Nick Luvera asked:


(c) 2008 Cheap Puppy Pads

It is a common scenario - someone, walks into a pet store or animal shelter. They oooh and awww, pet and cuddle, and make cute baby noises. The next thing they know, they are on they way out of the store with thier prize in tow, happily on thier way home to begin acclimating each other. It may be a big dog or a small dog, an older dog or a younger puppy - everyone’s idea of the “perfect” dog is a little bit different.

However, all dogs, big and small, young and old, can benefit from dog training. Dog training can take your puppy from a cute little mess to an ideal housemate and beyond. The start: puppy training The majority of dog training for puppies is designed to make them better household companions. Most family pets will not extend their dog training beyond this phase. For working and competitive dogs, this aspect of dog training is only the beginning. Dog training on the puppy level can encompass a variety of styles.

The most popular dog training (so popular, in fact, that many people do not even realize that it is training) includes things like training your dog to walk on the leash, house training your dog, and simple commands like “sit” and “drop it,” as well as basic social behaviors. It is easiest to begin dog training at an early age, though if you acquire an older dog, you can do dog training with him or her as well. Dogs are happiest when they know what is expected of them, and dog training helps to make those expectations clear. Dog training is also a great way to strengthen the bond between dog and owner. Competitive dogs The next step in dog training would be for competition. Dog training is used by some owners to teach frisbee catching tricks on command with their dog or fetching items or with a freestyle routine. Other owners will use dog training to teach their dogs to run agility courses, pull sleds, or do other activities. This level of dog training requires a strong bond between dog and owner, as well as a willing subject. Dog training at this level is not something that you can do once and then go on with your life - it requires daily practice and commitment.

Many of the professionals you see competing in agility trials or other competitions have been working with their dogs for years to conduct the dog training required. Working dogs An even more stringent dog training method is required for working dogs. Working dogs assist people in a variety of fashions - they can be trained to sniff out drugs or contraband in airports, trained to assist the handicapped or disabled, or even trained as members of the police force or military. The dog training required for these dogs often takes months, if not years. There are specific dog breeds chosen at a young age to participate in special types of training and many times specific breeds are selected due to breed charactarisctics. Only a few of the dogs that start on this dog training program end up being successful enough to have a career as a working dog. Their are a variety of dog training styles used for different purposes. Even so, nearly any dog and owner can benefit from dog training.



GRADY

John Williams Dog Training asked:


Hundreds if not thousands of stray dogs are found each year around the world with no one in sight and nowhere to go. These dogs are often in great danger whether it’s because of neglect on the owners’ behalf, or because of unforeseen circumstances causing the dog to become lost and scared.

What can be done in these situations can be a tricky choice, and a choice that will need to be done quickly. Simply driving past a suspected stray dog on the side of the road could end in the death of the dog minutes later.

What to do when you find a stray dog is different in almost every case, but there are guidelines to follow to help save the life of a scared stray, and put the mind of the loving owner at ease.

To begin you should always be aware that the dog in question may be very aggressive due to being scared, lost, and possibly very hungry, so approach with care. If you feel the dog is not a violent one then you should still be very careful not to startle or scare the dog in any way, a scared dog could easily run onto a busy road or dangerous area.

A good way to reassure the dog you are not there to harm them and to get them close is to use a strong smelling food such as tuna or other dog favourites as well as speaking gently and calmly to the dog.

When you finally get the dog under control and have no fears of aggressive behavior, reassuring the dog by stroking and talking to them will make it easier for others to deal with them. If you have leash or any other form of dog control with you then try and secure the dog with them, still being careful not to scare the dog.

When you have successfully captured the dog or if you have had other problems making it difficult to capture then you should phone for help from the local animal care or control authority to ensue the correct procedures are met and the safety of the animal will be secure.



BOYCE

mistymountain_999 asked:


I petsitted my cousin’s dog, Sierra, for 6 months because they lived in an apartment and couldn’t keep the dog in the apartment. While I had the dog, the dog killed her. I am petsitting Sierra again, I now have a new kitten, we can’t keep them seperate, so is there any way that I can keep Sierra from “playing” with my kitten?

