Dog Directory

How Do Auto Pet Feeders Work?

2012-01-28T01:43:00.000-08:00

How do you provide food for your cats and dogs? We all like to keep our pets well fed, but what type of feeder do you use? There is a wide variety of options available. I live in a small town where we don't have a large selection, but I have discovered some great options for pet feeders online. As you read and look at various choices many of the units can be used by dogs or cats, just pick the right size for your pet.

A regular food bowl or tower feeder works well if your pet is allowed to eat whenever he is hungry. These work well, but you should consider whether you feed dry food, wet food, or both when you make your selection. You may decide on a combination of a bowl and a tower. Today you have a wide variety of units to choose from. Prices range from very low on up. This a partial list of the many varieties: plain bowls, bowls designed to keep bugs out, bowls for traveling, designer bowls, feeders with matching pet waterers, dry food towers and more. These are easy to use and clean.

The next type of feeders are automatic for feeding your pet on a schedule and controlling the portion size. You pick the schedule. The number of servings available depends on the unit selected. Several of these timed pet feeders can be used to serve your pet both dry and wet food. Prices range from not much more that a plain food dish to over one hundred dollars. There are several types to choose from depending on which features your are most interested in. These units usually require batteries. Most of these cat and dog feeders can be taken apart for easy cleaning.

The third type of pet feeder is to keep your dog entertained. This works well for treats or dry food. If your pet gets bored and into mischief, this type of product is designed to occupy more of his time, such as searching in various compartments for snacks. If your pet likes to hear your voice, other bowels allow you to record a message that plays whenever he gets close.

Now that you have had a brief tour of the many options for pet feeders you may want to look at the various options for your dogs and cats. Many units will work well for cats as well as dogs, especially the smaller size version of units. Keep your pet well fed and you can feel better about him getting his meals on time.

Becky J. Jones is a pet owner that is interested in helping people find pet feeders and waterers that meet their schedules and keep their dogs and cats happy. I have been a pet owner for over thirty years. Currently I have three cats and two dogs.

For more information, you can research a variety of pet feeders on our website for your furry loved ones.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6326393

Build a Dog Ramp Out of Plywood

2012-01-26T07:18:00.000-08:00

Before you start, consider the following:

    * How big and how heavy is your dog?
    * How often will you need to move the ramp?
    * How wide do you want your ramp to be?
    * Is there a chance that humans will use the ramp too?
    * How many ramps will you need?

For a dog or humans over 100 lbs, you may need 3/8 or 1/2 inch plywood; otherwise you can use 1/4 inch plywood.

If the ramp is to be moved frequently, you will most likely want as light a ramp as possible. The recommended width is between 16 and 24 inches.

MATERIALS NEEDED

    * Plywood (for length see Instructions below)
    * Indoor-outdoor carpeting to cover one side of the plywood
    * 4 strips of wooden lathe, each piece as long as the ramp's width
    * Wood or drywall screws

INSTRUCTIONS

    * Measure the distance from the top of the stairs to the bottom
    * Add 4 inches
    * This will determine the length of the plywood and carpeting
    * Cut the plywood
    * Staple or glue the carpeting to the top side of the plywood
    * Starting from the bottom, screw the lathe crosswise over the carpeting at regular intervals, for example every 10 or 12 inches
    * Place the ramp over the steps and let your dog try it
    * If the ramp is too steep, add another two feet of plywood and try again (screw a piece of board underneath the two sections to join them)
    * Once your dog can use the ramp, move it to where you want it, then anchor the top end to the stairs with screws or nails
    * Make sure nothing pokes out to hurt your dog's paws
    * If your steps are made of cement, use concrete anchors or concrete nails for fastening

Congratulations, that's all there is to building a dog ramp out of plywood!

Jo Soliday is indebted to her friend, Ruth, for the instructions for this dog ramp. Ruth's 17-year-old Lab has been using such ramps for years. For more ideas on dog ramps or making things for dogs, visit Jo's website at http://www.make-and-build-dog-stuff.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/251090

Dog Ramps and Dog Life Jackets

2012-01-25T03:35:00.000-08:00

Caring for dogs is just like taking care of a child as you always need to consider their safety. You need to ensure that they won't injure themselves when playing around the house or even outdoors. And because you can't look after them 24/7, you need help from safety equipments to be able to ensure that they are out of harm's way all the time.

Dog Ramps

Dog ramps are an essential item that you can give to your dog. It helps dogs easily move from low places to high ones. This can also provide tremendous help for owners because you will no longer have to carry your dog in and out of your car, boat, truck or RV since he can just walk up the dog ramp. Ramps are also useful for old dogs that have mobility problems.

There are considerations you need to look into before buying a dog ramp.

• Check the durability of the material used- Opt for those made from superior materials so that it can carry the weight of your pet.
• Stability- The ramp must be stable to prevent it from slipping and your dog from falling while walking on the ramp.
• Portability- Since you are going to use the ramp as necessary it should be easy to keep and bring along with you. It should be handy and convenient to install and uninstall.
• Easy to clean- you have to make sure that your ramp is always clean to prevent any bacteria from lodging in it.

Dog Life Jackets

If you love to swim and you often bring your dog with you then you must consider getting a dog safety vest. You can never tell what will happen while you and your dog are swimming. Even if dogs are good swimmers, there are still several cases where dogs die because of drowning. You would not want to put your dog at risk hence you should have dog life jackets available whenever you go swimming.

What to look for in a dog vest.

• Ensure that it will fit your dog perfectly
• The vest should be very comfortable
• It should be made from sturdy materials

If you have made sure that the life vest for your dog suits him, is comfortable and is made from durable materials, you can feel confident even if your dog stays in the water without your supervision. Since dog life vests come in different colors and styles you can choose one that will complement the look of your pet.

Lovette Matas, our senior research within our team has scoured the net to find the most relevant information on the topic of boat dog ladders.

For a comprehensive, easy to understand guide to dog life jackets and safety gear, visit http://doglifejacketguide.org to find the best products at the best prices.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6246064

Get Your Dog Mobile Again With a Dog Ramp

2012-01-24T02:45:00.000-08:00

Simple things can be very difficult for aging, disabled, or smaller dogs. They can have trouble getting in vehicles, getting on and off furniture, and going up and down stairs. Jumping down from items can be dangerous to older dogs and smaller breeds. If you have a dog that needs assistance with daily activities such as these, there is a solution. Dog ramps allow your pet to get around in places that they normally cannot or keep them from getting hurt. Ramps are available at very little cost and can make a big difference in your dog's life.

There are many advantages to having a dog ramp. Your pet can get in and out of a vehicle or truck bed easily without being skittish, feeble, or getting hurt. Climbing stairs becomes fun and easy for them. Smaller dogs can get down from furniture without possibly breaking a leg. The dog will be more comfortable and more active. It will also give them the ability to stay involved in your daily activities and be by your side every step of the way.

Many requirements must be considered when buying a ramp. The most important is the weight rating of the ramp and the weight of the dog. The ramp should support twice the weight of the dog in order to be completely safe for them. Find out what materials are available and research what functions they serve the best. This way you can choose the right material for what you are trying to accomplish for your pet. Length is the other determinant based on how the ramp will be used. You want it to be long enough to do what it is purchased for. It should be easy to use and store. The ramp needs to be durable so it lasts longer.

Some of the features to look for match the requirements. Look for a ramp that is easy to clean and use. It should have a non-slip floor so the pet can safely climb up and down it. The ramp should be safe and durable. As the person handling it, you will want it to be easy to carry and set up wherever it is needed. It should be stable so the dog can comfortably use it. Another feature to look for is easy storage.

Nothing is more heart wrenching than watching your dog sadly wait at the bottom of the stairs or watch you leave because they cannot go with you. A dog wants to be by your side and do everything with you. When they are disabled or aged, getting around is very hard on them. They need as much incentive as possible when it comes to being active. There is no better incentive than being able to be by their owner's side. Small dogs love to go and lay on the furniture, but it can be very dangerous for them. Dog ramps are a wonderful solution for any of these obstacles and will provide happiness because your friend will get to be by your side any time they want.

