Archive for January, 2009

Choose The Right Type Of Dog Crate For Your Dog

January 31st, 2009 | Category: Pets

Using a dog crate is the way most dog owners house train, transport, and give a little home for their dogs. Whatever your use for one, getting the right one for your pet is important.

Aluminum Dog crates

When it comes to aluminum dog crates, the name, Kalispel, comes to mind. These aluminum dog crates are very solid and durable, and will last for a long time. The best part is that there is no assembly required; it comes ready-to-use. In addition, it is fairly lightweight while still offering a strong material to safely house your dog.

Drain holes and other features make it easy to clean, care for, and move. It comes in various sizes to fit your dog and is good both indoors and out. These top of the line crates are safe and weatherproof as well.

Metal Dog Crates

A great alternative to the aluminum dog crate is the metal dog crate. They are less expensive than the aluminum crates, and you can frequently find metal dog crates at pet kennels. The bottom of metal crates may be constructed of either metal or fiberglass, and please note that these crates are typically not assembled so you’ll have to put it together yourself. This is good for small spaces because it can be collapsed and stowed away when not in use, which makes it a snap for owners who will be using metal dog crates indoors. It is metal, however, so if you need a crate for outdoor use, make sure you get one that can stand against the weather and elements.

Dog Crate Supplies

As a dog owner, you might not have known that dog crate supplies and accessories can be found. You can find accessories such as insulated crate covers which will keep your dog comfortable and warm against the cold or rain. You can also purchase a cover equipped with handles in hunting or sporting dog supply stores. This is perfect for hunters who take their dogs out with them when they go out into the field. These specialty supplies can ensure your dog’s comfort and health, and there may be more than one type available depending on the type of crate you own. Check with your Hunting Dog Supplies store for available options.

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How To Choose a Puppy

January 30th, 2009 | Category: Pets

There is no universal breed of dog that just is perfect for everyone! However, there are many breeds that have their own characteristics, energy levels, grooming needs, personalities, temperments, ect. to choose from! Before choosing a puppy, think very carefully about your own lifestyle! You will definitely want to pick your dog up some bolster pet beds as soon as you can.

You want to match your lifestyle with a breed that will compliment it! Too many times people buy a certain breed of dog out of impulse, fashion fad(dogs are not fashion accessories but this is a fast growing trend leaving many dogs in shelters), and unrealistic expectations.

If you are a laid back person that is mostly an indoor person, then you will want a dog that has that same type of lifestyle. There are many breeds that require little exercise and do not have high energy needs. If you are the outdoor type or you can dedicate yourself to devoting lots of time to exercise and playing and providing a large area for your high energy guy or gal, then a dog that belongs to a sporting or working breed like a Labrador Retriever would be a good choice to make.

Many small dogs such as Jack Russells demand alot of attention because they are high energy dogs but are commonly mistaken for the ultimate indoor pet. This is the furthest thing from the truth! Size does not determine what makes a great indoor or outdoor dog! You will want to get some luxury pet beds for your Jack Russell. You have to do your homework and research. Choosing too rash or not putting any thought can result in a bad match and potentially a dog ending up at a shelter or worse as a stray! Dogs that do not match their owner’s lifestyle usually end up under socialized, poorly trained, and can be aggressive!

This is what you definatly do not want! Breeds that are the best suited for indoor living are : English Toy Spaniel, Boston Terrier, Shih-Tzu, Chihuahua, and Yorkshire Terrier. If you prefer a larger dog, go for a Clumber Spaniel, Afghan Hound, Mastiff, Sussex Spaniel, or Bulldog. For all you outdoor folks or those of you who prefer sporting breeds some choices to keep in mind are : Labrador and Golden Retrievers, Australian Shepherds, Shetland Sheepdogs, Belgian Sheepdogs, Border Collies, Cardigan Welsh Corgi and Pembroke Welsh Corgis.

