David Beart asked:


Obesity in dogs is an enormous problem today. An estimated 20-40 percent of dogs in developed countries are overweight or obese. In the United States some 17 million dogs are considered overweight or obese. That is about a quarter of the population of owned dogs.

Canine obesity can shorten your dog’s life. It can lead to diabetes mellitus, damage to joints, bones and ligaments; heart disease and increased blood pressure; difficulty breathing; decreased stamina; decreased liver function; increased surgical and anesthetic risk; reproductive problems; digestive disorders (including flatulence); decreased immune function; skin and coat problems; increased risk of cancer; and decreased quality and length of life.

In most cases the cause of obesity in dogs is overfeeding. People give their dogs too much food. Or they feed their dogs the wrong kind of food for the dog’s lifestyle. They provide sedentary dogs with food for active, working dogs. They feed their dogs too many high calorie treats. They add in extra food in addition to the dog’s regular meals. Or, on a related note, they don’t let their dog get enough exercise for the amount of food they are feeding.

Basically, dogs become overweight for the same reasons as people and it is just as unhealthy for them.

There are many things you can do to help your dog lose weight. No one wants to see a skinny dog but, ideally, you want your dog to be a good weight and have good muscle tone. You should feel your dog’s body. Can you feel an ribs? You should be able to feel ribs without seeing them. You don’t want to feel rolls of fat or flab. And, when your dog walks he shouldn’t roll or waddle.

You can start by evaluating your dog’s food. Are you feeding your dog a proper food? Does your dog get enough exercise for the food you are feeding him? If you are feeding your dog a high protein food does your dog get enough exercise to run off the energy in the food? It may be a good idea to look for a food that says it’s for All Life Stages or Maintenance. Your overweight dog probably doesn’t need a food that says it’s for Performance dogs.

There is some debate over whether you should feed Weight Management foods to dogs seeking to lose weight or not. Some experts believe that these foods leave a dog feeling hungry and that you end up feeding more of the food or supplementing it with snacks.

Once you have decided if you are feeding your dog the proper food you should see if you are feeding the proper amounts. If you are feeding the amount recommended on the bag’s label you are probably overfeeding your dog. Most dog food company feeding recommendations are overly generous and will result in obese dogs. You should feed your dog as much as he will eat in five-ten minutes and then put his bowl or pan up. You can divide his meal up into two or three small feedings per day. This is usually better for dogs than one large meal and will help dogs who are trying to lose weight. Your dog will have something to look forward to.

Your dog can still have snacks but you should try to make them healthy, low calorie snacks. You can give your dogs carrots or popcorn as snacks. Most dogs like both of these foods as treats and you can give your dog all he wants. Avoid fattening peanut butter snacks and high calorie dog cookies.

If you are trying the new diet and your dog is staring at you like you’re starving him you can add something like cooked green beans to his dog food (no bacon or other fatty seasonings). Green beans and other veggies will help your dog feel full without adding a lot of calories.

Of course, dogs can’t lose weight as fast as humans. Don’t try to make your dog lose more than two percent of his body weight per week. That may only be a few ounces. Slow and steady weight loss will lead to healthy changes. Once your dog is on the proper diet and the both of you forming healthy habits your dog will soon be looking and feeling much better.

Your dog can overcome obesity but he can’t do it without your help. You control his food. If you want your best friend to live a long and healthy life it’s up to you to manage his food and his eating habits. Make healthy choices for your dog and you’ll both be happier.



BRUCE

Chris Smith asked:


Dog food aggression is one of those dog behavior problems that is difficult for us humans to fully understand. It just doesn’t seem to make sense that your dog would consider you a threat to his/her food resource. I mean you gave him the food in the first place, and if you feed your dog’s the same kinds of foods that I do, it’s not all that appealing anyway!

But, what is your dog thinking?

If your dog glares at you, snarls, growls and positions himself between you and the food he is actually saying to you “this is mine, go away, find your own”. He is basically telling you that he considers himself as the leader or alpha dog in your household. Dog food aggression (sometimes called canine possession aggression) is a dominance issue, it is serious and needs to be addressed immediately, it won’t just go away.

We’ve all made the mistake of laughing and even encouraging our feisty little dogs when they first display the “cute” signs of dog food aggression. Don’t fall into this trap! Food or toy aggression in dogs should never be tolerated as you never know when it can escalate into something more dangerous for you or a family member.

Why Does Your Dog Display Dog Food Aggression?

Canine possession aggression can be triggered by any number of factors but in most cases it can be attributed to one of these common causes:

- Your dog is desperate for this food, in his mind he doesn’t know if or when he will get more food. Therefore he protects or guards his food, just like he would have done in a pack situation in the wild.

- Your dog may begin to see you as someone who is always taking good stuff away. He comes to view you more as a threat than a provider (you’ve got to turn this thinking around).

- Dog food aggression can be part of the general confusion regarding who the leader is in your owner - dog relationship. Often it is not an isolated incident, it’s something you need to rectify.

- It’s possible that your dog doesn’t even understand that his dog food aggression is unacceptable behavior. In such cases there is an obvious communication breakdown between human and dog.

