Are you just considering getting a dog for the first time, or getting one because your dog died? Consider all the options before you choose any pet. A pet can be a delight for a lifetime or a curse if you choose impulsively or for the wrong reasons.
When you consider getting a dog either for the first time or whether you have had many dogs and are experienced, you should always consider all the factors involved in pet ownership. Dogs should not be chosen on a whim, you should carefully consider what breed would best fit you and your family from the size to the maintenance if it has a long or short coat, etc. You should research dog breeds and find a breed that fits the age span you are most interested in. You should also decide if you are interested in a purebred or a "mutt", male or female, puppy or grown, and you should consider the temperament that would best fit your family.
The first we will address is dog breed. If there is a certain breed that you like the look, color, or personality of, you should spend some time researching that breed and talk with people online or in your area who own that breed. Be sure to ask about health problems that run in that particular breed as well as temperament and whether they are good with kids if you plan on having the dog around children. Taking the extra time can save a lot of grief later if you find out the breed you love has health issues that will end up costing you thousands of dollars you don't have.
When choosing the breed, be sure it fits with the size area you have available for your pet. You may love Great Danes, but if you have a 10x10 yard and you don't take long walks several times a day you should consider a smaller dog. You should also take the dog's coat into consideration. Most dogs shed, but some shed more than others and some breeds don't shed at all, but require special cutting because their coat grows continually. If the dog requires extra care with its coat or health concerns you should be prepared for the extra costs that will be involved with this pet. Having a dog is a commitment for a lifetime and will reward you for years, but if you cannot care for them properly it is best not to get a dog at all.
If you are not particular about the breed you may consider a "mutt" or a dog that is of two or more breeds that happen to fit the size and other criteria you are looking for in a dog. I have owned both purebred and "mutts" and have found them to be equally responsive, lovable and healthy when chosen correctly.
You should seriously consider whether you want to raise a puppy or whether you want to start with an adult dog. Either way you should at least consider starting at the local shelter in your search. It is nice when we can take in dogs who are in need of a home. This is a great place to find older dogs as well as puppies, but it can have its drawbacks as well. I have found dogs that have been housed at a shelter for any length of time are no longer house trained so you have to start over with that, and they may have been exposed to disease in the close environment of the shelter. If you purchase from a shelter be sure that they have an agreement for providing care or reimbursement if the dog should come down with kennel cough or another common kennel disease.
If you purchase from a breeder be sure to find out if the person is reputable by asking them questions about their breeding practices and their contracts. A reputable breeder will have contracts and will be able to answer any questions you have about how and why they breed and their dog's backgrounds.
Lifespan is another important factor in choosing a dog. If you truly love the large breeds you will have to be prepared to loose them sooner. Medium to small breeds live several years longer than the larger breeds. The larger breeds often have hip and knee problems as well, though some smaller breeds might also, it is more common in the larger dog.
Do you have a preference for male or female dogs? Be sure to keep that in mind when you are looking. Don't just say - "Oh well, we'll settle for this!" This is a decision you live with for many years so consider it carefully. In some breeds the females bond more with one person and guard and protect them and the males are more territorial and guard and protect their yard, home etc. In your breed research you may want to find out if this is true so that you can choose based on what works best for you.
Last but not least is the dog temperament. You should always consider if that dog breed tends to be hyper and active always running, jumping and playing or if its a more sedentary breed. If you want a lap dog don't choose an active breed. All dogs have more energy as youngsters just like humans, but some breeds are more laid back. You should choose a breed with the traits you are looking for rather than trying to force an active dog to be still or a sedentary dog to run.
If you choose thoughtfully and train with care you will enjoy your dog for many years. Your dog will be a joy for you and your family and all that you come in contact with.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Monday, July 14, 2008
Beat The Heat!
Many of you probably keep your dogs indoors, but for those who have outdoor dogs or dogs who spend a lot of time outdoors by choice, I wanted to talk about ways to beat the heat. Keeping your dog cool and happy is important. Your dog can maintain his temperature fairly easily through panting and through his ears. He is able to cool himself pretty well, but during the really hot part of summer they enjoy some help sometimes.
The first thing you should do anytime of year is make sure that your dog has an adequate amount of water. In the summer that is critical. Keep in mind that a water dish that is sufficient for fall, winter and spring may not be big enough in the summer. Your dog's water intake will increase during the hot weather and the evaporation can take a lot as well. Watch the water carefully and if there is ever a time the dog is out of water find a bigger dish or put out an extra dish to ensure that the dog's needs are taken care of.
I keep a small kiddie pool in the back yard for my outdoor dog and even my indoor dogs that go in and out enjoy it in the hot weather. I empty it out every couple of days and refill it with cool water. The dogs can go in and out of it as they need to in order to help keep themselves cool. This is the best method I have found for helping the dogs keep cool.
