Three Basic Rules of Dog Obedience Training

There are dog obedience training schools where dogs are trained to follow simple commands using three basic principles as the trainer's guide.. Most dog training and dog behavior schools use these rules. These are:

Principle One:Consistency. This covers the use of words, tone, and the actions that accompany the word or command. At the beginning of training you as the dog owner or trainer must make the decision as to what guidelines you will use to teach the dog. A word or a phrase, let's say 'come', does not make sense to a dog. He does not understand things the way we understand, and he does not understand the language we use.

For the training to be understandable, the command must be used in a consistent manner so he can recognize the meaning to the word and tone. If you are using the word 'come' make sure everyone is. The command 'Come' specifically means that the dog should approach the giver of the command and use it in that sense. If your dog does not come to you instantly, do not punish him when he does. Your dog would attribute the command with the punishment.

Then what would you expect?-If the command leads to punishment he will not follow it next time. The same command used, by all people, must be consistent. For example, if you use the words 'come' make sure everyone in your family uses that word also, not 'come here'.

Principle Two: Keep training sessions short. Remember that the attention span of dogs is extremely short so it is almost impossible to keep them engaged in the one activity. Combining children with your puppy obedience training is an example of keeping your training sessions short as they would lose interest very quickly, so it is best to move on to the next thing.

Your dog simply does not posses the same amount of interest they had when they started the activity, they become easily bored. The same thing happens in training therefore, it should be limited only to 10 minutes to 15 minutes of regular training.

Principle Three: Never hurt the dog if you want him to be trained, through force or punishment. Also, never force the dog to follow the command if he is not prepared for it or punish a dog for something he did. Whilst training the animal don't push too hard.

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

You have to be understanding and patient, especially during your dog obedience training sessions. The outcome will be a very responsive and well trained dog.

Proven Advice To Potty Train Your Puppy

You may have just brought home an adorable new puppy pal! Beside enjoying your little pal, you also want to protect your home so your furnishings and carpets aren't ruined. Now what are you going to do?

One of your first jobs is to teach your puppy where to relieve himself so your home won't be damaged. How can that be accomplished?

Grab your free dog training course and learn more dog potty train methods that work.

Dogs act mainly from habits that have been developed over a period of time and that fact can help you as a dog owner. As the dog owner, you need to install the habits of your choice. Don't let your pet create his own habits that you might not appreciate. Your puppy has limitations that you need to be aware of. Your puppy's bladder is very small, so he can't wait very long before having to urinate. Understanding and patience will help you deal with your puppy's limitations.

Don't scream at your puppy when he has an accident. Training your new pal requires patience. If your puppy has an accident on the living room carpet, be gentle with him. Tell him "no" in a gentle way. Then pick him up and place him where you do want him to go potty. Then tell him to go potty in that place in your own words.

You'll probably want to invest in a crate to use for training your puppy since he won't want to soil it while he's in it. Your dog may enjoy owning his own dog playpen as you train him.

There are times when your new puppy is more likely to go potty. First thing in the morning is one of the times when your puppy will need to relieve himself. Your little pal will need to go potty after eating -- such as right after breakfast or after any other meal. Be sure to take your puppy to his designated toilet area before he goes to bed at night. Play time will probably activate your puppy's urge to relieve himself.

Your new pet needs close supervision. If he goes potty on his own outside, be sure to praise him immediately. If he should go potty inside the house, you need to gently but sternly let him know that isn't the right place to go. Be sure to praise your puppy when he does go in the correct place. He really needs your approval.

You can learn the signs that your puppy is about to go potty. Wandering off, sniffing and circling are signs that your puppy is ready to relieve himself. Maybe he'll go and stand at the door.

Patience and kindness goes a long way in dog training. Be sure to spend time training your new pal to urinate or deficate where you have chosen for him to go. The time and effort you put into training your new pal will be worth it when he knows the right time and place to relieve himself.

Watch free dog training video plus learn how to potty train puppy to go potty where you want your pal to go.

Dog Insurance Safeguards Pets As Well As Budgets

Pet Insurance - Pet Tips from HSN & Prince Lorenzo Borghese

Even though dog insurance has been available in the marketplace for almost two decades, many dog owners have never heard of pet health insurance and are somewhat surprised that such an insurance product even exists. However, since the beloved family pets are usually such an important part of the family, the availability of this form of insurance is welcomed news to dog lovers.

Anyone can relate to this sentiment of relief, if they have ever been faced with having to either clean out their savings account or run up their credit card balance in order to take care of an unexpected emergency. Having a pet plan can help to lighten the burden of the expenses related to a surgical procedure, long-term care for serious conditions, such as cancer and other types of diseases or emergency care due to injury or accident. Without insurance, some dog owners are faced with the awful decision of having to put their pet to sleep because the cost of proper health care is just too much for the family budget.

Regrettably, when the budget it stretched to the point of having to choose between life-saving veterinary pet aid and maintaining the requirements for family care, sometimes the pet owners are pushed into the harrowing decision of having to put their beloved pet down. It is scenarios such as this that help to illustrate how having dog insurance is much more than simply financial protection, but can also protect the family from emotional trauma.

Just as with other health care expenses, the costs associated with veterinarian care for pets is also rising with each passing year. This fact has made the idea of acquiring pet insurance to cover the animal welfare and health concerns a more attractive option. It has also made pet health insurance a more financially smart move for families. It is much easier to work a small insurance premium for dog health insurance into the household budget than it is to try to come up with hundreds, or even thousands of dollars if an emergency arises.

If you own more than one dog, then insurance coverage for all of them makes even more sense. Simply making certain that each seperate dog has gotton their vaccinations, booster shots as well as health screening that are done on an annual basis can stretch a persons budget to their breaking point. This situation can lead pet owners to decide to skip the routine health care steps that should be taken to prevent illness and diseases.

In most cases, a comprehensive pet insurance policy will also cover wellness and preventative care procedures. Luckily, the majority of the pet insurance policies appear to back the approach of doing the preventive steps, in terms of animal welfare. It has been well-documented over an extended period fo time that taking preventative steps as well as supportive wellmess care will lower the possibility for serious health problems for the pet further down the road.

For this reason, seeking out companies that offer insurance coverage that includes preventative care is a prudent course of action. The fact that a pet insurance company offers such coverage speaks to their commitment and philosophy about prevention of pet disease and the importance of animal welfare in general.

However, it should be noted that this kind of dog insurance coverage is also more expensive. It may be that you will choose to only select pet health insurance that covers major medical expenses instead of routine veterinarian visits. This choice can reduce your monthly premium and is a good choice if you feel you can afford the wellness care your dog needs. However, dealing with a pet insurance company that also offers coverage for wellness care is a good indicator of the quality of the company and their commitment to pet health in general.

For a lot more informational value go here: Shelter Care Pet Insurance and Pet Health Insurance as well as Pet Health Insurance In Ontario

Helping Your Dog When It Has Had A Stroke

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


To find out more about pet health visit Natures Healthy Pet

Cedar Dog Houses – Find Cedar Doghouse Plans Or Buy Pre-built Doghouse

I'm not sure whether dogs like cedar dog houses but most doghouses are made of wood. Small dogs usually live indoors so there is no need to buy a doghouse. However, larger sized dogs will need their own place and most families usually put their dogs outside, therefore a wooden doghouse is needed.

Finding a large doghouse that can accommodate their dogs is often a problem. You can get find cedar doghouse plans online and construct your own doghouse. That way, you can customized the dog house to whatever you want.

However, if you want to save the hassle, you can always buy a cedar doghouse online or get someone to build it for you. Where To Put The Dog House Most people usually place their doghouse at the rear of the house.