General Rules For Correcting Food Aggression In Dogs

- If your dog is directing his aggression towards other dogs the best solution is to simply separate them at meal times. Feed them in different rooms or in their crates.

- Involve all of your family members in this dog food aggression training.

- Take control of feeding time. You control the time and place of dinner time - own the food!

- Make your dog earn any food. Just simple tasks like sit or a down stay is fine.

- Make it clear to your young puppies that it’s good to have people around when they are eating. If you do this from day one you will almost certainly prevent dog food aggression problems.

- If you encounter dog food aggression it is a good idea to feed your dog after you and your family eat. This again is a throwback to your dogs pack mentality where the alpha dog or leader of the pack (which is you) eats first - your dog will understand this technique.

- Don’t let your dog “win” the food through his growling, this would reward the very behavior you are trying to eradicate. Don’t bully or intimidate your dog though, it’s much better to make him actually like having you around at meal time (follow the tips below to achieve this).

- Never respond to canine possession aggression with aggression of your own. In essence what this does is to lock you and your dog into a battle of wills. Your dogs next move will most likely be to step up his level of aggression to counter your action.

Dog Food Aggression Training Techniques

Firstly, be careful. If you believe your dog poses any real physical threat to you or family members I’d advise getting professional help. Speak to a professional dog trainer or animal behaviorist.

Below is a list of training techniques which could help your dog overcome his dog food aggression. Remember all of these techniques are designed to work towards reconditioning your dog to enjoy having you around anytime. Mix it up, show your dog who is boss.

- Hand feed your dogs, even stick your hands into your dogs bowl while he is eating.

- Stroke and pet your dog while he is eating and at the same time talk to him in a calming tone. All you are doing at this point is showing your dog that it is a good thing for you to be around.

- Stand at a distance your dog is comfortable with, then gradually reduce this distance over time. You can flick a few treats in (or near) the bowl as you slowly reduce the distance.

- Put your dogs bowl down with nothing in it, your dog will look back at you as though you are crazy. He’ll then literally beg you to come over and fill his bowl.

- Feed your dog as normal but hold back a few pieces of his meal. When he is finished licking the bowl, he’ll look back up at you, then you can come over and give him the remaining food.

- Drop a few of your dogs very favorite treats into his bowl each time you walk past it. After a while of this your dog will welcome the sight of you approaching the bowl.

- When your dog is eating, call him over to you, when he gets to you reward him, make it worth his while then let him back to the food bowl.

- While you are preparing your dogs meal put him in a down-stay or sit position, only release him from your command once you have put his bowl down. By doing this you are controlling meal time and establishing (or re-establishing) your role as your dogs leader.

- Work with another family member on this technique. Put your dog in his collar and leash and have him sit with your helper while you prepare the food. When you are ready release your dog and allow him his food. Again you are controlling the situation.

- Try the “Trade Up Method”. What you do is take away the food or toy your dog is guarding, and replace it with something better. You can use an obedience command such as “give” or “leave it” to encourage your dog to release the precious resource he is guarding. You then take this resource (the food or toy) and give the trade up item to your dog. Once your dog has finished with the new item, you can then give back the resource you took away. This technique proves to your dog that he will receive something great for giving something up, it will recondition his thinking.

- Every time you are with your dog have him in a pinch or prong collar with a leash attached. Whenever he displays any signs of dog food aggression you immediately administer a correction to your dog by snapping on the leash. What this does to your dog is build a negative association to the act of his food guarding antics.

Good luck with your training efforts.



AUBREY

Ruth Bird asked:


Make obedience training interesting and meaningful to your dog. Be sure that obedience training infiltrates your dog’s favorite activities and that your dog’s favorite activities infiltrates training. This is an effective dog training program that gives you what you need to know about basic pet obedience. This information will provide you with a better understanding of why your dog does what he does.Dog obedience training is a continuous process.

We (adults and child) all needed training on dog obedience. Basic obedience training is important for a good canine companion as well a requirement for future training in various dog sports. The proper dog obedience training is to make sure that is proper reinforcement. If you are not doing your own dog obedience training, find an appropriate place that will train your dog for you. Once your dog gets the hang of the simple beginning commands, you can then go on with your dog obedience training. Do not feel discouraged though if your dog seems to forget all of its dog obedience training though. Whatever the reason, many approach obedience training with anxiety, and a certainty they and their dog will fail.

Another reason why obedience training is a good thing to do with you dog, is that it’s fun. Now you can avoid wasting time and energy using ineffective dog obedience training methods to master your dog’s behavioral problems. Summary: Special techniques for those training small dogs in competitive obedience!

It would be rare to take a dog from backyard training and exhibit successfully in obedience competition. Jumping over obstacles Dumb bell training for obedience Obedience training is available for those people interested in competing with their dogs. Most dog owners, however, see “obedience” training as marching around in circles teaching their dog to be perfectly aligned with their left leg. Your dog’s training will be designed to teach your dog useful obedience commands, good manners, and acceptable behavior patterns. The goal of obedience training is to create a common language between dog and master so that both species can live together in harmony. You may be surprised to find, though, that many behavioral problems will be eliminated simply by channeling your dog’s energy into obedience training.

