Monday, November 30, 2009

How To Choose Dog Grooming Kit For Your Dog

By Gertie Magwood

Every pet dog, or for that matter, every pet, needs some amount of grooming. Grooming a pet is the main duty of the pet owner. And it is very essential to know the proper process of grooming your pet in order to have a pet which is glad and which you can be proud of.

The basic step towards selecting a dog grooming kit for your little darling would be to decide why you want to groom it. If you want to participate your appreciated canine in a dog show, you would definitetly require many more dog grooming tools than you would if caring for your dog is your motives for grooming it.

When you purchase a dog, collect as much information as viable on the particular grooming needs of the certain breed, if any. It is not adequate to buy a dog grooming kit. It is essential to purchase one that is desirable for your dog.

A dog grooming kit normally contain the following tools: fur clippers, clipper blades, clipper cooling tools, boxes for storing, toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, grooming sprays, flea combs, kind of brushes, ear cleaners, cotton dabs to clean ears, rakes, nail clippers, styptic pencils (to clot blood in case the dog starts bleeding during nail clipping) etc. Make sure the dog grooming kit you choose comprises these basic items. Ensure to make sure that the comb has fine and coarse teeth. A fingertip toothbrush works best. Particular toothpastes are available for dogs. Never, ever substitute them with human toothpaste. It might be a wise thought to consult a veterinarian with regard to the best brand of shampoo suitable for the certain breed of dog you have. Just In Case your dog has leaky tear ducts, you might need stain removal products to keep the area around the eyes free of buildups. A dog grooming kit may or may not contain a towel. It is better to choose a towel that is smooth and absorbent. Some dog grooming kits also include a pair of scissors to trim hair every now and then. A grooming table is usually required only in case of dogs groomed for shows.

One of the most significant tools in a dog grooming kit is the clipper. The clipper you choose would be directly dependent upon the fur quality of your dog. Common clippers with single speed mechanisms are usually sufficient for dogs with thin and short fur. On the other hand, those with thick, curly fur require clippers with higher speed. Furthermore, if your dog demands to have its fur clipped frequently, most veterinarian and groomers recommend double speed clippers. As A Matter Of Fact, if your dog has thick and curly hair and you are not very sure or experienced about clipping, it is advisable to let a professional groomer take over.

You would require a variety of brushes in your dog grooming kit to groom your dog. A slippy brush is very useful to whisk off dead hair while a rake is most vital for brushing the undercoat. While dogs with long hair demand pin brushes, bistle brushes are suitable for those with short fur. A mat comb is needed for dogs that have a problem with snarling.

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Puppy Training Little Spot To Keep The Spots Off Your Carpet!

By Anita L. Platt

Perhaps one of the most important things that you will teach your new puppy is where his potty is - outdoors. Potty training should begin as soon as you have your puppy home. There will be accidents and many moments of frustration; however, you and your puppy can succeed at this necessary life lesson by following some tested and proven tips.

Choose one particular site in your yard as your puppy's potty. You can put plants or flowers around the area to make it look better. This is a good way to show help your puppy to remember where his own potty is.

Teaching the command "outside" is very important. You should say this command loudly to your puppy whenever he pees or poops inside. Then you will have to pick him up and run outside with him to make him finish going potty in his puppy training area. Then you will praise him for actually going on the potty.

Elimination on command can also be taught when puppy training. You can choose whatever word you would like for this command. Constantly keep this word the same for anyone who is taking puppy to the potty. Quick praise should always be lavished on your puppy when he achieves milestones in his puppy training. With time and perseverance, ultimately he will eliminate on command.

Be sure to let anyone who will be walking or watching your dog to use the exact same command word. Always give praise, and let the other people in his life know that they should do the same.

Keeping a diary if when your puppy eats, sleeps and potties can help you decide when the most average times are that he will need to poop or pee.

Again, potty training your puppy requires determination and patience. The more consistent and calm you are, the more likely your puppy will be to finish his potty training quicker.

Consistent, patient, and loving puppy training will make the process as smooth as possible. It is also likely to reduce the time needed to achieve success in the process. Praise can do wonders in helping the process as well. Your puppy will feel proud when he potties outside because he knows that it makes you proud too. He is doing something good for his mom or dad - getting a treat and extra love is a great reason to go outside to use the potty. Follow these tips and your puppy training and potty training will be successful and quick!

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Use Agility To Build Confidence In Your Dog

By Martin Elmer

Is your dog timid around people or other dogs? Is your dog sensitive to sounds? Agility training can provide the environment and structure to build confidence in your dog. Agility classes are a great place for people to learn about the sport and learn how to train, but the timid dog may take a long time before he is ready to venture from under your chair or off your lap.

A shy dog can only learn when it is inside its comfort zone. So all training must start where it feels safe, and all learning must be done in small increments. The best place for training and learning is probably the home.

So, how do you train at home? You will need guidelines and equipment. There is a multitude of websites that can give you information on agility training. There are also books and videos that will give details and visual aids and lesson plans for beginners thru expert levels.

You can find a lot of equipment that is helpful and useful to have at home for dog training. All the equipment recommendations are based on location of training and the available space. Do you e.g. have a large yard with room for 10 obstacles? Or do you only have a small yard, so you have to tear down the equipment before you can setup something else up? Will the training be in the basement or garage; or maybe in the living room?

When you are training a timid dog the equipment has to be sturdy and safe. A pause table is a good starting point for dog training. Buy a 12" high pause table, which is good for dogs in all sizes. Set it up in a familiar area, if your dog is shy. You can leave it in the house or yard for a couple of days, if your dog is the barking type. Then it can smell and inspect it in its own pace. Always remember to use baby steps training an insecure dog.

To encourage it to get up on the table you can use treats or its favorite toy. And remember it may well take several lesson. If it loses interest, you should try something new like placing yourself on the table. Then you can either hold it or have it on leash, while you are sitting on the table. But remember only to treat it when it comes against you. Never reward it, when it is pulling away.

Later you might want the dog jumping on the table using a cue like Table, Stay on the table and Come when you are calling. Build your distance to the table slowly, so you do not push the dog to hard.

Following the above instructions, you can slowly introduce new obstacles. When it is able to succeed new pieces of equipment, you will see its confidence grow.

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Sunday, November 29, 2009

Stop Your Dog From Pulling On The Leash - Top Trainer Discloses Method Now

By Remco van Reenen

It can be quite funny to see someone being pulled along by a strong dog on a leash. But, I bet it's not funny when you are the one being pulled. To stop your dog from pulling on the leash is really not that difficult to teach and it will only bring you closer to your dog.

The reason why dogs pull at their leash is quite simple really, they love chasing things and if they see a cat, then there is no stopping them. They also get very excited with the idea of actually walking with you and can't contain themselves and hence they walk fast.

To get rid of this bad behavior it would be ideal for you to start training at an early age. If your dog is a few years old then it can be done, but will take a bit more patience, love and perseverance. Do not use a choke collar on your dog as it will hurt his throat and cause a lot of pain and damage.

It is best to commence with training indoors and in the house where there are no distractions. You need undivided attention from your dog. He will not need his harness and leash right away because you are first going to teach him to follow you on your command. Firstly, hold out the palm of your hand and place a small object in the center. Let your dog see this and let him touch it with his nose when you say the command word "touch". Once you get him to touch the object with his nose, then walk away for a few steps and let him follow you. Hold the object at a height which is comfortable for him to touch with his nose. He must now follow you and touch the object with his nose and stay behind you every time you walk further. Give lots of confirming hugs or rubs as he will now identify what you want from you. This will take a few lessons with lots of patience and love from your side.

Do take into consideration that you are teaching your dog a completely new and strange behavior and it will take a while before he gets what you want from him. Persevere and you will be rewarded as well.

Secondly, put his harness around his body and clip on the leash. Take him outside into the garden and repeat the program exactly like you did indoors. Now there are more distractions and he has to only listen to your voice. Teach him to walk next to you or behind you even if he hears sounds and picks up scents. Remember the touching of the object with his nose still plays a big role in his lesson. Even bigger role is your treat and confirmation that you are happy.

