It doesn't matter what type of dog training help your looking for, For instance it might be,petsmart dog training, boyton dog train, train dog to stop barking, training older dogs, train loud barking dogs, dog unrinary problems, training a loud barking dog, or how to train a pitbull. If you find that you are not being successful in training your own dog, or maybe you don't have the time or the inclination, then you may wish to consider the use of a professional dog trainer. Professional dog trainers are also a great benefit if you have a particularly difficult or unruly dog with bad behavior problems. But, how do you go about choosing a good dog trainer?Going online and finding a successful dog training system or book has been the answer to many, finding somthing that teaches you how to train your companion rite at home is probably want you want.
Possibly one of the best ways to find a good dog trainer would be to look online for recommendations from dog training review websites. And find a petsmart dog training system or ebook that have had experience with the product and have sevral satisfied customers, and or recomendations. Other good sources are veterinarians, dog breeders, and pet storeowners who will have been asked similar questions before. By asking around, you can find out which trainers are most highly regarded in your area.
If you do decide to shop online and purchase a dog training package, for whatever your reason might be, train dog to stop barking, training older dogs, dog urinary problems, to training a loud barking dog, and how to train a pitbull. Make sure you find the right dog training package thats right for you and your dog. It would be much easyer to shop from a review site as they would give you the most options to choose from. Thats right for you.
The longer the dog trainer has been in service, or online review websites that supply you with the best thats around is a good indication of their successes. After all, it's unlikely their business would have survived without clients who were happy to pay for the service they received.
Dogs are creatures of habit. Every part of their daily life revolves around an internal schedule and routine. They anticipate the return of their owners at a certain time of day and know that meal times occur regularly. Once trained, they will even exhibit certain behaviors to mark these times of day, such as bringing their empty food dish to their master or waiting near the door for their owners return. And finding the right way to teach your dog should not be difficult.
Dog Training Can be Fun
As a new dog owner and trainer, you may find yourself a bit overwhelmed at first. Do not be discouraged by this. It is quite common and shows a healthy concern for your pets well being. This being said there are a few very simple rules to remember when training your pet.
Rewarding your dog is the best motivator when training. It is well known that using rewards and other positive reinforcement when obedience training a dog is the most effective method and achieves the best results. You can make obedience training fun for the dog - and yourself too - by making a game of it. This makes both your dog and you, as the trainer, more willing and motivated to give it your all. Incorporate a period of play at the start and the end of each training session to ensure that the session ends positively. Teaching your dog to heel is the most basic of all the obedience commands. This refers to having the dog walk along with you on a loose lead. Heeling is generally the first obedience behavior taught to a dog, and it is easy to teach this using reward training.
Always give your dog lots of praise, treats, toys, and other rewards when he or she does what is expected. Dogs learn best when desired behavior is rewarded in a positive manner. Positive reinforcement means that when a dog does what the trainer wants, the dog receives a reward. This can be a pat on the head or a treat or toy of some kind. If the dog shows even the slightest attempt to please you, especially at the beginning of training, you should lavish positive reinforcement on him or her.
Dogs must learn to associate rewards with good behaviors and reprimands with undesirable behaviors. It is difficult to change any negative associations once they have taken hold. It's easier to train the dog properly in the first place than to try and retrain him later. You should teach your dog to associate behaviors like coming when called, heeling, and sitting on command, with the happy and fun times you shared during training.
Obedience training will ensure a happy and healthy relationship between the dog owner and the dog. This is just another example of how important dog care is.
Dog training Shouldnt be a hassel It can be fun
Keywords, petsmart dog taining, boyton dog train, train dog to stop barking, training older dogs, train loud barking dog, how to train a pitbull, dog
About the Author
I am a full time student of the Profitlance course and enjoy learning as much as possible. To view the current press release please visit the site.
http://www.free-press-release.com/news/200702/1171754895.html
Sunday, February 18, 2007
Tips on feeding Betta Fish by Sylvia Jayakaran
Betta Fish care- Tips on Feeding Betta fish
Knowing how to feed your betta is very crucial, since doing it wrong can pose big consequences for your betta's health. Here are some simple rules for feeding your betta fish:
Always select the proper foods. Bettas are selective eaters. A betta specific pellet is OK, but live or freezing foods are preferable. The recommended diet includes frozen brine shrimp and frozen bloodworms.
The succeeding rule is to not overfeed your bettas. Carefully dose the meals; because even if the fish eats all you give him, he will produce much more waste when overfed, and the pollution level of the jar he is in will go beyond safe range This problem is smaller if you keep your betta in a larger aquarium. Remember not to leave uneaten food in the aquarium! Once your betta and the rest of the fish are finished eating, you must remove all uneaten left over food. If you do not remove it, it will soon rot and cause havoc in the tank.
Bettas prefer to eat from the upper parts of the water column. They don't really enjoy eating from the bottom of the tank. So before dropping the food in your betta's tank, make sure you have his attention. Let him see the food, get it close to his face from the outside of the aquarium, let him check out what it is, and then there you go! Drop food in front of his nose. The best way is to drop a tiny bit of food - about 6 frozen brine shrimp, watch the betta eat it all and then look at his belly, if it looks the same as it did before you fed, it's ok to give him more, but always watch and make sure to make the second portion smaller than the first.
Your betta should go for the food right away, but if not, watch where the food sinks, and what the betta does. If after 15 minutes he has not eaten the food, remove the food. Never let the water go cloudy. If it is already cloudy then change it, as cloudy water will threaten your betta's health. Normally, small bowls or containers should have water changes at least twice a week. Larger tanks can be changed once a week. And notice if the ammonia and nitrite levels are at high levels, because both are very bad for your betta. Also be wary of harmful bacteria - they can ruin your fish's life, but don't kill off all bacteria in the aquarium since bacteria is essential for a well functioning aquarium.
During the pre-spawning period you can feed a wide variety of foods, including blackworms, grindal worms, fruit flies, brine shrimp, mosquito larvae and frozen bloodworms (all are live except the frozen bloodworms). During this period the adult fish may be fed 4 times per day or more depending on how close the fish are to being placed into the spawning tank.
You can start feeding your betta fry 5 days after the hatching. Feed the fry several times per day, using a variety of foods (boiled egg yolk, baby brine shrimp) made up of small particles.
About the Author
Sylvia owns http://www.bettafishcares.com which helps people learn about betta fish care
Knowing how to feed your betta is very crucial, since doing it wrong can pose big consequences for your betta's health. Here are some simple rules for feeding your betta fish:
Always select the proper foods. Bettas are selective eaters. A betta specific pellet is OK, but live or freezing foods are preferable. The recommended diet includes frozen brine shrimp and frozen bloodworms.
The succeeding rule is to not overfeed your bettas. Carefully dose the meals; because even if the fish eats all you give him, he will produce much more waste when overfed, and the pollution level of the jar he is in will go beyond safe range This problem is smaller if you keep your betta in a larger aquarium. Remember not to leave uneaten food in the aquarium! Once your betta and the rest of the fish are finished eating, you must remove all uneaten left over food. If you do not remove it, it will soon rot and cause havoc in the tank.
Bettas prefer to eat from the upper parts of the water column. They don't really enjoy eating from the bottom of the tank. So before dropping the food in your betta's tank, make sure you have his attention. Let him see the food, get it close to his face from the outside of the aquarium, let him check out what it is, and then there you go! Drop food in front of his nose. The best way is to drop a tiny bit of food - about 6 frozen brine shrimp, watch the betta eat it all and then look at his belly, if it looks the same as it did before you fed, it's ok to give him more, but always watch and make sure to make the second portion smaller than the first.
Your betta should go for the food right away, but if not, watch where the food sinks, and what the betta does. If after 15 minutes he has not eaten the food, remove the food. Never let the water go cloudy. If it is already cloudy then change it, as cloudy water will threaten your betta's health. Normally, small bowls or containers should have water changes at least twice a week. Larger tanks can be changed once a week. And notice if the ammonia and nitrite levels are at high levels, because both are very bad for your betta. Also be wary of harmful bacteria - they can ruin your fish's life, but don't kill off all bacteria in the aquarium since bacteria is essential for a well functioning aquarium.
During the pre-spawning period you can feed a wide variety of foods, including blackworms, grindal worms, fruit flies, brine shrimp, mosquito larvae and frozen bloodworms (all are live except the frozen bloodworms). During this period the adult fish may be fed 4 times per day or more depending on how close the fish are to being placed into the spawning tank.
You can start feeding your betta fry 5 days after the hatching. Feed the fry several times per day, using a variety of foods (boiled egg yolk, baby brine shrimp) made up of small particles.
