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Dog Tips
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Hi, my name is Linda Nelson, the Dog Guru at LifeTips.
Enjoy these 651 Dog tips. More added weekly! Animal Advocacy & Puppy Mills | Jun 15, 2009
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Animal Advocacy & Puppy MillsPuppy mills have been the 'deep, dark, dirty secret' in the pet trade industry for a VERY long time. Puppy mills supply the petshops, petshops supply the backyard breeders and Internet sellers... it is just that simple. Better Food, Less MessTo get your canine the healthiest he can be, consider feeding him a high quality natural dog food that is typically found at a specialty pet store or online. Because these foods have less preservatives and fillers, your pet will excrete less waste. That makes clean-up quicker and easier. Your canine will enjoy a healthier, more nutritious diet and you have less mess to deal with! Ask Your Breeder the Right QuestionsBreeding dogs is not for amateurs. Gather background information and make a list of question for your breeder prior to purchasing a dog from them. It will not take a lot of time or effort to make sure the breeder is responsible and knowledgeable. Before investing in a Vittles Vault, toys and a cushioned dog bed, take a few minutes to ask the breeder a few questions. There are many reputable dog breeders out there these days, but there are also those who are less than honest. Poor breeding practices can result in genetic defects that arise later in life. Some questions to ask a dog breeder include:
Expectations: ChewingBetween three and four weeks, every puppy starts breaking in their first set of teeth. By twelve weeks, they should have their full set. Between three and seven months, all puppies lose their puppy (deciduous) teeth and replace them with their adult (permanent) teeth. Bottom line, if you choose to add a puppy to your home, you can expect the first seven months to be filled with teething and chewing. Good Bacteria: Yogurt and KefirOne common homeopathic dog nutritional supplement is yogurt. It contains "good" bacteria, which can aid in digestion and help keep your dog's digestive system clean and functioning optimally. Yogurt is also a key in transitioning your dog from kibble or other processed food to a raw diet because of the good bacteria and protein content. You may want to take your yogurt treatment to the next level and you can do this with a dog supplement called Kefir. Kefir is a cultured milk product like yogurt, but it takes the benefits one step further. Kefir contains friendly bacteria and also colonizes the digestive tract, which helps improve solid wastes, reduces intestinal disorders, reduces gas, and promotes proactive health maintenance. Additionally, it will help with your dog's coat, skin, and reduce anxiety. *Add a spoonful of acidophilus or naturally cultured yogurt that includes acidophilus to your dog's food to help him digest his meals better or settle an upset stomach. Beds for DogsWhen shopping for dog beds it can pay to know a little bit about the different kinds available on the market. Many places have dog beds for sale, but there is typically a wider selection at a store that specializes in pets, such as PETCO for example. Browsing through their stock is often enough to get an idea of what is out there. Active breeds may benefit from having durable dog beds that will hold up well over time. Small dog beds suit toy breeds, and its easy to find room for them in the home. Large dog beds may be more of a challenge. Measure available areas before shopping to be sure that a bed will fit in a particular space. Designer dog beds may cost a bit more than average but can work well if they need to go in the main living space. Cute dog beds are available in a wide range of colors and sizes. Most have foam in the center for additional cushioning. This can be especially nice for older dogs who suffer from sore joints. There are also "cool dog beds" designed for the outdoors. These help keep dogs from overheating in the hot summer months and may be a good investment if a dog spends a lot of time outside in the warm weather. Expectations: Male marking
Crate LocationWhen crate training it's a good idea to remember that, although every dog needs his own space, canines are pack animals. Because of this they have an instinctual desire to be near the other members of their family. Accordingly, you might want to purchase more than one crate or kennel -- appraise your lifestyle and remember wherever you spend a good deal of time, you'll need a crate there for your dog as well. Dog ToysBuying dog toys is fun. A good guideline for purchasing these toys is to match them in size and type to your pet. Large dogs may require more durable dog toys than smaller ones. Tough dog toys made of rubber or other long-lasting materials are a good option. Those that enjoy playing fetch will appreciate a ball or even a furry dog toy they can retrieve. Certain breeds may like to chew, while others may be content to carry stuffed dog toys around in their mouth. Every dog is a little different in terms of which toy he prefers. Stock your home with plenty of dog toys. Dog chew toys help get puppies through teething and give other dogs something to do besides chewing on your slippers when they have the urge to gnaw. Plush dog toys are great for interactive play and many come equipped with a squeaker inside for additional fun. There are also unique dog toys designed to hold food or treats. These help challenge the dog by giving him a task to complete. Because small dog toys can be lost easily, it helps to designate a toy basket where they can be kept when not in use. Expectations: Removing stereotypes about dogs