When he is ready take him out of your yard and onto the sidewalk or to a park. If he still needs some more training then you can do this there as well. To stop your dog from pulling on the leash is easy and there will be no more running after your dog, as he will now be well trained and an envy for other dog walkers.

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Doggie Tricks of the Trade

By Geraldine Dimarco

As many an animal lover would know, dogs are generally a happy, loyal, and lovable breed. Sometimes we hold off adopting a puppy because training her would require too much of an effort. Fortunately, there are simple dog training tips available that cover the basics and help get you started to a colorful and rewarding relationship with your dog.

First of all, you will have to set your leader status in the dog's eyes. Once he recognizes you as his authority he will follow you without much trouble. Establish this daily with regular routine that mirrors the animal world's system. Allow your dog to watch you eat first and feed him only after you're done. Don't walk around him if he is obstructing your path. Gently force him to leave his position by pushing him out of the way. As he acknowledges you to be the leader of the pack, the easier it is to teach him in the future.

Dogs can pick up your emotions even as you handle them. Use a firm and authoritative voice in training. However, it is also important to note that dogs respond well to positive reinforcement. Give him doggie treats every time he correctly accomplishes a command. If he makes a mistake, you have to correct him during the time it happens not after. Train him for ten to fifteen minutes several times a day and be effusive in your praise with his performance.

You will notice that dogs have similar behavioral patterns indicative of their mood. When happy they wag their tails, have an open look and bark a happy sound. Angry dogs bare their teeth, growl and tense up. Understanding your dogs mood will allow you to gauge him better, subsequently giving you response time to be able to train him more effectively.

Training dogs requires patience. It's best to start them as young as six weeks but you can still teach an old dog new tricks. Remain calm and patient when things don't go well at first. Be consistent and he will be able to follow in time. Don't confuse your dogs by changing training time or systems. You might find yourself backtracking because this gets your dog confused.

When teaching your dog, do it in a place with no distractions. Colorful and moving objects can distract him and it will be harder to refocus his attention to you. A quiet backyard or any indoor fenced-in area works well.

Most importantly, don't forget the reason you have a dog. To have fun with him! All that teaching and training can get tiring sometimes. When that happens, stop and have a run around the park with him. Enjoy each other's company. Your canine friend will help you forget problems and think highly of you regardless of your of status, appearance, or performance. They are the best not because they can heel; they are the best because they love you no matter what.

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Saturday, November 28, 2009

How To Choose Dog Grooming Kit For Your Dog

By Gertie Magwood

Every pet dog, or for that matter, every pet, needs some amount of grooming. Grooming a pet is the main responsibility of the pet owner. And it is very important to know the proper process of grooming your pet in order to have a pet which is glad and which you can be proud of.

The basic step towards selecting a dog grooming kit for your little darling would be to decide why you wish to groom it. If you want to participate your valued canine in a dog show, you would definitetly need many more dog grooming tools than you would if caring for your dog is your motives for grooming it.

When you buy a dog, collect as much information as possible on the special grooming wants of the certain breed, if any. It is not enough to purchase a dog grooming kit. It is significant to buy one that is suitable for your dog.

A dog grooming kit usually carry the following tools: fur clippers, clipper blades, clipper cooling tools, boxes for storing, toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, grooming sprays, flea combs, kind of brushes, ear cleaners, cotton dabs to clean ears, rakes, nail clippers, styptic pencils (to clot blood in case the dog starts bleeding during nail clipping) etc. Make sure the dog grooming kit you choose contains these basic items. Check to make sure that the comb has fine and coarse teeth. A fingertip toothbrush works best. Special toothpastes are available for dogs. Never, ever substitute them with human toothpaste. It would be a wise thought to consult a veterinarian with regard to the best brand of shampoo suitable for the particular breed of dog you have. Just In Case your dog has leaky tear ducts, you might require stain removal products to keep the area around the eyes free of buildups. A dog grooming kit may or may not contain a towel. It is better to choose a towel that is smooth and spongy. Some dog grooming kits also include a pair of scissors to trim hair every now and then. A grooming table is commonly needed only in case of dogs groomed for shows.

One of the most main tools in a dog grooming kit is the clipper. The clipper you select would be directly dependent upon the fur quality of your dog. Basic clippers with single speed mechanisms are generally adequate for dogs with thin and short fur. On the other hand, those with thick, curly fur need clippers with higher speed. Moreover, if your dog needs to have its fur clipped frequently, most veterinarian and groomers recommend dual speed clippers. In fact, if your dog has thick and curly hair and you are not very confident or experienced about clipping, it is wise to let a professional groomer take over.

You might demand a variety of brushes in your dog grooming kit to groom your dog. A slicker brush is really useful to whisk off dead hair while a rake is most vital for brushing the undercoat. While dogs with long hair require pin brushes, bistle brushes are suitable for those with short fur. A mat comb is essential for dogs that have a problem with tangling.

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Choosing a Dog Obedience School

By Monique Coincon

Immediately after bringing a dog into your home, you should consider enrolling her in a dog obedience school. The earlier you and your puppy go through a training program the better, as it will smooth the adjustment and help with the bonding and socialization process. Remember that you will be attending classes with your dog, so choose a school that provides a teaching style and environment that puts you both at ease. Establishing a good relationship with your dog early will set the tone for the rest of your time together, and give you the tools for a long and happy friendship.

To start your search for a companion dog obedience school, talk to friends and neighbors who have attended one of your local schools. Take advantage of your time at the dog park to speak with like-minded individuals and share experiences and expectations. Ask your veterinarian questions about schools in the area at your puppy's first wellness visit. Most obedience schools have websites, so look them up online, and read their client reviews.

When you have narrowed down the possibilities, contact the schools and request an interview. Good schools are typically accommodating in this request and understand the importance of a pet owner's comfort with trainers. Discuss the training methods the school endorses. Ask them for references and speak with the actual trainers who would be working with you and your dog. The facilities are important, so be sure to take a tour during your visit.

Do some research into some of the characteristics common to your dog's breed. Breed and age can determine how successful training attempts will be with your dog, and it is important to know what to expect. Younger dogs often benefit the most from group classes, as they tend to be quick learners and may need some help with socialization. Older dogs or those who have had behavior issues in the past may require more intensive one-on-one training. If you have a breed that is notoriously difficult to train, you may find breed specific classes and training methods.

There is a lot of variation in dog obedience school cost. Group classes are the least expensive option, with a series usually priced from $40-$200 depending on your area. For an hour-long, one-on-one session with a trainer, expect to pay anywhere from $25-$125. If the cost of dog obedience school is prohibitively high, contact local non-profit agencies that may be able to direct to you reduced rate classes.

After you have selected a school and are preparing for your first class, an owner should know what to expect. The typical curriculum at a good dog obedience school will teach housebreaking for young puppies, and basic commands like "Sit" and "Stay." Few teach tricks, especially those geared toward younger dogs, but they will help teach you the communication skills to continue training at home. Dog obedience school can be the first step to establishing trust between dogs and people, which is so important in the end.

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Friday, November 27, 2009

Dog Training Aids for Your Dog Training Sessions

By Geraldine Dimarco

Your voice is the most important of dog traing aids when training your dog. Use of your dog's name is probably the next most important of the dog training aids at your disposal. Thirdly, a pleasant, persuasive tone of voice is a must.

Speak to your dog all the time while you're engaged in dog training. Training your dog to retrieve may take some time, and dog training aids can come in useful for this purpose. A very light dumbbell is a good dog training aid to use when training your dog to retrieve. Again, use your voice to effect - immediately your dog takes the dumbbell, praise him repeatedly in a happy voice, and also pet him.

Don't ever use an angry tone of voice when dog training. Getting angry with your dog will defeat the purpose of getting your dog to comply with your wishes. It will cause your dog to become anxious and possibly confused.

