Love Dog Stories

7 Simple Ways to Prevent Struvite Crystals in Your Dog

2008-11-28T11:47:00.004-08:00

By Laura Ramirez

Are you sick and tired of taking your dog to the vet for recurring struvite crystals? Preventing struvite crystals is actually a lot easier than you think. It is certainly less expensive and stressful than waiting until your dog has a problem and then taking him to the vet. Here are 7 simple ways that you can prevent dog struvite crystals at home.

1. Make sure your dog has plenty of fresh, clean water to drink in order to prevent struvite crystals. One of the main causes of struvite crystals in dogs is dehydration. Don't give your dog tap water because it is contaminated with many harmful chemicals. Give your dog filtered water because it is chemical-free and can assist your dog in flushing out harmful bacteria and toxins and decreasing inflammation.

2. Alleviate stress in your dog's life. Preventing struvite crystals is a lot easier in dogs that live a stress-free life. Make sure to give him plenty of interactive play time everyday and take him out for walks at least twice a day. Also make sure to leave your dog with chew toys anytime you are not around to play with him. Give him massages and affection whenever possible.

3. To prevent struvite crystals, avoid giving your dog commercial food, especially dry food. Commercial dog food is full of artificial ingredients such as colorings and preservatives that are harmful to your dog's health. Another problem with commercial dog food is that it is packed with carbohydrate-rich grains. Eating too many grains can alter the pH level of your dog's urine and make your dog more susceptible to forming struvite crystals.

4. One of the biggest steps in preventing struvite crystals that you must take is to make sure your dog gets enough exercise. Exercise helps to maintain your dog's overall good health and is also helpful in stress relief. Take your dog out on a walk at least twice a day.

5. Make sure your dog always has a place to urinate. By taking him out on frequent walks you can be sure that he has plenty of opportunities to urinate. You should also designate an area inside the home as a place for him to urinate if you are outside of the home for long periods. If he holds his urine in for too long he can get struvite crystals more easily.

6. Don't give your dog too much protein-rich food either. Foods high in protein contribute to the amount of minerals in the urine, can change pH levels and make it easier for struvite crystals to form.

7. The best way to prevent struvite crystals is to give your dog a homeopathic remedy. Homeopathic remedies keep your dog's bladder and urinary tract very healthy and promote a healthy flow of urine. They also strengthen your dog's immune system. They are 100% safe and natural so you can give them to your dog everyday without worrying about side effects. They are easy to administer too unlike mainstream medications which often come in pill form. Homeopathic remedies come in a convenient granular form that you can sprinkle on your dog's tongue or in his food.

So there you have it. Rather than waiting until struvite crystals form and your dog is in pain, why not prevent them with the proper care at home? Preventing struvite crystals in your dog is very simple if you follow these seven tips. After all, prevention is the best medicine and you could prevent a lot of hassle for you and your dog if you follow these easy tips for care at home.

Laura Ramirez is a passionate researcher of natural remedies which heal disorders and keep pets vibrant and healthy. Find out more about safe, effective ways to maintain your pet's urinary tract health at http://www.pet-ut-health.com.

Do You Know Good Dog Treats Recipes?

2008-11-28T11:47:00.003-08:00

By Jennifer P. April

If you're reading this, you're probably looking for good dog treats recipes. There are a lot of dog treat recipes online but they're not all created equal. Do you know what ingredients are good for your pet and which ones can be harmful?

Raisins, chocolate and macadamia nuts can all be harmful to your pet. Peanut butter on the other hand is harmless and dogs love it!

If you're looking for dog treats recipes, skip the ones filled with butter and other unhealthy ingredients. Believe me, your dog isn't going to notice if the treats are not filled with lard and butter. He will appreciate something healthier just as well. Really, he will!

Most dogs like peanut butter, cheese and any kind of meat. You can go whole wheat, soy flour or no flour. You can bake chicken livers for your pet for a healthy and simple treat or you can get fancy and make pupcakes complete with frosting and a candle for a celebration!

One of the best parts of dog treats recipes is the versatility. You can take a basic dog treat recipe and add lots of healthy things your dog will enjoy and that will help him or her to look or feel better.

Flaxseeds are one of my favorite add ins. Flaxseeds can be found in larger supermarkets or places like Whole Foods, you can buy them ground so they look more like flax powder than seeds and it only takes a teaspoonful or so to add a rich nutty flavor while helping Lucy's coat and skin to shine. They also help strengthen the heart, nervous system and brain. Plus, flaxseeds help preserve the treats. That's a lot of power!

Dog Treats make great gifts for the dog lovers in your life too.

So what are you waiting for? Grab some dog treats recipes now and start baking!

Discover more dog treats recipes at http://www.all-natural-dog-treat.com and sign up for my free monthly ezine Baggins Bites - it's filled with tips on connecting with your dog and dog treat recipes.

Reasons For Keeping Puppy Pictures

2008-11-28T11:47:00.001-08:00

By Eliza Maledevic

For those who own a dog, there is an established connection between the two of you. Thus, importance is also established and you can be attached to your dog in a certain level. Some think of them as a friend, a best friend or family. With this kind of attachment, it is normal for the pet owners to want to preserve the memories that they have with their dog. Added to this, you should also know that the normal lifespan of the dogs is shorter so there is a big chance for the dog to die before us.

There are many ways for you to preserve the memories of your dog and one of which is keeping puppy pictures. By taking pictures of your dog, you will be able to preserve his presence and even be reminded of what the dog looked like when it was still alive. Thus, you should take as many puppy pictures that you can as your puppy is still alive.

Anyone who has a camera and knows how to operate it can take a picture of a dog. But they may have a more difficult time to capture a kind of picture that is steady and caught the subject the right time. Thus, this entails that the photographer or owner knows when you take a picture. It is difficult to make a dog pose for the camera but there are many instances when the dog can unconsciously pose. Thus, you should know how to capture these moments. Patience would be the most important factor and you can even take more time understanding your dog so that you will know his needs and what he will do next. There are trained dogs that are fairly easy to take puppy pictures but if your dog is not trained, thus you should know that this would take more of your time and efforts. The subject is not still so you should always have a camera ready to take a shot. You should be quick since most dogs can trick you and avoid taking pictures or they can already shift to another position even before you took a shot.

You should also consider bringing a good quality camera since you would need to make sure that you caught the effects that you want. To have better puppy pictures you will need to understand your puppy more. This will help you predict his movements and act faster than his moves. You will also know his expressions and the best possible time to take puppy pictures. After taking these pictures, you may want to keep the pictures safely stored in albums so that the memories would really stay for a longer time.

Eliza Maledevic Ayson writes for Jump2top.com - SEO Company

Puppy Housetraining - 3 Tips For Beginners

2008-11-28T11:46:00.002-08:00

By Anthony W Robinson

We all know that feeling when you look into an adorable puppies face and you just know you have to take him home. I know I've done it. For many, once they get the adorable little guy home and he's using your house as his personal potty, it's not quite as adorable. The good news is, there are steps you can take now to get that puppy housetrained! The things I'm about to reveal to you are critical in your quest for success in puppy housetraining.

The first thing you need to do is get your puppy on a schedule. You need to feed and water him at about the same time every day. By doing this, you'll also begin to regulate when he needs to go out to relieve himself. One common mistake that new puppy owners make is to leave his food accessible to him all day. This is absolutely wrong. To get him on a schedule, set his food out for 15 minutes at a time. If he doesn't eat, pick it up. By doing this, he'll get the idea that when he sees that food dish it's time to eat. Having food available all day will result in him snacking all day instead of eating a full meal. All day snacking means he'll always need to go potty since he can't hold it for very long.

Next, make sure that you are taking your puppy to the same spot in the yard every time, and giving him the same command. This will teach him that when you're outside, it's a business trip. Do not play with your puppy when you take him out to go potty. He'll get distracted and forget why you took him out. Then when you let him back in, he relieves himself in the house.

Finally, make sure that you reward your puppy when he goes outside in the proper place. Remember that he wants to please you and will do whatever he can to make you happy. Let him know that it makes you extremely happy when he does his business outside. When I say reward him, I mean shower him with affection and praise like there's no tomorrow. Treats also work well, but there is not substitute for your attention and approval.

For further information on typical doggie behavior, including a fantastic resource for training how-to's and loads of detailed information on preventing and dealing with problem behaviors, check out http://puppyhousebreaking.blogspot.com/

Know and Grow Your Huskies the Right Way

2008-11-28T11:46:00.001-08:00

By Alex De La Cruz

Huskies are one of those breeds that are widely known as sled dogs in colder regions. They are used to carry people or goods and are considered as a very big help especially if there are no snow mobiles handy or only a limited number of them can be used. But today, they qualify as pets. Different breeds of huskies include the Alaskan husky, the Mackenzie River husky, Sakhalin husky, Tamaskan husky and Siberian husky. Although they grow large, huskies are gentle and friendly animals. They are related to wolves but don't be deceived by their size so don't let them serve as guards for your houses.

They don't make a good watcher because even if someone is a total stranger they would be nice. As pets they also need proper caring and attention to ensure their health and well-being. To care for your huskies, take note of the following. Just like humans, they also need companions. They are used to live with a pack so try to give your husky a friend. It would be better if you introduce its companion as early as possible so that it would be familiar enough especially if it is some other animal like another breed of dog or cat.

Next, make your house husky-proof. Build fences that would be high enough to keep your dog inside. They are active animals and they get lost more often so make sure that they wouldn't be able to jump over your fences and your doors are always closed. But don't let them feel that they are like prisoners inside. Try to walk them as many times a week as you can because they also need exercise especially if they can't have as much freedom to run and leap inside your yard. It would be best if you can walk your husky personally.

Train them so that they would make less mess in and around the house. They are considered intelligent so training them would be easy. You can train them by yourself or you can also seek help from professionals if you really want a more formal, complete, and updated approach. And lastly, don't forget to give your husky its regular check-up. It needs the help of veterinarians to ensure that it gets all the proper care it can to stay fit and healthy especially if it needs medications. Although they will eventually attain bigger bodies don't feed them too much. Huskies just like humans get fat and it can cause them diseases too.

Make your husky happy. Be sure that when you bought or adopted it you are ready of the responsibilities when it comes to taking care of it. Treat them as your friend or better yet as a part of your family. Dogs have feelings too you know and they are very affectionate. You know that taking care of a dog is not as easy as it seems. Sometimes you have to give up something very important to you as its owner just to be with your pet when it needs you the most. But after all these, you know that just a greeting from them (in a form of a bark, of course) after a heavy days' work or licking your face, it's all worth it.

The author of this article Alex De La Cruz is a Dog Trainer who has been successful with several dog training courses for many years. Alex decided to share his knowledge and tips through his website http://www.doggyweb.info. You can sign up for his free newsletter and enjoy a healthy and submissive dog.

A Puppy For Christmas - Really?

2008-11-16T12:56:00.002-08:00

By Nathalie Lafleur

Have your kids been harassing you for months to get a puppy? You may be gradually warming up to that idea and now that Christmas is coming up soon, you might be thinking: why not give the kids a cute little puppy on December 25th. If you have been considering the idea of giving a puppy to your kids for Christmas, please read this article very carefully.

First, the Holiday Season is probably the worst time to get a dog. A puppy needs a routine and we all know how crazy our schedule is during that time of the year. Remember that you'll have to get up once or twice in the middle of the night to get your puppy outside to do his business. So, if you're already tired from shopping, cooking and the office parties, not having full night sleeps won't help!

A dog is not a toy that you throw away once the magic of the first couple of months is gone. A dog should be considered an integral part of the family exactly as your kids are. You don't give your kids up for adoption if they break your favorite vase, so a dog shouldn't end up at the shelter if he chews on your favorite pair of slippers. In fact, if your puppy destroys anything in the house, you should bang YOUR head on the wall.... A puppy has to be supervised and needs safe toys to chew on.

Another thing you have to plan before getting a puppy is the costs associated with it. Getting a puppy requires you to get a crate, toys, food, bowls, leash, collar, etc. Furthermore, your puppy will need a vet checkup, his annual shots, etc. Also, as we talked earlier, if you don't want to lose both your dog and your slippers, you will have to train your cute little puppy. Put on your list of things to do for your dog a puppy socialization and/or an obedience class.

You also have to plan what you are going to do with your dog when you go on vacations. Will you bring your dog with you, ask a friend or family member to babysit or have him stayed at a good kennel? You'd be amazed by the number of dogs who end up at the humane society because the owners decide to leave the country for a couple of weeks and don't want to pay $20 a day in kennel fees.

If you think that a dog belongs in the garage or tied to a chain in your backyard, please DO NOT get a puppy. Dogs are social creatures that absolutely need the interaction with their pack: you. They need to be with you, to live with you, to play with you, to feel protected by you. In other words, they want to be in the house with you. And for that dog to be a well-behaved pet inside the house, he has to be housetrained. Consequently, housetraining your puppy will be your first job as a new dog owner.

If after reading this article, you know that a puppy would be a great addition to your family. You don't mind at all spending the time and money required to train and live with a well-behaved and happy dog, then I would be more than pleased to help you with your first job.

As a dog trainer I have helped thousands of new dog owners housetrain their puppy. My method is simple and stress-free, but most of all it works for all breeds. Visit: http://www.puppy-housetraining.com for more information and tips. Being prepared and knowing what to do when you'll bring your puppy home makes a huge difference. Discover how to housetrain your puppy today.

Puppy Aggression - What Puppy Aggression?

2008-11-16T12:56:00.001-08:00

By Tobias Charles

How to stop Puppy aggression - Before it starts.

If you have recently bought a new puppy and want to get off to the best possible start try these top puppy tips...

Prevention is better than cure.

* Ask the breeder who you have recently bought your puppy off for a piece of blanket or something that smells of his old environment. This is great little trick and will start your relationship on the right footing.

* If you are bringing your puppy home from the breeder or are taking your puppy in the car at any time - try some D.A.P spray...

D.A.P Spray

* D.A.P. stands for Dog Appeasing Pheromone spray - Spray this fantastic little wonder around your car about five to ten mins before you take your puppy in it.

* You can also spray some (or better still- get a D.A.P diffuser) and install it near to where your puppy sleeps.

* The reason why D.A.P spray works so well to calm your puppy and to help prevent any aggression is because it simulates the pheromone that the bitch secretes to help her calm and relax her newborn puppies.

Violence breeds Aggression.

* It is now an acknowledged fact that aggressive behavior towards your puppy will turn you puppy into an aggressive adult.

* It's very true - if you show any aggressive behavior towards your puppy like shouting it will unnerve and scare your puppy.

* Puppies and dogs use any form of aggression as a very last resort.

* Nervous puppies/dogs are far more likely to be aggressive.

A puppy and dog for that matter needs to feel safe and secure in their environment. If a puppy/dog feels that they cannot predict or control their environment to some extent then this will breed frustration, anxiety and finally aggression - remember this in your training program.

If you found this article useful then you can find more dog and puppy training tips here.

For more information on why dogs become aggressive visit here.

Free Online Dog Training Tips

2008-11-16T12:55:00.002-08:00

By Juana Cruz

Dog training could be a difficult and long-term task, but in the end, the rewards are huge and worth your time and patience. There are options to house training dogs: either you train your dog on your own or you send your dog to a dog training and obedience school where he will be taught by an expert. If you train your dog by yourself then you can do so by using free online dog training tips or from books and magazines, or buying a worthy manual that teaches the subject.

Knowing deeply a dog's intrinsic behavior, how dogs interact with each other, and how dogs evolved are keys to training him successfully and making him become a more well-behaved pet. By studying how they interact and why they behave in a specific way, not only will you train him to become a more well-behaved pet but also you will be knowing him much better.

Dogs probably descended from orphaned wolf pups adopted by early humans. After some time they probably learned particular behaviors from humans, like guarding the cave or scaring off predators. As an exchange for performing these learned behaviors, humans gave these dogs food and shelter.

At present, this kind of relationship still exists, with dogs shielding people, property and livestock for their human masters.

If you will train your dog on your own, it is important to bear in mind always that dogs are naturally pack animals. When dogs are living in packs, hierarchical orders are built, which do not change unless the alpha dog is injured or dies. All the other dogs are aware of their place and learn to take orders from the alpha dog, which acts as the leader of the pack.

The alpha dog, being the leader, is the head of the group and leads the pack in tough survival issues like finding food and avoiding larger predators. For a dog training program to be a success, you should stand as the alpha dog your dog should follow all the time. For you to successfully be the alpha dog in your master-pet relationship, you should deserve his respect, and when you do, he will look up to you, which then is very essential in the next period of the dog training program.

It is obvious why dog owners want to train their dog successfully. For one, a very obedient dog is a joy to have, brings the family members at ease, specially with breeds of dog considered to be dangerous, such as Dobermans, rottweilers and pit bulls.

To train your dog become more obedient, you should go to the underlying causes why your dog behaves that way. For example, one of the reasons why a dog chews is separation anxiety.

If your dog suffers from this certain behavior, addressing that cause itself is the way to make him behave more properly. You should not also assume human behavior and dog behavior are the same. Dogs and humans react and behave differently to the same situations.

But there is one characteristic which humans and dogs have in common, and that is their need to establish bonds and socialize with their groups. This need has been an innate need for a purpose, and will continue to be there for our benefit over time.

If you want to teach your dog become more obedient, more disciplined and more well-trained, I recommend "SitStayFetch" by Daniel Stevens. It's a complete dog training and obedience manual that answers every issue dog owners, regardless of experience, face. Check out my review of that ebook at my Dog Training And Obedience Squidoo page.

Practical Dog Training Tips

2008-11-16T12:55:00.001-08:00

By Alex De La Cruz

Why is it important to train dogs? There are many benefits that you can enjoy from training your dog especially if it is between you and your pet dog. Dog training can foster strong owner-dog relationship. With dog training, you can build a good relationship that is based on mutual trust and respect. The age for dog training is between six and eight weeks of age. However, if your dog is older and has yet to undergo dog training, do not worry for it is never too late to teach a dog a new trick. Training dogs can help the owners have confidence in their dogs and have control over them at any possible situation since most of you surely do not want to be embarrassed in public by your dog.

Proper dog training can certainly help your dog socialize better and be a good and cooperative house buddy, too. A lot of dog owners are wondering as to what are the best ways in dog training. Are there any specific steps to follow in training a dog? One very important thing that dog owners must remember is to use positive reinforcement in dog training. It is absolutely discouraged to be cruel or to use harsh training techniques. These techniques in dog training are part of an old school practice and is therefore, proven not to have a long-term positive effect on dogs.

Many experts in dog training believe that these harsh techniques can "break a dog's spirit" while in training process. In dog training, it is ideal to reward a dog with praises and dog treats. It will further reinforce a positive behavior from the dog if he is rewarded for every command that he is able to perform correctly. Do not punish your dog. It will not be beneficial for you in achieving your goals in dog training. If you punish your dog, you will only make them afraid of you. Remember, we are trying to employ positive reinforcements here. So, when your dogs make mistakes.

Do not hurt them or hit them with something. You should not blame them when they make mistakes or when they cause accidents in your house. During training, owners or trainers must give commands in a friendly yet firm manner. If you want your dog to come or heel, you can speak in a friendly voice. If you want your dog to stay or sit, you may speak in a low but firm voice. Be consistent in giving commands and in using different techniques. This is to avoid confusion for your dogs, too. Dog training will further teach you how to work with your dog's natural drives and instincts.

Dogs are generally easy to train. Positive reinforcements are the easiest ways in dog training. So, do not forget to give your dog some treats when they do good. Be generous with praises, too. Treat them like they are human beings worthy of love and respect. Dogs are wonderful companions. They will not be called "man's best friend" for nothing. The time that you spend with your dog can certainly create a bond that is not easy to break.

The author of this article Alex De La Cruz is a Dog Trainer who has been successful with several dog training courses for many years. Alex decided to share his knowledge and tips through his website http://www.doggyweb.info - You can sign up for his free newsletter and enjoy a healthy and submissive dog.

A Tale of Puppies and Waffles

2008-11-14T11:31:00.003-08:00

By Nola Lee Kelsey

What child wouldn't dream of visiting a waffle farm? Pure innocents and sticky sweet goodness run wild through their imaginations. Good news! They actually exist. Glorious places overflowing with waffles are concentrated in states like South Dakota, Missouri, Tennessee and Pennsylvania. Heavenly farms produce waffles, waffles and more waffles. The scent of butter envelopes these special farming communities.

For years now the Jones family has loved their waffles. They enjoy them daily. They have even joined a club, sharing a common bond with others who also cherish the Jones's favorite breed of waffle - the Belgium waffle.

When it was time for another Jones family vacation, they called a meeting over breakfast. Papa Jones and little Jenny wanted to go volunteer at an animal rescue in Utah. Mama Jones wanted to take a cruise. She likes the morning buffet. Then little Jimmy Jones looked down at his plate. Suddenly, he jumped up. "I've got it!" he shouted. "Let's go visit a waffle farm." "Yippee!" they all exclaimed. It was a brilliant idea. The matter was settled. The Jones family would visit a waffle farm and frolic among pure fluffy goodness for days on end. Little did they know this vacation would change their lives.

As it turned out most of the places where waffles are farmed, actually called waffle mills, don't encourage visitors to stop in. They all have websites featuring photos of beautiful fluffy waffles of every size and shape. But the websites were focused on mail order waffles and sales to stores. Stores are where waffles and waffle supplies are usually sold to the public. The Joneses were undaunted. They headed for South Dakota.

The family visited Mount Rushmore, the Badlands, Deadwood and more. Along the way they asked the citizens of South Dakota about visiting one of the waffle mills their state was so famous for. No one could help. Some appeared to not realize they were living in one of the nations top waffle mill hot spots. Others didn't care about waffles at all. Most seemed to have heard of the farms but did not know much about them or where they were. "South Dakota is renowned for its waffle mills", Mama snapped in frustration. Jenny Jones began to cry.

Had they made a mistake? They had considered visiting Pennsylvania. Until recently it appeared the state of Pennsylvania was almost as proud and protective of their waffle mills as they are of the Liberty Bell. Their plans changed when they heard that the Government of Pennsylvania was cracking down on waffle mills under pressure from fans of the Oprah Winfrey Show. Apparently Lisa Ling had filmed an exposé on a few bad waffle mills. It all seemed so silly. After all, waffles are all that is good and right with the world. Why stop making them in mass? At least in South Dakota government and citizens do nothing to stop the mills.

Jenny cried again. "Enough!" said Papa. He grabbed a map from the glove box and headed across South Dakota's open prairie. The family was headed for Baconville, a town where many store bought waffles were reputed to come from. Upon the Jones' arrival at Baconeville the family became a bit confused. The small dusty streets did not smell like maple syrup. Not even close. The smell was more like rotten eggs and flour mold. Surely they would not create good pure waffles out of less than perfect ingredients Mama Jones thought. "We must be upwind of the waffle mill." After unpacking at the hotel the Joneses set out for one of the nearby mills.

It was late Sunday morning and no one answered the bell on the waffle mills front gate. "They must be at Church", said Jimmy. Jenny Jones began to cry yet again. Papa could take no more. He found a hole in the fence. "We'll just walk around back and take a look at some of the waffles." If it looks fun and we want to buy some souvenirs we can come back this afternoon." The smell had not subsided. This marked the last moment of their lives that the Joneses would ever shop for waffles at a store.

As the Joneses rounded the corner they could not believe their eyes. Waffles were crammed into wire basket waiting to be shipped to stores. They had no protection from the sun or flies. Many were dehydrated and sagging in the heat. Stunned, the family followed the unpleasant odor. In a large hot building they found where the waffles were created. Eggs were stacked the ceiling. Many of the eggs had cracks. Flour bags covered in filth leaned against the wall. Some had maggots festering in open holes. Calcium depleted egg shells and baking soda that was no longer useable had been haphazardly tossed out back, until they could be disposed of.

It became horrifically obvious that many of the other badly cracked and damaged old eggs were still to be used even though they lay drying up on the bottom of the rusty storage shelves. Batter oozed to the floor. All of the stomachs of all of the Jones began to churn. They collapsed in the grass sobbing. How could this happen? How could people ever buy store bought waffles when this is where they came from? Why did government let this deplorable situation continue?

Saddened and distraught the Joneses left for home immediately. How could anyone stay in Baconville knowing what was happening here? Why did the people who lived in the town do nothing to stop the mills? After arriving home Mama Jones immediately contacted the Breakfast Society of the United States to report what they had found. The BSUS sent the family some education information. The Jones learned that most waffle mills were actually like the one they had visited in South Dakota. The grotesque nature of the hellish facility was not the exception, but the rule.

The Joneses also learned that every year in America over 5 million waffles and pancakes are sent to shelters, housed and destroyed at tax payer's expense. Yes, even people who don't like waffles pay for the negligent over-production perpetrated by operators of these waffle mills. "Why do they make more waffles and even pancakes than people can use?" asked little Jimmy Jones. It makes me sad to think of them all going to waste" "I don't know", said Mama. She also could not imagine why the world would knowingly manufacture so much more of any product than it could ever use. It seemed so senseless.

Yes indeed, the Jones Family learned a lot from their family's summer vacation. You can too. Reread this story. Only this time where ever you see the word 'waffle' replace it with the word puppy. Pancakes are cats and the ingredients are adult breeding animals locked away for life in squalled conditions. You can decide for yourself what 'batter' is.

People must no longer see mere products when acquiring pets. We wrote the recipe. Mankind created domesticated companion animal to be what they are - beating hearts and loving souls who long to run, play, be petted and loved. The recipe is perfect. The cooks - not so much! Consumers and government would never let simple baked goods be produced in such a place as was described above, so here is your food for thought. How could we let this happen to our pets? Don't they deserve higher standards of care than waffles? Bon Appetite!

Nola Lee Kelsey is the author of Dogs: Funny Side Up! available everywhere fun books are sold. For a limited time only readers may receive a free Adobe ebook versions of 'Dogs: Funny Side Up!' by emailing FreeBooks@DogsEyeViewMedia.com

Visit http://www.DogsEyeViewMedia.com for more details. Learn more about Kelsey at http://www.NolaKelsey.com

Tips to Stop a Puppy From Biting

2008-11-14T11:31:00.001-08:00

By Karen Corey

Biting and chewing comes naturally to puppies; especially when they are teething. It can seem like it will never end, but take heart; it is a natural phase all puppies go through. At first it may seem like it is just a game, but it needs to be stopped quickly to avoid further problems when your pup gets older. During the teething stage a puppy will try to sink its razor sharp teeth into anything; including the hand that feeds it.

There are a variety of training methods to help teach a puppy not to bite. You should keep in mind some basic guidelines:

Don't slap or hit the puppy in the face. This is not effective and it may confuse the puppy. He or she may think that you are playing or this might frighten the pup and make him afraid of you.

You should always encourage acceptable behaviour and discourage unacceptable behaviour. Everyone in the family has to be consistent when it comes to showing the puppy want you want them to do and not to do.

During the teething stage when you are trying to stop your puppy from biting you shouldn't play tug of war games or playful wrestling with them. This is hard to do because they are so cute and want to play rough. However, it you do play these types of games with them this will only encourage nipping and biting.

Your puppy is just doing what comes naturally and doesn't know any better. He doesn't know that he is doing anything wrong. You have to consistently show him what is acceptable and what is not. There are different techniques used to show your pup that biting you is not acceptable. Below you will find a few suggestions to try for yourself. To stop this habit quickly you need to start as soon as they are showing signs of wanting to sink their teeth into anything that moves.

You can try to redirect the biting from your hand or toes to a toy or chew stick. As soon as the pup starts to nip, say NO, and replace your arm or feet with a chew toy. Puppies are very smart and if you use this method consistently they will catch on quick.

One of the most popular methods is to make the puppy think he is hurting you each time he tries to take a bite out of you. If you have ever watched a litter of puppies play and wrestle with each other; you will notice that they don't stop attacking until another pup yelps. When your pup bites you say Ouch! and pull away from him. The trick to this is to startle them with your voice and then pull away and stop playing for awhile. This will show him that if he bites you won't play with him anymore.

You can us a small spray bottle filled with water and every time he nips or starts to bite at you spray him with the water. Just one short spray in the face should deter the pup. Most puppies don't like to be sprayed.