If you want to go a bit smaller, perhaps miniature or toy sized, then try a Papillion, Toy Poodle, or Miniature Poodle. These little guys are not only very intelligent but they are known for agility and speed. They are little athletes! If you have children and you are looking for that forever family friend, then you want a genteel breed dog. You want a sweet disposition but yet you want a breed that is large enough that small children can’t hurt or injure the dog. Breeds that make ideal family pets that are especially good with children are: Newfoundland, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Bulldog, Collie, Basset Hound, Standard Poodle, Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, Scottish Deerhound, Pembroke Welsh Corgi, and Bouviers des Flandres.

If you want to try a dog that is going to also double as a good watch dog and protector of the home, then these dogs would be a welcome addition and many of them are still great dogs to be around children because they are herders meaning that they are used to watching and caring for those whether they be animal or human in their charge.

Some examples of these herding breeds are: Doberman Pinscher, Rottweiler, Bullmastiff, Belgian Tervuren, German Shepherd, Great Pyrenees, Boxer, Mastiff, Belgian Malinois, Canaan Dog, and Standard Schnauzer. Be sure to pick up some pet crate beds for your dog right away.

Dogs that make great service workers or training partners that are high energy are : Golden and Labrador Retrievers, English Setter, Brittany, Weimaraner, Vizsla, Flat-Coated Retriever, Australian Shepherd, Siberian Husky, Basenji, Akita, Dalmatian, Norwegian Elkhound, Kerry Blue Terrier, Australian Cattle Dog, English Springer Spaniel, Welsh Springer Spaniel, and Irish Setter.

Not everyone has a traditional home setting, perhaps you either spend the greatest amount of time near or at the beach or lake or you live on a boat, then these water canines are a great choice: Labrador Retriever, Curly-Coated Retriever, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Otterhound, Irish Water Spaniel, Portuguese Water Dog, American Water Spaniel, and Newfoundland.

There are as you can see a vast selection of breeds for every lifestyle, and with a little time and research such as talking with breeders or your local veterinarian or visiting your library you can find the right forever friend that is the right fit for your lifestyle!

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Effective Hints on How to Train Your Dog

January 30th, 2009 | Category: Pets

The proper care of your beloved canine involves more time and effort than merely providing appropriate food, medication for health, and other needed supplies.

Dogs are sociable, lovable and excitable and it’s why we love them. However, these sweet traits can also be the root of major behavioral issues like chewing furniture, biting, not coming when called, barking or running away.

So, it’s important to start training your dog from a very early age. As an instinctive pack animal and follower, your dog will become subdued and more comfortable in a variety of social situations.

To learn some of the best tips on how to train your dog, keep reading for suggestions from some of the top trainers in the country.

Use Positive Reinforcement

Starting a dog training program is not as simple as it sounds. You need to begin with positive reinforcement. That means instead of yelling at or scolding your dog when he does something wrong, you reward him when he does something right. It’s a good idea to mix up treat awards with praise and petting, unless you want an overweight, but well-behaved pet.

The dog will learn that good behavior is rewarded. Just like humans, dogs respond best to praise and encouragement. Your dog will learn faster and equate good behavior with a tasty treat.

Avoid Bad Habits

One of the most common mistakes among dog owners is to yell at their pets when they’re barking incessantly. Why doesn’t this work, and why does it make the problem even worse?

It worsens the problem because your dog’s barking at something, whether it’s a squirrel in the yard or a car driving past. When you start yelling at your dog, it thinks that you’re “barking” too, therefore reinforcing the behavior that barking is okay.

Remember, your dog can’t understand your words. He can learn a few commands and understand your tone. To solve an incessant barking problem, try using a spray bottle of water.

Additional Tips to Stop the Barking

When your dog begins barking uncontrollably, say the command “quiet” softly and give him a small spray of water. Eventually, your dog will learn that “quiet” means he should stop barking or he’ll get sprayed with water.

Another method involves ignoring your dog completely when he’s barking. Sometimes dogs bark because they’re bored or want attention, so it’s best to ignore this behavior.

