Dog

Dog - When Your Dog Has A Behavior Problem

2007-11-14T14:48:00.001-08:00

While you might not be thrilled at some of the behaviors your faithful companion has taken on... you need to realize that your dog isn't at all bothered by digging, barking, chewing, jumping, begging for table scraps, chasing cars, getting into the garbage, being aggressive toward other dogs 'these behaviors are a part of who he is, and has been through the centuries. They are behaviors he (or she) would have used out in the wild. Your dog isn't digging up your garden or chewing on your new shoes to spite you... he's not barking because he's angry or feeling neglected ' he does these things because they come naturally to him. There's nothing more to it than that.

Once you understand and accept this, you'll be in the right frame of mind to change the bothersome behavior once and for all. The trick to being successful isn't at all about brute force or intimidation ' it's all about using your dog's natural inclinations to help you correct the behaviors you don't like while still keeping the warm, loving relationship you want to have with your best friend. It can be done, but it takes time and a consistent effort to turn those behaviors around.

As you work to change your dog's bad habits, keep in mind that...

' Your dog needs enough exercise for his age and breed. Too little exercise gives him endless energy to dig, to chew, or to pursue other problem habits. But, if his energy is spent on walks or runs in the park he isn't likely to have anything left over for bad behavior.

' Your dog needs your time and attention ' you've heard it before, dogs are social animals. You and the members of your household are your dog's pack and he wants to be with you as much as he can. Many bad behaviors stem from the dog not having enough time, attention and guidance about what's expected and what's not.

' A visit to the vet might be in order so you can talk about what's going on; sometimes bad behavior can stem from pain, an infection, hormone imbalance or other physical problem ' all of which need to be ruled out first. Other times behavior problems come from an inborn tendency of the breed. In either case, an honest talk with your vet can give you a clue about what you're up against.

' You need to catch your dog in the act so that your displeasure can be clearly linked with the act. Reprimand your dog while he's nose deep in the hole, not when you find your garden overturned. A dog just can't connect your screaming (or punishment) now with what he's done in the past ' to him your temper is not in any way connected to that chewed-up pair of shoes. Over time dogs deal with what they see as unpredictable anger by loosing trust in you, which brings on even more problems.

' You need to look for the source of the behavior ' consider things other than not enough exercise or time with the family as reasons for what's happening. Some dogs tolerate being alone all day, others don't. A recent move or the arrival of a new pet (or baby) in the home are other sources of upset you should think about.

If you're struggling with problem behaviors that go beyond what can be handled by these suggestions, you may want to consider seeking professional help, which comes in one of two varieties. A dog trainer will help you handle more straightforward obedience issues (jumping up on people or furniture, chewing or housetraining problems) so that you establish the communication needed to get your dog to understand what's expected of him.

In cases where a dog's behavior is motivated by fear, aggression or anxiety an animal behaviorist may be your only hope of handling the problem. These pros have advanced training and will work with you and your dog to get at the root of the problem, and then help you change the behavior to something more acceptable. In some cases, intervention by an animal behaviorist is the only hope of keeping the dog with the family.

The good news is that even the worst behaviors can be changed, so long as you stay consistent and keep working on the problem. Talk with other dog owners to see what worked for them. Learn all you can.

Valerie Slaughter is a veteran marathoner and author of "You Want To Do What!?" who trained for marathons with her dog, Sam. For more articles, information and tips about caring for pets (dogs, cats) visit: doghealthynews.wordpress.com
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Dog - Teething Puppies

2007-11-08T13:15:00.001-08:00

Toy puppies will not be able to chew their way through a whole lot of surfaces, but they can chew at irreplaceable furniture and moldings enough to do quite a bit of damage. Be sure to puppy-proof your home before the curious, mischievous and "teething" toy puppy arrives.

Electrical cords and wires are especially hazardous to teething toy puppies. They need to be out of reach or taped to walls. A puppy could electrocute himself while happily chewing away on an electrical cord. Regularly look for dropped pens, pencils, rubber bands, paper clips, and children's small toys on your floor. Teething puppies can be very mouthy, chewing on everything they can latch onto. Nylabones and other chew toys are an absolute must for your new teething toy puppy.

You can also ask your vet for oral cleansing gel to apply topically for control of bacteria and aid in healing injured or sore gums while puppies are teething.

Don't forget to keep your books, shoes and clothing out of harm's way of a teething puppy. Crate the puppy when you're out of the house or confine him in a safe area with all his appropriate chew bones and toys.

If you catch your puppy chewing something inappropriate, sternly say "NO," and give your puppy an appropriate chew bone or toy. Praise him when he begins to chew on the appropriate item.

Bitter-tasting liquids are very helpful to apply to your furniture and handy to use on a bandage after a veterinary procedure to keep dogs and puppies from chewing the bandage.

