Archive for the ‘Dogs’ Category

What a personality they have! Remember Mighty Dog? He was a Jack Russell Terrier! Celebrity status for these little guys too...wow!

Firstly, the Parson Russell Terrier, the Australian Jack Russell Terrier and the Russell Terrier ARE NOT the Jack Russell Terrier. These are not working breeds. They are companions and show dogs.

The Parson is a breed that was created by further narrowing of the breed. The Australian and the Russell are newer breeds still and were only recognized in parts of the world in 2001. The claim there is that they were bred from dogs out of England. The name "Jack Russell" has been used to describe a wide array of little white terriers, but it is now most commonly used to describe the working variety.

These little guys are fox hunters. They help hunters by scaring out the foxes from their dens, and other animals from their burrows.

When judging the Jack Russell Terrier, what is the most important physical attribute is their chest size, not their coloring, expression or the way they walk, unlike many other breeds. Basically, in shows, dogs are judged by how well they meet their standards set for the breed. This always relates directly to what kind of dog they are, and what they were bred to do. If a Jack Russell Terrier has a large chest, they are not able to fulfill their duties as a hunting aid, since they would be unable to enter a den or dig into a burrow...They simply don't fit!

Red Fox are their main targets in hunting. It's chest can be no larger than the animal it's pursuing. Red fox make their dens in a huge variety of interesting places: old rabbit holes, badger settes, crawl spaces, drain pipes, groundhog dens, under tree roots, etc. The size of a red fox can vary, but on average they weight approximately 6.4 kg and have a chest circumference of 30-36 cm.

There are 3 types of Jack Russell Terrier coat:

1. Smooth coated

2. Rough coated

3. Broken coated.

Jack's are predominantly colored white (at least 51%), and can have black, tan or tricolor markings on the head and the base of the tail. They have a scissor bite and small V-shaped ears that ideally flop forward. Their tails are usually docked to the length of a hand grip, and are straight and help high.

JRTs are high-energy and super intelligent. This means that a 1st time dog owner should think through getting a JRT as a companion. They need to be exercised and have their minds stimulated on an ongoing, daily basis. They need intensive training, as they can get into a lot of mischief otherwise. JRTs are prone to digging in the yard, incessant barking (as they want to hunt anything furry or anything they see that moves outside), escaping and exploring.

They are certainly not a typical "lap dog" even though they are small. They are always on the go. If you have other little animals in the home, such as guinea pigs, hamsters, birds, cats, lizards, etc., it would be a good idea to rethink adopting a JRT. They will want to hunt these little pets...That's what they are bred for!

Mirrorpix Posters Prints - 5 Jack Russell Puppies That were Abandoned on Christmas Eve, January 2001 Art Photographic Print - Artist: Mirrorpix - Poster Size: 4JRTs really think they are tough and have a "little man syndrome". In their heads, they are big dogs. Therefore, it is absolutely imperative that they be on a leash when around other dogs, especially large dogs, as they will be fearless and either try to bark at them or instigate a fight.

With great care, a JRT can live between 14-21 yrs. This is a wonderful blessing!

Love your terrier!

Kimberly Edwards is the founder of Terrier Lover - Awesome Information and History on the Terrier Breed, Health, Dog Grooming, Dog Breeding, Tips & Tricks, Dog Training, Stories and More. Learn all you need to know about the Terrier dog @ http://www.TerrierLover.com

There seems to be an alarming trend to have cats declawed...whether it's due to personal convenience, apartment house rules and regulations, or simple lack of knowledge on the part of responsible pet owners.

There are many fine vets out there that actively discourage declawing, but there are also many who perform this surgery on a regular basis while never completely informing the pet owner what this really entails nor explaining the possible dangers of the procedure.

If people were more informed, perhaps this trend would reverse itself.

Declawing a cat is a major surgical procedure, performed under general anesthesia. It is actually amputation of the last joint on each toe, not a simple removal of the claw itself as many are led to believe. The following article explains the procedure of declawing.

Cats walk on their toes, unlike most mammals who walk on the soles of their feet. Their musculature, joints, tendons and ligaments are all designed to distribute their body weight to their toes.

The claw is not a nail like human fingernails or toenails. It is actually a part of the last bone in a cat's toe. If you were to "declaw" a human in the same way a cat is declawed, you would be amputating all 10 fingers at the last joint!

I found this description of the surgery in a veterinary textbook: "The claw is extended by pushing up under the footpad or by grasping it with Allis tissue forceps. A scalpel blade is used to sharply dissect between the second and third phalanx over the top of the ungual crest . The distal interphalangeal joint is disarticulated (disjointed), and the deep digital flexor tendon is incised (severed). The digital footpad is not incised." This clinical explanation sounds horrific, doesn't it?

There is a real possibility of complications after any major surgery, and declawing is no exception. There is the possibility of hemorrhage, infection, extreme pain, bone chips, possible regrowth of deformed claw, back, muscle and joint problems, damage to nerves, abscess and possible lameness. If the claw does regrow, it is often deformed and yet another surgery must be performed to correct this problem.

In addition to the possible physical complications, often there are behavioral problems following this surgery. The cat can become withdrawn, distant, fearful and/or aggressive, and often start biting, as this is the only means of defense left to them. Occasionally the cat will stop using the litterbox, because immediately after surgery it was painful to scratch in the litter box, and now they associate that pain with the litter box. Because of the amount of stress the animal experiences after this procedure, they may become more prone to other diseases, as stress tends to compromise the immune system.

The animal is in extreme pain following the surgery, and rarely do veterinarians offer any sort of pain medication for the cat.

There are alternatives to having your cat declawed...such as claw covers, scratching posts, regular trimming of the claws and behavior modification.

Many countries have banned declawing as an abusive practice which causes unnecessary pain and trauma to the animal. A veterinary textbook by Turner and Bateson on the biology of cat behavior concludes a short section on scratching behavior with the following statement: "The operative removal of the claws, as is sometimes practiced to protect furniture and curtains, is an act of abuse and should be forbidden by law in all, not just a few countries."

