August 16th, 2010
AKC Mallard
Most puppies were originally bred for purposes other than to be household pets. The American Kennel Club, also known as “AKC” classifies dogs into various Breed Groups according to their known characteristics and breed traits. Terriers for instance, are one popular breed group that were bred to hunt and kill vermin. In fact, if you ever spend any time around a Jack Russell Terrier, you will know that many continue to resort to their ancestral roots and love to stalk their prey.
The AKC line of plush dog toys created by Jakks Pets feature plush realistic vermin like Squirrels, Chipmunks, Rabbits and Hedgehogs as well as fine feathered birds like Mallards and Pheasants.
These AKC plush toys are realistic looking and a sure favorite for dogs of all sizes. Each toy has at least one built-in squeaker or honker and all toys feature embroidered details with no small parts to swallow. Most of their toys are available in three sizes, ranging from Large to Mini, to better accommodate a wide variety of breed sizes.
Even after hundreds of years of domestication, virtually all dogs enjoy hunting. Every once in awhile I forget this, but am reminded by it when my four year old Tibetan Terrier Kirra, stalks a squirrel or chases a black bird with such gusto that I’m certain her ancestors would be proud.
Puppy Pet Supplies Pet Toy Review:
Pros: Realistic plush toy, No small parts to swallow, Squeaker or Honker inside, double-stitching, fairly durable.
Cons: Made in China, Not for chewers, the stuffing can be pulled out by determined breeds.
Price: Range from $6.99 to $14.99.
Tags: AKC, AKC Duck, AKC Mallard, American Kennel Club, Jack Russell Terrier, Jakks Pacific, Jakks Pets, Tibetan Terrier
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November 15th, 2009
Bringing your new puppy home
Preparing the House and Yard
Dogs are born mischief-makers. Before welcoming one into your home, think about your new pet’s indoor and outdoor environment. Remove any chewable and breakable items from your dog’s new “territory”. Make sure that low windows are closed and outside doors latched. Ensure that all detergents, cleaners, insecticides and fertilizers are out of reach. Tape down electrical wires or spray them with taste deterrents. Check your backyard fences for openings through which a puppy might escape; baby guards are excellent for preventing a new dog from wandering out of it’s designated area. Even with perfect preparation, remain vigilant. Dogs are just amazing at finding the weaknesses in our best laid plans!
Meeting the Family
Keep human activity to a minimum when your pup arrives in your home. Restrict him to a single room at first, but let him investigate to his hearts content. Explain to children that they should be calm and quiet when they meet the new arrival.
Meeting Your Other Pets
A resident dog, especially an older one, can resent the arrival of a newcomer. Wait until your new addition is asleep and then let your resident canine take the initiative and sniff it’s new house-mate. Use the same strategy with the family cat. Cats rule dogs and if your cat has the opportunity to hiss first he will establish his own ground rules. Make sure that your cat’s feeding bowl is inaccessible to your dog. Cat food always tastes better to canines than dog food, but it is too high in protein and not formulated for dogs, so keep it away.
Food
For some dogs, moving to a new home is very stressful. This stress increases the risk of illness, especially gastrointestinal disorders. Regardless of what you plan to feed your dog, get a sample of what he’s been eating and continue feeding that for the first few days, then gradually switching it during the first week to the diet you have chosen.
Sleeping Arrangements
A new puppy is used to sleeping cuddled up with his mother and/or siblings. Where he sleeps now; whether it be in a crate in the kitchen, in the hallway – or in your bedroom, is your choice – but BE CONSISTENT! If he is to sleep alone, don’t make a big fuss over him. Leave quietly and don’t respond to howling or crying. If you do – he wins – and he knows it too! Within a week most dogs learn to sleep by themselves quite well.
Tags: bringing a new puppy home, house training a new puppy, obedience training for my dog, what do i do with a new puppy, what do i need for a new puppy
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November 15th, 2009
German Shepherd Puppy
Follow these 5 simple steps and you’ll have yourself a well balanced, loving and sociable German Shepherd in the future.
Step # 1: House Training
Your puppy will want to relieve himself regularly, usually around every 45 minutes or so… Your puppy will want to go to the toilet after anytime he drinks, wakes up, plays or anytime he gets excited. When your puppy is grown, he will need to relieve himself after each time he eats.
After he’s eaten or drinks some water take him outside and wait with him until he has done his business, he might go right away or it could take him some time, so be patient and do not to take him back inside until he has done his business. Be sure to praise your dog immediately after he has gone potty.
Through constant repetition always try to take him to a designated place to do his business so that he gets a feel for where he should go. Associating him to the outside as the place to go to the toilet will eventually become the norm for him and soon you will find that he will whine, bark or scratch at the door when he does need to go.
Step # 2: Socialization.
Any dog not properly socialized especially from a young age, becomes a liability. It is the owners duty to ensure that their dog is approachable and safe, not only for the dogs sake but for the owners and the public.
Socialization like all aspects of training is best done when the dog is around 12 weeks old. Be certain that your dog has had all of his shots before taking him to a dog park. Especially important is the Parvo shot, a dog without the proper vaccinations is susceptible to illness or death.
It is imperative that he sees other humans as friends and not something he should be fearful of, so with that said, the easy way to socialize him would be to take him everywhere you go and let everyone you meet, touch, stroke and caress him. He’ll love the attention.
Socialization should be a pleasant experience for him and one great trick is to carry a bag of his favorite treats with you and when you introduce him to other people, hand them one of his treats for them to give to him, this way he becomes accustomed to other peoples hands and sees them as something not to be fearful of.
Puppy Socialization Classes
Check with your local PetCo, PetSmart, Humane Society, Shelter or local pet supply store to locate a puppy socialization class. At the class, introduce him to other animals, but stand close by to squelch any aggressive behavior.
Step # 3: Nipping and Biting.
Puppies as part of their learning curve and socialization procedure instinctively will nip and bite, it forms part of their play time, communication and social standing, but does this make it okay for them to do it? Well yes and no! Puppies will nip and bite regardless, as it is part of their generic make up, which goes on to form their social standing within the group to which they are part of.
It is important that you establish who the leader of your pack right away, use an affirmative “NO” while making eye contact, will be enough to get the message across.
Step # 4: Chewing
The little blighters it seems will chew just about anything they can get their needle-like teeth on. Give your puppy things that are safe to chew on. As they are teething, puppies need plush toys and ropes to chew on this will focus their biting on something other than you.
Step # 5: Barking
Lack of stimulation can play a big part in a dog’s continual barking, so make certain that you spend enough time with him and give him enough exercise so that he is not bored. Puppies along with adult dogs can become quite lonely if you spend a lot of time away from them. They need interaction and stimulation.
Consistency, perseverance, patience and gentle reinforcement are the key ingredients to having a well balanced obedient, well behaved dog. If that is the dog of your dreams then donât blame or shame him, instead train him.