It is not a very good spot because not only is it inconvenient for you, most dogs don't like to be located far from people. Dogs are sociable animals and prefer places where people congregate. Therefore, it is best to place your doghouse at the side of your house or the front porch.

If possible, the cedar doghouse should be lifted up off the ground with small blocks neighbouring the foundation. This provides a pocket of airspace that can help in insulation. To keep the doghouse warm in winter, you need to have a flap in front of the doghouse.

Regular maintenance is essential and it is important to keep the area around the doghouse clean. If not, you will find your dog not wanting to sleep in the doghouse. If you can build a dog runway, that would be ideal and it allows your dog to run and still be restrained at the same time.

Whether you choose to build your own doghouse or buy existing pre-built doghouses, be sure that your dog can live and move comfortably inside it.

Learn more about why cedar dog houses are the best. Check out whether to buy cheap wooden doghouse online.

Labrador Retriever Dog: A Popular Family Pet

For anyone who is considering getting a pet dog, it would be a great idea for you to consider keeping a Labrador Retriever dog for a pet. The popularity of this type of dog is on the increase and there are a multitude of good reasons for this including this breed’s very friendly nature. Besides their very likeable nature, the Labrador Retriever dog is also very well adjusted to being around children, who in any case would adore this particular breed, especially as they are very gentle towards them.

Very Trainable

Another endearing characteristic of the Labrador Retriever dog is their ability to train well, they will readily learn the basic rules of the home, and additionally, they are capable of learning a few tricks as well. There are no doubts that the Labrador Retriever dog picks up things very fast, and they are also a very dutiful animal that will always serve their master faithfully. With such outstanding traits, the Labrador Retriever dog is a great joy – both in the company of adults as well as with children.

As the owner of a Labrador Retriever dog you will, of course, be required to assume a lot of duties regarding the care and well being of your pet. In fact, keeping a Labrador Retriever dog at home also provides you a good opportunity to impart a sense of responsibility in your children who must be taught how to correctly own as well as care for their dog.

You must make sure that your Labrador Retriever dog is provided plenty of exercise as they are very energetic and thus will need to drain their energy in a productive way. They must also be given a lot of space to run about and also to be taken for walks regularly. Moreover, the Labrador Retriever dog demands and should be given a great deal of affection and you must do your best, as their owner, to give them love and make them feel like they are your friend and not just an acquisition to the home.

It is in their character to yearn for companionship from humans, and so it is never recommended to abandon them on their own. If you are planning a vacation, be sure to leave them with someone responsible who will provide them with attention and care for them properly. Concerning a Labrador rescue dog, you must be extremely vigilant about how you keep them and you must ensure that they are given a lot of love and care, and they need to be made to feel wanted too.

Overall, bringing home a Labrador Retriever dog will indisputably be a boon for you and your loved ones who will soon fall in love with this lovable, intelligent and amazing pet Labrador.

How To Buy Pink Dog Bed From Discount Online Pet Store

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A dog should have a bed for napping during the day and sleeping in at night. A bed gives warmth and comfort to your dog. A proper dog bed supports arthritic joints, prevent calluses, gives comfort and a sense of security to your dog.

Are you wondering how to select a best dog bed and blanket for your pet?

You need to do some research on your dog sleeping habits and try to find answer to following questions.

1.Does your dog hang his head over the edge?

2.Does he like to be able to rest his head with a view of the entire surroundings?

3.Does your puppy sprawl and stretch out completely?

4.Does he like to stay warm under the blankets?

5.Does your dog shed or have any other disorder that will cause the bed to need constant cleaning?

6.Does he avoid the bed because he needs to cool off? In this case, you should buy cooling dog bed

Several varieties of dog beds are available. Your selection depends on your choice, budget and size of your pet. You can use your old pillow or fancy wrought-iron frame with a lace canopy.

Top dog bed styles

1. Inexpensive flat pads or mats

2. Doughnut-shaped beds are circular bolsters with a removable center pillow.

3. Washable beds are good for outdoor use.

4. Cot style raised dog bed is good for old and large dog

What are the features you should have for an old or ill dog bed?

• You should buy orthopedic bed with medical-grade foam and/or box-spring construction for old or very large dog.

• You can use heated bed which helps to maintain body warmth

Why you should have a washable dog blanket?

You also should use washable dog bed cover and blankets because it can keep your dog warm and you can wash it whenever it is necessary. Personally I like modern dog bed like memory foam dog bed.

You can visit online pet supply to find the best dog bed and blanket for your dog. Online shopping is also a good way to get all your other dog supplies as well from other dog furniture like dog houses to dog supplies, including food and shampoo, and you can even purchase dog clothes and collars as well.

 

Barking Dog Case Study

Teacup, a two-year-old mixed breed dog,  keeps barking whenever her owner Tom is away at work. Tom recently transferred into a new house with a spacious fenced-in backyard. At this time, as Teacup would normally do while Tom is not around , she would not stop from barking. The dog barking progressed so badly that neighbors in his apartment building regularly complained, forcing Tom to find a new place of his own. However, Teacup continues to bark and Tom is apprehensive about the complaints of his new neighbors. Teacup does not bark while Tom is home, so he must look for a way to stop the dog barking while he is at work.

Since Tom recently moved, he pointed out hindrance from an outside source causing Teacup to become aggravated and to bark. With Teacup's current condition , frustration is not an option, Tom has spoken to his neighbors and no person or animal provokes Teacup from over her fence. Furthermore , since the change of atmosphere has changed the placement of things, Tom can be sure there is nothing that would cause Teacup to bark. And, Teacup’s food dish. Water bucket, and toys are all well within the dog’s reach.

Teacup was then brought by Tom to her vet, and fortunately any medical condition that may cause Teacup to bark was ruled out. Since Tom is always away from home every morning when he was still in his previous home, Teacup's veterinarian suggest that Tom look at the idea of boredom barking. Since the odd seems to make sense, Tom starts looking into his idea of keeping Teacup entertained during the day.

At the beginning, Tom calls a local pet sitting business that specializes in taking care of dogs during the day while their owners are at work. The staffs in this institution were very professional, they promise to visit Teacup twice a day for one-half hour at a fixed schedule. During Teacup's visitation, a person would walk the dog around the park and plays with her most of the time. Though Teacup did not bark as much before and this situation worked out well, the dog still barked.

Tom decided to enroll Teacup in the “doggy daycare” provided by a local kennel to stop the incessant barking dog. Basically, this class acts as a dog version of conventional daycare and to prevent boredom, the employees let the dogs play together.  Tom drops Teacup off on the dog daycare center on his way to the office and picks her up on the way home. This setup makes the dog and the owner happy, it works perfectly well for both Teacup and Tom. Even though the fees for the “doggy daycare” are more than leaving Teacup at home during the day or even hiring a dog sitter, Tom feels the amount is well justified when he sees how happy Teacup is at the end of the day and the reality that his neighbor’s complaints have ceased. Moreover, since Teacup was otherwise an only dog, this "doggy daycare" lets her to socialize with other dogs, ensuring she is well developed socially and emotionally.

Walking on a Leash and Staying: Two Great Commands

Dog Training Tips

You are walking down the street and the next thing you know, your normally loving dog becomes aggressive towards other dogs and people he sees. It’s enough to make you want to keep him inside all the time!

Exercise is essential for all dogs, and there are ways you can correct your dog's behavior so you can both get out and enjoy the fresh air. Walks don't need to be dreaded, just handled in a careful and consistent manner.

Learn to anticipate your dog's behavior before he acts aggressively. If you see something that will trigger him, divert his attention. Tell him to sit or lie down. This will keep his mind off the trigger until it has passed.

Dogs often become very aggressive when they meet other dogs. If your dog does this, it is important that you not physically react when you see a dog on your route. Your dog can pick up on your body signals and will be much more apt to act up. Stay calm and keep the leash firmly in hand without pulling or tensing.