Unfortunately, declawing is not banned in the United States at this time. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) says it is their policy to "recommend considering such surgery only if concerted behavior modification efforts have failed and euthanasia is pending."

Declawing a cat is an abusive practice. Being informed of a procedure and possible complications should be the goal of every responsible pet owner.

Cait Isaacs

[http://www.furrkids.net]

When shopping for pet supplies, do you often find that one brick and mortar store does not have all the items you need to keep your pet happy and healthy? Store hopping from one location to another is not only cumbersome but you likely end up spending more money than you had planned. Therefore, it makes sense to purchase all of your supplies from the internet. You can shop on your own time, have the items delivered to your home and stick to a budget.

A Comprehensive Selection

Whether you have a dog, cat or other small animal as a pet, you want an online store that is comprehensive, offering a little bit of everything so you do not have to purchase from multiple places. Having to track multiple orders from different entities simply is not very efficient. One stop shopping should be your goal to make your life easier. Plus, it saves on taxes and shipping and handling costs.

If you have a dog as a pet, you will want to ensure that dog toys in various shapes and sizes are available for purchase to keep them busy and entertained. A wide selection of dog food in both dry kibble and canned formulas is important too as is protective gear such as collars, leads, halters and muzzles if your dog is a biter. Crates for house training and dog beds are important items every online pet store should have. Grooming pet supplies such as shampoos, combs, brushes and even clippers are necessary items as are flea and tick treatments. Whatever you can imagine you might need for your dog should be available. The same principle applies for other pets such as cats, rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs and even ferrets and chinchillas.

Advantages of Buying Online

Purchasing supplies online for your pet has never been easier. Besides the obvious advantage of not leaving your home and having to visit multiple stores for all your pet needs, there are several other benefits. As mentioned before, with one-stop online shopping, you can reduce your sales tax paid as well as shipping costs.

You will also discover that online store pricing is cheaper than in physical store locations. This is because they do not have as much operating overhead to pay so they pass along the cost savings onto customers in the form of lower pricing on supplies. In addition, you save on the wear and tear on your vehicle as well as gas by staying at home and shopping on the internet.

Your best option for finding all your pet supplies in one place is online. And by creating an account with your favourite store, you will be able to get emails on advertised specials and save even more money.

Choosing a retailer that specialises in Pet Nutrition can save you so much money in both feeding and unnecessary veterinary bills! Check out the pet supplies shop at http://www.k9capers.com/. This online pet paradise offers a wealth of products for happy and healthy pets.

Having a pet friendly apartment has been generally thought of as unlikely in our modern and metropolis-like lifestyle as most of the building management in towns and cities implement a strict no pet policy. We have heard many stories of how cats and large dogs wreak havoc inside homes especially during times when they are left alone as most of the people living there are regularly working.

Nonetheless, there are also quite some apartment complexes that offer pet friendly apartments for rent and allow their tenants to happily live with pets, provided that they agree to some detailed internal policies such as breed restrictions, single or multiple pets as well as, in some cases, paying a small amount deposit.

Dogs and cats are the commonly allowed pets as they are the more domesticated animals around and are easily adaptable to living in pet friendly apartments. Many complexes that have pet friendly apartments approve most the breeds of these animals while some impose restrictions on pet owners plan to have wilder exotic ones such as reptiles, birds and rats inside their pet friendly apartment.

For pets to be able to live comfortably, pet owners must see to it that they enjoy specific facilities for their different lifestyle. A pet friendly apartment for dogs for instance where your beloved canine friend can move around and wiggle his tail without having to experience the danger of falling vases and other valuable household appliances is certainly essential for your pet to feel at home and comfortable in your pet friendly apartments. Also, there must still be an ample amount of time spent outdoors for your pets especially for your dogs which require regular exercise in dog parks or strolling in specific dog walking areas.

Cats on the other hand which are relatively small in size would not require any large specific space because they can easily just lay around anywhere and could fit in places. You will only need to be able to keep them from scratching valuable furniture and other things inside the apartment. As it is a common knowledge that cats prefer having company, it is also advised to keep at least two cats inside so that they won't need to go outside and stray to find other felines probably in other pet friendly apartments for rent in your neighborhood.

Having animals such as small exotic pets like rabbits, hamsters and guinea pigs is typically not difficult as they are caged and only require constant feeding as well as maintenance of hygiene. However, you will need to have your local province or city authorities checked for the list of legal or allowed exotic pets for your dog friendly apartment in the local area you are in. Most of the states in the USA has their own specific rules but I've read that many properties in cities, for example those pets friendly apartments in Dallas, Texas that have great options and choices of for rent.

Living in pet friendly apartments is a joy when your and your pets are in it comfortably. Never fail to remember to love your pets as they are both your responsibility as well as your closest friends and whatever you do affects them and their lives.

For Apartments finder help contact us at 469-298-9278 also for Apartment Fort Worth

Are you in the market for a dog trainer? Do you want your dog to learn from a top notch certified dog trainer? You may have dreams of seeing your dog in professional dog competitions and shows. Therefore, you need to have your dog trained by a certified dog trainer to ensure the best results.

Why should you hire a certified dog trainer instead of a basic dog trainer? A certified dog trainer is one that takes their dog training career seriously enough to become certified. You can feel comfortable in the fact that they have met high dog training standards and passed certification exams and tests. You don’t want a fly-by-night dog trainer, but a certified dog trainer that is in it for the long haul.

How do you find a certified dog trainer? There are numerous dog trainers available in the market place today. Dog trainers range in age, skill level, and experience. Your neighbor might tell you that they are a dog trainer because they have read a few books on the subject and taught their dog to fetch the newspaper. This is not sufficient dog training experience.

