Adopting an Older Dog

January 17th, 2010

You can teach an old dog new tricks! Adopting an older dog is a wonderful idea, especially if you dont have the time to devote to a puppy. Sometimes though, when you adopt an older dog, it comes with some behavior problems, oftentimes the reason the original owners put the dog up for adoption to begin with. Usually, its simply a matter of re-training to get rid of the bad habits.

It doesnt matter what the bahavior issue is – soiling inside the house, barking, aggression toward people or other animals, fighting over territory or food even leaving the yard, these issues can be resolved, and your new pet will indeed become a welcome addition to the family.

The first, and most important thing to do when you bring a new pet, whether a puppy or an adult dog, is to get him or her a thorough physical exam by a qualified vet. Sometimes its a medical issue that can be fixed with the right treatment. The next thing is to find out if your new dog has had any training at all. Try giving some simple commands and watch for responses. Does he follow the command? Is he fearful of a command to come or sit? This could be an indication of abuse by the previous owner. Does he soil inside the house? Do you see signs of aggression? This will all help you to decide which problems will need to be addressed first.

The best and most productive training methods are the ones that use positve reinforcement. Rewarding for good behavior goes a lot further than punishment. It also teaches the dog what your expectations are. Dogs love to be rewarded! A doggie treat will go along way to make him want to perform well to please you – and get that little goody!

A good training program will also teach you how to use the correct vocal tones and body language to communicate with your dog. It will also teach you how to be the Alpha dog. Once your dog recognizes you are the leader of the pack he will be more than ready to follow your commands. This is simply because every dog’s natural instinct is to please the pack leader.

Another thing that is important in dog training, again whether a puppy or an older dog, is that everyone in the household sticks to the same methods of rewards for the same behavior. This consistency makes it easier to train when everyone in the pack does the same thing in the same way. It also encourages your dog to be the best he or she can be under any circumstances if everyone in the family follows the same lead. A dog should be a joy to have, and a well behaved dog is just that. Another thing to think about is teaching some simple tricks to entertain the family as well as guests. It will entertain your new dog as well!

Visit www.porchpotty.com the litter box for dogs!

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/adopting-an-older-dog-1737702.html

Identifying Common Dog Disorders

January 16th, 2010

One of the most important responsibilities that you have for your dog is to help prevent common diseases or disorders that can occur, and it is nearly impossible to do so unless you have some familiarity with the different types of disorders that can occur in the many different types of dog breeds.  There are hundreds of types of illnesses and disorders possible, but the most frequently experience are those that affect the eyes, muscles, bones, and central nervous system.  This article will discuss some of the different types of disorders more commonly experienced in dog breeds throughout the world.

Eye problems are very common in many different dog breeds and some of these abnormalities include glaucoma, cataracts, and blindness, all of which can negatively affect the lifestyle of your dog, and can increase the responsibility you have as the dog’s guardian.

There are a number of nervous system disorders in certain dog breeds that may be genetically inherited.  The Irish Setter can experience paralysis in the back and front legs, and the Fox Terrier can experience muscle coordination failure.   Breeds such as the Chihuahua, English Bulldog, and Cocker Spaniel all run the risk of brain swelling which can have a number of negative affects on the body.

Inguinal hernias is another common disorder that can be present in a number of different dog breeds like the Basenji, the Lhasa Apso, the Cairn Terrier, and the Pekingese.  Inguinal hernias are a condition where the gut of the dog extends down into the groin, which can be very uncomfortable and painful.  Another type of hernia which is fairly similar to that of the inguinal hernia is the umbilical hernia, which is when the gut extends through the navel, which is also very uncomfortable.  Some of the breeds that can experience this type of hernia are the Cocker Spaniel, Collie, Bull Terrior, Pointer, Pekingese, Weimaraner, Airedale Terrior, and more.