You should not wait until your dog is 6 months of age before you start basic obedience training. From guard dog training to dog hunting supply

There is “obedience training,” which is generally teaching the dog how to perform specific activities. It is best for you and your dog to go through obedience training together, so that you both learn from each other.

Our dogs love obedience training! Proper dog obedience training is essential for every pet dog… These days there are many “experts” vocalizing in the field of dog obedience training. Another less well known benefit of obedience training is the bond it reinforces between trainer and dog. The fourth major benefit of obedience training is the fun it can provide the owner and dog team. Whether you have a new puppy or are having problems with your adult dog, obedience training is the perfect solution.

Obedience Every dog should receive some type of obedience training. Remember that timing and consistency are key when beginning dog obedience training with your young pups. Clicker Training is used to train pets, obedience competition winners, service dogs for the blind, deaf or physically disabled, even police and guard dogs. On completing this class the dog/handler team should be prepared to fulfill the entry requirements for the Obedience 1 training class.

To increase the adoptability of selected adult dogs through basic obedience training. Trained properly, obedience training does not ruin a dog for the breed ring: on the contrary, it can enhance it. In the first place, nothing will build up the relationship between you and your dog like obedience training. We specialize in training and behavior solutions for obedience, puppy training, retriever training, agility, dog aggression, separation anxiety, housebreaking and much more. Our dog training services are professional, yet loving and will leave your dog obedience needs satisfied. A cute, sweet little puppy can become a rough and difficult dog if not given consistent, effective obedience training.

For many households a family is not complete until there is a dog included in the family unit.

That is why the whole family, includein the children need to be involved in dog training. A well behaved dog is welcome almost everywhere and is a joy to have.

A well behaved dog is also a happy and safe dog.



DUSTIN

Allen-Linda Anderson asked:


With every wag of its tail the First Dog will accomplish secret missions for dogs everywhere. The White House dog will teach the Obama children and their counterparts in homes across America about compassion, responsibility, and respect for animals while providing plenty of photo-perfect fun and stress relief.

But the dog has already sparked controversy and hope among people who passionately care about animals. The Obama dog will fulfill its missions as the nation’s doggie trendsetter with every choice the family makes for their new pet.

First, there was the issue of whether the Obamas would get a dog from a breeder or adopt a rescue. Not everyone agrees that rescued dogs are the way to go. The First Dog will have to earn high approval ratings to convince skeptics that are opposed to bringing home a dog with an uncertain lineage or past.

The Obamas settled that debate by choosing a rescued Portuguese Water Dog, called Porties. Is this choice of dog delivering the same message as the Obama campaign that anyone, regardless of origin or parentage, can make it into the White House?

Next, pet pundits discussed whether Porties are a good representative of rescued dogs since so few of their breed are abandoned. With an estimated 6 to 8 million dogs and cats in animal shelters that euthanize 3 to 4 million annually, animal lovers hope the First Dog will demonstrate that any type of rescued animal makes a great family pet.

Other questions have been raised: Will the new dog be hypoallergenic enough and is there actually such a creature as an allergy-free canine? Can a Portie protect Sasha and Malia, or will the gregarious, happy-go-lucky dog be oblivious to danger?

Another secret mission of the White House dog will be to set an example for children and pets by offering the Obama children a chance to experience what it’s like to have another creature depend on them.

The ASPCA’s “Guide to Kids and Pets” on its website clue parents in on what to expect children of various ages to do with an adopted animal. American Humane Association states on its website, “We believe that one of the best ways to protect children and animals — and, on a broader scale, create a more humane world — is through humane education that teaches kindness toward other people, animals and the environment.”

In line with the axiom that children learn leadership skills and empathy by having a pet, First Lady Michelle Obama has stated unequivocally that her children will do the walking and **** scooping.

Children who implore their families to adopt a dog typically face the dilemma of how to keep up with responsibilities of pet ownership when juggling school assignments and activities and thriving social lives. If Mrs. Obama succeeds in keeping her high-profile children engaged in daily dog duties, parents can point to the White House and say, “See? Sasha and Malia are taking care of THEIR pooch.”

One example of dogs having a mission coming to the aid of children is in our new book, Angel Dogs with a Mission (New World Library, 2008). Zoom, a Cardigan Welsh corgi, and Deb Richeson of Smithfield, Kentucky began visiting a local elementary school and offering the dog’s patient listening skills to special needs students. Not only “Zoom’s Kids” improved, but also the entire school’s reading test scores rose. Perhaps Sasha and Malia will read school papers to the First Dog that they write at the desk in the Lincoln bedroom and be encouraged by canine appreciation.

Some of the questions that will be raised about the First Dog are serious. The ways in which the Obamas deal with the following issues are sure to send important messages about responsible care to those homes that already contain America’s 60 million dogs.

* Considering the pet food debacle, what will the First Dog eat? Organic pet food? Wheat and corn-free? Vegetarian? What brands?

* Will the snow and ice-melting products used on the White House sidewalks be pet-safe?

* Does everybody know not to use cocoa mulch on the Rose Garden?

