The Basic Commands For Dog Training

Author: John Lim

Training your dog well will make it a much better family companion, especially in households where there are young children. Many studies have shown that proper dog training makes a big impact when it comes to cutting down the number of dog bits and other behavior problems encountered by dog owning households.

When considering training your own dog, or having someone else help you train it, there are certain basic commands that must be mastered in order for a dog to be considered truly trained. These basic commands include:

* Heel - it is important that any dog learn to walk beside its owner on a loose lead, neither pulling ahead nor lagging behind. * No - the word no is one word that all dogs must learn. Training your dog to respond to this important word can save you a ton of trouble. * Sit - Training your dog to sit on command is a vital part of any dog training program. * Stay - A well trained dog should remain where his or her owner commands, so stay is a very important command in dog training. * Down - Lying down on command is more than just a cute trick; it is a key component of any successful dog training program.

Dog training does much more than just create an obedient, willing companion. Training your dog properly actually strengthens the bond that already exists between dog and handler. Dogs are pack animals, and they look to their pack leader to tell them what to do. The key to successful dog training is to set yourself up as that pack leader.

Establishing yourself as pack leader is a very important concept for any potential dog trainer to understand. There is only one leader in every pack of dogs, and the owner must establish him or herself as the dominant animal. Failure to do so leads to all manner of behavior problems.

A properly trained dog will respond properly to all the owner's commands, and will not display anxiety, displeasure or confusion. A good dog training program will focus on allowing the dog to learn just what is expected of it, and will use positive reinforcement to reward desired behaviors.

Giving the dog a job is more important than you may think. Dogs were originally bred by humans to do important work, such as herding sheep, guarding property and protecting people. Many dogs today have no important job to do, and this can often lead to boredom and neurotic behavior.

Basic obedience training, and ongoing training sessions, provide the dog with an important job to do. This is especially important for high energy breeds like German shepherds and border collies. Training sessions are a great way for these high energy dogs to use up their extra energy and simply to enjoy themselves.

Incorporating playtime into your dog training sessions is a great way to prevent both yourself and your dog from becoming bored. Playing with your dog helps to strengthen the all important bond between you - the pack leader - and your dog.

About the author:

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Dog Parks and Starting One in your Community

Author: Kevin Gawricki

Dog Parks and Starting One in your Community

Dog Parks are becoming more and more popular. They are not only fun for our dogs but , are also a great place for humans to interact. They provide a place for dogs to run off leash and socialize with other dogs, as well as allowing for owners to socialize at the same time.

Unfortunately not all communities have Dog Parks available for our canine friends. If your community does not have a Dog Park available to you here are some guidelines on getting a park started.

First off do some research.

Is anyone else developing a Dog Park in your area. Find out about rules and regulations that pertain to your community. Can local parks or recreation departments be of any help. Talk to people in your community and get some feedback about opening a park in your area. When planning park keep in mind traffic patterns, neighborhoods, noise, etc Set up a liaison with city, neighborhood, and dog owners Assign someone to monitor use Set up times that park will be available for use. Rules for using the Dog Park

Present you Community with the benefits of having a Dog Park.

Dogs can socialize and exercise in a safe environment. Helps to promote responsible pet ownership Will help to promote public health and safety Provides a meeting place for dog owners to socialize. Provides access for people with disabilities to exercise their pets.

Dog Park should include:

At least 1 acre or more of ground and be surrounded with a 4' to 6' fence. The entry should be gated Regular maintenance should be performed (cut grass, waste clean up, etc.) Wheelchair access Plenty of shade and water A separate parking area Station to dispose of waste Benches, tables, trash cans, etc Complete set of rules for using the Dog Park

With this general guideline you will be well on you way to developing a Dog Park in your area. We hope to see your Dog Park up and running soon.

Article written by Kevin Gawricki

Kevin is owner of Dog Gone Good Stuff which he founded because of the need for a place that caters specifically to dogs and their owners specific needs. Please feel free to visit Dog Gone Good Stuff for all your dogs needs. Web address www.doggonegoodstuff.com

About the author: Kevin is owner of Dog Gone Good Stuff which he founded because of the need for a place that caters specifically to dogs and their owners specific needs. Please feel free to visit Dog Gone Good Stuff for all your dogs needs. Web address www.doggonegoodstuff.com

Your Dog's Veterinarian Visit

Author: Kelli Miguez

It is very important that you watch your dog's health carefully and notice any changes in your dog's behavior and health. For example if your dog stops eating, or starts sleeping more than normal, these behaviors can signal a larger health problem for your dog. Once you do notice a change in your dog, set up a vet appointment as soon as possible. Since the dog can't tell you how bad it feels, you have no idea how severe the condition is. In these cases, it is often better to be safe than sorry. When you do see the vet, any information you have about the dog and it's recent behavior will be crucial to determining the problem and a proper diagnosis. The vet should complete a physical examination of your dog and ask you questions about how the dog has been acting, or if anything in it's environment has changed. During the physical examination the vet will inspect the following areas in hopes of finding additional information about your dog's health.

Here are a few important aspects of your dog's health that you should pay attention to and talk to your vet about if you notice any irregularities.

1. Eating habits- Has your dog been eating more/less dog feed recently?

2. Sleeping habits- Has your dog been sleeping more than normal or staying up all night instead of sleeping?

3. Activity- Has your dog been slower and less active than normal? Is your dog limping when walking, or has the dog stopped jumping recently?

4. Skin/Coat- Have you noticed any changes in your dog's skin or coat? Does the dog have bumps, bites, rash?

5. Breathing- Has your dog had breathing or coughing problems lately?

About the author: Kelli runs a Dog Health Information website with advice on your dog's health and well-being.

Dog House Training - How To House Train Your Dog

Author: John Clatts

House Training Your Dog

The absolute first thing you must train your dog to do is is housebreaking No, no, you don't teach your dog how to break into your house when you forget your keys. Housebreaking means he must learn where and when he may do his business. Besides being substantially advantageous to the hygiene of your household, dogs benefit from having rules and a routine - as pack animals, they look for duties issued by the pack leader and naturally enjoy keeping schedules. Here are the steps to housebreaking your dog

Dog House Training 1 - The best age to begin housebreaking your puppy is between 8 and 12 weeks old.

Dog House Training 2 - Experts suggest incorporating a crate in a young dog's training process. (To housebreak an older dog, skip this section.) A crate usually resembles a cage, with a locking door and see-through bars, and should be big enough for the dog to move around in. While it sounds like a miniature jail cell, crates should not be used to punish your puppy. The idea is to make the crate into a doggy bedroom - someplace where your puppy can play and sleep. He should never be confined in his crate for more than two hours at a time.

Dog House Training 3 - Because dogs, thank goodness, don't believe in eliminating by their sleeping areas, your puppy will not relieve himself in the crate unless you've cruelly locked him in there for longer than he was able to hold it in. Three-month old puppies generally need to eliminate every three hours, so lead your puppy to a designated outdoor bathroom spot often.

Dog House Training 4 - Try to always leave the house through the same door - the door you'd like your dog to scratch at to signal his need to go out in the future.

Dog House Training 5 - Try to take your dog out at around the same times each day. A routine will eventually be established, and your dog will soon know to hold it in until you take him out.

Dog House Training 6 - If your not-yet-housebroken dog is used to roaming freely around the house, look for clues that tell you he needs to go. Your dog may suddenly put his nose down and sniff the ground intently. He may begin to circle an area. Or, he may stare at the door with an intense look on his face. Signs like these tell you to drop what you're doing and get that dog out of the house. If you catch your dog doing his business inside (and only if you catch him - not after you discover he's already committed the crime), rush over and stop him by grasping his collar, pulling up on it, and saying, ""NO"" in a deep, stern voice. Then take him outside to let him finish up and praise him with pats on the head or a pleasantly chirped, ""Good Fido!"" when he does. (Note Don't say ""Fido"" if your dog's name is ""Rex."")

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How To Get Your Dog Into Search And Rescue Training

Author: Marc Lindsay

Search and rescue dog training is very complex training, and can take up to two years to fully complete most search and rescue dog training programs. The following paragraphs will discuss the general aspects and techniques involved in search and rescue dog training.

First of all, only dogs in excellent physical shape, and pleasant temperament should be considered for search and rescue dog training. A dog that lacks energy and endurance, or a dog who responds badly to strangers, would not be a good candidate for search and rescue training. Since a search and rescue dog must cope with members of distraught families when victims are found, a strong dog gentle around people would be suitable for search and rescue dog training.

The level of the dog's confidence makes a huge difference in search and rescue dog training. Because of this, socialization during search and rescue dog training will often include:

* different conditions * different surfaces * different people * different surroundings

During search and rescue dog training, dogs will become accustomed to things like traffic noises, strangers, boat noises, helicopter noises, and other like noises so they can learn to concentrate on search and rescue without fear or distraction.

Scent training is another part of search and rescue dog training, and can be the most complex part. Scent training often requires that the dog owner learn how scent travels through the air and on the ground, and requires the dog learn to distinguish the scent of humans from everything else. Some dogs find human scent by smelling the air, while other dogs pick up human scent best from the ground. It is important for the dog handler to know the differences in how dog pick up human scent in order to get the most out of search and rescue dog training.

