Dog Training Tips And Training Guide

Dog Arthritis - What You Need To Know

noreply@blogger.com (nagesh) — Wed, 22 Nov 2017 12:22:00 +0000

Unlike other ailments that can affect your dog such as diarrhea or vomiting, dog arthritis isn't just instantly apparent. It may take years for your dog to develop arthritis and you may not even recognize that the dog has arthritis until it is almost a cripple.

The types of dog arthritis

The type of arthritis that is most generally associated with dogs is called osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease. It is a common condition that will affect one out of every 5 dogs during their lifetimes. And this may surprise you but arthritis isn't a disease that happens to just older dogs. Conditions such as hip dysplasia, patella luxation, joint trauma, ruptured cruciate ligaments and other joint conditions can all cause degenerative arthritis to develop even in young dogs.

A second, less common form of dog arthritis is called infectious arthritis. Tick-borne diseases such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever, canine ehrlichiosis and Lyme disease can all cause dog arthritis. There is also a condition called fungal arthritis but it is a rare complication that comes as the result of a systemic fungal infection.
Finally, there is immune-mediated dog arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis. It sometimes happens to toy breeds and other small breeds at approximately 4 years of age. A condition called nonerosive arthritis can occur in midsize and large-breed dogs at about 5 to 6 years of age. No one knows what causes this form of arthritis.

The symptoms of dog arthritis

You love your dog and are careful to make sure it gets the right diet and plenty of exercise. You should also watch for the signs of arthritis in your canine pal. The most obvious of these are if you notice your dog is favoring one of its limbs or seems to have a problem standing or sitting. Another symptom is if it seems reluctant to jump, run or climb up stairs. The dog may also show signs of stiff or sore joints.

There are some less visible signs that your dog may have arthritis. For example, it may be sleeping more than usual, gain weight, or show a decreased interest in playing. He or she may bark or whine when touched. It may even seem less alert and actually resist your touch.
When your dog may show the most visible signs of arthritis
If your dog develops osteoarthritis, it may show varying degrees of stiffness and lameness that will be more evident in the morning and when the dog gets up from a nap. It may seem irritable and have the kind of behavioral changes you would associate with increasing disability. For example, the dog may show more signs of stiffness or pain on cold or wet days. Unfortunately, osteoarthritis is progressive and over time will make your dog's life miserable.

How dog arthritis is diagnosed
If your dog exhibits the kind of symptoms described above, you can just about be sure that it has dog arthritis. However, x-raying the dog's joints is how your vet will make a definitive diagnosis. If the dog does have osteoarthritis, the x-rays will show bone spurs at points where the ligaments and the joint capsule attach to the bone.

How to keep your dog comfortable

While dog arthritis cannot be cured, there are ways to control it and keep the dog comfortable. Your veterinarian will advise you as to what physical therapy or weight control might help improve your dog's life. He or she may also prescribe analgesics or corticosteroids to relieve the dog's pain.

If your dog is one of five
If your dog is the unlucky one of five that develops arthritis, take heart. There are things you can do to mitigate the effects of dog arthritis and give your dog a better life. Just make sure you get him or her to the vet so that you can get treatment started before your dog becomes seriously crippled.

Make Your Puppy Comfortable with you in Traveling

noreply@blogger.com (nagesh) — Tue, 08 Dec 2015 13:30:00 +0000

Avoid giving a meal just before leaving. Feed your puppy at least 3 hours prior to leaving.

Take the puppy for a walk before leaving. This may help get him to empty his bowels which is also good before a trip with a nervous dog.

Designate a seat for your puppy. A spot where they can see out the window will help. If you have small dogs consider obtaining a dog car booster seat to raise them up to window height.

Covering the area with blanket will provide some comfort & familiarity of home.

If your dog chews a lot, carry bones or chew sticks to help him handle his stress.

During your travels you can also help reduce the anxiety or nervousness by following a few simple tips such as:

Never shout at your puppy should he or she have an accident. This will only increase the anxiety. Speak to your pet in a calm, soft voice.

Avoid overheating the car interior, smoking in the car or excessively loud music. All these things can cause nervousness or nausea.

Offer plenty of breaks. Not just for potty breaks but allow the puppy to stretch his legs, relax.

Cold Weather Tips for Dogs

noreply@blogger.com (nagesh) — Sun, 10 Feb 2013 06:39:00 +0000

February is traditionally one of the coldest months of the year, so we thought we'd share a few tips with you to make sure your furry friends stay safe and cozy until Spring:

When dealing with cold weather, make sure that your pet is never exposed to very low temperatures for too long. Keep the following in mind:

- Never leave a pet in your car during the winter.
- Keep your kitty inside. Cats can freeze in very low temperature weather, or can be exposed to dangerous diseases and situations they wouldn't normally face.
- Don't leave your dog outside in the yard for extended periods.
- Never shave your dog down to the skin during the winter.
- Make sure your pet has a warm place to sleep when at home.
- Puppies, elderly dogs, small dogs, or dogs with very short hair may benefit from a coat or sweater if they will be exposed to cold weather on long walks or outings.

Watch out for kitty- Outdoor cats often hide themselves in car engine compartments or other areas that could pose a danger if you're not paying attention. Banging on your car hood before starting the engine, honking, or otherwise giving a neighborhood cat a chance to escape is recommended during cold weather.

Wipe your paws- It's important to make sure that you wipe down your furry pal after any outdoor time in the snow or ice. In addition to drying your pet and helping to keep them warm, wiping your pet down will help remove salt and harmful chemicals used on roads and sidewalks in the winter. It will also help prevent their paws from cracking or bleeding due to packed snow/ice.

Keep 'em fed- Make sure your pup gets enough food in the winter. Just like humans, dogs will often exert extra energy on long walks in the cold, or play time in the snow. A little extra protein will go a long way towards a happy, healthy pup in the cold weather. Keep an eye on your dog's water dish, as well, to make sure they are getting plenty of hydration, and to ensure their water bowl hasn't frozen if left outside.

Don't let Fido off the leash- Dogs can become lost or disoriented in snowy conditions that impede their sense of smell. If lost, dogs will also often find warm hideaways for shelter that end up trapping them. Make sure you keep your pup close, particularly in a snowstorm.

How To Properly Wash Your Dog

noreply@blogger.com (nagesh) — Tue, 06 Nov 2012 09:41:00 +0000

Before starting the water, make sure you have everything you will need close at hand. This includes dog shampoo, brush, towels, and in some case dog conditioner. The specifications of what type of shampoo and conditioner to use depend on the breed, age, and any illnesses the dog might have, among other things. This is something you should talk to your vet about, if your dog seems to be reacting badly to regular shampoo.