Effective Flea and Tick ControlOne of the most effective flea and tick control options on the market are Frontline and Advantage - topical "spot" medications that are used on your dog once per month. This type of treatment kills adult fleas and younger fleas or pupae during development. It lasts between three and four weeks and is less toxic and more effective than most treatments available. The pros for products like these are their effectiveness and ease of use. Cons are that you can't bathe your dog for 2 days after treatment, they are not always effective for large dogs, and you should beware if you have small children. Make sure you apply the treatment far away from little hands and fingers! Additionally, these treatments are not "repellants" so parasites will bite or attach before they die. Finding the Right Dog CrateCrates for dogs come in many different shapes and sizes. There are those designed to be taken on a plane and those used as a kennel at home. Dog crates and carriers help in transporting your pet to and from the veterinarian, keeping the animal safely confined in the car on the trip. When looking to purchase a dog crate it may help to think about what its purpose will be. If you have a small dog, a portable dog carrier may be all that is required to comfortably transport the animal. A collapsible dog kennel is great for travel. Most dog crates for sale these days include locks and doors to help secure the animal while it is by himself. This is useful for potty training and as a "time out" for dogs that need a break from stimuli. Dog crates and kennels can be made more comfortable by using absorbent pads designed to go in the bottom of the container. A well-chosen toy or two will help the dog feel at home in his crate. Make sure to observe safety measures when putting your dog into the crate. Collars, leashes and certain dog toys can get tangled and become a safety hazard. Expectations: BarkingEVERY dog will bark - it is their natural job to do so. Controlling Fleas and Ticks in Your HomeThere are many things you can do around the house to help with flea control. If you have found fleas in your home, begin with a good cleaning. Start with vacuuming where your dog sleeps and spends the most time. If there are fleas about, this is most likely where they and their eggs will be. You may want to lay a clean old towel down where your dog like to sleep and wash it as much as once per day. You will also want to treat entrances and exits that your pets use frequently and any areas in the garden of which your dog is fond or that maintain a moist wet environment - an ideal flea hatching climate. (Make sure your throw the vacuum bag away outside of the house!) Finally, you may need to treat your entire home and you can do this with a flea fogger or an exterminator. The best way to deal with a flea and tick problem is to prevent any infestation in the first place!! Good Old Home CookingA healthy alternative to feeding your dog commercial dog food is to cook it yourself. This way, you'll know exactly what your dog is eating he won't be consuming meat by-products and preservatives that are in many commercial dog foods. You can try some of the following to see what you canine likes: • Ground turkey, Chicken wings and thighs Avoid onions, garlic, sugary foods and salt. If you keep your food list simple and are consistent, you'll find that home cooked meals are an inexpensive way to keep your dog healthy and resistant to disease. Leashes and CollarsThe type of leash and collar that you need depend on your budget and lifestyle. For most people, a regular nylon collar and leash is more affordable and will do fine. If you do quite a bit of walking in the evening, consider purchasing a leash and collar that is reflective. For the active dog walker or those of you who want to bike with your dog, consider a retractable leash for flexibility. Some canines are better suited to harnesses. Dogs that have easily collapsible tracheas like Pugs and Boston Terriers are better suited to harnesses. A leather collar and leash tends to be more durable as well as expensive. If you want something that will last and don't plan on any muddy outings, leather may be an option for you. It's in the AccessoriesIs your dog panting in the heat of summer or trying to keep warm on cold winter nights? You can add comfort to your dog's sleeping arrangements by adding accessories to their sleep area. Heated beds are available to keep your pooch warm and toasty. Just plug them in and let your dog enjoy the warmth. To keep your canine nice and cool, try a cooler mat. Some are designed to be soaked in water and air-dried and will keep their chilling power for days. You Are What You EatA dog needs a diet with a wide variety of nutrients to keep her healthy. These include carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and vitamins, and minerals. A good way to select the appropriate dog food for your canine is to read the food label. Look for dog foods that have a high amount of meats and use only whole grains and vegetables. Generally, meat, fish, or poultry and grains and soybean meal should be at the top of the food ingredient list on the packaging. Avoid dog foods that carry a high level of meat by-products, unidentified fatty sources, and artificial flavors and preservatives. Giving your dog the best diet you can manage and afford is worth it. She'll reap the benefits of a shinier coat and better resistance to diseases and other health problems. History of Dog FoodUp until the 19th century, hunting dogs and sheep dogs often ate a bread meal composed of wheat, barley, or rye. They were offered meat on rare occasions as this was considered an optional part of a dog's diet. During the 19th century, meat