Early detection is the key to keeping your dog’s disorders in check and is also important if you want to keep your dog healthy and active.  This can be done by performing routine checks, which may only take a small amount of your time, for common disorders that you would see in dogs.  Therefore, it is necessary to give your dog a basic check-up about once a week.  Doing so can help prevent these diseases from becoming a problem, and it can also help save you money by not incurring higher expenses down the road.

You can perform a routine check by first giving your dog a full body rub or massage, which your dog will love but will also give you a chance to feel any abnormalities or notice any signs of issues that may be occurring with your dogs skin.  While you are doing this, you can also check for any kinds of lumps, bumps, or other irregularities that would not commonly be found on your dogs body.  If you notice swelling, this could possibly be a sign of other issues such as parasites, heart trouble, or cancer.

Your dog should be breathing regularly and it should not be labored, but rather it should be quiet and smooth when he is not panting.  There could be a respiratory problem if your dog is breathing heavily or if there is wheezing associated with his or her breathing, in which case you would want to have your dog checked by a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Check that your dog has a strong heartbeat that is not abnormal, and his pulse should be within the normal range.  If you’re wondering how to check your dog’s pulse, you can do so by placing your hand on the chest near the left elbow.  Your dog’s pulse should be within a range of 60 to 160, depending on the type of breed and size of your dog.

Some other things that you should check on your dog include the eyes, which you would check for signs of cataracts, the ears, which you would check for signs of ear infection or mites, and also check the mouth to make sure that he has healthy teeth and gums.

If you’re looking to keep your dog healthy and happy, be sure to perform routine checks so that you can detect any of these disorders early enough in order to prevent them from becoming a problem.

Search for dogs for sale, and shop for dog supplies at FarmMedley.com

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/identifying-common-dog-disorders-1734032.html

Must Know Training Tips For Italian Greyhound

January 15th, 2010

Italian Greyhounds

The Italian Greyhound is a very quick learner and trains well during its puppy stages. A puppy left without support or security will have temperament problems and will have constant fears to manage during later years. Puppies left without their mothers or siblings for extended periods will have difficulty socializing, and need this attention during their formative years to become better socialized in the long term. They may exhibit behaviors such as hand biting, nipping, and excessive barking; however, with the appropriate amount of obedience training, you can turn this around.

House training is much easier during the period of 10-12 weeks; prior to that, they have little control over their body functions until they are at least 10 weeks old, and waiting until they are too old can be a problem.

Italian Greyhounds are extremely bright and paper training or litter training your dog will be the ideal choice. They are not good all weather dogs and making sure training takes place indoors will be your best option.

These dogs require attention and positive motivation. They may need frequent stroking or caressing if they are uneasy, and they do well with training in a dog crate during the housebreaking stages.

It’s important to keep a firm grip on these puppies but also keep a gentle hand. Holding the puppies by wrapping them tight can help them stay safe and secure, and setting them on the floor requires that they have all four feet on the floor before letting go. This toy dog has long, thin, and delicate legs that are easily damaged if they land too hard. The dog needs to be trained on how and when to climb furniture, and they should not be left unsupervised on a bed or couch whenever possible.

It’s important not to let the dog go unleashed in an unsecured area; they may have selective deafness where no amount of calling will let you be heard. These dogs need to be monitored on a regular basis as they can be easily distracted.

Still, the dogs travel extremely well but do need to use their dog travel crate for long car rides. They do have a tendency to leap out of cars or vehicles if they are not properly restrained so be sure to buckle them in a dog harness.

Italian Greyhounds take direction and instruction well, and will be especially obedient after only a short period.

Michael, a dog owner for over 25 years, has amassed several dog obedience-training techniques as well as an extensive knowledge of dog health problems. Follow this link to read more dog articles from temperament to health and to shop for Dog Supplies by visiting the collection of <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href=" http://www.remarkabledogs.com/pet-supplies/training-behavioral-aids-depot/ “> Dog Training Supplies at Remarkable Dogs Dog Supply Store Where we are dedicated to providing only the very best for your dog.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/must-know-training-tips-for-italian-greyhound-1730096.html

Tips For Taking Care Of Your Old Dog

January 14th, 2010

If you want to keep your old dog healthy and happy, then there are some necessary steps that you can take in order to do so.  Perhaps one of the most important preventative measures is to have you dog examined by a veterinarian every year, or may even more frequently in that.

