Free Dog Training Tips

Your Dogs Health And To Get Rid Of Fleas

noreply@blogger.com (Hoteloo) — Sun, 04 Mar 2007 08:05:00 +0000

All dog owners are familiar with the problems caused by pesky
fleas. Fleas are very small wingless insects, brownish red in
color, and have sharp mouths by which they obtain blood from
their canine hosts. Flea bites usually cause your dog to
scratch at affected areas and some dogs are more sensitive than
others and can have allergic reactions to flea bites.

In general, fleas do not transmit diseases from dogs to humans,
but the potential for this exists and they can and do bite
humans as well as dogs and cats.

Fleas and flea larvae live in warm climates and will live until
the ground freezes in cooler climates. They can live on in your
home well past this time also.

If you suspect that your dog has fleas, you should take him to
your veterinarian. Your veterinary staff member will first use
a flea comb on your dog.

Flea combs are wide tooth combs and "flea dirt" or dried blood
flea excrement is what they are looking for. If this is found,
your veterinarian will recommend treatment.

Most veterinarians recommend preventive treatment for fleas as
it is much easier to prevent them than to treat them.

For those of you that wish to treat your dog for fleas without
commercial products, there are a few recommendations.

One way is to comb your dog with a flea comb regularly. You can
put some petroleum jelly on the comb to help fleas stick to the
comb. Other people recommend using rubbing alcohol to slow down
the fleas so they are easier to catch.

Garlic and Brewers Yeast added as supplements to your dog's
food are recommended by those who prefer the natural approach
to treating fleas, however, the benefits of these treatments
have yet to be proven.

There are several over the counter flea treatments available at
your local pet store. However, many of these contain pyrethrins,
which are natural insecticides derived from the chrysanthemum
plant.

In the past, this kind of treatment of fleas was the only one
available to veterinarians. If you choose to use a product
containing pyrethrins, you should be aware of the potential
side effects.

There is a potential threat of toxicity when using a product
containing pyrethrins, not just to your dog, but to other
animals in the house and humans as well. Make sure you follow
the label usage directions and if you have any questions about
using these products, consult your veterinarian.

Today, there are much safer products available. Most of these
products are only available through your veterinarian. One of
the most popular treatments for fleas is Frontline Plus by
Merial. It is topically applied to the skin of your dog on the
back of the neck.

According to Merial, Frontline Plus kills 98-100% of adult
fleas within 24 hour and will also kill eggs and larvae to
prevent fleas from recurring. Frontline Plus is waterproof for
up to 30 days and is safe to use on puppies as young as 8 weeks
of age.

Another popular flea treatment is Sentinel by Novartis.
Sentinel is a monthly pill that also prevents heartworms.
Sentinel kills adult fleas, eggs, and larvae.

Novartis also makes the flea control products Program and
Capstar. Program is a flavored tablet that is given monthly,
and while it does not kill adult fleas, it does interrupt the
flea life cycle by preventing the development of flea eggs.

Program is safe to use in dogs and puppies four weeks of age
and older. Capstar is a pill that is given to kill adult fleas.
It can be given as often as once per day. According to Novartis,
Capstar will begin killing adult fleas within 30 minutes. One
pill should kill all adult fleas.

Capstar is safe for dogs and puppies four weeks of age and
older.

Remember that it is much easier to prevent fleas than to treat
them once your dog has them. As with all medications, follow
the advice of your veterinarian.

If you need more information about fleas and flea prevention,
contact a member of your veterinary staff or pet professional.

About The Author: Dog Health Revealed is an excellent place to
find dog links, articles and resource. For more information on
Dogs visit: http://www.doghealthrevealed.com

Simple Steps To Look After Your Dogs Teeth

noreply@blogger.com (Hoteloo) — Sun, 04 Mar 2007 08:05:00 +0000

Many people do not realize the importance of caring for their
dog's teeth. As dogs age, the need for dental care increases.
The best way to ensure proper dental health for your dog is to
start while they are very young. Many dogs do not like their
mouths touched. It is important for you as a dog owner to
desensitize them to being handled like this at a very young
age.

The veterinarian is always going to need to examine your dog's
mouth and you do not want to have problems with this.

The best way for you to get your dog used to having his mouth
touched is to begin touching it when you first get your pup.

Make sure to touch the lips, open the mouth, and touch the
teeth in a calm and relaxing way for about five minutes each
day until your pup is used to being handled in this way.

Make this a regular part of your interaction with your dog so
he remains calm when you are doing any kind of preventive
dental care.

Most veterinarians recommend brushing your dog's teeth daily.
Many manufacturers make special toothpaste and brushes for
dogs.

You do not ever want to use human toothpaste on dogs as it may
be harmful to them. To get your dog used to having his teeth
brushed, you may want to start by putting a dab of dog
toothpaste on a cotton ball and rubbing it over his teeth.
Toothpaste for dogs is usually quite tasty to them, so he
shouldn't mind this.

You can then try a finger brush, available at your
veterinarian's office or pet supply store. Eventually,
especially for larger breeds, you will want to graduate to a
regular dog toothbrush. Regular brushing will help prevent the
buildup of calculus and debris on your dog's teeth.

Another way to help prevent calculus and buildup on your dog's
teeth is by using rawhide chews specially formulated for dental
care.

Many companies manufacture these chews. One of the best
available is by C.E.T. Most veterinarians carry C.E.T. dental
health products. C.E.T. chews are formulated with an enzyme
that helps keep plaque from forming and prevents the buildup of
bacteria.

Also, the natural abrasion of rawhide chews helps keep teeth
healthy. C.E.T. also makes a chew that contains chlorhexadine
which has antimicrobial properties.

Some companies also make special dental health food, which may
be recommended to you by your veterinarian to help prevent
dental problems.

Even with proper preventive measures, most dogs will eventually
need a dental cleaning from your veterinarian. If your
veterinarian recommends a dental cleaning, it is important that
you follow through.

If your dog develops dental disease, harmful bacteria can pass
through into the bloodstream causing potentially serious
problems such as kidney infections and infections involving the
heart valves.

A dental cleaning performed by your veterinarian is much like a
human dental cleaning, however your dog will need to be sedated.

The anesthesia is light and with today's technology is
extremely safe. Many veterinarians have anesthesia monitoring
systems just like those used in human medicine. A thorough exam
will be performed to determine if any teeth need to be pulled or
repaired.

Some veterinarians will do x-rays of the teeth to find any
cracks or diseased teeth. After this, a trained member of the
veterinary staff will perform a dental cleaning. First, they
will scale the teeth to remove the tartar above and below the
gum line.

This will be done with both hand instruments and ultrasonic
scaling equipment. After this, the teeth will be polished,
which will make them smooth and help prevent plaque from
adhering to them.

Most veterinarians will also do a fluoride treatment. This is
to help strengthen the enamel and prevent plaque from forming.
If any teeth are diseased or broken, your veterinarian may pull
them.

Some veterinarians who specialize in dental care will perform
root canals and other intensive dental work.

Most veterinarians will put your dog on a treatment of
antibiotics to help prevent bacterial infection.

It is very important to take good care of your dog's teeth to
keep them healthy and to prevent infections. Always follow your
veterinarian's advice and if you have further questions, consult
your veterinary staff or pet professional.

About The Author: Dog Health Revealed is an excellent place to
find dog links, articles and resource. For more great
information on Dogs Visit: http://www.doghealthrevealed.com

Puppy Dog Training

noreply@blogger.com (Hoteloo) — Sun, 04 Mar 2007 08:04:00 +0000

>From the first day you get your puppy you will need to
implement obedience. I am not saying that if your dog is not a
tiny little pup you cannot train it. I am just saying it is
never too early to start training your dog. You must however do
it properly or you could be training your dog improperly and may
be confusing the hell out of your dog.

Once your dog gets confused it makes for a tough challenge to
train it. You become frustrated and your dog becomes
frustrated. You know when your dog becomes frustrated when it
tries to hide away or becomes shy when you approach. You have
the dog totally confused and he or she just wants to go to
sleep or just stay away from the grumpy owner.