Owners of dogs who are being trained for water searches must have some additional knowledge, in order for their dog to get the most out of search and rescue dog training. These dog owners must learn all about how the currents that can carry bodies, and the diffusion of scent.

Search and rescue dog training is most effective when training begins when the dog is born. This will enable the puppy to be exposed to many different conditions, and it will encourage the puppy to solve problems. Search and rescue dog training, when began as a puppy, will help open the dogs mind to the more difficult tasks he will face on the job.

About the author: Search And Rescue Dog Training and Puppy Training product reviews so you know you are only teaching your dog the very best techniques.

Dog Training - Basic Commands

Author: Robert Bercume

There are of course many reasons for owners to want a calm, obedient and faithful dog. For one thing, obedient and trained dogs are happier dogs, less likely to get into tussles with people or with other dogs. Another reason is that many communities require that the dogs living in their neighborhoods be well trained. This is especially true for many breeds thought to have aggression and behavior problems - dog breeds like pit bulls and rottweilers for instance.

And of course, training a dog well will also make he or she a much better family companion, especially in households where there are young children. Many studies have shown that proper dog training makes a big impact when it comes to cutting down the number of dog bits and other behavior problems encountered by dog owning households.

When considering training a dog, or having someone else help train it, there are certain basic commands that must be mastered in order for a dog to be considered truly trained. These basic commands include:

Heel - it is important that any dog learn to walk beside its owner on a loose lead, neither pulling ahead nor lagging behind.

Respond to the word No - the word no is one word that all dogs must learn. Training a dog to respond to this important word can save you a ton of trouble.

Sit - Training a dog to sit on command is a vital part of any dog training program.

Stay - A well trained dog should remain where his or her owner commands, so stay is a very important command in dog training.

Down - Lying down on command is more than just a cute trick; it is a key component of any successful dog training program.

Dog training does much more than just create an obedient, willing companion. Training a dog properly actually strengthens the bond that already exists between dog and handler. Dogs are pack animals, and they look to their pack leader to tell them what to do. The key to successful dog training is to become that pack leader.

Establishing yourself as pack leader is a very important concept for any potential dog trainer to understand. There is only one leader in every pack of dogs, and the owner must establish him or herself as the dominant animal. Failure to do so leads to all manner of behavior problems.

A properly trained dog will respond properly to all the owner's commands, and will not display anxiety, displeasure or confusion. A good dog training program will focus on allowing the dog to learn just what is expected of it, and will use positive reinforcement to reward desired behaviors.

In addition to making the dog a good member of the community, obedience training is a great way to fulfill some of the dog's own needs, including the need for exercise, the security that comes with knowing what is expected of it, a feeling of accomplishment and a good working relationship with its handler. Dog training gives the dog an important job to do, and an important goal to reach.

Giving the dog a job is more important than you may think. Dogs were originally bred by humans to do important work, such as herding sheep, guarding property and protecting people. Many dogs today have no important job to do, and this can often lead to boredom and neurotic behavior.

Basic obedience training, and ongoing training sessions, provide the dog with an important job to do. This is especially important for high energy breeds like German shepherds and border collies. Training sessions are a great way for these high energy dogs to use up their extra energy and simply to enjoy themselves.

Incorporating playtime into a dog training sessions is a great way to prevent both the trainer and a dog from becoming bored. Playing with a dog helps to strengthen the all important bond between the pack leader - and a dog.

Robert Bercume Creator of Dog-Training-Sites.com

http://www.Dog-Training-Sites.com

About the author: Robert Bercume is the Creator of PuppyTipster.com, Dog-Training-Sites.com, & SimpleDogTraining.com. He has been instrumental in assisting dog owners worldwide.

House Training Advice From Dog-Training-Sites.com

Author: Robert Bercume

The best house training uses the dogs own instincts to avoid soiling its bed to train the dog where and where not to eliminate. That is the basis behind crate training, in which the dog is confined to its crate in the absence of the owner, and den training, in which the dog is confined to a small area of the home. In essence, the crate, or the room, becomes the dog's den. Dogs are naturally very clean animals, and they try their best to avoid using their dens as toilets.

This type of training usually works very well, both for puppies and for older dogs. Problems with this type of toilet training are usually the result of not understanding the signals the dog is sending, not being consistent with feeding times, or trying to rush the process.

While the house training process can be sped up somewhat by consistently praising the dog and rewarding it for toileting in the proper place, some dogs cannot be rushed through this important process. It is always best to house train the dog properly the first time than to go back and retrain a problem dog.

If the dog continues to soil the den area after house training, the most likely reason is that the owner has left the dog in the den for too long. Another reason may be that the den area is too large. In this case, the best strategy is to make the den area smaller or to take the dog to the toilet area more frequently.

If the dog soils the bed that has been provided in the den area, it is most likely because the owner has left the dog there for too long, and the dog had an understandable accident. Or it could be that the dog has not yet adopted this area as the bed. In addition, urinary tract infections and other medical conditions can also cause dogs to soil their beds. It is important to have the dog thoroughly checked out by a veterinarian to rule out any medical problems.

One other reason for house training accidents that many people overlook is boredom. Dogs who are bored often drink large amounts of water and therefore must urinate more frequently than you might think. If you notice your dog consuming large amounts of water, be sure to take the dog to the established toilet area more often, and provide the dog with toys and other distractions to eliminate boredom.

Boredom is the root cause of many dog behavior problems, not only house training issues. Chewing and other destructive behaviors are also often caused by boredom and separation anxiety.

Other problems with house training can occur when the dog's den is not properly introduced. In some cases dogs can react to the den as if it is a prison or a punishment. Those dogs may exhibit signs of anxiety, such as whining, chewing and excessive barking. It is important for the dog to feel secure in its den, and to think of it as a home and not a cage.

The best way to house train a puppy or dog, or to re-house train a problem dog, is to make yourself aware of the dog's habits and needs. Creating a healthy, safe sleeping and play area for your dog, as well as a well defined toilet area, is important for any house training program.

House training is not always an easy process, but it is certainly an important one. The number one reason that dogs are surrendered to animal shelters is problems with inappropriate elimination, so a well structured house training program can literally be a lifesaver for your dog

Robert Bercume http://www.Dog-Training-Sites.com/article9.htm

About the author: Robert Bercume is the Creator of http://www.PuppyTipster.com, http://www.SimpleDogTraining.com, and http://www.Dog-Training-Sites.com. Helping thousands of dog owners worlwide locate their training needs.

Is Your Dog's Training Collar The Proper Fit?

Author: John Lim

In a collar and leash-based training program, the dog is taught a particular behavior with a leash. After the dog demonstrates that it understand the command, the leash is used to correct the dog if it disobeys or makes a mistake. The leash acts as a control and communication tool.

The ideal size for a training collar should fit snugly and comfortably over the dog's head. It is important that the training collar not be too tight or too loose. A tight collar is difficult to put on and off while a loose collar may just fall off the dog's head when it lowers its head.

The basic dog training collar is also known as choke collar, choke chain, training collar, correction collar and slip collar. These are the more popular collars used by both amateur and professional dog trainers.

The proper measurements To get a properly fitted training collar, it is best to measure your dog's neck with a tape measure. Make sure that that tape measure is not too tight around your dog's neck. The training collar must fit snugly, but not too tight. Add 2 to 3 inches to that measurement. For example, if your dog's neck is 10 inches in diameter, then get a training collar that is 12 inches in diameter.

Chain slip collars are usually sized in 2-inch increments. Most training collars come in even sizes. So if your dog's neck is an odd number, you should round up to the next size. For example, if your dog has a 13-inch neck, you would buy a 14-inch collar, and so on.

It is also important that the pressure on the training collar can be instantly relieved when the leash is slackened. If you are unsure which collar to choose, ask a professional dog trainer or the staff at your local pet store.

The training collar must also be put on the dog the right way. Unlike a normal buckle collar, there is a right way and wrong way of putting on a training collar. Putting on the wrong way can make the collar ineffective or even dangerous. Here are some considerations when choosing a training collar: * Fit - It is essential that the training collar fits your dog properly. It will be easier to use and safer for your dog. * Wear - Putting on a collar the wrong way is potentially dangerous and ineffective. * Use - A training collar should be used as a sharp reminder and not a punishment. Remember not to place constant pressure when using a training collar. * Weight & Size - The weight should be in proportion to your dog's size and weight. * Placement - It is important to properly place the collar on your dog. The collar must be place on the dog properly for it to be effective.

Temporary measures It is also important to purchase a training collar that is well-made and strong. A high quality training collar is crucial to your dog and your safety. If your dog's training collar ever breaks, do not panic. Most dogs are not aware that they have broken the collar for a few minutes. In most cases, just act as if the leash is still connected. This way, you can probably still get control of your dog quickly.

Otherwise, make a quick slip by snapping the leash through its handle and then slip over the dog's head. That may not be the best arrangement but it's a good, quick fix.

About the author:

More Free Dog Training Tips at DogTrainingArtist.com Visit our website now for FREE dog training resources, information and dog training ebooks.

The Importance of Proper Dog Training

Author: John Lim

Dog behavior training is very important in preventing aggression and teaching dogs to interact properly with their handlers, other members of the family and other pets. You need to understand how to train your dog properly so that it will be the devoted, loyal and loving companion that you desire.