Your dog always wants to please you. Keep this firmly in mind when dog training. If your dog does not understand what you want him to do straight away, come back to the art of persuasion. And exercise patience with your dog.

As soon as your dog understands what you want him to do, he will take great delight in, e.g. taking the dumbbell from you. In fact, you'll probably find that your dog will be happy to retrieve the dumbbell from you again and again.

If your dog is having trouble understanding that you want him to take the dumbbell, gently offer him the dumbbell and if necessary, open his mouth wide enough to accommodate the dumbbell and place the dumbbell in his mouth. You may even need to close his mouth around the dumbbell.

Dog training times are a wonderful opportunity for you to spend one on one time with your dog. Dogs love this. They love training with you, but you will need to be patient at times. Your dog will not always understand what you want him to do, but as soon as he does, he will be happy to comply.

Once you have placed the dumbbell in your dog's mouth several times, encourage your dog to take the dumbbell from your hand himself.

Once your dog understands the taking of the dumbbell, you need to extend the reach of the item. Place the dumbbell on the ground in front of your dog and ask him to "Retrieve" or "Fetch". Then start moving the dumbell further and further away from him. Your dog will soon get the idea.

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You'll Never Scoop Up Another Living Room Accident Again - The Guide To Potty Training Dogs

By Geraldine Dimarco

Are you loving your dog only until he plants another bomb in your immaculate living room carpet? It seems that your home can benefit greatly from some potty training dogs tips. Here are some simple techniques that will keep you and your pet's love fest undisturbed in a few short weeks.

House training dogs is not exactly the most enjoyable part of dog ownership; this is why you will find many adult dogs still untrained in the ways of proper toilet habits. It is always simpler to teach puppies but training older dogs on this is still a relatively manageable goal.

It will be helpful to know that it is easier to train older canines to do than to don't. What this means is that if he is not taught how to go out to eliminate; you will find it almost impossible to undo this learned behavior. You will need to teach him a new habit. In this scenario, it is going outdoors to do his business.

Choose an area for this specific purpose. Around ten to fifteen minutes after meal times, go out and walk him around the designated spot. As you walk back and forth around the spot, clearly speak out a phrase that relates to this particular activity like, 'go potty'. Say it repeatedly until he finally 'goes potty'. Praise him enthusiastically right after to let him know he's done a good job. Do this for a few weeks, always using the same toilet area. Remember house training dogs require consistency in the patterns you set.

Dog accidents can still crop up even when you are in the middle of potty training him. If you catch in the act, quickly stop him and take him outside to finish his business. Give him treats and play with him right after he successfully finishes doing it outside. If you find the mound of poop alone with no dog in sight, do not look for him and start yelling. He will not understand that you are getting mad because of this particular action. Be vigilant to the dog right after his eating time to avoid future similar incidents.

When it happens, immediately clean up the accidents as thoroughly as possible. A deodorizing solution should be applied to remove any residual smell the poop might leave behind. Dogs will sniff out the area and use it again for the same purposes. Keep their cages as small as comfortably possible to aid in potty training dogs. Animals do not relish sleeping in the toilet area so they will restrain eliminating until you can get them outside.

Do not feed him or put water and food inside his cage at night so your sleep will not be disturbed. You can take him outside to discharge in the morning or even after he wakes up from a short cat, I mean, dog nap. When you have succeeded in teaching him how to go out for this particular activity, see to it that leaving the house is as convenient as possible for him. A swinging dog flap installed in your doors or a cage near an open back door will do the job.

Potty training dogs is a priority for the responsible pet owner. It serves as good mental exercise for your dog and your home will be thankful to you for it.

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Wednesday, November 25, 2009

5 Questions For The In Home Dog Training Candidate

By Geraldine Dimarco

How many chewed up shoes do you have in your closet? Do you constantly have to spot check your home for little souvenirs your dog might have left over for you to clean? Thats not a lot of fun now is it? If you are sick and tired of being sick and tired with your dogs manners then maybe its time to get some dog training in to his life.

Owners who want to personally train their dogs but cannot do so for whatever reason, are beginning to appreciate the mighty services of trainers who are hired to teach your pet. These professionals (either individuals or company connected) train your dogs for you while you sit back and watch the progress from the comfort of your very own home. Yes, in home dog training is the answer but what are the questions? Here are the five important things you need to ask before launching into the world of canine home education.

How high up the obedience ladder is your dog? If your pet knows the basic commands down, then you should consider training him yourself. The owner is always the best person to teach his own. However, if you really don't know the first thing about dog training or have no chance to do so, then have the professionals take a look at what can be done to Fido as soon as possible.

Where can I look for the excellent trainers? The good trainers are known by the dogs they have handled. Ask your family,friends, or neighbors if they have had experience with these professionals. Search through the internet and yellow pages for the services of a company or individual that comes highly recommended by canine organizations or blogs and forums. Inquire on their fees and set an appointment with one that seems to give you the best value for your dollars.

What makes a good trainer? The most important thing you need to check in a trainer is his manner of handling the dog. Violence, yelling, or force of any kind should not be tolerated regardless the reasons he may have. Feel free to ask for personal records and referrals he has to you can check it yourself. There are no official government licenses for animal training to date; however, most of these professionals have graduated from courses that will equip them in the career path they've chosen. One of the best qualifications they can have is the International Association of Canine Professionals' CDT or CDTA certification.

Should I enroll him in individual or group classes? Naturally, if you can afford it a one-on-one session between dog and trainer will help the animal learn faster because he has the full attention of the trainer. However, if you have enrolled him in a group class"it can work out well also. Your pet will have a chance to develop his social skills"an important aspect of dog training as a whole. An experienced professional can effectively customize his teaching to suit each dogs educational need. If you do opt for group classes, form one with dogs that you know are well taken cared of. These canines will be playing and roughing it out with each other often and you want to avoid any situation where fleas and infections can take place.

When should training begin? Right away! Ideally, training puppies should begin as early as 8 weeks old. However, you can always teach an old dog new tricks. If you are prepared, your dog is in attendance, and you have a competent trainer, then sky's the limit! Through in home dog training, you can have a trained dog the safe and convinient way.

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Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Dog Training Courses - All About Them

By Selina Pollock

Clearly you want your dog to be as healthy and happy as possible, and you want to feel like you can truly enjoy your dog, as well. No doubt there are times when you are completely mystified by your canine friend's actions.

But there are still miscommunications which seem to be your failing- you just can't figure out what your dog is trying to tell you. This is the time to bring in the experts, but professional dog trainers and dog behaviorists are expensive. Happily, with a little guidance -you- are the very best trainer your dog can have.

The good news for a do it yourself aspiring dog trainer is all the online resources available on the internet.Most of the content is about personal experiences with training dogs and the trick they are willing to share with you.These online dog training courses can be downloaded easily.

You can decide to train your dog following step by step procedures.Online dog training courses best feature is the easy sign up.All you have to do after signing up is download,read and apply what you learned to your dog's training.

Training your dog can be a tough job, but in order to cultivate a great relationship between you and your pet then training is a must. Dog training videos are among the new online resources that owners can use to tame their pups. The videos can be more effective in the long run because you can watch as other owners show their ways of training their dogs. There are some downsides to online training courses, but don't be afraid! Ask around amongst your friends, family and neighbors and see what online dog training resources they've used in the past.

Please not take away good training from your dog and give him full scope to be useful to its owner. Spending more money is not pre-requisite for good training but you can simple take help of online dog training programs.

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Have Your Dog Train With The Best With The Right Dog Training DVD

By Geraldine Dimarco

Do you want a dog that can sit, fetch and roll over on command? Yeah, I thought so. Well, can you spare the funds in enrolling him in a professional canine school? Yeah, I thought as much as well. Dog training can cost you a pretty dime and if you can spare it, go right ahead. However, if you cant, dont think you should make do with an untrained dog. It is a necessity to have your pet trained. Dog schools are an expense we could all do without, its alright. There are many dog training DVDs that can do the job instead.