Some dogs may require a gentle leader harness or muzzle. These should only be used temporarily until your dog learns not to lunge. If you have a dog who is a danger, they can keep others safe. This is the first priority.

If you have tried to curb leash aggression and your dog still misbehaves during walks, it is time to find a good trainer. You need professional help to stop this at once: not only is it disruptive to your own walks, it is dangerous to everyone and every animal you pass on the sidewalk.

Many dogs pull on their leashes, especially when they are first being trained. Stopping this behavior as soon as possible is important. It can lead to more annoyance at the very least. At worst, it can hurt a person, pet, and you. Start early before you have to take more drastic measures.

Teaching your dog to stay can be an immensely useful command, and it will definitely impress other dog owners. As always, use goodies and praise to help you train your dog. You can use SitStayFetch to enhance your results.

If your dog knows the sit or lie commands, he can learn to stay. Begin by commanding him to sit. Then, extend your hand with your palm facing your dog. Using a calm voice, tell him to "Stay."

As soon as your dog obeys, say, "Good." Even if the dog only stays for a brief second, it is a great start. Praising can only help him learn more.

Give the release command – say "Ok," or "Come" - so your dog knows he doesn’t have to lie down any longer. Hand him a treat and lots of praise. Giving rewards is a key element of the process when it comes to things like puppy potty training.

Gradually work on the length of time that your dog sits and stays before you give the release command. Make him work for that treat!

At the same time, make sure you’re not extending your training sessions too long. Five minutes is enough to get great results.

Another way that dogs are like children is that they have short attention spans! If you require him to train for longer than ten minutes, he is likely to become obstinate and disobedient. Also keep in mind that he'll have to have a lot of practice in order to perfect the command. Repeat "Stay" several times and be prepared to reteach him the command a few times.

If you keep working, your dog will be able to stay for longer periods. You'll be impressed when he stays even when you leave the room. Treats will become unnecessary after training, but praise is never obsolete. Let your dog know when he is doing a good job.

Learn more about Crate Training a Puppy.

Help For Making A Purchase Of A Dog Training Collar

When you are making a purchase of a dog training collar, the myriad differences in the specific brands and the choices of collars inside each brand can be overwhelming.  Sometime manufacturers tout their differences from the competitors and its difficult to tell how much is real and how much is advertising.  One of the ways to determine the real differences is to find and a read dog training collar review.  There are several such dog training collar reviews on the internet.

There are other resources to tap to help in making this choice. One of the resources is a local vet, could help you with their opinion.  They can give you a view of which choices you should most definitely not make, as not all collars are right for all dogs.  Also, many obedience class instructors have and use many of the dog training collars and could give you their opinion or allow you to try the different choices during a training class.  Each of these individuals could give you an opinion on the dog training collar review information that you obtained.

All dog training collar review information is not equal, as some are sponsored by the manufactures of the different collars.  Once you have your dog training collar reviews, read through consumer reports and customer’s comments on the products you are considering.  Amazon.com provides sales of an amazing amount of items, and they keep customer review and many of them, trying visiting their site to check.

Discount any collars which are clearly out of your price range.  Do not feel bad about this, there is absolutely no sense in spending more than you can afford when the simple collars can provide what you need.  Unless you have a disability that requires you to choice a very high-end choice, you can consider the dog training collar reviews inexpensive choices that may require a little more work on your part.

Check with a local vet or a local obedience trainer and see if they agree with the choice you made.  The most likely have experience with the products.

Don’t Do’s In Purchasing

Don’t buy the first dog training collar you see in a store, no matter what the store expert tells you.  Always do research in the information they provide, and don’t assume that you got all the salient facts.  Even if a dog training collar review agrees with the store expert, spend just a little more time.  Store experts may get a commission for certain manufacturers and a dog training collar review may be sponsored by a company.

A last note, if you have a smaller dog make sure what you are looking at is a small dog training collar.  You need it positioned correctly on a small dog.

 

Gasen Redeye is the webmaster of My Dog Collars where you will get more Dog Training Collar information.

 

SitStayFetch Review – How To Stop Bad Dog Behaviour

Dogs particularly from young should be trained to stop bad dog behaviour. I recommend SitStayfetch by Daniel Stevens if you want to learn how to train your dog fast and effectively.

Dogs are loyal companions though sometimes they can misbehave especially young puppies. This may be in the form of barking non-stop, biting things around the house, or digging holes in the back yard. No pet owner wants to have to deal with bad dog behaviors like this. It´s not only frustrating, but it´s time consuming as well, if you don´t know how to effectively correct the problem.

Adopting an animal when it is very young usually helps to initiate a lasting bond. Once a small puppy is taken from its mother, it relies on its owner for direction. It is at this stage that you want to start reinforcing certain things.

One of the most troublesome bad dog behaviors is playing with items the animal shouldn´t be. Typically this is slippers, or small kids´ toys, it can even be expensive purses or shoes. The dog has no idea what is and isn´t a toy, so it just assumes everything is.

The owner should be mindful of what it left within the dog´s reach and if he or she notices the dog picking up something it shouldn´t be, a firm "no" always helps. Repetition is often necessary to ensure the dog understands the rule and to correct this type of dog behavior problems.

Accidents in the home sometimes occur and if they aren´t dealt with swiftly, the problem can be a persistent one. Many puppies relieve themselves wherever and whenever the mood strikes them. This is one of the bad dog behaviors that can really impact your life. It´s important for the owner to take the dog outside at regular intervals when it is young so it becomes accustomed to not going inside the house. If that´s not possible, you can paper train the dog, which is also very helpful.

Biting is another issue that some dog owners find themselves facing. Typically it´s not that the dog is meaning to bite anyone. It´s more that the dog is playing and nips at the person. This is especially troubling if you have young children in the home. Correcting bad dog behaviors like this is really important. You don´t want to end up having a dog that bites people who are at your home visiting. This could have very serious results so you need to work with the dog, by scolding it when it does attempt to play in this fashion.

It´s so nice to have a pet for the entire family to enjoy. With a little work and commitment you can train your dog to be a wonderful and loving companion for years to come. Dog behavior problems can always be corrected if you take the right approach.

I highly recommend SitStayFetch by Daniel Stevens if you want to put a stop to your dog bad behavior. It is one of the best dog training course I have brought.

Should you considered bringing home a former Greyhound racer?

Greyhounds are excellent animal racers.  As they work and perform through their profesional careers, they normally race until they are between 1.5 and 4 years old.  During this time, they become accustomed to being walked and lead on a leash, so upon retirement from their racing lives, they make wonderful pets!

As a former athlete, they are smart, quiet, calm, clean, gentle, and all around good-natured and ready to adapt to a new home environment.  They respond well to positive attention and reinforcement and so they are a joy to train and work with for the new homes they become a part of.

Greyhounds love affection and although they do need exercise, they do not need as much room to run as many might think.  Inside the home, they like to curl up in a corner on a soft blanket.  They are gentle creatures and very well behaved inside a home and around people.

Greyhounds spend most of their lives with other dogs, people, and handlers, thus they are very sociable animals and get along well with others.  Their temperament makes them an excellent breed to be around children.  Their intelligence and devotion make them an excellent companion.  And because they are well mannered, they are well behaved around company and in public.

There is probably a local Greyhound Pets of America club near you.  So consider adopting a former Greyhound racer.  For more details, check out the Greyhound Park of Tucson.  Various chapters have different requirements and fees, but all will welcome you to come visit and find out more about whether a Greyhound might be right for you!

Please help by volunteering your time.  All local chapters need volunteers to help with care, vet appointments, and even just shopping for doggie supplies.  Of course, monetary donations are also welcome, but your time and love is needed most!