Tags: Barking, Biting, German Shepherd, German Shepherd Breed, German Shepherd Puppy, German Shepherd Puppy Training, German Shepherd Training Secrets, Nipping, Obedience Training
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November 14th, 2009
Diarrhea is one of the most common illnesses of puppies. It frequently occurs in pets housed in kennels and exposed to salmonella or parvo infections. Diarrhea is also common in pets that eat garbage, or poor quality dog foods, or food to which they are allergic. Diarrhea can be caused by pets drinking water contaminated with wild animal feces, which often contains giardia.
Causes
Diarrhea can be caused by problems from within the digestive system itself, or by problems from outside of the digestive system. The most common causes from within the digestive system include: ulcers, food allergies, infections, poisons, worms, foreign bodies and cancer. Your puppy can also get diarrhea if you switch his food too quickly. The most common causes from problems originating outside of the digestive system include: anxiety, Addison’s disease, liver disease, kidney disease, and a pancreatic disease called Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency.
Acute or Chronic Diarrhea in Puppies
Diarrhea can occur suddenly and resolve quickly (acute) or it can be chronic and last for months. Most cases of diarrhea are acute, isolated incidents that resolve easily.
Pets with acute diarrhea need medical attention if the diarrhea is bloody, or if it is accompanied by general signs of illness: fever, dehydration, abdominal pain, or weakness. All pets with chronic diarrhea need medical attention.
Bacteria within the Intestines
Bacteria and microorganisms (also called flora) within the intestines can be friendly, good microorganisms or pathogenic, disease-causing organisms. Friendly bacteria help make vitamins and fatty acids, and they help produce mucus that lines the digestive system and protects it from infection and physical damage.
Supplements that supply good microorganisms to colonize the intestines are called probiotics. Probiotics maintain healthy bacteria in the intestines and help to prevent diarrhea. Probiotics protect against inflammation, infection, diarrhea, and cancer. NaturVet Enzymes & Probiotics and Probiotics is an excellent source of gut-friendly probiotic microorganisms, such as Aspergillus Oryzae, Trichoderma Longibrachiatum, Aspergillus Niger, and Lactobacillus Acidophilus.
Home remedies
Treating your puppies diarrhea at home should be your first step prior to visiting a vet. Feeding your dog yogurt, canned pumpkin, or slippery elm can help the symptoms. Slippery Elm can be obtained at a health food store and it is very soothing for bowels. It is advisable to put your dog on a temporary fast from eating his or her normal food. Be certain to hydrate your dog by offering plenty of clean water and offering small amounts of broth or Pediolyte every few hours. After 24 hours, continue on Slippery Elm and introduce some bland chicken or hamburger and plain rice for fiber.
To maintain good gut bacteria, it’s helpful to feed prebiotics. Pre (before)-biotics, such as chicory and FOS (fermentable oligofructose fiber), are the nutrients that good microorganisms use to stay healthy. In pets fed FOS, intestinal cells are larger and healthier, have a thicker protective mucus layer, and are almost 100% more efficient at absorbing nutrients from food. Apple pomace and inulin, which are contained some dog food brands, are also excellent nutrient sources for good gut bacteria.
Tags: diarrhea, enzymes, Health, probiotics
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November 14th, 2009
Shih Tzu Puppy
Teaching a shih tzu puppy or a shih tzu dog proper socialization skills is vital to the safety of both your dog and other dogs and people with whom he comes into contact. A properly socialized shih tzu dog is a happy dog, and a joy to be around for both humans and animals. A poorly socialized shih tzu dog, or one with no socialization at all, is a danger to other animals, other people and even his own family.
Socialization is best done when the shih tzu puppy is as young as possible The socialization lessons a young shih tzu puppy learns are difficult to undo, and it is important to remember that the socialization skills the shih tzu puppy learns will affect his behavior for the rest of his life.
A shih tzu dog that is properly socialized will be neither frightened of nor aggressive towards either animals or humans. A properly socialized shih tzu dog will take each new experience and stimulus in stride, and not become fearful or aggressive. Shih tzu dogs that are not properly socialized often bite because of fear, and such a shih tzu dog can become a hazard and a liability to the family who owns it. Improperly socialized shih tzu dogs are also unable to adapt to new situations. A routine matter like a trip to the vets or to a friends house can quickly stress the shih tzu dog out and lead to all sorts of problems.
Socialization is best done when the shih tzu puppy is very young, perhaps around 12 weeks of age. Even after 12 weeks, however, it is important that the shih tzu puppy continues its socialization in order to refine the all important social skills. It is possible to socialize an older shih tzu puppy, but it is very difficult to achieve after the all important 12 week period has passed.
There are some definite do’s and don’t when it comes to properly socializing any shih tzu puppy. Let’s start with what to do. Later in this article we will explore what to avoid.
Socialization do’s
Make each of the socialization events as pleasant and non-threatening for the shih tzu puppy as possible. If a shih tzu puppy’s first experience with any new experience is an unpleasant one, it will be very difficult to undo that in the shih tzu puppy’s mind. In some cases, an early trauma can morph into a phobia that can last for a lifetime. It is better to take things slow and avoid having the shih tzu puppy become frightened or injured.
Try inviting your friends over to meet the new shih tzu puppy. It is important to include as many different people as possible in the shih tzu puppy’s circle of acquaintances, including men, women, children, adults, as well as people of many diverse ethnic backgrounds and ages.
Also invite friendly and healthy dogs and puppies over to meet your puppy. It is important for the shih tzu puppy to meet a wide variety of other animals, including cats, hamsters, rabbits and other animals he is likely to meet. It is of course important to make sure that all animals the shih tzu puppy comes into contact with have received all necessary vaccinations.
Take the shih tzu puppy to many different places, including shopping centers, pet stores, parks, school playgrounds and on walks around the neighborhood. Try to expose the shih tzu puppy to places where they will be crowds of people and lots of diverse activity going on.
Take the shih tzu puppy for frequent short rides in the car. During these rides, be sure to stop the car once in a while and let the puppy look out the window at the world outside.
Introduce your shih tzu puppy to a variety of items that may be unfamiliar. The shih tzu puppy should be exposed to common items like bags, boxes, vacuum cleaners, umbrellas, hats, etc. that may be frightening to him. Allow and encourage the shih tzu puppy to explore these items and see that he has nothing to fear from them.
Get the shih tzu puppy used to a variety of objects by rearranging familiar ones. Simply placing a chair upside down, or placing a table on its side, creates an object that your shih tzu puppy will perceive as totally new.
Get the shih tzu puppy used to common procedures like being brushed, bathed, having the nails clipped, teeth cleaned, ears cleaned, etc. Your groomer and your veterinarian with thank you for this.
Introduce the shih tzu puppy to common things around the house, such as stairs. Also introduce the shih tzu puppy to the collar and leash, so he will be comfortable with these items.
There are of course some things to avoid when socializing a shih tzu puppy. These socialization don’ts include:
Do not place the shih tzu puppy on the ground when strange animals are present. An attack, or even a surprise inspection, by an unknown animal could traumatize the shih tzu puppy and hurt his socialization.
Do not inadvertently reward fear based behavior. When the shih tzu puppy shows fear, it is normal to try to sooth it, but this could reinforce the fear based behavior and make it worse. Since biting is often a fear based behavior, reinforcing fear can create problems with biting.