In the past we have also hosed off larger outdoor dogs on hot days. Most of them enjoyed the opportunity to cool off and stay cool for quite a while even on hot days when they were soaked down. Our hose water is not that cold, just cool really, but if you have really cold hose water you will want to consider using water that is not quite so cold to soak them down with because the dramatic temperature change can shock them and cause illness or trauma. When the heat gets up to 95+ for several days in a row I have even brought my outdoor dogs into the house during the heat of the day. Especially older dogs are really susceptible to heat trauma so watch them carefully to be certain that they are able to keep cool enough and not be uncomfortable.
Safety and comfort is the concern for keeping dogs cool in the heat of summer. Use common sense and supply the dog's basic needs and a few additional cooling options and you and your dog will have a safe and happy summer.
The first thing you should do anytime of year is make sure that your dog has an adequate amount of water. In the summer that is critical. Keep in mind that a water dish that is sufficient for fall, winter and spring may not be big enough in the summer. Your dog's water intake will increase during the hot weather and the evaporation can take a lot as well. Watch the water carefully and if there is ever a time the dog is out of water find a bigger dish or put out an extra dish to ensure that the dog's needs are taken care of.
I keep a small kiddie pool in the back yard for my outdoor dog and even my indoor dogs that go in and out enjoy it in the hot weather. I empty it out every couple of days and refill it with cool water. The dogs can go in and out of it as they need to in order to help keep themselves cool. This is the best method I have found for helping the dogs keep cool.
In the past we have also hosed off larger outdoor dogs on hot days. Most of them enjoyed the opportunity to cool off and stay cool for quite a while even on hot days when they were soaked down. Our hose water is not that cold, just cool really, but if you have really cold hose water you will want to consider using water that is not quite so cold to soak them down with because the dramatic temperature change can shock them and cause illness or trauma. When the heat gets up to 95+ for several days in a row I have even brought my outdoor dogs into the house during the heat of the day. Especially older dogs are really susceptible to heat trauma so watch them carefully to be certain that they are able to keep cool enough and not be uncomfortable.
Safety and comfort is the concern for keeping dogs cool in the heat of summer. Use common sense and supply the dog's basic needs and a few additional cooling options and you and your dog will have a safe and happy summer.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
How To Correct Your Dog Without Pain!
Correction should not inflict pain on your dog. Correction can be as simple as a frown or a reprimand. Time-out is also effective with dogs. Dogs crave your attention. When you withdraw your attention by walking away and focusing on something else your dog will pick up on your displeasure. Since most dogs naturally want to be with you and want to please you the most effective training is to focus on the positive and reward your dog for good behavior. Your dog will repeat behavior that is reinforced positively.
Remember, dogs live in the moment. Rewarding or correcting your dog for something they did five minutes ago or even two minutes ago will not work. The reward or correction must immediately follow the behavior. Small treats can be a good reward as well as praise. Praise with a proper tone of voice and your dog will do almost anything for you.
Remember dogs, like humans are not born knowing spoken language. Dogs have relied on body language, barks, scent, and howls as communication for centuries. It is your job to teach them what verbal commands mean. Dogs learn the spoken word quickly when we avoid giving mixed signals. For instance, you will send a confusing signal to your dog if you call the dog to come and he is slow in coming so when he gets there you reprimand him. This tells your dog that you did not want them to come after all.
Be very clear in your commands to a dog. You should use the same commands every time and when teaching your dog. Always get their attention by using their name and then speak the command. The fewer words you use in your commands the quicker your dog will pick up on them. "Rover, sit!" "Rover, Come!" "Rover, down!" "Rover, no!" "Rover, leave it!" If you want your dog to "Stay" you may want to skip using their name first since this would encourage them to come to you rather than to stay. "Stay!" Reward behavior that you want to see more often.
It is easy to get frustrated or upset in the training process. It is perfectly OK to take time away if you feel frustration rising. If you are harsh or angry when you work with your dog it can upset them to the point that they get confused and are no longer learning. A confused dog will not be able to do what you are asking, so always be sure that you are in a good frame of mind when working with your dog.
A well behaved dog is a joy for a lifetime! Take the time now and reap the rewards for years to come.
Remember, dogs live in the moment. Rewarding or correcting your dog for something they did five minutes ago or even two minutes ago will not work. The reward or correction must immediately follow the behavior. Small treats can be a good reward as well as praise. Praise with a proper tone of voice and your dog will do almost anything for you.
Remember dogs, like humans are not born knowing spoken language. Dogs have relied on body language, barks, scent, and howls as communication for centuries. It is your job to teach them what verbal commands mean. Dogs learn the spoken word quickly when we avoid giving mixed signals. For instance, you will send a confusing signal to your dog if you call the dog to come and he is slow in coming so when he gets there you reprimand him. This tells your dog that you did not want them to come after all.