The original dogs were probably orphaned wolf pups that were adopted by human centuries ago. These wild dogs learnt to perform behaviors that their human handlers taught, such as guarding the cave or scaring predators. In exchange, human probably provided them with food, shelter and protection.

This relationship still exists and of course, dogs can still perform valuable jobs, including herding, guarding property, people and livestock, and others for their human handlers.

The hierarchy It is important to know that dogs are pack animals. In the wild, packs are formed and there is a hierarchy in this ""society"". The hierarchy or structure remains unchanged, unless there is death or injury to the alpha dog. The alpha dog is the leader and the pack does not challenge its leader.

Hence, to train your dog properly, you need to become the alpha dog. Only then will your dog respect you and will follow your commands without question. This respect forms the basis of all subsequent training.

In today's lifestyle, there are many advantages from training your dog into a well-mannered and obedient dog. For starters, the puppy or dog will be fun to be with. In addition, a well-mannered dog puts everyone's mind at ease, especially dogs with negative image such as the Doberman, Rottweiler and Pit Bull.

Puppy and dogs have inherent bad behaviors and it is also important for you to understand the factors behind these unwanted behaviors. For example, chewing and destroying furniture may be a sign of separation anxiety. Once you know the root of the problem, you are already taking the first step to eliminating dog behavior problems.

Understanding dog behavior Some dogs exhibit unwanted behaviors because of stress and its inability to copy with that stress. A good dog training program will teach the dog to tolerate greater levels of stress without becoming a problem animal.

It is easy to confuse human behavior with dog behavior. Although some dog owners may see their dogs as almost human, it is important to understand that dogs and humans have very different motivations and reactions to similar situations.

However, humans and dogs do have a common trait... and that is the need to form close social bonds and groups. Bonding is an important element to both humans and dogs. As the adage goes, ""No man's an island"". The saying probably applies to dogs as well!

About the author:

More Free Dog Training Tips at DogTrainingArtist.com Visit our website now for FREE dog training resources, information and dog training ebooks.

What Are Dog Grooming Tools

Author: Armughan Riaz

Why do you prefer to go to professional dog groomers and pay high fees for your dog grooming. You can even groom your dog at home , yes really You can do much of the grooming yourself at home and save money at the same time.

This article will let you know all necessary tools that you need for your dog grooming at home.

Dog grooming Hair scissors

Thinning scissors

Dog clippers

Dog/cat toe nail clippers

Dog Nose scissors

Dental scaler

Dog hair pulling forceps

Dog Tweezers

Brush and Comb

Dog grooming scissors: Most important tools for dog grooming. Dog grooming scissors are usually long blade scissors having 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5"" sizes. Scissors are both straight as well as curved. Common size is 8.5"". Available in mirror polished, satin and titanium coated finish. These days titanium coated shears are very common because these are not only beautiful, but these shears have long lasting sharpness. Curved shears let you cut corners - literally. They are real time-savers. And, considering that most scissoring is supposed to achieve round or curved surfaces, it seems only natural to use curved shears on dogs ranging from Bichons to Bouviers. Gain experience with these shears by rounding off feet, topknots and tails. Experiment with them in reverse to create angulation above the hock joint. You might even use them to create the arch on some Terriers' eyebrows. Many groomers who have had difficulty shaping round and curved edges seem to have more success when they are using curved shears. Now come to Filipino shears ,these scissors have wider blade than other grooming scissors. These are excellent for cutting bulk hairs. These scissors feature superb smoothness and sharpness.

Thinning scissors: If your dog has very thick coat of hairs we recommend you to use thinning scissors. Thinning scissors are choice of groomers in hot weather because thinning scissors thin out the heavy coats of hairs giving dogs a cool feel. Thinning shears, in various lengths and styles, constitute ""the shears of the '90s"" - and they are a necessary part of any groomer's collection. Thinning shears with a 28-teeth blade (or finer) are excellent for finish work and blending. They give coats a soft-edged appearance and produce Schnauzer and Terrier furnishings that look natural. Used to thin over scissored Lhasas and similar breeds with silky, flowing coats, these shears blend in and remove blunt ends. Thinning shears give breeds such as Scotties and Westies a hand-stripped look. They also give trimmed ears and bangs a natural, smooth appearance. They even thin out heavy coats and help to prevent matting in breeds such as Cockers, Afghans, etc,

Nose scissors: Yes nose is also very important to be cleaned while grooming your dog. Use good pair of nose scissors to remove longer hairs from nose of dogs. These scissors has blunt end , so they won't disturb your dogs. Don't use pointed scissors for removing nose hairs.

Brush and Comb You need to brush and comb away the dead hairs before bathing your pet as water creates tight matts in the loose hairs. Pets with long coat require brushing almost daily, depending on the condition of its coat. If you exercise your dog in the garden, it is likely to get tangles in its hair. You need to comb out its tangles immediately after exercise to avoid the tangles becoming mats. Brush your pet from top to bottom. Use the right brush for your pet's coat. Get advice from the pet shop if you,re unsure.

Dog clippers purchase a set of professional dog clippers. Hair clippers for humans will not stand up to the rigors of dog grooming and should not be used. A good set of clippers can cost up to $200.00. Although the initial expense is large, the clippers will pay for themselves quickly. Make sure the animal is completely dry before using the clippers. If you wish to give your dogs specialty cuts like a poodle or a cocker cut, you should follow the directions that come with the clippers. You can also get books that have diagrams on giving special cuts. The clippers come with attachments that cut hair to the desired length for whatever effect you are trying to achieve.

Dog toe nail clippers Dog nail clippers have 3 shapes. Guillontoin style used for removing and trimming toe nails of medium size and larger breeds. Scissors style clipper is usually used for cat nails. Plier style dog nail clippers are used to trim nails of smaller dogs. Plier style is more common among professional groomers. Care should be exercised with the toe nail clippers as if you cut the nails too short you will nick the vein that runs part way down the nail.

Dog hair pulling forceps and tweezers: Hair pullers are fundamental tools for good grooming. Allow groomers to remove excess hair from the ear canal and reduce the risk of infections. Also used for removing ticks from pet hairs. Forceps come in curved and straight blades, having locked and unlocked handles. Forceps with polyethylene dipping handles are more commonly used these days because of firm grip and easy working.

Dental scaler Yes dogs have also plaque problems. You can use Dental scaler, for removing plaque and cleaning teeth of pets.If you are unable to see plaque, then can use dental mirror as well.

You can touch up the grooming every two or three weeks. That way, the general grooming will not be as time consuming as it could be. Depending on how quickly your dog's hair grows, you will need to groom him every month and a half to two months, or more frequently.

Groom your pet well and enjoy its good looks and companionship ! To see complete range of Dog grooming products, visit http://www.venusworldwide.com

About the author: Armughan Riaz, working as Partner at Venus Worldwide, http://www.venusworldwide.com Manufacturer and exporters of beauty tools, manicure implements, barber scissors, skin care tools and grooming products

Dog Training - Teaching a puppy to accept his collar and leash

Author: Cathy Perkins

Learning to walk on a collar and leash is the basis of all further training for every puppy. Until the puppy has learned toaccept the collar and leash, it will be impossible to perform any additional training.

The first step toward getting the puppy to accept the collar and leash is to find a collar that fits the dog properly. It isimportant that the collar be neither too light or too heavy, neither too thin nor too thick. A collar that is too light for the dog can be easily broken, while a collar that is too heavy may be uncomfortable for the puppy to wear. It is also important that the width of the color be appropriate for the size of the dog.

Determining the proper length of the collar is relatively easy. Simply wrap a tape measure or a string lightly around the dog's neck to get an accurate measurement. It is important that the tape measure not be tight, just slightly snug. Most collars are sized in two inch increments, so you may have to round up to get a properly sized collar. For instance, ifthe dog has a 13"" neck, you would buy a 14"" collar, and so on.

After you have purchased the perfect collar, the next step is to put it on the dog and allow him to wear it around the house. Do not be dismayed if the dog whines, paws at the collar or otherwise tries to remove it. This is normal, and the dog should not be punished for it. It is best to simply ignore the dog and allow him to work out his own issues with the collar.

The dog should be allowed to wear the collar 24 hours a day for a number of days to get used to the feel of the collar on his neck. After the dog is accepting the collar well, it is time to start introducing the leash. A lightweight leash works best for this process. Simply attach the leash to the dog's collar and allow him to walk around the house with it. The dog should of course be supervised during this process in order to make sure he does not get the leash caught on anything. Getting the leash caught or snagged could frighten the dog and create a leash phobia that will be hard to overcome.

In the beginning, the leash should only be attached for a few minutes at a time. It is important to attach the leash at happy times, such as playtime, meal time, etc. It is important for the dog to associate the leash with happy things. When the leash is not attached to the dog, it is a good idea to keep it near the dog's food and water bowls. The dog should be encouraged to investigate the leash, and to discover that it is not something to fear.

After the dog is used to walking around with the leash attached, take the end of the leash in your hand and just hold it. Allow the dog to walk around. If the dog bumps into the end of the leash, just allow the dog to react and move as he desires. The goal of this exercise is to simply allow the dog to get used to the feel of the collar and the leash.