A dog training DVD will most likely be promoted by a professional and recognized dog trainer. And by dog trainer, I don't mean someone who has finally mastered the command "Sit!" to his dog. The person (or persons) in the instructional video should be certified or at least has finished the necessary courses in a licensed animal training school. Search the web for well respected trainers who may have resources being sold in the market today.

Before you plan to get a product like this, ask yourself what it is your dog needs training for. If he is puppy or a newly adopted dog with no training whatsoever yet, then purchase a product that will teach the basic obedience commands. If there is a specific area you want to improve on, then you will need to find a site with a large collection of training materials. Look for the appropriate title you will need from their product offerings.

Where are some of the places you can go to for these DVDs? Unfortunately since there are very few, if any, video shops nowadays that offer animal training videos; the addresses you should go to are the ones the search engine lead you to. You can check Amazon.com for leads. Niche websites on canine training will have a page of product offerings that will include training materials you can flip through. There is also the option of buy and sell sites, however these are not reliable sources and should be avoided if you can.

The average price for good dog training videos range from $20-$50; depending on the what is included in the package, if there are additional discs or related literature. Many websites will offer an attractive discount or gifts if you put in your order right away. If you know that the instructional DVD you're buying will be used often, then purchase it as soon as you can. However, if you are just enticed by the great bargain of it all, don't swipe that credit card just yet. You may need to buy something more important in the near future.

A well-trained dog is an affordable luxury any pet owner can get. With dog training DVDs, you can have professional trainers teach your dog right in your living room for a fraction of the cost. Fido may not be trotting the grounds of any prestigious dog academy anytime soon -- but thanks to the internet, the dog academy can now go to him.

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Monday, November 23, 2009

Find Out Tips To Puppy Potty Training

By Todd Hammerstein

Getting a new puppy? I'll bet you are so excited. I'm not going to break your excitement, but I will tell you that once you get your puppy home he will push your patience further than you thought it could go. One of the first, and most difficult, tasks is to teach your dog to go outside to potty. This takes patience and effort on your part.

If you try to potty train your dog to go to potty outside before it is a month old you may be wasting your time. It's easier and better to start potty training your puppy around two months of age. At this point, the best approach is to work out some kind of routine with your puppy. Haphazard training rarely works.

Instead of running your puppy outside every few minutes, start with thirty minute intervals. The times between going outside can be longer or shorter depending on your dog. Then, take your puppy out around mealtime, so that your own meal will not be interrupted to jump up and run outside with your puppy.

Establishing a training routine and sticking to it will help you train your puppy more quickly. It's hard to accomplish without a schedule. The sooner you establish a training schedule with your puppy, the better you will feel about your puppy and the more at ease the puppy will become.

If you think working on a routine takes potty training your dog too far, reconsider. Establishing a routine is a proven way to train your dog and it is pretty simple to establish a regular routine. Your dog will learn more easily when following a routine.

Sometimes you have to try to determine why your puppy doesn't want to go outside. This is difficult, but not the worst problem you will face. There are other issues like puppy whining and barking. Take one thing at a time. Don't give your puppy sensory overload. Get him accustomed to pottying outside first. This will be your most pressing task.

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All About Crate Training Dogs

By Geraldine Dimarco

Have you ever read about crate training dogs? It sounds like an inhumane act to dogs that don't do as they're told. Surprisingly, it's actually the contrary. Crate training is a good method of training based on the dogs' natural need for security.

It was said that dogs shared the same ancestors as wolves. While I cannot be absolutely sure on the validity of that tidbit, it is a definite fact that dogs were once animals that lived in the wild. Their earlier canine forefathers utilized dark and secured lairs as their dens. This was there protection from all the dangers that were out in the open space. It is on this principle that crate training is based on.

Crate training is highly effective in house training dogs wherein you contain them to a place that you can feel safe leaving them in. The puppies in the crate will not be in danger of inflicting harm on them, other people or furniture in the house. You can go on long trips without much difficulty because your dog is tucked happily away in his crate. Remember, crates are his nesting area so there is no need to worry about feeling inhumane towards the dog.

Not all animals should be crate trained. Some dogs have had serious trauma in homes before and will get hysterical when placed in a confined box. It is advisable to not follow through if this is the case. Other dogs that are large will break the crate they are contained in and hurt themselves in their panic. There are some pet owners who are still uncomfortable, no matter what facts are presented to them, with the thought of putting their living pets inside a box.

Crate training dogs hinges on how the dog owner essentially views the matter. If thinking of your dog in a box makes you uncomfortable, you don't have to push through with this method of training. However, if you believe that this will be advantageous to you and your dog's personal space; you will find some helpful tips on how to go about doing this in the next paragraph.

Find a spot that is close to where people would be hanging out often. Ensure that the crate is a comfortable size that can hold the interesting things for the dog to play with. When he is inside, do not close the box just yet. Talk to him and pet him through his crate. Feed him inside. When it seems alright, start closing the door of the crate for several minutes while you are still in the room. If the animal starts to whimper and complain loudly, let him quiet down first before you let him out. This is of course a little frightening for the little pet so do not hurry him this whole process.

Remember, more than anything, this should be a place that the dogs go to de-stress and calm themselves from a busy household. Never use this as punishment for whatever mistakes he might have done. When he is comfortable alone in the crate already, leave the house for short intervals and assess his response to the new arrangement. If there is no big incident, then you can pat yourself on the back for a job successfully accomplished. You are now an owner of well deserved free time and a crate trained dog.

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Sunday, November 22, 2009

How To Properly Toilet Train Your Dog

By John Michaels

Dogs are actually really clean animals. They won't soil close to where they eat, or where they sleep. The thing is, a house is a completely different story. Living in a house is unnatural for an animal whose instincts would be to roam wherever she wants to go, so you will have to help her learn where and when she can relieve herself.

The sooner you can train your dog or puppy proper potty expectations the better. Trying to break the habit of a dog is quite difficult and it can be very frustrating. You need to use guidance and encouragement to help the pet. Animal experts all have some great ideas that can help you house train your dog.

Believe it or not, dogs are sanitary creatures. If a dog does soil accidentally in the wrong place, it is likely that it will be far from his dog dish, at least six to ten feet. This is true for the place where the dog sleeps as well. But, unless you find a good place for her to go and train her in that manner, the rest of your house is okay to them.

Training a fully grown dog is essentially the same as a puppy. You'll need to take him outside every few hours and also 30 minutes after he eats. It is about repetition. Stay with the pet until she goes, and then praise her when she does. If she does not go, bring her back inside and try again in fifteen minutes. Watch her though. If the dog starts sniffing and circling take them out right away as this is a sign that she is about to go. If you keep an eye and help condition the dog, they will start to associate going outside with potty activities.

Some dogs are housebroken much faster than others. Some dogs personality will cause her to go one way or the other. But, if you take her outside at the right time, it will go smoother. A puppy of less than four months old will need to go out during the night. Older puppies can hold it that long. A dog that cries to be let out has an urgent need. Get up and take her out, she needs every chance to succeed that she can get. Positive reinforcement is necessary for success.

How you treat accidents will affect your dogs overall learning curve. If you catch your dog going in the act, distract her with a clap or call her name. Take her outside calmly at that time and praise her for finishing outside. Clean up any accident that you find on the floor. If the dog approaches during this time, ignore her. Don't talk to or punish her at this point. The worst thing that you can do is to yell at her or physically punish her. This will cause her to fear you and to not bond as well to you. She wont connect it to the accident at all. Ignoring her is the best course of action here.

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Friday, November 20, 2009

How To Quiet A Whining Dog

By Sonia Kekkonen

Having a dog that barks and whines incessantly can put strain on even the most loving relationship between a dog and her owner not to mention the complaints and problems that can arise from your neighbors. Now, some barking will happen even with the best behaved dog, but those who have lived with a dog that barks in excess have a few tips on what to do.