Here is a tip that might sound a little strange, but it seems to work on some puppies. You take an empty can and fill it with rocks or coins. When your puppy starts to bite, you say No and shake the can. For some reason most pups don't like the rattling noise and they will stop biting you.

If you have a pup with severe biting problems you can use this method. When the pup sinks his teeth into you say, No, and quickly put your thumb under his tongue and your other finger under his chin. Be careful not to hold his mouth too tightly and do this for about 10 seconds and release him. This is uncomfortable for the pup and after a few times he will understand that if he bites he will be uncomfortable.

Keep in mind that this is a natural phase and they will settle down after the teething process is finished. Just be consistent when training them not to bite. You will have many years ahead of you to play, wrestle and run with the newest member of your family. You might want to consider getting pet insurance on your puppy as there may be unforeseen medical expenses in the years to come. This will give your family peace of mind knowing that you will be able to provide medical attention when needed.

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!

Health Issues in Older Dogs

2008-11-14T11:30:00.002-08:00

By Joseph M Sabol

You think of a 5 year old as very young, however, when your dog turns 5, he is beginning to enter his senior years. Your dog will begin to experience the same health issues as his human family. As you begin to notice changes in your dog's appetite and behavior, schedule an appointment with the veterinarian for a complete evaluation. This exam will give the vet an overall picture of your pet's health by determining potential problems, addressing and treating current problems, and supporting you in caring for your aging companion.

Changes take place in your dog which effect activity level, appetite and digestive system, hearing and vision, skin and coat and behavior. Your dog's activity level slows down because his metabolism slows by about 30%. Your best friend may still show an interest in active play, but arthritis will cause him pain and decreased mobility. Today there are prescription drugs to deal with arthritis, similar to the medicines we take. Only your vet can decide if these drugs will be appropriate for your dog. High quality, human grade pet vitamins have been shown to support the overall health and wellness of dogs by providing essential Omega fatty acids, antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients.

The decreased activity level and slower metabolism will naturally effect your pet's appetite as well as his calorie requirements. There are many high quality pet foods that are specially formulated for senior dogs. They provide complete nutrition but with a lower fat and calorie content. The decreased fat content may result in your dog's skin and coat becoming dry. A dietary supplement, in the form of a high quality pet vitamin will help maintain your dog's healthy skin and coat.

One of the most noticeable signs of aging is the clouding of a dogs eyes. This is caused by cataracts and is more common in some breeds, such as Boston terriers. There are veterinary specialists that can treat cataracts. Glaucoma is caused by an increased pressure in the eyes. It can be very serious, but if detected early, it can be controlled.

Another issue in aging pets is dental disease. Gums become infected and teeth become loose. This can not only be painful, but it can lead to more serious health issues. Bacteria can enter the bloodstream through the gums and cause cardiac or kidney problems. Have your veterinarian check and clean your pet's teeth and if necessary infected teeth can be removed and the dog prescribed antibiotics.

It is hard to see our best friend decline from an active, energetic playmate to a slower, less vigorous housemate. With proper care and nutrition and continued love and support from his family, your dog's senior years can be a pleasant, happy time.

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

The Secrets to Training Small Dogs

2008-11-14T11:30:00.001-08:00

By April Claeyssens

Training a small dog needs attention and care. While large dogs are used as watch or guard dogs, small dogs are essentially known as companions. This tendency will motivate you to treat your pet as a puppy, even when it's grown. It is important to know the secrets to small dog training to boost your dog's confidence and obedience levels.

Train your small dog on a raised surface:

Small dog training should be started at an early age and on a raised surface. You may already have a picnic table to begin training your puppy. This will increase his concentration and he will start listening to you obediently. After you've spent some time training in this manner he will begin follow your commands at ground level.

Use consistent commands:

Your small dog is eager to know how to please you. Use the same hand signals and voice commands to train your dog. When you want him to sit, use the same command every time and only say it once. The command is sit, not sit, sit, sit. This will help your dog recognize the commands and act accordingly.

Choosing the right collar:

Choosing the right collar is important in small dog training. Your dog will have a small neck and therefore a small collar. It is recommended that you use a harness when walking your dog as pulling on his collar could have a grave impact. Choosing the right sized collar and harness will also make your dog a lot more comfortable.

Reward your dog for good behavior:

When you dog catches on to what you're trying to teach him, give him one of his favorite biscuits as a reward. He will soon realize that he gets a treat for doing the command correctly. It will only get better from there.

Socialize your small dog early:

Small dogs may seem helpless early on if they are not socialized. By socializing your dog both of you will be a lot happier. You won't have to worry about his behavior and he will not be frightened by unknown people or things. If you have other pets or children at home, socializing your small dog is crucial. It's very important that your dog doesn't see other children as scary.

If you train your small dog to understand the 8 basic commands by hand and/or voice, you'll have a lot happier dog. Dogs like to know the house rules. They also enjoy pleasing you. So, both you and your dog will be a lot more content if you master the secrets of training small dogs.

Hi, my name is April. I've written this article about dog training so you can learn how to keep dog's behavior under control. You'll be happier and so will your best friend. Please visit my website http://savemoneysavetimenow.com/dogtraining where you will find more behavior training.

Handling Bad Dog Behavior

2008-11-14T11:29:00.000-08:00

By Aleesha London

Having to deal with bad dog behavior can be a real challenge. It is not however, impossible. In general, the basic principle in handling bad behavior in dogs is a combination of gentleness and firmness. How exactly is this mix accomplished?

Gentleness can simply mean not using inhumane dog handling methods. The most basic methods that owners can incorrectly apply are physical punishment and isolation. When a dog misbehaves, an owner may either chain the dog or hit it until it stops its undesirable behavior. These techniques can make the bad behavior worse or create even more undesirable behavior patterns. Ideally, misbehaving dogs should only be held or spoken to. They should also be generously praised when they behave in the correct way.

Firmness on the other hand simply means using gentle rigidly. Bad dog behavior for example can be prevented in the puppy stage when a puppy is held firmly in place if it struggles or attempts to disobey. Larger dogs can also be consistently prevented from showing bad behavior by constantly reminding then who is boss. Make it a habit to firmly insist that you come first in eating, choosing a spot on the couch and entering a room. This is the best way to tell your dog that you are the dominant creature.

If bad dog behavior involves aggression, you may need more serious help. Aggressive tendencies in dogs should be stopped through the use of appropriate training methods. You can send your dog to an obedience school or you can choose to save a few dollars by training your dog yourself with the help of some training tools.

Does your pet exhibit any aggressive dog behavior? Get free tips, resources and learn how to control bad dog behavior before it ruins your relationship with your beloved pet.

Puppies Training - What Dogs Can Teach Us

2008-11-11T09:01:00.002-08:00

By Jed Rose

It takes very little puppies training to have a working dog like my little blue heeler cross to bring an object back perfectly and precisely every time. They never seem to tire and they never seem to get it wrong.

Right?

Wrong.

On this otherwise ordinary afternoon down my back paddock, my little blue heeler girl taught me something that had been staring me in the face for years. Something that had troubled me without my ever being conscious of it. Something that has helped me to change my approach not only to dogs but more importantly for my work situation, to humans as well.

When I threw the ball, each time she brought it back, my dog dropped the ball on the grass further and further from my feet, then shot off down the hill in joyful anticipation of my next throw.

Eventually she just hurled it in my general direction from a great distance with not even a glance in my direction and took off again.

As I walked further and further down the hill to pick up the ball and throw it again for my dog's obvious delight - the penny dropped.

I was the target of some artful puppies training.

My cute and lovely dog was training me to work for her, not the other way around.

Wised up, I immediately changed the rules of the game, demanding and receiving her focused attention on what I wanted and within minutes my clever dog was bringing the ball back to me and laying it carefully right on top of my foot.

Now as a famous German philosopher once said, you can learn everything you need to know from the dog.

Just suffice it to say that for some time now my once troublesome staff members have been completing their jobs properly and on schedule rather than leaving them for me to tidy up, re-assign or finish off myself.

Who would have thought that a little time spent correcting my puppies training could have such far reaching positive results for me in the workplace.

Jed Rose can help you with how to train puppy. Jed gives common sense advice, encouragement and tips for how to train puppy at his how to train puppy blog.

Behind Life's Abundance Dog Food - Dr Jane Bicks

2008-11-11T09:01:00.001-08:00

By Candice Lee

Dr Jane Bicks is a holistic vet and product formulator of Life's Abundance dog food. And one thing is for sure, she certainly has a love for animals! She shares her life with a dog, a goat, two horses, a monkey, and two cats. Her pets are her family and she is dedicated to their health and happiness.

For years, Dr. Jane Bicks, has been wanting to share one simple thing with the world--- that nutrition is the foundation of life. As the product formulator of Life's Abundance she knows that dogs depend on us to provide them with the nutritional support that they need. This includes proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals. She believes that when given the right nutrition, our dogs and cats can live a long and healthy life.

Unfortunately, many of the dog food companies today make their food with the standard "nutritional requirements". Dr Jane has seen many animals on food that has the "standard" requirements, but these same animals are dealing with health problems that could be avoided with a higher standard of nutrition.

Dr. Jane goes the extra mile with Life's Abundance dog food. She makes sure that the food has the highest quality standards. She also makes sure that every ingredient in Life's Abundance is selected to support specific parts of the body.

For example, quality protein is crucial for all ages especially for puppies and seniors. Dr Jane chose highly-digestible, quality proteins for Life's Abundance. It also has a variety of fresh vegetables because they contain a wide array of antioxidants.

Dr Jane Bicks has a mission...to make a positive change in the lives of dogs everywhere with Life's Abundance dog food!

Did you know that dogs fed a high quality food live almost 5 years longer than dogs fed a low quality food?

Find out more about Dr Jane Bicks and get a free sample of Life's Abundance dog food

Raw Dog Food - How Can You Be Sure It's Healthy?

2008-11-10T12:46:00.002-08:00

By Madeleine Innocent

Most people feel reassured by the pictures of smiling veterinarians and dog breeders paying tribute to the commercial pet food they feed their dog. Or perhaps, you've been convinced by your own vet that the food they sell is sure to be nutritionally balanced.

For your dog's sake, be a bit suspicious. Don't be convinced by anyone (including me) that what they are trying to sell you is necessarily in your dog's best interest. Instead, it may be in their own best interest if they gain a sale from convincing you.

If you're having a problem getting your head around the idea of raw dog food, then I suggest it's your problem, not your dog's. Dogs evolved on a diet of raw food over millennia. Humans have only recently taken an interest in making dog food.

Do you really imagine, for one moment, that humans have been able to change the domestic dog's digestive and immune system in fifty odd years? You may well say that humans have had an impact on the way dogs look, with all the different breeds. Yes, that's true. But have you also noticed that pedigree dogs are also the most unhealthy? What I call a Heinz 57 dog, is normally much healthier.

So in breeding a selective type of dog, humans have gone against nature, by isolating one or more traits, until the breed becomes what the breeder wants. And so it is with food. Humans tinker about with food, under the guise of 'science'. I call it junk science, because there's nothing scientific about commercial dog food. The word 'science' has come to be revered by the majority. Just as the word 'natural' is currently enjoying popularity.

So a clever commercial dog food manufacturer will incorporate the word 'science' and/or 'natural' in the advertising, to lure you in. That doesn't mean there's anything of quality within the packet or can It could be anything. You have no way of knowing how the food was prepared or what is in each pack.

Raw dog food, on the other hand, contains all the nutrients essential to a healthy dog. I appreciate that it may take you time to get your head around the idea, because you've probably been brought up on the idea that commercial pet food is the healthiest way to go.

If that was true, how cum that dogs health invariably improves when a switch from commercial to raw dog food is made? The only way you're really going to find out for sure is to try it out yourself. You may be worried about parasites and bacteria in raw dog food.

Neither of these are an issue for dogs, whose digestive system is very robust, with powerful digestive juices. Dogs aren't carnivores, they're omnivores, which means they can eat anything (as long as it's raw), including vegetation and rotting carcasses. In fact, you will notice that when you feed a raw dog food, fleas and worms decrease and almost disappear.

Dogs have problems with unnatural foods - those that are cooked, those that contain preservatives. Neither of these are natural. Cooking destroys many vitamins and denatures other nutrients. I can genuinely assure you, that your dogs health will improve considerably when you start feeding a raw dog food. There may be a 'de-toxing' period initially, but this is normal, natural and only takes a short time to go through.

Why not try it for a month and see for yourself? What have you got to lose?

Madeleine Innocent has been a homoeopath, a natural health therapist, since 2000. She treats both people and animals and finds that when the diet of her patient is addressed, to one that is more in keeping with natural laws, at the same time as her treatment, enormous strides in the resultant good health are made. To underestimate a good, natural diet is to play Russian roulette with life.

For more information, click on this website:- http://www.naturallyhealthydogs.com

Airline Approved Dog Crates - Buying an Airline Approved Crate For Your Dog

2008-11-10T12:46:00.001-08:00

By James D Nash

When it comes time to take a flight across the state or even to a whole new world, when you want to take your dog with you, one thing that is a must have is that of a airline approved dog crate. While there are many great airline approved dog crates which are available, one thing important that you must keep in mind before you fly is that you will also have to have a "Live Animal" sticker on it as well as a water bowl. These are important and while many are already approved, without the sticker and the water bowl; your dog will fall on the do not fly list.

Now assuming that you are also ready to get the stickers as well as the bowl, you will need the crate. Unfortunately not every one is approved for flight. Matter of fact there is one major company whose inventory is almost all approved for airline flights and that is of course PetMate. The PetMate brands for the better part, are ready to go.

Of course that does not in anyway help your decision process as PetMate offers a large variety of dog that you can choose from that are airline approved. The most well known of these though, is that of the traditional ones. These are the same ones that are also specifically utilized by the various airline companies for transporting of animals.

Unfortunately for most people though, these traditional crates while durable and long-lasting, well they lack that little bit of uniqueness among them. For this reason you still have a great number of choices from which you can choose from. For example, you have the PetMate Vari-Kennel Jr. which is stylish and colorful. These come complete with a black colored carrying handle and a black door, but the rest of it is composed of a high commercial grade polyethylene plastic copolymer which is non-porous so it will not attract odors and will also be very easy to clean off.

As a matter of fact, the entire PetMate Vari-Kennel series is composed of nothing but designer airline approved dog crates. There are many great color choices and sizes in this series that you get to choose from. The most important thing though is that irregardless of which model you choose, that you have the "Live Animal" sticker on the crate as well as the water bowl. Furthermore you have to make sure that the kennel is actually the correct size for your dog.

In order to determine the correct sized one for your dog, it is time to take out the tape measurer. First off you are going to measure from the highest point of your dog's shoulders to the ground. Add four inches to this height and that will be the height you will need in your crate. Next measure from that same point on the shoulders to your dog's hind paws and once again you are going to need to add about four inches to this measurement for the length of the crate. Finally for the width, simply measure from shoulder to shoulder. However the width is not nearly as important as the height and length of the kennel.

James Nash is the owner of http://www.YourDogSuppliesStore.com - In his store he sells many airline approved dog crates with more being added almost daily. YourDogSuppliesStore also sells a wide variety of dog supplies at blowout prices!

Boxerdoodle Dog

2008-11-10T12:45:00.004-08:00

By Chetak Lama

The Boxerdoodle is a hybrid breed that is developed by breeding a Boxer with a Poodle. This breed appearance is a combination of both of its parents. Boxerdoodle weighs around 12-70 lbs (5.5-32 kg); its height is of range 10-25 inches.

The coat of a Boxerdoodle can be a bit wavy or curly. They have a coat that is luxurious and beautiful. Coat may come in different colors like chestnut, mahogany and fawn but their usual colors are rich brown. Energy Level is high but they are not hyperactive.

Like a Boxer, the Boxerdoodles usually gets along well with everybody. The temperament of the Boxerdoodle is based on the general temperament of its parents. In general, this breed should be an easy-going family companion. It usually gets along with everyone in its family. It enjoys being around its family. Their intelligence is readily demonstrated by their problem solving ability and their adaptability. They are extremely sensitive dogs who bond closely with their owners and family. Training a Boxerdoodle is much convenient while it is a puppy.

Typically, this breed loves to play catch, go for long runs, throw the Frisbee around and wrestle in the yard with the kids. They are good companions and easily get along with others. They are good as watchdogs; they will easily alert the family if they smell something wrong.

The Boxerdoodles should receive daily opportunities for exercise. This is especially true since the breed is more suitable for indoor living conditions. The average litter of size of the Boxerdoodel Puppies will vary since it is a hybrid breed. It may have as few as 2 and as many as 10 puppies.

They are intelligent and meet all the criteria of becoming good family dog.

Animaroo's dogs for sale services encompass everything from dogs for sale listings for dog breeders, dog photos, puppies and dogs for sale and boxer for sale

Australian Cattle Dogs

2008-11-10T12:45:00.003-08:00

By Chetak Lama

The Australian Cattle Dog is a relatively healthy and long-lived breed. Their average life expectancy is 12 to 15 years.

Australian Cattle Dog is a medium-size dog about 17 to 20 inches and around 35 pounds.

Australian Cattle Dogs exhibit two primary coat colors: blue and red. In both cases the coloration is not solid.

The Australian Cattle Dog, also known as the Australian Heeler, Hall's Heeler, Queensland Heeler and the Blue Heeler, is a sturdy, compact working dog, well-muscled, powerful, yet very agile. The body is a bit longer than high with a slightly curved tail reaching approximately to the hock.

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.

That being said, as a pet you may find your Australian Cattle Dog exhibiting herding behavior. As they have the instinct of controlling herds 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. Australian Cattle Dogs are very good learners and follow all the instruction of owner. He can be easily trained to be an obedient dog but you must vary the training so that he doesn't get bored.

Cattle Dogs drive cattle by nipping at their heels or tails, but they have also been known to herd other animals, such as ducks, chickens, humans, pigeons, and even cars without instruction when left to their own devices.

Australian Cattle Dog Puppies needs lot of love & affection. Pups are born white (save for any solid colored body or face markings) and grow darker as they mature. This characteristic is believed to be inherited from a posited Dalmatian ancestry. Early obedience training is must. Their intelligence, sensitivity, and desire to please, combine to make them very trainable dogs.

Animaroo's dogs for sale services encompass everything from dogs for sale listings for dog breeders, dog photos, dog rescue and adoption, puppies and dogs for sale.

Akbash Dog

2008-11-10T12:45:00.001-08:00

By Chetak Lama

The Akbash Dog is native to western Turkey in the region known as the Akba_, and it is primarily used as a Livestock guardian dog. It is a large dog, weighing between 90 to 130 pounds. It stands between 28-34 inches and has a distinct white coat, long legs, and feathered curved tail. Life expectancy is 10-11 years.

It possesses characteristics of both mastiffs and sight hounds. The breed is often referred to as a sheep dog. This solid white flock guard dog is equipped with keen hearing and superior strength. The Akbash Dog is one of the oldest of the flock-guarding group.

Akbash Dogs are calm, quiet, independent, protective, brave, and affectionate. They will be aggressive toward strangers and strange animals if they aren't properly socialized and trained. Akbash Dogs are steady and peaceful, but watchful at the same time. They are also thinking dogs.

They are good with children and are good learner. Their intelligence, sensitivity, and desire to please, combine to make them very trainable dogs. But all training should be undertaken from a positive and motivational. Akbash Dogs is very good guardian and socialize with stranger. Even at young age strong guarding instincts make him strongly bond with livestock. They are also good with infants.

Akbash Dogs are are not suitable for apartment life as they are rural dog and require big yard to roam and run. They indulge in rough play without getting hurt.

Akbash Dog Puppies have litter size of 7 to 9.

Akbash Dogs does not require lot of grooming as they are non shredders.

They are very energetic and great dog for rural purpose.

Animaroo's dogs for sale services encompass everything from dogs for sale listings for dog breeders, dog pictures, puppies and dogs for sale.

Understanding Dog Behavior Modification

2008-11-10T12:44:00.000-08:00

By Aleesha London

You might have already heard about dog behavior modification. If you aren't very familiar with it though, you may confuse it with obedience training. There are some differences between the two though. In some cases, obedience training may only be a part of a comprehensive behavior modification program.

The term behavior modification is already a clue to what it is. It simply means significantly changing a dog's thought and feeling patterns to achieve corresponding changes in attitude and behavior. Strictly speaking this is different from obedience training where a dog is simply taught how to respond to a specific command. A purely obedient dog simply performs an act automatically without necessarily being able to differentiate between good and bad behavior.

In some cases, there may be nothing wrong with obedience training alone. A problem arises though when only obedience training is used for a dog with bad behavior. Forcing a stubborn or aggressive dog to obey without dog behavior modification may only lead to significant emotional stress to the dog. This may even lead to worse behavior problems.

Dogs with serious behavioral problems need to be handled by experts. If your dog however is only exhibiting mild behavioral problems and slight aggressive tendencies, you may be able to manage to teach your dog the right way to behave. You can learn simple dog behavior modification principles such as reinforcement and the use of cues. Of course, you want to be sure that you do things right so it is highly recommended that you research first before attempting to modify your dog's behavior.

Does your pet exhibit any aggressive dog behavior? Get free tips, resources and learn dog behavior modification before your dog's bad behavior gets any worse.

How to Train a Puppy - Part 1

2008-11-09T14:11:00.002-08:00

By Tobias Charles

I must have been asked this very simple question more times than I care to remember so lets cut to the chase.

In this example we will use reward based training for your puppy.

These techniques will also work with an adult dog.

Start the training as SOON as you have bought your puppy do NOT leave it a few days and then start training.

Remember that a puppy will have zero attention span - One minute he will be giving you those puppy dog eyes gazing at you lovingly and next he will be attacking your shoes.

Be patient - he's just a baby.

If you are working with an adult or older puppy/dog - remember you may be dealing with years of bad habits, and will take time to unlearn or undo these habits. Be patient while he learns your new rules.

You may find the initial training a bit tedious - but stick with it.

Ok lets get the environment ready for the training process - SUPERVISION

You are in charge - so get the environment right - this will tell your puppy/dog who's in charge and set the right tone. You don't want him to have the chance to practice behavior you don't want.

If your puppy/dog never has the chance to eliminate inside you are creating a positive, consistent education environment.

He will get into the habit of going outside to eliminate and you will reward him every-time.

You have created the environment so it;s up to you to make sure that he never has the chance to eliminate in the House/environment.

To prevent accidents - you need to watch him like a hawk - If you have a toy breed it won't take a second for him to pee - so I mean it watch him like a hawk.

For every accident that your puppy/dog has inside he is practicing behavior that YOU don't want - and you are both taking a step backwards.

Even a few seconds without supervision could set back the training process- I know it sounds daunting but it will work.

Once you have created your environment, it will become a habit for you to watch your dog and manage the environment.

You will be learning the routine together.

In part two I will go further into the puppy training process and will introduce the crate.

If you found these puppy training tips useful then you may also find this site helpful You can also get reviews of puppy training ebooks here

Man's Best Stench - The Causes of Your Dog's Bad Breath

2008-11-09T14:11:00.001-08:00

By Otto Kreistler

It's a sad and quite expensive fact that of all the members of the family, it's not only the human members that suffer from dental problems. Many times and in spite of tougher teeth in general it's the canines of the family that suffer from trouble with their teeth, gums and mouths. Maybe it's because of all the stuff they eat, maybe it's because of the fact that they chew so darned much or maybe it's because their teeth obviously don't get as much attention as ours, but our dogs are very often victims of that immortal turn-off in humans-bad breath!

You need not fret however, because there are truly a lot of ways that you can get rid of your pooch's oral stench, just as much as there are countless ways for you to get rid of yours. But before you do that it's imperative to know the causes of these horrible smells. Here are a few reasons why your dog's breath can smell like something died in its mouth:

- Check What He Eats: Chances are that his favorite dog food isn't causing it and his meal-bones are probably doing more to remedy the situation than to actually make it worse. So what are the usual culprits? Dogs are known to eat and chew on a lot of very weird stuff. Soil, dead plants, garbage, and even his own droppings are fair game for your dog if you give him the opportunity. So make sure he stays away from all of these, as they can cause instant bad breath.

- Check Your Dog's Health: Foul breath can sometimes be an indication that something may be severely wrong with your pet's health. It could be a case of an abscessed tooth or something worse like a gastrointestinal problem. So frequent trips to the vet definitely help.

- Gingivitis: Just like you, your dog's gums aren't safe from the hammering it goes through everyday. This is caused by dental plaque and comes with redness and swelling. Treatment of this usually is dependent on the medical history of your pet.

It's important that you know all the possible causes of your dog's bad breath before you take action. If you want to know the other causes of this as well as the best way to get rid of your dog's toothaches, just visit:

http://www.howtogetridofstuff.com/living/how-to-get-rid-of-a-dogs-bad-breath/

It's a Dog's Life at Luxury Pet Friendly Hotels

2008-11-08T01:47:00.001-08:00

By Wendy Pan

Today's upscale hotels have gone to the dogs. Hotels including the Four Seasons, Loews, W Hotel, Hotel Monaco and the Starwood chain are now warmly welcoming-and even wooing-travelers with pets. They understand that many people consider their canine companions to be members of the family, and won't travel anywhere without them. They also understand that opening their doors to four-legged guests can generate huge revenues.

Luxury pet friendly hotels have made smuggling Fido through a back door, under a coat, or up a service elevator a thing of the past. They've eliminated the stress of kenneling a dog or searching for a trustworthy pet sitter, and the guilt and worry of leaving a dog who suffers from separation anxiety. They're also attracting customers who would have preferred a luxury hotel, but resorted to staying at a cheaper, pet-friendly roadside motel.

Apparently, that's a lot of potential customers. According to Washington, DC's Travel Industry Association of America, 62 million people in the US are dog owners, and 29 million of them hit the highway with their dogs riding shotgun. This trend has prompted upscale hotels to open their doors wide to wet noses and wagging tails, and offer pooches four-star services.

Dogs at luxury pet friendly hotels are treated to amenities including in-room massages, nail clipping, a chef who caters to their every culinary need, food and water bowls, personalized ID tags and bandanas. Several of these hotels provide pet room service menus with a selection of gourmet delights, grooming and teeth cleaning, dog beds created by a celebrity pet outfitter, an in-house vet, monogrammed doggie robes, cookies, and even videos of "Dr. Dolittle," "Babe," and "Lassie."

Before your dog starts drooling for all these tempting treats, here are a few tips to follow before you make your reservation:

• Call the hotel and ask if they charge any pet fees or require a deposit. Also find out if they enforce any size or weight limits. They can also inform you about any nearby pet-friendly restaurants, dog-walking areas or parks.

• Even though luxury pet friendly hotels will shower your dog with goodies, bring familiar toys, treats and foods. A portable kennel may also help your pup feel more sheltered and safe in unfamiliar surroundings. Remember to bring any medications your dog takes, as well.

• Don't leave your dog alone in the hotel room, and keep him or her on a leash outside the room.

• Clean up after your dog, or you may be charged for damages.

• Dogs are creatures of habit, so be sure to stick as closely as possible to your pet's usual sleeping, feeding, walking and playing schedule.

• Before your trip, find out if the hotel provides a temporary ID tag including their name and phone number. If not, bring temporary tags with information regarding where you can be contacted while you're on vacation.

Now you're ready for your escape to your choice of luxury pet friendly hotels, where your dog will be pampered enough to feel like the leader of the pack.

Wendy Pan is an accomplished niche website developer and author. To learn more about luxury pet friendly hotels, please visit Newest Pet Hotels for current articles and discussions.

Understanding Hip Dysplasia in Dogs

2008-11-08T01:45:00.000-08:00

By Sean S. Fredrick

Weakness, dysfunction, and irregular formation of the hip joints, also known as Dysplacia is a growing concern amongst virtually every breed of dog. Particularly in larger breeds, weak and displaced hip joints are common. Hip Dysplasia is a congenital, or inherited condition that is usually impossible to detect it younger dogs. While more common in males than females, certain breeds tend to have a higher risk. German shepherds and retrievers will have a much higher risk for developing this condition.

