Guidelines to Successful Dog Training

Dog Training should be fun for both you and your dog. The following few simple tips can help when starting your dog training.

First - Make sure you give yourself ample time during the day to train your dog. Make sure you will have uninterrupted time so that your dog stays focused during the duration of training. Your dog's attention span will be limited to start with so make sure you give your dog full attention during that time.

Second - Start off simple. A few simple things to work on are the following:
    Training to sit
    Training to come to you
    Training to go to a certain place
    Training to stay put
    Training to go outside to you use the bathroom (probably the most important for most if inside dog)
Take the time the next few weeks to work on just these so the dog isn't too overwhelmed. Using one-word commands usually works best when training your dog. For instance, SIT, COME, PLACE, STAY, OUTSIDE.

Third - Use treats. Treats are a great way to get your dog to do the things you ask. Once they obey a command, give them a treat and praise him.

Fourth - Keep training anywhere from 30 min. for 1 hour. Remember a dog's attention span is somewhat short, so you must keep it short and direct.

Fifth - Do not punish your dog when it does not obey your commands. Remember this is a learning process for you and your dog. A dog needs to be rewarded for obedience. When teaching your dog to sit, use a treat and put right above the nose. Say SIT. As he/she tries to get it, move the treat towards the dog's rear. As the dog moves back, push the rear down. Every time he/she sits give it the treat and praise.

When teaching the dog to come to you, use a color and rope. This may require two people. One to hold the dog at a distance and you on the other side. Have a treat in hand and the end of the rope in the other. Make sure to have at least 15 feet of rope. Say COME. Give the rope a good tug, as the dog moves toward you, pull the slack. This may require a few tugs in order to get the dog all the way to you. When the dog gets to you, give the treat and praise.

When teaching the dog to go to a place, use treat and a short rope. You can use any object close enough to the ground that the dog can climb up on (cot, folded blanket, pillow). Say PLACE and pull the dog onto the object used by the rope. Once the dog is on the object, give the treat and praise.

When teaching the dog to stay put, get them to first sit. After they sit, say STAY and start walking away slowly continuing to say stay. If the dog moves, start over. When you are able to get about 5 feet away, give the dog a treat and praise.

When teaching the dog to go outside to use the bathroom, take them outside routinely. When the dog uses the bathroom outside, give them a treat and praise. When the dog uses the bathroom inside, show your disapproval by saying NO. Just make sure you do this only when you see the dog has just used the bathroom (immediately after). This will not work if you find a mess later because he/she has already forgotten about using the bathroom. After saying no, you must immediately take the dog outside to show them that is where they are supposed to go. After continuously doing this, he/she will recognize what to do and will start to go to the door.

If you are wondering why dogs walk in circles before lying down, the truth is that you are not alone in this pondering. This morning I received a phone call from a new dog owner who wanted to know why it is that dogs often turn in circles before lying down. This is such a commonly observed behavior in dogs that we should have expected that there would be a reasonable amount of scientific literature which explains this behavior.

Unfortunately, my quest for published research revealed no studies that specifically address this spinning behavior in dogs. It appears that the absence of actual facts doesn't stop people from speculating about why this turning behavior appears.

Some folks have suggested that it is an evolutionary holdover, where the dog is doing this for security. In essence, the dog is checking out the surrounding area to make sure there are no threats before settling down. Another Speculation is that this circling behavior is done to chase away any possible pests that might be hanging around or perhaps to expose any random stones or prickly twigs that might make this sleeping area less comfortable.

Walking in circles before lying down is believed to have something to do with the wild and primitive ancestry of the dogs. Dog’s behavior of walking around in circles before lying down is considered to be an evolutionary holdover.

 Primitive dogs that have to sleep in the snow, under the stars, and on the leaf-covered forest floor would need to make their "nest" as comfortable as possible. They must trample the underbrush, to make the snow formation comfortable for their bodies.

Another reason is self-preservation. Dogs walk in circles before lying down to make sure that they are safe from predators as well as from small animals, snakes, spiders, and scorpions that can harm them while sleeping. Walking in circles is an indication that the dog is about to poop. Owners should immediately take the dog outside to avoid accident inside the house. The puppy walks in circles before pooping to evade pooping in the area marked by the scent of other dogs.