Small, older, and disabled dogs have trouble climbing stairs, getting in and out of vehicles, and getting on and off furniture. As your pal, they want to be able to go everywhere you go and be by your side. Dog ramps [http://www.premierdogsupplies.com/dog-ramps.html] make this possible for them no matter what the obstacle is. Your dog will be able to do things that are normally dangerous or too hard for them and will be happier because of it.Small, older, and disabled dogs have trouble climbing stairs, getting in and out of vehicles, and getting on and off furniture. As your pal, they want to be able to go everywhere you go and be by your side. Dog ramps make this possible for them no matter what the obstacle is. Your dog will be able to do things that are normally dangerous or too hard for them and will be happier because of it. Make sure you have the proper Dog Supplies by visiting PremierDogSupplies.com today.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3404724

Dog Ramps For Cars Or Boats

2012-01-23T06:17:00.000-08:00

Why would you need a dog car ramp?

* Has your dog just had surgery, making it difficult for him to go faster than a walk?

* Is your big dog having trouble jumping up into your car, SUV or truck?

* Do you need a way for your dog to get into your boat from the dock?

* Are you worn out from lifting your dog in and out of your car or boat?

* Are you worried you'll end up injuring yourself?

If you answered yes to any of the above, consider buying or building a ramp. Dog ramps for cars or boats offer a simple solution. Eliminate the guilt and anxiety caused by having to leave your dog at home. With the help of a car dog ramp, you can always bring the dog with you if you choose to!

The most lifting you have to do will be the ramp. A dog car ramp or dog boat ramp is designed to weigh as little as possible, usually 30 lbs or less.

Besides the weight of the ramp, there are three other things to be concerned about:

* Will it create a gentle enough slope for my dog?

* Will it fit in my car or boat?

* How can I afford it?

What Length Ramp Should I Get?

Some dog car ramps are made out of one piece of board or metal 4 to 5 feet long. These shorter ramps can be used for side entry into a vehicle, where the height from the ground is not that great. This type of ramp may be difficult to store in some vehicles and may be best suited for short trips where your dog does not get out of the car. You can leave the ramp at home close to your driveway or in your garage.

Many dog ramps for cars or boats are around 70 inches long, or almost 6 feet long, creating a reasonable slope for most dogs to negotiate. If your dog has a lot of difficulty with walking, there are a few extra long ramps that are 7 feet or 84 inches long. These ramps fold up (see below) to make them easy to carry and stow.

Will It Fit In My Vehicle Or Boat?

All the longer ramps are designed to fold up or slide inward (telescope) to at least half their length. That means the folded length is between 35 and 42 inches, which allows these types of ramps to fit in most vehicles or boats. They ramps are fully portable, therefore suitable for longer trips where your dog needs to get in and out away from home. There is also one called a tri-fold, that has two folds.

Can I Afford It?

Commercial dog car ramps for bigger dogs tend to cost around USD 100 or more at this time, whether you buy them in a pet store or online. Shipping costs are usually at least USD 25, so even if the ramp costs USD 70, the total is still at least $95.

There is a more affordable option, if you or someone you know has basic woodworking skills. You can build your own! See below for a link to a set of inexpensive folding dog ramp plans.

If you are good at finding recycled or scrap materials, the only thing you may need to buy are the hinges! Many lumber and hardware stores have scrap wood bins where you can get free plywood and lumber pieces. Often someone buys a sheet of plyboard or length of lumber and asks a store clerk to cut it for them. If they do not want the remaining pieces, they are placed in the free bin.

Whatever type of dog car ramp you choose, it is bound to be worth your investment by giving you peace of mind about your dog and your health!

Jo Soliday has been a dog lover and crafter since childhood.

For dog ramp plans, see http://www.make-and-build-dog-stuff.com/dog-ramp-plans.html

For more ideas for making things for dogs, check out her website at

http://www.make-and-build-dog-stuff.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1203174

Choosing A Dog Ramp For Your Car

2012-01-22T06:46:00.000-08:00

With so many dog ramps to choose from it can be a real dilemma to decide which ramp will best suit your requirements.

The main consideration with the current ramps are that the ramps which are long enough tend to be too heavy and those that are light enough are just too short. However we are pleased to report that finally Solvit products from USA have managed to produce a dog ramp that is extremely, light, very strong and stable and yet long enough to suit all vehicles up to 24" from the ground, including all hatchbacks, estate cars and mpv's.

Tim Berrisford says, 'This new Ultra Bi Fold dog ramp by Solvit is a fantastic development in the market as it is the lightest dog ramp available and it will quickly become the most popular dog ramp. Everyone is looking for a feather-light ramp that doesn't flex and retains its inherent strength. This new Solvit ramp only weighs 4.5lb and is so stable that it can easily support all dogs up to the large breeds carrying a load of up to 200lb. Many folding dog ramps flex when a dog of any weight climbs onto it but this new ramp by Solvit stays very rigid.'

A major selling feature of this ramp is the high sides to the ramp, this is especially important to dogs of a nervous nature or ones that have not used a dog ramp before. These high sides gives the dogs confidence and prevent them from slipping off. The ramp has an abrasive anti slip surface which works well in all weather conditions even when wet, and the ramp folds away very compactly so it stores easily in most vehicles.

So many people put off buying a dog ramp until quite late in the dog's life, maybe the onset of joint problems in the dog or maybe the owner gets a a bad back but finally they realise they can lift the dog no more. Normally there is always something that triggers this decision but in general people are under the general impression that this is something that happens later in a dogs life.

Our research has indicated to us that by then a lot of damage has been caused from dogs jumping down from and into the boots of cars. Certainly all the vets that we have spoken to go along with the school of thought that dog ramps should be used from very early in a dogs life to prevent these high impact injuries. As higher vehicles and 4 x 4's seem to become more popular on our roads so the chance of long term injury to dogs joints seems to increase. It is a fact that most people seem to think that dog ramps are only for getting the dogs up into the boot of a car, we believe that dog ramps should be used for entry to vehicles but even more importantly for the exiting of cars and this applies to all vehicles.

The most important factor when considering a ramp is to ensure that the incline is not too steep otherwise the dog is likely to wither refuse to use it or they might slip off and cause injury. The maximum incline should be no more than 30 degrees and ideally less than this between 20 -30 degrees. Therefore it is imperative that you take into consideration the height of your vehicle, obviously the higher the car the longer the ramp, All 4 x4's will require a ramp of at least 72" long, the Solvit deluxe telescopic ramp is perhaps the most suitable ramp for higher vehicles as not only is it long enough but it doesn't flex or bounce. Most dogs feel very confident on a stable ramp and this one is the most rigid of them all. For lower cars like hatchbacks, saloons and estates you can get away with a shorter ramp but be careful that this is not too short or again the incline could be too steep.

You will need to consider where the ramp attaches to the cars, most vehicles have a bumper and this is where the ramp locates onto, however if you do not have a bumper the ramp will need to locate onto your boot opening. Surprisingly hatchbacks have quite a high boot rim and it is a common mistake to buy a dog ramp that is too short. Personally if your car is lower than a 4 x 4 I would recommend a ramp of at least 62" long this will give a nice gradual incline and your dog will thank you for it.

If you have never used a dog ramp before then you will need to be patient with your dog as they learn these new skills of using a dog ramp, some ramps have high side rails which act as a visual guide to the dog and this helps to give them confidence especially when coming down the ramp, it also has the added benefit that this prevents the dogs from sliding off and causing injury.

