Archive for December, 2008

posted by Administrator on Dec 30

Author: Karen Brown

Today there are a number of different things that one can do when it comes to training your dog and all which enable you to communicate more effectively with them. There are books that one can read or you could take lessons with a dog trainer so that you learn the right procedures to use. But along with these, there are plenty of dog training free tips available online which you may want to think about using as well.

When it comes to training your dog, it is a good idea to start as soon as you possibly can with them. But do not think for one moment that just because your dog is older they are unlikely to be able to learn what you are trying to teach them. In fact, even older dogs are able to learn some of the very basics of training.

When using any kind dog training tips whether they be for free or not it is important that you remember that dog’s will lose interest in things very quickly. So it is crucial that all the training you do with them is kept short otherwise you will soon discover they become bored and so actually trying to teach them what to do will be much harder to achieve.

When you are carrying out any kind of training with your dog it is a good idea that you do it when you are actually doing some other activity that they like. Doing this will help to keep them interested and so the likelihood of them becoming bored and wandering off is greatly reduced. Also throughout the session you should use as much positive reinforcement as you can praising them and providing them with rewards when they have produced the right result.

If you do find yourself having to reprimand your dog for any kind of bad behavior it is crucial that you keep it short and sharp and to the point. Also it is crucial that you reprimand them as soon as the bad behavior has occurred rather than waiting until later after the training has been completed, as the dog will simply not understand why you are telling them. As previously mentioned a dog’s attention span is not very long and generally the live for what is going on now as what has happened in the past or what is going to happen in the future.

Along with the few dog training tips, we have offered above there are plenty of others which you may want to consider using during your sessions. Below we offer a few more dog training tips free that you may find useful.

When it comes to training your dog it is important that you establish yourself first as the pack leader (remember dogs are pack animals) and you can do this in a number of different ways. The easiest one is to get them laid down on the floor and start rubbing their belly. As soon as the dog rolls over and shows you their belly to rub they have submitted to you and now see you as the alpha dog (pack leader). By establishing yourself in the position of alpha dog (pack leader) you will find that when the training sessions are underway they will actually progress much more smoothly and easily.

Another thing that one should remember when it comes training your dog it will take time and you will need to have lots of patience. Plus at all times you must be persistent with what you are doing and consistent in the way in which the training is done. If you keep this in mind then you will find that the sessions you have with your dog will be much more pleasant for you both. We hope that you find the above the dog training free tips that we have provided useful and will assist you when it comes to teaching your dog the right things.

To receive your Free Dog Training Tips please visit our web site at http://www.WhizDogs.com and take advantage of the auction prices at our Dog Training Store at http://www.WhizDogs.com/store

posted by Administrator on Dec 29

Author: James Nash

Do you know what to do if your puppy is suddenly lying on the ground after being seriously injured by a car accident, poisoned, electric shock, or is choking? I realize that the last thing you want to do is imagine your lovable pet being hurt in such a fashion, however, accidents do happen and if you are not prepared to administer basic first aid to your dog then it may be the last time you ever see him again should an unfortunate injury take place.

While the following is only a basic guide to giving your puppy CPR should the event arise, it is important to speak to your pet’s veterinarian to see if there are any pet CPR classes that are available. Knowing pet CPR is an invaluable piece of knowledge and your vet will be more than happy to help you out and make sure that you know the proper techniques.

1. The first thing you need to do upon finding your puppy injured and lying on the floor is to check for his heartbeat. If you cannot pick up a heartbeat then you must administer CPR immediately. Here are the basic steps:

a) Place your hand on one side of your puppy’s chest. If he is a large dog then roll him on one side of his body. b) Then start compressing the area of the heart on his chest in short bursting movements, one compression for each second. c) Administer one breath of air every six seconds (follow steps 2-6 below). If successful, your puppy will spring back to life.

2. The second first aid tip on your checklist is to check to see if there are any objects or obstructions in your dog’s mouth. If you notice any blood or mucus, clear it out as best possible.

3) Pull the puppy’s tongue out of his mouth and then carefully close his jaw as this will keep the tongue hanging out and his airway clear.

4. Next pull the lips over your dog’s mouth and make them secure by wrapping your hand around the mouth and under the chin.

5. With your other hand, create a funnel to the dog’s nostrils which should be as airtight as possible.

6. Now slowly but smoothly take a deep breath and exhale the air gently into his nose. Repeat this breathing action on your puppy every six seconds.