It relaxes your dog to brush his or her coat for a few minute before getting wet. This also makes it easier for you wash your pet's full fur and skin, because it helps prevent it from matting. At this time, you can also check for ticks or any irregularities on the dog's skin that might be of concern.

Make sure your dog is thoroughly soaked before applying shampoos or other concoctions. Be careful not to get shampoo near its eyes. The easiest and most effective approach is to start at the top and work down and backwards, so start with the top of his or her head and then make your way down the back to the tail, and also down the legs. Some areas have thicker fur, so you will need to spend more time working the shampoo all the way through these parts.

Follow the directions on the bottle, of course, but pay attention to your dog's reactions as well. It is unwise to get the inside of a dog's ears wet, because it can lead to ear infections. Your best tactic here is to wipe them out with a warm, damp cloth.

Rinsing is important because if any shampoo dries onto the dog's fur or skin, it will cause itchiness that will be irritating as well as potentially harmful. Run water through your pet's fur until it comes out complete clear, and don't be afraid to use some thumb and finger massage to work out any stubborn bits.

You should lay a towel out on the floor and also over your dog. First, you can get as much of the moisture off of your dog by rubbing, but then you should consider using a hair dryer. Adjust the temperature so that you won't be making your dog too uncomfortable. Small dogs should almost always be dried this way, but big dogs usually only need help from a hair dryer in the winter.

Be sure to brush as you dry, in order to prevent unnecessary tangles. Also dry inside the dog's ears, even if you don't think they are wet. Using your towel for sensitive areas is wiser than poking the hair dryer in your dog's face.

No matter how dry the dog might be, the chances are good that it will shake itself off regardless, so be prepared. If done right, bath time can feel like a luxury for your dog, complete with massage and brushing.

Feeding Fish to Your Dog!

noreply@blogger.com (nagesh) — Fri, 26 Oct 2012 08:28:00 +0000

Feeding fish to our pets can be a great way of providing valuable nutrients. It is, however, a controversial subject. Some pet parents feel that fish have never been a staple of the animal's diet, while others worry about potential contaminants. There are pros and cons when using fish as a protein source.

Whether they are fresh or frozen, whole fish provide adequate nutrition for dogs. In areas that have access to local sources of fish, it can be a readily available source of protein. This can be a nice option for people who are looking to include another variety of meat into their pet's diet. It is important to note the importance of feeding whole fish (blood, guts, bones, internal organs, eyes, and of course, skin), as this is considered a well-rounded nutrient source. Whole fish also provide high levels of Taurine which is a valuable component for cats and it is also an excellent source of omega 3 essential fatty acids.

Some pet guardians feel that it is safe to feed canned fish products. This is a fallacy because canned fish are generally not whole, and certainly not raw. Canned fish have been highly heat processed and contain excessive levels of salt, which is unhealthy for pets. It is always preferable to feed a raw meat source rather than heat processed one.

Natural Treatment for Dog UTI

noreply@blogger.com (nagesh) — Mon, 08 Oct 2012 11:40:00 +0000

Frequent and common occurrences of urinary tract infections, caused by the E. coli bacteria can cause serious complications such as a life threatening kidney infection. Also, your dog may have diabetes which can cause the pH of the urinary tract to become unbalanced creating an unhealthy environment ripe for infection. Kidney and bladder stones can also be the culprit of repeated UTI's. If your dog has repeated infections a health checkup may be needed.

On the other hand, the outcome of treating a urinary tract infection for your dog or cat can be comparable to antibiotics if the UTI is from E. coli. If your dog is obviously in pain a trip to the vet is recommended. However, if you are familiar with past urinary tract issues and the symptoms; trying to urinate more often and in places that he normally doesn't go are present, then maybe it's time to try a natural treatment for dog UTI.

The majority of veterinarians will treat your dog's UTI with antibiotics, and while they have their place in medicine, they are over and unnecessarily used to treat problems that many times can be resolved with a natural treatment. Antibiotics while eradicating the bacteria temporarily does not address the problem causing the repeated UTI's. Repeated UTI's are often caused by diet; lack of fluids, dry food, parasites, even stress.

Many people have found that apple cider vinegar works well. It can inhibit the growth of bacteria and help the symptoms. Like all natural treatments for dog uti, including vitamins, they should be given on a regular basis to prevent and reinforce a healthy urinary tract.

Another popular product is D-mannose, a plant sugar found in cranberries and other fruits. The upper segment of the gastrointestinal tract absorbs the D-mannose which does not elevate blood sugar levels, especially important for diabetics. The E-coli bacteria, the cause of most bladder infections, will connect to the D-mannose instead of the bladder wall, washing itself out with urination and clearing up any and all infection and irritation. For years many people thought it was the acidic property in cranberry juice that was helping bladder infections, but it is the sugar (D-mannose) that aids in removing the bacteria.

If you are not sure of the correct dosage and amounts to give your pets another natural treatment for dog UTI are formulated holistic products available specifically for pets which cover a wide range of remedies from behavior to urinary tract health. Holistic vets use homeopathic remedies such as natural herbs and supplements. The same products that help humans can also be used for your dog. Supplements such as garlic, Echinacea, vitamin C, Uva Ursi and Yarrow used in conjunction can clear and maintain the urinary tract.

Different Barks of Your Dog

noreply@blogger.com (nagesh) — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 09:15:00 +0000

Anybody who owns a dog knows that dogs do not bark for just one reason only. They bark for different reasons. They bark out of excitement. They bark out of boredom. They bark when they sense danger. They bark when they are anxious about something. It is important that you understand these types of barks. This tells you what you are up against and whether you should be concerned or not.

Boredom Barking

This type of barking can be very irritating. It serves no purpose either in the short or long term. It only disturbs those that are within hearing distance. If your dog is bored, the best thing is to do something about that boredom. It might turn out to be a nightmare, if you choose not to.

You might opt to walk your dog in the park or spend time playing with him on the lawn. You can even give him a toy to chew on. Keeping your dog mentally or physically occupied keeps him quiet eventually.

Cheerful Barking

These are usually brief, shrill barks that do not usually last long. This is the type of barking you hear, when you return from work or are about to serve your dog some food. This barking shows your dog is in a happy mind state. However, having to put up with this racket may not make your grouchy neighbor too happy.

There are quick-fire ways to resolve this problem. If your dog barks, when you return from work, ignore him until he keeps it down. Ask him to take a sitting position and give him a nice rub when he does. When he adopts a non-barking stance, make sure it is always rewarded. If he is happily barking because he is about to get some food, refuse to serve him any grub until he quiets down.

Aggressive Barking

This bark is usually a low-slung bark which signifies that a dog is trying to intimidate an unfamiliar face. And as that person gets closer, the bark which might have started with some growling becomes faster and more intense.