A dog suddenly walking in circles without lying down or without pooping can be caused by a medical concern. Ear mite infestation would cause the dog to favor the irritated and infected ear thus walking in circles. Infection on the inner ear, one of the balance centers of the body would cause the dog to lose its balance. The dog may tilt the head, keel over or walk in circles. Although a medical concern, infection from ear mite infestation can be easily treated.

A dog that walks in circles may be afflicted with a canine distemper, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), neosporosis, brain tumor and neurological problems. These are serious medical conditions that would need immediate medical attention. The cerebellum is the area of the brain that controls the motor ability. Once a tumor develops in this area, the pet will e confused and walk in circles.

Neosporosis, the disease caused by parasites in raw meat affects the spinal cord and the muscles. The infected dog would walk in circles with the head hanging on one side. Neosporosis is a serious disease, one that can cause brain damage and death of the pet.

One of the symptoms of SLE is walking in circles. These degenerative diseases that cause arthritis and muscle weakness are most common in German shepherd, poodle, beagle, and sheepdogs.

How to Care For a Pregnant Dog

During their pregnancy, dogs go through the same highs and lows pregnant women go through. Their hormones are raging and their bodies undergo drastic changes. Like pregnant women, pregnant dogs should be given the same care and attention - proper diet, vitamins, and exercises.

Unsupervised dog pregnancy might lead to complications or even a miscarriage. If you are not an experienced dog breeder, then doing a little research caring for a pregnant dog might be of some use to you. During your research, you could also come across helpful information that would help you care for your pregnant dog better.

Sometimes, it can be hard to tell if your dog is pregnant. The surest way to confirm if your dog is pregnant is to take her to a licensed veterinarian. Just by looking at your dog's abdomen and feeling it will alert the vet to the presence of growing pups. The vet can also estimate the due date of the pregnancy. Knowing when your dog is going to give birth to her puppies can help you prepare for the event.

Knowing when your dog is going deliver her puppies gives you ample time to prepare clean towels just for the event and to choose a place where your dog is going to whelp her puppies. As the event draws near, it is time to isolate your dog from other canines in the neighborhood or in your household. This is to prevent your dog from catching the herpes virus that is deadly for her puppies.

Nutrition: Though nature will take its course, your dog needs your attention and support during the birthing. She might go to her favorite spot, usually a cool dark place, where she can bring forth her "babies" privately. In the meantime, that she is on her way to motherhood, you play an important role as her caregiver.

Your dog's pregnancy will last for about three months - a little bit more or less. During this time, she should be fed properly. She should be given less fatty foods and more organic and chemical-free foods and vitamins. Your veterinarian can provide you a list of healthy dog food for your pregnant dog. Her weight should be monitored if she is gaining the expected weight for pregnant dogs.

Exercise:Regular exercise is also a must in caring for a pregnant dog. During the early stages of pregnancy, regular or daily walks for the dog is strongly advised. However, in the final twenty days of pregnancy, strenuous exercise and outdoor exposure should be avoided.

Vaccination: Vaccination should also be avoided during pregnancy. Vaccination is allowed just before the breeding process. Her immunity will be passed on to the pups through lactation. If your dog is already on an on-going medication prior to pregnancy then you should definitely check with your veterinarian if it is safe to go on with the medication. Although most dog medicines are said to be safe during pregnancy, it is still wise to check first with a professional.

Another important thing you should be preparing for is where your dog is going to give birth. A large box big enough for your dog and her future puppies would do nicely. Make sure to line the box with newspapers and old towels for it is sure going to be messy when your dog gives birth to her pups. The newborn puppies should be staying in the box with their mum until they are about six weeks old, so make sure that it is durable and cozy enough for them.

Dog hides owner’s phone so she’ll spend more time with him

The dog has been very frustrated by the owner's addiction to the iPhone this week, so he decided to seize it.
Dunkin, a silver Labrador, was videoed by his owner, Haley Deecken, removing her phone from her reach every time she went looking for it.