Your Dog Supplies Store has many different types of dog supplies such as military dog coat, leather dog beds, Therapet Oatmeal dog shampoo and much more!

posted by Administrator on Dec 28

Author: Jolie Mitchel

Growing concern of the safety of food has led many savvy dog owners to begin to make their own dog food also known as holistic dog food which is actually quite simple to make. It actually can save the owner money and give your dog a more nutritious balanced diet.

They key to a healthy dog diet is to have approximately 70% carbohydrates, 25% meat, and 5% vegetables and other additions. A combination of meats and vegetables is necessary for these omnivores. Certain additions such as certain flours, bonemeal, and garlic can help the dog’s health and diet even more so.

The carbohydrates in holistic dog food can come from various sources. Whole wheat flour, cornmeal, oats, soy flour and barley are all good choices for your dog’s diet. White rice and brown rice are also popular with many dog owners. These carbohydrates should be the base of the dog’s diet.

The next major component of the holistic dog food is the meat. The best options for meat are quality products such as lean chicken, beef, fish, and egg whites. These can be then grinded to make the food making process easier.

Certain additions can be included to give overall nutrition to the dog. Such vegetables as carrots, potatoes, celery, corn, and spinach are good suggestions. Organic produce can be used so check for the availability of certain products. Grinding the vegetables helps digestion in the dog. A little bit of garlic helps keep the fleas away and some bone meal or dehydrated milk can be added for extra calcium.

By combining the components with a little bit of water and cooking until the protein is done throughout, your dog food can be made at home. An easy to make recipe takes one cup cornmeal, one fourth of a cup of ground chicken, a tablespoon of ground carrots, and a little sprinkle of bonemeal combined and cooked in a saucepan with a half a cup of water. Most dog food recipes can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Certain items must be avoided when making the food for your dog. Caffeine bearing products such as chocolate have been known to cause seizures in dogs. Certain spices may affect dogs who are sensitive as well as grapes, raisins, avocados, and onions which may cause harm to the dog’s health.

The best way to watch and monitor your dog’s diet is to make your own food. Ensuring a balanced nutritious diet can impact a dog’s lifespan, weight, and energy level. A veterinarian should be consulted when making your own dog food. Not only will this make your dog healthier for years ahead but also will be less of a burden financially.

To find out more about homemade dog food recipe please visit ThePoochPlace.com and learn the secrets about dog food recipes.

posted by Administrator on Dec 27

Author: Andy Austim

Aggression in a dog is something, which an owner should not tolerate and should be dealt with as soon as the problem arises. However, in order for an owner to find the right kind of dog aggression training they should be using to control this problem they need to understand the kinds of aggression that dogs suffer from.

In this article, we take a look at just what these are. It is important to remember that a dog may not only show just one type of aggression in fact they could show several.

1. Dominance – This is where the dog you own thinks that they are in fact the alpha member of the group and will assert themselves more, especially against those they consider to be predators. This type of aggression is often found in male dogs and certain breeds. In order for you as the owner to bring this particular problem under control you will need to quickly establish who is pack leader (you).

2. Fear – This is type of aggression occurs when a dog feels insecure or frightened. They will often react to a disturbance or when being approached by either barking, growling, they may bare their teeth, snap or bite. In some cases, if they feel cornered or threatened they may actually bite. It is important that you do not think that your dog will grow out of this problem, as they will not.

3. Over Protective/Territorial – A dog who suffers from this form of aggressive behavior is actually a danger to anyone who they come into contact with. Along with feeling territorial about the place in which they leave, this if left to continue will also become an issue for dog and owner when they are away from the home as well.

4. Possessive – This type of behavior can turn a loving pet into a real monster and will occur without any prior warning. Normally this kind of behavior occurs in a dog whose owner has allowed them to have their own way and is over something that they consider to be theirs. Such things that may trigger this kind of aggression in a dog is if when playing with them you choose to take away what they have or if you approach them as they eat their food. The only way to prevent this behavior becoming any worse is to immediately react to the situation as soon as you notice it happening.

5. Punishment – This kind of aggressive behavior occurs more often in those animals where punishment has been used excessively by their owners. Although initially when being punished the dog may not respond aggressively towards their owner, if over time the punishments become more severe then the chances of the dog responding in such a way is greatly increased.

In this article, we have looked at just a few of the kinds of aggressive behavior that dogs may suffer from. It is only once the owner has identified what kind of behavior it is they can then find the right kind of dog aggression training to use. As you will soon find when you search the internet there is plenty of advice and tips on ways of dealing with an aggressive dog.