Be very clear in your commands to a dog. You should use the same commands every time and when teaching your dog. Always get their attention by using their name and then speak the command. The fewer words you use in your commands the quicker your dog will pick up on them. "Rover, sit!" "Rover, Come!" "Rover, down!" "Rover, no!" "Rover, leave it!" If you want your dog to "Stay" you may want to skip using their name first since this would encourage them to come to you rather than to stay. "Stay!" Reward behavior that you want to see more often.
It is easy to get frustrated or upset in the training process. It is perfectly OK to take time away if you feel frustration rising. If you are harsh or angry when you work with your dog it can upset them to the point that they get confused and are no longer learning. A confused dog will not be able to do what you are asking, so always be sure that you are in a good frame of mind when working with your dog.
A well behaved dog is a joy for a lifetime! Take the time now and reap the rewards for years to come.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
How to Find a Great Vet and When to Call
It's not always easy to find a vet that you trust and it can be even trickier to know when it is best to call them. Educating yourself about your dog's health is the first step to knowing when to call. Finding the right vet may be trickier.
Finding a veterinarian can be as difficult as finding yourself a good doctor that you trust. Most veterinarians get into the profession because of a desire to help animals, but some lack the people skills to help you trust them. When you are looking for a vet you should find one that is willing to spend time talking with you and getting to know you and your dog. A vet who talks and listens to you and one that you understand is a valuable resource.
Knowing your dog and general dog health is the first step to spotting concerns that could become major health issues. You know your dog best, if they are acting more lethargic, or favoring a certain part of their body you should be concerned. Pay attention to the first warning signs and you may prevent a major illness. Be aware that signs of illness in a puppy or senior dog should be addressed more quickly, where it may be OK to monitor an adult dog for 24 hours or so if they are just lethargic or not eating.
There are many instances that you should call your vet right away. These include but are not limited to: you know or suspect your dog was hit by a car, or ingested poison of any kind, sudden changes in weight or throwing up or diarrhea for more than 24 hours or diarrhea with blood, if your dog swallows a foreign object, had a seizure, or been in a fight.
You are the best judge if something serious is going on with your dog. It may be OK to monitor them for a short period of time before calling or taking them in when they are experiencing mild symptoms, but be aware that a small problem could escalate into a major health concern if not addressed early.
If you have not developed the kind of relationship with your vet that allows you to speak your mind and they listen carefully and take a second look, it may be a good idea to get another opinion. You need to look until you find a vet that will listen to you and your concerns. Vets as a rule are very good, but some get in a hurry or decide on a diagnosis and they don't like you telling them that you are uncomfortable with it and want them to consider other options. If this sounds like your vet, you may want to consider talking to another vet until you find one that fits you. Don't be shy about going in and interviewing a vet to see if they will fit your needs, if they are willing to spend that time talking to you they may be a good fit. If the vet does not want to do an interview or if they don't satisfy your questions in that interview keep looking!
Remember, you are your dog's first line of defense. Know your dog. Choose a great vet and don't be afraid to switch if it is not working out. Trust your instincts when it comes to your dog and always call your vet when something is not right. They can tell you whether or not to come in, or whether it is OK to wait and monitor your dog based on the medical history they have. Your dog's health is important! Do not risk their health just because you have not found a great vet. Keep looking until you find what works for you and your dog, there are many awesome vets out there!
Finding a veterinarian can be as difficult as finding yourself a good doctor that you trust. Most veterinarians get into the profession because of a desire to help animals, but some lack the people skills to help you trust them. When you are looking for a vet you should find one that is willing to spend time talking with you and getting to know you and your dog. A vet who talks and listens to you and one that you understand is a valuable resource.
Knowing your dog and general dog health is the first step to spotting concerns that could become major health issues. You know your dog best, if they are acting more lethargic, or favoring a certain part of their body you should be concerned. Pay attention to the first warning signs and you may prevent a major illness. Be aware that signs of illness in a puppy or senior dog should be addressed more quickly, where it may be OK to monitor an adult dog for 24 hours or so if they are just lethargic or not eating.
There are many instances that you should call your vet right away. These include but are not limited to: you know or suspect your dog was hit by a car, or ingested poison of any kind, sudden changes in weight or throwing up or diarrhea for more than 24 hours or diarrhea with blood, if your dog swallows a foreign object, had a seizure, or been in a fight.
You are the best judge if something serious is going on with your dog. It may be OK to monitor them for a short period of time before calling or taking them in when they are experiencing mild symptoms, but be aware that a small problem could escalate into a major health concern if not addressed early.
If you have not developed the kind of relationship with your vet that allows you to speak your mind and they listen carefully and take a second look, it may be a good idea to get another opinion. You need to look until you find a vet that will listen to you and your concerns. Vets as a rule are very good, but some get in a hurry or decide on a diagnosis and they don't like you telling them that you are uncomfortable with it and want them to consider other options. If this sounds like your vet, you may want to consider talking to another vet until you find one that fits you. Don't be shy about going in and interviewing a vet to see if they will fit your needs, if they are willing to spend that time talking to you they may be a good fit. If the vet does not want to do an interview or if they don't satisfy your questions in that interview keep looking!