It is important to allow the puppy plenty of time to get used to wearing the collar and leash before ever attempting to lead the puppy. It is best to perform this exercise in the home or other environment where the puppy feels safe and secure.

After the puppy is comfortable and content walking on the leash in the home, it can slowly be taken outside. It is best to make these outside trips very short at the beginning, and to lengthen them slowly over time. Some puppies take to the collar and leash immediately, while others may require some additional time.

Visit me on the web at:

http://dogtraining.hickorypublishing.com

http://www.dogsreallyrule.blosgpot.com

About the author: Cathy Perkins is a dog lover who is allowed to live with her two dogs, Tillie and Pierrot, in the beautiful foothills of North Carolina.

Train Your Dog

Author: Margaret Angus

Before: Casper had ""earned himself quite a reputation around town for being a vicious dog"" After: ""By applying the principles outlined in Train Your Dog to Casper, he has improved out of sight"" ""My husband and I have a very spoilt 3 year old Border Collie/ Retriever. At about 18 months old, he developed a severe case of fear based aggression towards his own territory, other dogs, strangers, anybody that comes to close to me, even people he knows, he even growled and lunged at the local vet, whom Casper knows. He has growled and lunged at a teenager walking too close to me. He seems to have a comfort zone around him, anybody coming closer than that look out. He has earned himself quite a reputation around town for being a vicious dog, which is unfortunate, as at home he is a very placid, big softie that we can do anything with. He has made a real spectacle of himself in the past, when out on a lead with me, in the car etc. which is sad, as that is all most people see of him, a dog that looks threatening and menacing, which he does. It is not very nice to have to say, when out walking with your dog, when people want to come up and talk to you and the dog to have to say keep your distance, don't come near the dog. By this time Casper is usually growling and they don't come close anyway, which is a shame as Casper does look very cuddly and pattable. Having never owned a dog, we thought all you had to do was to love them to bits, and spoil them, and that was it. Train Your Dog taught me that this is not so, there is a lot more to it. He failed miserably at Dog Training School, by this time we were getting desperate, when I ran across Train Your Dog on the internet. Train Your Dog has been invaluable in helping us gain control of Casper, by showing him that we are the boss, and he doesn't have to feel threatened, or feel he has to protect us, as he obviously lacks the confidence to do so. That is our job. We realize we have never been the pack leaders, and that we haven't done him any favors by giving in to him and spoiling him, treating him like a baby etc. By applying the principles outlined in Train Your Dog to Casper, he has improved out of sight, he still has a way to go, but now we can see light at the end of the tunnel. Even from the feedback from around town, people have seen the improvement in him, and wonder how we have accomplished this. I have recommended Train Your Dog to several people, as they can see the improvement in Casper, even the dog school had to admit that he had improved since he was there, they gave him up as a lost cause, even suggesting putting him down. I am very grateful to Train Your Dog. Casper is getting to be a pleasure to take out for a walk, not the nightmare he used to be, I used to dread taking him out. Thanks to Train Your Dog, I am gaining my confidence with him, and this in turn makes him feel better. Thank you."" -- Margaret Angus and Casper (New Zealand)

About the author: None

Designer Dog Bed Ideas

Author: Dean Cecere

Designer dog beds can offer both you and your best friend many options that should be considered such as comfort, versatility, price and health concerns. An other obvious concern for you could be the shape and size to properly accommodate your pet. There are many designer dog beds made to last, and look like they belong in your home. They help make your dog feel safe and get the proper rest it deserves after energy depleting activities.

Designer dog beds are available in many shapes and sizes, and with the best quality fabrics and materials for many years of enjoyment. Some top designers of dog beds include Mammoth, Dog Bed Works and Glamourdog, to name a few. Most feature reversible covers and pillows, anti bacterial properties, anti odour properties and are 100 percent machine washable for your convenience. They can be made to fit in with just about any decor.

With designer dog beds, you will be sure that your dog will have a favorite place to lie down, and it will not be on your couch. Many styles of beds are available, such as dog loungers, dog couches, dog pillows and bolster dog beds. A dog bed doesn't have to be an eyesore in your home. You can get a designer dog bed that will fit in, in any room of your home with style. Have a look around online, and you will soon see the many options you have when it comes to keeping your pet healthy and happy.

About the author: Dean Cecere ia a regular contributor of informative and resourceful articles on a variety of issues.

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Hamiltonstovare - Dog Breed Profile

Author: Dooziedog.com

Key Facts:

Size: Medium

Height: Ideally 53 - 57cm (21 - 22.5 in)

Weight: About 25 kg (55 lb)

Life Span: Easy

Grooming: Necessary

Exercise: Medium

Feeding: Medium

Temperament: Even-tempered

Country of Origin: Sweden

AKC Group: Not registered

Other Names: Hamilton hound

Temperament:

The Hamiltonstovare is good-natured, affectionate and active. These dogs are becoming more popular as household companions as they are very clean, easily house trained and even tempered. Hamiltonstovares are more suited for energetic owners who preferably live in the country so they can enjoy lots of exercise. Training can be difficult with the Hamiltonstovare as they have a keen hunting instinct and are easily distracted if they pick up a scent.

Grooming:

The Hamiltonstovare does not require much grooming. The coat only needs to be brushed occasionally to keep it looking healthy.

Exercise:

Exercise is very necessary for Hamiltonstovares and they need open spaces to run and play freely. Ideally they would have opportunities to go hunting with their handler.

History:

The Hamiltonstovare was used in Sweden to flush out game from the forests. It is beleived that they evolved from crosses between Holstein and Hanover Beagles, the Foxhound and the Kurland Beagle. They were unlike Beagles or Foxhounds in that they never hunted in large packs but were trained to work alone or in pairs. The Hamiltonstovares got their name from the founder of the Swedish Kennel Club who was called Adolf P. Hamilton.

Physical Characteristics:

General Appearance: Striking colors, strong and well proportioned.

Color: Tricolor - black/brown/white in specified areas.

Coat: The outercoat is weather resistant, short and close. The undercoat is dense and soft.

Tail: Straight or slightly curved.

Ears: High set, pendant and hanging.

Body: The body is powerfully built and well-proportioned. The back is straight and the chest is deep. The long neck merges into well laid back shoulders. The hindquarters are muscular and well angulated.

Additional Comments:

* Hamiltonstovares are very similar to English Foxhounds except that they are a slightly smaller size.

* Hamiltonstovares are also known as Swedish Foxhounds.

About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.dooziedog.com/dog_breeds/hamiltonstovare/

Dog Fleas

Author: Rita Hutner

Dog fleas can cause more than itching.They are difficult to control, but, left unchecked, they can cause your dog very serious health problems.

Simple facts about dog fleas:

Fleas are probably the most successful creatures on the planet in terms of reproduction. There are over 2,400 species and they are difficult to control for a variety of reasons: One female flea will produce 25,000 offspring in one month. An unfed adult can live for several months. The chemicals used to eradicate adult dog fleas have no effect on the eggs. Fleas are very good at mutating to resist new pesticides.

Fleas are a menace to dogs! They cause allergic dermatitis, tapeworms, and anemia. Most of the eggs are not laid on the dog but in the dog's bedding, in the rug, and on the furniture. It is extremely difficult to eradicate fleas completely. The most you can hope for is to control them and to keep your dog reasonably comfortable during the warm, moist flea season.

The best way to control dog fleas is to remove them from your dog and your house. Take him to a groomer for the day and have him bathed with veterinarian-approved flea shampoo. Spraying or dipping him with a residual pesticide has little or no lasting effect. While he is out of the house, hire a company that uses a non-toxic product to spray the carpets and the furniture. These companies usually guarantee a flea-free home for one year.

Some dogs are bothered more by the use of pesticides than they are by fleas. Flea collars, sprays, powders, and shampoos are all loaded with pesticides. Beware! If your dog is into serious scratching, your veterinarian can prescribe medication for the itching. It is also very important that you discus with your veterinarian which products you should use on your pet to rid him (or her) of dog fleas. There are a lot of products on the market that claim to get rid of fleas; not all of them work and some could be harmful to your dog.

From this point on, it is important for you to vacuum the carpets, furniture, and your dog's bedding everyday. Place the cut-off end of a flea collar, or a moth crystal, into your vacuum cleaner bag to kill any vacuumed adult fleas. Vacuum the dog if he will let you! Groom him daily with a flea comb. Do not be surprised if you occasionally find a flea on him. He will bring them in from outside. Remember, you cannot get rid of them, only control them.

Effective Treatment of Your Yard:

In cases where pets spend most of their time outdoors, it may also be necessary to treat the yard for dog fleas. One way to determine if the yard is infested is to walk around the property wearing white athletic socks, pulled to the knee. If fleas are present, they will be seen against the white background of the socks.

Outdoor flea treatment should focus on areas where your pet rests, sleeps, and runs, such as doghouse and kennel areas, under decks, along fences and next to the foundation.

It is seldom necessary to treat the entire yard or open areas exposed to full sun. However, as long as you are treating the outdoor area, it may be a wise move (particularly the first time) to treat as large an area as possible. Once again, check with your vet to determine which product to control dog fleas will be most effective for out door use and will not be harmful to your pet. Be sure to follow all instructions carefully.

Summary of Key Treatment Steps:

1. ""De-fleaing"" your pet is only one essential step in ridding your home of fleas.

