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Dog
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What Kind of Dog To Adopt
By Julie Bjelland Lokhandwala Thinking of adopting a dog? This can be a very exciting time! It can be a very emotional experience to fall in love with a dog and want to take them home. Although there are a lot of factors to consider as to what kind of dog is best for you to adopt. As a dog trainer I've come across a lot of problem behavior in dogs due to owners not being aware of how important it is to meet their dogs needs. The amount of exercise a dog needs is usually one of the most important needs that often do NOT get met properly. If a dogs needs are met, you will have a great companion full of love for you. If you don't meet your dogs needs you will run into problem behavior that can be a nightmare. This article will help you to truly understand what a dogs needs will be so you can pick the right match for a successful life together! Dogs live 10-15 years or more and adopting a dog is a long-term commitment that you should take very seriously. There is a reason why there are so many homeless dogs and it is usually because the owner and dog were mismatched and not because there is something wrong with the dog. Owners often do not realize how much effort is required to having a pet dog and are not meeting their dogs needs so behavior problems may arise. Millions of dogs are killed in Shelters every year. Bringing a dog into your home is a very big decision that should be carefully weighed out. It is important to understand what a dog may need and to see if you can offer those things to that dog, every day for the next 10-15 years. What kind of breed should you get? Should you adopt a puppy or adult dog? Where should you get the dog? Just like people, dogs have individual personalities. Some dogs are highly energetic, while others are more calm and passive, some dogs are very social, and others not. So if you have your heart set on a particular breed for example, you still need to search within that breed and find the dog that best matches your lifestyle. Also, think about the option of finding a mixed breed with at least one of the breeds you may like. But before you even consider what breed of dog, you should first examine your life a little to discover what kind of dog would best "match" you. Think of it a little like dating. If you are someone who loves the outdoors and is very athletic, then you'd probably do best dating someone that also enjoyed these same activities. If you are someone who likes to stay home and don't really like to walk very much then you wouldn't want a dog that is considered high energy and needs a lot of extra exercise. In this sense dogs are like people, they all differ in personality and needs. Some dogs are more high energy and those dogs need to be matched with someone who plans to bring them out a lot; running, hiking, dog sports, long walks, etc. Others may want a mellower dog as a companion, who is content with hanging out with you all day and doesn't require as much exercise as a high-energy dog. Adopting an adult dog has a lot of benefits over adopting a puppy because you already know what type of personality the dog has and if it matches yours. Plus, puppies require a lot more work with housetraining, chewing and you'll lose sleep at night caring for their needs; while adult dogs have already gone through all those difficult puppy phases. There are a lot of places to find adult dogs needing homes. You can contact your local animal shelter, or search for dog rescue organizations in your area online. There are rescue organizations for purebred dogs as well. Although adopting a mixed breed also has a lot of health benefits because they tend to get the best of their mix of breed genetics without the health problems many purebred dogs suffer from. How old are the household members in your family? If you have children under 8 then you will not want to get a puppy under 6 months of age because puppies have sharp teeth and claws that can cause injury. You also would not want to get a small, toy size dog because these dogs are so small they can be very fragile and sustain injury easily. So with small children you are better off getting an adult dog that is medium to large in size. Dogs over age two can be ideal because they have already gone through the difficult puppy and adolescence stages. If you have elderly or physically challenged people in the household you would not want to get a large, young, energetic dog that could knock them over and sustain injury. What needs does a dog have? I feel it is important to talk about what actually goes into having a dog and its care. Of course it is easy to understand the benefits of having a dog and what they will bring to your life because they are a never-ending source of love without judgment. But, in order to have a good life with your dog you really need to know what you are getting into and what your responsibility is going to be. There would be a lot less dogs going to shelters if everyone understood what it actually takes to raise a dog successfully. Dogs cannot be left alone outside in the backyard all day without attention and exercise. It simply doesn't work. If you are going to be gone all day for work as many are, you'll need to set aside an hour or so to take care of them both before you leave and after you get home. It is important to understand that you'll need to exercise them BEFORE going to work and also after returning home. If you do not meet your dogs energy needs YOU WILL have behavioral problems such as: excessive barking, uncontrollable jumping on you, separation anxiety, destruction of your property, and possibly aggression among many other possibilities. Here is a list of responsibilities you will have as a dog owner: - You have to walk them twice a day for about 30-45 minutes each. High-energy dogs will need more, and Senior Dogs may need less. If you work all day, you'll need to wake up about an hour earlier to get the walk in as well as feed them before you go as well as repeat it after you return home.
- Lots of time with you and the family every day.
- Feed them twice a day and always have fresh water available.
- Dog Training. Dogs that are well trained are happier and more bonded with their owners. They also get to spend more time with their owners because they are well behaved.
- Clean up their poop, both in your yard and on walks.
- Adult dogs will have to do a Veterinarian exam at least annually, as well as be up-to-date on all their vaccinations. Puppies will require several more trips to the Vet the first year for additional vaccinations as well as spaying/neutering. Contact your local Vet to learn about cost, etc.
- Puppies require a tremendous more amount of time and money their first year. You'll also have to housetrain them which requires a lot of extra time on your part then an adult dog would.
- A well-maintained fence at least 6-feet tall if you plan to have them off-leash in the backyard at all.
- Brush them/bathe them/grooming/nail cutting/ear cleaning.
