A Beginners Guide To Bringing Home Your Brand New Puppy

By Best Animal Meds

Bring your dog home is an exciting time in your life, don't get so overwhelmed with the excitement of your new dog that you forget to purchase the necessary supplies that will make your life easier. Your dog is a fantastic creature and needs to have all the necessary materials for him or her to live a long and happy life and not have to deal with last minute stress of bringing everything together.

If you go out in the market to buy dog supplies you will be able to find a plenty of things that will all seem to be necessary and might even confuse you to a great extend. In this case it is best to take advice from an expert or some who already has a dog. Seek them out on craigslist or through your local community center, they will usually have dog training classes available, try and speak with an instructor.

Affording dog supplies can be difficult at first for it will end up costing you a lot of money. You can avoid this by looking online for sales and specials that are exclusively online, they have some of the best deals to be had in the industry and ship very fast in most cases. Make sure they have a good support system for you to call with any inquiries you may have.

Don't buy things for their "cute" factor, everything that you purchase must be for the sole purposes of raising the dog. You can find almost anything that your dog needs online. You can buy food, leash, water bowl, and all of the essential supplies that you will need for caring for your dog.

It is important that when ever you go online you buy things that are right as per his/hers age and breed. There are a variety of things that are available and buying some thing wrong will be like wasting your money. It is important that you buy things that you would like him to have and are suitable for him too. - 29895

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Can Fencing Your Dog Can Protect Him From Parasites?

By Moses Wright

Though a fence will not prevent all parasitic infestations, fencing your dog can protect him from parasites. Car accidents and ingestion of toxic substances in garbage are other dangers that can be prevented by fencing your dog.

The risk for hookworms can be higher if the dog is unfenced and able to go to an area where a dog with hookworms has defecated. The feces or ground around the feces can contain hookworms. The hookworms can infect a dog by burrowing through its skin.

Threadworms also can be acquired through the skin by being contaminated feces, but the feces can be from infected dogs and other animals as well. Threadworms can be passed through feces of infected dogs and other carnivores. Being fenced prevents the dog from being in contact with feces from infected dogs, cats, or wildlife.

Gnathostoma is a potentially dangerous parasite that can infect a dog that eats an infected animal. The gnathostoma burrows through the dog's stomach, travels around the dog's body causing damage before returning to the stomach. Since a dog fence keeps the dog isolated from most other animals, this is another parasitic infection reduced by fencing.

Like the gnathostoma, the spirocerca lupi is acquired by eating an infected animal. Spiocerca lupi lives in the dog's stomach after being ingested. Spirocerca lupi can cause damage to blood vessels and cancer of the esophagus.

Whether the dog is fenced or not, the dog is at risk for certain parasites while the dog is outdoors. Heartworms are spread by mosquitoes which cannot be stopped by dog fences.

The risk of fleas and ticks can be greatly reduced by a fence which keeps the wildlife and other dogs out that may carry ticks and fleas, but fleas and ticks could still be present in a fenced area. Spraying outdoor areas for ticks and fleas can further reduce the risk of ticks and fleas.

Another parasite that cannot be prevented by a dog's fence is cuterebra. The cuterebra eggs may be found on rocks or in soil and may be ingested during grooming if they get on the dog's fur. The skin of the dog may be penetrated by cuterebra larvae. - 29895

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Finding Cat and Dog Necklaces Made From Healing Stones

By Alice Michaels

Several websites now offer different holistic healing solutions for your pet. Some of these websites specialize in herbal treatments, and other remedies. But others create cool dog necklaces made from different semi-precious stones and crystals believed to contain natural healing power.

Ancient cultures such as the Chinese believed that semi-precious stones and crystals had powers that gave the owners healthy benefits such as longevity. Crystals are created by the natural power of the earth. The ancient Chinese believed that the earths energy was passed to crystals and stones.

Websites have researched and studied the benefits of various crystals and stones, and then used them to fashion beautiful cat and dog necklaces. The pet necklaces are made to provide a holistic healing solution for your pet, and provide some nice style for your pet.

I bet you are wondering which stones and crystals are being used to make the pet necklaces. Below are some of the crystals and stones used And their interesting properties:

Tiger Eye " Said to release tension, and helps with stomach ailments.

Lapis Lazuli - Said to help with depression, and aid with respiratory problems.

Quartz - Believed to possess general healing powers. Helps to eliminate toxins.

Benefits from having a dog or cat necklace made from healing stones can be numerous. Different healing crystals and stones are used to fashion cat and dog necklaces that help relieve pain, help your pet sleep, aid with depression, and instil calm.

Continuing to conduct research is a great way to find the cat or dog necklace that you are looking for. Learn about different types of pet necklaces and find one with healing stones if you are interested. There are some great options available, and you can find a necklace made from healing stones suited to match the needs of your pet.

Finding a cool cat or dog necklace is easy, but it is better to have one made from some interesting stones. - 29895

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Pet Charms Made From Healing Stones

By James Randolph

The ancient Egyptians believed that semi-precious stones and crystals provided powerful benefits to those who possessed them. Crystals and other cool stones brought good health and a long life. Crystals and other beautiful stones are created by the natural power of the earth, and some still believe in their natural healing power.

There are now sites available on the net that create cool pet charms and necklaces from various healing stones and crystals. They utilize the healing stones to create a pet charm that provides an alternative solution to traditional vet medicine.

These pet charms are made from different crystals and stones that are matched to meet the health requirements of your dog or cat. Digestive and respiratory problems might be helped by various crystals and stones.

You can calm your pet or provide some relief for your best friend by utilizing healing stones. If your dog or cat has issues with stress, depression, nerves, or other conditions, a pet charm or necklace made from healing stones might help.

Read the properties of some healing stones and crystals below:

Carnelian - Believed to alleviate arthritis and lower back pain

Howlite - Said to aid in bone and tissue growth

Quartz - A powerful general healer!

Rose Quartz - Believed to provide a calming presence

Tiger Eye - Said to release tension and help with digestive problems....

Remember that there is no substitute to a good veterinarian, but a pet charm made from healing stones might help comfort your pet and supplement the treatment prescribed by your vet.

If you need a different solution, or an alternative method to heal your pet, or if you just want your pet to look awesome, a pet charm made from beautiful crystals is an option. Pet charms made from healing stones might help your pet feel better, and it will definitely look great! - 29895

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A Pamphlet That Offers Dog Assistance

By Don De Good

Before starting dog training, it is best that you know your options well. These days you can find many types of dog training, in many different places. These trainings vary in price and each one them has something different to offer.

Puppy preschool is the first available type of dog training. This dog training course is intended for puppies between one and a half to 5 months old. The preschool lessons for pups typically take no longer than 6 or 8 weeks time. Because your puppy went through these training sessions it will be able to socialize better with people and other dogs. Your puppy will understand how to take a seat, stand still, and come to you.

The second option of dog training is intended for dogs that are over 5 months old. That course is usually referred to as basic dog training. These classes generally last for roughly two months. You can talk and travel on a leash is the message that a dog learns in it's first course.

Intermediate dog training offers a third dog training course. This dog training reinforces what was already learned in the basic training with more detail. Because your dog was trained it will be able to focus better and follow orders better.

For dogs who are 5 months old and above, the intermediate dog training course encompasses 8-10 weeks of instruction. The dog should know basic commands given by its owner and/or should have finished a basic dog training course by now.

The next type of training course is known as the advanced dog training course. Here, once again, the course is quite similar to its previous one, i.e., the intermediate dog training course, except for the fact that this time it is more detailed. Here, the dog is taught how to sit even without you in the view.

It was about training intermediate course is from eight to ten weeks long. Another thing they will learn here is how to stay with their owners even when they are not on a leash.Furthermore, this slowly gets your pet ready for the Canine Good Citizen training program. The final instruction plan for pets is called Canine Good Citizen training program. After your dog learns the 10 necessary steps it will pass this course.