This frustration can even lead to depression on the dog's part,
well maybe even on the owner's part as well. For the sake of you
and your pet canine, seek professional help. That does not
necessarily mean you have to bring your dog to an obedience
class or send your dog to a professional trainer. There are
perfectly good e-books out there that can give you all the
advice you need to get your dog or puppy training off on the
right foot. These e-books are relatively cheap for the
information they have to offer.

Having a disobedient dog can lead to tragedy. Once your canine
pet gets out and decides to enjoy his or her freedom, it may
end up being a very terrible scene with cars wandering up and
down those asphalt paths they call roads.

If you do own a puppy or a full grown dog, seek help from a
professional to keep your pet safe. Your time with your dog can
be very enjoyable for you and your pet. Remember an e-book is
quite inexpensive and you can get all the information you need
from a professional to raise your dog to be a very obedient pet
and a good friend.

About The Author: If you are looking to get professional help
to train your dog visit the Author's website at
http://www.DoggyObey.com . You and your Vet may be killing your
pet. Find out how on the Author's website. All rights reserved.
You may use this article but this resource must remain and the
links usable.

Dog Training Overview

noreply@blogger.com (Hoteloo) — Sun, 04 Mar 2007 08:03:00 +0000

Owning a dog is a big responsibility. As a pet owner, you are
obligated, both morally and legally, to keep the dog sheltered,
well fed, and safe from harm. You need to keep your pet clean,
and provide him with necessary health care, including
immunizations. Above all, you need to provide the training
your pet needs to lead a happy, safe and productive life.

Basic dog training provides a problem-solving foundation for
your pet. By understanding simple commands like "sit" and
"stay", your dog will be able to develop the skills needed to
refrain from bad habits like incessant barking, chewing,
fighting, biting, and urinating or defecating indoors.

There are two main reasons that pets, and pet owners, fail to
succeed or follow through with dog training. First and
foremost, it is not necessary for you to dominate your dog. To
properly train your dog, you need to show patience, kindness and
support, rather than assuming the "alpha" role and commanding
respect through fear. Those "macho" tricks have been shown to
be false. The second most common misconception of dog training
is that you can't teach old dogs new tricks. You most
certainly can train a dog of any age, so long as the trainer
approaches the situation in the appropriate manner.

The first step in training your dog is finding the right
program. Check your local listings for nearby obedience
schools. You and your dog can become educated on basic
training methods in the classroom setting, and then practice
the lessons at home. After you have mastered the basic safety
commands including "stay" and "come" at home, you can move your
practice sessions to other areas, such as local parks. It's
nice to have a dog that obeys your commands and home; this
obedience is essential when you and your pet are in a public
place.

Short, positive lessons are always most successful. Try to
incorporate the dog training into regular daily activities and
situations. If your dog follows you in to the kitchen to watch
you make breakfast, ask him to sit. If he obeys, praise him and
give him a treat.

Ideally, training will become your dog's favorite activity.
Your dog loves to please you, so the key to successful dog
training is giving him a lot of praise. If you reprimand your
dog when he does something bad, but neglect to praise him for
his good behaviour, he'll concentrate solely on the negative
aspects of training and will miss out on all the fun.

When done consistently and correctly, dog training can be fun
and simple for both of you. The key steps are catching your
dog in a questionable act, giving a firm (never cruel)
reprimand, and redirecting his attention and energy toward an
acceptable activity. Don't nag your dog, and never spank him.
Praise him whenever you can. Even if he's just lying on the
floor minding his own business, take a moment to praise him and
tell him what a good dog he is.

Dog training is a great way to bond with your pet, and you'll
both enjoy a safer, happier life. With plenty of fun, too!

About The Author: Mary Johnson contributes to several online
magazines, including http://home-blog.com and http://tobud.com

Dog Training Collar Supplements Voice Commands

noreply@blogger.com (Hoteloo) — Sun, 04 Mar 2007 08:03:00 +0000

All dogs will need some training as without training, a dog
will be a dog and do what dogs typically do. A dog training
collar can help reinforce commands and signals and help the dog
not only alter its natural behavior but also learn what the
owner wants it to do.

Usually a dog training collar will emit a small shock when the
person offering the training presses a button on the remote
control. When the dog feels the shock, applied usually to the
throat, and hears the negative command, chances are they will
stop the behavior that resulted in slight pain. Once the dog
understands that a firm no means a shock is coming, the dog
training collar may not be needed.

If your dog barks a lot a dog training collar can shock the dog
everytime the dog barks. Normally the dog will learn pretty
quickly that if it barks it will be shocked and will decide
that barking is not worth the pain. For those who shy away from
shocking their animal, a no-bark dog training collar has been
developed that emits a short spray of a lemon scented mist
towards the dog's nose. Its unpleasant odor will remind the dog
not to bark, without the electric shock.

Shocks Can Help Guide Your Dog

Some dog owners and professional trainers are using electric
dog training collars as part of a training regimen to help the
dog learn new tricks, and not just to stay off the furniture
and not to jump up on people. Usually if you slap your leg and
tell the dog to come, you will probably get a dumb look. If you
tell him to come and he gets a slight unpleasant shock, he may
listen a little better.

If you are using a radio fence containment system you must make
sure it is installed correctly and there is no threat of serious
injury to your pet. Keep in mind that once your dog when wearing
its dog training collar knows where its boundaries are even if
you shut off the power to the underground fence, the dog will
be reluctant to cross that line, even at your urging.

You should also keep in mind that a dog training collar is not
something the dog needs to wear its entire life. Once their
behavior can be changed by the issuance of verbal commands, the
collar has done its job.

About The Author: For more information on dog collars vist
http://www.leather-dog-collar.com

A Trick For Your Dog's Fun & Safety

noreply@blogger.com (Hoteloo) — Sun, 04 Mar 2007 08:02:00 +0000

There is a fun, simple trick that can entertain, impress, and
even protect our favorite four legged buddies!

It's "retrieving." Then expand the retrieve until our doggie
will happily bring us almost anything that can fit into its
little mouth.

Here are some reasons to teach this invaluable behavior:

*It's fun.
*It's good exercise.
*It can make some chores entertaining when your dog-pal
participates by bringing you a group of things.
*It's helpful for our little pooch to dive-bomb under the table
to retrieve dropped item.
*It prevents hassels for our little Einstein to brings an item
that might have otherwise been
used as a chew-toy.
*Most importantly, it can prevent illness or save a life if a
our pal grabs a potentially toxic item and proudly brings it to
us.

(By the way, you can see lots more articles like this at
http://bichonworld.com/bichon-dog-articles.html.)

Here are some tips to make learning to retrieve fun and easy!

This type of retrieving is a "play for pay" deal. In other
words, use food as a reward. Our little ones need an incentive
(beyond kisses, hugs, and sweet-talk) to give up something that
might have
been fun keep. Others may be very selective about what they
want to pick up. So start with a hungry pal and some tasty
treats.

If your dog already plays with toys, you're a step ahead
because they'll already be enthused to put certain non-food
items in their mouths. The next task will be to teach them that
picking it up
and bringing it is fun and profitable!

Consider size, texture, and hardness of each item. Begin with
smaller, lighter-weight, somewhat softer items that can be
easily picked up and comfortably held . These items usually
rank high on the "approval list" of most small fur pals: little
plush toys, socks, paper wads, crumpled napkins, cottage cheese
lids, paper cups, and short pieces of soft, knotted rope .

To add "pick up" incentive, add your scent! Put the items with
the dirty laundry.for about fifteen minutes.

Get down on the floor with reward treats in hand.
Enthusiastically show an item to your pal and toss it only 1 or
2 feet from you. If he/she picks it up, cheer and treat
immediately. Repeat this
procedure 3 or 4 times. When you know that he/she is going to
pick it up, attach a verbal cue, such as "Get it!"

If item-pick-up does not happen, reward looking at the item.
Quickly advance to rewarding item touches. As confidence
builds, the touch will become a little "bite", and the bite
with become a "pick up."

Principles for progress:
*Limit each session to 2 or 3 minutes.
*Have 3 or 4 training sessions daily.
*Increase the retrieve distance only 6" to 12" when the
previous distance has become easy.
*Slowly introduce new items to the "game."
*With each new item, go back to retrieving only 1' to 2'.
*When your pal grabs a "forbidden" item, treat the event like a
happy training session!