- Flea/tick care.
- Extra expense. There is a lot of expense in having a dog. You need to consider: Veterinarian costs, food, supplies (leash, collar, id tags, bedding), toys, chew bones, flea care, bathing, grooming, travel expenses or dog sitting expenses while you are away, medical care should they become ill, etc.
- Dog Hair. If you plan to have your dog inside, which is encouraged so that they feel more a part of the family and tend to have less behavioral issues than those left alone outside; you'll have to deal with dog hair. Dog hair has a way of finding itself on everything and will require more cleaning on your part.
- Arranging for care of your dog while you are away on trips. Dogs cannot be left alone overnight.
- Oral care for your dog. Veterinarians are recommending teeth brushing and cleanings.
Extra Things to think about if you have children. - Do not expect that the children will take over all the dog-care, no matter how much they say they will. They may be able to assist you, but as the parent, YOU will have the responsibility.
- Access your energy level. It can be a lot of work keeping up with children and adding a dog means you have one more responsibility.
- Supervise your young children around the dog at all times. (Children can be unpredictable and do things like pull tails or whiskers and cause the dog to feel threatened.) You should not leave your child with the dog unattended, and you will have to teach them how to be gentle and what areas are off limits to touch.
- If your children are very young, say under 8, it can be better to adopt an older, medium to larger size dog rather than a puppy, because puppies have sharp milk teeth and claws that can scratch easily. Puppies and small/toy dogs can also be fragile and injured more easily.
- Also consider your child's friends that may be coming over and you will also have to supervise them around the dog.
Some things to consider before adopting your dog. - Your energy levels vs. the dogs energy needs.
- How much time will the dog be left alone daily? Do you travel a lot?
- Do you have enough money to cover the dogs regular expenses as well as extra should they become ill?
- Do you have the time and money needed to put into training your dog?
- Do you have other pets at home that the new dog will need to get along with?
- Do you have small children or physically challenged individuals living at home that you'll need to supervise the dog with?
If you believe you are ready to give a good home to a dog then there are a lot of resources out there to help. www.petfinder.com is a great online resource that you can type in what kind of dog you are looking for it will list the dogs available in your area. If you are looking for a particular breed there are great dog rescue groups that specialize in the breed you want. Just do an online search; typing in the type of breed you want with the words "rescue" behind it and the largest city near you. For example: Labrador Retriever Rescue San Francisco. Your local animal shelter should also be a great resource for you. There are a lot of great adoptable dogs there waiting for a good home. Whatever resource you use to adopt your dog, you should make sure that you provide them with the information that is realistic to your lifestyle and needs. A good shelter or rescue organization knows their dogs well and will be able to match a dog to your needs. Do not get a dog based on how they look! And, Do Not adopt a dog because you feel sorry for it. You need to adopt a dog based on their personality matching yours. You need to go into the matching process knowing your lifestyle and needs and looking for a dog that will match those needs. I hope this guide can help you make the right choice for you when deciding to adopt a dog. When a dogs needs are met they can be a truly wonderful companion for many years to come. Julie Lokhandwala is founder of webDogTrainer, LLC. and has created the interactive Online Dog Training Guide and Consultation http://www.webdogtrainer.com You can ask Julie any dog question! "Julie had an immediately calming effect on us as dog owners. She can explain the canine perspective and how we as humans can interact with our dog in a positive way, even when disciplining. Julie was super patient with all of our questions and even fielded our email questions after training ended," said Sina and Ed of Fremont, California. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Julie_Bjelland_Lokhandwala
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Your Dog's Health - Vitamin Supplements
By Carol Osborne The market is exploding with products claiming to improve the health and wellness of individuals using vitamins and nutritional supplements. People are now seeking the same products to complement the health of their pets. The benefits of appropriate nutritional supplements are overwhelming and can add several healthy years to your life, as well as your dogs. Dogs Age Faster Than People
Longevity is attributed 30 percent to genetics and 70 percent to lifestyle. Up to 90 percent of diseases in dogs are due to the degenerative processes associated with aging. Does Your Dog Act His Age?