The symptoms while difficult to detect in younger pups, will begin showing signs at about the one-year mark. Some of the symptoms will include difficulty getting up from a laying position, trouble climbing stairs, inability to stand straight to prolonged periods, and difficulty walking straight. Some dogs with this condition are able to overcome naturally when the leg muscles and tendons start to increase in strength and their ability to hold the hip joint in place.

Since this is a congenital condition, dogs affected by weak joints are normally not fit for breeding. Though it is still likely that they can live full and healthy lives whilst overcoming this disability. Golden Retrievers in particular will experience this condition, especially later in life. Some will not even begin to show signs and till about four to five years old. Because the ball and socket joint do not fit together properly, the resulting friction can eventually cause pain and severe arthritis.

A common result will be to develop arthritis and severe inflammation of the hip joint in their older years. Veterinarians can prescribe certain medications as to reduce the pain and swelling and add to your dogs quality of life. Options for surgery are also available, but should only be considered for extremely serious cases. For many breeds, particularly the larger breeds the signs that they are in pain will not be obvious. Your only clue will be to observe and notice how they move and how easily they are able to make simple motions such as standing up from a laying position.

There are some circumstances, such as rapid and irregular growth which can contribute to the severity of Displacya. Keeping control of their weight and general fitness is essential to combat the debilitating effects of this condition. Frequent veterinary checkups and consultation will be required. With proper checkups, medication, and therapy, your dog can live a long and fulfilling life.

For more interesting, entertaining, and heartfelt articles about dogs and many other kinds of pets, visit Thought Search Articles.

Tips For Keeping Your Dog Trim and Healthy

2008-11-08T01:44:00.005-08:00

By Sean S. Fredrick

Did you know that nearly 50% of dogs can be considered as fact or obese, or in danger of becoming overweight to the point where their health and well-being will be threatened? Dog obesity is the most common condition affecting their health. Overweight conditions in dogs and most other pets is primarily caused by lack of exercise, poor diet and over feeding.

Table scraps and other unhealthy foods can cause dogs to become overweight and have many diet related maladies comparable to humans. Many people are unable to correctly determine if their pet is overweight and often times it is veterinarian that will discover this condition.

Overweight dogs will experience breathing difficulties, walking difficulties, and exhaustion from short periods spent outdoors in hot weather. Other conditions such as urinary tract infections, worms, and other digestive ailments can also develop.

A critical evaluation of your dogs current diet will be essential to the creation of a successful weight loss program. Avoid overfeeding and giving table scraps, treats, and moist canned foods. Substitute those for healthy hand held treats and raw vegetables. Provide the proper percentage of high fiber dry, or other healthy pet foods. Increase their water intake and provide plenty of extra exercise.

Overweight conditions in dogs and other pets is primarily caused by over eating and over feeding. Taking a lesson from farmers and cattle ranchers and feed your pets a specific amount of food each day using a measuring cup if necessary. feeding more than once a day but in small amounts is the ideal system.

Just filling the bowl in the morning is not a good idea because animals tend to eat beyond what they need and gain weight because of it. Large meals or gorging can lead to canine diabetes and slowed metabolism as your dog reaches middle age. Buildup of fat around the belly and organs can contribute to a multitude of serious conditions, such as kidney failure, later in life.

Avoid any kind of "crash" weight loss methods, as they are unhealthy and potentially dangerous for animals as well as humans. Drastic weight loss can be a sign of a disease like canine diabetes, only a complete veterinary checkup will reveal this condition. Be wary of excessive hunger, drinking, and urination as these are also signs of a serious condition.

Rawhide chew bones and toys are an excellent way to increase your dogs activity, take their mind off hunger, and clean their teeth as well. Maintain constant feeding times and reduce the amount of food in their bowl. Be sure to keep their water bowl full and clean especially during the hot summer months.

Vigorous activities with the family will benefit all, keeping the pounds off, raising metabolism, and creating a general sense of well being and high energy. Social activities, such as a good training program can be a great experience for your pet as it allows them to adapt to new situations, keeping them alert and happy.

Ultimately, it is up to you and the rest of the family to become deeply involved in you dog's health and well being. Frequent exercise and activity are the keys to a long and healthy life!

For more interesting, entertaining, and heartfelt articles about dogs and many other kinds of pets, visit Thought Search Articles

Some Tips For Controlling Your Biting Or Nipping Dog

2008-11-08T01:44:00.003-08:00

By Sean S. Fredrick

Even some of the most lovable and affectionate dogs will sometimes bite or nip particularly when frightened or overly excited. This is particularly true when around strangers of a certain body type or smell. Dogs that are consistently kept indoors and away from strangers and other dogs are at risk for developing this habit.

Certain breeds of dogs particularly those bread for hunting are at risk by their genetics alone. Very large breeds even though seemingly friendly can be dangerous to children and older people when allowed to get excited and jump onto them. Proper training is the key to overcoming the tendency to become over excited.

Social exposure is a good way to make your dog comfortable with different situations. A training course is an excellent way to not only tame your anxious dog, but to also make them comfortable around other people and pets. Training courses and group activities will enhance their temperament and calm their nerves.

Outdoor activities will help control their energy levels, and reduce fear and anxiety. Visits to the park are excellent for allowing you dog to experience different sorroundings and other types of animals and people. Not to mention the health benefits of frequent long walks, and play time at the park.

Never tease or antagonize your dog or others even in play. Never provoke your dog around strangers even as a joke. Actions like these can raise the energy and the fear level and your dog making them more likely to bite. Never ignore hostile tendencies and your pet, as one day they may escalate into a serious incident.

Dogs who are chained and confined to small cages can become hostile when allowed to run free. Giving your dog plenty of exercise and activity is recommended to burn their excess energy. Neutering your dog will also do much to reduce the natural aggression, particularly during mating periods.

Always err on the side of caution, when in doubt consult either a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer as to your options. Proper care and affection will do wonders for your pet dogs attitude and temperament. Observe your dog closely and learn what kind of situations and people cause anxiety in them.

Take an active role in the training and development of your dog as to avoid any serious incident in the future. Always remember that a happy, healthy, and socially active dog is much less likely to cause harm.

For more interesting, entertaining, and heartfelt articles about dogs and many other kinds of pets, visit Thought Search Articles.

How to Uncover a Serious Illness in Your Dog

2008-11-08T01:44:00.001-08:00

By Sean S. Fredrick

Serious illness can overcome a seemingly healthy dog in a short while without proper observation and prompt action. Detecting early signs of illness is essential for proper care and treatment of most canine maladies. Dogs, like humans will exhibit common signs such as lethargy, weakness, and irritability.

Dogs overcome by illness will walk slowly, sleep often, and walk with their ears and tails down. Gray and cloudy eyes, discolored nose or tongue, or discharges from their ears and other areas should alert you to problems. Don't take chances with their health, as many canine ailments will overcome them in a much shorter time than human ailments will to you or I.

The quickest way to determine if your dog is sick is to look at their nose which should be clear and free of any discharge. Vomiting and diarrhea are also signs of a stomach or digestive condition. Slow and Labored breathing and movements, especially when attempting to stand up can be a sign of organ or kidney failure and should be addressed immediately with your veterinarian.

While bathing or handling your dog be sure to check the skin for injury, bruising, or hair loss. Excessive scratching, problems with walking and balance, and frequent urination can be caused by a variety of bacterial infections. The general mood or energy of the dog can be a great gauge of their health. Any sudden drop in activity or excessive sleeping should be noted and communicated to your veterinarian immediately.

Healthy dogs will have clean skin, bright eyes, and a pink tongue and gums free of unusual colors or discharge. Their temperature will be around 102°, and will take about 20 steady breaths per minute. They will be able to jump to their feet on command with little or no difficulty. Their bowel movements should be consistent, and they will have a good appetite.

Remember that you and only you are the first line of defense against any disease that your dog may struggle against. Constant care and awareness of your pet and their health will ensure their long and happy existence.

For more interesting, entertaining, and heartfelt articles about dogs and many other kinds of pets, visit Thought Search Articles.

How to Groom Your Dog Like a Celebrity Even If You're Not

2008-11-08T01:43:00.002-08:00

By Sean S. Fredrick

Professional dog grooming can run hundreds sometimes even thousands of dollars and many times is reserved only for the very wealthy or very pampered pet dog. But you don't have to pay a fortune to keep your cherished pet primed and ready for a celebrity photo shoot.

Keeping your dog clean-shaven and show quality can be easier than you think provided your dog has the proper temperament for the job. Depending on your dog size it will probably be better to perform the grooming outdoors. It will be necessary to make them as comfortable as possible and keep them still by using your body to hold them.

The first step will be to bathe your dog then brush and remove any mats by hand. The most matted and nodded areas of the four are typically under the body, around the ears, behind the legs, and under the tail. Scissors with blunt or curved tips will be required to snip away before a little at a time to remove extremely matted areas. This will take time and patience as you will have to be careful not to injure your dog skin by pulling too hard, or piercing it with the scissors.

Be absolutely sure that their hair is completely clean and dry before you start clipping. Always use professional quality clippers when grooming. Commercial clippers will come with all of the tools and guards required to perform the perfect grooming.

Start clipping at the top of the head and around the ears. Always move the Clippers in the same direction as the for two ovoid tangling and hangups. Do not rush this process, it will take time to develop your skill. Move slowly and with long steady strokes being careful not to snag or pull the skin causing injury. Clean your trimmer blades often with a stiff brush dissembling them if necessary to ensure smooth operation. Apply light oil to the blades several times during the clipping process.

Do not allow the Clippers to overheat or the blades to burn your dog skin. Check the temperature every few minutes by pressing the blade against your arm. If they are too hot take a break and return to it later. After shaving the entire upper body moved down the legs and to the paws which will require some more time and patience. Be sure to have assistance for this part of the grooming as to keep their legs and paws still and avoid injury.

Once the clipping has been completed it is time to remove all the extra bits of hair from their skin, ears, and face. A second gentle bathing will be required as their skin will be extremely sensitive, and small bits of hair can cause severe irritation. With a little time and loving care, grooming can be a supremely enjoyable experience for you and your dog.

For more interesting, entertaining, and heartfelt articles about dogs and many other kinds of pets, visit Thought Search Articles.

5 Keys to Success When Potty Training Puppies

2008-11-08T01:43:00.001-08:00

By Kelsey Garnett

There are a few simple things you need to do to make sure you are successful potty training puppies. If you keep these 5 simple things in mind, you and your puppy will make progress much faster. The good news is these are not difficult!

1. Take your dog out frequently

Set a schedule and make sure you stick to it. Young puppies need to go out about every hour. In addition, they need to go again after eating, sleeping and drinking. Don't schedule play time until you know your puppy is completely empty. To help keep track of your puppies activities and potty times, you may want to write out a schedule in a notebook or even on a board for everyone in the house to see.

2. Take your dog to the same area every time

We've all seen dogs sniff around looking for a place to go to the bathroom. Use this to your advantage. The smell of previous visits will immediately let your puppy know this is the area to use for his business.

3. Don't leave your dog or puppy unsupervised in the house

Make sure you always have an eye on your dog or have him confined somewhere. If you turn him loose in the house and he has an accident, it reinforces that its okay to go in the house. You need to supervise your puppy at all times so you can stop an accident before it happens.

4. Take your dog out on a leash

Puppies in particular are easily distracted. You don't want your puppy exploring when you want him to go to the bathroom. Once he's finished you can let him off the leash to explore and play. In addition, its hard to praise your puppy for doing his business if he's off the leash and you're across the yard!

5. Accidents happen - clean them up the right way

Never use ammonia to clean up accidents. It smells the same as urine to your dog. As noted earlier, dogs use the smell of urine to identify places to relieve themselves. If you use ammonia to clean up a mess, there's a very good chance your dog will find that spot, think the ammonia is urine and relieve himself there again. Use an odor neutralizer specifically for pet accidents to completely eliminate the smell.

These are just a few tips to keep in mind when potty training puppies or dogs. In short, use some common sense when house training and pay attention to your puppy or dog. The main thing to remember is to be consistent with your training!

There are several training techniques you can use in addition to these tips. How you house train your dog can depend on the size of your dog as well as where you live. For more information and tips, visit this site about potty training puppies.

How to Maintain Great Looking Dog Fur

2008-11-08T01:42:00.000-08:00

By John Sommer

Everyone wants their beloved dog to have a beautiful, healthy, and shiny coat. They want their pet to have smooth, soft, and thick fur, because that means the dog is well taken care of and loved. A healthy coat also shows another thing. It shows that the dog is healthy on the inside. Taking care of a dogs coat is just as important as making sure that it is getting all the nutrients it needs. The fur serves a bigger purpose than just something to look. It is the fir that protects the dog's thin skin, it is also the fur that insulates and warms your pet.

There are several simple things that you can do to help your dog maintain great looking fur. Watching what you are feeding your dog is a great place to start. If you feed your dog a high quality dog food it will ensure that your dog is getting the best nutrients and ingredients that are available for it. If you are unsure of what ingredients that you should be looking for on the label call your veterinarian and ask for his advice.

Dog Shampoo and Conditioner

Along with food labels it is also important to read the labels on your dog's shampoo and condition bottles. Much like human shampoos dog shampoos also have different ingredients that are added to deal with certain problems. There are dog shampoos for dogs with dry skin, ones for coarse fur, and one that will keep your dogs smelling fresh and clean long after the bath is over, these few examples are just the tip of the iceberg.

Take the time to examine the fur and decide what special needs as far as the shampoo goes that would help your pet. It is very important that you never use human shampoo on a dog. Most human shampoos have chemicals in them that are too harsh for a dog's delicate skin.

A question a lot of new dog owners have is whether or not you can bath your dog too often, and the answer is yes. Certain breeds of dogs require far less baths then others. Over bathing a dog's can removes important oils from their skin.

If the dog does not have enough oils then the fur will greatly suffer. Just as damaging to you pet is not bathing them enough. If excess dirt and oils are allowed to build up on the dogs skin than their fur will pay the price for the neglect. If you are not sure what kind of bathing schedule that you need to follow for your dog, it is important to call your vet, and ask for help.

Buying your dog a brush is one of the best purchases that you can make for it. Brushing your dogs isn't just a cure for managing an unruly coat. Running a brush through your dog's coat on a regular basis offers more benefits than you can imagine. Brushing your dog will remove and excess dirt or bugs that your dog may pick up throughout the day.

Brushing Your Dog

The simple process of brushing out the dogs coat can dramatically cut down on shedding and remove fleas and other harmful parasites. Brushing your dog's coat regular will also get you more familiar with your pet. There is not better way to bond with man's best friend.

Taking care of a dog is a full time responsibility. Many people forget just what an important purpose a dogs coat serves. Take the time to pamper your dog. Not only will this relax the dog and allow you two to grow closer together, but it will also assure that you are taking the steps your need to keep your dog healthy not only on the inside but also the out.

John Sommer is a successful consultant and publisher of The Pet Website. He provides more valuable help on dogs, cats and other pets. Help finding cheap pet insurance that you can research in your pajamas on his website.

Getting to Know Bad Breath Products For Dogs

2008-11-07T11:51:00.006-08:00

By Tim M Staines

If you think you are the only one suffering from bad breath, you may want to think again. Although bad breath is a condition common to human, your dog may also have the same fate. Incredible as it may sound; your dogs are also at risk of having bad breath.

But, you don't have to worry that much. There are now lots of bad breath products for dogs available for your dog's needs. In fact, most of these are products for home remedy; saving you from visiting the vets too often just to restore your dog's pleasant breath.

Now, there are lots of home remedies for your dog's bad breath. And since people have different interpretation of bad breath remedy for dogs, it is up to you to decide which one will best suit your pet dogs. The following are some remedies to try to keep your doggy's breath always pleasant;

Dog Toys

Perhaps you won't believe this, but some of your dog's toys are not just designed to help you in training it. Some of these are also effective in cleaning the teeth of your dogs. Dental chews are among them. These are usually designed to massage the gums of your dogs as well as clean its teeth, removing plaques and food particles in between. Greenies and Nylabone are two of the most popular brands when it comes to doggy dental chews. You may want to watch out though, because most dental chews are not meant for dog with stronger chews.

Dental sticks are also great for your dogs. This is also designed to massage the gums and get rid of food particles and plaque between the teeth. You can fill the sticks with treats to make your dog happy while keeping yourself satisfied at keeping your dog's breath pleasant.

If your dog likes bone for playing, it is fine because bones can actually help keep your dog's teeth clean. However, you should be aware that giving your doggy some cooked bones is not a good idea at all. Why? It is because cooked bones can crack while they are playing with them and can cause serious injury to your dogs especially in the mouth. Instead, give your dogs some raw bone to play with.

Water Technique

If human needs plenty of water to keep anaerobic bacteria at bay, well so are your dogs. You need to provide your dogs with lots of water to keep its mouth moist and its mouth free from food particles. You also have to make sure that your dog's water are always clean; thus, you can be sure that no food particle or bacteria will get back to your pet's mouth. Or you can buy oxygenating solution meant for dogs; by mixing this to the water, you can be sure that bacteria are destroyed and your dog's breath fresh.

Brushing

If you need brushing to keep your mouth and teeth clean, so are your dogs. There are brushes especially designed for your dogs. Just make sure that you brush your doggy's breath properly and regularly and you can be rest assured that no visit to the vets is necessary.

Aside from these home remedies and bad breath products for dogs, you can also keep your pet's breath fresh by choosing what it eats. Experts advise that you give your dogs some mixture of dry dog foods and canned ones. You can also consult your vets for guides on how to keep your dog's breath pleasant all the time.

For more information please visit Health eBooks

Tips For the Proper Care and Cleaning of Your Dog's Ears

2008-11-07T11:51:00.005-08:00

By Sean S. Fredrick

Your dog's ears are one of the most sensitive parts of their body, vigorous activity, horseplay, and simply running through the woods around your house can cause nicks, scratches, and bruises which can develop into a far more serious injury. Contaminants such as dirt, leaves, excess earwax, and mites must be removed for the proper health and avoidance of ear infection.

An ear infection has the potential to rapidly spread throughout the cranial cavity, causing problems with balance, hearing loss, and even deafness. All it takes is a little preemptive care and attention to avoid such a catastrophic condition. Regular cleaning is the key, and proper cleaning methods must be used as to avoid unintended injury.

A thorough cleaning and inspection is especially important after any violent incident involving another animal, because ears and noses are the most prone to injury. Rabies and other diseases are normally spread through open wounds and saliva, so be sure to visit your vet after such an occurrence.

Proper cleaning up your dog's ears is essential to their health since hearing is one of the most important of their senses. The ears are extremely delicate so gentle and thorough methods are required. This cleaning should be done every few days especially for those dogs that spend frequent time outdoors in rough wooded areas.

One of the first steps for long-haired breeds is to trim excessively long fur from around the ear canal. Not too much because fur also acts as protection of the ear canal. Clean under floppy ears removing contaminants such as dirt, grass, and leaves. Check for cuts and abrasions in this area as well since this is a critical area for long eared dogs.

Gently clean the inside of the ear canal with a cotton cloth and warm water. Mineral oil on a clean cotton cloth can assist in removing excess earwax and oily buildup. Never insert any objects such as a cotton swab directly into the ear canal because you may cause a serious injury if your dog happens to jerk or move their head suddenly. When bathing take care as to not let this soapy water enter the ear canal where as this may cause an infection.

Inspect your dog's ears frequently for cuts, open wounds, and other bruising. Minor irritations such as fleas and ticks can cause incessant scratching and further injury. Watch for problems with balance and hearing, these are signs of an unseen ear infection. Consult your veterinarian if these symptoms arise.

Follow the proper cleaning and care procedures and insure that common and preventable ear injuries and conditions are avoided. Loving care and observation of your dog's health will make for a long and healthy relationship!

For more interesting, entertaining, and heartfelt articles about dogs and many other kinds of pets, visit Thought Search Articles.

The Way to Free Your Dog From Fleas and Ticks

2008-11-07T11:51:00.003-08:00

By Sean S. Fredrick

Fleas and ticks are common and potentially dangerous. Deer ticks in particular can carry devastating Lyme disease and need to be removed as soon as they are discovered. Fleas can be carried by a rats and other wild animals, which can easily be transferred to those pet dogs that live and play near heavily wooded areas.

Preventing fleas and ticks from finding a home in your pets her and skin requires little work and some common sense. Observe your pet and how frequent they scratch and in what areas. Frequent scratching causing bruises and abrasions is the first clue to flee and tick infestation. A common area to find this kind of injury will be around the ears. Inspect the ears carefully especially down inside the ear canal with a small flashlight.

While there are several types of flea and tick deterrents on the market, a large infestation particularly in the ears will require a visit to the veterinarian's office. Ticks will embed themselves deep into the skin creating an area of redness and bruising. Ticks will tend to bury their head into the skin first feeding on the blood of the animal while sometimes leaving their bodies exposed on the outside of the skin.

Properly removing a tick from the skin can often times just be a simple matter of using a pair of tweezers and gently pulling on the ticks body until it releases itself. Be sure not to use too much pressure as to pinch and tear the skin causing a bigger problem. Larger and more extreme infestations should be handled by a vet and with proper medication.

Fleas also bite into the skin feeding on the blood of whatever animal there on. A flea infestation can best be handled by a medicated shampoo applied daily until they are gone. Dogs that spend much of their time around densely wooded areas, or in areas with a high amount of rats will be most at risk for fleas and ticks.

Frequent bathing and observation of the skin and fur will assist in determining if fleas and ticks are present. Flea collars can help, but it is better to keep your pet dog out of trouble areas. Children also are susceptible to flee bites especially when in constant close contact with your pet. With a little observation and common sense, a small flea or tick will not grow into a very large problem.

For more interesting, entertaining, and heartfelt articles about dogs and many other kinds of pets, visit Thought Search Articles.

Simple and Safe Ways to Give Medication to Your Dog

2008-11-07T11:51:00.001-08:00

By Sean S. Fredrick

Giving medication to your pet dog will be an inevitability during the course of their lives. Oral medication is commonly prescribed and administered by the owner at home. But this can be easier said than done especially with large pills and foul liquid medicine.

So what is the proper method for ensuring they take their medication? Pills can be tricky because they must be placed deep into the throat without causing choking or vomiting. The first step is to calm your dog down and get them to sit in a comfortable place near you.

Keep a towel handy for any mishap that might occur and position yourself as to limit their movements without holding down too hard. Now you must ensure that you can keep their mouths open by placing your hand over the bridge of their nose and gently squeezing the cheeks so as to gently hold their mouth open. Once you have them in this position it is essential to place the pill as deep as possible to the back of their tongue, once the pill is positioned release their cheeks and allow their mouth to close while gently holding their head up so the pill can slide down her throat easily.

Liquid medication will normally come with an applicator bottle and a long nozzle. Giving liquid medication will use a similar method by gently holding the dog still and applying the dosage by squeezing the proper amount into the pockets of skin between their teeth and lips. Do not hold your dog's head high for this as to ensure the liquid will not run down their throat and cause choking.

After giving any type of medication in this way you should be sure that your dog drinks plenty of water as to aid in its digestion. It is advisable to consult your veterinarian for the proper procedure for giving different types of medication. Injections and other types should be handled by your veterinarian unless otherwise specified. Giving medication to your pet will be a quick and easy routine once you master the proper method.

For more interesting, entertaining, and heartfelt articles about dogs and many other kinds of pets, visit Thought Search Articles.

Training My Dog the Easy Way

2008-11-07T11:50:00.005-08:00

By Rob L Marshall

Training my dog was one of the most interesting things I've ever done. I originally did it with the idea that if I could train a well-behaved dog, I could raise a child. So, we got our first bundle of joy, a german shepherd/alaskian malamute mix that we named Amanda late one October. Until then, we had bought and read several books covering what I could learn about training my dog.

When it actually came down to it, training my dog was actually pretty easy. In several cases, it seemed like she already knew the commands. Others, it didn't take her long to learn. She's two years old now and knows over 30 commands in two different languages. That's right, she's bilingual!

There were two essential elements to the dog training. First, we had to know a bit about pack psychology. That is, we had to establish an "alpha status" to her. If she got out of line, she got pinned and we stared in her face, and we sometimes growled at her. The second crucial element is that we included commands in German as well as English.

There are two main reasons German is an excellent language to train a dog in. The first is that German is a more gutteral language than English. As long as the commands are kept short, dogs mostly respond better to German. "Nein" rather than "no" has more force to it, and could more easily be thought of as a bark. However, whichever language had the shorter word was the language she first learned the command in. For instance, "speak" vs. "schprechen" shows that English would be a better language to start in because the word is shorter.

In the end, we have one of the most well-behaved dogs ever. She's not food protective, doesn't raid the garbage and isn't aggressive with guests. Now, we have our second bundle of joy on the way, this time it's a human baby. We probably won't bring her up like our dog, but at least the assurance that we've trained a good dog is there.

Are you looking for more information about dog house training Visit our site for more helpful information about dog house training tips.

Bringing A New Puppy Home

2008-11-07T11:50:00.003-08:00

By Rebeca Rambal

You got your new puppy almost a week ago. Since then, the little angel has eaten your favorite shoes, two of your favorite novels, gnawed the trim around every doorway, chewed through the power cord of your computer and this morning he found boxes and boxes of kleenex in your bathroom... what a mess! This is getting really expensive and it's starting to get very dangerous for the puppy also. Maybe you should do something.

What do you do?

You need to understand that chewing is a normal and healthy part of any pup's development, but they should know what to chew, right? Puppies are like human children, they learn about their world through chewing. They use their senses to explore the new world, and their tactile sense and sense of taste is brought into play as they chew on various objects. Like human children, pups need our protection from the dangers of the dangers that lurk in their explorations. Everything from needles, electrical cords, houseplants and household chemicals, to chocolate and raisins, all pose very real threats to your pet. It is your duty to protect her from these threats.

You have to be very consistent training him with the "NO" command. You puppy should learn and respond to the word "No" instantly. This one word has saved many dogs from horrible fates. The puppy is trained by using the "NO" command every time a situation occurs. If you catch your pet chewing on your shoes, say "NO" in a serious tone, not screaming, not angry, and take the item from him or her. Don't let it become a tug-o-war. Just remove the item quickly and give him a suitable toy. Also, try not to chase him when he has the object in his mouth or he'll think it's a game.

When I bring a puppy home, I like to use one of my unwashed pillow cases, and put a lot of different toys with different textures (hard plastic, cloth, soft plastic, rubber, etc.) in it. Then I choose one toy of each textures, and those are his toys for the day. That way he doesn't get bored, and since the toys have my scent, it helps the bonding process as well. Another thing I do is buy marrow bones and boil them just a few minutes just enough to get the marrow out. Then I wrap them in foil and freeze them. This serves two purposes: one, it keeps him entertained and happy for hours, specially if I give it to him just before I leave. And two, the frozen bone alleviates the pain of his growing teeth, so he'll be grateful. Just be careful never to boil the bones more than 4 or 5 minutes, and never give him any other kind of bone! You can give him raw-hide bones, but not too many, just once in a while. Pieces of ice are also a good idea. My dogs have always loved to chew on those!

With these simple suggestions, you can insure your puppy's good health and the well being of many, many shoes.

If you want to read great stories and find very useful information about your cats and dogs, please visit me at http://www.yourpetsuniverse.com

Clicker Dog Training - Kind Dog Training

2008-11-07T11:50:00.001-08:00

By Ossie Hickson

Clicker training is an established method of training amongst the more modern behavioural dog trainers, in fact in many forms it has been around for a long time amongst animal trainers. It is a common misconception that circus animals and zoo animals taught to put on a show were historically taught using cruel methods, but not so. So, back to the clicker.

A clicker is a small device held in the hand of the trainer or owner which, unsurprisingly, creates a "click" sound. The sound is made to tell the dog it has done something right. For example, you ask the dog to "sit" and he does so. Immediately his bottom touches the floor, the clicker is used to make the noise, denoting "good job". The instant and succinct sound pinpoints the exact moment when the dog has done what you want.

Example of Clicker Training:

As one example of how this method works on a step-by-step basis, here is a typical scenario:

Sit gesture is shown to the dog.The word "sit" is used in conjunction with the hand signal.

The dog sits. His bottom touches the floor.

The word "sit" is used in conjunction with the hand signal.