Do not force or rush the socialization process. It is important to allow the shih tzu puppy to socialize at his own pace.
Do not try to do too much too soon. Young shih tzu puppies have short attention spans, and continuing lessons after that attention span has passed will be a waste of your time and your puppy’s.
Do not wait too long to begin. There is a short window in which to begin the socialization process. A young shih tzu puppy is a blank slate, and it is important to fill that slate with positive socialization skills as early as possible.
Tags: Dog, Dogs, Puppies, Puppy, Shih Tzu, Shih Tzu Puppies, Shih Tzu Puppy
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November 14th, 2009
My wife Laura and I had to take a “crash” course in training Pitbull puppies. Our 8 month old Pitbull,”Rocco”, was a muscular 82lbs, and he was becoming a holy terror! Not in a vicious sense, mind you, rather in an “obnoxious” sense. He was non-stop barking, jumping on us constantly, etc.etc. After being educated by a professional Pitbull handler, we discovered that we had made the #1 mistake in training Pitbull puppies!
My wife and I both work outside the home, so we decided early on to build “Rocco” a pen in our relatively small backyard. We equipped it with a spacious enclosure, to protect him from the elements. We would only allow “Rocco” inside our home on a very limited basis. We would try to give him attention, especially when we got home from work, however it probably wasn’t enough.
We noticed that “Rocco’s” barking and jumping gradually became worse as time went by. He really was over excited when we entered the pen upon returning from work.
When we took him on walks, he was pretty much out of control. He would “dart” all over the place, in an effort to expend energy. Upon seeing other dogs, he would bark violently. At 82lbs, he was very difficult to control!
When we were just about to put “Rocco” up for adoption, we ran across some training tips from a professional Pitbull handler. We soon discovered that we had broken the 3 most important rules in training Pitbull puppies.
1) Train your Pitbull puppy at the youngest possible age, BEFORE they get big.
2) DON’T isolate Pitbull puppies for lengthy periods of time. They are loving and social animals.
3) Allow them AMPLE opportunity to expend energy
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Tags: how to train a pitbull, how to train your pit, pit bulls, pitbull puppies training, pitbull puppy training, pitbull training, pitbulls, training a pitbull, training pitbull puppies, training pitbulls
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November 13th, 2009
Denver Broncos Pet Jersey
I’ve been looking for a way to dress up my dog for our weekly Bronco’s parties and now I’ve found it. I’ve now got a way for my dog to support our home team, this is sure to get a laugh out of anyone that loves pets and the NFL. This jersey is adorable and light and looks great on. Please note that the sizing runs a little small, we recommend that you order the next size up.
Officially licensed by the NFL, and manufactured by Hunter, these dog jerseys use official team logos and colors. Constructed of breathable micromesh polyester. V-neck cut is stylish and comfort fitting. 100% polyester. Hand wash in cold water. Made in the USA.
Size Length Girth Neck
Small 12″ – 16″ 12″ – 16″ 6″ – 10″
Medium 16″ – 20″ 16″ – 19″ 10″ – 14″
Large 20″ – 26″ 19″ – 26″ 14″ – 18″
X-Large 26″ – 30″ 26″ – 32″ 18″ – 22″
Tags: Denver Broncos, Made in the USA, NFL Pet Jersey
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November 13th, 2009
I’ve been researching healthy treats for my dog and I came across one that is pretty good and quite palatable, at least that’s the look I get from my dog, while I observe her chowing one down. Happy Howies All Natural turkey treats are an all meat treat, that is made in the USA and a single source protein. My dog also has a lamb allergy, so turkey is often the treat of choice.
Happy Howies 5-pk
These treats are made with natural preservatives in their own plant in Michigan. GUARANTEED ANALYSIS:
Crude Protein (Min) 20%
Crude Fat (Min) 19%
Crude Fiber (Max) 0.20%
Moisture (Max) 12%
INGREDIENTS:
Turkey, Rice Flour, Garlic, Salt, Sugar, Sodium Lactate, Amorphous Silicon Dioxide, Citric Acid, Natural Mixed Tocopherols (a natural preservative), Vegetable Oil, Rosemary Extract.
They come in packs of 5 oz or in 8 oz packages and 2-inch or 4-inch sizes. The treats are also available in Beef and Lamb flavors. They’re a hit with all of the neighbor dogs too!
Tags: All Natural Treats, Happy Howies, Made in the USA treats, Turkey treats
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November 13th, 2009
Looking for a tough puppy toy that is also made in the USA? You might check out the Vibram balls that My Good Dog manufacturers. Want proof that these balls are tough? Last year My Good Dog donated a few of their Vibram balls to the rare wild african dogs at the Kansas City Zoo. African Wild Dogs, also called Cape hunting dogs, are infamous for quickly destroying anything with their powerful jaws. Only about 7,000 of the animals are estimated to exist in about eight African countries. They are listed as endangered species.
African Wild Dogs on the prowl.
According to Linda Long, the Kansas City Zoo keeper, the “african wild dogs have incredibly strong jaws designed to help them take down prey significantly larger than themselves – some as large as a ton.” The Vibram balls withstood the test.
Made in the USA in 3″ and 4″ sizes, the Vibram balls are tough and hollow to fill with training treats. These balls will make a great stocking stuffer for the hound in your house.
Tags: African Wild Dogs, My Good Dog, Tough Pet Toys, Vibram Balls
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November 13th, 2009
We’ve been testing new toys in preparation for the holiday buying season, in order to find some great puppy toys that hold up to the rigors of teething puppies. We’ve found some by HuggleHounds that fit the bill. Enter the Baby Rabbits toys that come in assorted soft colors, including powder blue, green and pink.
Huggle Hounds Baby Rabbits
These cute rabbits are touted by the manufacturer as “the world’s tiniest soft dog to that features nylon ribbon; perfect for teething puppies.” The nylon ribbon is actually only two continuous pieces to make the toy as safe as possible for little mouths.
This toy is machine washable and designed with Tuffut Technology. Tuffut is a 3-step patented process developed to deliver the strongest soft toy in the pet industry. This toy is tested to withstand over 100 pounds of tugging and pulling. There are no external seams that can be easily opened by aggressive chewers.
Each Baby Rabbit measures only 6.25 inches tall. Item #10074.
Tags: Baby Rabbits, hugglehounds, puppy toys, tuffut technology
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November 13th, 2009
Cute Dog
Similar to the nutritional value of your pet’s food is the feeding schedule. Remember that dogs like humans need to eat on regular basis, delicious and nutrients loaded food and other treats should be closely observed as part of the dog’s diet. Snacks and mealtimes should be given at intervals in a good feeding schedule.
Devise a feeding schedule depending on your dogs age and health, this will enable you provide nutritional requirements that supports the dog’s diet. Mature dogs often eat a single meal during the day, but two meals are a good option.
Older dogs seldom require a feeding schedule variation from any mature dogs, though a dog’s dietary requirements change with time.
Younger dogs require frequent meals in the course of the day. Puppies that are nursing should be allowed to nurse on demand. As you change your puppy’s diet from milk to solid dog food, you could be required to give meals four or five times a day. When the puppy becomes accustomed to the new diet, you can decrease the feeding schedule to three times in the course of the day.