Please don’t tell me to have the dog put down or anything I just want to know how to get them to get along or something.

I am only petsitting Sierra for a couple days, but I don’t want to take the chance in her doing that to my kitten again.
Thank you!

COLLIN

Jenny Gregorich asked:


People often buy gifts for family and friends during Christmas and almost forget the most loved ones- “The pooches”. The well known fact about Christmas is that “Christmas is for everyone”. Rich or poor, young or old every loved ones have the opportunity to celebrate the holy Christmas. So does your pooch. While buying gifts for your friends, family and relatives this Christmas, you must also remember that the dogs, “man’s best friends” also deserve a Christmas gift.

When it comes to Christmas gifts for dogs, there are lots of them to choose. However, not all the Christmas gifts will be loved by your pets. While some dogs like wearing Christmas dog clothes, some others like dog hats. It’s up to you to choose the perfect Christmas gift for your pooch. A better selection of Christmas gifts for dogs can be made if you know the behavior of the pet.

Christmas Dog toys for brisk pooches

Most of the pooches love toys. This Christmas will be a boon to them. There are many Christmas toys for dogs this season. The ‘Ginger bed house dog toy’ will be the greatest attraction this year. This interactive toy will be the perfect gift for brisk pooches. There are toys in the shapes of Santa, Reindeers and snowman which can be tossed and tussled by your pooches.   

Dog Sofas and Dog beds for pooches that like to sleep 

Not all the pet dogs will be very brisk. Some of the pooches always love to sleep. A dog sofa or a dog bed will be a perfect Christmas gift for those kinda pooches. Dog beds has to be chosen keeping the pets size in mind. There are ‘nylon rise dog beds’ that can be adjusted to fit your dog’s height. Maintenance of these dog beds is very easy. Most of them are machine washable. Moreover, the dog beds are ultra-light weighted so that it can be taken anywhere with ease.

Dog Sweaters to protect your pooch from the Chill weather

In the snowy season of Christmas, some of the dogs will feel uncomfortable because of the chill weather. What would be a better gift for that kind of pooch other than a dog sweater? These acrylic dog sweaters will be very attractive to look at with beaded jewels and many other stuff. Dog sweaters are available in different sizes and colors for all kinda dog breeds.

Dog clothes and dog hats for Show off

When everyone wears new clothes for Christmas why your pooch should be left behind? Dog clothes and dog hats are for those who like to see their pets dressed up in different occasions. Dog Santa hats, Elf dog hats and Santa paws dog hat are the perfect dog gifts for this Christmas. There are dog hats with a Santa beard that adds more fun to Dog clothing.

Apart from the above mentioned Christmas dog gifts; there is many more stuff out there. Christmas dog collars, dog carriers, head bands are some of them. Christmas gifts for dogs are not only for your own pets. Gifting you friends pooch will also please your friend very much. Most of the people consider their pet dogs as one of their family members. So don’t forget to get a Christmas gift for their dog this Christmas.



ALEX

Bullie Pups R Us asked:


Should I Get a Dog?

Dogs are one of the most popular pets in the world. They have enjoyed this status for a very long time, probably from the time 10,000 to 15,000 years ago when Stone Age cave dwellers lived and hunted with dogs.

If you think you want a dog, you’re following a well-established tradition.

Why You Might Want a Dog

There are a number of reasons that people think they might want a dog for a pet. The most universal is the desire for the companionship of an animal who will be a loyal friend for many years. Others think it would be nice to have a watchdog to guard the house, and some people are interested in participating in dog shows, agility trials or other organized activities.