1. Listen to your dog. It is not whining without a reason and instead of trying to get the dog to shut up, you will do well to find out what the problem is. Perhaps someone has attempted to enter the yard and your dog is chomping at the bit to get out and mark its territory. Maybe it spotted an animal, lacks food or water, or maybe a hurtful little spur got tangled in its fur. Check on the animal to make sure all its needs are met and then work outward and see if there is something external that might be causing the whining.

2. is your dog whining rather than barking? Whining is a sign that your dog is in distress and you need to check that your dog is OK.

3. Dogs whine when they are feeling lonely. Dogs are very social animals, in their natural settings they live together in packs. If you have been gone all day your dog may be whining out of loneliness. Set aside the first 10 minutes when you get home from work to play and socialize with your dog and you will stop the whining in it's track. It is also a stress relief for you to interact and love your dog after a stressful day at work.

4. A dog locked out in the back yard is a sure recipe for incessant whining. The dog wants to come in and be with YOU. He misses the companionship with you and will persistently whine for hours until let inside. Keep in mind that if you leave your dog in the yard all day while at work, your dog can be a nuisance for the entire neighborhood. Much better to keep the dog inside the house.

Disciplining a whining dog is not a good idea. Remember, whining is a sign of distress. Punishing the dog will cause even more distress. Instead, find out what your dog's needs are to take him out of the distress.

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Thursday, November 19, 2009

Potty Train Your Puppy Fast

By Remco van Reenen

Potty train your puppy as soon as you can. Old habits will be hard to break. Puppies bring love and joy into a home. Bringing home a new puppy is almost like bringing home a new baby. It is exciting and so very cute. You want to spend every minute with it. Treat your new puppy with the same love you would with a new baby.

A new puppy will bring joy into a home. But they do often have little habits that are not too thrilling. Being unable to go potty outside will take some work. Puppies are not potty trained from birth. And it is not a something that they develop on their own either. It needs to be trained. They do not know that peeing inside the house is wrong. Cats are born knowing how to use a litter box. Puppies are not.

Begin by sticking to a regular schedule. If a puppy has irregular patterns with sleeping, eating, then his excreting patterns will be harder to fix. Make sure he sleeps at the same time and wakes up around the same time. There needs to be a routine that is developed. The more regular his schedule is, the more faster his potty training will be conquered.

When your puppy starts to urinate inside of the house, tell him, "No!" Tell him firmly, but never yell. Yelling at the puppy will make him feel bad and resent you. You do not want your puppy to be scared of you. You want him to feel the same love and affection you towards him.

Be observant of your puppy. Watch for things like sniffing around. If he starts to stop whatever it is that he is doing and begins to sniff around, watch out! That is a sign that he is looking for a place to do his deed. Whenever he starts doing this, tell him to stop and carefully lift him outside. Let him finish his business outside.

The whole potty training process should take approximately two to three weeks. If your puppy has not mastered the routine, consult with your veterinarian or obedience instructor for any help.

It is important that your puppy knows when you are proud of him. If you keep rewarding him for his good deeds, the more effective the training process will be. When the potty training has been mastered, the same techniques can be used for other training methods. You can move onto more fun things like how to sit, stand, roll over, etc. Oh what fun you will have with your puppy! And potty training is just the start.

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Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Are You Becoming Stressed Out About Your Dog? Dog Train Them

By Author Goodman

An untrained dog can and does cause his owner a lot of stress as well as also endangers the very life of the dog as well. It is consequently required for every dog owner to start dog training as soon as their dog or pup is old enough to be given directions. The first part of dog training involves teaching your pet essential commands after which your pet will get to learn to do simple things like 'sit' when told to do so and to 'stay', and 'go' when so commanded.

An Early Start Is Recommended

The most important aspect to dog training is to start him off as early as is possible because once your dog has grown older it will then become harder to break his established habits. Early training will ensure that your dog learns how to behave properly and it will also be easier to train your dog. At the same time it is also necessary to understand the value of imparting dog training in short bursts rather than in long boring training sessions.

Dogs are well-known to have very short attention spans and so to use this trait of theirs to your advantage requires that you only perform the training while his attention is focused on what you are teaching him. In addition, you need to create a routine for him to follow which can consist of five minute training sessions in the morning followed by the same duration in the afternoon as well as in the evening.

Training my dog is not always a smooth process and there are many times when common problems will arise. One of the reasons for such problems arising is that you have not managed to earn the respect of your dog. As harsh as this may sound it is nevertheless a very real reason why dogs won't follow your commands. It will take a lot of effort to teach them that you are the master and not they.

Another common dog training problem that you will need to overcome is that your dog jumps too much. In order to rectify this behavior you should try and turn your back on him to show him (who is a pack animal) that such behavior is unacceptable and your dog too will soon come to realize that when he jumps on you and you turn your back to him he is being shunned. Optimistically, this will help cure him of this regular dog training dilemma.

You need to think about sending your dog to a dog training school in case you don't have time available to train your dog or you feel that you want your dog to be trained by professionals. Even when it proves to be hard to get your dog to obey you, taking professional help in the matter will soon help rectify the situation.

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Saturday, November 14, 2009

Dog Training - Adapt Your Tactics to Fit the Breed

By Terry Zinndell

The variety within the category of what we consider domesticated dogs is so extensive that it is better at times not to consider them all as the same species. Biologists do since dogs can interbreed. Since dog owners hold different objectives, it is sometimes better to emphasize the differences rather than their similarities.

A Jack Russell and a Great day are both dogs; however, they think, act and look very different from one another. The Great Dane is not as hyperactive as the Jack Russell is. Collies and Golden Retrievers are not alike at all. The more excitable, friendly and fun loving dog is the Golden Retriever. German Shepherds and Chihuahuas hold very little in common with one another, other than being dogs.

You will need to adapt your training technique to fit the breed of dog you intend to train, because of their differences. You will need to practice patience with all dogs while training them; however, some may need more than others will. Because, German Shepherds are very smart and take well to obedience commands they are generally easy to train. While a Jack Russell is intelligent as well, they are more willful and deserve a variation in their training.

One highly active, high-energy dog is a terrier, distraction techniques work well for them. They have the ability to spot movement and then they quickly go after the animal making the movement. It can be a challenge to keep their attention while training them. You may consider using dog treats, toy and other objects to keep their attention on you, by wiggling the object in their face to do so.

Collies are very mellow and are trainable as well; however, they are very loyal and protective animals, which is a good thing. However, it can be a problem if your collie continually barks and tries to attack anyone they consider a threat to the family. This may be desirable at night for a watchdog; however, it can be very annoying each time someone passes your house on the sidewalk in daylight.

Under these circumstances, bark collars are sometimes required, however you should remove the collar after the sun goes down. Doing so helps the dog to associate discouragement of barking in daylight, while it should continue to function as a watchdog when you need it to do so.

Dalmatians are wonderful companions, yet they are very strong and ultra-energetic. This can cause a problematic situation for a dog that spends a great deal of time in a small yard with no one to play with. If you plan to own one of these dogs, you will need to make time for working off all his or her surplus energy.

Dalmatians love to run and they love to run fast. Fast is the only speed they know. They deserve a large yard to run and play. The perfect master for them is someone who can command them fully while being able to throw a ball very far away. Dalmatians are loyal, yet they require a strong hand and a forceful master to be the alpha dog to them.

You will need to modify your training pattern to fit the actual personality of your dog, while including the consideration of both the aspects of the breed and the characteristics unique to your particular dog. Remember, dogs are individuals just as humans are.

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Ready And Set To Succeed At Puppy Potty Training

By Greg Stannionis

Puppy potty training may very well be one of the most difficult aspects of bringing home a new puppy. It requires vigilance and a dedication to constant supervision. It also requires a great deal of patience. No one enjoys the idea of a puppy going potty in the all the wrong places. We work hard to keep our homes clean and we do not enjoy those surprise methods.

The truth is that most people start off with a relatively patient attitude. After a few successful potty trips outside our expectations start to change. Some of us even take it personally when our pups don't quite make it outside after a few weeks. Consistent training is essential to get the point across. Without consistency your puppy ends up confused.