This is what a dog is meant to do, to warn his owner about impending strangers. So there is no need stopping your dog from performing his duty with this one. You can tell him to keep it low, only when you have established who he is barking at. Do not forget to give him a pat on the head for a job well done.

Anxiety Barking

Dogs like these bark with a high pitch, almost in a screaming type fashion. A dog that barks in this manner needs to be calmed down. Dog obedience must be reinforced and whatever seems to make him anxious needs to be addressed. If it is not, he will never conquer his anxiety barking.

Train your dog to deal with things that cause him anxiety.

Dress Your Dog

noreply@blogger.com (nagesh) — Tue, 28 Aug 2012 04:14:00 +0000

Dress Your Dog!

Let's first consider your dog's personality before we discuss the array of dog apparel available for him or her to try.

Sociable, playful dog that enjoys getting attention

Most dogs love attention from their owners but some will lap up any attention coming from anyone. Dogs can sense when they are liked and they will be able to sense how liked they are when they are wearing certain outfits. In this regard they are no different from most people. So if your dog is a female, go girly and allow her to strut her stuff in a designer dog dress and some jewelry. But then not all female dogs are girly (at least not in the human sense of the word), so you could try playing it safe by getting some nice sweaters in pinks and lilacs. Get a nice coat that is not too heavy to walk around in, swap the leather collar for a beaded dog collar. When you factor in the playful nature of your dog then you need to make sure that the material can withstand the rough and tumble games she might love playing with you.

Shy dog who loves giving attention more

A dog is man's best friend and some dogs are more into being loyal than others. Although they might enjoy a bit of frolicking now and then, they are mostly concerned with keeping their master safe, happy and love being appreciated. These are dogs who will love long extended walks with their masters not just because they themselves need the exercise but because they love the outdoors and making the most of the time they get with their owner. If your dog loves the outdoors, doesn't care much for attention from clothes but from yourself, then he should be dressed in clothing that will protect him from the cold, will not restrict movement and is made of material that doesn't tear or fray easily. A Cotton Sweater, dog hoodie, rain slicker and a dog coat are just some of the clothes you could get for a dog who appreciates practicality.

The examples above are an oversimplification of course but they are meant to give you an idea of how to go about shopping for dog clothes for your special pet.

Symptoms of Dogs Stomach Upset

noreply@blogger.com (nagesh) — Mon, 06 Aug 2012 10:21:00 +0000

Dogs, just like people, can face any kind of stomach disorder. What do you need to do in order to get rid of stomach disorder of your dog? Let's discuss it in detail.

Symptoms of Upset Stomach

Dogs get an upset stomach due to several reasons that can range from eating too fast to an obstruction in their intestines. Here are some of the most common symptoms of an upset tummy:

Dry-heaving
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Gas
Pain in the stomach area
Biting
Avoid eating
Eating grass
Bloating
Being lethargic
Fever
Thirst

Any or all of these can cause problems. It's important to determine if stomach is upset merely from eating something that didn't agree with your dog's stomach or if it's something serious that must be treated immediately.

Causes of Upset Stomach

Most of the times, your dog comes down with a troublesome tummy. Dogs may be allergic to the food they are eating, eat too fast, or eat too much. It's also common for dogs to eat things they shouldn't like coins, string, balls, food wrappers, etc.

Stress is another issue that can cause a sensitive pet to get sick. Something like a trip to the vet's office can cause a nervous pooch can cause them stomach disorder. Or, your pet may be prone to getting carsick.

Any of these issues can cause stomach upset in your pet. A few more possible causes are:

Changes made in a dog's diet
Parasites like worms
Stale food
Injury to the stomach
Serious Stomach Issues

How can you know if your dog's stomach upset is something serious or life threatening? If your dog is throwing up and the vomit contains blood, then it may be something like an obstruction that must be dealt with as soon as possible to save your pet's life. If it has swallowed something like a ball, then it won't pass all the way through his intestines and if it isn't surgically removed, it will eventually cause infection or worse and your dog could die.

Additionally, if your dog ate something poisonous, it's a drastic measure to get it to the vet for treatment. Be sure to keep anything like insect poison, rat poison, etc out of your dog's reach.

There are also diseases or other medical conditions that cause upset stomachs that are very serious such as parvo, stomach ulcers, pancreatitis, or a twisted stomach. These things must be treated by your veterinarian quickly to help your pet.

Treatment for Upset Stomach in Dogs

If the cause of your dog's upset stomach is not something serious, your vet will probably tell you to rest your dog's stomach for 24 hours and don't feed him in order to let his stomach calm itself. But make sure he still has plenty of fresh clean water. Some dogs prefer ice chips when they don't feel good and this is also an alternative to ensure he is getting enough liquids while he is sick. You can even try something like Gator-aide to get some electrolytes back into his system.

After 24 hours, try feeding your dog something bland such as plain white rice mixed with plain cooked chicken, and if he doesn't throw up, then you can gradually get him back to eating normally again.

Your vet may also give you other instructions to help your queasy pet feel better by telling you to give him something like Pepto-Bismol. However, don't just try to make him drink a bowl of it! You must let your veterinarian prescribe the correct dosage.

Adding some plain yogurt to your dog's food can get some healthy pro-biotic bacteria into his system, which may work to settle his stomach as well.

Monitoring is Important

It's important to monitor the situation to make sure things aren't getting worse, so be sure to pay attention to your dog's condition. If the above measures aren't working, your vet may have to intervene. For instance, sometimes upset stomach and throwing up means your dog has an infestation of parasites like round worms and must be treated accordingly.

The bottom line is, when our pet gets an upset stomach it could be anything as simple as eating something bad or something more serious. We need to monitor them and help them.

How To Stop A Puppy From Chewing Your Furniture

noreply@blogger.com (nagesh) — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 14:17:00 +0000

Puppies are adorable. But outside their cute facade, they can be very annoying and they can start chewing on things at home. One of the basic dog training tips that pet owners should learn to master is how to keep the cute little pups from chewing away furniture and other stuff at home. Yes, as much we love our pet, we do not want them ruining our personal belongings and chewing away our expensive fixtures. If you have puppies at home and you want to know how to stop them from chewing your furniture, here are a few tips:

Identify The Reasons For Your Dog's Chewing Problems
Dogs chew on furniture for variety of reasons. Your dog can show a number of bad dog behaviors when he is curious, fearful, hungry and lonely. When your dog is bored or teething he can start chewing stuff at home too. Identifying the reason for the chewing behavior of your pup will help you come up with the perfect plan to stop his inappropriate chewing.