If you are looking for how you can train your dog like a expert without paying expensive fees, just by going to at Dog Aggression Training and Dog Training Hand Commands website.

posted by Administrator on Dec 26

Author: Johnathan Livingston

While it might seem rather obvious, mats and pads can make a tremendous amount of difference for the comfort level of your pet. With extremely easy portability and a simple method of deployment, mats and pads are the ideal method of providing a sleeping surface for animals on the move. From camping to overnight travel and staying at grandma’s house, utilization of mats and pads can be the most convenient and efficient way of traveling with your pet.

While you very likely have a place for your pet to sleep at home, it might not be quite as portable, making it somewhat difficult to pick up and go with the entire bed. But with the use of mats and pads, it is a simple matter to pull them out and store them away whenever the fancy might take you. Perfectly portable, whether you’re going to the beach, camping, or enjoying fishing, mats and pads make all the difference for those who are interested in maintaining comfort for their family’s best friend when they are on the go. While they are certainly effective at home, they are very popular for use during travel.

When considering purchasing mats and pads, it is wise to think about several different aspects of the products themselves. First and foremost, they must be comfortable for your pet. This means soft and spongy, but retaining somewhat of a firm surface in order to prevent the material from wallowing. Keep in mind that the pet, especially a large one, will roll around and change the shape and condition of the mats and pads. Once you have ascertained the firmness, it is important to look into the durability of the material.

Considering that dogs are difficult to keep calm, they will move around quite often and cause all manner of detrimental conditions that will effect the mats and pads themselves. Ensuring that they are somewhat durable will be a good first step to ensure that they will not be destroyed before you can get your moneys worth out of them. Taking the time to look into the durability of the materials can make all the difference in the world for anyone who intends to make use of the mats and pads over an extended period of time.

With all this effort involved, you can ensure that you are getting the best mats and pads that you can afford and you are not simply throwing away money on a temporary product. With these types of mats and pads in place for use by your pets, you can be sure to have a decent level of comfort whenever you are forced to travel. Even when forced out of your home during emergency evacuations from storms or natural disasters, you will have the bedding handy to make use of at a moments notice.

As affordable and portable as the mats and pads are, it makes perfect sense to equip your family with the most suitable method of providing comfort for your pets at a reasonable price that is suitable for use on a regular basis. With these particular beds in place you have no doubt of knowing that you will be ready when it comes time to travel very quickly at a moments notice, and you will never have to make excessive preparations for your furry family friend.

Coming in all sizes and shapes, mats and pads should be examined to make sure that they meet the needs of your animals. Obviously, they will have to be the correct size, texture and durability in order to meet the needs of the entire family as well as the pet. After all, if your pet does not enjoy resting upon the mats and pads themselves, you will very likely feel that you have wasted your money on a product that your pet does not enjoy.

Anyone with pets that might need to travel with them would be wise to look into purchasing mats and pads for their comfort during extended travel.

Make sure you select the right Dog Mats and Pads for your pet. You will find a great variety of Dog Products and information at Dog House Market. Everything you will ever want to keep your pet vigorous and happy.

posted by Administrator on Dec 26

Author: Wendy Caples

Although the breed standard for the Boston Terrier is pretty strict on what they should look like, they are also strict on what the breed should act like. This attention to temperament has sadly been lacking in some other breed standards like the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Even pet quality Boston Terriers who would be laughed out of a show ring will not be offended, as they will be happy for the chance to make anyone smile.

Unlike a lot of other breed standards, there has always been an equal emphasis on the temperament of a Boston Terrier just as much as their looks. An ill-mannered or mean Boston Terrier has never been rewarded in the show ring, unlike some other breeds. The temperament of a Boston Terrier should be friendly, lively, easy to get along with others and inquisitive. A goal of breeders is top make good pets, and not just good show dogs.

But the looks of a Boston Terrier is a winner, too. You might see a lot of solid colored Boston Terriers that are all black, all grey or all brindle. Or, perhaps their heads are all black. They are still purebred Boston Terriers, but they would be disqualified from the show ring. Only colored and white Boston Terriers, with a certain amount of white on the face as well as body, are allowed to show.

Common faults in pet-quality Boston Terriers include the afore-mentioned long tail, being too heavy, being taller than fifteen inches at the shoulder and bat-ears (having ears that are far bigger than the rest of the head). Ideally, the ears should be in proportion to the rest of the body. Other common faults include a sway back (similar to a sway-backed horse), being able to see the teeth or tongue when the mouth is closed, or having a head or most of the body be completely black.