At the very second that 3. occurs, the clicker is activated.

The clicker noise is immediately followed by a treat and praise.

The Basic Principle

But what's in it for the dog? Ah, well, when you begin with clicker training you make a positive association in his mind with the clicker sound by following the click immediately with a food-based reward. This is an exercise in itself to establish great associations with the click sound. Eventually you can withdraw the use of the food treat, but the association is then established and the dog will behave purely for the reward of the click alone.

A slight issue with clicker training is that the trainer must be equipped at all times with the clicker (so it is wise to buy a few of these inexpensive items, to make sure you always have one to hand) and the food treats. It's not difficult to do, but timing is everything as the dog behaviour - click - reward routine must be instantaneous.

There's no reason to have an untrained, unruly dog who embarrasses you in public. Get the information you need on Dog Ticker Training, an easy, swift and effective way to train your dog. If you want to learn more about dog training using a clicker, visit petdoglogy.com and find out more about Pet Dog Training There's no reason to have an untrained, unruly dog who embarrasses you in public.

The First Puppy in Presidential Politics

2008-11-07T11:49:00.002-08:00

By Nola Lee Kelsey

Will we ever forget those warm, fuzzy, feel good moments that erupted across America on Tuesday November 4th? Hopefully not. The moment Barack Obama was elected President the country, indeed the world, breathed a collected sigh of relief and then rejoiced in the hope of better things to come. However, standing on pins and needles returned quickly for some. Controversy immediately erupted with the announcement that the new First Family would be selecting a First Puppy.

Questions about potential pooches parlayed among the pundits. Which dog breed would be right for the President Elect's family became the topic de jour among reporters floundering to fill airtime now that the election is over. Shamefully, I heard no one suggest this. Would the Obama's adopt from a shelter? Will Oprah Winfrey withdrawal her backing of Obama if he purchases a puppy mill/pet store dog? Would the country have a new First Mutt? Yes indeed, divisiveness has already lifted its leg on the incoming administration.

Early Thursday an anonymous source leaked the new administrations plans to put off the selection of the countries Primary Pooch until spring 2009. Why? Experts speculate that President Obama may want to bring home National Guard troops from Iraq, to help protect the Rose Garden. It doesn't sound much worse than using our soldiers to fight for oil company profits, does it? Viva la Miracle Grow! Others believe that Sixteen Hundred Pennsylvania Avenue is quite possibly the last Pet-Friendly rental left in United States.

Meanwhile packs of lobbyist for the AKC and the countries various Purebred Dog Breeders are ascending upon the streets of South Chicago. A standard poodle representative was spotted trying to hurl himself over the playground fence at the Obama girl's school. Not to be outdone, a toy poodle rep was seen tossing herself over the door threshold at Michelle Obama's beauty salon. Pit bull lobbyists retreated when they realized they had forgotten their lipstick back at their hotel.

In the spirit of new hope some breed reps voluntarily stayed away. West Highland Terrier lobbyists were forced to acknowledge that when Bush and Cheney leave Washington the country will need a break from that much mischief and sneakiness in the Oval Office. Meanwhile Whoopi Goldberg's cat wrote an open letter to the President Elect suggesting a feline friend for the First Fam. Elizabeth Hasselbeck had no comment.

More enterprising dog breeders proposes a new designer dog. Watch for an Obamapoo coming to a store near you.

In order to protect and serve the carpets and furniture legs of the historic White House both the Secret Service and Homeland Security were asked to run preemptive background checks on the Word's Top Dog Trainers. Phones of Patricia McCormick and Ian Dunbar's were immediately tapped under the Patriot Acts, subsection 1.2.98.5, page 22,879, paragraph A12 dealing with terrier terrorists and canine coconspirators. No tennis ball shall be left unturned.

Ultimately, the job was outsourced. After the careful evaluation of training techniques, British Dog Trainer Victoria Stilwell has been nominated for the position of First Dog Trainer. Cesar Millan has been nominated for a position on the FBI's Ten Most Wanted List.

Preparations for the First Puppy's arrival are becoming a national event. Outside the White House a makeshift donation box is being stuffed full of supplies. Shop Vac® filters are stacking up everywhere. In addition Alaska Senator Ted Stevens has donated an extra dozen or so Dyson® Vacuums he found just laying around his home. Please note: barrels of Carpet Fresh® are to be delivered to the side entrance, just past the freshly repainted fire hydrant. All this before the political pooch has probably even been conceived, in the biblical® sense.

There is one issue the Obamas may not have considered. In 2012, if the President looses his bid for reelection, he would not be able to move back to his home state of Hawaii without subjecting his dog to quarantine procedures. Dogs can't just be taken anywhere you know. After all he's not Paris Hilton. On a related note: former Vice Presidential Candidate Sahara Palin announced today that now that she owns a passport she will be visiting Hawaii and possibly even New Mexico.

That returns us to the issue of where the new leader of the Free Dog World will actually be adopted from. We all know when a dog is popular in the media there is a global run on that breed of dog. Just ask the ten-thousand-and-one Dalmatians who wound up in shelters during the 1990s. Now imagine this scenario in reverse. Imagine the Obamas adopting a puppy from an animal rescue. Perhaps a mixed-breed or handicapped pup could mark the hallowed halls of Washington, DC.

What would happen if Americans followed this example and drained the supply of shelter dogs in our country? Isn't that better than contributing to the problem over-breeding? Glory, glory halleluiah! Yes, Mr. Obama it is time for Change. Change pet adoption attitudes. You are our new leader! Lead us to our local Humane Societies!

Perhaps in the spirit of bipartisanship you could reach across the shelter isles and adopt both a Golden Retriever from a pure bred rescue and a three-legged, diabetic, slightly narcoleptic First Mutt from your local shelter.

Saving five million lives with one simple act of kindness, now that's leadership I can believe in!

Nola Lee Kelsey is the author of the new book Dogs: Funny Side Up!, available everywhere fun books are sold. For a limited time only readers may receive a free Adobe ebook versions of Dogs: Funny Side Up! by emailing FreeBooks@DogsEyeViewMedia.com

Visit http://www.DogsEyeViewMedia.com for more details. Learn more about Kelsey at http://www.NolaKelsey.com

Be a Responsible Dog Owner and Consider Using a Dog Training Collar!

2008-11-07T11:49:00.001-08:00

By Michael Bianco

We love dogs and we consider them to be our best friends; however, how much do we love them after barking at the slightest sound heard outside or at two o'clock in the morning? There are many reasons why dogs misbehave and there are just as many owners who are discouraged when it comes to training their beloved pets. For many owners, experts in the field of dog training have developed innovative devices in the form of remote dog training collars. Online, there are plenty of attractive offers for such products and also a lot of information on the subject. Dog owners should have no problem in finding a highly effective remote dog training collars, destined to make their pets behave properly.

Of course dogs bark. It is their natural instinct to do so every time they want to express their feelings or warn their owners of potential dangers. At the same time, they might bark when they have a difference of opinions with a cat or even another dog for that matter. The truth is that they are bound to bark sooner or later, no matter how hard you try to train them. Having a dog that makes constant noise is not only upsetting for you but also annoying for your neighbours who might not be so happy with the incessant barking. This is why you should consider one of the remote dog training collars, allowing you to train your dog in an efficient and comfortable manner. You will be able to enjoy special times with your dog, finally taking advantage of him being the perfect companion.

How do remote dog training collars work and where can you actually buy one? First of all, you must understand one essential aspect: these collars may be electronic devices but they are not going to harm your dog in any matter whatsoever. Throughout the entire training period, while wearing the collar your dog will be 100% comfortable, the only difference being observed when it comes to barking. The dog will not perceive the collar as an act of punisment; on the contrary, he will understand that barking is not such a fun activity at all times. The remote training dog collar is innovative and highly effective; being placed around the neck, it controls all of your dog's intentions to misbehave. He barks too loud, you press the buttons and release a cold spray on his neck or chin; some are odourless and others have a citronella smell. Despite all the fun he had while barking, he will nevertheless stop, his attention being caught by the smell or simply by the cool feeling provoked by the spray. Featuring a 300 m range of activity and also a sound button, the dog training collar will be the best thing that you ever invested in.

The best thing about dog training collars is that there are suitable for all dog sizes and various breeds. One just has to use the Internet and find out more about the potential advantages of using such electronic devices. For example, small dog training collars are extremely useful to correct abnormal behavior of small breeds such as: Yorkshire terrier, Bichon Frise, Chihuahua and Shih Tzu. Even small dogs can present behavioral problems, barking without any apparent reason and disturbing the quiet of the neighborhood. If you want a completely safe and efficient way to stop your dog from his continuous barking, then you have definitely have to consider small dog training collars, easily to be mounted and just as easy refilled.

Small dog training collars use an electronic device to release a spray in order to attract the dog's attention from what ever he is doing. No matter if the dog goes to the garbage making a mess everywhere, if he leaves paw marks all around the living room or barks continuously at the new teddy bear you just bought, this device is guaranteed to correct all the problems of your pet. If you do decide to go for small dog training collars that release a citronella smell, then you are guaranteed to amaze your dog with the citric smell. Sensing the unknown smell, he will instantly forget about all his adventures and stop barking, concentrating simultaneously to identify the source. Such electronic devices are perfect for those small dogs that can sometimes be extremely annoying, disturbing not only the neighbors but even the owners.

The next time you see your dog misbehaving and barking when he feels like, consider the possibility of a dog training collar. Go online and see the differences between various training kits offered by specialized companies in the field. Read carefully about the information provided and make sure that you choose the dog training collar that best fits your pet. Do not let your pet to become master of the domain and show him who the boss is without being too pushy or strict! Remember, you don't have to resort to violence as long as you can benefit from some of the greatest innovations in the field, such as remote dog training collars.

If you want to learn how to train your dog effectively, you have come to the right place. We have innovative remote dog training collars, especially tailored for all breeds and sizes. Just make sure that you pay us a visit and see what a dog training collar can do for you and your dog!

Balanced Training - What is It? Should I Be Doing It?

2008-11-07T11:48:00.002-08:00

By Laurie Luck

Since childhood, we've heard "Everything in moderation." Or "eat a balanced diet." We've been told how beneficial it is to have a "good balance" between work and home. Dog training hasn't been overlooked - balanced training has become a buzzword in the industry. It sounds good, it makes intuitive sense. But does a balanced trainer get better results?

Generally, a balanced dog trainer uses both corrections (punishment) and reinforcement (rewards) to teach dogs. As a society, we encounter this every day in our school systems, work environment, and everyday lives and we rely more heavily on corrections than on rewards in all those scenarios. For instance, at school kids lose points if they don't turn in their homework (punishment). \

At work, if you're late, your paycheck will be docked (punishment). And if you speed, you'll get a ticket (punishment). Rare is the teacher who gives points to on-time assignments; a boss who pats you on the back when you arrive on-time for a week; the police officer who writes an "atta boy" citation for obeying the law.

So while it makes perfect sense to us to use both punishment and reward in training, it doesn't actually translate to stellar results in your dog. Why? Let's take a look at balanced training and see why what makes sense doesn't actually work...

trainers relied heavily on punishment in the early years of dog-training. Either the dog learned what he needed to learn, or he suffered the consequences. Consequences included physically punishing the dog (hitting, kicking, kneeing, shocking, hanging, etc.), as well as implied punishment (yelling, raising a hand or fist, etc.). Dogs learned quickly to do what they were told. Or else. So when push came to shove, the training actually worked - dogs did what people wanted. At least most of the time. Slowly, praise made it's way into training. Dogs got verbal "atta boys" when they did something right. They still got punished if they did something wrong, however.

Let's look at this in a human example: your child's teacher uses both reward and punishment in class. A wrong answer gets your child a punishment and a correct answer gets a reward. How often do you think your child will raise his (or her) hand in class? How involved in discussion will your child be? Do you think your child will volunteer guesses? Or will be willing to take a chance on a creative answer? Probably not.

Why won't your child want to participate? The teacher is offering opportunity for reward, right? Yes, but there's also the opportunity for punishment. And unless your child is 100% confident that his answer is correct, it's risky for him to participate and volunteer that answer. It's safer to do nothing than be wrong.

Now let's take a look at the dog training world. If you put your dog in the same scenario - the correct behavior earns a reward and any incorrect behavior earns punishment - he's likely to do nothing, which according us is wrong and earns punishment.

It looks like this:

You ask your dog to roll over. He's not 100% sure what "rollover" means and he also knows that guessing is not the best option. So he doesn't move. And what happens? If you believe in balanced training, you'll punish the dog for his incorrect response.

A positive reinforcement trainer doesn't blame or punish the dog for the wrong behavior (or for the absence of a behavior). Instead, a positive reinforcement trainer takes the responsibility for teaching the dog. It's not the fault of the dog, it's the fault of the teacher. Positive reinforcement trainers try to find a different way to teach the behavior.

Behavior science tells us that behaviors that aren't reinforced will go away. This is called extinction. Punishment merely suppresses behavior, but it doesn't extinguish it. Think of this in terms of a fire at your house: do you want to suppress the fire or extinguish it? I want that fire gone, I want it extinguished! If it's merely suppressed, the fire can (and probably) will come back later. Definitely not what I want!

The following is from a Purdue University website focused on childhood education. These principles also apply directly to our work with our dogs (although I've left the human scenarios in because I think it underscores just how much punishment affects us as well as our dogs).

Punishment merely teaches what NOT to do. There are an awful lot of things we DON'T want our dog to do. Teaching your dog in this manner could take a long, long time. It's more productive to focus on what you want your dog TO DO.

Punishment often causes avoidance behaviors. The recipient of punishment is likely to avoid both (a) the person who administered the punishment, and (b) the situation in which the punishment was administered. Thus, in schools where the assistant principal is the one whose main job seems to be to administer swats to unruly students, students often avoid the assistant principal. Since parents and teachers (and even assistant principals) are interested in teaching children appropriate behaviors, they make their job considerably more difficult if they must first make the children stop avoiding them before they can initiate positive contacts. Likewise, if children are frightened of school or of staying around the house out of fear of being punished, it will be difficult to help them develop adaptive skills.

Punishment often results in a mere suppression of the undesirable behavior.The punished person discovers that it is advisable to stop doing whatever incurred the punishment, but that the same behavior can be tried again as soon as the punishment becomes less probable. Since punishment merely teaches what not to do and suggests avoidance strategies, the punished person may merely cease the designated behavior until it appears that the aversive situation has been successfully avoided, or until a time when the pleasant results outweigh the aversive results.

Punishment often results in a sort of behavioral constriction.The person who is punished may discover that the safest way to avoid punishment in the future is to avoid doing anything that even remotely resembles the punished action.

These are only a few of the side-effects associated with punishment. While balanced training may look appealing at first glance, deeper investigation shows there isn't any good reason to be a balanced trainer. You can teach your dog all the things he needs to know without adding punishment.

If it can be done, then why are people still using punishment to teach their dogs? Unfortunately, I believe it's because we can. We're physically larger than our dogs and we're able to administer punishment. However, just because we can administer punishment doesn't mean we should. Especially since behavior can be taught more efficiently without it. In this instance, I say throw balance out the window - you'll get better behavior (and a better attitude) from your dog without it!

If you need more help, please contact a certified pet dog trainer that uses positive reinforcement, dog-friendly training techniques in your area. If you need help locating a trainer, drop me a line, I'd be happy to help you find a qualified trainer in your area.

Laurie Luck, CPDT

Certified Pet Dog Trainer

Smart Dog University, LLC

Box 1111

Mount Airy, MD 21771

(240) 848-3468

laurie@smartdoguniversity.com

http://www.SmartDogUniversity.com

http://smartdog.typepad.com

In 2001, Luck founded Smart Dog University, offering group courses, workshops, and private in-home coaching for pet owners. Luck holds a master's degree in psychology from George Mason University, served as president of the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, and is a Certified Pet Dog Trainer. She is a Delta Certified Pet Partner and offers community outreach through Your Dog's Friend and Reading Education Assistance Dogs. Luck became a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner in January, 2008, when she graduated from the Dog Trainer Program.

She works with dog lovers because she understand how frustrating it can be when people want to spend time with their dog, but don't know how to get him to listen.

She loves what she does and has developed many happy friendships, both canine and human, along the way.

Laurie is owned by four dogs: two Labradors, a Great Dane Hound Cross, and an Australian shepherd.

How Much Does That Doggy Weigh?

2008-11-07T11:48:00.001-08:00

By Ian Pennington

Weight is an issue for all of us including our pets. Many times we neglect our pets because we don't take the time to take them for walks or help exercise them in other ways.

Our dogs are a good example of this, have you noticed that Fido has put on a few extra pounds. It isn't because of the weather changing and he's putting on weight to keep himself warm. No, its all that laziness that he has gotten from us humans.

There is a great product out that can help your pet look and feel great. It will help reduce their weight and help to insure that they feel better its Beneful healthy weight dog food. It is enriched with soy products, vegetables and chicken rather than beef.

Some dogs may turn their nose up at it because they don't smell the beef that they crave, but, give them a day or so, they will get hungry enough and decide it is time to eat. Others of course don't care, they will eat anything that you put in front of them. Beneful healthy weight dog food will help give your dog back the energy levels that he may be lacking from the weight gain that he has experienced.

With proper exercise a diet of the Beneful healthy weight dog food, your friend Fido may be back to a more youthful and energetic pup. You will benefit from the level of exercise as well once you begin a regular fitness cycle with your dog.

Some of what Beneful healthy weight dog food offers is as follows:

- Has fewer calories than the normal Beneful

- Contains vegetables with lots of vitamins and nutrients that your dog needs to stay healthy

- Chicken for protein to build strong muscles

- Grains for energy

- Calcium enriched bites for strong teeth and bones

- Omega 3 Fatty Acids not only to keep the coat shining bright, but for heart healthy benefits as well.

If you would like more information about Beneful healthy weight dog food, check out the Purina website. Simply go to beneful dot com then click on the tab that says food for dogs, this will bring you to an image of the different varieties that Beneful has to offer.

You can also find coupons from several different retailers for this great product for example Pet Smart offers one. You can also check online if you do a search to see if one of your favorite coupon sites may have more. Who knows you might be able to get a double discount or more.

As with any product be sure to check with your vet. before you switch foods. Your vet. may recommend that you keep Fido on his regular diet.

There have been reports of Purina having issues with this product 2 years ago, but since it appears to have been cleared up. Please double check any product before you just dump a scoop into your friends dish. Just like you do with your food, make sure theirs is equally as safe for them.

Ian Pennington is an accomplished niche website developer and author. To learn more about beneful healthy weight dog food, please visit Obese Dogs for current articles and discussions.

Healthy Diet For Overweight Dogs - Help Your Pet Slim Down

2008-11-07T11:47:00.000-08:00

By Ian Pennington

You may think of obesity and relate that to humans, but animals plus dogs can get very obese and unhealthy. It can cause almost the same amount of problems for both human and dogs like: diabetes, joint problems and also heart disease. There are certain types of dogs out there that are and can get especially obese. So, over half the dogs in America are over weight. When they are over weight you have to get them on a healthy diet for overweight dogs.

One major way to get a dog over weight is to feed them table scraps. It's not good for them at all. They enjoy the scraps a lot from the table, but it's just not healthy for them. Usually dogs who get fed a lot of table scraps will not get enough calcium in their diet. It's hard to say no to a dog that begs, but you have to just say no.

So, get the dog on a routine feeding schedule. That will definitely help out. There are many types of dog foods out there, just be sure to read first what you are getting them. There is special low calorie food for them that will definitely fill them up. Most times they don't like low calorie food, but sooner or later they will get used to this routine and will get used to the taste. It's all about getting the dog on a healthy diet. Another healthy diet for overweight dogs is nutritious snacks. Snacks are good for them considering what you are giving them to snack on. Believe it or not, but a carrot or a juicy apple is a great snack to give the dog.

Over weight dogs do tend to have a slower metabolism. So, you have to keep that in mind. Over weight dogs just don't burn off the fat as a normal size dog. So, make sure you take your dog for a walk everyday or go outside on a nice day and play fetch or some sort of activity. Dogs love to play and go for walks and play with other dogs. There are many of ways. And that is another healthy diet for overweight dogs, is to make sure they get the exercise they need.

Things to do if you have an over weight dog:

-Make sure they get the exercise they need

-Change their meals

-Say no to table scraps

-Take them to the vet

-Weighing them on a scale to keep up with loss of weight if any at all.

You will need everybody's help within the household to cooperate. This is a very important step and if handled right the dog will become healthy and back to normal in a matter of time. So, next time your dog begs for table scraps from the table hopefully you will think twice about throwing the food down to your dog. So, get them on a healthy diet for overweight dogs so they are happier and healthier.

Ian Pennington is an accomplished niche website developer and author. To learn more about diet for overweight dogs, please visit Obese Dogs for current articles and discussions.

Effective Way in Capturing Puppy Pictures

2008-11-07T11:46:00.004-08:00

By Eliza Maledevic

Taking pictures is easy nowadays because of that digital camera. Once you do not like the picture that you have taken, you just simply delete it without wasting any film. Most of the times you love to picture on yourself your family or the nature that surrounds you. You usually want to capture those precious moments that you have. Those were the things where you want to use your newly purchased digital camera.

To be unique in taking pictures, have you ever try to capture pictures with your puppy? These sounds so new to your ears, yes, true you read it right. Why don't you try this? You can capture puppy picture. Using your high tech camera, you can take puppy pictures. All you have to do is be patient enough in capturing picture. Most of the time puppy tends to move because they are not used to it. You do not need to have expensive camera in doing this. Four or five mega pixel will do in taking puppy pictures. You just have to fix the needed set up for your camera to take a good picture. You have to set up the night mode if needed, flash, anti blur and red eye reduction.

You can use also your skill in photography to in taking pictures for your puppy. First time in doing this is hard to do, but as you go along on doing it, you will take it easier. You must also think of any experimentation in capturing your puppy. You can dress up the puppy like those dolls to give an interesting look. You can put some accessories to keep the puppy look livelier. You can also join in the puppy picture to show that you really love and care for your puppy. You can include this picture as one of your precious moment aside from that picture you have with your family and friends. Taking puppy pictures needs a lot of patience to arrive at the desired puppy picture. It is also serves as challenge to your skill in photography. Continuous practice in doing this makes your skill perfect.

After taking several shots, you can choose which one you want to upload to your computer. You can do some editing with editing software that can be found at your computer to make the picture more interesting. You can do some changes with the picture, like the background, you can blur a little to give more emphasis on the look of your puppy.

In your Friendster account, all you have are the pictures of your family members, friends and of course yourself showing your big smile. After editing, you can include it to your Friendster in order to show your friend some unique picture. Puppy pictures make your account more interesting and unique.

Eliza Maledevic Ayson writes for Jump2top.com - SEO Company

Dog Hyperthyroidism - An Owner's Guide to Hyperthyroidism in Dogs

2008-11-07T11:46:00.003-08:00

By D Swain

Thyroxine is a hormone which is secreted by the thyroid gland. Hyperthyroidism in dogs is a condition that occurs when the gland overproduces thyroxine. It is a rare condition for dogs. When it does occur, it normally affected middle-aged and old dogs.

Cause

Dog hyperthyroidism is usually brought on by cancer of the thyroid gland. The cancer prompts the growth of a tumor, which will prevent the gland from functioning properly. This in turn causes the gland to overproduce thyroxine.

Symptoms

Hyperthyroidism in dogs is a slow, progressive disease which can affect many organ systems. Virtually all dogs with this condition suffer weight loss. Most dogs will eat more than usual, but some will eat less.

This disease causes many dogs to experience hyperactivity. For others, it's the complete opposite as they will appear lethargic. Other common symptoms include increased urination, weakness, and increased heart rate.

Diagnosis

The veterinarian will start out by performing a physical exam. This will allow him to check for an enlarged thyroid gland and elevated heart rate. Your dog will have to submit a blood sample to analyze with a variety of tests. Although this condition drastically changes the levels of thyroid hormones in the blood, the current level at the veterinarian's office may be normal. Therefore, you may have to return in a few weeks to have it checked again.

Treatment

Hyperthyroidism in dogs is a condition which can effectively be treated. Medications can be prescribed to control production of thyroid hormones. Another treatment option in surgery.

Surgery involves removing one or both thyroid glands, but this may lead to hypothyroidism instead. Hypothyroidism is a condition in which too few thyroid hormones are produced.

Any responsible owner should want to know the causes and symptoms of common dog illnesses. Dog-illnesses.com provides all of the information you need about a wide range of diseases. So, come over right now to learn about some of these conditions like canine seizures.

Dog Anemia - An Owner's Guide to Anemia in Dogs

2008-11-07T11:46:00.001-08:00

By D Swain

Anemia in dogs occurs when there is an insufficient amount of red blood cells in the body. This can occur because the body is losing red blood cells too quickly to replace them, or if the body simply isn't producing red blood cells fast enough. Anemia isn't a disease, but is a symptom of an underlying condition. So, what exactly causes dog anemia?

Causes

This condition can occur for a number of reasons. Blood loss as the result of trauma or injury is one of the leading reasons. Some diseases prevent blood from clotting properly which is another possible cause. Parasites such as ticks, fleas, and worms present another possibility. Other common causes include hypothyroidism and cancer.

Symptoms

Anemia in dogs produces numerous symptoms. The mucous membranes will have no color, so you may notice your dog has pale ears, gums, and eyes. He may even start to sleep more than normal and suffer from depression. Other signs that your dog is suffering from anemia include loss of appetite, increased heart rate, and fatigue.

Diagnosis

If you suspect your dog has anemia, you will need to seek help from a veterinarian. He will try to determine a cause for the condition. Blood tests are performed to check for parasites or under-developed red blood cells. Parasites may also be detected using a stool sample. Since leukemia is a common cause of the condition, your dog may have a bone marrow biopsy to check for it.

Treatment

Severe anemia in dogs has to be treated with a blood transfusion. Once the cause of the condition has been determined, it will have to be treated also. Milder cases don't normally require a blood transfusion.

As a pet owner, you probably know that there are many canine illnesses that can affect your dog. It's best to know the causes and symptoms of some of these diseases, so you can correct the problem as soon as possible. So, stop by dog-illnesses.com today to learn about a wide range of conditions such as dog constipation.

Hard Kennel Roofing is a Great Improvement For Dog Kennels

2008-11-07T11:45:00.006-08:00

By D. Goossens

Many dog kennel manufacturers and retailers have been offering kennel covers for blocking the sun and keeping Fido more comfortable when in the dog kennel. These covers work fine as long as the weather does not turn bad with wind and heavy rain or snow.

Most kennel covers are a fabric material, in reality, a tarp attached to the kennel top with a series of metal poles which you drape the cover over the kennel and secure the tarp with shock cords or bungee cords.

These kennel covers do work well as a short-term fix as long as the weather stays calm. The problem is when the wind kicks up, you may as well have a parachute attached to the top of the kennel! Heavy rain can pool on the kennel cover as well as snow and the water weight will quickly collapse the kennel in a hurry. The other problem with fabric dog kennel covers is the sun destroys the fabric very quickly. Many manufacturers of fabric kennel covers do use a UV resistant tarp, but over time, constant exposure to the sun will weaken the fabric to the point where it tears, and that adds more expense to replace the tarps.

Last year, Options Plus Dog Kennels came up with a long-term solution to manufacturing a kennel cover that lasts. This is a hard roofing system made of a steel support framework and heavy grade PVC panels. Offered in both flat roof style and sloped style, this kennel roof system has proven to be a major improvement over the fabric kennel covers.

Living in Ohio, which does get at times a reasonable accumulation of snow, I purchased a sloped roof system to help with the sliding off of snow during warming periods. The roof system has a very strong truss support that added considerable strength to the kennel itself. Assembly was easy with basic hand tools and I was impressed with the overall rigidity of the roofing when completed.

The major test came from Mother Nature 2 weeks after the kennel roof was installed in the form of Hurricane Ike. We got heavy winds that knocked down trees and power lines in this area for several days. The roofing held fast during this wind without any damage to the kennel even with the factor that 3 of the kennel ground anchors had pulled loose from the bottom of the kennel! Small tree limbs had hit the kennel roofing panels and although the panels had some scratches from these hits, everything stayed intact!