Time consistency should be maintained in administering your dog’s diet throughout the day. Deciding the time is solely your personal responsibility, just ensure that that you stick to that time once established for a successful diet program. Don’t vary feeding times drastically, e.g. if your feeding schedule requires that you feed your dog at 7:00 AM before work and 7:00 PM after work, stick with the schedule the whole week.
It should not be a surprise when your pet becomes antsy at 6:00 AM in expectation of breakfast. Your dog’s diet is essential to him and he is justified for being anxious with anticipation.
Treats too should be incorporated into the dog’s diet as part of the dog’s daily feeding schedule. If you teach your dog to expect a treat each morning after your breakfast, the pet will become accustomed to the ritual and will therefore expect you to live up to your promise.
Feeding schedule is important because it keeps your dogs diet on track. Daily dog feeding routine is easy to establish. An established dog feeding schedule will also make it easy to tell when to implement an elimination schedule. When house training an adult dog or teaching a puppy potty basics, its essential that you learn how to note when the dog needs a break or wants to go out. Sticking to a feeding schedule reinforced by a healthy diet will make the task easy. This could prove useful when you travel with the pet. Once you learn how to identify your dog’s elimination schedule, it then becomes easy to plan proper potty stops. You will also be able to tell whether your pet is feeling stress by the change to the established schedule. Learn to uphold normalcy and custom as much as you possibly can.
Just as the substance that forms your dog’s diet is important, so is the way you present it. A successful dog diet is based on value and schedule. An established eating schedule will teach your dog when to expect meals, hence save you from those begging tricks that land your hand in table craps or cupcakes which could be harm the pets health.
Tags: dog diet plans, dog diets, feeding dogs, good dog food, nutrional values, Pet Food
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November 13th, 2009
Tibetan Terrier Siblings
When we talk about a dog being part of the family, it’s usually because the family took the time to socialize the animal when he was a puppy. The term socialization isn’t necessarily training, it just involves teaching the dog what others expect of them. There are many things that a new puppy should be taught if you want to end up with a great member of the family. These include:
Not peeing in the house. The idea that certain parts of your home make an acceptable place to relieve themselves should be strongly discouraged. It’s only through learning this behavior will your new found friend ever be considered trustworthy enough to be left alone in your home.
Don’t bite. While puppies are naturally curious and playful, biting should not be allowed. It’s during those first few formidable months that the pecking order of your family becomes established. A pet should never be considered alpha dog in the family but be subservient to all humans. This means that although roughhousing and playing around is fine, biting is definitely not acceptable.
Sit. While this is a learned behavior, having control of your dog is critical to them being part of your family. You don’t need a full-grown dog to charge the door each time the doorbell rings. You may however consider it a positive thing when someone comes to the door that your dog announces the visitor by barking then sits obediently at the door. This can add a measure of safety and put the visitor on notice that a dog is also home.
While there are many other behaviors, you can train your dog to do, socialization should start almost immediately. Showing your new puppy what you expect is easy to do, provided that you are a consistent teacher. The key to teaching your dog anything new is to realize that they have a very short attention span and they want to please you. This means that even during socialization or formal training, any effort to teach a new behavior should be fun.
When you first get a new puppy, it’s important that you keep them confined and under control. There’s no point in allowing bad habits to develop that will only need to be broken in the future. This is a good reason why allowing your puppy to potty or relieve themselves in the house on newspapers or piddle pads is not the best way to house train your dog.
Crate training works because it uses your dogs natural instinct of keeping the sleeping area clean. This, along with consistent visits outside and lots of praise will result in your puppy not only getting the idea of what makes you happy, but also helps with the socialization aspect of his young life. Visit the link below for more information on how to quickly house train your dog using the very effective crate training method.
While socialization and formal training may be similar, training looks for certain reliable actions from the animal. With socialization, we give your new best friend a lot of slack in doing the behavior.
Tags: Crate Training, Dog Training, Dogs, House Breaking, House Training, Puppies, Puppy, Puppy Training
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November 12th, 2009
Finding a good food is one of the hardest things to do for your puppy. Sometimes you like the food’s ingredients, but your dog doesn’t like it’s taste. The folks at Dogswell have revised their canned food line to include new stew recipes. According to Natalie Gershon, Director of Marketing at Dogswell, “The food is a cuts and gravy style that dogs love.”
I like the ingredients in their canned food. The food is free of grains and gluten and features fresh fruits and vegetables, cage-free chicken, duck and New Zealand lamb. The best thing about the Happy Hips version of the food is that it includes both glucosamine and chondroitin, which help maintain healthy hips and joints.
While I haven’t picked up a new can for my dog Kirra, (she loves their Happy Hips Duck and Chicken treats), I plan to do so soon. If she likes this food, we’ll have a winner for both of us. This new food is available at a www.PetCo.com.
Tags: canned food, chondroitin, dogswell, glucosamine, happy hips
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November 12th, 2009
Boxer Puppy
I am sure this thought has crossed your mind – Hey, I wish I knew exactly how to train our boxer (dog or puppy). Maybe that is what led you to this article. Just to give you a little background on Boxer dogs – This dog was first bred as a German guard and working dog. Boxer dogs could even still maintain those abilities nowadays in small percentages. In addition, as strong a s the look, Boxer dogs are not fighting dogs at all.
Here are some dog training tips that can go a long way, on how to train the Boxer breed whether dog or puppy.
A) Make sure to pick your boxer puppy from a responsible breeder that knows the “Boxer” breed and loves dogs and not just the money. This goes for any dog breed. Once acquired, start training the Boxer puppy as early as possible. Boxers, being known for their sharp intelligence, are a breed that can start training as soon as two months old.
B) Socialize your puppy as early as possible. Boxers are known for their terrific attitude and playfulness. Boxer dogs are typically great with people in general. Boxers and their high energy levels require a lot of exercise and attention.
C) When training a Boxer Dog or training any dog always remember you are the pack leader, not them. If you do not practice a calm assertive position as the pack leader (instead of yelling and force), your setting the stage for emotional behavior problems in the future. I suggest a downloading Dog Training Guide to hone your Boxer dog training skills, which always prove to be useful.
So just to recap:
Find a good breeder
Commit Early to Socialization with Other Dogs (and people)
Calm Assertive Training Methods
Keep in mind – dog behavior problems are common in Boxers due to their high energy levels mixed with little exercise. High energy can lead to destruction, hyperactivity, and other aggression issues that need the expertise of a trainer or licensed professional.
This dog breed can sometimes have hip problems – due to poor ownership (diet, lack of exercise, etc). There are genetic problems in White boxer dogs such as being prone to hearing problems (small percentage).
Tags: Boxer Dog Training Help, How To Train A Boxer Dog, How To Train A Boxer Puppy, Puppy Training, Tips Training Boxer Dog, Train A Boxer Dog, Training A Boxer Dog, Training A Boxer Puppy
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November 11th, 2009
Tibetan Terrier Puppies
Puppy training is very important, regardless if it is your first puppy or your 10th puppy. Training a puppy may also be easier than training an adult dog because a puppy doesn’t have any knowledge on previous training techniques or other issues. On the other hand, sometimes a puppy can also be more difficult to train simply because it may not comprehend what you are trying to teach or be too young to absorb the lessons.