Remember, you are your dog's first line of defense. Know your dog. Choose a great vet and don't be afraid to switch if it is not working out. Trust your instincts when it comes to your dog and always call your vet when something is not right. They can tell you whether or not to come in, or whether it is OK to wait and monitor your dog based on the medical history they have. Your dog's health is important! Do not risk their health just because you have not found a great vet. Keep looking until you find what works for you and your dog, there are many awesome vets out there!
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Commands that Work!
Remember dogs, like humans are not born knowing spoken language. Dogs have relied on body language, barks, scent, and howls as communication for centuries. It is your job to teach them what verbal commands mean. Dogs learn the spoken word quickly when we avoid giving mixed signals. For instance, you will send a confusing signal to your dog if you call the dog to come and he is slow in coming so when he gets there you reprimand him. This tells your dog that you did not want them to come after all.
Be very clear in your commands to a dog. You should use the same commands every time and when teaching your dog. Always get their attention by using their name and then speak the command. The fewer words you use in your commands the quicker your dog will pick up on them. “Rover, sit!” “Rover, Come!” “Rover, down!” “Rover, no!” “Rover, leave it!” If you want your dog to “Stay” you may want to skip using their name first since this would encourage them to come to you rather than to stay. “Stay!” Reward behavior that you want to see more often.
It is easy to get frustrated or upset in the training process. It is perfectly OK to take time away if you feel frustration rising. If you are harsh or angry when you work with your dog it can upset them to the point that they get confused and are no longer learning. A confused dog will not be able to do what you are asking, so always be sure that you are in a good frame of mind when working with your dog.
A well behaved dog is a joy for a lifetime! Take the time now and reap the rewards for years to come.
Be very clear in your commands to a dog. You should use the same commands every time and when teaching your dog. Always get their attention by using their name and then speak the command. The fewer words you use in your commands the quicker your dog will pick up on them. “Rover, sit!” “Rover, Come!” “Rover, down!” “Rover, no!” “Rover, leave it!” If you want your dog to “Stay” you may want to skip using their name first since this would encourage them to come to you rather than to stay. “Stay!” Reward behavior that you want to see more often.
It is easy to get frustrated or upset in the training process. It is perfectly OK to take time away if you feel frustration rising. If you are harsh or angry when you work with your dog it can upset them to the point that they get confused and are no longer learning. A confused dog will not be able to do what you are asking, so always be sure that you are in a good frame of mind when working with your dog.
A well behaved dog is a joy for a lifetime! Take the time now and reap the rewards for years to come.
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Socialization!
Socializing is always a big issue with dog owners. There are a variety of views on socialization, but after breeding and raising dogs for over 15 years I can say that the earlier they are socialized the more confident and reliable they will be in any situation.
Socialization should start ideally before the pup is even weaned. A responsible breeder will make sure pups are handled regularly and exposed to a variety of activities. It may not be possible to take them out and about town if there are quite a few pups, but it is still possible to handle them and let them hear household noises such as vacuum cleaners, blenders, etc. If you are talking with a breeder about purchasing a puppy you should question them about how they socialize their puppies before they sell them.
Once you bring your dog home, whether it is full grown or whether it is a puppy you should allow it to experience everything you will normally (or even occasionally) be exposed to when the dog is with you. For those who live in the city exposing them to the noise of traffic and many varieties of people early on is the key to having a dog that is free of fear. Introduce these things gradually and make every new experience a fun one for your dog.
Encourage your dog to climb stairs, ride elevators (if you will ever have to do that with your dog), and even take your dog for rides in the car to fun places. Your dog should ride in the car to do fun things especially if you use the car for trips to the vet. Most dogs will not enjoy a visit to the vet and will start to be difficult about riding in the car if that is the only place they ever go in the car.
If your dog shows fear it is your responsibility to demonstrate that there is no need for fear. Ensure that every new situation is a positive experience. The more experiences your dog has, especially at a young age the more likely he is to face new situations with interest instead of fear. Your dog will be comfortable in any situation once you have taken the steps to properly socialize him.
You can view more tips, sign up for a great newsletter that updates you with the latest tips and health suggestions at: http://www.acebarkery.com You can also find awesome healthy home made dog treats and more, made with your dog's health in mind.
Socialization should start ideally before the pup is even weaned. A responsible breeder will make sure pups are handled regularly and exposed to a variety of activities. It may not be possible to take them out and about town if there are quite a few pups, but it is still possible to handle them and let them hear household noises such as vacuum cleaners, blenders, etc. If you are talking with a breeder about purchasing a puppy you should question them about how they socialize their puppies before they sell them.
Once you bring your dog home, whether it is full grown or whether it is a puppy you should allow it to experience everything you will normally (or even occasionally) be exposed to when the dog is with you. For those who live in the city exposing them to the noise of traffic and many varieties of people early on is the key to having a dog that is free of fear. Introduce these things gradually and make every new experience a fun one for your dog.