Have fun, and persist! Bit by bit, your buddy will be bringing
you the most surprising things!

About The Author: Sandy Schneider, author, is a devoted dog
mom. Agility, grooming, obedience, and just plain having fun
with her dogs are her passion. She operates
http://www.bichonworld.com and invites you to visit the site
for great information and articles.

Finding A Responsible Rottweiler Breeder

noreply@blogger.com (Hoteloo) — Tue, 27 Feb 2007 14:19:00 +0000

Finding A Responsible Rottweiler Breeder
This article will focus on the guidelines to assist you in
finding a responsible and reputable breeder.

Take your time selecting a breeder. You may ask for
recommendations from vets, friends who own a Rottweiler,
local breeding clubs, if available, or you may contact the
American Kennel Club. If you see advertisements in
newspapers for "puppies for sale", do not inquire. People
who breed their dogs with their friend's dogs are called
backyard breeders and you do not want a puppy from these
people. A backyard breeder will have no idea if the parents
of the puppies are healthy or if they have some medical
defect that could be inherited by the puppies. A breeder
will screen their dogs for genetic problems and will be
able to give prospective owners documentation showing their
puppies are from a litter whose parents are free of any
genetic problems.

A reputable breeder will show their dogs or at least
participate in some dog related events. These events may
include obedience, agility, herding or numerous other dog
events. A responsible breeder only breeds to improve the
dog breed. Through participation in dog events they are
able to compare their dogs with other breeder's dogs. If
you find a breeder who does not compete in dog events and
does not participate in some type of dog club (i.e.
obedience, schutzhund, herding, all-breed, etc) you
probably don't want to choose a puppy from this person.

A good breeder knows their breed and knows what medical
problems (congenital defects) are present in the breed.
Two medical problems that seem to occur frequently in
Rottweilers are hip dyplasia and entropion (eyelid defect).
A breeder will inform you of any problems in the breed and
what kind of testing has been done with her dogs to make
sure she/he isn't breeding animals with defective genes.
An ethical breeder will guarantee that the puppy you take
home is in good health and will take the puppy/dog back if
a genetic problem is found that debilitates the life of the
dog. This will be covered in the contract that you must
read and sign before you become the owner/guardian of the
puppy.

Some good questions to ask the breeder are:

• How long have you been breeding Rottweilers? (Look for
experience)

• Are the puppies parents on site and may I see them? The
mother should be on site and probably not the father.
Remember a good breeder breeds to advance the dogs breed.
It is not likely that a person has exceptional male and
female dogs to mate and advance the breed. If both parents
are on site be cautious.

• How many litters do you have in a year? If they have
more then two litters be very cautious. They may be
breeding more for profit then advancement of the breed.

• Are the puppies house raised? Raising puppies in a house
and around people is a great start on their socialization.
If the puppies are raised in a kennel, that could be fine
as long as they are around people and are introduced to the
home so they may become accustomed to sounds, sights and
smells. You want the puppy use to a home environment as
they will be living inside when you take them home.

• What kind of guarantee do you offer? The breeder should
offer a health and genetic disease guarantee along with a
guarantee to take back the puppy or dog, no matter the age,
if you are unable to keep it. This is not to say that they
will return your money; they will take back their dog to
keep it safe and keep it out of the animal shelter.

A good breeder will screen you as a prospective buyer.
They want to make sure you will be a good fit for their
puppy and are informed about the breed. Many of the
questions may seem intrusive or nosey but a breeder wants
to insure her puppy is going to a person who plans to take
care of their pet for the next eight to twelve years. You
are committing yourself to being responsible for this
animal for their lifetime.

Before you decide on the breed of puppy you want to adopt,
read all you can and go to dog shows. Being around the
different breeds will give you a chance to see the dog in
action. Maybe a Rottweiler isn't for you but another breed
is. Get to know the dog before making the commitment.

----------------------------------------------------
Jim McKiel lives in the Chicago suburbs with his wife Doris
and their pet family members Buddy and Buster. They have
devoted their lives to the betterment of pet ownership.
For more information, visit http://LargeBreedFamilyDogs.com

How To Help Your Dog When It Has Had A Stroke

noreply@blogger.com (Hoteloo) — Tue, 27 Feb 2007 14:16:00 +0000

It may come as a shock to you to find out that your dog has
suffered from a stroke. Unlike humans, when a dog has a stroke,
he often won't become paralyzed or display any of the human
signs of stroke. In fact, with the right care and attention,
chances are he will bounce right back within a short period
after suffering from a stroke, especially if he has a little
help.

How To Tell Your Dog Has Had A Stroke?

Often, there are a few signs that will tell you that your dog
is suffering from a stroke. These usually include loss of
sight, falling over, and tilting and turning of the head. If
you notice your dog displaying these symptoms, you should take
him to the vet to rule out other serious health problems such
as brain disease, which may be the underlying cause of the
symptoms.

Often, pet owners are not aware that their dog has suffered
from a stroke. If your pet is advanced in years, seems off
color, or acting strangely, he may have suffered a stroke. The
best way to find out for sure is to take him to the vet for an
examination. Once there, the vet will put your dog under
anesthesia, and run some tests to find out what is causing your
dog to act strangely.

My Dog Has Had A Stroke, What Should I Do?

If your dog has had a stroke, it is important to remember that
dogs don't suffer as badly from strokes as humans do, and they
will recover faster than humans. Once your dog has had a
stroke, there is not a lot that your vet can do for him. In
most cases, there is no magical cure, or special pill, all your
vet will do is confirm that it was a stroke, and rule out the
dangerous diseases that may be causing your dog to suffer from
the strokes.

However, there are some things that you, the owner of your dog,
can do to help with his recovery. Because you share a close
owner-pet bond, your dog will recover faster if you are around
to care for him, and cheer him on as he starts getting better.
Make sure that he has a warm cozy place to rest, and plenty of
encouragement, and love from you, to remind him of why he wants
to get better.

You may also need to encourage your pet to eat, and drink soon
after he has suffered from a stroke, and help him onto his
feet, and encourage him to take bathroom breaks outside.
Exercise, especially strenuous exercise, should be avoided.
Once your dog is feeling well enough, he will soon tell you
when he is ready to start going on walks again. After a matter
of weeks, he will be starting to get back to his old self.

Don't forget that once your dog has recovered, he will still
need plenty of love, and encouragement, and may not be as agile
as he was before the stroke. Strokes can keep reoccurring in
dogs, so keep a close eye on him.

About The Author: Jean Morgan is a writer of articles
concerning pet health and the owner of
http://natureshealthypet.com

How To Pick The Right Wheelchair For Dogs

noreply@blogger.com (Hoteloo) — Mon, 26 Feb 2007 09:35:00 +0000

Seeing older people in wheelchairs is very usual. It is also
common to see injured people and animals in them. But seeing
dogs on their wheelchair is uncommon. But it is right, injured
dogs can have their own specialized wheelchair.

Any animal can use a wheelchair but the most common users are
dogs. This does not mean that it will end the dog's life but it
is merely to assist them to move freely. There are significant
reasons why dogs need wheelchairs and they are: Cervical disc
disease, Ruptured disc, Spinal lesion, Tumors, Ligament
problems, Cancer, Severe leg weakness, Arthritis and
Neurological disease.

What are the common features of a dog wheelchair?

It has a lightweight frame.
It is designed with the lightest materials possible. It weighs
50 percent lighter but still has the ability to support even
the larger dog breeds.

Wheels
Different dog wheelchairs have different wheels. It will not be
difficult for a buyer to choose which one is suitable for
his/her dog since the wheels are also specialized for the easy
maneuvering of the dogs in all types of soil.

Custom made
It is made not only to fit the size of your dogs but also its
lifestyle. They consider the kind of activities which dogs are
normally engaged with.

Harness
This is helpful in every movement of your dog. It can be useful
even if the dog is not on the wheelchair.