About the Author
Sylvia owns http://www.bettafishcares.com which helps people learn about betta fish care
Betta Fish in an Acquarium by Sylvia J.
Betta Fish - In the acquarium
Because of its beautiful colours and wonderful fin shapes, the Betta is popular with aquarists. The Beta fish originated in the hot, dampish rice paddies of Asia. The Beta Fish developed a way to breathe oxygen directly from the music, using a lung - like " warren " organ to survive as the rice paddies experienced drought. This way the bettas could still obtain music, while living in muddy, shrinking moisten holes and could survive until the rains reciprocal.
Members of the genus Betta, to which the Siamese fighting fish belongs, are a type of "labyrinth fish" (a name also given to anabantids) because they have a labyrinth organ in their heads that allows them to take oxygen directly from the atmosphere in addition to the oxygen taken from water via their gills. The floor of the tank should have, as a minimum, a thin (5 mm or 0.25 in) layer of gravel to increase the surface area for nitrifying bacteria to colonize. Decorations can provide hiding places, especially important when two males are housed in a divided tank, or when the betta is living in a community tank. (Note that some bettas enjoy leaping out of tanks, so a breathable lid is highly recommended.) If the betta has no access to air, it will suffocate.
Bear in mind that fish with 'fancier' tail forms such as half-moons can be more difficult for the novice aquarist to keep in optimum health. There is a stereotype that in the wild, bettas live in tiny muddy pools, and therefore that it is acceptable to keep them in small tanks, but bowls are usually too small. In reality, bettas live in vast paddies, the puddle myth originating from the fact that during the dry season, the paddies can dry out into small patches of water. It is not a natural state of affairs by any means, and in the wild, fish trapped in such puddles are likely to die in a short period of time when they dry out.
To maximize the lifespan of the fish and ensure their wellbeing, they should always be kept in appropriate sized tanks. As a rule of thumb, for each inch of fish there must be at least one gallon of water in its tank. Bettas idealy should be kept in a filtered tank 10 gallons or more and treated like any other freshwater tank fish. Although these conditions are ideal, with proper care and filtration a betta can be happily kept in a smaller tank.
Tankmates Because of the aggressive nature of this species, tankmates must be chosen carefully, and two male B. splendens should not be housed in the same tank unless they are separated by a dividing wall. As a general rule, male Bettas cannot be housed together. It is possible to house two male bettas in a single very large tank, provided that there is plenty of cover (such as floating plants) and enough space for both males to establish their own territories. However, this is an extremely risky procedure because of the male's natural territoriality. These experiments in housing males together often end in the death of one or both inhabitants of the tank. (Male bettas do not 'fight to the death' in the wild; once one fish has clearly won the encounter, the loser will retreat to a safe location. In an aquarium, however, there is no place to run, and the winning fish will continue to attack the loser, often ending in death.)
While they might eventually mate, keeping a male and female together may prove too volatile since the male will often be much more aggressive and mating conditions must be precisely conducive. Often, breeders have a special container so the female may display without being harmed by the male prior to induced breeding.Females may or may not be able to coexist peacefully in the same tank depending on their temperaments. They are not schooling fish, and are still rather aggressive, but with enough room and many hiding spaces, they can learn to get along. There should never be exactly two female bettas in a tank together--a pecking order, a hierarchy, is necessary for them to live peacefully. With only two fish, one will be the bully and the other will be picked on. However, with three or more, a hierarchy is established.
Before co-housing Siamese fighting fish with other species, their compatibility should be carefully researched, and the owner should have a back-up plan if the shared tank does not work. Common tankmates include mollies, catfish, or loaches. Although bettas are most aggressive towards each other, they have been known to kill very small fish or nip at the fins of fish such as fancy guppies, perhaps mistaking their finnage for that of another male betta. Certain fish should not be housed with bettas. Schooling fish often become fin-nippers, making the betta a prime target because of their flowing fins. Also, aggressive fish like barbs should not be around bettas. Keepers have also reported problems when attempting to keep Betta in the company of piranha, for obvious reasons. It is strongly recommended that bettas given tankmates should be housed in a tank that is at least 2 gallons per fish in the community (depending on bio load) with plenty of hiding places. Anything smaller will stress the Betta. Only females can be kept in communities, and you still must watch out for aggressive females who will cause trouble in your tank.
Carnivorous, the betta feeds on zooplankton and mosquito and other insect larvae. Domesticated bettas will feed on bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp. Betta pellets are typically a combination of mashed shrimp meal, bloodworms, and various vitamins to enhance color and longevity. For variety and fiber, bettas may also be fed finely chopped vegetables high in protein such as soybeans, green beans, broccoli, corn, or carrots.Bettas are primarily surface feeders, that is their mouths are upturned, so any food items added should be able to float on the surface of the water.
Betta fish are beautiful and interesting fish to own. Beta fish are intelligent and will quickly learn who their caregiver is. You will notice that your Beta fish will soon learn when you approach and become very excited! If you give your Beta fish the attention and care that he deserves, you will be rewarded with a stunning and interesting pet that is a pleasure to own.
About the Author
Sylvia owns http://www.bettafishcares.com which helps people learn about betta fish care
Because of its beautiful colours and wonderful fin shapes, the Betta is popular with aquarists. The Beta fish originated in the hot, dampish rice paddies of Asia. The Beta Fish developed a way to breathe oxygen directly from the music, using a lung - like " warren " organ to survive as the rice paddies experienced drought. This way the bettas could still obtain music, while living in muddy, shrinking moisten holes and could survive until the rains reciprocal.
Members of the genus Betta, to which the Siamese fighting fish belongs, are a type of "labyrinth fish" (a name also given to anabantids) because they have a labyrinth organ in their heads that allows them to take oxygen directly from the atmosphere in addition to the oxygen taken from water via their gills. The floor of the tank should have, as a minimum, a thin (5 mm or 0.25 in) layer of gravel to increase the surface area for nitrifying bacteria to colonize. Decorations can provide hiding places, especially important when two males are housed in a divided tank, or when the betta is living in a community tank. (Note that some bettas enjoy leaping out of tanks, so a breathable lid is highly recommended.) If the betta has no access to air, it will suffocate.
Bear in mind that fish with 'fancier' tail forms such as half-moons can be more difficult for the novice aquarist to keep in optimum health. There is a stereotype that in the wild, bettas live in tiny muddy pools, and therefore that it is acceptable to keep them in small tanks, but bowls are usually too small. In reality, bettas live in vast paddies, the puddle myth originating from the fact that during the dry season, the paddies can dry out into small patches of water. It is not a natural state of affairs by any means, and in the wild, fish trapped in such puddles are likely to die in a short period of time when they dry out.
To maximize the lifespan of the fish and ensure their wellbeing, they should always be kept in appropriate sized tanks. As a rule of thumb, for each inch of fish there must be at least one gallon of water in its tank. Bettas idealy should be kept in a filtered tank 10 gallons or more and treated like any other freshwater tank fish. Although these conditions are ideal, with proper care and filtration a betta can be happily kept in a smaller tank.
Tankmates Because of the aggressive nature of this species, tankmates must be chosen carefully, and two male B. splendens should not be housed in the same tank unless they are separated by a dividing wall. As a general rule, male Bettas cannot be housed together. It is possible to house two male bettas in a single very large tank, provided that there is plenty of cover (such as floating plants) and enough space for both males to establish their own territories. However, this is an extremely risky procedure because of the male's natural territoriality. These experiments in housing males together often end in the death of one or both inhabitants of the tank. (Male bettas do not 'fight to the death' in the wild; once one fish has clearly won the encounter, the loser will retreat to a safe location. In an aquarium, however, there is no place to run, and the winning fish will continue to attack the loser, often ending in death.)
While they might eventually mate, keeping a male and female together may prove too volatile since the male will often be much more aggressive and mating conditions must be precisely conducive. Often, breeders have a special container so the female may display without being harmed by the male prior to induced breeding.Females may or may not be able to coexist peacefully in the same tank depending on their temperaments. They are not schooling fish, and are still rather aggressive, but with enough room and many hiding spaces, they can learn to get along. There should never be exactly two female bettas in a tank together--a pecking order, a hierarchy, is necessary for them to live peacefully. With only two fish, one will be the bully and the other will be picked on. However, with three or more, a hierarchy is established.