The three-year-old dog is caught on camera covering the phone with its paws, moving it away from her as well as standing guard over it.

According to experts, dogs around the world suffer from anxiety and depression as a result of their owner’s phone addiction.

Haley, of Glen Cove, New York, recognizes that your dog does not like her being on phone.

She said: Dunkin is very upset when she uses her mobile phone.

"Sometimes, he'll simply rest his jaws on my fingers, so I cannot move my hand to use the touch screen.
 "Other instances he just looks at me frustrated and begins to bark in protest.

"His sad face makes me feel guilty about using it when it's present."

"I always try to restrict the use of my phone when Dunkin is in the room.

"He must think he’s being ignored when am looking at the screen not him.

"I realize that it can have a negative effect on dogs, so I try to check my phone when my dog is not present."
Watch the amazing video below

Instructions for Feeding a Puppy

Knowing how to feed a puppy properly in their first year is very important. It is in this first year that they will be doing most of their growing and they will have special nutritional needs. If you want your new furry friend to grow up happy and healthy here are the instructions you need to know how to feed a puppy properly. Feeding a puppy the proper nutrients is crucial to their growth. Establishing a schedule for feeding is also important. Just like with humans, water is essential to ensure the proper development of a puppy.

It is important that puppies stay with their mothers for the first eight weeks of their life because it ensures they are getting the right nutrition. Once a puppy is weaned, the dog owner is responsible for the puppy's health. This means you need to learn how to feed your puppy. Choose the brand of food that the puppy was eating before you brought the puppy home. Changing brands of dog food can sometimes cause digestive problems.

If you choose to do it, however, make sure you introduce the new food slowly over a week. Your choice of dog food includes moist, semi-moist and dry kibble. Most veterinarians advise dog owners to feed puppy’s dry kibble. Some dog food brands offer formulas specially created for puppies. Higher-priced dog food usually contains ingredients that are of higher quality than the lower-priced options.

When feeding a puppy, try to keep the puppy on a schedule. This helps your puppy stay at an optimal weight. Puppies that eat whenever they want are often overweight. Feed your puppy three times daily. Once they are adults, they should only be fed twice daily. Check the guide on the puppy food to decide how much you should feed your dog. Some puppies may have a larger appetite or be more active, so only use the chart as a general guide. Having a feeding schedule will also help you house-train your puppy.

Do not forget to give your puppy enough water, which is crucial to a puppy's growth, health, and development. Make sure the water is fresh and clean and make it part of your puppy feeding schedule. Puppies actually need more water than adult dogs because of their developing bodies.

Feeding a puppy the right foods and enough water is the best way to ensure a happy and healthy dog. Choose high-quality dog food that is formulated for puppies and their needs. Start a feeding schedule and stay on it so that house-training will be easier. This will also help ensure a much healthier adult dog. Above all else, give your puppy enough fresh, clean water to drink. Following all these guidelines will help you be a responsible dog owner and help your puppy live a long life.

How to Stop Your Puppy from Biting Fast

Is your puppy biting you and other members of your family? Are you at your wit's end trying to figure out how to teach him not to bite? Whether the biting is playful or aggressive, this behavior must be stopped, now. If the puppy is allowed to continue biting while he is young, he will bite as an adult dog and that can spell big trouble for both you and your dog.

If a puppy nips one of its brothers or sisters a little too hard play will stop. Dogs are social creatures. If they weren't they would not live in packs. By being ignored the puppy is punished and quickly learns what is and isn't acceptable behavior. In our world your puppy finds itself separated from its Mum and its brothers and sisters. How on earth is your puppy supposed to know that puppy biting is not acceptable when its natural family isn't around to teach it right from wrong? Just like you don't understand 'Dog' your puppy doesn't understand 'English'. So how do you cure puppy biting?

•    You are going to achieve results by making your puppy earn everything. By behaving itself it will be rewarded. The ultimate reward is your attention. Playing, praising, stroking, walking, feeding and of course, the odd doggie choc is all rewards. Choose a quiet room without any distractions and play with your puppy. As soon as it starts mouthing offer its chew toy and praise it when it uses it.

