Exercise and Your Dog
Do you feel that your dog lays around too much during the day and doesn't get enough exercise?
If experts have discovered that exercise is key to human health and wellbeing, it is safe to say that your Dog will benefit from the same research. When exercise is introduced into your life, good mental health as well as physical health will result whether man or beast.
A few things that exercise can do for your pet are increase bone density, improve joint mobility, enhance cardiovascular capacity, allows better digestion and promotes healthier blood pressure. Your Dogs mental health is extremely important for good quality of life, and a good exercise program will relieve stress in their lives.
Obedience training is something all pets must have and exercise plays a key role in your pets behavior. In most cases, exercise before any kind of training will give you a calmer more willing pet rather than a pet that has a lot of pent-up energy possibly causing him or her not to listen.
Any time you and your pet do any activity together, bonding occurs. Training and exercise will promote a bond with your pet. Dogs in general want desperately to please their masters and enjoy performing for them in a training situation. Besides the training aspect, playing games is a very good way to get exercise and have fun with them at the same time. Throwing a frisbee across a field for movement is great exercise and fun.
If you are extremely busy and just can't give your dog enough valuable attention, there are services who will walk your dog for you daily. You can even hire the neighborhood child to walk your dog every day. There are many makes and models of
doggie doors you can purchase so that your dog can go outside any time they want.
Just remember, it's important not to get your dog used to just sitting around all day. Getting the proper amount of exercise can help him live a longer and happier life that you will want to share with him.
Dog Containment Systems
Dog containment is of great concern to thousands of pet owner across the country. There are a variety of ways to keep your pet safe and sound in your backyard. The most traditional way is to build a fence of some sort to keep your pet contained. Everything from chain link to
modular fencing can be considered as viable alternatives. Another form of containment that has been out for just a few years is the underground radio dog fencing.
With an underground dog fence, you and your pet can have the freedom to enjoy your backyard or the entire perimeter of your yard. Dogs have a tendency to bark annoyingly when they are confined to a small area. This system allows dogs to satisfy their curiosity by having the run of the entire yard.
Installation is simple and easy. The wire boundry of your dog fence can be any configuration you can think of. It can be installed underground or above ground with special staples. You are in total control of where and how your fence is constructed. There are usually two sizes of wire to choose from in these kits. A standard 20 gauge stranded copper wire for typical installations or a professional grade 18 gauge heavy duty wire. If you have rocky ground or any other rough terrain it would be best to go with the heavier wire.
Also, before purchasing your kit, deside on how large of an area you need for your area. The included radio transmitter plugs into any standard outlet and puts out a radio signal along the underground wire. The collar reciever worn by your pet is then picked up and able to give them an alert when they get within a few feet of the wire. That is followed by a small shock if they approach too close to the wire.
If you wish to select certain areas that your dog can't get in to like a garden or landscaped area, it is easy to section off those areas with radio wire. Just chose which areas you want them in and which you designate as "off limits" for them. No more accidently letting your dog out the front door and scrambling to get them safely back in. Relax and enjoy them.
Radio Fence makes it easy to train your pet to stay out of the areas you don't want him in. Just spend a few minutes each day with them for the training. After so many days, your pet should be trained and ready to have his freedom.
Housetraining a Yorkshire Terrier
You must have a routine for your Terrier to follow daily. To be successful in housetraining, you must have a schedule to take your terrier outside to potty and, over weeks to a few months, it becomes a natural occurance in their every day life.
The majority of us go to the bathroom right after we wake up. Your Yorkie is no different and this is where the routine begins. Upon waking in the morning, take him outside for his first potty trip of the day. Puppies especially need to go out very early as they have small bladders when they're small. The older they get the more control they will have.Make this trip outside a short one. Let your Terrier do its business and then come right back in for breakfast. By the time you are dressed and have eaten your breakfast, your Yorkie will have finished his breakfast also, and you can take him out again. Your Yorkshire Terrier puppy will need potty breaks at mid-morning and mid-afternoon. As soon as you get home, take your pet out again. Remember, a schedule needs to be followed consistently. If you feel it helpful, keep a chart of what times you wish you take your Yorkie out. These can be adjusted as you make note of your puppy's natural elimination patterns.
Feed your Yorkie dinner at the same time every evening, early enough to have his food settled enough to have a successful potty break before going down for bed for the night. And in the morning, begin the whole routine again, keeping to the same schedule.Potty trips should be kept low key and short, and do not let your Yorkie confuse these breaks with playtime. After your Yorkie does his business, follow up with lots of praise and attention. A small treat and and verbal response goes a long way in telling your pet he's done a good job.If you arrive home to find an accident on the floor, don't get upset, just follow your regular routine.