Once the dog stops, reward him with a treat. Because your dog may be barking out of boredom, sometimes a simple distraction, like turning on the radio or throwing a toy, will work.

Normally though, dog training is most effective when you use rewards and positive reinforcements, not scolding or yelling. Remember, you catch more flies with honey than with vinegar.

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Choose The Right Type Of Dog Collar

January 30th, 2009 | Category: Pets

If you have a dog, especially a working or sporting breed, you know you need a good, strong collar. Whatever your choice: leather or nylon, make sure it’s strong and comfortable for your dog. Most suitable collars are not only strong and well-made, but cost-effective as well.

Leather dog collars

Leather is all natural and will stretch to fit around the neck of almost any dog. When selecting a collar you do not want the collar to be too tight but it should also fit snugly. To insure a proper fit try inserting two fingers between the leather collar and your dogs skin. If you are unable to fit both fingers comfortably you will want to loosen the collar. Make sure the collar is not to loose or your dog is liable to escape! Owners of hunting dogs often elect to purchase a leather collar however, if your dog has a tendency to be in and out of water a nylon collar may be better.

Nylon dog collars

A nylon dog collar typically costs less than a leather collar and generally will not last as long as a leather collar. However if your dog is wet often because you live in a wet area or your dog spends a lot of time in and out of water a nylon dog collar may be a better option since they tend to be waterproof.

Dog collars for corrections

You can also opt for a tracking collar so that you can track your dog if he gets out of your sight, or a corrective collar which will send a signal to your dog at your command. Both types are very useful for hunting dog owners because it will come in handy during dog training.

If you have a dog, you want him to be safe and sound, but you also want him to be trained and well-behaved. Dog collars that send signals to your dog will remind him that certain behaviors are unacceptable. For those of you that own hunting dogs, this is especially important.

Overview

As you can see, dog collars can serve many functions, including training, tracking, attaching to leads for safety, and identification. Dog collars are very important. Whether it is for walking your dog, training your dog, or going out hunting with your dog, having the right collar means safety, as well as easier identification of your dog should he escape from your view.

Summary

No matter what kind of dog you have, choosing the right collar is essential. There are many types of good dog collars out there, and you should be able to find all the Hunting Dog Supplies you may need at your local hunting dog supply store or online. Shop around and find the perfect one for both you and your dog.

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Fears over Poisoned Dog Food

January 29th, 2009 | Category: Pets

Due to the amount of pet food recalls and the increasing numbers of cases of animals dying by cruelty, Dog Owner%s are understandably worried about the risks of their own pets coming across poisoned dog food. Vets advise on a few significant signs that a dog’s food may have been poisoned. Amongst these signs to watch out for are vomiting, bloody stools, loss of appetite and energy and excessive thirst. Unfortunately, these signs may not grow apparent until a number of days after the dog have consumed poisoned dog food.

If a dog owner is suspicious of food that their dog has eaten, even partially eaten, it can be advisable for them to keep any leftovers and bring them to a vet for examination. If the dog food is in fact poisoned, it can be worth noting if the police become involved in the situation as this information could lead to the perpetrators becoming prosecuted. It is evidence after all. If a dog shows any signs of being ill or poisoned, especially after eating food that has been recalled, given by a stranger or found on a walk, it is far better to consult a vet immediately than leaving it until it is too late to treat your Sick Dog.

Crimes Involving Poisoned Dog Food

Amongst those dogs poisoned by contaminated dog food that has been recalled by manufacturers, there are also random acts of cruelty where dogs are purposely poisoned. This can occur for various reasons and by those who are sane yet excessively cruel. It is unfortunately, not that unusual for pet owners to find that after rows with neighbors or acquaintances, their dog eats food that has been mysteriously poisoned. This is growing in instances and it is the animals that bear the brunt for this type of thoughtlessness and cruelty. There are also those who do not have enough knowledge in the care of animals and who mistakenly feed their dogs food which is effectually poisoned, being full of toxins that are extremely unhealthy for dogs and creates dog health problems.