Before co-housing Siamese fighting fish with other species, their compatibility should be carefully researched, and the owner should have a back-up plan if the shared tank does not work. Common tankmates include mollies, catfish, or loaches. Although bettas are most aggressive towards each other, they have been known to kill very small fish or nip at the fins of fish such as fancy guppies, perhaps mistaking their finnage for that of another male betta. Certain fish should not be housed with bettas. Schooling fish often become fin-nippers, making the betta a prime target because of their flowing fins. Also, aggressive fish like barbs should not be around bettas. Keepers have also reported problems when attempting to keep Betta in the company of piranha, for obvious reasons. It is strongly recommended that bettas given tankmates should be housed in a tank that is at least 2 gallons per fish in the community (depending on bio load) with plenty of hiding places. Anything smaller will stress the Betta. Only females can be kept in communities, and you still must watch out for aggressive females who will cause trouble in your tank.
Carnivorous, the betta feeds on zooplankton and mosquito and other insect larvae. Domesticated bettas will feed on bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp. Betta pellets are typically a combination of mashed shrimp meal, bloodworms, and various vitamins to enhance color and longevity. For variety and fiber, bettas may also be fed finely chopped vegetables high in protein such as soybeans, green beans, broccoli, corn, or carrots.Bettas are primarily surface feeders, that is their mouths are upturned, so any food items added should be able to float on the surface of the water.
Betta fish are beautiful and interesting fish to own. Beta fish are intelligent and will quickly learn who their caregiver is. You will notice that your Beta fish will soon learn when you approach and become very excited! If you give your Beta fish the attention and care that he deserves, you will be rewarded with a stunning and interesting pet that is a pleasure to own.
About the Author
Sylvia owns http://www.bettafishcares.com which helps people learn about betta fish care
Dog Day Care - What To Look For In A Dog Day Care Service by Angela Booth
Feeling guilty because you work and your dog gets left alone in the house or yard all day? As we all work longer hours, it's hard to find time to exercise and play with the family dog when you get home from work. Dog daycare is the answer for many dog owners.
Dog daycare is good for your dog, and for you. You'll both be less stressed at the end of the day. A good dog daycare center will ensure that your dog gets plenty of exercise, so he won't have the energy to dig or chew, or indulge in any other bad behavior when he gets home.
What To Look For In A Dog Day Care Service
The best dog daycare services have toys, various play areas, games, and daily walks for the dogs which stay at the center all day. The dogs are not crated or locked up, they're free to play with other dogs of similar temperament.
When you visit the dog daycare center, look for:
* Play equipment to keep dogs entertained and active;
* Separate areas for dogs of different temperaments and needs;
* Supervision - there should always be someone keeping an eye on the dogs to ensure that there's no aggression or bullying. Ideally the staff should have qualifications in dog training, management and grooming;
* Dog walks - the dogs should be walked, at least once a day;
* Diet service - older dogs and young dogs have differing dietary needs, and these should be catered for;
* An on-call vet.
The dog daycare center should be clean, and should smell sweet - any messes should be promptly cleaned up.
Although dog daycare can be expensive, you may find, as many dog owners do, that the daycare is the best investment you can make for the well-being of both your dog, and you. Knowing your dog is having fun while you're working means that you can truly enjoy dog ownership.
About the Author
Did you know that some dog foods can be dangerous? Find out what dog food is good for your dog, and what isn't. Find out more at FabMutt at http://www.fabmutt.com/
Dog daycare is good for your dog, and for you. You'll both be less stressed at the end of the day. A good dog daycare center will ensure that your dog gets plenty of exercise, so he won't have the energy to dig or chew, or indulge in any other bad behavior when he gets home.
What To Look For In A Dog Day Care Service
The best dog daycare services have toys, various play areas, games, and daily walks for the dogs which stay at the center all day. The dogs are not crated or locked up, they're free to play with other dogs of similar temperament.
When you visit the dog daycare center, look for:
* Play equipment to keep dogs entertained and active;
* Separate areas for dogs of different temperaments and needs;
* Supervision - there should always be someone keeping an eye on the dogs to ensure that there's no aggression or bullying. Ideally the staff should have qualifications in dog training, management and grooming;
* Dog walks - the dogs should be walked, at least once a day;
* Diet service - older dogs and young dogs have differing dietary needs, and these should be catered for;
* An on-call vet.
The dog daycare center should be clean, and should smell sweet - any messes should be promptly cleaned up.
Although dog daycare can be expensive, you may find, as many dog owners do, that the daycare is the best investment you can make for the well-being of both your dog, and you. Knowing your dog is having fun while you're working means that you can truly enjoy dog ownership.
About the Author
Did you know that some dog foods can be dangerous? Find out what dog food is good for your dog, and what isn't. Find out more at FabMutt at http://www.fabmutt.com/
Sunshine's Tale: A Golden Retriever in Chiang Mai, Thailand by Nola L. Kelsey
No day is ordinary when you work with animals. Routines contort around emergencies and nature's whims decide the schedules. The story is no different at Care for Dogs in Chiangmai, Thailand. Even the most casual project can change lives. Still when staff member Karin Hawelka sat down at her email one morning she had no idea what she'd find in her inbox.
Among the usual business letters, reports and million dollar stock tips, cleverly disguised as spam, a ray of sunshine was hidden. Karin received an email from a man who said he'd seen an underweight Golden Retriever on Doi Suthep. Martin, the alert animal lover who reported the dog, also noted the retriever appeared to have a leg injury. The computer could wait. Karin and Care for Dog's team member Ally Taylor set off at once.
Atop Doi Suthep Mountain lies Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. The temple is a major pilgrimage destination for the Buddhist holidays of Makha Buja and Visak. Setting high above the bustling city of Chiang Mai this 600 year old sanctuary can be seen glowing in the sunshine across the region. The breathtaking views from the drive up the mountain would have been reason enough to escape the city. Still, Karin and Ally had a mission. Among the shining golden Buddhas, sidewalk shops and camera-heavy tourists, saffron draped monks strolled the temple grounds. Zigzagging among the monks was the Care for Dogs team. It didn't take long for the gals to find their hidden temple treasure.
As reported a beautiful Golden Retriever was indeed on the grounds. Sadly, the rest of the report was also true. The once magnificent animal was flea-infested, vastly underweight and limping along the walkway. At rest, his back left leg swung loose as if it were shorter than the rest.
As the duo made inquiries about the friendly canine, his story began to unfold. The retriever's irresponsible owner had just dumped him at the temple several weeks earlier, leaving the injured animal to fend for himself. The story was seemingly more tragic in that no one cared if the team took the dog away. Even a monk, often the last hope for dumped temple dogs, seemed surprised to notice the wounded animal. In the end, this was the best thing that could have happened.
As Ally grabbed up their golden-fleeced find, Karin commandeered the temple's cable-car. This spared their new charge the 309 stairs steps that is the temples more notorious claim to fame. Within minutes, the trio was off to the vetrinarians. Instantly the canine found his new name - sunshine.
X-rays reveled that Sunshine's left leg was indeed shorter than his other legs and contained a medal pin from a previous surgery. The pin had somehow migrated, causing a painful point to stick out beyond the bone. It had been this way for some time as calcium now enveloped the steel. All the vets could do was cut off the extended end. Still, what a miracle this was for Sunshine after what must have been many months of suffering.
When the Care for Dogs team transferred Sunshine from the veterinary hospital to their sanctuary his true personality began to shine through. There is nothing like the confident dominance projected by a mentally well-balanced golden retriever. Despite his long hard spell, Sunshine proved worthy of his breed.
Dominant, yet not overly aggressive, he quickly established himself as top-dog in his area of the facility. Even against the resident Rottweiler mix Noy, Sunshine drew a firm line. In no time he stole the hearts of the Care for Dogs crew. It was not surprising that in a matter of days new volunteers Teresa and Nok informed Karin of their decision to give Sunshine a forever-home.
Karin smiled as she went off to check her email, yet again.
About the Author
Learn more about Care for Dogs in Chiang Mai, Thailand at http://carefordogs.org/index2.php. Nola L. Kelsey is the author of Bitch Unleashed: The Harsh Realities of Goin' Country and coauthor of the scathing political satire Keeping the Masses Down. She is currently wandering the globe while volunteering with animals along the way. Read more of Kelsey's work, visit her rarely up-to-date website at: http://www.nolakelsey.com.
Among the usual business letters, reports and million dollar stock tips, cleverly disguised as spam, a ray of sunshine was hidden. Karin received an email from a man who said he'd seen an underweight Golden Retriever on Doi Suthep. Martin, the alert animal lover who reported the dog, also noted the retriever appeared to have a leg injury. The computer could wait. Karin and Care for Dog's team member Ally Taylor set off at once.
Atop Doi Suthep Mountain lies Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. The temple is a major pilgrimage destination for the Buddhist holidays of Makha Buja and Visak. Setting high above the bustling city of Chiang Mai this 600 year old sanctuary can be seen glowing in the sunshine across the region. The breathtaking views from the drive up the mountain would have been reason enough to escape the city. Still, Karin and Ally had a mission. Among the shining golden Buddhas, sidewalk shops and camera-heavy tourists, saffron draped monks strolled the temple grounds. Zigzagging among the monks was the Care for Dogs team. It didn't take long for the gals to find their hidden temple treasure.