Encourage your dog to climb stairs, ride elevators (if you will ever have to do that with your dog), and even take your dog for rides in the car to fun places. Your dog should ride in the car to do fun things especially if you use the car for trips to the vet. Most dogs will not enjoy a visit to the vet and will start to be difficult about riding in the car if that is the only place they ever go in the car.
If your dog shows fear it is your responsibility to demonstrate that there is no need for fear. Ensure that every new situation is a positive experience. The more experiences your dog has, especially at a young age the more likely he is to face new situations with interest instead of fear. Your dog will be comfortable in any situation once you have taken the steps to properly socialize him.
You can view more tips, sign up for a great newsletter that updates you with the latest tips and health suggestions at: http://www.acebarkery.com You can also find awesome healthy home made dog treats and more, made with your dog's health in mind.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Our Customer's LOVE These Treats!
"Clio has been enjoying these treats VERY MUCH! I can't tell if she has a favorite yet, but she has gobbled them happily with each one offered to her. She finds them chewier than her usual milkbones and it seems to me she enjoys every bite! When I offered her a regular milkbone this morning she turned her head in the opposite direction and walked away as if to say, "you've got to be kidding! Where are the GOOD BISCUITS?!?"
~Kathy Carey~Tulsa, OK
We love to hear testimonials from our customers. Please share your testimony and we will share it as space allows!
~Kathy Carey~Tulsa, OK
We love to hear testimonials from our customers. Please share your testimony and we will share it as space allows!
Monday, March 24, 2008
Can You Hear Me?
Your dog's ears are absolutely amazing. A dog can tell the difference in the sound of foots steps as well as a burrowing rodent!
A dog has such keen hearing that they can tell the difference in the foot steps of each family member. A dog's ears are amazing in their range of hearing as well as distinction of sound. Dog's ears have a variety of shapes giving each dog a unique look.
When you watch your dog's reaction to sounds in the yard and about the house you can see its unique ability to localize sound by moving its ears around to locate sound and identify it. A dog's range of hearing is a lot like a human's in the low range, but at the higher range sounds the dog's hearing is amazing. Dogs can hear the high pitched squeak of a burrowing rodent and other prey. Wild dogs seem to have an even higher range of hearing than domestic dogs.
Amazingly a dog can distinguish between nearly identical sounds. When your dog hears your foot steps he knows it is you. If he hears a foot step that is not familiar he goes on alert and if he is a guard dog he is ready to encounter a stranger and decide if they are friend or foe. Dogs can move each ear independently to help identify the direction and the cause of the sound.
Your dog's ears also help them maintain balance similar to the way human ears work only on a much finer scale. A dog ear has tiny hairs that are filled with fluid and crystals that help detect the slightest change in the position of the dog's head which allows the animal to move its head as needed to best hear the sounds. You will notice this as you watch your dog cock its head to one side to hear a sound more clearly or catch the sound better.
In domestic dogs the ears shapes vary greatly. You can find a German Shepherd with pricked ears and a Basset Hound with pendant ears or a Pug with Rose ears and an Airedale with Button ears. The dogs with pricked ears look much more like their wild cousins while selective breeding has helped bring into popularity the other ear styles we find today. The pendant ears that hang long down the side of the dog's head. The button ears have tips that hang over the ear in a V-shape and partially cover the ear opening. Rose ears hang over the ear opening but fold inward along the back edge and curves over to partially expose the ear opening.
Each kind of ear gives the dog a distinctive look but all ears are equally amazing in the way they give the dog the information it needs to interpret the sounds around it. Watching your dog will give you more insight into its ears and how it hears the world. Remember when you are listening to music that if you are playing too loud it might affect your dog's ability to hear as well, so protect your dog's hearing as well as your own and keep that stereo at a reasonable level.
A dog has such keen hearing that they can tell the difference in the foot steps of each family member. A dog's ears are amazing in their range of hearing as well as distinction of sound. Dog's ears have a variety of shapes giving each dog a unique look.
When you watch your dog's reaction to sounds in the yard and about the house you can see its unique ability to localize sound by moving its ears around to locate sound and identify it. A dog's range of hearing is a lot like a human's in the low range, but at the higher range sounds the dog's hearing is amazing. Dogs can hear the high pitched squeak of a burrowing rodent and other prey. Wild dogs seem to have an even higher range of hearing than domestic dogs.
Amazingly a dog can distinguish between nearly identical sounds. When your dog hears your foot steps he knows it is you. If he hears a foot step that is not familiar he goes on alert and if he is a guard dog he is ready to encounter a stranger and decide if they are friend or foe. Dogs can move each ear independently to help identify the direction and the cause of the sound.
Your dog's ears also help them maintain balance similar to the way human ears work only on a much finer scale. A dog ear has tiny hairs that are filled with fluid and crystals that help detect the slightest change in the position of the dog's head which allows the animal to move its head as needed to best hear the sounds. You will notice this as you watch your dog cock its head to one side to hear a sound more clearly or catch the sound better.
