The Pet Parade

Does Your Dog Bark at Everyone Who Walks By?

2012-01-23T09:51:00.000-05:00

If your dog barks or lunges at everyone who walks by the house or while you are walking, then these tips might help. Using a few training techniques to refocus your dog can help stop barking, nipping and lunging at other dogs and people.

Redirect Behavior

If you are walking your dog and he starts staring at another dog or person, (which is supposedly, very rude behavior for a dog. My dog does it all the time.) put him in a sit position and stand directly in front of him so he can't see the dog. He'll try to look around your legs but move with his head and don't allow him to look. Keep feeding him treats, one after the other, to keep him focused on you until the other dog or person is out of his view. If your dog is clicker trained, use the clicker when he is focused on you.

I know this is hard to do if you are pressed for time while on the walk but it really does work. When I take my dog for a walk at a nearby park, I can actually get him to sit while other dogs walk by, then we continue on our way.

As far as barking from the window, that's a tough one. I'm still working on that with my dog but my dog behavior instructor says that it takes two weeks of calm behavior to break a dog's habit. Try putting something on the couch, so your dog can't see out the window for awhile. If he gets excited while on the
floor, distract him with treats and make him sit, basically the same thing as when you're on the walk.

Work Your Dog

Another thing you can do is practice commands when your dog gets overexcited. For instance, when you see him getting anxious while on a walk or in the house, have some treats ready and just have him sit, down, walk backwards, touch your hand, anything to keep him busy, so he knows you're in charge and have things under control.

Your dog might think he has to protect the house and the people he is walking with when you're outside. He has to learn that the situation is okay and you can take care of things. Hopes this helps.

Teach Your Dog How to Visit

2012-01-18T18:14:00.000-05:00

Now is the time to get out the clicker and teach your dog a new trick! It's National Train Your Dog Month, which is the perfect time to think about your pet.

When was the last time you taught your dog a trick? It doesn't have to be a tough one, just something to help you bond with your dog, spend some time together and enjoy each other's company.

Right now, I'm trying to teach my dog how to put his head in my lap and "Visit." He's getting the idea, as long as there's a treat waiting for him!

Teaching Your Dog "Visit"

Have your dog sit next to you and then hold a treat on the other side of your leg, so your dog has to reach over your thigh and get it. As soon as he touches your leg with his chin, click and treat. Do this a few times until your dog gets the idea.

When he is putting his head on your thigh regularly, add the word, "Visit". Soon, your dog will be putting his head on your lap whenever you say the cue word. It's a really cute trick, especially when company comes over and your dog "visits" them.

Is the Martingale Collar Right for Your Dog?

2012-01-06T15:19:00.001-05:00

The Martingale collar has been used for sight dogs like the greyhound and whippet for years. Their thin, long necks and heads cause traditional snap collars to slip right over the ears and off the head. This is where the Martingale collar comes in. It is the perfect collar for sight dogs or any dog that slips out of his collar.

Advantages of the Martingale Collar:

The loop design of the dog collar prevents it from slipping off the dog's head.
The collar is much safer, preventing the dog from escaping and endangering himself.
The collar is dog friendly and more humane. When the collar is connected to a leash, it closes around the actual diameter of the dog's neck. In this way, the closing of the collar does not restrict the dog's throat like a traditional choke chain, or pinch collar.
The Martingale collar is perfect for any sighthounds and many sporting and working breeds like: Vizlas, Borzoi, Collies, Australian Shepherds, Greyhounds, Whippets, Boxers, and Pharaoh hounds, to name a few.
Most dogs respond to the Martingale better than with a choke collar. It never produces a choke hold on the dog, but gently tightens to fit the dog's neck. There is no pain or constriction of any kind to the dog if fitted properly.
The collar remains in position on the dog's neck much better than a traditional flat collar. Because of this position, most dogs will not pull and tug in front of the owner. It is a much better collar for loose leash walking and training.
A struggling dog cannot back out of this collar. If the dog is frightened by traffic or loud noises, trying to rear away from the frightening source, he cannot pull out of the Martingale.

All of these facts are good reasons to try the Martingale collar with your dog. The collar is very effective when fitted according to manufacturer's specifications. The basic fitting method is to tighten correctly. When the smaller loop is pulled, the two outer parts of the collar should join in the middle, fitting comfortably on the dog's neck.