You should consult a variety of resources. Try asking your dog breeder, groomer, and veterinarian. They can direct you to local dog training schools that have certified dog trainers on their faculty. Various pet supply stores have dog training programs that train and certify their dog trainers. Example pet supply stores include PETCO.

However, research what they mean by “certification”. Is the certification by PETCO standards only or by a universal certification? Find out what the requirements are for their certified dog trainers. Only then can you determine if their dog trainers will supply the skill level and experience you desire.

You need to find a dog trainer that has had comprehensive training and can proudly demonstrate that they are a certified dog trainer. Be aware, though, that there are many “certified dog training” schools and home correspondence courses available. Not all of these schools are credible nor do they provide proper instruction. You need to find a dog trainer that has certification as described by the Certification Council for Pet Dog Trainers.

The Certification Council for Pet Dog Trainers is a well respected organization that provides testing and certification services for dog trainers. They administer specific dog training tests in various states around the country approximately twice per year. These intensive tests root out the professional dog trainer from the average dog trainer. Check out their website at: http://www.ccpdt.org/.

The Certification Council for Pet Dog Trainers also provides a listing of certified dog trainers. You can search through this listing to find a certified dog trainer in your area. This roster of certified dog trainers comprises certified dog trainers all over the world. The certified dog trainer list will give you their contact information including name, city, phone number, and e-mail address. Another great feature is that they list the date the dog trainer became certified. This will let you know how many years they have been in the dog training business. Peruse the list at: [http://ccpdt.org/rstr/index.html].

Certified pet trainers do not only need to pass a certification exam and testing, they must also continue their education through workshops, conferences, and other means. When selecting a certified dog trainer ask them about the extent of their continuing education. You want a certified dog trainer that continues to hone their craft. They should actively learning about various dog training methods. This demonstrates that they are committed to providing the best dog training.

A certified dog trainer should have at least three to five years of dog training experience. This is especially true if they charge higher fees. You can take the plunge with a newly certified dog trainer if cost is an issue. Newly certified dog trainers may charge lower rates in order to establish a list of clients and garner experience. “Master” certified dog trainers are those that have twenty to thirty years of experience. They may have great skill and in depth background experience, but may come at a higher price.

You have the beginning knowledge regarding finding a certified dog trainer. Spend time searching resources available through your dog breeder, veterinarian, and pet supply store. Scour the book store, library, and Internet for detailed information. You can find a certified dog trainer in your area as well.

You wouldn’t go to an unlicensed doctor would you? So why would go to a trainer that is not certified? Certified dog trainers are out there and ready to help you and your pooch learn valuable skills. They are committed to your dog, their career, and learning everything they can about becoming a top notch dog trainer. Who knows, your certified dog trainer may help your dog win the Westminster dog show. Not only would your dog be trained well and achieve glory, but the expense would be well worth it.

Visit the dog products website to research dog breeds & get free tips on dog training, dog health, dog grooming & how to find dog sitters & dog walkers.

If you are like much of the population, your four-legged friend is your first "baby." Many people worry needlessly about how their dog will handle a baby in their life. Many owners think of getting rid of the family pets because of fears that they will harm the baby. Please do not do this unless there is no other option. Most dogs, when treated and trained properly, can handle life with a newborn very well.

Children and pets make wonderful companions when raised properly together and taught how to behave with each other. Children that grow up in a home with pets learn respect and love for animals, and more importantly, respect for life. As the children grow older they can learn responsibility by helping to care for the animals. Animals enrich our and our children's lives beyond belief.

Having a baby can cause problems for both humans and dogs, as the dog tends to be treated differently, and because of this, may act differently. Some owners baby the dog more, causing the dog to become spoiled and hard to handle. Other owners get over-stressed and punish the dog for normal, curious behavior toward the baby. Often our pets are the center of our world, our "babies" if you would, and can get "jealous" if not equipped to handle losing that status to the new baby. If you are willing to make the time and effort to prepare your pets for the new arrival, everyone can live in harmony.

Sometimes the dogs become overprotective of the baby. Many owners enjoy and even prefer the dog being a guard for the baby. While it is normal for the dog to become protective of the baby, it is dangerous for the dog to become overprotective and not let anyone near the baby. All of the above scenarios can lead to the dog being kicked out of the house!

As you are making preparations to bring home baby, you need to prepare your dog(s) for the same in advance if possible. While most dogs will be very gentle with the baby, many dogs do not see babies as humans because of their size, smell, and the strange noises they make. By taking the time to give your dog some extra love and attention he should be fine and not turn to bad behavior to get your attention. You need to prepare and educate your dog for what lies ahead. This will ensure that they are ready and willing to accept the new family member with open and loving paws.

Using calming remedies (herbs, aromatherapy, oils) and or prescription medications are also an option to help facilitate a better behaved dog. You can talk to your veterinarian to inquire about these products and the implications associated with their use. I am a believer in the holistic approach whenever possible, instead of using drugs.

Please, please always be aware that your dog is an animal and animals can bite or do harm to a baby, intentionally or unintentionally. No matter how well-behaved or loving your dog is NEVER LEAVE YOUR DOG ALONE WITH YOUR BABY! I cannot stress this enough. Accidents can happen. You do not want to harm your baby or have to get rid of your dog because of an unfortunate, and possibly avoidable, incident.

If you are unsure that your dog will accept your new baby, please seek the advice of a professional trainer or behaviorist before making any decisions.

Believe it or not, your behavior with, and toward your dog matters. It can make or break your dog's acceptance of and respect for your baby. If you act like a leader, you will be treated like a leader. You want your dog to respect every human being in your household, including your baby. You must teach your dog respect for the baby. This will make life easier for all those involved.

Be firm but fair-

Do not let your dog get away with things, but don't be a drill sergeant either! Try to make any corrections as gentle as possible, but make sure they are effective. Try to have fun with your dog and the training - you both need to enjoy it or neither one will want to continue!