Dogs can also inadvertently consume food that has been poisoned and intended for other species like pests and rodents. Worse still are the cases of people who intentionally harm their own animals because they cannot afford to pay for their food, because the animal is not a working dog or if the animal has had puppies. These cases are criminal and many who are found guilty of feeding dogs a portion of poisoned food are forbidden from owning animals thereafter for a number of years. This is a growing practice but there are still many animals suffering from negligence and cruelty.

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Dogs must be taught to not bite: Understand Dog Behavior

January 29th, 2009 | Category: Pets

Most people have seen the signs of aggressive dogs like bared teeth, growling, and biting, yet often people do not understand the reasons for aggressive behavior in dogs. Getting a good grasp of the underlying reasons for this aggressive behavior is the first step to learning to curb them in your own dog. A well-behaved dog is often a happier dog, so getting the root of aggressive behavior in dogs is important to you as well as your dog.Do you have a dog? If yes, then surely you need help to cope up your problems relating with you canine. click here ten-part Dog Training Masters Mini Course

Reason why your dog bites:

Generalized Fear

Generalized fear comes from a fear response to a sight, sound, smell, or touch that we, as people can understand. However sometimes when those things occur, causing fear in a dog, there may be some other sight, sound, smell, or touch that happens at the same time that your dog then associates with that fear.

This is why you may not be able to understand the reason why your dog bites, because the fear seems so irrational to you.

Responses to Fear

Conscious living things, like people and dogs, have built in responses to fear and also learned responses to fear. The action associated with a generalized fear is a learned response, and so is seeking human comfort, urination, pacing, running, and aggression.

However, there are instinctual response in our dogs and us alike. The first instinct of a dog will tell them to take flight when facing a fear. Often dogs will bite out of fear because they may feel cornered, like they cannot get away.

For more information on dog training, click here top dog directory

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Black Pomeranians Make Great Pets

January 29th, 2009 | Category: Pets

There is really one distinct variation between the black Pomeranian and the regular Pomeranian and that is the black Pomeranian is black. The black Pomeranian is a very sturdy little dog whose legs are in direct proportion to its body. This is by no means a wimpy little dog. It has a medium size bone structure and is strong and staunch. The outercoat of the black Pomeranian is short and coarse and the undercoat is long and coarse which pushes the outercoat to stand up straight.

The black Pomeranian sometimes gives the appearance of a guard dog because of its coat. Black Pomeranians take longer to groom because the black hair picks up and shows more dirt and, therefore, must be groomed accordingly. These dogs are happy dogs and are highly intelligent. They are very loyal dogs to their owners and can also be quite fierce when necessary. Their training should begin at an early age.
Black Pomeranians are energetic and vivacious dogs. They are nosy dogs and can be quite humorous because of this curiosity. The black Pomeranian ranges in size from four to seven pounds and are typically very short dogs with sturdy legs. They have tails that are set high and curl around to lay flat on their back. Although small, these dogs are not brittle dogs. They need to be exercised daily and going for walks will make your black Pomeranian much more pleasant to be around.

The black Pomeranian will have to be groomed more consistently than other color coated Pomeranians simply because black attracts much more dirt. The dirt is also highly more visible on the black Pomeranian. Brushing twice a week is a good idea for the black Pomeranian. The black Pomeranian is the most popular of the breed because of its fun loving temperament and small, but strong stature.
The black Pomeranian makes a great pet. They love to please their owners and love affection. Their pleasant personality and beautiful coats have made them the most popular of the breed. They make great companion dogs in any environment. They would like to be known as lap dogs if they had their choice. Training needs to be done with these dogs or they will forever be your lap dog.

The early black Pomeranians came from Iceland and Eastern Europe. They were introduced into the AKC in 1900 and have become one of the most popular of all dog breeds. The only difference between the red and brown Pomeranian and the black Pomeranian is the color. The rest of their characteristics remain the same. They are strong, sturdy, happy and very smart dogs. This dog is great with children and will make great protectors. What the black Pomeranian lacks in size he makes up for in intelligence and personality.

