Friday, August 31, 2012
Picking The Right Chihuahua Teacup Puppies
Breeders use the term 'teacup' to mean an extremely small dog. However, it has no standardized meaning, so the definition can vary from breeder to breeder. Chihuahuas bred to the breed standard are very small to begin with, something that many people are not aware of because there are so many poorly-bred, larger ones around. The standard says this breed should not exceed 5 pounds.
Dogs that are too small cannot safely carry a litter. Depending on which breeder you ask, the lowest possible size is about 3 1/2 pounds. This means that larger females are required in order to keep creating tiny pups, who may have a tiny father. Sometimes a tiny pup appears in a litter from 'normal' sized (3-5 pound) dogs, as well.
Dogs are much closer in size when they are born than they are when they reach adulthood. This is why a Labrador can have ten pups, but a Chihuahua is usually limited to two or three. There are exceptions, but most litters will be less than five. Size at birth does not always translate to size at adulthood, though.
An experienced breeder can tell you about how big his or her pups get. He or she can also tell you about the sizes of dogs in the parents' background, and make an educated guess based on the size of the puppy at 8 weeks. However, no one will always be right. Don't choose size over health, because no one can guarantee the former and the latter is so very important.
Living with a tiny puppy requires some special care. One of the things that can afflict them that is not common in larger breeds is low blood sugar. This occurs when they do not eat often enough, and may require frequent feeding of special food for the first few weeks they live with you. Most dogs grow out of the problem.
Having a tiny bladder also means that Chihuahua teacup puppies find it harder to hold it when they have to go. Many people choose to potty-train using pads, paper, or a litter box, for this reason. Either way, frequent access to the potty spot is going to be required in order to house train them.
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Should I Get a Dog?
One good thing about owning a dog is that they will help you live longer. That's right! While pets provide their owners with the love and company they so desire, it is difficult to say exactly why people who own dogs live longer. There is evidence that dogs can help you reduce your blood pressure! This article probably does not have to tell you how fun it can be to play with your dog, cuddle with your dog, or just hang around and watch your dog experience new things. Well, owning a pet can lower your blood pressure as effectively as if you were to start eating a low-salt diet or restricting how much alcohol you drink. So get a dog, then grab a beer. This is why many hospitals and retirement community centers hire on a dog to come in and engage in "animal therapy" with the patients and residents: not only does it help old people by reducing their blood pressure and offering them a distraction from any worries or sad thoughts in their lives, but it also acts as a calming presence that eliminates loneliness. At this point in the article it is already clear that dogs are somewhat of a wonder cure for many of life's ills!
Studies by the US Department of Health have come to the conclusion that pets helped victims of heart attacks--the study reads that 28% of heart patients who also had pets survived "serious heart attacks", while only about 6% of people without pets made it through. If that's not enough, you can also measure how much good it does you to own a dog by measuring your before-and-after waistline. A recent study has concluded that pet owners had 2% lower cholesterol than those without pets, and those pet owners' chance of going through cardiac arrest was reduced by 4%.
Not only are dogs good for you, but they are good for your kids, too. You do not need to read studies to view the delight on children's faces as they play with dogs. But, just in case that was not enough evidence for you, a few studies have been done to prove how good it is for kids to own pets. A certain study showed that children who were in the vicinity of a dog during their physical examinations had reduced blood pressure, less behavioral problems or distress, and lower heart rates than when a dog was nowhere to be found.
In conclusion, a dog is sometimes hard work. If you've never owned a pet before, you may have to become accustomed to picking up the feces of your companion at the most inopportune times. The dog, depending on what type it is, may be aggressive or too timid, very easy or very hard to train, and may either be too smart for its own good or not live up to your standards of intelligence. These are the facts. However, if you give them love, they will return it with all of their energy--it is what they were bred to do and why the humans have let them stick around for the past thousands of years.
Ivan's Puppies has been breeding and training puppies for over 30 years. Our hard work has been paying off, as now we are proud to be breeding Bulldog litters with excellent quality, with little to no health problems and good temperaments. For English Bulldog Puppies, visit our website at http://www.BulldogsNewYork.com.
Monday, April 30, 2012
Cats Vs Dogs: Which Make the Better Pets?
Dogs are intensely loyal to the people who feed them. They can be hostile to perceived "invaders," and a goodly number of them have shown a willingness to put their own lives on the line to protect their owners. The downside to this behavior is that they demand lots of attention. An owner can sit and scratch a dog's ears for hours and still receive a hurt look from the animal when it's time to do something else. Cats, although also attention seekers, seem much more aloof and independent. Just don't expect them to be there for you if a burglar breaks in. An intelligent, well trained dog makes a great hiking companion. Cats couldn't care less. This is why the owner's preferences are an important part of the Cats Vs Dogs debate.
Cats are complete carnivores, and can digest only meat. (You may have seen a cat eating green grass, but that was probably because its stomach was already upset by something else.) Dogs, like people, are omnivores able to metabolize a variety of foods. The difference is in the body chemistry of the two species. The bottom line when considering Cats Vs Dogs is this: although some dogs may develop a taste for some cat foods, the two types of food are not interchangeable.
The biggest factor in choosing between Cats Vs Dogs may be the environment of the prospective owner. Do not try to keep a large dog in a small apartment, even if the landlord allows it. You will all be miserable as a result. Cat urine smells worse than dog urine, is more likely to occur indoors and must be dealt with. Dogs are not adept at hunting mice, so rodent control is generally left up to cats, who will also catch lizards, birds and young rabbits. In a rural setting, however, be aware that cats are susceptible to being picked off by owls (yes, owls) and other predators.