When the permanent teeth begin to erupt, provide your toy puppy with an appropriate chew toy, something that is soft and that is not going to be swallowed and cause intestinal blockages. Choose an assortment of toys of all textures. In fact, dogs need to chew throughout their lives. It is wise to provide your adult toy dog with plenty of chew toys and bones that are soft and hard. Select items that are the right size for your toy breed puppy or dog. Choose carefully because some of the toys on the market might be just a little too hard for a toy breed. Avoid cow hooves with sharp edges. Broken teeth and sliced gums can be a real problem for dogs and puppies who chew on processed cow hooves.

Some vet dental consultants think toys that look like stringy dental floss are like chewing on a rag and can be loaded with harmful bacteria when they get dirty. Wash your toy puppy's toys often in the washer along with their other belongings and use Clorox bleach in the wash.

Also avoid rawhide strips or rawhide of any kind.

Connie Limon raises Shih Tzu puppies. Buy designer dog clothes made especially for all toy breeds at: http://www.littleguysdogclothesshop.com
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Dog - Dog Bathing

2007-11-08T13:14:00.000-08:00

Bathing your dog may pose quite a challenge for some of you, pet owners, especially if your dog is the type who would be running away when it knows that is time for its regular bath. We all want clean and good smelling dogs to cuddle with, so it is important to give your dogs a regular bath. Your dogs are also at a lesser risk to having skin diseases if you regularly keep him clean.

Brush your dog

It is ideal that prior to bathing your dog, you brush its coat to remove any dusts or sediments on your dog's coat as well as to get rid of hair tangles. This is important so that the hair that your dog may shed while being bathed will not clog your drain or float in the tub water. There are a variety of combs and brushes available on the market depending on what type would suit your dog's fur.

Gather everything you need

It is best that before getting your dog onto the tub or wash basin, you have everything that you will need in order. Remember that you need to watch over your dog while giving him a bath in case he wants to escape. With your full attention upon your dog, you wouldn't have the luxury of time to be looking for the stuff that you need to use and it is practical for these items to be within arm's reach.

Also, most dogs would sense that they will be having a bath especially if they hear the sound of running water. Fill the tub ahead with water to avoid further struggles with your pet. Ensure that the water is lukewarm, neither hot nor cold. Dogs just like humans dislike having cold baths.

Here are some of the essentials that you will need when giving your dog a bath: a leash if you need to control your dog, comb or brush (especially for dogs with thick or long hair), shampoo (you could also include conditioner though it is optional) and towel to dry your dog or you may also use a hairdryer if you like. You can find numerous pet shops and online stores offering dog bathing kits that will contain essential needs for a doggie bath.

The dog bath

Most experts suggest that you work your way from the head all the way down. Start to clean and shampoo from the head down to the tail. Make sure to clean every part of your dog's body. If your dog is uncomfortable at first, you may start from the neck down, and then opt to use just a washcloth to clean your dog's face and avoid getting water into their ears and eyes. You can find though eye gels that will protect your dog's eyes and ear solutions that ensure the ear will be dry after the bath. Rinse thoroughly after applying shampoo and conditioner (optional). Your dog's skin will itch if you don't rinse properly. Dry your dog with a towel and you may even use a hairdryer. Using the hairdryer all the time is not advisable for this could dry your dog's hair. Brush your dog's hair if it needs one.

With just the right way, you and your dog will have a great time as you give it its regular bath. If you just make it fun and enjoyable for your dog, for sure it'll be anticipating when its next bath will be.

Do you want to know more about dog care or anything about the crazy world of dogs? Visit us or share your opinions at the worlds best homepage or free content resource
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Dog - Using A Dog Bark Collar For Controlling Dog Behavior Problems

2007-11-08T13:13:00.002-08:00

Most dog behavior dilemmas may only put an impact on the dog owner itself. However, there times when some canine behavior problems can also affect the other people in the neighborhood. Behavioral problems such as extreme barking could result to neighborhood clashes or arguments, and the worst, infringement of some animal control laws in a given area. So to speak, the so-called "barking dogs" can be pretty much of a problem in ht neighborhood.

In essence, it is typically natural for a dog to bark. After all, that is their nature and that is what dogs are for. Barking creates a warning that initially tells the dog owner about the present problem or any intruder that is trying to enter the vicinity.

On the other hand, excessive barking may result to noise problems. Besides, extreme barking suggests unacceptable canine behavioral problem and needs to be deal with as soon as possible.

Talking or discussing the matters with your neighbors may sound like a feasible idea. However, it will not cure the problem. Your dog will continue to bark and if the situation permits, tolerance may not be the greatest solution in clearing any dispute with your neighbors.

The first step in addressing this kind of dog behavioral problem is to identify the duration of your dog's barking, the reasons for such behavior, and the exact time it usually starts to bark.

Identifying these factors is such a daunting task. Just imagine the tedious work of coordinating with your neighbors just to ask them about your dog's barking problem. This could even be more of a problem if you are not at home most of the time.

Therefore, the only feasible solution to this kind of problem is to find an effective device that will minimize or control your dog's barking.

