Dog Tip of the Day Blog - By Dogster.com

Burying treasure: Why do some dogs bury bones?

Tracie Hotchner — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 19:54:35 +0000

Dogs all over the world are known for burying things, from bones to chew toys, from food to (yikes!) your shoes.

Why they do this is another mystery of dog behavior called “caching,” which wolves also do, although no one is certain of the reason for this instinctual drive. It is quite curious that some dogs do it with whatever treat they get while others never bury anything.

Radio show host and pet expert Tracie Hotchner is the author of The Dog Bible and The Cat Bible. Click here to follow her on Twitter.

Unleashed: Do not be physically rough with the leash when training your dog

Tracie Hotchner — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 19:00:02 +0000

Training can get frustrating or intense and you need to keep in mind that your physical strength should never come into play.

The leash and collar are not a grab bar or weapon for you to jerk, grab or to pull on. They are there for guidance, as gentle reminders to the dog of what you are asking him to do. Do NOT be influenced by trainers you see on television who use the leash in a punishing manner: this is frowned upon by the best trainers and can damage a dog neck.

Radio show host and pet expert Tracie Hotchner is the author of The Dog Bible and The Cat Bible. Click here to follow her on Twitter.

Give your dog’s immune system a boost

Adam, Wendy & Lola — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 19:00:01 +0000

Adding a daily supplement can help jump-start your dog’s immune system and promote health and wellness. Vitamins will help pets fight foreign invasions caused by toxins and pollutants that can wreak havoc on their bodies.

When hunting for a supplement, closely inspect the label to determine what it contains to ensure that you are getting something appropriate for your pet. Vitamins A, C, E and the mineral Selenium are the ones to keep in mind when doing this. Proper supplements that meet your dog’s needs will ensure a strong immune system.

PawLux.com is a leading provider of all natural and eco-friendly products for dogs. Feel free to read our blog at http://www.pawluxury.blogspot.com or follow our popular Twitter feed at www.twitter.com/pawluxury.

How to screen a potential pet sitter

Adam, Wendy & Lola — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 19:00:02 +0000

Last-minute travel plans are stressful enough, but finding someone to tend to your pet can add another level of anxiety.

Start with a recommendation from a friend, neighbor, veterinarian, humane society or dog trainer. Make sure your chosen pet sitter is affiliated with a professional pet sitting organization or has solid references. Once you have made a list of trustworthy and reliable sitters in your area, the next step is to call and interview candidates over the phone.

Ask what they charge, how long the visits are, if they are bonded and insured, and if they have any special skills, such as caring for birds or reptiles or veterinary experience. When calling an agency, find out how many pet sitters they employ and their days of operation. Inquire whether they charge extra during the holidays. And make sure you ask them to bring references if you decide you want to meet them in person.

Make your dog’s bark-day party a smashing success

Adam, Wendy & Lola — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 19:00:02 +0000

When deciding on a location for your dog’s bark-day party, it’s important that the space is accommodating. Dogs love room to play, but will also appreciate a time-out from their party pals.

So choose a place that allows you and your dog’s paw pals to run and roughhouse, has ample space for participants to take a party break and relax from the pack, and room to chase balls and play fetch.

But most importantly, choose an area that is safe for pets to explore without fear of a dog escaping and leaving the festivities too early without a guardian. If you are having the party in your backyard, make sure the area is fenced-in and away from traffic.

Wanted: Lonely dog seeks playmate!

Adam, Wendy & Lola — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 19:00:02 +0000

Place an ad in a local pet publication or on Craigslist to sniff for that perfect doggie playmate. This is a great option if you don’t have a dog park in the area, don’t have neighborhood pups, you live in an apartment, or are just looking for that one special dog as a playmate.

In your ad just specify the type of playmate, playmates and situation you are looking for. Hey, your dog may be what some other dog is looking for! Not a big fan of placing a personal ad for your dog? You can also visit Dogster Forums and connect with other dog lovers and paw pals in your area.

Save your shoes: Give your puppy his own toys

Adam, Wendy & Lola — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 01:55:03 +0000

If you don’t care to have your shoes, iPhone, family heirlooms or remote control chewed up, then set rules and don’t give your dog human objects to play with. Your dog should have his or her own dog-safe toys to chew and play with.

Good news: there are toys for every dog’s chewing preference, from soft to hard. When you catch your dog in the act chewing something off-limits, simply say the stern word “No.” Then replace the object with one of his or her own toys; soon your dog will learn the difference.

Don’t forget to praise your dog when you see him playing with his own toys instead of your belongings.
PawLux.com is a leading provider of all natural and eco-friendly products for dogs. Feel free to read our blog at http://www.pawluxury.blogspot.com or follow our popular Twitter feed at www.twitter.com/pawluxury.

Household dangers: Dog-proof your home

Adam, Wendy & Lola — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 01:45:13 +0000

Just like small kids, dogs are curious and can get into anything. Make sure to look around the house and yard for potential problem areas.

Keep electrical cords tucked away where they cannot be reached and chewed. Place household cleaners and chemicals on a high shelf or in a locked cabinet. Avoid houseplants and landscape plants that may be toxic to your dog. Pick up small toys or other objects that may be a choking hazard. The safety of your dog is your responsibility!

Dogs love company: Socialize your dog

Adam, Wendy & Lola — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 19:00:02 +0000

Dogs are by their very nature social butterflies and love a good meet, sniff & playtime. By exposing your dog to variety of people, other animals, sights, and sounds at a young age they are less likely to be fearful of new experiences as they grow older. Every dog owner dreams of having a well-rounded fur companion and socializing does just that. Take your dog on car rides to fun places at an early age, so he doesn’t learn to associate a car ride with a trip to the vet!

A vitamin a day keeps illness at bay!

Adam, Wendy & Lola — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 19:00:01 +0000

When picking the right vitamin make sure to read the labels and keep these key tips in mind.

Say “No” to fillers. Pick an all-natural vitamin supplement that does not contain fillers or artificial ingredients. Make sure your vitamin contains Vitamin A to fight free radicals. B complex for strong immune system improved liver function, red blood cell production, healthy vision, antibody production, and gorgeous skin & coat. Vitamin C helps your dog build a strong immune system.

If you have a senior dog, make sure the vitamin contains glucosamine, chrondriton and Omega fatty acids. These added nutrients have their benefits and help to build strong bones, rebuild cartilage, while maintaining a healthy skin and shiny coat.