Why Having A Backpack Dog Carrier Will Make Traveling With Your Pet To A Greater Extent Convenient

If you have a small dog and need a carrier, you no longer need to carry it in your hands.  There are now enjoyable backpack dog carriers on the market.  The first products of this kind are on the market and available commercially.  You can purchase backpacks which are collapsible, for easy storage.  Your dog will have a comfortable and convenient place to ride and you will have a cool, outdoor look.

Functions of Backpack Carriers

Good backpack dog carriers should have a bed that is removable and washable for easy cleaning.  There should also be a safety collar attachment clip to make sure that your pet will not jump out.  Some carriers double as car seats, for pets that have difficulty in the car.  Your pet’s carrier will be securely in place and then can be easily used as a backpack when you arrive at your destination.

Some backpack dog carriers are combined with a wheel around and car seat.  These are especially useful on commercial airlines if they are an approved carrier.  They are fairly lightweight, with most of them coming in at approximately eight pounds.

Backpack carriers are meant to keep your pet securely in place while you are traveling, without restricting the use of your arms.  Both dogs and cats may have difficulty with this process, because they are unfamiliar with the environment they are in.  Choosing a carrier with some luxury features may help ease their ride.  They will come in handy whether you are taking a long trip or just going to the store.

Materials and Design Concepts

Backpack dog carriers should be created of a soft yet strong material, such as nylon.  Frequently, a Denier nylon fiber is used.  This fabric is resistant to tears, abrasions, and breakage.  The fabric is sporty and water resistant, to protect your pet in case of problems.  Make sure that you choose a carrier with good shoulder straps, to protect your back and keep you comfortable.

When you purchase a dog carrier, consider any essentials that you would need to bring with you.  Many carriers come with pockets on the outside to store such material.  Make sure that the sides of the bag are a wide mesh, so that your pet has plenty of aeration and visibility.  See if the bag is constructed with a horizontal design, to ensure maximum comfort for your pet.

More luxurious backpack carriers can be found for your dogs and cats.  They are often made with materials like black Microfiber or cotton weaves.Liners might be made of a washable lambskin.  Check the entry to the bag before you buy.  Side entries are a convenient way to get your pet in and out.

Many commercial airlines have approved a pet backpack called the Sherpa Bag.  It resembles a normal sports backpack and comes in different colors.  It is a trendy and popular way to tote your pet.  Whichever you choose, keep the comfort and safety of your pet in mind.

Wooden Doghouses – Where To Place Your Dog House

Whether dogs in fact prefer wooden dog houses or a different material is unclear, however the most universal dog house is built of wood, the same as our houses!

Most little dogs live inside so a little dog house is not usually an issue. Medium sized and large dogs usually live outside in their own wooden dog houses.

Finding a large dog house or an extra large dog house is what most people have troubles with. You can find plans on the internet for wooden dog houses, as-well-as free plans for wooden dog houses. Acquiring the blueprints insinuates a do-it-yourself approach or obtaining an individual to put it together for you.

You can locate pre-built houses locally occasionally, like people houses. This is the preference of many dog owners, but it may take a little detective work.

The best location for an outdoor dog house is not always the most common location. Most people seem to locate their wooden dog houses toward the rear of their back yards. This is not only inconvenient for you, but it is very undesirable for the dog.

Dogs are extremely social creatures and rather than be placed in the back of your yard, you might consider close to a backdoor, a side yard or the front yard. The dog will mainly want to be anywhere that people often congregate, especially if the dog owners frequent that area of the yard.

The dog house should be raised up off the ground, maybe with bricks near the foundation, thus the wooden dog houses trap airspace below them to aid in insulation.

To keep winter chill off the dog, you should have some sort of wind block in front of the dog house entrance. An "L" formed dog house, or a flap which is minor may work suitably also, whatever thing that will deflect the bitter wind from your dog.

So the dog does not suffer a flea infestation and tick control is required. Consult with your veterinarian about methods to achieve this.

Dogs enjoy the dog house locality to remain orderly so getting rid of dog waste and keeping the locality tidy will leave your dog more contented. Always try to permit dogs to have a good view of the wooden dog houses section. These are many aspects that are essential to have a satisfied dog in a cheerful dog house!

Offering a dog runway is perfect, it allows a dog to run and still be restrained. Similar to two sizeable posts approximately 30 feet away from each other with durable rope extended between them. Fasten the dog harness to the cord so that it slides the whole length between the poles. Dogs love this extra freedom.

Keep wooden dog houses cool in the summer, warm in the winter, clean and dry, and no direct wind blowing in on them. Keep food and especially water near their wooden dog houses. Find a good dog food that keeps your dog nourished and healthy. Never feed him/her cooked chicken bones - they splinter.

Pay a visit to their wooden dog houses. What they like best is exercise and regular owner contact!

Allow dogs to have playthings and chew bones near their wooden dog houses. Have a happy dog - play with him/her often!

Learn more about why wooden doghouse are the best. Discover where to buy cheap wooden doghouse on my dog house site.

A Dog Trainers Guides To Basic Dog Training

puppy training

When training your dog, you need to focus on what you want to achieve, and not the actions you want to steer away from. So when you're going through your training routines, imagine the end result and create a clear image of what you're planning to create, and concentrate on that. Keep your mind away from what it is that you don't want to happen.

If you don't have a destination in mind, how are you ever going to arrive there? This is so true with everything in life, especially where basic dog house training too

It's a natural emotion to concentrate on the things we don't want in our lives. This is particularly relevant with regards to training dogs as well. Not wanting our dog to pee anywhere inside our house is right up there, or start chewing slippers, or run away when we call, or bark like maniacs when we have guests or visitors come to stay.

Contemplate this for a minute. Especially if you're thinking of getting a new puppy in the home. Do you really want to spend the next ten, twelve, or fifteen years chasing your dog telling him off for things you didn't want him to do? Don't you think it's a better idea to coach your dog to be obedient and socially acceptable?

So rather than worrying about, "The dog had better not chew my shoes, or furniture," try, "I want my dog to chew his toys." Rather than, "I don't want my dog to jump up on my guests," try instead, "I would like my dog to sit to greet people."

Simply by wording your aims in a positive manner, you will have a much clearer path to successfully training your dog. I can't think of a better way to get started with training your new dog.

Is Rewarding Your Dog Good Practice?

A crucially important area that people have finally realized in house breaking puppy during the last decade is the trend away from concentrating on correcting bad behavior, or penalties, to rewarding obedience and favorable actions.

Rewarding a dog is a very effective training technique especially for puppy potty training tips. One of the critical reasons for this is that if you make a mistake using punishment, the results can be pretty sad. It's not overly common, but your dog could possibly react to punishment by withdrawing and becoming frightened of you. Other dogs shut down. They seem to lose their sense of adventure. They may seem broken-spirited.

Using rewards training methods also makes you feel good. Heaping praise and treats on your dog gives a powerful sense of achievement.

But the best news is that this approach to dog obedience training works extremely well. Simply because using rewards helps build your dogs self esteem and strengthens your relationship. If a behavior is rewarding, your dog will associate one with the other and learn to repeat the behavior when called upon. By figuring out the best way to use this technique, you will be able to use this method for pretty much any training goal you want to achieve.

American Pit Bull Terrier Training: How To Train An Aggressive Dog

American Pit Bull Terrier Training: How To Train An Aggressive Dog

Aggressive Pit Bulls can become a very serious problem if not dealt with in a proper manner. New laws exist that state if a dog bites or attacks someone, the dog’s owner will be held responsible and the dog put down. This is just another reason that Pit Bull owners should invest the time and energy to properly train their dogs.