As reported a beautiful Golden Retriever was indeed on the grounds. Sadly, the rest of the report was also true. The once magnificent animal was flea-infested, vastly underweight and limping along the walkway. At rest, his back left leg swung loose as if it were shorter than the rest.
As the duo made inquiries about the friendly canine, his story began to unfold. The retriever's irresponsible owner had just dumped him at the temple several weeks earlier, leaving the injured animal to fend for himself. The story was seemingly more tragic in that no one cared if the team took the dog away. Even a monk, often the last hope for dumped temple dogs, seemed surprised to notice the wounded animal. In the end, this was the best thing that could have happened.
As Ally grabbed up their golden-fleeced find, Karin commandeered the temple's cable-car. This spared their new charge the 309 stairs steps that is the temples more notorious claim to fame. Within minutes, the trio was off to the vetrinarians. Instantly the canine found his new name - sunshine.
X-rays reveled that Sunshine's left leg was indeed shorter than his other legs and contained a medal pin from a previous surgery. The pin had somehow migrated, causing a painful point to stick out beyond the bone. It had been this way for some time as calcium now enveloped the steel. All the vets could do was cut off the extended end. Still, what a miracle this was for Sunshine after what must have been many months of suffering.
When the Care for Dogs team transferred Sunshine from the veterinary hospital to their sanctuary his true personality began to shine through. There is nothing like the confident dominance projected by a mentally well-balanced golden retriever. Despite his long hard spell, Sunshine proved worthy of his breed.
Dominant, yet not overly aggressive, he quickly established himself as top-dog in his area of the facility. Even against the resident Rottweiler mix Noy, Sunshine drew a firm line. In no time he stole the hearts of the Care for Dogs crew. It was not surprising that in a matter of days new volunteers Teresa and Nok informed Karin of their decision to give Sunshine a forever-home.
Karin smiled as she went off to check her email, yet again.
About the Author
Learn more about Care for Dogs in Chiang Mai, Thailand at http://carefordogs.org/index2.php. Nola L. Kelsey is the author of Bitch Unleashed: The Harsh Realities of Goin' Country and coauthor of the scathing political satire Keeping the Masses Down. She is currently wandering the globe while volunteering with animals along the way. Read more of Kelsey's work, visit her rarely up-to-date website at: http://www.nolakelsey.com.
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Bringing Home Your New Puppy by Burke Jones
The fun of bringing a new puppy home and introducing him to his new family is a very special experience. He will, of course, become a well-mannered dog, staying quietly at our side, eager to follow our every command. Well, it is a long road from the cuddly puppy to the mature dog, but with some effort and understanding it can be traveled successfully. It all begins with day one in the new home.
The first few days a puppy is in his new home can be trying for both the puppy and the new owner because both are trying to adjust to a new situation. After all, the puppy finds he has been suddenly taken from his den and litter mates and is expected to immediately accept a new, foreign way of life. However, with patience and a sense of humor on the part of the new owner, the first few days can be accomplished with good feelings on both sides.
Breeders and behaviorists generally agree that seven weeks of age (forty-nine days) is the ideal age for a puppy to go to his new home, with six to eight weeks being the most desirable age range. The six- to eight-week old puppy still needs a lot of rest and will take morning and afternoon naps. For the first day or two, however, he might be very excited and spend much of the day in motion, checking out his new home. As long as he is not hurting himself or anything else in the environment, let him investigate wherever and whatever takes his fancy.
If the puppy is eight weeks old when he first comes home, be very patient with him. This is the fear period and sharp noises or harsh treatment will leave him with fear which may take months to overcome. Let him take his time getting acquainted with everything and do not take him to places where he will be subjected to loud and frightening sounds or activities. If possible, trips to the veterinarian should be arranged either before or after the eighth week.
If the puppy is ten to twelve weeks old when you first bring him home, he will be more rambunctious, especially if he is one of the larger breeds, and he will sleep considerably less during the day. However, he is at an age where you can get his attention quite easily and where he will want to please you and stay close to you.
About the Author
Have you signed up for your FREE Puppy Training eCourse yet? Visit Free Puppy Training now and start training your puppy today!
The first few days a puppy is in his new home can be trying for both the puppy and the new owner because both are trying to adjust to a new situation. After all, the puppy finds he has been suddenly taken from his den and litter mates and is expected to immediately accept a new, foreign way of life. However, with patience and a sense of humor on the part of the new owner, the first few days can be accomplished with good feelings on both sides.
Breeders and behaviorists generally agree that seven weeks of age (forty-nine days) is the ideal age for a puppy to go to his new home, with six to eight weeks being the most desirable age range. The six- to eight-week old puppy still needs a lot of rest and will take morning and afternoon naps. For the first day or two, however, he might be very excited and spend much of the day in motion, checking out his new home. As long as he is not hurting himself or anything else in the environment, let him investigate wherever and whatever takes his fancy.
If the puppy is eight weeks old when he first comes home, be very patient with him. This is the fear period and sharp noises or harsh treatment will leave him with fear which may take months to overcome. Let him take his time getting acquainted with everything and do not take him to places where he will be subjected to loud and frightening sounds or activities. If possible, trips to the veterinarian should be arranged either before or after the eighth week.
If the puppy is ten to twelve weeks old when you first bring him home, he will be more rambunctious, especially if he is one of the larger breeds, and he will sleep considerably less during the day. However, he is at an age where you can get his attention quite easily and where he will want to please you and stay close to you.
About the Author
Have you signed up for your FREE Puppy Training eCourse yet? Visit Free Puppy Training now and start training your puppy today!
An Instant Guide to Dogs -Book Review by Joy Cagil
To create happy relationship that will last a lifetime with the dog of your choice, it is a good idea to find out about the varieties of dogs. Brokers, animal shelters, pet stores, puppy mills, neighbors, professional breeders, commercial and private kennels all provide dogs for prospective owners; however, the practices of the places that offer dogs are as varied as the dogs in existence.
A rule of the thumb is: don't get a dog without careful investigation of the breed and the source that offers it. There are quite a few books on the market that make it possible for the novice owner to be acquainted with the various breeds of dogs,
A first step book toward such information is from the Instant Guide Series of Random House"An Instant Guide to Dogs" by Beverly Cuddy -the writer- and Chris Bell -the illustrator. The best thing about this book is its size -four and a half by seven inches- which can easily fit inside a medium to small size woman's purse.
"An Instant Guide to Dogs" is an identification guide to one hundred plus dog breeds rather than a how to book, although it has some brief information in its beginning pages. Looking through it, I thought this would make a wonderful gift to school age children to acquaint them with the different breeds.
The first of the book, from introduction to page 27, gives general information on dogs. These first chapters consist of:
Selecting a Dog
Early Training
Caring for Your Dog
Dogs, Cats & Children
How to Be Top Dog
Hereditary Health Problems
How Old Is Your Dog?
From page 28 to the end there are five sections:
Tiny Dogs
Small Dogs
Medium Sized Dogs
Large Dogs
Extra Large Dogs.
In each color-coded section, a page is reserved for each breed, illustrated in color, and the bottom of each page is divided into four sections, each section with one to four sentences. First section is for the history of the breed; second section describes the temperament; third section is devoted to the appearance of the dog and the most important points for its individual look; and the fourth section gives tips to the potential owners and things to look for in the breed before picking up the dog. For example the fourth section for English Cocker Spaniel says: "Needs lots of exercise. Coat requires much attention. Can have ear problems. Easy to train. Be careful with solid colors. Check no history of rage syndrome. Otherwise, a very good family pet."
I found all the illustrations to be accurate and pleasant to look at and all the information in the book to be very brief but to the point. The book is in hardcover with 128 pages and ISBN: 0517123568.
"An Instant Guide to Dogs" will make a treasured reference book for a home or a school library. In addition, it can be an excellent gift as a stocking filler during Christmas time or at any other time throughout the year.
About the Author
This article has been submitted by Joy Cagil in affiliation with http://www.PetLovers.Com/ which is a site for Pets. Joy Cagil is an author in http://www.writing.com.
A rule of the thumb is: don't get a dog without careful investigation of the breed and the source that offers it. There are quite a few books on the market that make it possible for the novice owner to be acquainted with the various breeds of dogs,
A first step book toward such information is from the Instant Guide Series of Random House"An Instant Guide to Dogs" by Beverly Cuddy -the writer- and Chris Bell -the illustrator. The best thing about this book is its size -four and a half by seven inches- which can easily fit inside a medium to small size woman's purse.