* Who is in charge of patrolling the premises so plants and foods that are toxic to dogs - grapes, raisons, chocolate, onions, artificially sweetened products — aren’t at drooling-mouth level?

* Where will the Obama dog sleep at night? In the bedroom with the children or in a crate somewhere else? Will it be the right size crate?

* Are the Obamas using biodegradable **** bags? It might sound like a funny question but savvy environmentalists will want to know.

Then, there will be fodder for comedians and national news segments:

* Who will train the most famous dog in the world not to bite reporters or will that lesson be discreetly skipped?

* Will the dog have a Secret Service code name? What should it be?

* Will the dog sport a diamond-studded collar and sleep on a $500 dollar doggie bed as befits its celebrity status?

* When the Obama children have sleepovers, will friends bring their canines for doggie night out?

* What famous person or figure from history will the dog dress as for Halloween?

* Who will be the official White House doggie photographer?

* Which dog toys will grace the gleaming and carpeted floors and new playground?

* Does the dog’s name have ethnic or historical origins? Does it more creatively top previous First Dog names such as Spot, Buddy, Millie, Lucky, Grits, Liberty, Checkers, Him and Her, Feller, Heidi, Duke, Pushinka, and King Tut?

Summing up the First Dog’s capacity for bringing about change, we believe that although the new White House dog might become a source of debate and emulation, one of the dog’s greatest missions is just to be the First Family’s pet. Relief will come when the Obamas engage in a tug-toy pull instead of wrestling with the economy and other issues. For a moment, they can relax and forget the cares of the day.

Hopefully the First Dog will unite more than divide us. After all, who can resist a cute face and unconditional love? But the dog’s greatest mission may be as a pack leader for the two out of three American households with pets, so that all dogs will have good and safe homes, even if they’re not living in white houses.

What do you think the secret missions of Obama’s new First Dog will be?

Allen and Linda Anderson

Angel Animals Network

www.angelanimals.net



GIL

Debbie Foster asked:


You should be aware of the fact that dogs are made differently from each other and although some may have similar traits, they can be very different. The differences in temperament and character among dog types can be as varied as the differences in people. It\’s important to research what dog breed would be a great match to your lifestyle or to your home. That way you you won\’t run into trouble when you bring a dog home. There are numerous types of dog breeds to choose from. Some are purebred and some are cross-bred, like the Labradoodle which is a combination of a Poodle and a Labrador Retriever.

There are numerous questions to consider. One of the first questions to ask yourself is, what size dog can your home handle? Do you have a yard?Having a yard for a dog to run around in, or one large enough for good size dog pens, means you can get a larger breed. The next big consideration is if you have children. If so, you would want a dog whose breed is mild mannered and can get along well playing with youngsters. While some dog breeds can get along well with older children, some of them would not do well with the antics of small kids. A home with small youngsters needs a medium to large size dog that is gentle by nature and patient with kids. Often, small kids treat their dogs like a toy. They don\’t understand that a dog is not something they should include in their roughhousing as they or the dog could get hurt.

Does your home or business needs a watchdog so you\’d be looking at larger, more aggressive breeds. Or maybe you would rather have a dog that you can enter into dog show competitions. Perhaps you just want a pet that can be your best buddy to stay by your side as you watch television or go for a walk. Do you live alone? If so, you might want a pet that doesn\’t need as much attention and can be left alone while you go to work all day. One that would be content by playing with his toys or sleeping most of the day.

In deciding on the right dog breed for you, these questions are practical considerations.

Dogs can also be divided by two other major families, those that shed their coats or hair and those that in reality barely lose hair at all. Shedding is a huge complaint of dog owners. Dog hair is usually found on your clothing, furniture and lands on your guests\’ clothes when they sit down. Be aware that even some short hair breeds can shed. The shedding of hair can be categorized into those that barely shed, seasonal shedding only or constantly dropping hair.

Different breeds will also have fundamental differences in both height and weight. Dog breeds, in terms of their weight can be stated as smaller dogs weighing under 10 pounds, 11-25 pounds is the typical weight of medium dogs, large dogs may weigh 26-50 pounds and extra large dogs weigh 51 to 80 pounds. Mastiffs and St. Bernards which belong to those extremely large dog breeds can tip the scale at 100-180 pounds.  In choosing a breed, don\’t settle on the dog as it appears a pup. Remember to make your choice dependent on the size the dog will grow to as an adult. You shouldn\’t be shocked to see that your big dog has an appetite as big or bigger than yours. Taking home a dog like a Mastiff means having a costly dog food bill. You may also want to be sure you have sturdy furniture that can withstand any roughhousing accidents.

Take time to study the dog breed, size, disposition and grooming requirements before you make a choice. More grooming and care may be needed of some dog types like those used in dog shows, or those with longer hair. Some dog breeds are more prone to certain illnesses and diseases. So do your research before buying. Having correct information about the different dog breeds will help you make the right choice so that you and your dog can have a balanced and positive relationship.



FILIBERTO

Gerry Restrivera asked:


Dogs are certainly among man’s best friends. However, in some circumstances, these animals also have the potential to be people’s and other animals’ worst enemy. As canines, dogs are equipped with sharp teeth and attacking techniques that make them dangerous when provoked and you have to deal with dogs’ aggression.

