3 Benefits to Dog Walking

By Olivia Knight

Dog walking in general has many benefits to both the dog and its owner. While it is common sense that dogs need to be walked and taken outside so that they do not soil the owner's home, there are also 3 health benefits associated with walking one's pet as well.

Lose Those Doggie Pounds

Like dog owners in the United States, there is actually a growing weight problem associated with the dog community as well. So much so that drug companies like Pfizer have begun marketing products related to weight loss for canines.

There is an estimated 17 million overweight dogs in the United States. How is this possible you might wonder? Considering that these animals are generally active creatures it is unusual that such a trend exists.

Some of the common factors associated with the upsurge in overweight dogs have to do with the same issues us humans face; poor nutrition and a sedentary lifestyle.

Walking your pet is a great way for them to get some exercise. Even better than simply walking is letting them run free at dog parks. However, simple and regular walking sessions can allow for dogs to get more of a feeling of activity and facilitates their natural urge to run around.

Coupling regular walking sessions with proper nutrition (hopefully organic dog food) will allow for dogs to have the best chance for losing weight.

A Cure for Depression

Yes, dogs get depressed too! The sunlight, which is so effective for regulating humans' moods", is also a necessary element for our four-legged friends as well. Daily walks sets a routine in the dog's life and the fresh air allows for reducing the feelings of confinement.

Just imagine if you were stuck in the house all day and only went outside for 10 minutes of the day. Well, the same goes for dogs. Fixing the dog to a daily routine and providing an appropriate window of time for the dog to walk around outside are essential to the psyche of our pets.

A Cure for What Ails You

Daily walking sessions helps dogs battle issues like poor socialization skills, restlessness, the dog becoming overly hype, and because of the weight loss associated with routine dog walking diseases such as arthritis, heart disease, cancer and respiratory problems can be held in check.

Most important to the list of diseases is the respiratory and cardiovascular issues sedentary dogs face as they age.

If you cannot commit to daily walking sessions, then a minimum of 20-30 minute sessions three times a week can still help them battle the above stated issues.

Therefore, while dog walking is important in its health benefits it is also important to feed dogs good quality dog food and be attentive to their behavior and weight.

If a dog is noticed to be restless, depressed and immobile and gaining weight it is advised to start putting the dog on a routine in order to change that trend.

At Wags, our dog walkers in va provide dog walking and general pet sitting services to people throughout Northern Virginia. Please visit Wagsdogwalkers.com to find out more information on our dog walkers in va.And remember to keep those dogs moving!Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Olivia_Knight

Is It Safe to Kiss Your Dog on the Mouth ?

By Stephanie Ostrowski

This is a very polarizing question. Hundreds of thousands of people "kiss" their dogs every day and an equal number of animal lovers are completely against it. Meanwhile, the great debate rages on. "To kiss or not to kiss - that is the question."

There are many myths surrounding dog kisses. Some believe a dog's mouth is cleaner than a human's, while others think their pet's mouths are sterile and have no germs at all. The truth is that neither is true. In fact, (as long as you brush you

r dog's teeth), a dog's mouth is probably equally as dirty or clean as a human's. That being said there are still several things to consider in the great, "to kiss or not to kiss" debate.

Can I catch an illness from my dog? 
Technically you can- however, it is highly unlikely. According to veterinarians, humans and dogs have different bacteria in their mouths and not all of the bacteria are capable of causing disease in the other species. And, some vets believe the endorphins released in the human brain from pet contact can actually help boost the human immune system.

Whether you choose to kiss or not kiss, good hygiene is vital to the health of your dog. Remember to brush your dog's teeth regularly and invest in some dental chew toys for in between brushing. The Dental Kong with Rope is highly effective for cleaning and strengthening teeth and gums.

Worms 
One of the more worrisome health issues connected to "kissing" your dog is worms. Your dog could be carrying various forms of worms, and many worms are transferable to humans. These worms can cause all kinds of medical problems for both you and your dog.

Worms are typically dispelled through defecation and since some dogs are known to eat fecal matter, the worm "issue" is more troublesome than catching an illness. If you've had your dogs checked for worms and you have been diligent with worm maintenance, then you are probably fine kissing your pooch. If not, it might be time to have a conversation with your veterinarian about worms.

All in all, I think the battle between kissing and not kissing, depends entirely on the person choosing "to kiss or not to kiss". And no matter which side of the debate you're on, what we can all agree on is the unconditional love that we share with our pets.

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Older Dog Care - Tips for Senior Dog Health

By Emmy E Bill

 
It's never pleasant to think about, but dogs age faster than humans and older dog care will become necessary. Before you know it, your dog will be showing signs of age-but this isn't a bad thing; it just means that you're going to have to give him some extra special care. Dogs begin to show visible age-related changes at about seven to twelve years of age. 


There are several changes that occur and it is your job as an owner to be prepared for them. Some of the changes are unavoidable; others can be managed or treated with diet, medications, or other forms of therapy. Read the information and follow the steps below to help make your dog's adult life enjoyable!

1) Feeding the right diet. Size is used to determine when it's time to feed your dog a senior diet.
• Small breeds, less than 20 lbs-7 years of age
• Medium breeds, 21 to 50 lbs-7 years of age
• Large breeds, 51 to 90-6 years of age
• Giant breeds, 91 pounds or more-5 years of age

2) Be aware of common health issues that may arise. This may include:
• Deterioration of skin and coat
• Loss of muscle mass
• Intestinal problems
• Arthritis
• Obesity
• Dental problems
• Decreased ability to fight off infection

3) Prevent obesity. Dogs undergo changes in body composition that may cause them to put on body fat. This is most often caused by a slower metabolism. When it comes to older dog care and avoiding weight gain, feed your dog a diet that contains optimum levels of highly digestible protein to help maintain good muscle mass.

