3 Must Know Dog Health Care Tips

I am going to share with you some do health care tips that can save you hundreds of dollars just by knowing how to treat the most common dog illnesses at home. The most amazing thing about these dog health care tips is that you can treat most common dog health care concerns with things that you already have in your medicine cabinet.

Tip #1 Vitamin E pills can be used to treat most common skin ailments in your dog. This is one of the best dog health care tips because Vitamin E pills can be purchased at most any drug store and are very reasonably priced. The Vitamin E pills can either be given to your dog whole or you can pierce the coating and apply the Vitamin e oil directly to your dogs skin. This is a great way to treat your dogs dry skin and many other common skin ailments in dogs.

Tip #2 Another great dog health care tip involves the old stand by Pepto Bismol. Pepto Bismol is a great home remedy for your dogs mild case of diarrhea or an upset stomach. Of course it is always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian to see what dosage is safe for your dog. If your dog is dehydrated from a bout of diarrhea or vomiting, Pedialyte can be used just as you wold for a baby.

Tip #3 Tip number 3 is one of the best dog health care tips because it is all about preventive medicine for your dog. Did you know that the live acidophilus that is found in yogurt is actually just as good for your dog as it is for you? Puppies are often susceptible to many illnesses such as a yeast infection or issues with their digestion. Yogurt will assist with your puppies digestion and keep the natural yeast found in the body to a balanced level. When purchasing yogurt for your puppy or full grown dog, it is important to get the plain white yogurt with live acidophilus.


These three dog health care tips are only a few of the many things that you can do at home to keep your dog healthy and happy. By looking at alternative health care remedies for your dog, you can save a trip to the veterinarian and promote long term health in your dog. On a closing note, it is always important to inquire with your veterinarian before using any over the counter medication for any other use than what the label states. For more free dog health care tips, check out the dog health care blog.



By K. Taylor

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All About Heart Disease in Dogs

Unlike ailments you can see, such as sores or swelling, heart disease is a silent killer of pets as well as humans. People have no way of knowing that their pet might have heart disease unless a regular checkup at the vet catches the problem. Heart disease, left untreated, can cause your dog everything from being inactive to death.

Some signs that your dog might have heart disease include coughing, wheezing, lack of energy, edema, abdominal bloating or poor circulation. Some people take their dog to the vet for one of these problems, only to discover that the dog actually has heart disease. If the problem is detected early enough, though, there are treatments and medications that can help.

Heart worm, one of the leading causes of heart disease, is treated as a matter of preventive measure by most vets, so be sure that your dog is receiving regular heart worm treatments. Other things that lead towards heart disease include obesity, lack of exercise and poor diet. Should your dog begin coughing after exercising, or seems more tired than usual, schedule an appointment for him to be examined.

Certain breeds of dogs are more likely to develop particular heart problems. For example, cocker spaniels, poodles, schnauzers, dachshunds, chihuahuas, and pomeranians are most likely to develop heart murmur. Congenital heart problems are more likely to take place with collies, shepherds, bulldogs, pointers, and Irish setters.

Should your dog be diagnosed with heart disease the first test that is done will eliminate the possibility of heart worm. Secondly a blood test is often done and a screening to see if the heart disease is in association with other ailments like kidney or liver diseases.

A radiograph is done to see if the heart has enlarged and to locate any existing tumors. It also helps to discover fluid around the heart or in the lungs. EKG is performed to check for blocks and can also indicate enlargement of the heart.

Heart disease is more common in dogs than people realize. Be sure to give your dog a lean diet, heart worm medicine, and plenty of exercise. Have regular checkups at the vet to detect any problems that might be present.


By Emma S.,

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Dog Training Behavior Tips Secrets from the Experts!

Dog Training Behavior Tips -

Do you have a dog that needs training? Do you need some essential tips from a dog expert?

Well; these tips are going to help you turn your mischievous dog into a well-behaved and obedient dog!

However, it should be noted that to train your dog you need patience and perseverance; but aided with the following tips; you will find it much easier than you initially thought!

These are the key 4 key essentials for training a dog that most dog experts use:

1.Get your dog's attention

This may sound a little obvious but you'd be surprised how many dog owners try to train their dogs without actually having the dogs attention! A great way to get your dogs attention is to simply offer him a treat after he has responded to you. Dogs grasp this reward-giving, in exchange for his attention very quickly.

2.Give praise

Give your dog praise for doing good things!

Again, this is very obvious and very simple, and yet some people overlook this when training their dogs. By you praising him when he does something good, you are helping him to link your voice tone to his behavior.

Every time your dog complies with you, ensure you give him plenty of praise! This will result in one of his most visible behavioral changes you will notice over a short length of time.

3.Reprimanding

So, following my last step, you need to make sure as well as giving him praise at the appropriate time also let him know when he is the wrong too!

A firm reprimand is just as essential as praising him. Both will help him distinguish your tones of voice to his behavior! Do not feel bad for telling him off as he needs to be disciplined otherwise he will continue his behavior because he will know no different!

Use short, sharp demands such as STOP or NO! These commands will tell him he is doing something wrong and his behavior will begin to improve because he is now being shown right and wrong.
Last but not least;

4.Do a little training every day

Don't hurry dog training; trying to train him too quickly will just confuse him because there will be too much information going into his head too quickly.
Instead he will probably just retreat and start to disobey you! Instruct one command at a time, and don't move on until he learns it. Just be a little patient.

On a final note, just make sure you stick to this dog behavior program, and be firm.

These are the 4 key elements to training your dog successfully.

His behavior will improve dramatically and just remember; dogs need discipline to understand what's right and wrong, so don't feel bad.

These tips will ensure you get the best behavior out of your dog!






By Terri Bennett

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What to Do when You Find a Lost Dog

We've all seen them, poor, lost dogs wandering around, begging for help. You don't want to leave them where they can get hurt, and so, as an animal lover, you just might find yourself in the possession of a lost dog.

Safety rules for strange dogs:

A lost dog will typically have a collar, although that is not foolproof. Puppies are exceptionally good at getting out of them, and that just might be how they got away in the first place. The first rule on any strange dog encounter, collared or not, is to keep your distance, do not make eye contact and see how the animal reacts to your presence. If they look less than happy to see you, if their hair bristles, they show their teeth or they utter a growl, get away from the dog and call your local animal control. If the animal seems timid or shy, shakes or avoids looking at you, you will want to call animal control as well as scared dogs are often unpredictable. If, however, the dog shows a friendly interest in you, you can then approach the dog slowly, again, without making eye contact. Speak in gentle, soft tones and allow the dog to sniff your hand and initiate the first contact. Again, any signs of aggression at this stage, back away slowly with your eyes on the ground and call the professionals. Never let children approach a strange dog. If you have any doubts at all about the dog, or are just not comfortable approaching a strange dog at all, you can always call animal control.