If you have a relatively large home, or many rooms that are not well occupied, it's best to keep your little one generally confined. This helps to prevent sneaking off to go in a lesser used portion of the house. He isn't going to want to go in those rooms that are part of his general living space. A simple puppy gate can help keep him in the same room with you.

Keeping him in your close proximity is also helpful for you. You don't have to stop what you're doing to find out where he keeps wandering off to. You can do other things while you make sure he is behaving in a way that you find appropriate. This also helps reduce chewing issues. A schedule of trips outside can be very helpful for both of you. Puppies naturally need to go in the middle of or at the end of a play time, after eating, when they first wake, and before you all hit the bed for the night.

Reward him every single time he goes in the right place. Reward works much better than punishment. You should not be striking him or rubbing his nose in his mess. Instead, you should be throwing a party complete with treats every time he gets it right. If you find that he is still going in the house, make sure you nab him up in the middle of doing his business. Carry him directly outside and do not let him back in until he has finished his deal.

Throw happy parties for success regularly, give him a concrete schedule, and make sure you know where he is and what kind of behavior he is exhibiting in order to develop a strong understanding of where it is acceptable to toilet. Just because he has had a successful week doesn't mean he is ready for the run of the house.

Health issues can play a huge role in his potential for success. Those months when sexual maturity is sneaking up on him can also cause backsliding. Once he is fixed he will likely return to his outdoor toileting behaviors.

Crate training can help a great deal with puppy potty training. He can learn to hold it better when it means he has to sleep with it while you're gone. Puppies do not like to have to live and eat where they take care of business, and thus crate training can be a wonderful tool in breaking the accident cycle.

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Learn More About Invisible Dog Fences

By Jammeson Tyler Davidmire

If you are looking for a truly easy and tireless way to keep your dog in one spot? This can be accomplished quite easily by using one simple tool. This tool will help condition your pet to not wader off where they don't belong. You might have heard of this tool referred to as an invisible do fence.

These dog training tools work by using corrective measures to teach your bet to observe certain boundaries. While being trained by this tool your pet will begin to learn where they are and are not allowed to wander. This is a great way to keep your dog safe from any dangers and from getting lost.

A perk, for your pet, of these invisible fences is that they will not have to be leashed. After all, how much fun and running can they do if they are constantly being snagged by a cumbersome leash. This device will keep them on your property without keeping them tied down.

If you are wondering how much you will have to pay for a wireless dog fence, there is no need to worry. There are a ton of different types of these tools out on the market. You will be able to find an invisible fence to fit your budget no matter how much you have to spend.

These tools work buy receive a signal from the transmitter, the main part of a wireless dog fence. The receiver is attached to your pets dog collar. If you have multiple pets, no worries, one or more receivers can purchased depending on how many pets you have.

Whenever your dog run off and tries to leave your property they will hear a warning sound. This warning is to let them know that they are playing where they shouldn't be playing. If they continue to disobey your rules they will receive a correction. This is a painless, more of a loud snap, way to let them no that it isn't acceptable to go any further. They will then turn back and the learning process will begin.

In order to set up your dog training tool you will need to place the transmitter somewhere on your property, preferably somewhere dry and as close to the center as possible. You will then need to set the transmitters range and and place the receivers on your dogs collar. That's it your wireless dog fence is all set up and ready to go.

Here is what can be expected by using a wireless dog fence. Your pets will learn their boundaries with little to no supervision. You will be able to let your dogs roam freely around your property without worrying about them running off or getting hurt. You may notice that your pets are more well behaved and more receptive to your commands.

Here is an interesting development that many dog owners who uses these devices have noticed. After prolonged training using wireless dog fences, they have observed that their pets no longer even attempt to do near the boundaries that you have set. This means that the transmitter and wireless collars are no longer necessary and your pets are 100% trained.

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Thursday, November 12, 2009

Good and Bad of Dog Management Devices

By Ryan Rivollier

Every so often the differentiation between training discipline and constraint is needlessly confused. Using verbal commands and non-verbal clues, with leashes or snacks, to solicit wanted behavior is training discipline. Using choke or 'stop-barking' collars, electronic fences or barriers and related devices is for constraint or prevention of unwanted behavior.

Control isn't of necessity harmful. Dogs instinctively have the need for and gravitate to the continuity of a community in which someone is the 'alpha wolf' and in a dog and a human relationship the human has to take that job. To allow the dog to establish himself as the alpha dog means property destruction, potentially threatening conditions for other dogs and humans, human dissatisfaction and a maladjusted dog.

Correction collars were developed to give a hand in gaining the ability to manage. Dogs, like humans, are individuals. Some are by nature more assertive or slower to be trained. For ones that don't react positively to a typical leather or nylon collar, a metal choke collar can provide for extra discouragement from tugging and jumping up.

The potential drawback is that choke collars, when used clumsily - all too simple to do - can give you results you didn't want and also be dangerous. Choke collars fit only one way and when suitably fitted should make allowance for a one to three fingers space between the neck and the collar - three for larger dogs, one for smaller. Ordinarily a collar two inches longer than the measurment around the neck will suffice.

Used crudely, though, choke collars can pinch the skin - resulting in lesions that scratching will make worse. They can also by mistake pinch the trachea. A fast yank-and-release does no damage; however by its construction it does cause discomfort. But for dogs that try to defy the tether this technique can be difficult to be successful with. Ordinarily, it is not recommended, chiefly for smaller dogs.

Prong collars are less hazardous than they appear, but have almost no positive characteristics -in this trainer's opinion. The only good aspect of the structure is their limited diameter - they can only clinch down so far. Nonetheless, a critter with such a strong-willed tendency to pull that prongs do not deter him cries out for a re-thinking of his whole training regime. That animal requires persistent training and behavior modification manipulation.

Halter collars encircle the neck and the face but don't prohibit panting or prohibit drinking and eating and can give extra effectiveness in controlling behavior. The downside is they don't assuage nipping if you are working on that problem. A conventional collar and lead or even a chest halter might be more desirable if nipping is not complication.

'No-bark' collars can at various times work successfully with those animals that insist on barking long after the initial reason to bark is gone. Barking is a straightforward response to potential danger and is also used to draw attention when one becomes distant from the pack community. But, for reasons not well perceived, some dogs continue barking for indefinite periods of time or at the most insignificant provocation.

Behavior modification equipment that discourages barking comes in several varieties, most notable noise and shock. Noise collars create an abbreviated, displeasing sound that diverts attention and tends to deter constant barking.

Shock collars generate a quick but discomforting electronic shock that can be sustained during lengthy or recurring barking. Evenhanded and objective experimentation to discover their effectiveness divulge mixed conclusions - they work with some dogs and not others. On the other hand, as with prong collars, any dog in need of one would profit if, in addition, he had precise, professional training using behavior modification methods.

At times the perceived quickest route to solving a problem seems attractive and doable... until they become an overused alternative to more appropriate (both to trainer and dog) long-term training. Putting in the time to comprehend how to gain your dog's undivided attention and compliance without inordinate amounts of reliance on control equipment is definitely the better way to go. The results are happier dog handlers and more stable dogs.

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Wednesday, November 11, 2009

The Ups ... Downs of Electronic Dog Enclosures

By Stewart Staubber

Electronic fences are control devices that have both benefits and disadvantages for both the animal, in this case the dog, and humans. An electric fence is actually a set of devices that generally includes transmitters and underground wire that delivers noise, shock or foul spray by the use of a collar on a dog when it reaches the boundary. Underground, along a perimeter of around 500 to 1000 feet, is buried the wire and when the animal reaches that area, the collar receives a signal, which activates the restriction.

If you live under city ordinances or strict HOA housing rules you may not be able to have a fenced in yard and need to install an electronic fence for your pet. When you have no normal fence to mark the boundary for the dog, electronic fences are a reasonable alternative, although they can be expensive.

However, there are various possible disadvantages of having electronic fences.