There are many different reasons why a Pit Bull terrier may become aggressive. Here are a couple of the most common that I see:

- Your dog may feel that his territory is being invaded
- Your dog may feel threatened

When a dog exhibits signs of aggression, they usually come from a lack of confidence and feelings of insecurity. Basic obedience training won't solve your Pit Bull’s problem with aggressive behavior, the only solution is serious dog training. Keep in mind that an aggressive dog doesn't just bite, he barks and lunges at people as well and he could also attack another pet.

I would strongly recommend seeking the services of a professional dog trainer if you're having a real problem with aggression. Training an aggressive dog is a challenge and can prove to be expensive, but it is a small price to pay when you consider you'll be saving your Pit's life and possibly the life of some other animal or individual. To find a professional trainer who handles cases of aggression, contact your local veterinarian and ask for referrals.

Be sure that you do your homework and thoroughly investigate the schools which are recommended. Look at their facilities and learn what methods they use when training dogs. The last thing you want is for your Pit Bull to exhibit worse behavior after going through training school than when he first entered.

I applaud your decision to be a responsible Pit Bull terrier owner and have your dog trained. An aggressive Pit can halter the relationship that you have with him, hurt other people, hurt other animals, and give this fabulous breed a bad reputation. After it is all said and done, I'm certain you'll agree that having your Pit Bull trained was a fantastic decision!

American Pit Bull Terrier: Is It The Right Dog Breed For You?

American Pit Bull Terrier: Is It The Right Dog Breed For You?

If you’re thinking about owning a Pit Bull terrier, it is important to understand the characteristics of the breed as well as your current lifestyle.  Caring for a Pit Bull is a long-term commitment that needs to be taken seriously, not just a simple hobby that you participate in when time permits.  

Unfortunately it is very difficult for many dogs to find a second home in the event that their owners “change their minds” and decide they don’t want a dog after all. The situation is even worse for Pit Bulls due to their reputation in today’s society.

Do you have the time and the energy to commit to a high energy breed such as a Pit Bull? Pit Bull terriers have very high exercise requirements and are happiest when they get plenty of play time.

If you are interested in owning a Pit Bull, you should possess a similar sense of adventure. A day at the beach, a park, or just playing frisbee in the backyard are all excellent things to do with your four-legged friend. These activities will also strengthen the bond between you and your dog and make ownership even more rewarding.

If you’re more of an inside person however and don’t enjoy exercising daily, you should seriously rethink your idea of Pit Bull ownership. There are many other excellent dog breeds that will probably be more suitable to your lifestyle and it isn't fair to penalize your dog simply because you are too selfish to get an alternative breed.

If you still are set on owning a Pit Bull, it is important that you begin training your dog as soon as you bring him home.  Pit Bulls who aren’t properly trained can become more than a handful.  On the other hand, a well-trained Pit can regularly impress others with good behavior.

 

 

A Dog in One Pack- Jack Russell Terrier

A Dog in One Pack- Jack Russell Terrier

We basically want to find companions who would give us most of the benefits we think we need. Well, if you are looking for a dog breed that is somewhat a one-in-package pal, you might find Jack Russell Terriers interesting enough.

This dog has a history that is somehow loomed to give rise to the breed.

It was said that the breeder of this dog, a young Theologian student of Oxford University named John Russell once met a milkman with a white terrier that has spots on his eyes and ears. This dog became his interest which later proved to be his foundation for breeding a new dog breed that many has learned to love as pets. The dog he first saw was named "Trump" from which another 60 breeds of terriers were later bred from.

With a terrier's basic nature to go on and over the ground (terrier by the way came from the Latin term "terra" which means earth), Jack Russell terriers also have the disposition to hunt and scour for hunting. Thus, they should be given enough grooming so as to set off the dirt they gather from digging soil to either bury a treasure or to recover a hidden treasure kept long ago.

An excellent ratter, Jack Russell Terriers proves to be good "housekeepers" since they keep most rats away from home. Any unlucky rat that happens to be inside the quarters of this terrier is sure to meet its instant doom. Thus, owners find themselves with both a dog and cat in one pal.

One basic character of this breed of dog is its disposition towards strangers. They can easily figure out who must be kept away from their homes and who can be accepted inside the house. This very attitude also makes them good watchdogs. They were designed specifically to be aggressive on preys. And while they can be very vocal, many of them only barks when they find good reason to.

They do not appear vicious though. But once they smell threat, they can show off aggressiveness that could serve as warning towards the strangers. However, once the stranger is let into the house by the owner, a Jack Russell can already tolerate his or her presence.

This terrier is also a family dog and desires for human companionship. And their love for children is significantly interesting. However, once they are abused or had been shown improper treatments, may it be intentional or accidental, they can react through aggressive behaviors. Their aggressiveness is further manifested with their lack of fear towards larger dogs which can unfortunately lead to injuries, some can even be fatal.

They are also marked for their intelligence and good spirit. These characteristics can be highly observable through their curiosity in things. Thus, they require supplementation on formal training unless you can tolerate difficult behaviors. The good thing though with Jack Russell is that it can acknowledge training and do well in most of them. In fact, they are known to champion various ring shows and other similar competitions.

The Hollywood has recognized the disposition of these dogs too. Coupled with feisty and good physical characteristics, this pal has already made names in the screens. If Wishbone, Milo (from The Mask) and Eddie (from the Frasier) ring the bell on you then there is no doubt that you can recognize this dog.

Jack Russell fair well with grooming. A dog of relatively small size, this breed will not tax you with grooming needs.

Custom Cedar Dog House – Advantages Of Building Your Own Wooden Dog House

No one knows whether dogs actually prefer dog houses or not. But cedar dog houses are one of the most common materials used to build dog houses.

If you have a large sized dog in your home, then a custom cedar dog house is needed. However, buying large wooden dog house is often not easy as not many pet shops or online stores sell large custom dog houses.

The most practical way is to do it yourself. There are several doghouse plans you can find online. You can then simply pass it to your contractor to build one for you or do everything yourself.

One advantage of building your own custom cedar dog house is that you can decide on how big or small your doghouse should be. You can even build a custom cedar wooden dog house large enough to accommodate two or more dogs.

So after you build the dog house, where should you place it? Most people put their doghouse at the back of the house.

However, it may not be a good idea. This is because dogs are social animals and love to be near humans. By placing your doghouse at the back of the house or away from humans, most dogs may not even want to stay in their dog house.

That is why I recommend placing your dog house in front of your house or at the side of the home.

The dog house should also be jacked up off the ground, preferably with slabs underneath the foundation to trap airspace. It aids in insulation and can help keep your doghouse warm during winter months.

For wind insulation, you can install a flap in front of the dog house.

Lastly, make sure to keep the doghouse clean by making sure waste material and urine are not near the doghouse.

If you want a comfortable home for your large sized dog, then building and maintaining a custom cedar wood dog house is recommended.

Learn how to build custom cedar dog houses online at my wooden dog house site. Visit http://www.woodendoghouse.net for more information.

A Glimpse on the Various Terrier dog breeds

A Glimpse on the Various Terrier dog breeds

Whatever your dog preference is, you are sure to find terrier dogs among the candidates for a pal. You'll get energy you want with little grooming and added wit.

Basically bred for hunting and killing vermin, Terrier dogs are now known to offer wide spectrum of features and characters that you might find lovable. They are not as cuddly as toy dogs (while there are some terrier dogs in the toy and companion dog brackets) and they may not be as intelligent like other breeds but they set off these lacks with various things that only they can offer.

Let us discuss in brief some of the terrier dog breeds that you may find interesting:

Less aggressive but definitely not timid. This best describes Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers. They are definitely alert and very spirited, but when the call for steadiness arrives, they are sure to show you some air of confidence and steady disposition.

This dog type too is gifted with intelligence which makes them very responsive with obedience training.