The most popular of the Pomeranian types are the black Pomeranians. Reading black Pomeranian information will give you all the material you need to realize that these dogs are intelligent, good natured dogs and make great companions.

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Stop Your Dog From Barking

January 28th, 2009 | Category: Pets

A hunting dog that barks at home needs to be dealt with, but a hunting dog that barks inappropriately in the field is a completely new ball game. A dog that barks uncontrollably while out hunting is definitely not going to bag you any game.

There are several ways to train your dog to not bark. One of the options that is available to you is a dog bark collar which works by teaching the dog through negative reinforcement that barking simply is not acceptable.

The two basic types of dog collars for training dogs not to bark at inappropriate times can be used effectively on all types of dogs. Whether your dog is a hunting dog or a family pet, these collars can safely be used.

One thing to keep in mind however not every collar is going to work on every dog – you’ll have to do some of your own homework to make sure that your dog will react well to the training collar (bark collar) that you’re going to invest in.

Electronic Bark collars

These collars work by emitting a light jolt to your dog when he barks, surprising him and stopping the bad behavior. It sounds cruel, but the jolt is so light, it’s nothing compared to even the static jolt you might get by touching the doorknob in your stocking feet. It will not harm your dog.

The electronic bark collar is designed so that your dog will receive a jolt each time he barks at the wrong time and place. When repeated in the same situations each time, your dog will learn that he should not bark during those particular circumstances.

Usually, electronic dog collars are made with ranges of very mild to higher jolts, which you can adjust to suit the size of your dog. To determine the best setting for your dog, begin at the very lowest velocity and work your way up to the right level.

Cirtonella bark collar

A spray bark collar is the choice for many dog owners who simply cannot bear the idea of ‘jolting’ their dog with an electronic collar. Regardless of how humane the electronic collars are touted to be, many people still cannot get over the entire notion of jolting their dog with electricity. In that case, spray collars which contain citronella are often the collar of choice for dog owners seeking to control their dogs barking.

These work similarly to electronic collars, but emit a spray of citronella when the dog barks, which the dog does not like. The spray to the face is an instant reaction to his bad behavior (barking) and the smell, which most dogs find unpleasant, is a negative result for the barking behavior. As with electronic collars, the dog eventually ties barking in with the bad smell and so quits barking. These collars are effective on dogs up to about 160 pounds.

Summary

As a hunter, you probably enjoy taking your dog when you go hunting, and your dog probably enjoys it as well. However, it’s very hard when your dog barks at every small movement or sound when you’re hunting. A dog bark collar may be helpful to you when you’re out hunting. When you invest in a bark collar, you don’t have to be concerned about incessant or untimely barking and actually have a good time out with your dog. Dog bark collars, whether citronella or electric, are great hunting dog supplies that are humane and effective so be assured that you’re doing the right thing.

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Why Are They Called Toy Yorkshire Terriers?

January 28th, 2009 | Category: Pets

It is very difficult for the Yorkie novice to discover that there are no different Yorkshire Terrier types. A Yorkie is a Yorkie is a Yorkie. This is according to the breed societies and national showing bodies like the American Kennel Club (AKC) or United Kennel Club (UKC). However, if you look into any advertising for Yorkshire Terrier puppies, you will find lots of breeders insisting that there are such things as Teacup Yorkies, Standard Yorkies and Toy Yorkshire Terriers.

If you are looking for a Yorkshire Terrier, be very clear what the individual breeder considers a Toy Yorkshire Terrier. Most will call any Yorkshire Terrier a Toy Yorkshire Terrier. The Yorkshire Terrier is in the Toy group of dogs for showing purposes after all. But there are some breeders who will insist that Toy Yorkshire Terriers are of a certain weight – four to six pounds. The average weight for a show quality Yorkshire Terrier is seven pounds.
The term “Toy Yorkshire Terrier” has come up as a marketing gimmick, and not much else. This term implies that their Yorkies are smaller than the average. Consider that Yorkshire Terriers are small dogs to begin with – but apparently, that’s not small enough for some people. They will try to breed incredibly tiny dogs for the “cute” factor. Logic goes right out of the window whenever money is involved. Any Yorkshire Terrier under five pounds in adult weight will be sickly, have an incredibly fragile skeleton and will have to go to the vet a lot.