4) Focus on protein. Avoid "senior" diets that contain reduced levels of protein. Studies have shown that the protein requirement for older dogs does not decrease with age. Dogs need to maintain their muscle mass just like humans does.

5) Antioxidants including vitamin E and beta-carotene help eliminate free radicals that can damage your dog's body tissues and contribute to signs of aging. Foods that you purchase for your aging pet should contain high amounts of these compounds.

6) Regular veterinary exams are still important. This cannot be emphasized enough-routine care for older dog care is important for veterinarians to assess the presence or progress of chronic disease. Your vet can also give you tips to enhance your pet's life.
The main goal when feeding older dogs should be to maintain health and optimum body weight, slow or prevent the development of chronic disease, and minimize or improve clinical signs of diseases that may already be present. Keep an eye on your senior pet's health and ask a veterinarian about even the slightest concern.

We love pets! Probioticsmart.com knows your pet deserves the very best care possible, and we're here to help. Visit our blog for more information, tips and stories on all things pet health and our site for all the pet supplements you need to help keep your pet happy and healthy!

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How to Keep You Dog Healthy During Domestic Travel

By Sonia Manning 

It's probably one of the best times of the year for us - vacation! Of course, the whole family must come! That often includes pets, especially your dog. However, while we can easily cope with the discomfort of traveling by thinking of our destination, dogs don't have this comforting prospect. They are stuck in the here and now, which often means a stuffy car or a noisy plane. So what can you do to make the journey as comfortable as possible for your dog?

If you are going on a summer vacation by car, heat can be not only a source of discomfort, but also a threat to your dog. So during the drive, you should make sure that fresh air or air conditioning can get to your dog. If he's in the back seat of the car, check that you don't have suitcases piled in front of the vents or windows blocking the air from getting to him.

Take regular breaks - not only for your sake, but for his! Many people leave their dog alone in the car while going to a restaurant or to shop, which is downright dangerous, even for short periods of time. Apart from that, your dog will probably be grateful for an opportunity to stretch his legs.
Another important point, especially in hot weather, is to keep your dog hydrated. Water should be offered regularly.

When traveling by car with your dog, it is also essential to ensure his safety - as well as your own. Special travel kennels can be purchased for dogs of all sizes. They ensure that your dog cannot distract you while driving, but also provide safety for your pet in case of an accident. Alternatively, you can buy a special seat belt that can be strapped around your dog's body like a harness.

Plane travel, on the other hand, is an entirely different matter. First of all, before booking your flight, make sure your dog can fly on the airline you're considering. Some airlines do not allow pets at all, while others have restrictions on the pet's size, the size and material of the animal carrier, what paperwork needs to accompany the animal, medications to be attached to the animal's crate, and more. Also, certification of vaccination and proper health are required by many airlines for pets to board.

You can go online to find rules for different airlines; it's even better to call and discuss the matter with the appropriate airline personnel to make sure you have a clear understanding of what they require. You'll need to follow their guidelines to the letter to prevent problems at check-in.
Of course, traveling may also make your dog sick. Altitude or motion sickness can occur. Also, panic attacks can be an issue. When you know you'll be traveling by car, try taking him on short car trips at home before you leave to see how he reacts.

Before you travel, it's a good idea to take your dog to your vet for a check up. This is also a chance to ask for any medication you may need. For example, if your dog is very nervous, you can ask your vet for something to calm him down.

Don't worry, you don't have to knock your dog out with sleeping pills. There are natural remedies like "Happy Traveler" or herbal remedies such as Bach flowers, which have no side effects whatsoever.
You should also ask your vet which vaccinations may be needed. This depends on your destination and if the dog will spend any time in a pet hotel or kennel. All boarding kennels require proof of your dog's vaccinations, which usually includes rabies, DHPP, and/or kennel cough vaccinations. Watch your timing for the vaccines - Bordetella (kennel cough vaccination) should be administered at minimum 5 days prior to traveling.

While you cannot spare your dog the stress of traveling, you can always make the journey a little more comfortable for him. If you take the time to do this, the whole family can have a great time!

Sonia Manning provides information and resources about dog health conditions and tips for keeping your dog healthy and happy!
Visit her website to find answers to your questions about your best friend's Dog Health Conditions.

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Dog Intelligence is Higher Than You Think!

By Robert Michael Stone  


Have you ever found yourself talking to your dog and got the feeling that he knew what you were saying? Well, it is very likely that your dog DID know what you were saying. The research in the field of Comparative Psychology (the study of the behavior and mental life of animals) has discovered that dogs are much more complex and intelligent than people realize.

In this article, I will present some important research and give an amazing example that shows complex thinking and learning processes in dogs. Hopefully, by the time you finish this article, you will realize that you need to be careful what you say to your dog because they know what you are saying!


A Brilliant Research Idea - Dog Psychology Tests
Traditional psychological research uses tests and experiments that depend on the subject providing feedback of some sort. Whether it is verbal or written responses, the human subject provides the information that in turn, allows the psychologist to define complex psychological processes.

In comparative psychology, this feedback is obviously not available. However, USA Today reported that Stanley Coren, emeritus professor of psychology at the University of British Columbia, came up with a brilliant solution to this problem - use psychological tests designed for young humans that are pre-linguistic or limited-linguistic. This allowed him to make some fascinating discoveries about dog mental functioning.

Dogs Can Learn Human Speech and Count
Coren's research showed that dogs are more like humans than previously thought! So far he's discovered that dogs can learn about 165 words (author's note: there is no indication this is the top limit). Not only specific words but signals also. In addition, dogs can count up to four or five and have a basic understanding of arithmetic.