Monday, February 20, 2012
Cats and Dogs Can Coexist
When you are introducing new members to your home there are facts that must be considered. Dogs are territorial and will often be aggressive to any new addition to their home. Cats have the same tendencies and will fight to defend their territories and mark their spaces to show their dominance.
There Is Hope
It is a challenge to get dogs and cats to coexist but it can be done with time and patience. The usual process is to separate the two physically however this is not a practical long term solution. Though caging and closed rooms can be used in the beginning for safety, creating a plan of action for new behaviors can help you achieve harmony with time and practice.
The First Steps
Obedience in the most important factor when introducing your older pets to the newest member. Both cats and dogs can be taught basic commands and NO must be understood immediately. Chances are your new pet will understand the command by word or by tone but it can also be reemphasized with treats and affection.
While the older pets are contained, allow the new pet to slowly acclimatize themselves to the new surroundings and smells. By letting them wander on their own for short periods, they can scatter their own scent within the home which allows the other to become familiar to the new scent.
Once the new pet is secured, allow the older pet to investigate and aquaint themselves to the new scents and reward them positively for acceptable behavior. This stage may take some time for both cats and dogs to adjust but the more they feel safe the faster the process.
The Introduction
Once you see signs of acceptance you can introduce physical contact. With each pet being held securely and only when they are calm in each other's presence, you can allow them to sniff each other. Be ready to correct negative behavior and offer protection from aggression swiftly.
By repeating this process often and increasing the time in each other's company, they will begin to learn to adapt to the new situation.
Dogs are pack animals and are happy to be with their families and though cats are aloof, they too enjoy affection from their owners. In time you will begin to see that your dog and cat can coexist peacefully without fear or aggression.
You may find they become the best of friends and they may agree to give each other a wide berth. Whatever the case, you can teach both dogs and cats to be comfortable in their new home safely.
Got a burning question about making pottery for fun? Grandpa Gord and Grandma Gertie put a sensible spin on expert advice, with a little humor thrown into the mix. We cover topics ranging from pets to parenting, careers to hobbies, relationships to lifestyle, finances to food, and everything in between. Visit us at SensibleGuides.com for some simple and straight from the hip advice from people who've been around the block a few times.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
How to Stop Your Puppy Chewing Problem
If you want to stop your puppy from chewing, there are a few things that you need to understand about them before you just blame them for their behavior.
To begin with, chewing is a natural part of being a puppy. Rather than trying to stop them from this natural behavior, you should work towards redirecting the problem to another source. Get them chew toys and a bone thatthey are allowed to gnaw on to their hearts content.
It is much easier to redirect a problem than to try and stop it completely, especially when the problem is more of a human problem than a puppy one.
Another thing to consider is that certain behaviors tend to instigate chewing, especially when they are chewing on you. This can lead to dog aggression problems later on, so you need to nip it in the bud now rather than putting it off.
But, again, this is a human problem as much as a puppy problem. In order to stop your pupply from chewing on you, you need to pay attention to what you do that instigate it.
Certain sudden movements, or aggressive behavior towards your puppy (even in play) will push them into chewing. Also, when you are playing, if they start chewing on you, stop the activity.
Dogs can't distinguish between play time and not play time. Although they love to play, the habits that they will pick up then will transfer to other times.
You should never allow your dog to play aggressively and chewing is one of the easiest bad habits to break.
When they start chewing, redirect them to one of their play toys, and separate yourself from them.
If the chewing problem persists, you may need to keep them in a kennel until they learn to behave. Crate training can take some time, but is very beneficial in stopping a wide variety of puppy problems, including them wanting to chew on you.
Follow these tips to stop your puppy from chewing, and get them under control. It doesn't take much, but by paying attention to your behavior and redirecting their behavior to an appropriate toy will help you to get things under control.
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Is Your Dog Too Bored to Behave?
When people think of living their perfect lifestyle, there is always the picture in their minds of the family group, made complete by the adorable dog sitting by their side.
Problems occur today when the puppy matures into an adult dog. So often once a dog has been house trained, people assume the animal will be capable of staying alone for a few hours every day. Here is where the difference between modern life in today's world stands in comparison with the households of yesteryear. Just a few years ago the average house had someone at home for most of the time and the family dog was rarely left unattended.
However there is nothing wrong with today's family household owning a dog, but judging by the amount of searches made daily on the internet for obedience training, then obviously some changes have to take place in order to satisfy your pet's needs.
The problems with what the owners are classifying as disobedient stems from pure boredom on the dog's behalf. Try to imagine being stuck indoors, restless wanting to exercise and run but cannot. Suddenly anything that is close at hand, pillows, rugs, shoes provide a challenge, something that they could chew and play with. If left indoors for too long then accidental puddles will occur, not for one to blame the dog for. But there are many ways that you can help your dog to settle into a new routine, which would still include time spent alone at home.
It is vitally important that you exercise your dog before you leave him alone and this has the added benefit that you can gain an extra fitness routine. Take a look around your local pet store, there are many toys available today that are designed for dogs to enjoy when you leave the house. Several items resemble balls and objects that contain treats within; the dog is then occupied trying to work out how to release the snack.
After working on these types of projects it is quite natural for the dog to nap afterwards. If you have reason to believe that your dog cannot wait to relieve itself before you return, then training him to use paper or puppy pads left by the door should alleviate this problem.
In our busy occupied lives it is so easy to actually forget the dog is there when you are at home. How often have you spent time working at the computer or watching television, completely unaware that your dog is curled up in some corner of the house feeling left out of the family group. Try to include your dog in as many household activities as possible. Call him and stroke his head as you relax after work.