However, even puppies advertised as Toy Yorkshire Terriers or even Teacup Yorkshire Terriers (which come to an adult weight of two to four pounds) can suddenly grow up into hefty ten pounders. They are still purebred Yorkshire Terriers, but they just grown up bigger than expected. This happens in any breed of dog – and even in people, too.
Don’t be swayed by marketing gimmicks such as Toy Yorkshire Terriers being somehow more desirable (and therefore more expensive) than plain old Yorkshire Terriers. If you want a Yorkshire Terrier, than size does not matter. In fact, most purebred Yorkshire Terriers grow far too big to be considered show animals. A Yorkshire Terrier is disqualified if he or she is over seven pounds. Quite a lot of purebred Yorkies are more than seven pounds.

In conclusion, there is no difference between a Toy Yorkshire Terrier and a plain old Yorkshire Terrier. Each breeder has their own name for what they breed and sell. You must be very sure what the breeder means when they talk about their Toy Yorkshire Terriers. In the dog world, there are no guarantees about how big or small a puppy will grow. You can avoid all of this confusion by adopting a loving, healthy dog from your local animal shelter.

There a certain health problems of concern in the smallest of Yorkshire Terrier types. Yorkshire Terrier information can be gleaned by asking your vet or searching the Internet.

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Stop My Dog From Running out The Door

January 28th, 2009 | Category: Pets

One of the most common dangers for your new puppy or dog is their tendency to dart and run through open doors. By teaching your pet to “wait” you are saving their precious lives from dangers such as being hit by a car, coming into contact with an aggressive dog that could be sick or not vaccinated like your dog, or running into a potential environmental hazard. If you haven’t already enrolled your 4 legged friend in obedience training, here is a 5-step plan that will help you to stop your puppy or dog from darting out of open doors. You will definitely want to check out some of these puppy sweaters for your dog today.

We call this procedure the “Wait at the Door” because that is exactly what you want your dog to do. You don’t want to cause a phobia in them about the outdoors, you only want to stop them from running outside without you! You can pick up some of these pet carriers for your new puppy right away.

First Step is While you are inside your home, have your dog sit by your side while you are facing the door to go out. The door should and this is very important, the door should open away from you.You are wanting to send the message to your canine companion that just because a door is open, does not mean it is okay for them to charge on through it.

The second step in this procedure is to use the command “wait” as you approach the actual door. If your dog does not move, say “Good Boy” and give him a treat. However, if he starts to move towards the door, give a cheerful “No No”, and get him to sit down again. Do not scold him, keep it positive. It’s supposed to be fun and productive. Your dog will love some of these small dog clothes.

Next be sure to keep on repeating the process but this time use a shorter distance, such as arms’ length.

If your dog once again does not move, praise your dog and offer a treat. If they do not, don’t feel discouraged and don’t discourage your dog. Just use the friendly, “no,no,no” command and keep trying. When your dog has allowed you to open the door all the way while remaining still after you have opened the door a little further each time, then you have nearly got this skill mastered! If your dog is still having problems, just take a deep breath and keep trying. They will eventually sooner than later catch on!

The last step in this procedure is when you are able to open the door all the way while your dog remains sitting, the next step is to walk through it, turn around and face him. Hold on for about 15 seconds and walk back through to your dog giving them praise and a treat. Do this a few times, and even call your dog to walk through with you and have them sit with you on the porch. Keep practicing and rewarding for good behavior. The final result should be that your dog has learned to sit every time a door is opened instead of bolting. With the repetition and practice of the five steps, your dog’s instincts will be finely tuned so that automatically they will sit and wait for your permission to go through the doorway.

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