Thursday, January 29, 2009

Know Which Kind Of Puppy For Sale Ads To Respond To

With many hundreds of different dog breeds to choose from and thousands of different personalities as well to have to deal with, you will have your hands full locating an ideal puppy and your efforts will require doing more than simply browsing dog breeders that offer puppy for sale. To get the best deal in regard to your puppy you need to do a lot of research and you should also look beyond appearances when checking out a puppy for sale advertisement.

Looks Are Great, But Not Everything

Looks are great but they are not everything because you will also need to ascertain the prospective puppy’s behavior and other breed characteristics. So, before you start your hunt for a puppy and before responding to puppy for sale ads you need to find a reliable source where the complete breed profile facts will be given. Next, you need to be sure that the breed that you chose is compatible with your personality and lifestyle.

Having done this preparatory work you can then begin your search for puppy for sale breeders or ads and you should also use the keyword “puppy for sale” when making online searches. In addition, you will need to check out local sources within your city where puppies are being sold or given away. It also pays to compile a complete list of dog breeders that sell the type of dog breed that you wish to own. In addition, you must also check how passionate the breeder is in caring for the breed and a breeder that puts up more than a few different dog breed puppy for sale is to be avoided. Passionate breeders generally are known to only deal in one or two different dog breeds.

Having found a suitable puppy for sale advertisement you then need to check things such as the puppy’s health and his temperament. Also, you need to get a health guarantee in writing from the breeder and finally, you must also check the parentage of the puppy. It pays to avoid dealing with puppy mills as well as puppy brokers as too backyard breeders who put up puppy for sale advertisements with the sole objective of earning a profit and so will generally not pay too much attention to safeguarding the breed’s standard.

If you have decided on buying or bringing home a teacup puppy you should then also learn a few things that will ensure that this breed thrives in your home. By ensuring that you only respond to puppy for sale advertisements from reputable breeders you will be assured of getting the best puppy and you will also find that the puppy you bring home is trusting, confident as well as easy to train.

For more about puppies please visit www.puppycareblog.com

Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Stop Dog Digging

If walking through your yard has already become treacherous because of the number of holes your dogs have put in your yard, then you need to learn to curb dog digging. Dogs dig for a lot of reasons like anxiety, a desire to escape, or as a way to protect themselves from outside forces. In order to be effective in your training, you should understand why your dog is digging and learn effective versus ineffective methods on how to stop dogs from digging.

 

First, it is important that in order to get your dogs to stop digging, you must AVOID reprimands during the trainings. It can only bring too many negative effects to your pet! Dogs do not have good reasoning. If someone tells you that punishment is the right way to stop dogs from digging, they do not understand that your dogs might rebel and just dig when his all alone. Learning to get to the root of the behavior will do more in keeping your dogs from digging, because you will be able to change the circumstances to fit your needs while keeping the respect and love of your dog.

 

In trying to keep your dogs, you may want to start off simply by taking your dogs for regular walks. A lot of digging behavior comes out of boredom or a need to get rid of extra energy. It can be effective in trying to curb dog digging to take your dogs for walks or take time to actively play with them.

 

That same release of energy your dog needs bring about the next piece of advice on how to stop dog digging. It is imperative to stop the digging behavior and let your dog be dynamic when you are not around. Get toys that can keep them busy all throughout the day. There are a number of active toys on the market that can help stimulate your dogs physically and mentally so that digging is no longer needed as an activity.

 

The next thing you can do to stop dog digging is to put up a barrier to inhibit digging in specific areas. If your dog is always digging up your flowerbed or vegetable garden, but does not bother to dig anywhere else, then you may want to put up a small fence in that area. You can also use a sprinkler. Who says that cats are the only pets who avoid getting wet? Astonishingly, dogs usually do not like to get wet too, so when you see your dog heading for your tomatoes, turn on the sprinkler.

 

Allowing your pet to have alternatives is another way to control your dog from digging in other areas of your backyard. Giving your dog alternatives is another way to stop him from digging in other areas of your yard. You can also offer your beloved pet a sandbox or a corner of the yard where he can just dig away, well, which is if none of these methods work. Build the area that will be exclusively his then hide several treats under, HE WILL LOVE IT!! Through this method your dog will then learn the specific area with such treats is only the place where digging is okay.

 

Finally, a not so pleasant way to stop dogs from digging is to put a little of his solid dog waste in each digging hole. Surprising as it may seem, the waste will deter your dog from continuing to dig holes in the yard. It may not sound like the most uncomfortable way to stop dogs from digging, but it truly does work!

Chihuahua Puppy Care: How to Prepare

Chihuahua puppy care, like any new puppy care, can be a hassle if you don’t make the right preparations and learn about what to do prior to bringing your puppy home.Chihuahuas are a particularly tricky breed to take care of since they are hard to house train and are so small and fragile.

What to Buy for Your Chihuahua Prior to His Homecoming

In Chihuahua puppy care it is important to buy an exercise pen or crate where you can leave your Chihuahua when you can’t supervise him.  Also have a stash of newspapers ready as well as a litter box or potty pads.  House training a Chihuahua can get messy.Purchase a collar and leash, food and water bowls, a Chihuahua care and training book, and chewing toys.  Furthermore, make sure to puppy-proof your home by not leaving any electrical cords exposed. 

The Most Difficult Part of Chihuahua Puppy Care: House Training

Small puppies frequently eliminate.They are like babies and cannot hold it in and they will often do it without warning.In Chihuahua puppy care, it is important to constantly supervise your puppy so he is not running around the house alone.  That is what the exercise pen or crate is for. 
In Chihuahua puppy care, the more you let your dog have accidents, the more difficulty you will have housetraining your puppy.Chihuahua puppies have the desire to eliminate after a nap, after they eat, and after playing.Chihuahuas show that they need to eliminate when they circle and sniff the ground so if you notice that kind of behavior or know it’s around time for your puppy to eliminate, take him to the potty pad or litter box.  If you see your puppy squatting, make sure to take him to the right place. 
It is important in Chihuahua puppy care not to punish your puppy for eliminating in the wrong place because it is your responsibility to constantly supervise him.  If you can’t supervise him, put him in his playpen with his food and bed on one end and the potty bad or litter box on the other.  Chihuahua puppies naturally have the desire not to eliminate where they sleep and eat so they will go to the litter box or potty pad to eliminate.  When your puppy eliminates in the right place, reward him for doing so in the correct spot!

Feeding in Chihuahua Puppy Care

Chihuahuas have higher metabolisms than other breeds so it’s important to feed only premium dog foods.Don’t worry that you’ll have to spend a lot of money on food because Chihuahuas eat very little.  Young puppies need a free supply of dry food available to prevent hypoglycemia but when they become adults, feeding twice a day is sufficient.  Always provide water in a sturdy container but not large enough so that the puppy can fall in.  Avoid feeding your Chihuahua human foods because many of them can be toxic and dangerous.  It is important to buy a tube of Nutri-cal before you puppy comes home to prevent hypoglycemia. 
As you can probably gather, Chihuahua puppy care is a lot of work.  If you have the kind of schedule that would force you to leave your Chihuahua alone for long periods, it is better for you not to get one.  Chihuahuas need constant supervision and to be carefully taken care of to prevent health problems and other issues.However, if you have the time and patience for Chihuahua puppy care and you like small dogs, a Chihuahua may be your perfect companion!

For more about puppies please visit www.puppycareblog.com

Monday, January 26, 2009

Signing Up For Free Puppy Training Classes

Once you have found that perfect pet through free puppy adoption, you will want to begin right away with training it so that the transition into your home and lifestyle is an easy one. The best thing to do is to start grabbing up all of the books and magazines you can on free puppy training tips and hints so that you can begin to put certain rules and techniques into place at home. In the meantime, while you work on that, you will also want to look around for some free puppy training classes in your area.

It is extremely important that you find some free puppy training classes and get your puppy signed up for them before they rip apart your home. Dealing with a puppy that bites, chews, and goes to the bathroom all over your carpets is not the best way to start the bonding process. Puppies and dogs that are left untrained may find that their owners have a hard time connecting with them and therefore they be not get as much love and attention from the owner. Do not let this happen between you and your puppy so go out and get your pup signed up for a free puppy training course.