Ensure that you allow plenty of time for an evening walk, dogs do like routine and knowing that following a meal he can then look forward to a game in the park. Pets enjoy regularity, try to keep each day to the same schedule for him and you will notice how much calmer your dog will be.
For more information, check out http://k9schooltime.blogspot.com/
Monday, September 19, 2011
Good Doggy Behavior Tutorial
The Key Benefits Of Dog Obedience Tutorial
To start with, canines in behavior lessons rapidly figure out how to react to precise, properly delivered orders. That also suggests you will learn how to render those commands. Plenty of people disregard their side of the deal in pet ownership. They feel like the burden lies with their canine, but not themselves. Picture canine training to be a two way highway and it definitely will be alot more effective. On this page are various examples.
Leadership - During coaching, you are going to learn methods to assert your alpha role on your doggy to show them that you're the leader every time and that your dogs must listen to you. Should these types of patterns are repeated in your house, the dog can have a substantially better time following your lead. Alpha dog leadership is definitely the basis of every high-quality training.
No Gnawing or Woofing - Two of the largest complaints that a puppy can have are biting and too much barking. Different amounts of puppy coaching could address these individual behaviours as well as make certain that the puppy won't be disobedient. Biting in particular will have to be sorted out at the junior age.
Walking - Sick and tired of having your doggy pull you downtown? Through a outstanding instruction class, you'll quickly learn how to manage your puppy's motions, stop them from running around on you and subsequently show them to sit and stay when desired at road sides and when other pets wander by.
Doggy tuition is necessary in several aspects since it grants the basis for each of the concerns that may possibly occur inside your home. When a dog is still under 12 months old or simply couldn't behave correctly, give thought to a course to make it easier to progress.
Don't forget that your pets can only achieve what it is trained to do. It's essential to stay consistent, encouraging as well as good at maintaining the commands you issue. The minute you start having trouble making up your mind or forgetting to re-assert your instructions, your dog will begin to return back to the initial behaviours that you previously worked so hard to educate them out of.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
How to Housebreak a Puppy
To have the ability to train your puppy will become essential. Your new arrival will rely on you to help him adjust to his new environment. His behaviors from here on out will determine on your guidance and leadership.
The way your puppy behaves will be solely in your hands. Many puppy owners are surprised when their puppy acts untrained. The little guy is having accidents all over the house, he is chewing on items in your house you would rather him not chew on, he barks, digs and so on.
Keep in mind that training your new pup will require patience and repetition, which will be a time consuming process. This will be more then worth it though, if you are one that truly loves and care for your pup and want him to succeed in having a happy life.
Beginning with training early on and having your pup interact with other puppies will help your puppy mature into a well trained dog. Your pup will need dedication and accountability that will help him throughout his life.
To give the best possibility of success with you puppy, you will need to instill basic obedience; leash training, puppy interaction, and house training right from the get go.
The best way to train your puppy is through means of encouragement and positive interaction. As soon as you bring your puppy home, begin your puppy training by offering praise and rewards when your puppy does something correct.
To help your puppy achieve his best, it will be important to focus on creating good habits and preventing the bad ones. It is best to start your puppy off right, instead of having to correct bad habits he has learned over time.
When you are developing good habits for your puppy, it helps to be consistent. Also, begin your training with simpler commands and always follow through multiple times by developing a repetition. Keep your training exercises short as your pup is new to this and may lose focus over longer periods of time.
You will find that if you earn the trust and respect of your puppy, he will be able to comprehend and sustain the new knowledge instilled in him quicker versus using punishment or harsh corrections.
Before you know it, you will recognize your puppy wanting to be trained. The happier your pup is, the more he will be excited to be trained and have willingness to learn.
Patience in yourself is strongly encouraged as your puppy is still a young little guy and doesn't understand what exactly you are trying to accomplish in the beginning. Being realistic and understanding of this will increase his chances of successfully mastering his training.
This information will be new to you pup. Move past the shortcomings and focus on his journey, starting from where he came from when you brought him home.
This part of your puppy's life is very important. Once your puppy senses that you are enjoying the training exercises as much as he is, you will be able to create a strong, trusting bond with him that will last a lifetime.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Tips To Stop Puppy Biting
When you don't let dog biting on hands or feet from the beginning, this shows your puppy dog that human skin is simply not a thing to bite on. While it is true that a few dog breeds do not have the puppy-biting phase, some go through it and take it into maturity, and that is the main reason you don't ever choose to allow it to commence. When your puppy has begun biting there are some techniques an individual can use to be able to help you end puppy biting from lasting and getting worse. This is also true for those who have young kids at home, since puppy dog teeth are very razor-sharp and painful, so you must stop puppy dog nipping immediately.
Have fun with Them Technique
Considering the fact that puppies tend to be sociable, they want to interact with an individual, if you ever stop the play, and won't play with them, your puppy will most likely stop puppy biting. For example, you're playing fetch with your puppy dog and he begins to chew hard on the feet or even hands, play yelp, simply turn your back away from your puppy dog and then walk away. It stops the game and sometimes will get rid of puppy dog nipping since the game has ended and so they do not get to enjoy moment with you.
A "No" Command Approach
Another technique feel free to use would be to fill up an unfilled can like a soft drinks can with 10 to 15 cents and tape the mouth of this can perfectly so your coins are not able to come out whenever shaking the can. If your puppy starts biting, give the command word "No" and also at the same time give the can one particular excellent shake to gain their attention and frequently stop puppy biting. This reinforces the spoken order, "No" or perhaps you can make the verbal order, "No bite" or anything you want, however stay consistent.