2. It is critical that you treat areas in your home where your pet spends time.

3. It is most effective if you treat your pet and your home on the same day.

4. Treat every week to ten days until the infestation cycle is broken. After that, once a month or as needed. 5. Expect to see newly emerging adult fleas for 2 weeks or longer following If you dust your pet every week to ten days,new generations of fleas will quickly die before they have a chance to lay eggs - breaking the infestation cycle.Flea eggs are completely protected from insecticides so you must break the cycle of re-infestation to clear them from your home. 6. If your pet spend most of their time outdoors, it may also be necessary to treat some areas of your yard. In fact, it is highly recommended when there is evidence of a high infestation of dog fleas.

About the author: Rita Hutner is a copywriter for Catalogs.com. Catalogs.com is the Internet's leading source for print and online catalog

shopping - and a growing hub of original content and ""how to"" information at

www.catalogs.com

Hovawart - Dog Breed Profile

Author: Dooziedog.com

Key Facts:

Size: Medium - large

Height: 58 - 70 cm (23 - 28 inches)

Weight: 25 - 41 kg (55 - 90 lb)

Life Span: 13 years

Grooming: Simple

Exercise: Medium

Feeding: Medium

Temperament: Hardy & obedient

Country of Origin: Germany

AKC Group: Not registered

Temperament:

The Hovawart is energetic, obedient, affectionate, loyal, playful, alert and loving. Hovawarts make good-natured and intelligent family pets. They get along well with children and household pets if they have been socialized with them from an early age. Hovawarts tend to be protective and are rather wary of strangers, but will quickly accept anyone once their owner indicates they are welcome. They can be dominant and for this reason they should have an experienced owner. Hovawarts are very trainable and learn quickly. They can be aggressive towards other dogs, but this can depend on their upbringing and socialization. Hovawarts often become attached to a particular family member and are calm when indoors but very active when outside.

Grooming:

Hovawarts don't need a great deal of grooming, despite their longish coats. Periodic brushing and combing is adequate to keep the coat tangle-free and remove the loose hairs. These dogs are average shedders.

Exercise:

This breed has average demand for exercise and usually adapt themselves to the family activities for a lot of their exercise needs. The Hovawart enjoys long walks, hikes and playing and they usually stay playful up until old age. They are not suitable for apartment living and should at least have a medium-sized backyard.

History:

The Hovawart evolved after German breeders attempted to re-create the ""Hofwarth"" an estate guard dog of the middle ages. The breeders selectively used farm dogs from the Black Forest and Hartz mountain region in Germany and possible incorporated the German Shepherd, Newfoundland and Hungarian Kuvasz into the mix. The Hovawart is a popular breed within Germany but very rare in the United States. These dogs were recognized by the German Kennel Club in 1937 and are ideal for tracking, guarding and avalanche rescue.

Physical Characteristics:

General Appearance: Strong, agile and similar to a Golden Retriever.

Color: Black/gold, blond or black.

Coat: Double-coat, long in appearance but the hair is short on the face and front legs. A small white marking on the chest and tail tip is accepted. The coat should not be trimmed, except for around the feet.

Tail: Long, bushy and carried high when active, loosely curled over the rump. The tail hangs straight down when at rest.

Ears: Set high, triangular and hanging. The ears can be covered in short or long hair.

Body: The body is well balance and slightly longer than tall. The topline is level from the withers to croup. The foreribs are reasonably flat and the loin is moderately deep.

Additional Comments:

* The Hovawart is brave, protective, alert and a very good watchdog. It will protect its family and property against intruders with great passion.

About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.dooziedog.com/dog_breeds/hovawart/

3 Things You Should Know About Servie Dog Training

Author: Marc Lindsay

There are many factors to take into consideration before attempting service dog training. The following article will take a look at several of the main considerations one should ponder before choosing the right dog to meet their needs and service dog training.

1. Temperament of the Dog

It is very important before service dog training to determine the temperament of the dog. Not everyone knows how to successfully read a dog's temperament, so if you are unsure of the dog's temperament, you should seek advice from someone who can determine it with assurance before choosing the dog for service dog training. Depending on what purposes you will need your service dog will to provide will determine what temperament of dog you should select for service dog training. Another factor to take into consideration when deciding which temperament of dog to select for service dog training is the type of environments the dog will be exposed to, and how social the dog will be expected to be.

2. Your Compatibility With the Dog

Millions of dogs a year end up in local dog pounds because they are not compatible with their owners. It is best to do some research and determine what breed of dog will be most compatible with you before selecting one for service dog training. For example, if you are a quiet person, and like things to be quiet, you may not want to choose a breed of dog known to be extremely vocal for service dog training. On the other hand, if you will need for your service dog to be vocal, you may not want to choose a breed of dog, for service dog training, who tend to be a quiet breed.

3. Health of the Dog

When choosing a dog for service dog training, the health of the dog is vital. It is a good practice to have the dog's hips and elbows x-rayed, to ensure their proper formation. The dog's eyes should also be tested before service dog training, to ensure his sight. It is also good to have the dog's thyroid tested, and watch for seizures in the dog. Remember, an unhealthy dog is not likely to work at his highest potential during service dog training. Discomfort in the dog will sometimes lead to abnormal behavior in the dog.

There are many other factors you should take into consideration before choosing a dog for service dog training, but this will be a good start. Researching, and doing your homework is very important in choosing the dog that will be right for you.

About the author: Service Dog Training and Puppy Training product reviews so you know you are only teaching your dog the very best techniques.

Methods of Dog or Puppy Training

Author: Robert Bercume

Dog owners worldwide are constantly searching for ways to solve a dog behavior issue. It may be Barking, Aggression, Digging, Biting, Marking, Growling, Jumping, Licking, and Whining.

Traditional training methods required a dog owner to hire a professional trainer to solve a dog behavior problem. Quite often the price and scheduling made it to difficult to complete. Then came the Internet and traditional dog training methods were re-defined.

Many professional dog trainers capitalized on the Internet information boom and now provide their expertise online.

Anyone can now learn how to train their dog in the comfort of their own homes, set their own schedules, at a fraction of the cost.

There are eBooks, CD-ROM's, DVD's, books, video and many more methods of training available online with just a click of a button. Professional trainers using these types of media methods can reduce their costs therefore passing on the savings to the person in need.

So when seeking out a professional trainer see if they offer training material online. There is a world of information out there available in many different formats. And as always insure they are reputable and stand behind their product.

Sincerely,

Robert Bercume http://www.Dog-Training-Sites.com

About the author: Robert Bercume is the creator of http://www.Dog-Training-Sites.com, http://www.SimpleDogTraining.com, http://www.PuppyTipster.com. He has been instrumental in assisting Dog Owners Worldwide with their training needs.

Looking After Your Dog Part One - Personalized Dog Collars

Author: Niall Kennedy

It is imperative that you purchase a personalized dog collar with an engraved metal plate, bearing the dog name and your contact number. This could save you a great deal of hassle if your dog were to go astray. If someone finds your wandering dog, he or she may contact you, thereby enabling an easy retrieval.

Most pet supplies stores don't charge a great deal extra for a personalized dog collar. You simply need to choose a durable dog collar and then have your contact information engraved on a metal plate, with the plate being firmly fixed onto the collar. No matter what style or material you choose for the collar, it is highly essential that you go in for a personalized dog collar.

Earlier, dog owners used to make do with engraved rabies tags, which listed the contact info of the dog's veterinarian. This practice could suffice if the wandering dog were found by a concerned citizen during the working hours of the vet. However, the vet's office isn't supposed to be open at all hours. Therefore, a personalized dog collar with the dog owner's contact info is far better than the archaic method of using rabies tags.

Though not realized often, another significant advantage of a personalized dog collar is that your dog won't experience extreme insecurity in case he does end up far from home. This is primarily because it will be comforted by people who call out his name, engraved on the personalized dog collar. Your dog won't feel as if he has wandered into a completely unknown and hostile territory. This will pacify your dog until you bring it back home.

Some people are frequent movers and often change their dwelling place. During the chaotic and arduous task of moving away to a new home, pet owners typically forget to have a renewed collar, which bears the updated contact information. Such slip-ups might result in your dog being lost. You must ensure that you regularly update the contact info by ordering a new personalized dog collar.

About the author: Best Pet Health Information brings you information about many aspects of dog health . http://www.Best-Pet-Health.info. Dog News Center - Dog Article Directory - Submit Your Articles Now

Copyright Best-Pet-Health.info All rights reserved. This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links are included intact.

Havanese - Dog Breed Profile

Author: Dooziedog.com

Key Facts:

Size: Small

Height: 20 - 28 cm (8 - 11 inches)

Weight: 3 - 6 kg (7 - 13 lb)

Life Span: 14 years

Grooming: Demanding

Exercise: Undemanding

Feeding: Undemanding

Temperament: Cheerful & outgoing

Country of Origin: Cuba

AKC Group: Toy

Other Names: Bichon Havanais, Havana Silk Dog, Havana Silks

Temperament:

The Havanese is very affectionate, gentle-natured, playful, sociable, sensitive and intelligent. Havanese enjoy the company of all other animals and people and generally get along well with everyone. They are good with children, provided they are not pestered and have their own space to which they can retreat. Havanese are able to learn quickly and are eager to please their owner, making training reasonable straightforward. Havanese are sensitive to the intonation in their handlers voice and harsh words are likely to have an adverse effect on them. These small, cheerful dogs make lovely companions for people of all ages and are ideal for apartment living.