You will need to instruct your dog carefully, regardless of any previous training, to handle the shocks and noises of an electrical fence properly. Dogs need to learn their allowable limits as well as how to associate the shock or noise with those boundary limits.

It is possible for lightning strikes or careless digging near the perimeter to short out the electronic fence. You can remove the boundary flags that were set upon installation of the e-fence. If you leave them where they are they can be knocked over and dragged away while cutting grass or while children play or for other reasons. When not in position the boundary flags can become potential health risks by puncturing someone.

Some assertive or forgetful dogs may chase prey and run past their boundary unmindful of the temporary shock. While on the wrong side of the fence, they become discouraged by the shock from returning home voluntarily.

Some dog owners do not consider electric shock humane nor a great means of producing the behavior desired in their canine companion.

There are many risks in life and they all deserve careful measuring. Confining your dog indoors with no opportunity to run freely, unless on a leash, may cause your dog to become mentally unhealthy. There are locations that provide dog parks and other areas where dogs can run freely yet safely. Allow your dog to run freely at times to keep it from becoming frustrated.

Large dogs may be able to clear the usual height in fences however, accidents do occur and the animal may become injured or punctured badly by wooden planks and chain links. Dogs tend to bite and scratch at even minor wounds causing them to become infected or creating a hot spot. This means a visit to the veterinarian office. There are times when using an electronic fence is less dangerous.

There is no standard solution that will satisfy everyone and every situation, all dogs, all breeds or all training methods. In order to make an educated decision, consider all the facts, especially those involving the psychological and physical health requirements of the dog.

You should however, prepare to disable your fence if it seems to do more harm than good.

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When Teaching Your Dog to Come Be the Headstrong One

By Ryan Rivollier

Dogs aren't actually stubborn. However, they usually don't understand precisely what they're supposed to do. To make this crystal clear, you need to seize the alpha status very quickly. Be ready to exhibit patience and resolute and firm force to produce the behavior wanted. This can be difficult when training the command "come".

A dog is going to explore his environment by sniffing, digging, moving things and taking things away from one place to another. That is why one has to make sure that he does not get distracted with other objects during a training session. Other people and voices are also going to distract him so you need to do your training session in a quiet and clear backyard.

If the dog behaves spontaneously, coming towards you, take full advantage by reinforcing that action. So, a movement towards you should be reinforced with come, and a hand movement. Use gestures and words, which are not used during any training sessions.

Start the session by putting your dog in a sitting position. Move back a number of steps while saying 'stay' firmly, and using the hand gesture. Correct behavior should be praised lavishly, but do not reward incorrect and partial responses.

This activity should be repeated with you stepping back. If the dog tries to come too quickly, reinforce the command of sit/stay. If the dog does not move at the 'come' command, entice him with a treat or a toy.

Some dogs may be reluctant or slow to learn. This is where you might need to do some leash training. The dog should be put in the sit position with the reinforcement of the 'stay' command. Start backing up, while letting the leash go loose and slack. A firm tug is needed upon the leash along with the appropriate voice and hand gestures, if the dog does not move.

If the dog is too eager to come to you, use either a long leash or a rope which should be wrapped around a tree or fence rail. If the dog tries to move, the leash should be tugged as you say 'stay'. This training can be done with the help of another person, but the dog is going to get confused about whom to obey. That is why it is sensible to have the dog's focus on just one trainer.

While training, steadfastness and patience is important. Dogs don't automatically understand the usefulness of 'come' or any other commands. Yelling when the dog messes up or is a little stubborn is normally counter-productive. Develop your leader position with tone of voice, body language and willingness to wait for the dog to catch on. Physical restraint or leading is a less helpful technique.

Dogs respond extremely quickly to praise when they execute proper behavior. You need to be resolute and make sure that they come when you order them to.

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Tuesday, November 10, 2009

How Do I Teach My Dog To Respond To 'Down'?

By Stewart Staubber

"Nature to be commanded, must be obeyed" was a noteworthy saying of Francis Bacon. This idea is nowhere more on target than when it comes to teaching dogs. Dogs will have a natural inclination to seek out and stick with a chain of command structure with a leader (alpha) at the uppermost of the pack and all the way down to an omega at the bottom. That is why the 'Down' command is certainly helpful for supporting your status as alpha.

When a dog has learned the down technique and rests in this position, you won't have to worry about children getting bowled over or furniture getting jostled about. It also forms the building blocks for additional commands you may want to teach your dog-such as "sit," "stay," "roll over," or even tricks.

It is fortunate that such behavior is more often than not quite uncomplicated to train. That is why it is paramount to make use of such spontaneous behavior when possible. You can do this through keeping an eye on the dog and reacting when there is a unambiguous change from standing to a sitting position orsensations4 from a sitting position to a down position.

When this happens, you want to speak a specific command and use a unique hand gesture simultaneously. This gesture should be something you would not normally do, so you must make a special effort to do it. Every single time the dog goes into this position, you should clearly issue the command and make that hand gesture. Always use the same tone of voice.

Of course, the dog is already on his way to going into the down position when you give the command, and initially he won't know what you mean. But as soon as that down position is completed, you should lavish the dog with praise and attention. Over time and with specific repetition, the dog will learn to associate the praise with the words and action being completed. And you will associate the command with the positive behavior with the praise for the dog.

Most dogs will not achieve the correct behavior on a command when you first try. So, always be patient and clear and - first and foremost - be consistent. As with any other type of training, it is important to eliminate noise and motion types of distractions during the training period. Seek being alone with the dog and as far away from other voices as humanly possible.

Another way to help your dog learn the down command and reward him is to do the following. When your dog is in a sitting position, place a toy or treat on the ground right near the front of the dog's nose where he will naturally want to lie down to engage with it. At the same time, simultaneously give the down command and then reward the dog with praise when he complies.

Helping to focus your dog's attention with the toy or snack, use a 'waving down' hand movement, with your palm towards the floor position. Make sure to refrain from rewarding any dog with praise or a treat until the behavior is achieved and exactly correct. Be that as it may, if things don't go well, be sure not to become upset with the dog.

Some dogs require complementary training with a leash and collar to assist. To do this, get a short leather or nylon leash-a maximum of 4 feet long. Place the dog in the sitting position and kneel so you are in front of the dog facing him.

Now simultaneously make your distinct hand gesture and issue your voice command while moving the toy or treat from a position by the dog's chin slowly bringing it down to the ground. At the same time, slowly and gently pull on the leash to encourage the dog to go down. Do not tug or pull at the leash or make this a negative experience for the dog in any way.

Sometimes a dog simply will not get it. So here's another thing to try. Loop the leash around one of the knees on the dog's hind legs. Bring the other end of the leash under your foot (on the opposite side) where you can move it with your foot. While giving the command and the gesture, slide the leash with your foot so it buckles the dog's hind knee and gently pull the dog's two front legs toward you so the dog gently slides into the down position.

When the dog is in the proper position, you should praise the dog profusely even though you were the one who initiated the movement and not the dog. You always want the dog to correlate such a position with gratifying feelings: both his feelings and yours.

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Monday, November 9, 2009

Is Professional Dog Training the Most ProductiveOption?

By Ira Nelson

If you've got a dog and you don't have the energy, time or patience to train him yourself, you may want to hire a trainer. This is an activity that requires a lot of all three qualities, if you want to have a safe, happy, well-adjusted dog and be happy yourself, too.

When it comes to hiring a trainer, quality and cost are going to vary as with any profession. Training philosophies are also probably going to differ significantly depending on the trainer, too, especially because it involves interacting with animals. Therefore, take the following things into consideration as you make your selection.

Determine what your budget is going to be. The cost of the services you hire will vary depending on where you live and what services you use. You can sometimes use free services, often supplied weekly to parks or shelters by volunteers, or you may pay $100 or better per session. What's a reasonable fee for you? That will vary, depending on where you live, the experience of your trainer, how long the program is, and what your goals are for your dog.