The Martingale collars are available in a variety of sizes, colors, patterns and materials. They are sometimes hard to find in pet stores because most people buy traditional flat collars or chains. You could request your local pet store to order one, but it is probably easier to order one online. Most sites will tell you how to measure your dog's neck and each Martingale is adjustable to fit a variety of sizes.

How Often Should I Give My Dog a Bath?

2012-01-03T11:22:00.001-05:00

Credit: Mikumistock

In days gone by, dog shampoos were very harsh. They stripped the dog's coat of essential oils and dried out the dog's skin. Current dog grooming products are much milder and actually enhance the dog's skin and coat. Using a gentle dog wash allows pet owners to bathe their dog more frequently, even once every week and is actually beneficial to the dog's health.

Following a few simple dog-grooming steps will keep your dog clean and well groomed, putting a spring in his step and a smile on his face.

Grooming
Always brush your dog before applying water or dog shampoo to prevent tangles and mats in the dog's fur. Thorough brushing also removes dead fur, flaking skin, and any sticks, leaves, or burrs that your dog might have picked up outside. If necessary, cut out any mats, especially under the dog's belly and behind the ears.

Apply vegetable oil or mineral oil to any sap, paint, gum, or other sticky substances that are stuck in the dog's fur 24 hours before bathing your dog. This will help wash it off more readily.

Shampoo
Choose a gentle dog shampoo with added skin conditioners and detanglers. Today's pet shampoos actually heal skin allergies, eliminate germs and bacteria, and repel fleas, ticks and biting insects. Tear free dog wash is also available at pet stores and makes your dog bath more enjoyable for both of you. If the dog likes the bath, she won't be afraid to get into the tub on the next bath day.

Supplies
Gather up all the dog bathing supplies before putting your dog into the tub. Have towels, cotton balls, shampoo, a brush if you're using one, and a cup for rinsing, then you’re all set to go.
Fill the tub with warm water and put cotton balls into the dog's ears to prevent water from running into his ear canal. Now it's time to put the dog into the tub. Gently lift him into the tub if he won't jump in on his own. Talk in soothing tones to your dog to keep him calm and wet the dog's coat thoroughly with warm water. Make sure the water reaches all the way to the skin for a complete washing.

Lather
Apply dog soap to the fur and scrub until a lather forms. Wash the dog starting from the back to the front to prevent your dog from shaking too much, saving you from getting a shower, as well. A dog usually only shakes when her head and ears get wet.

After shampooing your dog’s whole body, rinse the coat with clean water. Be sure to rinse all the way to the dog's skin, removing all traces of dog shampoo. Any dog soap left in the coat dries and causes itchy, flaking skin.

Dry
Squeeze out any excess water by running your hand firmly along your dog's body. Cover him with a towel and gently pat dry. Avoid rubbing the dog's fur too much or mats and tangles will form. Use a hair dryer on low heat to completely dry your dog, if she isn't afraid of it. It is fine to let the dog's fur air dry. Take her for a walk if it's warm outside to help the fur dry quicker.

Source: American Kennel Club, New Puppy Handbook, 2009.

Why Does My Cat Urinate When Sleeping?

2011-12-12T10:51:00.000-05:00

Cats that pee in their sleep usually have an underlying problem causing the incontinence. Treatments are available for urinary incontinence in cats.

Reasons Why Cats Pee in Their Sleep

Most cats hold their urine during the day but when they fall asleep, urine seeps out when their muscles relax. This happens most often to aging female cats that were spayed. According to the University of Tennessee, College of Veterinary medicine, the condition is known as “spay incontinence, hormonally-responsive incontinence or urethral sphincter mechanism incompetency”.

Lower urinary tract disease can also cause a cat to urinate in sleep. Overweight cats and middle aged cats that do not get regular exercise are apt to contract urinary tract disease. They urinate often outside the litter box and in their sleep. Veterinarians diagnose urinary tract disease with X-rays, blood tests and an urinalysis. If the tests are positive for urinary tract disease, antibiotics are prescribed to combat the disease.