Where To Find The Classes

The best place to look is your local pet store to see if they offer any free puppy training classes there. If they do you are going to want to sign up as quickly as possible so you do not miss your chance at getting the training that your puppy needs so badly. If there are not any classes offered there at the store, they may have information on where puppy owners can go for some free puppy training courses. It is worth a shot to go and see what you can find out because the sooner you get started the better off your puppy will be.

If your local pet store cannot offer you any suggestions on where you can go for free puppy training then there are still other options so you do not want to give up. Start calling around to the other pet shops in your area and do not forget to call the different groomers or kennels in your area. These places may have some information for you on free puppy training as people may have posted information on their bulletin board or such. Just keep looking and you will eventually find the free puppy training class that you have been waiting for.

For more about puppies please visit www.puppycareblog.com

Sunday, January 25, 2009

Dog Chewing Problems Solved

Do you have a problem with dog chewing? A dog that loves to chew on anything he sees interesting and you can’t seem to figure out why he has this kind of passion? Did you ever come home from work and found your newest pair of shoes being chewed upon by your, cute, sweet and innocent, little dog? I suggest that you continue to read on if this is a familiar scenario to you.

 

Chewing is one of the worst habits that any dog can pick up. Besides it being destructive to your property, a dog that enjoys chewing might get injured by breaking its teeth or swallowing harmful material. Moreover, some dogs chew on themselves! This kind of bad behavior may cause hair loss and even serious infections to areas of their bodies like their tails, legs, and feet. If you have a dog chewing problem , instead of dismissing the act as a typical dog behavior, work to immediately correct the situation.

 

It is a fact that puppies chew a lot. However, their choices of what to chew on will be depend on you and how you train your dog. If you are welcoming a new puppy into your home, be sure to supply it with adequate toys to prevent your pooch from destroying your home, car, or wardrobe. In addition , keep in mind to pick toys that are not mistaken for those “out of bound” objects. Many dog owners prefer to grant their pups with cast off shoes to somehow redirect its attention from the new pair they have just bought, but to their surprise the puppy would still chew up on their brand new pair instead. Look for chewing toys and bones that will not splinter, break, or split and potentially cause a choking hazard. So that your dog does not become bored and opt to chew on your beloved possessions and furniture as an alternative, give your puppy with several different toys in various areas.

 

Yes, there are simple steps that can help you prevent your dog from chewing up your possessions! For starters, the easiest way to stop this routine is to keep an eye on your dog. Dogs cannot chew up your house and home while you sit watching them. A huge part of dog ownership is VIGILANCE. Furthermore, consider confining your dog to a room or area of your home until you can trust him to have free rein of your abode. More than vigilance , cleanliness is a large factor in what a dog has access to chew. Simply put, your dog cannot chew your shoes unless they were left accessible. If you find your dog chewing something, if possible, place it out of his reach. In all likelihood , the dog will continue chewing the same item until it is either removed or completely destroyed.

 

“But what about the larger things like furniture, doors, or appliances that will be hard to move”, you say? For these structures, apply a thin film of Bitter Apple. Like its name suggests, this solution is quite bitter and very unsavory for dogs. Available in a spray or cream, Bitter Apple will not damage the finish of your furniture and can easily be wiped away once the dog learns not the chew. Don’t be alarmed if your dog does ingest the material, it will not make him sick, as the contents of it are non-toxic.

 

Lastly, be the protector of your own items . Teach your dog commands like "leave it" and instruct him to cease and desist the gnawing of your items. Use a spray bottle or a shaker device rather than physical punishment, which can sometime cause dogs to become more destructive in protest. Go ahead and visit your veterinarian if your dog is chewing on himself more than your home. There are a lot of skin conditions, including parasitic infections that can cause a dog to chew on his own skin in order to find relief. Turn to a cooling spray that will provide relief as the area begins to heal. Also, use an antibiotic cream to prevent infection.

Saturday, January 24, 2009

Wood Dog House – What Type Of Materials To Use For Your Doghouse?

Although wood dog houses are common among many families who own dogs, not many people know there are many different types of wood available for your dog house.

The most common type of wood used is cedar. It is one of the most popular choices for wooden dog houses because of its resistance to decay and as well as insect and rot resistance.

Cedar is easy to work with and it is durable and reliable and can be work for long periods of time without any maintenance.

Other types of wood that are used in building dog houses include pine and hemlock though they are less common. One reason is because they lack the insect and decay resistance compared to cedar wood. That is also why they are seldom used as the base structure of your dog house as they decay and rot faster especially when they come into contact with the ground.

If you are building your own dog house, beware of using pressure-treated wood. This is because although they are resistant to decay and insects, they contain harmful chemicals that could pose a danger to your dog.

Most older pressure treated wood uses chromated copper arsenate which can be deadly to animals. Nevertheless, over the past few years, other chemicals have been used to create pressure treated wood and it is safer.

Wood is also better than plastic in building dog houses because they stay much warmer during the winter. Wood also helps to dissipate heat naturally during the summer months.

Wood is also easier to work with compared to plastic. You only need a saw and a hammer to build your own dog house. If you are eco-conscious, then building wooden dog houses is also more environmentally friendly and can easily be recycled for other purposes. It is also cheaper than plastic.

Learn how to build wood dog house. Visit my site and learn more about wooden dog houses.

Friday, January 23, 2009

Start Training Your Mastiff Puppy With These Three Principles

Play is a very large part of any Mastiff puppy's early life. But were you aware that playtime can also be learning time as well? Play can be a valuable tool in training your Mastiff puppy everything from learning simple commands to teaching them the ins and outs of socializing and what it takes to be a well behaved dog.

There are three basic things that a Mastiff puppy - even one as young as six weeks old - needs to start learning. The first and most useful of those things is simply the word, "No." You will be using that command repeatedly during your relationship with your dog and so it is very important that he knows it from the start.

And it's easy. Dogs, even puppies, are adept at recognizing tone of voice. When they learn to associate a displeased, forceful tone of voice with the word no, you will not in the future have to be so forceful in your utterances. But first you do have to get his attention. When the Mastiff pup does something wrong, simply pick him up, gain eye contact and tell him very firmly, "No." It will get an immediate reaction. Depending on your pup's personality, he will drop his head and become sheepish, growl or attempt to talk you out of it by asking you to play. If either of the latter two happens, you will have to repeat the command to show that you are not kidding.

Then, simply let it go. Put the pup down and keep a watchful eye on his response. A rebellious pup may repeat the action as a way to test you, in which case you need to repeat the process. Be gentle, but be firm and consistent and your pup should get the message.

As for the other things that your baby needs to know, you will probably default to teaching him the proper way to go potty. This is actually easier than you might think, as pups are a lot smarter than they look. Timing is, however, everything. If you notice a puddle on the floor and your pup has since gone off to play with his ball, the only thing you can do is clean it up and watch him more closely. Don't rub his nose in it, or he will simply be hurt and confused. What you want to do is catch him in the act. When you see him start to take a tinkle, grab him and take him outside. Chances are he will be so shocked that he will save some for the yard, and when he goes there you can praise him lavishly.

The third thing that your Mastiff pup needs to know is that he should never put his teeth on a human being. This is a tough one, as it is so much fun to play "bite" with a youngster. But you don't want them to play so rough when they are older. So when you play with him, be sure to do so with toys that are okay for him to bite. If he bites when you are trying to pet him, tell him no and give him his toy or put his toy right in his mouth. If he keeps trying, you should pick him up and tell him no. If you are consistent, you should get good results.

When your pup has accomplished learning her first command, or goes outside instead of on the floor and stops puppy-biting, she is well on her way to graduating from a Mastiff puppy to a well-mannered adult.

Thursday, January 22, 2009

Cheap Pet Insurance Gives You Options for Healthy Pet Care

Is Pet Insurance Worth It?

There are many households in the United States where the pets in the family are considered to be of equal importance just as any other member. Just as the family is concerned about the health care needs of loved ones, they are equally concerned about the well-being of their beloved pets. Purchasing cheap pet insurance can help the family to have the security that their family pets will be able to get the health care they deserve, without the stress of figuring out how to pay for the veterinary pet bills.

Pet insurance is a fairly new insurance product on the market. It has become a great way for average families to be able to have the sense of peace and security that the pet will be properly cared for in case they encounter some type of illness.