The "No" Hit Technique
You should never indulge your puppy in play fighting, tug of war activities, or running after because each of these motivate biting, and once you have permitted it to go on, it helps make it harder stop puppy biting. When puppies play with other puppies, they will chase and motivate biting, but when one gets too rough, one other yelps and therefore the game stops. Thus, one of the best means to train bite inhibition is with another puppy, although this can be a lot more than you want to take on, but it surely helps the puppy quickly learn what's too difficult of a bite. Do not ever spank, strike, or slap your puppy, they are going to learn to fear a person that may lead towards all sorts of undesirable behaviors as they grow into their adult years, thus, stop puppy biting before it becomes out of control with good training.
What To Do
Training puppies not to bite is one of the most important training, and one that will be done immediately. Ideally, your puppy should realize that when it is 10 weeks old, biting isn't okay. Therefore, you'll make many years with each other much more pleasurable and avoid problems down the road.
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Friday, September 2, 2011
The Balance of Love and Discipline
When buying a new puppy, many people have questions about how to bond with and discipline their puppies. Over the years we have gathered a great deal of experience in this matter. The one recurring theme we have noticed is that you cannot have one (love or discipline) without the other. You spoil your pet and wonder why it won’t obey even simple commands, or you only yell at your pet anytime you see it and wonder why it won’t come when you call. Both of these environments are unhealthy for a pet.
This will not be a guide to training your pet to roll over and play dead, this is a guide for new pet owners to inform them on what we have discovered, and what they can discover from their relationship with their new puppy. We are honored to share our insights from years of breeding and training at http://californiawolves.com/resources
I considered writing this in a chronological manner, but every animal has its own personality, and its own rate at which they mature.
When you first bring your puppy home, the balance will favor love. This is the time when you’re forming your bond with your new puppy. This puppy will be your best friend for better or worse. This time is fundamental to your puppy. Typically I tell a new owner that an average of a week of constant attention and love is important for their new puppy. Depending on their socialization from birth, it could be more or less than a week. We very intensively socialize our puppies from birth, and typically they form new bonds in just a few days. For those first few days, I recommend that people refrain from chastising their puppy. You want to build a trust first.
The puppy will have to reach a certain age before it understands the concept of “mine” anyway. “Mine” is a word we’ve used with our puppies to signify things that are off limits to them. Even animate things like our cats, are ours, not theirs. As they get closer to adulthood they will better understand this principle and respect it.
The concept of “No” is the same. Although we typically don’t use the word “no” with our dogs. We instead use a sound, like “ah!” with a strict tone of voice. And in some cases I will growl at my dogs if I adamantly want them to stop a behavior. But you should do what is most comfortable for you.
Discipline is important to maintain your position as the alpha in your pack. Not only will this make you safer with any dog you own, but it will also make your wolf or dog feel safer. When there is a noise out in the darkness, my wolfdogs hide behind me. When the puppy is still small, after they’re bonded to you, you should put them on their back on the ground. This will let them know absolutely that you are the alpha. It will also ensure that when they are too large to easily be physically dominated, they will still be submissive to you. Another sign of submission is their ears pulled back against their head. The importance of being the alpha in your household is that this will give your wolfdog a sense of security and stability. That is why this balance is so important, on both sides...
Last and certainly not least, Love. This is even more important than discipline. Many dogs around the country and the world each year are treated with no love. That is a tragedy. Before you consider buying any pet, you should search inward and consider if you have the time and energy to give them the love they need. I’m happy to see my dogs every time I see them, whether it’s been five days or five minutes since I last saw them. They return this love to me equally, just as they will for you. Love also extends to how you care for your animal. Make sure they have fresh, clean drinking water everyday. Make sure you give them the proper diet (Evo, Blue Buffalo, Taste of the Wild, etc), these are examples of foods with no unhealthy fillers. Your dogs looks and attitude will be reflected by the quality of their diet. Make sure you always nestle away money for surprise veterinary needs, this is important, you never know what tomorrow will bring.
In summation, if your only reason for buying a wolfdog is to have a trophy pet to show off to your friends, DO NOT BUY ONE. If you’re looking for a loyal friend who will always give you unconditional love, then a wolfdog may be just right for you. And don’t sweat this training too much, we are always willing to help those who buy wolfdogs from us with any issues they may have. We’re just a phone call away.
For more information, visit www.californiawolves.com. You can reach Northern California Wolf Ranch at 530-990-2308 or P.O. Box 93, Etna, CA 96027
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Bonding With Your New Dog
Puppies vs. Older Dogs
People often believe that they must get a puppy because bonding will be automatic with a young dog. That is not necessarily true. The truth is that a young dog will feel more dependent on everything from you, possibly, more than an older dog, but a lot of that will depend on how the puppy was raised from birth until you bring him home. Puppies who come from a stable, loving environment that provides a safe place, how secure their life was in that home might affect how a puppy sees the world. Indeed the people around them can have a big effect on how quickly they bond, and what type of bonds they form with humans for the rest of their lives.
How hard it is to bond with an older dog is complicated as well. The experiences your new older dog has had in his life will reflect how he feels about people, and how quickly he will bond with you as his new "person." The fact is that any dog can adjust well to a new home, and love the people around them, but some may take more time and work than others. It helps greatly to know as much about your new dog's background as possible.