How to Stop a Cat from Urinating While Asleep

Veterinarians prescribe hormone therapy to female cats that urinate in their sleep. The usual prescription calls for phenylpropanolamine and estrogen hormone replacement. About ½ to ¾ of the treated cats respond positively to the treatment.
Many cats that urinate during sleep undergo surgical correction if hormone therapy is not effective. Surgery is risky and often does not stop the incontinence.
Veterinarians also perform collagen injections to prevent urinary incontinence in cats. They inject collagen into the urethra, which cause it to swell. The swelling puts pressure on the urethra preventing the urine from leaking. Collagen injections are safe and effective but need to be repeated every 18 months.

What to Ask the Vet about Cats Peeing in Their Sleep

Treatment options available.
Risks involved with each procedure and how effective the treatments are. The veterinarian will often recommend a particular treatment depending upon the cat’s health, whether it is a male or a female, or the age of the cat. C
Cost of all medical procedures that treat cat incontinence. If the cat is too old to risk treatment or the cost is prohibitive, try added measures to protect the floor, furniture, and carpeting from cat urine stains.

How to Protect Furniture and Carpeting from Pet Urine

Cat urine smells and stains are difficult to remove. Preventing the cat urine from staining furniture and carpets is the best thing to do. Follow these tips for keeping pet urine stains and odors out of your house.

Keep a sheet of plastic or a waterproof pad under the cat’s bedding to prevent the floors from absorbing urine.
Wash the cat’s bedding daily in an odor fighting enzyme solution that is available at pet stores. Enzyme cleaners remove urine odors completely while other cleaners only mask the smell.
Cover furniture with waterproof covers until the cat is treated for incontinence or keep the cat confined to its own area. It is difficult to contain cats because they jump over gates and high barriers. It may be necessary to have the cat sleep in a crate during the night rather than risk ruining the furniture.

Train Your Dog to Stop Pulling

2011-11-28T17:16:00.000-05:00

Walking on a leash does not come naturally to your dog. Does your dog practically yank you off your feet whenever you take it for a walk? Are you thinking about just putting your dog in the back yard for exercise and giving up walking all together? Do not give up yet. A few loose leash-training tips and your dog will be walking by your side, so you both can enjoy each other’s company. Whether you are a professional dog trainer or an amateur dog owner, all it takes is time and patience for successfully learning how to leash train a dog.

Patience Is the Key to Leash Training

The most important thing you need to leash train your dog is patience. If you are having a bad day or if you are not in the mood to deal with your exuberant dog, put off training for another day.

Get a six-foot long leash for leash training your dog. Choose a leash that is comfortable for your hand, since your dog will be pulling. Avoid leashes that pull out to 15 or 20 feet. Extend-a-leashes make keeping your dog under control too difficult, especially if there are other dogs nearby. Keep the thumb of your right hand through the loop and then drape the rest of the leash through the left hand, giving your dog about two feet of leash from his collar.

Use a clip collar rather than a choke chain or pinch collar. Your dog will learn quicker through positive reinforcement rather than through pain and fear. Your dog will actually enjoy training when you offer treats for positive behavior instead of tugging a choke chain for negative behavior.

Become the Most Important Thing in Your Dog’s Life

The basis of successful loose leash walking is to have your focus only on you. You must become the most exciting thing in your dog’s life. You do this by holding the leash and luring your dog toward you as you back away from him. Have your dog’s favorite treat or toy in your hand and just play with him as he follows you. Your dog will thing it’s playtime instead of training. Be generous with the treats and the praise, using a happy, excited voice.

Start your loose leash training without any type of distractions for your dog. This can be in your backyard or even in the house. When your dog constantly follows you and keeps focusing on you, venture into your neighborhood. If your dog starts pulling you and cannot focus, go back to practicing in your yard again. Stay in the yard with your dog following you until he is doing this 100 percent of the time.

Keep Training Short

As your dog follows you, put him in a sit or down every few minutes. This keeps your dog guessing, so he has to stay focused on you. This is also a great way for you to take a short break, especially if you are losing patience.

After a few seconds of sitting, have your dog follow you again. You will have more control over your dog’s behavior by stopping and having him sit every few minutes.

Keep your training sessions to about 10 or 15 minutes. You want to end the training on a positive note while your dog is having a good time and before he loses focus on you.

Start Your Dog Walking Beside You

Is your dog following you consistently yet? If you answered, “Yes”, then it is time to begin having your dog walk beside you. Follow the same procedure as you did when your dog was following you. Begin in your backyard or in the house, away from all distractions.