Negative reinforcement has proven not to be a good way to train any dog, although there was a time when some people used a negative response when dealing with training problems. After sticking to the regular routine, simply clean up the mess with no fanfare. All puppies and dogs will have accidents. It's a fact of life. You have to remember that a schedule or routine is the most powerful tool you have when potty training your Yorkshire Terrior. Use that tool to the upmost and you and your pet will reap the rewards.
Dog Clothes and jewelry
All thru history Dogs, cats and pets in general have proven valuable additions to the families of millions of people. Even Kings and Queens have seen the value of a non-judgemental companion to ease the tensions of everyday life. Pets leave us with childhood memories we'll never forget even during the last days of our lives. If you've ever loved a pet, then you understand completely the attachment that comes from an adoring animal who thinks you can do no wrong. And if you do, he will completely forgive you in ten minutes.Luxury Dog apparel and jewelry has become extremely popular with pet owners that are trying to make their pets a little more like a family member. From cool hoodies for casual wear, to tuxedo and wedding dresses for the most formal events, dogs and cats are getting stylish with the latest fashions. Hoodies, t-shirts, dresses, jackets, rain coats...you name it. There is an outfit on the Internet for every occasion. Jewelry can be worn alone or as a way to complete an outfit with hair pins and shiny collars along with necklaces and tiaras.Along with fun and good fashion comes a practical side to dog clothes. Smaller breeds are always in need of a extra warmth as they don't have as much body fat as the larger breeds. I live in south Texas and own a darling Maltese breed dot with lots of fur. Even still he shivers when let outside to urinate and often will just turn around before accomplishing the task. Therefore, we have to keep a hoodie or t-shirt on him to keep him warm and cozy. Clothes for your pet, especially in colder climates are a must. Many people think that animals coats are enough to keep them warm in the winter, but this is simply not true. Even large dogs can use a hoodie or two in the winter for added protection against the elements.So whether you live in a cold climate and need added protection against the elements or you just like the looks of your precious little pal with a motorcycle jacket on, dog clothes are here to stay and they are growing in popularity as we speak. And, jewelry to accent the clothes or just all by themselves is a great addition to your dogs' appearance. Bottom line is have fun with your pet!! Enjoy the love and companionship they give you and try to give them something in return.
How to get your Cat to Eat
Cat owners are very familiar with the "fussy-eater" syndrome that most cats have. Many worry that their cat will become malnourished or just be constantly hungry all the time. There are several reasons why cats will not eat what's put before them. Here are a few tips on how to get your "fussy-eater" to try their food.
Suddenly refusing to eat or being fussy about what you are feeding, could be a sign there is a health problem that you know nothing about. It is best to have your pet checked out by a veterinarian just in case illness is the cause of their sudden behavoir.
One way to try and get your cat to eat is to warm the food to body temperature. Warmth makes the food have a stronger smell making it more appetizing. If the food is wet, try and heat it just a little in a sauce pan. We do not recommend the microwave as it is prove to take away nutrients from food. If the food is
dry, warm it in the oven for a few minutes on low heat.
Another thing you can do to encourage an appetite is to mix a tasty canned food with your cat's usual food. Also, mixing a little canned tuna, salmon or sardines would work just as well. Cats love the smell of fish.
As strange as it sounds, a recommendation by veterinarians on this subject is to clean your cats' nose. It may not be able to smell the food enough to get a good appetite going. Smell is half the joy of eating for cats.
Try feeding your cat from your hand to start off the meal. Many times they will continue to eat after that voluntarily. Also, place the food in a quiet, traffic-free area of the house or yard as sometimes there are too many distractions for them with more nervous cats.
Feed smaller meals several times a day when your pet asks for it. A small amount of food is sufficient for most cats. This will help overfeeding problems and will stop your cat from looking for food in other places.
All natural pet foods seem to be a key to getting your cat to eat better. They generally love the taste and smell of fresher foods. Also, treats now and then help keep your cat interested in food.
Treats that contain some sort of fish is recommended.
Instincts and Traits in Dogs
Domestication of canines was accomplished by humans thousands of years ago. Many think that the world's first dogs were tamed wolves, as dogs share many biological traits with wolves. First of all they look very much alike and their actions are similar. They both have highly developed sense of smell and hearing.