Dogs occasionally attack people and other dogs or animals. You may wonder what makes dogs behave violently. In truth, dogs are peace-loving and do not easily turn aggressive, unless provoked. Because dogs’ mode of communications and concepts are different from man’s and from other animals’, there are some actions that maybe perceived by them as aggression or dogs’ aggression.

It is instinct of any living animal, people included, to protect itself when there is imminent danger. Remember that dogs just turn aggressive whenever they feel like they are threatened. And beware of dogs’ aggression, because dogs are truly destructive and rowdy when they get really angry.

Dogs’ aggressive behavior

There are several types of aggression that influence dogs. Such dog’s aggressions are different and nature and are acquired by the dogs during different situations. To be able to learn how to properly and effectively handle dogs’ aggression, it would be important if you would understand the nature of dogs’ aggression.

The first type of dogs’ aggression is dominance aggression. This type is exhibited when the dog feels like he is the dominant organism in the area. This is not common to dogs, but studies suggest that this type of aggressive behavior is relative to the particular breed of dogs. Of course, fighting dogs are more likely to feel dominant.

If the dogs feel that someone, or some other animal, is threatening this sense of dominance, he would likely stage an attack. Several of your actions, like raising hands, clapping or tapping its head, could be interpreted by the dog as breaching its dominance or trigger dogs’ aggression, so beware.

The other type of dogs’ aggression is protective in nature. If the dog feels like you would attack it, it would surely retaliate in defense. The same goes for fear-motivated dogs’ aggression. If there is fear, the dog would not think and act naturally, making it become jittery and become aggressive.

There is a territorial sense in the dog, so if someone or some other animal intrudes its territories, the dog would turn aggressive. Dogs’ aggression could also be redirected. If the animal becomes mad at someone, but could not possibly attack him, the dog could redirect his aggression into someone else.

Dealing with the dogs’ aggressive behavior

Now that you have a brief but concise background about the nature and possible causes of dogs’ aggression, you now understand what and how dogs could turn rowdy and dangerous. Make sure you try not to arouse feeling of threat or fear into the dog so it would not behave aggressively.

For sure, you now know some of your mannerisms and actions that could make your dog behave aggressively. Avoid doing those actions when the dog is around to prevent any possible attack or dogs’ aggression.

If you could not help the aggressive behavior, it would be better to seek professional help for dogs’ aggression so your dog could not harm anyone else. Prior to doing so, confine your dog inside a secluded place or a cage. Never let it loose free because it might suddenly attack or bite bystanders and other animals.

Do not punish the dog because doing so would only make the animal behave more aggressively. Because you are the smarter between the two of you, your dog and yourself, be more understanding and patient.

Do you want to know how to curb your dog’s aggressiveness? Put an end to the stress and annoyance of your dog behavior problems and slash your dog obedience training time in half by using techniques that give you immediate results. Stop your dog’s aggression visit Dogs’ Corner

To know more about pets visit All About Pets



ALDO

Dara Solomon asked:


Escaping is a serious problem for both you and your dog, as it could have tragic consequences. If your dog is running loose, he is in danger of being hit by a car, being injured in a fight with another dog, or being hurt in a number of other ways. Additionally, you’re liable for any damage or injury your dog may cause and you may be required to pay a fine if he’s picked up by an animal control agency. In order to resolve an escaping problem, you must determine not only how your dog is getting out, but also why he is escaping.

Why Dogs Escape



Social Isolation/Frustration

Your dog may be escaping because he’s bored and lonely if:

• He is left alone for long periods of time without opportunities for interaction with you.

• His environment is relatively barren, without playmates or toys.

• He is a puppy or adolescent (under three years old) and doesn’t have other outlets for his energy.

• He is a particularly active type of dog (like the herding or sporting breeds) who needs an active job in order to be happy.

Recommendations:

We recommend expanding your dog’s world and increasing his “people time” in the following ways:

• Walk your dog daily. It’s good exercise, both mentally and physically.

• Teach your dog to fetch a ball or Frisbee and practice with him as often as possible.

• Teach your dog a few commands and/or tricks. Practice these commands and/or tricks every day for five to ten minutes.

• Take an obedience class with your dog and practice daily what you’ve learned.

• Provide interesting toys (Kong-type toys filled with treats or busy-box toys) to keep your dog busy when you’re not home.

Sexual Roaming

Dogs become sexually mature at around six months of age. An intact male dog is motivated by a strong, natural drive to seek out female dogs. It can be very difficult to prevent an intact dog from escaping, because his motivation to do so is very high.

Recommendations:

Have your male dog neutered. Studies show that neutering will decrease sexual roaming in about 90% of the cases. If, however, an intact male has established a pattern of escaping, he may continue to do so even after he’s neutered, so it’s important to have him neutered as soon as possible.

Have your female dog spayed. If your intact female dog escapes your yard while she’s in heat, she’ll probably get pregnant. Millions of unwanted pets are euthanized every year. Please don’t contribute to the pet overpopulation problem by allowing your female dog to breed indiscriminately.