Puppies are also easily distracted because everything is new to it. The environment, the people, the things around, the other pets – these are all distractions to a puppy simply because it is very curious about everything! With this in mind, it will be best to keep training sessions quick and short. Each training session should also ideally end on a positive note.
Socialization is important!
As a puppy, socialization is also important. Be sure to expose your puppy to other puppies, dogs and even pets. This will reduce any likelihood dog aggression as your puppy will know how to deal with its surroundings. Socialization training will help in educating your puppy on how to play with other dogs properly and how aggressive play with other dogs in the play group is not acceptable and will lead to punishment.
As the puppies play with each other, they learn what is appropriate (and what is not). All undesirable and inappropriate puppy behavior (hard biting or scratching) is punished by its siblings, by the puppy’s mother or both. However, in this day and age, many puppies are separated from their mothers (to be sold or adopted) before this natural socialization can take place.
Hence, this is why socialization and puppy training sessions are important. It may make a huge difference to your household and your relationship with your puppy and dog. After all, you would want a puppy or dog that is obedient and responsive to your commands.
You may begin socializing your puppy by taking a trip to the local pet store. Check to make sure if the pet store allows you to bring your puppy to get used to new sights, sounds and smells.
Positive reinforcements
Puppies should be rewarded for good behaviors and not rewarded for being a delinquent. Do not reward a puppy just because it has a cute behavior. For example, it may be cute when a puppy jumps on people, but this cuteness will wear off immediately if your puppy grows into a 100 pound dog! So it will be wiser to reward your puppy for sitting instead of jumping on people.
These positive reinforcements can also be used in potty training for a new puppy. For example, teaching a puppy to do its “business” on certain surface is a good technique. If your puppy gets used to pooping on gravel or asphalt surfaces, it will be reluctant to use other surfaces such as your home carpet as potty.
A calm environment
If you are bringing home a new puppy for the first time, it would be great if everyone in the family is present. It would also be best to make sure that the house environment is calm, unlike during festive or holiday seasons. Otherwise, there will be too many distractions and the puppy will not get the attention it needs.
Once a puppy becomes part of the family, it will need to learn more about the home environment. For example, if there are stairs, your puppy may not know how to climb properly. So as an owner, you will have to slowly build your puppy’s confidence. Start at the bottom of the stairs and slowly work up the steps day by day. Do not expect it to climb all the way to the top on its first day! In general, a wide stairway may be less intimidating for the puppy.
Tags: Book, Dog Training, Dogs, Free, Guide, Housebreaking, Housetraining, Obedience, Puppies, Puppy, Tips
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November 11th, 2009
Similar to the nutritional value of your pet’s food is the feeding schedule. Remember that dogs like humans need to eat on regular basis, delicious and nutrients loaded food and other treats should be closely observed as part of the dog’s diet. Snacks and mealtimes should be given at intervals in a good feeding schedule.
Devise a feeding schedule depending on your dogs age and health, this will enable you provide nutritional requirements that supports the dog’s diet. Mature dogs often eat a single meal during the day, but two meals are a good option.
Older dogs seldom require a feeding schedule variation from any mature dogs, though a dog’s dietary requirements change with time.
Younger dogs require frequent meals in the course of the day. Puppies that are nursing should be allowed to nurse on demand. As you change your puppy’s diet from milk to solid dog food, you could be required to give meals four or five times a day. When the puppy becomes accustomed to the new diet, you can decrease the feeding schedule to three times in the course of the day.
Time consistency should be maintained in administering your dog’s diet throughout the day. Deciding the time is solely your personal responsibility, just ensure that that you stick to that time once established for a successful diet program. Don’t vary feeding times drastically, e.g. if your feeding schedule requires that you feed your dog at 7:00 AM before work and 7:00 PM after work, stick with the schedule the whole week.
It should not be a surprise when your pet becomes antsy at 6:00 AM in expectation of breakfast. Your dog’s diet is essential to him and he is justified for being anxious with anticipation.
Treats too should be incorporated into the dog’s diet as part of the dog’s daily feeding schedule. If you teach your dog to expect a treat each morning after your breakfast, the pet will become accustomed to the ritual and will therefore expect you to live up to your promise.
Feeding schedule is important because it keeps your dogs diet on track. Daily dog feeding routine is easy to establish. An established dog feeding schedule will also make it easy to tell when to implement an elimination schedule. When house training an adult dog or teaching a puppy potty basics, its essential that you learn how to note when the dog needs a break or wants to go out. Sticking to a feeding schedule reinforced by a healthy diet will make the task easy. This could prove useful when you travel with the pet. Once you learn how to identify your dog’s elimination schedule, it then becomes easy to plan proper potty stops. You will also be able to tell whether your pet is feeling stress by the change to the established schedule. Learn to uphold normalcy and custom as much as you possibly can.
Just as the substance that forms your dog’s diet is important, so is the way you present it. A successful dog diet is based on value and schedule. An established eating schedule will teach your dog when to expect meals, hence save you from those begging tricks that land your hand in table craps or cupcakes which could be harm the pets health.
Tags: dog diet plans, dog diets, feeding dogs, good dog food, nutrional values, Pet Food
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November 10th, 2009
Labrador Retriever puppies for adoption are often purebred, and every bit as wonderful, loving, and energetic as a puppy you would buy. Why go to a pet store or breeder when you can find Labrador Retriever puppies for adoption? Often free!
Places such as “Labrador Retriever Rescue and Adoption” have pure and mixed-breed Labrador Retriever puppies. When we went looking online briefly, we found Labrador Retriever puppies for adoption that were 9 weeks old and 12 weeks old.
In a “Yahoo Pets” classified ad, we saw 10 beautiful little Labrador Retriever puppies for adoption in Colorado. The Hoobly classified website had 3 Labrador Retriever puppies for adoption in Idaho.
Labrador Retriever puppies for adoption are also available at Humane Society and independent animal shelters.Who Would Adopt Labrador Retriever Puppies
You might adopt Labrador Retriever puppies if:
1. your budget does not allow an investment of $400 to $1500 for a puppy
2. you have compassion on unwanted puppies
Many people have big, caring hearts. They know the Labrador Retriever puppies at the breeder, with their fancy papers, will find homes. Life is not as certain for rescue puppies. They have been given up for adoption because the owners would not or could not care for more dogs.Disadvantages of Labrador Retriever Puppies for Adoption
Labrador Retriever puppies that have been given up for adoption may have hidden problems. You will not know about the temperament of the parents. Nor will you know whether either parent has health problems that will be inherited by the puppies. If you find Labrador Retriever puppies in an animal shelter, chances are good that the staff knows little about them.
Labrador Retriever puppies in a shelter often lack bonding opportunities. People come and people go, but no one has time to teach the puppy how to get along with human companions.
You risk getting a puppy that has learned to bark loudly for attention – in a room of loudly barking dogs. Labrador Retriever puppies from shelters will take more than a few days of adjustment to un-learn some bad habits.