Everyone likes and wants a light ramp and the weight of a dog ramp is a major consideration when trying to decide which ramp will suit you. In the past people have produced heavy wooden constructed ramps which were superseded by PetGear who have produced ramps that are lighter but still just too heavy, there is no point buying a dog ramp if the owner is struggling to lift it. Fortunately Solvit have just started producing a feather light ramp at just 10lb (4.4kg), this Solvit Ultra Bi Fold dog ramp is the lightest ramp on the market and it should be considered by anyone looking at buying a ramp. This new development in dog ramp technology enables almost everyone to buy a light ramp knowing that it is also very strong and can carry very impressive loads unto 200lb (90kg).

If you are still struggling to decide which ramp to buy then you can always get totally free dog ramp advice from http://www.easyanimal.co.uk or by calling them on 0800 849 8844. Whatever you decide our advice is to do your research and make sure you choose the right ramp for you and your dog.
Tim Berrisford
http://www.easyanimal.co.uk
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6822043

Your Dog Health Care Must Include Annual Rabies Shots

2012-01-19T08:04:00.000-08:00

Dog health care must include regular rabies shots, although many dog owners do not keep their pets' vaccinations up to date. The misconception is that since the dog doesn't run free, it's not important.

Even though you keep your dog restrained on a leash or in a yard, you can never guarantee he will not come in contact with this deadly disease.

Did you know that your dog can pick up the rabies virus simply by licking the ground? If a rabid animal has left saliva or other body fluid shortly before you passed, your dog is at risk.

Much of the focus for many owners is on obedience training. Dog health care is often only an issue when the dog first arrives at the home or when it becomes ill.

Rabies shots are essential if you want to ensure your dog stays healthy. But that's not the only reason. If your dog comes in contact with a rabid animal, such as fighting with a raccoon, skunk or an infected dog, your pet could be euthanized.

And if that isn't enough to get you to the vet, consider that rabies is a threat to your family as well.

What can you do to protect your dog and your family?

Rabies vaccines gradually lose their effectiveness over time. The longer it is since your dog was vaccinated, the more at risk he or she will become. In fact, within as a little as six months, your dog could be at risk. The maximum length of time the vaccine lasts is about two years, but by that time it's effectiveness has deteriorated significantly.

Many people use this two-year point as the period when they give their dogs booster rabies shots. This is an unsafe practice.

For the best protection, you must have your dog vaccinated every year. Any good vet will send you a reminder every year that your dog's shots are due.

Dog health care is important, but preventative health care is more important. It ensures your dog is protected against dangerous and painful diseases. Rabid animals suffer terribly. The disease affects their entire nervous system causing death. There is no cure.

Regular dog health care measures can protect your family from the rigors of taking the 'cure' if your dog does come in contact with the rabies virus.

And rabies dog health care can save your dog's life.

Recently, two dogs in North Carolina suffered after fighting with a rabid fox. One was quarantined for 6 months, the other was euthanized. That state also had a cat and a raccoon that were rabid.

You can never be sure when rabies will be present. Infected neighborhood cats, raccoons and skunks can wander into any yard without your knowledge and leave rabies-laden saliva.

If you seldom hear about rabies, do not think that your dog is safe. Every year somewhere in the country there are reported cases of rabies in wild animals. Unprotected dogs have been euthanized after fighting with those rabid animals.

Protection is far better than treatment after the fact. There is no reason for your family or your dog to suffer. It takes about 15 minutes a year to get your dog vaccinated against rabies and other serious diseases.

Make sure your dog health care includes regular rabies vaccines to ensure your dog's and your family's safety.

Want to know more important about your dog's health care? Sylvia has written a book on dog health care and dog nutrition. Find out more. Dog training problems? Read her review of the top dog training products available for immediate download.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1431378

The Adaptability of the Bernese Mountain Dog Breed

2012-01-17T21:55:00.000-08:00

One question a potential Bernese Mountain dog owner may be asking themselves is, "how adaptable is the dog?" There are different answers one will get from different people, the truth is the Bernese Mountain dog very easily adapts to any type of environment, many become strongly bonded to their families within the first year of life. If you purchase a Bernese dog after the age of one year old, the dog may have attachment issues and problems adapting to a new environment.

It is common that a younger Bernese Mountain dog will be more readily adaptable than an older one. This is due to the fact that a younger dog gets used to a routine and is quick to learn commands and knows how to act appropriately. An older Bernese has already adapted to another family's routines and preferences, but with a little training and patience the dog can become a gentle, protective companion. The older Bernese will need time to bond with the new family before it will comfortably settle into a new routine and surroundings.

If you are buying a Bernese from a breeder, remember the puppy will need loving discipline and gentle guidance, laying down early ground rules will eliminate the chance for any problems. The dog prefers the indoor life and it is not a good idea to try to move the dog into an outdoor living space, however, with a long, thick, heavy coat of fur the Bernese can adapt to outdoor life with relative ease. If you do decide to make the dog an outdoor living space it is important to note, you could end up with a dog that constantly barks, displays aggressiveness and is overly hyperactive.

The breed is highly energetic and when left to its own devices, the Bernese can grow frustrated and become bored. The dog may become destructive and uncontrollable, and with a dog of this size it is something that should be kept in mind. This makes the behavior of a Bernese easier to predict and temper when the dog is allowed to live indoors with the family, just be sure to train them from a very young age and the problems should be limited to a minimum. It's also best to setup a daily exercise regiment for your Bernese. A good 20-30 minutes of running or walking will burn all of that excess energy, build muscle and help your Mountain Dog to be more relaxed around the house. Burning all of the excess energy will dramatically reduce the amount of bad chewing, Ie. chewing on furniture, shoes etc.

When moving from one house to another, the Bernese will still prove itself to be an adaptable dog. So long as the dog has its family, it will be more than happy in most any type of situation. You can take the dog traveling and train them to do almost any type of trick. Remember the dog needs attention and praise, in certain situations that are unfamiliar, the Bernese just like any other dog breed needs time to adjust.

This article was written by John Jackson and has been contributed by http://www.greatdogsite.com. For more information on the Bernese Mountain Dog, please visit our page http://www.greatdogsite.com/breeds/details/Bernese_Mountain_Dog/.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2576842

Quick and Easy Puppy Dog Potty Training

2012-01-12T06:12:00.000-08:00

The quick and easy puppy potty training system has three key concepts that will limit poor choices by you and your puppy. The goal of our dog training program is to help make the right potty choice easy and the wrong potty choice hard for your puppy. The three key elements to humane, gentle and dog friendly potty training are Schedule, Supervise and Confinement. These are concepts that we share with our Chicago potty training clients.

Scheduling is the hardest concept for the first time puppy owner to comprehend and implement properly. A proper schedule helps you and your puppy plan your day. The best schedule has planned times for food, for potty time, for playtime and for naptime. Scheduling the day for your puppy revolves around his ability to hold in urine. The Ami Moore, rule of thumb is your puppy can hold it for one hour for each month of age. For instance, a three-month-old puppy should be able to stay clean and dry for three hours, a four-month-old puppy should be able to stay dry for four hours. But, there is one important exception to this rule.

Many of our clients in the city of Chicago choose the smallest of toy breeds as their pets.The size of your puppy is the really the controlling issue in creating a potty schedule. The smaller your puppy, the more frequently your puppy will have to potty and the usual rule of hour to age ratio is void. Some of the smaller toy breeds like Chihuahuas or Papillions, which are very popular with clients in the Gold Coast of Chicago, may have to urinate as frequently as every fifteen minutes!

The simplest schedule for the very young dog puppy is one-hour nap time and then one hour of potty, play and snacks. As the puppy becomes more mature, the time for potty, play and snacks can increase and the naptime can decrease. Puppies that are three months or older can have activity periods that are two or three hours long.

Proper supervision of the puppy is another area that can be very challenging for the new puppy owner. Supervision means that the puppy is always within reach of your fingertips and you always have both eyes right on the puppy so that he can't sneak away to potty in your best boots. This level of canine supervision is almost impossible for the average pet parent to maintain 24 hours a day. If you are watching your puppy all day long when do you go to the gym, go to work and visit your friends> What do you do when you can't supervise your puppy? Confinement.