Parson Russell Terrier is a dog breed that exhibits boldness, cleverness, affection and exuberant disposition. While many may find this a playful pal, it is still not advisable for everyone to take Parson Russell home. In fact, formal obedience training is a must for owners since this dog type is more likely to display mischievousness and too much playfulness that make this a very independent pet. For people with active lifestyles and those who can tolerate explorative disposition, this scamp is the best for you.

The Norwich Terrier, on the other hand, is a type of dog that resulted from breeding small Terriers with other smaller breeds, possibly Yorkshire Terriers. Maintenance of Norwich Terrier is minimal and they are content with modest living quarters. They have active disposition though and can be affectionate and fearless. Additionally, they are also known to display stocky and happy personalities which make them ideal pals.

Much like the Norwich Terriers, Norfolk Terriers are also well-spirited, fearless, charming and always ready for game. While both may have some similar physical characteristics, Norfolks can still be distinguished through their folds in the ears.

Basically workman-like dogs, Kerry Blue Terriers are excellent watchdogs and work well in farm settings. This dog got its name from its blue-shade coat color which was originally black during puppyhood.

Wire Fox Terriers are of great interest since they display power through its excellent endurance capabilities and speed. Alertness and quick movements are the dominant expressions of this dog type. It is advisable though that the owner trains this dog and should be given enough doses of daily exercises.

Meanwhile, Smooth Fox Terriers are the frolic and lively types of dogs that are ideal in both country and city living. Displaying intelligence and cleverness, this dog makes good trainees and must be well credited by that. They are also likely to show great affection towards their owners.

These are just some of the many terrier dog types that can be considered as your next pets. In general, this dog type has good dispositions and makes ideal home pets. While some may display obscure aggressiveness, this still does not negate the fact that most types have the capacity to develop affection and keen expression of their attachment to their owners. Be warned though that some dog types in this breed can be very playful and should be given enough amount of attention and time during obedience training and exercises.

A Golden Retriever Might be the Right Addition to Your Family

A Golden Retriever Might be the Right Addition to Your Family

Selecting the right dog breed for you and your family is an important decision.  There are several hundred breeds of dogs from around the world so your choices are virtually limitless.

The American Kennel Club categorized the different breeds by groups with each group having distinguishing characteristics that are shared by all the breeds in it.  The Golden Retriever is in the Sporting Group.

The Sporting Group is made up of some of the oldest and most popular dog breeds.  Many of the dogs in this category were bred for hunting although most people who own sporting dogs only keep them as family pets, rather than hunters.  The hunting traits, however, create some of the most enjoyable aspects of owning a sporting dog.  Goldens are natural retrievers, so you can enjoy them fetching a tennis ball for what seems like forever.  Another trait is their outgoing personality, making sporting dogs enthusiastic and responsive partners.

The Golden Retriever was bred to be tough and strong.  Don’t let the happy, silly face fool you.  While any Golden will delight in lazing around the house or wrestling on the floor with your family, the dog breed is particularly adept in the field.

As puppies, Goldens are full of energy and can be especially mouthy. Make sure you direct your puppy's need to chew to appropriate chew toys. Remember, puppies aren't fussy and don't discriminate. A chair leg works as well for them as a sterilized bone. Goldens are very trainable, athletic, and good-natured. They have a keen desire to please. You can find them performing with tails wagging and eyes shining in the obedience, agility, and fly ball arenas. They are also excellent with children.
The Golden Retriever is generally light yellow to deep golden honey in color. The coat tends to get a little deeper in color after the first year. They tend to be about twenty-four inches tall at the withers (shoulders), with females being slightly shorter. Their coat should be long and either flat or wavy. They'll need to be brushed properly or their coat will form thick mats

So, if you are looking for a loyal companion that will be great with kids or adults, you should definitely find a local breeder and spend some time getting to know a Golden.

A Guide To Dog Training

A Guide To Dog Training

Before starting dog training, it is best that you know your options well. These days you can find many types of dog training, in many different places. These trainings vary in price and each one them has something different to offer.

The first type of dog training is known as puppy preschool. This is a dog training course meant for puppies that are about 6 weeks to 5 months old. These puppy preschool classes generally last for no more than 6 to 8 weeks. In these training sessions, your puppy is essentially taught how to socialize with people and as well as other puppies. Here your puppy also begins to learn how to sit down, stay at a place, and how to come.

The second type of dog training course is meant for the dogs that are at least 5 months old. This type of dog training is known as the basic dog training. The duration of these classes is usually about 8 to 10 weeks. This is the basic course, where your dog is taught the art of walking properly on a leash, sitting, staying, coming and heeling.

The third type of dog training course is known as the intermediate dog training. This dog training aims at teaching the dog mostly the same things that are taught in the basic training course, in a more detailed form. Here the dog is trained to stay for a longer span of time, and is also taught to follow the orders given by other people.

The intermediate dog training generally lasts for about 8 to 10 weeks, and is meant for those that are no less than 5 months old. It is essential for the dog to have completed its basic dog training course, or to be accustomed to the basic commands that could have been taught by the owner.

The next type of training course is known as the advanced dog training course. Here, once again, the course is quite similar to its previous one, i.e., the intermediate dog training course, except for the fact that this time it is more detailed. Here, the dog is taught how to sit even without you in the view.

This training course is about 8 to 10 weeks long, and is meant for those that have completed their intermediate training. Here, they are also trained to walk beside their owners without a leash. Moreover, it gradually prepares the dog to take the Canine Good Citizen training course. The Canine Good Citizen training for dogs is the last course. To pass this course, your dog will be taught the 10 necessary aspects.

This course is strictly meant for those dogs that have completed all the previous courses. The test is quite tough and can only be passed if the dog is really well behaved. Depending on whether your dog can pass, the course can last for several weeks.

Keeping this information in mind, you should be able to decide the dog training course best suited for your dog. However, you may seek the opinion of your local dog trainers to know more. Many trainers consult for free. So now you should be at least a step closer to introducing your dog into a training course!

“Hybrid” dog – Isn’t that just another word for Mutt?

“Hybrid” dog – Isn’t that just another word for Mutt?

Every day we hear more about the new “hybrid” dogs, or “designer” dogs. Each feature is accompanied by pictures of adorable puppies that are examples of this new “breed of dog.”

Of course they’re cute! All puppies are! Should you pay hundreds, and in some cases, thousands of dollars for one? Certainly not! The offspring of a mating between two purebred dogs of different breeds is a mongrel, a mutt. And if you have one, you should love it, train it and care for it as if it had the bluest blood of the canine kingdom.

Every dog breed, and there are hundreds in the world, was “created” by humans. Each breed was developed for a specific purpose – whether that original job was guarding the flock or being the ideal lap-dog. There’s no reason that development shouldn’t continue. If there is a need for a dog with particular characteristics, enterprising individuals will come forward to fill that need.

However, it takes many generations to “breed true.” Compare yourself to your siblings. Do you all have the same looks, same personality, same interests and strengths? Chances are, you don’t. Each of you has some of the “best” traits of your parents. But those may not be the same traits. And each of you has some of the worst.

Two of the best-known mixed-breeds out there now are the “Golden Doodle” and the “Puggle.”  The thinking behind these crosses is fairly obvious: wouldn’t it be nice to have a Golden Retriever’s personality and willingness to please combined with the Poodle’s non-shedding coat and intelligence? Wouldn’t it be equally delightful to have a small dog without the breathing issues of a Pug, but quieter than a Beagle?

But there is no way of knowing you won’t get a high-strung, noisy, stubborn, slobbering mutt who sheds like the dickens!

If you are considering spending the kind of money that these “hybrids” are commanding, be sure to research all of the traits of the contributing breeds. You will get a mixture of the two. And an equally adorable mixture may be waiting for you at your local shelter – the size you want, with the coat you want and the adorable face that melts your heart.

