About Dogs USA

How to Stop a Dog From Digging - Part 1 - Why Dogs Dig

2009-03-31T08:49:00.001-07:00

When determining how to stop a dog from digging we must first determine why they dig to begin with. There are two schools of thought about dogs and their digging habits, one is that they are doing what is natural and should be allowed free reign to do so, the second is that they should not even think about digging in this years rose bushes. Once we have determined why they feel this need it will be much easier to curb this behaviour.

There are many common reasons that explain why dogs feel the need to dig, all easily explainable and some easy to solve. One of the biggest reasons that we see holes in the yard is due to an under exercised dog, they use it was a way to burn off that pent up energy. Another reason for digging up the flower beds is simple boredom; bored dogs need something to keep them busy, something to do to pass the time. For some dogs it is just the need to explore the unknown and see what is on the other side of the fence. The last reason, and possibly one of the hardest to deal with is separation anxiety. To a dog that is desperately missing its owner, the most direct path to you is through that fence.

As you can see there is much to think about when determining how to stop a dog from digging. You would use a different method to stop a lonely dog than you would for a bored dog. Now that you have reviewed the whys, start thinking about ways to stop the digging. I will cover these in a later article.

For more information on How to Stop a Dog from Digging or other Behavioral Dog issues visit The Obedient K-9.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Adrian_Van_Drunen

Is a Dog Training Academy the Best Option?

2009-03-24T18:05:00.001-07:00

Jean C.

Most people want what is best for their dogs, so they will often send them to a dog training academy in order to get a proper education in obedience. Using a dog training academy to train your dog can definitely teach your dog these skills, but is it necessary? No.

There are many dog training courses available, such as "Secrets to Dog Training", which will help you train your own dog at home. This has many benefits and is a rewarding experience for your dog, and yourself. Training creates a bond between the dog and the trainer. Why would you want that bond to be established with someone other than you?

Dog training is a great way to get to know your dog on another level. It can be fun and rewarding. A lot of the time, if a dog is trained at an academy by a professional trainer, they will come home and revert back to their existing behavior. This can be frustrating for owners and very confusing to dogs. They often act based on their surroundings so if they are trained to act obediently at an academy, they will not know how to do it at home.

Training your dog establishes you as the "pack leader" and your dog will respect you and look up to you if he knows that you are the boss. Allowing a professional trainer to establish themselves as the boss to your dog isn't going to help you at home. Learning how to properly train your dog will help show your dog that you are the pack leader and the boss, not some other trainer.

Jean C is passionate about dogs and cats. She runs SeniorDogsAndCats.Com as an online resource for pet lovers who need help training and caring for their pets. Get free tips on dog training academy and more when you check out the site today!

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How to Exercise Your Dog in Cold Weather

2009-03-01T13:54:00.001-08:00

Eric Letendre

The first step is to make sure that you are properly dressed. Don't go outside until you have properly suited up. Close, boots, hats, scarves, etc. will make the exercise session which more enjoyable.

The next step is to make sure that your dog is properly dressed. Some dogs can handle the cold weather better than other dogs. Some dogs love the cold weather, Labrador retrievers, golden retrievers, German shepherds, Huskies, are examples of dogs that love cold weather and do not need any type of clothing.

Smaller breeds, in breeds with short coats do need some type of protection if the temperature is frigid. Chihuahuas, min pins, pit bulls, etc. are examples of dogs that do need some type of clothing if they are going to be outside for long periods.

In certain areas it is also a good idea to put booties on your dog's paws. In the city where there is a lot of salt and chemicals to melt the ice it is sometimes a good idea to protect your dog paw's. Some dogs will lick their paws after they have walked through areas that have been salted to melt the ice.

Depending on the size and age of your dog the amount of time that you are outside will vary. The dogs that are suited for cold weather can spend hours outside without getting cold. Some of the smaller dogs, and the younger dogs cannot handle the cold as well. Exercise sessions should be kept shorter. Keep in eye on your dog to see if they are in any discomfort.

Dog daycare is an excellent choice for dogs during cold weather months. Your dog can still get plenty of physical and mental stimulation at a dog daycare. Check your town for dog daycare is in your area.

How important is a well trained dog worth to you? Do you want your dog to stop jumping, come when called, walk on leash and more? Eric Letendre created the ultimate, easy to follow dog training ebook "101 Ways To Improve Your Dog's Behavior." Complete with dog training videos, step by step instructions and more. Best of all you can get it free! Get it here => http://amazingdogtrainingman.com

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Crate Training Dogs - How to Crate Train the Adult Rescue Dog

2009-02-22T15:19:00.001-08:00

Adrian Van Drunen

When it comes to crate training dogs, puppies are by far the easiest to train, as they are young they learn and adapt faster. At times, it is necessary to train an adult dog to use a crate. Most often these will be adult dogs that have been rescued from a shelter and have never learned the difference between indoors and outdoors when it comes to relieving themselves.

NOTE: Not all dogs can be crate trained; some will panic and could injure themselves.

When it's not a crisis and you have the time to dedicate to the process most dogs can be crate trained. To start this process you want to leave to door of the crate open, possibly put in some padding (if the dog is not a chewer). With the door open, start giving your dog some treats, let them have some meals in there as well, anything to reassure them that this is a happy place. Never overdo the length of time you have the dog in there, when they are ready to leave, let them. In the beginning their trust will be fragile and will be hard to regain once lost. Once the dog is happy and comfortable with the open door crate it is time to start closing the door, BRIEFLY, with the same types of positive reinforcement going on. Stay in the room for now until the comfort level is there, then you may start leaving the room...again...BRIEFLY to start. Once this comfort level is good you increase the periods you are gone for until you reach the time period you require.

As you can see when crate training dogs especially if an adult you must be patient and understanding, you don't want to push the animal or you may end up doing more harm than good. In the event that a crate is just not going to work, you may want to try a small area in the kitchen boarded off using baby gates.

For more information on Crate Training or other information about Obedience Training visit The Obedient K-9.

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Dog Training - Should You Obtain Professional Assistance?

2009-02-13T07:23:00.001-08:00

Jenny Johnson

Dog training can be a challenging and sometimes frustrating task. With that noted, it is also important for you be certain that you do not underestimate the importance of the training. Through this article you are provided some points to ponder if you are considering obtaining professional assistance.

The bottom line is that you absolutely do not want a companion animal that does not behave and conduct itself appropriately. In short, you do not want a pet that is out of control. Therefore, unless you definitely are willing to make the time commitment to fully train your four-legged friend, you absolutely will want to seek out an expert to help you out.

You may be like many people and actually find yourself balking at the idea of spending money on professional dog training. Yes, there obviously is a cost associated with it. However, you do need to appreciate that there are some pretty significant differences in the fees that are charged from one professional trainer to the next. Therefore, you definitely will want to spend some time shopping around in order to obtain the most reasonable fee.

Another factor that you will want to keep in mind is the fact that some of these experts very much include a pet's owner in the process. Therefore, you may want to consider engaging such a professional so that you will learn basic practices in regard to your companion animal at the same time your own dog is being educated.

In the final analysis, if you want a healthy and happy pet - and if you want a good relationship with your companion animal - you will want to give serious consideration to engaging the services of a dog training professional.

Find out everything you need to know about dog training by visiting: http://www.dogtrainingnet.com/category/dog-training

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Simple Grooming Tips For a Beautiful Dog

2009-01-23T15:30:00.001-08:00

Nancy Cope

Brush Me!

Brushing your dog often is important, especially for longer haired breeds. Even for short coated dogs brushing is important, because it helps remove the loose undercoat which can be very itchy and irritating. For short coated breeds use a curry comb or rake to bring up the loose hairs and remove them. You'll be surprised at how much hair comes off of your dog! For longer haired breeds use a brush with metal bristles to untangle mats, and then smooth the coat with a fine bristled brush. Taking care of mats is very important because if left they can trap moisture next to the skin which can lead to hot spots. Brush your dog at least three times a week for a glorious coat.

Rub a Dub Dub, One Doggy in the Tub

Bathing your dog is also important, but how often depends on his lifestyle. Is your dog outside a lot, or does he prefer the great indoors? Indoor dogs should only require a bath about once a month, unless they get into something stinky or yucky (such as dead animals or mud). A dog who spends time outdoors will get dirty more quickly, and will require more frequent baths. Still, you should restrict bathing to once a week at the most, too much bathing will dry out your dog's skin. After bathing try rubbing some tea tree oil into your dog's coat, it's a great natural deterrent to fleas and ticks.

Snip Snap

Don't forget to clip your dog's toenails as well. Long or jagged nails can be very painful for your pup, and can leave him vulnerable to all of the bacteria on the ground. To familiarize your dog with nail clippers start using them when he is a puppy, and feel free to give him lots of love and treats during and after the experience. Be careful not to cut the quick, which contains blood and nerves. To avoid this simply cut away from the point where the nail turns pink, or where the nail is hollow underneath (easier to find on dogs with white nails). Also, if your dog has a jagged edge, file it down so as to make him more comfortable.

Grooming your dog at home can save you lots of money, and help you to form a closer relationship with your dog. Have fun in getting beautiful!

Article by Nancy Cope of IDogCharms - the place to shop for dog charms and dog jewelry.

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A Shockingly Easy Way to Stop a Dog From Barking

2009-01-08T15:26:00.001-08:00

Cary Benjamin

Stopping your dog from barking is usually the second most frustrating reason why dog owners want to take their dog to obedience training (next to housebreaking). Before you can even attempt to stop your dog from barking at everything that moves, you need to understand a few simple but important facts. Once you understand these, getting them to stop is easy.

First, you cannot expect your dog to stop barking altogether. What you can do is teach you dog when it is OK to bark and when it is not. You may even want to create a trigger word where the dog can bark on command. If you use a word which will trigger your dog to bark on command, you will greatly reduce the urge he or she feels to randomly bark without giving that command. For instance, train your dog to bark when you tell them "Rover, speak!"

Next, you want to move on to actually stopping your dog from barking when they are not supposed to. Usually the dog is barking for a reason, even if it isn't blatantly apparent to you at first.

Sometimes they are trying to alert you of danger or trying to get your attention to something. The key here is to think about what it may be that is causing your dog to bark and acknowledge it (and remove it if necessary). Then acknowledge your dog by saying something like, "Thank you, Rover. I see the squirrel (as you point to it). Now that's enough barking." Use a firm, but very calming and polite tone. The dog should pick up on your acknowledgment and stop.

This method should get you started in the right direction to a well behaved and quieter dog.

To find more useful tips on how to quickly train your dog to listen to anything they say, Click Here.

Discover how a revolutionary dog trainer used a breakthrough dog training method to quickly calm 2 ex-fight dogs! Visit http://www.dogobediencesystem.com and see for yourself how you can use this exact same system to get your dog to listen to your every word.

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Outdoor Dog Beds For All Weather

2009-01-05T07:16:00.001-08:00

Johnathan Livingston

While many may wonder why anyone should buy outdoor dog beds, there's actually very good reason why your pet should have one, even if he spends a lot of time outside. Don't the animals sleep just fine on the ground or in their houses? Actually, if your pooch stays outside most of the time, he probably needs one even more than if he stayed inside.

Outdoor dog beds keep your pet off the ground, which can be hard and rough on bones and joints. As the weather turns cooler the ground becomes even more cold and damp than the outside air. This can cause even more joint problems and aches and pains. It also makes it harder for the animal to stay warm. Most of their houses aren't insulated well enough to do to the job, so their own cozy spot to sleep in keeps them much more comfortable when winter rears its head.

Outdoor dog beds can make your four-legged friend feel more secure. It gives him a special place all his own that's more comfortable than a house or any spot of ground, no matter how soft. It's dry, even if the ground is damp, and covered in his scent more than any of his outside areas, to make him feel more at home.

Outdoor dog beds can be orthopedic. Some are designed with quilting or extra support intended for the animal who needs it. Any pets who've been bothered with arthritis, stiffness or bone or joint injuries can benefit from this type. It doesn't just keep them warmer because they're off the ground but it supports their frame and relieves pressure off overworked joints.

Because the weather can change quickly, outdoor dog beds are weatherproof. Most have comfortable exteriors that resists stains, water and snags and can be wiped clean or removed and washed for convenience. Firmer units have waterproofing to keep the inside dry. Softer outdoor dog beds generally have coatings that are resistant to water unless they're immersed to be washed.

Outdoor dog beds can be found to give animals special comfort in hot or cold weather. Heated ones ensure that your pooch keeps warm as winter approaches. They can be used outside, in their houses, to cushion against the cold surfaces of porches or garages-wherever your pup sleeps. For the summertime, you can find special pads designed to keep doggies cool. A soak in cold water fills the gel beads inside with coolness. The outside is towel-dried so that there's no wet surface, and your pooch can laze about and get cooled off no matter how hot the weather outside.

Many outdoor dog beds aren't just easily moved inside and outside, they're good for traveling. Some roll up like a sleeping bag for easy packing and can be tossed in any washing machine. And you can even buy portable hammocks for pups. They don't offer the warmth or special supports some other beds do, but they're still better than the hard ground. And their small size and easy portability make them great for pooches on the go. They're more like animal-sized cots than mattresses, and hold your pup up on weather-resistant nylon that's easily removed and washed.

Outdoor dog beds can still feel luxurious for your pet. Some come with microfiber suede coverings that feel wonderful to the touch, but clean up beautifully. You can even find imitation lambswool covers that resist dirt and dampness, while adding extra softness to your pup's sleeping spot.

And no matter what your dog's size, you can find outdoor dog beds to fit. Measure your pooch while he's laying down to see how much room he actually takes up and be sure to choose a bed that's larger. This makes sure he doesn't feel cramped in his sleeping spot, and that he can stretch out and make himself as comfortable as possible.

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 need to keep your pet healthy and happy.

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Puppy Health - Priority Number 1 For New Dog Owners!

2008-12-27T07:10:00.001-08:00

Melanie Ullman

Puppy health is one of the most important considerations in raising your canine. Who can resist a happy, playful puppy? Puppies are fun to play with. They are a bundle of energy and love to run around, jump on you, drool everywhere and just view their world as a one great big place full of interesting things to sniff, chew, and bury. Puppies are great for a family, there is so much potential to create and mold a dog of your choosing. A healthy puppy is easier to train, more apt to learn tricks, and are overtly ready to please their master.

When you first get a puppy, you need to take it to a vet for an inital check up. This is a great time to install a "locator chip" in case the puppy runs away from home or gets lost or stolen. These are tiny microchips that the vet 'injects' under the puppy's skin - they work like a "lo-jack" or GPS on a car.

The vet will give it a full diagnosis and look for common abnormalities. The first round of inoculations will start here too. Core shots for Rabies, Rabies, canine distemper, canine parvovirus, canine hepatitis virus, adenovirus -2, plus the one required by the county incase there is a high concentration of bacteria or viruses where you live.

After the check up and the initial visit, be sure to buy food that is tailored to your dogs breed and dietary need. Puppies grow quickly so they need a different blend to help keep their bones and muscles in top condition while they grow.

Puppy health should be a dog owner's Number 1 priority. And you can learn virtually everything about pet health simply by reading up on some of the many sites devoted to the subject, such as the NIH's pet health site, or PetzTown.

Click here for PetzTown's information about Puppy Health!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Melanie_Ullman

A Dog Is For Life Not Just For Christmas

2008-12-22T04:49:00.001-08:00

Steve Hill

My family run an animal sanctuary in Birmingham, England. Even though we love what we do, we feel that some people need to realise that a pet should be a long term commitment. They should not be seen as just a bit of fun which they can then get rid of when they get bored.

Many people arrive at the animal sanctuary with their pets, which are mainly dogs, with many excuses as to why they are no longer able to look after or care for them. I am sure many of their reasons are valid but am also aware that many others are just an excuse to offload them.

The excuses they give are varied:

I have recently divorced from my husband and can no longer afford to keep this dog as a pet

The dog has started to bite my children

The dog is too difficult to handle and is destroying my furniture

We have recently moved into a flat. One of their rules is that no animals can live in these flats

The dog barks to much and it is upsetting the neighbours

Our other animals do not like the dog

The dog is affecting my health

I am too ill to look after my dog

It is not our role to question these reasons but what we then need to do is to find another suitable home for the dogs. This is easier said than done as we need to ensure that the new owners will be able to care for them, for hopefully the duration of their life.

We also keep many of the dogs as our own pets, especially the ones which nobody else seems to want. One such dog is called Cassie. She is full of life and has been ill treated it seems when she was a puppy. Half of her left ear is missing and she is seemingly quite afraid of men.

Cassie is need of a huge amount of care and attention. She can be too lively at times which is possibly why three people who attempted to re-home her, have bought her back. She is not aggressive in any way but does tend to jump up at people.

What we did with Cassie and what we will continue to do, is to give her lots of love but also a little bit of training of what is good and what is not acceptable. It takes a long time, but she is now able to understand that the jumping is not wanted and that she needs to chill out at times.

Cassie is turning into a wonderful dog to have around the house and now feels for the first time as part of a family.

With a little more patience most other dogs can turn out this way. This is why we want more people to take more responsibility and to give their animals more of a chance to settle into their homes, and to get used to a new set of rules.

Having animals as pets can be very rewarding, nearly as rewarding as having a child. A dog however will rarely answer you back.

If you are having problems with your animals you can always phone up animal sanctuaries for advice and to hear about possible solutions. The people who work there are animal lovers and will help you as much as they can.

If you are unable to continue looking after the pet, the sanctuary should be able to take them off you.

Stephen Hill helps to promote a number of websites including:

stuttering

guide to playing poker

quit smoking tips

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Dangers of Dogs Eating Chocolate

2008-12-19T14:44:00.001-08:00

Jon Dakins

Chocolate treats should never be given to your dog. Chocolate contains two elements that are dangerous for dogs' health. The first, caffeine, is one that you are familiar with. This speeds up the central nervous system and is undesirable to introduce into your dog's body. The second element is a substance called theobromine, (C7-H8-N4-O2). Theobromine is present in chocolate, tea, soda, and some other foods. It is a natural component of the cacao beans.

While the percentage of theobromine varies depending on the type of chocolate, excessive levels of theobromine in a dog's system will induce toxicity, with symptoms ranging from nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and increased urination (as the body tries to expel the substance) to cardiac arrhythmias, epileptic seizures, internal bleeding, cardiac arrest, and death. Restlessness and agitation are other visible symptoms of health problems.

We can digest it. Dogs cannot. Their system is unable to safely metabolize theobromine. The chemical is not broken down well enough or fast enough when consumed. It affects the dog's central nervous system and basically throws it into a panic state.

It is estimated that a dog will experience intestinal distress and, potentially, other symptoms if he eats 240 kg of dark chocolate (8.5 ounces) but may only experience intestinal distress if a corresponding level of refined milk chocolate is consumed. Levels less than 1.1 pounds may create symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea, without progressing to the fatal end of the spectrum. A medium bag of peanut M&M's contains 396.9 grams, which is approximately 0.88 pounds. A dog who eats the whole bag will have intestinal problems but may not exhibit symptoms such as cardiac arrhythmias. A dog who eats two may die.

Dark chocolate and baker's chocolate have higher levels of theobromine than the refined chocolate candies. But no chocolate candy is appropriate for your dog to consume.

During the holiday seasons, keep an eye out for platters of brownies or chocolate cookies that are left out for guests. At Halloween time, make sure that the treats for the neighborhood kids are stored safely away. Throughout the year be careful to store your chocolate treats in locations that cannot be reached.

Should your dog get his paws on too much chocolate, contact your vet immediately. Induce vomiting, using Syrup of Ipecac or hydrogen peroxide. Follow this by administering activated charcoal, which binds with the poison to prevent processing and absorption into the dog's bloodstream.

Discuss emergency procedures with your dog's veterinarian during your first visit and make sure you understand how to handle an emergency. Keep contact numbers handy for your vet and a local animal hospital.

1. http://shop.dogacademy.com/forbidden-foods-free-tips.aspx
2. http://www.sciencelab.com/xMSDS-Theobromine-9925229
3. http://www.bigpawsonly.com/chocolate-poisoning-in-dogs-health.htm

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Dog Christmas Outfits - Dog Santa Suits and Dog Holiday Sweaters Express Your Spirit

2008-12-05T18:42:00.001-08:00

James D Nash

Well it is that time of year once again and everyone is wanting to get into the holiday spirit; why should your dog be any different? When it comes to making sure your dog's holiday spirit is at its finest, that is when you need to look at getting him or her dog Christmas outfits. There are many great choices out there to choose from and almost all of them are the cutest outfits that you have ever seen.

Getting these dog Christmas outfits though can be a daunting task. Perhaps if you are lucky enough, the local pet store may carry hats, but that is only if you are lucky. You could try making some yourself, but that is only if you have the time to dedicate to a project like that. Your best bet though to save money and time is simply by purchasing them online. You see you will save two different ways. For starters, they are cheap because of no warehousing costs. Secondly, you will save money by not having to use gas to travel around to the different shops looking for what you are in need of.

When it comes to actually choosing which dog Christmas outfits are perfect for your dog, that is a whole other ball game in itself. For starters you could go all the way and get a dog Santa Suit outfit. However this full suit is not perfect for every dog and in those cases you can settle for a dog Santa's Little Helper outfit or even a simple Santa's Paws t-shirt. Of course if this is still too much for you then there is still the traditional Christmas hat that you can get.

The choice though is ultimately up to you, but this holiday season, doesn't it just make sense to let your dog be part of the festivities? After all, isn't your dog a member of the family and loves the attention no only from you, but also all of the great new boxes, papers and ribbons that he gets to play with after the presents have been opened? Get your dog in the perfect holiday spirit by making sure that you have some dog holiday outfits on hand that fit perfectly and just makes your dog the most adorable and of course the cutest dog on the block.

You can find many different dog supplies at blowout prices right now!

View a wide selection of dog holiday sweaters that come with a lifetime return policy and A-1 customer service.

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Clicker Dog Training - Kind Dog Training

2008-11-17T18:51:00.001-08:00

Ossie Hickson

Clicker training is an established method of training amongst the more modern behavioural dog trainers, in fact in many forms it has been around for a long time amongst animal trainers. It is a common misconception that circus animals and zoo animals taught to put on a show were historically taught using cruel methods, but not so. So, back to the clicker.

A clicker is a small device held in the hand of the trainer or owner which, unsurprisingly, creates a "click" sound. The sound is made to tell the dog it has done something right. For example, you ask the dog to "sit" and he does so. Immediately his bottom touches the floor, the clicker is used to make the noise, denoting "good job". The instant and succinct sound pinpoints the exact moment when the dog has done what you want.

Example of Clicker Training:

As one example of how this method works on a step-by-step basis, here is a typical scenario:

Sit gesture is shown to the dog.The word "sit" is used in conjunction with the hand signal.

The dog sits. His bottom touches the floor.
The word "sit" is used in conjunction with the hand signal.
At the very second that 3. occurs, the clicker is activated.
The clicker noise is immediately followed by a treat and praise.

The Basic Principle

But what's in it for the dog? Ah, well, when you begin with clicker training you make a positive association in his mind with the clicker sound by following the click immediately with a food-based reward. This is an exercise in itself to establish great associations with the click sound. Eventually you can withdraw the use of the food treat, but the association is then established and the dog will behave purely for the reward of the click alone.

A slight issue with clicker training is that the trainer must be equipped at all times with the clicker (so it is wise to buy a few of these inexpensive items, to make sure you always have one to hand) and the food treats. It's not difficult to do, but timing is everything as the dog behaviour - click - reward routine must be instantaneous.

There's no reason to have an untrained, unruly dog who embarrasses you in public. Get the information you need on Dog Ticker Training, an easy, swift and effective way to train your dog. If you want to learn more about dog training using a clicker, visit petdoglogy.com and find out more about Pet Dog Training There's no reason to have an untrained, unruly dog who embarrasses you in public.

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Expectations With the Birth of Your Dog's Puppies

2008-11-12T16:49:00.001-08:00

Kimberly Edwards

There is so much to say about this topic, but I'm going to give you a condensed version of what to expect with the birth of your dog's puppies.

* Tip: It is of utmost importance to know how many puppies your dog has determined by an ultrasound or x-ray, so that you know if she is in trouble when in labor! Have this done around 4 weeks after mating.

1. She will have a discharge (sort of like water breaking).

* Tip: Either prior to this or after, she will be frantically trying to nest. You will notice her very diligently arranging blankets, trying to get under a bed or tearing up paper. So, it is essential that you show her to the whelping box you have already prepared for your dog specifically for this purpose. Otherwise, you'll have a REAL mess on your hands, and likely some ruined furniture, blankets, carpet or clothing.

2. Within about 2 hrs, she should have delivered her 1st puppy.

* Tip: If no puppy appears within 3 hrs, contact a vet immediately!

3. The period of time between puppies could be up to 2 hrs.

* Tip: Be sure to write down how long she labored with each puppy, and if it is a front birth or breach, and the weight of each dog using a kitchen scale (for smaller measurements). If you know your dog has more puppies to come out, but it has been more than 2 hrs, contact your vet immediately!

* Tip: If your dogs are purebred and you have papers documenting that fact from the World Wide Kennel Club or similar entity, they will provide you with forms that you will NEED to fill out in their entirety to be sure the puppies can be registered purebreds too. It could take a few weeks for them to mail them to you, so prepare for this in advance!

4. The mother dog needs to eat the placenta of each puppy, so be sure that a placenta comes out with each puppy. It is your responsibility to make sure this happens! She will likely lick the puppy clean too. If she does not, you will need to gently wipe off each puppy with a warm, damp towel.

5. You will likely need to cut the umbilical cords of each puppy, so use a pair of brand new surgical scissors that you have disinfected with alcohol or peroxide prior to this point.

* Tip: DO NOT cut them any closer than 1? from the puppy's skin!

6. The puppies will be hungry, and each puppy needs to have 1 teat/nipple.

* Tip: The teats closer to the dogs armpits, for some reason, are more nourishing. It is important to reserve these teats for the smaller pups or runt of the litter.

* Tip: Do NOT let the puppies just go to whichever teat they feel like. 1 teat/puppy is a strict rule. Why? Because the 1st suckling from each teat is what each dog absolutely needs! DO NOT let a puppy go to 2 teats before each puppy has had their turn at a fresh teat!

7. If your dog is still laboring 1-2 hrs after the last puppy has arrived, call your vet immediately!

8. If your dog is a breed that requires it's ears or tails docked, such as miniature schnauzers, this needs to be done within the 1st 3 days after birth. Also, it is a good idea to have their dew claws removed as well!

by Kimberly Edwards

Kimberly Edwards is the founder of Terrier Lover - Awesome Information and History on the Terrier Breed, Health, Dog Grooming, Dog Breeding, Tips & Tricks, Dog Training, Stories and More. Learn all you need to know about the Terrier dog @ http://www.TerrierLover.com.

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Dog Training - A Vital Component of Your Dog's Life

2008-10-19T17:19:00.001-07:00

Angela Jennings

A dog is one of the best pets anyone could ever own. They are a companion, a friend, and most importantly a huge part of your family. It is extremely important to train your dog right in order to get maximum enjoyment out of your dog. Here are some tips below on how to help you easily train your dog!

1. Trainer Awareness

When you are training your dog it is a MUST to give your dog your 100% attention when training them. Focus 100% on your dog with minimal multi-tasking. If you can give your dog 100% while training them, you will get much quicker results.

2. Control Your Voice

One of the most important parts of training any dog is voice control. The trainer of a dog MUST use his/her voice in order to train a dog properly. To get a dogs attention the trainer must use a short and firm command mixed in with excitement in you trainers voice to get the dog to come to you. Use of a quick command will get your dogs attention and should be used for that purpose ONLY! Once you establish voice control, it is smooth sailing with training your dog. It is important to show your dog who is boss right away, otherwise the dog will not obey you one bit.

3. Body Language

One of the most important things to use when training a dog is body language. Using hand signals will help your dog understand the command you are telling it to do. Eventually you can do away with the hand signals and use only voice commands. When starting out, hand signals definitely make it easier to train your dog. For example, a proper hand signal to get your dog to speak is a slight twitch of your wrist. By slightly twisting your wrist, your dog should be able to speak on command.

4. Treats

One of the best ways to train your dog is using treats as a reward for a job well done. The use of treats can have a great effect on training your dog. When training your dog, you should NEVER feed them before training them a new trick. They need to be hungry and want that treat you are going to give them for listening to your command. Treats are one of the surefire ways to get your dog to listen to you in a heart beat.

Many trainers fail to use treats as a means of positive reinforcement for your dog's good job in obeying a command. Out of all the different dog training techniques, using treats as a positive reinforcement for a job well done is the best and easiest way to train your dog. If you ever take your dog to a dog training school to get your dog professionally trained, you will see that treats are the main ingredient being used in your dog's proper training success.

I wish you the best of luck in training your dog and if you use these 4 techniques listed in this article, you definitely will have great results!

Tired of not understand how to train your dog? Wish there was an easy and simple way to make your dog act obedient and to stop barking? Now there is an idiot proof, 100% guaranteed way to dog training your dog quickly and easily. Go to http://www.stopbarkingdognow.com/ now!

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Dog Training - How to Train Your Dog to Bark

2008-10-02T20:05:00.001-07:00

Rikard Ingvarsson

Most of the dogs bark without knowing whether it's something for good or bad. Untrained dogs just keep on barking on almost everything. This kind of barking is a bad habit that starts early in the form of whining. In most cases, whenever the puppies are kept alone, they start making a sympathy-wining sound, and just to stop this nuisance its master gives the things he is whining for, or do the thing which will stop the constant whining. Getting this kind of indulgence, the whining gradually turns into barking habit if not checked properly.

The dog owners should never get pity at the whining but must cut out this annoying habit from the very beginning with a brawny sound "NO". It is better not to expect the unruly barking to get under command overnight though, if that already has become a habit. It may take several week-long consistent repetition of training process to replace the old bad habit with a new good barking habit. But of course, with such a constant session of training dog will adopt the new habit of significant barking for a sensible and controlled span of time instead that old irritating nuisance. Later on, the owner's should make the dog to follow up the new habit of sensible barking through constant practice; else the dog may get back to his old relentless and unruly barking habits again.

However, it may so happen that someone is not an adept or expert in dog training and learn about these late in the day when his dog's habit of barking has already become old and pronounced. At that point of time, things become a little difficult to control the nuisance. However, No matter how old the dog is or how late the owner is in implementing his expertise; he must start patiently to reform the habit of his dog.

First one has to grind into the dog's brain the order "NO". If the dog receives it well, the other commands and training can be applied by and by. The owner can give a constant command "BARK" holding a particular object like a ball or toy making squeak sound, causing the dog to bark. As soon as the dog starts barking he should be praised with "GOOD" and must get some food or the ball as reward. This process should be continued for three to four times at least, or until the dog completely recognize the command "BARK".

Now, when the master thinks his dog has barked enough and need to get quiet, he should command in a stern voice "STOP" or "ENOUGH", putting his palm on top of the muzzle of his dog. As soon as the dog stops barking he should be rewarded with a treat or praise. This "STOP" command can be implemented in various situations to restrict his activity.

The training process gradually should be changed from ball or toy to a knocking sound at the door, so that the dog can get the command at varied situations. After enough practice and repetition of the training process the dog will learn the command "BARK" or "STOP" and they no longer will expect the rewards from his owner.

Save yourself a lot of time as a dog owner and train your dog to be obedient. It gets so much easier for both you and your dog when you have trained your dog's obedience. Click here to learn more about training your dog.

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How Sit Stay Fetch Effectively Helps Dog Owners Train Their Dogs

2008-09-01T15:07:00.001-07:00

Suzie Springer

Are you are a dog owner that has a new puppy that you would like to train, or do you simply own a dog that has some behavior problems? If you answered yes, you might want to consider taking sometime to read the book SitStayFetch. When I purchased SitStayFetch I noticed that it contained a wealth of information that was simple to understand, and easy to apply.

This book has over 150 pages of dog training techniques and methods that are being used by professional dog trainers. SitStayFetch is one of the most comprehensive and complete dog training tools that I have found. The training secrets that are reviled in SitStayFetch have been proven time, and time again to work if they are followed.

When I discovered this book, I was the proud new owner of a four month old chiwawa that I had no idea how to train. I had tried some different house breaking techniques that my friends and family members recommended, but none of the advice they gave me seemed to work. I had just about given up on the idea of housebreaking Alfalfa when my veterinarian recommended this dog training package. After reading the book I applied the house training techniques that were given, and within a month my puppy completely housebroken. Since then I have used this book to deal with separation anxiety, excessive barking, jealousy, and I have taught him a number of basic commands.

This book covers everything that dog owners needs to know, it seem like nothing has been left out of this book. If you have a specific question or problem that isn't addressed in book you can email the author Daniel Stevens for the answer! Daniel Stevens, is a professional dog trainer that obviously knows his stuff, he understands how dogs think, and what makes them tick. If you are struggling to correct a behavioral problem, or you would simply like to teach your dog a new trick, you will find the answerers to all of your dog training questions in this book.

If you would like to learn what other dog owners are saying about SitStayFetch then you need to visit: http://www.Squidoo.com/SitStayFetch101

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Suzie_Springer

Your Dogs Diet and How Treats Affect It

2008-08-23T13:29:00.001-07:00

Graham Williams

Most people just do not know the importance of choosing a healthy dog diet. They do not take the time or make the effort to consult there trusted vet about a healthy and nutritious dog diet. It is important to know, even is you use dried food, canned dog food, or make it yourself, that you are most probably not supplying your dog with a vitamin rich healthy diet.

Most people give there pet a treat to chew, such a rawhide one, these given in moderation are fine. But you also need to consider, that any treat you give your pet, is a part of your dogs diet. The question you need to ask yourself is, do you give your pet to many treats?

What type of treats you give your pet makes i big difference to there diet. One of the worst things that can be done, is to give table scraps or junk food to your pet. Junk food that you eat becomes junk food for your pet. Also a mistake that can easily be made is to give your pet what is considered as healthy food for humans. Why? Because being healthy food for humans does not necessarily mean it is healthy food for your dog.

A good example of this is raisins, they are healthy for us, but can be extremely detrimental to the health of your dog. You should always try, when giving treats or it is snack time for your pet to make sure it is a healthy one.

Rawhide treats often spark controversy. Some vets and pet owners feel they are not a healthy treat for your pet. While others feel that rawhide treats are good for the dental health of your dog as well as supplying them with some amusement. As always when in doubt you should consult your vet for there opinion . If you do decide to include rawhides in your dogs diet, do so in moderation. If they are not given in moderation they can cause thin stools.

For the most part, dogs don't care if you give them a baby carrot, rawhide chew, or a milk bone, they are just happy to receive a snack. If you do provide various treats during the course of the day, then you may need to consider altering your dogs diet, this will help avoid obesity in your pet. Giving your pet to many treats may be fun for your dog and you, but the downside of this can be serious health problems.

Such treats as, Ice cubes, small bits of apple, and baby carrots are terrific healthy treat ideas for you to consider when choosing a healthy diet for your dog. These treats will make little difference overall to your pets diet and this way, you will be able to focus solely on the food that is consumed during there mealtime. Your dogs diet needs to be healthy one, this will ensure a long and happy life for your pet.

For more free information on your dogs diet try visiting http://www.freedogdiettips.com/ A popular website that provides dog diet and health tips, advice and resources to include information on your Dogs Diet Tips

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Graham_Williams

Are You Interested In A Dog Training Career?

2008-08-10T18:25:00.001-07:00

Sergio Resende

Are you looking for information about a possible dog training career? Do you also have a sense of community and volunteerism? If so, then you may consider working with guide dogs for the blind, deaf, and otherwise disabled. There are many organizations that train and provide such dogs and there are usually many paid and volunteer positions available for anyone interested in a dog training career.

For example, Leader Dogs for the Blind, headquartered in Rochester, Michigan, is one of the first and most respected of these organizations that train and then match leader dogs. Many businesses around their headquarters are used to seeing dogs in training being walked around inside and out. Their trainers are patient, understanding, and very involved with their dog training career and take their responsibilities very seriously. When you consider that it costs about $10,000 for this organization to house, feed, train, and then match just one dog, you understand why! It's also important to note that not all dogs pass their training program, as some are too skittish, playful, or simply don't take direction well. One of the hardest parts of any dog training career is having to "flunk" a dog and return it to its original owner or find a new one rather than match it to a disabled person. However, when you do have a dog finish the training and successfully matched with a disabled person there is no doubt a tremendous sense of accomplishment, knowing that you're going to not only have someone be helped in a significant way for years to come, you also know that this dog will have a loyal friend and companion in their new owner.

To get involved in this type of dog training career you probably need a degree in Guide Dog Mobility. San Francisco University offers such a program and has been graduating students from this Master's program for years, many of which are then matched to an organization that trains guide dogs and helper dogs both.

Of course you don't need a Master's degree for a dog training career; there are many volunteer opportunities available for anyone that loves dogs, is willing to work hard with them, and has unlimited patience and understanding. For example, most organizations that train guide dogs need constant help with fundraising. You may be able to organize and host some type of event that would raise money for them, such as a marathon, dinner, and so on. You may also find that a dog training career involves taking care of the dogs once they're finished with their training for the day. Grooming them, feeding them, and playing with them can be a very satisfying way of knowing that you're doing your part to make sure these dogs are well cared for.

Anyone interested in a dog training career is to be commended, especially if you're considering such a career in order to help someone that is blind or otherwise disabled.

If you want to transform your dog into an obedient and composed "poised pooch" that will follow your every command and behave under ANY circumstances, visit the link below to learn how.

House Training Your Dog

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sergio_Resende

Teaching Guide Dogs is Just Like Teaching Kids Piano

2008-08-03T15:17:00.001-07:00

John Aschenbrenner

My office overlooks the streets of a small town where guide dogs for the blind are trained.

A common sight is a trainer with a dog, learning the various skills the dogs must know to care for their master.

I see the dog-trainer teams gather for a rest near their van, which delivers them to the city streets for the training. You can see the dogs close up and I must say I've never seen dogs smile quite so much as these happy animals.

As I walked by another team, I saw the trainer gently pull on the dog's harness and whisper something to the dog, which then smiled and stopped. The trainer handed the dog a treat.

Suddenly it occurred to me, "If only all piano teachers were as patient as these trainers, then all the kids taking piano would be as happy as these guide dogs."

And patience was the key. You could see that the trainers were very gentle and calm, and never used any negative reinforcement. The proof of this was the smile on the dogs face.

Rather, the trainers whispered gently to the dogs, more or less as I do with the children, during lessons. Read my article The Piano Whisperer for more on that.

And another thing that struck me was the similarity of the smile on the dogs and the children's faces.

It was a calm, happy smile of contentment, knowing that they were doing well at whatever their instructor had in mind. You could see the trust between the dog and the trainer.

It is the same bond of trust the piano teacher must have with a child.

In essence, the child must trust that you will not go too fast and will not be negative.

Imagine the result with the dogs if you were impatient and negative. They would sense it in a second, and would probably be impossible to train or handle in that mood.

It's the same with kids. How do you expect them to do their job calmly and well if they are stressed by the teacher's behavior and evaluation?

Keep smiling, kids, so you can lead us blind adults.

John Aschenbrenner is an Emmy Award Winning Composer and a leading children's music educator, book publisher, and the author of numerous fun piano method books in the series PIANO BY NUMBER for kids.
You can see the PIANO BY NUMBER series at http://www.pianoiseasy.com and http://www.pianoiseasy2.com

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Dog Clothes For Summer - Choosing the Right Fashions For a Pampered Pet

2008-07-26T14:17:00.001-07:00

Grant Carroll

When summer arrives, dog owners grab their pooch and head outdoors for a walk. Dressing a dog in apparel may seem strange, but haut couture can make any canine's summer extra fun. The doggie breeds that usually need clothing are Chihuahuas, Miniature Pinschers, Miniature Poodles, Dachshunds, Chinese Crested and all terrier breeds. Your Labrador or Doberman can dress up for fun, too. Summer fashions aren't needed on a dog except for sun protection. Pet Parents just like to play fetch with that dog wearing a camo tank top for a cute photo or to attract attention, and that's okay. There are several staple pieces of clothing you need for your canine's wardrobe.

Tank tops are great for going to the beach or any other outdoor adventure. Camouflage is a popular pattern for all dog clothes, and tank tops are no different. A camo tank with mesh fabric on the side provides extra ventilation on hot summer days. Sports jerseys are perfect for going to a baseball game or hitting the basketball court. Football jerseys often come in colors of pro teams and are great for kickoff time.

Summer is also the time to shop for the perfect dog collar. This is necessary for hounds that don't want clothes to put on at all. Rhinestone collars are made for the pooch with sophisticated style, and leather collars are a fashionable, basic piece for any doggie. Of course, no summer vacation would be complete without a carrier to go with Fido's summer attire. A floral print carrier for your pet is a great design for the warm, relaxing vacations, and will give poochie a comfy place to rest on long road trips. Summer is a time to play dress up with your furry baby.

Grant Carroll is the loving father of four dogs and co-owner of http://www.littlepamperedpets.com with affordable pet clothes for dogs of all sizes and breed. This summer, visit Little Pampered Pets to find dog apparel to match any puppy's personality! Keep your pampered pooch in fashion this summer in anything from our dog dresses to pet t-shirts. There are pet accessories and dog gifts for every occassion. Little Pampered Pets specializes in fun dog clothing perfect to keep your four-legged best friend dressed to success this spring and summer. Whether you have a tiny Chihuahua or a Great Dane it is important to keep protect them this summer from the sun...and your doggie might as well be fashionable while dressed!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Grant_Carroll

Parked Cars Deadly For Dogs In Summer

2008-07-17T18:44:00.001-07:00

William Link

Leaving a child unattended in a car has become a surefire way to get served with a lawsuit and criminal charges. You can bring your child almost anywhere with you anyway, so why take the risk? However, many places are not so accommodating to dogs. If your dog loves car rides you have a decision to make: do you leave your dog in your car or do you leave him at home?

If you're science-averse or already know the details, feel free to skip the following description of why sealed cars can be dangerous.

Your Car Can Become A Miniature Greenhouse
Shortwave radiation from the sun enters through the windows, then hits the dashboard, seats, and steering wheel. In many cars these surfaces are a dark color. It's common knowledge that dark colors absorb shortwave radiation well so they heat up quickly, but that's not the whole story.

The dark dashboard, seats and steering wheel also heat the surrounding air via conduction and convection. Additionally, they give off longwave radiation, which spreads heat throughout the vehicle, effectively turning your car into a miniature greenhouse.

Stanford Study Finds Heat Can Be Extreme
The heating effect can be extreme and it can happen regardless of the temperature outside; if there is even a chance that the outside temperature may exceed 70 degrees on a sunny day, the heat can build up dangerously fast. A 2002 Stanford University study explored just how much change you can expect.

Using a dark blue mid-size sedan with a medium gray interior, they found that the average interior temperature increased by more than 40 degrees in one hour. 80% of the increase occurred in the first half-hour and heating was particularly brutal in the first 10 minutes, which saw an average jump of 20 degrees. On the hottest days, the final temperature exceeded 130 degrees but on all days the final temperature exceeded 110 degrees, even when the outdoor temperature was in the low 70s.

What If I Leave The Windows Down?
Can cracking a window open help? Unfortunately no, says the study, as opening the window decreased the rate of heating by less than 1 degree per minute and the final temperature remained close to what it was when the windows were closed.

This is so dangerous to dogs because of how they deal with excess heat. They only sweat through their paws, which doesn't cool their bodies quickly enough. To compensate, they pant, expelling hot air. However, in a sealed car panting only makes the situation worse as the hot air inside the car increases the dog's body temperature further. A dog trapped in this situation could slowly die but even leaving your dog in the car for a few minutes while you run into the store can be dangerous.

What To Do With A Dog Suffering From Heat Stroke
If your dog's body temperature rises above 105 degrees, heat exhaustion and heat stroke can follow in a matter of minutes. This leads to vomiting, diarrhea, and bleeding. If your dog appears to be suffering from serious heat stroke, first take steps to lower his body temperature: immediately get him to the shade, provide water, and apply a cold towel to high-circulation areas like the armpits or neck. Putting your dog in cool (not cold) water can also help.

After taking these steps, contact your veterinarian immediately; heat stroke is an emergency, and without treatment delayed complications can occur.

The Safest Course of Action
The safest choice is most likely the simplest choice: in the summertime leave your dog at home unless you're sure that you're not going to be making any stops on your drive. Even if your stop is just for a minute, any unexpected delay could put your dog at risk and the risk simply isn't worth it.

In Northeast Ohio, the Cleveland Animal Protective League will respond to dogs locked in vehicles; if the dog's life is in danger, they will call the police, leaving you with a broken window and maybe even legal troubles.

This summer, for your sake and your dog's, listen to Nova Scotia SPCA spokeswoman Judith Gass:

At this time of year, don't leave your pet unattended in a car, not even for a minute. It's just that simple.

William Link is an intern at Embrace Pet Insurance (pet insurance for cats and dogs). Will is double majoring in Economics and English at Case Western Reserve University. His internship is focused on learning more about the insurance industry. Will plans to get a dog when he graduates in 2008.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=William_Link

How to Stop Dog Jumping Behavior Before Someone Gets Hurt

2008-07-10T13:25:00.000-07:00

Lee Dobbins

Most dogs will tend to jump up and many people theorize that they are simply trying to get closer to us. Be that as it may, a large dog jumping up on anyone - even if he has the best of intentions - can be scary and it's in your best interest to learn how to stop dog jumping behavior before something bad happens.

Since your dog is jumping up to get a better look at you, one way to curtail the behavior is to get down to his level so he has no need to jump. This might work great for you, but what about your neighbor or that stranger you are passing on the street. You certainly don't want your dog jumping up on them so you also need to train your dog is such a way so that you can stop him from jumping on command.

Before you can learn how to stop dog jumping behavior, you need to teach your dog the sit command. Because you will be distracting your dog from jumping by commanding him to sit, he must be well trained to sit when the command is heard. Otherwise, you won't be successful in this training, so if your dog only sits some of the time when you ask him, go back over that training until he obeys you all the time.

For the training, you want to start with your dog standing in front of you. You can tell right away when your dog is about to jump up and what you want to do is watch for the signs. Then when you see that they are thinking about jumping up, order the "sit". If your dog jumps up on you anyway (and he probably will at first) lift your knee up to his chest and firmly give the command "Off". You might be tempted to say down, but that is the command to make your dog lay down and should be used only for that.

Now you don't want to slam your dog so that he goes sprawling - you simply want to gently raise your knee so that the dogs gets a bit off balance thus causing him to drop back down. You see, you are getting him to naturally do the "off" while saying the command. Of course when he gets off, you want to reward him and tell him what as good boy he is. Enough repetitions and he will associate "Off" with getting back down from whoever he is jumping on.

Learning how to stop dog jumping behavior is critical for having a well behaved dog. If your dog jumps up on everyone he meets eventually there is bound to be an unpleasant incident and it can be downright dangerous especially if he knocks over an elderly person or little kid. Taking the time to learn this training might help prevent a lawsuit ... or something worse ... as well as insure you have a dog that is a joy to be around.

Does your dog need some discipline? Find out about the dog training techniques that will make your dog the envy of all your friends at http://www.positivedogtrainingtechniques.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lee_Dobbins

How Do I Keep My Dog Cool in the Summer

2008-06-28T13:57:00.001-07:00

Jeff Schuman

As the summer begins to heat up you probably enjoy playing with them in the sun and taking them for more walks. However, for all the fun you are going to have, you must be thinking about your dogs health.

By not keeping a dog cool in the summer you are opening the door for heat-related illnesses and injuries to plague him/her.

You may be surprised but dogs are actually able to get a sun burn. If you have a white or lightly colored dog, they are just as likely to suffer from a sunburn as we do when exposed to the sun. If a dog undergoes long-term sun exposure they can suffer from skin damage and possibly skin cancer.

To prevent this from happening you are going to need to limit the amount of time your dog spends in direct sunlight. you need to consult your veterinarian immediately If you notice any type of discoloration or sore. Common areas that are effected are the nose, ears, and eyelids.

If they are exposed to the sun for to long your dog can also suffer from heat injury. Heat injury is when your dog's body temperature exceeds it's ability to cool itself. Your dog's normal body temperature is between 100 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. If your dogs temperature rises above 106 F, it's normal cooling mechanisms get overwhelmed which causes a heat stroke which will require medical treatment.

Large double-coated breeds are more susceptible to a heat stroke. Huskies and other dog breeds suited for cold climates also have a low tolerance for heat and humidity.

The best way to prevent a heat stroke is to give dogs a summer hair cut. If you go to a good groomer they will be able to cut your dog's coat down a few inches which will allow them to dissipate the heat better. It is important that you do not get the dogs hair cut all the way down to the skin because this eliminates their protection from sunburn and other injuries.

During the midday heat you should keep your dog indoors in either a well-ventilated area or an air conditioned area. If you are going to take your dog on a walk or play with them you should do it later in the night or earlier in the day when it is less hot outside.

Because it protects them from a heat stroke and from getting sunburned keeing a dog cool is very important. This article should have enlightened you on the two conditions and ways to help keep your dog cool during the summer.

Jeff Schuman invites you to visit his Ideas Directory for ideas on how to do almost everything. Whether you are wondering how can I keep my dogs cool this summer or have a question on something else you can find your answer here. To see for yourself please go here now:===> http://www.Ideas-From.us

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How to Find a Good Dog Rescue Society

2008-06-14T14:07:00.001-07:00

Vikki Gigante

You have made a life changing decision. You want a special member of your family. You have decided to adopt a rescue dog. Where do you go from here? How do you find that special dog? You want a nice dog that is adoptable. Where can you find one?

There are a lot of pet rescue societies out there. There are small ones and large ones. There are rescue societies that rescue all breeds and those that just rescue a particular breed of dog. How do you decide which one to go to?

Before you ever decide which rescue society to go to, you need to decide which type of dog you want. Do you want a small dog or a large dog? Do you need a dog that you don't have to worry about being allergic to? Do you have children? Do you live in an apartment or do you have a large yard? Breeds such as golden retrievers, laborador retrievers, boxers and standard or miniature poodles are good with children. Toy poodles and other small breeds usually are better with older children and adults.

Once you have decided what type of dog you want, then you must decide where to get it from. There are many societies out there, usually you can find a local chapter of one near you. There is a pet resource called petfinder which lists many of these rescue societies as well as individual dogs that are available and where they are located.

How do you determine which society to go to or if a particular dog is a good one or not? Do not go to a society which lists every dog it has as the best animal in the world. These sound like they don't know anything about their dogs or they are just trying to get rid of dogs that really aren't adoptable. If the society lets you know upfront that the dog has issues, that it is shy or barks incessantly or has a cataract in one eye, then they are probably a society that cares about their dogs and are honest about their adoptability.

Another thing to find out is whether the society has a return policy. Will they let you return the dog in a month, three months, a year if it doesn't work out with your family? Will they let you adopt it to another member of your family, for example, your sister or your mother who has fallen in love with your little girl or boy, if suddenly you find yourself in a situation where you cannot have a dog? Do you have to return the dog to the rescue society? If their policy is not listed on their website or in their documentation, do not adopt a dog from them. Most rescue societies will list their policies and tell you about them up front when you interview them.

Most rescue societies charge a nominal adoption fee. Make sure you find out what that is before you consider adopting a dog from them. Otherwise you might find out at the last minute that you cannot afford the dog you have fallen in love with. If the rescue society is honest and tells you these things right off the bat, then they are a good one to deal with.

Another thing you want to find out from the rescue society is how and where they keep their dogs after they rescue them. Are they kept in a kennel? Are they placed in a foster home until they are adopted? Most good rescue societies have a foster program so they can get the dog beyond the initial trauma of leaving the home they were in whether it was a good or bad situation.

Once you have found a potential candidate for "dog of the family," make sure the society will let you take a look at the dog outside of a kennel situation, so you can see how the dog behaves when he or she is outside a small container. Is it playful, good tempered and does it interact well with you and your family? If they won't let you look at the dog outside a kennel, don't deal with them. You need to see your prospective dog when it is not in a kennel and can be itself.

Many good rescue societies will bring your dog to you so they can see what kind of living conditions you have and also can see how the dog reacts to you, your family and your home. Before they bring the dog to your home, ask if there is a particular treat the dog likes and go out and get some of them. This will be helpful once the dog is at your home. It is mutual inspection time and this benefits both you and the dog. The most important trait to look for in the dog once it is in your home is whether or not it is sociable. Is it a dog that is good tempered and wants to give love and be loved. Remember, many of these dogs have been rescued from homes where they were neglected or abused and if they are still sociable even after that, they are dogs that want a good home and want to be loved. If the dog snarls at you, jumps at you or growls, this is probably not a dog you want to bring into your happy home.

Remember those treats you went out and bought? Now that you have made introductions with the dog, and have determined that the dog may be acceptable, try giving it one of those treats. See how it reacts to this. If the dog takes the treat, this is further indication that it is sociable, especially if he or she is gentle about taking it. Ask the person from the rescue society if you can take the dog's lead and take it for a short walk and play with it a bit. See how the dog reacts. If it is playful and walks well on the lead, that is another good indication of the dog's sociability. Find out as much as you can about the dog. A good rescue society representative will at least be able to tell you a bit about the dog and things that it might like or dislike.

If this visit has been a good one, this is probably the dog for you. Go ahead and take the dog for a trial. Oh yeah, make sure that the rescue society is willing to take calls from you if there are any situations with your new dog. There are lots of good rescue societies out there and lots of good dogs available for adoption that need a good home. It just takes a little research and this can lead to a whole lot of fun for you, your dog and your family.

Vikki Gigante is a business owner from Frederick, Maryland who has been the proud owner of Cocoa, a rescue dog, for a year and a half now. She is a true joy and a welcome addition to the family.
http://www.ilovethisbusinessonline.com/rescuedogs

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