Reading the collar:

Once you have made contact with the dog and earned its trust, you can check the collar, if there is one, for tags and identification. If the dog has a custom tag with his name and owner information, your job is easy. But there are also two easy identification tags you can use as well to determine the owner. In most states, dog licenses will have an individual number and owner information is registered with the state or county of the license. It's often as simple as a phone call to find the owner. The owners may have participated in a national database of dogs, in which case you will find a tag with a number and instructions on how to identify the dog.

Bringing home a lost dog:
If you have determined the dog is friendly and you are concerned about its well being, you might end up taking the dog home with you to start your own search for the owner. If you have children or other pets, make sure you have an area to seclude the dog from them, as you will not know how the dog will react or if it is carrying any illnesses. If you do not have the means to keep the dog for a short period of time in your home, you can drop the dog off at most veterinarians or, if it is a specific breed of dog, you can often find people involved in breed rescue willing to take it in.

Scanning for microchips:

With all of the new technology available today, it is very likely if you have a lost pet that the dog has been embedded with an identification microchip. Sometimes injected by breeders and rescue centers, these chips hold a unique number for the dog which is tied into a database including medical information, owner information, and occasionally even the breeder's information. If you take the dog to a veterinarian with the capability to scan and read these chips, they will alert the database that the dog has been found. These chips are very effective tools for pet identification and have returned animals to their owners miles apart and after months of going missing.

Announcing a found dog:

Although dogs have been found states away from their homes, chances are good that the dog's home is close to the area where you found it. Printing found dog posters is a good start, and while canvassing the neighborhood you can also talk to the neighbors and see if they recognize the dog. You can also take out a found dog ad in the classified section of your local newspaper, many offer this service for free. Include pictures and a description of the dog, but keep at least one distinguishing characteristic to yourself. Sad as it may be, especially with purebred dogs there are people who will try to take advantage of a lost dog and steal it. Whenever someone inquires about the dog, ask them to tell you the unique attribute to make sure the dog really belongs to them. You can also call your local animal shelters and leave a description of the dog in case anyone has reported it missing.

What to do with a homeless pet:If you have tried all the methods of dog recovery and you still haven't heard anything from the owner, you could have a homeless pet on your hands. An unfortunate reality in our world is often people will buy a puppy and, when the dog starts to grow up and get big or the work involved in being a pet owner gets too difficult, abandon the dog. The first option is for you to keep the dog, and after this long of a time and effort you may have grown attached anyway. If that is not possible, you can try to find an adopted home on your own among your friends and family. Local veterinarians and dog kennels might also be able to help you locate a new home for the pet, as can any one of the breed rescues. If you can not find a suitable home or rescue, you can take the dog to your local animal shelter and see if they have any luck placing the dog. If you are concerned about the dog's well being, you can leave your number with the shelter. They will call you in the event the animal is not adopted and you can adopt the dog yourself and continue the search for a new home.

Reuniting a lost dog with its owner is a very rewarding act. Hopefully these tips will help you return the dog to its family, a happy ending for you, the pet, and everyone else.


By Laura Hetzer

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Can't Decide on What Breed of Dog You Want Attend a Dog Show

You've decided to buy a purebred puppy but haven't quite figured out which breed would be the best for you and your family. One easy and fun way to do this is to go to an AKC all breed Dog Show! At the larger shows, most of the AKC recognized breeds will be represented. A dog show is exciting, and full of energy and comradeship! You will love getting a chance to talk to all of the doggy people about their precious pooches! Be warned though, dog breeders are extremely proud of their breed, and their kennel. Every one will tell you that their particular breed is the best! You will definitely get a good education of the many breeds of dogs, and have a lot of fun at the same time! You will also meet lots of friendly helpful people, and be able to watch the exciting competitions in the ring first hand!

The easiest way to find out where the local shows near you are going to be held is by going to the AKC website, www.akc.org. Click on future shows, and a list will come up describing all of the shows within a time frame of several months. Look up where the closest shows are located, along with their dates and directions. Another way to find out about the shows is to call your local obedience club, or a dog breeder who shows their own dogs. They should be able to give you the information that you need.

Usually in the winter the shows are held indoors in athletic complexes, schools, arenas etc. In the summer and spring they are mostly held outdoors. When you have located the show you wish to attend, make sure you check to see if will be an outdoor or indoor show, so you can pack the right things you will need for your day trip. Also, make sure you understand the directions to the show from your location.

The day before the show, you will need to get ready. The weather will play an important part in the choice of gear you will need to bring. A folding chair, sun umbrella, warm jacket or sweater for the early morning chill, a sun hat and sunscreen are the basics for an outdoor show. An indoor show usually has seating, but bring a folding chair just in case. Fill your ice chest with bottled water and soft drinks. Also, take along any snacks you like. There will be food venders at the larger shows selling food and drinks, but they can be expensive. You can always brown bag it if you want to. Don't forget a camera if you want to take pictures of a particular dog. (You will not be allowed to take pictures of the dogs being shown in the ring). Bring a notepad and pen to jot down peoples' names and numbers, and any notes on the dogs you like. Don't forget your cell phone.

Dog shows start early in the morning, usually at 8:00am. There normally isn't a fee to attend the show, but sometimes (although not often) you will have pay a small parking fee. You probably will want to spend the entire day at the show, so it's a good idea to remember exactly where you parked! The last event is the best-in-show competition which is the culmination of the entire day's competitions. This is the most exciting part of the show, and you don't want to miss it!

After you arrive at the show site, park and lock your car, and walk over to the show and find the superintendent's table. There will be a sign at the table so it should be easy to find. When you get there, find the show catalogs and purchase one. You will need a catalog, because this book will guide you through the entire show. A catalog normally costs $5.00 for a two day show and $10.00 for a four day show. All of the rings at the show are numbered, and in the catalog it will tell you which breeds are being shown in which ring, what times they will be judged, how many dogs of a particular breed are at the show and the name of the judge. Look up in your catalog what number ring or rings the breeds you are interested in are going to be shown in, and the time they will be judged. Depending on how the show is set up, you usually can bring your chair, cooler, umbrella etc. close to the ring but not at ringside. This space is reserved for the handlers that are showing.

Once you set up your headquarters, you can now relax and enjoy the show. You can wander along the rings, using your catalog as a guide and watch the judging. This is a good time to talk to some of the breeders and handlers about their dogs. Most everybody is very helpful and friendly. Also, don't forget to check out the venders. Just don't leave any valuables at your headquarters such as a purse or wallet, a camera, or cell phone, etc., for safety reasons.

Enjoy the show, talk to as many people as you can, take notes and phone numbers, and be sure to watch the best-in-show competition! By the end of the day, you will surely have learned much more about purebred dogs, and might even have an idea of which breed you would like to bring into your home!