With your dog at your side, stand still. Try not to move, even if your dog starts pulling you. This is a difficult thing to do if you have a large dog but try not to move too much. Soon, your dog will figure out that he is not going for a walk and will either stand still and look at your or he will sit.

As soon as your dog sits or looks at you, take a step. Most likely, your dog will get excited and pull again. Immediately stop and stand still again. You have heard the saying, “Patience is a virtue”, well your virtue is about to be tested. Do not take another step until the leash is loose and your dog sits down, even if it takes the entire training period.

Repeat this step repeatedly until your dog understands that you will not take another step until he is beside you. Eventually, your dog will walk beside you in your back yard without pulling. The next test is to go out into the neighborhood and continue training.

No matter what you are training your dog to do, it takes patience and perseverance. If you keep up with your training for a few minutes every day, your dog will be walking calmly beside you whenever you go for a walk.

Resource: dogstardaily.com

Do You Feed Your Dog Too Many Treats?

2011-11-07T09:37:00.000-05:00

Do You Feed Your Dog Too Many Treats?

Personally, I have fed my beagle too many treats in the past. I didn’t even realize I was doing it until he went to his yearly veterinarian visit and I was told that he had to lose at least 10 pounds. For a beagle, this is a lot of weight to lose, especially when he has a ravenous appetite.

Everyone in the family had to cooperate with my beagle’s diet or he would never lose weight. We threw out the dog biscuits and purchased low-calorie dog food developed for dog weight loss. My dog didn’t notice the change of dog food and gobbled it down without a problem. He just did not understand why he was not getting more. I used to fill his dog bowl without measuring his food and when I put him on a diet, he only got two cups of dog food per day. I fed him one cup in the morning and one cup at night.

I began making homemade dog treats and feeding them to Hunter only when he worked either for them, doing a trick or for good behavior. I broke the treats into very small pieces, just enough to let my beagle get a taste. I made dehydrated dog treats out of liver, beef and hamburger. Try making some of my homemade dehydrated dog treats for your dog. Although making dog treats is extra work, dogs love them and you do not have to worry about pet treats recalls.

My beagle’s diet was a huge success and he even got his waistline back! On his next veterinarian appointment, Hunter had lost 12 pounds and he looked great.

Blue Wilderness Salmon Dog Food Review

2011-11-05T13:56:00.002-04:00

Blue Wilderness Salmon is my new choice of dry dog food. My collie loves it and believe me, he is a picky eater. I had him on the Raw Food diet from the time he was a puppy until he was two years old. It became too difficult carrying raw food during the summer when we went camping or on other vacations. In addition, raw food wasn’t convenient if I had to bring my dog to the kennel.
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BLUE Wilderness Salmon

I searched all 100% grain free dog foods and tried Wellness Chicken first. Come to find out, my dog had an allergy to the chicken and ended up losing his fur, developing dry skin and constantly scratching. Once again, I went to the local Petco store and began comparing dog food labels. I read the Blue Wilderness ingredients and it came very close to the raw diet that my collie was used to. I liked the idea of the salmon, blueberry, potatoes and cranberry mixture for a balanced diet. Blue salmon also has fishmeal and chicken meal but the chicken in Blue doesn’t cause the allergic reaction of the Wellness dog food.

It took a couple of weeks to switch him completely to Wilderness dog food, mixing it with his other food so he wouldn’t develop digestive problems. After the two weeks, I fed my dog Blue Wilderness Salmon completely. Within one month, he stopped itching, his fur grew back and his coat is healthy and shiny.

My collie is still a picky eater and probably finishes about three cups of dog food every other day. I know this doesn’t sound like much but the vet said he’s healthy and he sure has the energy of a puppy.

Blue Wilderness Salmon works for my dog but if you are thinking of switching your dog to another dog food, watch for allergic reactions.

Raising a Choodle

2011-08-19T14:00:00.000-04:00

Choodle (allmutt.com)

A Choodle is a Chihuahua and a Toy Poodle mixed-breed dog. These adorable, little dogs are also known as Wapoo, Chipoo, Chi Poo, Poochi or Poo-Chi. Although the AKC does not recognize them as a breed, the Designer Breed Registry lists them as a Choodle or Wapoo. If you want your Choodle to be a good companion dog, you need to understand the both the Toy Poodle and Chihuahua personalities. Teaching your Choodle good manners and basic obedience will give you a loyal and friendly pet.