If you require certain characteristics in your puppy – whether a family member has allergies, or you have a very small, or no yard, or your household requires a quiet, “easy keeper,” or if you wish to fully participate in the world of canine competition, consider a pure-bred dog. There are over 150 breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club. Research them at www.akc.org. Surely one of them is right for you.

'Sit Up' Buddy: Training Your Dog To Sit Like You

'Sit Up' Buddy: Training Your Dog To Sit Like You

The trick of “sitting up” is easily taught to small dogs, but should try not be included in a big dog’s education, as it is difficult for them to preserve their balance.

The training of sitting up is one of the first tricks to teach and forms the groundwork for many other dog tricks. To train a dog to sit up, prepare some treats as a reward, and set your dog on his haunches in a corner, so that he cannot fall either backward or sideways and has very little or no space to lose balance.

Keep him from pitching forward by holding one hand under his chin and with the other hand hold the treat above his nose and keep repeating distinctly and deliberately say, “sit up.” Do not make him sit up too long at any one time, but repeat the lesson frequently and reward him often with plentiful of praise and treats.

During his first lesson he will require considerable assistance from your hand to prevent him from pitching forward, but as he gets control of the balancing muscles and understands what you want, he will depend less and less upon your hand to keep him in position and you can gradually render him less assistance until you will only have to keep one hand in position two or three inches from his neck or chin, so as to be ready to prevent him pitching forward; later on you can withdraw this hand entirely and simply hold the treat just above the level of his head.

By constant practice he will sit up well after you set him up; then he should be set up against the wall, so as to afford him a support for his back only, and after he has been well schooled at this and can keep his position easily, practice him against chair legs, cushions or other objects that afford him less and less assistance, until finally he learns to preserve his balance and sits up without anything to lean against.

During all these lessons the words “sit up” have been impressed upon his mind by frequent repetition, and now comes the final lesson to teach him to sit up as soon as he hears the words, and the chances are, if he has been diligently drilled, it will be necessary only to call him out in the room, show him a treat, hold it up a suitable distance from the floor, say “sit up” and he will do so, when he should be given the treat while still in position.

The only necessity to perfection is to practice him several times a day until he will sit up at the word and without being shown a reward; that can be given him after he has obeyed.

You have now a foundation for many other tricks. He can be taught to beg by moving your hand up and down just in front of his paws, which he will move in unison with yours. He can also be taught to salute by bringing one paw up to the side of his head, or to hold a wooden pipe in his mouth, or to wear a cap on his head or other articles of wearing apparel.

In teaching a dog to submit to being dressed up, do not attempt to get him to wear too many things at once; try him at first with a cap and after he becomes accustomed to that you can put on a coat and gradually accustom him to the other clothing articles.

Enjoy teaching your dog the “sit up” trick and most importantly have fun along the way!

6 Great Tips For Getting Your Dog Toilet Trained

6 Great Tips For Getting Your Dog Toilet Trained

One of the toughest jobs that a family faces when a new puppy comes home is getting the dog housebroken. This means that the dog will eliminate outdoors and not use your home and furnishings as a toilet. Lots of people think that getting doggy toilet trained is a tough task, but it doesn’t need to be. If you arm yourself with plenty of information for the best ways to get your dog house trained, you are on the right path to having a dog that goes to the bathroom where you want him to go.

When to House Train

A dog can be toilet trained at any age, but the best age to begin is between eight and twelve weeks old. If you set up a housebreaking routine as soon as you bring your puppy home, before long he will get the right idea of where to do his business. A crate is a great tool for toilet training a puppy. It keeps him confined when there is no supervision and most dogs learn quickly that if they make in their crate they will have to sit in it. Most dogs are fairly hygienic and won’t enjoy having to sit in dog doody or urine.


The Advantages of Using a Crate

Be sure there is enough room in the crate for your pup to turn around, but don't leave so much room that he will be able to eliminate and lie down far away from it. Many dog owners view a crate as a jail cell or to use as punishment, but your dog will love having his own space where he can escape from the hustle and bustle of the household for some quiet time. Make your dogs crate a happy place and don’t use it for punishment. You can feed your dog in the crate, or while he is in there, offer him some treats. Place a favorite chewy or toy in there with him, add blankets and he will have a cozy den to escape to whenever he feels the need. Utilizing a crate for your dog can keep him out of trouble and not only in housebreaking.

Keep Your Eyes Peeled

Keeping a close eye on your puppy is a key factor in getting him properly housetrained. Whenever you see that he is sniffing, circling or beginning to squat, immediately take him outside to the place where you want him to go and see if he eliminates. If he does, praise him lavishly. A good idea is to have a cue, such as “hurry up” so that your puppy knows what you want him to do. When he is going to the bathroom repeat the cue and then give your dog lots of praise for a job well done. It is better to take the dog out and nothing happens then take a chance of an accident happening.

Have a Schedule

Feeding, watering and walking your dog on a regular schedule will make housebreaking that much easier. Puppies are like children and they thrive on a routine. Try and take the dog out around the same time everyday so they will be able to adjust their bodily functions. The first thing you should do in the morning is take the puppy from the crate and don’t let his feet touch the ground. Bring him to the place where you want him to go, give the cue, and praise upon a successful completion. Take your puppy out at least every two hours, after eating or drinking and especially after play. Before you know it, your puppy will be letting you know it is time to go out and do his business.

Don't Let the Puppy Roam

Letting your puppy roam around the house is a sure fire way to have accidents. If you have decided you don't want to use a crate, and even if you do use one, confining the dog to certain areas of the house can make housetraining easier for everyone. It is difficult to keep track of a puppy when he has the run of the house, but if you gate him in the kitchen, he will still be able to be part of the action and can be better supervised in case of an accident.

Don’t Get Discouraged

There will be times when you first begin housetraining that you feel your pup is just not getting it. He may have accidents in the house as well on occasion. There is no need to be discouraged. If you stick to your routine, keep a good eye on the dog and make frequent outings to his outdoor bathroom, in no time your puppy will be housebroken. Another good idea is to use the same door all the time when you are taking him out so that when he has to go, he will scratch on the door to be let out. Once this happens, you can say hurray and know that your puppy truly is beginning to understand that going to the bathroom in the house is a no-no.

6 easy ways to find a good dog training professional

6 easy ways to find a good dog training professional

Finding a good dog training professional
With so many people advertising in the field of professional dog training today, trying to determine who's truly qualified to look after your dog can be overwhelming.  What to look for when choosing a professional to help you with dog training :

1) A good reputation, ask around and get recommendations from your vet, other dog owners, or local kennel clubs.
2) Experience. - Inquire about their background,  i.e. number of years experience.
3)A genuine love of and devotion to dogs.
4) Extensive and up to date knowledge. Dedicated trainers keep themselves updated by attending dog training and animal behaviour courses, conferences, seminars and workshops.
5) Their training methodology and handling skills. A good trainers first concern should be the dogs well being.
6) Memberships with reputable associations, organizations and training clubs.

General dog obedience tips

Training should be a positive and enjoyable experience for both you and your dog. If you are not in the right mood for training, don’t even begin. Always reward your dog for obeying your commands promptly! A reward is anything that your dog wants and is willing to work for. Treats are an obvious reward but other rewards could be verbal praise and toys. Several shorter sessions are usually better than one long one. Training should not involve any negative components or punishment . There should be no shouting, no hitting or smacking, no chain jerking on choke chains or collars, and absolutely no electric shocking! Each training session should be enjoyable and positive with rewards for jobs well done.