By Diane Gray

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Choosing a Bullmastiff Dog

The Bullmastiff dog is recognizable, from breeding of Bulldog (40%) and Mastiff (60%), in England, during the late ninetieth century. Originally, known as gamekeeper dog because the breed accompanied gamekeepers, for their ability to track and overpower a poacher, and having the ability to be tough, fearless and silent. In 1933, the Bullmastiff was recognized by the American Kennel Club, and prior to being breed in England, starting in 1925. Currently, the Bullmastiff is often used for police and military as guard dogs.

Bullmastiff dogs are distinguishable by certain characteristics. The dog is large, with a square skull and short broad muzzle. The eyes are dark in color and medium-sized, with furrow of skin between the eyes. The upper lip does not hang below the lower jaw. The ears are V-shaped, wide apart and set high. The dog's coat is short, coarse and lies flat against the body. The color of the coat is dark brindle, fawn or red with black mask across the muzzle. Any appearance of white is seen on the chest only. Bullmastiff dogs have tails set high, long, carried straight or curved slightly upward.

The average height for this breed dog is between 25 - 27 inches, average male dogs weight between 110 - 130 pounds and female dogs weight between 110 - 120 pounds. Bullmastiff dogs can be obediently trained, guardian of the home, show great agility and tracking. Instinctively the dog can distinguish between a ad person and harmless visitor. Providing kindness, praise, and good food, the dog can be trained, socialized and manageable to over come stubborn behavior. The dog is sociable with children, and tolerant of ear and tail pulls besides adoring to lick. Bullmastiff dogs will slobber, especially after eating, drinking or hard exercise, which is advisable to keep a rag handy available. Also, the dog tends to snore loudly at times.

Information caring for Bullmastiff Dogs includes: The dog eats three - five cups of high quality dog food per day or 40 - 70 pounds of dog food a month, and prefers not to be left outside all day. Bullmastiffs cannot tolerate warm weather due to their short noses and being sensitive to cold weather, because of their short coats. Minimal brushing of the dog is needed, rubbing a brush or massage glove will remove old dead hairs. Nails should be kept short and ears need to be cleaned. The dog needs plenty of room to walk around the home, because of its large size. Certainly, enjoys exercising, long walks up to thirty minutes or chasing a Frisbee. Bullmastiff dogs enjoy riding in a car and hanging their head out of the window. Unfortunately, when the dog slobbers, it will drool down the windows, doors, and possible be found, on cars trailing behind.

During the teething stage, the dog enjoys chewing on raw hides or chewable toys. Bullmastiffs tend to be sociable with other dogs, most of the time. Also, breed tends to be one family type of dogs. At nighttime the dog enjoys cuddling in bed next to their owner.

The average veterinarian bill per year for Bullmastiff dogs: $500 - $1,000 which includes heartworm, shots, antibiotics, and depending on the age / health. Associated medical problems related to Bullmastiffs: Eye surgery maybe required, when eye lids dop and turn in, which causes the eyelids contacting the eyeballs. Thyroid levels can be become low, causing a depressed immune system, making it harder for the dog to fight any infection. Besides, other common medical problems, including hip dysplasia for large dogs.

A Bullmastiff dog should be purchased from a reputable breeder, rescue society or adopted from a human Society. A breeder should be able to answer any questions, help with any problems for the life of Bullmastiff dog(s), and preferable registered with the American Kennel Club. The American Bullmastiff Association will provide further information: Secretary - LInda Silva, 15 Woodward Lane, Smithstown, NY 11787. Recommended books to purchase: The Bullmastiff Manual (The World of Dogs) by Bill Walkey, and The Bullmastiff: Peerless Protector by Geraldine M. Roach, Jack Shastid.


By travels

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Dog Food Allergy Symptoms Every Dog Owner Must Know

Millions of dogs are brought into veterinarian offices every year seeking treatment for illnesses associated with dog food allergy symptoms.

Most dog owners don't know that their dog is actually suffering from an allergic reaction and suspect that it is something much more serious. When a dog is typically brought into the veterinarians office, the first thing that the vet wants to do is to run several diagnostic tests to rule out serious illness and send you home with an over priced, unnecessary prescription medication asking you to return if the condition doesn't improve.

Dog food allergy symptoms can show up in dogs in many different ways. The best advice that I can give you is to watch your dog for subtle changes. Changes can occur in your dogs skin or coat and may even be behaviorally related. Often dogs that suffer from dog food allergy symptoms become lethargic.

If your dog starts to develop dry skin or if you notice minor skin inflammations, I would first check for fleas and if none were present, I would start to suspect that these changes are symptoms of dog food allergies.

So what can you do if you suspect that your dog is suffering from dog food allergies? If you would have asked me this a couple of months ago, I would have recommended a popular dog food that has since been recalled and a course of Vitamin E. Now, I whole heartily recommend that you treat symptoms of dog food allergies just as you would if it were your child that you were treating. Start with your dogs diet but you may also want to apply Vitamin E oil on your dogs irritated skin.

The first step would be to take your dog back to a basic, bland diet and gradually add to their diet. This is the best way to monitor your dogs diet and pin-point the dog food ingredient that is causing the dog food allergy symptoms in your dog. While it is not healthy to have your dog on a bland diet for an extended length of time, it is fine to start with the bland diet and gradually add ingredients back into the food.


Their are several online dog food recipes that are available for free but if you suspect that your dog is suffering from dog food allergies, I would highly recommend that you check out the dog food recipes written by John Miller.


By K. Taylor

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Why You Must Be the Alpha Dog

Dog Training: You Have To Be The Alpha Dog

The One Unarguable, Universal Fundamental about Dog Training is:
You have to be the alpha dog. If you can't bring yourself to be the boss in your relationship with your dog, then you will have real problems in training him to be an obedient, loving companion. If you just want to treat him like a baby and let him do whatever he wants, then he will.

But he won't respect you!

It's really just a matter of common sense. Your dog must Respect You, Trust You and Love You - in that order! Only then will he pay attention to you and do what you tell him - first time and every time!

It's easy to forget that your new, adorable puppy is an animal! He's just your new baby, isn't he? You must remember that he doesn't think like you. His dog instincts are completely different. If you study a group of puppies in a litter, as soon as they are old enough to scramble about, they will try to assert themselves over each other.

Dogs are pack animals (wolves are an ideal example) and there is only one leader - the Alpha Male. All the members of the pack are conscious of their standing in the hierarchy and will attempt to move up the order. This is why your dog must be in no doubt that you are the alpha member of the group. If he feels that he is above you in the pack, then he will ignore your commands or even try to dominate you.

Here is a typical case study: We have all seen this situation on TV. The husband, the wife and the dog - often quite a small dog. The dog is extremely posessive of the wife, sits on her lap and won't let the man near her. The dog growls, barks and nips any time the husband approaches.

Why is this? Let's get into the mind of the dog. He is convinced that he is the alpha dog, she is the alpha female and he is protecting her from the husband, who is just another pack member. And the actions of the humans just reinforce that conviction. Who is most to blame here?