You can use many methods to confine your puppy. Crates, baby gates and tethers are the most common options. The most common method is crating. A crate is a metal or plastic box that is just like a baby's crib. Many people feel guilty about using a crate, but feel comfortable placing a baby in a crib or playpen. A crate is a crib for a baby dog. It helps the puppy understand the concept of keeping your house sanitary and free from potty accidents and prevents the puppy from learning bad habits. Another option is to baby gate the puppy into a small room that has a non-porous floor like tile, stone or linoleum.

Tethering is very effective for older puppies or for pet parents who like to have their dog with them during the day. All you need to tether your dog to you is a thin leash that is about six feet long. Clip one end of the leash to your puppy and the other end is tied to your belt loops. This is a great way to keep your puppy with you, within arms distance and reduce the need for crating.

The Quick and Easy Puppy Potty Checklist

- Puppies do not soil the house out of spite or stupidity.

- Practice Supervise, Schedule and Confinement to give your puppy the best chance for success.

- Failures in housetraining are human mistakes, not puppy errors.

- Never your puppy punish for mistakes.

- The spot of the potty mistake should be cleaned up with an enzyme odor eliminator.

This article was written by Ami Moore, The Chicago Dog Coach Group located in Chicago, Illinois. Ami Moore can be contacted through her website http://www.chicagodogcoach.com
http://www.dogdoright.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/954380

7 Steps to Puppy Potty Training Sainthood

2012-01-06T22:05:00.000-08:00

Can you give up every 60 minutes of your day for a short period of time? Could you do it if you knew the pay-off was that your puppy would be house trained by the end of it all? What if you only had to follow seven pretty basic steps to get your pup well on the way to potty training saint-hood? Read on and I'll show you how you can have your pup toilet trained fast and effectively in 7 easy steps.

1. Decide on a spot outside that your puppy will go to toilet (eliminate, go potty, pee, poop, urinate or defecate - you get my drift)

2. Have a puppy potty schedule. You must take your pup to the designated toilet spot every 60 minutes. Your pup must be either in a crate, in a penned off area or tethered to your chair if you work at home. You must NOT let your pup roam the house hold freely. That will come when you are able to trust your pups bladder and bowel (a very important relationship indeed!).

3. Have a command for toileting that your entire house hold is able to remember and use every single time they take their pup to the toilet area. As mentioned, every 60 minutes, take your pup to this spot and you should walk back and forth here, even circle around and around. While you do that repeat the command that you have chosen to cue your puppy to eliminate. I use "toilet time". Whatever you choose, pick it and stick with it. Your pup is going to associate that phrase with eliminating or emptying out. This is the first of MANY obedience training commands you will teach your pup in its life time.

4. When your pup sniffs at the ground, circles and squats you need to keep saying the command over and over. Even while your pup is doing its business you need to repeat it. The moment it finishes, you need to go nuts! Let your puppy know that it is the best thing since blue m&m's and you are SO proud. Enthusiastically praise the puppy and she will associate it with a positive reaction from you. If your puppy circles and sniffs but shows no signs of wanting to squat, take her back inside and place her back on her tether, or in her crate or pen and try again in 15-20 minutes.

5. If your pup has had a successful toilet trip then reward her again by giving her some supervised play time in the home. Have a chew toy or a game with her and really spend some great quality time with her. When she shows signs of fatigue, place her back in her pen or crate or on her tether if you are sitting at that chair.

6. If you can rinse and repeat this for every 60 minutes of your day you will have your pup toilet trained quickly and efficiently. Remember, for every mistake your pup makes, its another behaviour you will need to correct. It is all about eliminating the opportunities to make mistakes.

At night you are going to need to get up to your pup perhaps 2 to 3 times. You will need to set your alarm for this. Just go through the same routine with placing your pup on the lawn and circling, whilst saying the command for toileting. Don't worry, this is a relatively short period of time that you will have to have night time toilet calls. Your pup has a very small bladder and bowel when it is young and it is unfair and often physically impossible for it to hold on an entire night.

Sometimes, new puppy owners need a little more information when it comes to the most effective way to house train a pup successfully. I have listed my website below which has an extremely inexpensive guide to doing just that. If you need to get some further tips and know exactly what the toilet training deal breakers are, I urge you to click on the links below.

A Note From The Author:

For a No Nonsense, Free From Fluff approach to toilet training your dog, Sarah refers all her new puppy owners to the most economical guide available on the market. It is concise and accurate and extremely affordable. Currently, readers of Sarah's articles are able to purchase this guide for an amazing $9. Please visit http://reviewsandbonuscentral.com/dog_potty_training

Article ©2010 Sarah Gladman, all rights reserved. Sarah runs an informational website at House Training Success She has been breeding dogs for over 14 years and has extensive experience in dealing with Dog Behavior Problems. If you have a dog that needs behavior attention now, be sure to check out her website where she has listed the Best-In-The-Business Dog Training Experts to remedy your Dog Problem.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4231775

Your Dogs' Deserve Outdoor Dog Houses

2012-01-05T21:19:00.000-08:00

It is not all the time dogs are allowed to stay inside the house particularly when some of the members of the family have allergies or if you don't want to be greeted with "treasures" every morning. It is also not a good idea to keep the dog inside because it might cause damage to your adornments. But leaving them sleep in the porch uncovered or has nothing warm to sleep at night; they might as well get sick.

Dogs deserve comfort and safety even though they are just animals. This means that you need to give your dogs their own house to stay especially when they are outside to keep them free of sickness and illnesses due to the changing weathers and elements.

The house of your dog should be made of durable material that can resist weather and elements. Most of the time, wood is still the best choice of material to construct outdoor dog houses. Particularly, cedar wood is preferably the best wood used to make dog houses.

Dog houses are available in many options when it comes to the size, design and style. Hence, you can pick a house that your dog can fit in. When it comes to the designs, you can have a simple construction of the dog house or you can select the house with added feature like porch.

If you choose to have a wooden outdoor dog house, you can make a design like stained it with your favorite color or you can have it painted with color like your house. Naturally unstained wood will also look good to your outdoor space since it can complement to your other outdoor decors. Most outdoor dog houses are constructed with elevated surface so that the dog will stay dry even the ground is wet.

Giving your dog their own house outside is one of the simple ways to show how much you cared for them.

The role of a writer is never to utter what we all can say, but what we find hard to say. Some people that have the gift of gab but although this is not one of my skills, I have been given a talent in writing. I have always adored reading and this is what inspired me to begin writing. Right now, I own two puppies and I have observed that even pets also need to have a space they can call their own. Dog houses are the perfect thing which you may get for your own dog and the Dog houses tend to be the finest kind that you need to be getting for them.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5658254

How to Determine the Effectiveness of Dog Food Ratings

2012-01-03T06:16:00.000-08:00

Virtually all dog food ratings offer extremely worthwhile information. Not only do they give you a good idea of what consumers or vet think about dog food brands, but they also give you a glimpse into canine nutrition. However, some dog food ratings are better than others because there's less subjectivity when presenting the information.

Why would this even be an issue? Well, dog food ratings are often used as subtle marketing tools to draw customers into buying a particular brand. And, while they still have some element of truth to them, usually the ratings will point to the promoted brand(s) as being better.

Fortunately, there is a way you can figure out which sites offer the best rating. And it involves, (ironically enough), visiting a review site that evaluates other review sites. Consumer Search is an example of a site utilizing this unique concept.

So, how do these types of sites work? Usually, someone who is well-versed in dog food will review various dog food ratings looking for the following things:

Whether or not the dog food was actually tested in a more 'scientific' way
The intentions of the site's author
Whether or not the rating scale seems consistent

Sites that get the most recommendations tend to be those where it is obvious that the content was written by an avid dog-lover. Then there are the sites that get average reviews, due to how useful their information is. Sites that get the lowest rating are those where it's very obvious promotion is the main goal.

In conclusion, never take one set of dog food ratings at face value. Use sites like Consumer Search to determine if the ratings are even legitimate to begin with. That way, you won't have to feel any sense of doubt when using ratings to determine which brand of dog food you're going to buy.

Your dogs nutrition is important. Dog food ratings and dog food comparisons are worth reading, but only if they actually come from dog lovers. Biased ratings from dog food companies don't really do any good. They actually put some pretty horrible stuff in some commercial dog foods and you should know what they are. Find out about the effectiveness of Dog Food Ratings [http://dogfood-facts-exposed.com/dog-food-ratings.htm] at [http://dogfood-facts-exposed.com/dog-food-ratings.htm]
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1359764

Making Dog Food From Scratch - Healthy or Not?

2011-12-26T06:36:00.000-08:00

Do you have dogs at home? Do you prepare dog food by yourself?

They say dogs are man's best friend. They are considered the best pet because they are very smart and you can train them to do some tricks. Apart from being smart, they are empathic animals, they can understand your moods and can reflect whatever emotions you have. They provide the assistance and love to their master unconditionally. Moreover, they give undying love, loyalty and affection even if treated badly by their master.

They are also excellent companions not only to adults and children, but also to elderly people. Aside from providing their pet owners with companionship and lifting their spirit, they are also used as therapy dogs in hospitals, nursing homes, schools, mental facilities and prisons.

Because of their significance, it is just right to provide them the best. As pet owner, it is your responsibility to bathe them, to walk them, to provide a healthy home and to feed them. To keep them healthy, you have to provide them vaccinations, vitamins and supplements. You need to bring them regularly to the veterinarian. Moreover, you need to feed them nutritious and balanced meal to keep them healthy all the time.

Because of the high cost of commercial dog foods sold in stores, you can prepare homemade food. Some say that homemade dog foods are not as healthy as those sold in pet shops. They are wrong because you can prepare healthy dog food if you incorporate health ingredients that comply with their dietary needs and requirements. Always remember that not all foods are good for your pets. Like humans, they are also allergic to some foods. To ensure their health and well-being, you have to understand and to remember the basics of homemade dog food preparation. Before you make homemade dog food, you have to do some research to avoid flaws and errors.

Foods that should be avoided in their diet:

They are lactose intolerant, thus, avoid giving them milk and other dairy products.

Avoid giving them cat food because it can result to metabolic imbalances.

Do not give them chocolates because they are allergic to it.

Avoid giving them leftover foods because it contains spices and preservatives that can be bad for their health.

Raw liver

Turkey's skin

Raw fish (especially salmon)

Raw eggs

Dough of bread

Walnuts

Macadamia nuts

Avocado

Healthy foods suitable for your dog:

Raw or cooked lean meat cuts, such as beef, lamb, whitefish

Cooked grains

Finely chopped vegetables

Bits of fruits

In preparing their food, you have to ensure they meet their nutritional needs and requirements. Take note of their breed, age and requirements. If you are in doubt or you lack ideas on what foods to incorporate in your recipe, you can always ask the help of your veterinarian, surf the Internet to find simple and cost efficient dog food recipes. You can also ask suggestions from friends, colleagues and relatives who have experience in preparing homemade dog food.

Jerri Torres enjoys writing for Petflow which sells evo and bil-jac dog food as well as a host of additional products.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6258314

8 Quick Tips For Making Dog Food at Home

2011-12-23T08:18:00.000-08:00

Many people have turned to making dog food at home instead of buying the store brands. It's much healthier for your dog and you get to pick everything that you put in it. Recipes are in abundant supply, so here are a few tips on what to do.

1. The most important tip of all is that it's much easier than you think! You'll see for yourself by the time you have finished this quick article.

2. Dogs need lots of protein, so be sure that your recipe has enough. Great sources of protein include beef, fish, chicken, turkey, and spinach.

3. Vegetables for vitamins and carbs are necessary in a dog's diet as well, so make sure you include some. Carrots, peas, celery, and cucumber work great!

4. A whole grain source, such as brown rice, is another good ingredient for making dog food at home. It's natural, wholesome, and a great compliment for any recipe.

5. Keep it super simple. Whole foods are best, so stick to the ones you are familiar with. And always use fresh, nutritious ingredients.

6. Be careful that you don't use processed foods, junk food, sugary snacks, salted ingredients, chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, avocados, or dairy products. They are bad for dogs, and some are even toxic.

7. Raw foods can be dangerous for dogs because they can contain bacteria, so it's always best to cook your dog's meals.

8. There are plentiful sources of great recipes for making dog food at home and your dog will truly love you for all the great meals you make for him! I list a good source at the end of this article.

I hope you now understand how simple it can really be. Your dog could be just moments away from his first home-cooked meal made by you! Not only are you reducing his risk of dog diseases and ensuring his overall health, but you are also greatly prolonging his life.

If you found the information in this article helpful, then you will definitely want to check out [http://www.matthewb-knowledge-site.com/index.html]. It reviews the top 5 dog food recipe websites. All the research is done for you! All you have to do is pick. Enjoy!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2429423

Easy and healthy Puppy Food Recipe - Home made

2011-12-22T05:45:00.000-08:00

While trying to come up with the best puppy food, which is healthy and nourishing and cost effective at the same time, I devised a healthy and tasty formula for them. Puppies love this food and they gain wait very soon.
You can always add any other good ingredient or you can increase the amount of it by adding more stuff but what I made in the video is sufficient for 2 of my puppies for 2 to 3 days who are fed 3 to 4 times a day.
For any further info about puppy health related issues of raising orphaned puppies you can write me directly.

Outdoor Dog Houses - A Necessity for Every Dog

2011-12-18T20:10:00.000-08:00

Most dog owners have no choice but to leave their dogs outside almost throughout the day and at night. As living creatures, dogs also have feelings and deserve to be treated well. Hence, it becomes the owner's duty to provide a sheltered home for their pet which will protect them from extreme heat, cold and rain which otherwise has a tendency to upset your dog's health. One way of showing your concern is to provide your pet with proper outdoor houses. Dog houses come in different styles and materials and you can choose them depending on your individual dog needs.

A good pet house should be a complete weatherproof kennel that shields your pet from unmanageable heat, cold, wind, rain and even precipitation. The conventional houses are made of wood with a triangle roof. Building a house can be fun. However, these days, they are made out of other materials such as plastic and foam. Cedar wood is also being preferred by dog owners these days to make outdoor dog houses. Depending on your budget and your buying capacity, you could go in for economical ones or extravagant dog houses. Whatever type you choose, there is no dearth for dog houses in the market.

There are various factors to look into while buying outdoor dog houses, the most important being the size of your dog. The pet house shouldn't be too big or too small. It should be just right to accommodate your dog inside. There should be just sufficient room for your dog to stand up, lie down and stretch. If you own more than one dog, you could go in for a duplex style house with more than one entryway. If you want something more than an ordinary looking house for your dog, you can buy with windows and shingles and even paint it to match the exteriors of your house. Dog houses even come in different architectural designs and styles.

Whatever may be the style and design of your it, ultimately it should serve the purpose for what it is purchased i.e. provide shelter and protection to your dog from all kinds of external elements. Wood and metal are the most popular materials to make outdoor dog houses. Plastic is also preferred as it is water repellent and easy for air to circulate. They are a necessity for every dog. So, look into all the factors before buying one for your dog.

