Posts Tagged ‘dogs’

Household Pets: Bichon Frise Training

Friday, September 3rd, 2010

Bichon frise training is highly recommended particularly to families with small children under 12 years of age. The breed is known as gentle, affectionate, playful and friendly, however, kids who have no idea of what rough playing is can change this even-tempered furry friend into an aggressive and snappy little monster.

In a house with young children and dogs, one way to maintain peace is training – not just the dogs but the kids as well. Dogs have natural impulse to defend their property hence kids should be taught to respect the four-legged creature especially if Fido is eating or sleeping. They ought to know that bothering him while he is enjoying his dinner or resting inside his safe place which is the crate, can trigger his territorial instinct and may snap, growl or bite in an attempt to protect his property. Kids also need to know that pets should be handled gently and rough playing isn’t fun. Tugging the ears or tail, squeezing around the neck and hitting or throwing toys at the pet should be strictly banned. Allowing the kids help not only with dog training, but with raising the pet in general is another way to strengthen their bond at the same time train your offspring to become responsible.

Your bichon frise in contrast should also need to get correct training to avoid or at least reduce the chaos inside the house. Rules must be set and strictly enforced. If you do not want him to access particular parts of the house, make it clear to him and be consistent with it. Provide timely correction and never let him get away just because he is too adorable when doing certain acts like begging for food or jumping on you. Additionally, you also need to make sure that your house is safe for your little pet to roam around. Household supplies like laundry soap, dishwashing liquid, insecticide, bleach and others ought to be kept out of your pet’s reach. Holes or damaged fence should be fixed to prevent disappearing acts and trash cans should be off limits too.

Bichon frise training isn’t the only factor for having a well-behaved pet. Being responsible, consistent and determined owner helps too.

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Yorkie Training: Advice On Using Dog Crates

Friday, September 3rd, 2010

It is not strange for a pet owner, specially first timers, to doubt whether or not the crate will make a good yorkie training tool. The reason is in their point of view, the crate is similar to a prison cell and it would be cruel to restrain these innocent and pitiful creatures in there for hours and hours. But contrary to that famous belief, providing a crate is in fact like providing the dog with a den-like spot he can call his own wherein he is safe and comfortable. Crate training will never ever be harsh as long as it is used correctly.

Advantages of using crate include:

  • potty training
  • ensuring safety particularly if the pet is left alone at home
  • safety when traveling (almost all airline carriers require dogs to be crated)
  • every pet’s comfort zone

Although the crate is a useful yorkie training tool, not every yorkies will adjust to it quickly. Often, you will have to train him to get used to it by rewarding him with food treats and lots of praise. To introduce the crate, drop a few pieces of treats in and around it while letting him explore it freely. This aims to associate the crate with something positive and worthwhile, not something he needs to be afraid of. You can also feed him in the crate to improve the chance of him to like it.

Once he gets into the crate, lavish him with praises and reward him with his favorite treat. Remember, never force him to get into the crate nor shut the door the first time he gets there. When he becomes used of getting in and out of the crate, shut the door for a few seconds and reward him if he remains relaxed. Gradually increase the time of him being inside the crate and begin replacing the treat with toys and praise.

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How To Socialize A Dog

Friday, September 3rd, 2010

A properly socialized dog can adapt well to any given situation - can get along well with all the pets of the family and all the members of the household. By socializing the pet an owner is assured to have an ideal and well behaved companion for life. Proper socialization prevents the development of unwanted behavior and turns the dog into a happy and well behaved member of the family. A first time dog owner may know about the need to socialize the pet but may wonder how this kind of training can be done.

In spite of the fact that dogs are acclaimed to be social creatures, some individuals would not interact well with people and with other animals as dogs too have different personalities. A shy or nervous dog would show fear or aggression if confronted by unfamiliar faces or new situations. A dominant one would try to control not only other animals but humans as well. Providing the basic needs of the dog is not the only responsibility of a pet owner. A dog owner has to socialize the dog so that it will grow into a well behaved dog that can interact with all types of people and animals in any kind of situation and all kinds of environment.

It is best to start socialization when the dog is between 8 to 16 weeks of age. This is not to say that older dogs can no longer be socialized. However, socializing an older dog would require more patience and persistence. Socializing puppies would be easier as apart from having a curious nature; puppies have not yet formed hard to break habits.