It’s important that you keep your dog’s weight in check just like any other human being would.  Being overweight is just as big a problem for dogs as it is humans and it can cause issues like joint pain, diabetes, arthritis, and even liver or kidney problems.  While it is nice to be able to give your dog a treat once in a while, you’ll want to limit the number of treats that you actually do give him.  Be sure that you are feeding your old dog the proper amounts of food at least once a day, or perhaps even split that amount into to smaller portions and feed him twice a day.  It is also a good idea to educate children on why feeding your old dog food outside of his regular feeding times is not good for him.  This will help prevent the problem of overeating.

Water is important for keeping your old dog hydrated so it is important that there is always fresh water available for your old dog to drink.  If you’re dog has trouble moving about the house, don’t be afraid to have multiple drinking sources located throughout the house that he can easily get to.  You may even consider bringing the water to him if he has a lot of trouble walking around.

Exercise is very important for keeping your dog healthy and active so you’ll want to try and take your dog for walks on a regular basis.  This will promote good circulation of the blood and also will help them digest their food after they have eaten.  Exercise is a great way to promote overall good health and keeps your dog happy.

Depending on your dog’s eating preferences, it may be necessary to switch to a canned dog food which is more moist than the dry bagged dog food that you would typically buy.  As a dog ages his teeth become weaker and it may be more of a pain for him to try and eat the dry dog food that he has been used to.  Canned, moist dog food will eliminate this problem all while still giving him the necessary nutrients and vitamins that he needs from his food.

These are just a few tips that you can make use of to keep your dog healthy and happy.  Remember, regular vet checks, proper eating habits, and daily exercise are some of the most important activities that will help keep your old dog healthy and active.

Search for dogs for sale, shop for dog supplies, and more at FarmMedley.com

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/tips-for-taking-care-of-your-old-dog-1721658.html

Posted in Dog Training | No Comments »

Talking Parrot Training Tips

January 13th, 2010

A talking parrot makes a wonderful pet. If you intend on purchasing a parrot and teach it to talk, it is best to do with a parrot that is about 2 months old. It is during the infancy stage that a parrot bonds well with its master. The requirement on your part is just patience. Like human babies, exposing baby parrots to words will instill in them an interest in talking. When exposed to words, baby parrots tend to recognize them fast even though they may not be ready to talk yet. But with your patience, they will be able to mimic words at the age of 4 months old.

Between 4 months to a year a parrot picks up words fast. It is during this time that you can really mould you bird into a talking parrot. They are most receptive before they are 1 year old. Beyond that, it may take a longer time to learn new words. So use this 1 year period to teach as many words as you can and discipline your bird to listen to your command. However, if you pick an older bird that has very little socializing with humans, you may end up with a parrot that may refuse to learn to talk at all. But that should not be a deterrent in keeping parrots if your desire is to keep parrots as pets. A parrot that talks is just a plus factor.

Male parrots are better talkers than female parrots, and more receptive too. However, it is almost impossible to tell the sexes of parrots apart before you purchase one. You may need to see a vet to determine that as a surgical procedure or a blood test is often required.

The best time to teach your parrot to talk is early in the morning or late in the evening. In the wild, birds are more active during these times and are at their noisiest as they gather to eat and squeak at each other. Take advantage of this natural phenomenon to entice your parrot to talk and utter new words.

As with training other animals, positive reinforcement by giving a reward works best. Identify your parrot’s favorite food and use it as a reward for getting the right word. When this is practiced continuously, your parrot will look forward to such training sessions and respond positively.

Switch off the TV, radio and try to remove all sound distractions such as wind-chimes and sounds from other pets in the house. Take charge of the situation and let the bird know that you are in command. Speak the word in a loud and clear voice and give a reasonable amount of pause before you repeat the word again. Use facial expressions or hand gestures to give more meaning to the word. Parrots that you see dancing on youtube videos is the result of their owners using action with words.