Some of these disadvantages are overcome if you get Labrador Retriever puppies through a rescue network. Most networks place their adoptive puppies in foster homes. This avoids many of the animal shelter problems.
Some rescue networks are also able to find out more about the puppies’ background. The foster “parents” can evaluate the puppies’ temperaments and health. They can begin basic training and socialize the puppies. They can make sure the puppies get a good start in life while they wait for their permanent homes.Advantages of Labrador Retriever Puppies for Adoption
The advantages of getting Labrador Retriever puppies that are available for adoption may outweigh the disadvantages for you – especially if you can get the puppies through a rescue network.
1. You are giving a good home to Labrador Retriever puppies that might otherwise not have one.
2. You are gaining loving, faithful companions, who will do anything to please you, as long as you teach them what that is.
3. You are paying only a small adoption fee (or getting them free). Yet your Labrador Retriever puppies will be every bit as loving as those costing hundreds of dollars. Helpful Tip
You can find Labrador Retriever puppies for adoption on the Internet. Simply type the phrase “Labrador Retriever rescue” into your search engine. Locally, watch newspaper classified ads or visit your animal shelter.
Tags: Labrador, Labrador Retriever, Labrador Retriever Puppies, Puppies For Adoption
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November 10th, 2009
The use of kennels in puppy crate training is becoming an increasingly popular form of house breaking new additions to ones home, below are listed common do’s and dont’s of this practice:
This is a great method for housebreaking a new puppy. Using the above tips will ensure that your puppy crate training goes as smoothly as possible.
Tags: Crate Training, Dog Crate Training, House Breaking, Puppy Crate Training, Puppy House Breaking
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October 28th, 2009
Nursing bottles for orphaned Shih Tzu puppies can be obtained through the veterinarian, pet supplier, wholesale catalogs or the internet. You should purchase several nipple styles to see which works best for you and your Shih Tzu.
Shih Tzu puppies can become colicky just like human newborn babies. Be careful about allowing a Shih Tzu puppy to ingest air when either tube or bottle feeding. Always turn the bottle and nipple end down, before offering it to the Shih Tzu puppy. All the air in the bottle will rise to the solid end. When the Shih Tzu puppy is nursing freely bubbles rise in the bottle. The bubble flow should be fairly rapid, small and uniform in size, rising in even response to the Shih Tzu puppy’s nursing. If the bubbles are large the Shih Tzu puppy may also be ingesting air. Check the nipple cap.
Occasionally remove the bottle from the Shih Tzu puppy’s mouth to allow a return passage of air back into the bottle. A return passage of air occurs either through turning the bottle upright or by momentarily loosening the cap. Do not abruptly pull the bottle from the Shih Tzu puppy’s mouth. Place a finger in the corner of the Shih Tzu puppy’s lip to break the nursing hold.
Some Shih Tzu puppies may instinctively resist the unnatural feel of a manufactured nipple.
1. If the dam is available, rub the bottle and nipple and a towel over her mammaries.
2. Drape this towel across your stomach and lap.
3. Hold the puppy on your lap against your abdomen.
4. Express a small amount of formula from the bottle and wipe it over the nipple.
5. As you introduce the bottle’s nipple to the Shih Tzu puppy’s mouth, move your legs slightly, jiggling your lap.
6. Also jiggle the bottle up and down in the puppy’s mouth using tiny motions. The movements re-create the dam’s breathing and Shih Tzu puppy’s nursing position on the dam that should cause the Shih Tzu puppy to instinctively and reflexively latch onto the nipple.
7. Have lots of patience.
You will need to burp the bottle fed Shih Tzu puppy after each feeding. Do not allow the Shih Tzu puppy to nurse the bottle dry to avoid a colicky baby. You can burp your Shih Tzu puppy the same as you would a newborn human baby on your shoulder with gentle pats and rubs between the shoulder blades.
Tags: Pet Clothing, Shih Tzu, Shih Tzu Puppies, Shih Tzu Puppies For Sale, Shih Tzu Puppy
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October 28th, 2009
Although it does not sound like the appealing job of the universe, housebreaking a new dog will play a vital part in blending with the most new member of the family. It teaches you patience and leaves you with good knowledge of what your dog wants once he has taught. Also, he will learn good behaviors and things that are expected of himher, to live very comfortably and happily in his very new home.
It is important not to forget that, it’s just like a child, the puppy’s attention time is very short. While you teach a child not to beat, he won’t learn it the very first time, but, gradually after you have shown him often that it is not okay. Likewise, you should be very consistent with your puppy while training. Also, while housebreaking the puppy, don’t forget that he isn’t being a bad puppy intentionally; he just hasn’t learned acceptable behaviors!
Begin housebreaking your dog with a very simple feeding module. Give him food at the right time, just like you would have yourself. By doing like this you’ll be helping him in being regular with his movements of bowel. Once he eats, wait for 20-30 minutes, and then take him somewhere outside. Note how long it’s taking before he voids. This would give you a picture of how long should you wait from then you take him outside. (Within a week, you should’ve his module.) Never let him to eat at his will, by leaving some food in his plate all day, as it’ll cause him to meet with accidents and make the housetraining more difficult.
In spite of the old conditions of training a dog, you should never beat, rub his nostril, or in hisher messes, or yell at him. By doing like this, you will tell him it’s faulty to relieve himself! Also, many dogs respond very negatively to mean and aggressive behavior and it will have the opposite effects-they regress during their training instead of advance. Rather, while housebreaking your dog take him outside while he has any accident. Also, don’t forget to praise! Every time when he “goes” where he should, praise him, and soon he would begin to know exactly what all brings praise, and which brings that very dejected face. During this process, remember that full control over the bladder and bowels will not happen till the dog is 16 weeks old, so do not expect much from your dog in the beginning.
In addition, a tip while housebreaking a new dog is to get a stain remover/ odor relief spray. Household utilities like cleaners and sprays can’t be smelled by any dog; only those which are made for animals would work. When any accident happens, clean it and do spray immediately. This would cover the odor left and your dog won’t try to mark his area there again.
Don’t forget that housebreaking a dog is a very big responsibility which will lead to you sharing a very special bond with your dog. Giving encouragement & loads of love would make all spent time worthy!
Tags: bringing puppy home, housebreaking puppies, new puppy, Puppy Training, teaching good behavior
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October 27th, 2009
The Golden Retriever is truly one of the most beautiful dogs on the planet.
They have a beautiful coat, an amazing face, a strong, sleek, and muscular body, a fantastic personality, a tail that never stops waging, and they are a joy to watch at work, when flushing a pheasant, swimming in the water, or chasing a Frisbee.
The Golden Retriever was originally bred as a hunting dog in Scotland, around 1908, but is now very popular as a house pet, a therapy dog in convalescent homes and children’s hospitals, and is used by law enforcement for drug detection.
Although they do not make very good guard dogs, they will bark loudly if a stranger approaches.
If you have children the Golden Retriever can be the perfect pet. Because of their natural nurturing instincts, and very gentle nature they make the perfect companion.