"An Instant Guide to Dogs" is an identification guide to one hundred plus dog breeds rather than a how to book, although it has some brief information in its beginning pages. Looking through it, I thought this would make a wonderful gift to school age children to acquaint them with the different breeds.
The first of the book, from introduction to page 27, gives general information on dogs. These first chapters consist of:
Selecting a Dog
Early Training
Caring for Your Dog
Dogs, Cats & Children
How to Be Top Dog
Hereditary Health Problems
How Old Is Your Dog?
From page 28 to the end there are five sections:
Tiny Dogs
Small Dogs
Medium Sized Dogs
Large Dogs
Extra Large Dogs.
In each color-coded section, a page is reserved for each breed, illustrated in color, and the bottom of each page is divided into four sections, each section with one to four sentences. First section is for the history of the breed; second section describes the temperament; third section is devoted to the appearance of the dog and the most important points for its individual look; and the fourth section gives tips to the potential owners and things to look for in the breed before picking up the dog. For example the fourth section for English Cocker Spaniel says: "Needs lots of exercise. Coat requires much attention. Can have ear problems. Easy to train. Be careful with solid colors. Check no history of rage syndrome. Otherwise, a very good family pet."
I found all the illustrations to be accurate and pleasant to look at and all the information in the book to be very brief but to the point. The book is in hardcover with 128 pages and ISBN: 0517123568.
"An Instant Guide to Dogs" will make a treasured reference book for a home or a school library. In addition, it can be an excellent gift as a stocking filler during Christmas time or at any other time throughout the year.
About the Author
This article has been submitted by Joy Cagil in affiliation with http://www.PetLovers.Com/ which is a site for Pets. Joy Cagil is an author in http://www.writing.com.
Dog Obedience School - The most well behaved dog in the neighborhood by Heather Armbruster
Educating not only your dog or puppy, but also the owner is important to avoid behavioral problems, starting as early as possible with consistent and fair instruction should help divert behavioral issues. Dog obedience schools classes are based around teaching many of the basics, including puppy agility, introduction of buckle collar, leash and harness, walking at your side without pulling, sit and down positions, short stays, how to pay attention, and also fun ways to teach a puppy to come when called. Dog obedience schools will counsel you, the owner, on how canines learn, housebreaking, nipping and biting, unwanted barking, and other canine etiquette.
When considering a puppy class there are options for private lessons. Deciding what lessons to be involved in should depend upon the way your puppy learns, and also how he interacts with other puppies. Some puppies work better in a private setting, so when planning to train your puppy, be sure to consider the options. Many dog obedience schools will offer different options to fit your individual needs.
Also, there may be advanced lessons for when puppies have completed the first training, for continuing education. Most advanced classes are tailor made for each class, being based on accelerated learning, lessons are built on the abilities of each individual team. Being involved in the training of your puppy, it would be best to look into continuing the puppy's education. When looking into and considering where to train your puppy, be sure to look at this as an option.
Keep in mind that dog obedience school is not only a responsibility for the puppy or dog, but it is for you as well. The progression of your puppy will depend a lot on you, how much you are working with them outside of the class, how consistent you are, and the level of dedication you have. There are varying levels of certification that you and your puppy can work towards, these programs take hard work and determination, but in the long run are beneficial.
Teaching dogs in an environment based on positive reinforcement has been scientifically proven to help accelerate the learning process. Dogs understand and thrive when there is consistency and structure in their lives, which is something that is encouraged here at many schools. Being taught in a mindful, respectful manner while keeping in mind individual needs is one thing that should be encouraged. When it is understood what we are looking for, many dogs are eager to please us, but first it has to be clear what our expectations are. Teachers should promote trusting, respectful relationships between human and canine, and should be eager to answer any questions or concerns at any time. Raising a puppy in a healthy environment and developing a strong relationship with your puppy is important, and is the basis of a lifetime commitment that you are building. Receiving and utilizing a good education for you and your dog in the right environment can help your dog be the happiest dog in the neighborhood.
About the Author
For more information please visit us at Birmingham Dog Obedience School
Heather Armbruster
Birmingham Dog Obedience School
When considering a puppy class there are options for private lessons. Deciding what lessons to be involved in should depend upon the way your puppy learns, and also how he interacts with other puppies. Some puppies work better in a private setting, so when planning to train your puppy, be sure to consider the options. Many dog obedience schools will offer different options to fit your individual needs.
Also, there may be advanced lessons for when puppies have completed the first training, for continuing education. Most advanced classes are tailor made for each class, being based on accelerated learning, lessons are built on the abilities of each individual team. Being involved in the training of your puppy, it would be best to look into continuing the puppy's education. When looking into and considering where to train your puppy, be sure to look at this as an option.
Keep in mind that dog obedience school is not only a responsibility for the puppy or dog, but it is for you as well. The progression of your puppy will depend a lot on you, how much you are working with them outside of the class, how consistent you are, and the level of dedication you have. There are varying levels of certification that you and your puppy can work towards, these programs take hard work and determination, but in the long run are beneficial.
Teaching dogs in an environment based on positive reinforcement has been scientifically proven to help accelerate the learning process. Dogs understand and thrive when there is consistency and structure in their lives, which is something that is encouraged here at many schools. Being taught in a mindful, respectful manner while keeping in mind individual needs is one thing that should be encouraged. When it is understood what we are looking for, many dogs are eager to please us, but first it has to be clear what our expectations are. Teachers should promote trusting, respectful relationships between human and canine, and should be eager to answer any questions or concerns at any time. Raising a puppy in a healthy environment and developing a strong relationship with your puppy is important, and is the basis of a lifetime commitment that you are building. Receiving and utilizing a good education for you and your dog in the right environment can help your dog be the happiest dog in the neighborhood.
About the Author
For more information please visit us at Birmingham Dog Obedience School
Heather Armbruster
Birmingham Dog Obedience School
Finding Designer Dog Beds by Owen Andrew
Designer dog beds are a great idea for your pet; there are many options available, from size and price to quality and style. Finding them is simply a matter of doing your research and finding the specialists in this particular field; online designer companies offer a wide range of options for those looking for designer dog beds.
The following are some tips, ideas and questions to ask to ensure you get the best deal on your designer dog bed. These range from ideas about size and quality to the right kind of research, to prices and other considerations.
A major question to ask when looking for designer dog beds and other pet furniture is whether the material is high-grade, durable and washable. This is essential, as the furniture can be as stylish as you want, but your dog may be uncomfortable and you may have to do a lot of extra work. So keep your pets comfort in mind and save yourself time by ensuring the material you opt for has all the aforementioned qualities.
Keep in mind, too, that though a dog bed is designer quality, this doesn't necessarily mean sky-high prices. Sure, they'll be a bit more, as you're paying for quality, but investing in the long term durability of a strong, solid designer dog bed is a much better plan of action than investing in a cheap, short lived dog bed that you will end up buying again. It's similar to buying anything yourself: if you spend a little more, you will get better quality and thus a longer lasting product.
Another thing to take into consideration is how your pet sleeps. This is essential, as some dogs sleep curled in a ball, and others sprawl out completely; still others do both. Thus, get a designer dog bed that's big enough for your pet to sprawl out if they need to, no matter they're size or sleeping habits.
When you do find a designer dog bed, ensure it has the following qualities: that the bed can be washed in entirety, that there is an easy mechanism for cover removal (e.g. the easy Velcro system employed by Mammoth), that the covers on both the inner and outer parts of the bed are removable, that it is soil resistant and that it has a well-made fiber fill, preferably memory, that maintains its shape.
Ultimately, finding the right designer dog bed is essential to creating a good sleeping environment for your dog and ensuring you have to do as little work as possible on the care-end. By keeping the tips in mind above and doing the right research, you'll find the designer dog bed you want quickly and efficiently.
About the Author
Superior quality designer dog beds for all breeds in decorative styles and colors recommended by vets and breeders at wholesale prices. Visit the Mammoth online dog outlet today.
The following are some tips, ideas and questions to ask to ensure you get the best deal on your designer dog bed. These range from ideas about size and quality to the right kind of research, to prices and other considerations.
A major question to ask when looking for designer dog beds and other pet furniture is whether the material is high-grade, durable and washable. This is essential, as the furniture can be as stylish as you want, but your dog may be uncomfortable and you may have to do a lot of extra work. So keep your pets comfort in mind and save yourself time by ensuring the material you opt for has all the aforementioned qualities.
Keep in mind, too, that though a dog bed is designer quality, this doesn't necessarily mean sky-high prices. Sure, they'll be a bit more, as you're paying for quality, but investing in the long term durability of a strong, solid designer dog bed is a much better plan of action than investing in a cheap, short lived dog bed that you will end up buying again. It's similar to buying anything yourself: if you spend a little more, you will get better quality and thus a longer lasting product.