As soon as the vet has given the GET-GO, the puppy must be introduced to everything that it will be exposed to when it gets older. Grooming is the first part of socialization that will familiarize the dog to being touched. Being handled will prepare the dog to being touched by the vet, by the groomer and by other people.

An obedience school or frequent visit to the local dog park will be a good chance for the pet to interact with other dogs. It is necessary to give the pet a chance to meet as many people as possible and to be exposed to varied situations. If possible always take the dog with you. Entice the dog to respond well to socialization by using treats as rewards. These socialization efforts will develop the puppy into a well adjusted mature dog.

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At What Age Can A Dog Be Neutered

Friday, September 3rd, 2010

Dog owners have differing opinions on whether the dog should be neutered or not. Neutering is often the option of responsible dog owners that are aware of the tragic plight of stray dogs - of the animals considered as man’s best friends that have to be put to sleep for being homeless. Dog lovers would not hesitate to support the program of minimizing the number of homeless dogs.

To prevent reproduction, the testicles of the dog are surgically removed. Would you believe that neutering aside from minimizing the number of homeless dogs also promises to give the dog longer, healthier and happier life. With the removal of the testicles, the risk for testicle cancer is removed as well. The hormone level of a neutered dog is controlled thus bad behavior that is associated with mood swings will be controlled as well. The inclination to roam is lessened with neutering thus accidents that can result to the death of the pet is avoided.

However, dog owners have many reservations on the right time to neuter the dog . Neutering has many unfounded beliefs. For instance it is believed that if the pet is neutered at an early age the personality and the physical development will be affected.

There is also a notion that if neutering is done before puberty the dog will not make an outstanding companion as the playful and affectionate nature will be obliterated. Dog experts refute the veracity of these beliefs. The personality and the physical development of the dog will not be affected at all. What is the best age to neuter the dog?

Except for newborn puppies, dogs can be neutered anytime. Considering the age of the pet would be rather hard if it was adopted from a shelter or if the dog that was adopted was a stray. Dogs at any age can be neutered as long as the testicles have descended but ideally, the procedure must be done before the dog has attained sexual maturity. Dog experts generally recommend neutering at 6 months of age especially for small breeds that reach puberty early. Dog experts recommend neutering large breeds at about 1 year of age as Great Danes, GSD and other large dogs take longer to mature sexually.

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Would Your Dog Like Big Dog Clothing?

Friday, September 3rd, 2010

It can be really comical to see an overly large canine, wearing a t-shirt, hat, or even a set of dog shoes on. There are a few manufacturers that create large dog clothing, which will without a doubt, make you and your dog stand out in public.

Adorning your large puppy in adorable or classy clothes will also provide them with extra warmth on cold days: There is a misconception among large dog owners, that a big canine is much less most likely to turn out to be cold than a little 1. There’s no factual evidence to back this theory up though.

Just like all humans have a body temperature of 98.6 degrees, a canine will have a range from 100 - 102.5 degrees and isn’t size or breed particular. This means that on a cold day, your larger canine could possibly love you for putting some big canine clothing on him or her.

Clothes for big or extremely large dogs could be hard to locate at local storefront retailers, but you will find plenty of reputable on the internet distributors that can you big dog clothing for man’s greatest friend, but also provide a selection of toys, accessories and numerous sell food for your animal — producing them a excellent one-stop shop.

These pet health care outlet stores will often be able to set you up with generic or name-brand designer clothing for your canine, at a discount over what brick and mortar companies charge you (less overhead costs for example shipping, electricity and labor). This is particularly convenient for those of you who may perhaps spend their week working that would rather have your dog’s clothing, as well as other add-ons waiting at your door,  as opposed to having to go out and shop inside your pet health leisure time.

Most times you’ll be able to even discover a matching collar, or leash to go with the other clothing you discover which will make your bigger dog look really cute at the canine park.

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Outdoor Dog Kennels And How They Help

Friday, September 3rd, 2010

Putting your dog(s) in outdoor dog kennels might seem like a cruel thing to do, but when you think about that they should be able to breath fresh air into their lungs and get some mobility at the same time: It is really a much better alternative to leaving them cramped up within the house while your away from home or busy.