In 1974 President Gerald Ford made the First Family dog a Golden Retriever named Liberty.
If you are considering getting a Golden Retriever puppy, you need to find a reputable breeder that specializes in breeding Golden Retrievers.
There are plenty of pet shops and back yard breeders that are selling Goldens, that may have serious breed problems ranging from aggression, to hip and eye problems, and a host of other problems that may not be noticeable at the puppy stage.
A reputable breeder will check the blood lines of the parents carefully to make sure they do not have a history of these problems, before breeding. This will be your best chance at having a trouble free pet.
Training your Golden Retriever is not as hard as you may think. These are very intelligent dogs, and eager to learn. They want to please you, and hate to be scowled.
The first thing to remember is that puppies will be puppies, so don’t expect too much too soon.
You can start to bathroom train right away, but if there is anything around you care about within the puppies grasp like shoes, or your favorite slippers, I would put them away, because your puppy’s going to chew them if he gets them.
Give your puppy something of his own to chew. They are teething, and want to naturally chew things because their gums hurt. Make it clear early on that he or she is to chew what you gave them, and nothing else.
If you expect your Golden to respond to your commands, then you want to avoid confusing him. It’s easy to forget that they do not understand the English language.
They respond to certain sounds, or words, based on your body language, and tone of voice. The trick to making the training as simple as possible is to use a few basic words and stick with them.
If you want your Golden to get out of the trash, and you say “no” one time, and “stop” the next time, and then “hey” the next time, they never really get what you are telling them.
The six words that I have found over the years that work best are “NO” “SIT” “DOWN” “COME” “HEEL” and “STAY”. I find they work best if said without the dogs name. These are discipline words, and are better left by themselves.
It’s important that you show your Golden Retriever that you are the boss. You must establish that you are the leader to be successful with his training.
If you give one of your commands, and he does not comply, reinforce the command with a little different tone of voice until he complies.
If that still doesn’t work, don’t just walk away. That will send a bad message. Stick with it until you get the desired results. It will happen.
Never yell at your pet or hit them, or raise your hand in a gesture to do so. You also never want to use anything like a rolled up newspaper, or a belt, or any object of this type to discipline them.
This will only scare and confuse them, and loose their trust, which will make it much harder to achieve the results you are looking for.
If you use the word “No” Firmly, to stop him from what he is doing, or gently show him you want him to “Sit” or lay “Down”, or use the word “Come” when you want him to come to you, or say “Out” when it is time for her to go outside – I think you will be very surprised at how fast he or she learns.
Whatever words work for you are fine, as long as you keep them simple, and stay with the same words all the time I think you will get surprising results.
And don’t forget the most important word of all, GOOD. Using that word combined with boy or girl, or the dog’s name such as “Good Sammy”, can work wonders.
They learn to like that real fast. Saying Good Boy, or Good Girl, or What a Good Girl, with the right tone in your voice, combined with a pat on the head, a biscuit, or a rubbing of their belly, will practically send a Golden Retriever into orbit.
They are beautiful animals. Just be patient, and you will have a great friend for many years.
Tags: Dog Training, Dogs, Golden Retrievers, Puppy Training
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October 26th, 2009
Just like in humans, puppy colic is a gastronomical disorder that is usually caused by too much gas in their system. It does go away after a period of time. When puppies suffer from colic, they have incontrollable urge to move their bowel soon after eating. You need to be patient when your new dog has puppy colic as these will eventually go away.
Most of the time they will have more than the usual number of times of bowel movements within a day. When your puppy suffers from colic, make sure they do not eat human foods. This may upset their stomach and aggravate their condition. Remember puppy colic will resolve over time.
The most common to treat puppy colic is to feed your puppy with the prescribed puppy food that is good for weak stomach. Always make that if the first type of food you give do not work, change it. And once you find the right puppy food, stick to it. Do not sticks to a pet food that do not work even if it is prescribe by a veterinarian? Settle with the one that works for your pet.
I know it is very annoying and frustrating when your pet is not healthy and playful. But be patient with you puppy and before you knew it, it is over. Screaming and yelling will not resolve anything. Neither hitting your puppy will do any good. It will only stress you out and make the pet upset and unfriendly. Patience, understanding and potty training are one of the best solutions to these.
Some pet doctors will advise on feeding your pet dog with colic more often but in smaller quantities. Whatever the veterinarian prescribed and is working with your pet dogs and puppies, continue and stick to it. By feeding it more often and with smaller amount of food, it will be digested properly and easier. As they grow older their internal organs especially their stomach and intestines become stronger. Thus, puppy colic eventually subsides and disappears.
Potty training should be continued even if it has colic. Continue working and training him on how to go outdoors and crate training. Also ensure that he be continuously trained to go the litter box so it will not make mess all over the place. This way your puppy knows where to go right after eating as this is when they are most likely to need the washroom.
Diarrhea is prevalent with colic disorders so your pet should need to be hydrated at all times. Always endure that he has a lot of fluid in his body in order to prevent dehydration. Put some water in a bowl that is firmly attached to the crate and is accessible to the puppy. This way even if you are not around he will have something to drink. Just like humans when you are properly hydrated, you feel healthy and strong.
For most puppies, puppy colic normally goes away after they are a year old. And once they overcome this disorder, they will be a strong and healthy puppy dogs. Always understand and be patient with your pet dogs if they have puppy colic. They can overcome this over time.
Tags: Pet Dogs, Pet Fooed, Puppies, Puppy, Puppy Colic, Puppy Dogs
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October 26th, 2009
Puppies and dogs are such caring and loving beings; their biggest goal is to make you, their master, happy. By nature puppies want to do what you want them to do. The biggest problem with this is the communication barrier. Dogs can not speak nor can they understand our spoken language. However, through body language, observation, our attitude, and the sounds we make (or words) he will begin to understand what it is we want him to do.
So how do we use this to our advantage? We must do the same things over and over. Repetition will of the same words, body language, and action will help your puppy understand what it is you want him to do. Plus if you reward him with anything ie lots and lots of praise, a belly rub, a scratch on the head, or a small biscuit he will begin to want to do those things for your attention.
Now how to we take this and apply it to our training? Simple, decide on a plan and STICK to it. I am amazed at how many pet owners decide on a puppy training plan only to dismiss it and begin another repeatedly, until the puppy is so confused that it will take longer and a lot harder work to train him.
Does it matter what technique or plan we choose? Yes and no. It does not matter because as long as you choose one and stick to it you will be able to train your puppy. However, it does matter because if you decide on one that requires you to be home 24/7 but you work 8 hours a day, then that plan will not work for you or your puppy.
What are some different techniques I can use? Let me share some basic training techniques with you that should help train your puppy. But remember not all of these techniques will work for all of you. You must take a look at each plan and then at your own personal situation and see if it matches well.
Technique #1: Potty training
This technique does not actually refer to training your dog to use the toilet (we wish) but is actually teaching him where to go potty. First you need to decide on where you want him to potty, I am a big fan of outside, but if you are in an apartment you can choose elsewhere. Then all you need to do is after you pooch eats or drinks, and I mean every time, you need to take him to this designated area until he relieves himself. Then give him lots of praise and release him.