Read more: How to Raise a Good Choodle | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/how_8665261_raise-good-choodle.html#ixzz1VUx5ThcL

Types of Betta Fish Diseases

2011-08-10T09:39:00.001-04:00

A Healthy Betta Fish

Water Conditions

Many times when a betta fish loses its color, holds its fins close to its body and appears lethargic, it is not a betta fish disease but the water temperature that is the problem. Adjusting the water temperature to 78 to 80 degrees is a simple solution to the problem. If the betta fish does not respond to the correct water temperature, then a betta fish disease is the likely cause of the symptoms. Review caring for betta fish guides to ensure the health of the fish.

Fin and Tail Rot

Betta fish display very interesting features, especially their striking colorful, flowing fins and tails. Unfortunately, fin and tail rot often strike betta fish. The disease is the result of bacteria build-up from infrequent water changes. Leftover food and feces causes stress in bettas and their tails and fins begin to rot.

Jagged, torn fins and tails are symptoms of the disease. Eventually the fins and tail disappear completely and the betta is unable to swim, leading to death. The first thing to do when fin rot appears is to change the water and clean any ornaments or plants with hot water. Fin and tail rot is also contagious, infecting any other fish.

The most common medications for fin and tail rot are Tetracycline and Maracyn. These medications are available at pet stores. Adding about ¼-teaspoon aquarium salt to a one-gallon tank often helps with healing.

Constipation

One of the most common betta fish diseases is constipation. It causes death in betta fish if left untreated. An inappropriate diet of too many bloodworms, not enough variety, or overfeeding leads to betta fish constipation. The symptoms of a constipated betta fish are an enlarged, swollen stomach and little fish waste appears in the tank.

Treatment of betta fish constipation requires no medication but a simple diet change and fasting. To cure betta constipation, do not feed the fish for one to two days. After fasting, feed the betta fish a tiny piece of a peeled pea until the abdominal swelling decreases.

When the betta fish is having normal bowel movements, feed a variety of betta pellets, brine shrimp, and flake food. A couple pellets or flakes in the morning and at night are all betta fish require. Fast the betta fish once per week to allow its system to remain clear and prevent constipation.

Ich

A small parasite causes ich in betta fish. Stress caused by changing water temperature is the most common cause of ich and it is extremely contagious. The symptoms appear as tiny white dots covering the betta’s body. The betta will hold its fins tight to the body, stop eating, and start rubbing against ornaments in the tank.

Treat the entire fish tank if ich is present. Ich is usually fatal but if diagnosed and treated soon enough, it can be cured. Begin treatment by raising the water temperature to 85 degrees and change the water throughout the 14-day treatment period. Coppersafe, Maracide, and Aquarisol are the medications needed to treat ich. Continue the medication for the full two weeks even if the white spots disappear.

References:
Betta Fish Center: Betta Diseases
Healthy Betta: Fish Illness and Cure Information

Wellness Dog Food Review: Which Wellness Dog Food Is Right for Your Dog?

2011-07-22T11:14:00.001-04:00

Wellness is a quality dog food containing natural, nutritious ingredients. Wellness is dedicated to providing pets with optimum nutrition in its simple solution products and core dog food diet. In a 2010 press release outlining Wellness dog food reviews, Dr. Shelly Rubin, the veterinarian used by Oprah for her own dogs, emphasized Wellness dog food as a nutritious pet food that is produced with “quality protein sources, wholesome grains, fruits and vegetables, and carefully chosen Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, with no wheat, corn or soy, and no added artificial flavors, colors or preservatives.”

Wellness Dog Food Company History

The Wellness dog food company was established over 80 years ago with the production of Old Mother Hubbard dog biscuits. Old Mother Hubbard began operations in Gloucester, MA baking sea biscuits for local sailors. After a seaman fed a dog one of the biscuits, the company began producing dog biscuits. Animal nutritionist, Jim Scott purchased the company in 1961, relocated it to Lowell, MA and dedicated the company to producing nutritious dog and cat foods under the trade name, Wellness.

Wellness Dog Food Products

Wellness dog food is available in a variety of products for every stage of your dog’s life, activity levels, dog size, health conditions, and preference for dry or canned dog food. Wellness dog snacks are also included in the product line.