Sorry ladies, it's You! Does the wife push the dog off her lap and tell him to get down? No, she doesn't because part of her is loving the fact that the dog adores her so much. Until he realises that he is number three in that pack then the situation will not change, unless the man gets so fed up that he takes a big stick to the dog, or the ultimate solution, the dog ends up in the recsue center. We all know that's not the solution

This doesn't mean that dog training has to involve a reign of terror. Your dog should never be afraid of you. Let's repeat it, He Should Respect You.

The Good News. There is a much easier way! Think about it, your dog is dependent on you for all his needs. You provide food and shelter, exercise, affection and stimulation. He gets these how and when You decide. By manipulating the supply of these needs, it is easy to impress on the dog that you are in charge.
You just let him wait and give him what he wants, only when he has done what you've told him. In the above scenario, if the husband takes over the feeding duties and applies this method, the dog will soon get the message.

Feeding is probably the easiest example. If you let him jump all over you as soon as you reach for his feeding bowl, he is the one calling the shots. But if you make him sit or lie down, at least a few feet away, until you put the dish on the floor, then he will soon realise who is in charge. Of course, you must persist with this routine each and every time - and Don't Give In!

Once your dog realises this, he'll be putty in your hands. Dogs are essentially eager to please and really enjoy the praise and rewards that come with good behavior.

A quick word here on treats. If, during training, your dog gets a treat every time he does something right, then who is calling the shots? It is obviously important to reinforce good behavior with rewards but it should not be a treat every time. Vary the reward, from a pat, or a Good Boy! and then the occasional treat. At the end of the training, a nice long walk can be the ultimate reward.

If you have an extended family, with children in the home, then it is even more important that the dog must realise and accept his position in that situation. In his eyes, it's a pack, isn't it?

All About Dogs has many pages and articles on Dog Training and case studies on the Alpha Dog.



By Rebel54

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The Importance of Dog Training

Dog training, if you ask any pet owner or anyone who is an authority on dogs, is absolutely essential. The need to train your dog goes far beyond peeing or pooping in the house. It can mean a matter of life or death for your beloved canine companion.Dogs must know to obey their owners. This could mean teaching the dog to heed both verbal and non-verbal commands for walking, sitting or eating. The stereotypical image of an animal chasing a mailman may seem funny until it happens to you.Dog training begins when they are puppies and will continue throughout their lives. A pet must be able to rely on its owner for common sense. Unfortunately there are instances when the human fails.Dogs that are not acclimated to strangers can endanger not only the stranger's life but their own as well. Animal Welfare officers deal with dogs each day that lacked the proper training and as a consequence bit someone.An animal that bites is a danger and one that cannot be excused. The risks to neighborhood children are not worth the price of pet training obedience classes. If you find yourself unable to train your pet to behave around strangers, find a dog training class that can.An aggressive canine that bites others is not tolerated by the law. You can find yourself fined and possibly losing your pet should it bite someone.Dog training can also be used to teach an animal not to eat food unless it is given by the owner. Each year thousands of dogs undergo veterinarian attention due to poisoning.

There are many things we often do not consider as poisonous or dangerous that can mean life or death to a pet. Three of the most common harmful items found around most houses are: chocolate, anti-freeze and chicken bones.Most people know that anti-freeze is toxic but often give their pet chocolate and chicken bones, both of which are harmful to dogs. The tiniest piece of chocolate can begin a terrible pattern that might result in poisoning due to theobromine.Chicken bones splinter when bitten and can become lodged in a dog's mouth and windpipe resulting in choking. So in reality it is both human and dog behavior training.You can love your pet by learning the essentials to dog training. It may be tough at times but it will be well worth it in the end. The animal will know the rules and the consequences of disobeying.You will know your pet's personality and be able to keep him safe and happy. A well trained animal is a great example to other pet owners who may be trying to train their dog. Share your experiences and give them advice that has helped you.

By Mike Selvon

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Pet Health Insurance - A Must Have For Your Dog

When you take in a dog, cat, fish, or any other pet, you are ultimately responsible for its well being. Regarding dogs, this includes vaccinations, exams and any emergency care. However, many people are slow to realize how much all of that pet and dog care costs. When you add up all of the pet care your dog will require throughout its lifetime, the approximate cost could be several thousand dollars, if not more. If you have pet health insurance, though, you can rest assure that you will have the proper safeguards in place not only to protect your pet from the worst, but also your wallet and bank accounts as well.Pet Health Insurance: Not Too Different From OursPet health insurance works just the same as that of human health insurance. You pay a small premium each month and then, if your dog requires veterinary care, you merely pay the veterinarian a small co-payment fee or, if it is required, a deductible. This can save you a lot of money, especially if your dog is accident prone. If you love your pet and you care for its well being, it would make sense to get pet health insurance for your cat, dog or whatever pet you happen to have roaming around the house.There are many pet health insurance policies for pets of every kind. It is a common misconception that pet health insurance policies only cover that of cats and dogs, but there are, in fact, policies out there to protect any pet, no matter what kind it is.

The Search For Pet Health Insurance: Get With The Net!If you are on the prowl or simply looking to acquire a little more information on pet health insurance, the best place to start your search would be the internet. There are many companies that now offer dog and general pet health insurance, so you should have no problem finding a policy that fits within your budget. You'll feel much better about yourself and your dog after investing in a pet health insurance policy, knowing that you and your dog are protected should any troubles occur.Without a doubt, your dog is important to you. So it only seems natural that you would get pet health insurance for your most loyal friend, just as you would enroll your children in a health insurance policy. It's better to be prepared, than to be stock paying a huge bill should the worst case scenario happen simply because you did not have the foresight, or the motivation, to get pet health insurance. Do yourself and your dog, or cat, or possum, or whatever pet you love a favor by seeking out a pet policy today, for you never know what life may bring you along the way

By David O'Brocki

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Dog Bite Prevention

Through education and awareness, most dog bites can be prevented. An estimated 4.7 million Americans will are bitten by a dog each year. Most dog bite victims are children. An average of a dozen people will die this year from a dog attack. About 1 million people will require medical attention.

Here are some things everyone (this includes non-pet owners) should know about dog bite prevention.

Because children make up almost two-thirds of all dog bite victims, never leave children alone with a dog or dogs.

It is important to register your dog with the town you live in. This allows the town to keep track of the neighborhood dogs and ensure everyone is properly vaccinated and cared for. Your town should provide an identification tag and/or certificate proving you have registered with the town. Place the tag on your dogs leash and keep the certificate in a safe place.