When You're Away Designate A Special Place For Your Pup
Think of a space at your home, where your pet can be restricted and away from all furnishings when you are not around to supervise. Boredom can cause your dog to chew on things at home. Remember that puppies are lively and they are full of energy and they can take it out on just about anything when their owners are away.

Teething Remedies
Teething problems are common for puppies. During teething, dogs chew on toys and furniture because they want to alleviate the pain they are feeling. If you suspect that your puppy is teething, do not give your dog objects to chew on that are similar to objects that you do not want him to chew on like a piece of wood or leather. Instead of giving wood or cloth, your pup will certainly appreciate puppy teething rings, frozen dog treats and hard rubber balls. However, if you suspect your dog has a dental disease, immediately take your dog to the veterinarian.

Give Your Dog Proper Diet
To manage inappropriate chewing, you can also provide your dog with the proper nutrition and diet that he needs. If your dog is not receiving proper nutrition, he might look for what is missing in his diet and chew on inappropriate objects like your living room fixtures. Moreover, if a dog is restricted to soft food diet, he may resort to chewing on household objects to alleviate cravings and to stimulate healthy teeth and gums.

Dog Obedience Training
If you want your dog to listen to you, you need to be patient and allot some time teaching him to obey. Training your dog can also create a strong bond between you and your puppy. In dog training, you can control bad dog behaviors like dog biting and inappropriate dog jumping. Just be firm but fair. During training, you can take your dog to his favorite fixture around the house and bring several appropriate toys to chew on. Every time your dog comes near the good toys and ignores the furniture, reward him. However, if your puppy went to the wrong item, you can firmly add a "NO" directive to your training. Aside from the "No" command you can use other alternatives like "Leave It" or "Stop". It is also important not to reprimand your dog if you don't actually catch him in the act of chewing the furniture because it will only confuse the pup.

Owning a puppy is like having a kid or a toddler at home. They can be lovely and at the same time be mischievous. As a dog owner, you need to control your dog's inappropriate chewing habit by being consistent in the above training methods. Lastly, be patient because your puppy's chewing problem is not permanent.

Is Your Dog Itchy?

noreply@blogger.com (nagesh) — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 15:55:00 +0000

Is your dog itchy? Suffering from itchy skin and constantly scratching. Natural Remedies could be the answer. Natural remedies and herbal treatments can offer a gentle, non invasive solution to this problematic condition.

Dogs with itchy skin are one of the most common complaints vets will see in their clinics. There are different reasons though that your dog is itchy and it is important to know why and what is causing the problem. You can then of course tackle the problem with more information.

There are usually 4 main reasons for a dogs itchy skin and they are:

Allergies-these can be inhalants such as pollen and grasses. Symptoms usually show up in the form of itchy feet. Your dog will be constantly chewing and scratching.
Flea allergy- this is usually seen on the back of the dog and above the tail region
Food allergies-again seen in itchy feet or on the face. Beef & dairy are common food allergies for dogs
Scabies or mites. These are highly contagious and need to be treated by your vet to prevent infection and spreading.

When you know what is causing the problem you can then look to natural remedies to see what is available. Nature has of course provided some very helpful herbs which can make a huge difference to your dogs itchy skin.

Herbs can help with minor dog skin problems and help you get the best dog grooming results. A dog's outward appearance is an indication of its internal well being and health condition. Most skin treatments are applied externally to the skin while ignoring the internal state of health. Herbs work inwardly by restoring, strengthening and nourishing the whole body and therefore help create a naturally glossy coat and healthy skin. If your dog is itchy you can start by boosting his immune system. Herbs such as Rosehips, kelp and garlic are great for general well being.

Herbs provide essential vitamins and minerals
Can deter natural nuisance insects and fleas
Soothe minor skin irritations
Enhance the digestive system
Desensitises nervous behaviour due to itching

Herbs can also help to soothe and de-sensitise the nervous system if an allergy is causing your dog to be itchy. Herbs such as chamomile and vervain are nervine herbs and are wonderful for soothing anxious itchy behaviour. With allergies there is often an overactive nervous system so by soothing it you are helping with the symptoms.

Natural anti-histamines such as horseradish are also great for itchy allergies in your dog and will help soothe any nasal drip and sinus issues. Marshmallow is great for mucous buildup and garlic will act as a natural antibiotic in case of infection.

Whenever there is the question "is my dog itchy?" always remember to work out what is causing the problem first then looking at what herbal remedies may be worth a try. Unfortunately often with vet medicines there can be side effects such as with prednisone so why not try something natural and help your dogs to live a longer, happier life.

Where should I get my dog

noreply@blogger.com (nagesh) — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 16:56:00 +0000

If you decide you want to get a pure breed dog then find the best breeder you can, one who does health certifications, belongs to their National Breed Club and sells their dogs with a written contract and health guarantee. Ironically, a well-bred purebred dog is often less expensive than those sold in stores. Never, ever buy a dog from a pet store! All those puppies come from puppy mills. If you aren't familiar with "puppy mills" just Google the term and read about the horrible conditions in which these dogs live. No matter what they tell you, no ethical breeder would ever sell pups to a store. In fact, it is cause for dismissal from the National Breed clubs. Likewise with the internet. Buyer beware! There are hundreds of websites with pictures of cute puppies next to flowers or with ribbons in their hair when the reality is that they were born in a horrible puppy mill type situation. Research your breeder and go to visit if at all possible. To find a quality breeder start by looking for the breeder club of the state you live in and you can use the link provided above for the AKC.

You may pay a little more but its worth it to get a dog that is properly bred, is healthy and has the correct temperament of that breed.

If you can't afford or don't care about having a quality purebred pup you will be just as well off adopting a dog from a local shelter.

There are many dogs available at rescue facilities that can be a good companion for you. National Breed Clubs also sponsor the rescue of their own breeds so they can point you in the direction of a purebred rescue. There are frequently purebred dogs at shelters, through no fault of their own, but the result of someone NOT doing their homework and buying the wrong breed for their lifestyle and then discover that breed just isn't a good fit for them. Some of these dogs will be mixed breeds, so by reviewing the various breeds you will get a better understanding of what the dog may be mixed with to determine if it might be a good fit.

This will be a new member of your family and you should take the time to find just the right one. You will be rewarded with many years of loyalty and unconditional love.

Spot Arthritis in Your Dog

noreply@blogger.com (nagesh) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 16:22:00 +0000

Arthritis is a common complaint in older adults, but you might be surprised to discover that it is equally common among our four legged friends. Yes, one in five dogs will develop arthritis at some point in their lives. Just as with humans, arthritis can cause sever discomfort and difficulty with movement in your pet. There are some common signs of arthritis to be aware of. Of course recognizing the signs is just the beginning. Developing healthy routines for your arthritic dog, and working with your vet finding ways to alleviate his pain will also be important.