Luckily, dog bark collars have been created to address this canine behavioral problem. Dog bark collars are exceptionally designed dog collars to provide an aversive every time your dog tries to bark aloud.

Dog bark collars are available in different types, with various ways of stopping your dog's barking. Here's the list:

1. Shock collars

This is the most expensive type of dog bark collars. However, in spite of its high-priced attribute, this collar is nothing more than that. According to various researches, shock collars are the least effective dog bark collars available in the market today.

Shock collars run an electric current that creates shock, thereby, hurting your dog. At some point, the pain may not effectively stop the barking because there are some dogs that can endure the pain and will still continue the said behavior.

The worst scenario would be on how your dog will try to divert his attention to other pets or to people who are within close proximity.

2. Aversive sound collar

Although considered a little better than shock collars, aversive sound collars do not pose high effective results as far as dog barking control is concerned.

Aversive sound collars try to produce a "high-frequency" sound whenever your dog barks. Usually, the sound is set off by the sound of the barking itself. The others are turned on manually.

3. Citronella dog bark collar

This is considered as the most effective of all types of dog bark collars. According to some research, citronella dog bark collars are twice as effective as the other types of dog bark collars particularly shock collars. The efficiency is well attributed to the citronella solution present in the collar.

This type of dog bark collar produces a gentle mist of citronella scent that is directed on your dog's face, particularly to the nose whenever he barks. Dogs do not like the scent of citronella and will automatically stop barking whenever he smells this.

The only problem with this type of dog bark collar is that the microphone attached to the collar is very sensitive to noise. Hence, the aversive scent may be set off even if your dog is not barking, which is caused by the other barking sounds present within the area.

Dog bark collars can be effective in one way or another. However, the main point here is to correct the dog bark collar by determining the main cause of the problem. To be more effective, dog bark collars must be combined with the proper way of addressing the cause of dog barking once identified.

Lee Dobbins writes for http://dogcollars.topicgiant.com where you can learn more about all kinds of dog collars including the dog bark collar.
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Dog - Have You Ever Heard of These Dog Foods?

2007-11-08T13:13:00.001-08:00

If you have not heard of Life's Abundance All Natural Premium Dog Food the reason is NOT because Life's Abundance is a NO GOOD dog food. The reason is that it is ONE OF THE BEST Dog Foods on the market today, and one of the most unique. Large supermarkets and even national-chain pet supply stores don't sell THE BEST OF DOG FOOD ON THE MARKET. They rely on lower-cost, lower-quality products from gigantic national food makers. The benefits to the supermarkets and large chain pet supply stores are many.

Benefits to the supermakets and large chain pet supply stores to carry a lower quality of dog foods are:

The supply is reliable.
The distribution channels are well-established.
The markup is greater.

Companies who make the ABSOLUTE BEST DOG FOOD are few. They are not able to manufacture huge amounts of their products for the chain stores. Instead, they concentrate on making small batches to insure greater quality and fresness to their customers. They do not stock huge inventories of dog food in warehouses giving you a greater chance of getting hold of out-dated dog food.

THE BEST DOG FOOD tend to be very expensive, so stores can't mark them up so much to make their huge profits.

THE ABSOLUTE BEST DOG FOODS are sold in small, individually owned "boutique type" pet stores, groomers, holistic vet offices, independent distributors and directly from the manufacturer.

People who shop at health food stores for their own food "understand" that food meticiously manufactured in small batches out of the finest ingredients, is more expensive than food that is made by huge businesses like Supermarket Chains and Pet Store Chains.

Many people who switch over from these Supermarket, large chain Pet Stores to the Individually owned "boutique type" pet stores, groomers, breeders, holistic vets and independent distributors will tell you they have seen remarkable improvement in their pet's health, energy levels and shiney hair. They will be able to tell you: Pay more for the food now, or you can buy the cheap stuff and try to save on pet food expense but you will pay later with even higher vet bills.

Hey! I am a Boutique person. I like getting the best for every dollar I spend.

I recommend HealthyPetNet, Life's Abundance to my customers/puppy buyers and whomever I meet that has pets.

Read the labels. Do your homework about dog food, and purchase from the boutiques, and independent distributors for better health and longer life spans of your precious companions. HealthyPetNet is dedicated to producing Dog Food from the very finest of ingredients. You won't see this brands of dog food on the Supermarket Shelves and Huge Pet Store Chains. You can purchase them from Independent Distributors who are breeders like myself, holistic vets, and grooming shops. They are produced in small batches and delivered fresh to your door.

At Stain Glass Shih Tzu our main priority is Good Health and producing puppies who are healthy with long life spans. We would not think of purchasing anything else. Once you make the switch to a higher quality Dog Food and Treats, you will be hooked for life.

Connie Limon publishes a FREE weekly newsletter. A professional newsletter with a focus upon health and wellness for you and your pets. Coupons for shih tzu puppies and other products are offered to subscribers. Updates of available puppies. Sign up at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com
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