Steps to Help Create a Great Bond with Your New Dog
Keep things Positive. Remember first that dogs do not think like people do, and they don't see the things that they are doing as "bad." Punishing, screaming and yelling at your dog will only confuse and scare him whether he's young or old. The better solution is to avoid all possibilities where your new dog can get into trouble. Make sure you walk Sparky often. Young or old, when you first bring a new dog into your home, treat him as if he were a young pup who can't hold his body functions long. Take him out every hour, and praise him profusely when he does what he's supposed to do.
Remember, your home is unfamiliar territory when you first bring Sparky home. It's no wonder he's sitting in the middle of the kitchen eyeing you suspiciously, and licking his chops. Gently take him around, show him where he can sleep, as well as where the water and food bowls are.
Introduce Others Carefully. If you have other animals, especially other dogs in the house, try to introduce them to each other in a neutral place where they can get used to each other before they have to compete for food and water in your home. If Sparky is chewing on your favorite slippers when you get up in the morning, instead of flying off the handle, take them away firmly, say "no" and then happily offer him a better alternative.
When you find Sparky eliminating on the living room rug, don't go crazy. That will frighten and confuse him. Never, by the way, rub your dog's nose in an accident, or hit him for any reason what so ever. In fact, avoid acting negatively in any way. If Sparky is eliminating on the carpet, what you can do is get really, really mad - at yourself. If you are taking him out every hour, it's very unlikely he'll have anything left in him to do on the floor. If Sparky is chewing up your brand new loafers, take them from him, tell him "no," give him something appropriate to chew on (bone, chew toy, etc), and smack yourself with the slippers for leaving them out where he can find them before you've had enough time to establish ground rules in the home.
Things that Encourage Positive Bonding between You and Your Dog
Take Sparky out for a run, or walk around the block during playtime. Toss a Frisbee in the yard, or play ball. Lots of good, old-fashioned playing will do you both a world of good, and develop bonds of trust.
Enroll in a local training class (if Sparky is a baby, enter a puppy class when he's old enough). It doesn't have to be an obedience class, but basic obedience is very important and possibly life saving in dangerous situations. Any type of class will give you and your dog a positive focus on a constructive activity. Consider classes like agility, fly ball, or even dock diving. Whatever you find that you think both you and your dog will enjoy will encourage a great bond, and give your dog positive motivation and the confidence from learning to please you, and be active at the same time. Remember, a pooped Sparky isn't likely to be one who is going to be looking for things to get into at home.
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Monday, August 8, 2011
Stop Dog Barking With These Tips
In the event the barking persists, there are actually additional approaches it is possible to employ to stop dog barking. Attempt to ignore him. Did you know that barking is actually their method to get attention? When they bark persistently and you come to him each time it only encourages the dog to keep on barking. The dog will soon realize that is the method to get attention and will consistently continue to bark anytime he feels he's not getting ample attention. When you pay no attention to the dog's barking he will ultimately give up on it.
Attempt to keep the dog busy with his favorite blankets, chew toys and various other preferred items when the dog is inside the crate. The objective here is to help the dog relax and help make him stop trying to get attention since he'll be busy with himself. The toys should be better positioned at the back of the crate far from the door. Just remember to not include toys that may bring harm such as rawhide. They can present the danger of choking your dog.
To stop dog barking the crate with the dog should be put in a room which has activity with other people. This might be in the corner of the dining room, kitchen or living room giving the dog sight of you. The dog in these kinds of conditions can feel a lot less isolated or less ignored. In case you put your dog inside a crate during the night it would work best to place the crate close to your bed where your dog will see you. The dog will see you sleep and know it's time for him to sleep also.
Acclimate the dog to the crate. Dogs who are not used to crates need to be introduced slowly to the crate until eventually they get adapted. That's when you will be able to leave him there for lengthier times. This can be started out by placing him inside a brief time every day to a couple hours per day as days pass.
Your dog must be made to exercise before being placed inside the crate. A dog that is exercised feels tired. This will make the dog lie down to sleep the instant he is placed in the crate. A dog that hasn't had some activity to do the whole day would like to come out and play and therefore resorts to barking to get the point across.
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Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Should I Get A Dog For My Kids?
Kids learn compassion and responsibility by learning to share life with and feed and care for their pets. They learn to value and appreciate all living creatures. They learn a lot about life itself, getting sick or old, living in the moment, sharing companionship and friendship– and also the care and commitment an animal companion requires and deserves.
When is it appropriate for a child to have a pet? It truly depends on the child’s family situation and his own maturity. As a parent, know that you are ultimately responsible for the care and well-being of your family pet. Children are well-intentioned and may promise that they will take care of the pet on their own. But we, as parents, know, that children are easily distracted and preoccupied with their own responsibilities such as school, extracurricular activities, human friendships and social obligations. They may be very well-intentioned, but lack the maturity to assume full responsibility for another living being.
Before adopting a pet into your family, it is very important to have serious discussions about the obligations and responsibilities associated with pet guardianship or “parenthood”. Your child must thoroughly understand that a pet is a sentient, living creature who may be shorter lived than he, who may get sick and require veterinary care, who depends on humans for his regular food, water, grooming, exercise and overall wellness. He is a vulnerable creature who depends entirely on his human caregivers. You must also decide which type of dog best suits your family’s personality and lifestyle and to whom which responsibilities of the pet’s daily needs will be delegated.