This class has a prerequisite of the dogs completing all of the other courses. The exam is really hard and the dog needs to behave properly in order to successfully complete it. The instructions may take a number of weeks, according to your dog's success on the test.

Keeping this information in mind, you should be able to decide the dog training course best suited for your dog. However, you may seek the opinion of your local dog trainers to know more. Many trainers consult for free. So now you should be at least a step closer to introducing your dog into a training course! - 29895

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Causes And Symptoms Of Infectious Canine Hepatitis

By Moses Wright

Infectious canine hepatitis is a dog disease that is contagious and can also infect wildlife carnivores like bears, coyotes, and foxes. A vaccination for infectious canine hepatitis can prevent this disease. Infectious canine hepatitis most commonly affects puppies under one year of age.

A puppy should not be vaccinated for infectious canine hepatitis until the puppy is at least nine weeks old. Puppies may be most susceptible to infectious canine hepatitis, but dogs of any age that have not been vaccinated are at risk for contracting this viral infection.

This dog disease is a viral infection that is spread by contact with a dog that has the infection or contaminated body fluids such as saliva, nasal discharge, and urine. Food dishes, cages, and other items can also become contaminated.

A fever, cough, and sore throat are the first signs of infectious canine hepatitis. The viral infection spreads to the liver, kidneys, and eyes of the dog. A low white blood cell count is often caused by infectious canine hepatitis.

A dog that has acquired a hepatitis infection may develop a bluish tint to its corneas. The eyes may appear cloudy and may become sensitive to light. Dogs may experience vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, and seizures.

Bleeding problems are common with dogs that have infectious canine hepatitis. Dogs may have bleeding gums or nosebleeds. Some dogs develop swelling and hematomas which are collections of blood under the skin. Swelling from infectious canine hepatitis is most likely to be at the head, neck, or trunk of the dog.

Typical veterinary care for dogs infected with infectious canine hepatitis includes an antibiotics and intravenous fluids as supportive care. There is no medication to specifically treat infectious canine hepatitis. Dogs may need blood transfusions as part of treatment for severe cases.

This dog disease is potentially fatal. The dog may die within hours of the onset of symptoms. The dogs that are most susceptible to dying from this disease are young puppies.

The urine of a dog that was treated for infectious canine hepatitis can still be contaminated and spread the disease for up to nine months even if the dog has fully recovered. Humans are not in danger of contracting hepatitis from dogs. The hepatitis that can infect humans is not the same as infectious canine hepatitis. - 29895

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How To Get Rid Of Dog Fleas

By Ryan Williams

Dog lovers and owners everywhere are often faced with the issue of how to get rid of fleas! When your pet gets infested with fleas it can be an agonizing experience for both the dog and the owner and the rest of the family. We know there are side-effects of some well known dog flea products. The chemicals used in some of the nationally available household name products and may be harming our dogs and cats and potentially damaging our own health to boot. The local pet store sells a number of different flea shampoos, flea powders and flea collars including Frontline for fleas. Even though the staff are helpful and know their stuff, it is still difficult to know which product to use and almost impossible to know all of the chemical in these flea products. So for many of us the question still remains, how to get rid of fleas safely?

More often these days, pet owners are seeking natural or homeopathic alternatives to the issue of dog fleas. Some of the most commonly used natural dog flea remedies are outlined below:

1. Household salt remedy. Sprinkle it all over the house and particularly where your dog likes to snooze. Let the salt sit for a week or more. It seems that fleas don?t seem to like salt. Your dog will lie down on the carpet and the salt will also get on to his fur. A few days later and presto the fleas are gone.

2. Talcum powder to treat dog fleas. Cover your dog or cat with baby powder and this will smother the fleas. This remedy is often recommended for puppies or kittens who are too young to be treated with any flea chemical. You can also use baking soda.

3. For the dog fleas on adult dogs, you could try an olive oil bath. Anecdotal evidence suggests that the fleas just drown in it and fall out. Start from the dog?s head and work your way back so the fleas don't move to the face where it's really hard to pluck them off. Then you just shampoo the oil out and the dog fleas will wash down the drain.

4. Some people think garlic is the best all-natural dog fleas remedy. Use freshly diced garlic. You can put a dab of oil into it in order to make it smoother plus the oil will make for a nice shiny coat. Some people use a garlic pill supplement while others use freshly chopped garlic and mix it into the food. The fleas don?t like the scent emitted by the dog after ingesting garlic.

There seem to be a good number of all-natural solutions to getting rid of fleas. In figuring out how to get rid of fleas it is important to do some research and be diligent. Some remedies are bound to work better than other remedies. For a really serious case of fleas you might want to try a stronger dog flea remedy which are available at the pet store or online or at the vet?s office However, as with all matters pertaining to dog health, always check with your vet. - 29895

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Protect Your Pet With A GPS Pet Locator

By Adam Webster

When the kids brought that darn little puppy home in a box you swore that you would not get attached to her. Now she seems almost as much a part of the family as they are. You just went to get her out of her kennel and now she is gone. If only you had bought that GPS pet locator you saw at the pet store last time you were there.

Another story of the usefulness of this device is found in with a pet who spends most of her day in the house with you. One day as you answer the door to let in a guest your precious pet runs out the door and disappears. Before you can call her back into the house, she is gone.

If only you had a GPS locator on that pets collar like the one in your car. Then you could know immediately where the pet is at.

While some of the units come attached to their own collar, others will fit onto your pets own collar. This allows them to be used on any sized dog. Earlier units worked best on medium sized dogs. The newer ones have solved this problem. As long as the dog has it's collar, you can find its location almost anywhere.

There are two types of services available for your pet. One allows you to set a boundary within which to pet can roam freely. If the pet crosses the boundary, then you will be alerted, either by cell phone call or by e-mail if you are not available on the cell. You will have the pets location and immediately be able to start your search.

The second type of unit does not set a boundary, but anytime you cannot find your pet missing, you call the alert number and the pet's location is relayed to you.

There are some limitations to GPS pet locators. Some terrain causes them to not work as well as they do in others. In addition, some of the locators do not work for the smaller dogs.

For most of the areas in the country and most animals using their own collars, the GPS units work great.

Some pet locators have a button on the device that can be pressed if your pet if found by a stranger. The device sends a signal of a lost pet to the monitor company. This is an additional security measure other than setting a boundary for your pet.

When a pet is missing people offer large rewards for that pets return. Instead, you could take defensive action and provide your pet with a GPS pet locator for about one hundred dollars plus a small monthly service charge.

Today we have the additional worry of pet thieves. People will steal your dog in order to make a profit by selling him or her to another person. The GPS pet locator makes recovery of a stolen pet much more likely that if the dog has no unit around its neck.

Why not give the best protection available to make sure that you can find a lost pet. That dog will come home with its tail wagging. - 29895

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Pet Healing and Pet Necklaces

By George Carmichael

Websites are now available that provide a unique shopping experience for you if you are looking for items for your pet!

Dog and cat necklaces are growing in popularity, and they can make your pet look gorgeous and feel fantastic! Some websites even utilize semi-precious stones (healing stones) and crystals to create cool and fashionable dog and cat necklaces.

Semi-precious stones and crystals are believed to offer healthy benefits to those that possess them. The ancient Chinese and Egyptians believed in the natural healing powers of stones and crystals 3500 years ago. Since stones and crystals are formed from the natural power of the earth over thousands of years, they are believed to contain the natural energy of the earth. Websites now use certain stones and crystals to create cool dog and cat necklaces that are believed to provide health benefits to your pet. The necklaces are created using bead-work and crystals matched to various ailments.