Training with head collars
Pulling on the lead is one of the few unpleasant experiences of bringing up a new puppy or dog. Using a head collar for dog training has become very popular over the last few years. Training with a head collar does have some advantages over the traditional training collar. Although very simple to use, it is important that head collars are fitted correctly and your dog properly introduced to the collar. Head collars are generally more intuitive to use than a traditional training collar. Head collars are very effective when controlling dogs in difficult situations.

Does Your Dogs Diet Contain Enough Fatty Acid?

Does your pet's skin and coat look shiny and healthy, if not this could indicate the need for more fatty acids to be in your dog's diet

A dog's diet affects every aspect of his body as well as the skin and coat. If your dog's diet has the right amount of fatty acids, then his coat and skin will appear healthy. Fatty acids in your dog's diet will prevent dry skin and dandruff. A dull coat may well mean you need supplements of fatty acids in your dog's diet.

Do not just assume that adding fatty acid supplements to your dog's diet is always the best thing to do. If your dog's coat is already in a good condition, adding more EFAs will not help improve your dog's health. The fatty acid supplements, such as omega 6 and 3, should only used for dog's with diagnosed skin problems. Always take advice from your vet before adding any supplement to your dog's diet. Your vet will be happy to talk with you about the best form of EFAs and let you know the appropriate dose you should add to your dog's diet.

You must provide EFAs to your pet through your dog's diet, as fatty acids are not produced by your dog's body. If your vet advises additional supplements of fatty acids, you should consider asking about linseed or sunflower oil.

Within a short period, such as four weeks, you should see a big improvement in your dog's coat and skin. Watch the miracle of fatty acids work in your dog's diet. When seven weeks have passed, you should see a dramatic change for the better in your pet's health.

Omega 6 fatty acids is present in manufactured dog food at effective levels. Supplementing omega 3 will help to improve the ratio and make a difference in your pet's health. Fish and flax seed are very good sources of omega 3 fatty acids. But always be cautious and ask your vet before you do any form of supplementation. Also take note that some forms of fish may not be safe to be part of your dog's diet.

Supplementing your dog's diet may not be necessary. The only way to decide if your dog's diet does need extra fatty acids is to visit your vet, so you can both talk about your pet's health. Never decide to medicate your dog without first seeking the advice of a professional, this is because your dog's diet needs to contain the right balance of nutrients. Good sources of EFAs are flaxseed, linseed, and sunflower oil. Your dog's diet is the first step in giving your pet overall health and a happy life with your pet for years to come.

5 Tips For Training Dogs Successfully

5 Tips For Training Dogs Successfully

Training dogs is not a hard. You just need patience, dedication and some simple tactics and you will teach them successfully.

Here are five top tips on how to train your dogs successfully:

1. To avoid your dog getting confused and so that they can learn to recognize commands easily only one person should be responsible for training the dog initially. If too many people are trying to train the dog at the same time this can stop progress in its tracks.

2. You should use positive reinforcements. If the dog does something good, you should reward this behavior so that he will know that what he did was right. If the dog cannot understand or follow your commands, never push him. Dogs are not as intelligent as humans, they make mistakes. What you should understand is that they won’t easily understand your commands in just one teaching, it takes repetition to train a dog successfully. Do not scold your dog as he might develop fear which will hinder his learning and willingness to be trained. You can use treats in order to encourage your dogs, although don’t overdue it.

3. Teach commands one at a time. Try to teach him one command after the other. If he cannot absorb it, try to stay on that command only because adding additional commands will just confuse the dog. Start with the basics.

4. In executing commands, you should keep your voice cheerful so that the dog will happily follow your commands. Dogs will respond to a low and coaxing voice. If you shout out loud, he may become startled and unresponsive.

5. Train your dog in various places. If you keep your dogs in a certain place like your home, he will not be able to adjust with the environment new people. Take him to the park or through the neighborhood. This will help your dog associate with other dogs and people.

Training your dog can sometime be tough, but it will be worth it. In the end, you will be the one to benefit when your dog is trained. You don’t know he might even save your life one day and pay back everything you taught him.

5 Great Tips On Building A Dog House

5 Great Tips On Building A Dog House

Over 50% of the population allows their dog to stay indoors and sleep on the couch or in their owner’s bed. For those of you who are interested in building a dog house for you beloved pet here are some simple rules to follow when considering what type of shelter you want to provide.

1. You should begin your dog house building process by making sure the house is big enough to accommodate your animal’s potential adult size. Humans enjoy having about 2 feet of air above us in a room in order to live without feeling claustrophobic. Your dog will probably also enjoy having that much room. The comfort zone for both humans and dogs is about 1/3 of their standing height. To figure out how much room the dog will need get out a tape measure and measure your dog. Measure him standing straight up, sitting on his haunches and above all measure the full dimension of the dog when he is the most comfortable, relaxed and stretched out position he can get into. Your dog should be able to look out the front entrance while both standing up and sitting. So the dog will not have to significantly lover his front shoulders or scrape his belly make sure that entrance is high enough. Stand over the dog and measure the width of the widest point of the animal’s shoulders.

2. Remember to raise the dog house several inches from the ground to allow air and water to flow underneath. To dissuade pests from invading the dog house and taking your dogs health into consideration remember how important ventilation is. Put in a few nickel-sized holes in the walls under the eaves. Install a wind block inside the house so the dog can use the heat of its own body to warm up the area if it is really cold or windy outside. Consider adding a partial wall which will allow your dog to escape the bad weather. Your animal can choose to just sleep in the entry room or go around the inner archway maze wall into the inner sanctum. Your beloved pet would probably love having a pillow or some sort of bedding to sleep on.

3. To avoid rain coming into the dog house make the floor just a bit slanted toward the doorway and build the roof a little bit slanted, as well. Make sure the house is well insulated but you should not paint the inside.

4. In the United States most storms come from the south and west so make sure the dog house faces a different direction. Most dog house plans suggest that the dog house door faces east. The cold air will not be able to whip through the entryway then.

5. It is suggested that you put hinges on the roof of the dog house. This makes it easier for you to clean out your dog’s home. You should clean the dog’s house as often as you give your dog a bath.

If your dog lives outside then he deserves to have a comfortable place to sleep and get out of harsh weather. Hopefully these easy tips on building a dog house will help you get started.

4 to 8 Dog Agility Jumps Makes Ideal Training

4 to 8 Dog Agility Jumps Makes Ideal Training

We are often asked, "How many jumps should I start with?"  You can never have too many single jumps to practice agility.  A good starting place is four jumps.  This is the absolute minimum number of jumps that we recommend. 

You can teach a variety of skills, drills, and exercises with four jumps.  Four jumps will allow you to work on a short jump chute or jump grid.  You can setup a "box" with your jumps and practice handling, collection, and 270 degree jumps.  You can teach your dog jumping left and right.  You can be outside the box and send your dog or you can handle from the inside of the box.  Your jumps can be setup in a horizontal line, so that you can practice serpentines and threadles.

Go the next step and get eight jumps.  Now you can setup two boxes with one introductory jump.  You've now multiplied your drills that you can practice with your dog. Your jump grids can be of recommended size and quantity of jumps.  You can also setup your jumps in a circle with the jump bars perpendicular to the circle or on the circumference of the circle.  This pattern also enables you to train a variety of skills.

Your next consideration is a double jump and a triple jump.  You could set two or three single jumps together to make your expanded jump, but having double and triple jump in your course work is really valuable to practice.  We've seen many dogs run a clean course and the last obstacle is a triple and the dog is not prepared for it, and bang, down comes the bar.

You can really be ahead of the pack and have two sets of eight jumps.  This is the ultimate in training because you can keep a jump grip up at all times that is separate from your course work, and have eight single jumps to have for course work.  And when you include your double and triple, you can really practice all the jumping skills and drills necessary to get you those "Qs".