Remember to use a keyword for the toy so that your puppy learns what it is. If this is successful keep the session short to prevent your puppy from getting too excited and from biting. If your puppy is like mine was, you probably won't have immediate success with this exercise. Your puppy will have probably nipped you before you even get to offer the chew toy.

•    You need to appreciate that although chewing and biting are not the same, the two are closely related in terms of solving the problem. The pet stores are full of chew toys. Buy some because you are going to use them to both stop puppy biting and save your home from destruction by puppy chewing! You will give the toy to your puppy every time it attempts to chew something it shouldn't. You are also going to use chew toys to stop biting.

•    Either yelp or shout 'ouch' when your puppy bites you. Use the same noise or word so that your puppy learns that this is the noise humans make when hurt and that teeth hurt. You must yelp or shout 'ouch' the moment you are nipped and you must use sufficient volume to startle your puppy so that it has your immediate attention.

•    After shouting ignore your puppy. Remember this is the ultimate punishment. This little-known trick is an effective way of teaching your puppy the connection between that noise/word and punishment. Do not touch or talk to it (these are rewards), just leave the room without looking at it and close the door. Leave your puppy for about a minute and then return to the room and resume play. The moment your puppy mouths your skin you offer its chew toy and praise it when it uses it. When your puppy bites you again you once again shout out and leave the room. You repeat this over and over again until your puppy learns what acceptable use of its mouth is.

•    When appropriate encourage your puppy to interact with other dogs, family members, and strangers so that your puppy develops into a confident, considerate well behaved dog. A confident dog is unlikely to resort to biting. You must build your puppies confidence while teaching it that biting is unacceptable.

You now have in your possession all the basic knowledge you need to stop your puppy biting forever but please remember that all puppies are different. If your puppy needs a little more time please be patient and stick with the technique. The main key to learning how to stop a puppy from biting is to be consistent with your training. Do not expect your dog to understand what you are trying to teach him on your first attempt. By following these simple steps, and with continuous and consistent training, you can ensure your puppy will grow into a healthy, well-behaved dog.

Treatment Options for Herniated Discs in Dogs

Many terms are used to express a herniated disc, such as a slipped disc, a prolapsed disc, a bulging disc, a ruptured disc, or even degenerative disc disease; they are all essentially meaning the same thing. Technically, a herniated disc occurs when the outermost part of the disc begins to weaken and the inner soft part starts to press outward. Most people don't even know they have a herniated disc until the herniation touches the nerve, thus causing you nerve pain, that you call back pain.

This disc is set between the spinal vertebrae ruptures. When the disc ruptures the gel-like material on the inside of it seeps out. This material then can become hardened and calcified, which lessens its shock-absorption ability. Pressure can cause this hardened substance to explode or bulge into the spinal canal nearby, where the spinal cord is located. This is the process that is known as herniation. This can result in pain and elevate to feeling loss or paralysis.

Treatment Options for Herniated Discs in Dogs
There is more than one treatment option for the dogs when a herniated disc happens. If the dog is still moving then prednisone can be given to the dog. Treatment with this will lessen the swelling around the spinal cord which is causing the pain and making it unpleasant for the dog to move. This treatment can take the place of surgery sometimes. The dog should not, however, stay on this treatment too long because steroids like the prednisone can have negative side effects that can cause the dog problems.

The veterinarian could instead recommend limited activity and rest for the dog. This will decrease the amount of stress that dog's back is being put through. Of course, this treatment and the prednisone are only for mild cases where the dog can still walk.

In the event, your dog cannot walk or other treatments have not worked, the doctor will most likely want to operate. He will order various diagnostic procedures to be performed first though. This surgery will help take the pressure off the dog's spinal cord which is brought on by the hardened gel and other debris.

A great percentage of the dogs do quite well with the surgery if the nerve damage is not too severe and it is caught soon enough. Rehabilitation is also part of this treatment. Rehabilitation for dogs could involve exercises and underwater treadmills to improve muscular strength. This could also improve how the dog in functioning neurologically.