Learning the first word is usually the hardest. It gets easier over time until the parrot reaches an age when it just stops learning and you will know that the window learning period has closed. But again, it doesn’t mean that your parrot will not learn talking at all, as different parrots adapt differently.

Teaching a parrot to talk is lots of fun, especially when the parrot has built a vocabulary of words that are funny and cheeky. A talking parrot is always the life of the party and it also makes a great companion too as it has a very long lifespan.


Are you a parrot owner? Get FREE training tips and ideas on how to upkeep your parrots at iLoveParrots.com

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/talking-parrot-training-tips-1715144.html

Posted in Dog Training | No Comments »

Electric Dog Fence: The Key to Continuing Your Beauteous Garden Safe

January 12th, 2010

You require to carry on your wanted garden Safe And Sound? There should be no reason for you to be torn over presentingyour dog free prevail over your yard and protecting your Lovely garden where you have seeded your esteemed roses and gardenias. This is because there is something that you can perform to protect one and give a modicum of freedom to the other. Yes, it is feasible for your dog and your garden to coexist superbly on the same yard and this is through placing up an electric dog fence around your garden.

With this fence, you will be resourceful to permit your dog ramble freely on the parts of your yard where it can’t trample on your garden and dig around some. In this mode, you may yet stimulate the opportunity to gain that blue ribbon for your roses during the following garden contest. and you will be grounds of enviousness for neighbors.

Types of Electric Dog Fence

1.The wireless Electric Dog Fence. If you have attained up your idea about protecting your garden from your dog, then you should purchase that wireless electric dog fence now. This inconspicuous electric fence functions with a receiving system that is held in a wireless dog neckband. You will be surefooted to protect your garden by positioning up this prodigious dog fence around it. So when your dog decides to stroll over to your garden, perhaps to watch what’s below your flowerbeds, he will find a soft remedial static that will motivate him to rest outside.

You will likewise recognize if your dog is coming near your garden because you will hear a cautionary mention before your dog contracts the disciplinary static. As such, you must produce authentic to have the radio collar that occurs along with the electric dog fence around your dog’s neck at all times, specially when he is out straying the yard. With this, you can save the beauty of your garden and your flowers.

2.The Ping-String Electric Dog Fence. Now, if you retrieve that there is just one character of electric dog fence which will keep your dog away from your garden and your flowers, then you are erroneous. This is because there is actually an electric dog fence that could observe other dogs off as well. After all, there is no sense in protecting your garden from being spoilt by your dog when it can be precisely easily obliterated by other animals in your vicinity.

So if you are curious in the electric dog fence that carries on both your dog and other animals away from your treasured garden, then you are attending for the “ping-string” diversity of the camouflaged electric fences expendable in the market.

If you are still testing to resolve on which type of electric dog fence you wish to have, test browsing what’s available on Pet Depot Online, we sustain the nicest accumulation of pet control equipments. Here, you will be advised of the characteristics of the hidden electric fences that could cope with your demands and you could service of them at low-budget monetary values as well.

Electric dog fence are very safe to use available at http://www.petdepotonline.comArticle Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/electric-dog-fence-the-key-to-continuing-your-beauteous-garden-safe-1709098.html

Posted in Dog Training | No Comments »

How to Heal Chronic Dog Bladder Concerns Once and For All

January 11th, 2010

Dog bladder concerns can seriously impact the quality of your dog’s life. If your dog often suffers from bladder stones or urinary tract infections, then you will want to read this article, so you can learn some practical simple tips for stopping your pet’s suffering once and for all.

When it comes to dog bladder issues, most pet owners are concerned about chronic urinary tract infections or recurring bladder stones. These painful conditions can mean multiple visits to the vet and even surgery in some cases, but most important, it means that your favorite furry friend is in a lot of pain. We will talk about some simple steps that you can take to stop this vicious cycle,  but first, let’s look at how these conditions are normally treated.