Your tone of voice matters-

DO NOT YELL at your dog! Convey the meaning of the command through the tone of voice - match your voice to what you are telling your dog. Commands should be short and succinct, in a low, almost growling voice. Your voice should not get higher as you give the command. Do not sing to your dog or ask the dog a question! You will not get the answer you want! When giving praise, sound like you mean it! It should be the opposite of a command - higher pitched and enthusiastic. If your dog gets overly excited when you praise him, tone it down a bit and speak softly. Your dog will still understand that he is doing a good job, but he will be less likely to jump around and be crazy.

Be calm and assertive-

Our dogs feed off of our energies and emotions. This affects their behaviors and reactions. If we are relaxed and confident, our dogs will feel the same, and know that we are LEADING them, and they do not have to lead us.

Use a crate-

If your dog does not already use a crate, now is the time to start. A crate is not cruel, it can actually be a wonderful and safe place for your dog. Confining your dog at certain times, such as for sleep or times when you cannot supervise, is no different than putting your baby in its crib for the same. It is actually very easy to teach your dog to accept being in the crate. Most people think that a dog who has not used a crate before will have a hard time, but that is not usually true. My two older dogs started using the crate when they were 7 and 8 years old, about the time my son started crawling and exploring on his own. This allowed me to know that both my child and my dogs were safe and nothing bad could happen. Your child can be hurt by your dog as easy as your child could hurt your dog. The problem lies in the fact that if the dog makes even the slightest threat to your baby or even inadvertently hurts your baby, it is your dog's fault. It is not fair to the dog for something like that to happen because you were not supervising the two together at all times!

Eliminate bad manners-

Bad manners cannot be accepted as they can be dangerous to a new baby and a new mom. Jumping and nipping are behaviors that need to be stopped right away. Stealing and rough-play also need to be nipped in the bud immediately.

Teach your dog how to be calm and gentle, by praising and treating this behavior.

Working commands into everyday life and play makes listening easy and normal for your dog. It becomes natural to the dog and it is less-likely that your dog will be out-of-control. It is also good for you too, as it makes sure that you are training your dog everyday, making you the leader - not the follower.

Exercise is key for good behavior-

As I stated earlier in the guide, exercise is imperative for your dog. This ensures that your dog will be better behaved because it doesn't have the energy to misbehave! Regular walks are important. If you do not have the time to walk for miles, using a doggie backpack can make a short walk seem like a long walk for your dog. A dog backpack immediately puts your dog into work mode, which will help to tire her brain. If you evenly balance some weight on each side, such as water bottles, it will further the amount of physical energy that is expended by your dog. Teaching your dog to walk nicely next to the stroller is also important. It is very difficult and dangerous to have a dog pulling and out of control while trying to maneuver a stroller. If you plan to use a baby carrier, sling, backpack or car seat your dog needs to behave on the leash and walk with you, not pull you. It is a good idea to practice with the equipment before baby comes (use a doll in place of the baby) so that you can work out any kinks or problems.

Have regular obedience sessions with your dog so that she does not forget her commands and remembers that she has to listen at all times. This also helps to tire her brain! Try to work the commands into everyday life so that it becomes second nature to her.

Is your dog allowed on your furniture?-

If your dog is currently allowed on the furniture you may want to reconsider this as your baby will likely be on the furniture a lot. Dog hair and dirt can irritate your baby. You also don't want to have to constantly clean up after the dog. Your dog could also inadvertently injure the baby jumping up on the furniture or repositioning himself. It's best to restrict access to the furniture so that problems do not occur.

Time-out for your dog-

Be sure you give your dog time away from the baby to settle. Time outs are an effective tool to allow your dog to keep its sanity and also for when they are doing something wrong.

Your new schedule and your dog-

It is time to readjust the dog's schedule to acquaint her with the upcoming changes. Think realistically about the time you will have for the dog for things such as walks, feeding, potty breaks, play and attention. Try to keep the schedule consistent for your dog so that she does not feel unnecessary stress from the changes that are happening before your baby arrives. Having as little disruptions as possible will help to accomplish this goal. Once your dog feels secure and is used to the new routine, try to start having slight variations in your daily happenings. When your baby arrives things do not always go as planned. You can have every intention of staying on schedule and inevitably something will change that schedule! Babies do not follow schedules! Do try to stay on schedule, when possible, so that your dog is allowed some semblance of a routine. Dogs feel safety when the rules and routines stay the same.

Pay less attention to your dog-

It is now time to teach the dog to expect less attention from you in one sitting. Once the baby arrives you will not have the same amount of quality time to spend with your dog, but it is still essential to make time for your dog. Schedule regular 5 to 10 minute sessions each day where you pay full attention to your dog. You can do things such as play, grooming, petting or just talk to your dog. This allows your dog to understand that he is still an important part of your life. You need to teach the dog that this time may be with or without the baby. This is also a good time for you to relax and unwind as pets are very therapeutic. Be aware that if you have more than one pet, each will need individual attention if possible. You can also give the pack the attention at the same time, providing they get along, or allow them to play together to burn energy.

Your dog needs to be calm and balanced-

You need to make sure that your dog is calm and balanced before baby comes into the house. It is very important for your dog to learn how to be calm so that he does not hurt you or the baby. Your dog needs to be balanced so that he does not stress needlessly and act out inappropriately. If your dog is not calm and balanced there are ways to help you accomplish this. Training and exercise are good places to start to achieve a calm and balanced dog. If these do not work your dog may have something wrong with him, such as a mental or physical problem. Consult with your vet and local canine behaviorist or trainer. They should be able to steer you in the right direction. They can help advise you of the route you should take, whether behavior modification, medication, or holistic remedies.

Is your dog gentle?-

Teaching your dog how to be gentle is extremely important so that he will not inadvertently hurt the baby. Many dogs use their teeth too much and need to be taught the proper way to use their mouths - without the teeth!

Does your dog jump?-

If your dog is a jumper, teaching proper greetings will help to curb this problem. It is vital that your dog can see people without jumping or getting overly excited. When the baby comes home there will probably be lots of people visiting and he will need to be on his best behavior. It also facilitates the proper, gentle behavior your dog should have around the baby.