The role of a writer is never to utter what we all can say, but what we find hard to say. Some people that have the gift of gab but although this is not one of my skills, I have been given a talent in writing. I have always adored reading and this is what inspired me to begin writing. Right now, I own two puppies and I have observed that even pets also need to have a space they can call their own. Dog houses are the perfect thing which you may get for your own dog and the cedar dog houses tend to be the finest kind that you need to be getting for them.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5546396

Keep Your Dog Warm and Happy With a Dog House Heater

2011-12-16T08:00:00.000-08:00

Depending on where you live, the winter months can get awfully cold outside. If you own a dog that spends a good amount of time outdoors, you will want to make sure it doesn't get too cold, as constant exposure to cold weather can affect your dog's health. You probably have a dog house set up outside, but aside from protecting your dog from the wind, this doesn't offer much warmth. Luckily there are many quality heaters available that can be installed in a dog house or kennel.

A heater box is one of the cheapest kinds of heaters you can install in your dog house or kennel. It's made up of a metal box that has a light bulb or a ceramic emitter contained inside. When hooked up to a power source and turned on, this will heat up the dog house in a way similar to how egg incubators work. You want to place this heater higher up in the dog house so your dog won't brush against it when walking in and out and avoided getting burned.

Believe it or not, some dogs have a preference about sleeping with lights on. If you have a dog that prefers it to be dark while sleeping, you'll want to avoid any kind of heater that uses an electric bulb as these can get quite bright. Instead you should look for a heater that uses a ceramic emitter for the heat source. These emitters are flat and have a ridged face. In addition to minimizing the light it gives off, you will save money with these heater as they tend to last longer than other heaters that use light bulbs.

The prices for dog house heaters can vary quite a bit. In general the price is determined by the source of heat that it uses and the size of dog house that it's meant to be used for. Heaters that use light bulbs are cheaper and range in price from about $30 - $60, while ceramic emitter based heaters are on the more expensive side at around $100. Remember, the light bulb heaters are cheaper, but don't last as long as compared to ceramic heaters, so your biggest deciding factor should be if you want to save money in the short term or long term.

Brandy has been an avid writer and blogger for the past 2 years. Some of her hobbies include bowling, hiking, and singing in a choir. In addition, she builds informational websites. check out one of her latest sites at http://www.antiquesideboard.org where she provides some great information on antique sideboard, buffet tables, cabinets, and hutches.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3495908

Keep Your Dog Warm With a Dog House Heater

2011-12-09T07:57:00.000-08:00

A dog house heater makes good sense if a dog and its owner is living in a region where winter months are freezing cold. If you have your dog living in an outdoor doghouse, then this type of heater will help it stay warm. Many dog owners around the world are installing doghouse heaters within their kennels.

Certainly, for areas where the chilly season is extremely cold, the body heat of a dog won't prove sufficiently warm for it. Unlike the house of the dog owner, the dog house is merely a small shelter that saves the dog from the sun or rain - not the freezing cold. Pet houses can't (and aren't meant to) shield the pets from the chills of winter.

A house heater can provide your pet with the extra warmth it needs during unpleasantly cold climatic conditions. These heaters ensure they don't suffer from cold sickness in the winter. As far as the question of providing added warmth for man's best friend is concerned, there's quite a few types of dog house heaters available.

Heater boxes are the one that most dog owners love to invest in. They're the cheapest among the heating systems used in kennels. But their structures are fairly simple. They have either ceramic emitters or light bulbs fitted into simple looking metal boxes. Once you connect these box heaters to power, they'll readily emit heating. The technology has a lot of similarity with typical egg incubators.

But dog owners got to ensure that such dog house heaters are placed above the reach of the dog, so it does not burn itself by coming into contact with the metal surface of the box. But if you own a dog that prefers sleeping in the dark, you shouldn't buy a heater with bulbs inside. A better choice would be to buy one that has a ceramic emitter fitted in. With a ridged face, it looks like a flattened
Find great deals and reviews on dog house kits and folding camp chair.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3688564

Dog Bowls For Food and Water

2011-12-07T05:37:00.000-08:00

Believe it or not, the dog bowls and dishes you consider for your dog are highly important. There are enormous differences between, say, ceramic dog bowls and stainless steel dog bowls. Depending on your pup's individual personality, he may respond differently to different styles of bowls. You always need to consider your dog's personality as well as its breed and preferences when thinking about just what kind of food and water bowls to buy it.

One of the biggest things that you need to consider when you are picking out dog bowls is what type of material that it is made out of. If you dog is the type that is rough on their dishes, you want to make sure that you pick out stainless steel dog bowls, as they are not only easy to clean, but they are totally durable.

Now, as to the size of your dog - well, that is fairly self explanatory. A small dog will, of course, prefer a small dog dish, while a large dog will prefer a bigger one. If you have more than one dog, then you may want to use large dog bowls as well, although that is hardly your only option.

If, for instance, you want to make things more comfortable for a big dog, you might consider a dog bowl stand, so that the dishes are elevated. This keeps the dog from having to bend his neck quite so much.

Something like that is also great to keep your dogs from fighting over the food. This is especially true if your dogs are different sizes, such as if you have a terrier and a mastiff. The large dog gets his or her own high bowl, while the smaller dog's is closer to the ground.

Of course, you might have to try out a couple of bowls made from different materials. You will want to see what your dog likes best as well. Even a big dog might prefer a small bowl, for instance. Likewise, a small dog might like a larger one.

It is not uncommon for dogs who get along to be wary of sharing their food bowls. This is another instance where a dog food stand can be extremely beneficial. If you are averse to that, just make sure you have a set of bowls for each dog. Still, though, having the bowls on a stand can also prevent any kitty cats from getting into the puppy chow.

In short, you need to take care when you are choosing the proper food bowls for your beloved pet. After all, your dog really is a member of the family, and you need to treat him as such. Having the right dishes will make for a more pleasant dining and drinking experience for him!

Author Leo Stanley writes for Remmeer.com, an online retailer offering various styles of dog bowls, as well as other unique dog gifts.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2190693

Choosing the Right Dog Bowl for Your Dog

2011-12-05T21:45:00.000-08:00

If you have a dog, then you are going to need 2 dog bowls. Purchasing a dog bowl is an important step in owning a dog. Your dog will be eating and drinking from these dishes every day, multiple times per day. In today's' market you can find a bowl that will fit your decorating styles, as well as your dogs' eating habits.

Choosing the Right Dog Bowl

The easiest way that I have found to find a new bowl for my dog, is to take her to the store and let her pick it out. It will be her dinner plate, so she needs to like it. I use the same trick for getting her new toys.

Ceramic Dog Bowls

Ceramic dog bowls can look very nice, and serve the purpose of being heavy enough for your dog not to spill their food on the ground. The problem with ceramic bowls is they sometimes contain decorative glazing, which can be toxic to dogs and sometimes humans. You should always ensure that your ceramic bowl is intended to be used as a food-safe dish. You should replace any cracked ceramic dog dish immediately. Trying to fix it will only prolong the inevitable cut on your dogs' mouth. Saving $10 is not worth your dogs' life.

Plastic Dog Bowls

Plastic Dog Food Bowls can make life easy and cheap, but as with anything else, there are also risks using these. First, the good points. Plastic dishes are dishwasher safe, easy to maintain, and can be purchased cheaply. Some dogs may be allergic to plastic bowls, so make sure that you know your animal. Plastic can also be a sponge for bacteria, dirt, odors, and other nasties that just cannot be washed out. Depending on your pets' style of eating/drinking, a plastic bowl may be knocked over easily, spilling food onto the floor.

Stainless Steel Dog Bowls

Stainless Steel Dog Food Bowls are generally thought of as the perfect dog bowl. They are lightweight, yet sturdy enough for big guys to not spill over. Stainless steel does not harbor any bacteria, so it makes it a perfectly sanitary dish for your dog to eat out of. These bowls will also last the lifetime of your dog, unless something unfortunate happens to the bowl.