The other purpose this hard roofing system has is it discourages fence climbing. Some dogs like to climb or jump at the top of the dog kennel, trying to find a way out. The hard kennel roofing acts as a kennel top and stops the dog from being able to climb over the kennel wall.

If you are tired of replacing dog kennel covers, this system is an affordable solution that lasts! Visit Options Plus Dog Kennels for more information on this great product.

Skin Care For English Bulldogs

2008-11-07T11:45:00.005-08:00

By Celeste H.

Most dog breeds have skin problems and English bulldogs have several. Some of these problems are merely annoying, while others can cause severe discomfort and even pain. In this article, we'll highlight a few of the most common skin conditions that your bulldog is likely to experience. We'll also provide a few useful tips that will help you resolve them.

Congenital Skin Disorders

Skin disorders that are genetically transmitted through generations of bulldogs are difficult to trace. They may manifest in one generation while entirely skipping the next. Many of these disorders are genetic based upon how the dog has been bred throughout the past 300 years. Others are intrinsic to its nature. Even today, some skin problems are thought to be hereditary in bulldogs simply because of how often they emerge. These can include acne (we'll address this in greater detail below), folliculitis, and dermatitis within the folds of the tail.

Eczema

Eczema is especially common in bulldogs and manifests as dry skin that has become inflamed. You may notice lumps or even open sores on the surface of the skin. There are a number of possible factors that can cause this disorder, including allergies, bites from small insects, and even hormonal imbalances. Most bulldogs experience the symptoms of eczema in the hot summer months. They can often be relieved by cleaning the affected skin and applying a moisturizer that can help seal in water.

Hot Spots

Even though hot spots primarily affect dogs with longer hair, bulldogs are extremely susceptible to them. They can be caused - or stimulated - by diet, fleas, or allergies. You can identify them as small patches of red skin, notable by the accompanying loss of hair in the affected area. Hot spots can quickly expand and become extremely itchy. Unfortunately, the most common way that bulldogs cope with this issue is to bite and scratch the area, inflaming it further. Mild symptoms can be relieved with Domeboro powder. Aggressive symptoms are often treated with oral antibiotics.

Allergies

Bulldogs suffer allergic reactions from 4 primary sources: fleas, food, allergens that are airborne and those delivered by contact. It can be difficult to identify allergies because dogs' reactions are similar to those from flea bites and other issues. Often, you'll see your bulldog biting, licking, or scratching a particular area. If you are unable to identify the problem, you should consult a veterinarian who can prescribe an appropriate solution.

Acne

Similar to humans, when dirt and oil become trapped in the pores of your bulldog's skin, the glands can become inflamed and acne can result. It's most prevalent in the facial area (muzzle, chin, etc.). As long as the area is not infected, the acne is unlikely to cause irritation. However, if an infection occurs, the itching may cause your dog to begin scratching the infected area, leading to persistent infection. There are several acne cleaning products available. That said, the rule of thumb is that if you don't notice your bulldog scratching the area, there's probably no need to treat the condition.

Caring For Your English Bulldog

Remember, all dogs cope with skin disorders that are inherent to their particular breeds. Most of these issues can be resolved by either cleaning the affected region or applying a topical treatment. Keep in mind that you should always check with your veterinarian before applying any treatment that you're unfamiliar with. In the end, providing your bulldog with relief from its skin disorders is largely a matter of identifying the signs of irritation, preventing him from doing more damage, and keeping the area clean.

Learn more about English Bulldog skin care, view fun videos of bulldogs, print free pet friendly recipes, and browse through lots of fun pictures at Bulldog Abbie's personal website http://www.bulldogabbie.com

How to Keep Your Dog Safe With a Wireless Pet Fence

2008-11-07T11:45:00.003-08:00

By Brenda Minica

It is very important to train pet dogs effectively and this training should start from when the dog is as young as five or six months old. If one does not have enough time to devote daily to training his own dog, it is a god idea to hire a personal trainer to do the work. However, monitoring the dog's movement continuously through the house can only be done by the family living with it.

The wireless pet fence, first known of in the 1970's, is a device created to monitor the dog's movements throughout the house, while trying to teach him which areas are allowed for it to roam in and which is out of bounds.

A wireless pet fence consists of a transmitter placed at a convenient central point of the house and a lightweight electronic dog collar placed around the dog's neck. Once the transmitter is switched on, it sends radio waves into the air to monitor the dog's movement. The collar is waterproof and comes with a receiver containing a battery that needs to be attached to it so that the transmitter can detect it through the radio waves. Once the dog is wearing the collar which has been set at the required frequency, the transmitter checks its movement. If the dog comes too close to the invisible boundary set by the particular frequency, first a warning beeper goes off, and if it is too close to the boundary a trigger in the form of a mild shock is sent to the dog. This makes the dog realize he is approaching restricted areas.

In the beginning, along with the wireless pet fence set up visual boundaries in the form of colored flags should also be placed. This helps the dog associate the restricted areas with the flagged boundary. After wearing the electronic collar and being monitored by the beeps and shocks pets automatically recognize which areas are allowed from them, and which are not. Also, the owner should associate the boundary with an invisible gate for the dog. For example, every time the dog crosses the front gate, his owner should take the collar off so that the transmitter cannot detect its movement. Again, when the dog returns home and crosses the gate, the collar is put on. But at any other time if it tries to cross the front gate, the collar will beep and send shockwaves restricting its movements immediately. Soon it will realize that the gate is open when the collar is off and vice versa.

Wireless pet fences are preferred to ordinary wooden or metal fences because of their "invisibility" factor. The shocks are surprising yet harmless for the animal. After a few months of continuous training with it, the dog doesn't even go beyond the warning beep. In this way the owner can train the dog for his pooping and peeing activities, eating, sleeping and even playing areas without disturbing the neighbors or ruining the furniture.

Click the following link for more information on Petsafe Dog Fence containment systems including the popular Wireless Pet Fence.

Puppy Dog Names - How Do You Choose?

2008-11-07T11:45:00.001-08:00

By Amelia Balfer

Choosing a name for your new puppy could present a real challenge. Puppy dog names should not sound far fetched, but you do not want it to sound like "just another dog" name. This is your best friend, and the name should reflect that.

Firstly, have a look at the dog's characteristics. Consider any unusual features, the expected size when grown, and whether it's a male or female. This could help to narrow down the list of puppy dog names considerably, and make it easier to choose among what's left.

Keep it short, sweet, and simple. The dog has to understand and remember it, so be careful of going beyond one or two syllables. You will find that ending the name on a longer vowel sound will be easier for the dog to recognize, remember, and respond to.

It would be better to stay away from human names. If a person with the same name has to become a friend and visit, you can just imagine how confused the dog will be for some time afterwards. Pet psychologists also believe that a dog should know where it fits into the hierarchy, and a human name could be confusing in this regard as well.

You could always employ "shock value", and use a paradox. In 1984 there was a movie called "Cujo", about a rabid St. Bernard that attacked people. There was one local student who named hid Fox terrier puppy, "Cujo". A number of people got a huge fright when they heard the owner calling it back, before they knew what it looked like...

Try to pick a name that will reflect the dog's personality. You could even consider a certain habit, character trait, or something funny the puppy does. Your friends and family will quickly catch on to this, and since the name is much more descriptive, it will be much more likely to be remembered than "normal" puppy dog names.

To make the most of your time with your best friend, be sure to visit our website about Dog Games.

If you are an adventurous person, you may even want to read more about Dog Dress Up Games.

Training Golden Retriever - 3 Best Training Activities On Roll!

2008-11-07T11:44:00.006-08:00

By Abhishek Agarwal

Now that you've brought a Golden Retriever into your home and family, you'll want the reassurance that it will be a positive addition, not a constant bother. Here are some training tips for your Golden Retriever.

When you consider training your new Golden Retriever, know that there are different types of training that address different aspects of your dogs personality and conduct.

Behavior training is the approach where you teach your Golden Retriever to be a good dog in general. This may include house breaking, welcoming visitors (be they people or other animals), leash training, and types of training that make your Golden Retriever a better companion. The way you relate to your dog will determine much of his way of relating to his world. If you're nervous and excitable and communicate those traits, your Golden Retriever will be nervous and excitable. On the other hand, if you speak softly and remain calm, your Golden Retriever will be a more laid-back dog.

Activity training teaches your Golden Retriever how to accomplish specific tasks like agility training, search and rescue, hunting, disability support, and herding. Golden Retrievers are strong athletic dogs that enjoy frequent exercise. They're also smart dogs that appreciate being challenged and competing against other dogs for recognition and rewards. Of course, you'll have the best luck if you select activities appropriate to the breed like guiding people, field trials, and service.

Goldens were first bred in Great Britain in the 1800s as a game-retrieving dog, so games that mimic finding and returning "game" like a frisbee are perfect for your Golden Retriever. Remember that Goldens are high-energy dogs that need to burn a lot of exercise on a daily basis. Active, challenging tasks are perfect to keep them happy and healthy and to maintain a balance temperament. Golden Retrievers are comfortable with routines and adapt easily to schedules where they know what to expect at certain times of day.

Obedience training focuses on the dog's specific responses to specific commands. Obedience training promotes well-behaved, easily controlled Golden Retrievers. Goldens in obedience training learn how to listen to and carry out your commands (like "sit," "heel," and "Stay"), how to interpret hand signals and tone of voice, and appropriate responses to each command. Successful obedience training will give your Golden a head start on other types of training.

You should know that, due to their popularity, Golden Retriever characteristics and health issues have been changing. Possible over-breeding has created some problems not traditionally associated with Goldens. For example, while most Golden Retrievers are happy, socially outgoing, and anxious to please, more and more of this breed are overly aggressive or very shy, contradicting expectations. Because they are so loving, some Goldens suffer from separation anxiety. This can present behavioral problems that need additional or specialized training.

Getting your Golden enough exercise and enough mental stimulation is critical to good behavior. A Golden who's left indoors or alone much of the time is likely to be nervous, temperamental, and hard to handle. Daily walks are critical, and more vigorous exercise is advisable.

Goldens are also very smart dogs. They pick up new behaviors quickly and remember them well. They are anxious to please and will respond well to generous praise and affection as rewards for jobs well done. With proper training in all three areas - behavior, activity, and obedience - your Golden Retriever will be an ideal companion that will share many happy years with you.

Abhishek is an avid dog lover and he has got some great Dog Health Secrets up his sleeves! Download his FREE 80 Pages Ebook, "How To Take Care Of Your Dog's Health" from his website http://www.Dog-Tale.com/192/index.htm. Only limited Free Copies available.

The Yorkshire Terriers - Origin, Characteristics And Diseases

2008-11-07T11:44:00.005-08:00

By Abhishek Agarwal

Popularly known as Yorkies, the Yorkshire terriers bred in England and originated from Scotland. Initially they were made to hunt rats, but nowadays they have become one of the most sought after pets. As a matter of fact, they were listed as one among the Top Dog Breeds in 2005.

They are mostly a light and small variety and so, owners do not really mind keeping them on their laps most of the day. All the more, this form of bonding transforms the terrier into a playful, loyal and bright companion pet.

Here are a few things you might want to know as a breeder.

Category: Toy (terrier)

Coat: glossy, silky, no undercoat, fine and long

Colors: when young, black, but turns to blue or tan on maturity

Height: 8-9 inches

Weight: 3-7 pounds

Living environment: indoors is highly recommended, but if outdoor, should use fenced yard.

Temperament:

Naturally,

· Fearless and intelligent

· Independent and assertive

· Territorial. Like to have their privacy respected.

On proper training,

· Close affinity for older children

· Very lively and playful

· Extremely affectionate

· Do not mind sharing their space with other pets

· Shower a lot of affection and attention on owner.

Health issues:

· Hair loss or Alopecia.

· Losing transparency in the lenses of their eyes, or cataract.

· Cryptorchidism, when testicles do not return to scrotum

· Dwarfism

· A disorder concerning the eyelids, Entropion. The eyelashes might irritate eyeballs and cause complications.

· Increased pressure in eyes caused by Glaucoma

· Hydrocephalus

· Reductions in tear production- Keratoconjunctivitis sicca.

· Low blood sugar

· Kneecap disorder known as Patellar luxation

· Portosystemic shunt, when blood toxins accumulate in the liver.

· Urinary tract infection called Urolithiasis leading to the problem of bladder stones.

Exercise and care

· Daily grooming required

· Eyes and ears to be checked and cleaned regularly.

· Regular maintenance of dental hygiene.

· Should be made to exercise only in short strides.

· Should have regular playtimes like lying under sunbeams, joining tug of war or chasing shadows.

Origin/History:

Many Scottish weavers migrated to England in the nineteenth century and along with them they brought different terriers that could be bred to rat hunt. With time, crossing of these terriers lead to a breed with broken hairs.

In 1870, a reporter named the broken haired Scotch terrier as 'Yorkshire terrier'. He claimed that this name was apt as these terriers were first bred in Yorkshire, then a small town.

Though initially bred to be working dogs, the Yorkshire terrier very soon became a fashionable pet to have in England in the later half of the Victorian era. Come 1972, and the Yorkies were introduced in the USA and very soon became the favorite pet of the country.

Because of the rat hunting reputation of their ancestors, the Yorkshire terriers can be said to have developed into a very tough breed. Many pet owners, though, find their size and bright and playful character immensely charming and these dogs have attracted the affection and attention of many. Many owners claim that these dogs are great giants in small bodies. If you believe that big things come in small packages, settle for a Yorkie. But be sure to give them more companionship and affection than to anybody else.

The Golden Retriever - The Perfect Companion You Could Ask For

2008-11-07T11:44:00.003-08:00

By Abhishek Agarwal

In the dog's world, these Golden Retrievers are always the centre of attraction. They are very preferred breed of dogs hence making them great pets even hunting dogs also obedience competitors and mainly show dogs sometimes even a combo of the mentioned traits. Irrespective of your intent to own the Golden Retriever but rest assured you'll own a great dog which lives up to it's claimed potential.

These Retrievers are generally calm, very affectionate and well mannered. They are also easy to train and also are very intelligent and apt for all those who require a good companion. These retrievers are very loyal to their masters and are great with all kids and very lovable. They even make very good watchdogs since they have a very loud which lets you know if a stranger is around.

Like most other dogs, these Golden Retrievers shed their hair all around the year and even more during the spring - irrespective of the number of times you brush them in a day. They also prefer to around a lot of water, very similar to Labs. In case you have got any kind of water body near or on your property, The Golden Retriever will surely be inside and also tends to get wet or muddy at times - this can be very frustrating at times.

If you are constantly on the move or never around at home, you must not buy the Golden Retriever. In case you like cats over dogs, you must chose from another breed. These Golden Retrievers generally crave for attention and some admiration from you, and generally don't do well if you happen to leave them alone by themselves over long periods. These Retrievers need lots of attention and will desire to be around almost always. If you can spend time at home or if you have got kids, this Golden Retriever is the best addition into the family.

Many people generally like to get the puppy and also raise it all by themselves. In this way, the puppy generally grows up learning the skills taught to them . This can be a nice idea and rewarding at times, but it consumes a lot of time and also tends to get frustrating. All those who do not have time to spare or get easily angered, must not get a fresh puppy. Bur instead, they must look at any older Golden Retriever which has been house broken and also trained.

These Golden Retrievers can be an excellent breed and also they provide you with companionship you generally craved for. They also participate in many different activities along with you too, some include hiking, walking, camping. These Golden's tend love outdoors and also love getting out and the doing things along with you.

Neutering The Male Dog - For Its Own Good

2008-11-07T11:44:00.001-08:00

By Abhishek Agarwal

The best way to control the aggressive behavior of a male dog is to surgically neuter it. A male dog becomes less restless when it is surgically neutered. Restlessness in a dog is a source of stress to its owner; so a dog's owner benefits a great deal when a male dog is neutered. The impact of hormones in a male dog can be greatly lowered by neutering it when it is still a puppy.

Surgical neutering has many more advantages. It lowers the risk of your dog developing prostate gland disorders. Prostrate enlargement is common in male dogs. You can protect your male dog from such agonizing disorders if you subject it to surgical neutering. Neutering shrinks a dog's prostate gland.

In some cases, a male dog that has fallen victim to prostate enlargement has problems with defecating. Constipation in a male dog is usually due to prostate enlargement. However, before jumping to the conclusion that your dog has prostate enlargement, try giving it a fiber-rich diet. If its condition does not improve, you could treat it for prostate enlargement.

The process of surgical neutering includes an incision made in front of the scrotum and the removal of the testicles. The wound can be left open after carefully tying up the cord after removing the testicle.

The dog could have some swelling in the area due to normal tissue reaction. A dose of antibiotics can control the condition in a satisfactory matter. There could be septic shock if the surgical wound gets infected by bacteria or other microbes. In such cases, the wound has to be dressed, and the dog has to be placed under close scrutiny in a pet hospital.

Local animal organization usually neuter stray male dogs that come into their care.

Is Your Dog Suffering With Hip Dysplasia? - What Should You Do?

2008-11-07T11:43:00.006-08:00

By Abhishek Agarwal

Hip dysplasia is a painful and debilitating condition in dogs that can sometimes result in the animal becoming completely crippled. There is no cure for it.

The best thing a dog owner can do is to choose a pet carefully. Hip Dysplasia is a genetic condition. That is to say it is passed on from the parents to the offspring. In some cases it can be the result of injury to a dog's hips while it is a puppy or while it is being born. But this is a comparatively rare cause.

While there may be some genetic component in most diseases hip dysplasia is in effect 100% genetic. You must therefore make sure that you examine the parents dogs when you buy a puppy. If they have sound hips the puppy is less likely to suffer from hip dysplasia. Question the vendors carefully about the pedigree of the puppy. Ask if there is any history of hip dysplasia in the family line.

Responsible breeders will have breeding dogs x-rayed to check for any sign of hip dysplasia. They should not breed from a dog that shows any signs of hip dysplasia. A dog may not exhibit any outward symptoms but have a tendency to hip dysplasia that only manifests itself in its offspring. A dog that shows signs of hip dysplasia should be neutered or spayed to make sure that it does not pass on the trait.

Some breeds of dog seem more prone to hip dysplasia then others. German Shepherds, in particular, often suffer from it. This may be because they have been bred for a stance that places the back hip at an unnatural angle.

Hip dysplasia may not show up in a puppy. It often only develops as the dog matures. This is because the back hips are misaligned and malformed. The joint is loose and that may lead to difficulty in walking and running or discomfort and pain.

Wear and tear on the joints gradually produces dislocation and damage. A hip joint that is damaged in this way can become arthritic. An owner may not know about the hip dysplasia and think that the dog has developed arthritis as it got older. But the root cause of the arthritis is the damage that the weak joint has suffered during the dog's lifetime. Large dogs are especially susceptible because of the weight that their joints must carry.

Your veterinarian cannot offer any treatment for the dyplasia but will be able to prescribe pain killers. In bad cases the dog will have pain when walking and running. Its mobility may become limited. This can be a contributory factor in other health conditions because the dog cannot take normal exercise. Swimming may be one means of maintaining mobility and ensuring that the dog can exercise. The dog's weight is taken by the water and it experiences less pain.

In extreme cases the dog's hindquarters may become completely immobile. The dog will have a very poor quality of life and chronic pain.

Hypoallergenic Sporting Dogs - Some Of The Most-Opted Breeds!

2008-11-07T11:43:00.005-08:00

By Abhishek Agarwal

Here's why:

As a modern day pet owner, there are many choices before you for the type of dog you can choose to have, depending on your temperament, activity levels, space constraints or freedom besides budget of after-care facilities and how much time you can spend looking after your furry four-legged friend. For even though a dog is a man's best friend, the purpose of choosing to keep a dog may be different for different people: some may be looking for security, some for companionship of the silent kind, some for hobby breeding and yet others for active sports such as hunting.

If the latter category is what you fall under, then you need to find out the best kind of hunting dog for your personal needs and this becomes an even more complicated decision to make if you suffer from moderate to severe allergies, which can be triggered off by the wrong choice of a sporting dog. Therefore, pet health experts advise such person to opt for a hypoallergenic hunting dog that has an easy temperament but is intelligent, responsive to commands and playful outside of the sporting scene too.

This includes breeds such as the Australian Terrier, Poodle and Kerry Blue terrier that are typically used to hunt small to large game besides killing vermin that often carry disease. These breeds also make for good pets even in households that have children and elderly members as they are very playful and affectionate too while being easy to train with a firm handler and without much fuss.

Great sporting partners, the above breed of hypoallergenic hunting dogs are also advantageous for owners that do not want to spend a lot of time in cleaning up great tufts of hair and for those that suffer from bad allergies since they have short coats which are soft and thin like human hair, therefore easy to maintain with simple, regular brushing and shampooing.

These being medium sized dogs are also likely to be appreciated by those pet-owners that are not too keen on fussy grooming but would still like to have a furry friend with less shedding problems that aggravate allergies associated with bigger dogs or smaller, more lush-furred dogs.

As far as the Poodle is concerned, the virtues of it being a hunting dog are equally weighed against it being a friendly dog at the time though it is not generally noisy unless trained to be so; it loves its walks, is great for active people and has a long lifespan though they are prone to suffering assorted health problems with age.

The preferred mice and rat killer, the Australian Terrier too is blessed with a happy disposition and has long hair that does not shed in bulk like other dogs its size; a close crop of the coat will ensure you have nothing to worry about when bringing one of these lovable dogs home -or on a hunting trip!

If these don't appeal, the choice of a Kerry Blue Terrier is always open: a big head and chest, soft and curly coat and lesser hassles of brushing are what make it a favorite hypoallergenic hunting dog for many.

Food Allergy In Dogs - Their Next Bite Could Be Worse Than Their Bark!

2008-11-07T11:43:00.003-08:00

By Abhishek Agarwal

In today's world allergies caused by food is the most common disease. You have to keep in mind that these allergies could hamper your comfort in your daily routine. This means that you will be unable to carry out your daily routine properly. You have to take into consideration that your dog could experience this allergy.

When your dog is capable of carrying the allergy you should monitor your pet as allergies could affect your dog in many ways which could be life threatening. You must be aware of the symptoms and the sign of your pet's (dog) allergies as it is very hard to detect. One should take at most care as you should realize that the dog cannot express its feelings. It is necessary for you to keep in track with the symptoms it shows so that you're able to detect the allergy properly. This will help you to manage the pet properly.

Nowadays dogs eat different types of processed foods and allergy caused by food is the third common causes of allergies. Like in human allergy, the immune system of dogs overreacts to certain type of food which will trigger the immune system so that histamines get released to fight of the invader. The invader generally doesn't harm the dogs but the immune system over does it and mistakes it as harmful.

You can see that the dogs have itching in different parts of its body if it suffers from the food allergy attack. Itching takes place in the foot, face, belly, limb and they will experience recurrent infections in ear which could irritate and make them restless. They will probably not be active as usual, and they would refuse to take any food and could vomit.

Staring at you in the face is the main cause for food allergy. Nowadays the dog foods that are available in several pet shops contain ingredients (junk) which could cause allergic reactions for your dog. The proteins that are found in chicken, beef, wheat, dairy, chicken eggs are the main causes of allergies in dogs. You can also notice that the ingredients that are mentioned above are the main ingredients to be found in dog foods. Switching your dogs diet is very important as it determines what types of food causes the allergy to the dog.

Dogs should be taken to the vet quite often in order to carry out a number of physical examinations which will determine the type of ingredient in dog foods which causes the allergy. Once this allergen is found, the vet will recommend that the dog should change its diet from regular food that has the allergens to hypoallergenic food. Even though the hypoallergenic food is costlier that the popular and regular dog food, you could be sure that you're pet will always be in proper shape and will live a happy, peaceful life. But while giving the hypoallergenic food you should maintain proper diet so that any kind of mistakes doesn't take place. This food also ensures no side effects, be it external or internal, on the body takes place.

Homemade diets can be chosen but you should keep In mind that minerals and vitamins should be balanced carefully so that adequate nourishment is provided for your dog needs. The proper diet plan will be provided by the veterinarian.

With the correct and systematic treatment, the dog will surely be able to live in a peaceful manner with minimized risk of attacks.

Abhishek has got some great Allergy Relief Secrets up his sleeves! Download his FREE 54 Pages Ebook, "How To Win Your War Against Allergies!" from his website http://www.Health-Whiz.com/552/index.htm. Only limited Free Copies available.

Dog Trainer - Looking For The Best One To Train Your Little Pup!

2008-11-07T11:43:00.001-08:00

By Abhishek Agarwal

If you go to the market looking for a pure breed of dogs, you should get a breeder from whom the animal is to be purchased. This might often be, easy as looking the classified section of the local paper, but you would like to make it sure that you've chosen a reputable breeder. There are many ways to ensure that your breeder knows what he must and is quite reliable, trustworthy and professional.

Have References

A good breeder will always be able to give you references of customers with whom he worked during the past. These will include people who might have purchased a utilized stud services or puppy and they will be very happy to share their good experiences to you. Selecting a breeder who was used by people you know is a very good alternative too. If your family member or friend was quite happy with the services and treatments provided from a breeder, the chances are good that you'll get the best too.

Prepare for the FAQ's

Any good breeder would have numerous questions for you like you've for him, perhaps even more. Good breeders always work to make it sure that the dogs which they breed are with the appropriate people. They might ask whether you've children, size of your home or yard, and many other questions which help them to make you know the dog which you seek is correct for you and your whole family. A breeder who doesn't enquire like this must just be looking for the money, and is probably not the kind of breeder to do business. Any good breeder has keen interest of both the clients and the dog in his mind.

Guarantees

Any good breeder checks the puppies for health risks before selling them. Some problems aren't detectable till the later stages in life. For example, If you buy one golden retriever pup, and 6 months later you discover that it will have hip dysplasia (it's a genetic disorder in the animal's hip joints, it's often undetectable till the animal gets old), any good breeder will refund you, without any questions being asked. Genetic disorders like these are overcome by the usage of breeding selectively (hip dysplasia has a 25% to 85% probability that it might be of genetic origin), but quite sometimes a puppy might display this disorder even if there's not even a trace of this defect in either of it's parent's history.

Various Other Sources

Besides seeing in the paper or the net for a perfect dog breeder, they can be found from vet's offices, dog shows, and in pet supply stores. Dog shows is a brilliant choice as the breeders which attend these shows show one of his\her dogs or are present there to see one of their pets which was bred and sold during the past.

Choosing The Golden Puppy - Methods To Pick The Perfect One For You

2008-11-07T11:42:00.001-08:00

By Abhishek Agarwal

When you decide upon the breeder that you do trust, then you'll have to start thinking regarding kind of puppy you need. This decision might take a lot of some time, since it can be many weeks or even few months or so before the correct litter is whelped - but it will surely be worth all the waiting. If the breeder possesses some litters available when you are look for the Retriever puppy, you can generally compare.

Most breeders require that you must put a good cash deposit on puppies you select, if puppies are not a particular number of weeks in age. These nice litters very rarely stay unsold, since most of them already marked before they are even about seven weeks. In case you want to buy in a decent litter, then the best bet would be to ask your breeder well in advance. In this way you can eliminate all the chances of other people getting the better puppies before you actually do.

As you come to take the puppy, you must not be stunned if your breeder selects it for you. Many quality breeders spend quite a lot of time along with these puppies and generally know each ones individual temperaments. Some of the better breeders do some temperament tests in order to know the temperament of puppies they possess with all the litters they own. The temperament is very important since this puppy will have to spend the rest of its life with you and hence has to suit you well.

By doing these tests, breeder will be a better judge in choosing where each puppy goes to. In case you have selected good breeders, you must let him do the homework and aid you in selecting the puppy which he or she considers to be your idea match. These breeders will obviously give you a good puppy, since they have seen the litter for the past several weeks - but you been have around the litter only for the past few minutes.

Even though all Golden Retriever puppies are pleasing to the eyes, you must base reasons more than their looks. Prior to picking the puppy , you must clearly be sure that it has a very good build along with straight legs. Puppy must be very strong and also muscular, and yet be very squirmy and proactive as you try to lift it up. Also make sure that it has very healthy gums and teeth, and look around the parts of its body to ensure that it's healthy and strong.