*Body Language is a postural display by canines that show you their intentions. When meeting a strange person, canines display their fear by raising their hackles, meaning, the hair stands up on their backs and necks. This display comes from lack of socialization with others. Showing there teeth is another sign.
*If your dog's ears go back flat and his tail goes between his legs, it means he is being submissive. The old saying "ran off with his tail between his legs" came from this postural display of dogs. Another submissive behavior is rolling over on the back.
*Circling another dog on stiff legs with a posture of superiority and domination is another posture associated with dogs. Often includes growling.
*If a dog kneels or puts his front legs on the ground lowering his front quarters, it generally means he wants to play. This is always accompanied by a friendly wagging tail.
*An instinctive ritual in canines is circling before lying down. Some experts say that this came from a habit long ago of circling to pack down the grass to give a soft bed to sleep in. Others think the dog is smelling the area for enemies before lying down, as they put their noses to the ground while they are performing this task.
*Attacking small animals is an innate hunting instinct in dogs from a time they had to hunt for their food for survival.
*Digging is a trait that is thought to come from the dog's instinct to dig a den when there is nothing else appropriate to make a den with. Terriers were known to pursue their quarry through underground tunnels if necessary.
Other things to consider is the dogs sense of smell. They use this sense to sniff the air to find game and also to sniff out enemies that may be approaching. They have a wonderful sense of hearing and sight also.
Dogs are very loyal and for the most part are dependent on their masters. They have a place in human society. The only reward for dogs in many cases is a kind word and a pat on the head. The study of wolves and dogs teaches us that many of their traits haven't changed from before they were domesticated. Although canines' instincts and actions are influenced by their heredity, they are highly intellegent mammals, and are the products of a combination of training, experience and genetics.
Hip Dysplasia
Commonly found among the larger breeds of dogs, Hip Dysplasia is an ailment affecting the hip joints. It is most prominent in pure breed dogs, such as Great Dane, Labrador, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers. Until recently, not much was known about Hip Dysplasia. The most important thing to look at is the hip joint. In dogs, it is caused by the malformation of the hip. This ailment usually occurs when the dog is at a young age, while they are still growing and bones are forming. The hip is a ball and socket joint. This joint grows crooked, causing the back legs to be affected. The ligaments, muscles and connective tissues of the hip become pliable, thus not giving proper support, and the joint has no choice but to grow unnaturally.Dogs are not born with the ailment, alothough it is a largely a genetic disorder. As the bones grow apart, the capsule holding the bones together become strained and stretched, as opposed to growing towards each other as they should. This adds more problems to the joint as the two bones, pelvis and femur, get separated from each other. The bones become out of alignment which puts pressure on the nerves.Here are some of the signs of Hip Dysplasia.Dogs feel pain after exercise and during a usual day's activity. They find it hard to stand on their hind feet in the early morning from stiffness. They tend to stop walking and sit down often. Very stiff hind legs. You can tell as they run, how they try not to put pressure on their back legs. Over time, dogs find it hard to stand up without assistance.Things that can help Hip Dysplasia.Most genetic cases can't be helped, but you can make it easier on your pet. Try to keep your dog at a slim weight as lighter weight is easier to carry. There are some products on the market that are specifically for hip issues. Wheelchairs’ or the "Helping Hands" from Mikki is available. The latter product enables the handler to take weight off of their dogs hind legs while still allowing the front legs to operate normally. This allows the dog to exercise when he wouldn't be able to otherwise.
Housing For Your Pet
Housing for Your Pet
There are many affordable kennel options for pet owners to consider these days. The chain has always been the only choice for outdoor kennels for many years. These days the chain link fences are considered unsafe for dogs.
Modular Kennels are taking the pet industry by storm. Most are reasonably prices, easy to install and are available in custom sizes and shapes. Modular kennels are a step above other fencing in that modular systems are safer and do not have metal wires or loose ends that may be harmful to your dog. Modular sections are chosen for the size and shape that is required for your pets comfort along with the size of the space. For these reasons, Modular Kennels have become more and more popular.The first step is to size up the space that is available to you. Many neighborhoods have very small yards to work with, so it is important to determine just how much space your pet requires and then consider the space to work with. Dogs should have a
dog house, a place for water and food and enough room to walk around in for exercise.Modular fencing comes with complete instructions on how to assemble, but for the most part, it comes in sections that are simply attached to each other. A Modular Kennel can be assembled in literally a couple of hours, if that. Then simply place your pets house inside and you're off and running. There are options for dog houses, such as
weather flaps that can keep out the rain or snow.Just remember, one size does not fit all where different breeds of dogs are concerned. Your pet is totally dependent on you for their care, so of course their housing is extremely important. Also, safety for your pet is the number one consideration in any kennel project, so considering the Modular Kennel is definitely something you should look at.