Fears and Phobias

Your dog may be escaping in response to something he is afraid of if he escapes when he is exposed to loud noises, such as thunderstorms, firecrackers or construction sounds.

Recommendations:

• Identify what is frightening your dog and desensitize him to it. You may need professional help with the desensitization process. Check with your veterinarian about giving your dog an anti-anxiety medication while you work on behavior modification.

• Leave your dog indoors when he is likely to encounter the fear stimulus. Mute noise by leaving him in a basement or windowless bathroom and leave on a television, radio or loud fan.

• Provide a “safe place” for your dog. Observe where he likes to go when he feels anxious, then allow access to that space, or create a similar space for him to use when the fear stimulus is present.

Separation Anxiety

Your dog may be escaping due to separation anxiety if:

• He escapes as soon as, or shortly after, you leave.

• He displays other behaviors that reflect a strong attachment to you, such as following you around, frantic greetings or reacting anxiously to your preparations to leave.

• He remains near your home after he’s escaped.

Factors that can precipitate a separation anxiety problem:

• There has recently been a change in your family’s schedule that has resulted in your dog being left alone more often.

• Your family has recently moved to a new house.

• There’s been a death or loss of a family member or another family pet.

• Your dog has recently spent time at an animal shelter or boarding kennel.

Recommendations: Separation anxiety can be resolved using counter-conditioning and desensitization techniques.

How Dogs Escape

Some dogs jump fences, but most actually climb them, using some part of the fence to push off from. A dog may also dig under the fence, chew through the fence, learn to open a gate or use any combination of these methods to get out of the yard. Knowing how your dog gets out will help you to modify your yard. However, until you know why your dog wants to escape, and you can decrease his motivation for doing so, you won’t be able to successfully resolve the problem.

Recommendations for Preventing Escape

For climbing/jumping dogs: Add an extension to your fence that tilts in toward the yard. The extension doesn’t necessarily need to make the fence much higher, as long as it tilts inward at about a 45-degree angle.

For digging dogs: Bury chicken wire at the base of your fence (with the sharp edges rolled inward), place large rocks at the base, or lay chain-link fencing on the ground.

Punishment

Never punish your dog after he’s already out of the yard. Dogs associate punishment with what they’re doing at the time they’re punished. Punishing your dog after the fact won’t eliminate the escaping behavior, but will only make him afraid to come to you.

Never punish your dog if the escaping is a fear-related problem or is due to separation anxiety. Punishing fear-motivated behaviors will only make your dog more afraid, and thus make the problem worse.

Punishment is only effective if administered at the moment your dog is escaping and if he doesn’t associate the correction with you.

 

Outside sources for pet help:

FunAdvice.com Pets

Humane Society of the United States



ALDEN

Kayye Nynne asked:


The prevalence of genetic disease in dogs today can only be described as alarmingly common which is bad news for dog owners and dog lovers alike. The following is a list to illustrate the magnitude of the problem:

1. On average all dogs carry at least 4-5 defective genes.

2. Over 500 genetic diseases have been identified in dogs.   

3. Hip Dysplasia (HD) (an inherited orthopedic disease that may result in the dog becoming lame) commonly occurs in 60 dog breeds and occurs less frequently in another 110 breeds; thus this disease is seen in over 170 breeds of dog.

4. 119 dog breeds are commonly afflicted with progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), a disease that quite often leads to blindness in the affected animal.

5. Of all the dog breeds the Poodle suffers from the most number of genetic diseases…145! The reason why the Poodle is predisposed to so many genetic diseases is because not only are there 3 distinct sizes of Poodle in this breed, the large count of disease is a reflection of the popularity of this dog breed. By and large a good rule of thumb is, the more popular a dog breed the greater the number of genetic diseases inherent in that breed.

6. Several popular dog breeds are linked to over 100 genetic diseases.

7. These days dog breeders spend well over $500,000,000 annually in an effort to address this disturbing trend of genetic disease in man’s best friend.

As it is all the various dog breeds that exist today were artificially created; in other words each and every dog breed was selectively bred for a particular trait, be it coat color, coat length, sniffing ability, shortness of stature (miniatures), ****** appearance and so forth…the list is virtually endless. The means by which those desired traits were obtained was to selectively breed that population of dogs that most strongly exhibited the desired trait; a breeding strategy that is otherwise known as inbreeding!

Gene Pool And Population Factors

A population may be described as a breeding group that possesses gene continuity from one generation to the next. Currently a growing body of dog experts believe that the dog evolved as a new species from the wolf to occupy a developing niche about 15,000 years ago. That developing niche revolved around human waste dumps; opportunistic wolves began inhabiting those waste dumps for easily available food supplies.

All told, 15,000 years on the evolutionary scale is an extremely brief period for a new species to evolve from another, suggesting that there must have been a considerable amount of inbreeding amongst those opportunistic waste-dump-frequenting wolves to propagate the tameness trait in so short a time span! Compounding this issue of limited genetic pool, a growing number of dog researchers now believe that the original genetic ancestry of the dog evolved from only three female wolves that inhabited China several thousand years ago (the so called eves of dog evolution).

The important point to note here is that even before mankind began his intensive trait-specific breeding program of the dog, and due to its unorthodox super-accelerated evolution, the dog gene pool right from the get go was rather limited!