Much thought and deliberation of each family member is required to determine if a pet is appropriate for you. Consider that the pet should be spayed or neutered, receive his vaccinations and regular visits to the vet to make sure he is in good health, have a nutritious and healthy diet, daily exercise and playtime, frequent interaction with his human family, and receive socialization and obedience training. Each member of the family must understand that the pet requires a lifetime commitment to keep him as happy and healthy and comfortable as possible. If you do not have the time, space or budget to provide a healthy life for a pet, please do not adopt one. There are countless homeless animals who have been surrendered to animal welfare organizations and shelters and ultimately euthanised simply because their owners did not take the time to conduct research as to the time, space, activity level and money associated with keeping a pet or consider how much attention, interaction and care an animal companion requires. A pet has the potential of becoming a loving, devoted, loyal, unconditionally loving and beloved family member. If he is neglected, he can become sick, bored and destructive. Whether or not to get a dog for the kids is an extremely important decision. Take the time and make the effort to determine if a pet is in your child’s future!
About The Author:
Dr. Diane Pomerance is an author, animal rescuer and pet expert. She also created the Pet Grief Counseling Program for the SPCA of Texas which incorporates grief support groups and counseling.
Visit Diane at http://www.animalcompanionsandtheirpeople.com
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Reminders When Traveling With Your Dog
If you’ve decided to carry your dog during the trip, here are a few reminders that you can do to ensure a safe travel experience:
Buy a dog tag or collar with identification
Your dog needs to wear a collar or tag with all the necessary identification in it. A microchip may also be beneficial for additional security. The tag should contain your dog's name, your name, and your home phone number, as well as proof of rabies shots. Keep your dog's collar and tag on whenever you’re outside. No matter how well behaved your dog may be, there’s always a chance that he may accidentally get lost or get away from you. All the information on your dog tag will be very important as you travel or decide to leave your pet at a kennel.
Safety first
Always remember safety first. To ensure your dog’s safety while he’s in the car, purchase a dog car seat. With the use of this equipment, your furry friend will be safer and more comfortable if your car makes a sudden stop.
Train your dog
Before you travel, your dog should have basic training so he will be well-behaved during the trip. It is a good idea to make your first few trips in the car to somewhere fun for your dog before embarking on a long trip. Take your dog to a park so he associates a car ride with something fun.
Bring all the necessary dog supplies
When taking a long trip, don’t forget to pack all the necessary supplies for your dog. Among the essentials include water, dog food, treats, his collar and leash. You should also bring your dog’s favourite toys, and plastic bags for his poop. Also, he sure to bring any medications your dog needs.
Be prepared always
Emergencies can happen while you’re traveling with your dog, so you need to make some additional preparation. Planning your trip can make any form of emergency less stressful. Prepare a list of veterinary hospitals in the area where you’ll be staying, along with a detailed map.
Andrei Smith writes for Midwest Homes 4 Pets, a company that offers a huge selection of dog crates, pooper scooper and dog training crates. For details, please visit MidwestHomes4Pets.com or contact the Toll Free Helpline: (800) 428-8560.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Dog Playpens: Why Should You Use Them?
Your dog or puppy needs a safe space where he can play, exercise and roam around. One way of ensuring the safety of your pooch while he's outside your home is by using a dog playpen.
Most playpens for pets are easy to mount and assemble. Some are made of light materials, which allow you to move it from one place to another whenever necessary.
Dog playpens come in a wide array of sizes, designs and models. The type of playpen you choose should match the size of your dog. Ideally, the height of the structure must be about 2 meters higher than the height of your dog or puppy. This will prevent your dog from jumping over the playpen and escape.
Various benefits can be acquired from using dog playpens. One primary benefit is that it provides your canine a spacious area for exercise. It can serve both as a safe shelter or a spacious play area for your dog. Your dog will get all the necessary physical activity and exercise while he's staying inside the pen. Dogs, like any animals, need to move and run around. Playpens can provide a comfortable and airy space for your doggy to roam when you don't have time to take him for a walk.
A playpen can act as a protected zone of containment. So even if you leave your dog in the yard alone, you don't have to worry about his safety and the possible dangers in the surroundings. It'll prevent your doggy from crashing through your neighbor's lawn or getting attacked by wild animals.
Another benefit of using dog exercise pens is that it can be an effective tool when teaching your dog the proper way of urinating or pooping. With the use of a playpen, you can train your puppy to hold his urge to defecate until he is outside of the enclosed area.
Moreover, a dog that is kept in an enclosure usually has a well-mannered behavior. Boredom and the inability to get out and follow natural instincts are the usual causes of dog behavioral problems. Since you can carry the playpen anywhere you go, your dog will be able to run and run around and feel that he's part of the family. Most dogs who enjoy spending time in these dog playpens tend to have fewer behavioral problems such as excessive barking or chewing.
So whether you need a safe place for your dog or simply prefer a spacious area in which you'll be able to leave your pooch while finishing off an important task outside, then buying a playpen is the way to go!
Sunday, January 24, 2010
How to Stop a Dog from Chewing
The phrase “destructive chewing” may sound redundant, because – by its very nature! – all chewing is destructive. Your dog has strong jaws full of sharp, pointy teeth: just about anything she starts to chew on is probably going to show the effects of it inside of a minute. So just to clarify, when I use the phrase “destructive chewing”, I’m referring to inappropriate chewing: the kind of chewing that’s focused on your own possessions and household items, instead of on your dog’s own designated toys and chews.
The 3 Main Reasons Why Dogs Chew:
1. Most dogs have a natural desire to chew. It’s fun, it passes the time, and it’s a self-rewarding, self-reinforcing activity (for example, if she’s chewing on something that tastes good.)
2. Chewing provides a nervous, bored, or lonely dog with an outlet for her emotions. To an anxious dog, the repetitive act of chewing is soothing – it’s the doggie equivalent of comfort food.