In domestic dogs the ears shapes vary greatly. You can find a German Shepherd with pricked ears and a Basset Hound with pendant ears or a Pug with Rose ears and an Airedale with Button ears. The dogs with pricked ears look much more like their wild cousins while selective breeding has helped bring into popularity the other ear styles we find today. The pendant ears that hang long down the side of the dog's head. The button ears have tips that hang over the ear in a V-shape and partially cover the ear opening. Rose ears hang over the ear opening but fold inward along the back edge and curves over to partially expose the ear opening.
Each kind of ear gives the dog a distinctive look but all ears are equally amazing in the way they give the dog the information it needs to interpret the sounds around it. Watching your dog will give you more insight into its ears and how it hears the world. Remember when you are listening to music that if you are playing too loud it might affect your dog's ability to hear as well, so protect your dog's hearing as well as your own and keep that stereo at a reasonable level.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Children & Dogs: Make it a Success
Many problems can arise from mixing children and dogs but all are easily avoided with a few simple steps.
Having a dog seems like a great idea before the dog arrives but if you have children any number of problems may arise with the arrival of a new dog to the household. Whether the dog is a puppy or a more mature dog there are potential problems. The relationship between a child and a dog can be a life changing event. You can help ensure that this is a great time for your family by preparing your family properly for a new addition.
Supervise your children especially if children are very young or there is a puppy involved. Even very rowdy children should be taught to treat a dog gently and with respect. A dog is not something for them to boss around. The dog will need to learn to obey them with a few simple commands but this should come later. Some children will see this as a chance for them to finally be the boss but this should not be the case! If your child is excitable then allow them time with the dog in small doses as they can handle it.
Proper supervision of children and pets is the key to lifelong happiness for both. Young children should never be left alone with a pet. Many a pet has bitten a toddler because the toddler got rough and twisted its ear or any number of other things. This could lead to having to put down a favored family pet. To avoid this grief, simply supervise your small children at all times when any dog is present.
Children should be involved with obedience training of the dog; however a child should not be allowed to use commands just to be bossy. Commands for a dog should clear and consistent. Children should be taught to use the correct commands for each situation. Having children use consistent commands with your dog will help the dog be clear on what is expected. Dogs like consistency and will learn to trust their family when everyone is working together for the happiness and safety of the dog.
Your dog will learn to trust the children more if the child is given age appropriate chores to help with the care of the dog. Children can feed, water and clean up after a dog. Be sure you check up to ensure that your child takes the responsibility seriously. Helping with the responsibility of your dog can help with bonding between your dog and your child as well as increasing your child's self esteem.
When you go out in public be sure that your children understand that it is important not to rush up to dogs they do not know. They may be so delighted with your dog that they fail to realize that some dogs are not as tolerant of strangers or children. If your child wants to greet a dog they do not know they should ask permission of the owner first and then proceed quietly and cautiously as the owner allows contact.
Proceeding with these few simple steps can ensure a lifetime of happiness for your children and your pets. Your child will remember these times in his life when he is older. Make sure these are treasured memories.
See more articles and healthy treats at. http://www.acebarkery.com
Having a dog seems like a great idea before the dog arrives but if you have children any number of problems may arise with the arrival of a new dog to the household. Whether the dog is a puppy or a more mature dog there are potential problems. The relationship between a child and a dog can be a life changing event. You can help ensure that this is a great time for your family by preparing your family properly for a new addition.
Supervise your children especially if children are very young or there is a puppy involved. Even very rowdy children should be taught to treat a dog gently and with respect. A dog is not something for them to boss around. The dog will need to learn to obey them with a few simple commands but this should come later. Some children will see this as a chance for them to finally be the boss but this should not be the case! If your child is excitable then allow them time with the dog in small doses as they can handle it.
Proper supervision of children and pets is the key to lifelong happiness for both. Young children should never be left alone with a pet. Many a pet has bitten a toddler because the toddler got rough and twisted its ear or any number of other things. This could lead to having to put down a favored family pet. To avoid this grief, simply supervise your small children at all times when any dog is present.
Children should be involved with obedience training of the dog; however a child should not be allowed to use commands just to be bossy. Commands for a dog should clear and consistent. Children should be taught to use the correct commands for each situation. Having children use consistent commands with your dog will help the dog be clear on what is expected. Dogs like consistency and will learn to trust their family when everyone is working together for the happiness and safety of the dog.
Your dog will learn to trust the children more if the child is given age appropriate chores to help with the care of the dog. Children can feed, water and clean up after a dog. Be sure you check up to ensure that your child takes the responsibility seriously. Helping with the responsibility of your dog can help with bonding between your dog and your child as well as increasing your child's self esteem.