Some of the stones used to make dog necklaces and cat necklaces are listed below:

Aventurine: Said to help with weight loss Bloodstone: Believed to help to purify the blood Garnet: Said to aid with depression, and help infection Jade: Believed to help digestion problems Quartz: Believed to be a powerful general healer Tiger Eye: Said to relieve tension, and help with asthma

Cat and dog necklaces fashioned from such semi-precious stones not only look great on your pet, but may also help your pet feel its best! With a little research, you can easily learn more about the various healing stones and crystals that would be most beneficial to your pet's needs.

At some websites, you can figure out which stones might help your pet, and view a number of great dog and cat necklaces fashioned from the stones you are interested in. Your pet can look cool with a nice pet necklace, and feel relaxed from the healing stones and crystals used in the necklaces. - 29895

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Pet Healing Stones & Necklaces

By George Carmichael

There are now websites available on the internet that can provide holistic and alternative healing solutions for your beloved pet. These sites specialize in herbal health medicine and other alternative health solutions such as beautiful dog and cat necklaces made from healing stones.

It was believed by the ancient Chinese and Egyptians that certain semi-precious stones and crystals offered special health and healing properties. Semi-precious stones and crystals were forged by the earth's natural energies of fire, wind and rain. The ancients believed that the powers of the earth were trapped and held inside the crystals, and could be bestowed upon those who wore them.

There are certain semi-precious stones and crystals are believed to harness the earth's natural energies!

Websites have studied semi-precious stones and crystals for their natural properties, and created beautiful dog and cat necklaces designed to meet the health needs of your cat or dog! The crystals and healing stones used to make the dog and cat necklaces are said to provide relief to a number of health conditions including respiratory, digestive, and circulatory problems.

Different crystals and stones are believed to target different types of conditions, ranging frm arthritis, depression, stress, and nerve related pain, to blood disorders.

Some of the stones that you can order for your dog or cat necklace are believed to provide some of the following benefits for your pet:

- Improvements in calm and relaxation (temperment) - Stomach and digestive problems - Heart problems - Sleeping Patterns - Pain relief - Respiratory relief

You can provide your pet with the great treatment that it deserves with a cool and calming dog or cat necklace!

Pet necklaces made from lamp-work and ceramic beading may not only lend your pet a very stylish look, but may alleviate some of the symptoms of stress and overall ill-health that your pet has been experiencing.

Show your pet that you care and learn more about healing stones and their properties. Even if you are not looking to heal your pet, the dog and cat necklaces are gorgeous. These necklaces are believed to provide great health benefits, and your pet will be sporting some style! - 29895

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Cat Urine Smell -Get Rid Of It The Easy Way

By Sonia Kekkonen

So now that you are a cat owner, it is a possibility that you may at some time have to deal with a cat that has peed outside the box. (Cats DO prefer to use their box, so if your cat is not, there is some reason that you have to not only discover, but also fix.) Getting cat urine on your carpet is by no means one of the joys of pet ownership. It can be really distressing and frustrating and it is easy to get angry at kitty...

Cat urine can be a challenge to remove,the key is to use the proper cleaners. When the urine is allowed to dry into the rug it forms strong chemical bonds with the material of the carpet.

Salts in the urine form crystals that causes another type of bond with an ionic charge. The longer the urine has been on the rug, the stronger these bonds become.Using a homemade cleaner will not dissolve these bonds, nor does steam cleaning your carpet. Sometimes steam cleaning will make the problem worse.

Some cleaners available at the store are nothing but "odor maskers". Other products attempt to absorb the foul smell.

This may help for the moment, but does not completely remove the urine, making the smell return eventually. With some urine left on the carpet, your cat will be more likely to urinate on the same spot again.

So, you have a wet spot, what do you do first?

1. Remove as much urine you possibly can by using absorbent towels. The spot may have seeped through into the padding of the carpet, so blot a larger area than what is visible. Do not add too much water to the spot, it may make it spread into a larger spot in the padding.

2. Use a cleaner that can be injected into the padding underneath the spot. Inject to cover about half a foot in diameter. Spray the surface of the rug liberally.

3. When using a proper cleaner, that is all you need to do. No rinsing needed. Keep your cat away from the area until it is completely dry which can take a few days.

Remember, even though it may be easy when you are "in the moment", do not scold your cat. Cats are fastidious about cleanliness and do not want to eliminate where they eat, sleep or play.

Inappropriate urination is a symptom that something is not OK. You may need to investigate what caused your cat to not use the box along with some enticement to use the box again. Not correcting the reason your cat is not going in the box may keep you cleaning your carpets and furniture over and over again.

Cleaning the area properly, eliminating all traces of urine along with understanding the cause, and maybe using an attractant like the very popular Dr Elsey's Cat Attract, will soon see a kitty using her box and a sweet smelling home. - 29895

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The Importance Of Training A Canine

By Don De Good

Are you worried that training you dog will break the bond that you two have established? Do you just accept the fact that you have to keep your dog locked up because of aggressive behavior toward visitors, including your four year old's friends? Do you also accept the aggravating howling and moaning when you take your dog for a walk? Is all of this really tolerable behavior for a dog? I'm afraid not. I have to tell you that even dogs have an expectation of being mannerly. The people suffering through your dog's shenanigansdo not share your opinion that it's cute when he climbs all over them, or damages doors.

You might think you do not want to exercise the sort of authority required to tell him to behave any better, and that's all quite all right really. Being the owner of a dog doesn't require you to suddenly transform into a whip swinging ring master and you are right in denouncing the pathetic idea of establishing who the boss is when dealing with an animal.

You have been misinformed about the overall concept of dog training. The first lesson to be learned is that dog training is not about winning a power struggle. You are not trying to prove to your pet that you are the boss. You also realize that training is not about making your pet more human. Pets will never learn to live by "human rules", thus training should not be viewed as an attempt to "humanize" a dog. Training does, however, better the relationship between pet and owner. An added benefit is that your pet will be more sociable.

You may be wondering, "How will this really impact my life with my pet"? This is why training matters! The majority of our lives are spent at work, drinking our lattes, in front of the computer screen. The short amount of time we are able to spend with our loved ones and pets is often merged with a social activity. On beautiful nights after work we go for a stroll in the nearby park, or down the road to watch the latest movie on our friend's flat screen. When our dogs behave badly, we are hesitant to take them along on these occasions. We proceed to leave our pet at home more and more, until finally, it ceases to be a part of our lives.

Much like us, animals experience feelings of sadness, loneliness, and depression when they feel deprived of attention from you and being left to sit alone in the dark most nights.

Although you may think that training will be dreadful for your dog, you are creating a much worse situation for your pet by avoiding it. With training, you will be able to bring your pet along so that you can both enjoy the companionship.

Dogs who have advanced through obedience training are better able to contend with their immediate environment. A trained dog is a happy dog! Dogs who are trained have structure in their lives that is good for them, and makes them easier to live with as well. Give your wonderful dog the gift of your companionship. Train your pet so that it can go along for fun regardless of where you are going or who will be there.

So, prove to your dog that you truly care by taking it out for obedience training today. Once they understand the magic words: heel, stay, sit, come, down, you and your best buddy will be inseparable. Happy training! - 29895

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Nutrition For Dogs: Keep Your Dog Healthy

By K.C. Jones

Your dog's nutritional needs are different from ours. What we think is healthy, is not necessarily good for them. To keep you dog healthy, you will need to understand their particular needs and how to address them.

If your dog does not get the proper nutrients from his food, the result can be stunted growth, shortened lifespan, and a greater susceptibility to illness and allergies.

All animals need five basic nutrients to survive: protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Without the proper balance of these five nutrients, they can provide the different functions necessary to sustain the health and well-being of your pet.

Proteins consist of amino acids and are the building blocks of your dog's health. Although some of these amino acids can be synthesized by the dog, not all are. That is where your dog's food come into play - they must contain the essential amino acids that the dog cannot produce.

When choosing dog foods, ensure there is an adequate amount of protein to keep your dogs healthy. And the majority of the protein source needs to be from an animal source, not grain. But too much protein, however, can cause obesity as excess protein is converted to fat.