Grooming:

Havanese do not shed hair, but do require a considerable amount of grooming. They should be thoroughly brushed and combed at least twice a week and the eyes should be checked regularly. Some owners choose to have these dogs clipped for easier care. The excess hair between the pads of the feet should be trimmed and the feet can also be clipped to a round form. Because Havanese do not shed hair it is best to remove the dead hairs with a brush.

Exercise:

Havanese have an average demand for exercise and are happy with short regular walks and opportunities to play in the garden or backyard. Havanese tend to adapt themselves to the family activities, which they enjoy being included in.

History:

It is thought that the Havanese evolved from either the Bolognese crossed with small poodles or the Maltese and were bred as companion dogs. This breed was relatively unknown until the early 1970's and in recent years has been exhibited in most large European and Scandinavian shows. This breed was registered by the American Kennel Club in 1995.

Physical Characteristics:

General Appearance: Cheerful, soft and small.

Color: Any color is accepted, except for black as some countries do not recognize this color.

Coat: Long, soft, light in texture and is ideally wavy.

Tail: Set high and plumed with long, silky hair. It is carried over the back, but is neither tightly curled or lying flat on the back.

Ears: Set high, medium length and hanging by the cheeks.

Body: The body is slightly longer than it is tall and the topline is straight but not level as it rises slightly from the withers to the rump. The chest is deep and rather broad reaching to the elbow. The ribs are well sprung and the loin is well-muscled.

Additional Comments:

* Some Havanese tend to bark frequently and should be taught from a young age not to so, before it becomes a habit.

* Havanese are known as the national dog of Cuba.

* The Havanese was used widely as circus dogs, with their ability to learn quickly and eagerness to please their handler.

About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.dooziedog.com/dog_breeds/havanese/

Harrier - Dog Breed Profile

Author: Dooziedog.com

Key Facts:

Size: Medium

Height: 48 - 53 cm (19 - 21 inches)

Weight: 22 - 27 kg (48.5 - 59.5 lb)

Life Span: 13 years

Grooming: Easy

Exercise: Necessary

Feeding: Medium

Temperament: Sweet-tempered and active

Country of Origin: Great Britain

AKC Group: Hound

Temperament:

The Harrier is active, friendly, self-willed, energetic and independent. Harriers are natural pack dogs and can have a stubborn streak if they don't receive proper obedience training from an early age. They get along well with children and other dogs but need to be socialized with household pets from puppyhood to prevent difficulties once they are fully grown. Harriers make sweet-tempered pets and generally prefer life in a pack whether with other dogs or people.

Grooming:

Harriers need minimal coat care with their short hair. An occasional brush or rub-down with a rough cloth is sufficient to remove the loose and dead hairs. The ears should also be kept clean and the nails trimmed.

Exercise:

Regular exercise is very necessary for Harriers as they can become overweight and lazy if their physical needs aren't met. These dogs are likely to wander if they pick up an exciting scent and should be left on the lead unless within a controlled environment. They enjoy the outdoors and should be taken on daily walks.

History:

The Harrier was developed at least 800 years ago in England and is believed to have evolved from the Bloodhound and ancestors of todays Beagle. This breed got their name from the Norman French word 'harier', which means hunting dog. They were developed specifically for hunting hares.

Physical Characteristics:

General Appearance: Distinguished, strong and alert.

Color: Commonly black, tan and white, but all hound colors are permitted.

Coat: Smooth, short and flat.

Tail: Carried high, of medium length and slightly curved.

Ears: Set high, V-shaped, almost flat, reasonably short and mobile.

Body: The back is straight and well-muscled and the chest is deeper than it is broad. The ribs are well-sprung and run well back and the shoulders are oblique and muscular. The loin is strong and slightly arched and the flank is neither too full nor turned up.

Additional Comments:

* The Harrier stands in height between the Beagle and Foxhound and has some of the characteristics of both.

About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.dooziedog.com/dog_breeds/harrier/

How to Make Your Dog Happy - Five Great Tips

Author: Neil Whiteland

A happy dog makes a superb companion. And by making your dog happy it can not only help strengthen the bond you have with your dog but can also be of benefit to you both. Here are five ways that can help to make your dog happy.

1. Special Playing Time. Just as we enjoy our own recreational treats, dogs enjoy them too. Dogs like play and, by playing and having fun with your dog, it will not only help the rapport and understanding you have but can also benefit your dog physically and mentally. Much depends on the type of dog you have as to what you play but discover games and activities you both enjoy and set time aside for sharing and enjoying. Possible games could include hide and seek, fetch or playing ball. Also, you can add to the fun by combining a playing session with a trip out. Dogs do enjoy going and getting out and again a change of scene can do you both good.

2. Treats. Dogs like treats and you could find it helpful to have some dog toys that are just brought out as a treat and special occasions. These could be toys you feel your dog would particularly value and, by bringing them out occasionally, your dog will appreciate their specialness. However, at the end of a playing session, do make sure these toys go away. This not only reinforces in your dog's mind that you are in control but emphasizes the value of these particular toys and with your dog appreciating the chance to use and enjoy them. Playing with special toys helps your dog feel special too.

3. Acknowledge and reward good behavior. Dogs enjoy praise and when your dog has done well, such as responding to training instructions, helped you in some way or behaving well when you are talking to someone, show your pleasure perhaps by giving your dog a few dog biscuits you have handy. However by indicating to your dog you are pleased and rewarding your dog accordingly you will be encouraging your dog to behave in like manner again and, when your dog knows it has done well, it too will be all the happier.

4. Give your dog attention. In addition to spending and enjoying time with your dog, show you care by grooming and giving your dog attention. Dogs not only enjoy the added attention and pleasures - and sometimes cuddles - that come with grooming but it has other benefits too. Grooming allows you to check your dog's general condition as well as help with your dog's general hygiene and well-being. Brushing your dog's coat can, for instance, help prevent skin disease, allow you to sort out tangles and make your dog more presentable. Similarly brushing your dog's teeth can help prevent gum disease, tooth loss as well as help combat bad breath. Also, do keep your dog's eating area clean, giving good food and particularly replenishing your dog's water bowl. Just as it is essential for us to drink often, it too is important for your dog - and with fresh water. Show you care - and your time and attention will be rewarded with a healthier and happier dog.

5. Dogs like to be active and valued and so give your dog a purpose. Train your dog to get the post, to carry something or give your dog new tricks to master. By giving your dog something to do it will help to give your dog a sense of achievement and worth. And when your dog has done what you want, give praise and appreciation and perhaps a treat. Also, if your dog is left alone for any length of time, leave out something to keep your dog occupied. In this an activity toy filled with something tasty could be especially appreciated. Boredom can lead to problems so do give your dog something to do or chew on. We all like to be valued and dogs are no exception. Value your dog and you will help make your dog feel special - and happy.

About the author: By Neil Whiteland. For some great dog training advice visit http://www.GreatDogTips.com For more dog tips visit Neil's blog at http://www.Great-Dog-Tips. blogspot.com

Could Your Dog Have Whipworm? How To Detect And Treat Whipworm In Your Dog

Author: Nathan Fischer

When it comes to keeping your canine companion healthy both inside and out, it's important for owners to know which parasites see your dog as the perfect host.

One of the lesser-known parasites that pose a danger to dogs is the whipworm. Whipworms, like most parasites, are resilient. In egg form, their hard shells allow them to survive outdoors in the soil for years in the time. In many ways, whipworms are like hookworms, but instead of ending in a hook shape, one end of this worm tapers to a narrow, whip-like point.

Unlike hookworms, whipworms can't enter the body through the skin. The only way for your dog to contract them is by eating the eggs. Whipworms exist throughout North America, and transmission is easy if your dog has any contact with other dogs. The long-lived eggs can show up in the soil, dog toys, discarded bones and water dishes. Once eaten, whipworms then grow to maturity inside your dog's digestive system.

When they reach maturity, the adult worms fasten themselves to the large intestine and the cecum, a transitional pouch between the large and small intestine. Here, these nasty little parasites slash and puncture the intestinal walls in order to feed. The female starts to lay her eggs, which the dog excretes through the feces.

Symptoms for whipworm resemble those for other worms, such as hookworm. Many dogs can carry a certain number of whipworms without showing distress, but past a certain point, your dog may begin to exhibit signs such as a dull coat, anemia, rapid weight loss, and a loose and bloody stool. He may also begin vomiting up a yellow-green substance. In very severe cases, the worms may begin to puncture the intestinal wall, to the degree that the intestine begins to stick to the body wall. In this case, you might see your dog licking and worrying his right flank.

When you take your dog to the vet, it may take some time to diagnose him with whipworm. Whipworms lay eggs only intermittently, and even when they're actively releasing eggs, any diarrhea in your dog can make the eggs hard to find. Typically, vets will perform four stool samples over four days before ruling out whipworm.

If your vet finds whipworm eggs, she'll administer a potent dewormer. But all whipworm dewormers on the market are only effective against worms in their adult form. As a result, you'll probably need to re-treat your dog.