Pet health insurance was introduced to the market about 20 years ago and was met with some skepticism and ridicule. Some thought it was simply a new method for insurance companies to sell policies, while others thought that is was something only the wealthy could afford. However, for many families, cheap pet insurance has provided the needed coverage for health care services for their pets and reduced financial stress for the family.

The best news is that with the advent of more affordable and cheaper pet insurance, people are able to relax knowing that their pet will be taken care of in times of need. This takes away the worry and concern that is often in the back of people's minds. When a family budget is already stretched thin to take care of necessities for the children in the household, adding concern about an illness or accident with the family pet can place additional stress on the parents.

Now that pet health insurance has been out on the open market for at least a few years, thare a additional providers getting into the field and making in competition. This has the beneficial effect for the consumer of lower prices and making cheaper pet insurance available. There are now options for veterinary pet care coverage that can be obtained for just a few dollars a month as the premium.

However, it should be noted that cheaper pet insurance is not always the best pet insurance for your particular needs and for your specific situation. One of the things that you need to watch out for when doing any type of comparison pet insurance is to uncover how reliable the company that is backing the insurance policy is. It can be very frustrating as well as costly to make a decision to go forward with a procedure for your pet which is based on the anticipated coverage and then run into excuses and the usual run-around's from the insurer trying to keep from paying the veterinarian.

If you do your research then that is one method on steering clear of this problem. Ask questions about how long the company has been in business. Search the internet forums for people who have had experience with the pet insurance company you are considering. Check with your veterinarian and ask if they know the company and if they have ever had problems with being paid promptly.

Spending some time researching will help avoid some pitfalls that might come with a cheap pet insurance policy. In addition, part of your research should include learning about where the company is headquartered and checking with the Better Business Bureau in their area to see what kind of track record they have. These extra steps will help assure that you have found adequate pet health insurance for your animal.

For a great deal more informational value go to this online destination: Pet Health Insurance In Ontario also click here Discount Pet Insurance and more information at Pet Life Insurance

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Dog Obedience Training

Three Principles on Dog Obedience Training

Dogs, even when their breeding is maximized and well-adapted to human needs, will always need some basic obedience training as they would never figure this out on their own. To be successful in obedience training you need to understand the differences between effective and non-effective training techniques. They are the following:

Principle One: CONSISTENCY

The first rule in obedience training is to be consistent. This covers the use of words, tone, and the actions that accompany the word or command. Before you begin training you will need to come to an agreement with the dog owner on what it is they are wanting the dog to learn and how to accomplish it.

At first the word commands, such as "come", does not make sense to a dog. It is only reasonable to conclude if he does not understand the way humans are, then he does not understand our language. So to make the training understandable, you should use the command in a very consistent manner so that the dog will learn to associate the word with the meaning you attach with it.

Another example would be, if you are using the command "come", make sure that everyone in the household use it in a same type of manner. The command "Come" specifically means that the dog should approach the giver of the command. When you are using this command be sure not to use any signals or body movements that would be confusing to the dog.

Don’t be deterred in your training efforts if the dog does not come to your right away, be patient and don’t force or scold him. Otherwise, this would make him attribute the command with the punishment. The dog will not want to follow the same command because in his mind it leads to punishment.

Consistency also covers the use of the same dog commands by all people. For instance if you are teaching the word "come", others should not use the words, ’come here boy’ or ’here’, because this will only confuse the dog.

Second Principle: Keep It Short

Both the amount of time you spend training and the words you use as commands should be kept short. Dogs tend to have a short attention span, it is best to limit the training so they keep the interest level to it’s peak during the days lesson. For example, puppies love to explore and play with something for awhile, then soon they are off again to explore the next new thing that may catch their attention.

They simply don’t possess the same amount of interest they had when they started the activity and they become easily bored. They also often become board during training and that is why it’s best to limit the time to 10 - 15 minutes a day.

Third Principle: No Punishment or Force Allowed

A trainer should never hurt the dog in any way, you should make it a goal to have the training be a positive experience for all involved. You should absolutely never punish a dog just because he did not do something he wasn’t prepared for, nor force a dog to do something he does not understand.

Make sure not to over do it when training your dog. The dog does not understand that he should learn things "instantly" and he does not realize that you are becoming impatient with the speed he is picking up the training. If you are angry the dogs can sense it but does not know why.

You must avoid negative experiences related to training so you should not force your dog to obey your commands. If he knows that he is praised when he does something right, he should not be praised when he does not follow a command.

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Discover Fashionable Personalized Leather Dog Collars

One wonderful item that might keep your pet safe and appearing handsome is to buy a personalized leather dog collar for your dog to wear. Leather collars are rugged and can handle serious usage. By getting your dogs name and your phone number to the leather collar you can help keep your pet safe if their tags were to ever fall off of the collar.

Ways to Customize Your Dogs Collar

The most common type of personalization you will likely find on a leather dog collar is the animals name. By personalizing a leather dog collar with your animals name you help to identify your dog while giving your pet a trendy collar to strut around in at the same time. The embossing of a name onto a leather collar is pretty familiar. For some more detail you can have the outline of the embossing painted to make it stand out a little more or to add a little extra panache.

Leather collars are also great for attaching spikes and studs to.Decorative spikes that you put on your dogs collar come in various sizes.Be sure you choose a size that will not get in the way of your pet's day to day lifestyle.You can also pick a number of studs to attach to a leather collar. Flat studs, star studs, round gemstone studs.

If you do put studs or spikes to your personalized leather dog collar don't forget toinspect the back side of the collar. You will want to be sure there is nothing sharp that might hurt your dog’s neck. Look for the backside of the collar to have a another layer over it that will hide where the studs and spikes were attached to the leather collar.

Emboss your pets name and add a few star studs. Create a personalized rhinestone dog collar by adding a few rhinestone studs to the collar.Try creating a custom theme for your animals leather collar. Maybe a cowboy theme embossed on your dogs collar or a selection of flowers. Try embossing the logo of your favorite sports team onto the collar, or create a crazy pattern of your own for your pets collar.

A varsity of options are available to design just the right customized leather dog collar to help express your pooch's attitude.

Monday, January 19, 2009

Dog Obedience Training

Simple Principles in Dog Obedience Training

Even dogs with some of the best well breeding or dogs that are well adapted to humans still need some basic obedience training, because these skills are not something they pick up on their own. Obedience training requires the use of some principles which differentiate effective training, from training without results. They are the following:

Principle One: CONSISTENCY

Consistency is the first basic rule in effective dog training. You need to be consistent in the words you use, the tone they are spoken in and the actions that accompany them. During the beginning of the training, the trainer or the dog owner must decide what should be the parameters of training, such as what and how you are going to teach the dog.

For example saying the word "come", does not make any sense to a dog. It is only reasonable to conclude if he does not understand the way humans are, then he does not understand our language. It is important to make the training effective, by being very consistent in attaching the same voice tone, body movement or hand jester with every command that is given to your dog.

An example would be if you use the word, "come", then you need to make sure everyone else in the household using the same word. The command "Come" specifically means that the dog should approach the giver of the command. So if you are using this command make it a point not to do actions that would make the command confusing for the dog.

If he does not come to you, do not force the dog to come to you and then punish him for doing so. If you punish the dog over and over after giving the command they will begin to associate the word with the punishment. He will not follow the same command since in his mind, he remembers it will lead to punishment.

Consistency also covers the use of the same dog commands by all people. For instance if you are teaching the word "come", others should not use the words, ’come here boy’ or ’here’, because this will only confuse the dog.

Second Principle: Keep It Short

Both the amount of time you spend training and the words you use as commands should be kept short. Dogs tend to have a short attention span, it is best to limit the training so they keep the interest level to it’s peak during the days lesson. Puppies usually react to a specific stimulus, but not for a very long time, they may begin to chase a moving toy, and quickly lose interest, then move on to the next thing.

They can quickly loose interest in an activity sometimes within just moments after beginning, and will need something else to stimulate their senses. They also often become board during training and that is why it’s best to limit the time to 10 - 15 minutes a day.

Principle Three: DO NOT USE FORCE and PUNISHMENT

A trainer should never hurt the dog in any way, you should make it a goal to have the training be a positive experience for all involved. You should absolutely never punish a dog just because he did not do something he wasn’t prepared for, nor force a dog to do something he does not understand.

Make sure not to over do it when training your dog. The dog does not understand that he should learn things "instantly" and he does not realize that you are becoming impatient with the speed he is picking up the training. All he knows is that you are mad.