Fats are a very necessary nutrient for a healthy dog. Fats are what deliver fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) to cells. They are also necessary for proper kidney function and for a healthy coat. But just like with humans, it is the types of fats and amounts, that can cause or prevent health problems and obesity.

Carbohydrates are nutrients which are converted into energy for your dog. The best source of carbs for your dog are whole grains as they have the most nutrients still in them. Inferior dog foods will use grain by-products (left-over parts from other food processing) which tends to boost carb and protein ratios, but really has very little nutritional value for your dog. These grain by-products are also common allergy triggers for dogs. Look for minimal grain by-products in your dog food, and if your dog has allergies, stay away from common allergy triggers such as corn, wheat, and soy.

Vitamins and Minerals are necessary for optimal health and should naturally be supplied by your dog food. Most dog foods have vitamins and minerals added in. However, these diminish in both quality and quantity the longer the dog food is opened. So your dog may not be getting enough by the end of the bag of dog food. Which is where specially formulated vitamin supplements for dogs come in to play. These ensure your pet gets all the elemental vitamins and minerals they need to stay healthy. - 29895

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Should You Buy A Male Or Female Dog?

By Rob D. Frickerson

Ordinarily, particularly in small spaces, male dogs are claimed by some dog owners to be more aggressive and destructive. Female dogs, or 'bitches' are said to be easier to train and more affectionate. Dependent the dog breed, these stereotypes may be true or not. There are lots of things that you should be aware of when you want to choose a female dog such as the need to spay so that unwelcome birth will be avoided or simply handle your dog during the times of being in heat. If you just can't get rid of those cute litters of puppies then you are more likely to take for granted the need to do something for doggy birth control.

Don't ever think that female dogs have the menopause, so unlike the human female, dogs can have puppies practically all their lives. You'll spend weeks every year trying to guard your female from males who can catch the scent from blocks away. On the other hand, if you have a pedigree dog that you want to breed, then having a female dog can become a financial advantage.

You just can't stop male dogs from marking their so-called ?territory? even if their inside your house or outdoors. Usually, for them to locate their ?spot? again, they mark it by peeing on that area. It is possible that you can train your dog to stop marking his territorial dominion, but that is something that they would do against their will and nature. Having a battle for who dominates the household is something that you should already expect if you add another male dog to your house since wanting to be an alpha dog is likely to be vied with. The dominance over the home is something that even the smaller dogs would fight for against the larger male dogs in order to insist who among them got there first.

Just like with humans where opposites attract, the same goes with dogs of different sexes. Male dogs tend to be fierce against other male dogs unlike female dogs, there are a number of female dogs who don't like the idea of sharing their place with other dogs. Normally, you will find no difficulty dealing with female dogs when it comes to house school as compared to male dogs which can be hostile and reluctant, although that can vary by breed and by the skill of the dog trainer. Usually, male dogs look to be more dynamic and active than female ones, nevertheless, the ?high strung? temperament are evident to some breeds may it be with their males or females. Ask the average person shopping for a dog and you'll find many are looking for a female dog. Maybe because they think that female dogs are less aggressive than male dogs and that when it comes to training, female ones are not difficult to deal with.

All the same, they forget that female dogs can be highly temperamental. Male dogs are favored by most of the breeders to be the pet that is easier to manage. Sex isn't the only predictor (or even a good predictor) of how a dog will behave. Dogs from the breed with calm and tolerant traits tend to remain as it is no matter what their sex is. But males and females of breeds which are energetic, nippy and difficult to handle usually have those traits within them.

Since there's no scientific evidence that predicts the characteristics of males compare with females, therefore, it would greatly depend on the individual judgment of the one intending to buy a dog the decision about the dog sex. Your choice is more likely to be influenced by your childhood memories of having a pet or your desire to have the kind of pet that your friend also has.

You can recall of a gentle female Collie who once had cared enough for each and every litters of pups and that you may consider as the trait of an ideal dog to have. Or that rough and tumble large male dog may be the one that you can think of since it can tirelessly play, keep up and run hard with those curious children. If that's what leads you to decide whether a male or female is the best dog to have, then go with your feelings. For you, that will be the right choice. - 29895

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Dogs Cushing's disease: Don't Misunderstand These Signs and Symptoms Of Cushing's Disease In Dogs

By Kate Rieger

What is dog's Cushing's disease? Dogs Cushing's disease is a common problem that affects senior pets, and is caused by overactive adrenal glands. This condition can easily be confused with premature signs of aging in dogs. Cushing's disease symptoms include:

* weight gain * hair loss * urinating in the house * increased consumption of water * increased urination * increase in appetite

Thankfully, this disease is treatable and once treated your dog can live a much longer and healthier life. This condition can be treated at home using homeopathic remedies.

In dogs, Cushing's disease can look like the debilitating effects of aging, so some pet owners may mistakenly consider euthanasia in order to let their pets go peacefully. It is very important to understand when your dog is truly just aging or if they are suffering from Cushing's disease. Your vet can help you determine what your pet is facing.

In dogs, Cushing's disease is usually found in pets that are around ten years old. Cushing's disease is more likely to strike in miniature dogs and in spayed/neutered dogs. Since it can strike just about any dog and there are very few known predispositions for the disease it is sometimes hard to diagnose. Even the physical signs of the disease can be similar to a variety of other health problems.

Because the symptoms are so much like aging it is important to note the symptoms that are more than common signs of aging. These can be extreme drinking(water) as 80-85% of Cushing's dogs will drink 2-10 times their normal amount. Another possible sign is a change in the color of your dog's coat, 85-100% of Cushing's dogs have a change in the skin or coat. 90-95% of dogs will also take on a pot-bellied appearance. By recognizing these signs you can treat the disease and make your dog live longer and more comfortably. Once you suspect the problem, a simple blood test could prove that your dog is suffering from Cushing's.

If Cushing's disease is left to progress without treatment it can lead to even more serious problems such as diabetes, congestive heart failure, failure of the liver and kidneys, and other problems like infections in numerous places on the body. These problems combined with Cushing's disease can prove fatal to your pet. So if you pet is exhibiting any of the symptoms for dog's Cushing's disease and they are over 6 years of age, it is best to take them to a vet right away for a diagnosis. - 29895

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Lymphoma In Dogs

By Moses Wright

Dog lymphoma is a type of cancer in dogs that can affect the lymph nodes, liver, spleen, and other organs. Canine lymphoma most often affects middle age and senior dogs.

Dog cancers, including lymphoma, pose a serious risk to the dog's health. Canine cancer causes fifty percent of the deaths of dogs over ten years of age.

The causes of canine lymphoma are not well understood. Canine lymphoma causes different symptoms depending on which parts of the body are being affected by this cancer.

If only the lymph nodes are being affected by dog lymphoma, the dog may develop abnormal swelling. Dog lymphoma affecting the lymph nodes often causes the lymph nodes to harden which can be felt as lumps. The dog with only lymph nodes damaged by the cancer may not experience other dog cancer symptoms.

Lymphoma in dogs affecting other areas of the body may cause loss of appetite, diarrhea, vomiting, and weight loss. Shortness of breath, lumps on the skin, or bumps in or near the mouth can also be caused by dog lymphoma.

Blood tests or biopsies may be used to diagnose dog lymphoma. A veterinarian may also use ultrasound or x-rays in the process of diagnosing lymphoma in dogs. The dog lymphoma severity is categorized by how many lymph nodes have been affected by the cancer and if the cancer has spread to the dog's organs or bone marrow.

There are five stages of canine lymphoma. Stage one is characterized by the cancer affecting only one lymph node. Stage one is the least severe. In stage five of canine lymphoma, the cancer may be affecting multiple lymph nodes, at least one organ, and the bone marrow.

Chemotherapy is the most common treatment for lymphoma in dogs. During chemotherapy treatment, the dog may receive weekly injections of chemotherapy drugs such as doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide.