If you are taking spending budget into consideration, plastic outdoor dog kennels are ordinarily the least expensive, whereas steel wire kennels will price much more but last longer. The only issue with using a steel kennel is always that you need to make certain the steel is rust proofed very first of all, then also make certain it is a fairly higher grade of pet health care steel that won’t bend or distort simply.

Portability?

There are several portable varieties of outdoor dog kennels that are created to be transported from location to place. Your pet health and life will be created much easier should you look at reviews specifically about the particular kennel you would like to make certain persons like and promote the usability of the item before you purchase.

Accessories?

You’re most likely going to wish to get two stainless steel dishes for water and food, along with a bed or blanket to acquire them from the floor of the kennel. Sun shades are also a great concept — you don’t have to shade all areas from the kennel, just make certain the dog(s) have a shaded area to get a break from the sun if they need it.

Other Possibilities?

You may instead select to purchase a basic crate or a full-sized dog run. Whichever you select it’s a great concept to have at least one enclosure handy within the event you’re expecting the cable repairman, or your pet gets fussy with company around.

Ensure you clean the enclosure regularly to prevent bacteria and soiling.

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How Do Dogs Mate

Friday, September 3rd, 2010

Dog mating can be embarrassing to some people but it is actually an impressive act. Dogs’ odd mating process is nature’s way of ensuring the survival of canines. Dogs are bred for various reasons. Breeding of dogs can be undertaken for financial reasons. It is certainly understandable if a dog owner would want to care for dogs produced by the pet.

Another reason for mating dogs is to develop a dog with the disposition and looks of outstanding breeds. Whatever reasons these dog owners have for breeding the dog, one thing is common. Professional breeder or pet owner, both would want to produce a healthy litter.

Dog breeders and long time dog owners would be accustomed to the mating process of dogs. A dog being mated for the first time would show signs of distress thus a pet owner watching the breeding process for the first time may panic. The concerned owner would fear for the well being of the pitifully whining pet. The mating dogs would seem to be ineffectually pulling away from each other thus an uninformed owner’s first reaction is to help. However, no matter how distressed the pets appear, a dog owner must never try to separate mating dogs. Being stuck together is a natural process of canine mating and trying to separate the dogs can result to injuries.

Not like female dogs that will allow to be mated only during the estrus stage, male dogs are always ready to mate. The flagging or the lifting of the tail to one side is only shown to a male dog when the bitch is ready to be mated. Once the bitch has given the invite, the dog will mount from the back in penetrate the vulva. One dog will twist around after the penetration so that both dogs will face the opposite direction.

A dog’s male member can achieve penetration even if it is not erect. The baculum is a small bone in the dog’s male member that has the purpose of keeping the male member rigid. After penetration, the tie will take place. The mating dogs will be tied together as the male member tissues swollen with blood traps the male member inside the female dog. The mating tie that lasts for about 30 minutes will be broken when the male member returned to its normal sizes after ejaculation. With the mating tie, the survival of canines is ensured.

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Labrador Retriever Training: Advice For First Time Owners

Friday, September 3rd, 2010

Labrador retriever training is an important responsibility dog owners shouldn’t neglect. Through it, the dog is taught several lessons to enable him to behave in ways not just considered desirable by humans but also to ensure safety of everybody around. Because of their even-temperament and capability to learn, training a labrador retriever isn’t as difficult as training other stubborn breeds. However, training may not be easy as well if owners, especially first timers, have no idea what training methods work.

Labrador retriever training begins the first day your pup arrived home. But during this period, training doesn’t necessarily need to involve advance or complicated lessons like teaching him to ring the bell when he needs to head outdoors to potty nor fascinating tricks like rollover. Be it a young puppy or an adult dog from the shelter, your new pet’s first few days at home is always adjustment phase and familiarization.

Gradually introduce him to the new atmosphere you brought him into but don’t forget to set boundaries in regards to what he is permitted to gain access. If you doesn’t want him to access the bedroom or the living room couch, make it clear to him once and for all. If there are other pets in the house, say a cat or birds, make their first encounter as tension-free and pleasant as possible. Expose him to stuff, locations, people and other sights and sounds he is more likely to deal with sometime soon. But prior to taking him out to meet the world outside your home, make sure to secure the approval of the vet first. Young puppies should not be allowed to mingle with other dogs until they’ve completed mandatory vaccines to avoid different health problems.