How will my dog handle the baby being rough with her?-

Teaching your dog what to physically expect from your baby is extremely important so that she is able to cope with and know what to do when baby pulls, hits or pushes her. Infants and children are not necessarily gentle by nature, and have to be taught how to be so. Your dog also needs to learn how to deal with these behaviors from his small leaders. Start to gently handle your dog in a rougher fashion while praising good behavior and gently, if possible, correcting inappropriate behavior such as nipping or mouthing. Children tend to pet roughly, pull ears and tails, put their hands in the dog's face and touch sensitive areas on the dog. You need to mimic these behaviors in order to teach your dog what to expect and how to deal with it appropriately. Make it a daily habit to have time on the floor with your dog touching every part of his body in a loving fashion. This is good because it allows the dog to accept touch in areas that it may not want touched. It also teaches the dog to be gentle while on the floor and to be submissive to you and your baby. Do this slowly and your dog will understand

Obedience training your dog-

Your dog needs to be obedience trained and have basic manners. I suggest that you enroll in a training class if you can. Check your local training clubs, or facilities, for classes and make sure to observe a class so that you can see how they train. Make sure that you are comfortable with their techniques and the instructors. If you are not allowed to observe a class, please look elsewhere. Trainers who are legitimate should have no problem with this and encourage you to do so.

The following are some basic commands and actions that your dog should be able to do to ensure that he will listen and be under control:

Walk nicely on a leash
Sit
Down
Stay
Leave-it
NO
Understand boundaries
Quiet
Attention/Look
Drop-it
Go to Your Spot/Place

Teaching the dog to respond to hand signals will also be beneficial. A sleeping baby is less likely to get woken up if you are not talking.

It is also a good idea to teach your dog to accept wearing a leash - in and out of the house. This ensures that you have control over your dog and tends to help make the dog better behaved. Most towns and cities have leash laws so it is imperative that your dog get used to the leash. You should also walk your dog everyday. This gives your dog mental stimulation, as well as physical exercise, which helps to tire them out, thus making them less likely to get into trouble and an overall better behaved dog.

Spot, Go To Your Spot!-

The "Go to Your Spot" command is a great command to have in your arsenal for a well-behaved dog. You can use this exercise to allow your dog to be with you and not underfoot, or keep your dog at a distance and still know where he is and what he's doing. It teaches your dog to go lie down on a rug or blanket and stay until released.

Long down stays are important in general, whether or not he is "in a spot", because they help you to maintain control over your dog. By your dog having to work for you, it facilitates a relationship in which you are dominant (in charge or the alpha figure) in your and your dog's mind.

Teach your dog what he can chew on-

All dogs chew. Each has a specific reason for it, and has a physical need to chew. They need to chew to exercise their jaws as well as to let out pent up frustrations. Excessive chewing can also be a breed trait. To help avoid problems, do not set yourself up for failure.

Soiling in the house-

If your dog has an accident in the house, or is not housetrained, you need to clean it properly to avoid further "accidents" or remarking of the same areas and to maintain a sanitary environment. Dog feces can contain parasites and other unwanted disease. Giardia, E-Coli, other worms and parasites are sometimes present in the feces and many are transferrable to humans.

Use high-value treats-

Use treats of high value - treats your dog loves and doesn't normally get - when dealing with new baby sights, sounds and scents. This tells your dog that these are good things, and that he should like them and associate them with rewards, instead of feeling malice or fear towards them. Make sure to keep the treats special, and only use them for the purposes of getting your pup familiar with what the new baby will be like.

The health and cleanliness of your dog is vital-

It is essential that your dog has a clean bill of health and is clean before you bring your baby home. Take your dog to the vet for a check-up to make sure that he has no health problems as these can cause unwanted behaviors in your dog that will interfere with his life with your baby. Make sure that he is up-to-date on all shots, or that his titer levels are good, and that he is worm-free.

The next thing you need to make sure of is that you bathe your dog or have him groomed BEFORE the baby comes home. If your dog sheds, it is a good idea to start a de-shedding program, such as regular grooming and adding a product such as Linatone (which you can obtain at your local pet store, online or at some groomers) which has a special combination of oils to help the skin and coat. Be careful not to over-bathe your dog as this can cause skin problems in many dogs. Make sure that he has no fleas or ticks as this is unsanitary and can expose your baby to health problems. It also creates problems as you will not have much time to bathe him once the baby is around. Using special flea and tick medication will help to ensure that he remains flea-less and tick-less.

Start teaching your dog to accept his paws and body wiped when he comes in from outside will aid in reducing the amount of dirt he tracks in the house. It also reduces the chance that your dog will carry in something that will cause an allergic reaction in you or your baby

Also, make sure to vacuum or sweep regularly as dog hair accumulates fast. This is especially important once your baby starts to crawl or be on the ground a lot, unless of course you want the baby to be a human Swiffer!

Carry a doll-

The idea of carrying around a doll (preferably one that cries) may seem silly, but it is a very good way to get your dog used to an addition to the family. Everything is different with a baby. Holding a baby changes your posture, and your mannerisms, so your dog needs to be comfortable and accepting of this. The dog also needs to follow commands and be obedient when you have the baby or the baby is out and about. Using a doll while practicing everyday commands will help your dog respond better when the baby arrives. Take the dog for walks, play with the dog, and all the normal things you do with your dog with and without the baby equipment and doll.

Baby sounds-

Getting your dog used the sounds of a baby is also a good idea. This allows your dog to familiarize herself with the alien noises that it may not have heard before so that it is not a surprise when baby comes home. Things like crying, gurgling, yelling/screaming, and baby babble are not necessarily normal for a dog to hear. There are many cds and tapes that you can purchase for this purpose. Start the volume low and expose your dog for short periods of time at first. Gradually increase the volume and amount of time you play the sounds. Try to play the recording everyday until the baby arrives.