Super 5 Mix – This Wellness dog food diet contains a balance of meat, grains and fruits providing necessary protein, carbs, and fat to your dog’s diet. Probiotics for digestive health, omega 6 and omega 3 are also added to the dog food. Wellness Super 5 Mix is available in these assorted varieties:

Chicken
Lamb, barley and salmon
Whitefish and sweet potato
Healthy weight for overweight dogs
Just for puppy
Seniors
Large breed
Large breed puppy
Small breed

Wellness Core - The grain free product line that focuses on nutritious protein, and reducing fats and excessive carbohydrates. The core diet includes antioxidants, omega 6, and omega 3. It is considered an alternative to the “raw meat” diet, following the natural diet of wolves in the wild.
Wellness Core is available in the following varieties:

Original recipe
Ocean recipe
Reduced fat
Salmon, whitefish and herring
Turkey, chicken, liver and turkey liver

Simple Food Solutions – This dog diet incorporates five ingredients that reduce allergic reactions in dogs including intestinal upset, infections, fur loss, itchiness, and skin problems caused by dog food additives. It is a complete, nutritious dog food diet for daily eating.
Wellness Simple Food Solutions in a variety of flavors:

Rice and duck formula
Rice and lamb formula
Rice and salmon formula

Wellness Snacks – Quality dog snacks are also available from Wellness. The snacks are ideal as training treats for both adult dogs and puppies. All Wellness treats contain healthy ingredients and are available in grain free, soft or crunchy treats, and puppy formula.
Wellness dog food is available at most pet supply stores. The average cost of a 10 lb. bag of Wellness dry dog food is $27 to $30 and Wellness canned food averages $2.50 per can.

Summary

Although this dog food is expensive, Wellness dog food reviews indicate that the entire product line is produced with all natural, human grade ingredients, offering high quality nutrition for all dog breeds. If your dog suffers from allergies or you are looking for a balanced, nutritious dog food for your pet, Wellness dog food is an excellent choice.

Resources:

http://www.wellnesspetfood.com/press_release.aspx?prId=43
http://www.wellnesspetfood.com/dog-wellness.aspx
Image Credit:
Wellness Pet Food
http://www.wellnesspetfood.com/product-details.aspx?pet=dog&pid=68

Australian Cattle Dog Exercise Ideas

2011-03-01T07:42:00.000-05:00

Do you own an active Australian Cattle Dog? The herding instinct in cattle dogs makes them crave exercise. Cattle dogs need a job to do to tire them out in mind and body. Cattle dog training should include not just obedience but physical activities requiring jumping and running. Check out these exercise ideas for cattle dogs.

About Elbow Hygroma in Great Danes

2011-02-26T09:50:00.003-05:00

Great Dane Elbow Hygroma

If your Great Dane has a large, fluid-filled sac on its elbow, it could be an elbow hygroma. The sac actually protects the elbow of giant breed dogs by cushioning the bone.

Read more about how you can prevent your Great Dane's elbow hygroma from splitting or becoming infected.

Mat Work Calms Down Reactive Dogs

2011-02-24T08:03:00.000-05:00

Does your dog react to people entering the house, dogs walking down the street, or children playing outside? Consider training your excited dog to calm down by going to his mat. Read these mat training tips and see how quickly your dog will calm down when you need him to.

Massive Snow Banks a Danger for Pets and Children

2011-02-04T08:40:00.000-05:00

The unrelenting snow has not only reeked havoc for commuters, school attendance, the homeless, and homeowners but for pets, as well. Huge snow banks pose a serious danger to pets and children. Drivers cannot see around corners for people walking their dogs or children playing in the snow.

Find out how you can keep your pets and children safe this winter.

Dog Chiropractor's Really Do Help

2011-02-01T10:05:00.000-05:00

Canine chiropractic services can really help a dog with spine, hip, and rear end problems. A few minor chiropractic adjustments can make all the difference in a dog's gait and comfort.

The reason I believe in canine chiropractic adjustments is that my own dog benefited from two short visits with a chiropractor.

Find out more about the benefits of animal chiropractic services.