There are no simple and effective ways of removing whipworm eggs from the soil around your house. However, a contaminated environment can infect your dog over and over again. The best way to combat reinfestation is to make sure your dog's quarters are sunny and dry, since whipworm eggs require moisture. Try to place him in an area of fresh new gravel, pavement or soil.

About the author: Nathan Fischer writes for Poodle-oo, a site for small dog clothes and wedding dresses for dogs .

Irish Water Spaniel - Dog Breed Profile

Author: Dooziedog.com

Key Facts:

Size: Medium

Height: 51 - 59 cm (20 - 23 inches)

Weight: 21 - 27 kg (47 - 60 lb)

Life Span: 13 years

Grooming: Medium

Exercise: Medium

Feeding: Medium

Temperament: Boisterous & affectionate

Country of Origin: Ireland

AKC Group: Sporting

Other Names: Parti-colored Setter

Temperament:

The Irish Water Spaniel is active, intelligent, affectionate and hard-working. Irish Water Spaniels are devoted to their family but their exuberance may be too much for small children or the elderly. They are watchful of strangers but get on well with children and other household pets, so long as they were socailized early on. Irish Water Spaniels can have a mind of their own and are intelligent and cunning. They need training from an early age with a handler that is consistent and firm. The Irish Water Spaniel is a lively, cheerful character and they are often called the clown of the spaniel family.

Grooming:

Irish Water Spaniels shouldn't be groomed too often as their coat becomes fluffy. After they have been brushed thoroughly they should be washed or allowed to go for a swim to put the curl back in the coat. The coat will probably need trimming occasionally to keep it looking tidy. The bonus with Irish Water Spaniels is that they don't shed their hair, instead their loose hairs are brushed out.

Exercise:

The Irish Water Spaniel loves retrieving and swimming and has a high level of stamina. They need regular exercise to satisfy their energetic nature.

Feeding:

Irish Water Spaniels are moderate eaters and aren't greedy with their food.

History:

Archaeologists have traced this breed back to the 7th or 8th century, when Roman ruins displayed carvings of dogs resembling the Irish Water Spaniel. In the late 1100s, dogs in the River Shannon area were known as Shannon Spaniels, Irish Water Spaniels, Rat Tail or Whip Tail Spaniels. It was recorded that one of these dogs was sent to the King of France in 1598. Pedigrees go back to the 1840s and by 1866 these spaniels were being exhibited in England.

Physical Characteristics:

General Appearance: Strongly built, compact and eager.

Color: Dark liver with a purple tint.

Coat: Dense with tight, crisp ringlets that are naturally oily.

Tail: Low set, tapering, short, straight and covered in tight curls on the first third and the remainder is bare. Resembles a rat tail or a whip.

Ears: Set low, lobular, long, hanging and covered in tight curls.

Body: The back and ribs are carried well back from the shoulder, giving a barrel-shaped look. The back is short, wide and level and the chest is deep but not too wide.

Additional Comments:

* The Irish Spaniel is adaptable to either being a household companion or a working dog, doing hunting on land or water.

* The curly topknot of hair and the rat-like tail are two distinctive characteristics of the Irish Water Spaniel.

About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.dooziedog.com/dog_breeds/irish_water_spaniel/

Irish Wolfhound - Dog Breed Profile

Author: Dooziedog.com

Key Facts:

Size: Giant

Height: Dogs minimum: 79 cm (31 in) Bitches minimum: 71 cm (28 in) Most range from 83-87 cm (33-35 in)

Weight: Dogs minimum: 54.5kg (120lb)

Bitches minimum: 40.9 kg (90 lb)

Most range from 60-70 kg (132-154 lb)

Life Span: 9 years

Grooming: Regular

Exercise: Regular

Feeding: Very considerable

Temperament: Gently dignified

Country of Origin: Ireland

AKC Group: Hound

Temperament:

The Irish Wolfhound is gentle, intelligent and friendly. Irish Wolfhounds are known as 'Gentle giants' and are extremely loyal, kind and slow to anger. They do not make good watchdogs or guard dogs. Irish Wolfhounds are unconditionally loyal to their owner and need to be a part of a family as they will pine if kept away in a kennel. These dogs get on well with children and other dogs, but need to be socialized early on with household pets to prevent difficulties. The Irish Wolfhound responds to gentle training and needs to be taught not to pull on the lead, while still young and small.

Grooming:

Regular, thorough brushing and combing is needed to keep the Irish Wolfhound's coat in good condition. The coat will also need stripping (dead hairs plucked out) once or twice per year. This can be done by a professional groomer or the owner can learn to do it themselves.

Exercise:

Irish Wolfhounds adapt themselves to the family activities for some of their exercise needs, but they still need additional exercise and they adore being taken for long walks in the countryside.

Feeding:

This breed needs a considerable amount of food, considering its size. The Irish Wolfhound grows from about 750g (1.5 lb) from bith to about 45kg (100 lb) in its first six months, therefore plenty of food, calcium and vitamins are essential for a healthy development.

History:

The Irish Wolfhound is the largest breed in the Sighthound family and also one of the oldest. It is believed that they were brought from Asia to Greece in 273 BC and were highly valued for working in areas where wolves were a problem. In 391 AD, some of these dogs were sent to Rome and later found their way to Ireland with traders. By the 4th century AD this breed became established in Ireland. However as the number of wolves decreased so did the popularity of these dogs, that they almost became extinct. In the 19th century with the help of cross-breeding possibly from the Great Dane and Deerhound, the Irish Wolfhound was resuscitated.

Physical Characteristics:

General Appearance: Very tall, muscular and gracefully built.

Color: Brindle, grey, wheaten, red, fawn, black or white.

Coat: Rough and harsh with bushy eyebrows and a beard.

Tail: Long, moderately thick, slightly curved and carried low.

Ears: Small and rose-shaped.

Body: The shoulders are muscular and oblique. The chest is very deep and wide with a long back. The loin is arched and the belly is tucked up.

Additional Comments:

* One of the tallest Irish Wolfhounds is recorded to have been 99cm (39.5 inches).

* Careful nutrition and monitored exercise is important for Irish Wolfhounds while they are young and rapidly growing. They continue to grow for up to two years.

* Irish Wolfhounds are prone to bloat (built up gas in the stomach) and their diet must be monitored to prevent it.

About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.dooziedog.com/dog_breeds/irish_wolfhound/

Heartworms And Your Pit Bull Terrier: Dog Health Advice

Author: Tim Amherst

One of the most devastating parasites which may threaten your Pit Bull is the heartworm. These nasty creatures can linger in your pet for years before dealing a death blow to your Pit Bull. Heartworms are treatable, but it is best to use a protective stance rather than wait for infection to occur.

This disease is not spread from pet to pet via contact, but by another nasty creature we all know as the mosquito. The mosquito is a necessary link in the transfer of the disease. The number of dogs infected with heartworms always increases during the height of mosquito season. Long mosquito seasons will increase the rate of infections rapidly.

Once heartworms are transmitted by the mosquito into the dog's blood stream, they travel through the blood into the heart and the major pulmonary blood vessels. The heartworms are in the immature stage and are called microfilaria.

Upon arriving in the heart, the microfilaria will set up residence and grow into adult heartworms. These fully grown parasites cause heart blockage and damage to surrounding tissues by clogging the heart and the major blood vessels leading from the heart. Adult heartworms will also interfere with the valve action within the heart.

When the heart and main blood vessels get clogged, the blood flow to other critical organs is reduced, which can cause problems for the liver, kidneys and lungs, resulting in organ failure. Most dogs which are infected with heartworms will not show any outward signs of disease for as long as up to two years. Sadly, by the time the disease starts to show signs in the dog, it is in the advanced stage. These signs depend on several factors, such as the number of adult worms and microfilariae present, as well as their location. The length of time the infection has been present, and the amount of damage already done to the heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys are all essential factors.

Signs of Heartworm Infestation

The most obvious outward signs of heartworms are: Unexplained weight loss.

A dry almost constant cough with labored breathing.

Shortness of breath.

Sudden weakness.

A sudden show of nervousness or listlessness, accompanied by a loss of stamina. The signs of heartworms are most noticeable after the dog has been engaged in exercise or play. Some dogs with heartworms may even faint or drop dead suddenly right after engaging in rigorous play or exercise.

Treatment for heartworms is available but it is costly and in some cases may prove fatal to the dog itself. To prevent this horrible disease in your Pit Bull, be sure to keep your dog's regular vet appointments. Heartworms can be prevented easily by administering heartworm medication to your pet each month.

As always, talk to your vet if you have any concerns that your dog may have heartworms, and never try to treat the disease on your own. Always consult a properly qualified professional before starting any type of treatments on your dog.

About the author: To learn all about Pitbull dogs and training a Pitbull , visit http://www.pitbullsrevealed.com/ today.

Professional Dog Training Reveals His Secrets

Author: Terence Young

There are a number of reasons to pursue professional dog training for your dog from the very beginning. Learning proper commands and behaviors is easier than trying to unlearn bad habits later, and will likely save you a lot of frustration in the long run. There are many websites and books in which professional dog training reveals his secrets, to help you get the advice you need, when you need it.