Real babies and children-

Another good idea is to expose your dog to the real thing - real babies and children. If you have friends or relatives who have babies you can ask if they will allow your dog to listen in or even record them for you. You can visit places like parks, if your dog is well-behaved, so your dog can hear all of the noises children make. Make sure to start this away from your house so that your dog does not feel threatened in her own territory. The next step is to expose your dog in your yard, and then in your house. Make this a gradual process so your dog can slowly accept it.

Baby smells-

The smells of a baby are often unfamiliar to a dog. Slowly start to get your dog used to these new smells by using the products you will use on your baby, such as baby oil, powder, baby wash and diaper cream. Putting these products on baby blankets and baby clothes will also help. If you have friends or relatives that have babies, ask to borrow used and unwashed blankets and burp cloths so that the dog can get accustomed to the real smells of a baby.

The Nursery-

Setting up the nursery allows your dog to become acquainted with changes in the house. It allows your dog to become comfortable with the sights and sounds associated with baby equipment, thus avoiding shock when baby arrives.

If you don't want your pup in the nursery you need to start restricting access now. Keeping the door shut or a baby gate in the doorway helps to achieve this. Your dog will not feel left out or anxious about no longer being allowed in that room. Another good idea is to put a dog bed outside of the nursery so that your dog is still close to you, but not in the room. He will not feel banished, but will feel more included. Spend time in the room without your pooch so he understands that this will be normal, and that it is no longer his territory. As he starts to understand that the room is no longer his, he will accept it and be less likely to try to get in there when the baby comes home. This also helps to keep the room clean and free of dog hair and dirt. You will have more than enough to clean in the nursery as it is!

If you plan to allow your dog in the nursery start to teach the proper behaviors as soon as possible. Train her to be calm in there and not to jump up on the furniture and baby equipment. It is also a good idea to teach her to do down-stays when in the nursery so that she is allowed to be with you and the baby, but is out of the way and behaving. You may also want to have a bed or rug in there that your dog is allowed to lay on (remove it when you and the dog are not in the room). When the baby starts to crawl and move about you may want to limit the amount of time the dog spends in there and never leave the baby alone with the dog.

Baby's things are off-limits-

Make sure to constantly reinforce that the baby's things are not the dog's things. Even though you may have practiced this before the baby came home, dogs do need reminders.

It is important to dispose of dirty diapers properly to ensure that your dog does not get them. Dogs love things that have human waste on them, such as dirty diapers and feminine products. Keep these products out of reach as they will make an awful mess and are very unhealthy for your dog to ingest. They have chemicals that are not good for your dog and can cause blockages. Besides, the consuming of human waste can also make your dog sick (and have disgusting breath!).

Teach your dog to leave baby blankets alone and not to lay or step on them. Lay them on the furniture and the floor to teach your dog that they are off limits. If your dog tries to walk or lay on them use a firm "NO" and redirect your dog to a proper spot and have him lay down. When your dog avoids these on his own, praise him for his good behavior with a treat or petting and he will understand that these items are not something to go near. You want to prevent possible injuries to your baby from your dog while baby is lying on or hiding under the blankets (as often babies do!).

Teach your dog which toys belong to him-

It is recommended to teach your dog what toys are his and what toys are the baby's before baby arrives so that you will not have problems after. This is also a good idea because you can purchase toys similar to what your baby will have and not worry about using baby's actual toys for these exercises. An easy way to do this is to use peanut butter (or something like it such as cream cheese or cheese spread) and bitter apple (you can purchase this online or at pet stores). Put bitter apple on the baby's toys and peanut butter on the dog's toys. Before you give your dog the choice about which toys he wants, take a little bitter apple on your finger and wipe it around in your dog's mouth. This will help your dog to immediately identify the nasty taste on the baby toys. If you do not do this the bitter apple often dilutes and the dog will be able to get the baby's toys because the taste is bearable. Make sure to have some treats ready to reward your dog when he chooses his toys over baby's. Put the dog's leash on and you are ready to begin. Put the "marked" toys on the floor and let your dog decide which toys he prefers. If he still tries to take the baby toys, tell him "no, leave-it", and if necessary pull him away with the leash with a quick jerking motion. Do not try to hurt the dog, just give a quick correction as you repeat "no, leave-it". When your dog does "leave" the baby toys alone, praise and treat. You can also teach the dog the concepts of "Mine", "Baby's" and "Yours" by adding these phrases to the training sessions. When the dog goes for his toys you can say, "Good! Yours!" When the dog goes for the baby's toys say, "No, Leave-it, Baby's". You can use the same principle as used for the baby's toys when the dog goes for something that is yours by substituting "Mine" in place of "Baby's."

Please remember that if you leave your baby's toys lying around your dog will most likely try to steal them. The temptation is too much for her to handle and she probably will fail. Do not set her up for failure! Try to get toys for the dog that are not like the baby's - no stuffed animals and things that rattle. There are plenty of good dog toys that are very different from baby toys. Lastly, only keep a few of the dog's toys out at a time. This will avoid her falling prey to the syndrome of "everything within my reach is mine!" If she understands that the three toys on the ground are hers, she will be less apt to take things she shouldn't.

If you follow the guidelines set forth in this article you should be able to accustom your dog to your newborn without much difficulty. Remember, when in doubt, always consult a professional trainer!

Mandy Makein is an author and dog trainer. For free dog training report visit http://www.stopdogjump.com/

(c) Copyright Mandy Makein 2010. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.

This is a question you need to ask yourself before you buy a Shih Tzu, as you will be spending a lot of time in each other's company. Making the wrong choice can lead to years of unhappiness so make sure you get this right.

A few things to consider include the following.

1. Companionship

Shih Tzu were bred for no other reason than companionship. Most have very social personalities and there are few things a Tzu would enjoy more than to sit on your lap while you watch the television.