symbolized status among people in industrialized societies and dogs began to eat meat as a result. The very first dog food was a dog biscuit produced in England in 1860. James Spratt, an American electrician visiting London, thought he could do better and formed his own dog food company. Thereafter, several U.S. companies entered the dog food market. After World War I, commercial dog food markets added horse meat to their products. The 1950's saw the introduction of dry pet food. Today, we have a wide variety of commercialized dog food available to the pet consumer. A Fitting CollarTo find a collar that correctly fits your dog, take a measurement of her neck. Use a soft tape measure or string that you can place against a ruler. Take that measurement and purchase a collar that is in the neck size range for your dog. To know if you've bought the right size the collar, check if you are able to fit up to two fingers underneath your dog's collar. However, the collar should not be so loose as to slip over your dog's head. Even better? Take your puppy or dog to the pet store with you and try on several until you find one that fits correctly. NEVER use a collar and lead for breeds that are known for collapsing tracheas (such as Chihuahuas) - ALWAYS use halters for these breeds when on lead! The Sporting GroupIn the field, this dog breed works in concert with their human counterpart to increase the effectiveness of the hunt. These dogs are at home in the bush or in the water. * Spaniels will move back and forth, flushing game to be taken down with the hunter's rifle. In a domestic environment, these dogs require lots of physical exercise and are usually happiest playing a game of fetch. Loss of Bladder Control in DogsThe most common cause of the loss of bladder control is a hormonal disorder that occurs in older dogs. Occasionally, spinal degeneration or trauma also causes incontinence. Dogs who have serious seizures may also lose bladder control. Other medical problems include bladder infections, diabetes, and kidney disease. There are medications to address many of these issues. The Shedding FactorWhile some dogs appear to shed more than others, all dogs do shed - even those marketed as 'hypo-allergenic.' Some dog breeds have a faster rate of hair replacement and growth --- and accordingly, tend to shed more. Sudden AggressionIf your normally gentle pooch suddenly exhibits aggression towards other dogs, don't automatically call a trainer. Veterinarians suggest that you rule out all medical causes of aggression first since these are often culprits. Dogs in pain can exhibit aggressive behavior; dog joint pain, problems with teeth, and changes in eyesight are all common causes. More severe causes can stem from brain injury or changes in brain chemicals, conditions that are often manageable with medication. Research, Research, and ResearchIf you're looking to get a dog, you're not just making a purchase, you're making an addition to the family. It is helpful to assess your needs and the needs of your family and lifestyle before you take the plunge. Think about whether you want an active, outdoor dog or an indoor companion. Do you have time for grooming or very little at all? Are you an experienced dog owner or do you need a dog that is easily trainable? Dog Grooming: Eye Tear StainsIf you have a smaller dog and his/her coat is light in color, chances are you have noticed dark patches under his/her eyes from time to time. Unlike their human counterparts, dogs don't develop dark circles from a lack of sleep or when they've had a 'ruff' night. Those dark patches can be caused by a multitude of factors. Dogs who eyes tear excessively can develop yeast or bacterial infections that cause a reddish-brown stain. Blocked tear ducts, ear infections and allergies are also common causes of eye staining. There may even be a genetic component. And, if the water in your area has an especially high mineral level, your dog's eyes may have a tendency to stain. Once you have determined the cause of your dog's eye stains -- and if you can eliminate the source -- you can work to remove the stains from your dog's facial hair/fur. Responsibility And Commitment of Pet OwnershipIf you are considering the addition of a canine into your life, be aware that it will require quite a bit of your time, money and commitment. Reject impulse decisions that can have lifelong effects --- not only on you, but your family members as well. Some of the small breeds have a lifespan of 15 years or more. The average cost for the first year of a puppy's life will be close to $2,000, not including the purchase price. Puppies require a great deal of interaction and time for socialization and training. They need to be fed three times a day until they are about six months of age. Young puppies need frequent potty breaks throughout the day and sometimes in the middle of the night. As your dog grows older, he'll still need a lot of love and attention from you. Most dogs need regular walks and exercise. On the average for the total life of a dog with a 14-year life span, you can expect to outlay over $10,000 (based upon a 50-pound dog that lives in the Midwest in 2008 - more expensive places can double or triple this cost). The Drool FactorIf you are not opposed to a little drool around the house, you can enjoy the company of breeds such as Saint Bernards, Basset Hounds, and Mastiffs. Shelter DogsA shelter dog can be a great addition for any dog owner or family. Gone are the days when only terrible, ill-mannered dogs ended up in shelters. The top 10 reasons for pet relinquishments in 2008 were: 1) owner moving, 2) landlord did not allow pets, 3) too many animals, 4) cost of pet maintenance, 5) owner's personal problems, 6) inadequate facilities, 