You must avoid negative experiences related to training so you should not force your dog to obey your commands. If he knows that he is praised when he does something right, he should not be praised when he does not follow a command.

Sunday, January 18, 2009

Dog Jumping Training

Training your dog to stop jumping can be taught to all ages of dogs, although puppyhood would be the best time to start training. Start in on by training your dog not to jump on people, also consider buying instructional books, enrolling them in a dog obedience class, or get aid from a professional. The most significant factor is to be patient when it comes to controlling the jumping manners amongst dogs. Just like people, dogs too become skilled at at their own speed.

 

With no a professional help, the best thing to do is to look for Dog Training books or instructional videos if you are considering training your dog to stop from jumping on people, which has expert chapters for obedience or a specific topic. You can even check online websites for the said things.

 

Need more help? Then hire a professional dog trainer. Although more expensive than doing it on-your-own, for sure, you can get valuable advices about your concerns, along with any other behavioral issues.

 

But consider that your dog is only trying to get close to you and is agitated for your arrival, and exasperating would be the perfect word to depict training your dog to stop jumping. Thus, dog behavior like this would need to be discouraged as it can be risky for kids or elderly people. But always check first the status of your dog’s behavior just before you enroll your dog in an obedience class.

 

Sit. Stay. Without a doubt, these commands will work just fine for training dogs to stop jumping. Once accomplished, the idea of initially seeing them jump excitedly will be eliminated. Order "stay" when you first enter the room, and gesture them it’s okay for them to approach you. After that, their excitement will have mellowed down a little. But you still need to recognize that every dog answers differently to training, so have patience.

 

Try grabbing their paws and let go of them gently on the ground when your dog jumps up on you. While doing this, command "No" or "No jump," any of the two would work perfectly with your dog training strategy. Keep in mind to continuously restate the same phrase when it comes to curbing the jumping so that your pet will acknowledge and recognize its importance.

 

Reward is significant in dog training, so compensate your beloved dog if they don't jump on you when you arrive home and give kind praise on them. Not only they will feel good but they will be more apt to learn by heart the deeds you taught them.

Saturday, January 17, 2009

Getting a Pet Insurance Comparison Gives The Right Choices For Your Needs

Do's and donts of pet health insurance

For many people who own and love pets, there is just nothing worse than worrying about not being able to afford the cost of taking proper care of them. If you have been thinking that it is time to look into purchasing veterinarian insurance for pets, then you most likely will want to take some time to do a pet insurance comparison.

In recent years, having pet insurance to provide for the four-legged members of the family has almost become a must-have item, especially for households that have several pets. As the vet bill increase, it makes good sense to invest in pet health insurance, similar to as you would do for the human people within your home. Such pet health insurance can make very good economic sense, but it is important to conduct a comparison before purchasing animal care insurance.

It will become quickly evident that there are a number of insurance companies that offer pet health care insurance policies. Doing a comprehensive pet insurance comparison is a valuable way of being able to identify the coverage options, the cost of monthly premiums and the best coverage package for the family pets. Looking on the internet is a good time saving approach as you can quickly collect a great deal of information and formulate a good idea of what kind of coverage you can expect to get, within your budget range.

There are even some websites on the internet that will assist you to complete your comparison, doing this through a side-by-side listing of the various of pet insurance so that you can rapidly compare the various policies as well as the companies. This is a great time saver and can help you quickly eliminate pet insurance company offerings or a pet plan that does not offer what you need most. Once you have identified the plan that will provide the type of coverage you want, then it is easier to make the comparisons.

When doing an insurance comparison, some of the things you will want to consider and perhaps even seek out additional information about are: whether the plan includes coverage for kennel fees; whether you can take your pet to any licensed veterinarian or if you must choose from a list of approved animal care professionals; if the plan covers wellness or preventative care benefits; whether the plan covers boarding fees in the event that you become ill and cannot care for your pet yourself and if you need to find a plan that will also extend coverage to related events such as being reimbursed for cancellation fees associated with travel. These are simply some of the numerous things to consider that need to be taken into consideration when coming to a conclusion on veterinary pet insurance plans to meet your particular needs.

In addition to these concerns, there are also a number of things that should be looked at with regard to each pet insurance company. When doing a comparison for insurance, you need to know the answers to, at the very least, these types of questions when it comes to the different companies; what length of time have they been in the pet insurance industry? Is the pet insurance company stable and does it have a good reputation? Has your veterinarian had any dealings with the company and have those dealings been positive? Does the pet insurance company employ ony licensed or certified professional for key positions?

People are tempted to buy the cheapest pet insurance they can find. However, doing the proper research with a good pet insurance comparison, is likely to reveal that the cheapest policy might not be the best policy for your situation. Spending time comparing the coverage options should show you the balancing point between the right pet plan and the monthly premium cost that will fit into your budget.

To discover more head on over to Pet Health Insurance In Ontario and certainly try Met Life Offers Pet Insurance with more helpful material at Pet Insurance Bird Lovers

Friday, January 16, 2009

Going For The Free Puppy Adoption

While the best place to pick up a new puppy is always the pound because those pups are facing being put down, it is certainly not a free puppy adoption. There are fees involved with getting a puppy from the pound so you need to be prepared to have anywhere from fifty to one hundred dollars to take a puppy home from the pound. Whether it is a free pug puppy you are looking for or any other free puppy would work for you, you are going to have to look elsewhere besides the pound if you are looking for a truly free puppy adoption.

There are a lot of ways to get a new pet through a free puppy adoption but if you are wanting to go the free route because you do not have a penny to your name then adopting a dog may not be the best thing for you or the dog at this point in time. This is because puppies and dogs cost a lot of money and they will need a lot of care which means keeping up on their shots and having them groomed on a regular basis. If you are going for the free puppy adoption because you do not have the money to buy a dog, then you really cannot afford to raise one.

Where To Look For That Special Dog

If you can truly afford to care for the pet properly but you just prefer the free puppy adoption as opposed to paying for a dog, then by all means, go for the free puppy. Once you know that you are for sure ready to bring a new pet into your home, then you can start searching out the places that offer free puppy adoption. The classifieds are generally the best way to go about finding free puppy adoption. A lot of people are willing to share their puppies with the world with no cost involved. Check the online classifieds, as well as there are many people who only post on the web instead of going through the paper.

There are also a lot of flyers or advertisements placed on bulletin boards of grocery stores, department stores, and especially pet stores where there are pups up for free puppy adoption. Once you find the puppy that you want you will want to act ask as adorable puppies always go fast. And they go even faster when it is a free puppy adoption being offered as so many people are looking for the same thing as you.

For more about puppies please visit www.puppycareblog.com

Thursday, January 15, 2009

Dog Life Jackets

Water Safety for Dogs

If you love to take your dog with you everywhere you go, then you may want to purchase a dog life jacket. People that take their dog to the beach or out boating should seriously consider buying him or her a dog life jacket. If you are like me, your dogs are just as important to you as your children. You would never let your small child near deep water without a life jacket on, and then the same should be said for your dog wearing a life jacket too.

A dog life jacket is a waterproof coat made especially for dogs that will allow him to easily move around enough to swim or partake in any number of other fun water activities that you have planned for the day. Another advantage to having a dog life jacket is the handle made on the back side which will allow you to pull him out of the water quickly if needed.

Having a life jacket for your dog could be the main factor in saving their life one day and for that reason many recommend its use at beaches, boating or anywhere near deep water. Dogs can be very curious and can create distractions when they are boating or even on a pier or dock. They can be distracted by birds, other boats, surfers and any number of things that can cause them to accidently fall off the boat or pier. If that happens and they have a life jacket on, then you will be able to bring them to safety easier and faster or it will give them a better chance to swim to safety.

Dogs also have a tendency to get excited and overdo it when they are playing in the water. Unfortunately, dogs have been known to drown when playing in water with a toy, ball or stick. They can get too tired without noticing it because they are keenly focused on playing with you or the toy. A tired dog can very easily fall victim to a strong current or a rip tide.

That is why a dog life jacket is very important, it is not dumb to want to keep your dog alive by having them wear one, because it will greatly increase their chances of survival if they are in danger due to deep water or strong currents. There are many sites on the internet from which you can purchase dog clothing such as a dog life jacket, or your pet shop should also be able to order one in for you. Dog life jackets are available in sizes to fit all dogs.