Some towns provide you with a sticker to place inside your mailbox when you register your dog with them. This alerts postal carriers to a dog or dog(s) on the property. Be sure to place this sticker on the inside of the mailbox (or as instructed), on the door the mail carrier pulls down to place the mail inside the box. If your town does not supply you with this sticker, purchase a sticker, or make one alerting the postal carriers to the dog on the premises. Even if your dog is friendly and has never bitten anyone, it is better to let people know about your dog before something happens. This also helps substitute postal carriers who are not expecting Fido to bark when they are trying to bring your mail.

If your dog barks loudly or does not like people he or she does not know (as well as former attack dogs or retired police dogs) place a Beware Of Dog sign in a visible place for everyone to see. Even if your dog is friendly, these signs will alert people to the dog on the property.


Some dogs, including certain breeds and older dogs do not appreciate rowdy children in their presence. Place a fence around your property if this is the case. Small children do not understand boundary and property lines, and might walk right into your yard without warning. Protect yourself and others by putting a fence (not the invisible kind) around your yard.

Always supervise your pets when they are outside. Chaining a dog to a tree or other object is cruel to begin with, but an unsupervised pet is asking for trouble. Even if your pet is friendly, someone else can walk into or pass by your yard and upset your pet. Keep an eye on your pet and children. Bring everyone inside when you go inside.

Always obey leash laws, no matter how well your dog is behaved.

Neuter your dog. It has been proven that neutered dogs are less likely to bite.

Keep your dog healthy and current on his or her vaccinations. If a dog is not feeling well, it could cause him or her to become annoyed and bite someone it would otherwise be friendly to if your dog felt better.

Train your dog to obey commands and listen to you. A trained dog who respects his or her owner is less likely to bite a human.

Always properly socialize your dog. Socialization will make your dog feel relaxed around other dogs and people and reduces their chance of adverse behavior.

Teach children to never approach a pet (other than their own) without asking the owner first. Supervise them as they approach the dog. Show them how to let the dog smell them first and how to gently pet a puppy dog. Let children know it is not okay to pull ears and tails.

If you are threatened by a dog, do not make eye contact, do not run, and do not scream. Stay as still as possible until the dog realizes you are not a threat and leaves.

If you or your family members are ever attacked by a dog, fall to the ground, curl up in a ball and protect your face. Seek medical attention immediately. If you know the dog or owner, be sure to let the police know about the incident.

Remember, even though Dog Bite Prevention Week is once a year, it is important to practice these tips all year long.



By Tina Marie Frawley

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Easy Dog Tricks - How To Teach Your Dog To Retrieve In Just One Afternoon

If your dog does not know how to fetch and retrieve then why wait any longer - let's teach him today!Retrieving is probably the most basic and easiest of all dog tricks. Even without specific training, many dogs learn to retrieve on instinct. Not only is it fun for you to be able to play ball with your dog on a bright, sunny afternoon, but he will also have an absolute blast each and every time.Your first goal is to simply get your dog to focus on a particular area that you want him to retrieve the object from. This is easily accomplished by pointing to that area with your finger. The idea is for your dog to understand where to go and then to investigate the location.Bring along small snacks or pieces of his favorite dog food to help make things easier. Pull out a handful of these tasty treats and sprinkle some on the ground. Avoid letting your dog run over to gobble up all the food at once. In fact, it is best if you train him to be patient while staying in the sit position until you say otherwise. Then, after a few moments, release him and say "Pick Up, Pick Up!"As soon as your dog runs over and picks up the snacks, sprinkle a couple of additional pieces a few yards away and say once again "Pick Up, Pick Up!".

As you can assume so far, you are training your dog to associate the command of "Pick Up" with that of looking for something to put in his mouth. This training period goes very quickly. In fact, most dogs will learn this association in just a few hours.Now it is time to move from using dog treats to a regular non-food object. As soon as he has gobbled up some treats, throw him a curve ball by tossing a small towel or his ball behind you, then quickly say the commands "Pick Up, Pick Up!".At this point in training he should immediately run over to where you dropped the ball and put it in his mouth in order to bring it back to you. It is vital to give your dog showers of praise when he is successful.The final step in teaching your dog to retrieve is having him drop the object at your feet once he picks it up. This is where the "Drop It" command comes in to play. Whenever he picks up something in his mouth and starts to run toward you, have him stop, sit, and while you pull the object out of his mouth with one hand, rub his head lovingly with the other hand, while giving praise at the same time.Repeat the entire retrieving process over and over until he successfully grabs the object, brings it back, and releases it right in front of you.

By Daniel Waser

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Dog Training Tips - How To Get The Most Out Of Your Dog

Dogs are possibly the best pets anyone could have. Although there are different breeds of domestic dogs, all puppies need proper training before their activities become unwanted and annoying habits. Proper training of your puppy will ensure they become well trained and "perfect pets".But dog training is not a joke. Numerous research studies about dog training have been conducted. Books and articles covering all the aspects of dog training have been published worldwide. Nearly all of these titles contain some common dog training tips to help you transform your puppy into a smart pet.You must understand your dog's psyche and utilize this understanding to map the training to his particular habits that you don't like. This understanding can also explain how you should reward and punish the dog in the course of the training. Every pet has its own habits and needs. Therefore, not all dog training tips can work for all breeds of dogs.There are a number of dog training equipments available in the market to come to your aid as you start utilizing the several dog training tips. But you must exercise discretion in choosing the training equipments, and also in deciding whether you should actually buy any of them. Often, dog trainers available in the neighborhood know what the best way to provide training is. Moreover, their services can be cheaper than the training equipment costs.If you search the web you will definitely find many sites related to pet training. On these sites you can read the feedback posted by many pet owners. You can go through dog training equipment reviews. These reviews are very knowledgeable as they give people's first hand experience. Through their practical experiences you come to know about really useful and absolutely useless dog training tips.During the entire course of dog obedience training, it is equally important to appreciate the need for heartily rewarding your dog for a job well done. In the beginning the training doesn't make as much sense to your dog as it will you so your dog needs to be shown that in doing all that you desire he will be rewarded.

More often than not the carrot and stick approach usually work well.At last, I hope that the way you love to take your dog for a walk similarly you will love to train him. Once you train your canine, it will become a reflection of your personality. Seeing how well behaved your dog is, anybody will be impressed by you. These dog training tips are just the guidelines that you can follow.Dogs are possibly the best pets anyone could have. Most of these titles contain common dog training tips that can help you learn lots of ways in making your puppy a very smart pet. It is always better to read the dog training equipment reviews available on the internet sites dedicated to pet training as they provide valuable feedback from people like you who have gone through the same drill as you are going. So it is very important that you give your dog some accolades during dog obedience training to keep his motivation high.