Boston Terriers look and act like a toy dog, but they are shown in the non-sporting group. Their looks are just as charming as their personalities, colors and lack of tail. They are smooth-haired, strongly built without being too muscular like an English Bulldog. They have large, expressive eyes and a lively walk. They have a blunt nose, but usually not as flat as a Pekingese nose.

The breed they most look like is the French Bulldog.

Boston Terriers often have pointed ears that are proportional to the size of the head. Sometimes, you’ll see a purebred Boston with huge bat-ears ? that’s not a show dog. They bounce when they walk, but they should not have a high-stepping walk like a Hackney horse or the incredibly slow shuffle of a Pekingese.

Boston Terriers are usually abandoned through no fault of their own, but because they are so cute and small, as people often buy them on impulse.

About the author: Wendy Caples is an avid lover of the Boston Terrier and has a popular website where you’ll discover how to have a happy, healthy and well behaved Boston Terrier. Among other topics there, you will find out more about Boston Terrier Information plus a whole lot more.

posted by Administrator on Dec 25

Author: Mike Roberts

Canine arthritis is mostly related to the age of the dog, that is the older the dog gets the more likely they will suffer from it. However arthritis can strike a dog of any age, but canines who are overweight are more susceptible. Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Newfoundlands and Labradors and other breeds that exceed 60 pounds are quite a bit more likely to develop arthritis than smaller breeds.

The pain your pet experiences from arthritis is because of the breakdown of cartilage around its joints that cause pain during movement.

Using a preventive approach by giving your dog the appropriate natural supplements will help your dog be more prepared to fend off age related mobility issues. It’s better to start your dog on these supplements when they are about 4 to five years of age. This preventive measure should include Glucosamine and Chondroitin given on a daily basis. You should consult with your Vet on the dosages appropriate for your pet.

If your pet starts showing symptoms of arthritis you need to take steps to help control their pain quickly. Dogs are good at masking some of the symptoms of pain so when you see it’s painful for them, believe me it’s really for them them.

The first thing you need to do is identify any symptoms of pain in your dog. These symptoms can range from sleeping more, walking instead of running, not wanting to play, or showing stiffness when getting up. Anything that is not normal can be a symptom of pain and stiffness and should be evaluated quickly by your Vet. Dogs don’t usually show pain unless it’s severe. If they are experiencing moderate pain they can mask it by moving slower, looking stiff and not moving as much. Be on the lookout.

If your pet is diagnosed as having arthritis your Vet will most probably prescribe an NSAID or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. The most prescribed of these drugs are Rimadyl, Deramaxx, Metacam and Previcox. These medications are available only with a prescription. As with any prescription pain medications they can have certain side effects in your dog.

The potential side effects of these prescription medications will vary with each individual animal. It may take some time to find just the right drug for your pet. Many dog owners are concerned about using these medications and have turned to using safe natural supplements that have no adverse side effects and are more easily tolerated.

My Labrador Brandy was eleven when she started taking an NSAID. Other than the extremely high cost it was an effective treatment and helped her pain. Due to the dosage required for my 75 pound dog it was costing me over $100 a month to keep her medicated. This very pricey treatment prompted me to try and find an alternative treatment that was less expensive, but still provided pain relief with better mobility. I discovered that in a natural supplement that was both affordable and effective.

Most of us want to do the best thing for their pet, however you also must be able to pay for the treatment. There is a natural supplement that can relieve your dogs pain as well as being affordable. That type of treatment worked for my dog Brandy and I’m very sure that it should work for your dog as well.

Mike Roberts has owned and hunted Labradors for over 30 years. He is interested in eliminating hip and joint pain in dogs. Read his articles on dog arthritis pain and hip dysplasia surgical alternatives for more information.

posted by Administrator on Dec 24

Author: Cindy Barkley

There are many supplements to help animals with sore joints, one of which is Cosequin with MSM, which some of you may have heard of, or may have bought. Most likely it was a purchase to try to help your dog with hip troubles.

To clear up any confusion, let’s discuss Cosequin for dogs in detail. It is important that consumers understand fully about the product they are buying so they can make an informed choice.

Canine Cosequin is not the name of a drug; it is simply a brand name for a joint support supplement. Cosequin DS is another example of a joint support supplement brand. They are very similar products and carry out similar functions.

The two products mentioned before have a lot in common – both contain Glucosamine and Chondroitin. In fact that is the total sum of the active ingredients in Cosequin. What is missing from it is MSM or Methylsulfonylmethane.