When you go out in public be sure that your children understand that it is important not to rush up to dogs they do not know. They may be so delighted with your dog that they fail to realize that some dogs are not as tolerant of strangers or children. If your child wants to greet a dog they do not know they should ask permission of the owner first and then proceed quietly and cautiously as the owner allows contact.
Proceeding with these few simple steps can ensure a lifetime of happiness for your children and your pets. Your child will remember these times in his life when he is older. Make sure these are treasured memories.
See more articles and healthy treats at. http://www.acebarkery.com
Monday, March 17, 2008
Help! My Dog is Chewing Everything!
Have you ever wondered how to control chewing when you leave your dog alone? Do you wish your furniture was still in one piece?
Nearly every dog owner has had their dog chew up something they were not supposed to. It is easier than you might think to control the chewing. Usually puppies are the worst culprits for chewing anything in site, but even older dogs can be a problem. You can direct your dog to more appropriate activities and save your furniture, garbage and sanity!
First you should understand there are some very basic reasons that your dog chews. If your dog or puppy is getting in new teeth this can cause them to chew anything they can get a hold of to relieve the pressure and help bring the new teeth in. If your dog does not have enough activities he may chew because he is bored or has excess energy. Dogs that have excess energy will chew to relieve some of that pent up energy.. A dog may use his mouth to explore and find out more about things around him. Dogs like new smells and if something smells interesting he may chew on it just to satisfy his curiosity. Dogs may also chew because they are anxious when their owners leave.
So what can you do to stop the destructive chewing? First, you may need to confine your puppy or dog to a kennel or a secure room that does not have any inappropriate items for him to chew on. This confining may be temporary while you work on training him to know what is appropriate to chew on and what is not. You can keep him confined while you are away to protect them as well as your furnishings. There are many items you can get for your dog to chew on that are safe and will keep him entertained for long periods of time. Get several different toys or bones and change them periodically to keep him interested. Do not give your dog old socks, shoes or other household items to chew on. Your dog will not know the difference between an old pair of boots and new ones!
If your dogs chews because he is bored or has excess energy it is your job to make sure that he gets plenty of exercise when you are home so that he does not take out his frustrations in other ways. Make sure your dog gets plenty of time outside running and playing with you. Research to find out how much good exercise time per day your breed needs to be healthy and happy and make sure they get at least that much time in good solid exercise as well as relaxation time with you.
It is your job to dog proof the house as much as possible even when you are home. Keep tempting items such as socks, shoes, clothing or cords put away or out of reach of your dog. Keep approved chew toys and items he can have out where they are accessible so that it is easy for your dog to choose those items.
If your dog chews because he does not like it when you leave you can try to make your leaving as painless as possible by spending quality time with your dog before you leave and making sure you leave your scent on a special toy or bone. Make your leaving as inconspicuous as possible. Try to have your dog distracted with something they enjoy so they do not think so much about you being away.
Whenever you catch your dog chewing on something other than an appropriate toy take away the item and give him a chew toy and if he chews that praise him. Praise is always more effective than discipline when dealing with your dog. There are times for corrections however, so don't be afraid to say "No!" and take the inappropriate item away. Be firm but loving with correction, and always be liberal with praise.
You can teach your dog to ignore the items you do not want him to chew on by spending a little time working with him. Try setting out two items out that he might chew on and make sure one of them is something that you approve for him to chew. When he chooses the right item praise him, if he chooses the wrong one say "NO!" and point him to the correct chew toy. You can do this many times while you are in the room and they start trying it when you leave the room. Plan to come back and catch him in the act. If he is doing good praise him, if not, re-direct him to the correct item after saying "NO!"
If you are consistent with training your dog what is OK to chew on, confining him while you are away until he learns to be reliable and if you make sure that he has enough exercise you will have a happy dog who contributes to the joy in your home rather than making it a nightmare to come home to! Remember a happy dog is a well disciplined dog!
Nearly every dog owner has had their dog chew up something they were not supposed to. It is easier than you might think to control the chewing. Usually puppies are the worst culprits for chewing anything in site, but even older dogs can be a problem. You can direct your dog to more appropriate activities and save your furniture, garbage and sanity!
First you should understand there are some very basic reasons that your dog chews. If your dog or puppy is getting in new teeth this can cause them to chew anything they can get a hold of to relieve the pressure and help bring the new teeth in. If your dog does not have enough activities he may chew because he is bored or has excess energy. Dogs that have excess energy will chew to relieve some of that pent up energy.. A dog may use his mouth to explore and find out more about things around him. Dogs like new smells and if something smells interesting he may chew on it just to satisfy his curiosity. Dogs may also chew because they are anxious when their owners leave.
So what can you do to stop the destructive chewing? First, you may need to confine your puppy or dog to a kennel or a secure room that does not have any inappropriate items for him to chew on. This confining may be temporary while you work on training him to know what is appropriate to chew on and what is not. You can keep him confined while you are away to protect them as well as your furnishings. There are many items you can get for your dog to chew on that are safe and will keep him entertained for long periods of time. Get several different toys or bones and change them periodically to keep him interested. Do not give your dog old socks, shoes or other household items to chew on. Your dog will not know the difference between an old pair of boots and new ones!