However, if you and your family work and must leave the dog at home the whole day, a Shih Tzu may not be the dog for you. They require more attention than most other dogs and your presence is an important part of their well being.

2. Grooming

This breed has a double coat and long hair. The hair requires frequent brushing to avoid matting. The nails also require frequent clipping as a Shih Tzu does not spend a lot of time outside.  This result in nails that are not filed away naturally by gravel and similar surfaces. 

3. Other animals

Most Shih Tzu get along well with other animals. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said off some other dog breeds. If you own an aggressive dog like a Pit-bull, it is best to think twice before you bring a Tzu home, especially if the other dog is an alpha male. Big dogs like Great Danes may also unknowingly hurt a small dog while playing. 

Most dogs don't like cats and you must be particularly careful with a Shih Tzu, as the cat's long nails can easily do some serious damage to their protruding eyes.

4. Exercise

If you are looking for a buddy to join you on your five mile run in the morning, please do not consider this breed as an option. Shih Tzu have flat, short noses with the result that they have difficulty breathing properly. A short walk around the block is all they require - nothing more.

5. Space and Indoor living

If you stay in an apartment with limited space this breed is a good option. A Shih Tzu is your typical indoor dog and nothing will make him happier than to hear your voice the whole day and to spend some time with you on the couch.

They do not tolerate heat very well and that is another reason why they should stay inside. This is especially true if you stay in a warm area.

6. Children

Shih Tzu are very popular with children. Their adorable expressions make them one of the most popular family pets. They are small and fragile so think about getting one if you have very young children who may not differentiate between a living animal and a stuffed toy!

7. Snuffle and snoreThe up turned nose and small mouth, close together on a short face, cause some Shih Tzu to have problems drinking and they should only be given water in shallow small bowls or through a drinking bottle similar to those used by hamsters and guinea pigs. Their squashed nasal passages make them more likely to snuffle and snore. 

If you decide that the Shih Tzu is the dog for you, the next step is to make sure you know how to buy Shih Tzu puppies of quality. You can discover how and get a lot of other information free of charge by visiting http://www.shihtzuparadise.com

Having a dog as your companion can be a true joy. However, you don't want your beloved buddy chewing your new shoes or going to the bathroom in the house. Therefore, you need to create a dog training plan to help your new puppy or dog understand the rules of the house.

What things should you focus on in dog training when you want your dog to understand the expected behaviors and even some fun tricks? Should you take dog training classes or complete dog training all on your own? The answer to these questions is that it depends. Take a look at the following dog training options to determine what type of dog training you want to provide for your canine best friend.

Possible dog training options include: a beginning obedience class that you can take through your local human society, dog supply stores such as PETCO, community recreation departments, and local colleges. These dog training classes can vary in price, time commitment, and personal attention. They are usually affordable and meet once a week at a community park. It is a great way to not only have your dog experience basic dog training, but socialize with other dogs as well.

If you have the financial resources and time you can hire a personal dog trainer. This type of trainer may be necessary if your pooch is having a hard time in basic classes and your dog training efforts aren't making a difference. Before you invest in a private dog trainer it is important to make an accurate assessment of your dog training methods. Often times a dog that is not following directions is the result of the poor dog training by the dog's owner.

A private dog trainer might be necessary if you are going to show your dog at dog shows. You can hire a dog trainer/handler or you can become one yourself. If you do, you must know the proper dog training techniques. You don't want to have Fido jump up on the judges during the competition so he must be trained thoroughly and correctly.

You can also search through dog training books, guides, and various resources. There are products that will help you complete dog training such as special collars and muzzles. You can effectively go through a dog training regime with your canine if you follow these eight dog training tips.

Tip #1: Many people start their dog on the path to dog training success by enrolling them in a basic obedience class. This is a great idea because you will learn how to teach your do basic commands such as "sit", "stay", and "heel".

You can teach these dog training commands by using verbal commands and physical actions. For example, right after you say the word "sit" you gently push your dog's bottom down onto the ground and put them in the sit position. Immediately say "good" and smile. Give them a tasty treat as well. Basically, you want to do as much as you can to reinforce the action of sitting when you say "sit".

Tip #2: Dogs act like absorbent sponges when it comes to learning proper behavior and tricks. If you do your job properly then dog training should be a hit. Your dog is ready and eager to learn proper behavior. They want to please you. Therefore, if they aren't following your instruction it might not be their fault. You might be giving confusing dog training instructions.

Tip #3: Dogs thrive on positive reinforcement and encouragement. Positive reinforcement such as acting excited and petting your dog when they do the right behavior help with your dog training efforts. It is a dogâÂ(TM)s nature to want to be close to you and make you happy. Showing encouragement and praise will help your dog much farther, much faster in their dog training. Make sure to encourage a dog through each dog training accomplishment, no matter how big or small.

Tip #4: Food is a powerful motivator when it comes to dog training. You will be hard pressed to find a dog that passes up food or a tasty treat. Dogs are always hungry and welcome any situation where food is involved.

Tip #5: Dog training should be a gradual process with regards to skill level and learning more complex commands. Give your dog time to understand new commands. They most likely won't learn it the first day you teach them. You will have to review the commands and proper behaviors often.

Tip #6: Have dog training sessions at various times throughout the day. Your dog needs periodic training to reinforce the proper behaviors. You dog's attention span can wane, so make sure to keep the training sessions to five to ten minutes long.

Tip #7: When you first start dog training work in environment that is free from distractions so your dog can focus on their behavior. Once your dog understands the basic commands you can try to use the commands in a busier environment.

One thing you may find is that your dog is distracted and seems to have forgotten the commands. Don't fret. This can happen because dogs tend to be situational learners and your dog just needs to work on the commands in the busier environment.

Tip #8: Too many treats equals an overweight dog. Dog training is a process that involves tasty treats, but too many of these treats can be a bad idea for your dog's waistline. Use small treats and wean your dog off treats as they understand the different commands. They will then rely on your praise as the positive reinforcement for each behavior.