Because dogs age seven times faster than people, major health changes occur in a short amount of time. Dogs are considered puppies for about one year, adults from age two to six, and seniors at age seven. Giant breeds, like Great Danes, age even more quickly and are considered seniors at age five. Signs of aging in dogs occur slowly, but generally begin at maturity, somewhere between age one and two. Dr. Denham Harman's Free Radical Theory of Aging, applies to people and pets, including dogs. This universally accepted theory states that aging is a process in which the body's systems deteriorate faster than the body can repair them. The changes occur due to oxidative damage caused by harmful compounds called free radicals. Free radicals are toxic, electrically unstable molecules. As we age, they are produced more quickly. Free radicals damage your dog's body similar to the way oxygen causes iron to rust. They are detrimental to your dog's genetic material, his DNA and RNA, his cell membranes and enzyme systems. Free radicals are formed each time we take a breath. Exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays, as well as to environmental toxins, pollution, heavy metals and stress contribute to free radical formation. Your dog's diet and drugs, such as antibiotics, are also factors. Free radicals weaken your dog's natural defenses and have been associated with the development of up to 90 percent of the age-related degenerative conditions we associate with aging: - Cancer
- Heart disease
- Arthritis
- Diabetes
- Cataracts
- Premature aging
Our life span, as well as the length of your dog's life, is ultimately determined by how quickly free radicals cause harmful oxidative changes to occur. Therefore what you feed your dog, as well as the supplements you choose for your dog are both very important. Help Your Dog Enjoy a Longer, Healthier Life Your Dog's Diet
You are what you eat, and that's just as important for people as it is for dogs. What you feed your dog directly affects his health and wellness. The longer and more consistently you give your dog an optimally balanced diet, the greater his chances are of living a longer, healthier life. Dogs, like people are omnivores and can naturally exist on a diet of meat, fruit and vegetables. Consult with your vet to determine the best diet for your dog. Commercial varieties worth looking into include organic, natural diets such as Prairie made by Natures Variety. Homemade, natural diets take more time and effort but in many cases are well worth the extra effort. Vegetarian and raw food diets are another option that, with careful supervision, may provide complete and balanced nutrition for your dog. According to the Guinness Book of Records, a Border Collie in England named Taffy, lived to the spry age of 27 eating an all-natural, organic diet. Healthy Dog Snacks
Fruits and vegetables are healthy, low calorie snacks many pets enjoy. Those rich in antioxidants are especially beneficial for your dog: - Oranges
- Tomatoes
- Sweet Potatoes
- Carrots
- Cantaloupe
- Asparagus Tips
Oranges are rich in Vitamin C, tomatoes are filled with Lycopenes and sweet potatoes are a source of Vitamin E and Beta Carotene. Carrots and cantaloupes also provide Beta Carotene for your dog. Antioxidant Supplements for Your Dog: Sooner Not Later
Recent research documents that antioxidants provide very bright prospects for increasing the quality and length of your dog's life. In addition, scientists have found that sooner is better than later as far as your dog's potential health benefits. Antioxidant supplementation started as a puppy, before free radical damage has occurred, can increase the healthy lifespan of your dog by up to 20 percent. Antioxidant supplements, including Vitamins A, C, and E, the minerals Selenium and Zinc, and the nutrients Alpha Lipoic Acid and Coenzyme Q10, are the body's natural defense against free radical damage. They can help to protect your dog by neutralizing free radicals and decreasing the resultant levels of oxidative damage. Other noteworthy antioxidant supplements for your dog include:
Bioflavinoids, which help to decrease allergic reactions, asthmatic attacks and have anti-cancer benefits for your dog. Green Tea, whose antioxidants may decrease the risk of heart disease and cancer and help protect the blood vessels nourishing your dog's heart and brain. Lutein, a plant pigment from marigolds, helps to protect your dog's eyes and may reduce the risk of cataracts. Melatonin, a potent antioxidant that acts to normalize sleep patterns. It also protects your dog's brain and has been used successfully with cancer therapy. The effects of antioxidants are beneficial and act synergistically for people and dog's undergoing cancer therapy. In well controlled studies, people and pets treated with antioxidants (with or without chemotherapy and radiation) have tolerated treatments better and experienced less weight loss. More importantly, they enjoyed a better overall quality of life and lived longer than individuals receiving no supplements. Nutritional Supplements for Your Dog's Bones, Joints & Cartilage
Glucosamine is an amino sugar naturally produced in your dog's body from glucose, which is your dog's blood sugar, and the Amino Acid, Glutamine. It helps the cartilage between the joints retain water so the cartilage can act like a cushion to absorb shock and withstand compression. Glucosamine is vital to protecting the health and integrity of your dog's bones, joints and cartilage. It helps to: - Decrease joint inflammation and pain
- Promote cartilage repair
- Aid healing of damaged joints
- Increase mobility in dogs with arthritis and hip dysplasia
Glucosamine is also a normal component of the urinary bladder in dog's and cat's and may help to relieve urinary disorders. MSM (methyl-sulfonyl-methane) is a natural source of sulfur that works along with Glucosamine to help protect the health and integrity of your dog's bones, joints and cartilage. Essential Fatty Acid Supplements for Your Dog
Essential Fatty Acids are vital to life and support all bodily functions in your dog. They help to keep cell membranes soft and pliable, so your pet's cells can absorb dietary nutrients. They enhance your dog's skin and hair coat and are needed for the normal development of the nervous system and brain. Fatty Acids are vital to brain health and help to preserve mental clarity. They decrease the risk of Alzheimer's disease and dementia in dogs, cats and people. Fatty Acids may reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure, as well as provide therapeutic effects in your dog for: - Arthritis
- Lupus
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Cancer therapy
- Kidney disorders