Technique #2: Sitting
This one is a favorite of mine to teach, it does not take too much work and just about anyone can do it. Your puppy probably already knows that certain things taste better then others, so for this you will need a few tasty treats for him. Then you let him sniff the treat for a second. Then you lift the treat about 6 inches over his noise and say sit. Most of the time your puppy will sit in the process of following the treat, then you want to praise him making sure you mention sit again and give him the treat. After doing this a few times a day, for a week or so, your puppy should be ready to sit without a treat and will eventually sit for you when ever you ask.
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October 24th, 2009
Labrador puppies, especially little black ones, have become very popular in the U.S. Breeders, pet stores, animal shelters, and humane societies are good places to get Labrador puppies. If you do not need an AKC registered puppy, you might consider giving a loving home to one of those in a shelter. Cost of Labrador Puppies
If you decide to get Labrador puppies from a breeder or pet store, be prepared to pay $400 or more for each puppy. Show quality Labrador puppies may cost as much as $1,000 each.
That is, of course, only the beginning of expenses involved in raising Labrador puppies. There are accessories!Labrador Puppy Accessories
Labrador puppy accessories can cost a great deal or they can be minimal. You should determine your budget and actual needs before visiting the pet store to avoid buying unnecessary accessories for your Labrador puppies. The list below is meant only as examples of Labrador puppy accessories you may want.1. Collars: Labrador puppies need collars, but be aware of two things. Labrador puppies outgrow collars rapidly. You should not use a chain collar on a young puppy, as it could damage his windpipe. Choose flat fabric or leather collars until your Labrador puppies are at least 5 months old.2. Leashes: You should train your Labrador puppies to walk on the leash, even if they have plenty of space to run in safety. There will be times, such as visits to the veterinarian’s office when you will be glad they are accustomed to the leash. Unlike the collars, leashes for Labrador puppies should be chain so the puppies will not chew them. 3. Crates: It is a good idea to have crates for your Labrador puppies before you bring them home. Crates become the puppies’ dens. If you are away from home during the day, you can leave your Labrador puppies in their crates to keep them safe, comfortable, and relaxed. Since they will be relaxes, they will not need to relieve themselves as often. The crate will be sure they do not use an inappropriate spot when they do relieve themselves. At night, Labrador puppies in crates sleep better – and stay out of mischief. Select crates that provide just enough space for a full-grown Labrador to stretch out when lying down.4. Bowls: You can spend a lot of money on fancy bowls for your Labrador puppies, but it really is not necessary. Plain steel bowls are sturdy, unbreakable, and can be cleaned well. If you use plastic containers, Labrador puppies will chew them, possibly ingesting pieces of plastic. Some feed and water bowls are said to be spill proof. This is a good idea when you have energetic Labrador puppies.5. Toys: Resist buying chew toys simply because they are cute to humans. Your Labrador puppies will chew aggressively. They can easily destroy plastic pet toys and, if no one is there to watch carefully, could choke on small pieces. Give your Labrador puppies sturdy Kongs and Nylabones to chew.6. Playpen: Since Labrador puppies will try to eat anything they find, it is a good idea to provide a playpen while they are young and learning. This is especially recommended if the puppies are to be outside unattended for any period of time.7. Brush: Until your Labrador puppies are older, and begin to shed more, use a bristle brush for weekly grooming. The brush will remove dirt from the puppies’ coats and keep them smelling good.Puppy Food
Food cannot really be classed among Labrador Puppy Accessories, but it is one more cost to anticipate when buying Labrador puppies. Ask the breeder or pet store clerk what food is best. If you know what the puppies are accustomed to eating, you may want to use that kind at first until they are comfortable in their new home.
There are many other accessories available for Labrador puppies, and if your budget will stretch you may want to consider some of them, but these should get you started.
Tags: Bowls, Collars, Crates, Labrador Puppies, Labrador Puppy Accessories, Leashes
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October 22nd, 2009
House training a shih tzu puppy is very important for the well being of both the shih tzu puppy and the owner. The number one reason that dogs are surrendered to animal shelters is problems with inappropriate elimination, so it is easy to see why proper house training is such an important consideration.
It is important to establish proper toilet habits when the shih tzu puppy is young, since these habits can last a lifetime, and be very hard to break once they are established. It is very important for the owner to house break the shih tzu puppy properly. In most cases, true house training cannot begin until the shih tzu puppy is six months old. Puppies younger than this generally lack the bowel and bladder control that is needed for true house training.
Shih Tzu puppies younger than six months should be confined to a small, shih tzu puppy proofed room when the owner cannot supervise them. The entire floor of the room should be covered with newspapers or similar absorbent materials, and the paper changed every time it is soiled. As the shih tzu puppy gets older, the amount of paper used can be reduced as the shih tzu puppy begins to establish a preferred toilet area. It is this preferred toilet area that will form the basis of later house training.
The Do’s of House Training Your Puppy:
Always provide the shih tzu puppy with constant, unrestricted access to the established toilet area.
When you are at home, take the shih tzu puppy to the toilet area every 45 minutes.
When you are not at home or cannot supervise the shih tzu puppy, you must be sure the shih tzu puppy cannot make a mistake. This means confining the shih tzu puppy to a small area that has been thoroughly puppy proofed. Puppy proofing a room is very similar to baby proofing a room, since puppies chew on everything.
Always provide a toilet area that does not resemble anything in your home. Training the shih tzu puppy to eliminate on concrete, blacktop, grass or dirt is a good idea. The shih tzu puppy should never be encouraged to eliminate on anything that resembles the hardwood flooring, tile or carpet he may encounter in a home.
Praise and reward your shih tzu puppy every time he eliminates in the established toilet area. The shih tzu puppy must learn to associate toileting in the established areas with good things, like treats, toys and praise from his owner.
Always keep a set schedule when feeding your shih tzu puppy, and provide constant access to fresh, clean drinking water. A consistent feeding schedule equals a consistent toilet schedule.
Using a crate can be a big help in helping a shih tzu puppy develop self control. The concept behind crate training is that the shih tzu puppy will not want to toilet in his bed area.
And finally, it is important to be patient when house training a shih tzu puppy. House training can take as long as several months, but it is much easier to house train right the first time than to retrain a problem dog.
The Don’ts of House Training Your Shih Tzu Puppy
Never reprimand or punish the shih tzu puppy for mistakes. Punishing the shih tzu puppy will only cause fear and confusion.
Do not leave food out for the shih tzu puppy all night long. Keep to a set feeding schedule in order to make the dog’s toilet schedule as consistent as possible.
Do not give the shih tzu puppy the run of the house until he has been thoroughly house trained.
House training is not always the easiest thing to do, and some dogs tend to be much easier to house train than others. It is important, however to be patient, consistent and loving as you train your shih tzu. A rushed, frightened or intimidated shih tzu will not be able to learn the important lessons of house training. Once you have gained your shih tzu puppy’s love and respect, however, you will find that house training your shih tzu puppy is easier than you ever expected.
Tags: Dog, Dogs, Shih Tzu, Shih Tzu Puppies, Shih Tzu Puppy
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