3. Under exercised dogs often use chewing as a way of burning up nervous energy and giving themselves something to do.
6 Ways to Prevent Destructive Chewing
Dogs are perfectly capable of learning not to chew your stuff – you just have to put in a little effort first, that’s all.
1. Doggy-Proofing: Take control of the situation: manage your own possessions. Your first step should be to dog-proof your home. Even if you have the best-behaved dog in the world, there’s still no reason to test her self-control – after all, dogs explore the world with their mouths.
Dog-proofing your home means taking whatever you don’t want to end up in her mouth, and making it unavailable. Consider her size and agility when deciding whether something’s out of reach: can she jump? Can she climb, or leap onto something else to reach the desired object? How tall is she when standing on her back legs
Common targets in the home include books, eyewear, clothing, shoes, garbage, and small crunchy appliances like cameras, cell phones, and remote controls.
It should go without saying that all food needs to be put securely away: don’t leave snacks on low tables (or even countertops – you’d be surprised how acrobatic she can be when there’s food at stake!), put all food into containers or the pantry. Rinse your dirty plates clean of any food scraps before leaving them by the sink.
2. Prevention: Prevent her from learning the joys of illegal chewing. The more times she manages to snatch a jawful of a forbidden substance – a chair-leg, a pillow, a running shoe – the more readily she’ll target those items in future. If you can prevent her from chewing your stuff in the first place, it’s a lot easier for her to understand what you expect of her. Practically speaking, this means confining her in a dog-proofed area until you’re confident of her understanding of the house rules.
3. Rule Setting: Don’t set her up for failure by blurring the boundaries between her stuff (OK to chew) and your stuff (not OK to chew). Don’t offer your dog cast-off clothes, shoes, or towels to chew and play with: realistically, you can’t possibly expect her to be able to tell the difference between your current shoes and the one she’s got in her mouth that you gave her five minutes ago.
4. Provision: Provide her with lots of tasty alternatives to your stuff. If her environment is relatively barren of attractive, appropriate chewing objects, you can hardly blame her for targeting your possessions. Remember, most dogs need to chew; if she’s an adolescent (under three years) or a puppy (under one year), her needs will be even more pronounced. Go on a toy and chew shopping spree, then give her two or three to play with at a time. Rotating the available toys every few days will keep things novel and interesting for her.
5. Supervision: Spend lots of time in active supervision. Yes, it might be easier for you to just keep her penned up in her dog crates, run, or the yard – but that’s boring and horrible for her, and hardly much fun for you either (if you wanted a pet that you don’t need to interact with, you’d have got a goldfish, right?) She can’t learn what you expect of her if she’s spending all her time boxed up in the dog-proof zone: she needs the opportunity to explore the boundaries of your expectations, so she can understand what’s appropriate and what’s not.
6. The Switcheroo: When you catch her chewing something inappropriate, interrupt her by making a loud noise: clap your hands or make an “Ah-ah-aaaah!” noise. Then, immediately hand her a tasty and dog-appropriate alternative (a rawhide bone or other chew toy); as soon as her jaws close around it, praise her lavishly. There is no better way to get your dog to understand that chewing “her” toys equals praise from you, but everything else equals trouble.
Maintain a Positive Attitude
Above all, remember to keep your expectations realistic. You’re not perfect, and neither is your dog: there’s likely to be at least one incident where a cherished item is damaged by her curiosity.
Particularly in the early stages of your relationship, she’s still learning the ropes: it’ll take awhile before she’s completely reliable (and even then, if she’s left by herself for too long or feels neglected, she may choose your stuff over hers to occupy her time and jaws with.) Remember to give her time to learn the rules, and plenty of ‘you-time’ to help her learn faster – and don’t forget to take precautions and keep things out of reach until she’s got the hang of the chewing rules!
If you REALLY want to end your dog's excessive chewing problem, you NEED to establish yourself as the Alpha Dog of the house. To discover the FASTEST way to accomplish Alpha Dog status, check out the step by step tutorial at www.Dog-Training-Works.com. There, you'll learn how to finally get your dog to listen to you and follow your command the first time around. Check it out here!
Jason Ellis has been helping people train their dogs and newborn puppies for years. His expertise deals with applying proven, effective techniques that train your dog to be the obedient companion you've always wanted in a matter of WEEKS. You can find Jason's complete dog training course at http://www.Dog-Training-Works.com
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Dog Training Techniques For Beginners
When it comes to dog training, there are tons of techniques out there. Many of these techniques are built on ideas that have been implemented by many dog owners for so many years. But whichever training procedure you choose, always remember that it requires spending quality time with your dog. Training your dog will be useless if you don't build a good rapport and strong bond with him.
Below are some dog training techniques for beginners that you can follow:
Don't Yell.
Many beginners face difficulties in getting their dogs follow what they command. Well don't be impatient. It takes time and practice before you can fully understand your dog's behavior and establish a good relationship with him. When you're commanding him, the tone of your voice matters a lot. It must be firm but non-threatening. Remember, you need to establish who is the authority or leader in the right way. You will not be able to establish dominance by yelling at your dog. It will have a bad impact on him.
Praise Your Dog.
You need to do possible reinforcement techniques on your dog. Praising him during training sessions is the most effective method to successfully train your k9. Dogs have feelings too, so they can pretty much understand the difference between right and wrong. Without the proper reinforcement, your dog will have a hard time understanding the difference between these two.
Start Early.
For better results, it is advised that you train your dog between the age of 3 to 16 weeks. Experts day that it is the best time to start training your canine. It is during this age when the bond between the dog and the owner will take hold.
Reward Him.
