Dog Training

Dog Obedience Training – Using the Click and Treat System

The click and treat system, or positive reward training, has become the preferred method used by dog obedience training instructors all over the world.

Take a look at the dog’s world and try getting into your dog’s paws. You have heard your master’s car arrive home and you wait at the door, excited, eyes bright, tongue flopping out, tail madly wagging, and your master walks through the door – oh, oh, he has had a bad, bad day, he is in a sour mood and he has a headache. He totally ignores you and stomps into the kitchen, opens the back door and chases you outside.

A few minutes later, your master comes out of the kitchen door and calls you. He slips on a steel slip chain training collar and starts jerking you through your obedience training exercises: – sit, drop stand or whatever. He insists your attention gruffly, he is hard on you and does not like it when you sit too slow, or don’t stay in a sit and his voice is harsh and angry. You do not want to work in this obedience training session and so you receive more harsh words and you do what you have to do but you work most reluctantly.

The next day, your master has won a major new account and he is happy. His voice is exciting and, although he still slips the dreaded steel choke chain around your neck, he is not as rough or harsh in this dog training session. You are really keen to please him and you work your tail off to do all the obedience training he wants you to do.

Right. Back into your human shoes. Wouldn’t it be nice if we could have a training system for obedience training our dogs that was not harsh, was rewarding and a positive training experience, for both the dog and the handler, that was unemotional, and sounded exactly the same every time you used it.

Well we do have such a system. It is called a clicker and the dog obedience training method that goes with the clicker is the positive training method. It is used around the world to train all types of animals – dolphins, lions, seals, elephants, horses, dogs and chickens.

The CIA used it to train crows to carry mini microphones and place them outside windows. The KGB used it to train cats to wear microphones and sit close to people who may have things of interest to say – who would suspect crows or cats of carrying microphones?

The click noise the clicker makes can be made repeatedly by different trainers in the family and it is always the same unique sound.

The modern day clicker is now a small box with a metal strip fixed at one end. The thumb is used to push the other end of the strip down into the box and makes a clicking noise. A noise that is virtually identical every time you click the metal strip.

You use this click noise to replace the human emotionally affected voice. So the “yes” you might use when the dog sits on command, is now replaced by the click.

The click is used to tell the dog he has done the right thing. The click needs to be done as the dog does what you are asking him to do. Picture yourself holding a camera and asking your dog to sit. As the dog’s bottom touches the floor, you click the shutter to capture the exact moment. The sound of the camera shutter is the clicker going off.

If the dog bounces back up after sitting, and you click late, you are now marking the dog standing up. It is better to click a little earlier than late.

With dog obedience training, the click does not work alone. You need to offer the dog a reward for getting it right which is why you may have heard of the Click and Reward or Click and Treat training systems.

Usually, for the reward, I recommend using something the dog would really love to work for – it might be grilled chicken, prawns, lamb chops, steak, or cat kibble. The higher quality the reward the keener your dog will be to work for you.

If you have a job and work for a wage, think of how you earn that income – if you really worked hard and got things done, and all your boss gave you was a pat on the back, or worse, simply ignored you, would you want to go back and work for him. No, I didn’t think you would.

But what if he bought you a great steak lunch for doing an excellent job!!!!! Or gave you a great pay rise!!!

When instructing a basic dog obedience training course, I see the difference a good quality treat makes over and over. Towards the end of the one hour lessons, the dog’s interest has waned to a low point because they have been getting the same treats for the whole lesson. I always carry a small supply of what we call “chunkers”. Mini meatballs made from chicken, lamb or turkey. They are cooked but would be called wet treats. Dogs go nuts for them and the last 15 or so minutes of the lesson they are again alive and keen.

So have you got the picture – click when the bum hits the ground and give the dog a tasty treat within 3 seconds and he is going to give you his best.

In the modern world of the click and treat training method, the replacement for the emotionally adjustable human voice, and a choice reward system, and your dog obedience training may just get your dog to cook your Sunday breakfast – well, I suppose not quite – the dog will probably eat the breakfast before he gets it to the breakfast table.

The clicker is an obedience training tool and not a toy and you need to ensure that it stays that way and the kids do not start running around the house clicking away madly. If the clicker is clicked you have to reward the dog within 3 seconds.

And you do not use it as a recall tool, because the click means a treat is coming within 3 seconds and you will not be able to fit that rule. You may be tempted to use the clicker to bring the dog back to you if it wanders off. DON’T.

The clicker is most often coupled with another training technique called shaping and I have written a separate post about this topic

Nev Allen is a dog trainer with 30 years of experience and he is now sharing this experience to help you make your puppy a good, happy and well trained obedient dog. Visit my blog for more detailed dog obedience training and clicker training articles.Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/dog-obedience-training-using-the-click-and-treat-system-1768898.html

Luxury Dog Clothing At Its Finest With Christian Audigier Dog

Dog fashion has come a long way from the boring T-shirts and jumpers that use to be a hit with dog owners. But now there are high luxury dog clothing ranges that have started to pamper the most diva of dogs. Christian Audigier Dog is one such brand that designs stunning luxury dog clothing that have taken the dog fashion design world to new heights!

Christian Audigier is a top fashion designer who’s design experience, style, flair and precision have made him a true fashion icon. He has taken his sensational designs and worked his creative magic in producing luxury dog clothing. The line of dog clothing is a mix between luxury and rock and roll. When combined the outcome has been nothing short of spectacular. Christian Audigier Dog is dog fashion at its very finest!

Hollywood celebrities are in love with the high fashion designs of Christian Audigier and regularly his clothing range can be seen on celebrities as they grace the red carpets. A celebrity like Paris Hilton regularly dresses both herself and her dog in Christian Audigier clothing! But this clothing range is definitely not just for Hollywood celebrities. Every dog owner has the opportunity to dress their dogs in the finest luxury threads.

Christian Audigier continues to bring out new ideas and concepts which he translates into the dog fashion design world. Every dog owner knows that a dog is a person to, with a personality and individual likes and dislikes and what they love and hate. With this luxury dog design range you can bring out the best qualities in your dog and match the clothing with the individual tastes of your dog.

No matter what the occasion from everyday streetwear, special days (Halloween), birthdays, trips to the beach or bedtime Christian Audigier Dog has got all bases covered. The clothing range has become an everyday part of life for many dog owners and their dogs. Made using high quality fabrics that are stylish, practical and comfortable it is no wonder dogs feel fabulous in this luxury dog clothing.

So if you want your pooch to live a life of style, glamour and also extreme comfort then Christian Audigier Dog is the ultimate fashion line for your dog. Dogs just like us need protection from the harsh weather conditions and now they can get that protection and look funky at the same time.

Posh Puppy Boutique is a renowned name in the world of modern pet boutiques. Posh Puppy Boutique is an authorized dealer of well-known brands such as Christian Audigier, Ed Hardy, Chrome Bones, Bone Digger and many more. For more information please visit:–http://www.poshpuppyboutique.com/

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/luxury-dog-clothing-at-its-finest-with-christian-audigier-dog-1764657.html

Why You Need to Understand the Nutritional Needs of Your Dog

Each dog has his own nutrition requirements. A lot of these requirements depend on the size and age of your dog. What might be a good source of nutrition for one dog may be completely inappropriate for the next. This is something that really needs to sink in.

If all dogs have different needs should everyone be buying the same for for their dog’s at the grocery store? This, in and of itself, is a great reason to discuss your dog’s nutrition and the type of food you should be feeding your dog. There is a reason vets carry those premium brands, they better meet the nutritional needs of your dog.

There is a direct correlation between a dog’s nutritional needs being met and his ability to be trained. Your dog’s welfare and life long health are directly related to what he is fed.

Dogs are meat eaters. They need to eat meat to keep healthy. His stomach enzymes are set up to break down meat and raw food. Just like humans, dogs need specific amounts of specific nutrients to be healthy and for their cells to work properly. The necessary nutrients are as follows: protein, carbohydrates, fat, vitamins, minerals, and water.

Different breeds of dogs need different amounts of protein to stay fit. A busy or working dog needs more protein than a dog that sleeps most of the day. It is important to read the nutritional labels on the food you feed your dog. The largest ingredient on the label needs to be animal protein (chicken, beef, or lamb). Younger dogs need to be fed twice as much as an older dog as they growing and need the additional nutrition. If a dog does not have his nutritional needs met as a pup, he will have health problems later on in life.

Most minerals are lost in the processing of dog food products. As minerals are important in forming blood, bones, and a healthy nervous system, it may be necessary to add additional minerals to your dog’s food. There are mineral products available on the market.

Fresh, clean water provided on a daily basis is the most important element for your dog. Water is utilized for the digestion of food, sustaining his body temperature, moving toxic matter out of his body, and it stabilizes the acid levels in his blood. Canned, dry, or raw food all contain different amounts of fluid. The amount of water a dog will drink on any given day may depend on the type of food he is fed.

Matt Knacks is a dog enthusiast and the owner of http://www.homemadedogtreatsrecipes.com and invites you to find some new recipes for peanut butter dog treats here.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/why-you-need-to-understand-the-nutritional-needs-of-your-dog-1758508.html

A Dog Carrier Bag Is A Fashionable Method To Transport Your Little Pet

A Dog Carrier Bag is one of the latest fashion trends in the dog world. These fun and fashionable carriers have become extremely hot items in the last couple of years. They are seen just about anywhere you go nowadays. Dog carrier bags make it fun to travel with your smaller dog. Not only are they fun, but they also provide a very secure and reliable mode of transportation, whether you travel by car, on foot, or in an airliner.

The majority of these products are made from a soft type of material from nylon to plush leather bags, there is definitely one that is perfect for your dog. They are available in a multitude of sizes, colors, and styles. Gone are the days of the simple and useful dog carrier bag. Don’t get me wrong, there are still plenty of these models available, but now the fashions for your dog are infinite. The designer models are still very function oriented, and actually, they are more useful than ever. Besides the basic and traditional models, now there are dog carrier bags that can be used as backpacks, an infinite supply of bags that are also a purse to tote your pet on your shoulder, and many with wheels.

A good quality carrier is approved for travel on airlines and some of them, particularly the carriers that carry the Sherpa name have a guarantee that will allow them in the main cabin of the aircraft with you. Airline travel with dogs has soared in popularity in lately as has the love for small canines and animals. With the number of us with small dogs growing rapidly, the pet product companies have answered by making these dog carrier bags. There has been a lot of time and effort besides the fashionable colors and designs available, put into making these products, including making them suitable for airlines.

Some of the best things to look for when picking a dog carrier bag for your dog are comfort and quality. Your canine will learn to enjoy riding in one of these carriers if it is comfortable for him. This is also something the makers of these carriers have given thought to when designing them. You will notice first hand if there has been some quality thought put in to a dog carrier bag. Quality is very important to you and your pet. I know there are many of us out there, especially those of us that are thinking about a purse style bag for your pet that are willing to pay a few extra dollars to get a fashionable and high quality carrier. There are plenty of bags with big designer brands on the market. One great thing; however, it that you don’t have to deplete your bank account to get high quality dog carrier bags. There are many really nice products on the market that are quite affordable.

Not only does a dog carrier bag provide style and comfort to your canine’s traveling adventures, but a top quality item will also offer a safe place for him to relax in. We love our animals like they are our own, and want their security to be a high priority. The fashion and infinite options of dog carrier bags make shopping for them fun and exciting, but knowing that your pet will be safe and secure during his next adventure to the park, the beach, or around the world is the best quality that one of these fine and fun bags will offer to you and your dog.