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Dog Obedience Training

Three Principles on Dog Obedience Training

Dogs, even when their breeding is maximized and well-adapted to human needs, will always need some basic obedience training as they would never figure this out on their own. Obedience training requires the use of some principles which differentiate effective training, from training without results. They are the following:

First Principle: CONSISTANCY

The first rule in obedience training is to be consistent. You need to be consistent in the words you use, the tone they are spoken in and the actions that accompany them. During the beginning of the training, the trainer or the dog owner must decide what should be the parameters of training, such as what and how you are going to teach the dog.

For example saying the word "come", does not make any sense to a dog. He does not understand things the way humans think and he does not understand the language we use. So to make the training understandable, you should use the command in a very consistent manner so that the dog will learn to associate the word with the meaning you attach with it.

An example would be if you use the word, "come", then you need to make sure everyone else in the household using the same word. When using the word command, "Come", you should work with the dog to understand this means to approach the giver of the command. So if you are using this command make it a point not to do actions that would make the command confusing for the dog.

Don’t be deterred in your training efforts if the dog does not come to your right away, be patient and don’t force or scold him. Otherwise, this would make him attribute the command with the punishment. The dog will not want to follow the same command because in his mind it leads to punishment.

Consistency also covers the use of the same dog commands by all people. For example, if you are using the command "come", other people in the household should not replace it with words like "here" or, "come here boy".

Second Principle: Keep It Short

Both the amount of time you spend training and the words you use as commands should be kept short. Keep in mind that the attention span of dogs is very short and that getting them engrossed with a specific activity can be very hard, if not impossible. For example, puppies love to explore and play with something for awhile, then soon they are off again to explore the next new thing that may catch their attention.

They simply don’t possess the same amount of interest they had when they started the activity and they become easily bored. They also often become board during training and that is why it’s best to limit the time to 10 - 15 minutes a day.

Third Principle: No Punishment or Force Allowed

Never hurt the dog if you want him to be acceptable to being trained. You should absolutely never punish a dog just because he did not do something he wasn’t prepared for, nor force a dog to do something he does not understand.

Make sure not to over do it when training your dog. A good trainer realizes dogs do not learn things instantly and so they are very patient and show understanding towards the animal they are working with. All he knows is that you are mad.

So do not use force as this does not communicate your meaning properly, instead gives a negative reinforcement. If he knows that he is praised when he does something right, he should not be praised when he does not follow a command.

Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Crate Training Dog

Crate Training For Dogs

First you will need to help them get used to the crate, before you begin locking them in. You can watch your dog from a distance to see how long it takes them to calm down and get used to the crate. Remember this is for training so if he begins to act up you should not let him out. Instead, let him settle down first then let him leave after awhile. You will need to do this process several time until they learn to enter and leave the crate by themselves.

Some people oppose the idea of crate training dogs, because they think is a cruel form of isolation. However, with the benefits mentioned below and other benefits not listed in this article, may help you to conclude that crate training could benefit both owner and his dog.

People who take the right approach to crate training puppies will help their dog or puppy realize it to be a safe place for them to rest and not something to fear.

Crate training is based on the instinct of the dog to find some security with den nesting places that are isolated from all distractions. For dogs, a den can serve as their home. Your dog will respond well to your patience and use of correct techniques when training them to use the crate.

Why You Should Use a Crate

a) There are times when you can not let your dog run around freely and a crate is a great way to keep them with you, while controlling them at the same time.

b) Dogs will begin to feel secure inside the crate and appreciate the safety zone it provides when they are in an unfamiliar place.

c) They would have a place for solace when they wanted to rest or when feeling under stressed where no one could bother them.

d) Some dogs may have some behavior problems that can be helped with proper crate training.

e) Puppies respond well to crate training as a way to teach them potty training skills and what not to chew on or to not bite people.

f) This could also be good for dogs with separation anxiety.

g) Another advantage is that it keeps the dog safe whenever you bring him outside the home.

h) It increases his confidence due to the security it provides.

i) Crates can enhance training by giving your dog a sense of consistency and guidance for routine activities.

Size of the Crate

You will need to choose a crate that allows the dog enough room to stand up and lie down comfortably, without him hitting his head or body against the walls or door all the time. However, if you also intend to use the crate for travel, the crate should be larger than the regular above mentioned size.

However, when a crate is used for just training purposes, they do not need to be so large that the dog can move around in it and maybe do something undesirable inside it.

Introducing Your Dog to Their Crate

Once you feel your dog is ready for the crate, that is the best time to introduce them to it. After you purchase the right crate for your dog you will need to put it someplace in the home where they will see it often. The first week you should remove the door and just let him explore it at his leisure.

If he does not show any sign of interest, try leaving some of his favorite treats inside. After a couple of days, try feeding your dog inside the crate. This special treat is a signal to your dog that this a special place just for him, and that will create a sense of safety and security all dogs enjoy.

Monday, January 12, 2009

Cheap Dog Training Collars

Why Get Cheap Dog Training Collars?

Should you invest in supplies to train your dog?

Some people are willing to invest a lot of money and time.

It is perfectly okay to buy very expensive dog collars if you prefer doing so. However, you will find there are a great deal of choices for you to choose from that do not cost as much. Collars range anywhere from fancy fashion dog collars, studded collars to a wide variety of others. Most owners do not like to spend the extra money on dog training collars and therefore choose to use one that will be more practical and meet the basic requirements.

If you have a dog with a lot of energy or is highly curious you can find it stressful to train them, as you learn to deal with all his behavior patterns.

If you find that after investing in your dogs training the results you get are not what you looking for, then you should look at ways to begin cutting down on additional costs. One good example is the dog training collar.

For many owners it does not make much sense if the dog does not respond well to training to buy accessories, especially when the dog has begun nibbling on the corners of the dog collar. What is more important to remember is the improvement of the behavior and not really on how expensive or sophisticated the collar and other accessories look.

Even though dog collars are instrumental in getting better control and correcting unwanted dog behaviors, expensive collars can quickly effect your budget. This is the reason why many owners resort to buying cheap dog training collars as good alternatives, without having to sacrifice the function of the item, or adding an unnecessary financial burden.

When shopping for the right collar you should also check its durability and functionality before you even begin to look at the price. Don’t get caught up in the mind set that if you pay more for a collar, that it is a good indication to determine it’s functionality.

Cost is a good margin for getting the right collar, but it should not affect the way one sees the item. For example, an excellent collar could give the best value at its lowest possible price. Another thing to be aware of is that just because the price is low, don’t think the quality of the collar is low too.

Don’t give into the mind set that pricing equals quality. People may think that the more money they spend will automatically mean that they are getting a better quality training collar for their dog. This can indeed be the truth for certain brand names but is not always the case. You should do some research to find the best bargains available.

When advanced technologies are integrated into the collar, they are often retailed at much higher prices. The popular electronic dog collar is a good example. The price of this collar runs anywhere from $100 to $999 depending on the types of features installed in the item. You can expect a lot higher prices when more advanced technologies are used in making the collar.

Dog collars can cost a few hundred dollars and many people find it very impractical to buy items with such outrageous price tags. So if you are someone wanting to be practical while trying to get a cheap dog training collar, it is best to do your homework.

Eliminate Dog Chewing

Do you have a dog chewing problem ? A dog that loves to chew on anything he sees interesting and you can’t seem to figure out why he has this kind of passion? Have you ever come home from work only to find your most favorite pair of shoes being chewed upon—or worse, almost halfway around the throat of your, cute, sweet and innocent, little dog? If this is a familiar scenario to you, I suggest that you continue to read on.

 

One of the worst habits that any dog can pick up is chewing. Besides it being destructive to your property, a a dog chewing might end up injuring itself by breaking its teeth or swallowing harmful material. Worse, some dogs chew on themselves! This kind of unpleasant habit may cause hair loss and even serious infections to areas of their bodies like their tails, legs, and feet. If you have a problem with dog chewing, instead of dismissing the act as a typical dog behavior, work to immediately correct the situation.