Arthritis is a degenerative condition in dogs that affects their joints. Arthritis can be caused by a number of factors. Some conditions such as hip dysplasia can be genetic. Other factors that can contribute to arthritis in old, and even some young dogs includes joint trauma and ruptured ligaments. Degenerative arthritis simply means that as your dog ages his arthritis will continue to worsen. There are ways to help slow this process for your pet.

In his early years, your dog may be very energetic. Enthusiastic play, although normal and fun for your dog can lead to damage in your pet's joints. As he ages, there will be signs that indicate your dog is suffering from arthritis pain. It is crucial that pet owners are aware of the signs so that they can take steps to treat their beloved dog. These signs may include difficulty sitting or standing, joint stiffness which leads to slow movement, weight gain, difficulty climbing or descending stairs, lack of enthusiasm for playing, or changes in temperament. These signs may not all occur at once, but if you notice two or more of these symptoms it may be time to visit the vet and have your dog evaluated for arthritis.

Although degenerative arthritis is incurable, there are things that pet owners can do to slow the process and relieve discomfort for their dogs. One important step is weight management. Overweight dogs have added stress to their joints and ligaments. Reducing your dog's weight can lessen this stress and pain. Physical therapies that may help to relieve arthritis symptoms include swimming and walking. Be careful when planning exercise routines for your pet that too much of a good thing can lead to more pain. Dogs with arthritis should not jump or stand on their hind legs, as this could lead to more stiffness and pain. Also, a good bed with plenty of support can also relieve the stress on a dog's joints.

Your home is also your pet's home

noreply@blogger.com (nagesh) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 17:23:00 +0000

Your home is also your pet's home. It is important to provide a happy space that provides stimulation, relaxation, and comfort for your pet. After all your pet is part of the family!

Adopting a pet is a wonderful experience, but it is a responsibility not to be taken lightly. Before adopting a pet you have to make sure that you have the time, space, and the means to provide for a pet. One of the biggest mistakes people make is thinking they can keep their home exactly the way it is, meaning meant for humans, and not provide the space that is necessary for their incoming pets.

Yes you must provide the basics like food and water. What about stimulation and security? Cats for example are natural jumpers and climbers. You may not want to offer your couch over as a scratching post so you will need to provide them an alternative. Cat trees are a great alternative to your furniture. They provide a place for your cat(s) to scratch and climb. The taller your tree is, the better!

Cats are big time observers. They want to scope out the scene. Providing the cat tree will allow them to get an overview of their surroundings. If you are able to place it by a window that would be perfect. (Make sure that the window is safe and will never allow for your cat to sneak out or worst of all, FALL! Another alternative to cat trees, are cat shelves. Cat shelves give you more freedom to place around the house where it may be easier for you to place a spot for your cat to look out a window. But remember the cat tree is vital! Cats need something to scratch!

Dog's also need more than you think. They also need the normal food and water, but they also need some stimulation and exercise. They need toys, walks, and lot's of play time!

Pets are an absolute joy to have in your life. You just have to remember that you are also part of their life.

The most important thing to think about is that pets were not originally put on earth to live in the protective environment of our homes and in our care. They need to be given that option of feeling like they are in their natural environment. The happier they are, the happier you will be!

Pet Therapy - Improving the Quality of Life

noreply@blogger.com (nagesh) — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 08:15:00 +0000

How does this happen? Dogs in particular provide these benefits for their human families:

Reduced stress and lower blood pressure- Health Behavior News Service reports that, when conducting a stressful task, people actually experience less stress when their pets are with them, compared to when a supportive friend or spouse is nearby.

Increased amount of exercise - Because dogs need exercise, dog owners participate in more physical activity than non-dog owners.

Enhanced social interaction - Dogs have a funny way of bringing people together. Dog lovers are not shy when approaching another person with a dog. This facilitates social interaction between people and between people and dogs. One study even shows that wheelchair users, when accompanied by a dog, experience more positive social interactions with strangers.

Overall wellbeing - People benefit largely from the unconditional love and companionship pets provide. A person feels needed, loved, appreciated, and less lonely. A St. Louis University Medical Center study done in a nursing home noticed that residents who had scored high on a loneliness scale said they wanted to receive weekly one-on-one visits from dogs. After six weeks, these residents experienced a significant decrease in their loneliness.

Pet ownership is a big responsibility and is not necessarily for everyone. The cost and care of having a pet should be considered before bringing home a new four-legged family member. However, the benefits of owning a dog, or any pet, can far outweigh the drawbacks and elevate the overall health of its owner.

Know More About Dog Skin Rashes & Allergies

noreply@blogger.com (nagesh) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 16:50:00 +0000

Our pets are important to us, so knowing a little bit about dog skin allergies should be important to you as well, as this can be a major source of discomfort for your best animal friend, even without you being aware of it. It's our job to make sure our animals are healthy and happy!

So just like humans, dogs get allergies and have allergic reactions to things as well. They experience the same irritation and have the same desire to itch and scratch, and some studies have shown that one in seven dogs actually may have quite severe allergies, in fact.

Be aware though, that it isn't just allergies that cause skin issues in dogs. There are also environmental and physical conditions like hot spots or ulcers caused by compulsive like, as well as parasites, bacteria, fungi, and viruses that can created underlying damage to tissue that cause dogs to scratch at the areas affected.

It's particularly useful to understand what hot spots are, because what began as an allergy can quickly turn into one if you are not careful. Essentially, these hot spots are rashy areas on a dog that became infected after the dog bit or chewed on it, and the infection spread as pus got caught in the dog's fur.

Fleas and ticks often irritate your dog, too, and their little bites can be mistaken for the presence of an allergic reaction. These little critters can come from other animals, from new environments that your pets visit, or from adventures out into the woods or out to a park to get some exercise and some air.

Hair loss or excessive shedding is a symptom that something is wrong in your dog as well, and may either accompany an allergic reaction or may be a side effect of something more severe, so make sure to check for other signs and look closely at the situation at hand before making further decisions.

Treatment for allergies and other skin conditions varies, but may include shaving the affected area and applying creams or ointments, the use of antibiotics, and shampooing the dog thoroughly to get rid of any dirt of potential allergens in the dog's coat, as well as making it so that you can see everything on the skin clearly.

So if you can tell that you dog has irritated skin from something, do some quick checking to see if it is an allergy of some sort and then look up dog skin allergies to determine what your best course of action is. If you are unsure about anything, call you local vet and they will step you through the process of making sure your pooch gets better quickly.