Think about this research for a moment. A 165 word vocabulary is large enough for complex communication. For a human, knowing that many words in a language would allow us to get by in a foreign country because 165 words would cover all the basics of food, water, directions etc. We might not be able to carry on an in-depth conversation with the inhabitants of the foreign country but we certainly could communicate our basic needs and understand the responses.

The ability to count and understand arithmetic means abstract thinking. Just think back to elementary school when you were trying to learn the concept of counting and how it made no sense. I still remember if Johnny had two apples and Mary gave him one apple, how many apples would Johnny have? Ouch, my head still hurts thinking back to the second grade trying to understand this abstract concept. Yet, a DOG can understand these things without the world view we humans possess. How amazing is that?
So, what is a real world example of the complex thinking processes of dogs? How about a dog using the telephone to call for help!

Dog Calls 911 to Save a Human's Life
It was reported in the news recently where a dog owned by Joe Stainaker called 911 to save his life. Mr. Stainaker has intermittent seizures from a brain injury. To help him live alone, he received a service dog named Buddy, a German shepherd, who was taught to dial 911 when Joe had a seizure. The telephone was set on a speed dial system and the dog was taught how to operate the phone.

Now think about this for a moment. The dog has to make an assessment that Joe is having a seizure, then go to the phone and press the correct buttons.
In September of 2008, Mr. Stainaker had a seizure. His dog ran to the phone and dialed 911. After the dispatcher answered, the dog started whimpering and barking, e.g. communicating that something was wrong. When the police arrived, the dog was barking excitedly as if to alert them that there was a problem.
Stainaker spent two days in the hospital and recovered from the seizure; saved by his dog's call to 911. His dog has called 911 two other times when Mr. Stainaker was having a seizure and ONLY when there was a seizure emergency.

If you think this is rare, Kevin Weaver's life was also saved by his dog calling 911. A diabetic, Weaver's blood sugar dropped to a dangerous low level which incapacitates a person and can be fatal. His beagle named Belle had been trained to use his cell phone speed dial to call 911 if Weaver had a health emergency. When Weaver was stricken by the low blood sugar, his dog called 911 on his cell phone and help arrived. Belle's cell phone call to 911 saved Weaver's life and the dog was the first canine to receive the VITA Wireless Samaritan Award, given to someone who used a cell phone to save a life, prevent a crime or help in an emergency.

But that is not the only way Belle helps Mr. Weaver. Belle also alerts him when his blood sugar is abnormal. How dogs are able to do this is not clearly understood but Weaver says whenever his dog alerts him to a blood sugar problem, he immediately gets his test meter to check and he said Belle has never been wrong. The key point here is that Belle makes a decision based on facts she ascertains and communicates this to Mr. Weaver.

Service dogs perform complex tasks every day. It just doesn't dawn on most people that these dogs are thinking and reasoning independently, making complex decisions that cannot be a function of training. Yes, they are taught to fulfill the role, but just like a person, education is just part of the process. They still have to collect the data and make complex decisions based on the facts. This means they have to analyze a situation and make a decision. There is more to this than simple training; it is complex intelligence processes.

Conclusion
Dogs understand human speech, they understand numbers and can perform complex tasks; tasks that require collecting data, analyzing the data and making the correct decision. They may have four legs and a fur coat but they are very much like people. Do we as people treat them with the respect and consideration they deserve?
The next time you say something to your dog, remember that he probably knows exactly what you are saying!


© Copyright 2010, R. Michael Stone

R. Michael Stone, M.S. - Counselor
33 years experience with subconscious communication and subconscious programming techniques.
Creator of The Unlearn Smoking Success System™ - The program that gives you the powerful psychological tools necessary to disassemble the Psychological Smoking Mechanism. This easy 28 day program helps you become, not an ex-smoker, but a Non-smoker. Find out how this program can help YOU permanently remove cigarettes from your life. Free Quit Smoking Reports R. Michael Stone's Blog

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How To Care For Dog Paws In The Winter ?

By Alex Kelly 

With the weather getting colder it is advisable to think about protecting and caring for your dogs paws. Their pads are designed to withstand running and walking on different surfaces, but just as we would wear sandals on a hot beach or shoes in the snow their paw pads need looking after as well.

With the ice and snow possibly coming, the streets will be treated with grit and salt which can cause dry cracked skin and other irritations. Infections can also occur if the skin splits and is then walked on. Not only that but naturally a dog will lick and gnaw at the affected area, which of course means they will then ingest grit, salt and whatever else is on the streets, possibly causing vomiting and diarrhoea. Dryness is a big problem with dog pads. Naturally in winter we all need a bit more warmth, whether it's central heating or a cosy log fire is on these other factors can add to drying your dog's paw pads and add to the skin being irritated.

So start with trim the hair between their toes, this way they will have less chance of keeping salt crystals and wet mud particles in their pads throughout the day. Also long hair can cause your dog to have less grip on slippery surfaces.

Keep their nails trimmed as well. If they become too long they won't give your dog any grip which will force your dog to walk on his back feet. This added pressure on the back paws can make his toes spread which in turn allows more snow, grit etc to gather in between their toes creating balls of ice and dirt.
Foreign objects can become stuck in your dog's pads. Regularly check in between toes for thorns, small stones, bits of broken glass and other debris. This is something that should be done all year round.
Keep a towel and a bowl of warm water next to the front door for immediate paw rinsing and drying after walks.

There are many paw balm treatments on the market that should be applied weekly or as often as needed in harsh conditions. I would suggest doing it all year round as part of their grooming routine anyway. The balm should form a dense, barrier wax that creates a breathable bond with your dog's paws. There are some that have been developed for use with sledding dog's, it provides strong protection even in the most hostile conditions. Some are made from a blend of several food-grade waxes, then refined. Obviously check all ingredients in anything that you buy for your dog as they have a habit of licking their paws. 

You can use petroleum jelly but never use human skin lotions.
Massage their paws and pads to stimulate blood flow and relax their muscles and tendons. If you do it right they'll enjoy it just as much as you do when being massaged or manicured. Begin by rubbing between their pads and then rub between each toe working your way up their shins and legs.

Alternatively you could try and get your dog to wear dog boots. There are many varieties on the market that all offer great protection for your pet's paws. However, personally through trial and error, I've found that the rubber style boots, that allow your dog to feel and grip the ground below, are the easiest ones for them to get used to.

If in doubt, always check with a vet for the best treatments for your dog.

At http://www.petpromenade.co.uk/ we understand how important it is to not only have the latest cat toy, or the trendiest dog collar, but also to make sure the boring bits are covered.
That's why we have a variety of flea, worming and fur treatments.

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How To Stop A Dog Fight Quickly ?

By C Blue Rivers 

 

How to stop a Dog fight
Aggression is one of the most serious and prevalent behaviours in dogs. It also a common reason why pet owners request professional help from veterinarians, behaviourists and trainers. Like many social species, dogs often resort aggression to keep order within a pack, over food, because of fear, bad upbringing and to be honest all manner of other things. So if it kicks off K9 style a responsible dog owner really needs to know what to do and how to stop a dog fight. Dog fights are sometimes intense and frightening, but In spite of the risks that surround intervention, it may be necessary to step in especially when your pet is involved.

As social creatures, dogs look at their world through their immediate environment. When a dog turns aggressive, it has little to do with its specific breed. The environment and people play the greater role in a dog's aggressive nature and especially how it is treated and raised. Denying your dog adequate social interaction by keeping it indoors for days can highly contribute to an aggressive nature. Secondly it a good idea to choose appropriate games to play, do not encourage games that support biting like tug-of-war, such games actually encourage aggression. Mistreated dogs also tend to become timid and aggressive. When a dog is mistreated by its owner it may mistake everyone else to be like that and adopt a violent or aggressive outlook.

Another area of consideration is their food, because just like humans a bad diet can affect dog's moods. Food like chocolate, sugar, Tea or grapes should never be given to dogs. As creatures of habit dogs need proper love, training and guidance to prevent aggressive behaviours developing.

Prevention of a dog fight.
It pays more to understand tell tell signs of an imminent dog fight and prevent it because as the saying goes prevention is better than cure. Being territorial in nature, dogs tend to suspect and fend off any intruders. You ought to therefore be alert when strange dogs meet. If dogs meet by keeping their heads close this can often spell trouble, stiff and rigid dog basically shows that it is anxious, agitated and ready for combat. If they meet by sniffing each other's sphincter that's a good sign. Keep food out of the way when introducing new dogs. Dogs generally don't like sharing snacks with strange dogs. A stiff and rigid dog basically shows that it is anxious, agitated and ready for combat.

Stopping a dog fight.
Breaking up a fight between multiple dogs can be a very stressful experience. You need to intervene in such a way that none of warring parties get hurt. First muster enough courage as you intervene. Remain composed and level headed to avoid mistakes. Never ever feel fearful because the dogs will sense this and it's more than likely to make the situation worse. Be confident and show them that you are leader of the pack and this is unacceptable behaviour. You can also look around for a harmless object and throw at them. A blanket or pillow would serve the best if at home; Also spray them using water. 
This is a highly effective trick since most dogs do like the shock of water in their faces especially under pressure. Water will shock, distract and often enough scare them apart... If the fight is on your walk then you have to use different techniques.

The best way to stop a dog fight fast.
The actual best and most effective way to stop a dog fight is to insert a foreign body or even your own fingers into the most aggressive dogs' anus. I understand this may sound disgusting but it really works quickly. And if your best friend is getting brutally attacked or a dangerous dog has locked their jaws on to your dog's leg you need to act fast. I shall explain here how you can do this unpleasant but critical task as effectively and as quickly as possible. Grab the attacking dogs tail and lift it forcefully enough to reveal the anus; DO NOT go to ground level, you must be on your feet at all times with your back facing the rear of the dog. Insert a foreign body, fingers, keys or anything you may have to hand into the dogs anus whilst holding the tail until the dog stops fighting or releases jaws which is usually very quickly if not immediately. And that's it. You can be confident you have a technique that will stop a dog fight as quickly as possible.

Also avoid screaming or yelling as they might not take note or it may raise aggression further if the fight has already started. If you use voice commands to try and stop a fight repeatedly use the word NO or any other prohibitive term best understood by your dog.

Word of Caution
Avoid jumping in between fighting dogs to break up a fight and never get your open hands near their mouths because you could easily lose your fingers.
Immediately after separation keep dogs apart with as much distance as possible; because to close and it's all off again.

Act like nothing's happened after the dogs have been separated as any attention may give the wrong signal to your dog and they may think you are encouraging the situation or worse remain ever fearfull.
Once you dogs calm you can relax them further with stroking and check for any injuries.

If you need any free advise about dog behaviour or a dog walking service in Lymington 


feel free to contact me at my website http://www.k9capers.net

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10 Solutions To Stop Your Dog from Whining at Night

By Venice Marriott  

There are a number of reasons your dog could be whining at night, however they all have one thing in common, they result in you having a broken night's sleep. To help you deal with this behaviour problem and sleep through the night, we've listed 10 solutions below that could bring peace to your house after the lights go out.

1. Work out Why Your Dog is Whining
If you can work out what lies behind your dog's whining you stand a better chance of choosing the right approach and being successful in stopping the problem. The three most common causes of dog whining is anxiety, discomfort or attention seeking, so watch your dog closely to see what clues they give you. Notice how you react when they start whining and how they react to you, as it should give you all the information you need to decide on your approach to the problem and start taking action.