Flea allergies, food intolerances and bacterial skin infections can often be relieved by providing your dog with fatty acid supplements. The proper balance of Fatty Acids helps to reduce wear and tear on your dog's body by decreasing stress triggered increases in cholesterol and the stress hormone Cortisol. Research indicates that the ratio of 5:1 of Omega 6 to Omega 3 Fatty Acids seems to provide the greatest clinical benefits, surpassing that of any individual Fatty Acid alone. Amino Acid Supplements for Your Dog
Glutamine is the most abundant Amino Acid in the body. It is the major energy source for the cells that line the digestive system and strengthens your dog's natural defense system known as the immune system. Glutamine promotes healing of the digestive system thereby reducing bowel disorders. It spares protein and reduces muscle loss during periods of injury, stress and high endurance activities. Therefore it is especially beneficial for pets recovering from trauma and for working and show dogs. Glutamine also has many anti-aging effects. It helps to preserve memory and to prevent the harmful effects of Cortisol, the hormone that is responsible for accelerating the aging process in people and in your dog. Digestive Enzyme Supplements for Your Dog
Digestive Enzymes are produced by the salivary glands, stomach, pancreas and liver and are released into the digestive tract. Enzymes help your dog's body to breakdown proteins, fats and carbohydrates in his food so they can be absorbed and utilized. Your dog's production of enzymes naturally decreases with increasing age. Illnesses, stress, food intolerances, allergies and drugs like antibiotics also have a negative affect on enzyme production and function. This can result in a variety of digestive disturbances ranging from flatulence and gas to diarrhea, life threatening dehydration and malnutrition. Digestive Enzymes are vital to maintain your dog's overall health. They improve the efficiency of digestion so your pet's body can utilize the nutrients essential for energy production and ultimately for life itself. They help the body to recover from disease and promote restoration of good health in your dog. Enzymes are useful to reduce pain and swelling after exercise or trauma and help speed up recovery rates. Enzymes support your dog's immune system thereby enhancing his ability to ward off disease and infection. They have been also been used effectively in cancer therapy for people and pets. Papain is an enzyme that has aspirin-like effects to decrease swollen, painful inflamed tissues in your dog. Bromelain is an enzyme found in pineapple stems that inhibits the spread of lung cancer in mice. Digestive Enzyme supplements may be beneficial in dogs with digestive problems, immune disorders including rheumatoid arthritis and arthritis, cancer and a variety of bowel disorders. They are especially useful in older dogs with reduced digestive ability. The Anti-Aging 'A' Supplement List For Your Dog: Vitamin A/Beta Carotene: Antioxidant enhances immunity, essential for your dog to utilize protein in his diet Vitamin C: Antioxidant, needed for tissue growth and repair, enhances immunity, needed for your dog's body to utilize Vitamin E. Vitamin E: Antioxidant, prevents heart disease, promotes wound healing, needed for your dog's body to utilize Vitamin C. B-Complex Vitamins: As a group, B vitamins help your dog to maintain healthy nerves, skin and muscle. Coenzyme Q-10: A powerful, newly discovered antioxidant. Essential for immune function, beneficial in heart disease and gum/dental disease for your dog. Alpha Lipoic Acid: Antioxidant. Helps your dog to restore energy metabolism. Selenium: Antioxidant. Works with Vitamin E to help your dog fight infection. Beneficial to dog's skin and hair coats. Deficiencies linked to cancer and heart disease. Zinc: Essential mineral your dog needs for protein synthesis, promotes healthy immune system, aids wound healing. Critical for hundreds of biological processes in the body. Omega 3 & 6 Fatty Acids: Essential component of cell membranes in your dog and is needed for healthy heart, brain function and skin and hair coats. Bioflavinoids: Enhances absorption of Vitamin C, has antioxidant effects and promotes normal blood circulation for your dog. Glucosamine and MSM: Promotes normal healthy bones, joints and cartilage for your dog. Digestive Enzymes: Essential for your dog to utilize and absorb nutrients from his/her diet. Melatonin: Immune modulator, antioxidant, triggers restful sleep for your dog. Ginseng: A metabolic tonic to promote brain health and overall wellness for your dog. L-Glutamine: Amino acid needed for your dog to energize the cells of his digestive system so dietary nutrients can be properly absorbed and utilized. Colostrum: The first milk your puppy receives from his mother. Provides your dog with antibodies to protect him against disease and aid immune function. Exercise: 20 minutes twice a day minimum for your dog. Balanced, natural diet: Feed your dog at least two meals daily. Fresh organic and natural sources are best. Relaxation: Stress and anxiety affect pets and people adversely. Set aside an hour a day to relax and enjoy your dog. Consider massage, yoga and music. Positive mental attitude: The mind-body connection is a potent promoter of well-being for you and your dog. Pure water: Fresh, non-chlorinated water is essential for people and for your dog. Copyright 2007 Dr. Carol Osborne Dr. Carol Osborne is the inventor of PAAWS, the pet anti-aging wellness system seen on TV. VitaLife is Dr. Carol's newest line of pet vitamin supplements and is the best supplement available for arthritis and anti-aging in dogs and cats. PAAWS and VitaLife are revolutionary breakthroughs, with all natural nutrients that virtually peel away the years, seeming to reverse the aging process normally experienced by pets. Get FREE pet advice from Dr. Carol at http://CarolonPets.com/ Visit Dr. Carol's blog at http://CarolonPets.com/blog/ Buy PAAWS and VitaLife dog and cat vitamin supplements and other pet health products at http://DrCarol.com/ Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Carol_Osborne
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Dental Hygiene For Your Dog