Lymphoma in dogs is a particularly dangerous type of dog cancer. If the lymphoma is left untreated, the dog typically lives up to six weeks after diagnosis.

The dog may live up to one year after diagnosis if the dog receives chemotherapy for the lymphoma. Dogs been treated for canine lymphoma rarely live more than one year after diagnosis even with treatment.

A dog owner may be concerned or feel guilty. Dog owners may feel as though they may have done something wrong that caused the dog to get lymphoma. Even though the causes of dog cancers are not well understood, it is clear that the dog owner could not have caused the cancer. - 29895

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Why Everyone Should Train Their Dog

By Don De Good

I know I know, you probably think any sort of training will interrupt the wonderful relationship you share with your dog. Sure it does yell rather annoyingly when you take it out on walks, and you do have to lock it up during dinner parties given how it snarls and growls at your friends four year old, but that's all ok, because that's what dogs do right? Ummm... not really. Sorry to burst your bubble but in spite of not being a human being your dog too is expected to be polite. Sure his antics might seem adorable to you, you might think it's cute when he jumps up at neighbors and scratches up doors, but your dog's victims sure as hell wouldn't agree with you.

You may not like the idea of asserting authority over your dog to make him behave properly. That is perfectly alright. Some dog owners have the pathetic idea that you must be established as the "boss" over your pet. Kudos to the dog owner who does not fall a victim to this idea. Unlike the ringmaster who quickly snaps his whip, you do not have to assert your authority through aggression.

Your problem is that you have a misconception about what dog training really is. When we speak about dog training, we are not asking you to try to teach your dog to become human, to abide by human rules. Training is not an exercise to teach your dog that you are superior. What you are trying to accomplish through training your dog, is to improve his approachability in social situations, and enhance the bond that you two already share.

'What's the point of that?' you might ask. Well, here is the thing. Most of us spend the larger fraction of our daily lives toiling in office, drinking our instant coffee, reading those balance sheets. The little time we get with our family and pets we try to merge with some sort of socializing. We go to the park for a stroll on a lovely evening after work, or to a friend's house to watch a movie. If our dogs are unfriendly then on all these occasions we keep it back home, alone, such that in no time it's in no way a part of our life at all.

Much like us, animals experience feelings of sadness, loneliness, and depression when they aren't getting any attention from you and being left to sit alone in the dark most nights.

So, it seems that your resistance to training your dog has actually isolated your pet, and kept them from taking part in pursuits that would build your bond together.

Obedience training is a means of letting your dog cope better with it's immediate environment. It grants every dog an easier life and makes them easier to live with. Training your dog will give you more opportunity to spend more time with your beloved pet, no matter where you are going and who you are going with.

Now is the chance to give your dog a pat on the head and go out for your first training session. Simply teaching a few key words such as sit, stay, come, heel, and down, can dramatically improve your pet's behavior. You will find that as training progresses, so will your relationship with your favorite companion. The best of luck! - 29895

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An Alternative Pet Healing Solution

By George Carmichael

Crystals and semi-precious stones are used by websites to create trendy and unique dog and cat necklaces which act as a holistic health and alternative healing solution for your beloved pet.

The ancient Egyptians and Chinese knew that semi-precious crystals and stones provided health benefits to the people that carried them. Crystals are created by the natural forces of the Earth and Time " wind, fire, and rain " and it is believed that energy from the Earth inside the crystals has great health benefits.

Websites have conducted extensive research on the healing and health properties of various crystals and semi-precious stones. By utilizing the stones that will best suit the needs of your pet, beautiful dog and cat necklaces can be created. Pet necklaces will help to calm your pet, relieve its stress, and will provide numerous other holistic pet healing solutions. The following is a list of some of the precious stones used to fashion the Pet jewellery:

Aventurine - Helps with weight loss and lowering cholesterol.

Aventurine - Helps with weight loss and lowering cholesterol.

Jade - Will help with kidney problems. The ancient Egyptians also believed that Jade would guide their souls into the afterworld!

Turquoise - Beneficial for the entire body, but the respiratory and immune systems in particular.

Carnelian - Provides help with arthritis.

Carnelian - Believed to help arthiritis.

The ancient Egyptians also believed that Jade would guide their souls into the afterworld! Pearl " Ensures longevity and good general health. The mother of all stones! Turquoise " Beneficial for the entire body, but the respiratory and immune systems in particular. Holistic pet healing can really help!

These healing stones and many more are being utilized by websites to fashion incredible pet jewellery. Your best friend will receive some excellent alternative health benefits based on the properties of the stones and crystals, and better yet, your pet will look really amazing!

Pet healing.. Relieves stress in your pet Helps prevent illness in your pets. Customizable pet jewelry orders. The dog necklace packages are gorgeous!

Check out incredible pet necklaces believed to provide health benefits! You will feel great in the knowledge that your pet has the bling it deserves, and less stress and illness too!

Help your pet be as fashionable, healthy and happy as it can be! - 29895

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Your Reluctant Cat At The Groomer -Some Tips Before You Go...

By Virginia Sutherland

Most people probably already know that cats can bathe themselves by using their tongues to lick their fur clean, but sometimes this type of cleaning just isn't sufficient to work out the mats and tangles that can get into cats' hair. This is especially true for long hair cats, even for those cats that are brushed every single day by their owners. Groomers aren't only for cats that are entered into cat shows. Many cat owners send their cats to the groomers once in a while in order to get a bath and to get their fur conditioned to keep it in its best shape it can be.

You will spend a bit of money when you send your cat to the groomer. Make sure the groomer is experienced with cats, and have a gentle manner. Look over what services the groomer is offering. Besides bathing, some offer fur trims, and others will even do fancy cuts like the lion cut.

Getting the claws trimmed its a great idea, especially if you do not trim the claws on your own. You may even opt for some nail polish on those talons...

As you can imagine, your cat may not be very cooperative during this process. Some cats will react with fear, others with aggression, while some will even like the feeling of the warm water.

Finding a groomer that has extensive experience with cats is important. Grooming a cat is very different from grooming a dog. A groomer inexperienced with cats can make the visit into a disaster. Groomers used to cats will have the right temperament and be gentle with the cat, while at the same time knowing how to safely restrain kitty while she is being shampooed and getting her manicure.

When your cat comes home from the groomers - especially if this was its first experience with a groomer - it may hide out for a while. You might be disappointed because perhaps you want to show off your shiny, groomed cat, but you need to be patient with your cat because going to the groomers can be a traumatic experience for a cat.

While it is nice to get your cat groomed once in awhile, the fact is that most cats spend a whole lifetime without ever getting a bath. They are very efficient at keeping their "do" looking and smelling beautiful. If you have decided to take your cat to a groomer, expect to pay a bit of money and to pay restitution to your kitty when she comes home. - 29895

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Tips For Dog Caring - Dog Allergies

By Gillian Sanders

Ok so what are dog allergies and why you should be concerned about them. For one, they can cause problems for your pets to the extent that they can be suffering quite a bit from it. This means you'll have to take them to the vet and that costs money and time.

Usually these problems arise from the fact that dog owners do not take remedy actions in the early stages of dog allergies. By the time the dog allergies have become serious, it usually takes quite a bit more to solve the allergies. So take heed. Here i will share a few quick tips on how to spot early signs of dog allergies so you can do something about it right away.

Alright let's look at food allergies. The most usual sign for dog food allergies is that your dog will scratch a lot. If you see your pet scratching, licking or even chewing themselves constantly, it is a pretty sure symptom of dog allergies. Some possible triggers for this kind of reactions can be the food they are eating. A quick way to test this out is to systematically remove each dog food ingredient until the symptoms disappears. This helps you to isolate the cause of the dog food allergies.