If the breeder doesn't let you select the puppy from his litter, then you must take the marked puppies away from rest of the litter of other puppies and watch each of them carefully, as to how they react. Generally puppies which are about 7 weeks old must be able to explore the surroundings. Although they can be cautious at the start, these puppies must still be anxious to sniff and explore around their surrounding area.

If you can take the time and evaluate all of the puppies that you are considering then you will find the right puppy to suit you and also your family. These Golden puppies are nice to have, only if you get a healthy one. Buying a good and healthy puppy must be your one and only desire - since its the healthy puppy that will progressively grow up into the healthy and strong adult - and also be around you and your for all years yet to come.

Allergy-Free Dog Food - Best Ways To Deal With Your Dog's Food Allergy

2008-11-07T11:41:00.000-08:00

By Abhishek Agarwal

After a hard days work, it's definitely refreshing to play with your pet dog. For many of us, they are part of our family and we love dogs as much as we love our family members. Like how feel sad when our children or spouse or any other family member feel ill, we have the same feeling towards our dog too when it is ill. Am I right? The worst part is that many times we do not the reason for it to become ill. When we take it to the vet, he would say the ailment is due to food allergy.

You would definitely be worried if you hear that the illness is due to the food that your dog eats. One symptom through which you can identify food allergies in dogs is excessive scractching due to itching. If you closely watch, you can understand that main food items that cause allergy would be corn, soy, wheat, beef, chicken, etc. Don't ever waste time if you feel your dog is not well. Immediately take it to the vet for diagnose and treatment.

Few symptoms of food allergy in dogs include itching, scratching, licking the foot, biting or chewing his body parts. You may introduce lamb as a subsititute for proteins.

Normally, vets give hypo-allergenic formulas to treat food allergies in dogs and these forumals are quite expensive. The fact is that it is possible to understand food allergies in dogs without even going to the vet. Anti-allergy dog foods are in market, which you may give them to your best friend, dogs. Start giving these allergy-free food items. Lots of nutrients are avialable in these food mixes and are formulated especially for dogs.

You get two variant of dog mixes, one is chicken-based and the other fish protein. Experiment with various food items that are protein rich. Observe keenly and check for the reaction. You can finally understand which food mix your dog likes and at the same time not allergic to it. Stick to this food mix.

Few points to ponder when introducing new food mixes to your pet dog:

a) You should give it for at least six days continuously.

b) Ratio should be 4:1, that is, 4 parts of old food : 1 part of new food

c) Slowly increase this proportion for six days. Once you have started to give the new food mix completely, stick to it for a minimum of seven days.

d) Check for any allergic reaction before you take a call on whether to stick to old food mix or the new one.

It is impossible to solve food allergy at once. Start giving a neutral food. Ensure that it is grain-free. Once you find the protein that is right for your pet, introduce grain to the diet. Check for the reaction. It is definitely possible to save huge amount of money if you start to experiment things by yourself. Like how we require nutrients like vitamins, minerals, proteins, etc., dogs too require a balanaced diet.

You might have two pet dogs in your home, may be even same breed. However, it doesn't mean that food habits should be similar for both of your pets. One pet may be allergic to certain kind of food mix; however, the same food mix may do good for the other pet. Do not jump into conclusions if a particular food is allergic for one pet, it will be the same for other too.

Once you understand the symptoms, it will definitely be easy for you to know what has to be done to resolve the problem.

Take good care of your pet...all the best!

There is Always Room For One More - Pets in the Family

2008-11-06T13:19:00.005-08:00

By Wendy Pan

How many times have we heard: "Mommy I want a puppy." They look up at us with those liquid eyes that widen just a little in question. They beg us silently to give them a puppy. We have used all of the excuses we can think of to say no. It is too much responsibility right now. Maybe when you are older... Pets are expensive and we just don't have the money at the moment. This is not the case at least not fully. When it comes to buying a dog or puppy you can get them for free. Yes, you heard right, free dogs and puppies. How can this be? The SPCA, the pound, animal shelters, all of these places adopt out animals in need of a home. This comes in to play especially with dogs and puppies that have been abused or abandoned. So, you can bring home that yearned for prized pet for your little tot and in return you will be helping an animal in need.

Somebody to Love

In reality most of these places are being over run by animals in need of a good home. Everywhere you look, you find ads and commercials reaching out for help from the community. These are friendly animals the only thing is that they've had a hard life. Now, while these places don't go with the free dogs and puppies angle they still offer it. Another added plus is that they also come with up to date shots. Just take a visit to your local animal shelter. There is no need for an appointment, just step on in. They will go over the process of adopting one of their animals with you. It is usually nothing more than signing a few papers. After this you can go back to the kennels and introduce yourself to the residents.

It's a Field Trip.

Try making it a family excursion. It will be easier to choose your dog or puppy if you determine how it will act around each one of the family members. At least take the prospective owner with you. He or she will enjoy picking out the puppy that he or she wants and you will be there to supervise how the two parties get along. Keep in mind that when introduced to your child it is natural for the animal to be cautious or afraid but you still want them to be friendly. If when you walk into the kennels you are met with growls are snarls, you will know right off that perhaps this isn't really the one for you. The phrase free dogs and puppies does not mean dangerous. Have a talk with your little one before you head to the shelter. Let them know that animals can be wary of you at first. Just like he or she is a little afraid of some of your friends or people he or she may not know. Explain to her that it is okay to be excited about the puppies but that she shouldn't just run right in to hug on them. A key point to look out for when choosing a puppy is energy level. Are they bouncy and playful? Did they wag their tail and try to give kisses to the child or children when they were introduced. Also keep in mind their size. If it is a slightly older dog you will have to take into account how big they are and if your child is intimidated by that size. Depending on your child's reaction will determine whether the dog is a good choice for you.

Welcome to the Family

So, if when you get faced with that question and pleading eyes next, know that it really is an easy thing to acquiesce to. As long as they understand it is their responsibility and are willing to take care of it then the only thing you need worry about is food and toys and whether or not your shoes are out of reach. Free dogs and puppies is not a fantasy that you wish of when they ask anymore and there is a dog of puppy out there that is just waiting for you to rescue it and take it home.

Wendy Pan is an accomplished niche website developer and author. To learn more about free dogs and puppies, please visit Mans Best Friend Site for current articles and discussions.

Max and Cody - A Case Study in Effective Obedience Training

2008-11-06T13:19:00.003-08:00

By Wendy Pan

My experience with obedience training for dogs comes through observing two very different canines with very different owners.

A Docile, Obedient Pitbull

My close friend Matthew owns a beautiful, black, male pitbull named Max. Having grown up with pitbulls, and knowing the demands of owning that particular breed, Matthew put Max into obedience training from the beginning. Max gained a level of docility that he never would have possessed had it not been for his schooling. I watched as Matthew worked alone with Max at home, giving orders both verbally and through body language, such as raising his arm as a command to sit. The greatest testimony I can give for obedience training your dog is, perhaps, the hours I have rumbled with Max on the floor, without any kind of fear. I play and wrestle with Max with as much, if not more, abandon than most dogs I know. This may help dispell a myth about pitbulls, but more importantly it shows the value of obedience training your dog.

A Stubborn Puppy Grows Up

My sister Annie was the original owner of Cody, a one-quarter malamute, three-quarter husky mix who came into our family with a dubious beginning. Cody was a biter. He was impossible to house train. But obedience training proved indespensible to his formation and his eventual turnaround. Cody was, according to Annie, wilfull in obedience school; in the beginning. Though he didn't finish at the top of his class, Cody did graduate and the results were noticable. Soon Cody stopped the biting, and he would quickly learn the rules of indoor versus outdoor behavior. Today my mother and father own Cody, who is now proud and strong, even at eleven. I can only speculate as to whether Cody would have made the jump from an ornery puppy to a loving adult without obedience training. My conclusion is that the schooling encouraged Cody to improve his behavior. He is now one of the most loving dogs I know.

Conclusion: Obedience Training Your Dog is for You

We as Americans are obsessed with our pets, especially our beloved dogs. It only makes sense to make them the happiest, most well-adjusted animals they can be. A disobedient dog is an unhappy one. The relationship between owner and pet is only strengthened through the vigorous, challenging, but ultimately rewarding process of obedience training. The opposite is also true. The vital relationship between an owner and their dog can be severed and damaged by doing it "on your own," as it were. Don't miss the unique opportunity to make your best friend the most loyal, well-behaved dog they can be. Obedience training your dog is a process you will never regret.

Wendy Pan is an accomplished niche website developer and author. To learn more about Obedience training your dog, please visit Mans Best Friend Site for current articles and discussions.

Unusual Dog Names That You Can Choose

2008-11-06T13:19:00.001-08:00

By Warren Wong

When you bring home a new puppy, the first decision you have to make is what you will name this newest member of the family. Just as parents look at lists of names for babies, dog owners look through lists of names to find unusual dog names that suit the breed and personality of the puppy. Some dog owners like to name their small breeds of dogs after the names of perfumes, while large dogs tend to have names reflecting their size and skill and are named after Greek and Roman gods or famous warriors in history.

If you want something completely unusual in a name one thing you can do is choose a name you like in English and then look for the translation of that name in other languages. You do need to still adhere to the norm in choosing a name that is short and easy to say. This will make it easier for both you and the dog to get used to the name that you will be using many times during the day.

If you are a lover of nature and spend a lot of time outdoors with your dog, there are many nature names you can choose that are unusual. Some suggestions for you to think about are:

- Breeze

- Cloud

- Crystal

- Fire

- River

- Eddy

- Stream

- Storm

- Spring

- Sunset

- Autumn

- Tornado

- Thunder

You have an endless list of choices in choosing a name in this manner. Just think of your favourite outdoor activity and come up with an unusual name based on this.

It is best to stay away from normal girl and boy names that people choose for their children when you are looking for an unusual name for your puppy. If you have a Siberian husky, for example, why not look at names of places in Siberia that you can use as a name? There are many native names of towns in any countries of the North that would also be suitable and unusual names.

When you decide you want something out of the ordinary as a name for your pet, you can have a tremendous amount of fun sifting through the lists of names and trying to say each one. But who says you have to choose a name from a list? Why not make up a name? This would be truly unusual and would certainly cause others who hear the name to ask what it means and why you chose it. In this way, you could simply choose a word you like rather than have to think about the breed and the characteristics of the dog. Chap for example is a unique name that shows you feel that your dog is your best friend. Since most dog owners refer to their dog affectionately as Fellow, you can use this name or change it to something similar such as Fella. One dog owner who couldn't decide on a name decided to leave it up to the dog. When a person would ask what the dogs name was he would answer ask Her and this became the name that stuck.

For more unusual dog names, female dogs names and names for male dogs visit http://www.Names-For-Dogs.co.uk

Tips For Choosing Female Dogs Names

2008-11-06T13:18:00.004-08:00

By Warren Wong

Names for female dogs sound different than those for male dogs. Female dogs names tend to be short and have lots of soft sounding consonants and vowels. Since come female dogs of small breeds tend to be very active, this trait can help you in choosing the right name to match the dog. You may even choose a name that is the opposite of this trait if you want to train the dog to act in a different way.

Female dogs often have normal girls names such as Abby, Molly, Bonny, and Chloe. There are many graceful names you can choose from as well, such as Affinity and Precious. The names of the seasons are also well-suited to female dogs, such as Spring, Summer and Autumn. Weather names such as Rain, Snow and Sunshine sound very nice. When choosing the name, you should make sure it is one that you like since you will be using it quite often, especially when you are trying to train your puppy to behave inside the house. It should also be a name that won't cause embarrassment when you call the dog to come to you in the park.

The top 20 most popular names for female dogs are:

- Molly

- Maggie

- Lady

- Sadie

- Lucy

- Daisy

- Ginger

- Abby

- Sasha

- Sandy

- Dakota

- Katie

- Annie

- Chelsea

- Princess

- Missy

- Sophie

- Chloe

- Bo

- Tasha

- Cocoa

A snow white dog could be aptly named Snow White and if you got the dog at Christmas, you could call it Christmas or Noelle.

You can also search through endless lists of dog names by breed. Names for female Labrador Retrievers can depend on the color of the dog, such as Goldie for a Golden Lab. Emma, Lexis, Bonnie, and Lacey are popular names for this breed. Female German Shepherd names include Bella, Cara and Diva. The name you choose should be one that is suited to a puppy and a fully grown dog, especially if the dog is a large breed.

Small breeds of dogs lend themselves to short, cute names that work well for both puppies and adult dogs because even when the dog is fully grown it still looks as if it is a puppy. Look at names that sound small and dainty, such as Angel, Baby, Bitsy or Elf. The name for a small dog should be short because it would be really funny to have a long name on a tiny dog.

The Internet is one of the best locations to start your search for a name for your female dog of any breed. You can sift through the lists and make notes of names that you like. Then try out the names on the dog to see which one she responds to most quickly. In this way, you are helping the dog to choose her own name.

For more female dogs names, names for male dogs and unusual dog names visit http://www.Names-For-Dogs.co.uk

Names For Male Dogs Speak Louder Than Actions

2008-11-06T13:18:00.003-08:00

By Warren Wong

When you look at the many names for male dogs that exist, how do you choose the correct one? You do have to be careful in your choice because giving the dog a name can also give others the wrong impression of your pet. Naming a very docile and friendly dog Satan or Killer will certainly portray the wrong impression and people will be afraid of the dog because of its name. Even though you may think it is funny, others will not.

The name you choose for your dog will also tell others what you think of the dog. Giving a handsome make dog a silly name will make others think you don't love your pet and that you are making fun of it every time you say the name. Dogs will also sense this when people laugh when they hear its name being called.

The Top 20 male dog names are:

- Maxx

- Jake

- Buddy

- Bailey

- Sam or Sammy

- Rocky

- Buster

- Casey

- Cody

- Duke

- Charlie

- Jack

- Rusty

- Sparkey

- Toby

- Marley

- Barney

- Winston

- Harley

- Murphy

- Shelby

The one thing you will notice about all of these names is that they consist of one or two syllables and are easy to say. This is something that you have to consider when choosing a name for your dog. You will have to use this name quite often during the day, especially in the puppy and training stages, so it should be one that will just roll off your tongue. A name that is easy to pronounce is one that the dog will readily come to recognize as its name.

While these are the most popular names, you may want to choose something more suited to the dog personality. The best way to make this choice is to wait until you have the dog home with you and you have a chance to observe its behaviour. If it is very curious, you might want to name it Nosy. Just keep in mind that this is the name that the dog is stuck with into adulthood, so a name that is well-suited for a puppy may not suit the dog when it is fully grown.

There are no set rules for choosing male dog names, but they do tend to be short, masculine sounding and have lots of hard consonants. A small dog may have a cute sounding name that would not sound as good on a large breed of dog. Keep the breed in mind when choosing a name as well. If you choose a long name, such as Carlitos, chances are children in your family will not be able to pronounce the name and will shorten it. This could cause some confusion for the dog when different people call it by different names. If you do have small children, you should try out several names that you like and choose the one that they can easily say.

For more names for male dogs, unusual dog names and female dogs names visit http://www.Names-For-Dogs.co.uk

Three Ways to Print Your Puppy Photos

2008-11-06T13:18:00.001-08:00

By Vanessa A. Doctor

People have been preserving their dog's photos for many years already. Through printing, you can hold on to the most valuable photos of your dogs. Today, you have three different ways to print your dog's photos. Here are three of the popular printing options:

Printing Your Photos At Home

You need to consider a few things before printing puppy pictures.

• Make sure to get the right resolution for your puppy pictures. The resolution tells the final output of your puppy pictures. A low resolution file can blur pictures if you enlarge the photos. To be safe, use the highest resolution available for a clearer image.

• Use the right ink and paper. Inkjet papers are fine if you are only printing minor projects. But if you are running puppy photos for albums, it is best to use a premium photo paper to come up with better printed images.

• Choosing the right printer may also help print better puppy pictures.

• Try to erase imperfections in the shots. You can crop and resize images so the photos can look nicer.

Printing Your Photos In A Retail Store

Many retail stores today print pictures at low costs. Printing puppy pictures will only take an hour to finish. Before you visit a retail store, copy the files to a CD first. Remember to save a back up file to keep your photos safe.

Before sending the pictures to a retail store, you have to edit them first at home. You get better images if you erase imperfections on the pictures. If you are planning to give puppy photos as gifts, many retail shops adorn the picture before printing. Some even frame the photos so you can readily send them as gifts.

Printing Puppy Photos Online

If you want more convenience in taking puppy pictures, you can have them printed online. It takes a few days to receive your prints and it would be economical for you as well.

Many online companies offer a full range of complimentary services which include the following: online photo sharing, unique gifts, picture enhancements, and photo editing. You can avail of these services through online printing.

Although online printing is convenient, it may take some time especially if you have a slow internet connection. You need to be more patient in the printing process as it can be time-consuming.

Always find a good online shop where you can print your puppy photos. You can look for credible websites over directories to ensure better printing services.

http://anamigo.com/ -- Puppy Pictures

Vanessa A. Doctor from Jump2Top - SEO Company

Puppy Mill Dogs Alive to Breed, Starving For Love

2008-11-06T13:17:00.006-08:00

By Tanna Settle

Do you know where that cute little pup for sale in the window came from?

We adopted a dog from a shelter last year and I began to wonder if she'd been dumped from a puppy mill after our vet explained that he was surprised to see that at roughly two years old, she'd been pregnant many, many times. She was scared, emaciated and we had no clue where she came from and why.

Not only what our vet said concerned me, but after looking into some "breeders" here's what I found.

Female dogs at some "breeding farms" are alive to breed until they refuse to produce. If the puppy farm operator has no use for her anymore, he sets her loose. They often have several acres of land and yet store the dogs in rabbit cages, standing on wire mesh -- never feeling solid earth beneath their feet. These innocent dogs are "assets" as long as they produce. Their inhumane living conditions leave them with no room to move, no human contact, laying in their own fecies, likely ill.

The puppies, with normally ill health, get shipped off to pet stores across the country -- and buyer beware -- the pet stores (even some of the most posh of shops) may tell you they only get their puppies from "Breeders". And unfortunately, weeks or months later, the proud and happy new puppy owner finds their new canine baby with some sort of "mystery" illness.

The good news?

The humane society has just recently rescued 1,000 of these "farmed" dogs from West Virginia and another 700 from Tennessee. Some of which may be found in shelters.

Neighborhood mutts chained to posts in backyards across America and these adult "asset" dogs are usually starving for attention. If you're set on getting a dog and have enough love and patience in your heart, consider adopting a dog instead of buying one from a pet store.

Check out the Humane Society's website at stoppuppymills.org for more information and how you can contribute.

For more articles and tips about dogs, visit me at http://www.happydogtips.com

Can Your Dog Be a Vegetarian?

2008-11-06T13:17:00.005-08:00

By Sarah Knudson

Here is a yell out to all of my dog-lover readers! Whooo-Hooo!

I have two dogs, Baxter and Pepper. I love them so much and they bring so much joy to my life! In fact, I will do just about anything for my dogs. I rescued both of my dogs (of course) and I believe rescued dogs can recognize and appreciate the fact that you saved their lives. You know, that makes me wonder...why do people actually buy dogs from puppy mills?? How barbaric! Anyways, I could talk for days about my dogs, but today, I wanted to specifically address the topic of feeding dogs a vegetarian diet and if it can be healthy for your cute canine. Obviously, this topic can be quit controversial as dogs are believed to be omnivores (diet consists of meats and vegetables).

After adopting Baxter, I asked my vet if a plant-based diet was healthy for dogs. His answer surprised me as he is a conventional Western-medicine type doctor. He said that YES, dogs can be very healthy on a vegetarian diet and there are several commercial vegetarian dog foods available on the market. To find a store near you, google "vegetarian dog food" and research their sites. As guardian of your pets, and being souly responsible for their well-being, choosing a vegetarian diet is a very personal and important decision.

My suggestion is to seek your vet's advice and make the decision that is right for your family. Also, ask your doctor to recommend a vegetarian dog food brand and what nutrient sources should be in the food you choose. If you choose not to feed your dogs a vegetarian diet, I urge you to choose a dog food that harvests the protein from an ethical and moral source. For example, buy dog food that is from free-range bison or line-caught salmon. It is better for your dog's health and certainly better for our earth and all the creatures that live here. The cost will be higher, but the payoffs to everyone involved will be greater.

TIP: Baxter and Pepper's favorite snack is: Veggie Life Vitality Sweet Potato Chews (Baxter is sitting right next to me know asking for one b/c I took the package out. How cute!) The Vitamin E will help keep their skin and coat healthy. Give these all natural treat a try! Until next time...and give your doggies a pat on the head from me!

Sarah Knudson, owner of TalkVegetarian.com is a lifetime animal advocate who has mastered self-created techniques to overcome society's resistance to the vegetarian lifestyle. To learn more about how to easily transition and sustain a cruelty-free life through vegetarianism, sign up for her newsletter at: http://www.talkvegetarian.com

Wood Dog House - Build Wooden Or Plastic Dog House?

2008-11-06T13:17:00.003-08:00

By Ricky Lim

Although wood dog houses are common among many families who own dogs, not many people know there are many different types of wood available for your dog house.

The most common type of wood used is cedar. It is one of the most popular choices for wooden dog houses because of its resistance to decay and as well as insect and rot resistance.

Cedar is easy to work with and it is durable and reliable and can be work for long periods of time without any maintenance.

Other types of wood that are used in building dog houses include pine and hemlock though they are less common. One reason is because they lack the insect and decay resistance compared to cedar wood. That is also why they are seldom used as the base structure of your dog house as they decay and rot faster especially when they come into contact with the ground.

If you are building your own dog house, beware of using pressure-treated wood. This is because although they are resistant to decay and insects, they contain harmful chemicals that could pose a danger to your dog.

Most older pressure treated wood uses chromated copper arsenate which can be deadly to animals. Nevertheless, over the past few years, other chemicals have been used to create pressure treated wood and it is safer.

Wood is also better than plastic in building dog houses because they stay much warmer during the winter. Wood also helps to dissipate heat naturally during the summer months.

Wood is also easier to work with compared to plastic. You only need a saw and a hammer to build your own dog house. If you are eco-conscious, then building wooden dog houses is also more environmentally friendly and can easily be recycled for other purposes. It is also cheaper than plastic.

Learn how to build wood dog house. Visit my site and learn more about wooden dog houses.

Purchasing a Mixed Breed Poodle

2008-11-06T13:17:00.001-08:00

By Lisa A Collins

It wasn't that long ago that Poodle breeders were horrified when their prize breeding dog got loose and started hanging around with some other dog that was a different breed. It didn't matter if both of these dogs set the breed standard and were so well bred that they bled blue, the resulting puppies were nothing more then mutts and completely worthless to the breeder.

The reason dog breeders had this attitude was not only had they lost out on a breeding season but they knew they would never be able to sell the mixed breed Poodle puppies, the best the breeder could hope for was that they could give the puppies away. Those days are in the past. Today the mixed breed poodle puppies are no longer called mutts; in today's canine world the mixed breed puppies are given the illustrious title of designer dogs. Dog lovers can't seem to get enough of these mixed breed dogs.

Popular mixed breeds of Poodles include the Weimardoodle (a Weimaraner Poodle cross), the Shepadoodle (a German Shepard and Poodle) and the Lhasa Poo (a Lhasa Apso and Poodle).

Dog lovers who purchased a mixed breed Poodle instead of the purebred did so for a reason. Some owners of the designer Poodles will tell that cost was a motivating factor behind the purchase, that the mixed breed puppy was considerably cheaper then the purebred puppy. Another owner might tell you that they decided to purchase the mixed breed puppy because of its hair coat, the hybrid dog didn't shed or maybe they weren't allergic to it. Some owners like the idea that by combining two breeds of dogs, the Poodle and something else, they were able to get the best of both breeds' temperaments.

Other mixed breed poodle owners loved the fact that they now had an athletic dog that loved to be outside but was laid back enough to double as a house dog. Dog owners discovered after purchasing a mixed breed poodle their house insurance premium decreased. Combining Poodles and other breeds of dogs has helped cut down on the genetic illnesses common to many dog breeds. Dog owners that have a mixed breed Poodle love the fact that they can choose between a large framed dog or one small enough to fit in a teacup.

Purchasing a Poodle mix puppy is not an event that should be entered into lightly. This puppy will grow up and become a part of your family, its critical you get one that's right for you. Try to find somebody in your neighbor hood that already owns a dog that has a similar breeding to what you are considering getting. Ask what their experiences with the dog have been. See if you can spend some time with the dog, while visiting with the mixed breed poodle try to imagine it in your home. Invest some time researching both breeds. Some puppies bear a stronger resemblance to one of the breeds than it will to the other breed

The puppy's breeders will be able to tell you about how fast the puppies learn, what kind of diet is best, and the health problems they typically have to deal with. It is important to get to know the puppy's parents. Remember that if the parent's have strange personality quirks they will most likely be passed on to your puppy. Make sure you are confident with your choice of mixed breed puppy before you bringing it home.

Lisa Collins is a person who has been surrounded by several types and breeds of dogs throughout life. Poodle mixed breeds can be found in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. General Poodle information will explain that if the puppy's parents are wonderful dogs the puppy will be as well.

Dog Behavior Problems Solutions

2008-11-06T13:16:00.006-08:00

By Kim L Smith

I know from experience that even the best dogs are not always well behaved and do have behavior issues. Just imagine trying to deal with two English Mastiffs, and a little Yorkie Poo. They are next to impossible to deal with when they are all together which is quite often. However, you can learn the tips that I did and how I found out how to control my dogs better than I have ever managed to before! Some of the things I am going to tell you about is training, positive reinforcement, and consulting with your vet to rule out possible health issues.

One of the first things that I had to do to help me out with my dogs was find a dog training course. My husband was not to keen on the idea, but after they were obedience trained he was quite happy because they were no longer dragging him through the backyard. So that little training helped out tremendously. I feel that training can help dogs of any age or size. They can even help with dog behavior issues.

The next thing that I did to help address my dogs behavior issues were to start with positive reinforcement. I know that is a simple psychological issue to deal with the issues, but it does work quite well. I found that when they misbehave if I ignore them and not show any affection of any sort towards the dog it manages to change their attitude quite quickly. Most dogs do love having attention given to them and without that attention then they typically will correct the bad behavior quickly. However, you must remember that when the dog does something good you have to give them affection right away. I usually give a pat on the chest which according to classes that I have went to makes them feel proud of what they did. I have used treats as a reward at certain times mainly when training them to come after I let them off of the leash.

While those solutions typically work for dealing with your dogs behavior you might have to consult with your vet to help address the issues. I have had to do that for my cat even because her behavior is so terrible. Sometimes as is the case with my cat he prescribed medication for her. That could be what your dog needs to correct any behavior issues that keep recurring. Remember that your sometimes your dogs behavior could be caused by health issues so be sure to check with your vet before trying anything else.

So if your dog is having behavior issues you can try a variety of things. Some of those things include consulting with your vet about possible health issues, positive reinforcement, and dog training. A combination of all those things maybe required which is what I had to do with my dogs. Mainly the training and positive reinforcement which seemed to help out the best since they were only puppies, but in your older dogs it maybe that they are experiencing health issues so you do have to take into account the age of your dog before taking any steps to correct the behavior.

I live in Ohio with my wonderful husband and two beautiful children. I have two English Mastiff puppies, a Lab-Retriever, and a Yorkie Poo. I also have two cats who came to us as strays. I love sewing, crocheting, and managing to take care of my zoo at the house. Since I have so many pets I have a strong interest in animal issues.

Essential Fatty Acids For Your Dog

2008-11-06T13:16:00.005-08:00

By Kath Ibbetson

In recent years a good deal of research has been conducted into the health benefits of omega fatty acids for dogs, and specifically on those omega-3 acids found in fish oils. Fats are made up of fatty acids, and there are two important types of fatty acids for dogs and cats-omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids.

Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) and their derivatives serve a number of major vital functions in our dog's body (as well as our cat's and our own). EFAs must come from foods as they cannot be fully synthesized but should be a part of the diet for dogs. Essential fatty acid deficiency may result in impaired reproductive efficiency, impaired wound healing, a dry lustreless coat and scaly skin predisposing the pet to skin infections (pyoderrna).