 

It is a fact that puppies chew a lot. However, their choices of what to chew on will be directly dependent upon you . If you are welcoming a new puppy into your home, be sure to supply it with adequate toys to prevent your pooch from destroying your home, car, or wardrobe. Moreover, keep in mind to pick toys that are not mistaken for those “out of bound” objects. To somehow redirect its attention from the new pair they have just bought, many dog owners prefer to grant their pups with cast off shoes but to their surprise the puppy would still chew up on their brand new pair instead. Look for bones and toys that are meant to be used as a chewing toy that will not splinter, break, or split and potentially cause a choking hazard. So that your dog does not become bored and opt to chew on your beloved possessions and furniture as an alternative, give your puppy with several different toys in various areas.

 

Yes, there are simple steps that can help you prevent your dog from chewing up your possessions! For starters, the easiest way to stop this routine is to keep an eye on your dog. Dogs cannot chew up your house and home while you sit watching them. A huge part of dog ownership is VIGILANCE. Furthermore, consider confining your dog to a room or area of your home until you can trust him to have free rein of your abode. In addition to vigilance, cleanliness is a large factor in what a dog has access to chew. Simply put, your dog cannot chew your shoes unless they were left accessible. If you find your dog chewing something, if possible, place it out of his reach. In all likelihood , the dog will continue chewing the same item until it is either removed or completely destroyed.

 

“But what about the larger things like furniture, doors, or appliances that will be hard to move”, you say? For these structures, apply a thin film of Bitter Apple. Like its name suggests, this solution is quite bitter and very unsavory for dogs. Available in a spray or cream, Bitter Apple will not damage the finish of your furniture and can easily be wiped away once the dog learns not the chew. Don’t be alarmed if your dog does ingest the material, it will not make him sick, as the contents of it are non-toxic.

 

Finally, serve as a guardian of your own items. Teach your dog commands like "leave it" and instruct him to cease and desist the gnawing of your items. Use a spray bottle or a shaker device rather than physical punishment, which can sometime cause dogs to become more destructive in protest. If your dog is chewing on himself more than your home, immediately visit your veterinarian. There are a lot of skin conditions, including parasitic infections that can cause a dog to chew on his own skin in order to find relief. Turn to a cooling spray that will provide relief as the area begins to heal. Also, use an antibiotic cream to prevent infection.

Sunday, January 11, 2009

Career Dog Training

Things to Know Before Considering a Career in Dog Training

People who are really passionate about dogs will sometime choose a life’s career in this field so they can use their love for dogs everyday to help them, making it their goal to become a professional dog trainer.

Before you look at a career as a dog trainer ask yourself if you are someone who loves dogs and wants to love them more, or, are thinking about it, just because someone brought it to your attention as a possible option?

Respect for Fundamentals

Dog training is more than a love for dogs, it also requires a good deal of knowledge, skills in handling, proper ways to discipline them and also knowing the basics of their behaviors. Experienced dog trainers have a good working relationship with many dog owners, dog handlers and of course their pets.

What is your "Dog Division"?

There are two types of careers in the dog world: the pet service training and the dog training. Both have relatively high demands in the market but there are a lot more opportunities in pet dog training than in service training.

Pet dog training usually involves dogs that function merely as pets and as companions therefore, most commonly they are taught obedience training, agility training, potty training and training to eliminate unwanted behaviors like barking and biting.

Dog Service Training is geared towards helping people with certain disabilities or working with people undergoing therapy. Another division of service dogs may include the following: chasing criminals, drug and bomb sniffing, search and rescue dogs and hunting dogs.

Each of these take a large amount of dedication and patience on the trainers part as they are very intense fields of specialize divisions.

Canine Psychology - What is It?

Learn all about dog behavior - their thinking, their behaviors and their reaction to stimulus. Trainers will need to constantly work with a dog to teach them to react in a desired way to any given command. You should also know well the fundamentals of associative conditioning.

Where Can You Learn Dog Training Education?

Careers in dog training require you have the skills to train and handle dogs. Currently today, there are no colleges or universities that offer the ability for people to get degrees in dog training. The good news is that there are dog ’academies’ or ’schools’ that provide the basic training you will need. Often, the best dog trainers are often self taught and have natural inclination to dog handling.

Some people learn by practical experience while others just have a certain natural talent with dogs. There are also a number of dog training organizations that could provide the latest information on dog training.

A good dog trainer works with both the attitudes of people and dogs

Usually dog training involves training the handlers of the dog as well. Therefore if you are pursuing a career in this field, it is very important that you have good people skills and that you can tolerate all types of people.

Some owners are impatient and want their dogs to learn everything fast, so they may disregard advice from the trainer, however, there are others that are more patient and open to the suggestions given by the trainer. You need to work with both types of dog handlers and everyone in between. So as you can see, a good dog trainer will not only be working with dogs but with their owners and handlers too.

Dog trainers also must possess the skills to properly groom dogs and then know how to provide each breed of dog the proper nutrition and good hygiene techniques needed.

Having a vast knowledge of what accessories to use and training aids that are available will help during dog competitions. You will also need the ability to distinguish different types of dog breeds and know what the fundamental differences are.

You don’t have to be a master in dog training to be an excellent trainer; you only have to develop certain skills necessary in working with dogs and their handlers, by using sufficient knowledge on theories, then have the capacity to use them in a practical way.

Saturday, January 10, 2009

Free Dog House Plans – Build Big Fancy Dog House or Simple Dog Houses?

Building your own dog house can be actually easy and cheaper than buying a pre built doghouse if you plan in advance since most pet building supplies are relatively cheap.

If you have no idea on how to build a dog house, there are many free dog house plans online that you can use as a reference. Also, any kind of building experience such as building a shed can give you ideas and basic knowledge of dog house construction.

They use the same material and the foundations of building a dog house or your shed and house is the same just on a smaller scale.

If you don´t have the budget to get a contractor to design a dog house plan, then there are many free dog house plans online that you can use.

Lowes is a website dedicated to home improvement and they have a section on building a dog house. The whole plan is planned out in detail and you can simply print it out and follow the instructions.

If this is the first time you are building your own dog house, it would be best to start off with something simple. A simple dog house plan doesn´t mean it should be shoddy. Rather, it provides the basic needs of sheltering your dog from the elements.

A smaller dog house design is also better than building big, fancy doghouses since you can use the dog´s own body heat to warm the doghouse. Higher ceilings and large spaces reduce that capability.

It is also cheaper since you need less building supplies and you can construct a simple dog house in a smaller amount of time.

If you plan on adding heating and cooling systems to your newly built dog house, it may be best to consult an electrician or contractor for help. Alternatively, there are now various DIY home installation heating and cooling dog house systems available on the market that comes in a package completed with installation steps.

Discover where to buy cheap custom cedar dog house online. Visit my wooden dog house site for more information.

Friday, January 9, 2009

Puppy Training Tips - Dealing With The Shy Pup

how to train a puppy

The shy puppy is truly a problem child, but his problems are at the opposite end of the spectrum from his pack-leader littermate. This puppy seems to react in fear to almost everything - littermates that play too rough, loud noises, strange people, etc. This little guy needs a slight different set of puppy training tips. People who are not aware of what the situation really is are apt to assume that the puppy has been abused, when that is not the case at all.

I can remember one occasion in particular in which I had a shy puppy born to a litter in which all the other puppies had absolutely delightful temperaments. He evidenced this behavior right from the time his eyes first opened and he began walking around the whelping box. His treatment and experiences were no different than those of the other puppies. Try as I might, I was never really able to conquer the puppy's unfounded fears.

Fortunately, I was able to come across kind and sympathetic owners for the pup. They were mature people with no children who understood the temperament difficulties and yet were happy to provide a home for him. They had experience with training puppies and so the puppy was placed with the family under the provision that, in the event a problem arose that the new owner was not able to cope with, the puppy would be returned to us. In this particular case, however, the puppy grew to adulthood as a quiet, devoted pet While he did improve in his shyness, new situations, strange people, or sudden loud noises were a problem throughout his entire life.

Puppy Temperaments

There are a few puppy training tips or techniques that can tell you a great deal about an individual puppy as well. Cradling a puppy in your arms and holding him on his back can tell you how willing the youngster is to comply with what you want him to do. Checking ears and feet can bring a number of different reactions. Some pups will easily comply; others will offer mild resistance.

The puppy to avoid is the one that becomes terrified at the occurrence of something strange or the one that snaps at being intruded upon. No puppy should be anything less than happy, friendly, and reasonably able to cope with your little experiments.

There are more formal tests that behaviorists can give puppies that can reveal significant details in regard to their potential temperament as adults. These tests begin as early as three weeks and continue on up to three months.