2. Make Basic Checks Before You go to Bed
We sometimes overlook the most obvious reasons, so make sure your dog isn't whining because they are hungry, thirst or need to urinate at night. Get into the habit of always letting your dog out last thing at night, as beyond the puppy stage they should be able to go through the night. If they need to urinate frequently, check with your vet as they could have a urine infection. If you do need to let them out at night, do it with as little attention paid to your dog as possible, as if you play with them or pet them they could start to wake you up at night for the attention.

3. Check That Your Dog Isn't Cold
Some dogs start whining at night because they are cold, so if they sleep in a kennel outside, make sure it is out of the wind and that you provide lots of warm bedding and if they sleep in the house, check that their bed is not in a draught. Some dog owners use bean bags that can be warmed up to keep their dog warm, cosy and asleep all night and I have heard of others who even use heated blankets. However, if you are going to use this method, always make sure your dog does not get too hot and that they are unable to chew any wires attached to the blanket.

4. Deal with Dog Separation Anxiety Issues
A lot of dog whining is driven by separation anxiety in dogs, so if your dog sleeps separately from you and starts being vocal the moment you leave them alone, anxiety could well be the reason. Another clue that this might be the cause is that they respond in this way whenever you leave them, day or night. You will need to use desensitization training to help get rid of separation anxiety and a lot of patience, as they can take a while to respond positively. Another way to help with this problem is to learn how to show your dog that you are the decision maker or pack leader, which can be very reassuring for an anxious dog.

5. Make Sure Your Dog is Tired
If your dog gets restless at night, struggles to settle down and then starts whining at you, try exercising them an hour before bedtime to use up some of their excess energy. Many dogs will instantly flop down on their bed to sleep after a long walk, but if walking after dark doesn't appeal to you, try an energetic game of tag or fetch in the garden or house.

6. Soothe Your Dog with Sounds
A ticking clock placed in the dog's bedding can help keep a dog calm as the ticking mimics the regular heartbeat of another dog. This can be very useful with dogs that don't like to be left alone and especially with puppies that could be missing their Mum or brothers and sisters. Just beware that your dog cannot reach the clock and use it as a chew toy.

7. Soothe Your Dog with Smells
If you think your dog is whining at night because they wake up and want you, put something that smells of you in with their bedding, like an old jumper or T-Shirt. This may provide just enough comfort to keep your dog sleeping until morning.

8. Make Sure Your Dog is Pain Free
Pain or discomfort of some kind could be causing your dog to wake and start whining, for instance a dog may not notice joint pain until they lie down at night. If you think that could be the case with your dog, have them checked over by your vet as soon as possible.

9. Get Your Dog a Crate
A crate can feel like a den to a dog, so if you think your dog is feeling a bit insecure left alone downstairs at night, a crate could give them the extra security they need. When you introduce them to a crate, make it a nice place to be with bedding and toys and treats. Gradually build up the time they spend in their crate during the day until you feel like they will be all right to be left overnight.

10. Ignore Your Dog's Noise
If your dog's nighttime noise is all about getting your attention, the fastest way to stop it is to ignore it completely. That means not responding in any way to their whining, don't speak to them, touch them, or even catch their eye. It's not always the easiest way to break this pattern of behaviour, as you can feel really guilty for a few days, but if your dog is healthy, has been fed, watered, exercised and let out to toilet before bedtime, you know they are fine, so invest in a pair of ear plugs and stick with it. It shouldn't be too long before they work out that their whining is not getting them the attention they were looking for and they should stop.

The author Venice Marriott is a writer, dog owner and runs a website which provides help and information for dog owners dealing with the behaviour problems created by anxiety in dogs. You can get more information on dog whining, plus our free help sheet on the major symptoms of dog separation anxiety when you visit the site.

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Dog Language

How Do I Stop My Dog From Whining ?

By Burke Jones

Question: My 9 year old female pit bull has become a very vocal whiner. She whines all day long. Sometimes I know what she wants but most of the time I don't. She lives in a house with a lot of people and they are always spoiling her. I know that's part of the problem. Do you have a suggestion on how I can minimize the whining? - from Kat

Answer: Great question - and you will be relieved to know that you are not the only dog owner that has experienced this behaviour. Anyone that has owned a puppy knows that whining is a constant problem. However, most puppies outgrow this behaviour with time. Your situation is a bit different because your dog is 9 years old and has apparently just started exhibiting this behaviour recently. Lets look at a couple different types of whining:

Whining for attention - some dog owners inadvertently condition their dog to whine more by rewarding the whine with some form of attention. This attention could be a simple as eye contact, or more direct like petting. To break this cycle, it works best to simply ignore the whining completely - do not give any notice or attention to the dog until it stops. Sometimes using a signal that you will withdrawal your attention works well. For instance, blow a kazoo to signal that you are ignoring the dog until the whining stops. This can often times work faster than simply ignoring it completely.

Whining when Anxious - If you dog is whining when nobody is around, it may be a component of separation anxiety syndrome. Dogs with this syndrome will whine simply when they cannot see their owner. If this is what your dog is doing you might want to visit with your vet about available medications for this condition.

Treatment

• Ignore whining for petty things your dog wants. By giving a bone to your dog when he whines, simply reinforces the behaviour.
• One idea is to get a simple clicker (available at pet stores) - ignore the whining until it stops then click and reward. Be sure to not click until at least 3 seconds of silence has occurred.
• Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise - a tired dog is a happy dog!