Behaviors that can become problematic if allowed to develop unimpeded include: - digging - barking - jumping up on people - biting - chewing - fence jumping

Keep in mind that while some behaviors may be cute when your dog is still a puppy, as he gets bigger they could lead to serious problems. It is therefore important to address unwanted behaviors as early as possible in order to prevent unnecessary inconveniences, or worse, later on.

It is also important to note that many of these ""problem"" behaviors are very normal for a dog, and therefore require redirecting rather than trying to eliminate them completely. This can take a certain amount of patience, persistence, understanding and finesse, as you and your puppy develop methods of communicating that are effective and consistent. Rather than a trial and error approach which can be costly in terms of time and damage to your personal belongings, why not consult with a professional and benefit from tried and true approaches to the same issues you are encountering?

In order to train your dog effectively, a certain amount of knowledge is required to understand the reasons for the behavior issues, before you can adequately resolve them. Unless you are a professional dog trainer yourself, or have an extensive amount of experience raising dogs, there may be much you do not realize about what environmental factors are contributing to your dogs behavior. Dogs are highly intelligent and sensitive animals, and require a significant amount of social contact and stimulation in addition to play time and exercise, in order to keep them happy and fulfilled.

Very often there are things you can control around your home and yard that will naturally lead to better behavior in your dog. Simple things like making sure they always have access to water and shelter, toys that are okay for chewing, and regular walks will prevent a number of destructive habits from developing. A dog that feels loved will not feel the need to seek attention in inappropriate ways, or go looking for ways to entertain or comfort itself outside of the established rules. If your dog is developing bad habits, you may need to look at how you are contributing to the behavior, and work together to improve the situation. Do not hesitate to consult with the professional training resources available to create a harmonious environment for you, your family, and your dog.

About the author: Terence Young - For more dog training tips and ideas visit http://www.obediencedoggytraining.com

Irish Terrier - Dog Breed Profile

Author: Dooziedog.com

Key Facts:

Size: Medium

Height: 46 cm (18 inches)

Weight: Ideally 11 - 12 kg (25 - 27 lb)

Life Span: 16 years

Grooming: Medium

Exercise: Medium

Feeding: Medium

Temperament: Good with people but fiery with dogs

Country of Origin: Ireland

AKC Group: Terrier

Other Names: Irish Red Terrier

Temperament:

The Irish Terrier is affectionate, lively and good-tempered. Irish Terriers are great with children but can be quite eager to fight when other dogs are present. They need to be socialized at a young age with cats so they will not chase them. Irish Terriers become very dependent upon their family and bond so closely that they consider it punishment to be left alone for long periods of time.

Grooming:

The grooming demands of Irish Terriers varies depending on the condition of the coat. But they will need the hairs hand-plucked (stripped) at least twice a year. This can be done by a dog groomer or the owner can learn to do it themselves. The coat is relatively easy to keep looking neat and tidy. The excess hair between the pads of the feet needs to be trimmed and the ears need to be kept clean.

Exercise:

The Irish Terrier enjoys playing and romping about in the backyard or open spaces. They need a reasonable amount of exercise and should be taken out regularly. They love going with their family everywhere and travelling in the car.

History:

This breed arrived in Ireland in the pre Christian era - probably with the Phoenician trading ships. There were a variety of dogs in England back in those times, some were burrowing types and others were capable of hunting large animals. It is presumed that with those early breeds they were crossed freely with one another until distinctive types evolved. Due to this ancestry the Irish Terrier is slightly longer in the body than most of the English Terriers and is also capable of both hunting and retrieving.

Physical Characteristics:

General Appearance: Plucky, sturdy and racy.

Color: Red, red/wheaten or yellow/red. A Small white marking is permitted on the chest.

Coat: The outercoat is wiry and harsh and the undercoat is soft.

Tail: Commonly docked, set high and carried erect.

Ears: High set, moderately thick, V-shaped with the tips dropping forward.

Body: The shoulders are long and well laid back with a moderately long body. The chest is deep and muscular and the back is strong and straight. The ribs are well sprung and the loin is muscular and slightly arched.

Additional Comments:

* The Irish Terrier has earned the nickname ""Daredevil"" from it's trait of being aggressive towards other dogs.

* In the 1880s Irish Terriers were the fourth most popular breed in England.

* The female Irish Terriers tend to be calmer and less aggressive towards other dogs than the males.

About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.dooziedog.com/dog_breeds/irish_terrier/

Hungarian Vizsla - Dog Breed Profile

Author: Dooziedog.com

Key Facts:

Size: Medium

Height: 53 - 64 cm (21 - 25 inches)

Weight: 22 - 30 kg (48.5 - 66 lb)

Life Span: 12 years

Grooming: Easy

Exercise: Medium

Feeding: Medium

Temperament: Fearless & lively

Country of Origin: Hungary

AKC Group: Sporting

Other Names: Magyar Vizsla, Drotszoru Magyar Vizsla

Temperament:

The Hungarian Vizsla is loyal, affectionate, sporty and intelligent. Hungarian Vizsla's have become more popular in recent years and can adapt to country or city life. They get on well with children, other dogs and household pets. They will bark at strangers, but that is usually all. The Hungarian Vizsla likes to please it's handler and shouldn't be difficult to train.

Grooming:

Occasional grooming with a rubber brush will keep the coat looking at its best.

Exercise:

The Hungarian Vizsla needs plenty of exericse and also needs it's mind occupied for it to be both physically and mentally healthy. Most of these dogs enjoy retrieving, hunting and playing in water. Hungarian Vizsla's should have regular opportunities to run and play off the lead.

History:

It is presumed that the Hungarian Vizsla came to Hungary about 10 centuries ago with the Magyars. Back then an all-round dog was needed and the Vizsla served that purpose. They were used to hunt the hares in the grain growing areas, as the Vizsla'a color worked as excellent camouflage. The aristocrats possessively guarded these dogs in those days and made it difficult for anyone to get one. It is believed that the Short Haired Pointer had some influence with the Vizsla's evolvement, as they are very similar in appearance.

Physical Characteristics:

General Appearance: Strong, noble and alert.

Color: Russet gold. White on the chest and feet is permitted.

Coat: Smooth, short, dense, glossy with a greasy feel.

Tail: Set low, customarily docked and carried horizontally.

Ears: Set low, rather long, rounded V-shape, thin and hanging close to the cheeks.

Body: The back is straight, short and muscular. The belly is slightly tucked up and the croup is straight and sloping. The withers are well-defined and the brisket is deep but not too broad.

Additional Comments:

* These dogs are also known as the Hungarian Setter.

* Hungarian Vizsla's do feel the cold as they don't have an undercoat and should not be kept in a cold environment.

About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.dooziedog.com/dog_breeds/hungarian_vizsla/

Hungarian Kuvasz - Dog Breed Profile

Author: Dooziedog.com

Key Facts:

Size: Large

Height: 66 - 75 cm (26 - 29 inches)

Weight: 30 - 52 kg (66 - 115 lb)

Life Span: 13 years

Grooming: Medium

Exercise: Medium

Feeding: Demanding

Temperament: Trainable & wary of strangers

Country of Origin: Hungary

AKC Group: Working

Other Names: Hungarian Kuvasz

Temperament:

The Kuvasz is spirited, intelligent, determined, patient, devoted, courageous and curious. The Kuvasz is always ready to guard and protect it's family even to the point of self-sacrifice. They can be distrustful of strangers and have strong protective instincts towards children. Kuvasz can get along with other dogs and household pets, but should be socialized during puupyhood to avoid any difficulties once they are fully grown. These large dogs make loyal and protective guard dogs for any family.

Grooming:

The Kuvasz needs a regular brush (several times weekly) to keep the coat looking healthy. The coat sheds in warm weather and extra grooming is needed during this time to remove the dead hairs.

Exercise:

These large dogs need a considerable amount of space and exercise. The Kuvasz enjoys long walks and needs a large (fenced off) backyard in which to can roam freely.

History:

It is believed that these large, white dogs arrived in Hungary in the 1100s with the Kumans (nomadic Turkish shepherds). The Kuvasz is a guard dog and was originally used to protect livestock such as horses, sheep and cattle. This breed was first mentioned in the 1600s and the name comes from the Turkish words ""kavas"" or ""kawasz"", which means armed guard.

Physical Characteristics:

General Appearance: Well-proportioned, solid and strong.

Color: White.

Coat: Short, straight or wavy, weather resistant and double-coated. The coat forms an abundant mane around the neck and chest.

Tail: Carried low and hanging down when at rest with the end slightly lifted. When active the tail may be elevated to the level of the loin with the tip slightly curved up. Ideally there should not be much difference in the carriage of the tail when the dog is active or at rest.

Ears: Rather small, V-shaped, set high and pendent.

Body: The back is straight, broad and of medium length with a deep chest. The ribs are well-sprung and almost reach to the elbows. When viewed side-on the forechest protrudes slightly in front of the shoulders and the croup is muscular and slightly sloping. The stomach is tucked up and the brisket is deep and well developed.

Additional Comments:

* Although the Kuvasz has a white coat, the skin is generally dark. The darker the pigmentation in the skin, the better. * The Kuvasz is usually gentle and patient with it's own family's children, but may not be trustworthy with others. To prevent accidental injury, this dog should not be left unsupervised with small children and their friends.

About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.dooziedog.com/dog_breeds/kuvasz/