Thursday, January 8, 2009

Stopping Dog Aggression

There is always a reason for aggressive behavior in dogs. If you can discover the reason for the aggression, you can usually correct or at least control a dog's aggression. Some breeds of dogs have gotten a really bad reputation of late; pit bulls, rottweilers, and chows, for example. Some breeds are even forbidden in certain communities. This is just sad. Aggressive dogs are MADE and not born. All puppies come into this world completely innocent. They are like blank slates that have yet to be written upon, and they become products of their environment and training, or lack thereof.

There are many breeds of dogs. There are large breed dogs and small breed dogs; long hair dog breeds and short hair dog breeds; but there are simply not aggressive breeds and nonaggressive breeds.

Dog aggression is caused by health issues, environment issues, or training issues. There are, of course, several subheadings under all of these causes for dog aggression.

If you see that your dog is aggressive or is becoming aggressive, the very first thing to do is to take him to see his veterinarian. The vet will examine the dog to see if he has any health issues that are causing him pain or discomfort.

If the dog doesn't have any underlying health issues that are causing his aggressiveness, the next thing to consider is his environment. Is the dog being walked with a gentle lead? Does the dog have a crate that he calls home? An environment that the dog considers unsafe or uncomfortable will often be the cause of his aggressive behavior.

If the dog is healthy and if his environment is good, the next thing to consider is the structure of his pack. You see, dogs are pack animals. They need and expect order. You may have inadvertently put the dog in charge. He thinks that he is the alpha dog and as such is responsible for the pack (the family). Aggression caused by a dog's belief that he is the alpha dog can be easily changed by simply providing obedience training and convincing him that he is NOT the responsible party.

Wednesday, January 7, 2009

How to Train an Australian Shepherd Dog

The Australian Shepherd dog can be a great companion to have a round. You should lead an active lifestyle to appreciate this kind of breed. These animals are full of zest and very athletic and therefore can be a handful if one is not properly armed with a good dose of knowledge on how to train the Australian Shepherd. Find out the basic information about this breed.

 

Quick Facts

The Australian Shepherd or Aussie as it is commonly called from the US was used to herding in ranches. Robustly built medium sized country dog, has triangular shaped ears that is slightly rounded at the tip. Aussie can be described by its short bobtail. Aussie has a strong deep chest and stands squarely on all fours. Masculinity and femininity is evident in Australian Shepherds.

Height: Dogs 20-23 inches (52-58cm.) Bitches 18-21 inches (46-53cm)

Weight: Dogs 50-65 pounds (25-29 kg) Bitches 40-55 pounds (18-25 kg.)

Personality

Aussies are intelligent animals, hardworking and has an innate herding and guarding instincts. They can be easily trained and love performing tasks. You will not likely find them in one corner just sitting around for a long time. Aggressive and attentive, they can be a good guard dog. The animated quality of this animal makes them popular to kids. Though friendly and affectionate with their human family they are usually cautious around strangers. Constant activities will keep Aussies happy. Make sure to schedule plenty of walks, play and training to keep both their mind and body in tip top shape.

Training

The great qualities that make these animals so endearing can also be damaging if they are not properly trained since this could result to undesirable behavior like nipping, chewing and digging. Obedience training for Australian Shepherds is highly recommended since they are quick learners and this will make them realize what are expected of them early on. One way of developing their social skills is to expose them to a variety of people and other animals for them to learn how to discern between a friend and a foe. Since they are able to form a strong bond with their masters, they suffer from separation anxiety when left alone for a long period of time. Poorly socialized Aussies may become aggressive if not properly trained.

{Aussies can live up tp 12 years and more}. Typical active Aussies may eat more than other dogs their size so be sure to give them hefty amount of quality food to keep up with their lifestyle. it is important for an owner to have time for this dog and be committed to nurture this special breed. With proper care and training of Australian Shepherds, a life with them will be enjoyable and rewarding.

 

Tuesday, January 6, 2009

Dog Aggression Training

Aggression in a dog is something, which an owner should not tolerate and should be dealt with as soon as the problem arises.  However, in order for an owner to find the right kind of dog aggression training they should be using to control this problem they need to understand the kinds of aggression that dogs suffer from. 

In this article, we take a look at just what these are.  It is important to remember that a dog may not only show just one type of aggression in fact they could show several.

1.  Dominance – This is where the dog you own thinks that they are in fact the alpha member of the group and will assert themselves more, especially against those they consider to be predators.  This type of aggression is often found in male dogs and certain breeds.  In order for you as the owner to bring this particular problem under control you will need to quickly establish who is pack leader (you).

2.  Fear – This is type of aggression occurs when a dog feels insecure or frightened.  They will often react to a disturbance or when being approached by either barking, growling, they may bare their teeth, snap or bite.  In some cases, if they feel cornered or threatened they may actually bite.  It is important that you do not think that your dog will grow out of this problem, as they will not.

3.  Territorial or Over Protective – This type of aggression in a dog could cause them to be a danger to anyone (not just strangers).  They will not only feel territorial about the things in your home, but will also feel territorial when they are out walking with you. 

4.  Possessive – This can make a real Jekyll and Hyde out of your dog, one minute they can loving and playful the next they are baring their teeth or snapping at you.  This will normally occur when you approach something that they consider to be theirs.  In many cases, a major trigger for this type of aggression is when you approach them when they are eating.  If you want to stop this problem, you need to react as soon as you notice it occurring.

5.  Punishment – This type of aggression normally occurs in a dog where they have been incorrectly punished or their owner is trying to exert their dominance of the animal.  Although they may not respond aggressively, in the beginning to such treatment over any period of time, things will change and sooner or later, they are going to turn and become aggressive.

Above we have looked at just a few of the types of aggression, which a dog may suffer from.  Only once you are able to identify just what type of aggressive behaviour it is your dog suffers from, can you then find the right kind of dog aggression training for them.  A quick search of the internet and you are going to be able to quite easily find the right kind of training for both you and your dog.

Monday, January 5, 2009

Bird Dog Training

Dog Training Commands A good command to teach first is to "Come". Next you can teach them to "Heel".

People are amazed at watching a well trained bird dog in action. We are often in awe at how well and quickly they obey their owner’s commands. When you see them perform you may begin to ask yourself, how did they do that? Perhaps bird dog training can bring out the best in you dog.

Training them to be a bird dog will bring out the best in your dog if you are willing to work consistently with them.

There are some breeds that have a natural lineage, giving them the ability to becoming a good bird dog. Training them in obeying commands could be a good starting ground. Dog training professionals acknowledge the fact that dogs need to understand what command is being used in order to make them respond. For this basic voice command training, there are basic words a owner should use to train the dog.

First is for them to learn the "Stay" command.

Teaching your dog to respond to your ’Stay’ command, is very important for them to learn early during training.

As the dog follows these commands completely, it is a clear picture on how obedient and respectful he is to his master. Dogs will express obedience to their master by doing whatever they are commanded to do, even if their master walks a great distance before giving the command.

The ’Whoa’ or ’Easy’ command is useful for dogs that are going too far ahead, when the dog is flushing the bird and the owner wants him to stop, or when the dog wants to play with the bird. Once they obey your command it would be good to go to him and praise or reward them for a doing a good job.

Commanding them to ’Come’

This command simply suggests that the dog should approach you as commanded. This command is one of the easiest to use. A good reason to teach them to come, would be that when retrieving something, they bring it back to you when instructed to do so. Some dogs can be stubborn and may want to play or even begin to go off in another direction. Teaching your dog to ’Come’ will help keep him within the range you need, for them to obey any additional commands.

The ’Heel ’Command

Teaching your dog to respond to the Heel command, is used when wanting them to walk by your side.

It is normally matched with another one-word command such as "okay", or "go" to signal his release. By using this command your dog will know they did a good job during the hunt and you are pleased with them.

Whenever the dog performs well, never fail to give him a tap, a treat or a word of praise to acknowledge his performance. Dogs are born with the desire to make their owners happy. When you begin to reward your dog in this way, let him know he is behaving correctly and that you want him to continue that type of behavior. Overtime, he will learn to repeat the same desirable actions as long as you allow him to do so.

Bird dog training takes dedication and persistence. It is because of this, there are few well trained bird dogs today. Always be confident that your dog can become a fine hunter if you do what it takes to make him successful, by showing him patience in teaching him to obey basic commands.