Robert Jones is a dog lover and believes in the proper training methods for canines. He is also the owner of Canine Crate Store. If you are interested in a dog carrier bag for your pet, come see our selection of Sherpa Pet Carriers.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/a-dog-carrier-bag-is-a-fashionable-method-to-transport-your-little-pet-1757307.html

How Do I Know if My Dog is Cold and Requires a Coat

Winter weather can be a lot of fun, between the snow falling and frozen outdoor ice skating rinks. However, one frosty truth remains that winter is cold. Wearing jackets and gloves, as well as scarves and hats protect us from that harsh winter cold, but what about our canine companions?

Dogs, too, must have something to help keep them warm when they are out in winter. Knowing which dogs are best suited for doggy coats, and which coats are best for the dog, can keep man’s best friend from getting sick in the cold winter air.

When it comes to the cold, size matters. A medium to large size dog, such as a Labrador or a Great Dane, have thicker coats and thicker skin. They typically do not need a jacket for dogs as often. However, if you have a large breed dog, keep in mind that these dogs frequently develop hip and joint problems as they get older. From the age of seven years, an adult dog is considered a senior citizen. The cold will cut right through to those already aching bones, and just like a human, they will need a jacket to keep them warm.

Most households today have smaller breed dogs, especially families who live in apartments. Dogs such as Jack Russell Terriers, Boston Terriers, and Shi Tzu’s are small breed dogs and will certainly need a jacket for the winter. These dogs do not have the thicker skin, nor thicker fur that the bigger dogs have. Any dog between the weights of fourteen to twenty-five kilograms (30-55 pounds) and less than nine kilograms (20 pounds) will need a winter jacket. These jackets can be both fun and functional.

Picking the correct jacket for your dog does not have to be a difficult task, either. If you are wanting to select a jacket that will keep your furry little friend warm in the winter months, then keep in mind how active your dog is. Lap dogs such as chihuahuas may spend the majority of the time being held in your arms, or in a traveling case. If this is the case, then they may only need a sweater to keep them warm. However, if your dog is a bit larger and more active, like a Jack Russell Terrier, then a fleeced, water proof jacket may be necessary.

When sizing a jacket for your dog, you must keep in mind that dog jackets are like human jackets. What may be the correct size in one brand may also be a different size in another brand. For instance, you may purchase a jacket from a manufacturer that fits as a medium on your dog; however, the medium from a different manufacturer may be too small or too large. Most jackets and sweaters offer sizes in inches. This is measured from the back of the neck to the base of the tail. If your local pet supply store does not allow dogs, then measure your pooches back from the neck to the base of the tail. This will give you a better idea of what size you will need. However, it is always better to take your pet with you for a more accurate fitting.

Also, remember that the jacket should not be too loose. If the jacket does not fit properly, is may get soiled when you pet has to urinate. This is especially important if you are buying a jacket for a male. Just keep in mind that the size of the jacket and the need of a jacket depends on the breed of the dog that you have. The smaller the dog, the more necessary it is to have a jacket for them.

Derek Rogers is a freelance writer who writes for a number of UK businesses. For Dog Insurance, he recommends Healthy Pets, a specialist pet insurer.Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/how-do-i-know-if-my-dog-is-cold-and-requires-a-coat-1751996.html

What Factors Contribute to Dog Obesity?

While there are medical conditions that can increase the likelihood that your canine will gain weight, most problems related to obesity are caused by owners. Dogs are similar to people. If they intake more calories than they burn on a regular basis, they will put on extra pounds. Unfortunately, excess weight can put stress on the joints while exacerbating existing health conditions.

Below, we’ll take a look at the most common factors that play a role in canine obesity. We’ll explore how the availability of food, lack of sufficient exercise, genetic predisposition, and a thyroid problem can each contribute to your pooch’s expanding body.

Too Much Food

Every dog is different. Some will eat as much food as is placed in front of them and then start looking for more. Others will eat throughout the day, coming back to their bowl only when they’re hungry. Some will only eat certain types of foods while others will consume practically anything.

The problem is that many owners fail to tailor their pooch’s meal plan to accommodate their tendencies. For example, a lot of people will follow a “free choice” plan where they make food available to their canines at all times. For many pets, this is a recipe for obesity; they will eat as much as possible.