Build a Relationship With Your Dog

noreply@blogger.com (nagesh) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 17:35:00 +0000

How to build a good relationship with my dog? Pets secure us, they ground us emotionally. Coming home after a stressful day of work, it's nice to know that someone still loves me. I want to help keep that going, keep the love coming from both myself and my dog. But how can I show him how much I care? How do I keep this relationship healthy and helpful for both of us?

To start with, I include my dog in my life as much as I can. He sleeps in the same room as me, and his cage is in the kitchen where is the majority of life happens in my home. By keeping him a part of my life, I let him know that he's important to me and that I care. I'm receptive to his wants, and he can see me and know that I'm around.

After a day at work, I spend time with him so we can bond. We play games, I take him for a walk so we can get some exercise, and he even watches TV with me. Again, I'm keeping him part of my life: physical and emotional contact goes a long way to keeping him happy and receptive; the contact is good for me as well, acting as emotional therapy and a good way to relax and ease the stress from my mind.

Proper diet is good for the soul, and proper diet for him is no different: I make sure that we both eat well, according to our needs. He eats a raw diet, and I always make sure he isn't hungry. More important than that, I make sure he always has cold water. Dogs can't regulate their body temperature as well as humans, so proper hydration is even more important for him than it is for me.

Our relationship needs all of the above to foster and grow: as I become a part of his life, something he associates with good feelings, so he becomes a part of mine, each the other's world entire. It's helpful for me and helpful for him: as he feels better, he reciprocates the love to me and helps me through hard times. There's nothing better than coming home from a hard day at work and having someone who truly, more than anything else, loves you, run at you as you close the door to kiss you.

How to Help an Anxious Dog Cope With Visitors

noreply@blogger.com (nagesh) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 23:47:00 +0000

An unexpected visitor can be a big source of anxiety in dogs, so having a well thought out plan of action is essential to help your dog cope and allow you to enjoy your visitors.

You may already be aware of what kinds of people trigger your dog's anxiety. Dogs can feel anxious around specific groups of people such as children or men or may have a generalized fear of all strangers. Being aware of what triggers your dogs anxiety will make it easier for you to know when to take action, so keep a careful note of when they get anxious and look for the patterns.

What are the Dog Anxiety Symptoms to Watch Out For?

An anxious dog may react to a visitor by acting shy or scared, for instance staying close to you or standing behind you. They may also cower under furniture or even go into hiding.

At the other end of the scale, an anxious dog can react to visitors with nervous aggression and bark loudly or even try to snap at them or bite them, so be aware of what dog anxiety symptoms your dog is likely to show.

Create an Action Plan to Help Your Anxious Dog

While having visitors around can be hard on your dog, it's not possible to keep everyone away from your front door and life would be a bit dull if you had to!

If you know you have visitors coming, prepare in advance for it as not having to rush around at the last-minute will keep everything calm and you will avoid triggering your dog's anxiety before your visitors even arrive.

It may be sensible to put your dog in a separate room for the duration of the visit, so make sure they will be comfortable and have bedding, access to water and perhaps a favourite indestructible chew toy. Using a dog crate may also help give your dog a sense of security.

Be calm and positive with your dog when you put them into the room so that they don't get the sense they have done something wrong.

If visitors arrive unexpectedly have a room you can pop them in quickly and when you've let your visitors in, ask them to give you a few minutes to sort your dog out so they are comfortable.

Dealing With Dog Anxiety during the Visit

It is best to ignore your dog if they start whining or barking because they are in a different room from you, because if you go to them every time they make a noise, it will only encourage them to do it more. They should settle after a while and it is much better to check on them when they are quiet.

It is important that you don't shout at your dog or get cross with them if they do bark or start whining as this will only increase their anxiety.

If you want to bring your dog in to the same room as your visitors, wait until they are calm and then bring them in on a lead so that you stay in control of the situation.

To make sure it is a positive experience for your dog which encourages them to be more confident, enlist the help of your visitors. Ask them not to look your dog directly in the eye as this will be seen as a challenge. It may also help if your visitors know not to make any sudden movements or loud noises.

Arming your visitors with treats can also be very positive, but don't expect your dog to take the treats direct from their hand as they may not be bold enough to do that. Instead they could drop the treat close to your dog and let the dog make the first move.

Getting Rid of Anxiety in Dogs

By slowly introducing your dog to visitors and always making it a positive experience your dog should gradually gain more confidence.

It is important that you are very patient and let them progress at their own pace. Watch your dog carefully so that you can remove them from a situation as soon as you see them start to act anxiously and eventually you may be able to get rid of dog anxiety completely.

Make sure your dog get enough exercise

noreply@blogger.com (nagesh) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 16:59:00 +0000

Most of us think of exercise as physical; staying strong, heart healthy, keeping weight down... What we don't really think about is how exercise, or the lack of exercise, can affect dog behavior! I love to say " A tired dog is a good dog!"

Very often I hear people complain that their dog is "spiteful." There is no such thing as a spiteful dog. If you find your couch chewed up your first reaction should be "What happened to you to create such anxiety?" When your dog has excess energy, which creates stress, it WILL be spent. Whether this energy is spent in destructive behavior (couch, shoe, or wall chewing) or constructively depends entirely on YOU!!

A lack of exercise causes anxiety and stress. Destructive behavior is one consequence of a dog who has not had enough exercise. Anxiety can be expressed by destructive behavior or self-mutilation. Very often people will come home to find that their dog has chewed a big hole in his coat or has licked a paw until it is raw and bleeding.

Hot spots can also be caused by stress. When you see a hot spot, the first questions you should ask yourself are "Could this have been caused by anxiety or stress? Is this stress or anxiety caused by a lack of exercise?"

Every dog, especially young dogs, will be better able to pay attention to you and work with you when they are not suffering from too much pent-up energy. Do you know what it feels like to be restless or feel a little hyper, like you just have to move? Well, when YOU feel that way, you do something. When your dog feels that way, he has to wait and hope that you will notice his NEED for exercise and provide an appropriate outlet.

If you are leaving your dog for any amount of time, it is your responsibility to make sure that she has had enough exercise that she will be content to wait calmly until you return home. Every dog is different, some dogs need a lot more exercise than others.

Some of the things you can do to make sure your dog (and you) get enough exercise are:

Daily walks

Training in Obedience, Agility or Rally

Playing Fetch

Swimming

Running (not on concrete) more...

Play Sessions With Dog Friends

For those of you thinking of bringing home a puppy or a rescue dog, keep in mind the exercise requirements for the specific breed you are thinking of. If you have an All-American (mixed breed), take a guess at what breeds are there. Think about the characteristics of those breeds and if the exercise requirements of the dog are compatible with your family and lifestyle.