7) no homes for available litter mates, 8) owner has no time for pet, 9) pet illnesses and 10) biting. Pick Of The LitterIf you have the opportunity to take your pick from a litter of puppies, take some time to observe and interact with the puppy to insure you get the best dog for you, your family and your lifestyle. If you just want a dog for companion purposes, then your main concerns are that the dog is healthy and that he's got the personality that you're looking for. See how the puppy interacts with his littermates to get an idea of what kind of dog he might be. Spend some one-on-one time interacting with the dog's parents as well for that will give you some clues to how your puppy will develop as an adult down the road as he grows. Mixed Breed DogsIf you have done your research to carefully select a dog that's right for you and discover several breeds fit your lifestyle, it can never be a bad idea to get a mixed breed from a shelter. Many times mixed breeds are free from the health issues that plague their purebred counterparts in closed breeding circles. Dog carriers make travel fun for petsDog carriers have a huge range of uses. If your dog isn't a good traveler and doesn't ride well in moving vehicles, try a dog carrier. Your dog may feel more secure in a dog carrier and it can be their 'home away from home' for dogs that get nervous during travel. Dog carriers help dogs behave well, stay calm and provide you with the peace of mind while driving! Your Dog's LifespanSome dogs do live longer than others. Generally, a dog's lifespan is directly related to the dog's size. Smaller toy breeds tend to have longer lifespans than larger breeds. Frisbee - A Sport for All DogsOnce upon a time, a dog owner tossed a plastic disk for a dog and a canine sport was born. Now Frisbee is a popular competitive sport for dogs and people. Dogs get lots of exercise and also bond with their owners. To Bark Or Not To BarkIf you are trying to choose a breed of dog with minimal barking, keep in mind that most dogs can and will bark --- though some may do so more than others simply because of their breed's characteristics. There are breeds that do not bark much at all or rarely. Pet Shop DogsMost pet shops obtain their puppies from puppy mills. Unfortunately, puppy mills breed dogs purely for the sake of profit without regard to the health or socialization of the dog. These dogs often come with health problems and potential behavior issues. If you are looking for a purebred puppy it is always advisable to go to a reputable breeder who has carefully screened the parents for any genetic or health issues before breeding. The rule of thumb is that if you yourself cannot view the parents of any puppy, you are buying from either a puppy mill or backyard breeder. Without being able to personally view the temperaments of the mother and father, you have little guarantee of a loving, well socialized and mannered canine member of your family. Breeding Your Purebred DogIf you have made the investment in a purebred female dog, you may be considering breeding her to continue the lineage and/or profit. To find the a male stud of good breeding, start with a source that offers advice you can trust. The American Kennel Club has been promoting purebred dogs and breeding since 1884. The organization's mission is to "advocate for the purebred dog as a family companion, advance canine health and well-being, work to protect the rights of all dog owners and promote responsible dog ownership." While they do not recommend specific breeders, they do provide links and resources on breeding. Be aware that the AKC does NOT guarantee the health of any dog - only the lineage of record. Do your homework there first, and your ultimate choice with be a more informed one. SocializationDog socialization is more than dropping Fido off at the park for playtime while you sit on your cell phone catching up with buds. Socialization is an important part of teaching your puppy or dog how to behave in a variety of situations, building of their self esteem (and reducing their fears at the same time) along with teaching them good canine manners both with humans and other dogs alike. Vomiting WaterIf your dog is vomiting his food and water after a meal, there is no need to panic immediately. At times, vomiting after meals can occur if your dog eats too quickly. If that is the case, then you can take steps to slow your dog down by feeding him by hand or feeding him out of a muffin pan. Puppy Mills & Backyard BreedersUnless you are getting a new puppy from a reputable breeder, you are supporting the billion dollar puppy mill industry via their outlets (petshops) or backyard breeders (who buy their stock from petshops and other backyard breeders). Reputable breeders NEVER sell their puppies through petshops. Feet, legs & joints - you must be the detective & investigative reporter!Sometimes the hardest thing to diagnose is problems with a dog's feet, legs and joints. A dog that wakes up in the morning stiff and walking with a limp may be perfectly fine by lunch time. The dog owner and the veterinarian have to be keen observers since the dog can't tell them -- with words, anyway -- how he/she is feeling. Because of this inherent problem with communication, the safest thing for any dog owner to do when he/she notices the dog limping is to take it to the vet and get it checked out. Be observant and tell the vet everything you have noticed your dog doing. What exactly is a Dog?Most folks think they know what a dog is. He's furry, got four legs, and a tail... he's man's best friend, right? But what exactly is a dog? Barking - How to do it better!EVERY dog will bark - it is their natural job to do so.
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