By Ken Mathie Proper dental hygiene for your dog is an important part of his overall health and well-being. It is good to have a basic understanding of normal tooth development in dogs so you can care for your dogs teeth the best way. Puppies are born without any teeth. By about two or thee weeks of age, the puppy begins getting his first set of teeth and has about 28 of these temporary teeth after two months. A puppy’s first set of teeth is made up of both incisors and canine teeth, as well as premolars. These teeth begin to fall out, being replaced by permanent adult teeth, when the dog is about 12 weeks old. Most of the dog’s permanent teeth come in around 6 months of age. During this time, many dogs experience teething pain and want to chew and gnaw on a variety of things to ease the discomfort. By the time all of the dog’s adult teeth have come in, he will have a full set of 42 teeth. The 12 small teeth in the front of the dog’s mouth are incisors. These teeth are used to pick up small pieces of food and the dog will use them for grooming and removing fleas from his fur. There are also four long, pointed teeth near the front of the mouth called cuspids or canine teeth. These are the teeth used to tear larger pieces of food. There are 16 premolars along the sides of the dog’s mouth that are used to cut the food into smaller pieces. In the back of the dog’s mouth, there are 10 molars that aid in chewing by crushing the food and grinding it. Without proper dental hygiene, there is an 80% chance that your dog will develop some sort of oral, periodontal complications before he is three years old. Infections in the gums and broken teeth are common problems, as well as irritation of the tissue in your dog’s mouth. Any of these problems can create bacteria that may enter your dog’s bloodstream, infecting vital organs, like his heart, kidney, lungs, or intestines. Your veterinarian is the best source for learning the best dental hygiene techniques for your dog. Schedule regular dental check-ups for your dog when he is still young to avoid difficulties when he is older. Routine dental hygiene for your dog can prevent many of the common canine tooth problems, like tartar buildup and gum irritation, while other problems, like malocclusion, can be detected early and treated appropriately. During a regular canine dental checkup, your vet will typically look for the evidence of tartar and will examine the teeth for looseness, cavities, and other abnormalities. He will also inspect your dog’s gums and palate for irritation or unusual growth. Your dog will usually be under the influence of an anesthesia during the exam, so he can not eat anything the night before the visit. Sometimes, your veterinarian may suggest blood tests or a complete health checkup before performing the dental checkup with anesthesia. This will determine any other complications your dog my be suffering from, as well as ensure his safety during the upcoming procedure. If your dog already suffers from dental problems, he may be given an antibiotic to treat any existing infection and to prevent further complications. One of the most obvious signs of infection or disease in your dog’s mouth is bad breath. This can also mean that your dog is suffering from tartar buildup around his gums. This buildup beneath the gum line creates bacteria that can inflame the gums and cause discomfort, as well as other complications. Tooth decay is not a common problem with dogs. Their teeth are naturally shaped more pointed, making it less likely for foods and liquids to sit on the teeth, and their saliva does not contain the acids found in human saliva. A dog’s chewing reflexes also helps to keep his teeth somewhat clean and prevent tooth decay. Aside from visiting your vet on a regular basis for canine dental checkups, a veterinarian can also clean and polish your dog’s teeth. This procedure is typically performed every two or three years. It is important for you to train your dog to let you or the vet clean his teeth without becoming upset or trying to bite. Training may take time and it is best to start when your dog is young. You can also keep you dog’s teeth clean at home in between your dental checkups. There are a number of canine toothbrushes, as well as toothpastes, available today. A finger toothbrush designed for dogs is a great way to start brushing your dog’s teeth. Very similar to an infant brush for newborn gums, this dog toothbrush is worn over the tip of your finger. Using the soft bristles on the side of the finger brush, you can clean and massage your dog’s teeth and gums. Once your dog has become comfortable with the finger brush, you can start using a standard dog toothbrush to clean his teeth. Holding the toothbrush at a 45° angle to your dog’s gum, move the brush in a short, circular motion around the gum line and then brush the tooth in a vertical motion to remove any plaque or food debris that has been loosened. Take care to brush each tooth to deter tartar formation and include this cleaning in your regular care routine at least twice a week. The toys your dog plays with and the things he eats are also an important part of your dog’s dental hygiene. Some toys and foods are actually good for your dog’s teeth and mouth, like rawhide bones and specially designed rubber, plastic, and fiber toys made for dogs. Chewing or gnawing on soft, non-damaging items like these can promote healthy dental hygiene by helping clean the teeth. Animal bones and toys that are not designed for dogs can be too hard for your dog’s teeth and cause damage, or may break into small fragments that may choke your dog. Tips for Proper Dental Hygiene for Your Dog Start putting your fingers in your dog’s mouth when he is still a puppy so he will be comfortable having his teeth cleaned. Place a small amount of flavored dog toothpaste on your fingertip to encourage your dog. You can even train an older dog to allow teeth cleaning this way. Rub your finger along the sides of your dog’s gums and across the front of them. If your dog seems to be uncomfortable, try placing a towel on top of the table or a counter top and sitting your dog there. This may discourage him from moving. Use an appropriately sized toothbrush for your dog. Continue to use a flavored toothpaste and gently brush your dog’s teeth. Talk to him and soothe him if he does not like the cleaning and only do a little bit at a time. Work with your dog slowly until he is more comfortable with the procedure. Only use dog toothpaste. Many of these are flavored to be more appealing to your dog and they are safe to swallow. It is often hard to get your dog used to a toothbrush. Try dipping an old toothbrush in a saltwater solution and letting your dog chew it. Once he realizes that the brush feels good, he may be more willing to let you clean his teeth with it. A finger brush is another option. Most dogs have an easier time adjusting to this type of cleaning, but it does not clean as good as a standard toothbrush. A chlorohexidine spray can be used in your dog’s mouth after each cleaning to prevent bacteria from growing in the back of his mouth. ProudPup.com - Great deals on new and used dog supplies and accessories, training equipment, books, doggie health tips and more! Did you know that dogs have a genetic lifespan of 27 years? Find out how you can help your dog live well into it's teens or 20's. Download your copy of the Long Life Dog book by clicking this link: Proud Pup - Dog Supplies Cheap Copyright 2007 – Ken Mathie. Editor PMCezine...