Dog bladder concerns are normally treated with antibiotics. Antibiotics are drugs that suppress symptoms quickly, but can have serious side effects. Sometimes, they can actually make your dog worse. Also since your dog can build an immunity to antibiotics, sometimes, they do not work and the body does not heal properly which sets the stage for chronic problems. Although they are the standard treatment, they are not the best nor the only option.

By contrast, natural remedies contain herbs which are specifically designed to restore the pH of the bladder (which eliminates bacteria and dissolves bladder stones) and provide the urinary system with the nutrients it needs to stop pain and heal inflamed tissues. The difference between natural remedies and drugs is that remedies give the body what it needs to heal, while drugs suppress symptoms in the hopes that the body will heal itself. This is why treating dog bladder issues with natural medicines can be so effective.

Since natural remedies have no side effects and will not interact with other medicines your dog is taking, they are completely safe, however not all remedies are created the same. Look for one with a money back guarantee (which shows the company stands behind their product). Make sure it contains a formulation of Cantharis, Berberis, Staphysagris and Uva Ursi, which are highly effective herbs used to treat dog bladder concerns. Since these herbs are gentle, they can also be used daily for prevention.

Although a natural remedy will quickly go to work on your dog’s condition, it is important to support the supplement with a healthy diet of organic food (read the label, watching for chemicals, dyes, meat byproducts and fillers especially in commercial dog food brands) and lots of fresh, clean water. By giving your pet a daily supplement, good food and water, you will help your pet build a healthy urinary system and once and for all, your pet will be free of recurring dog bladder issues.

Laura Ramirez is a passionate researcher of natural remedies which heal disorders and keep pets vibrant and healthy. Find out more about safe, effective ways to maintain your pet’s urinary tract health at www.pet-ut-health.com.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/how-to-heal-chronic-dog-bladder-concerns-once-and-for-all-1703597.html

Posted in Dog Training | No Comments »

The Benefits Of An Insulated Dog House

January 10th, 2010

Dogs have been the man’s best friends since time immemorial, their love and loyalty to their owner is incomparable. Thus keeping them comfortable and safe is our responsibility as their owner.

Many dog owners have houses for their dogs to keep their dogs safe as it guards their house. Some people build it themselves while some buy it in pet shops.

Though building a dog house can always cost you less money than buying in pet shops, cheap dog houses cannot really give dogs the comfort of home. There are so many things to consider in making a house to give your dog a comfortable stay while it guards your house.

Size and design plays a very vital role in making dog houses and it always differs in dog’s size and type of breed, if you don’t get it perfect for your dog you are just basically wasting your time, effort and money, as your dog wont probably use its house for long.

Summer nowadays is insanely hot, and this can cause your dog to feel uneasy and worst, they can get sick because of dehydration. Thus a properly insulated dog house is what you should buy for your dog to keep them comfortable inside their house.

If you are on your way to your local pet shop and buy a house for your beloved dog, consider these tips so you won’t feel guilty of depriving your dog the comfort it needs.

Proper size, design, material and reasonable price are things you should consider in buying a dog house. Your dog should big enough for your dog to turn inside but not too big though, for it will be very cold for them staying in their house during cold weathers.  

The best material for an insulated dog house is wood, cedar wood to be specific. This type of wood doesn’t get too hot or too cold in areas that have very hot and very cold weathers. This type of wood will also help maintain the temperature inside the house making it perfect for your dog no matter where you live.

The Author is an expert in article writing and has done a lot of research online and offline. Come visit his latest websites on Igloo Dog House and Purses And Handbags

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/the-benefits-of-an-insulated-dog-house-1696991.html

Posted in Dog Training | No Comments »

Complete Puppy Handbook

January 10th, 2010

(Ebook Pdf Downloadable)

Pet Sitter Reveals How To Easily
Handle Puppies So They Grow Up
Healthy and Well-Disciplined
With NO Behavior Issues…

Yes, Even YOUR Puppy!

