food was analyzed by two independent labs, as well as a Ministry of Agriculture lab. The long and the short of it is that pet foods today are made up of waste that is leftover from processing human food - blood, bone, ligaments, tails, etc. Even worse than , it's been proven that euthanized animals are making their way into pet food... dogs and cats from shelters, and other livestock that had to be put down. Not what I would want to see.

We all know of the big Pet Food Recall in 2007, in which tens of thousands of cans of food were recalled and pulled from the shelves. Don't you think it's fair to say that there would not have been a recall if efforts were made to ensure the food was safe for consumption in the first place or if the public was immediately advised of the testing to discover the toxic chemicals ? You may have also heard of the controversy around the pet food preservative called "Ethoxyquin"...The FDA tested this preservative and found that it was unhealthy for canine consumption... so they of course banned companies from using it, right? Wrong. The pet food manufacturers argued that it was too important to do away with, and instead of banning the substance outright, the FDA cut the amount that pet foods were allowed to contain in half. So my dog can get only half sick!

Well I will have to ask myself who is protecting my pet and the quality of the food that is available. Some time a few decades ago when I was a youngster our pet food came from the butcher or farm under our supervision. Today I have to think twice and take steps to protect my pets from poor nutrition. I have to ensure my pet is getting the best food and supplements available.

Fortunately there is some decent food out there for dogs that does meet the "recommended" daily allowances of vitamins and minerals... but remember... these "recommendations" were created by the same industry that creates the food itself, they just aren't enough to keep your dog from becoming sick. Think about it: You know that as a human it's important to regularly eat the right amounts from all 5 food groups and take vitamins and supplements to keep your body in the best possible condition. Would you agree that people who do that are probably far healthier than those who eat recklessly? Well my dog should get the same consideration.

I have been following a young holistic vet in Nelson, British Columbia, Dr. Andrew Jone and trust his recommendations to improve the quality of life and longevity through nutrition. He is the author of several publications : Veterinary Secrets Revealed, the Pet Food Recall Report and Dog Health Remedies. He decided that if he was going to truly make it easy for loving dog owners to guarantee that their dogs received the proper nutrition they needed every single day, he was going to have to develop his own dog multi-supplement. And of course... spare no expense when it came to the amount or type of ingredients it needed to keep a dog healthy. And that is just what he did.

I invite you to find more information on what Dr Andrew Jones did about dog nutrition. Find out for yourself a by visiting me at Your New Pets. Subscribe to get my content delivered directly to you at Send me YourNewPets. Learn how to care and protect your dogs ,cats and other pets .

Dog Food Secrets - Are Commercial Dog Foods Safe?

By Ricky Lim

Ultimately, one will realize that manufactured canned dog foods are not the best for dogs. Although there are many substantial claims that the formulas used for these dog foods are scientifically tested to meet the required dietary allowance of our beloved pets, one would have to consider that dogs of the ancient times never really had science to back up their diet. With their raw diet of whatever they were given by their masters before, they still managed to survive.

Many people are growing concerned about the commercial dog foods that keep on popping out of store shelves. This includes kibbles, treats, wet dog foods and dry dog foods. So many dog foods of different kinds have been released and there were also product recalls. But really, what is the best food for your dog?

In reality, the best food for your dog is all natural dog food. Dogs are not really scavengers but they can survive on scraps of bread and meat or even vegetables if they have no choice. In reality, the best food for every dog is freshly prepared natural dog food such as chicken, rice, bread and vegetables. This is something that any person in any household can prepare. The most important thing is that the food is clean and free from harmful chemicals that human beings eat.

There are a lot of human foods out there that can be lethal to dogs and other animals. One of these is chocolate. It is also important to know you should not add seasonings such as salt, pepper and sugar to your dog food.

If you want your dog to be healthy, you have to prepare its food yourself. You can use boiled meat or bones so the dog has something to chew. Rice is also healthy for dogs so they have carbohydrates to burn.

If you want to learn what are the best food for your dog, I recommend you read my dog food secrets review and learn why commercial dog food is dangerous for your dog.