If you’re thinking about getting a dog, it’s important to determine if you can care for him properly. Dogs need several things from a pet parent:

Time

Commitment

Attention

For your dog to stay healthy, he will need to be fed correctly, exercised sufficiently, groomed regularly and taken to the vet for regular checkups and shots. If you want your dog to be well-mannered and a pleasure to be around, you will have to make sure he is thoroughly socialized and trained, which requires spending many hours with him. Dogs also need set schedules so they know when they’ll be fed and when they’ll be let out.

If you’re a very busy person who works long hours and travels a lot, dog ownership may not be for you.

Things to Consider Before You Buy a Dog

Owning a dog can be one of the most rewarding experiences you can have, but before you even begin to think about what kind of dog you might want, you need to ask yourself some serious questions about how well your lifestyle will suit any dog.

Many people fall in love with a cute puppy at a pet store and bring it home only to face a brutal truth. That cute puppy will have to be taken out to relieve himself first thing in the morning. Every single morning. Even weekend mornings. Even if it’s raining or snowing or 100 degrees in the shade. And he’ll have to go out more than once a day, sometimes several times more than once, especially when he’s young.

That’s just the start. Here are some other things to seriously consider before plunging into dog ownership:

Allergies

A bad allergic reaction to dogs in a member of your family can result in your having to find a new home for the dog–a sad experience for everyone. Some individuals are severely allergic and can’t even live in a house where a dog has lived. Others are much less bothered and can make adjustments so that they can live comfortably with a pet. An allergy may be to the dog’s saliva, hair or dander. Not all dogs cause the same allergic reaction. Certain breeds are known to be less allergenic because they shed very little or not at all. These include the Chinese crested, which has no hair, and breeds, which can range in size, such as a Basenji, Bichon Frise, and a Standard Poodle.

What Do You Want in a Dog?

Is your main concern to have a house pet who will be a good companion? Do you want an athletic dog who can go with you when you run? Will you take your dog on camping trips and will he have to be big enough to carry his own food? Do you want a dog that can be a credible watchdog and guardian? Do you want to show the dog? Do you want to participate in agility, obedience or field trials? You will want to study the different breeds and then talk to breeders and members of local dog clubs to find out what characteristics will best fit your expectations.

Can Your Children Adjust?

Children love puppies, but both children and puppies need supervision. Kids can play too rough with a puppy, and a young child will not understand that the puppy is tired and needs to rest. A puppy who is hurt or tired of playing is likely to growl and snap, and sometimes bite, to get the child to leave him alone. An older dog can be a serious threat if he is not used to children. There is one rule NEVER to be broken: Babies and toddlers should never be left unsupervised with a dog, no matter how much you trust the dog.

Can Your Other Pets Adjust?

If you already have pets, you will need to consider how the dog will adjust to them and they to him. If you have cats that have never been around a dog, you may have a long period of adjustment or the combination may not work at all. Puppies will usually learn to live with cats if care is taken that the initial meeting is not too traumatic. If you are considering an older dog, try to find out how he has previously reacted to other pets.

How Much Space Do You Have for a Dog?

This is an important consideration. A large, active dog, such as a retriever or German shepherd can run and play in a large, fenced-in yard. Often, though, the dog doesn’t do much playing if you aren’t available to be with him, and he will simply lounge around on the grass just as he would if he were inside on his dog bed. Large dogs can be happy even in an apartment if they get a long walk or two every day.

Housing

Unless you live in the country and spend a great deal of time outside with your dog, he will not be happy as a strictly outdoor dog. Outside should be for playing and exercising. A dog should never be left outdoors in hot weather without shade and water or in cold weather without well-insulated shelter. If your dog spends much time outside, he will need a fenced-in yard or a large kennel.

Can You Afford a Dog?

Your dog will have to be fed and groomed and provided with toys and treats. You may want to take him to obedience classes. If you travel occasionally on business or you’re going on trips and can’t take your dog, you will need to arrange to board him or to hire a dog sitter who will take care of him in your home.

Veterinary Care

Your dog will need regular veterinary checkups, which will include vaccinations, worming and flea and tick prevention. A medical emergency can cost several hundred dollars. As your dog ages, he may develop chronic health conditions that require regular visits to the vet. Veterinary charges vary from city to city. If you have not owned a pet before, you might want to call to see what the rates are in your area.