By Sveinung Skoglund

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Dog Food Ratings

When you first get a puppy or dog you want to give it the healthiest, longest, and happiest life possible. The food that you feed your companion is very important to its health. Remember at its best your dog only usually lives 10 to 15 years.When you go to the store or research to get dog food you will notice that all dog foods offer "the best" dog food. So how can you tell which dog food is really "the best" for your dog? Try using some of the following guidelines when deciding which food is best to buy for your dog:Checking the quality of ingredients in the dog food is the first and most important thing to check for. The ratings of the dog food are a good way to tell which one of the ingredients are organic and which aren't, and if there are any antibiotics in it, if health supplements included, and if it has adequate amounts of grains and fruits extracts to get your dog as close as possible to it natural food type.You should look out in the dog food ratings for any mention about preservatives (which are usually harmful chemicals) especially the BHA, ethoxouin, the BHT, and food coloring have all been found to be a possible trigger for deadly diseases in dogs and other animals.One other important thing that you should look into very closely is whether or not the dog food has been well checked for allergens. There have been many instances where they can create terrible allergies in your dog, especially grains, which sometimes can result in the death of your animal.The food that you feed your dog may be much more important than you realize. There are hundreds of different kinds, brands, and flavors of dog food and it is vital for you to take the time to choose the food that is best suited for your companion.

It is important to try and find a suitable food for your dog while they are still a puppy so that you can maintain the same brand and diet throughout the dogs life.There is no way around choosing the correct food for your dog other than to do a dog food comparison. Carefully reading and understanding each label is the best way to determine which food is the best for your dog. You will want to ask yourself a few important questions while performing your dog food comparison.Questions will include whether there is a high quality meat source used as one of the first two ingredients, and are the ingredients are human grade, and does it use high quality ingredients? You should shop for food for your dog just as you would shop for food for your family as well as yourself. You want to be sure that your dog is getting the most natural, healthiest, and freshest ingredients.By giving your dog the right food and diet and get them plenty of exercise you are ensuring them a long, healthy, and happy life.

By Matthew Finn

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Dog Ear Infection - Those Smelly Ears Are Telling

Does your pet have dog ear infection? How can you tell?Dog ear infection is a common health condition in dogs. It is estimated that at least 20% of the dog population has this condition. Its other name is otitis externa due to the fact that the infection often occurs in the outer ear canal.Pet guardians sometimes wonder if their dog has a ear problem. They see the dog scratches his ears and shakes its head vigorously. Yet, they do not find any ear debris upon examining their pet's ears.That's right. Sometimes, an infected dog's ear appears clean without dirt or excessive ear discharge. However, the ear is likely to have a foul odor. This is a sign of ear infection.Some pets do not display any symptoms of a ear infection. The ear problem was only detected during a regular check-up at the veterinary. The veterinarian probably detected the infection in its early stage, before physical symptoms became apparent to the pet guardians.Also, our dogs have different threshold for pain and discomfort. Some dogs whine at the slightest discomfort; whilst others remain resilient even when they are in pain.In fact, a dog's smelly ear may be the first thing you notice when the ear canal is infected.The foul odor from the ear may indicate a yeast or bacteria infection. Dog ear infection can be both itchy and painful for your pet.

A yeast infection usually produces brown or black ear discharge whilst a bacteria infection has a yellow ear discharge.Malassezia Pachydermatis is the yeast found most frequently in association with ear infections. It can cause severe ear and skin infections.Both yeast and bacteria thrive in the warm, dark and moist environment of the ear canal. These micro organisms multiply quickly when there is excess moisture, or when ear wax build up within the ear canal, resulting in a ear infection.Dog ear infection is curable when diagnosed correctly and treated early. Do not leave an outer ear infection untreated. The infection could spread to the middle ear and inner ear. This could lead to irreversible damage to the ear drum, equilibrium structure and nerve centre in the ear.Here is a simple tip to keep your dog's ears in the pink of health.To prevent dog ear infection, make sure your dog's ears are clean and dry.Clean your pet's external ear canal 1-2 times per week. Use a ear cleaning solution that contains powerful anti-bacteria and anti-fungi properties. It should help change the pH in your pet's ear to discourage the overgrowth of yeast and bacteria.There is a variety of ear cleaning products you can use to prevent a dog ear infection. They are available through your veterinarian, pet supply store, or you can use natural home remedy to keep your dog's ears healthy.Select a ear cleaning solution that works for your dog, is easy for you to use, so that you and your pet will agree to keep to the ear cleaning routine.Go ahead, sniff your pet's ears for the tell tale sign of a dog ear infection.

By Maly Green

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Dog Crate Tips

Today, many different people have pets. And of course, many of these pets are dogs or puppies. In today's society, travel has never been higher. The use of a dog crate is a must have for those individuals who travel with pets.Dog crates are basically carriers that allow a dog to be comfortable and yet confined to one area. This allows the owner to not be concerned about the dog wandering off or getting lost. Also, dog crates are good for training puppies in the home, such as keeping them confined at night so you don't awake to puddles or unwanted surprises.Dog crates come in a variety of sizes as well as shapes and material. Some dog crates often have cushions in them as well. Depending on the size of a dog will usually determine the size of the dog crate you will essentially want to purchase for your pet.Dog crates that are made of wire often give better ventilation; however, those that are made of plastic also have ample holes made into them for ventilation means as well. Many individuals also use dog crates for other animals to transport, such as kittens or cats, although this is usually not recommended.Pet stores and other department stores often have these dog crates for sale, and they can also be purchased through various web sites via the Internet.The best dog crates for your pets according to experts are those that allow a dog to stand without having to crouch, as well as being able to turn around easily. Those dog crates that are too small will constrict movement, and cause discomfort and pain to your pet.

It is possible with some pet supply stores to actually take your pet with you. This is always a great tip. This allows you to get just the right size for you dog and ensures a good dog crate. Another tip to consider is that if you have a puppy, a dog crate is not going to grow with the puppy, so there should be the consideration that you will have to purchase another dog crate in the future. You should never buy a dog crate that is several sizes too big for your dog or pet, because when transporting the pet in the dog crate it will slide around and get jolted a lot, and this is something else that could cause injury to your dog.If the dog crates are basically going to be stationary and not moved, there are some types that can be stacked on top of one another. However, a good tip is to make sure they are stable and won't collapse. If you stack dog crates that are not designed to be this way, they will fall and cause injury to your pets.There are several tips that can be essentially applied to dog crates, and many pet employees can give you advice and tips as to which dog crates are essentially better than others.For more information about dog crates and various tips, there are several web sites that offer additional details as well as show some designs of various dog crates.