These eight dog training tips will set you on the road to happy, healthy, obedient pooch.

Visit the dog products website to research dog breeds & get free tips on dog training, dog health, dog grooming & how to find dog sitters & dog walkers.

One of the most difficult aspects of adopting a dog is deciding on a breed. Some are big while others are small; some are rambunctious while others are calm; and many have personality quirks that are endearing to some owners and frustrating to others. While nearly any canine can make a good companion, selecting a breed that matches your lifestyle will help ensure the experience is as rewarding as possible.

In this article, we'll provide several tips that will help you pick the perfect new addition to your family. Whether you have young children, live by yourself, enjoy an active lifestyle, or prefer time on the couch, you can find the perfect match.

1 - Consider Your Preferred Size

A large canine will need plenty of room; many will feel cramped inside small houses or apartments. Their tails may inadvertently create havoc when they swing back and forth. Also, keep in mind that big dogs eat more, and usually pose higher veterinary bills.

Small pets can become injured easily if someone steps or sits on them. They are also more susceptible to cold weather than bigger animals. On the other hand, small dogs are easier to transport, and usually less expensive to care for.

2 - Keep An Open Mind Regarding Age

Most people adopt puppies without considering an older canine. There are pros and cons to caring for each. A puppy is cute and playful, but requires a significant amount of time. You'll need to housetrain him as well as train him to prevent an assortment of behavioral problems from developing.

An adult dog is usually less excitable. While he may be energetic, he is likely to display a relaxed disposition. There's also a good chance he has received training in the past, which saves you time and effort. Most adult canines are already housebroken, and can quickly adapt to their new homes.

Another benefit of adopting an older pet is that there are few surprises. His personality will have already been formed by the time you bring him home.

3 - Your Energy Level

Some breeds have more energy than others. For example, American Foxhounds, Dalmatians, and Irish Setters are known to be high-energy dogs. These pets are well-suited for owners who live active lifestyles, and can provide them with plenty of exercise (more than a daily walk).

Other breeds are known to be far less energetic. This group includes Mastiffs, Saint Bernards, and Basset Hounds. These canines make compatible companions for owners who enjoy time at home, and are unable to commit to more than a couple of walks each day for exercise.

4 - Your Pet's Grooming Needs

Your dog will need you to provide for his grooming, whether you choose to do it yourself or take him to a professional groomer. In addition to periodic baths, he'll need to have his hair and nails trimmed.

Certain breeds, such as Boston Terriers, English Springer Spaniels, and Rottweilers, need minimal grooming. Others, such as Bearded Collies and Chow Chows, have high-maintenance grooming needs. This means you'll need to bathe, brush, and give them trims more often. You may also find yourself picking up the hair they shed throughout your home.

5 - Breeder Versus Animal Shelter

A lot of would-be owners prefer to adopt from breeders since doing so guarantees breed quality. If you choose to take this route, make sure the breeder from whom you adopt your dog has a good reputation. Many breeders are unprofessional, and fail to screen the animals they breed for diseases and other problems.

An alternative is to visit a reputable animal shelter. The canines are usually mixed breeds, which means each is unique and less likely to be burdened with breed-specific health problems. Also, many shelter dogs will have already been trained by past owners.

Selecting a canine that complements your life can be a daunting experience. But with a little research and self-analysis, you can pick a dog that poses a perfect match.

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Dated back to earlier times, the Chukchi tribes from northeastern Asia were the first to breed Siberian Husky dogs. It was during 1909 when these sleigh dogs were brought to Alaska for the first time in history to compete in the All-Alaska Sweepstakes race, where they drew the attention of the Alaskan dog breeders for their great running abilities. The American Kennel Club (AKC) offered recognition to these dogs in 1930. Eight years after this recognition, the Siberian Club of America was instituted.

Siberian Husky dogs are a gentle breed with pleasing temperament. The Chukchis raised their dogs with high admiration, considered them as an integral part of the family and inspired their children to play with the dogs. This probably facilitated the development of a warm, gentle, social and human-like attitude in these dogs. With their alert and intelligent nature, the Siberian Husky can become a warm companion for people of any age with diversified interest levels.

Siberian Huskies cannot be classified as single master dogs, although they possess a strong dedication and friendliness to their family. They tend to socialize with new people they come across. Typically, they do not show any fear or suspicion to strangers and this tendency deterrents their quality to become a good watch dog, although they can come up with involuntary violence and show their strong defensive attitude if attacked. They act gently at the time of getting socialized with dogs from other breeds.

Empowered with their strong hunting instinct such as swiftness, sneakiness and great tolerance skills, Siberian Husky dogs show their voracious attitude towards small house animals like squirrels, birds, cats, rabbits, hamsters and guinea pigs and can cause serious harm to them. So the owner of a Siberian Husky must maintain enough precaution if he plans to raise small animals together with a Siberian Husky. Otherwise, the dog may promote a mess in and around the home.

Siberian Husky dogs do not need much attention since they have a instinct to stay clean. These dogs are covered with a dense coat of abundant volume. For these dogs, shedding usually occurs once per year. Siberian Husky dogs are especially inclined towards digging holes and find it a favorite leisure activity. The dog is easier to keep since it requires much less food compared with its size. Traced back to early days, these dogs were fed with small amount of food in order to keep them active.

Siberian Husky dogs possess a strong instinct to run. Since early days, these dogs have shown their true inclination to run, as they are found to enjoy this instinct from true core of their heart. However, this tendency may pose a serious threat to their existence if indulged. You may consider a situation when they endure their running aptitude through a busy road. So, if you own a Siberian Husky, you better know how to confine it wisely in order to ensure its maximum protection. If you feel bad seeing dog in confinement the Siberian Husky may not be a good choice for you.

Andrew Preston knows much about the history of the Siberian Husky breed. The Siberian Husky has a long and distinguished history. Siberian Husky information can help you to learn about the specific appearance and ability of the breed.