The major problem with herniated discs is that they can keep happening. As long as there is a healthy disc left it can become herniated. There are some breeds of dogs that have more of a tendency towards this problem than others. The body weight should be kept down in the dogs that are predisposed to this problem. Any dog is good physical health can recover from this problem better than one in poor physical condition.

Also instead of regular neck collars use the chest harness kind. The neck collars can cause stress on the neck. The dogs also should not have jarring motions happen to the back such as jumping off of the furniture. When you are suspecting problems contact the veterinarian immediately.

All You Need to Know About Dog Birthday Party

Gone are the days when dogs were simply animals, now many people consider their dogs to be an integral part of the family. As a family member, many dogs are now celebrating birthdays, and in style too. In order to have a fantastic party there are some issues that require consideration, and a little bit of planning to do as well. If you are getting ready to have a wonderful birthday party for your dog, here are some tips to help you along.

Recently, it was reported that more 700,000 pets in the USA have had birthday parties thrown for them by their owners. This "pet party" style has also taken off in other countries such as Japan, China, and England. If you were considering throwing a party for your dog, here is a list of party safety guiding principle to make sure that all of the party animals in attendance have a fun and safe time. The following are the dog party safety tips:

• If you plan to have an outdoor party at a dog park or in your backyard, make sure that you have a contingency plan in the event of bad weather.

• If you invite dogs that have not yet been spayed or neutered, make sure that you alert the parents of the other dogs at the party. Also, if you think that it is necessary, make sure that the parents of these dogs keep an especially close eye on their pet.

• All dogs attending the party should have at least one person who the dog feels comfortable around present at the party. In case a guardian is not able to attend your party, the dog should not attend either. Unless you feel comfortable enough with watching the dog yourself, you do not one to be held liable if something happens to the dog.

• During treat time, make sure that every puppy has his or her own treat. Also, allow each dog's guardian to give the threat to their respective dog.

• In regards to the length of the party, you can plan the party for as long as you see fit, just keep in mind that dogs can become restless very easy. If you notice that many of the guests are getting cranky, don't be afraid to end the party early.

One of the best parts of having a dog party is the fun activities you can plan for this special day. When you invite other canines and their humans to your party, tell them about the activities you have planned so they can come prepared. One excellent activity is to have a canine costume party. Dog's dressed in great outfits and hats are sure to bring smiles to all of your guests. Set aside time during the party, for a costume judging contest. Pass out ballots to all of your guests with categories like the funniest costume, most unique, and cutest costume. Give prizes to the winners of your dog costume contest in the form of treats and gift bags.

How to Approach a Strange Dog

This is an important topic; too many times incidents can be avoided. You can never tell which dog is friendly or which dog may not want to be approached. Size and breed don't matter when you approach a dog you don't know. Many bites happen with small dogs or breeds known to be laid back and friendly.

My last two dogs were a Rottweiler, Porkchop, and a Shep/Akita mix, Max. They were large pups who could be intimidating, yet children still ran up to them. My dogs were very sweet and tolerant of people, especially children. Since my pups were breeds that people think of as "mean," it was my responsibility to change their opinion!! I made it a mission to educate people, children, and their parents, on how to safely approach ANY dog! The following tips will be of help:

•    Make sure the child knows that he must ALWAYS ask "May I pet your dog?"

Most people approach a dog head on, bend over the dog, and reach for the head. Every one of these actions is perceived by the dog as a threat and a challenge. If you really want to be friends with the dog:

•    Since your dog is in training, make sure your dog is sitting calmly by your side before you allow anyone to pet him.

•    If your dog is sitting calmly, give instructions for the approach to your dog. The child/person should turn slightly away from the dog. He may then reach out his hand for the dog to sniff. Then he may pet the dog on the chest or back.

•    Approach from the side turned slightly away. Don't make direct eye contact, look above her head.

•    If your dog keeps getting up, thank the child/person for their help and explain that your dog is not yet ready to be touched by people he doesn't know.

    Hold out your hand for a sniff, offering a treat is always nice.

    Kneel next to the dog, again facing away, maybe in the same direction.