Here are guidelines which you can use on how to purchase for
it:

• Understand the kinds of wheelchair available.
• Measure your dog.
• You can start ordering the wheelchair.
• If there seems to be a problem with your order, or if the
manufacturer of the wheelchair has questions, they will
directly call and discuss it with you.
• Give your dog all the time to adjust.

Since you do not know what he or she is feeling, you should
care for your dog. Following these guidelines can give your dog
the comfort he/she needs.

Choose a wheelchair where he or she can be comfortable. You are
already helping your dog to heal easily and in a faster time in
that way.

About The Author: If You Liked This Article, You Migh Also Like
My Other Must-Read Wheelchair Articles. Click Here:
http://WheelchairEasyGuide.useful-tips.com

Potty Training A Puppy Without Going Crazy

noreply@blogger.com (Hoteloo) — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 08:36:00 +0000

Getting a puppy is a wonderful decision for just about
everyone. However getting a puppy also means that you will soon
be taking on the task of having to potty train it. While potty
training a puppy can seem like a rather rotten chore to take
on. It really does not have to be as difficult as it often
seems.

One of the most popular methods of house breaking a puppy is
the crate training method. Like most all animals dogs will most
like avoid soiling their homes or "dens". By giving them a dog
crate to stay in when it is not possible to supervise them you
are creating an artificial den for them. As this particular
instinct is very strong in most all dogs, crate training is a
hugely successful method to utilize when you are going to be
potty training your puppy. Keep in mind that a puppy needs to
be taken outside several times a day to be able to defecate and
urinate for crate training to be truly effective.

If you catch your puppy trying to eliminate anywhere in your
home you need to make a loud noise that will be enough to get
their attention and make them stop what they are doing. Take
them outside immediately and give them plenty of praise anytime
that they successfully use the bathroom outside.

Generally puppies can control their bowels one hour for how old
they are currently. For example if your puppy is six months old
it should be able to hold its bowel movements for at least six
hours before needing to eliminate. You should take your dog to
the vet immediately if they cannot manage to hold their bowel
movements for proper periods of time. For instance say your dog
has reached one year of age and is only able to control its
bowel movements for about an hour then it's likely that your
dog is having some type of medical problem.

Please remember that potty training your puppy can often be a
long process. Try very hard to become discouraged should your
puppy not take to your potty training methods right away.
Negative training methods such as yelling at your puppy are
rarely an effective manner in which to potty train your puppy.
Positive reinforcements such as plenty of praise and petting
when your puppy is doing well with it's potty training is the
best way to have a successfully house trained puppy.

About The Author: Gray Rollins is a featured writer for
DogTeachers - a site dedicated to helping you train you dog.
For more info on potty training a puppy, visit
http://www.dogteachers.com/pottytraining/ and for basic
commands like stay, visit http://www.dogteachers.com/stay/

Stop Your Dog From Jumping On People

noreply@blogger.com (Hoteloo) — Sun, 18 Feb 2007 12:04:00 +0000

Anyone who owns a dog that jumps on people as soon as they come
in the door knows how annoying it can become. It can also be
dangerous especially for elderly people, people without good
balance and small children.

When a dog jumps on people it is usually excited, wants to
socialize and get attention. The dog thinks it is great and his
excitement in greeting people can become very annoying to
guests. For new dog owners it is great to avoid this from
becoming a problem at an early stage.

This problem as well as many other canine bad habits can be
broken with the proper help quite easily with a little patience
and discipline on both your part and your dog. The dog is not
going to learn good habits by himself. Trainers can be
expensive so it looks like it is up to you.

A well disciplined dog that does not jump on people and has
good social habits can be greatly enjoyed by you and even your
guests. Imagine a dog that you don't have to lock in another
room when someone comes to the door. It can happen and would be
most appreciated by family, friends and guests.

There are certain things you may be doing, unknown to you, that
actually encourage the dog to jump on people when they come in
the door. Imagine a dog jumping all over someone with muddy
paws, getting dog fur all over their good clothes. It gets to
the point that your friends don't even come to visit you.

Sometimes this becomes just a slight annoyance to a dog owner
because of that very thing, it is their dog. Usually they don't
even realize that people don't even want to visit them anymore
because their dog is all over them when they come through their
door.

Do yourself a favor as well as your family and friends. Train
your dog not to jump on people when they enter your house. It
can be done easier than you think.

About The Author: All rights reserved. The author allows the
use of this article as long as it remains the same with this
resource text and the links remaining usable. You can visit the
authors website and find out more on how to stop your dog from
jumping on people. http://www.doggyobey.com

Stop Your Dog From Chewing Things

noreply@blogger.com (Hoteloo) — Sun, 18 Feb 2007 12:01:00 +0000

Stop your dog from chewing things such as shoes, slippers, pant
legs, furniture legs and more or allow it to put you in a state
of depression. For god sakes it even wants to chew on your
hands and feet.

Is this normal, will the dog ever grow out of it? It is normal
if you allow it to happen. He may grow out of it but not before
he can create some real damage. Actually he does not grow out of
it. You probably keep after it until it finally does quit. Not
before some great damage has been done.

You may even be contributing to his chewing by things you are
doing with him. You may have good intentions but the road to
hell has been paved with good intentions. I am not saying your
dog is a creature from hell like some might be thinking. Maybe
even yourself. No your dog is just being a dog without proper
training.

I myself have seen dogs chew the stuffing out of a brand new
sofa, chew up good shoes and do a job on the legs of a wooden
table and chair set. Holy Christmas there must be something
that can be done with a creature like that. Visitors come in,
only to swear not to go back because their hands are sore from
the dog continuously biting them.

The dog does not know any better. It thinks it is playing,
socializing, so to speak. You need to take control of your
household and set the dog straight. You must do it before you
have no friends not to mention footwear and furniture.

There is a right way to do it and a wrong way to do it. You do
not want to end up hating the dog or having it hate you. Dog
trainers can be quite expensive but there is an alternative.
You can be taught how to deal with your dog.

So get on the ball and take control of your life. Get your
friends back and save the furniture. Stop that dog from chewing
things up. There is help out there, it is just up to you to get
it.

About The Author: All rights reserved. The author allows the
use of this article as long as it remains the same with this
text resource and the link remaining usable. You can find out
more on how to stop your dog from chewing things and more by
visiting the author's web site at http://www.doggyobey.com

Tools Commonly Used In Dog Training Schools

noreply@blogger.com (Hoteloo) — Sat, 17 Feb 2007 10:09:00 +0000

There are a great many tools that can be utilized in dog
training schools. All of these tools are quite helpful when
utilized in the training of a dog. The following will
introduce you to some of the tools that are utilized in dog
training schools and how they can benefit you in the training
of your dog.

The clicker is a very useful tool that is used in a lot of dog
training schools. What exactly is a clicker you might be
wondering? A clicker is a small object that is made out of
plastic and contains a small piece of metal inside. The clicker
makes a clicking noise when it is squeezed and then released.
Using a clicker is a great way to get your dogs attention and
once he learns the noise that it makes he will be able to
recognize it almost anywhere.

Another tool that you will often find in dog training schools
would be the dog leash. The dog leash by far is one of the most
commonly used while training a dog. Dog leashes come in a
variety of sizes from very short leashes that are used when a
trainer wants to exert more control while training to much
longer leashes that are used when behaviors that require a bit
more freedom are being taught to dogs. There are even leashes
that allow dogs a certain amount of freedom then automatically
recoil when the trainer wishes the dog to return to them.

A tool that has become quite popular in dog training schools as
well as widely enjoyed by dogs themselves is the treat carrier.
These special containers allow a dog trainer to be able to
carry around a supply of dog treats to use while training their
dog. They are quite handy and keep you from having to get your
clothing dirty or having to carry around treats in a plastic
bag, which could get quite cumbersome.

A tool that is often utilized in dog training schools if a dog
has issues with biting is a muzzle. A dog needs to be carefully
introduced to this method of training and if the training is
done properly it can be extremely efficient in ridding a dog of
a potentially hurtful habit.

These are just a few tools of the trade that can be found in
dog training schools. There are many more out there and the
training tools can vary greatly depending on what type of
training you are planning to do with your dog. If you are
unsure as to what training tools you are going to need before
you begin training your dog contact your local dog training
school, as they will be able to point you in the right
direction.