Deficiency

EFA deficiency is rare in companion animals today but occurs in dogs or cats receiving low-fat, dry dog foods containing beef tallow, or dry foods that have been stored too long resulting in oxidation of the dietary fats.

Supplements

The first dietary supplement to consider for an animal with itchy skin is these acids. Natural cod liver oil is highly recommended by veterinarians for its high vitamin A (4,500 IUs) and vitamin D (450 IUs) content per teaspoon and for the Omega-3 availability to your pets. Vitamin A is essential for a healthy immune system. Younger dogs or older dogs, active dogs or less active dogs -- it is never too late to supplement your pets with omega-3 essential fatty acids, that is fish oil for dogs.

Your Dog's Needs

Your Dog's Health

There are about 70 million dogs in the USA. One in three dogs will die from cancer. In recent years a good deal of research has been conducted into the health benefits of omega fatty acids for dogs, and specifically on those omega-3 acids found in fish oils. Essential Fatty Acids should be a part of the diet for dogs.

Your Dog's Needs

Dogs and human beings have different nutritional needs. Omega 3 oils are necessary in dogs for visual acuity and the development of the nervous system. Even the best diet for our dogs and cats of fresh raw foods can be lacking in some essential vitamins and minerals. In recent years a good deal of research has been conducted into the health benefits of omega fatty acids for dogs, and specifically on those omega-3 acids found in fish oils.

Cancer in Your Dog

Cancer used to be the reserve of older dogs, but like degenerative disease that is now changing and old and young now have the opportunity to experience such traumatic turns in their lives. This subject is dealt with in another article.

Kath Ibbetson is a mother of 2 boys and the owner of two border terriers. Find out more about dog diets at This Site Or for natural food at This one

Cancer in Your Dog

2008-11-06T13:16:00.003-08:00

By Kath Ibbetson

There are about 70 million dogs in the USA. One in three dogs will die from cancer.

Cancer used to be the reserve of older dogs, but like degenerative disease that is now changing and old and young now have the opportunity to experience such traumatic turns in their lives. However, Cancer is more commonly found in older dogs and since modern medicine is lengthening dog's lives, statistics indicate a sharp rise in canine cancer which can be misleading. Cancer accounts for almost half of the deaths of pets over 10 years of age.

While much research is being done, most types of cancer in dogs are poorly understood and treatment options are often limited. Skin cancer is the most prevalent cancer in dogs and the next most common are lipomas. The big problem with cancer in dogs is that it usually goes unnoticed until it is too late.

Cancers can be divided into three general groups: carcinomas that arise from epithelial cells that cover the body (skin) or line internal body surfaces; sarcomas that begin in connective, skeletal, muscular, or reproductive tissues; lymphomas that invade the lymph nodes and the lymphatic system. In recent years there has been an increase in claims about role that fatty acids may play in a wide variety of clinical applications, including dermatitis, arthritis, renal disease, immunological disorders, cancer, cardiovascular disease and wound healing. Omega-3 fatty acids are involved in the inhibition of the growth and the spread of cancer. Studies show that pets fed high doses of fish oil also have better control of cancer.

A diet supplemented with fish oil and the amino acid arginine appears to increase survival time in dogs with lymphoma, a cancer that affects white blood cells. There is also research which has shown that some polyunsaturated fatty acids, like those found in fish oil, may help prevent the growth and spread of cancer tumors, and may help prevent cachexia -- the devastating weight loss and muscle wasting seen in some cancer patients despite adequate nutrition. Studies have also shown that the spread of cancer has been enhanced by the n-6 fatty acids, linoleic and gamma-linolenic acid .This omega 6 fat excess sets the stage for cancer development, it stimulates cancer cell growth, and decreases the body's natural cancer-fighting abilities. However, the main thing is to get balance as Omega-6 fatty acids, found in chicken fat and corn, are essential for maintenance of skin and coat and proper membrane structure. Nevertheless Omega 3 Essential Fatty Acids should be a part of the diet for dogs.

Kath Ibbetson is a mother of 2 boys and the owner of two border terriers. Find out more about dog diets at This Site

Or for natural food at This one

Are You Killing Your Dog With Dog Foods?

2008-11-06T13:16:00.001-08:00

By Jim McGiveron

That is a question that dog owners everywhere should carefully consider. Several different types of dog foods that are sold on a commercial basis have been found to have a devastating effect on the health of these pets. Research has been conducted for many years regarding this very important topic, and the evidence indicates extremely devastating results - the dog food that we purchase for our pets may be doing more harm, than good! Premature death may be experienced by dogs that consume products sold on a commercial basis. In this article, you will be given the information in order to determine are you killing your dog with dog foods?

Commercial dog food that claims to provide animals with nutrition, a healthy coat, and a high level of physical fitness has actually been found to be quite harmful. Diseases and even death may be experienced by the pet that consumes this type of food. Unsuspecting pet owners go out into the market and various stores on a daily basis in order to purchase food for their pets. These individuals will typically see several different types of dog foods on the shelves. Many will claim nutritional balance, while others include advertisements such as those that state that the dog food will be efficient in developing the health of the pet. These pet owners have no idea of the dangerous ingredients and toxins that are used in the processing of the dog food.

There are several chemicals and toxins that are contained in standard dog foods. These are considered to be so potent that they are no longer permitted to be used in foods that are consumed by humans. However, they are approved for our pet dogs - which is very unfortunate. The following medical conditions have been experienced by people who consumed the same toxins, and chemicals that dogs consume on a daily basis if they are fed commercial based dog foods:

• Failure of, or the development of cancer in the kidneys

• Cancer that forms in the bladder of the individual

• Cancers that were located in the spleen and stomach

• The loss of hair ranging from mild to severe

• Gastrointestinal complications such as diarrhea

• Visual problems, such as blindness

• The development of Leukemia

• The dysfunction and failure of the liver, and other major organs in the body

• The weakening of the immunity

• Allergies that can be mild to severe in nature

• Many have given birth to children with birth defects

As you can see, these substances really resulted in many problems when it came to human consumption. The same issue is likely to occur when it comes to pets that consume it. However, dogs are much smaller than people. It can result in a quicker onset of symptoms, and even death!

If you want to ensure the health of your pet, you can bypass all the commercial foods and simply create your own dog food. If you want to learn dog food secrets that can educate you on the health of your pet,and teach you how to create healthy foods. Remember, the health of your pet is depending on this!

About the Author: Jim McGiveron has lived in the Great Northwest all his life and enjoys camping,hiking, motorcycles,the ocean,rivers,and the green trees! He has 4 Shih Tzus,and loves them dearly. He would never do anything to compromise their health and well being. Please visit the following link: http://www.dogfoodkill.blogspot.com/

Installing a Dog Door Can Be Beneficial

2008-11-06T13:15:00.000-08:00

By Jennifer A Johnson

If you find it troublesome letting your dog in and out of the house, the ideal solution is to install a dog door or doggie door. Dog doors, also know as doggie doors are designed to allow dogs to have access inside and outside the house without bothering the owner. Convenience, safety and mobility are important in looking for dog doors.

There several types of dog doors that you can choose from. There is the vinyl flap that is made from vinyl which allows dogs your dog to go in and out of the house but prevents other small animals or rodents from getting in your house. There is also the magnetic dog doors that has an added magnetic switch that keeps the door closed until your dog, wearing the collar that triggers the door to open. Another is the hinged at the top that swings in both directions.

Dogs need to exercise stretch for them to stay active and healthy. You cannot just leave your dog slouch and lie the whole day. A pet that lacks exercise are often sickly and unhealthy. If often you cannot find to walk your dog, a dog door would give them an opportunity to roam around your yard without waiting for you to walk them or let them out on the fenced yard. Having a dog door installed, you can manage your time better.

Dog doors are also convenient when you are potty training your dog. Since with the dog doors, they will have an access in and out of the house, without waiting for you to open the door for them, incidents such as having their waste on the carpet or inside your house can be avoided.

Allowing your dog to have freedom to access the in and out of your house saves your time from getting up and opening the door for them especially at night. With dog doors, you can be sure that your pet gets enough fresh air and adequate exercise to keep them healthy and active.

For more information on Dog Doors, Pet Gate and Pet Containment System.

Top Five Dog Training Mistakes

2008-11-06T13:11:00.001-08:00

By Chad Thompson

While there are great self-help dog training guides out there and even better at home courses you can take to learn about dog training, be wary of any that include bullying or punishing your dog for not obeying you. These are common mistakes I see my clients make on a daily basis. Be sure to enroll in a solid online course or pet store class that avoids methods like these:

1. Training sessions that last longer than 20 minutes.

Most dogs attention spans are around 10 minutes of complete focus. It can be stretched to 20 minutes if you have an enticing reward like food or generous amounts of affection and petting. But after about 10 minutes, the dog will lose interest. Going past that amount of time can hurt training as the dog will try to avoid the situation. This leads to frustrated owners and if you are familiar with my writing, you know that dogs do not follow unstable or emotional (angry, frustrated, sad) leaders.

2. Punishing or scolding the dog after an accident or misbehavior.

If you come home to an accident in the house or your favorite pair of slippers chewed to oblivion you first reaction may be to punish the dog. You may actually justify this punishment by bringing the dog to the mess to show him why he is being scolded. The truth is the dog has no recollection of the moment. Even when you bring the dog to the slippers, he will not remember that he did it. So you are punishing the dog, in his mind, for no reason which leads to mistrust. How can you expect him to listen to your commands when hes been punished for not doing anything. I know what you are thinking (because I've worked with people and their dogs for many years), how then, does he remember to sit. Truth is, he doesn't. It's more muscle memory and instinct. The act of getting affection and treats subconsciously reminds the body how to act. That's why you see animals stalk prey the same way for centuries. It's simply instinct.

3. Hitting your dog.

Many years ago, it was common to roll up a newspaper and give your dog a smack on the rear end if she did something you did not agree with. Those times have changed. Studies show that any physical abuse will counteract years of love and praise. A dog is always in survival mode. So years spent in pleasure can be undone in a moment in a dogs world. Touching, however, is a very effective method. Touching is a firm touch with two fingers on the dog to snap him out of whatever he is doing. It doesn't hurt the dog, just gets his attention. At the touch, give a firm no and that will do the trick.

4. Letting the dog eat at the same time you do.

Letting the dog eat before you is worse. You need to establish that you are the pack leader in any human-dog relationship. In the dogs natural habitat, the pack leader eats first. It makes sense because the strongest have priority if the pack is to survive. Just like our president is the first evacuated out of an area if a problem arises. So if you feed the dog first or eat with the dog, the dog will determine that you two are on the same level and therefore, he does not have to obey your every command. After all, you two are equals!

5. Using a crate that is too big for the dog or puppy.

It is a common misconception that crates are like torture for a dog. The truth is dogs are den animals and feel safe in those types of areas, surrounded by walls or objects. It gives them protection from what they cannot see. When you see a dog whine while in a crate, it's because he or she simply wants to be with the pack leader. If you were in there with the dog, there would be no whining. So in order to compensate, owners buy crates that are way too big for their dog so the dog has room. However, the crate should only be big enough for the dog to stand up, turn around and lay back down. I usually tell my clients to choose a crate, then buy the next smallest one. That's probably the right size. If the crate is too big, a puppy will gladly eliminate in one corner and lay down in the other. So if your dog is going to the bathroom in the crate, the crate is too big.

Chad E. Thompson
Founder, http://www.virtualdogtrainer.com
Active Member of the Humane Society of the United States, Association of Pet Dog Trainers, and the International Association of Canine Professionals.

A List of Some Labrador Health Problems

2008-11-06T13:10:00.004-08:00

By Brooke Sunderland

When people get a Labrador they are not only getting one of the most popular and intelligent breeds of dog available, but also they are also getting one of the healthier breeds of dogs as well. While there are Labrador health problems to be on the look out for if you get your dog medical attention when it needs it and make sure it gets to the vet for regular checkups then there is no reason why the average Labrador should not live twelve to fifteen very happy years.

Knowing what to look for when looking for Labrador health problems is extremely important. If your dog is having difficulty walking then it may be experiencing a chronic disorder known as hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is when the hip joints are not properly formed and are causing the dog pain. They can be treated but the condition does worsen over time so if you notice difficulty walking get your dog to the vet right away.

Problems walking can also be caused by other disorders that usually develop at birth and worsen throughout the dog's life. The elbow joint of the Labrador is an area that could also be experiencing problems and causing your dog to experience pain when walking. This, like hip dysplasia, is treatable with surgery by your vet so this is just another reason to get your dog to the vet right away if you notice any problems in the way your dog is walking.

Another fairly common Labrador health problem is eye infections. You can see an eye infection coming from the excess fluid in your dog's eye. If you start to notice the excess fluid in the eye, and your dog constantly trying to clean their eyes, then you need to get this particular Labrador health problem addressed right away to avoid further complications. A constant attempt to clean an infected eye can lead to many more problems so get the problem addressed immediately.

To some owners a Labrador that is a little plump is a happy dog. The reality is that one of the most avoidable, and problematic, Labrador health problems is obesity and it comes right back to the owner to make sure that their dog is on a proper diet and gets plenty of exercise every day. If they had their choice your Labrador would eat all day long so be sure to regulate their diet properly and get them the exercise they need to stay healthy and happy.

While Labrador health problems may not be as common as they are in other breeds it is still up to the owner to be sure to tend to their dog's needs whenever they arise. Make sure your dog is on a healthy diet, get it plenty of exercise every day, and make regular trips to the vet to insure that you and your dog enjoy many healthy and happy years together.

Brooke Sunderland supports local animal rescue groups and speaks to groups about animal care. You can find good information on Labrador care in this article. If you are unsure about emergency care for your Labrador then check this article.

Dog's Need Gifts Too

2008-11-06T13:10:00.003-08:00

By Ben Anton

Dogs, like people, enjoy a gift every now and then. Purchasing something that your companion loves and benefits from is a great feeling. As with purchasing any gift, it is important to remember the likes and dislikes, the personality, and the needs of the four-legged recipient. It is also important to do a little research to ensure you purchase something worthwhile rather than junk.

We've put together a list of a few gifts that your dog might like this holiday season, or anytime praise is warranted.

Doggie Beds

Like people, sleep is an important part of a dog's life. Providing a comfortable place for him or her to sleep will not only make the dog happier but will also reduce the chances of your pet getting spine, joint and muscle problems.

To choose the right bed, watch how your dog sleeps and, along with assessing the size of your dog, try to find a bed that will compliment their habits. Dogs that sleep curled up may best appreciate a donut dog bed while active or younger dogs may be better off with a chew-proof bed. Orthopedic beds are available for older dogs that may have arthritis or incontinence.

Doggie Bowls

Dogs eat healthier when they have a food and water bowl that fits their size or breed. Large dog need elevated dog bowls so that they do not have to strain their neck to get at its food. Smaller bowls are better suited for little dogs so that they aren't forced to step into the bowl to get at a piece of kibble. Smaller bowls also keep the dog from overeating and getting sick. Newer dog bowls are now designed with dividers inside to help control overeating or fast-eating by dogs that are prone to dog bloat or are overweight.

Doggie Toys

Just like with people, doggie toys are meant to make them happy. They give your puppy entertainment, help deflect chewing, provide exercise and can be used as a reward for your dog in place of treats. To choose a good dog toy for your pet, find one that is made specifically for dogs; giving a dog a child's toy can introduce them to harmful fibers or Styrofoam inside when they chew on it. Also, make sure the toy is large enough so that the dog won't choke on it and tough enough for whatever extent of chewing your dog may do. Toys that can be filled with treats are very popular. However, make sure to only use such a toy for dogs that are not overweight.

Grooming

Grooming is sometimes difficult. Cleaning, brushing and clipping your dog while also trying to keep them calm can be a challenge for any dog owner. However, sometimes a good set of grooming tools can make the job much easier. Look into a good dog brush that thoroughly brushes as well as trims out excess hair. This will help you get to tasks done at once. If you don't feel up to grooming your pet yourself, there are hundreds of dog groomers who would love to pamper your pooch for an afternoon.

Caring for your dog's teeth has become increasingly important. Veterinarians highly recommend that dog owners invest in a good toothbrush for their pet. Dog owners can also buy oral hygiene dog food to help in this area as well.

Everyone loves buying gifts for their friends. Take the time to buy something special for that companion that greets you at the door every evening, curls up with you while you watch TV and provides you countless hours of love and companionship.

The New Dog Bowl: Give your dog the gift of health. Check out the DogPause Bowl, the best dog gift idea for your pet this holiday season.

Looking For a Dog Training Course? - What You Need to Know Before You Buy

2008-11-06T13:10:00.001-08:00

By Anthony W Robinson

If you're a dog owner searching for a dog training course, you've no doubt noticed that there is no shortage of them. How to whittle down your choices from among the many dog training courses can be a daunting task, particularly if you're a new pet owner and don't know where to start or what to look for in a dog training course. This article will reveal three important things to look for before you decide which one is for you.

What type of training do you need?

This is the first thing you'll need to determine to help you decide which dog training course is for you. Your dog's behavior should be the determining factor in this. There are many that teach basic commands, sit, stay, fetch, and so on; while others specialize in training for a particular task such as guarding or hunting. Still others specialize in correcting dog behavior if you're having trouble getting your dog to heed your commands.

Training Methods:

It's vitally important that you know which training method you sign up for. Keep in mind that training a police dog is vastly different from training a hunting dog, and both are different for training a dog for basic commands. The best trainer your dog could have is you, so look for a dog training course that teaches you as well as your dog, since you will be the one responsible for your dogs continued training.

Success Stories

When looking for a dog training course, be sure to check their references. These often take the form of testimonials from other customers. Most people won't bother offering a testimonial unless they are really pleased with the dog training course. Read these to see if the people who were successful with the dog training course have some of the same issues that you are having. As I said before, it could be the worlds best dog training course for hunting dogs. This does you little good if that's not what you're looking for.

Before shelling out your hard earned money on a dog training course, make sure that they offer a money back guarantee. Look for at least 30 days, but a 60 day guarantee is best, since it gives you adequate time to implement the techniques.

Dog Obedience Training in a Flash!

2008-11-06T13:09:00.002-08:00

By Anthony W Robinson

When you mention dog obedience training to many dog owners, images of dogs bolting, biting, chewing, and just about any other behavioral issue they can conjure. It doesn't have to be that way. In fact, it really doesn't take long to train your dog as long as you're willing to continue the training on a daily basis. There are a few basic commands in dog obedience training that every dog should know to be a well rounded pet.

Sit Stay Fetch

These basic commands should be the building blocks of any dog obedience training and are not hard to implement. Reward training is the key here. To get your dog to sit, show him the reward first, then give it to him after he sits. Make sure he doesn't snatch it from your hand, and don't ever throw a treat to your dog, as this teaches them to "snap" at them. (This hurts when the treat is still in your hand.) The stay command is done the same way, but after your dog sits, take a few steps back while repeating the command. In this dog obedience training, you walk back to him and give him the reward. Don't let him come to you to get it. You'll have to start with shorter distances in the beginning of your dog obedience training and gradually increase how many steps back you take. Fetch is the most fun of these three, and is great exercise for your dog.

Drop It

This is an essential command in dog obedience training. Do this after you've mastered the other three above. Since your dog is now used to being rewarded for obeying your commands, he will be more likely to listen. To get your dog to drop the unwanted item, repeat the command with the treat in your hand. The moment he drops it, reward him with the treat and plenty of affection. The goal in dog obedience training is to let your dog know that obeying your commands not only gets him a treat, but also your approval. Getting your approval is the number one motivator for your pet, since dogs are social animals and want to be included and accepted.

NHAA! Means Stop in Dog Language - Using Your Voice As a Dog Training Tool

2008-11-06T13:09:00.001-08:00

By Annette Masse

You may not realize that your voice is one of the most important training tools.

You must use your voice in 3 distinct tones.

1. A command tone. This should be clear, but firm voice. Do not shout commands.

Also do not give a command in a pleading tone. Give the command like you want him to do it.

2. A praising tone. Praise enthusiastically, using a high pitch, happy sound. Praise him when he does anything right. Your words should vary. If the dog is not looking at you and wagging his tail, you are not praising effectively.

3. A correction tone. The sound is NHAA. It should be throaty and guttural. From now on you should change your NO to NHAA. Loud is not as important as deep and tough sounding. It should sound like a growl.

Probably the most important training a human can learn is this.

When your puppy was born it had a mother. You should remember that the mother dog had to teach the pup a few things. If the pup nursed too vigorously or chewed on moms ear, she would growl at him. Growling was her way of telling him NO! Growling means, stop what you are doing or I am going to bite you. If the pup would continue to do those "naughty" things the mom dog might snap at him, give him a little nip on the muzzle or even grab him by the neck and give him a gentle shake. All this means is that the next time mommy growls you better listen.

As a human we think dogs can understand us. As you get a new puppy you should take off where mommy dog left off. The NHAA sound should be done in a lower voice. Like a growl.

If you growl and your puppy ignores you, growl again this time louder. If that still doesn't work you can give a GENTLE shake at the scuff of the neck. Do not lift the dog off the floor when doing this. I repeat, just a GENTLE shake. We don't want to hurt the pup,, just make him realize you are his mom now, and you mean business.

These 3 types of tones are very effective. They are a training tool that you always have with you.

Unlike a clicker or rolled up newspaper. Speaking of rolled up newspaper. The rolled up newspaper can be another effective tool. For example. If you dog does something wrong, chews something or has a house breaking accident, you must correct the dog within the proper timing...because YOU were not watching him. Take the rolled up newspaper and hit yourself on the head 6 times, as you repeat.."I forgot to watch my dog." Be consistent with this technique as I have seen it work several times. Until you remember to watch your dog. If your dog laughs at you when you hit yourself in the head, praise him. This is the only time a rolled up newspaper should be used in training.

Sign up for my FREE dog owner mini course called "Love your DogZ" at the link below. Teaching you about your dog. Do it for your dog. http://ForTheLoveOfDogZ.com

Dog Training - Hand Signals Versus Words As Training Tools

2008-11-05T14:47:00.006-08:00

By Ossie Hickson

When most uninitiated lay people think about dog training they seem to have it in their minds that the thing to do is to bellow "sit!" at the dog and expect it to understand. Another outmoded way of training is to physically force or coerce the dog into various positions. These people would push the dogs bottom down in order to achieve the sit, and pull his legs forward to manage a down.

The fact is that dogs naturally understand body language, as if you observe a dog or wolf pack they communicate primarily by body positioning, transmitting dominance, submission, appeasement, and pack bonding.

The classic example is the training of that most fundamental of dog behaviours, the sit. The easiest way with a dog or a young puppy is to:

1. Hold a treat above the dogs nose, presenting the treat by using a move which arcs the hand up towards the trainers chest. 2. The dogs head tilts upward to see and get at the treat held in this position. 3. With luck and the right angle, the body follows the head, and the dogs bottom hits the floor. 4. The treat is then given, usually associated with praise, such as "good dog".

In clicker training, the dog achieves the desired behavior and the trainer makes a "click" sound before the giving of the food reward. The dog learns to associate the click with the reward.

After a few efforts at signaling the dog to sit using the treat in the arcing arm and hand, you can use the word "sit" when you do the hand gesture. Eventually you don't need to have the treat in your hand, the hand gesture is enough, and the dog will learn that the word "sit" goes along with this hand gesture. By these means you can make a dog understand human language without resorting to pushing and shoving him around.

It's amazing though how powerful the hand gesture still is in dog training. A wise trainer will never fully abandon the hand signal in favor of words. It is quite remarkable how even the most seemingly dumb of dogs will respond to a hand signal even though he may look blankly when you say the word. The testimony to the efficacy of the hand signal is that deaf dogs are totally trainable - as long as you are within sight.

Have you ever wondered why your dog is sometimes slow to respond to your spoken commands? Are you using hand signals? Often these are more important than words to your dog. Find out how dog training actions can speak louder than words. Check this out in this helpful and informative site dedicated to pet dogs.

Meet Sassy - Our Little Wonder Dog!

2008-11-05T14:47:00.005-08:00

By Judi Bollmeyer

I would like to introduce you to a very special little wonder dog - Sassy, our 9-year-old chihuahua who doesn't possess any super strength of any sort but she does seem to be the most perceptive dog that we've ever known. We have no way of comparing her talents with the rest of the pet population but we do have three dogs and out of all of them, she seems to be the only one that is gifted with what I call her very own form of ESP.

Years ago, we became aware of her ability to know the exact moment before our Cocker Spaniel, Rusty would become sick and vomit on the floor. He evidently had a sensitive stomach and there were times that he would either eat too fast or his food just wouldn't agree with him and he wouldn't be able to keep it down. Somehow she would always know, even if she wasn't anywhere near him. She would come running from wherever she was and whatever she was doing like a little lightning bolt and circle round and round him yipping up a storm. Sometimes, if she was quick enough and we were in the same room we'd be able to get Rusty out the door just in the nick of time to avoid having to clean up a mess on the floor. Since those times, we have switched all of them to a better brand of dog food that is more to their digestive system's liking and that problem has been solved.

Now that Rusty is much older, 16 years of age, he is like any other elderly dog and has a problem with his bladder and holding things in. Sassy's telepathic powers have once again been awakened as she is the one who knows the exact instant before Rusty is about to have an accident on the kitchen floor. I have never seen anything like this before in my life. If I am in another room and suddenly hear Sassy's unique alarm system go off - the yipping, once again - I immediately know to grab the stack of towels on my way to the "scene of the accident" and sure enough will find that she got it right again! I don't know how she does this but I am well aware that she does have these psychic powers.

Could it be that her power to know the future was rare and maybe ran in her family? That, I will never know but there is one more testimony that I would like to share to further convince you that she is indeed, blessed with this special gift. We have a very long driveway and live out in the country. As soon as this little dog hears a vehicle pulling in she immediately knows whether it is a friend or foe. For example, if it happens to be one of our grown children, she will go into a very screeching rendition of letting you know, in her most excited way, that it's someone she's familiar with and likes alot. She will then run around in circles in anticipation of waiting for them to walk through the door. Now, on the other hand, if it's someone she doesn't know you will be very well aware of this simply by the aggressive manner in which she is barking and her stance as she waits at the door to "attack" anyone who tries to cross her path and hurt her family in any way. Of course, she would never hurt anyone but until you actually get through the door you would never know this by the way she chooses to announce the fact that she is the most loyal guard dog in the world.

Now, if this little account of our super-pup has not convinced you that dogs can surely be telepathic and know the future then you should probably meet this little lady in person and then you would have no doubt that she is who she is and we're very proud to call her ours. Yes, Sassy, you have made believers out of us!

Pet E-Cards - http://www.apostcard2remember.com/puppycards.html

Dog Pictures 101 - Getting Their Attention

2008-11-05T14:47:00.003-08:00

By Jron C. Magcale

Dog Meet Camera, Camera Meet Dog

Well there is always a first step and here, the first step is pretty much simple, introduce the dog to the camera. A lot of dogs are scared of what they don't know. Put the camera lower than the dog's eye level and have the dog sniff the camera. In that way he'll know that what you are about to do, it will help you ease some tensions or whatever that comes in the photo shoot. Always get the dog comfortable on the shoot, so getting the dog familiar with the camera is a good first step for sure.

Be One with the Dog

Ok, once the dog gets introduced to the camera, go and sit in the spot that you want the dog to sit in, even if it's on the floor. We have talked about getting the dog comfortable with its surroundings, you need to show the dog that you have no bad intentions, so level with them and mingle a little, in that way they'll see that you only want to get their pictures and not harm them in any way.

Spotting the Dog

Ok, to place the dog in a position where you want the picture to be taken your next step is call the dog in front of the spot that you want him in and while you are sitting in the spot, make the dog comfortable. Have him sit down, scratch him behind the ears and on his neck and stroke his back. In that way you will get the dog's trust and at the same time you can have the dog on the spot that you want him to be. If the dog is comfortable in the position you want them to be, it is pretty much easy to move from there.