While you cannot expect a young puppy to completely avoid accidents, toilet training ought to start as soon as possible. Get him accustomed to potty at the place you prefer by taking him there on regular schedule like after waking up each morning, after eating and drinking, when nervous or thrilled, after exercise and before sleeping.

Labrador retriever training is a continuing procedure and must be started right in order for it to turn out right.

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How To Eliminate Howling Through Basset Hound Training

Thursday, September 2nd, 2010

If you have a dog or plans of having a dog, expect that basset hound training can be tough taking into consideration this breed’s strong sense of smell which they usually tend to check out particularly if they picked up a scent too appealing to neglect. Apart from that, another concern that is usually associated with these scent hounds is their being vocal. Many basset hounds are heard barking, whining, howling and even murmuring for varied causes but typically, to get in touch with other dogs be it pack members or not.

Howling is a natural behavior among dogs but it can be annoying as well as embarrassing if your precious pooch starts to howl thereby leading other dogs in the neighborhood to howl. This wouldn’t be an issue if right dog training was successfully carried out. However, if your dog doesn’t know how to respond even to the simplest command, then you’ll need to get ready to tackle the issue itself.

Before you take necessary measures to fix the problem, understand first that the reasons for howling could be:

  • to call or communicate with other dogs
  • separation anxiety
  • seeking attention because he is sick, bored, lonely or afraid
  • a reaction to some sort of triggers like the sound of siren, clarinet or flute and also the howling of other dogs

One way to help your pet get rid of the problem is to ignore him the instant he starts making noise. Even if he is trying to get your attention, refrain from looking at him, touching him and speaking to him. Behave as if he is not around. This method aims to get him realize that howling or creating loud and irritating noise will not make him gain your attention and time. Additionally, giving of reward each time your pet remains quiet can further motivate him to repeat the behavior (remain quiet).

Exercise, mentally and physically challenging basset hound training programs as well as interesting toys are also necessary factors to stop not just howling but many other behavior issues too.

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Prevent Heartworm In Dogs

Thursday, September 2nd, 2010

Heartworm disease affects many canines and if not treated properly can be lethal. The disease spreads rapidly by mosquitoes. When this insect bites an infected dog, it then becomes a carrier that deposits the illness when biting another one. Undeveloped heartworms are sent to the bloodstream where they await another mosquito to carry forth this disease. There are preventions that prove beneficial in keeping your pet safe. Dogs love to be outside and you cannot keep them confined for long. There are many ways to prevent this problem and veterinarians urge owners to take action.

As they are exposed to wildlife one must be sure they avoid contact with stray or undomesticated animals. At some point the canine will be exposed to fresh air for exercise or using the bathroom. Rabbit, rodent and bird carcasses carry immature worms and you should prevent all dogs from eating these animals. These carcasses carry immature worms and you should implement prevention by always watching what your animal consumes. Do not let your pet eat their own feces or that of another animal. Some dogs will eat their own feces or that of another animal. This is the most common avenue for getting intestinal parasites.

The vaccine destroys heartworm larvae prior to full maturity. This medication destroys the heartworm larvae, preventing them from maturing. Popular brands of vaccines utilized by veterinarians include Interceptor, Revolution, HeartGard Plus and Sentinel. Never purchase them from an online pet supplier promising cheaper prices, ensure your canine receives the correct kind and dosage. Only trust a vaccine by a licensed specialist with a signed prescription. Dogs will also benefit from monthly heartworm medication through the added prevention of parasites and flea eggs.

Before beginning preventative treatments, have your dog tested to make sure they are healthy and free of heartworms. Results come back quickly and management can begin. Only adult dogs are tested since the detection takes 6 months after exposure. Some veterinarians will want your canine tested every year or every two years dependent upon where you live. Dogs with heartworm disease will show signs of congestive heart failure. Treatment is pricey and will not cure the condition. Preventative steps will help your dog live a long and healthy life.

Visit this website for information on Heartgard Plus For Dogs. And, you can also treat your dogs with personalized dog collars or spiked dog collars

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