Rewarding your dog for being obedient is also one of the most important dog training techniques for beginners. A simple reward can go a long way. When your dog successfully executed your command, give him a dog treat. You can also show your gratitude by saying "good job!" When giving treats, keep them in small amounts, so as not to fill your dog's tummy when he is in a dog agility training session.
Practice Makes Perfect.
Training your dog to be obedient doesn't happen overnight. Your dog needs to practice a lot. Be patient and repeat the exercise many times until he gets it right. You need to include the training session with your k9 in your daily and weekly activities.
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Why Enrol Your Dog In A Doggie Daycare Center?
If you're busy with work, the best way for you to do to ensure that your dog will be well taken care of is to drop him in a doggie daycare. You can leave him in the center in the morning and fetch in the evening after your work. You can still be occupied with other important tasks while being assured that your dog is safe and having a blast with other dogs and puppies.
Most doggie daycare centers have large and open spaces that have separation system for different sizes and temperament of dogs. As you might be aware of, dogs are social animals who like interacting with other pets and people. Dogs would prefer to be around other dogs instead of being home alone all day.
With the help of doggie daycare, you will gradually observe a in your dog's behavior. Since he's able to socialize with other dogs along with the help of skilled caretakers and pet sitters, he will turn from a disobedient dog into a well-mannered companion. Doggie daycare can curb all the negative dog behaviors and turn them into positive ones. For instance, if your dog has separation anxiety, that behavior will likely be solved if you enroll him in a daycare center. His mental ability and confidence level will be stimulated.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Dog Pens Benefits
A dog pen, often called as an exercise pen, is a great solution to contain your dog while allowing him to roam around and exercise. It is a type of dog containment system which consists of fences usually made of gauge wire forming a safe space for your dog both in indoor and outdoor environment.
Here are some of the benefits of dog pens:
1. Your dog will feel secured in a territory which he can call his own while giving him as much freedom as possible.
2. For both beginners and experienced dog trainers, the use of dog pens is a very cost-effective way to provide your dog with a safe and spacious enclosure where he can exercise regularly.
3. These pet containment systems are so portable and easy to set-up. You can move a dog pen from one place to another with ease.
4. Studies show that dog pens provide good effects to the psychological disposition of your dog. When he is a around a dogpen, he will not feel isolated. As a result, his behavioral problems such as nuisance barking will eventually be minimized if not totally solved.
5. Another benefit of dog exercise pens is that they can create an environment conducive to transforming an aggressive dog into your most behaved best friend. With the use of dog pens, you can make a familiar space for your k9 when you are too busy or not around to monitor him.
6. Dog pens are versatile and can be used for other purposes. Some dog owners utilize dog exercise pens along with a dog crate. A dog pen is not only for dog, it can also be used to contain rabbits and other small animals.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
How to Properly Socialize Your Puppy
Dog ownership can sometimes be related to experiences that we have as humans. For instance, when a child is going to the dentist, to school, a zoo, or any other environment for the first time, or meeting someone new, there can be apprehension and discomfort; even fear, as a result of experiencing these new events. However, we do not shelter our children from these events: we encourage them to interact with the world, and we encourage the world to interact with our children. This is known as socialization, and is a vital part of healthy functioning in any social hierarchy- including in the world of dogs.
Numerous studies have shown repeatedly that there is a peak period for socialization in puppies, typically from three to twelve weeks of age. Although socialization is a lifelong necessity, it is during this important time that a majority of the behaviors your dog displays in social situations will be determined. So how do you socialize your puppy? You take them everywhere with you, and you introduce them to as many different sights, sounds, smells, and other creatures that you possibly can.
Even the first few days with a new puppy are about socialization. They will be investigating their new home, getting to know you, and coming to understand their role in your family hierarchy. During this time, and over the next several weeks, slowly expose your puppy to everything in and around your home. Run household machinery like the dishwasher, vacuum cleaner, a hair dryer, or a generator. Introduce your puppy to your other pets and family members. While experiencing these things, try not to focus on your pup too much. Act as you normally would when around these people or pieces of equipment. Be certain to give lavish praise when the encounter is over and your puppy acted favorably.
Take your puppy for frequent walks, both on a leash and off, depending on the safety of your environment. Brush your puppy on a regular basis, and handle his feet, tail, ears and lips. Expose him to a crate or kennel, and encourage him to sleep or simply relax in it.
Bring your puppy out into the world. Take him for regular car rides, and expose him to the radio, to the beep of a horn, and to the sound of wind rushing in through an open window. Your pup should be exposed to a farm, and be introduced to various farm animals. City parks, walking trails, dog parks and beaches are all great places to expose your dog to a wide variety of stimuli. You should beware, however, to keep your puppy away from strange dogs, or dogs that appear wounded or ill. Remember that your puppy's immune system is still quite young, and that not everyone vaccinates their dogs.
Socialization with your puppy should never be rushed or forced. In addition, you should be mindful that you are rewarding the right behavior, and correcting undesired behavior. Your pup should never be soothed when it is acting unfavorable. Soothing is a form of praise, and therefore there are situations where you can actually be "praising" your dog for being neurotic, fearful or aggressive.
Like humans, dogs go through different psychological phases as they grow older. Their personalities change, and the way they respond to their environment can change. This is why it is important to continue your dog's socialization for its entire life. Besides, that's what your puppy wants anyway- to go with you and experience everything you do!
Geoffrey A. English is the Founder of GundogsOnline.com, the internet's premiere online magazine dedicated to hunt dogs. Visit their site for a large selection of electronic dog collars; including brands such as Tri-tronics, Innotek, SportDOG, and Dogtra.