Trick or Treat, Dog

Now, giving a treat t o a dog is pretty much helpful if you want to get the best results. Especially when you need something from them you need to give something to them. Put a dog treat in the palm of your hand and close your hand around it. Have the dog sniff your hand so he knows it's in your hand. Use the hand that you are not pressing the camera button with. So that you can direct the dog with it and have your shot is in perfect shape. And then snap a shot and there you have it your own dog picture with ease. No need for tricks or whatever. You got them where you want them to be.

Jron Magcale

http://www.anamigo.com

Jron c. Magcale from Jump2Top - SEO Company

Avoiding Dog Bites - Tips For Your Safety

2008-11-05T14:47:00.001-08:00

By Joseph Devine

Many people do not take the necessary precaution when approaching unfamiliar dogs, assuming all dogs to be warm, friendly, and approachable. While many dogs are fairly domesticated and welcome advances from strangers, it is important to remember that dogs are animals with strong animal instincts that people often do not or cannot understand.

With that in mind, it is critical that all individuals exercise precaution when dealing with unfamiliar dogs, and even their own pets, in order to avoid attacks and bites that can cause serious and lasting injury. By adhering to the safety tips listed below, people can hopefully keep their interactions with "man's best friend" safe an enjoyable.

· When approaching an unfamiliar dog (or if approached by an unfamiliar dog), make sure to move slowly and extend your hand out to the dog to sniff before petting it. If the dog can smell you and get acquainted, it is less likely that the dog will attack or bite you because it feels threatened.

· Dogs are territorial and protective animals, and there are certain times you should never approach a dog. These times include when the dog is sleeping, eating, or taking care of puppies. In all of these situations, a dog is likely to become territorial when approached and will defend itself.

· Avoid erratic and quick movements around dogs. These actions tend to "spook" animals, and may lead a dog to feel threatened. Again, in instances like this, a dog's natural reaction is to defend itself violently against what it perceives to be an attack.

· If you are dealing with a dog that is your pet or a friend's pet, it most likely has a corner or area of the house that it considers to be "its room" or "its bed". When the dog is occupying this space, you should leave it alone, or approach slowly and with care. Otherwise, the dog may interpret your actions to be encroaching on his or her territory, and may feel the need to defend itself.

· If you are walking a dog and come upon another dog on the road, be sure to keep your dog closely by your side and away from the unknown dog. In the event that the two dogs should begin fighting, there is a good chance that you or the other dog's owner may become injured accidentally in the course of the dogs' skirmish.

If you would like more information on dog bites / animal attacks, contact the Indianapolis dog bite attorneys of the Charles D. Hankey Law Office, P.C. today.

Joseph Devine

Dog Feeders - Using Them to Control Your Pet's Weight

2008-11-05T14:46:00.005-08:00

By Jennifer Akre

Have you ever really thought about the weight of your pet and what it may mean to their body? Most people love lavishing their pets with toys and treats thinking of them as their furry children. The problem is what may be a little treat to a child may be a large treat to your small dog. Too many of these treats can lead to your dog being overweight.

While you may think a few extra pounds are not a big deal, that is because you are considering what a couple of extra pounds means on your body. On a human body, a couple of extra pounds aren't much. But on a dog body, that can be equal to an extra 20 or 40 pounds on your body, maybe even more if you have a very small dog.

Allowing your dog to be overweight could be setting him up for major health risks such as:

Breathing Problems - From too much fat pushing on their respiratory system.

Pain - The more weight your dog has, the more pressure and stress you are going to be putting on their joints, bones and muscles to hold their body up.

Diabetes - Just like people, dogs get this ailment too.

Heart Disease - Being overweight can lead to a number of heart problems like high blood pressure and heart failure in dogs.

Liver Failure - When dogs get too fat, some of that fat gets stuck in their liver and can keep it from working as it should.

Additionally, being overweight can cause your dog to have digestive problems, hair and skin problems, and even problems in reproduction.

It's time to act. If your pet is overweight, you need to do something about it, now.

No Treats

Start by cutting off the treats you are feeding your dog. While you think it's a nice thing to do, it's a big part of the problem. Your dog needs to learn the healthy meal in their dog feeders is all they need to have.

Limit Food

If you have had a policy where the dog feeders were always full and your pet could eat at any time, you need to change that policy. Instead, you need to read up on what amount is best for them to get back in shape and put that amount in their bowl.

You may want to purchase automatic dog feeders if you are away from home often. These dog feeders will get your pet on a schedule of knowing when their feedings are, as a container will open and allow them to eat at a predetermined time.

While your pet may pout and beg for food at the beginning, they will soon adjust to the dog feeders and be just fine. If they are really begging you could try to toss them some vegetables, which are good for them and low calorie foods.

Exercise

Finally, you do need to make sure your pet gets an appropriate amount of exercise. But, don't overdo it. Just like you can't jog a mile after being out of shape, neither can your pet. Start with a few minutes of exercise at a time and slowly build up their workout time.

Author Jennifer Akre is an owner of a wide variety of online specialty shops that offer both items and information on how you can easily furnish and decorate your space. Whether it's your living, bedroom, or even your deck or patio, there are many tips you can use to make those spots both functional and beautiful. Today, she offers advice on how to create a fabulous pet area by using the essential dog supplies and basic cat supplies that your pets need.

Dog Crate - This is Why You Need One

2008-11-05T14:46:00.003-08:00

By Jennifer Akre

If you have a dog in your house, you may let him or her run all over the house. After all, they are a member of the family, right? They deserve to be able to dash all over the house. Yes and no.

While it's great to have a pet that you think is a great part of the family, you need to remember where your dogs come from and how giving them a whole house may be a bit much for them to take in.

Dogs, by nature, are wild animals that live in a den. Usually a den is a small space where animals curl up tight to make room for others. Have you ever noticed how your dog curls up in a ball to sleep? That is because this is that instinct kicking in.

So, where do you give your dog to sleep? The whole house? This is far too large for a den. Instead, you need to offer your pet a smaller space to use as a sleeping area. While your dog may find a space in your home to sleep, such as under a chair or bed or in a cubby hole, you really should give them a space to call their own that is their safe spot or den.

This is when most people look to a dog crate or kennel. A crate is essentially a cage that is small enough to become a den for your dog. By putting a blanket and some of your pet's toys in this space, he will come to know and love it as his own area to live. This will also become his safe space, an area he knows he can go and be safe if he is scared or feels sick.

It is wise to put your dog in a dog crate at night and lock it up for him to sleep. This is especially important if your dog has bad habits like chewing on things. When the whole house is quiet and dark, your dog can become stressed and if he is loose in the house he could get into trouble.

Many people also use a dog crate as a space to keep their dog when they are gone from home during the day. Since dogs do not soil the space where they are going to sleep they will wait until you return and let them out to go to the bathroom. With this said, it is important that you not remain gone too long. Asking your dog to hold it too long is not safe and can lead to a number of health conditions.

Extra Benefits

Once you have taught your dog that a dog crate is a safe spot to be in and they have come to love this space, it will make it easier to travel with your pet. By putting the dog crate in the car when it's time to take a trip, your dog will still feel safe and be less threatened by the ride ahead.

Author Jennifer Akre is an owner of a wide variety of online specialty shops that offer both items and information on how you can easily furnish and decorate your space. Whether it's your living, bedroom, or even your deck or patio, there are many tips you can use to make those spots both functional and beautiful. Today, she offers advice on how to create a fabulous pet area by using cat furniture that will challenge your kitty and dog supplies that your puppy will dig.

Calling All Puppy Lovers!

2008-11-05T14:46:00.001-08:00

By Jeffrey Oliver

If you're a pet owner like me, you're probably always taking pictures of your little guy in the cutest poses imaginable. I've got a 4 month old puppy, and let me tell you - he's cute! Now what do you do with those pictures? Don't you want to show them off to your friends and family whenever they're visiting?

You can easily do this using a digital picture frame. Digital picture frames can hold hundreds if not thousands of photos and videos, and you can display them in a slideshow. Talk about a great way to get your friends talking about your favorite subject - your pet! This idea can work great if you show your puppy as well. What better way to get more attention to your dog? Display pictures of your awards, or simply the funniest thing they've ever done.

If you're really into your breed, you could opt to get a digital frame with wireless capability. Then you can set it up so that you can download pictures directly off the internet to your digital frame. Flickr accounts are especially popular these days, and integrating a Flickr account with a digital picture frame is a very simple task.

Digital picture frames are a great way to get people's attention as soon as they enter your home. I've had this happen on numerous occasions: people are over and conversation is drifting around, and then a picture of my puppy came up on the digital frame, and all of a sudden the conversation got lively and people started laughing and telling stories about other puppies they'd known. It actually contributed a great deal to the event!

If you're interested in digital picture frames, head over to DigitalFrameGuy.com and download a free copy of the Buyer's Guide to Digital Picture Frames.

What Should I Do Before Adopting a Shelter Dog?

2008-11-05T14:45:00.006-08:00

By James D Nash

Puppies seem to be in abundance when it comes to ill equipped breeders or people that have lost interest in them. Before you purchase that puppy in the pet store window or call a home concerning an ad in the local paper about buying a puppy, I implore you to please go visit your local animal shelter or rescue organization and adopt a puppy! Too many homeless and stray animals of all ages are without good and loving homes. It is an epidemic of mass proportions the number of stray dogs in our country that are without a forever family to love and care for them! Most people want that pedigreed, brand new, and raised from birth puppy.

A pedigree does not ensure that your puppy or dog will be well mannered, any more healthy, or any well trained than a dog of mixed breed or a dog without papers. Shelter dogs are just as if not more well mannered and trained. Many of them get excellent and top of the line veterinarian care because many veterinarians volunteer their services and care to local shelters. It is a myth that dogs and puppies of shelters all come from acts of violence or sickness. Not true at all! Some of them are there because owners thought they were ready for a pet but found out it was more time than they wanted to share.

Some reasons are owners see the "puppy" and when the "puppy" is no longer a puppy and they are ill equipped to care for the dog then they cast it off to a shelter or let it fend on it's own. Puppies are even brought in because an owner's dog became impregnated and they could not care for the litter or give the litter away. Even in those cases of neglect, abuse, and violence those dogs can be trained and given therapy that result in perfect behaviors and temperaments. Here are some tips when going to your local Animal Shelter to interview, and yes it is necessary that you interview your local shelter! Not just for your benefit but for your potential canine forever friend.

Very important questions that should always be asked are: How they take care of the dogs. Do they get more than just food and water? Does the animal shelter place emphasis on socialization? Do they allow the animals to move around and interact with the other dogs?

There are a few things to look for when you visit shelters. First of those are if you walk into a shelter and you see puppies in cramped kennels or cages and this is where they have spent their entire stay while at the shelter, you will not want to adopt ANY dogs from this place and you should perhaps report the shelter! Dogs that are kept in cramped, dirty, etc. are being conditioned into furthering fear of the outside world, trauma, stress and anxiety disorders, and other fears.

If a shelter does not allow their dogs to be exercised or to be let outdoors, then you should ask how it is they are allowed to enjoy physical activity and stimulation. Also you will want to know exactly how much and how often human contact is received. To add to your query when interviewing a shelter is to ask what services such as pet insurance, complimentary vet visits, obedience classes, and do they newsletters following adoption on care and tips for introduction to their new home, etc.

James is the owner of Your Dog Supplies Store an online dog supply store that focuses on the needs of dogs and dogs only. They have many different dog supplies such as food, treats, pet carriers, dog shampoo and so much more! Visit us first!

Puppy Pictures Makes Your Online Page More Interesting

2008-11-05T14:45:00.005-08:00

By Eliza Maledevic

As an internet user, you want to scroll on the different picture in the web. Most of the time people upload their picture with their big smile and the beautiful scenery that they want. This is the common picture that you will find in the web. Some people get bored in looking to this kind of picture in the web. Most of the time pictures are captured with an ordinary scene. Sometimes people just look on these pictures for the sake of browsing on the web.

Friendster is one of the webs that most people are visiting. Here there are many pictures that the account owner upload to let their friends see what they looks like now. Sometimes they tend to tell story about those pictures. They post pictures because they are memorable or just because for friendship sake. This pictures show the updates about that particular person. They can even add some messages for their friend. Sometimes pictures are not interesting, and sometimes boring.

Do you want to be your online page more interesting, more colorful? There are many ways of making your online page more interesting like adding music and adding pictures that are stolen shots to be more candid. But what makes more interesting is if you add puppy pictures on it. As we, all know puppies are man's best friend. It wills not a great surprised if you add some puppy pictures on your online page. In this generation, people are more fascinated with puppies that are being dress up by the owner. Most of the time they are dress like dolls with complete accessories, and even wearing trendy clothes, like the owner as if they are twins.

In capturing pictures with your puppy, you must use a high quality camera that can take good shots of your dog. Most of the time they tend to move around that is why it is hard to get them pictures. After capturing pictures, you can edit it to look more candid. You can add some frames or set a background to your puppy pictures to add more beauty on the pictures. You can also reduce the size of the puppy picture to avoid the scrolling up and down, left and right to see the whole pictures. You must also reduce the file size of your puppy picture so that you visitor can load the picture on their screen and will not wait too long.

By adding puppy picture, you can add spice on your online page. It will also prove that you are a pet lover. For sure, many people will visit your online page because of the rare kind of picture that you upload on your online page.

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

Improve Your Pet Picture Through Photo Editing

2008-11-05T14:45:00.003-08:00

By Eliza Maledevic

There are many ways on how to show how proud we are having pets in our home. Knowing that these pets are really a big help in many ways, aside from guarding the safety of our place you will enjoy different tricks or cute faces.

Most of the homes do have dogs in their home, dogs are a good guard, and they are territorial and tend to protect their place. But there are those who fare fun to be with, they can play with you around. You can treasure those happy moments of your dog through pictures. Enable for you not to miss those events, you need to have a camera with to capture those happy moments of your dog.

But taking a dog picture is not that easy, there are lots of times that you may not have the right angle or position in taking pet picture. You may miss those pose and tricks they are doing. Or if you have a camera that is not good in taking moving subject, you may end up having a blurred output on your camera. If you will do a search on the internet there are lots of pet pictures posted and most of these pictures are quality pictures.

To have a high quality pet picture you may need necessary things like, high resolution digital camera at least 3 mega pixels, with a high end shutter. And for those pets who moves a lot you may need a camera with a burst shot. This will help you to take a pet picture and capture every movement of a dog. So you just need to select the good one from those burst shot.

Used digital camera so you won't need to use film and you may have see the image instantly. In a digital camera you can take a lot of pictures. It is usually depends on the memory card of the digital camera the higher the memory the better and lot of pictures can be taken. After taking those pictures, you can upload it on your personal computer and select those pictures you love most.

One problem that you might encounter using a digital camera is the red eye problem. This can be fixed using a photo editor on a computer. You can use different software that can edit pictures. And through this software, you can alter the image and add some effects on the picture. You can also use different background to improve the image of your pet's picture.

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

Use Dog Training to Turn Your Dog Into an Amazing Dog

2008-11-05T14:45:00.001-08:00

By Daniel Waser

Many people say that they have a horrible-mannered dog. The main reason why these dogs aren't well behaved is that they were poorly trained by the owner. It's not the dog's fault if he doesn't know what good manners are and if he doesn't follow your commands... As a dog owner, you must be responsible and take care of your dog. This responsibility includes training your dog properly. There is a lot of information available on how to properly train dogs and you can find out what works and what doesn't.

Once you start training your dog using the right training methods, your dog can also become a great dog. You'll definitely enjoy spending more time with your dog once he's better behaved and you'll be proud of both your accomplishments and the dog's accomplishments. You need to spend time and effort while training your dog and your dog too can become an amazing dog.

Your dog must learn to follow your commands and understand the various tones of your voice. Start with the basic commands: sit, stay and come. Once your dog masters these three commands, you can move on to more difficult ones. By spending more time with your dog and discovering what makes him tick, you will start seeing awesome results quite quickly. But it will require time, determination, patience and consistence from you. All dogs, from mutts to pure breeds are capable of becoming well-behaved canine companions.

During your training session, always use positive reinforcement and NEVER use physical violence. It doesn't matter how irritated or frustrated you are, it is simply not acceptable to cause bodily harm to your pet. Instead, use a louder voice with the appropriate tone and your dog will understand. You need to catch him in the act as well if you want to reprimand him.

So start with the basic commands and use positive reinforcement. You and everyone around you will soon see an enormous difference in your dog's behavior. Reward your dog whenever he follows your command and does something right or listens to you. You can give him a treat, pet him or play with him. Dogs love to be praised. You too can be proud of your dog!

Daniel Waser is a dog lover since his childhood. Visit his blog and get great, helpful information just for dogs and download the free report "The Secrets to Raising a Happier Dog" or grab his latest dog training tips.

Hunting Dog Training Should Begin at Home

2008-11-05T14:44:00.006-08:00

By Daniel Waser

Dogs can serve a lot of different purposes for us. For the most part, they are faithful companions that will stay by our side through thick and thin. There may also be times, however, whenever you want to give your dog some specific training. Certain dog breeds are meant for life in the field and although they do make wonderful house pets, many of them are happier if they are able to get out and do what they were bred for. A good example of this are dogs that are bred to hunt. Hunting dog training is a particular type of training all to itself but there are some things that you need to keep in mind before you begin.

Before you undergo any intensive hunting dog training with your pet, it first needs to understand the basics of obedience. Having a dog that is going to listen to you, whether it is in the training class or in the field can make the entire experience very pleasurable. Although your dog is probably going to have a little bit of room to run whenever it is out on the hunt, the last thing that you want to have happen is for it to disobey you whenever you do give it a command. This can put both you and the dog in harm's way so make sure that they understand the basics of obedience before beginning any hunting dog training.

Hunting dog training should begin at home. Although it is possible to take your dog out in the field immediately and begin training it there, it is often better if they begin this training in an environment which they are used to. My particular favorite type of hunting dog is a bird dog and I enjoy training them regularly. I first start by tying a pigeon wing to the end of a fishing line and casting it out into the yard. This helps to teach the dog to stay on point and even to trail the bird because I will slowly retrieve it with the fishing rod.

Eventually, you will be able to take the hunting dog training out into the field. This is where it really becomes enjoyable and you are even able to hunt during the time that your dog is undergoing the training process. Remember, this type of training is an ongoing thing so the course is never complete. By allowing your dog to do what it has bred for, both you and your pet will enjoy this time together.

Find Out Just What Dog Training is All About

2008-11-05T14:44:00.005-08:00

By Daniel Waser

There are many misconceptions about dog training and, more specifically, effective dog training. This could be part of the reason there are so many untrained, misbehaving dogs frustrating their owners. If you are a dog owner, there are many things you should know about training your dog successfully.

For instance, many dog owners make the mistake of pushing their dog as a way to teach them what to do and what not to do. This approach will only go so far. In fact, you will probably be talking more to yourself because your dog will likely not respond as you had hoped. The best way to get a dog to heed to your direction or pay attention to you is to spend some time bonding with your dog so they can learn to trust you from the beginning.

Many dog owners are under the impression that yelling at or spanking their dog is the only method to get them to listen to their command. But, this is far from accurate. The most effective dog training revolves around praise and rewards regardless of what it is you are trying to teach. This is the best way to achieve results, unless you want to spend a fortune on a professional trainer to take over job.

Dog owners continually relying upon ineffective techniques usually end up giving up the training process which is, certainly, not going to do the owner or the dog any good. As the dog owner, the best approach is to stop by the store or library and pick up some books on dog training so you can strap yourself with a good amount of knowledge on dog training techniques, what works, what does not work and what is best for the different types of dogs. You should be able to get enough knowledge from such books to be in a position to properly and effectively train your dog.

It is also important to remember that you should not over train your dog, no matter what the circumstances are. Limit the amount of time you spend each day working on the techniques you researched. Practice them with your dog, then leave them until the next day even if your dog has not yet learned it. If you try to teach your dog too much at one time, the chances of success are far less than if you keep it simple. Just as you would with a child, stick with a routine. This is the best way to successfully train your dog without the need to hire a professional and costly trainer.

Are Blueberries Safe For Dogs?

2008-11-05T14:44:00.003-08:00

By Daniel Waser

Answer: Yes, blueberries are definitely safe for dogs in general.

Blueberries make a great natural treat for dogs. Because they are a good natural source of nutrients, it's far better to give your dog blueberries than to give him processed treats and other snack food that you can purchase from the grocery store or pet store.

It's always best to consult your veterinarian before giving your dog any kind of fruit. Your vet should be able to tell you how your dog will respond to blueberries or other types of fruit and your vet should be able to give you recommendations tailored for your particular dog. Don't be afraid to ask your vet if blueberries are safe for your dog.

If you look at some well-marketed all natural dog food products or other dry food sold in pet stores, they may contain blueberries or blueberry by-products. Some of these brands are becoming increasingly more popular. Although no major studies were conducted to determine if the antioxidants present in blueberries benefit dogs like they benefit humans, you can rest assured than blueberries are safe for dogs.

Blueberries are a seasonal fruit and therefore the price of blueberries will fluctuate. You decide how much you want to spend on dog treats. If you opt for blueberries, only feed your dog fresh blueberries and don't add any sugar or preservatives. Although some preservatives may be all right for human consumption, your dog's system may not know how to process added preservatives.

You should first feed your dog with its regular meal and then give him blueberries. If you want, you can replace a small portion of his dry food with blueberries but make sure to keep your dog's meal proportioned without overfeeding him.

This article talks about blueberries, not grapes or raisins. Grapes contain a particular acid that can cause reactions in dogs. Such reactions could include vomiting, diarrhea or upset stomach. Your dog's body can't break down these acids the way human bodies can.

If you have some guests over who would like to give your dog blueberries, make sure that they ask you first. After all, you're the one in charge! Your guests do not know your dog and his particular dietary needs and they don't know if your dog normally performs a trick in order to receive blueberries.

Basically, blueberries are safe for dogs and your dog should not have adverse reactions to blueberries. However, if your dog is on any kind of dietary restrictions, you should talk to your veterinarian first to see if blueberries are safe for your dog. And please remind your family and friends to ask for your permission before giving any type of food to your dog. Don't hesitate to call your vet and schedule an appointment to see if your dog can enjoy blueberries!

Beagles - Overview of the Beagle Breed

2008-11-05T14:44:00.001-08:00

By Dan Fletcher

Beagles are a lovable breed of dog that are usually characterized by their large, floppy ears, broad head, short muzzle, and small stature. They were bred as scent hounds for tracking and as such have developed quite a reputation as "detective dogs."... Unfortunately, they are popular in animal testing because they are inherently healthy and moderately tempered.

Beagle History

In the 1700s, beagles were used strictly for hunting and tracking. Generally, beagles were classified as a bit of a slow learner over other breeds, but made up for it with their keen sense of smell and excellent stamina. They were used for rabbit hunting but as fox hunting gained popularity, so did the Foxhound type of beagle.

In the 1950s, John Scott and John Fuller tested the sense of smell among various breeds of dogs. This test was conducted by placing a mouse in an acre of land and timing how long it took the dogs to find it. The Beagle found the mouse less than one minute, where other breeds took in excess of ten minutes or did not find it at all.

Personality & Training

Beagles, regardless of their age, are a very friendly dog. They are happy and amicable, with a desire to please everyone. They tend to be intelligent but get distracted easily, making training a little bit difficult without a great deal patience and understanding. It is a good idea to leash-train a beagle, as their nose can quickly lead them in all directions, especially in the outside world which is full of mysterious scents.

Because beagles are so happy, energetic, and playful, they can be a bit bold and even mischievous. This can be helped by a patient and dedicated trainer. If they are trained properly, beagles socialize with other pets and tend to be great dogs for children. It is a very rare occasion to find an aggressive or timid beagle.

As was stated earlier, beagles are adventurous and energetic. Training must begin very early with this breed so that you and your pup enjoy each other everyday. Within the first few days of bringing your beagle puppy home, it is recommended that lead training begin. This could start simple by putting a collar (not too tight or too loose) on the pup. After he is comfortable, slowly move towards walking him on a leash. Remember, their nose is very powerful and very curious! It will take time and patience for your beagle puppy to know how the leash works, i.e., they can no longer go wherever they please whenever they please.

Physical Features

Beagles are shorthaired and typically a tricolor mix. They can actually be any hound color, but most commonly they appear a mix of tan, white, and brown or black. Grooming is easy as they are average to below average shedders. Of course, they need their nails filed occasionally and their ears should be cleaned regularly, as with any dog. A simple brush along their coat once per day can severely reduce shedding. However, few dog owners will find the shedding to be a problem, due to their very short hair.

The only warning one might want to keep in mind when purchasing a beagle is that they love to dig and can be quite vocal. Both of these traits can be reduced or defeated all together with adequate training, particularly if you start when the beagle is a puppy. But, if you do not train and let them run in your garden on day one, expect some ruined roses. Despite these minor issues, this breed has so many pluses it is hard not to want one!

Dan Fletcher is the owner of PuppiesSale.org, a site dedicated to puppies, with articles, puppies for sale, and more.

Dog Lymphoma - An Owner's Guide to Lymphoma in Dogs

2008-11-05T14:43:00.005-08:00

By D Swain

Lymphoma in dogs is a condition that occurs when cancer cells affect lymph tissue. This tissue grows in virtually every organ, so almost any part of your dog's body can be affected. This type of cancer is more common in middle-aged dogs.

Symptoms

The most prominent sign of dog lymphoma is swelling of the lymph nodes. As mentioned, this disease can affect any organ in the body. So, your dog will display symptoms based on the area that is affected.

For example, two common areas that are affected by this disease include the gastrointestinal tract and chest. Dogs with damage to the gastrointestinal tract will have loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. Shortness of breath occurs when the chest is affected.

Diagnosis

Swelling of the lymph nodes may lead the veterinarian to suspect this disease. This physical exam is followed by urine and blood tests. One of the swollen lymph nodes can be biopsied in order to provide a definitive diagnosis. This will also gives clues as to the severity of the cancer.

Treatment

Lymphoma in dogs is usually treated via chemotherapy. In most cases, this is enough to bring about remission. These chemotherapy drugs can be given as an injection in your vet's office or at home orally. Dogs in the later stages of the disease likely won't respond to this medication though.

Prognosis

Treatment of dog lymphoma can be effective in bringing about a remission. However, the disease will likely recur sometime in the future. At this point, a second round of chemotherapy can be given, but remission will only last half as long. This treatment protocol can be very expensive. Most dogs don't survive more than two years after diagnosis.

Lymphoma in dogs is a very serious disease. There are also many more canine illnesses that can affect your dog. You should know some of the causes and symptoms of these conditions in case your dog becomes affected one day. Come by dog-illnesses.com today to learn about a wide range of these diseases such as infectious canine hepatitis.

An Owner's Guide to Prostate Cancer in Dogs

2008-11-05T14:43:00.003-08:00

By D Swain

Prostate cancer in dogs is a very serious disease. This aggressive cancer can spread to other areas such as the lungs, bones, and lymph nodes. Older dogs are usually affected. So, what are some of the signs you will notice?

Symptoms

Two of the most common symptoms of this cancer are weight loss and general pain. Your dog's prostate will also become enlarged. As it grows, it will push against the urethra which makes it difficult to urinate. Blood may also appear in the urine.

Prostate cancer in dogs may also weaken the hind legs. If you pay attention, you will notice that your dog will walk with shorter steps. He may also have an arched back.

Diagnosis

This disease usually goes undetected until it has already advanced. Based on the symptoms of your dog, the veterinarian will perform a range of tests. These include contrast x-rays, ultrasound scans, and urine tests. A biopsy of the rectal wall will provide the most definitive method of diagnosis.

Treatment

If your dog has been diagnosed with prostate cancer, he will have a variety of treatment options. Most dogs undergo chemotherapy or radiation in order to fight the cancer. Another option is surgery. However, dog's prostate glands are more complex than ours, so surgery can be very dangerous.

Prognosis

As mentioned earlier, prostate cancer in dogs is a very serious disease. The prognosis in most cases is very bleak. On an average, dog's don't survive more than two months after they start displaying signs of disease. Virtually all dogs don't survive for more than a year.

Dog prostate cancer is very serious. However, there are many other canine illnesses that can affect your dog. You owe it to your dog to learn the causes and symptoms of some of these conditions, so you can get him treated quickly if he's affected. So, stop by dog-illnesses.com today to learn about some of these diseases such as canine scabies.