Another thing to take into consideration is how your pet sleeps. This is essential, as some dogs sleep curled in a ball, and others sprawl out completely; still others do both. Thus, get a designer dog bed that's big enough for your pet to sprawl out if they need to, no matter they're size or sleeping habits.
When you do find a designer dog bed, ensure it has the following qualities: that the bed can be washed in entirety, that there is an easy mechanism for cover removal (e.g. the easy Velcro system employed by Mammoth), that the covers on both the inner and outer parts of the bed are removable, that it is soil resistant and that it has a well-made fiber fill, preferably memory, that maintains its shape.
Ultimately, finding the right designer dog bed is essential to creating a good sleeping environment for your dog and ensuring you have to do as little work as possible on the care-end. By keeping the tips in mind above and doing the right research, you'll find the designer dog bed you want quickly and efficiently.
About the Author
Superior quality designer dog beds for all breeds in decorative styles and colors recommended by vets and breeders at wholesale prices. Visit the Mammoth online dog outlet today.
How to House Train Your Dog in Just a Few Simple Steps by Geri Stogsdill
Have you just purchased a new puppy and now you want to know just How to House Train Your Dog? Housebreaking your new puppy is the most important thing he needs to learn. The best time to start housebreaking your new puppy is when he reaches the age of 8 to 12 weeks old. In most cases, you will find that puppies are very quick learners and it want be long at all before he soon picks up on going outside to the toilet. You should never try to housebreak a puppy that is under the age of 7 weeks. At that early age, it is way to difficult for the puppy because his bladder is to week so you should always wait to house train after he gets a little older. Usually young puppies tend to need to use the bathroom sometimes as much as up to 8 to 10 times a day. And as the puppy gets older at around 30 weeks old, at that time he probably want need to potty but about three to four times a day.
In my opinion, the very best way to house train your dog is by using a crate and most all dog trainers also suggest using a crate in housebreaking your puppy. Crates come in a variety of sizes. The crate that you pick for your puppy should accommodate the dog's size so that it can move around. A dog crate is sort of like the dog's bedroom. It is also advised that you never confine your puppy in his crate for no more than two hours at a time. Teaching your puppy to stay in his crate is the first and best step in his life. You might start first by putting the crate somewhere the puppy enjoys sleeping. Crate training your puppy needs to be an easy and fun process for the puppy as well as for you.
Crate training your new puppy can be one of the most effective ways to housebreak him. Keep in mind though that puppy crate training will take a lot of patience on your part, but it is a good way to set your puppy on the right path. If the crate is introduced and used appropriately, then it can definitely prevent accidents from happening during the housetraining process while repeatedly giving your puppy the opportunity to be successful at eliminating outdoors.
Another great tip on how to house train your dog would be to use praise and rewards. For example, every time your puppy potties outside as he should, then be sure to praise him. You can also reward your puppy with a treat when he does potty in the appropriate area. By praising and rewarding your puppy, soon he will learn that he needs to potty outside and will soon catch on quickly to what pleases you. And also a puppy needs to be put on a potty training schedule, so take this into consideration when you do start the potty training process. Another very important thing to take into consideration is to remember that puppy potty training can sometimes try your nerves so be very patient.
You may ask what other things that you need to know on how to potty train your dog? The key times that a puppy will usually need to potty will be the first thing in the morning, after each meal, and after waking up from a nap. Your puppy will soon learn at an early age where to properly relieve himself but keep in mind that it is only natural for a dog to relieve himself where ever he is.
Besides crate training your puppy, you might also try using a pad for potty training your dog. This is another great tip on How to House Train Your Dog. Try placing the pad as close to the door as possible so that your puppy will soon get use to going to that spot. Eventually, which is usually after about 3-4 weeks, your puppy will be going to the door whenever it is time to potty and will continue to do so, even after the pad is gone.
About the Author
Is your dog disobedient? Does your dog embarrass you in public? And are you sick of excessive biting, barking, whining, etc? For more information on dog training and How to House Train Your Dog, visit http://www.lgs-publishing.com/dogtraining.html
In my opinion, the very best way to house train your dog is by using a crate and most all dog trainers also suggest using a crate in housebreaking your puppy. Crates come in a variety of sizes. The crate that you pick for your puppy should accommodate the dog's size so that it can move around. A dog crate is sort of like the dog's bedroom. It is also advised that you never confine your puppy in his crate for no more than two hours at a time. Teaching your puppy to stay in his crate is the first and best step in his life. You might start first by putting the crate somewhere the puppy enjoys sleeping. Crate training your puppy needs to be an easy and fun process for the puppy as well as for you.
Crate training your new puppy can be one of the most effective ways to housebreak him. Keep in mind though that puppy crate training will take a lot of patience on your part, but it is a good way to set your puppy on the right path. If the crate is introduced and used appropriately, then it can definitely prevent accidents from happening during the housetraining process while repeatedly giving your puppy the opportunity to be successful at eliminating outdoors.
Another great tip on how to house train your dog would be to use praise and rewards. For example, every time your puppy potties outside as he should, then be sure to praise him. You can also reward your puppy with a treat when he does potty in the appropriate area. By praising and rewarding your puppy, soon he will learn that he needs to potty outside and will soon catch on quickly to what pleases you. And also a puppy needs to be put on a potty training schedule, so take this into consideration when you do start the potty training process. Another very important thing to take into consideration is to remember that puppy potty training can sometimes try your nerves so be very patient.
You may ask what other things that you need to know on how to potty train your dog? The key times that a puppy will usually need to potty will be the first thing in the morning, after each meal, and after waking up from a nap. Your puppy will soon learn at an early age where to properly relieve himself but keep in mind that it is only natural for a dog to relieve himself where ever he is.
Besides crate training your puppy, you might also try using a pad for potty training your dog. This is another great tip on How to House Train Your Dog. Try placing the pad as close to the door as possible so that your puppy will soon get use to going to that spot. Eventually, which is usually after about 3-4 weeks, your puppy will be going to the door whenever it is time to potty and will continue to do so, even after the pad is gone.
About the Author
Is your dog disobedient? Does your dog embarrass you in public? And are you sick of excessive biting, barking, whining, etc? For more information on dog training and How to House Train Your Dog, visit http://www.lgs-publishing.com/dogtraining.html
Tips For Training Older Dogs by Steve Cowan
Almost universally, when people talk about dog training, or dog obedience coaching or whatever other phrase they use for it, they have in the back of their mind an image of working with a young dog, often not much more than a puppy.
And, again, it's a widely held belief that you can't teach an old dog new tricks. So, how true is that? Is it possible to train an older dog?
Well, yes and no!
The cliché mongers are partly right, because a more mature animal does need a heck of a lot more training and dedication from the person involved than a younger dog will. This is primarily because dogs are, to a large extent, like people, and by the time they are grown, they are much more "set" in their ways. A more mature animal will certainly have gone through, and possibly way past, that crucial period in his or her life when what they are learning will have any profound changing influence on their future behavior. In basic terms, and again you can make a direct comparison to mankind, your dog is already of the formed opinion that it knows how to behave and thus, trying to change that perception and belief by attempting to teach him other ways is bound to require a great deal of both time and effort.
Whilst it is certainly not impossible to convince the older dog that new tricks do have some merit, you must accept from the outset that you simply cannot train an old dog in the same way that you would train a puppy.
You definitely have to learn to be a little bit stricter with an older dog simply because he has a good deal more native intelligence than a puppy and he also knows how to drive you crazy!
So, how do you train an older dog? Well, not only do you have to be a bit stricter, but you have to be a good deal more cunning as well! In the same way that the more mature canine is a good deal more cunning than his younger siblings, you have to be the same!
Get him convinced that your ideas are really his ideas, or, make him believe that everything he does was his idea in the first place, and he will be far more likely do something whatever it is you ask!
For example, if he goes to sit down of his own accord, say "sit" and then praise him!
Thus, he believes that it was his idea and after a while, if you just keep on repeating the methodology, eventually you will have him sitting on command. This system will work for many of the necessary commands, like, come, stay, fetch and heel.
Now, of course, this is, by nature a broad generalization and, as all pet owners are only too aware, not all animals are the same, or learn at the same pace. So, you might find that your particular more mature pet is wonderfully easy to train. On the other hand, some dogs have a wide streak of stubbornness which will mean that they are much more resistant to change and thus, they are more difficult to train, irregardless of what you do.
Nevertheless, even an older dog must be trained to your ways in order that any acquired or indeed natural bad habits are broken and banished.