About The Author: Gray Rollins is a featured writer for Dog
Teachers, a site dedicated to helping you train your dog. If
you're interested in learning more, visit us at
http://www.dogteachers.com/obedience/ and make sure you check
out the doggy blog http://www.dogteachers.com/blog/

Please use the HTML version of this article at:
http://www.isnare.com/html.php?aid=126207

The Irish Wolfhound - Easygoing and Soft-natured Giant

noreply@blogger.com (Hoteloo) — Sat, 17 Feb 2007 10:07:00 +0000

The Irish Wolfhound - Easygoing and Soft-natured Giant
Although not for the faint of heart, Irish Wolfhounds are
strong, muscular, beautiful dogs that are usually even
tempered and friendly. Originally they were used in Ireland
to hunt wolves and Irish elk. But today they are a favorite
among dog enthusiasts for their gentle disposition and
commanding appearance.

The temperament of this dog breed is soft-natured and
easygoing. They are calm around the house and patient.
These qualities make them a good dog with children, pets,
and other dogs.

History of the Breed

The Irish Wolfhounds in their earliest form were actually
dogs that went to war and were trained to kill men and
beasts. They were also used as guard dogs and as hunting
dogs early on as well.

It is believed that their history has been long, perhaps
even reaching all the way back to the first century BC.
During the 19th century, when it became popular to give a
number of these dogs as gifts to foreign royalty and as the
wolf became extinct in Ireland, they almost became extinct.

Thankfully, Captain Graham began to breed Irish Wolfhounds
with other breeds, such as Great Danes and Deerhounds, to
keep the breed from dying out. This interbreeding led to
variations in color and in a mellowing of the temperament
as well.

Characteristics of Irish Wolfhounds

Although in history these dogs were used as war dogs and
guard dogs, the Irish Wolfhound today does not make a great
guard dog. While they do have a penchant to hunt, these
dogs love people and require a great deal of interaction
with the family.

The Irish Wolfhound is actually the tallest hound in the
entire world and they are a stately and proud dog. Their
coats feel rather rough to the touch, and they come in a
variety of different colors, including brindle, pure white,
red, brown, black, gray, and fawn.

They typically live to be about seven, although there are
dogs that live to be as old as ten. Increasing numbers of
breeders, however, are now selecting for longevity and this
will hopefully increase the lifespan of the Irish Wolfhound
in the future.

What Irish Wolfhounds Need

If you decide that you want to own an Irish Wolfhound, it
is important that you take into consideration the special
needs of these dogs and take care of them properly to
promote the best health possible. They need plenty of room
to stretch out and a daily long walk.

Irish Wolfhounds need to be with people and need plenty of
interaction, so before you purchase one, you need to be
sure that you have the time to properly take care of your
dog.

It is important that you train your Irish Wolfhound well or
he may get out of hand. Starting to train from the time
your dog is a puppy will help you avoid problems later in
the dog's life.

Having an Irish Wolfhound can bring a great deal of joy and
pleasure to your life and these dogs make wonderful
companions. If you are ready to invest some time in a dog,
take care of a dog properly, and you want a dog that will
keep you company, you may want to consider having an Irish
Wolfhound as a pet.

----------------------------------------------------
Carol Stack enjoys writing articles, especially about dogs.
She lives with her husband, children, four dogs and seven
cats in the United States. Carol and her daughter Christy
are working on a web site, http://www.christysdogportal.com
that focuses on dog breeds, dog care, and dog training.

Stop Your Dog From Excessive Barking

noreply@blogger.com (Hoteloo) — Fri, 16 Feb 2007 13:15:00 +0000

To stop a dog from excessive barking can be real challenge if
you don't know where to start. There are ways to get your dog
to stop barking and it can be much simpler if you listen to
someone who has years of experience with such problems.

I don't know of anything much more annoying than a dog which
seems the need to let everyone and every creature, that it is
in the neighborhood. It can even get to the point where the
individual must get rid of the dog. That could be heart
breaking.

Some dogs seem to just sit there and continuously bark, while
others just bark from inside the house when someone comes to
the door. Some just bark to let other dogs know they are there
and some only bark when they get excited, but still a problem.
Which ever problem you seem to have, I know you want to break
your dog of it to keep your sanity and the sanity of your
family, friends and neighbors.

If you try to fix the problem yourself without proper training
you could end up hating the dog or the dog hating you. You know
if you could just break the dog of this terrible habit you would
have the best dog ever. Your friends and neighbors would enjoy
the dog as well.

I am sure that friends and neighbors all could think of a way
to solve the problem, but I don't think this is what you would
wish for a solution. These barking tantrums can drive a real
wedge in the relationship with you and other people around you.
Believe me when I tell you, I know a lot about this type of
problem.

I do have good news for you if you are in this situation or
know someone else that has this problem. You can learn how to
stop this annoying problem easily, with the help from someone
who has much experience in the field. Do the right thing, keep
your sanity and get back on the good side of your friends and
neighbors. Find an expert in the field to teach you how to be a
good neighbor. Stop your dog from annoying and excessive
barking.

About The Author: All rights reserved. The author allows the
use of this article as long as it remains the same with this
resource text and the links remaining usable. You can visit the
author's website and find out more on how to stop your dog from
barking. http://www.doggyobey.com

Description & List Of Popular Designer Dog Breeds

noreply@blogger.com (Hoteloo) — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 18:41:00 +0000

If you have been following the latest trends and changes in dog
breeding you may have come across the term "designer dogs".
These are, in fact, simply mixed breeds that are crossed to
produce a specific physical appearance, usually easily
identified as a cross between the two breeds. The breeders
attempt to include only the desirable traits of the two parents
while minimizing the chance of physical or health issues between
the cross.

Some of the more common or popular designer dogs are:

ˇLabradoodle – a cross between a Labrador retriever and a
Standard Poodle. Considered to have the non-shedding and easy
care coat of a poodle combined with the poodle's intelligence
and the wonderful, loving personality of the Lab.

ˇPorkie – a cross between a Pug and a Yorkie. A small dog that
is heartier than the standard Yorkie with longer hair and the
easygoing temperament of the Pug.

ˇCockapoo – a cross between a cocker spaniel and a poodle.
Often considered an intelligent, low shedding small breed that
is great for families.

ˇSchnoodle – cross between a Schnauzer and a Poodle, again with
an attempt to have an intelligent, non-shedding companion dog.

ˇDaisy Dog – a three way cross between a poodle and Shih Tzu
parent and a Bichon. These dogs are reported to be very calm
and excellent companion dogs for traveling or living in small
spaces.

ˇPoogle– cross between a poodle and a beagle. Small sized dog
that energetic and easy to train.

ˇPuggle – Pug and a beagle. These are very friendly dogs that
love to be involved in all aspects of the family.

Most of the designer dogs have a poodle in the mix simply
because poodles are know to be excellent non-shedding dogs and
also are very intelligent. The three different sizes of poodles
also make them a great breed for mixing with various dog breeds.

It is important to remember that these crosses have occurred in
the past; it is just now that they are being recognized. As with
all breeds of dogs there are good breeding dogs and dogs that
should not be crossed due to health conditions or temperaments.

A designer dog, also called a hybrid, is not recognized by the
Kennel Clubs, although many agencies are trying to develop
registries for these breeds. Be aware that many of these dogs
are more expensive than either one of their purebred parents,
but do not have any standing with breed registries. Many
shelter dogs are mixed breeds that are looking for a loving
home and are available at a fraction of the cost that some
breeders are asking.

Designer dogs may also have a variety of health concerns and
conditions. Do not mistakenly believe that all hybrids are
naturally healthy and immune from genetic conditions, in fact
they may have just as many health concerns as purebred dogs. Be
sure to check the temperament of the parents, and choose a breed
that is one you really want, not just the "trendy" dog of the
day.