So you’ve got a new puppy, or you’re thinking about getting one, and you can’t decide if you’re more excited or scared!

I know what’s going on in your head… what if the puppy…

wrecks my furniture, my clothes, and my yard?

runs out in the street and gets hit by a car?

keeps pooping and peeing in the house?

becomes sick and it’s all my fault?

turns into a nightmare to handle and I end up having to give him to the animal shelter?

These are all valid concerns, and there are even more you’ve probably not thought of! Owning a puppy is a big responsibility and it’s lying squarely on your shoulders.

My name is Peggy, and I am here to help answer your puppy questions. As to my background – my family always had a dog in the house but that didn’t mean I knew the first thing about raising a dog. When I became an “adult” (and I use that term loosely) and moved out on my own, I got a brand spankin new puppy.

Wow… I soon realized I didn’t know the first thing about puppies!

I didn’t know I should have asked myself certain
questions about breeds and activity level before I
picked out a puppy.

I didn’t know the best place to find a healthy puppy.

And training?? What a joke.

In other words, I screwed up big time. My puppy acquired some behavioral problems and they were my fault because I was ill-equipped, had no real knowledge about dogs, and knew nothing about training.


So I set out to learn all I could, and I learned a lot! Not only did I turn my puppy around, but I helped other people with their puppy questions and dilemmas and got to really understand dogs. In fact, this knowledge, success, and love for dogs eventually led me to become a pet sitter… and a darn good one!

From my vast experience with dogs, I’ve put together your Puppy Tested, Owner Approved answers right here in ebook format so you can download it instantly

NOTE-THIS IS A DOWNLOADABLE (Ebook Downloadable) AND WILL NOT BE SHIP AS A CD FORMAT.YOUR DOWNLOAING LINK AND PASSWORD WILL BE MAILED TO YOU.

Buy Now!

Become Our Fan On Facebook:-

Click Here!

Follow Us On Twitter:-

Click Here!

Visit Our Blog Here:-

Click Here!

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/complete-puppy-handbook-1694598.html

Posted in Dog Training | No Comments »

Training Your Dog The Clicker Training Method

January 9th, 2010

Whenever you’re anticipating training your dog you could regard applying the ‘clicker training’ technique, which has lately become popular amidst dog trainers all over the nation. In this technique the trainer makes use of a clicker, a small plastic box with a metal push button which causes a distinguishing clicking sound when the button has been pushed. This schooling technique is simple and is in numerous manners duplicate to the positive training technique. Here constitutes what you need to do. Select a positive behavior which you would like to instruct or reinforce your dog to do. A quantity of conducts/actions derive naturally to the dog like sitting down, eating, standing, barking and so forth. and these require merely to be reinforced so that your dog acknowledges when you desire him to do what. Varied additional accomplishes like playing dead, shaking hands, rolling over and so on. Don’t come of course to the dog and require to be instructed. Clicker training could be applied to do both.

Clicker training works accordant to the basic rules of operative disciplining, by connecting the sound of the clicker with a food item or treat which the dog especially likes. Immediately all you have to do is apply the clicker to command the dog to do something, the dog, contributed that he affiliates the sound of the clicker with the treat, instantly accommodates and the training is complete.

Allow us to assume an exercise to illustrate the technique fuller, say you would like to teach your dog to sit, you put a treat on your dog’s nose playfully and then move it upwardly, the dog will apparently pursue the apparent motion of the treat with its nose and will and then by nature rest its behind on the floor, thereby placing himself in a sitting down posture. Immediately time your clicking to be so precise as to happen right as the dog sits down, immediately give him the treat and praise him. Proceed exercising this for sometime until the dog starts to affiliate the clicking sound with the treat till the click causes him to sit without you enticing him with treats.

Ann has been writing articles for nearly 10 years. Come visit her latest website
over at http://www.woodworkingplanskit.com which helps people find the best Easy Woodworking Plans – Wood Working Patterns and information
they are looking for.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/training-your-dog-the-clicker-training-method-1692752.html

Posted in Dog Training | No Comments »