By Mel Beauchamp

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Dog Care Tips For Grooming Your Dog

The best way is start grooming your puppy is when he first comes home with you, but if you have an adult dog who balks at grooming here are a few dog care tips.The first time you bring out the nail clippers hold the clippers in your hand next to the dog's paw and give him a treat with praise. The next time hold the dog's paw and place his nail in the nail clipper but don't cut. Again praise him and reward with treats. When the dog calmly accepts you holding his paw and bringing the clipper to his nail, and placing the nail in the clipper, then cut the nail quickly and confidently. Don't be nervous because your dog will pick up on that emotion. Praise your dog and give him a treat.Do this with the other dog grooming tools as well. The dog will associate being groomed with praise and treats. Keep your first grooming sessions short. Right before his dinner is a good time. Your dog will be alert and hungry which means he'll be more motivated. He'll start to associate grooming with dinner as well as treats.Don't lose your temper. Keep a smile on your face and the sessions as pleasant as possible.Most dogs don't mind having their teeth brushed and actually like it. If your dog struggles, use the same method with the toothbrush as you did with the nail clippers. Your first session, hold a treat in one hand and the toothbrush with a bit of dog toothpaste by his mouth. Give him the treat and lots of praise. Then gently lift his lip, again reward with a treat and praise. Finally lift his lip and gently scrub his side teeth. The dog should get a taste of the toothpaste and your struggles will be over. Don't overdo the toothpaste, a little is enough.Veterinarians say that the most common pet health care problem is their teeth. If your dog has tarter it could turn into a serious problem resulting in infection, loss of teeth, and at the very least, very bad breath. Tarter is that yellowish soon to turn brownish hard build up next to the gum line. Prevention by brushing is much easier than getting rid of tarter. Most of the time that means a professional cleaning and it's expensive.

Dogs don't sit still to have their teeth cleaned like people do, so they have to be under a general anesthetic and that's costly.One method that seems to work with some dogs to get rid of a mild case of tarter is gently swapping their teeth with a piece of gauze soaked in medicinal strength (not hair bleach strength) hydrogen peroxide every day.When brushing your dog's coat, hold the hair with one hand on the skin side of a tangle and use the brush with your other hand to brush out the tangle. That way your dog won't feel the pull of the brush as much. Use a people hair detangling spray to make the brushing even easier.Use these dog care tips for grooming your dog and the sessions should be fun for both of you.

By Dee Power

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Dog Adoptions

There are several ways to getting a pet like mans best friend. You can get a dog from a pet shop or buy from people who breed dogs for a living. Dog adoption is another option of getting a furry friend into your home. Dogs are the best kind of pets you can have. If you train them well you won't have to worry about much in your home. They make good guard dogs and protectors.Dogs also make good shepherds, especially if you have a farm with a lot of sheep. Choosing the right dog is about your surroundings. If you have a farm then you have to choose the right dog that can work at a farm. If security is what you are going for then try dogs like Dobermans and German shepherds who can also work as shepherds on your farm.Dog adoptions require you to be prepared to make a home for whatever dog you choose. Your choice should be about whether you want a house dog which are dogs like chiwawas or dogs like sausage dogs. If you are planning to own a dog your home and lifestyle will have to change according to the standards of keeping a dog. Each breed of dog has their own temperament and needs, but most dogs do require their toys and probably have a certain kind of food they eat.

It is good to consider dog adoption because you will be helping an animal that is need of a home where it can be cared for and nurtured. Appreciate your pet and give it a home where it will feel loved and cared for.

By Peter Gitundu

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Choosing a Good Obedience School For Your Dog

Most dog owners want their dog to be well-behaved and well-trained. Even with our best efforts, we don't always have enough time to spend on properly training our dogs and they can become a little problematic. The good news is that you can get help by signing your dog up for obedience school.Is your dog disobedient? Have you given up on trying to make your dog obey your commands? Do you often find chewed up items when you return from work? Do you avoid walking your dog in broad daylight because you don't want the neighbors to see how poorly behaved he is when around other dogs and people? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you need to realize that you don't have to give up transforming your dog into a controllable and well-behaved dog. By properly training your dog, your life will become a lot easier. Your dog will always come to you when you call him. You won't get into legal problems because of your dog aggressing the neighbor's kid and you won't get complaints from the neighbors because your dog doesn't stop barking or howling.An obedience school trainer will be able to give you an idea about how you can make your pet pay attention to you. These trainers will train your dog on how to act with other dogs and people around. They will also teach your dog fundamental instructions (sit, stay, heel and come). Your dog will also enjoy training as he gets to spend time with you, which is what he wants first and foremost.Selecting a dog obedience school is a little like picking a school for your kids. You want to make the right decision so you should look at all your options before making a decision. Fortunately, you will be attending along with your dog, so you'll know for sure if you made the right decision.

Talk to friends, coworkers and family members who have used obedience schools and see if they would recommend a school to you.You can also contact the obedience school and ask for the contact information of one of their previous customers. Be ready with a list of questions before you call this person out of the blue! If you hear positive things about the school you are considering, then it's a good sign. If you don't, you should look elsewhere.You should also include a visit to the obedience schools that you are considering. After all, you want to train your dog in a nice atmosphere, don't you? Check to see if the buildings appear structurally sound and well kept and if the instructors are well trained. You want to find a school where you and your dog will be comfortable.Take the time to get to know the trainers at the dog obedience school you are considering. Ask them which techniques they use and you can even bring your dog to visit to make sure he would enjoy this particular training school. If both you and your dog are comfortable with a trainer, obedience training will be a lot smoother.

By Daniel Waser

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Healthy All Natural Dog Treats

All natural dog treats are extremely popular these days and it goes to show that dog owners want only the best for their beloved pets. These snacks are actually free from either artificial flavors or artificial colors. They also do not contain synthetic preservatives or even additives. More often than not, these treats are composed of premium organic ingredients. There are plenty of dog treats in the market that are filled with artificial flavors, fats, and other not-so-good ingredients that would surely make man's best friend less healthy if given regularly. Because of the fact that people want to see their pets live a long, happy and healthy life, all natural treats are best for these loyal creatures. An amazing thing that one could observe about several natural snacks is that these are even decent enough for humans to consume. Not that any sane person would really eat a bite, but the point is one could. When dog owners purchases all natural dog treats, they would be able to take pleasure in letting their pets eat these snacks, knowing that the treats are healthy, wholesome and nourishing. Buying only natural snacks for dogs is not really as hard as people might think because there is already a quality array of products available in the market. Due to the increasing clamor or demand for all natural dog food and treats, one would be able to find plenty of choices in the supermarket. The selection may not be as huge as the other treats in the grocery store but it is very probable that local grocery stores carry them. Because most of these snacks are made by small businesses, their prices might be slightly higher than the typical boxes of dog treats. Then again, for a lot of dog owners, the costlier all natural treats are worth every penny. If supermarkets do not have the variety that one is searching for, one could go ahead and check out a pet store. There are numerous pet stores that carry all natural brands and some even bake then sell their own pet treats.
Aside from supermarkets and pet stores, one would be able to find all natural dog treats in bakeries that specialize in these healthy treats for dogs. The Three Dog Bakery is a fine example of a renowned dog business that provides a vast selection of freshly baked organic treats. If there are no Three Dog Bakeries nearby, people could also opt to buy online at their user-friendly website. One would be able to get hold of various types of goodies for their adorable pets, which includes Beagle Bagels, Vanilla Woofers, and Bark n' Fetch Biscuits, among others. As a matter of fact, there is really no need to purchase pricey all natural dog treats. One could easily bake the snacks at the comfort of their respective homes. There are hundreds of dog treat recipes that can be found both in books as well as in the internet. While there are some complicated recipes, most recipes are actually fairly easy to make and they also make use of familiar ingredients. Some frequently utilized ingredients in making dog treats involve eggs, wheat flour, oatmeal, peanut butter, and meat puree. When dog owners make their own doggie treats, their precious pooch would feel even more loved and cared for. Feeding all-natural dog treats to one's pup makes a statement that positive or healthy feeding is the way to go these days. By Jenny Janice