Another common type of dog allergies is something called Atopy. This is caused by allergy due to their surrounding environment. Certain dust mites, pollen or molds can trigger such kinds of allergies. Again, some of the symptoms are chewing and scratching themselves, specifically the paws and face. Some remedy actions you can take is to remove your dog from these environmental triggers.

If they are allergic to dust mites, be sure to take them out of that area where it is full of dust mites. Now, this may not be possible in some cases, where the allergens are in the house itself. For this situation, you can clean your dog by giving them more frequent baths with medically-approved shampoos. Boosting their immune system is also another feasible way to fight against the allergies. Feed your dog with an omega three rich diet.

Those are just a few quick tips and tricks you can utilize to help alleviate your dog of allergies. Remember the golden rule: Detect early and treat it when possible! - 29895

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Does My New Puppy Need A Dog Bed?

By Jane A Moore

I got a very excited call from my friends the other day with big news. They just got a new puppy. They were at the mall at the pet store when they called, buying all the new stuff necessary for any new puppy owner - little collars, little leashes, puppy food, puppy treats, puppy vitamins, lots of toys, some puppy clothing. You know how new puppy owners are. What they wanted to ask me, since I have gone through the puppy stage with my dog, is whether they should buy a puppy-sized bed for their new puppy.

I told them to hold off on buying a dog bed. This doesn't mean I am not a avid proponent of dog beds. I am. However, I don't think it is appropriate for a puppy to use a dog bed. More accurately, I think it might be impossible for a puppy to be expected to stay in a dog bed. For at least the first 8 to 12 months in their new homes puppies need to sleep in a cage.

Once a puppy has reached full size and you are considering getting rid of the crate, this is the time to start shopping for a dog bed. Having said that, getting rid of the crate isn't a necessity just because your puppy has grown up, in fact many dogs enjoy their crate as a safe haven and prefer spending their quiet time alone in their crate. Having a dog bed for day time naps is a nice option though, especially as your dog loses his puppy energy and has more down time.

So if you have already passed the puppy stage and your dog is ready for bed shopping, here are some things that you need to remember when you are trying to decide what type and size of bed to get for your dog. First, have you ever watched your dog when she is asleep - does she always curl up very small, or tend to stretch out and take up more space? Watch your dog for a few days so you know what kind of a sleeper they are, both during daytime naps and for full nights of sleeping. This will tell you whether you need a round curl up bed, or a bigger bed with more space, maybe even a mini mattress that fits your dogs size.

Once you have determined the type of bed appropriate for your dog, you need to determine the proper size of dog bed required. To do so you need to measure your dog while he or she is sleeping. Measure the point of longest length and the point of longest width. You might want to measure your dog on successive days to see if the measurements change at all. Once you are certain that you have an accurate average measurement then add 2-3 inches to each length. This will give you the length and width required to comfortably accommodate your dog.

There are a number of other aspects to dog beds that could be considered such as construction methods, types of fill, baffled chambers, and quality of zippers, etc. All of these characteristics will get more attention in another article. However, if you are confident about the proper type of bed for your dog and the proper size of bed, then you are well on your way a choosing a great dog bed. - 29895

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Organic Dog Food

By Frank Williams

The requirement of healthy, organic food seems to apply just as much to animals as to humans, since many pet owners would rather buy organic foods to feed man's best friend. One could be forgiven for being taken aback at the large variety of organic dog food on offer on the market. Just like for humans, there are many of pet illnesses that one could cure or even prevent completely by the use of organic pet food.

For instance, organic dog food could reduce the chance of the dog getting skin diseases and allergies. The reason for the positive health effects is the absence of additives, chemicals, colourants and pesticides. Instead the ingredients in organic dog food are just grain extracts and high quality proteins. Organic dog food provides more nourishment, which is obvious from the higher levels of energy and the weight of the pet.

Regular dog food can cause diabetes and excess weight with all the other problems that accompany these illnesses: back ailment, organ failure and decreased mobility. How can organic dog food help here, then? Well, because organic pet food does not contain bulk filler; they are nutrient-packed products that create energy not fat. Moreover, it is best and definitely a lot easier to prevent health problems than try to cure them afterwards.

A better digestion and a stronger immunity system are the other main benefits that come with the feeding of organic dog food. Due to the absence of chemicals normally present in regular pet food, your dog will not vomit or experience wind or diarrhea. A healthier metabolism is what you will achieve with a healthy diet. Moreover, the quality of the nutritional substances in organic dog food, boosts the immunity functions, thereby reducing the risks of infection and all sorts of specific diseases that affect dogs on an everyday basis.

In general, veterinarian experts say that organic dog food significantly extends the life of any animal, not to mention the fact that it will pass through old age a lot better. It is quite common that pet owners who choose organic dog food, are also interested in eating organic foods themselves, sticking to clean natural products that enhance bodily functions and avoid toxins and disease.

Ask your local dog food supplier about organic dog food and if there isn't any at your local shop, try to buy it online. There are plenty of web pages that sell such products at pretty fair prices.

One last tip, be very wary of dried dog food, no matter what it says on the packet. I used to have a dog that stayed at home alone during the day, while I went to work. I didn't like to leave 'wet' food, because of flies, bacteria and vermin, so I bought dry food, which would not deteriorate during the day. However, within six years she had diabetes, which meant that I had to inject her with insulin every morning. The veterinary said that it was very common for dogs fed only on biscuits to get diabetes, so check with your vet first or feed organic wet food. - 29895

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Cat Food And It's Dangerous Ingredients

By Virginina Sutherland

As all cat lovers, we want go feed our feline bosses a healthy, species appropriate diet. But...finding a good food for your kitty may take a bit of detective work. Discounting advertising slogans such as "Wholesome" and "Recommended by veterinarians" along with the deceptive, yet legal, labels that allow "meat" to be the number 1 ingredient even though it is far down the list.

Many ingredients found in pet food have nu business being there. Not only do they have no value whatsoever to the animal, but can be downright detrimental. Their only reason for being in the food is that they are cheap and increases the profit for the company and it's share holders.

The multibillion pet food companies spend both time and effort making people believe that grains are healthy and wholesome in order to sell their food. The truth is that grains are implicated with a long range of chronic, painful and expensive health problems.

One of the worst ingredients in pet food is corn. It irritates the bowel, it is highly allergy producing and it has a high glycemic index.

Every time your cat eats food containing corn, there will be a spike in blood sugar levels. Cats do not metabolize foods the same way we do, and do not have the enzymes and hormones necessary to keep their blood sugar levels within normal range after consuming carbs. Cats are designed to get their energy from protein, not carbohydrates.

While the diet of a wild cat contains approximately 3-5% carbs, many commercial kibbles contain 30-60% carbs. 10-20 TIMES the normal amount.

After eating a meal of kibble your cat's blood sugar level will spike because the body is not equipped to handle all those carbs.

The high blood sugar is highly taxing on organs such as kidneys and liver, taxing on the endocrine system and the end result is frequently feline diabetes, degenerative and auto immune diseases, and diseases of the bowel, such as inflammatory bowel disease.

Corn also helps making your cat obese. Cats do not register full after eating carbs. They register full after eating protein. A cat eating a food with high grain content will have to eat a lot more in order to consume enough protein to register full.

Finding a grain free food for your pet should be on the top of your list. Today there are grain free canned foods and even grain free kibble.

Start looking today for a brand of food that contains no corn, no wheat and no soy. Your furry friend will thank you. - 29895

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So Your Cat Needs A Bath, Eh? - Tips Before Taking Your Cat To A Groomer

By Virginia Sutherland

It is well known, cats have an absolutely amazing tongue that they use to keep their coat clean and beautiful. Sometimes, especially in what is called "the shedding season", or for cats with very long or thick fur, your cats own efforts may need some help. Getting an occasional bath can remove a lot of loose hair, which spells less hairballs, and less cat hair on your "fur"niture. It also keeps mats and tangles at bay while keeping kitty looking magnificent.