Take a look at your schedule. Some training programs happen every week, while others happen more often. Some training programs have you leave the dog at the facility, while others will want you to stay and participate in the training. Regardless, though, most trainers will want you to spend some time training your dog every day, either at the trainer's facility or at home.

Is a "boot camp" training program right for you? In this case, your dog will be taken to a special facility for a length of time, up to several weeks. This type of training is long and intensive, and happens on a very regular basis. However, you shouldn't have any concerns for your dog, since dogs like this type of training. Toward the end of the training itself, you'll need to participate in the training, too, so that the dog ultimately sees you as the one to obey.

The results of this type of training school can be amazing. Dogs who complete this type of program usually end up eager to follow instructions and very disciplined. This is true even if they're not special service dogs. Even so, these dogs usually don't show signs of frustration or repression. Their moods are bright and they play with energy and gusto.

Next, take a look at the goals for your obedience training. Do you want a dog that you can enter into shows, or do you just want a dog that won't chase other pets or gnaw on your furniture? In addition, you'll need to consider the breed and temperament of your dog to determine what type of and how much training is going to be needed.

Some dogs are aggressive, others fearful either because they've been mistreated or because they're simply submissive. The aggressive dogs may be that way because they've been abused or because they're simply seeing themselves as the pack leader. The type of training you choose depends on the attributes you want to shape and how you want to influence them.

Whatever goals you have, and whatever your commitment or budget, you'll want to choose a trainer who has endless energy and patience, and who loves dogs deeply. Most trainers choose their careers precisely because they have these characteristics in great measure.

Besides these things, though, you want a trainer who agrees with you in terms of philosophy and who wants to achieve the same goals for your dog that you do. Some trainers feel that dog training is just as much or even more about training the owner than training a dog, and there may be some truth to that, sometimes. Some trainers are friendly, lenient, and seek to "connect" with the dog, while others are almost military in their bearing and expect to be able to "command" the dog. Many trainers utilize a mix of both styles.

It's likely that you'll lean toward one training style versus another, but neither training style is entirely subjective. Even if you have disagreements with your trainer, there are likely principles that you'll agree on nonetheless. Persistence, patience and consistency, as well as the need for the human to be in the "alpha" position, are just a few of these commonly held beliefs.

When you choose your trainer, ask for friends or family to recommend someone, and don't hesitate to try a few out. It may be that you'll have to change once or twice to find someone who really suits your needs. However, be careful about being too quick to change, and don't just do it casually. Dogs need regular environment and consistency in order to really absorb the training they are being given.

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How To Teach Your Dog When It Comes to Tricks

By Stewart Staubber

For the most part dogs are excited to do what their owners want and try their best to please when it comes to receiving a reward for doing so. These are dog attributes that need to be exploited when it comes time to teach them tricks. It's important to use their natural predilections. By building on these natural 'dog' charateristics and behaviors in association with rewards to develop pet tricks, the operation becomes easier than trying to teach a trick from scratch.

Make a note of what your dog does for his own amusement. Does he spring into the air pursuing butterflies? Does he like to turn in circles chasing his tail? If some kind of spontaneous behavior can be turned into an entertaining trick, that will quicken the training process. Be at the ready to use a consistent hand cue and vocal command when this behavior is shown and then follow with an immediate reward.

It's important to not feed your dog an excessive number of treats. If you feed them too many you risk them either becoming sick, obese, or immune to the treat if you know what I'm saying. Treats will be good in the beginning, but you need to slowly wean your dog off of these treats so that he or she will do the tricks after seeing your hand signal or receiving the verbal command.

Many dogs get the knack readily after a few repeats and a verbal praise or treat reward. This usually makes training the "down", "come", "sit" and other rudimentary commands quite straightforward. When you want to train for something a bit more elaborate it can be as simple as amplifying these rudimentary commands and behaviors. As an example, the "down" command can be the start for teaching "play dead".

Another way to get your dog's focus when working on some tricks is to use a favorite plaything. Using a chew toy or a ball your dog likes to play with, just beyond his reach, rapidly move it up and down motivating him to jump whilst giving him the "jump" verbal command. After repeating until he correlates the command and hand signal with the act of jumping, dispense with the toy and use just your hand and the vocal command.

Capitalize on your dog's keen sense of smell... his ability to recognize smells close by and at long distance is fascinating. This incredible capacity can be used in teaching assorted types of "hide-and-seek" tricks and games. Again, using a favorite tug toy or chew ball, conceal it under a box or other object. Start-off close by and slowly lengthen the distance or increase the difficulty in stages, for instance placing the box in another room or up on a table.

What about giving you five? That's a great trick for a dog, and it's actually pretty easy. Most dogs have a tendency to give you their paw immediately, and you can show them your hand or "paw", and then say 'high five' as they give you theirs. After a while this will become second nature to them, but at first you will need to reinforce this behavior using a treat.

Very often the dog will present you his paw straightaway. With some dogs you will help them get the idea by lifting their paw while using the vocal command. Always remember to praise even if you have to elevate his paw into position, then put the paw back down and repeat.

When a trick has been learned it's usually no trouble to augment it. "Give me five" can smoothly be expanded into "sit up" by continuing to lift the paw so that the other one will automatically lift up. By then haging on to both feet so that the dog is in a "sit up" position, verbalizing the command and rewarding with praise or a treat, he will, with repetition, connect the dots.

Needless to say there are many different types of training. Much of it is for behavior modification, safety, appropriate social behavior, and so forth. Developing tricks is for you and your dog's pleasure, recreation, and to help strengthen the bond between you.

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How Does You Dog Process Training Information?

By Ryan Rivollier

You may call your dog dumb, but how many times have his soulful eyes and beseeching paw made you pass him a treat under the table? The truth is that even dogs who are a little short on brains can be very clever!

One of the reasons why the thousands upon thousands of years of love between people and dogs has lasted so long is because we communicate in a way that they understand. When a dog comes to you with his frisbee and drops it at your feet, you know without being told that he thinks it's time to play fetch.

The two above examples tell us that our dogs can learn very complex behavior and that we can teach them even more.

Remember that just like we do, dog can see and remember a lot of language and posture, but they process it very differently from the way that we do.

Just to start off with, they see in low light much better than we do, their eyes respond to color differently, and they can rotate their ears very quickly, letting them figure out where sounds are coming from. Don't forget that famous nose, either!

These basic differences will tell you a lot about how different their mental functioning is. They understand cause and effect, but it's much different from how we understand it.

Consider classical training, where you learn to associate a stimulus with a response. This is something that humans can ignore pretty easily. For instance, we can shake off an undesired response to a car accident or a visit to a doctor much more easily than a dog can.

Operant conditioning is where we learn about cause and effect through positive and negative reinforcement and is something that is even more different between humans and dogs.

Consider the fact that I always go out the back door with my Golden Retrievers when we are going to play fetch. Whenever we go out that door, we play fetch. On the other hand, when I let them out the side door, I don't go with them; I just leave them for half an hour or so. Of course, they always go to the back door when they want a game or see one coming.

When I train my dogs, I always use a certain tone and a unique hand gesture with every command, and this lets them learn a wide range of behaviors. They will lie down, roll over, release their jaws, come, sit, fetch, drop it and even eliminate on command.

However, consider the fact that telling them not to eat something off the floor that will give them a bellyache is not going to work, no matter how many times they suffer through it. There is just too much of a time lapse that is in place there for them to really figure out what they need to do to stop it from happening.

What you should take from this information is that your dog, whether he is a Shepherd, a Retriever, a Basset Hound or a Dachshund, can learn a lot, if only you remember that he is a dog and not a human!

For instance, look at dogs that can dance on command on the show circuit, or search and rescue dogs that can locate small children and pull them from swollen rivers and bad avalanches. Service dogs can do everything from opening a door to pulling a wheelchair to guiding a blind person.

Remember, though, that they are not people, and that even when they try to act like us and communicate like us, they are still going to do things like eat little dead critters they find in the yard and turn around three times before they sleep!

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