About The Author: Kelly Marshall is a featured author at
http://www.ohmydogsupplies.com - also view her work at
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kelly_Marshall

Want A Clean Dog? Secrets Of Keeping Your Pooch Clean!

noreply@blogger.com (Hoteloo) — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 18:41:00 +0000

Before you begin bathing your dog, be sure you have the correct
pet shampoo. Never use people shampoo, as our pH levels are more
acidic than our canine counterparts. Have adequate towels ready
for after the bath and make sure the standing area for your dog
is non-slippery.

To begin washing your dogs start with the headfirst. You then
want to work your way towards the tail. This is especially
important if your dog has fleas or ticks. If your dog is known
to have fleas. You must use a flea shampoo as well. By starting
at the head you force the fleas out of the ears, neck and face
and down towards the tail. When they get to the tail is easier
for you to submerge the tail then it is the head. Your dog will
surely thank you for not starting at the tail.

Be sure to allow your dog adequate time to get used to running
water. If you're going to use a bathtub, fill it with several
inches of warm water. You may then introduce your pooch to the
bath. Once you have your dog in the bathtub. Start with the
head and use warm water. You can use a pitcher or you may use a
spray device for this task. Be sure the spray is not too hard
and never spray water directly into your dog's ears, eyes nose
or face.

Once your dog is completely wet, apply a pet shampoo liberally,
be sure to follow the instructions on the package and work it
from the head towards the tail. Don't forget to get all the
crevices in hard to reach areas, especially between your dog's
legs behind the ears, under the chin, and the armpits. You
should wash your dog's genitals as well.

If you are using a flea and tick shampoo, you often need to let
the shampoo stay for several minutes, be sure to read the
instructions after adequate time is past, and you've washed her
dog entirely you may proceed to rinse your dog thoroughly with
water. Please remember that shampoo residue can cause skin
irritations and make your dog scratch more than normal. Once
you have thoroughly rinsed their coat, you may now take a towel
and dry your pet. It is important to note that some breeds
should never be scrubbed, but only patted dry since their coats
could easily tangle.

There are pet drying towels available and these towels are very
popular because they can absorb much more water than normal
towels. You can also purchase pet blow dryers that have much
less heat than human blow dryers, and therefore do not burn
your dog's skin

Although bathing your dog can be a hassle and some owners find
it hard to do, it is an essential part of being a responsible
pet owner. A dog that is healthy, clean and free of flea and
ticks will be a much happier dog.

About The Author: Hygiene and training are the two most
important aspects of being a good pet owner. Visit our site for
free information on Dog Training Collars and videos on Bark
Control Collars.
http://www.pet-super-store.com/dog-supplies.php

Dog Training And Why It Is So Important

noreply@blogger.com (Hoteloo) — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 14:09:00 +0000

The word 'vital' has its roots in the Latin word for life. That
gives us a clue to why dog training is so important, both for
owner and dog - it enhances the quality of life for each.

Though dogs have been domesticated for thousands of years, they
still have much of the wild in their natures.
They adapt well to home life, but they are still dogs, not
furry small children. Training helps maximize peace and
security for both the dog and the family.

Dogs are by nature hunters and therefore are inclined to chase
things. Young dogs especially are prone to take off after
another animal, a car or a child.

Any of these scenarios can result in harm to your companion, a
person or property. Training a dog early on to listen to voice
commands from everyone in the family lessens the odds of bad
consequences.

Teach your dog to obey 'halt' or 'stop', then 'come' and you'll
be much less likely to have accidents as the dog responds to his
sudden surge of emotion.

At first, it might be necessary to use a leash so that you can
physically jerk the dog sideways at the same time you issue the
command.

Try to avoid jerking backward against the dog's throat. Then,
as they associate the command with the physical action, they
will come to obey by voice alone.

Techniques like that help ensure the security of other animals
and people, but also that of your own dog as well.

Many dogs will race after another who, in fact, can do them
great harm.

Their emotions take control - as when the other dog has entered
his 'territory' - and they don't judge, as we might, whether
they have any chance of chasing the animal away. They simply
react.

But the importance of training your dog goes well beyond the
very basic level of safety and security, or the avoidance of
physical harm and property damage. Dogs are by nature pack
animals.

They recognize a social hierarchy that is established very
early in life. You must be at the top of that hierarchy, for
the sake of your own sanity and that of your dog.

Some dogs will naturally try to take the so-called alpha role.
That has evolutionary advantages when they live in the wild.

But in a domesticated situation you have the greater ability to
forecast consequences. You and your dog will be better adjusted
if you never let even the most assertive dog be your master.

Peace of mind comes from teaching your dog that, no matter how
treasured they are, you are at the top of the heap.

That means they must come when you say so, stay when you
command and do as you wish. Among adult humans, that sort of
behavior is very dictatorial and many are reluctant to assert
themselves that way. When dealing with your dog, it's
essential.

Being the leader of the pack gives the dog a sense of its place
in the group.

It can follow your lead, secure in the knowledge that you will
keep it safe from harm and well-fed. You're acting like the
alpha dog would. Training is the only way to bring that about.

About The Author: http://Doghealthrevealed.com is an excellent
place to find dog links, articles and Resource. For more
information go to:www.doghealthrevealed.com

Grooming Is An Important Part Of Dog Care

noreply@blogger.com (Hoteloo) — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 14:00:00 +0000

Grooming Is An Important Part Of Dog Care
It is of vital importance that your pet be groomed on a
regular basis. Dirt and grime can get caught in the dog
hair and may cause matting and tangles, which can be
difficult to get out. Most cases if bad enough they will
have to be cut out. Fleas and ticks attach themselves to
your dogs skin. Without proper groomer the parasites may go
undetected for sometime.

It is best to train your dog at a young age. An untrained
dog can be trained to get groomed, it takes more time,
patience and consistancy. Start by brushing him all over
this way he get used to you or a professional groomer
handeling him. If you choose to use a professional groomer
be sure to select one that will handle your dog gently. You
don't want him to be afraid. Brushing doesn't only remove
mats, it also takes away dead hair. By reducing dead hair
it also reduces doggie odor.

While grooming your dog look for bumps, inflammation, hot
spots, irritation, fleas and ticks. To get rid of ticks
use a tweezer to pull them off. It is important to get the
whole tick out. You don't want to leave any part of the
tick on your dogs skin. Fleas can easily be removed by
using a fine-tooth comb. If you suspect your dog has fleas
wash him with flea and tick shampoo and then apply with a
nice conditioner. Ears should be kept clean and checked
for ear mites. If you have a long eared dog they are more
susceptible to ear mites. Examin your dogs paws for dirt or
pebbles, their paws can become infected if anything is
caught in them.

Nails should be trimmed monthly. If you have a difficult
time, you can take him to a professional groomer or even
your veterinarian. It is recommended to call around and
look for the lowest price. To remove mucus from your dogs
eyes a damp cloth may be used. Dental hygiene is of vital
importance. Again, at a young age start brushing his teeth.
Do not use human toothpaste it is not made to be swallowed.
They sell dog toothbrushes and toothpaste. To get your dog
used to the toothbrush, have him chew on one that was
dipped in warm water and garlic salt. They love the taste.

Every dog owner should have their own grooming kit. A good
kit includes a grooming brush, combs, dog shampoo, coat
conditioner and toenail clippers for dogs.

Remember a good dog is a happy and healthy dog.

----------------------------------------------------
Michelle Johnson is highly respected in her community for
her knowledge on dog care. She owns
http://www.tailwaggingprices.com an online pet supply store
for alll your dog care needs.

Deadly Indoor And Outdoor Plants Harmful To Dogs

noreply@blogger.com (Hoteloo) — Wed, 14 Feb 2007 14:07:00 +0000

Many dog owners don't consider that harmless little house and
garden plants may be a potential source of danger to your dog
or puppy. Usually poisonous plants are more deadly to small
puppies, but some plants, even in small amounts, can be toxic
to dogs of any size. By taking the time to understand the
various plants and their levels of toxicity for dogs you can
avoid costly vet bills and even more serious conditions.

Depending on the type of plant either the leaves, stems, bark,
roots or fruit can be toxic. Some plants are only toxic at
various times in their growth stage whereas others are always
poisonous. For information on each type of plant the internet,
your vet, or even a plant and gardening book is great resource.