Elevating Your Dogs' Bowls

Your dog will benefit from you raising their food dishes to a level height. Your dog will not have to exert effort to bend over and eat their food, as well as you not having to bend over so far to put more food in. You can buy a platform or tray for any size bowl you may have for your friend or you can be creative and use something that is the right height for your friend. Elevating the food dish will help in their digestion of the food and water, as it does not have to travel up to go back down.

Always keep your food bowls and your pets' mouth clean, and you will have a happy healthy dog.

Misha DePerros has lived with dogs her whole life. Nothing about dogs seems foreign to her. Misha's current best friend is a large Great Dane. Check out the Information she has collected about Dog Bowls [http://edogbowls.com].
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5661968

Personalized Dog Bowls

2011-11-29T05:13:00.000-08:00

Dog bowls are one of the most common items used by all dog owners. Every dog needs a bowl for food and water. But there's nothing "common" about personalized dog bowls! You can find beautiful bowls for your dog with all kinds of designs. Here are some things to look for if you're considering custom dog dishes.

1. Materials. Most experts agree that ceramic or stainless steel make the best choices for dog dishes. Stainless steel has the advantage when it comes to being easy to clean and disinfect. They are easy to find and inexpensive. However, stainless steel pans are usually somewhat lacking when it comes to looks. Stainless steel bowls can be engraved but it takes special engraving tools and most stores don't carry this kind of equipment.

Ceramic dishes for your dog have some excellent benefits. Heavy bowls are hard for dogs to tip over. Bowls that have been glazed will not hold food particles or odors from previous meals. They're easy to clean and disinfect, especially if you use a dishwasher since ceramic materials are dishwasher-safe. If you use a dish with a "lip" or rim it will keep food from coming out of the dish when your dog eats - something that can be very helpful if you have a dog that's a messy eater. Ceramic bowls are also chew-proof which is great if you have puppies or a dog who tends to chew on the bowl.

Ceramic dishes are easy to personalize. They can be painted and decorated in lots of designs and colors. It's not hard to add a dog's name to a dish by special order. Many companies sell customized dog bowls these days.

By contrast, plastic bowls can present a problem for many dogs. Lots of dogs develop allergies to the chemicals in plastic bowls which can result in pimply break-outs on their faces or other signs of allergies. In some cases dogs which eat out of plastic bowls can develop a "snow nose" which is a pale pink nose instead of a typical dark nose. This loss of pigmentation is a reaction to the chemicals in the plastic. Plastic dishes are also harder to clean and disinfect; they can be chewed; and they don't last as long as stainless steel or ceramic bowls which can last for years.

Plastic bowls are also easy to customize. They can be painted and decorated in various colors and designs. Check at the store where you make your purchase to see if they offer this service.

2. Personalization. Personalizing your dog's dishes is a way to show your dog that he's special. No, it's probably not a necessity but neither are treats or toys. But it's a nice way to dress up your home and make meal time more fun for both you and your dog. You can personalize dishes by having your dog's name put on them or you can have something like "Food" and "Water" put on the bowls.

If you happen to have multiple pets then personalization can be a good way to keep your dogs' dishes separated. That way Barney won't be eating out of Betty's bowls and vice versa. Your dogs may not be able to read their names but you'll know which bowls are which!

3. Artwork. Customized bowls today often come with exciting and interesting artwork designs. The artwork often has a dog theme which can be fun or playful, geometric, colorful, something with bones or another dog emblem. There are all sorts of designs available. You can choose something that you think represents your dog, something that appeals to you, or something that would appeal to your dog if he could choose. You're free to choose whatever you like.

Artwork and personalization are usually done on ceramic bowls. Many are hand-painted and fire-glazed. These bowls do cost more than stainless steel bowls but they are beautiful, durable dishes that can really dress up your dog's meals. Will your dog notice the difference in his dinnerware? Who knows. But you will notice. If you like the idea of personalized dog bowls then there's no reason why you shouldn't indulge yourself and your dog with a set.

While you're looking at personalized dishes for dogs you may also want to consider ceramic treat jars. There are some labeled "Cookies" or "Biscuits" which are nice for dogs. They may even match your dog's bowls.

If you're buying customized dishes you should make sure that non-toxic paints have been used. You don't want your dog to eat from a dish that could contain any dangerous chemicals. In most cases a glazed ceramic bowl or dish won't be a concern since the firing process will cover the paints used. However, if you're purchasing plastic bowls that have paint at the surface you will want to be certain that the paint is non-toxic.

Many people enjoy personalizing their dog's belongings. Dogs often have lots of possessions, including coats, sweaters, rain gear, collars, leashes and so on. All of these items can be personalized. If you're purchasing some of these items you may want to look for products that can be personalized or ask the store if the product can be customized for your dog.

David Beart is the owner of the Professors House [http://www.professorshouse.com]. Our site covers pet related topics from feeding puppies and pet trivia to raising cats and caring for birds.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4588787

Why You Should Use Ceramic Dog Bowls

2011-11-23T23:08:00.000-08:00

Ceramic dog bowls are a useful item, but are often passed over by pet owners. They opt instead for plastic ones, which aren't nearly as good. The main reason for this is because they feel that ceramic bowls are more likely to break, as well as the fact that they cost more than plastic.

Plastic is actually just as bad for dogs as it is for humans. There are toxins in the plastic that leach into the food and water that is served to your pets. Most people have stopped using plastic dishes and baby bottles because of this problem, so why give your dog something you wouldn't use?

Ceramic is not as breakable as you might imagine. For very excitable and bouncy dogs, it's a good idea to get a bowl that is shallower and harder to flip over. That being said, dog dishes are designed to be stable and stay flat on the floor, preventing them from breaking. They are usually quite thick, as well, which makes it very difficult to smash them.

The great thing about using this type of dish for your dog is that it keeps everything very clean. These bowls are easy to wash out and they don't absorb chemicals or the taste of rancid food. There's nothing to turn the dog off the dish. For anyone who serves their pet wet food, this will reduce the smell that tends to linger afterward.

Ceramic is also handy for popping into the dishwasher. The heat of the dishwasher will kill any bacteria or germs and mean that the dish will be completely clean. This is particularly good for outdoor dogs. Food bowls outside tend to attract insects and rodents, even when empty because they contain microscopic bits of food. This can be very unsanitary and may cause the dog to become ill.

The heaviness of a ceramic bowl means that the dog can eat without having the dish sliding across the floor. That's frustrating for an animal that doesn't have the option of using hands to hold things still. A nice heavy bowl won't scoot and he can eat in peace.

Look for a bowl that has a rim to help prevent food from flying out onto the floor. If your dog is a fast eater, this will prevent him from losing half his food as he attacks the bowl. It's a simple solution to a very common problem. It's also easier after the dog has been fed, since there won't be food everywhere.

For puppies and canines that like to chew on bowls, ceramic dog bowls have another advantage in that they are not able to be chewed. The dog will learn not to try and won't have bits of plastic lodged in his intestines as a result of gnawing on his bowl. These bowls are not only safe for dogs, they are actually healthier and cleaner options than many of the feeders out there. Make sure your dog stays healthy and get him an easily cleaned ceramic bowl.

Your Online Source For Ceramic Dog Bowl [http://www.ceramicdogbowl.org] Or Great Deals On Kennels For Dogs [http://www.kennelsfordogs.net]
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4351375

Homemade Dog Food - Tips to Tempt the Fussy Eater

2011-11-23T00:21:00.000-08:00

You've spent hours reading books and articles; you've subscribed to dog food related forums; you've found some recipes that look yummy enough to eat yourself; you've been shopping for beautiful fresh ingredients. Now you are all ready to start feeding homemade dog food. So you cook up a treat that smells delicious, and then you hit a snag: your precious pooch doesn't want to eat it!

Relax: it's not necessarily your cooking that's at fault! If your dog has only ever had kibble, then it may take him a while to get used to homemade dog food. Here are five tips to help him learn to enjoy real food.