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Dog Toy Choosing Guide - Getting The Best For Your Dog
By Moses Wright Not many dog owners give much thought to dog toys because many think of dog toys as just amusement and fun for their dog. The fact is like toys for young children, dog toys are an important aspect that contribute to the development and well being of your dog. There are many advantages in getting dog toys, to name a few, they help to keep your dog away from destructive behaviors, keep them from becoming bored, thereby keeping them out of trouble, relieves stress, and provides physical exercise and mental stimulation. While dog toy is important and beneficial for your dog, one must also know how to buy the right one. When choosing a dog toy, dog owners should take into account the size, breed and activity level of your dog. The following listed below is a comprehensive guideline on how to choose and buy the right dog toys: 1. Size - Toys should be appropriate for your dog’s size. Be sure the dog toy is large enough that so that your dog isn’t able to swallow it and possibly suffocate on it. 2. Durability - Toys should be virtually indestructible and able to withstand the daily demands of a dog. Toys should be of high quality and crafted especially for dogs. 3. Safe - Dog toys should not pose a threat to your dog and should be non-toxic. Avoid dog toys that may splinter or come off in chunks, possibly causing trauma to your dog. Be sure to dog proof all toys- remove strings, tags and small parts (including squeakers) that could be remove by your dog. 4. Practical - Dog toys should be easy to clean and good for your dog. When looking for chew toys, find those that can help freshen his breath and those that are beneficial for his teeth and gums. 5. Exercise - Choose dog toys that encourage exercise and puts their natural instincts to good use. Frisbees, balls, ropes, tugs, and Kongs are great toys to aid in exercising you and your dog. 6. Challenge - Select toys that stimulate the dog’s mind and gives him a reward to work for. These types of dog toys give your dog something to look forward to. 7. Therapy - Dog toys provide a form of therapy for dog’s suffering from separation anxiety. Choose dog toys that offer encouragement and comfort when you are away. Select toys that provide entertainment to prevent boredom and help the dog to adjust while you are gone. 8. Fun - Dog toys should be fun! Select toys that reinforce positive play with their owners and constructive games and toys that strengthen the bond between dog and owner. Find dog toys that allow your dog to interact with you. 9. Variety - Rotate your dogs toys every once in awhile. This helps to keep your dog interested in the toys he already has. By following the guide listed here closely, you would have no problem in getting a good dog toy for your dog. Lastly, understand that dog toys are not a substitute for you, use dog toys to engage in games with your dog and most importantly have fun along the way! Moses Wright is the founder of Dog Carriers and Grooming. He provides more useful information on Dog Toy and Dog Clothes on his website. Webmasters are welcome to reprint this article if you keep the content and live link intact. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Moses_Wright
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The Last Article You'll Ever Need to Read About Dog Barking - Causes and Cures
By Susi Szeremy If you're a dog owner and have a "world class" barker in the house, you may already know the stress of shattered quiet or dealing with unhappy neighbors. Dogs always bark for a reason. Studies have even shown that different barks express different emotions (though a few breeds, like the poodle and the American Staffordshire Terrier, appear limited in their vocal repertory). The more high-pitched, atonal and repetitive the bark, the more indicative it is of a dog under stress. A recent study of 84 dogs from nine breeds, including Poodles, Weimaraners, American Staffordshire Terriers, German Shepherds, Alaskan Malamutes, Bull Terriers and Muensterlaenders, recorded as many as a dozen variations of some types of barking among the dogs. Subtle variations even corresponded to "dialects" which were used by the dogs in identical situations at different times. Although there is no difference in the percentage of excessive barkers between males and females, males tend to bark less once neutered because they're less territorial. There's also a breed difference in barkers; Many Beagles, Terriers, and some herding breeds tend to bark more - not surprising, since this is one of the characteristics for which they were bred. Virtually all canine behavioral experts agree that the key to solving the problem of excessive barking is to understand what's causing it. To solve problem barking, you'll need some patience and understanding, but teaching your barker a couple of very basic obedience commands will help a lot, too. Oddly enough, teaching your dog to bark on command is a good way to teach them also how to stop. By learning when barking is desirable, they also learn what your word is for when to stop. What doesn't work: - Shouting "No" louder than the dog only makes things worse since the dog perceives this as YOU barking, too. It's not a long term solution; - Hugging or talking soothingly to the dog when barking is a "no no" because the dog comes to believe that there IS something of which to be concerned. Coddling simply reinforces barking. - Striking the dog doesn't address the cause of your dog's barking. If your dog is barking out of anxiety, hitting her only adds betrayal to the list of what worries her since she looks to you for guidance, not pain. - Throwing items AT the dog. This is a good way to ruin a show dog and also introduces another reason for the dog to bark. Throwing can-filled pennies is a method of distraction, but it needs to be done correctly. Keep reading. - Crating or confining the dog to a small space for hours and hours. This alone can cause barking. The leading causes of barking? Territorial/Protective Behavior Startled or Fear Barking Attention-Seeking or boredom Self-identification Play/Excitement Loneliness or Separation Anxiety Let's explore the cause and remedies for barking a bit more fully. Separation or Loneliness Anxiety: This is probably the leading cause of excessive barking; It can also be the most difficult to determine since it typically occurs when a dog's