Saturday, January 3, 2009

Advice On Dog Training Hand Commands

Along with teaching your dog to respond to verbal commands, one can also teach them to respond by using hand signals.  When it comes to learning, the different types of dog training hand commands these in the beginning will need to be taught in conjunction with the verbal ones as well.  In this article, we take a look at the way in which such commands can be taught to your dog.

Certainly, teaching your dog hand signals is very simple and most dogs will find them very easy to understand.  But in order to get started on training them you will need a few treats, which you can provide to your dog as a reward for getting what, you have asked (signalled) of them right. 

It is important that in the beginning when you are teaching your dog to react to hand commands is that you use the words as well.  Therefore, you will need to decide which hand signals relate to which commands you will be giving to your dog.  Only once you have made a decision on which verbal commands go with which hand signals can you then start your dogs training. 

In the beginning as you, say each command to your dog you should also very slowly and deliberately show the hand signal as well.  You will need to repeat the verbal command and the hand signal several times in order for your dog to understand what it is you would like them to do.  Then once they react the first time to you saying the word and doing the hand signal then you can reward them.

As you continually repeat the commands and signals you should very slowly you should start to eliminate the verbal commands.  However, you should still use the rewards of food and praise for your dog when they respond to your hand signals only.  For a while as you begin to slowly eliminate the verbal commands you should when carrying out the training, use them half of the time, and the other half of the time just hand signals. 

Then when you start to notice that your dog is reacting purely to your hand commands only then this is the stage when you start to stop giving them food as a reward.  However, you should never eliminate the rewards immediately from the training and if you want praise, them slightly for doing as commanded instead of offering them food.

When teaching your dog to react to hand signals it is best to start of with the most basic commands that you would normally teach them.  So it is best to start with sit, down and stay.  Then when you feel able to and when you feel that your dog is capable you can move on to much more elaborate ones if you wish.

Actually getting advice on the right way dog training hand commands should be done is easy.  There are plenty of sites on the internet today that can offer lots of practical advice and tips.  Plus there are plenty of books and videos, which can help you with training your dog to respond to such hand signals.

Friday, January 2, 2009

Dog Chewing Furniture Advice

Destruction a dog can make on their owner’s furniture and things is the concern of most dog owners. Nonetheless, there is hope. There a lot of advice about how to stop your dog from chewing on the furniture that is readily available from a selection of sources. There are also tons of ways to practice that advice about your pet chewing on furniture and apply it for your particular breed.

And it is most excellent to begin controlling the behavior at an early age. . Fraction of the reason for starting early is that chewing tends to be a result of teething, and when left unchecked, progress into more harsh adult chewing of furniture. If you have adult dogs, you can still observe to curb your dog from chewing on your furniture.

Redirecting your dog’s chewing is one useful and amazing bit of advice on preventing your dog from chewing furniture. If you see him chewing on one of your furniture, get a toy and get him to focus on that instead. When they turn their interest away from the furniture, you need to praise them immeasurably and give them the toy to go on with chewing. Sooner or later, your dog will discover to enjoy the commendation from chewing on the proper thing .

What people need to understand about dog chewing is that chewing is a very common dog behavior. A lot of people tend to think that you need to prevent all kinds of chewing to keep your dog from tarnishing the furniture. This only means that your dog needs chewing toys; the more active the toys are, the better. Most likely, your beloved pets incessantly chew out of boredom, frustration, anxiety, and/or loneliness. With active toys, they find other things to do other than chewing on your furniture.

Plush toys, tennis balls, and more are all good toys, but active toys can stimulate your dog and allow them play on their own. One of the best active toys available in the market is GoDogGo, as it allows your dog to play fetch on their own. The famous Kong and snack activity balls or squares are good for your dog too because it lets your dog “hunt” for food actively. Hide-a-toy plush toys, where smaller toys are hidden inside a larger toy, is also a great example of an active toy. To prevent them from chewing on your furniture, let your dog be active by using these great toys.

Having you dog full of activity when you are at work is also a key method to keep them from chewing on your furniture. Much of this chewing habit occurs just right before you get home. Thus , you might want to train your dog to a pre-meeting activity, like making him greet you with a certain toy which he would have to look for right before you arrive. Train your dog to greet you with a precise toy in his or her mouth just before you arrive. This exercise starts by helping your dog to seek out the toy, and not greeting your dog until he or she has the toy in his or her mouth. Your dog will likely to grasp the idea after few more days and start bringing this toy to your doorstep, and that only means that your dog will spend some time right before you get home looking for the toy rather than chewing.

The majority of ideas on having your dog from chewing on furniture will remind you that punishment will not curb chewing, but can actually enhance the behavior. Training and redirecting will always be more helpful. You may need to keep your dog left with toys for a while to prevent them from chewing while they are alone. In addition, many experts suggest that you spray your furniture with chewing deterrents, like Bitter Apple, which can be bought at pet stores.

You will definitely find out that changing your dog’s chewing behavior will take some time and patience, and so it doesn’t matter what advice on how to keep your dog from chewing on furniture you choose to follow. Sooner or later, though , using the advice to keep your dog from chewing on your furniture will control the behavior and keep your furnishings as good as they ought to be.

Thursday, January 1, 2009

Dog Biting due to Fear

Dog bites occur for a variety of reasons. But one of the most {isolated} deserted reasons why your dog bites is FEAR. We might think of them as being aggressive but in reality it is fear that rules over their actions. A fear response in dogs is a mixture of emotional, physical, and physiological reaction designed to help protect your dog from harm. When fear is one of the reasons your dog bites, it can be because it is afraid of certain sounds, sights, smells, or touches. And though these sensory things may make sense to us as causing fear, it can often be the generalized fear that causes us to get the wrong impression why your dog bites.

 

Generalized fear is an unpleasant, or more often, a strong emotion caused by anticipation or awareness of possible danger. This fear may come from a response to a sight, sound, smell, or touch that we, as people can understand. In other instances, when those things occur on our pets, it could be a basis for their anxiety on sight, sound, smell, or touch that happens at the same time that they can be in connection it with fear. This is why you may not be able to recognize the reason why your dog bites, because the fear seems so irrational to you.

 

If one of the factor why your dog bites is fear, then you need to realize that training your dog not to bite will take time and dedication from you. Dog bite prevention caused by fear begins with responsible pet ownership. It's the owner’s responsibility to make sure that his dog is properly obedience trained and properly contained. Patience really is a virtue when training your dog not to bite, because their fear may be very ingrained. A dog acts at a level of a two to three year old, so reasoning is not natural to him or her. If it was, then your dog would probably not be biting out of fear. They would be able to reason their way through the fearful situation. Instead, desensitization and conditioning should happen to break the connection between the fear and the biting behavior. Training is the first step at reducing dominance levels in all dogs. It is not the only solution to eliminating attacks but it is an integral part.

 

Desensitization training to control biting behavior is a little different for sounds, sights, and smells as it is when humans are the source of your dog's fear. This is why it’s very significant to understand what exactly the source of fear in your dog is. The desensitization process may take several days to several weeks, depending on your dog and training sessions with him. The process requires a great deal of patience and dedication. Now, here is an exercise that you can begin with training your dog to do a “sit-stay” at your side; for sound you need to train your dog to sit-stay for 20 minutes, and for fear of people you have to train him for a 10 minute sit-stay.

 

You too, can train your dog by letting him to lie down and stay. Then produce the stimulus at a low interval so that it barely raises your dog's attention. Then gradually increase the stimulus, rewarding your dog each time they have no fear response. If your dog does show fear response, stop training and start up again later with the sound, sight, or smell at a lower intensity. Train in different places with different people, but anytime you change any factor in your training, make sure you go back to the lowest intensity.

 

Have your pet stay to a "safe" area where they can be calm and not likely to show fear. Then have the dog sit-stay next to you while you allow a person they know to approach. When the person is twelve feet from you, award your dog. Have the person wave their arms around. If your dog shows no fear reaction, reward him or her. Keep having the individual do this as they gradually come in close enough to touch your dog. You can also let them try the exercise with funny clothes and movements.

 

Lastly, if your dog is showing good performance , take your pet to a more threatening location and begin the training. You need to take a 10 minute break by walking away and ignoring your dog at any time your dog shows a fear reaction. These techniques need to occur for twice a day, 30 minutes.