Be sneaky: Introduce the new dog food gradually by mixing a little into his normal food, increasing the new food slowly over a period of days. Homemade dog food is a new experience for him in texture as well as flavour, so it's hardly surprising if he takes some time to adjust.

Too hot? Remember to let recently cooked food cool to room temperature before offering it to your dog. Check that there are no "hot spots" in the middle of the meal, especially if you have used the microwave.

Let him get hungry: Remove uneaten food after about ten minutes. Your dog does not need to snack or "graze": he is not a sheep. If you are trying to encourage him to eat something new, he will be much more interested if he has had the chance to actually get hungry. A dog's natural eating pattern is to eat a big meal when the opportunity presents itself, then to rest. Regular meals only became part of canine life after mankind domesticated the first wolf. It is OK to feed your adult dog only once or twice a day.

Boost the flavour: try a sprinkle of grated parmesan, or a drizzle of tasty stock. If it smells delicious, you have the game half won. If you are introducing raw meat and your dog isn't keen, try quickly browning the outside of the meat before you offer it to him, until he gets the idea.

Competition: If you have another dog, or even a cat, try feeding the two of them together: psychology can work wonders. If all else fails, try pretending you are eating some of the dog food yourself. This always works for me. Most dogs seem convinced that if the food is on the human plate it must be something special! The last resort might be to actually share something with him that you really are eating: I never knew a dog that could resist a piece of sausage.

Whatever you do, don't give up. When your dog has been eating homemade dog food for a few weeks and you can see the improvement in his well being, you'll be glad you persisted.

Sue French comes from a family of successful dog breeders and trainers and has been involved with dogs all her life. In 2006, Sue changed her dog's diet to homemade food, which resulted in a miraculous improvement in the dog's health. This inspired Sue's passion for "real food" for dogs. For more information about homemade dog food and dog nutrition, visit Sue's blog at [http://thedogfoodstory.com]
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1234016

Tips On Choosing The Right Sized Dog Beds

2011-11-19T21:43:00.000-08:00

Have you ever noticed how your pet dog loves sleeping beside you in your bed? You frequently tell your dog to get off but it just wont listen to you. Yes, you adore your pet, there's no question about it. However, you just can't let your dog sleep beside you no matter how adorable it may seem. Admit it, the way your dog snores and drools in your bed really keeps you up at night. In situations like this, you should finally get your dog its own dog bed.

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Getting your beloved pet its own place for sleeping is as essential as a man having his own bed. However, you can not just choose any dog bed products for your pet. There are some things that you need to consider first such as the right size of the dog bed. Keep in mind that it's more comfortable for dogs to lie on a bed that is just the right size for them.

The following are some helpful tips when it comes to choosing the right sized dog bed:

1. Consider the size and breed of your pet dog first. Since you are going to choose a bed for your dog, always keep in mind the physique of your beloved dog. If you own a small dog such as a Teacup Poodle, then of course, you will be looking for a small-sized dog bed. However, if your pet dog is a large one such as a St. Bernard, then you are set to look for a large-sized dog bed. Also, if your canine pet is still a puppy, then you have to choose an adjustable bed for your dog to grow up with. Bear in mind that dogs have different life spans as compared to humans. This means that dogs grow up faster than we do.

2. Make sure that the dog bed product you choose has enough space so your dog can move easily in it. Sleeping on a dog bed should be a soothing moment for your pet and not an exhausting one. Your dog must be able to fit in the bed yet still has enough space to stretch its body. Take note that space is what pets are usually looking for in a dog crib. Dogs are hyperactive and have the tendency to move around even while they sleep.

Also, there might be instances when pet dogs other than your own, such as the ones owned by your neighbors or friends, may drop by at your place and share the dog bed with your pet. Make them as comfortable as possible by providing a dog bed with the size just right enough for them to share together.

3. Know your dog well. If you really know your dog, then shopping for the right sized dog bed will not be that hard to do. Everything will have to depend on your pet dog's preferences and needs. When buying a dog bed for your pet, it is better to ask specialty stores for a sleep trial using your prospect dog bed product. This way, you will know the most suitable size of dog bed that best fit your beloved pet dog.

Jerry Brecken is a writer for dogbedsforyou.com a website where you can choose among the popular varieties of pet beds such as the large dog beds for your beloved pet.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/653224

Dog Beds- Tips For Selecting and Purchasing a Quality Dog Bed

2011-11-15T20:38:00.000-08:00

"All dogs go to heaven." Well, all dogs also need a place to rest those paws before the journey. A dog bed is vital to a pup's health. Why?

o It provides a sanctuary of privacy and security.
o It cushions joints and bones which is important if the dog is older, arthritic, or overweight.
o It helps reduce risk of injury from jumping on and off furniture.
o It insulates pup from the floor.
o It helps contain fur, dirt and dander, concentrating the "mess" in a smaller area.
o A travel bed or mat provides a familiar, secure resting spot on the go.
o An outdoor cot protects from uncomfortable or uneven surfaces, allowing air to circulate underneath.

Why not pay $10 at the local Pet-O-Rama for a fuzzy mat or a bed festooned with laughing clowns? Aside from potential aesthetic issues, most bargain beds are not sewn for durability and are filled with cheap synthetic material, which bunches and lumps, becoming uncomfortable and easy pickings for chewing. Bargain beds break down quickly and need to be replaced more often, resulting in more waste and ultimately costing as much or more than one quality bed.

A dog's size, age, physical condition and preferred sleeping position are all important factors in determining bed size and shape.

Sleeping Position

Pups who curl up will enjoy round beds, which include styles that cocoon, have a bolster pillow (a bumper or nest bed) or are a luxurious cushion.

A rectangular bed does the trick for lounging dogs because it is spacious with gentle overall support.
If a dog enjoys sleeping with his back against legs, a cushion or furniture, or if he circles before curling up or snuggling in, he is seeking security and will enjoy a bumper or nest bed.

For dogs that sleep in crates, a mat provides cushioning and comfort yet has a slim silhouette. Dog mats are portable, too.

Age is a factor. Puppies and younger dogs tend to snuggle and enjoy a bumper or nest bed's sense of security while older dogs may be a little less flexible and prefer a rectangular bed.

Many dogs, especially small breeds, can't sleep unless their backs are tucked into something; such dogs will relish a baffled cave shape that conforms to the body, provides support and security, and satisfies their natural burrowing instinct.

Some dogs simply prefer their owner's couch or bed. If so, a blanket is a wise investment. It provides a spot to curl up on, reducing fur, dirt, dander and scratch marks on the furniture. Blankets are available in organic cotton, hemp, recycled fleece and other earth-friendly sources which are easily cleaned in the washer.

Other Considerations:

o Sizing: Measure the dog in his most common sleeping position, determining the length from nose to rump plus 12 inches. If not fully grown, consider expected size at maturity or estimate bed size based on weight.

o Bed Cover: Covers made from reclaimed cotton, hemp, recycled pop bottle fleece, or organic cotton are all terrific alternatives to synthetics because of sourcing (renewable or recycled), durability, and easy care.

o Stuffing: Recycled pop bottle poly fill, organic cotton, recycled poly-cotton scraps, kapok and other eco-friendly stuffing have a longer life than standard poly fill, bunch less, and provide more comfort.

o Construction: Dogs get dirty! A removable cover and inner cushion that can be removed and washed is a must.

o Style: Earth-friendly dog beds don't have to be plain. They come in every shape, size and style.

o Price: Compare pricing, considering any extra fees.

With a little bit of know-how, it is possible to find a properly sized, quality dog bed that is consistent with a sustainable lifestyle without sacrificing anything.

Kathleen is the proud owner of Gretel, a Chesapeake Bay Retriever, as well as an online source for natural dog food and gear, Global Dog Natural Pet Products. She leads an active and sustainable lifestyle and enjoys promoting natural & eco friendly alternatives for families and pets. Interested in more information for your naturally active dog? Check out http://www.globaldognaturalpetproducts.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1693256