Garden Plants

Believe it or not some of the most common garden plants are
also the most deadly. Tomato plants, both the leaves and the
stems, can be toxic to dogs. St. John's Wort, an herbal plant,
is very toxic leading to vomiting and seizures. Other garden
plants that can be problematic include:

ˇApricot
ˇAvocado
ˇBlack Cherry
ˇBlack Walnuts
ˇCastor Beans
ˇCatnip
ˇChokecherry
ˇEggplant
ˇGarlic
ˇMushrooms
ˇMustard plants/greens
ˇOnion
ˇPeach
ˇPlum
ˇPotato
ˇPokeweed
ˇSpinach

Fencing the garden area or monitoring if the dog is actually
eating the plants within the garden is important. When in doubt
completely isolating the garden from the area the dog is kept is
a great idea.

Ornamental Outdoor Plants

Everyone loves to have their yard area looking great, but not
at the expense of his or her animals becoming ill. Some of the
showiest of the flowering plants are also the most deadly,
including Oleander and many of the flowering shrubs. The list
of the most common flowering and ornamental plants that are
frequently found in gardens are:

ˇAmaryllis
ˇBaby's Breath
ˇBird of Paradise
ˇBlack Eyed Susan
ˇBleeding Heart
ˇBluebonnet
ˇBoston Ivy
ˇCalla Lilly
ˇChrysanthemums
ˇCyclamen
ˇDaffodil
ˇDaisy
ˇElephant Ear
ˇEaster Lilly
ˇFerns
ˇFlamingo plant
ˇGeranium
ˇHoneysuckle
ˇHyacinth
ˇHydrangea
ˇIvy
ˇJade plant
ˇLantana
ˇLarkspur
ˇMarigolds
ˇMorning Glory
ˇPeony
ˇPrimrose
ˇRhododendron
ˇTiger Lily
ˇYucca

There are many other beautiful garden flower that can also be
deadly, so be sure to check with the nursery or garden shop
before planting them in the same area that you are planning on
keeping your dog.

Indoor Plants

Many of the houseplants including ferns, dieffenbachia, pothos,
ivy, philodendron, and even poinsettias are very toxic to dogs.
Corn plant, peace lilies and any of the ornamental tobacco
plants can be very dangerous for both full-grown dogs and
puppies.

If you think that your dog may have consumed a poisonous or
potentially poisonous plant immediately get them to the vet.
Bring a small amount of the plant with you, including the leaf
and the flower, to help with identification.

About The Author: More important information can be found at Oh
My Dog Supplies at this url:
http://www.ohmydogsupplies.com/xnews.php - also shop for dog
beds at http://www.ohmydogsupplies.com/dog-supplies/dog-beds

How To Prevent Dog Chewing

noreply@blogger.com (Hoteloo) — Tue, 13 Feb 2007 09:59:00 +0000

Do you have a dog that has a habit of chewing literally every
object in the household? Make no bones about it! As part of
the dog training process, it is absolutely important to train a
dog to stop the nasty chewing habit also known as gnawing.
Chewing is a natural instinctive reflex of almost all dogs and
they must be trained effectively in order to save your house
and your possessions from getting chewed up. Dogs will try to
chew on the furniture, mattress, shoes, or anything that will
come their way as part of their maturing process and curiosity.
So how in the world do you stop a dog from this terrible
chewing problem? There are some proven techniques that will
answer this question.

Just like human babies, teething is considered to be the most
common cause for a dog's chewing habit. Teething process gives
severe pain to dogs; as a result they will try to chew on
anything to overcome the pain. If a dog is not trained to be
active, the sheer boredom of sitting around the house will make
things worse. The dog will form a habit to keep chewing without
actually suffering from an extended teething problem. Certain
dogs also suffer from loneliness and anxiety; this becomes a
mental problem that will eventually make his chewing habit
worse. Chewing can be controlled by keeping the dog in a good
mental and physical state.

Moving on to the preventive methods and techniques, a chew toy
can be a dog's best friend for eliminating the dog's desire to
chew on your possessions. Train the dog to keep his chewing
habit limited to the chew toy; this will save your furniture
and other household items from getting attacked. Make sure to
pick up a chew toy that is considered to be the safest in the
marketplace. You must also get the right size and color to fit
the dog's mouth and personality.

Among the harmless chew toys available in the market are as
follows:

Nylabones – Nylabones is made out of odor free nylon fibers,
which is safe and tender for your dog's mouth. They are easily
available in edible or non-edible forms. The non-edible
nylabones are stuffed with chicken or turkey meat for added
flavor. With different shapes and sizes, nylabone will be
suitable for different kinds of dogs. Galileo is among the
best known nylabone chew toys available currently.

Kong toys - Kong toys are a perfect match for those dogs that
are suffering from insecurity and anxiety. These sterilized
bones have a hollow in the middle to stuff different kinds of
dog food.

Make sure to spend quality time with your dog and make him feel
great by praising his good behavior. It is never too late to
teach a dog how to stay away from chewing certain objects. Dog
chewing can definitely be controlled with the above techniques
and preventive measures.

About The Author: George Kane writes for
http://www.DogTraining-AtoZ.com

Putting Your Dog On A Diet For Weight Loss

noreply@blogger.com (Hoteloo) — Tue, 13 Feb 2007 09:56:00 +0000

Most dogs will begin to be less active and will self-exercise
less as they age. Some breeds are naturally more likely to gain
weight and be couch dogs rather than active pets, so it is
important to help them eat only the food they need, not all
that they want. Some dogs are naturally able to regulate their
food whereas other dogs simply eat until they can't hold
another bite. Understanding how your dog eats and how much they
eat can help you determine how to best help them manage their
weight or how to effectively help them lose weight.

To get your dog started on a lifestyle change and diet that is
needed to help an already overweight dog start to get in shape
consider the following:

ˇ Cut out all snacks, treats and food items other than the
actual dog food. This means no high carb or sugary treats, no
extra little scraps from the table or even any dog cookies.
High quality treats can be reintroduced to the diet on a very
limited amount once the weight has been lost.

ˇ Unless there is a reason why your dog must be on wet food
switch to a high quality premium dry food only, but not
necessarily a weight loss formula. Most dogs will lose weight
even on regular kibble provided all the other aspects of the
plan are followed. Ask your vet for recommendations for foods
that would be beneficial to your particular dog. Switch the
food slowly and gradually to avoid digestive problems. Don't
worry if the dog refuses to eat the dry, especially if it is a
picky eater, it will eat when it gets hungry. If the dog does
not eat for two days and you are exercising the dog as outlined
contact your vet before proceeding with the food selection.

ˇ Increase exercise - and this involves your participation.
Most dogs, especially those that are overweight, simply do not
exercise themselves. Putting them outside in the yard for an
extra hour doesn't count since they will likely take a
leisurely stroll around the yard, find a comfortable spot and
rest. You must make them keep moving. Take them on a leash for
a walk around the block at least twice a day. Once they can do
one block, increase to two and keep increasing the distance and
the pace of the exercise. Start slow and gradually increase to
avoid stressing both the dog and yourself!

ˇ Increase play times. Try throwing a ball or a stick for the
dog, or playing a game of tag or chase. Start slow, even just
rolling the ball to get the dog involved. Lots of praise and
attention during the game will help keep them motivated and
engaged.

ˇ Plan a regular "play date" for your dog with another dog if
he or she is an only dog in your house. Running and playing
with another dog is great exercise and gives you a chance to
supervise and relax.

ˇ Cut down on the dog food by a quarter to start. If you are
normally feeding 1 cup twice a day feed ž of a cup twice a day.
Never cut out a meal, simply cut down on each meal. It is
recommended to feed two smaller meals rather than just one meal
to keep blood sugar better regulated for the dog.

ˇ Check your yard and house for hidden food items. Many dogs
have learned to get into the garbage, get into cupboards and
raid the treat boxes or even get into candy dishes left on the
coffee table. Remove all sources of food from where the dog can
access.