Dogs Can Suffer from Alzheimer's Too

2011-02-01T09:59:00.000-05:00

Does your senior dog have symptoms of Alzheimer's? The canine version of Alzheimer's is known as Canine Cognitive Dysfunction. If your dog is afflicted with this disorder, he will display symptoms that are very similar to people with Alzheimer's:

My 16 year old beagle

disorientation
depression
confusion
unable to recognize family members
incontinence
staring at walls
not responding to affection
develop compulsive disorders

If your elderly dog suffers from any of these symptoms, there are a few options for slowing down the affects of Alzheimer's in dogs. Try a few of these doggie games and puzzles that help your dog exercise his brain and slow down brain disfunction.

Canine Good Citizen Award Requirements

2010-09-29T10:05:00.000-04:00

Courtesy of Jon Hurd/Laertes: Flick

Are you training your dog for the AKC Canine Good Citizen test? Here is a summary of the ten tests your dog need to pass to earn the Canine Good Citizen Award.

Start working on each test with your dog for five minutes, two or three times per day and your pet should pass without a problem. Good luck!

Little Lion Dog: The Lowchen

2010-09-02T07:38:00.000-04:00

Lowchen: Little Lion Dog

Have you ever heard of the Lowchen dog breed? The Lowchen is one of the most unusual dog breeds, yet it is a dog your family would love. The Lowchen is a small, friendly dog that looks like a lion when it is groomed with the traditional lion cut.

The Guinness World Book of Records named the Lowchen as the rarest dog breeds in the 1960's but since that time the Little Lion Dog is making a comeback. The Lowchen weighs only 18 pounds and stands around 12 inches tall. This dog is great with kids and has a friendly, positive attitude.

Read more about the Lowchen: Little Lion Dog. The Lowchen could be the dog your family is looking for.

Canine Tapeworms: Symptoms and Treatment

2010-08-17T09:14:00.000-04:00

Tapeworms are disgusting 8 inch worms that attach themselves to the lining of the dog's intestines. Segments break off from the adult tapeworms and carry eggs through the intestines. The egg segments look like white rice that wiggles ontop of the dog poop. Gross...for sure! The white eggs also wiggle around the dog's anus and get onto carpets and floors. Read how you can tell if your dog has tapeworms and what you can do about it.

Wondering Why Your Dog Eats Poop?

2010-08-01T19:47:00.000-04:00

Maybe your dog is looking for attention.

Does your dog eat poop? This is certainly a disgusting habit but your dog might be trying to tell you something when he eats his poop. Maybe your dog is not getting required nutrients or maybe he just wants a little more attention. Find out the reasons why your dog eats poop and what you can do about it. Read more...

How to Do Dog CPR or Cat CPR

2010-07-13T07:37:00.000-04:00

Emergency CPR for dogs, cats, or other pets could make the difference between life and death if you find your pet unconscious and unresponsive. Your loving pet has only minutes to be revived when he stops breathing. Learning pet CPR could save your pet's life. Performing CPR on dogs or cats is basically the same as using CPR on humans.

Rescue breathing and chest compressions carry much needed oxygen to the brain and blood pumping through your pet's heart, preventing brain damage and death. Follow the pet CPR procedure until help arrives or you are able to get your dog to the vet. Learn Emergency Pet CPR and keep your dog or cat safe.

Do Miniature Goats Make Good Pets?

2010-05-07T12:02:00.001-04:00

Have you thought about getting a miniature goat for a pet? They are adorable and don't grow much bigger than a small dog. Not only that, miniature or pygmy goats only cost around $75.00, rather than $700 - $1500 for a dog. Goats are also cheaper than dogs to feed because most of their diet is grass.

Miniature goats need very little space to be comfortable and can also be housebroken. If you've been thinking about getting a miniature goat for a pet, read more about them here. There are many advantages to having a goat for a pet.

How to Prevent Dog Bites

2010-05-06T13:47:00.000-04:00

Millions of people are bitten by dogs every year and many of them are children. Find out how to protect your children from dog bites. Learn how to avoid dog bites, what to do if you are bitten, and what to do if you are attacked by a dog.

Keep your family safe from dog bites. Click here to read more...

Try Dancing with Your Dog

2010-04-08T09:06:00.000-04:00

K9 Freestyle is a fun sport to try with your dog. It involves making up a dance routine and training your dog tricks to incorporate into the dance. Set the routine to music and you're good to go. You can even enter competition freestyle if you want to.

Canine freestyle is an ideal way to bond with your dog. Dog owners of all ages enjoy the sport of canine freestyle. Find out more about dancing with dogs.