The biggest thing to remember is that all dogs whine, it is simply a way for them to communicate with us humans. However, this can also become very annoying, and needs to be dealt with swiftly and consistently. Your biggest challenge, Kat, will be that there appears to be many "owners" in your household. Every person in your home will need to correct the dog exactly the same way. I would suggest sitting everyone down and going over the "ground rules" - even show by example how you are ALL going to get this problem corrected.

 

 

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How to Train Your Dog to Attack !

By KD Din 

Dogs are brought into our homes for a lot of reasons like safety, security and loyal companionship. Proper training, exercise and time should be given to our puppies to ensure obedient behavior as dog develops. While there are a lot of professional trainers for dogs, some dog owners prefer that they personally train their puppies themselves.

Dog attack training is training program wherein the trainers train the dog to attack not because of fear and danger but to defend their masters or when they receive a command to do so. Selective aggression and agility training is the mainstay of attack dog training. Dog trainers and handlers consummate this special training to ensure that the dogs become good protectors of property and able to guard their masters when in danger.

There are various reasons why we all want a guard dog in our household. A well trained guard dog is a valuable family member who will work the extra mile just to protect the family members/housemates and possessions. Bringing a guard dog at home entails a whole lot of responsibility though.

When provoked, dogs can be ferocious and aggressive rivals. A well-trained guard dog can use that ability to protect you, your family and your home. Although training a protection or attack dog takes a very high level of expertise, there are ways to prepare your dog for the training.

If you would like to train your dog to attack, you should know that you will be financially or medically liable for any harm that your dog does to someone if it attacks them. Training your dog to attack is a big responsibility.. In most cases if you wish to have a properly trained attack dog, owners seek out a dog that has been trained by a professional who can teach them how to give commands to the dog. Attack dogs usually come from specific breeders and bloodlines and they have been bred for generations for their specific skills. It takes dogs with particularly stable temperaments to be good attack dogs. Otherwise a dog may not be reliable and could harm you or someone in your family, or a friend.

The most important factor to consider if you would like a guard dog is to choose the right breed. Some of the most effective protection dogs are Staffordshire terriers, German and Belgian shepherds, Dobermans, and Rottweilers. You may want to choose a dog that is naturally suspicious and alert that will be a part of the family and will consider you as the pack leader. Starting with a dog inclined to be adaptable, obedient and protective will go a long way when it is time for its training to protect you.

As man's best friend, dogs have the loyalty and natural tendency to shield their masters. With proper training method, you can teach your dog to attack on command. An attack dog's mission is to provide personal protection against any threat or danger.
If you would like to train your dog to attack, you can follow the steps below:

1. Talk to a breeder who breeds attack dogs and see about obtaining a puppy from bloodlines mentioned above or the likes. A dog from one of these breeders will be more likely to turn out a good attack dog as an adult as it has the necessary skills and temperament you are looking for.

2. Work with a professional protection dog trainer. This trainer will help you educate your dog basic obedience commands such as Sit, Down, Stay, and Heel. Your dog must be well-grounded in basic obedience before beginning in protection work. You must always have your dog under full control at all times. Dogs doing attack work are never in a frenzy. They are always performing under full control.

3. Your dog should be apathetic with stranger and other animals. Your dog should not be too overly friendly and or threatening to other dogs. This requires a dog with an unruffled and balanced temperament who is not easily aggravated. Your dog should ignore other people and animals unless you give them the command to interact or play with them.

4. Working with the professional trainer, you would need to work on your dog's bite work. You can start with a bite stick and the like and then gradually graduate to working with a person wearing a bite suit. At first, the dog should be on-leash for this training and then you can eventually work on off-leash. Teach your dog to bite the arms and legs of the suit as this is the best way to stop an intruder.

5. It is important that you dog respond to one-word command to attack and to stop the attack. You will need to consistently to use the same commands during trainings.

6. You and your dog can move up to simulating attacks by working with someone wearing the bite suit. Practice giving your dog the command to attack and reward your dog when he attacks as commanded. Always praise your dog and reward him when he lets go and stops the attack as commanded. Move on eventually to training your dog to attack when he sees you as being attacked by the person wearing the bite suit. You dog will need to be taught that he is supposed to protect you when he sees you in danger. He needs to learn to act on his own conviction that you need help.

You need to work hard with your dog to achieve reliable and consistent results. Make sure that you do not half finish the attack training as this can be dangerous to you and others. It's important to choose a good dog for training and to finish the training that you start. Working with a good professional trainer can make a big difference in how well your dog turns out as an attack dog.

Factors to Consider

1. Socialization
This may be one of the most important aspects for a future guard dog. It is imperative that the your puppy is exposed to as many new people, things, animals and places as possible. The process of puppy socialization must continue throughout your dog's life. Because these guard dog breeds are naturally wary of new people and things, it is important that they have these experiences because it can help them decipher what is and what is not a threat.

2. Obedience Training
Your dog must begin the rudiments of obedience training at an early age, preferably the first day. Contrary to popular belief, most dogs can be accurately and well trained in a primarily positive manner using motivation based training. It is crucial that the dog has a solid groundwork of obedience skills and reliably performs them in all environments. Clicker training is a fantastic and valuable way to train your young puppy.

3. Clear cut leadership
Protection or guard dogs must have a clear and defined leadership. Because of their self-assured nature, without the proper training and defined leadership roles, guarding breeds can quickly take over a household. Often times, displays of defiance, unruliness, and unfortunately, misdirected aggression can occur.

In a Nutshell..
There is absolutely nothing wrong in wanting to own a dog but you have to have valid reasons why you want one. If you want a nice, family pet but can provide protection, there is a list of dog breeds that can do the job without having to go through the rigorous dog attack training. Whatever decision that you make, make sure that you have done enough research on your chosen dog breed and you will have enough time to train and be a master to your dog. It would also be helpful if you can get professional help when selecting and training a guard dog.

