Posts Tagged ‘bullmastiff’

Appropriate Socialization And Bullmastiff Training

Saturday, January 28th, 2012

Socialization is one of the most important parts of Bullmastiff training. It’s something that must be completed as early as possible, not to be ignored or postponed for later or until the puppy has already grew into difficult mature dog. Socialization is highly advocated because it is during this period that the pet learns a lot concerning the setting you brought it into, other pets along with humans - important in building relationships later in life.

Responsible breeders provide their pups with socialization they need early in life. The same holds true with volunteers in shelters. They socialize and provide training before searching for new homes for dogs that have been turned over or deserted by their past owners. If you’re getting your new pet from any of these sources, what you ought to do is continue what they have started.

Start socialization immediately after your new dog arrives home. Socialization during the first few days at home ought to involve getting your pet familiar with the new surroundings you brought it into. If you have resident pets, introduce them to one another on neutral places to prevent territorial issues. Make the introduction as enjoyable as possible for them to associate the encounter with something positive.

Being a part of the family, your new dog should also get accustomed to the sights and sounds of everyday life – vehicles and passersby, the sound of siren, doorbell and phone ringing, friends coming to visit and many other scenarios your new pet may come across with in the future. During socialization, your pet should also get used to being handled by people for hassle-free bathing, combing and other grooming and care routines. On top of that, it would also make vet visits stress-free both for you and your pet.

One thing owners need to bear in mind during socialization and Bullmastiff training is to make certain that their dogs stay safe at all times. A dog that isn’t reliably trained with commands like sit, come and stay should not be allowed off leash particularly if the area is not secured with a fence. It’s also not recommended to take a young puppy out to meet other dogs if it has not yet completed the vaccinations necessary to combat numerous contagious diseases like distemper, parvovirus, influenza and others. Better consult your trusted vet first before doing anything.

Socialization must be a fun activity both for you and your dog because it is during this time that you get to know more about each other – a perfect dog-owner bonding.

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , ,

Bullmastiff Training: Breed Facts Owners Need To Know

Saturday, January 28th, 2012

The Bullmastiff, in which the bloodlines are drawn from the English Mastiff and Old English Bulldog, was recognized as a purebred dog by the English Kennel Club in 1924. At present, this breed has started to become popular pet even to families with small children. Even-tempered, relaxed and intelligent, this breed is less likely to harm anyone however Bullmastiff training should be done correctly so as to have a happy, healthy and well-behaved large dog.

To provide your dog with right training, it pays to know more regarding the breed first. Through this, you will be able to determine how to deal with your pet in numerous situations.

Fact 1. The Size

Based on the American Kennel Club Breed Standard (AKC), males ought to be 25 to 27 inches tall while females must be 24 to 26 inches. Weight for males must be 110 to 130 pounds while females should be 100 to 120 pounds. With a dog this large, certainly training needs to be carried out properly to avoid jumping, pulling on leash and other behavior issues that could cause injury to anyone around.

Fact 2. The Attitude

This breed may look intimidating due to its large size but they’re actually docile and affectionate in addition to having calm and even-temperament. They’re tolerant of kids too that is why many families are fond of Bullmastiffs in spite of their size and look. Similar to other dog breeds, the Bullmastiff requires firm, confident and consistent owner to provide the Bullmastiff training it requires.

Fact 3. The Health

A healthy Bullmastiff may live until eight to ten years of age however, they can be influenced with hereditary diseases such as hip and elbow dysplasia, entropion, hypothyroidism, lymphoma, progressive retinal atrophy, arthritis and bloat. Should your dog suffers from any of these illnesses, training activities must be planned carefully to avoid discomfort and pain and above all, to prevent the illness from progressing. If you suspect or your pet is showing symptoms of any of these diseases, better have it checked without delay for prevention and cure.

Fact 4. Care and Grooming Needs

Each breed has its specific needs in terms of care, grooming and exercise. Daily walks suit this breed best so is healthy diet to avoid obesity and related diseases. Bathing and shampoo must be carried out only when necessary but combing and brushing must be done routinely to get rid of dead hair.

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , ,