Bull Dog - The Bulldog is one of the most popular purebred dogs. It is popular among celebrities and families.The broad shouldered,stocky bulldog ....

Bull Dog
by: Mary Rose

The Bulldog is one of the most popular purebred dogs. It is popular among celebrities and families.The broad shouldered,stocky bulldog with it characterisitc under bite and pugnacious gait has long been a mascot of sports teams and military units.
But their docile,even tempered personality that belies their tough guy image makes them good pets for families with young children.The personality of Bull dog is unlike any other dog.They are so expressive.If one looks into their eyes one can almost see what they are thinking.Their growing popularuty with celebrities have added to their publicity.The breed is the second most popular dog in Los Angeles.

An English bull dog puppy makes a great companion.A prominent characterisitic of this breed is that they are attention seekers and get along well in a home with children and other pets.If they are given proper care and attention ,you are ensured of a very loyal and loving pet in return.Nevertheless,the care of an English bull dog puppy requires a bit of firmness. It will be difficult to deal if you spoil them. In case they are used to a lot of attention and loses it ,for instance,when its owner's have a baby, it can act out by barking or biting. Therefore, attention needs to be consistent and firm, so that the dog senses its place in what it sees as its group.

It must be remembered that an English bull dog they become less interested in exercise as they age. While these dogs are short and stocky they should be put through regular exercise on to prevent obesity. As they are exhausted by exercise they should be given water often. Another pecularity of an English bull dog is that it has so many folds .Therefore,its cleanliness is really important. If not cleaned well it can cause bacterial or fungal infections.

On the other hand,an American bull dog is a breed of working dog developed for catching livestock and for protecting property. Though larger in size, they are the closest surviving relative of the o ld English bulldog. There are generally considered to be two types of American bulldog, the johnson type and the Scott type, named after the breeders who were influential in developing them, John D. Johnson and Allen Scott. These are more commonly known as Classic or Bully type and Standard or Performance type.The American Bulldog is a stocky, strong-looking dog. Its coat is short and either white or white with patches.

The growing popularity of bull dog has a downside.They can suffer from breathing problems and should only be treated by experienced veterinarians.Bull dogs are also unable to swim.Breeders use artificial insemination and caesarean sections when breeding the dogs to reduce the high risk of injury caused by the large size of the dog's head in proportion to its hips.The elaborate precautions required when breeding bulldogs puts the cost of a typical purebred bulldog puppy on the higher side.



About The Author

Mary Rose has authored several books including books related to Pet and Animals.For more information logon http://www.casanads.com/bm/pet-animals.htm

Anal Gland Disease- Is It Common Among Labrador Retrievers? - Do you think it is normal for Labrador Retrievers and other dogs to lick their rear?....

Anal Gland Disease- Is It Common Among Labrador Retrievers?
by: Richard Cussons

Do you think it is normal for Labrador Retrievers and other dogs to lick their rear? Others believe that it is normal for dogs to lick their rear because they think it is a dog's way of cleaning their anal and its surrounding area. In case you do not know, a dog licking his rear may indicate anal gland disease.

The anal glands, also called anal sacs are two small glands located on both sides of a dog's rectal opening - at 8 and 4 o' clock positions. Each gland holds a brown and strong smelling liquid which is released when your dog defecates or urinates. Dogs use this brown secretion as a scent marking device to mark their territories because each dog has its own unique smell. That explains why dogs raise their tails and sniff each others butt when they meet. This behavior is just like a human shaking hands with someone he just met.

These anal glands empty naturally when the dog urinates and defecates but some dogs are not fortunate enough to empty these glands naturally. Failure to empty these glands cause discomfort and even pain to some dogs. This may give way for bacteria to build up leading to various problems such as anal gland impactions, infections and abscesses. There are signs to watch out indicating gland problem in your dog. Excessive licking of the anal area is the most common sign. You will also see your dog scooting or dragging his rear across the floor. Check your dog's stool if it has become soft and mushy. If one or more of these signs are present, visit your veterinarian immediately for check up and treatment of this problem.

There are different ways to treat anal glands problem in Labrador Retrievers and other breed. The most common process is emptying these glands manually. Manual emptying can be done by a veterinarian, a groomer or even by the pet owner himself. It is best to empty the anal glands during bath time. Wear a latex gloves and insert a finger into the rectum. Squeeze the gland until the size shrink. This process is uncomfortable to dogs so be sure to do it slowly and gently. The secretion will help you identify the main cause of the problem. Dry or toothpaste-like secretion indicates blockage while foul smelling liquid indicates infection. Antibiotics is often prescribed to dogs with infection. In some cases wherein manual emptying and antibiotic cannot treat anal gland problem, flushing and ointments are used. After emptying the glands, it is flushed with iodine solution and packed with a special ointment. If all other treatments failed, one more measure is to remove the gland. Removing of the gland should be done in an operating theater and the patient should be under anesthetic because it is a full surgical procedure.



About The Author

Richard Cussons writes articles of various topics. Want to learn more about Labrador Retrievers? Check out http://labradorsavvy.com and discover useful tips on training Labradors.

Artificial Respiration And CPR Can Save Your Labrador Retriever - are comfortably sitting in your living room sofa watching your favorite show ....

Artificial Respiration And CPR Can Save Your Labrador Retriever
by: Richard Cussons

You are comfortably sitting in your living room sofa watching your favorite show when all of a sudden, you remember your Labrador Retriever. You forgot to lock his crate after placing his food bowl. You go check him and unfortunately, he is not in his crate. After what seems to be eternity looking for him, you found him, lying unconsciously in the middle of the street. You do not know what exactly happened to him but you know you have to do something to save his life, but what are you going to do? He might need you to administer artificial respiration.

In times like this, it really helps if you have the idea of what you are going to do. Listen to the chest to check the heart activity. Then check the mouth for something that maybe blocking her throat and airway. Gently pull out the tongue and search for obstructions. Clear mucus if there is any but be careful not to get bitten. Gently return your dog's tongue back inside the mouth and close it.

For dogs like Labrador Retriever, seal the mouth by holding the muzzle closed while doing the artificial respiration. Place your mouth over your dog's nose and exhale even, slow breaths. Watch out for chest expansion as you blow. Continue blowing until the dog starts to breath on his own or until you're tired of blowing and somebody could replace you. Artificial respiration should be used to a victim who has a heartbeat. If he doesn't, artificial respiration may not be a big help. CPR is needed.

It is best if cardiopulmonary resuscitation or CPR is done by two persons- one continuing doing the artificial respiration, the other doing the chest compression. For medium to large dogs like a Labrador Retriever, lay him on his side on a flat surface. Stand or kneel with animal's back toward you. Extend arms and place hand on top of the other. Compress the chest over the widest portion of the rib cage, not over the heart. Push down on the rib cage, moving about one to three inches with each compression. If there are two people, the other is doing the breathing while the other performs the compression at a rate of two or three compressions for each breath. If alone, perform five compression for each breath.

It is amazing how these little creatures bring happiness and lifetime friendship and loyalty to their owners. It is important for dog owners to learn this process to save their dog's life and continue the friendship that could last for years.



About The Author

Richard Cussons is a dog expert and has written articles about the popular Labrador Retriever. Get more tips on Labrador dog training at http://labradorsavvy.com.

Prevent Osteoarthritis In Labrador Retrievers - Large breeds just like Labrador Retrievers are more likely to suffer problems related to bones and ...

Prevent Osteoarthritis In Labrador Retrievers
by: Richard Cussons

Large breeds just like Labrador Retrievers are more likely to suffer problems related to bones and joint that makes movement difficult and painful. We are aware that Labrador Retrievers are active and energetic dogs but if you notice that your pet is no longer the usual active and energetic dog he used to be, then something is wrong with him. The culprit could be osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis usually affects dogs in their middle and senior years but puppies can also be affected. It is a chronic, degenerative joint disease caused by progressive inflammation and deterioration of the cartilage, bone and soft tissue of one or more joints. Canine osteoarthritis happens when the cartilage that lines the bones in a joint breaks down losing its cushion. This cartilage break down causes friction between the bones, results to stiffness, loss of mobility and various degrees of inflammation and pain.

Canine osteoarthritis is a result of unstable joints because of slack ligaments. Congenital joint disorders such as hip dysplasia, osteochondritis (OCD) and elbow dysplasia. That is why it is always important to treat these diseases at once to prevent it from developing into canine osteoarthritis. It can also be a result of trauma either from direct or indirect injury and from faulty bone and cartilage development. Obesity will also result to osteoarthritis because of the excessive weight carried by the joints. Age and metabolic diseases may as well cause this disease. Joints commonly affected are the hips, elbows, lower back, knees and wrists.

There are signs to watch out for the presence of canine osteoarthritis. These signs include stiffness, lameness, pain and lethargy. An affected dog may also exhibit decreased activity, difficulty rising and cracking sounds during joint movement. Your vet will diagnose osteoarthritis based on your dog's age, medical history and physical exam. X-rays of the joints may as well be needed to determine how severe the condition is.

There are many ways to treat this disease and measures to prevent it. Anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed however, this should only be used for short-term pain relief because of its wide range of side effects. In severe cases, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, carprofen and meloxicam are commonly used to increase joint mobility and control pain. Weight control is also important especially in obese dogs. The dog's regular exercise as well as other physical activity should be gentle to help trim weight and improve strength and mobility of the joint.

Remember, a dog with canine osteoarthritis should not be included in the breeding process to prevent the spread of this disease.



About The Author

Richard Cussons is a dog expert and has written articles about the popular Labrador Retrievers. Get more tips on training Labradors at http://labradorsavvy.com.

Good Trainer For Your Labrador Retrievers - Untrained and uncontrolled Labrador Retrievers can cause problems because of their boisterousness and ....

Good Trainer For Your Labrador Retrievers
by: Richard Cussons

Untrained and uncontrolled Labrador Retrievers can cause problems because of their boisterousness and lack of fear. Training is necessary in order for them to learn rules, ensure their safety and to control their behavior. Because of their intelligence, energy and obedience, training Labrador Retrievers is one step easier compared to training other tenacious breeds. But it is still important to consider the would-be handler or trainer of your dog. Success of the training relies partly on their hands so choose a good dog trainer for your Labrador Retrievers.

Dog trainers, whether learned through formal education or experience, will always claim that they are worthy to handle a dog. Don't just believe everything they say. It is wise to have a thorough background check up of that dog trainer. First qualification of a good trainer is an excellent reputation. Ask recommendations from your vet, humane societies, boarding kennel, groomer, other reputable trainers or friends and relatives who have used the service of this person and can testify that he is really good. Include in your inquiries his training background, experience and area of expertise. Do not forget to study his training methodology. A good trainer uses humane way in training a dog. He understands that Labrador Retrievers don't need harsh or abusive handling because of this breed's gentle nature. He also understands that with loving praise and attention, he will be able to communicate and successfully train these dogs. In addition, it helps if he is affiliated with reputable associations, organizations and training clubs. It is not mandatory however.

Observe the equipment he uses. Is he using chokes and prong collars? Observing the equipment he is using will help you identify the method of his training. Using chokes and prong collars may indicate that humane method is not his choice somehow.

Price won't guarantee you of a good trainer, as well as elaborate and impressive advertisements. They can be very deceiving. Don't think that all costly dog trainers are good trainers. Some are just after the profit they will gain from you, not after your dog's welfare. It is always important to investigate, to ask questions.

The bottom line here is that, you just can't trust anybody to handle your dog's training. Fraud or deceitful dog trainer as well as ignorant dog owner will not produce a well-trained dog. Of course you do not want this to happen, don't you?



About The Author

Richard Cussons is a dog expert and has written articles about the popular Labrador Retrievers. Get more tips on training Labradors at http://labradorsavvy.com.

Dental Care For Your Labrador Retrievers - It is important for Labrador Retrievers as well as other breeds to have good health. There are many ways...

Dental Care For Your Labrador Retrievers
by: Richard Cussons

It is important for Labrador Retrievers as well as other breeds to have good health. There are many ways on how to maintain their good health in general. Different types of foods claiming that they contain the important nutrients needed by your dog, vaccinations to prevent various and life-threatening diseases and regular exercise to stimulate them physically are some of the measures to maintain your dog's good health. In addition to that, keeping your dog's teeth and gums clean and healthy is also beneficial to his health. More animals are now diagnosed with severe dental problems so it is important that you should ensure good dental care for Labrador Retrievers.

Here are some of the problems that could possibly affect your dog:

Plaque

Plaque is a collection of food particles and bacteria formed along the gum line. This is normal to dogs especially those above three years of age. However, it should be removed if it is already too thick and is covering the teeth. Plaque causes bad breath, wounds in the gums and loosening of the teeth. Plaque can be removed at home using toothbrush and toothpaste while some vets may use buffalo leather for dogs to chew on. This buffalo leather contains enzymes to prevent accumulation of plaque.

Tartar

Another why reason why plaque should be removed is that, plaque, if combined with minerals in the saliva form tartar which sticks strongly to the teeth. Aside from causing bad breath, tartar can also irritate gums leading to inflammation called gingivitis. Redness of the gums adjacent to the teeth indicates gingivitis. This usually appears to dogs five years of age.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is the result when plaque formed into tartar is not removed. Tartar builds up under the gums, separating it from the teeth causing more bacterial growth. Periodontal disease is very painful and can lead to loose teeth, abscesses and bone loss or infection. This usually affects older animals. In addition to bad breath and missing teeth, signs of periodontal disease also include pus around the tooth, gums that bleed easily, loss of appetite, drooling and difficulty chewing.

To avoid the above stated problems, good dental care is a must not just to Labrador Retrievers but to other breed as well. Regular home cleaning is important. Clean your dog's teeth and mouth with cleaning implements specifically designed for dogs. Include oral exam in your regular vet visit and follow veterinary dental advice.



About The Author

Richard Cussons has written various articles about dogs including Labrador Retrievers. Find Labrador training tips at http://labradorsavvy.com for your dose of valuable dog training techniques.

Valuable Tips In Training Labrador Retriever - Training is one of the most important parts of owning a Labrador Retriever. Through training, you are..

Valuable Tips In Training Labrador Retriever
by: Richard Cussons

Training is one of the most important parts of owning a Labrador Retriever. Through training, you are helping your Labrador Retriever become a well-behaved and desirable dog everybody loves. Training will also keep your dog safe because he is able to comprehend and obey your command, helpful in emergency and dangerous situations.

However, a wrong training approach may ruin your dreams of having a nicely trained dog. It helps if you are well-equipped with the right knowledge in training your beloved Labrador Retriever.

Puppy training - You can start training your dog when he is still a puppy. Training a puppy six to eight weeks old is fine but you can start training earlier than that depending on your pup's characteristics and response to training. It is easier to train a puppy because at this age, he might not have developed bad manners yet and if he has, it can easily be corrected. But remember that training is not only for puppies, you can still teach old dogs new tricks.

Use positive reinforcement - When you use positive reinforcement, you are adding or offering something to your dog to increase the chance of repeating what he did correctly. Giving him his favorite treat after following your down command is an example of positive reinforcement.

Your voice matters - When you issue a command, it should be issued in the same words and same tone of voice. Use a friendly and excited voice when you give commands like come and firm voice in commands like down or stay. Avoid yelling or nagging at your dog.

Training sessions - Keep training sessions short and interesting. Fifteen-minute session is enough to keep your dog interested in the training. Focus on a single command per session and always reward him with loving praise or his favorite treat if he has successfully performed the command. Spend some time playing after the training to keep his interest.

Punishment - In order for your dog to behave properly, his mistakes must be corrected promptly. You can correct your dog by giving commands using a firm and sharp tone of voice. As much as possible, avoid physical punishment. But if physical punishment is really necessary, especially dogs with harder temperament, a quick and gentle tug on his training collar is enough. Remember that punishment should only be issued when you catch your dog in the act of doing mistake. Your dog may not understand why he is being punished now for urinating in your living room five hours ago.

Foods feed the body, training feeds the mind. It is important for your Labrador Retriever to have all these.



About The Author

Richard Cussons writes articles of various topics. Want to learn more about Labrador Retriever? Check out http://labradorsavvy.com and discover useful Labrador dog training tips.

Labrador Training Tips- Should You Punish Your Labrador Retrievers? - Labrador Retrievers are popular dogs, being able to perform roles such as .....

Labrador Training Tips- Should You Punish Your Labrador Retrievers?
by: Richard Cussons

Labrador Retrievers are popular dogs, being able to perform roles such as assistance dogs. They would surely enjoy activities to stimulate their minds and body, being intelligent and energetic dogs they are. But despite their large size and exceptional abilities in working and detection, Labrador Retrievers are also ideal and loyal companions.

This breed responds well to praise and positive attention but we cannot deny the fact that they sometimes commit mistakes. However, you should always bear in mind that a dog will never do anything on purpose, and besides he is not even aware whether what he is doing is right or wrong. Additionally, a dog isn't aware of the consequences of his actions. It is for you as dog owner to understand your dog's behavior and how to deal with it.

Mistakes committed should be corrected at once to prevent your pet from doing it again. You should make him understand that what he did is wrong and you are not very happy with what he did. There are many methods to train a dog as well as approaches to correct his mistakes. These vary depending on the owner or trainer, some still believe that training a dog should be done in humane way. But there are some who would rather verbally or physically punish their dogs. Verbal punishment includes shouting or using an angry tone to your dog while kicking, hitting, rubbing his nose in the carpet and other forced actions fall under physical punishment.

If you come home and hit your dog after you found out that he urinated in the living room floor, you will not make him understand why he is being hit. He may not even realize that it is his punishment for doing something unacceptable which took place hours ago. The result of this however is not a well-trained dog but a confused and scared dog. He will associate your return with hitting or yelling and will make him scared of you returning home. Of course you do not want this to happen, don't you?

"How should I correct my dog's behavior if I am not going to punish him for the mistake he committed?" Dog owners would probably ask that question. There are training methods effective in modifying a dog's behavior without inflicting physical pain. Use praise and positive attention to correct Labrador Retrievers. Your gentle words and tone as well as your loving touch will encourage them to behave properly. You can also modify your dog's behavior through perceived punishment. If you caught your dog doing something unacceptable, you may want to create a sudden loud noise to refrain him from doing it. In time, he will realize that the loud noise occurs every time he is not behaving properly. The point here is that, this perceived punishment does not appear to come from you but somewhere. And also, he is not physically or emotionally tortured.

Just treat your dogs right and they will surely reward you with happiness and lifetime friendship.



About The Author

Richard Cussons has written various articles about dogs including Labrador Retrievers. Find Labrador training tips at http://labradorsavvy.com for your dose of valuable dog training techniques.

Labrador Retrievers Stop Them From Digging Labrador Retrievers are intelligent and extremely active dogs. With these characteristics leaving .....

Labrador Retrievers- Stop Them From Digging
by: Richard Cussons

Labrador Retrievers are intelligent and extremely active dogs. With these characteristics, leaving them alone will surely bore and cause them to think of doing other activities such as chewing, barking and digging. Yes, boredom is one of the reasons why a dog tends to dig holes wherever he pleases. This behavior can be very frustrating especially to dog owners who spend so much time and effort keeping the front lawn clean and beautiful. But don't blame it on boredom alone. There are other reasons to this predicament.

Dogs dig to hide something. For them, burying food could keep it safe from others. Their natural instinct for dens is another reason why dogs dig. They consider the holes they dug as their shelter to cool themselves down or warm themselves up. If your dog is digging under the fence, it is just an indication that your dog wants to go out to search for a mate.

One solution to this problem is to provide various activities and exercise to stimulate him physically and mentally. Labrador Retrievers will surely enjoy retrieving balls and other activities such as agility, frisbee and flyball. If your pet digs to bury food, limit his access to scraps of food and bones. This will somehow refrain him from digging often since he has nothing to bury in the first place. Another way to lessen digging in inappropriate places is to emphasize and make it clear to him where he can and cannot dig. Bury his favorite toy or treat in spots where you want him to dig. If you see him digging in the wrong place, reprimand him and teach him the correct spot. But always remember to correct him every time your dog starts digging holes, not when he the digging is already done. If he continues digging in the wrong place, you may want to bury chicken wire under the surface of that area. Your dog won't like the feeling of his paws scraping along the wire. You can also try mixing chili powder and water and wet the area you do not want him to dig. If you won't be around to supervise your dog, place him in a kennel or crate. This will refrain him from doing things you do not want behind your back.

If the reason of digging is to cool down or to warm up, provide him the warmth or coolness depending on the season. Provide warm and comfortable shelter during cold season or warm and shaded area during summer.



About The Author

Richard Cussons has written various articles about dogs including Labrador Retrievers. Find Labrador training tips at http://labradorsavvy.com/ for your dose of valuable dog training techniques.

Trimming The Nails Of Your Labrador Retriever - Try to imagine trimming the nails of your Labrador Retriever. It seems hard isn't it? You feel like ..

Trimming The Nails Of Your Labrador Retriever
by: Richard Cussons


Try to imagine trimming the nails of your Labrador Retriever. It seems hard isn't it? You feel like hurting your loyal friend and forcing him to obliged to your laws. However, just like in humans, your pet's nails grow regularly and trimming it is necessary to keep him look neat and prevent problems. Untrimmed nails when broken are very painful and in some cases may curl and grown into your dog's paws.

Most dogs do not like having their nails trimmed. It is important that nail trimming should be started in puppies to get him used to the process. Once used with having his nails trimmed, it wouldn't be hard for dog owners to groom him even when he is already of age and has grown in size and weight. Below are easy tips to trim your dog's nails safely.

- Get all the needed tools first. There are various nail clippers available in the market. Get one that is especially made for dog's nails. Nail clippers usually come in two sizes- small for smaller dogs and large for larger dogs. There are also two types- scissor-style and guillotine. Scissor-style trimmers have two sharp blades that curve inwards. In guillotine type, the nail is inserted into an opening and when squeezed, a blade cuts the nail in guillotine style. Remember to cut upwards from underneath your dog's nails. You may also want to use file or dremel tool. This is ideal to file any jagged edges after clipping. It is also important to have styptic pen or powder. Application of styptic powder will stop the bleeding and alleviate pain if you accidentally cut the quick (blood vessel that runs down the middle of your dog's nail). It also helps to have a non-slip mat if you intend to do the process when your dog is standing.

- The procedure. You can either sit on the floor with your dog or put him on a table. Find which one works best for you and your dog. Your dog may lie on their side or may stand lifting one leg at a time (you may want to use non-slip mat when cutting your dog's nail in standing position). Cut your dog's nail by just nibbling off the ends of each claws. You can examine the quick ends easily if your dog has clear nails. But if your dog has dark nails, trim a tiny nibble off and trim until you see a dark oval in the center. That dark oval is the quick so you do not have to trim any further.

While doing the process, do not forget to soothe, praise and offer small treats to your Labrador Retriever. Be patient because trimming can be a stressful event to your dog especially if he has bad experience with nail trimming procedure.



About The Author

Richard Cussons is a dog expert and has written articles about the popular Labrador Retriever. Get more Labrador dog training tips at http://labradorsavvy.com.

Bloat- It Could Kill Your Labrador Retriever - The Labrador Retriever is one of the breeds at risk of bloat. Bloat is a very serious health problem...

Bloat- It Could Kill Your Labrador Retriever
by: Richard Cussons

The Labrador Retriever is one of the breeds at risk of bloat. Bloat is a very serious health problem related to swallowed air, food and/or water. It is common to Basset Hound, Dachshund, Labrador Retriever and other large and giant breeds especially those with deep chests.

The term bloat seems ordinary and nothing serious but beware because bloat can kill your Labrador Retriever in a matter of hours. Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV) is the technical name for bloat. Gastric dilatation occurs when there is an abnormal accumulation of air, fluid and/or foam in the stomach. In addition, the stomach twists or flips, almost cutting off entry and exit to and from the stomach. This is called gastric torsion. Gastric volvulus is the term used when the stomach twists or flips, completely cutting off entry and exit to and from the stomach. That is why bloat is also called stomach torsion or twisted stomach.

There are different and sometimes unknown reasons why bloat occurs. It is usually a result of eating too much or eating too fast, drinking too much water before or after meals or vigorous exercise within the first few hours after eating. Dry foods that contain citric acid as a preservative and contain fat among the first four ingredients can also trigger bloat. Other causes of bloat are stress, heredity and/or fearful or anxious temperament.

Bloat will never go unnoticed. A bloated dog will attempt to vomit but is usually unsuccessful. There is also a lack of normal gurgling and digestive sounds in the stomach. Coughing, unproductive gagging, drooling, pacing, rapid panting and whining are some of the typical signs of bloat. Know the history of the dog to diagnose bloat. Know if he has eaten too much or if he has drunk too much water recently. Bloat can be treated if the dog is able to burp or vomit. Ask your vet for medication. If there is rapid breathing, pale gums and if the dog collapse, rush your dog to the veterinarian at once. No need to think twice! It could be a matter of life and death scenario for your dog.

It is important for every dog owner to know the prevention of bloat. It is always beneficial to feed your dog several meals a day rather than feeding one big meal and see to it that there will be no vigorous exercise or other activities within the first few hours after eating. It is equally important to control the dog's fluid intake before and especially after a meal. When feeding dry commercial dog foods, read the product label carefully. Check the list of ingredients to make sure that it contains the important dietary requirement of your dog, not just fillers and other useless ingredients.



About The Author

Richard Cussons is a dog expert and has written articles about the popular Labrador Retriever. Get more Labrador dog training tips at http://labradorsavvy.com.

Causes and Prevention of Diarrhea In Labrador Retriever - A healthy Labrador Retriever will normally defecate firm stools once or twice a day.....

Causes and Prevention of Diarrhea In Labrador Retriever
by: Richard Cussons

A healthy Labrador Retriever will normally defecate firm stools once or twice a day. However, if your Labrador Retriever passes semi-solid or liquid stools more often than usual, then he is probably suffering from canine diarrhea. Diarrhea is common in Labrador Retrievers because of their hearty appetites. They tend to eat anything, digestible and non-food objects alike, especially if their owners are not looking. With immediate attention and proper care, diarrhea caused by ingesting foreign objects can be treated within a day or two.

Diarrhea has many other causes aside from eating unsuitable objects. It can be caused by intestinal viruses, stomach viruses or intestinal parasites. Problems within the digestive tract such as ulcers, cancer, food allergies and toxins can trigger diarrhea. Health problems not related to digestive tract can also trigger diarrhea. Some of these health problems are liver disease, kidney disease, Addison's disease and anxiety. Always remember that diarrhea is not a disease, but is a symptom of various diseases. It maybe just a symptom but may become life threatening if not treated immediately.

For simple cases of diarrhea in your Labrador Retriever, home treatment is enough. Provide plenty of fresh water or oral rehydration fluids to drink provided he is not vomiting. You can also try giving him an ice cube or two every four hours to help him not drink so much water. It is also advisable to put him on fast for 24 hours to rest his irritated tract and feed him only if he appears better after a day. You can start feeding him with small amounts of bland diet every four hours. If your Labrador Retriever appears better after bland diet and small amounts of food, you can gradually return to his regular diet.

Severe cases of diarrhea, if it persists more than 24 hours, if there is any blood and if accompanied with vomiting, immediate veterinary care is needed to prevent your dog from dehydration. If there is blood in his vomitus or stool, if he has fever and if it persists for more than one to two days, it could be sign of infection or other diseases. Visit your vet immediately for medication. He will usually recommend drink with electrolytes and dietary supplements such as probiotics for it has beneficial bacteria helpful in restoring the health of the dog's intestinal tract. Serious cases of diarrhea due to infection or inflammation of the intestine may require antibiotics.



About The Author

Richard Cussons is a dog expert and has written articles about the popular Labrador Retriever. Get more Labrador dog training tips at http://labradorsavvy.com.

Is Dry Dog Food Good For Your Labrador Retriever? - The Labrador Retriever is an active and multi-talented breed of dog. It is expected to carry out..

Is Dry Dog Food Good For Your Labrador Retriever?
by: Richard Cussons

The Labrador Retriever is an active and multi-talented breed of dog. It is expected to carry out various roles to be of service to people. In countries like United States and Australia, the Labrador Retriever is considered as the most popular breed of assistance dog and also makes excellent pets and working dogs. With all the happiness and countless help this breed offers, it is just right to give them what they deserve. For sure they will never ask for anything other than your attention, care, praise and love. Show them how much you love them by taking good care of them, providing toys and activities to entertain them, giving them a comfortable place to sleep, water to drink and food to keep them healthy and active.

The health of your Labrador Retriever depends on you. Choosing the activities they must do, how often they should take a bath and what foods to eat are some of your several responsibilities to your dog. Many issues concerning dog foods are coming out from all corners of veterinary world. Some claims dry dog food to be the best dog food because it has various health benefits for your dog. Others go for semi moist food because it taste better.

There is really no specific answer when somebody ask what is the best dog food. The answer will always be "it depends". Each dog has is own specific dietary needs depending on its breed, age, size, activities and health condition. Puppies and older dogs may need different amount of calories. Same with normal and overweight dogs. A dog with health problem, even as simple as fever, has different dietary requirement compared to healthy dog.

For some reasons, most owners consider dry dog food as the best. One obvious reason for sure is the convenience this type of food brings. Feeding your dog is a no sweat process in this type of food. All you have to do is grab one from grocery stalls, tear open the package and pour the contents into your dog's food bowl. Aside from that, dry dog food is known to contain the most nutrients your dog needs. However, this food contains 10% water making it hard to chew especially to older dogs. You can wet the food to make it easy for your dog. Dry dog food is also said to benefit the dog's teeth and mouth condition by preventing tartar buildup.

Not all dry dog foods are proven safe for Fido. Some brands contain unknown ingredients and are mainly fillers such as soybean meal, corn meal and corn gluten meal. Food colorings are also present in dog foods. These food colorings can be made from chemicals and can cause health issues.

Make it a habit to carefully read the product label. Check the ingredients making sure that meat is included in the list. Meat is important because it is the source of natural protein for dogs. Nutrition greatly affects your dog's health. Lack of it can cause high cholesterol, obesity and countless other ailments that could eventually shorten your dog's life.



About The Author

Richard Cussons is a dog expert and has written articles about the popular Labrador Retriever. Get more Labrador training tips at http://labradorsavvy.com.

My Labrador Retriever Is Vomiting! - Do not be surprise if you will see a Labrador Retriever vomit. Vomiting is not strange to this breed because of..

My Labrador Retriever Is Vomiting!
by: Richard Cussons


Do not be surprise if you will see a Labrador Retriever vomit. Vomiting is not strange to this breed because of their appetite. They are known to have good appetite both to digestible and non-food objects alike. However, vomiting do not occur because of ingesting foreign objects alone. There are variety of causes as to why dogs vomit.

Vomiting is the act of expelling food, fluid or debris from the stomach or small intestines through the mouth. The most common reason why dogs vomit is gastritis, an irritation of the stomach caused by ingesting foreign objects like decomposed grass, aluminum foil or paper. Aside from ingesting foreign objects, dogs also vomit because of eating too much or too fast or exercised immediately after eating. An immediate change of your dog's diet (switching from one brand to another or switching from commercial dog food to natural homemade food) can also be the reason of vomiting. Vomiting may also be a sign of diseases like metabolic disorders, liver disease, heat stroke, adrenal gland disease and many other diseases.

If your dog vomits once or twice without abdominal pain, vomiting can be treated at home. It is just their way of letting out foods and foreign objects that should not be in the stomach. But if your dog vomits more than few times and if there is an abdominal pain or blood in the vomitus, it is better to have your dog examined by a vet. Also, vomiting accompanied with depression or weakness, fever and unproductive retching must be treated by a veterinarian.

When treating a vomiting dog at home, refrain feeding your dog for 12 to 24 hours after vomiting. After that no-food period, offer small portion of soft, bland food such as boiled rice, skinless chicken or pasta. Foods and water should be given at smaller portions several times a day, instead of one large meal. If no further vomiting occurs, you can increase the next day's meal to normal-sized portion and can return to normal diet the following day.

To lessen the possibility of vomiting in dogs, refrain from giving your dog large meal. Break it down to several small meals a day (at least one in the morning and one in the evening). Then enforce rest after meals, especially avoiding strenuous activities. When switching food, do not switch all at once. Gradual switching of food works best for your Labrador Retriever.

About The Author

Richard Cussons is a dog expert and has written articles about the popular Labrador Retriever. Get more Labrador training tips at http://labradorsavvy.com.

Tips On Bathing Your Labrador Retriever - Who wouldn't be tempted to cuddle a well-groomed and clean Labrador Retriever? They are every dog owners ...

Tips On Bathing Your Labrador Retriever
by: Richard Cussons

Who wouldn't be tempted to cuddle a well-groomed and clean Labrador Retriever? They are every dog owners pride. But every dog owner should always remember that grooming and cleaning is not merely to make your Labrador Retriever look good. Grooming and cleaning is important in maintaining the general health condition of your dog.

Bathing is one of the many responsibilities of a dog owner. However, bathing your dog too often is not good for his skin. The frequency of the bath depends on your dog's breed and his type of activities. As for the Labrador Retriever, give him a bath when he is really dirty especially if he has stayed out and worked a lot. You can also use your nose to tell if your dog needs a bath. Bathing him too often than needed will strip the skin's natural protective oil resulting to dry, itchy skin and will irritate the skin further when scratched.

If the weather is good and warm, you can bath your dog outside. Make sure to choose a place that will not turn into mud when it gets wet. If you think that bathing outside seems unappealing to your dog, wash him inside and try to use warm water. But before the bath begins, prepare everything- shampoo or conditioner, towel, comb and even dog treats or toys. Remember to use a shampoo specially formulated to work on problems such as fleas and ticks, dry itchy skin, doggy odor, abnormal shedding and others.

Start bathing your dog from the head and work towards the tail. Wash his face with wash cloth. Avoid pouring lots of water in his face to prevent it from getting inside the ears. You may also want to place cotton balls inside his ears to make sure water cannot enter. Water in the ears is not good for dogs and can cause health problems such as ear infection.

Thoroughly wet your dog with water using a pitcher or a spray nozzle. If you are using spray nozzle, make sure that the spray is not too strong. Avoid spraying directly into your dog's face or genital. Apply dog shampoo and work from the head to the tail. Remember to read and understand the product labels carefully. While shampooing, pay particular attention to parts like rectum, between the toes, behind the ears and under the chin.

After shampoo, rinse your dog thoroughly to prevent shampoo residue that may possibly cause skin irritations. Dry your dog's coat using towel. But be careful not to rub because coats of some breeds tangle easily.

Some dog owners think that bathing a dog is so difficult, but with the right knowledge and technique, bathing a dog is not a challenge anymore.



About The Author

Richard Cussons writes articles of various topics. Want to learn more about Labrador Retriever? Check out http://labradorsavvy.com/ and discover useful Labrador dog training tips.

Can Parvovirus Affect Labrador Retriever? - Whether your Labrador Retriever is out in the field working or just right beside you enjoying the dog ....

Can Parvovirus Affect Labrador Retriever?
by: Richard Cussons

Whether your Labrador Retriever is out in the field working or just right beside you enjoying the dog show, chances of contracting parvovirus exist. Parvovirus is a contagious virus affecting dogs, more frequently puppies. Canine Parvovirus or CPV is a highly infectious disease and is spread from dog to dog with physical contact and contact with infected feces. The virus is not capable of reproducing on its own because of the fact that they contain only DNA or RNA. They invade the cell, reproduce inside it and kills the cells causing dogs and puppies not to be able to absorb nutrients or liquids.

CPV has two forms: intestinal and cardiac. The less common is the cardiac form in which the virus attacks the heart muscle and the dog dies suddenly because of heart failure. Some infected dogs will show no symptoms. But some infected dogs show symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, high fever, diarrhea, depression and lack of appetite. In severe cases, stool can be very watery, foul smelling, yellow in color and usually bloody. Abdominal pain is also present as well as pain when eating. The possibility of dehydration exist because of severe dehydration and vomiting and the fact that he is not able to replace the nutrients and fluids lost.

To diagnose the presence of parvovirus, positive diagnostic test is done. Canine parvovirus disease requires aggressive or intense treatment. There is no specific cure for this disease. Your vet can only treat the symptoms to keep the pet alive. Measures should be taken to prevent diarrhea, loss of proteins and to replace fluids lost through vomiting and diarrhea. These measures include giving of fluids, regulating electrolyte levels, controlling body temperature and giving blood transfusions when needed. Antibiotic therapy may be needed to control secondary bacterial infections.

To ensure that you're beloved Labrador Retriever will not suffer this kind of health problem, you should adhere to the required or recommended vaccination. Vaccine against parvovirus is usually administered to puppies six to eight weeks of age and should only be allowed to mingle with other dogs two weeks after their last vaccination. There is no use vaccinating new born puppies since they are still protected by maternal antibodies. However, these antibodies wear off before the puppy's system became mature enough to fight parvovirus.

CPV cannot be treated at home so consult your vet immediately if you see signs of the existence of this disease.



About The Author

Richard Cussons is a dog expert and has written articles about the popular Labrador Retriever. Get more tips on training Labradors at http://labradorsavvy.com.

Dog Toys- Does Your Labrador Retriever Need Them? - Your Labrador Retriever will surely enjoy having various dog toys around. But do not think that...

Dog Toys- Does Your Labrador Retriever Need Them?
by: Richard Cussons

Your Labrador Retriever will surely enjoy having various dog toys around. But do not think that toys are just for fun and amusement purposes only. To a dog, there are other important reasons for having toys.

Dog toys are important in the mental and emotional development of your dog. Give your Labrador Retriever problem solving toys or motivational and interactive toys. This type of toys stimulate and keep his mind working. Maybe you want to give him a "find a treat" ball. As the name implies, this ball is filled with treats. But this has to be rolled over correctly in order for the treat to fall out. Dog toys that can be thrown can serve as training tools to stimulate their natural hunting instincts. Train your dog to bring it back when you command him to do so. Simple challenges that will surely keep your dog interested.

Rubber chews and bones are also fun and beneficial to your dog. These toys help your dog improve their dental health. Your dog can chew for hours because these toys are durable, specifically made to withstand the demands of your dog. With rubber chews, there will also be less chewing problems on furniture and household items. There will be less possibility of missing socks and discovering them under the bed, already damaged.

However, you just can't pick any toy found in your local pet store and take it to the counter. There are lots of factors that must be considered before buying. The most important is his safety. It should be non-toxic and durable. Toys that easily torn into pieces may cause trauma to your dog and pose great risk in injuring the gums, getting stuck on his teeth or worst swallowing and choking. Then think about your dog's size. His toys should be appropriate for his size, not too small for him to swallow and choke him and not too large so as to hinder him from taking it from one place to another. Aside from being durable, dog toys should be easy to clean.

There are many dog toys available in various pet supply stores. The web is also offering wide selection of dog toys for you to choose from. All you have to do is key in the keywords, then presto. The long list of various toys is right in front of you. The choice is yours whether you want to go personally and get one from your local pet supply store or have it delivered in your door step. Either way, just always remember to think about your dog before purchasing. Think about the breed, the size and what type of toy your dog finds interesting.



About The Author

Richard Cussons is a dog expert and has written articles about the popular Labrador Retriever. Get more tips on training Labradors at http://labradorsavvy.com.

The Bloody Nose Of Your Labrador Retriever - It is alarming as well as messy in the home when you see blood dripping from the nostrils of your .....

The Bloody Nose Of Your Labrador Retriever
by: Richard Cussons

It is alarming as well as messy in the home when you see blood dripping from the nostrils of your Labrador Retriever. Immediate attention should be given to address this problem but you should identify first the causes. Nose bleeding in Labrador Retriever is caused by various reasons, some are merely caused by your pet's environment such as pollution from smoking, poor air quality or excessive exposure to too much heat. The most common cause is an infection or something is lodged in your dog's nose. However, not all causes are as mild as stated earlier. Many cases of canine nose bleeding are signs of another disorder, most are very serious diseases. Breeds like Labrador Retriever and Basset Hounds are at increased risk of canine nose tumor.

Before you actually see blood dripping from your dog's nostril, there are already signs associated with canine nose bleeding. Your dog will initially sneeze or you will discover discharge from the nose. Sometimes the discharge may contain blood. Your dog may also show difficulty breathing indicating that there is a foreign object lodged in the nasal passage. He will even try to rub his muzzle against a hard surface. If blood is coming from only one nostril or if there is discharge, the presence of diseases such as distemper, bacterial rhinitis, infected sinuses, kennel cough and canine nose tumor exist.

The inside of a dog's nose is sensitive and is easily damaged. If you are sure that there is something lodged in your dog's nostril, you should not try to remove it. The object may be too far back and must be sedated or anesthetized in order to remove it.

Keeping your pet calm as is important to control bleeding. Excitement or nervousness will increase blood pressure and will eventually increase the bleeding. You should keep yourself calm too. Dogs are often affected with their owner's emotions. If you show you are nervous, he will get nervous too. Try to be calm and apply an ice pack into the bridge of your dog's nose. Small blood vessels will constrict to cold thus reduce bleeding.

If the stated tips are ineffective in controlling the bleeding and difficulty breathing is present, visit your vet immediately for specific tests to diagnose the cause of the problem.

A Labrador Retriever is an ideal working dog. Though not scent dogs, they still use their sense of smell to detect drugs, bombs and the likes. They are used by police, rescue teams and other official bodies. This simply means that, every part of a Labrador Retriever is important in performing work expected of him.



About The Author

Richard Cussons is a dog expert and has written articles about the popular Labrador Retriever. Get more tips on training Labradors at http://labradorsavvy.com.

Rabies In A Labrador Retriever - Rabies has been present in Labrador Retriever for as long as we can remember. It is a viral disease affecting .....

Rabies In A Labrador Retriever
by: Richard Cussons

Rabies has been present in Labrador Retriever for as long as we can remember. It is a viral disease affecting warm-blooded animals that can be transmitted to humans. So if unfortunately you are bitten by a Labrador Retriever or any breed of dog, then there is a possibility of having rabies. The virus is derived from the saliva of an infected animal and then transmitted through close contact with saliva of infected animals, such as bites, scratches, licks on broken skin and mucous membranes.

Rabies is extremely fatal to animals and human alike once neurological symptoms have developed. It primarily attacks the nervous system causing encephalitis or inflammation of the brain. The first symptom of rabies includes a change in behavior, say for example from friendly to aggressive or if your Labrador Retriever became fearless being a cautious dog prior to the development of infection. Animals with rabies will also show more biting and chewing. They will start biting at people and other animals. They will also chew woods, stones and even buildings. Other symptoms of canine rabies include fever, dilation of pupils, drooling with foaming at the mouth, difficulty of swallowing and change in the bark or sound of the animal. These signs develop usually less than ten days after the onset of virus' Once signs develop, especially to non-vaccinated humans, there is no treatment for this disease. Symptoms may later lead to paralysis of any part of the body, coma and even death.

When exposed or bitten by an animal, whether infected with rabies or not, wash and flush the wound or spot thoroughly with soap and water, detergent or plain water. Then consult your vet to test and observe your dog for 14 days for signs of rabies.

Rabies can threaten your dog's life as much as yours. So maybe now you understand why it is very important to administer anti-rabies vaccination to your Labrador Retriever. Vaccinate your pet according to local health rules and regulations or check out with your vet for advice on how often and how much should be given to your dog. Some areas require annual vaccination while some allow a three-year vaccine. Proper vaccination and quarantine period is also a requirement when transporting animals between countries. Check out the place of your destination as well as the airline company for rules and regulations in transporting animals.

Every dog owner should know that it is their responsibility to ensure that their dog is well protected and vaccinated to prevent rabies and to prevent their dog's possible death.



About The Author

Richard Cussons is a dog expert and has written articles about the popular Labrador Retriever. Get more tips on training Labradors at http://labradorsavvy.com.

How to handle (Dog), Canine Separation Anxiety - Separation anxiety is one of the most common problems that a dog develops.It is an anxiety disorder..

How to handle (Dog), Canine Separation Anxiety
by: Adam Sangster

Separation anxiety is one of the most common problems that a dog develops. It is an anxiety disorder, and is defined as a condition of extreme panic brought on by the dog's real or perceived isolation/separation from his/her owner(s).

In other words: when you leave for work in the morning, your dog is thrown into a high state of nervous anxiety which intensifies very quickly.

Dogs are social animals - they need plenty of company and social interaction to keep them happy and content. No dog likes to be left alone for any extended period of time, but some dogs do a lot worse than others: these are the ones most prone to separation anxiety.

There are a number of contributing causes to the condition:

- Some breeds are genetically predisposed towards anxiety and insecurity, which is something you should consider when deciding which breed you're going to choose for a pet, (particularly if you're going to be absent for long stretches of time). A few of these breeds include Weimaraners, Springer Spaniels, German Shepherds, and Airedales

- A significant proportion of dogs that are adopted from shelters develop a form of separation anxiety. Most of these 'shelter dogs' have undergone significant trauma of one type or another in their lives - they've been abandoned, abused, removed from their home and well-known surroundings, or any other sudden detrimental experience either by officials or their previous owners - and thus they have little trust that their new-found owner (you) isn't going to pull the same trick.

- Dogs that were separated from their mothers and siblings too early have been identified as being especially prone to separation anxiety because of the lack of security at such a young age. Puppies from pet-stores are a perfect example of this: they're usually taken from their mothers well before the earliest possible age (which is 8 weeks), and confined to a small glass box in the pet store for anywhere between a few weeks to two months. This early weaning, coupled with the lack of exercise and affection while in the pet store, is psychologically traumatic for the dog.

- Neglect is a form of abuse and the number-one cause of separation anxiety for dogs. If you're absent much more than you're present in your dog's life, separation anxiety is pretty much inevitable. Your dog needs your company, affection, and attention in order to be happy and content.

The symptoms of canine separation anxiety are pretty distinctive: your dog will usually learn to tell when you're about to leave (she'll hear keys jingling, will see you putting on your outdoor clothes, etc) and will begin to become anxious. She may follow you from room to room, whining, trembling, crying, clinging to your legs and being push to get and stay close to you. Some dogs may even become aggressive, in an attempt to stop their owners from leaving.

When you've left, the anxious behavior will rapidly worsen and will usually peak within half an hour. She may bark incessantly, scratch and dig at windows and doors, run recklessly from room to room (an attempt to escape from confinement and reunite herself with you), chew inappropriate items, even urinate and defecate inside the house. In extreme cases, she might self-mutilate by licking or chewing her skin until its raw or pulling out fur; or will engage in obsessive-compulsive behaviors, like spinning and tail-chasing.

Upon your return, she'll be excessively excited, and will leap around you in a frenzy of delight for an extended period of time (much more than the 30 seconds to one minute of a happy, well-balanced dog.)

This extended greeting is frequently a source of some misunderstanding: without realizing that such a greeting actually signifies the presence of a psychological disorder, some owners actually encourage their dog to get more and more worked up upon their return (by fuelling the dog's excitement, encouraging him/her to leap around, paying her long-drawn-out attention, and so on.)

If you're behaving in this way with your dog, please stop now. I know it's tempting and very easy to do, and it seems harmless - after all, she's so happy to see you, what harm can it do to return her attention and affection in equal measure? - but in actuality, you're just validating her belief that your return is the high point of the day, and the anxiety is an appropriate way to react to your leaving and not being there.

So she's as happy as can be when you return - but, when it's time for you to leave again, her now-exaggerated happiness at your presence is under threat, and she feels greater discontentment when you walk out that door, leading once again to inappropriate anxiety-driven behaviors and probable depression.

Fortunately, there are things you can do to minimize your dog's tendency towards anxiety. Here's a short list of do's and don'ts:

Do:

- Exercise the heck out of her. Really wear her out: the longer you expect to be away, the more exercise she should get before you leave. For example, if you're leaving for work in the morning, she'll probably be by herself for at least four hours; and, if you've got a dog-walker to take her out mid-day instead of coming back yourself, she won't see you, the person she really cares about, for at least nine hours. So she needs a good, vigorous walk (fifteen to twenty minutes is the absolute minimum here!) before you walk out that door. More is even better.

- Distract her from her boredom, loneliness, and anxiety by giving her an attractive alternative to pining, pacing, and whining. All dogs love to chew - why not play on this predisposition? Get a couple of marrowbones from the butcher, bake them in the oven for 20 minutes (so they go nice and hard and crunchy - and so she can't smear marrow all over your furniture), slice them up into chunks of a few inches long, and give her one about 15 minutes before you leave. It'll keep her happy and occupied, and will act as a smokescreen for your departure.

- When you leave, put the radio on to a soothing station: classical music is ideal, but any station featuring lots of talk shows is also ideal. Keep the volume quite low, and it'll calm her down a bit and give her the feeling that she's got company.

- If at all possible, supply her with a view: if she can see the world going by, that's the next best thing to being out and about in it.

- Acclimatize her to your leaving. Taking things nice and slowly, practice getting ready to go: jingle your keys about, put on your coat, and open the door. Then - without leaving! - sit back down and don't go anywhere. Do this until she's not reacting any more. When there's no reaction, give her a treat and lavish praise for being so brave. Next, practice actually walking out the door (and returning immediately), again doing this until there's no reaction. Gradually work up, gradually being the operative word here, until you're able to leave the house with no signs of stress from her.

Do not:

- Act overtly sympathetic when she's crying. Although it sounds very cold-hearted, trying to soothe and comfort your dog by patting her and cooing over her is actually one of the worst things you can do: it's essentially validating her concern. Make sure she can't tell that you feel sorry for her: don't ever say, "It's OK, good girl" when she's upset!

If you're interested in getting a more detailed look at how to deal with your dog's separation anxiety, you might like to check out SitStayFetch.

It's a great learning tool for anyone who wants to learn how to deal constructively with their dog's problem behaviors.

All of the common behavioral problems are dealt with in detail, and there's a great section on obedience commands and tricks too.

You can visit the SitStayFetch site by clicking on the link below:

*http://www.kingdomofpets.com/dogobediencetraining/index.php?aff=changeid&type=separationanxiety

About The Author

Adam Sangster writes articles, ebooks, novels etc, on various subjects of interest. His information is some of the best, most comprehensive around. You can visit his site at http://www.adamsangster.com and also visit the pet information site below.
http://www.kingdomofpets.com/dogobediencetraining/?aff=wblakney&type=nohop

My Barking Dog Is Driving Me Crazy - Dogs bark for a number of reasons. It can be out of excitement when playing or to warn that an intruder is on....

My Barking Dog Is Driving Me Crazy
by: Miss Debra Rae

Dogs bark for a number of reasons. It can be out of excitement when playing or to warn that an intruder is on the premises. This barking is perfectly normal and we humans expect it.

But when your dog continually barks, this can cause problems not only for your own household, but often creates tension within your neighborhood. Some cities and towns have noise ordinances and an incessantly barking dog may bring the police or animal control to your door issuing a warning or possibly a ticket. What to do?

First, isolate the cause of the excessive barking. Ask yourself the following questions:

1. Is my dog lonely and frustrated so they’re seeking attention through their only voice-barking?

2. Is my dog left alone for long periods of time without toys, chews or other ways to keep them occupied?

3. Is my dog a puppy or adolescent (up to 3 years old) and has no other way to expel excess energy?

4. Is my dog a breed that needs a job to be happy (herding or sporting dog)?

If you think one of these is the cause of your dog’s relentless barking, there are options to help deter this unwanted behavior. Here are some suggestions for the lonely or bored dog:

1. Increase the amount and quality of time you spend with your dog by walking them every day for 20-30 minutes. Just a jaunt around the neighborhood often will help dispel some extra energy. It’s also an excellent way to begin or end the human work day.

2. Train your dog to fetch a ball or Frisbee and play with them for 10-15 minutes in the morning and in the evening. Get up a little earlier to help your dog behave better.

3. Get your dog some busy toys where you can hide treats or freeze peanut butter inside to give them something to do while you’re away. Alternate the toys so your dog thinks they’re getting something new each day.

4. Spend 5-15 minutes petting, brushing or scratching your dog. This is also a great way to discover potential problems like bumps, sores or hot spots.

5. If possible, take your dog to work with you for part of the day. Take toys too.

6. Find a doggie day care and take them for the day. Often one time per week will help with boredom or loneliness.

7. Ask a friend, neighbor or family member to come by and take your dog on a walk, play for 10-15 minutes or just love on them.

8. Hire someone to walk your dog daily or a couple times per day. Often there’s a teenager who would love to walk your dog.

9. For herding or sporting dogs, they need a job or they become destructive & depressed. Get them their good citizen badge and go to hospices, hospitals, or nursing homes. Watch your dog glow and grin while they’re learning their job and when they’re working.

Another reason your dog may be barking is to protect their territory. This is a basic instinct, but when it becomes too aggressive, re-conditioning is required to have a happy neighborhood. Please refrain from punishing your dog for barking. This will only make them fearful and won’t solve the core issue. Train your dog to be “quiet” on command or bark a couple of times and then sit or lay down to quietly protect their territory.

To train your dog, begin by filling a coffee can with pennies or nuts and bolts about ¼ to ½ full. Put some cheese cubes, meat or some other special treat in your pocket (you must make the treat more interesting than the barking). Go outside with your dog and pay attention to them without them knowing you’re watching them.

When your dog barks at a passerby, allow 2 to 3 barks and then shake the can of nuts/bolts/pennies. This new noise serves as a distraction and they’ll stop barking. As soon as they stop barking, say in a very happy voice “good quiet” and give them a treat. Stay outside for a while (some dogs are trained in only 3-4 can shaking/treat giving times and others it takes 20). Repeat this process with every passerby until your dog barks a couple of times and then stops on their own.

NOTE: If the can shaking scares your dog (they jump out of their skin), distract them by throwing a ball or other toy which will also stop the barking. Say “good quiet” and pop that treat into their mouth. Repeat for as long as it takes until they’re the superstar of the neighborhood.

Another training process is to get your stash of special treats and can of pennies/nuts/bolts or a toy (don’t let your dog see any of these) and go outside to where your dog typically stands when they’re barking. Have a friend that your dog doesn’t know walk by your yard starting at a position where your dog isn’t barking yet. Have your friend walk normally closer and closer to your dog’s territory.

Once your dog starts barking, shake the can/throw the toy/ball to distract them and the barking stops. Immediately say “good quiet” and pop that tasty treat into their mouth. Repeat this process until your dog makes the connection between being quiet when strangers come near their area and being rewarded. Distraction/re-focusing, praise and treats work wonders.

Be patient. Most importantly, be consistent. Use the same command and body language every time. Dogs read cues from their human and when it’s the same, the training works faster and will last longer.

If your dog barks from inside the house when strangers come close, block their ability to see outside. When they do bark from inside, call them to you (distraction), say “good quiet” and give them a treat. Conditioning takes time so be patient.

NOTE: Don’t encourage your dog to bark at things they see or hear. Also, don’t deliberately tease your dog thereby conditioning them to bark. If you’re dog is barking at seemingly nothing, there may be other health related issues that need a Veterinarian’s care.

Another reason your dog is barking may be out of fear. If their ears are laid back and their tail is held low, they’re afraid of something. This could be a loud noise (thunder), construction equipment, people yelling/arguing, the vacuum or fireworks.

You can desensitize your dog to loud noises by purchasing a CD of thunderstorms and play it while doing regular household chores or sitting around reading. The sound combined with the human acting normally tells your dog that this loud, unfamiliar noise is not a threat. You can also block out your dog’s line of sight which may or may not help depending on the sensitivity level of your unique dog.

Your dog may also bark due to separation anxiety displayed most often by barking beginning shortly after you leave (10-45 minutes). Separation anxiety can be seen through behaviors such as anxious activity when you’re preparing to leave, following you from room to room and frantic welcome home greetings. Your dog may also be anxious due to a change in their normal routine such as a move, loss of a family member (human or canine), being left alone for longer than normal or after a stay at a kennel or animal shelter. Please do not punish your dog for being anxious. This is a panic response and punishment will only worsen the problem. To help you and your dog with separation anxiety, search for the article "5 Signs of Canine Separation Anxiety and What To Do."

In regards to bark collars, I do not recommend them because essentially they are a punishment for your dog using their only voice-barking. Bark collars also don’t often work. The citronella collars are triggered by barking but can also go off if in the proximity of other noises unnecessarily spraying your dog. Sound wave collars do not have a high success rate and shock collars are simply cruel..

Keep in mind your dog’s barking is their way of communicating something is going on, please listen to me. Your job, as their human, is to teach them when it’s appropriate to use their voice and when to be quiet. Never, ever punish your dog for barking. Simply re-condition them to speak only when absolutely necessary.

As always, please consult with your Veterinarian or veterinary technician if you have questions or concerns.



About The Author

Miss Debra Rae

After working in Veterinary clinics and animal emergency hospitals, Miss Rae began writing about dogs and how they enrich our lives. Visit http://www.goodpoopy.com for all your dog's needs from nutrition to dog emergencies and more.

Training Your Dog Yourself - A good dog training program is something that all dog owners should look into. Not only will this help your dog be able..

Training Your Dog Yourself
by: Nicholas Hunt

A good dog training program is something that all dog owners should look into. Not only will this help your dog be able to obey better but it will also strengthen the bond with your dog. However, this does not have to be done by a professional as there really is nobody better equipped to train your dog than you, yourself.

Whenever you are working with a dog training program, you need to remember that you are the one that is in control. However, you do not want to come across as being too forceful either. The goal here is to be both friendly and assertive at the same time.

So, how do you train your dog to obey you? Of course, you do not want to just start yelling commands at your dog. Instead, you are going to need to have a good game plan. Part of this has to do with ensuring that your dog is in the right mindset before you even get started. As such, you should not try to train your dog right after he has eaten and you may wish to take him for a quick walk before you get started. Another thing that it is good to do before training him is to take a little time to play with him so that he will feel relaxed and comfortable with you. All of this will help to eliminate distractions and help you get down to business.

Whenever you are training your dog and he does something right, make sure that you have a treat available to give to him. This helps your dog to know when he has done something right. On the other hand, do not get upset when he occasionally runs off during a training session - this is normal. Simply call him back and get back on task right away. It is also normal for him to seem absolutely clueless at times. Herein you simply need to find a better way in which to communicate with him, even if this means showing him what you want him to do.

Training your own dog is a rewarding experience that has huge benefits. In the end, you will be happy that you have made this decision.



About The Author

Nicholas Hunt writes for http://www.petinsuranceinfo.co.uk/ where you can find information on arranging insurance cover for your beloved pets.

Dog Food: Only The Best For Your Dog - Dogs make great pets. They are the friendliest animals you will come across. That is why many people choose ...

Dog Food: Only The Best For Your Dog
by: Brigitte Smith

Dogs make great pets. They are the friendliest animals you will come across. That is why many people choose dogs when they decide to get a pet. However, owning a dog takes a lot of responsibility. A puppy can be compared to a baby. You need to make sure they are getting all of their nutrients.

If you visit a pet shop, you would definitely get confused as there are hundreds of brands of foods for dogs. The dietary requirement of a dog varies as it advances in age. Puppies need different types of foods in comparison to adult dogs. You must have proper dog information if you want to provide your dog with proper nutrition. The food habits of dogs vary from breed to breed. Some dogs need large amounts of food while some need small amounts of food.

To ensure that your dog grows properly, a balanced diet is a must. Certain foods can be very harmful to a dog's health. Amongst many others, fried cashews, fried potatoes, cooked bones, tomatoes, will harm a dogs digestive system and tracts. Contrary to popular belief, corn is not good a dog's health. It is extremely difficult for them to digest.

Which dog food is the best? Processed foods from the store might not have all of the nutrients your dog needs. That is why you should read about dog food online and in magazines. Never let your dog eat grapes, tea, chocolate, raisins, or coffee grounds. You will be happy to find out that you can make healthy dog food at your home.

Boneless lamb (mixed with steamed vegetables) is an excellent food for your dog. Home-made food is much cheaper than processed foods. Never make the mistake of giving your dog those foods which contain artificial preservatives and/or artificial colors. Such foods can ruin the digestive system of your dog and might give rise to a number of diseases.

Sojos is a good bet when you are searching for just the right food for your dog. Solid Gold dog food (http://healthierdogs.com/dog_food/whats-really-in-commercial-dog-food/) is also a good food. Ask you veterinarian what he or she thinks your specific dog needs in the way of nutrients in his food.



About The Author

Brigitte Smith

When visiting a pet shop it is easy to become overwhelmed by the hundreds of varieties of dog food (http://HealthierDogs.com/Dog_Food/what-exactly-does-commercial-dog-food-contain/). If you'd like to spare yourself all the time and effort required to find the best, nutritious food for your dog, start with sojos food (http://healthierdogs.com/dog_food/more-on-sojos-home-made-style-dog-food/). Another popular brand with dog owners is solid gold pet food (http://HealthierDogs.com). You need to have proper information about your dog if you are aiming to supply your dog with the correct dietary plan. If you're unsure what the best pet food is, talk to your vet about canine dietary needs. Raising a dog takes care and lots of time and love.

Historical Significance Of The Golden Retriever - The Golden Retriever is an obedient, intelligent dog predominantly used for hunting. It is because .

Historical Significance Of The Golden Retriever
by: Carol A Matthews

The Golden Retriever is an obedient, intelligent dog predominantly used for hunting. It is because of their flexibility and medium size, they are so appropriate for hunting job. Intelligence, bravery and liveliness are the inherent characteristics of the the Golden Retriever. First recorded breeding was done between Nous and Belle, a Tweed Water Spaniel, and four yellow puppies were born from this breeding. The AKC recognized the Golden Retriever in 1925 and following this recognition the breed became increasingly popular. The dog received the title for Obedience Champ from the AKC in 1977.

One of the most obedient and intelligent dogs, Golden Retriever dogs are famous for offering their services in a wide variety of domains including hunting, field trials and conferring guidance and companionship to blind masters. In the early decades of the 1800's, hunting was popular among natives of England and Scotland. During that time, hunting was considered both as a way to gather foods and a mode of entertainment. With their flexibility and a medium-size, the Golden Retriever has the ability to move through the wild-fowling, both upland and waterfowl, in a smooth fashion.

In the history of the Golden Retriever, Lord Tweedmouth at Guisachan Estate, Scotland listed the first official record of breeding. However, it became known to the public only during 1952 when the great nephew of Lord Tweedmouth published few historical documentation concerning the estate and Lord Tweedmouth. In mid 19th century, the golden puppy, named Nous put his footsteps for the first time in the estate with his master, Lord Tweedmouth. In the estate, Lord Tweedmouth bred golden puppies with the most desired characteristics and mannerisms.

Tweed Water Spaniels were exclusively used for the purpose of hunting in the early years. It was mainly because these dogs have a true sense of intelligence, bravery and liveliness. The early breeding of the Golden Retriever was largely dependent on the contribution of Tweed Water Spaniels. Breeding between Nous and Belle, a female Tweed Water Spaniel, was held in the estate and they produced four golden puppies. However, the breeding of modern the Golden Retriever is highly influenced by Irish setter, Bloodhound and Tweed Water Spaniel.

The popularity of the Golden Retriever increased significantly during the last decades of 19th century. The Golden Retriever officially appeared to the public for the first time in 1908 at Crystal Palace, England. In the year 1913, the Golden Retriever Club in England was established and with this establishment a separate recognition for this breed was marked. It was 1920 when the Golden Retriever reached to North America and loved by many people.

In 1925, the Golden Retriever achieved the recognition from American Kennel Club (AKC). The popularity of the Golden Retriever increased sharply during the years of the 1930's and 1940's. With its true obedience, this breed obtained the award of Obedience Champ Title from American Kennel Club (AKC) in the year 1977. During the early days of development, the versatility of the Golden Retriever was still unrecognized and this breed was only treated as a hunting dog. However later on all knew the versatile characteristics of this breed.

In the earlier times, buyers mostly prefer dark colored coat of the Golden Retriever to the light shade coat, but gradually the light golden shade became preferred by most people. Starting from its initial days of breeding, even today the popularity of the Golden Retriever has never faded away. In today's world, the dog is recognized for its true intelligence, obedience and courage, which sets it apart from many other breeds.



About The Author

Carol Matthews loves various dog breeds and is blessed with a special affinity towards hunting dogs. The http://www.goldenretrievernews.com/Golden_Retriever.php Golden Retriever has gained a worldwide popularity due to its excellence in obedience, outstanding working ability and rich golden hairs. This article offers all the basic the http://www.goldenretrievernews.com/

Golden Retriever information including its history.

5 Things You Need to Know Before You Buy Your First Puppy - Bringing a new puppy into the home as a new member of the family is an experience that ...

5 Things You Need to Know Before You Buy Your First Puppy
by: Daniel Waser

Bringing a new puppy into the home as a new member of the family is an experience that everyone should have. Kids absolutely adore puppies, all of your neighbors have puppies, and now it's time for you to take part of this joy and fill your house with puppy love!

But before you bring home your first dog, there are five key items that you must consider before making this large commitment to raising another life in the house, even if it is just a dog:

Puppies Need Plenty Of Your Time Invested

Puppies are like raising toddlers - they need constant supervision and require plenty of time to be devoted to training and housebreaking. And even when your puppy becomes familiar with basic training principles, he will still need additional supervision well into his adult years.

Entertainment is another factor to consider. Keep in mind that if you and your family are gone most of the day, at work or for any other reason, buying two dogs may help keep the animals entertained by each other.

If You Have Children, They Too Will Need To Be Trained To Handle The New Puppy

As mentioned above, puppies need an abundance of your time for training and care. If you have children in the house then you must factor in their need to be taught how to handle the puppy, what not to do in terms of improper guidance, and safety tips when playing with the dog.

Puppy classes are an ideal choice to make for both you and your children. There is nothing better than hiring a professional dog trainer to help guide you and your children with proper puppy care.

Puppies Are Expensive

Perhaps the term "expensive" is a bit over the top, but for many families that are on a budget, raising a new puppy can take quite a bit from the old bank account. You will need to buy toys, treats, bones, registrations, training aids, food, and of course, veterinarian visits which consists of checkups and shots.

Puppies Do Not Stay Small Forever

Although this tip is obvious, you would be amazed at how many people gave up their dog because it grew too big, too fast. For some reason, we like to bring home a new puppy and forget completely that it may grow into a very large pet, depending upon the breed. Make sure that you do your due diligence and find out how big your new dog will grow when he becomes an adult.

Most Dogs Are Not For Lazy People

With the exception of a variety of toy breeds and miniatures, the vast majority of dogs will need plenty of daily exercise. These little guys need plenty of room to run around and play. They also need people to play with and toys to keep them entertained. This means you! If by any chance you prefer to live a sedentary lifestyle and cannot offer your time and energy to daily exercise, consider purchasing a breed that does not need much activity.



About The Author

Daniel Waser is a dog lover since his childhood. He owns 3 dogs of his own and has a lot of experiences in dog training, dog health, dog grooming and feeding a dog the healthy way. For more information about puppies visit

http://www.just4thepuppy.com or http://www.just4thedogtraining.com to get helpful tips on how you can train your dog.

6 Things You Should Not Do When You Have A New Puppy In The Home

6 Things You Should Not Do When You Have A New Puppy In The Home
by: Dr. Mayra Alfonso

Everyone agrees that training a puppy is imperative for him to learn how to behave and to teach him his boundaries, but there are some basic tips you need to know before starting your dog training. Magazines, books and online articles addressing the basics of acquiring a new puppy abound. They may all sound repetitive, and a lot of the tips and advice are actually simple and requires common sense, but they are vital nonetheless.

When you bring home a new puppy, keep in mind these 6 things you should avoid doing:

1. Never hit your puppy, whether with your hand or with a rolled up newspaper or any other object, regardless of what he does. Keep in mind that your puppy is like a baby -- it is very delicate and is easily injured. Hitting your puppy will only frighten him and be a traumatic experience for him that can possibly lead to behavioral issues when he is fully grown. Remember that being taken away from his mother and litter mates is a traumatic and scary enough experience for him so be a little patient with this new addition to your family. Your puppy will probably whine for a few days, but he will soon get used to his new family, and will give you all his love and loyalty.

2. If you have objects in your house that you cherish or have sentimental value, keep them out of your puppy's reach. Your puppy, and all puppies for that matter, will eat everything it can get its mouth on. If you want to keep your socks free from holes, don't leave them laying on the floor or in places where your puppy can easily reach them. If you smoke, don't throw the cigarette butts on the floor; your puppy won't think twice about chewing on those. The same goes for any gadgets you have that can be easily scratched and damaged.

3. Don't let other people, family members included, handle your new puppy -- at least for the first couple of weeks or so. It is better that you and another family member handle the new puppy first. If too many people are handling the puppy, he may become nervous and have problems socializing.

4. Avoid picking up the new puppy by his forelegs. Children tend to pick puppies up this way so if you have kids in your house, tell them they should not pick up the new puppy this way. Your puppy's legs are not strong yet and if he can get injured if he is picked up by the forelegs.

5. Don't leave holes inside your house uncovered. Puppies are incredibly curious and they will literally try to get into everything. It can be fatal if your puppy gets stuck in a hole.

6. Don't leave electrical wires uncovered or accessible to your puppy. Cover any exposed wires in your house because your puppy won't spare those. Many puppies have died from electrocution because the house they were living in were not puppy-proof.



About The Author

Dr. Mayra Alfonso

Increase the happy years of your dog by checking out my free e-book. In it I reveal all the secrets I've used to develop a happy, healthier dog. Visit Dr. Alfonso's dog training blog at http://www.CoolDogHallofFame.com right now before I decide to no longer give this valuable e-book for free!

6 Things You Should Do When You Have A New Puppy In The Home - Adopting a new puppy can be one of the most exciting things that can happen to a person

6 Things You Should Do When You Have A New Puppy In The Home
by: Dr. Mayra Alfonso

Adopting a new puppy can be one of the most exciting things that can happen to a person or a family, but that cute little fur ball can also cause a lot of stress, especially in the first few days of coming to his new home. If you have just adopted a puppy, there are a few things you need to keep in mind to make sure that this new addition to your family grows up healthy and happy. Below are 6 things you should do for your newly-arrived puppy:

1. Give your new puppy plenty of love and attention, particularly when he does something "right." Start communicating with your puppy the moment you bring him home. Don't wait for your puppy to make a mistake or do something wrong before starting communicating with him. If you start communicating with your puppy this way, you are essentially training your puppy that you are nice some times and not nice at other times.

2. Puppies love to chew so give your puppy lots of chew toys. You can make chew toys for your puppy or you can buy a few from your local pet shop. This way your puppy learns early one to chew on his toys instead of your shoes!

3. Have comfortable, warm bed for your puppy. If you intend for your puppy to live outside the house, make sure to provide him with weatherproof doghouse. The doghouse should be spacious too. If you decide to let your puppy sleep inside the house, you can use a rectangular wooden box for his bed. You can also check out crates and kennels sold at local pet stores..

4. Keep an eye on your puppy when small children are present. Puppies are practically no match for rambunctious small kids. Puppies can easily get injured and even killed when they are left alone with small children. Small kids generally don't realize that puppies are very fragile animals and that they should be handle with extra care and gentleness.

5. Start your puppy on a regular feeding schedule the first day it arrives in your home. If your puppy is six months old or less, provide him 3 to 4 solid meals each day. During each feeding, give your new puppy all the food he can consume within 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, take away any leftovers. It is very important that you provide your puppy plenty of fresh drinking water in between meals.

6. Start training your puppy to go on regular bathroom breaks. Take your puppy to the same bathroom spot at the same times every day, if at all possible. It is recommended that you take your puppy on bathroom breaks after every meal and two to three hours in between his meals, and after he has taken a nap. At night, take your new puppy on late-night bathroom trips. This will train your puppy early on to go to his bathroom spot if he needs to urinate in the middle of night instead of doing it right in his crate.



About The Author

Dr. Mayra Alfonso

Increase the happy years of your dog by checking out my free e-book. In it I reveal all the secrets I've used to develop a happy, healthier dog. Visit Dr. Alfonso's dog obedience blog at http://www.CoolDogHallofFame.com right now before I decide to no longer give this valuable e-book for free!

18 Things To Consider Before Selecting Your New Dog - Before purchasing a dog for a pet you must make a sincere, thoughtful commitment.Try to match...

18 Things To Consider Before Selecting Your New Dog
by: Lamar Deane


Before purchasing a dog for a pet you must make a sincere, thoughtful commitment. Try to match your desires to the needs of the dog.

Before you start your search for a new dog there are the following 18 things to consider.

1. Obligation and Dedication:

Owning a dog requires a long-term commitment. Adopting a dog on impulse often ends in disaster. Dogs don't make very good birthday or Christmas presents. The decision to acquire a dog should be discussed with all family members.

2. Time:

Do you have the time to spend with a pet? Unfortunately, this is not thought out and frequently overlooked, especially when there are young children in the family. Puppies and dogs need adult supervision and a five or six year old child is too young to responsibly care for them. Do you have time to train a dog? Taking time to train your dog is an obligation that must fit into your daily schedule. If you can't spare the time in training, playing, and exercising a dog maybe, you should re-consider acquiring a dog.

3. Facilities:

Do you have a large enough space for a dog? An outdoor dog needs at least a fenced in yard and a warm, dry doghouse. Do you have the space needed for keeping a dog inside?

4. Cost:

Can you financially bear the cost of a dog? Not only the cost of purchasing a dog should be considered but the cost of routine health care, veterinary fees for annual vaccinations, food, dishes, leashes, collars, beds, toys, etc.

5. Patience:

Owning a dog is a labor of love, but it takes ample patience and persistence in raising one. Having a hot, quick temper that flares up repeatedly isn't compatible with owning a dog.

6. Training:

You must give your dog at least some basic training (either by you or a professional trainer) on behavior and manner or he will be a liability rather than an asset. House-breaking, collar and leash control, obedience is necessary training. Without proper training your dog will be a nuisance and an embarrassment to you.

7. Puppy or Adult Dog?

Depending on your financial situation, the age of children in the home, and the amount of time you can dedicate to training a dog.

Adult: Adult dogs have reached their full size, coloration, and coat so usually what you see is what you get. Their personalities are already established, however many of their learned behavioral manners can be changed. Adjusting to a new family and environment can be traumatic to older dogs.

6 things to consider when acquiring and adult dog.

I: Adult dogs most likely have had their vaccination shots, although they may need boosters.

II: Spaying or neutering probably has been done, which will cut down on your expenses.

III: With an outdoor dog thats fully grown, you have a good idea what type of fencing and the size of the doghouse you will need.

IV: Inside adult dogs are likely to be housebroken with adequate manners.

V: Eating habits are usually already established in adult dogs, but you may have to change them to suit your lifestyle.

VI: Usually adult dogs are accustomed to collars and leashes, and may have had some obedience training. A grown dog with bad habits will take patience and a great deal of time and effort changing their conduct.

4 things to consider when acquiring a puppy.

I: A puppy in a household with children should be carefully monitored when together. Petting and wrestling with a puppy is great fun for children but puppies are fragile and their bones break easily so make sure children understand this when playing with them.

II: Housebreaking a puppy takes time and is particularly tedious and aggravating for the uninitiated. Days or sometimes weeks will be spent on cleaning up after a puppy before it is housebroken.

III: Puppies are vulnerable to diseases not usually associated with adult dogs. They must be checked regularly and will need vaccinations and booster shots.

IV: Spaying or neutering represent additional expenses of puppy ownership.

8. Male or Female?

The cost of raising a male or a female dog adds up to about the same, although spaying a female might be somewhat higher than the cost of neutering a male. One person may favor the temperament of females, while another person prefers masculine characteristics. Bringing a new male dog into a household that already has a male dog may present an aggression problem, unless they are raised together from puppy hood or are neutered; however, neutering won't necessarily stop male aggression. Females tend to be more gentle than males.

There are various reasons for wanting to share your life with a dog; yet, wanting a dog to love is a small part of owning a dog. You will want your dog to be happy in your home.



About The Author

Lamar Deane

For more information on different dog breeds that fit your personality and lifestyle visit http://bestdogbreeds.info/dogs.html