If your dogs chews because he is bored or has excess energy it is your job to make sure that he gets plenty of exercise when you are home so that he does not take out his frustrations in other ways. Make sure your dog gets plenty of time outside running and playing with you. Research to find out how much good exercise time per day your breed needs to be healthy and happy and make sure they get at least that much time in good solid exercise as well as relaxation time with you.
It is your job to dog proof the house as much as possible even when you are home. Keep tempting items such as socks, shoes, clothing or cords put away or out of reach of your dog. Keep approved chew toys and items he can have out where they are accessible so that it is easy for your dog to choose those items.
If your dog chews because he does not like it when you leave you can try to make your leaving as painless as possible by spending quality time with your dog before you leave and making sure you leave your scent on a special toy or bone. Make your leaving as inconspicuous as possible. Try to have your dog distracted with something they enjoy so they do not think so much about you being away.
Whenever you catch your dog chewing on something other than an appropriate toy take away the item and give him a chew toy and if he chews that praise him. Praise is always more effective than discipline when dealing with your dog. There are times for corrections however, so don't be afraid to say "No!" and take the inappropriate item away. Be firm but loving with correction, and always be liberal with praise.
You can teach your dog to ignore the items you do not want him to chew on by spending a little time working with him. Try setting out two items out that he might chew on and make sure one of them is something that you approve for him to chew. When he chooses the right item praise him, if he chooses the wrong one say "NO!" and point him to the correct chew toy. You can do this many times while you are in the room and they start trying it when you leave the room. Plan to come back and catch him in the act. If he is doing good praise him, if not, re-direct him to the correct item after saying "NO!"
If you are consistent with training your dog what is OK to chew on, confining him while you are away until he learns to be reliable and if you make sure that he has enough exercise you will have a happy dog who contributes to the joy in your home rather than making it a nightmare to come home to! Remember a happy dog is a well disciplined dog!
Why Healthy Dog Treats?
At least 95% of commercial dog foods and treats have artificial colors, flavors & chemicals that have been linked to deadly pet diseases. These commercial dog foods & treats (even many of the ones claiming to be the "best" on the market) have little or no nutritional value and more than likely these products have exposed your dog to the toxins that could cause a number of deadly health issues.
With over 15 years experience raising, breeding, training and loving dogs I think we have the best homemade treats that you can purchase because we have tested each recipe until we found the perfect blend that satisfies even the pickiest pets while still providing great nutrition. I invite you to visit my online store to find an ever changing assortment of these great treats.In this website you will find links to sites that can give you more information about healthier food for your dog and you can order healthy treats that will aid in training and rewarding your dog as well as helping to keep your dog healthy.
My dogs are an important part of my family and I know you feel the same about yours. That is why your dog's health will always come FIRST on this site. Our healthy treats are always made with only the best human grade ingredients. These treats contain NO artificial colors, preservatives, or chemicals. These treats are made especially for your dog in our home where they have all been taste tested and approved by the furry members of our family. We cater to the many health needs of your dog. We offer wheat free treats and all of our treats are made with top quality natural ingredients. All of our treats have only natural sugars, and are low in oils and sodium.
We ship these treats nationwide, year round. Please sign up for our FREE Newsletter where we share dog training tips, health news and nutrition tips each week. One person on my newsletter list receives 20oz. of treats as a gift from me each month. I randomly choose a name from the list of people who are subscribed to my newsletter. You could be the lucky winner this month so be sure to sign up for our newsletter today!
With over 15 years experience raising, breeding, training and loving dogs I think we have the best homemade treats that you can purchase because we have tested each recipe until we found the perfect blend that satisfies even the pickiest pets while still providing great nutrition. I invite you to visit my online store to find an ever changing assortment of these great treats.In this website you will find links to sites that can give you more information about healthier food for your dog and you can order healthy treats that will aid in training and rewarding your dog as well as helping to keep your dog healthy.
My dogs are an important part of my family and I know you feel the same about yours. That is why your dog's health will always come FIRST on this site. Our healthy treats are always made with only the best human grade ingredients. These treats contain NO artificial colors, preservatives, or chemicals. These treats are made especially for your dog in our home where they have all been taste tested and approved by the furry members of our family. We cater to the many health needs of your dog. We offer wheat free treats and all of our treats are made with top quality natural ingredients. All of our treats have only natural sugars, and are low in oils and sodium.
We ship these treats nationwide, year round. Please sign up for our FREE Newsletter where we share dog training tips, health news and nutrition tips each week. One person on my newsletter list receives 20oz. of treats as a gift from me each month. I randomly choose a name from the list of people who are subscribed to my newsletter. You could be the lucky winner this month so be sure to sign up for our newsletter today!
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