For more information about dog breeds and dog common dog problems, please visit http://slackerdog.com
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Teach Your Dog To Stop Your Dog From Jumping On People

By Nancy Cope 

 

Most people think it's cute when an adorable little puppy jumps up on them looking for attention, wagging his tail. Who can resist such a little ball of fur? The problem is that little balls of fur grow up to be big dogs and when they do they can knock you down when they jump up on you. But your dog thinks it's fine to go on jumping up on you. You used to like it! He doesn't know that anything has changed even though he may now be big enough to knock a child or elderly person down when he jumps on them or he might accidentally injure someone.

It's very common for dogs to jump up on people. It's easier to break this habit with some dogs than others. It helps if you don't let your dog start jumping up on you even when he's a cute little puppy! Admittedly, it's hard to resist doing this sometimes. If you have already started letting your puppy jump up on you, you should stop letting him do it now. The sooner you try to stop the behavior the better your chances of keeping it from becoming a serious habit.

If your puppy or adult dog already jumps up on you and other people, here are some ways to stop this behavior.

• Ignore your dog. Most of the time when a puppy or dog jumps up on people it's because he's seeking attention. He's happy and he wants to greet you. You can discourage the behavior by ignoring your dog when he jumps up on you. Turn your body away from him. Do not speak to him or touch him. Disengage your body and move away. This method does work but it only works if everyone in your home ignores your dog when he jumps up on them. If your kids pet your dog when he jumps up on them, it won't work. You also can't scold your dog or tell him, "No," either. Don't speak to him at all, even to give him negative attention.


• Give your dog a substitute behavior. If your dog is jumping on you or other people when they walk in the house, you can teach your dog to do something other than jump on them. The best thing to teach your dog is to sit when someone walks through the door. Your dog needs to know the Sit command but this is easy for any dog to learn. Once he knows how to Sit when you give the command, you can tell him to sit when you arrive home. When you answer the door or the doorbell rings, give him the Sit command. You can practice this lesson by having a friend come over and ring the bell or knock on the door while you give your dog the Sit command. If your dog will sit reliably when you give the command then he won't be jumping on you or anyone else. You can take this command further and teach your dog to "Go to his place" or "Go to his room" or "Go to bed" to send him to his special place to lie down when people are arriving at the door. This command will also prevent your dog from bolting out the door when people are coming in, which can be a concern when the door is open for long periods. Remember that dogs learn best with praise and rewards and they work well when teaching your dog to Sit as a substitute behavior for jumping up on people.

These two methods are considered the best approaches for teaching a dog not to jump on people. One of these methods will usually help you teach your dog to stop jumping and behave more calmly when you or other people arrive at your house.

Article by Nancy Cope a proud owner of 4 rescue dogs and owner of Pampered Dog Gifts an online dog boutique that specializes in special gifts for pampered pooches. Please visit Pampered-Dog-Gifts.com to shop for custom leather dog collars, gourmet treats, Dog Apparel and more for your spoiled pooch.

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Dog Breeds A-Z !

By Sarah Freeland  

Finding the perfect pet is difficult when there are so many different breeds to choose from. Use this guide to learn more about a few of the different breed available.

Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is the oldest Arctic dog breed in the world and was bred as a working dog. They were used to pull sleds as well as hunt. This is a friendly dog that makes a great family pet. They love children, but aren't fond of the company of other dogs. They are a smart breed that can learn quickly but tend to get bored easily.
To groom this breed you will need to brush their fur out weekly. Some of the health concerns associated with this breed include growth problems, eye problems, and hip dysplasia.

Bloodhound
The Bloodhound, also referred to as the St. Hubert's Hound or the Chien St. Hubert, is a Belgium breed that was bred tracking and hunting. This is one of the oldest hound breeds in the world. They typically grow to be between 23 and 27 inches tall and they usually weigh between 80 and 90 pounds. They have a short smooth coat that is waterproof. Their coat colors vary between black and tan and red and tan. Red Bloodhounds can also be found. They have folds of skin around their face and neck which help to gather scent and direct it towards their nose.

To care for this breed you will need to rub down their coats with a wet towel a few times a week. Their toenails will also need to be clipped on a weekly basis. Their ears also need to be tended to on a regular basis. For exercise this breed needs daily runs and lots of play time. To keep their minds stimulated you may want to introduce tracking games. This breed has a few health concerns that you should be aware of: hip dysplasia, inverted eyelids, and bloating.

Boxer
The Boxer is a German breed that was created by crossing a Bullenbeisser, an unknown breed, and an English Bulldog. This breed was originally very aggressive and used for fighting and baiting bulls. However, over the years this breed lost their aggressiveness and it has become better suited for family life.

The boxer is a mid-sized dog breed that typically stands between 21 and 25 inches tall. They usually weigh between 66 and 70 pounds. Their coat is short, smooth and shiny. Their coat can come in a variety of colors and have several different marking patterns. Some of the most common colors Boxers have include white, brindle, and fawn.

Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon, also referred to as the Griffon Belge, the Griffon Bruxellois, and the Belgian Griffon, is a small Belgium dog breed that was used to kill vermin in horse stables. This interesting looking little fellow stands between 7 and 8 inches tall and weighs in at a whopping 6 to 12 pounds. They come in two varieties, rough hair and smooth hair. Both versions can be found with black, black and tan, or red colored coats.

To care for this little dog you will want to brush their coat several times a week to prevent matting and to remove debris and dirt. They can usually get enough exercise to stay healthy by playing indoors, however, they also enjoy spending time frolicking outside and going for short walks. This dog will need to be trained and you will need to be consistent with your praise and corrections. If you plan on breeding this dog you should understand that they have a very difficult time whelping and only about 60 percent of puppies make it. In addition to reproductive problems, this breed also has respiratory issues and eye problems.

Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is a Mexican breed that was discovered about 100 years ago. They are a toy dog that stands between 6 and 9 inches tall and they typically weigh less than 6 pounds. Their coats come in two variations, short and long. The long coat is soft and can be either straight or wavy. The short coat is soft and dense. Both coat variations can come in just about any color or color combination.

To care for this breed you will need to groom their hair daily for the long haired version, and as needed for the short hair version. This is an indoor pet that is not suited for extended periods of time outside. However, they do enjoy playing outside and going for short walks. To manage this breed's temperament you need to socialize it and train it early. Some of the health concerns that are associated with this breed include kneecap problems, eye problems, and tracheal problems.

English Springer Spaniel
The English Springer Spaniel, also referred to as the Norfolk Spaniel, is a British breed that is known for being the oldest spaniel breed in the world. They were originally developed as a hunting dog. Their name derives from the springy steps that they take when on the hunt. Today this breed is still used as a hunting dog, however, they also make a great family pet if trained and socialized properly.

The English Springer Spaniel requires regular grooming to keep its coat shiny and clean. The best type of brush to use on their soft coat is a stiff bristle brush. Bathing should only be done when they need it. This breed also needs a lot of exercise. Long walks and plenty of play time in the yard or in a fenced in park each day will keep them healthy, happy, and out of trouble.

Fox Terrier (Smooth)
The Fox Terrier (Smooth) is a cute little dog that originated in England as a vermin hunter. This breed was grouped with the Wired Fox Terrier until 1984 when it was established as its own unique breed. Today this breed is still used to hunt vermin, however, it is also used as a family pet.

The Smooth Fox Terrier is a playful, energetic breed that loves playing with kids. If you have other pets in your family this breed may chase them, especially if they are small like cats. And they may try to take the dominate role if you have other dogs. To keep them happy and healthy they will need lots of exercise, lots of mental stimulation, and a lot of attention. They are intelligent and respond well to obedience training, however, they have a stubborn streak that may keep them from coming to you when you call them, especially if they are having fun.

Fox Terrier (Wire)
The Fox Terrier (Wire), also called the Wire Fox Terrier, is a British breed that was developed back in the 19th century as a vermin hunter. This breed most likely descends from the Beagle, Shropshire and Cheshire. Today, this very active dog breed is used as both a family pet and a vermin hunter.

This little dog stands about 15.5 inches tall and weighs between 16 and 18 pounds. Their have short wiry hair that gives them a plush look. Their coats should be predominantly white with tan and/or black markings. This dog makes a great playmate for kids. However, you will want to be careful what other pets you pair this dog with as it has a tendency to chase anything that is small than it is.

Greyhound
The Greyhounds is an Egyptian breed that was originally used to hunt wolves, wild boars and deer. This breed was originally associated with aristocracy and high class citizenship. Today this breed is used for racing, hunting and for pets.

The Greyhound is a tall athletic dog that stands between 27 and 30 inches tall and weighs between 60 and 70 pounds. They usually have a short, close coat that comes in a variety of colors including: multi-color, white, blue, fallow brindle, black, and red. This dog is truly a gentle giant that are great with kids. Since they were bred as hunting dogs they have a natural instinct to chase anything smaller then they are so they may not be the best house mates for small pets.

Puli
The Puli, also called the Pulik, the Hungarian Puli and the Hungarian Water Dog, is a herding dog that originated in Hungary. It is a medium sized dog that stands between 14 and 19 inches tall and weighs between 20 and 40 pounds. They have a shaggy and weatherproof outercoat and a soft wooly undercoat. Their coloring is usually pretty dark. The most common colors found in this breed include black, dark rust, gray, and apricot.

Sealyham Terrier
The Sealyham Terrier, is a terrier breed that originated in Wales. This breed most likely developed from crossing the Cheshire Terrier, the Welsh Corgi, the Dandi Dinmont Terrie, the West Highland Terrier and the Fox Terrier. It is a small dog that only stands about 12 inches high and it weigh between 18 and 20 pounds. They have a coat similar to the Scottish Terrier, however, their coat colors are slightly different. The Sealyham Terrier comes in shades of white, lemon, blue, badger pied, black, and brown.

Vizsla
The Vizsla, also called the Hungarian Vizsla, the Magyar Vizsla, the Drotszoru Magyar Vizsla, and the Hungarian Pointer, is a Hungarian sporting dog breed. They are a medium sized dog that stands between 22.5 and 25 inches tall and that weighs between 48.5 and 66 pounds. They have a short straight coat that comes in a brownish red color. White traces on their chest and feet are common. The Vizsla is a sweet nature dog that is gentle and tolerant. They make a great family dog and companion, as well as a great hunting dog.

Whippet
The Whippet is a British breed that was created by crossing the Greyhound with a variety of terrier breeds. This dog was originally used as a mouser and vermin hunter, however, they also made a living at the dog races. Today this dog is used for both hunting and as a companion.

The Whippet is hound dog that stands between 17 and 20 inches tall and weighs about 28 pounds. They have a short, fine coat that comes in a variety of colors and patterns. When you look at this dog they look just like a miniature Greyhound.

Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier, is a toy dog breed that originated in Great Britain. They were originally used as a lap dog and fashion accessory by Victorian aristocracy. Many dog experts believe that this breed was created by crossing the Skye Terrier, Clydesdale Terrier, the Manchester Terrier, the Paisley and the Maltese.

The Yorkshire Terrier is petite and it only stands between 6 and 9 inches tall and it weighs between 3 and 7 pounds. They have a silk long coat that is variegated. Steel blue and tan are common shades found in their coat.

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