owner is gone. Unless the owner receives a complaint, they many never know they have a problem barker. Complicating the matter is trying to determine when barking IS excessive. Some neighbors have a hair trigger when it comes to barking and even a few normal "woofs" is enough to generate a complaint. Be suspicious of your dog if s/he displays behaviors that reflect a strong attachment to you, such as following you from room to room, greeting you frantically, or overreacting anxiously whenever you prepare to leave. Anxiety barking becomes self-reinforcing as a dog becomes more stimulated and anxious. The more anxious the dog, the higher in pitch the bark. These barks are especially audible to neighbors. Separation anxiety barking can be remedied with counter-conditioning, desensitization and teaching the dog how to relax. Commanding the dog to "lie down," for instance, is handy because reclining dogs don't bark as vigorously when lying down. The best way to desensitize a dog to your leaving is to run frequent "drills." Start out by pretending to leave the house by changing your habits. Most of us have predictable patterns of behavior before leaving the house and this contributes to the dog becoming anxious. If, for example, the last thing you do before leaving the house is to pick up car keys, DON'T pick up the car keys last, put your shoes on last instead - and then don't leave. Go to the couch and read a book; Pick up the phone and pretend to talk. If you play music but only on weekends when you are home, turn it on during your workdays. As hard as it may be, set your alarm on weekends, get up, but stay home. Continue changes in routine until your dog pays no attention to your cues anymore. It is also very important to not give your dog a lot of attention when you leave. Work your way up to actually leaving the dog for a very short time, say, a minute or two. Before the dog starts getting nervous and barking, come back into the house. You're not rewarding barking, you're rewarding relaxation and silence. Gradually extend the time you're gone, and return before the dog gets anxious. If your dog is anxious even if you leave the room, then you will need to start by just taking several steps away from her while she remains relaxed. You cannot go too slowly during this process - but you can go too fast. If you suspect your dog is lonely, hire a pet sitter or dog walker, or look into a "doggie day care center or play group," increasingly attractive and practical options that's a "win win" for all involved. You can expect to pay up to $25 a day, but it's far cheaper than fines or constant complaints from the neighbors. To find a doggie day care center or "play group" for your dog, consult your veterinarian, local training facility or check out the phone book. High end pet shops also typically know who in the area offers pet sitting or play group options and often carrying their business cards. Always remember that your dog is NOT punishing you, nor is he enjoying himself when he's barking because he's lonely or anxious. Think about how you feel when you're truly overwrought about something and you'll get an idea of how your dog feels. Be patient and understanding as you help your dog work through this - and keep communication open with disgruntled neighbors to show that you ARE working on the situation. Dog pounds are filled with confused and bewildered dogs who've been dumped there because their owners were either forced to give them up because of barking, or because they failed to work with the dog's problem. Barking for Attention Seeking or boredom: Dogs of any age quickly learn that humans pay attention to their barking. It doesn't matter if we're furious with them or that we've just shouted "NO!" Negative attention is still attention and reinforces barking. Hard as it may be, it's best to ignore this type of barking which can be like a persistent yap that turns into a howl. Sometimes, the use of a remote correction is helpful in controlling this type of barking: Coins in an empty soda can be tossed away from the dog which will distract him from barking. Timing is important and at this point, give the dog a substitute for barking such as a treat, a toy or a walk. Just make sure she stops barking before you give the substitute or the dog will perceive it as a reward for barking. If the dog is left alone a lot, has little chance to interact with you, has an environment devoid of companions or toys, or is a dog under three years old, the dog is probably barking out of boredom. Increase the dog's "people time" by taking walks, playing fetch or Frisbee®, teaching a few commands, attending an agility class, and providing safe, interesting toys to keep the dog busy. Kong®-type toys filled with peanut butter or broken up dog biscuits... busy-box toys... Treat Dispensing Balls, these are excellent choice. Rotating the toys will make them seem new and interesting, and hiding different toys around the dog's environment also helps. Self-identification barkers can be difficult to control, especially in a household of multiple dogs and PARTICULARLY if the dogs are kept outside. There's usually an instigator dog and other dogs tend to join in. This is the barking your dog does when s/he hears other dogs barking. It can be controlled by using obedience and relaxation methods, and by offering substitute behavior like playing with a toy. If the sound of other dogs barking gets your dog to start, you can teach her how to respond appropriately by visiting web sites where you can select various dog barks for your dog to hear. Just do a Google search on "dog barking audio." When your dog hears the computer barking and he starts barking, use the opportunity to teach your dog how to respond to by saying, "Enough." The very second your dog stops - if only to draw breath for the next bark - pop a treat in his mouth and gush, "Good boy!" Repeat. Do this daily and be sure to do it outside under "real" circumstances, as well. Territorial Alert and Warning barks are used to warn off intruders, be they man or beast. These warning barks are low in pitch, can be combined with growls - and if you've even heard your dog make this sound, you know that it's unlike any other sound your dog makes. Most of us appreciate this canine "early warning system" and think it's appropriate to reward with a "What is it, girl?" or "What do you hear, fella?" If and when no intruder appears, give the dog the command, "Enough" to show that you