Exercise is important for the emotional and mental health of your dog as well as physical wellness. Appropriate exercise should be part of your daily routine to keep your whole dog healthy and happy. It will also strengthen the bond between you and your dog! Playing with your dog will help reduce your stress too!! Have fun with your dog, you'll both feel better!

Indoor Gates For Puppy

noreply@blogger.com (nagesh) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 16:09:00 +0000

Puppy owners will often times want to make sure their Puppy is safe, no matter where they are in the home. Even if a family has a dog that is usually outside, there are going to be cold nights where the dog will want to be inside, and a well-trained dog is a nice companion to have indoors. However, when the Puppy is in the home, there might be a few places where they might get hurt or they might not be allowed, and for those cases there are indoor gates. Many different gates are available to the general public, and narrowing down the choices can be something worth considering, especially since it's really easy to buy an option on impulse and then have to return alternatives that don't work in the long run. Before you invest in anything, consider the following quick tips to help in the purchasing.

Size - The very first thing that you need to consider is the size. Before you go to the store or even shop online, it will benefit you greatly to measure the distance between the posts that you are going to place your new purchase between. Most options are standard, with openings being around 32 inches in length, it's important to get a gate that is no less than that length, with few exceptions. There are exceptions, which may prompt some people to purchase either larger, smaller, or adjustable options that will assist in the installation process. You'll want to make sure that upon purchasing, the fit is snug and tight on the frames, because without the proper fit, a dog can rush right through indoor gates with ease.

Materials - There are a few materials that make up gates of this type. Many are hybrid versions with wire and wood options being most prominent. However, there are several choices that come in either all wood or all wire, and as an alternative there are plastic options as well. You'll have to consider which option fits the visual aesthetics of your home and functions well. If you can't find one that fits the overall décor, you can always paint it to fit your interior design scheme, if that's something you're concerned with.

Weight - The reason you want to look at the weight of the selections available is mainly because you might want to move the gate from time to time. This is especially true if you put your new door or gate near some stairs and need to get by, or you decide you don't necessarily want that area covered any longer. There are a variety of reasons why you would want to move a gate, and if it's too heavy to transport, it can become a problem when it's time to move. Furthermore, in emergency situations, you'll want to ensure that you're able to swiftly move past the gate and move to safety with relative ease.

Whatever you do, make sure that you take your time when searching for indoor gates for your Puppy. If you take your time, you will end up making the right choice for your overall needs.

Dog Treadmill Training

noreply@blogger.com (nagesh) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 15:47:00 +0000

Training your dog to use and enjoy his or her dog treadmill is easy and straightforward, but does involve some patience on your part.

Getting Your Dog On The Treadmill

Start practice with the treadmill in the off point. Bring your dog over to the treadmill and let them sniff and feel out the machine at their convenience. Once they seem at ease, walk onto and off of the treadmill with them many (at least three) times. Delay for slightly longer each time, to make your pup realize that this is just a piece of furniture and nothing to fear. If your pup is very uncertain to follow you onto the gadget, you can use a treat to coax them forward. Simply lead them onto the treadmill with the gift and relinquish it while they have all four paws on-board. Duplicate this routine until your dog is comfortable staying on the non-moving treadmill.

Walking

Once you can get to the point that your canine will stand on the treadmill without jumping out, get them on the treadmill and then start the belt at it's slowest speed. While doing this hold your canine (or his leash) and encourage them to walk. They are likely to be unsettled at first, but do your best to keep them on the treadmill, not letting them off until they are composedly walking for 10 seconds or so. As soon as you have 10 seconds of success, praise and treat the dog, then let them off.

Take a break for a few minutes, doing another fun activity such as playing fetch or even giving your dog a belly rub. Anything they enjoy!

Now repeat the entire procedure, this time for a 20 second treadmill walk. Keep incrementally increasing the time until the pup is relaxed walking for a few minutes at a time.

Jogging

If you have your pup agreeably pacing at a slow pace for several minutes, the hard part is over! Now simply raise the speed gradually to a pace where your canine is comfortably jogging. You can encourage them by standing in front of the treadmill and praising.

As the days go by, it might help to keep a journal of the current speed and range, so you are sure to increment either determinant steadily. Just like for human runners and walkers, going too far or too fast when your muscles are not used to it can result in injury.

Things to Remember

Never leave your canine all alone on the dog treadmill!

Take your time. If your dog is really uncertain about the experience, go extremely slowly and make sure they are as comfortable as possible before you move on to the next step.

How Dog Socialization Can Prevent Dog Aggression

noreply@blogger.com (nagesh) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 17:36:00 +0000

Dog socialization is really important for the owner, the canine itself and the people and dogs around it. Being a social creature, your canine will enjoy spending time with other dogs or other people who will let the canine feel that he is special.

Teaching a canine how to react to new dogs around it can train it to be less aggressive. It is for the benefit of the canine to be well trained so that he or she behaves well amongst both other dog owners and their dogs.

Here are some dog socialization tips that you, the owner must do in order for your canine to be good around other animals as well as human beings which will stop Dog Aggression.

Every morning or late in the afternoon you must walk your canine around your neighborhood, at the park, at the beach or places where there will be many people and animals around.

Train him to be calm and not aggressive when friends or acquaintances visit.

Reward your canine with some food for good behavior and ignore him when he is misbehaving.

When you are outside walking or running with your canine you must show him that you are the one in command. It is equally important that the canine knows that it will always follow your command at all times.

Teach your canine how to react with other animals that are considered to be strangers

Training your canine with good dog socialization entails lots of patience and hard work.

Good dog socialization will certainly mean less dog aggression, and less problems on the part of the owner as well as the canine itself. Once a canine is trained properly, the training will remain with it for the rest of its life.

A dog that has excellent dog socialization will really enjoy playing with other dogs, even strangers. And the canine likewise will enjoy being around people he doesn't know. The canine will like to play and being around people it has not met before.

There is a saying that your canine is your best friend and this is true especially when you take your dog walking. Thus bringing your canine at the park, at the market or anywhere else is certainly a great way of training your canine socially.

Dog Training Tips For Socializing

noreply@blogger.com (nagesh) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 17:14:00 +0000

Socialization plays an important role in teaching dogs how to interact peacefully with others. It exposes them to a variety of animals and people with the goal of increasing their comfort around them. Socializing your canine will also help him to acclimate more quickly to different environments and circumstances. As a result, your pet will become more willing to venture into new places and meet new friends. He'll also be less likely to fight or display aggression.

Many owners recognize the value of socialization, but are uncertain regarding when to start and how to approach it. We'll provide a few helpful suggestions in the space below.

Start As Early As Possible

The earlier you allow your dog to meet others, the more quickly he'll develop a natural comfort in their presence. This means starting his socialization while he is a puppy. Ask your friends and family members to visit your home, and introduce them to your pup. Do so one at a time to prevent overwhelming him. This teaches your pet that he has nothing to fear from unfamiliar people.