Although you may find it hard to believe, if he could speak, your dog would probably thank you for it in the end, simply because the less tension there is between dog and owner, the happier and more calm the relationship will be, to the obvious benefit of both parties!
But, do not carry any "rosy colored" illusions! It is important that you face the fact that training a more mature dog could be a grueling and thankless task at times.
It is therefore vitally important that you try to make it as much fun as possible. You could start by joining a dog training or obedience class (contrary to popular belief, they are not just for "puppy people") and don't hesitate to gather as much support as possible from family and friends. Perhaps you could afford to invest in some good quality, durable training products like toys and treats, but, remember, your dog is more mature and intelligent, so try to pick toys that will challenge and stimulate him.
Whatever you do, the only certainty is that, however long it might take, once you've managed to teach your older dog everything it is necessary for him to know, the bond between you will become unbreakable, and the pleasure that you both get from such a relationship will remain a wonderful constant over the years.
About the Author
Steve Cowan is an Asia based entrepreneur who runs the leading "Self Help" audiobook site at www.talkalive.com and compiles a blog offering a wide diversity of reviews at www.webbiz99.com
And, again, it's a widely held belief that you can't teach an old dog new tricks. So, how true is that? Is it possible to train an older dog?
Well, yes and no!
The cliché mongers are partly right, because a more mature animal does need a heck of a lot more training and dedication from the person involved than a younger dog will. This is primarily because dogs are, to a large extent, like people, and by the time they are grown, they are much more "set" in their ways. A more mature animal will certainly have gone through, and possibly way past, that crucial period in his or her life when what they are learning will have any profound changing influence on their future behavior. In basic terms, and again you can make a direct comparison to mankind, your dog is already of the formed opinion that it knows how to behave and thus, trying to change that perception and belief by attempting to teach him other ways is bound to require a great deal of both time and effort.
Whilst it is certainly not impossible to convince the older dog that new tricks do have some merit, you must accept from the outset that you simply cannot train an old dog in the same way that you would train a puppy.
You definitely have to learn to be a little bit stricter with an older dog simply because he has a good deal more native intelligence than a puppy and he also knows how to drive you crazy!
So, how do you train an older dog? Well, not only do you have to be a bit stricter, but you have to be a good deal more cunning as well! In the same way that the more mature canine is a good deal more cunning than his younger siblings, you have to be the same!
Get him convinced that your ideas are really his ideas, or, make him believe that everything he does was his idea in the first place, and he will be far more likely do something whatever it is you ask!
For example, if he goes to sit down of his own accord, say "sit" and then praise him!
Thus, he believes that it was his idea and after a while, if you just keep on repeating the methodology, eventually you will have him sitting on command. This system will work for many of the necessary commands, like, come, stay, fetch and heel.
Now, of course, this is, by nature a broad generalization and, as all pet owners are only too aware, not all animals are the same, or learn at the same pace. So, you might find that your particular more mature pet is wonderfully easy to train. On the other hand, some dogs have a wide streak of stubbornness which will mean that they are much more resistant to change and thus, they are more difficult to train, irregardless of what you do.
Nevertheless, even an older dog must be trained to your ways in order that any acquired or indeed natural bad habits are broken and banished.
Although you may find it hard to believe, if he could speak, your dog would probably thank you for it in the end, simply because the less tension there is between dog and owner, the happier and more calm the relationship will be, to the obvious benefit of both parties!
But, do not carry any "rosy colored" illusions! It is important that you face the fact that training a more mature dog could be a grueling and thankless task at times.
It is therefore vitally important that you try to make it as much fun as possible. You could start by joining a dog training or obedience class (contrary to popular belief, they are not just for "puppy people") and don't hesitate to gather as much support as possible from family and friends. Perhaps you could afford to invest in some good quality, durable training products like toys and treats, but, remember, your dog is more mature and intelligent, so try to pick toys that will challenge and stimulate him.
Whatever you do, the only certainty is that, however long it might take, once you've managed to teach your older dog everything it is necessary for him to know, the bond between you will become unbreakable, and the pleasure that you both get from such a relationship will remain a wonderful constant over the years.
About the Author
Steve Cowan is an Asia based entrepreneur who runs the leading "Self Help" audiobook site at www.talkalive.com and compiles a blog offering a wide diversity of reviews at www.webbiz99.com
The Demand for Luxury Dog Beds
A pet can be as important a member of the family as a child to some owners, and making sure they sleep well is a way to express that affection. In the past several years, manufacturers have started to fill a growing demand for luxury dog beds for pet owners who wanted to lavish something special on their pets. With the advent of organic pet foods, pet clothing and nutritionally balanced pet treats, designer dog beds seemed like an idea whose time had come.
Do you share your pet with someone else or move her around to different locations? Try the Botanical Bed, a portable pet sofa with lockable wheels, reversible blanket and a flower-patterned pillow. Need a fancy dog bed for a big guy who likes to loll around in different positions, flopping his head and tail over the edge as he does? Try an extra large donut bed in any one of dozens of easy to clean, designer fabrics and a variety of fills from gel to memory foam to cedar. Does your large dog stretch out on your favorite sofa, especially during your favorite prime time TV shows? Induce him to change his ways with the European Sofa Luxury Dog Bed complete with throw pillows and maybe he'll leave your sofa to you.
Then there are designer dog beds with industrial strength canvas covers stretched over high-grade "memory" virgin upholstery fiber with advanced Velcro systems to remove, wash and transport your dog's bed wherever you may go. They come with polypropylene insert liners in case of any accidents, and are completely machine washable to keep them soft and clean for your pet's entire life.
You'll find luxury dog beds with multiple use features and more accessories than you could possibly imagine at many of the better pet shops around your town. Or if you can't find that perfect designer dog bed around your town, there are even more options if you check the Internet. With the vast selection out there, chances are you'll be able to find just what you are looking for.
Dog Beds Info provides detailed information about small and large dog beds, as well as designer, orthopedic, and discount dog beds. Dog Beds Info is the sister site of Bird Cages Web.
Dog Beds for Larger Dogs
Large dogs and extra large dogs require more thought and planning when owners purchase a permanent dog bed. Even though large dogs can be just as lovable as their smaller canine counterparts, they require a more complex sleeping situation than small dogs. It's obvious that a large dog requires a large dog bed, and that an extra large dog requires an extra large dog bed. This goes without saying. But how big? And what kind of bed is best?
In this instance the answer is a function of not only the size but the breed of dog. You must measure the dog when he is fully grown, or at least have an accurate idea of what his size will be when he is fully grown. Just as with smaller dogs, you have to take into account your dog's sleeping style ? for example, whether he sleeps curled up in a ball or stretched out across the bed. All of these factors will help define your choice of large dog bed for your canine pal.
Placement is more of an issue with larger dogs than smaller ones. No matter how sweet and cuddly your large dog is, very few people want to share a bed with a Great Dane. And the size of the dog definitely limits the spaces available to him for sleeping. You can't squeeze a Great Dane comfortably into a small bathroom and expect him to stay there overnight.
Large dogs tend to have a strong protective instinct, and so it is quite often the case that they sleep near the front or back doors. If your living room or family room happens to be the nearest space to one of those doors, a large bed that resembles actual furniture serves a dual purpose. First, large dog beds and extra large dog beds that mimic real furniture will keep your oversize pet off of the real furniture without making him feel deprived. And secondly, furniture type beds are actually more comfortable than a more standard round dog bed. They have pillows to rest heads and paws on and they are treated with flea and tick resistant powders to keep your dog free from those bothersome pests while he sleeps. In addition, they are sometimes filled with memory foam and gel products that conform to the musculature of the animal, which helps keep him comfortable while he sleeps.
Dog Beds Info provides detailed information about small and large dog beds, as well as designer, orthopedic, and discount dog beds. Dog Beds Info is the sister site of Bird Cages Web.
Do You Know About Boxer Dogs?
Boxer Dogs Information - What Are Boxer Dogs?
Boxer dogs are great all around dog breeds, distinguished
canine and the coolest, most lovable dog out there!
Boxer Dogs are medium-built and strong breed that are
so named because of its habit of standing on the hind legs
to begin a fight and boxing with the front paws.
By nature, Boxer dogs are working dogs. Throughout
history it has been trained as:
- hunting dog
- police dog
- seeing-eye dog for the blind
- guard dog
- circus dog
- courier dog on the battlefields during World War
I and World War II
- fighting dog in the once popular sport of dog fighting.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) categorizes dogs into
7 groups of herding, hound, non-sporting, sporting,
terrier, toy and working. And the largest breed registered
in the working dog category is the Boxer.
No doubt the Boxer Dogs make for great utility dog but
the greatest advantage to owning one is that Boxer Dogs
can be your most outstanding companion on four legs
and great source of personal fulfillment.