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Dog Obedience Training

Obedience training can make a remarkable difference in a dog’s behavior, and every dog can benefit from obedience training. After successful obedience training, a dog that was once out of control becomes alert to the commands of his owner, and a dog with obedience training often calms down considerably.There are dog obedience classes available for professional assistance in dog obedience training, but you can begin obedience training at home. You’ll be amazed at how quickly your dog picks up your commands, and your dog will benefit from obedience training at home before beginning formal obedience training classes. The following information will help you teach your dog basic obedience commands. Most dogs will be able to pick up these obedience commands relatively fast. After your dog learns these basic commands, your dog will be ready to begin other training that will turn your dog into an obedient well-behaved family member that you’ll be proud to take in public. Praising and Reprimanding Your DogBefore beginning home obedience training with your dog, it’s important to know how to properly praise and reprimand your dog. When your dog successfully obeys a command, praise your dog calmly and quietly by gently rubbing his head and saying “good dog.” If you get too excited when your dog obeys a command, your dog will think it’s time to play, and this will only encourage hyperactivity. If your dog is slow to learn obedience commands, don’t lose your patience with your dog. Never hit your dog or raise your voice when he doesn’t properly preform a specific command.
This type of behavior won’t help your dog learn the command. It will only instill unnecessary fear in your dog. A dog who is scolded during obedience training will consider obedience training an unfavorable experience. The more upset you become the more nervous you’ll make your dog, and in the end, he won’t learn a thing. Always use the same tone of voice and the same simple phrase when giving commands to your dog. Changing the pitch of your voice or changing the words in a command will only confuse your dog. Consistence and kindness are the keys to successful obedience training. Before Beginning Obedience TrainingPeople often make the mistake of trying to teach their dog commands without the use of a leash. A long leash is required to properly teach your dog obedience commands. A leash will allow you to guide the dog, and a leash will help him understand what he’s suppose to do. A pocketful of treats is also quite helpful during obedience training. When your dog successfully executes a command, offer him a tasty treat as a reward as well as verbal praise and a pat on the head. Don’t offer a treat every time your dog obeys a command. Treats are helpful during training, but they shouldn’t be required after your dog understands what you expect of him. Sit CommandTeaching a dog to sit is one of the easiest commands a dog will learn, and this command is often the first lesson in obedience training. A dog must first learn to sit on command before he will be able to learn other commands. To teach your dog to sit, push your dog’s hind end to the floor, and gently pull up on his leash while commanding him to sit. Immediately upon sitting, praise your dog and offer him a small treat for his efforts. Before long he’ll know exactly what you want him to do when you tell him to sit. Heel CommandHeeling is a command all dogs should learn. Heeling is helpful when going for walks in crowded locations, and walking with a dog who heals is much more pleasant than walking with a dog who pulls and meanders. A heeling dog walks next to the left leg of the owner, and the dog’s nose is slightly in front of the knee. To teach your dog to heel, simply command your dog to sit next to your left leg. Command your dog to heel while using his name. For instance say, “Frisky, heel,” and begin walking energetically forward. If the dog pulls ahead or lags behind, sharply yank the leash and command him to heel. If your dog doesn’t understand the command, walk briskly in the pattern of a figure eight. He will be forced to heal while walking in this pattern, and if you praise him he’ll eventually learn the command to heel. Eventually you’ll be able to walk your dog with slack in his leash while he heels properly. Stay CommandDogs instinctively want to follow their owners, but teaching a dog to stay really isn’t very difficult. Dogs live for love and praise, and even the most rambunctious dogs can learn to stay. To teach your dog to stay, simply command your dog to sit next to your left leg while you loosely hold his leash. Place your palm downward, and a few inches from his nose. In a firm voice, tell him to stay. Walk several feet away, and if your dog stays where he is told, go back and praise him with a treat and a gentle pat on the head. If your dog follows, take him back to the original position and try it again. Eventually your dog will understand the command, and he’ll look forward to your praise. Come CommandA dog must first learn to stay before you begin teaching him to come to you on command. Once the dog is good at staying on command, walk several feet away from your dog with his leash in hand, and tell him to come while facing him and gently tugging on his leash. When the dog comes to you praise him with a tasty treat and a pat on the head. After he becomes good at responding to this command, you’ll be able to remove his leash and increase the distance. By Crystal Ray

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5 Reasons to Adopt an Adult Dog

1) Size matters! Puppies, especially mutts can grow up to an un expected size. Even shelters and reputable humane societies have been known to underestimate the size of a dog by incorrectly guessing on the mutts mixed breeds. By adopting an adult dog there will be no surprises on size since the dog is adopted at full size. 2) Shelters and humane societies are full. Puppies are easy to find homes for, everyone wants a cute cuddly puppy. It is the adult dogs that are euthanized by the thousands every year while families fund puppy mills and private breeders by buying designer puppies that run upwards of thousands of dollars. Web sites like petfinder.comallow you to search for dogs by age making it easy to find an adult dog in your area. Your local humane society will also have a selection of adult dogs. 3) No house training! Most adult dogs up for adoption at shelters and humane societies are already house trained for you. Potty training is the number one reason that most people do not want to own a puppy, but all that can be avoided by adopting an adult dog. 4) Less exercise and calmer personalities. Most adult dogs have grown beyond the excessive hyperness of puppyhood and have less need for exercise. Adult dogs are great for families with children or older couples that do not have enough energy to take care of a puppy. An adult dog is also great for individuals or couples that work full time. Since an older dog requires less exercise they usually will not mind being kenneled for a few hours a day as long as when you are together they get to play and cuddle with you.

5) No need to spay or neuter an adult dog. Since shelters, rescues, and humane societies spay and neuter every dog that is not already spayed or neutered before putting them up for adoption you will have one less responsibility. A spay or neuter can cost hundreds of dollars and requires follow-up medicine and lots of TLC for the dog.6) Love and appreciation. I hear stories everyday about how adult dogs seem to understand that you have "saved" them from being euthanized. A rescued adult dog tends to show a type of appreciation that is never found in puppies that were never re-homed. This attitude is especially apparent in dogs that were previously abused. There is a special bond that develops between a rescued adult dog and the dogs owner By Crystal Sciarini

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