Grooming

If you don’t have time to groom your dog, don’t have the facilities to give him a bath conveniently, or if he requires special grooming, you will need to pay for a professional groomer. You will also need brushes and combs for maintenance.

Licensing

Dogs are required to be licensed. Fees are set by the county or the city and vary widely. To find out about licensing, call your county animal control office. Your vet and the local animal shelter will also know where you should go to purchase a license.

Exercise and Companionship - Do You Have Time?

Some dogs need only a short walk once or twice a day, while others are built to run all day. Be honest when you consider what level of regular exercise will be comfortable for you. If you have a heavy work schedule, taking the dog for a walk in the evening may be a burden rather than a pleasure. An active dog who only gets real exercise on weekends and holidays is likely to be unhappy, not to mention bored and destructive. In addition to exercise, your dog needs time with you. If you have a full work schedule and a busy social life, your dog is likely to be lonely, bored and destructive.

Size and Energy Level of the Dog

Before you even think about getting a young, highly energetic dog, such as a golden retriever, you need to ask yourself if you are strong enough to control and exercise a dog that will want to run and play and that could easily knock you down by accident. Don’t buy a puppy that will turn into a 150-pound athlete if your energy level is more attuned to a stroll with a toy poodle.

Is Your Lifestyle Stable?

One common reason that dogs are given up to animal shelters is that the owner has had to move, and the new living quarters don’t allow pets. Or the owner has married, and the new spouse doesn’t like dogs. Are you likely to move frequently? Is your family life stable? Does your job require you to travel often or for long periods of time?

Puppy or Older Dog?

Most people automatically think about puppies when they think about getting a dog. While puppies are cute and fun, there are benefits in getting an older dog. It’s much easier to housetrain an older dog. Puppies don’t physically have the capacity for holding their urine for long period of time and must be taken out frequently. You will not have to wait for an older dog to grow up to see what size he will be or what kind of temperament he will have, and if you get your dog from an animal shelter or a rescue organization, you will probably be saving his life.

The First Steps

If after having read all this, you still want a dog, congratulations! You’re probably eager to take the first step, and you want to dash out to the pet store, or the breeder, or the shelter, or the rescue organization, but don’t rush out and pick up a dog just yet. It’s important that you take the time to read as much as you can about selecting, introducing and keeping a dog. Browse through the other articles on our web site. Check books out of the public library or visit a bookstore.

Consider what kind of dog you want. Do you want a purebred dog or a mix? Do you want a male or a female? Do you want a puppy or an older dog? Talk to other dog owners that you know. Where did they get their dogs and what was their experience? Where do you want to look for the perfect choice?

Once you decide to get a dog, choose an occasion to bring him home when you and your family will have time to give him plenty of attention; bringing him home at the start of a long weekend or a vacation, when you will have more time to spend at home with him, will definitely make the transition to his new home easier for him as well as his new family. Prepare for his arrival. You’ll need to know what to expect and how to care for him when he first comes into your life.

If you have carefully chosen your new canine friend and properly prepared for him, bringing him home can be one of the most joyful experiences of your life. He will become part of your family and will love you without reservation. Return his love, and he will really be your best friend.



BRANDEN

Laura L asked:


My dog is a miniature pinscher, and he can never get along with other dogs. I mean, the moment he sees other dogs, he starts barking like crazy! What’s worse, when he gets near to the other dog, he starts attacking it. Is there a way to teach my dog not to be so mean? If so, how?

DONN

donyafs asked:


My friend just rescued a dog from a shelter. The dog is very sweet and unfortunately has Kennel cough. She has been on 2 kinds of medicine since Tuesday. I believe one is an antibiotic. Is it safe to introduce her to my dog? Is she still contagious? My dog gets yearly vaccines, I’m just not sure if his boardatella is up to date because I don’t board him.

ANTOINE