You're going to pay a good amount of money in order to send your cat to the groomers, and your cat will probably not be very pleased about the whole process. There is a variety of services a groomer can do for your cat. Some groomers offer fur trims while other will shave the cats completely with the exception of the head and tail. Most groomers will give cats baths and condition their fur.

Plenty of cat owners send their cats to the groomer in order to get their claws trimmed, and in some cases there are cat owners who send their cats to the groomers with the express intent of getting the cats gussied up with nail polish on the claws and bows in the fur.

As you can imagine, your cat may not be very cooperative during this process. Some cats will react with fear, others with aggression, while some will even like the feeling of the warm water.

Finding a groomer that has extensive experience with cats is important. Grooming a cat is very different from grooming a dog. A groomer inexperienced with cats can make the visit into a disaster. Groomers used to cats will have the right temperament and be gentle with the cat, while at the same time knowing how to safely restrain kitty while she is being shampooed and getting her manicure.

After the visit is over, you may be excited, but your cat may be wishing to hide out for a bit. That's OK. Recognize that your cat has had a somewhat traumatic experience.

While it is nice to get your cat groomed once in awhile, the fact is that most cats spend a whole lifetime without ever getting a bath. They are very efficient at keeping their "do" looking and smelling beautiful. If you have decided to take your cat to a groomer, expect to pay a bit of money and to pay restitution to your kitty when she comes home. - 29895

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Crate Training Is The Best Method For House Training Puppies

By Alicia Ainsley Summers

When House Training Puppies, crate training is the quickest way to get the job done. It works so well because when crate training puppies, it's very simple to get a handle on your dog's eating and toilet schedule, while making it very clear to your puppy where the toilet area is.

Some people have a difficult time with crate training because they feel it is cruel, and your puppy may fuss a bit about being kept in the crate, and that's normal. However, dogs like having a den area, and this creates a safe area for your dog that he knows is his "home". Crate training works because a puppy is very resistant to messing up his own space, and will hold off on relieving himself until he can get to another location.

The crate should be large enough so your dog can get up, walk around in a small circle and lie down. As he gets bigger, you can upgrade to a large crate if needed. Dogs don't like to lie in their urine (who would??) so they hold off as long as they possibly can.

Note your puppy's eating and drinking schedule as well as the times he goes to the bathroom throughout the day. Now you can put together a schedule of expected toilet breaks based on the times of day your puppy might need to go use the toilet. Potty breaks are typically needed after vigorous play, about 30 minutes after eating, just before bedtime and first thing in the morning. A few middle of the night trips are probably needed if you puppy is very young, until their bladders allow them to hold it throughout the night.

When you take your puppy out of the crate in the morning, take him right to his toilet area. Simply carry him straight there and set him down in the toilet area if he tends to get distracted or run off. You should just stand there for 10-15 or so minutes, simply watching and waiting. If he actually goes to the bathroom, immediately give your puppy lots of verbal praise and affection, and you can also give a treat. If he doesn't go, then take him back to his crate, and in about 20 minutes or so, try again. Just repeat this pattern until successful, and once your puppy does go, reward the good behavior with playtime. You want to teach your dog that he needs to take care of business first, then he gets playtime. This sets up good habits.

In the initial stages, crate training puppies takes a lot of time and focus. If done right, you should see improvements quickly. Your puppy will need frequent breaks playing throughout the day, but for the most part he should stay in the crate during the early stages of the training process.

Keep your eyes on your puppy at all times whenever he is out of the crate playing or wandering about. You have to train your eyes on him at all times, and if you see he is about to go on the carpet, swoop in and take him out to the right area immediately. This will be awkward (especially mid-stream) , but it is the only opportunity to help your puppy understand where his toilet area is and change his habits.

When you are house training puppies, understand that accidents will happen. Clean it up quietly and quickly without letting your dog watch you. Use urine odor remover type cleaning products so your dog will not sniff out that area as the toilet next time. Overall, just remember that it will take time to get your puppy properly potty trained, so have patience and be consistent. - 29895

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Types Of Dog Sweaters

By Moses Wright

Dog sweaters are a type of dog clothing that may be handmade or mass produced by a company or designer. Available in a large variety of colors and styles, dog sweaters may be crocheted or knitted. Plain and preppy dog sweaters are sold as well as dog sweaters specifically for holidays.

The typical design of a dog sweater includes a collar that the dog's head fits through and sleeves for the front legs. There are not usually sleeves for the hind legs as these would easily become soiled. Therefore, the bottom of the dog sweater usually just lies against the back of the dog.

Designer dog sweaters for small dogs are made by Ralph Lauren. The Ralph Lauren dog sweaters are priced between ninety-five to one hundred fifteen dollars.

Ralph Lauren dog sweaters are made from either wool, cashmere, or a combination of wool and cashmere. They come in a several different styles and colors and can be purchased through the Ralph Lauren website.

Some small and home-based businesses specialize in customized dog sweaters that are made to fit the customer's dog. Since most manufactured sweaters only fit small dogs, a dog owner of a larger dog may want to look for a business that will make a dog sweater to fit the dog's measurements.

A dog owner can find a company that makes customized dog sweaters by doing a search on an Internet search engine. Dog owners may be able to find cheap dog sweaters with a search engine. There are often cheap dog sweaters being sold for under ten dollars plus shipping costs. Patterns for dog sweaters are available on the Internet for dog owners who may want to make dog sweaters.

Trendy or fun dog sweaters may seem like a way to express the dog's personality. Technically, it is the dog owner's personality or dog owner's perception of the dog's personality that is being expressed since the dog owner chooses and purchases the dog sweaters.

The use of a dog sweater is often only because the dog owner likes the sweater. In some cases, the dog sweater is a practical solution to keeping a dog warm. Small hairless or short-haired dogs may benefit from a dog sweater if they must be outside in damp or cold weather. - 29895

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Your Dog And Other Pets: Encouraging A Peaceful Household

By Kurt Ransone

If your canine has spent little time around other species (i.e. cats, birds, etc.), he may have trouble adjusting to a household in which he's not the only animal. If he was exposed to cats and other pets as a puppy, there is a much higher likelihood that he'll assimilate into an environment with multiple species more easily. Like humans, familiarity plays a significant role in dispelling fear.

Below, you'll learn how to peacefully introduce your dog into a household in which other animals roam. We'll describe some of the warning signs that might suggest future trouble. We'll also provide a few helpful tips you can use to help him make the transition.

Warning Signs Of Potential Trouble

Canines are naturally territorial. They'll protect their area and their belongings jealously if they are unfamiliar with the animals in close proximity. If your pooch exhibits behavior that suggests extreme possessiveness over his toys, bedding, or meals, he is likely to have trouble with other species, especially smaller ones such as cats. The same is true if you notice him persistently chasing small animals when you're walking him. For example, he might launch himself after squirrels or birds.

If he is defiant when he becomes excited, that is another warning sign that he will fare poorly with other non-canine animals within your home. Lastly, observe your dog when he meets other pets on a walk. Some canines will stare at other pets in order to suggest dominance over them.

Making The Introductions

When you introduce your dog to another pet within your home, you should do so slowly and under supervision. If possible, enlist a friend who can help manage the other pet so you can devote your time to managing your pooch. Have your dog's favorite treats nearby in order to reward good behavior.

With the other animal already in a room (and managed by your friend), bring your pooch in. Sit on the floor next to him and issue commands that he knows. The goal is to keep his attention; you want him to become comfortable with the presence of the other animal, but you do not want it to capture his attention. If he begins to ignore your commands, recapture his attention with the treats.

The next step is to have your friend encourage the other animal to move within a small area. At the same time, slowly move your canine a few feet closer to it. This will gradually increase his familiarity with the other member of your family. Eventually, have your friend let the other animal roam freely (as long as it stays away from you and your pooch) while you maintain careful control of your dog. If he does not become excitable, increase his exposure by allowing him more territory over which to walk.