What’s the big deal about MSM – well it’s quite important for pets with arthritis as it can help control the swelling and pain. So you wouldn’t want to give a supplement without it.

Dasuquin contains MSM and is clearly the ideal choice for pets with arthritis. However if arthritis is not the issue, it might be perfectly adequate for a Glucosamine/Chondroitin supplement like Cosequin.

Consequin is a good product for dogs with limited needs; it comes in different strengths and as both chewables and capsules. But if you are looking for a brand which contains MSM, Consequin is not the product for you. Get Dasuquin instead.

It might be that your vet has told you to give your dog Cosequin for dogs on his last examination; but this might not be a literal suggestion, he might be recommending ANY premium joint product. Cosequin may be one of many options.

Most supplements are interchangeable, but you should ask your vet exactly what supplements are required so you can choose a product that suits your dog’s needs exactly. It may be that Cosequin with MSM isn’t the best product for one dog, but is for another.

If you are looking for a high grade product containing MSM, Glucosamine and Chondroitin, Dasuquin is more suitable. It sourced from the highest grade ingredients and accurately labeled.

This is not always the case with inferior brands so save your money and go for a brand like Dasuquin with MSM which gives you a fair deal.

For the current Cosequin DS news and product reviews, check out our animal health page. For pet owners, this is a super resource for Nutramax Cosequin and information about why you could be using it.

posted by Administrator on Dec 24

Author: Johnathan Livingston

Article: Many people don’t think animals need beds, especially not orthopedic dog beds. Whether they’re animals lovers who think that “animals are people, too” or someone who’s never owned an animal, it’s easy to see why they might not think Fido needs a special sleeping spot of his own. They seem to be able to sleep anywhere-on the hard kitchen floor, in a chair, on a sidewalk, or outside in the grass. They hardly seem picky. Special resting spots don’t seem like necessary supplies for them, but experts know that the proper place to sleep is as important for them as it is for humans.

It gives your friend his own special place. How often has your pup been sleeping and had to move so someone could sit down? with his own spot to sleep, he’ll know he can’t be shooed away from at any time, and that can give him an added sense of security in the home.

They’re also designed for warmth. Orthopedic pet beds keep your pup from sleeping on the cold floor. Your animal gets a different more comfortable surface to sleep on. Some are fluffy and cushy and practically envelope him. While some are made specifically to offer extra warmth for tiny pups, and extra room for the not-so-tiny breeds.

Orthopedic dog beds are perfect for aging animals. They suffer from the chronic conditions of old age just as humans do. Arthritis, among other things, makes their joints stiff and makes it harder for them to move around, especially during the summer and during the first few moments after they wake up. Orthopedic dog beds cushion them from the hard floor, and help with mobility. They gently cushion the animal’s joints and bones, making them as comfortable as possible while relieving pressure in all the right places.

Orthopedic dog beds are especially good for larger breeds, because they often have more difficulty with arthritis and other joint problems because of their size. Heavy animals and any that have been injured are more prone to joint difficulties as well so orthopedic dog beds are especially helpful for them. Many orthopedic dog beds are heated, too, because the extra warmth can help even more with joint problems.

Orthopedic dog beds have something in them for people, too. Any dirt and hair left behind wherever your pooch sleeps will be confined to one place if he has his own special sleeping spot. Their washable covers made of easy to clean materials offer great convenience for you. Their usually stain resistant, too, to keep them looking nice in the home.

Orthopedic dog beds can even help prevent injury, especially in older animals and any that have other need for special support while sleeping and resting. If sleeping up on chairs, the couch or the bed is common, then your animal has to jump down frequently. And it’s usually because he’s been shooed down, right after waking, when joints are most stiff. Orthopedic dog beds lessen the chance your pup will sustain an injury because he was jumping down from the furniture and landed wrong.

And for animals who spend lots of time outside, orthopedic dog beds are even more important. Many animals spend hours outside, but weather changes can make their joints ache and become stiff. A bed serves as cushioning from the ground which can be too cool or damp, and provides a dry place to rest and sleep. Many beds are made for indoor and outdoor use, and can easily move back and forth as Fido comes in and out.

No matter what your friend’s age or physical condition, orthopedic dog beds can help alleviate joint pain and stiffness, and maybe even delay or prevent those problems in an aging pet. And it’ll give your four-legged family member a comfy spot of his own and make him feel more loved and secure.

Make sure you select the right Orthopedic Dog Beds for your pet. You will find a large selection of Dog Products and articles at Dog House Market. Everything you will ever want to keep your pet healthy and content.