Keep on the plan for two weeks, decreasing each mean by one
quarter and doubling a reasonable level of exercise. You should
notice a slight weight loss in this period. You can either weigh
the dog by using a standard bath scale or, for large breeds,
simply use a measuring tape around the widest part of the their
body. If you have followed the plan and are decreasing food,
increasing exercise and cutting out all treats and do not
notice even a slight decrease in weight after two weeks see
your veterinarian immediately to rule out any medical problems.

About The Author: Find more articles on dog health at
http://www.ohmydogsupplies.com

Guide To Removing Mats And Tangles From Your Dog

noreply@blogger.com (Hoteloo) — Mon, 12 Feb 2007 21:32:00 +0000

If you have a longhaired breed of dog you know the troubles
that mats and tangles can cause. These balls of hair, if left
knotted, can lead to ulcers on the skin, serious skin problems,
as well as require a complete sheering of the coat to correct
the problem. With a good grooming routine most mats and tangles
will be stopped before they get problematic, but any dog can get
matted or tangled hair after a day out in the woods or a swim in
the lake.

There are several different ways to deal with mats and tangles
that are relatively painless for your dog and fairly easy to do
at home. The best ways to remove tangles are:

ˇ Use a wide toothed comb or a pin brush to work from the
outside of the tangle towards the dog's body. Work with very
small amounts of hair rather than working on the whole knot or
tangle at one time.

ˇ Use a good quality detangler specially designed for dogs.
There are many brands sold online or in pet stores that are
safe and gentle for dog's hair and skin.

ˇ Baby oil can also be used if you don't have a detangler
solution available. Use only a very small amount and gently
work through with the fingers. Do not use a circular motion as
this may increase the amount of hair in the tangle rather than
decrease it.

ˇ Spraying a gentle coat of mink oil over the whole coat will
prevent the coat from tangling up again after you have removed
the knots.

ˇ Often the mat is formed around a foreign object like a twig,
burr or even a piece of a stick. Be careful not to catch this
object with the comb as this will be very painful for the dog.
If the object is very imbedded in the hair gently try to
detangle it using your finger to keep as much hair intact as
possible. Only as a last resort cut the patch hair, using the
scissors so the blades are pointed away from the dog's body.
Never cut into the dog as the possibility to damage the skin is
simply too great, even with blunt ended scissors.

ˇ Always check for mats in places such as the armpits of the
dog on both the front and back legs, behind the legs, around
the collar, behind the ears and on the "leggings" long hairs of
the back legs.

ˇ If the dog is becoming sensitive in one area allow the
detangler to sit on the hair and move to another spot.
Irritating the skin will only make the dog less cooperative.

Clean and well-conditioned, healthy hair is much easier to work
with than dead or dry hair. A good grooming routine will help
minimize tangles and mats and will keep your pet looking
tiptop.

About The Author: About the author: Find more dog articles by
Kelly Marshall at http://www.buzzle.com/authors.asp?author=2151
and http://searchwarp.com/Author68491.htm

Bull Dog Health Problems

noreply@blogger.com (Hoteloo) — Mon, 12 Feb 2007 20:34:00 +0000

Bulls are national dogs of England. These dogs were bred as
fighting dogs of yore. Of late these dogs are trained and used
as guard dog. These bulldogs are powerfully built animals and
are aware of their strength and use them when it is necessary.
These dogs will love to play with children and get involved in
the game totally. Let us discuss here about the bulldog health
problems.

The muzzle of the bulldog is delicately shaped that these dogs
cannot breathe perfectly. The pet owner must keep this in mind
and never indulge these dogs in over exercise. Extra care needs
to be provided for these dogs at puppy stage and when the
climate is hot and muggy. Subjecting these dogs for brisk walk
is more than enough.

These dogs tend to become lazy and easily become overweight. In
order to avoid this, keep the animal busy as much as possible
like allowing the dog to play with children, taking while you
go for morning walk.

It is better to keep the dog in tether, as these dogs loves
fighting with other dogs, in that melee, they may get injured.
These dogs do not need special care for grooming, once in a
bathing will suffice. The males will weigh nearly 25 kilos and
the females will weigh 22-23 kilos, usually two to three kilos
less than the males.

Like all other diseases the canine distemper affects bull dog
breed also. This is a highly contagious disease caused by
paramyxovirus. This disease can affect the bull dogs at any
age. The virus enters by direct contact and through inhalation.
The virus thus entered the respiratory tract multiplies in the
bronchi and tonsils. Find out more information at
http://www.aboutdoghealth.org where you can identify symptoms,
prevention and treatment for your dog's illness.

The incubation period for the virus is for four to eight days.
There won't be any symptoms during this period. The fever [40
degree Celsius], yellow discharge from the eyes and nostrils
and pustules in the region of abdomen can be noticed once the
incubation period is over. The animal will have these symptoms
for three to four days and enter in to the clinical stage.

Here in addition to the fever and discharge the dog will have
diarrhea, inflamed mucous membrane, and tracheobronchitis.
Rhinitis, bronchial pneumonia, conjunctivitis, dermatitis, and
vomition may develop soon. Some animals will show nervous signs
such as convulsion, paralysis; coordination problems and
involuntary muscle contractions etc. Since this disease is of
viral origin, immunizing the dog against the dog is the best
solution.

Bulldog health problems are many like the one mentioned and
discussed above. By proper care, nutrition and immunization the
bulldog health problems can be minimized.

About The Author: Learn more about
http://www.aboutdoghealth.org/doghealthproblems/shih-tzu-dog-health-problem.html
on our site. You'll also find other information such as
http://www.aboutdoghealth.org/dogbreedhealth/Pomeranian.html.

Dog Whining

noreply@blogger.com (Hoteloo) — Mon, 12 Feb 2007 15:14:00 +0000

Barking, growling, howling and whining are four ways by which
your pet dog tries to communicate with you. Barking is an
expression of some emotion, like excitement. The dog growls to
restrain a person from coming too close to him – it's his way
of saying, "back off, I am in a bad mood!". Howling may be
considered as a kind of long-distance communication. The dog
whines or cries only when he is in distress or when he needs
attention from you.

Very young pups whine in an effort to gain more attention from
their mothers. This is something which is totally natural in
the beginning.

Little pups who are raised by human foster families tend to
miss their mothers and whine in the hope that she will come to
them and soothe them immediately. The pet's owner might choose
to do one of the following three things:

• Ignores the call of distress and go about minding his
business like nothing happened

Here, the dog feels very lonely, unwanted and unloved. This can
affect his relationship with his owner.

• Takes a look at the pup to see if all's well with him, also
attend to him if something is genuinely wrong with him

This is the ideal thing to do, as it establishes a deep bond
between the dog and his master. The pet may be trying to call
for help of some kind, so the owner can immediately help him
with that too.

• Leaves all other work aside and rush to the spot to 'save'
the dog from even the slightest distress

This results in the pet becoming spoiled rotten! The dog uses
whining as a tool to get whatever he wants from the owner.

There are various circumstances which make your pet whine. They
are listed below:

1. Attention seeking

Your pet lets out a whine, imploring you to go to him. This can
be tackled by spending some time with him and then leaving him
alone for short periods of time. Once he understands that you
will not succumb to each of his appeals, he will learn to calm
down and stop pestering you.

2. Anxiety

Your pet may be experiencing severe separation anxiety when you
leave him alone for a period of time. This can be sorted out by
staying away from him for short periods of time and let him get
used to the idea of being alone.

3. Pain

Dogs sometimes whine in pain, when they are ill or are injured
in some way.

4. Learned response

Dogs could whine when they need something specific from you,
like a piece of treat or to recover their favorite toy that's
out of their reach. In this case, he will look longingly in the
direction of the item he wants and will whine for it.

5. Excitement

Sometimes, dogs may suddenly let out a whine in excitement -
like when they hear their owner's car coming into the driveway.
This will subside as soon as the excitement fades.

Dogs whine for various reasons. It is up to a sensible owner to
listen closely and judge whether it is merely for attention or
if something is really wrong with his pet. Treating your dog
well, while not spoiling him, is the key to good canine
training. While the dog knows his limits, he also develops a
rapport with his owner.

About The Author: George Kane writes about issues like Dog
Whining at Dog Training A to Z :
http://www.dogtraining-atoz.com/whining.html