The process by which your dog becomes comfortable around other pets may be a long and tedious one. It takes time and patience to encourage a peaceful household with more than one species living under the roof. That said, the investment will go a long way toward creating a happier family. - 29895

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Benefits Of Various Types Of Dog Fences

By Moses Wright

When deciding on a dog fence, dog owners can choose from various types of dog fences. The dog owner's budget, the size of the dog, the size of the area that needs fencing, and any regulations regarding fencing need to be considered when choosing a dog fence.

One type of dog fence that appeals to many dog owners is the invisible dog fence. Electric dog fences are effective for most dog breeds and are ideal fencing solutions in areas where traditional fencing is prohibited by local ordinances or homeowners associations.

There are some reports that invisible dog fences will not work for greyhound dogs since greyhounds may run fast over the boundary of the fence and not respond to the shock until they are already past the boundary of the fence. Invisible dog fences have the advantage of preventing dogs from digging under the fence to escape as they may with some types of dog fences.

If a dog owner is looking for a traditional fence that will blend into landscaping, picket fences are one of the various types of dog fences that work well for small and medium size dogs. Large-size dogs and some medium-sized dogs may be able to climb or jump over a standard picket fence.

Privacy fences are similar to picket fences, but are taller with slats placed close together. Privacy fences can be well suited for larger dog or for dogs that are subjected to teasing through other fences. Some dogs will dig holes along privacy or picket fences to escape.

Chain link fencing is one of the most common types of dog fences. Chain link fences are durable and sturdy. These fences can be used to enclose an entire yard or to create a dog run or kennel.

A split rail fence is a type of landscaping fence that is not well suited for dog containment. Dogs of all sizes can often get through a split rail fence by either crawling under the fence or jumping over it.

Tall brick or masonry walls are used to contain dogs and deter people from entering property in some suburban communities. However, these walls can be incredibly expensive to build.

Chickenwire and still fences are often used as temporary fencing solutions. If these are to be used for any significant amount time, the dog owner should be aware that parts the fence may rust and weaken overtime. - 29895

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What Causes A Dog Food Recall?

By Moses Wright

Dog food safety and effectiveness is regulated by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). A new dog food that uses common dog food ingredients does not need to be approved by the FDA before being sold by the pet food manufacturer.

New ingredients that have not been previously established as safe may need FDA approval. For example, sources of meat may not need to be verified as safe since they already have been, but new additives to dog food may need to be approved by the FDA.

Dog food labeling is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration to ensure that the label does not make false claims about its ingredients were the health benefits of the dog food. If the dog food manufacturer includes a claim about the benefits of dog food on the dog food labels, the FDA may test this claim.

A dog food recall may occur if the dog food has been found to be contaminated with a substance that is potentially dangerous for dogs. If the dog food has not been contaminated but the quality of the dog food has been compromised, the dog food manufacturer may issue a voluntary dog food recall if the dog food does not jeopardize the health of dogs.

One of the most common reasons for dog food recall in recent years has been contamination of the food with melamine. Some rice protein concentrate from China was found to be contaminated with melamine after some was used by U.S. pet food companies.

A dog owner can find information on dog food recalls through the pet food section of the website for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. An explanation of the regulations pertaining to dog food are also available on the website.

Many proponents of raw dog food diets may make biased claims about dog food companies and the safety and nutritious content of commercial dog food. Dog food recalls are often given as a reason to switch to a raw food diet.

Dog owners who are concerned about dog food safety and nutrition should discuss their concerns with the veterinarian. There are many options for safe and nutritious dog food. A veterinarian can help the dog owner determine which dog food is best for the dog and fits within the dog owner's budget. - 29895

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Diarrhea In Dogs

By Moses Wright

Diarrhea in dogs is a common health problem that often goes away on its own. However, dog owners should know when the dog should be examined by a veterinarian.

The common causes of diarrhea in dogs is eating something that the dog shouldn't have eaten such as rotten food from the trash, a digestive intolerance to something in the dog's food, or a viral illness. The diarrhea may be the body's way of flushing out toxins and in this way is often a healthy process.

If there is blood in the diarrhea or the diarrhea lasts for more than a day or two, the dog needs to be seen by a veterinarian. The dog should be taken to the veterinarian immediately if the dog owner suspects that the dog may have ingested poison.

If the dog appears to be struggling to breathe, this is a veterinary emergency. The dog should be seen by a veterinarian if the dog has lost weight or doesn't seem to be able to relax or lie still.

Dogs that have frequent bouts of diarrhea or diarrhea in puppies that have not have all their vaccinations should be examined by a veterinarian. Intestinal parasites are a common cause of diarrhea in puppies.

When the diarrhea begins, the dog owner should take away the dog's food and water. Occasionally, the dog owners should allow the dog to drink small amounts of water. Restricting the water and food intake of the dog allows the dog's digestive tract to settle down.

When the dog is recovering from diarrhea, the dog owner should feed the dog bland foods. One recommended food for recovery after diarrhea is a mixture of two thirds cooked rice and one third lean, cooked meat. Examples of the lean, cooked meat can be a hamburger that is patted with a paper towel to remove excess fat or a chicken breast.

Two or three tablespoons of plain yogurt can be added to the dog's bland food mixture. The yogurt may help calm the stomach and replenish some of the healthy bacteria in the digestive tract. The special bland diet for the dog should be followed for a few days. - 29895

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Commercial Dog Food Can Be Dangerous - Is Your Dog Food Safe?

By Lynn Halladay

What you don't know could be bad for your dog, causing illness and even death. Most of us don't pay a lot of attention to what we feed our pets, trusting manufacturer labeling to be accurate and regulations to be followed. The truth is that there really aren't very many rules about what can and can't go into dog food.

Not Fit To Eat

Did you know that the average dog food could contain meat from diseased animals, bones, nervous tissues, skin, organs, hair, ligaments, and even spoiled meat and the bodies of other pets?

Even the good meat that ends up in cat and dog food has undergone heavy processing, losing most of the value it once had. Ingredients like "poultry broth" and "animal meal" are far removed from the meat we imagine.

Animal meal is what's left after a carcass has been processed to remove all the fat and meat. What remains is ground up and dried, resulting in a meal that has a similar texture to corn meal and included in pet food. Broths and similar substances in pet food are made of processed carcasses that come from many different kinds of animals, cooked until a liquid is produced.

Not Illegal

Unfortunately, none of the disgusting or unhealthy ingredients in dog food are illegal. While we have reasonably strict rules about what can be part of human food and those laws are well enforced, pets don't have that protection. Rules about pet food ingredients are much looser and more poorly enforced.

This means that just about anything might turn up in your dog's food, with labeling meaning little. Even the words "healthy and balanced" mean only that there's a particular ratio of protein and fat, as well as some added vitamins and minerals.

Toxic Additives

All of us have probably heard about the recent recalls due to melamine contamination. What you might not know is that this isn't the only additive in pet food that might cause illness or death. There are a number of preservatives used in pet food that cause real problems in humans who work with them, and could cause liver and kidney failure or cancer in your dog over time.

Not Only Cheap Brands

Unfortunately, it's not just the cheap brands that are causing the problem. High end and organic foods are also poorly regulated. They might be higher quality, but there's no good way to tell what ingredients they're using. That can make it extremely hard to find foods that are appropriate for your dog, since even those recommended by the vet could be dangerous.

What Can You Do?

There are a number of things you can do to protect your dog. First, learn to read the label - ingredients higher on the label are in larger percentages. That means you should look for named meats instead of generic terms, broths or meals.

Learn the preservatives and additives that can hurt your dog's health, and avoid foods that are heavy on grains - they're not the natural food for dogs or cats. You can also learn to create high quality dog foods on your own - there are many good recipes out there for the dedicated pet owner. Just make sure you learn to do something, because most pet foods are dangerous for your dog. - 29895

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