Another common problem is that owners often prepare meals that are far too big. Even if the food is not always available, meals that are larger than necessary can contribute to your pooch’s weight gain. This is especially true if he leads a sedentary lifestyle.

Lack Of Exercise

The more active your dog is on a daily basis, the more calories he’ll burn. The more calories he burns, the more food he can eat without gaining weight. Plus, canines that enjoy daily exercise are less likely to become bored or stressed during the day. Both mental states encourage excess eating.

It’s In The Genes

Some breeds are predisposed to weight gain. For example, owners of Beagles and Cocker Spaniels often find that their pooches put on extra pounds more easily than similarly-sized dogs from other breeds. This is not to suggest that owners of these breeds (along with Labrador Retrievers and Collies) should relent and allow their canines to gain weight. On the contrary, they should take extra precautions to help keep the pounds off.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which your pooch’s thyroid produces fewer thyroid hormones. This hormone plays a role in regulating your dog’s metabolism; a decline in its production can lower his metabolic rate. As a result, he’ll need less nourishment to maintain his energy. In some cases, pets become obese when they develop hypothyroidism and continue eating the same amount of food each day.

Canine obesity becomes more problematic as your pooch ages. It’s more difficult to shed the excess pounds and the extra weight will take a greater toll on his body. If you suspect your dog is obese, ask your veterinarian to recommend a weight reduction diet that provides for his nutritional and energy needs.

Find the best dog chews and bully sticks at http://www.bestbullysticks.comArticle Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/what-factors-contribute-to-dog-obesity-1745662.html

Juicy Couture Dog – The Totally Fabulous Guide

More and more dog owners and dog lovers today are doing their best to dress their dogs up in order to make them not only look fabulous but to feel great as well. But too many canines are roughing it out with uncomfortable and horrible clothing that looks like something from the 80′s.

Luckily there is a breed of dog clothing that has been causing a stir in the dog clothing world called Juicy Couture Dog and this fashion line has amazing designs for dogs that have transformed their look from drab to fab!

Juicy Couture Dog is responsible for creating some very funky designs that are rocking the doggie fashion empire. There is a huge range of Juicy Couture designer dog clothing and accessories that are sure to catch the attention of all dog owners. With so many different styles, shapes, colors and materials that go into making this clothing range the options available to style your dog is limitless.

Some popular clothing items include: Juicy Dog windbreaker, Juicy thermal sweatshirt, Juicy hoodies, Juicy plaid dog trench coat, Juicy embroidery velour dog dress and the Juicy parker. In fact there are so many popular items that there is just too much to list! The Juicy hoodies are particularly popular, not only do they look super cute but they do a great job keeping your dog warm in winter.

Popular accessories include: Juicy Couture dog collars, Juicy Couture velour bowler carrier, Juicy Dog barrettes and the Juicy Dog harness backpack.

The Juicy Couture Dog clothing range is bursting with totally fabulous clothing that will have your dog looking hip in no time. The important thing to realize with this designer dog clothing range is that all the clothes are made with your dogs comfort in mind. There are too many brands that create dog fashion in order to look good but forget that if it’s uncomfortable for dogs to wear.

Juicy Couture Dog on the other hand produces a delicate balance among comfort and fashion so that your dog gets the best of both worlds. With so many different dog clothing ranges being released frequently it’s hard to pick the best clothing for you canine friend. But Juicy Couture Dog has stood the test of time and is a hit with dog owners and dogs alike all around the world. So transform your dog from drab to fab with this stylish, cool, funky and fashionable clothing range.

Posh Puppy Boutique is a renowned name in the world of modern pet boutiques. Posh Puppy Boutique is an authorized dealer of well-known brands such as Christian Audigier, Ed Hardy, Chrome Bones, Bone Digger and many more. For more information please visit: – http://www.poshpuppyboutique.com/

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/juicy-couture-dog-the-totally-fabulous-guide-1742670.html