By the way, the AKC registered over 150 different breeds
totaling nearly one million dogs in 2003. To put that in
perspective, the animal shelters in America rescue up to
12 million homeless dogs and cats every year and 25%
of these are purebreds.
Devoted and glad owners of Boxer Dogs have come up
with a long list of attributes and traits of their favorite
pet that include:
Alert
Boisterous
Boundless energy
Brave
Canine clown
Courageous
Devil dog
Devoted
Dignified
Exuberance
Family dog
Fearless
Friendly
Hearing dog
Highly trainable
Intelligent
Intuitive
Keen judge of character
Loving
Loyal
Patient with children
People dog
Poor swimmer
Playful
Quick learner
Self-assured
Smart
Soulful
Spirited
Stoical
Vigilant
Working dog
Wonderful pet
And you can add to the list?
The Boxer Dog's history could be traced back to
feudal Germany, where it was a small hunting dog that
could tenaciously hold onto a bull, boar, or bear till
the master arrived. It was also a utility dog for peasants
and shop owners, and even a performing dog in circus.
The Boxer Dogs as we know it today is a bigger breed ?
a mixture of the German Boxer with a taller, more
elegant English import. The era of this modern Boxer
began in the 1880s and became really popular in the
United States in the late 1930s-1940s.
Handsome dog: Within the canine world, Boxer Dogs
are medium-sized dog standing at 21 to 25 inches at
the shoulder for a full-grown female, and weighs some
50 to 65 pounds. The male can be taller and 15 pounds
heavier.
It has a striking good look with chiseled head, square
jaw and muscled body that make for a very handsome
silhouette.
The ears are cropped and erect that enhance its hearing ?
the Boxer most developed sense. It is always alert and
vigilant, an instinctive guard dog.
The shortened muzzle makes hot and humid weather
uncomfortable for the Boxer Dogs.
The coat is short, hard and smooth, and possesses
a natural sheen that can be enhanced with rubdowns
with a chamois cloth (especially after a bath).
The short coat cannot protect him well from extreme
elements of the weather and thus Boxer Dogs should
definitely not be kept outdoors. It is a housedog,
sensitive to temperature extremes, does not enjoy
the draft, summer heat or cold.
Boxer Dogs come in attractive basic colors of fawn
and brindle. The fawn varies from a tawny tan to
an especially beautiful stag red. The brindle (clearly
defined black stripes on a fawn background) can be
sparse, in between or dense.
A beauty standard for Boxer Dogs is that their white
markings or "flash" should add to their look and may
not cover more than one-third of the entire body. Some
predominantly or all-white puppies (known as "check")
may be born in a litter.
In the US, however, the American Boxer Club members
are pledged not to register, sell or use these "whites"
for breeding so as to retain the beauty of the true fawn
and brindle colors in the breed.
Personality-wise, Boxer is a cool dog that will not bark
without cause. Its expressive face ? the furrowed
forehead and dark, soulful eyes - is a charming quality
that sets the Boxer apart from other breeds.
It can mimic the moods of its master and adopting one
could bring you 9 to 11 years of joyful companionship.
In exceptional cases the Boxer can live up to 15 years.
Boxer Dogs As Pet
Pet Boxer Dogs, although low-maintenance, require
your consistent attention, exercise, human interaction,
consistent obedience training and lots of love. You
cannot leave them to their own design for too long or
they get lonely, bored and into trouble.
Being a big and strong dog as well as a highly
intelligent one, Boxer Dogs need both physical and
mental stimulations to keep them even-tempered and
dignified while still keeping their impish spirit and
fearless courage in tact.
All the best!!!
Warm regards,
Bryan Kinnear
A Boxer Dog Lover.
Discover How You Can Make Your Boxer Dog The Happiest,
Loving Dog Alive, Running Healthily With You...
http://www.boxerdogtips.com
Get free information all about Boxer Dogs at:
http://www.boxerdogs.boxerdogtips.com
Boxer dogs are great all around dog breeds, distinguished
canine and the coolest, most lovable dog out there!
Boxer Dogs are medium-built and strong breed that are
so named because of its habit of standing on the hind legs
to begin a fight and boxing with the front paws.
By nature, Boxer dogs are working dogs. Throughout
history it has been trained as:
- hunting dog
- police dog
- seeing-eye dog for the blind
- guard dog
- circus dog
- courier dog on the battlefields during World War
I and World War II
- fighting dog in the once popular sport of dog fighting.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) categorizes dogs into
7 groups of herding, hound, non-sporting, sporting,
terrier, toy and working. And the largest breed registered
in the working dog category is the Boxer.
No doubt the Boxer Dogs make for great utility dog but
the greatest advantage to owning one is that Boxer Dogs
can be your most outstanding companion on four legs
and great source of personal fulfillment.
By the way, the AKC registered over 150 different breeds
totaling nearly one million dogs in 2003. To put that in
perspective, the animal shelters in America rescue up to
12 million homeless dogs and cats every year and 25%
of these are purebreds.
Devoted and glad owners of Boxer Dogs have come up
with a long list of attributes and traits of their favorite
pet that include:
Alert
Boisterous
Boundless energy
Brave
Canine clown
Courageous
Devil dog
Devoted
Dignified
Exuberance
Family dog
Fearless
Friendly
Hearing dog
Highly trainable
Intelligent
Intuitive
Keen judge of character
Loving
Loyal
Patient with children
People dog
Poor swimmer
Playful
Quick learner
Self-assured
Smart
Soulful
Spirited
Stoical
Vigilant
Working dog
Wonderful pet
And you can add to the list?
The Boxer Dog's history could be traced back to
feudal Germany, where it was a small hunting dog that
could tenaciously hold onto a bull, boar, or bear till
the master arrived. It was also a utility dog for peasants
and shop owners, and even a performing dog in circus.
The Boxer Dogs as we know it today is a bigger breed ?
a mixture of the German Boxer with a taller, more
elegant English import. The era of this modern Boxer
began in the 1880s and became really popular in the
United States in the late 1930s-1940s.
Handsome dog: Within the canine world, Boxer Dogs
are medium-sized dog standing at 21 to 25 inches at
the shoulder for a full-grown female, and weighs some
50 to 65 pounds. The male can be taller and 15 pounds
heavier.
It has a striking good look with chiseled head, square
jaw and muscled body that make for a very handsome
silhouette.
The ears are cropped and erect that enhance its hearing ?
the Boxer most developed sense. It is always alert and
vigilant, an instinctive guard dog.
The shortened muzzle makes hot and humid weather
uncomfortable for the Boxer Dogs.
The coat is short, hard and smooth, and possesses
a natural sheen that can be enhanced with rubdowns
with a chamois cloth (especially after a bath).
The short coat cannot protect him well from extreme
elements of the weather and thus Boxer Dogs should
definitely not be kept outdoors. It is a housedog,
sensitive to temperature extremes, does not enjoy
the draft, summer heat or cold.
Boxer Dogs come in attractive basic colors of fawn
and brindle. The fawn varies from a tawny tan to
an especially beautiful stag red. The brindle (clearly
defined black stripes on a fawn background) can be
sparse, in between or dense.
A beauty standard for Boxer Dogs is that their white
markings or "flash" should add to their look and may
not cover more than one-third of the entire body. Some
predominantly or all-white puppies (known as "check")
may be born in a litter.
In the US, however, the American Boxer Club members
are pledged not to register, sell or use these "whites"
for breeding so as to retain the beauty of the true fawn
and brindle colors in the breed.
Personality-wise, Boxer is a cool dog that will not bark
without cause. Its expressive face ? the furrowed
forehead and dark, soulful eyes - is a charming quality
that sets the Boxer apart from other breeds.
It can mimic the moods of its master and adopting one
could bring you 9 to 11 years of joyful companionship.
In exceptional cases the Boxer can live up to 15 years.
Boxer Dogs As Pet
Pet Boxer Dogs, although low-maintenance, require
your consistent attention, exercise, human interaction,
consistent obedience training and lots of love. You
cannot leave them to their own design for too long or
they get lonely, bored and into trouble.
Being a big and strong dog as well as a highly
intelligent one, Boxer Dogs need both physical and
mental stimulations to keep them even-tempered and
dignified while still keeping their impish spirit and
fearless courage in tact.
All the best!!!
Warm regards,
Bryan Kinnear
A Boxer Dog Lover.
Discover How You Can Make Your Boxer Dog The Happiest,
Loving Dog Alive, Running Healthily With You...
http://www.boxerdogtips.com
Get free information all about Boxer Dogs at:
http://www.boxerdogs.boxerdogtips.com
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)