believe the alarm has passed and that it's okay to stop vocalizing. If the dog doesn't stop this menacing sound, however, believe the dog. Territorial barks become problematic when leveled at joggers, delivery people or kids on bicycles and can happen during walks or from the dog's own backyard. The dog's barking is reinforced by the fact that these people eventually leave, and now the dog thinks HE made the intruders go away with his barking. To stop this kind of barking, you need to teach the dog to respond to a command or signal to stop.There are a couple of ways to do this: One way is to start by making a noise to distract the dog from barking. AS SOON as the dog stops, say, "enough" and immediately reward the dog either with praise or a treat. Don't give the reward until the barking stops or the dog will think that it is being rewarded for barking, not for stopping the barking. Another approach is this one: When your dog begins to bark at a passerby, allow two or three barks, then say "enough" and interrupt the barking by squirting water into her mouth with a spray bottle or squirt gun. The surprise should cause her to stop barking, if only for a moment. In that moment, and while she's quiet, say "Good Dog!" in a happy voice and pop a treat into her mouth. The squirt isn't meant to punish her but to surprise her into quieting so you can reward her. Play/excitement barks are often short and sharp. These barks are common if the dog gets too excited with the game whether it's with you or another dog. When the barking is excessive, it's best to stop the play, let the dog(s) calm down, and only allow play to resume when the barking stops. if it starts up again, repeat the process. If it STILL continues, it's time for a substitute activity.In time the dog(s) will learn to play with their "inside" voice. Startled or Fear barking happens when the dog is faced with an unfamiliar or sudden sound or movement - like a car pulling into the driveway, or thunder. Your dog's posture indicates fear: ears back, tail held low...and his barks are short and crisp. This type of barking responds well to desensitivity training. In essence, you expose the dog to the sounds that consistently startle him. Start by recording the sound, like thunder, fire crackers, motorcycles,etc, or buy a recording of the sound. Play the sound to the dog very softly so that your dog will stay relaxed when hearing it. If she remains quiet, then reward her. Over days and weeks, gradually increase the volume until she is no longer startled into barking when she hears it. Ultimately, if nothing works to solve your dog's excessive barking behavior, you just may have a pathologic barker - a dog who barks in an obsessive-compulsive manner over inappropriate things (a leaf falling) or becomes hyper-excited and aggressive with the approach of people or other dogs. These dogs need more serious behavior modification and a team-approach is highly recommended. The team can be family members, dog friends, or anyone who is willing to work with the dog as long as they know to use the same commands in the same way as all the other team members. The services of a behavior modification expert can be highly useful in this scenario, as can a veterinarian who might recommend medication during the early going. We view medication as a last resort, but if faced with neighbors who are threatening to take you to court, your options are few. Speaking of options, there are other remedies for barking and we'd be remiss in not mentioning them, though we believe they don't attack the root of problem barking: the cause. These options include bark collars and de-barking. Bark collars work by producing a response to barking that the dog notices and presumably doesn't like. Be aware, however, that for some hard core barkers, they would rather bark and be punished than not bark at all. Citronella collars spray citrus scent or mist around the dog's muzzle when the dog barks. Some collars make a sound before spraying as an additional deterrent. In theory, dogs aren't supposed to like this smell, but we've heard of dogs who quite liked it. One positive aspect to a citrus collar is that it can alert you to the fact that your dog was barking while you were gone since the citrus smell still lingers in the air; Sonic/ultrasonic/vibration collars produce an allegedly inaudible note that over times, becomes annoying enough to the dog to deter barking. Electrical shock collars sting or shock the dog when the dog barks. We don't like them. Not only do we prefer positive reinforcement, but we also find that shock collars don't distinguish between normal barking and problematic barking. Ultimately, the collar punishes the dog for being a dog. We also don't like the fact that not all collars have a failsafe mechanism that shuts off after a certain time to prevent ongoing operation. Imagine if the dog get out of the yard or is lost and is stuck in the collar until the battery dies. Combination collars use both sound and spray together, while escalation collars use low levels of output that increase gradually until the barking stops. Escalation devices are a bit more "sporting" in that they "reward" the dog for stopping sooner and give the dog a chance to learn by inhibiting barking before a greater response is dispensed. Debarking (which is illegal in the UK) is intended to lower the volume of a dog's bark by surgically reducing tissue in the dog's vocal chords. Some vets use a punch to remove tissue, others make cuts, while still others use a laser. The dog can still bark but sounds "hoarse.' In some dogs, scar tissue can form and the dog will bark louder than when first debarked. This is a hotly debated topic in some circles, particularly in light of a move around the country by animal rights groups to outlaw debarking. Some people find the sound of a debarked dog more annoying than an actual bark, others find it to be their only option when faced with a pathological barker, neighbors threatening civil action and animal control breathing down their neck. We don't always get perfect dogs, but I haven't met one yet who wasn't worth the effort, time and patience. S.E.Szeremy is a writer and creator of KnobNots.com (the Friendly Alternative to Beware of Pet) and BabyKnobNots.com (Keep the Peace So Baby Can Sleep). She's been an owner/handler/breeder of Pulik since 1978. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Susi_Szeremy
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