Development Of A Dog Breed

By its very nature the development of a new dog breed involves a considerable amount of inbreeding to magnify and evolve the desired trait(s) characteristic of that new breed. However this process results in a considerable number of undesired results. If we consider the Dalmatian, a breed of dog characterized by its distinctive pattern of spots, somewhere along the line during that process of selecting for the spotted pattern trait, Dalmatian dog breeders unknowingly and unintentionally also bred this dog for an abnormal uric acid gene!

By the time people realized that there was a very serious problem in the Dalmatian, this dog breed was homozygous for the abnormal uric acid gene! (Homozygous refers to identical pairs of genes that manifest as an observable trait as opposed to non-identical gene pairs known as heterozygous that confer no observable trait; i.e., recessives). This unwanted side effect means that Dalmatians are perhaps the only breed of dog that is predisposed to urine stones (from excessive levels of uric acid), a debilitating urinary tract condition. In an effort to rectify this problem the Dalmatian line was subsequently crossbred with various Pointer breeds to eliminate the inherent homozygotic uric acid gene whilst still maintaining the spotted pattern that defines the Dalmatian dog.



Gene Linkage

The abnormal elevated levels of uric acid in the Dalmatian associated with the spotting-pattern gene, is a classic case of gene linkage. Linkage is said to occur when genes expressing different properties are located on the same chromosome and are inherited as a unit. In fact the occurrence of gene linkage probably explains how the dog morphologically (shape wise) differentiated from the wolf so dramatically and so quickly; the gene that expressed the tameness trait was linked to genes that expressed other properties such as floppy ears, change in coat color, barking or simply put properties characteristic of today’s domesticated dog.

The bottom line here is that selective breeding for a particular trait (as happens whenever a new dog breed is being developed) carries the inherent risk of magnifying the expression of unwanted defective genes that would otherwise rarely occur under natural circumstances.



Genetic Diversity

During the process of natural selection genetic diversity is maintained, but contrastingly in selective breeding the opposite holds true; genetic diversity is reduced! Recent studies have revealed that genetic variation occurs frequently in normal populations of any species and that even those genes that are deleterious and defective are preserved in the gene pool as so-called recessive genes (recessive gene traits are not visibly apparent unlike dominant genes). It is now believed that such genetic variability confers adaptive properties to a population in the event of extreme environmental change.

Thus mutative genes that confer minimal benefit today could play a significant future role in the survival of the species in which it occurs. This could explain why defective or mutative genes are preserved as recessive genes in a population’s gene pool. A good example illustrating the beneficial role recessive genes can confer to a population is the case of the English Peppered moth.

Like a large number of insects the Peppered moth relies on its color to camouflage it from predators. The dominantly prevalent grayish color of the Peppered moth allows it to blend in with its environment which so happen to be tree trunks and lichen of like color. Although lighter and darker shades of the moth exist, few of such individuals survive for the simple reason their camouflaging abilities are less effective.

However with the advent of the industrial revolution in the late 19th century the resultant pollution darkened the tree trunks such that the minority recessive trait which conferred a darker shade of gray to the moths became dominant because such moths were then better able to avoid predation. As pollution levels subsequently decreased the tree trunks gradually reverted to their normal color and so also did the color of the Peppered moth revert back to its pre-industrialization gray. Thus once again the recessive dark-gray color in the moth reverted to its usual minority role!

Combating Dog Genetic Disease

Because almost every single dog possesses at least 4 defective genes (no matter whether it’s a purebred or mixed breed) unless strong active measures are taken the problem of dog genetic disease can only get worse. Such strong effective measures by necessity require the participation of everyday dog owners and not just dog breeders or dog researchers!

Dog Genome Project Wants Your Dog’s Blood!

The Canine Genome Sequencing Project (Dog Genome Project based at the Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT in Boston) has sequenced the dog genome in its entirety. One of their priority goals now is to identify the genes responsible for causing dog genetic diseases, defective genes, carrier states of hereditary disease and much more. Through using the powerful resource of the sequenced dog genome, the good folks at the Dog Genome Project hope to reverse the widespread prevalence of genetic disease in dogs worldwide.

However to achieve that noble goal they need your help! How?

Well the only means by which recessive genes and carrier states can be identified is at the genetic level (genotype) and not by visual observation of recognizable morphological traits (phenotype). To do this the Dog Genome Project staff need a large number of dog samples to analyze and that is where you, as a dog owner, can play a significant role by sending them a blood sample of your dog.

More about the dog

For more information about how to help alleviate dog genetic disease go to:

http://www.broad.mit.edu/mammals/dog



CLIFFORD

Dog Science asked:


Don’t end up with a £5,000 fine by getting it wrong, everyone should read this!

 

Many of us in the UK love to spoil our pets with various accessories like coats, jumpers, ‘doggles’ and even shoes! One of the most important things however that should not be neglected or forgotten is a Pet ID Tag.

Pet Identification not only makes sense (in case you pet gets lost) but also is a LEGAL requirement in the UK!

The law requires your to have your name, address (including postcode) and ideally phone number on the pet identification.