•    Slowly reach out to scratch the chest. I have yet to meet a dog who doesn't like a good chest scratch. Don't overdo it. Walk away and let the dog come to you for more petting and scratching.

If it feel like a dog is hesitant, I don't try to touch him. Walk away, sit down in a chair and offer a treat. When the dog is ready, he'll come over to you.

Some dogs need a little time before they want just anyone to touch them. How would you feel if some stranger came over and gave you a big hug or started to touch you? •   

The handler should then give the child a treat for the dog. The treat should be given in an open palm like you would feed a horse. This is to prevent an excited dog from taking more than the offered treat!! NEVER try to pet any dog that is loose. If you don't see a person with the dog, assume the worst and walk away.

Just because a dog is small, or a breed known for their sweet disposition, does not necessarily mean that it is all right to go up and pet this dog. There are exceptions to every rule. Small dogs are just as likely to bite, if not more so, as big dogs are. Small dog bites can be very serious, requiring a trip to the Doctor and stitches. A little common sense and respect will go a long way to making friends with dogs you don't know.

8 Best Herbs for Your Dog

People have been using herbs to supplement their diets and improve their health for hundreds of years. In recent years some companies have emerged with herbal products to enhance the life of their pet dogs as well. Your dog is a member of the family, too, so why shouldn't he/she have all the benefits of centuries of herbal studies as well? Here are three herbs that can help your dog live a happier and healthier life.

Lavender: Lavender reduces the buildup of excessive skin oil-a perfect remedy to use on greasy and smelly dogs. Lavender inhibits the bacterial growth in the greasy coat that causes the odor. Make a lavender rinse for your dog's coat to help with skin irritations and inflammation. Lavender also heals wounds and regenerates tissue.

Echinacea: This is Mother Nature’s frontline weapon against germs and infection. It not only boosts the immune system but also is a mild antibiotic, especially in the mouth and urinary tract. It's useful against many kinds of germs, bacteria, and yeasts. In addition, it strengthens and balances the existing immune system. It's particularly effective if it's administered just as an infection or illness is getting started. It can also be used in a preventative way. Ambertech's "Tummy Trouble" and "Parvaid" both contain Echinacea.

Hawthorn: Hawthorn is especially effective in helping the heart. It opens up the blood vessels, especially near the heart and the brain, making blood flow easier. It's also able to help stabilize weak or erratic heartbeats, so if a dog has had heart troubles in the past, Hawthorn could help it recover. Hawthorn is also a diuretic, and is also high in antioxidants, helping to stop the free radicals in your dog's body and allowing more oxygen in the blood.

Chamomile- A calming herb, chamomile is beneficial for the nervous adolescent stage of your dog's growth. Made into a tea, it eases teething pain in puppies and can help older dogs sleep more peacefully at night when they are prone to pacing the house. It's a soothing digestive aid, cleanses the blood, heals skin rashes and speeds wound healing.

Calendula- A magical wound healer, calendula's antibacterial properties work better than many antibiotics. Reach for calendula to reduce inflammation and for first aid treatment. Make an infusion of the leaves to treat itching and hot spots.

Dandelion: All this time you've been digging these things out of your yard, cussing and swearing the whole time. It's a powerful supplement to your dog's diet. Dandelion root stimulates the production of bile and helps keep the liver functioning well. The leaves carry many vitamins and help keep the urinary tract working well.

Rosemary- Rosemary is wonderful for the skin---it has antifungal, antibacterial and antiseptic properties. This fragrant herb also aids digestion. It makes a wonderful rinse for your dog's bath to promote hair growth and enhance rich luster and color tones in the fur.

Sage- Sage has been referred to as a "heal-all" herb since ancient times. Sage can be added to your dog's meal every day to promote health. Sage has a rich history in healing the body of many diseases.

In fact, the biggest problem that dogs often have with dandelions is not the plant itself, but from ingesting the herbicides we often use on them! Ambertech's "Hawthorn & Dandelion" extract supplement contains both of these herbs and can be used to help your dog feel its best! There are many, many other herbs that are useful in caring for your pet. Let your dog know how much you live him/her, and show that love by taking care of its health.