Let Your Puppy Explore His Neighborhood

Once your puppy has received his vaccinations, take him for short walks around your home. Let him grow accustomed to the sights, sounds, and scents of his neighborhood. Although he may seem hesitant at first, he'll become comfortable within a short time.

This is also a good opportunity for him to meet other pets and their owners. As people approach you with their pets, greet them to put your pup at ease. Allow him to meet the other animals at his own pace. These interactions will heavily influence his perspective of others. Make the experience positive for him.

Introduce Your Pet To Different Environments

A key aspect of socializing your puppy is to expose him to a range of unfamiliar surroundings. For example, use different routes while walking him; take him to nearby parks; and visit school playgrounds during the weekends. The purpose of doing this is to teach your pup that strange, unfamiliar places do not pose a danger to him. By the time he reaches adulthood, he'll be comfortable wherever you take him.

A side benefit is that your puppy will have a chance to meet a wide variety of other animals and people. This will further expand his level of comfort with strangers.

Be Proactive In Encouraging Introductions

It's possible to visit places with your dog without meeting anyone new, despite there being many other animals and people nearby. Sometimes, you'll need to be proactive in introducing your pet to others. Approach people in a friendly manner, and allow your puppy to meet their dogs.

If you notice young children nearby, encourage them to greet your pup. But make sure they do so gently to avoid scaring him. If your puppy is willing to play with the kids, let him do so, but discourage them from chasing him. Some pups can quickly become frightened when chased.

Socialization is a crucial part of a puppy's development into a friendly adult dog. By introducing your pup to as many animals, people, and environments as possible, you'll help him to become a better companion.

Dog Vomiting: Causes And Cures

noreply@blogger.com (nagesh) — Sat, 10 Dec 2011 14:18:00 +0000

Dog vomiting is quite a natural canine behavior. All dogs do it, and some do it frequently, and for a number of reasons.

So before you grab your car keys to rush the dog off to the vet, stop awhile! In most cases, there is no need for concern. Vomiting is just a natural way in which dogs remove unwanted matter from the body.

Of course, I'm not suggesting that you ignore it completely, because sometimes vomiting does suggest a more serious problem. But you'll need to observe the dog for other symptoms, for example, diarrhea, loss of appetite and general listlessness.

If you notice these symptoms it's time to visit the vet, although most likely it is still nothing to be overly concerned about.

Here are some common reasons why a dog may throw up;

Eating too fast - Many dogs tend to woof their food down, a throw back to the days when they could be attacked while eating. Feeding 3 to 4 smaller meals rather than one large meal may sort out the problem and will also protect against bloat, a potentialy deadly condition.

Consuming Grass - Nobody really knows why dogs eat grass, but many of them seem to love it. Some experts believe they eat grass to induce vomiting, while others say that eating too much grass makes them vomit. Either way, eating grass often makes a dog throw up.

Eating the wrong things - Dogs that are fed on junk food and table scraps, and dogs that make a habit of raiding the trash can, are always likely to throw up. A healthy diet and preventing access to the trash will sort this out straight away.

When should I be concerned?

Although vomiting is usually nothing to worry about, it should also not be ignored. The first thing you should be alert to is the frequency. Once in a while is not a problem, once or twice a day, merits a veterinary check up.

Also be alert for the symptoms I mentioned earlier, lethargy, lack of appetite, and diarrhea, as well as other signs, like blood, or unusual coloration in the vomit. In these instances, get the dog to the vet right away.

Vomiting may also be due to a more serious cause, for example your dog may have eaten a household poison, like a pesticide, or even a poisonous plant. If you think this may be the case then immediate veterinary treatment is called for.

How To Prevent Your Dog From Throwing Up

If you have a dog that throws up on a regular basis, there are a number of commonsense measures that you can put in place to reduce it.

Start by feeding your dog a healthy diet. Cut out all table scraps and junk foods and ensure that your dog cannot get into the trashcan. Feed your dog more frequent, smaller meals and add a fibre suppliment, so the dog is less inclined to eat grass.

These steps should be enough to reduce dog vomiting, but if not, it is advisable to speak to your vet.

Canine Cognitive Dysfunction - Is Your Older Dog Suffering

noreply@blogger.com (nagesh) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 17:42:00 +0000

Canine Cognitive Dysfunction - Dementia Signs and Increasing Quality of Life

Dementia is a disease common in older humans, but did you know that dogs can have some of the same problems as they age? Canine cognitive dysfunction can be one of the hardest issues for a pet parent to adjust to as it often affects a dog's life in a negative way changing their overall behavior. Here is a list of symptoms to look out for in your aging dog that could be representative of cognitive dysfunction:

• Gradual loss of house training

• Confusion

• Vocalizing/wandering/pacing behavior

• Decreased desire to play

• Lack of self-grooming

• Changes in sleep cycle

• Inability to follow familiar routes

A veterinarian can properly diagnose your dog with cognitive dysfunction; it is important to have this condition diagnosed properly because the symptoms described above can also be signs of other medical problems such as cancer, infection, organ failure or drug side effects. If the above symptoms are being caused by one of these conditions, you won't want a false diagnosis of cognitive dysfunction.

The aging canine brain undergoes several changes that may contribute to cognitive problems. The disease cannot always be prevented because aging is simply part of life, however, it is known that the chances of cognitive dysfunction developing are decreased when a dog's life is stimulating. This means you will want to keep your dog healthy, active and happy which could significantly decrease his chances for developing brain problems. There is definite hope for dogs that have already been diagnosed with canine cognitive dysfunctoin as well. You can lessen the progression of the disease by keeping his brain as stimulated as much as possible, and his body healthy.

There are several things you can do to help accommodate a dog that is experiencing cognitive dysfunction such as:

• Develop a daily routine and stick to it.

• Avoid making big changes to the living environment such as moving furniture and food dishes etc.

• Provide time for exercise, but know his limits.

• Spend lots of time strengthening the bond between you and your dog, face time is best.

• Go slowly no matter what it is you and he are doing. If it becomes obvious to you that he is getting frustrated or confused, stop right away and rest.

Canine cognitive dysfunction cannot be cured, but there are medications available for dogs that have been found to dramatically improve symptoms and quality of life. This is why it is important to seek veterinary attention for behavior changes in elderly dogs so the proper treatment can be administered. It has also been found that vitamins and supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants have been found to improve cognitive function in dogs.

Keep in mind that aging is part of life, something all living creatures will experience. Canine cognitive dysfunction is not easy to deal with and can be very saddening, however accepting and understanding the disease will definitely benefit you and your dog.