“The Control of Dogs Order 1992 mandates that any dog in a public place must wear a collar with the name and address (including postcode) of the owner engraved or written on it, or engraved on a tag. Your telephone number is optional (but advisable).” [ref Kennel Club website]

If you don’t follow the law with this, you could risk a £5,000 fine!!

In our opinion, the BEST way to get your pet identification all wrapped up, is to take our 5 step plan…

Get your pet microchipped

Get yourself a quality engraved pet ID tag disc. Ideally ensure it’s a nice thick disc, with quality engraving (not cheap scratch engraving like you might find in help yourself pet shops). Add your name and address. And hopefully if space, phone number. Also if you can, add a line like “I am microchipped”.

Ensure the tag is attached to the collar with a high quality split ring. Don’t use one that has a cheap round metal attachment which will eventually bend and allow the tag to come loose from the collar!

Get an embroidered personalised dog collar with your name and phone number. This ensure that if for some reason the tag has come loose from the collar, or an old person who cant read the small engraving text, can still easily find your phone number from the large text embroidery on the collar!

Check the details are up to date at regular intervals, if you move, change name, or phone number then get your pet identification updated immediately.



 

Best Pet Collars sell personalised custom embroidered dog collars and have a fantastic range of pet ID tags which can be with you in less than a week from ordering.



EDGAR

Gerry Restrivera asked:


Dogs are social animals, and a friendly dog in a stressful situation would never attack or bite. However, many cases of individuals bitten by dogs belie this. Thus, it is important to know how to prevent dogs from biting.

If you want to own a dog or already own one and you want to prevent dogs from biting anyone, there are two things you need to remember: first, you have to train your dog to be friendly; and second, you have to avoid putting him in stressful situations.

Dogs feel stressed by unfamiliar objects, people or places, or by unpredictable behavior. However, the degree of unfamiliarity and unpredictability is different from dog to dog. In a crowd, some dogs are friendly to strangers while others are not. What spells the difference between these dogs isn’t breed but how well they were raised. Thus, you can prevent dogs from biting if you properly train your dog.

How to prevent dogs from biting

Although there is no guarantee that your dog will never attack or bite anyone, these six tips will significantly reduce the risks of your dog attacking or biting someone:

1. Familiarity with people and environment will help you to prevent dogs from biting. Create positive and pleasant encounters for your dog with objects, people and places within the first 8 to 16 weeks of his life, especially with those he would likely encounter during his lifetime. To prevent dogs from biting introduce them immediately to various kinds of objects in your house and outside your house (e.g. your vacuum cleaner), to various kinds of people (e.g. the postman), and to various kinds of environments (e.g. your car). Introduce him also to grooming, to the vet, and to other animals, especially other dogs. Some dogs don’t think they’re dogs. You don’t want your dog to have an identity crisis, do you?

2. Familiarize dogs to being touched to prevent dogs from biting as early as possible but supervise dogs when they are with young children as much as possible. It is better your dog realizes early on that you and others mean no harm when you hold him since you can’t avoid touching him or him being touched by other people, especially when he has to be groomed or to be brought to the vet. However, how he is held is important to him. If he is held improperly, as most young children would hold him, he becomes terrified of being touched.

3. Another tip to prevent dogs from biting is to create a home for dogs where they can find peace, safety and security and teach others to respect it. Your dog would encounter at least several stressful situations in his lifetime and that’s all but normal in a dog’s life. However, if dogs has a haven to go home to, it will prevent dogs from biting, as they would more likely dash to their dog house rather than attack.

4. Tie your dog when walking him in public but not more than 8 hours in one place. Dogs tend to get temperamental and aggressive when tied since they experience barrier frustration. They are more likely to attack and bite when approached since it seems to them their territory is being intruded and, because they cannot flee, they fight the intruder. However, when walking your dog, he is better on than off a leash. Supervised dogs are less likely to attack and bite, and also you can keep a better eye on them with a leash and can prevent dogs from biting if they encounter a stressful situation.

5. Another way to prevent dogs from biting is to teach dogs with proper and productive behavior. Though it is highly recommended to enroll your dog, including your family, in a home obedience class, it is just as advisable to consistently reinforce correct and appropriate behavior. Your dog can’t tell the difference between rough-play and real-life situations so don’t show or teach him aggressive behavior, like chasing after or attacking others even for fun. If he exhibits aggressive behavior towards other people or animals, like growling when someone comes too close to his food bowl, seek professional help. It is important to stop dogs biting and aggressive behavior as early as possible.

It’s not all that difficult to prevent dogs from biting and raise them to be friendly, especially if you see dogs as another being that deserves love and attention as much as anyone else does, as much as you do. Most often than not, dogs that attack and bite are neglected dogs. So always remember that behind a good dog is a good pet owner.

If you really want to prevent dogs from biting anyone, you need a dog obedience training to help you transform you dog’s behavior problems at the shortest possible time. Did you know that you can put an end to the stress and annoyance of your dog’s behavior problems by using techniques that will give you immediate results? Discover dog obedience training secrets to stop your dog’s behavior problems visit Dogs’ Corner

To know more about Pets visit All About Pets



BRANDON