Aggressive Behavior in Dogs
Just because a dog bites one time, he won't necessarily continue this behavior. Biting is response to a situation. If your dog bites someone that is your signal that immediate training modification is needed to reduce his aggressive tendencies. The first step is to find out the reason the dog bit.The top reason for dog euthanizing is aggression. Biting is a dog's natural defense mechanism. Domestication has not completely removed the dog's natural tendencies to communicate with their fellow animals to establish rank and position by aggression. But educated owners can train their dogs to reduce aggression.Genetics may play a role in biting tendencies. Some breeds developed as guard dogs and aggression was appreciated. A chasing instinct can escalate into a predatory type situation. Socialization is important from the time your pet is a small puppy because fear of others is a major cause of aggression.Preventing aggression from the puppies youngest years means socialization and consistent training. Most puppies love to nip at your hands or body parts. As a puppy, no damage is usually done by this playful exchange. But if it allowed to continute, when the puppy becomes an adult they play can turn in to something else. Play biting and rough housing should not be allowed from day one. Using punishment as a means of teaching this will not work. Positive reinforcement should be associated with non-aggressive behavior. This is the most effective form of training.It is Important to remember that dogs bite out of fear or protectiveness, so it is important to properly socialize your pet from puppyhood. Expose them to as many environments and situations as possible so as to make them familiar with everything around them. Lots of praise and healthy
treats can be given while in these new situations to let them know that all is well. Praise them when a stranger approaches and offer a treat as the stranger passes and your pet remains seated and quiet. If it is possible to include the stranger in your training, do so. Have a stranger give your dog a treat as he passes over time.Lastly, sudden or isolated biting incidents could be related to a medical condition. A trip to the Veterinarian should rule out that possibility, then you can make decisions on what to do from there.
Aggressive Behavior in Dogs
Just because a dog bites one time, he won't necessarily continue this behavior. Biting is response to a situation. If your dog bites someone that is your signal that immediate training modification is needed to reduce his aggressive tendencies. The first step is to find out the reason the dog bit.The top reason for dog euthanizing is aggression. Biting is a dog's natural defense mechanism. Domestication has not completely removed the dog's natural tendencies to communicate with their fellow animals to establish rank and position by aggression. But educated owners can train their dogs to reduce aggression.Genetics may play a role in biting tendencies. Some breeds developed as guard dogs and aggression was appreciated. A chasing instinct can escalate into a predatory type situation. Socialization is important from the time your pet is a small puppy because fear of others is a major cause of aggression.Preventing aggression from the puppies youngest years means socialization and consistent training. Most puppies love to nip at your hands or body parts. As a puppy, no damage is usually done by this playful exchange. But if it allowed to continute, when the puppy becomes an adult they play can turn in to something else. Play biting and rough housing should not be allowed from day one. Using punishment as a means of teaching this will not work. Positive reinforcement should be associated with non-aggressive behavior. This is the most effective form of training.It is Important to remember that dogs bite out of fear or protectiveness, so it is important to properly socialize your pet from puppyhood. Expose them to as many environments and situations as possible so as to make them familiar with everything around them. Lots of praise and healthy treats can be given while in these new situations to let them know that all is well. Praise them when a stranger approaches and offer a treat as the stranger passes and your pet remains seated and quiet. If it is possible to include the stranger in your training, do so. Have a stranger give your dog a treat as he passes over time.Lastly, sudden or isolated biting incidents could be related to a medical condition. A trip to the Veterinarian should rule out that possibility, then you can make decisions on what to do from there.
Things To Know Before Getting a Pet
There are things to consider before adding any pet to your home. Many families yearn for that special pet to help make their family complete, yet do not consider all the factors and responsibilities involved in feeding and caring for a dog, cat, or even a fish. Your entire family must be considered as everyone will be involved with its care.
Many factors need to be considered before getting that special family member. Pets require love, care nurturing and training. All these things take time and patience. A strong relationship or bond will be developed with your new pet. The next thing to consider is budgeting for your new pet. Make sure you can afford to buy its food and toys as well as its health and medical needs, especially its puppy vaccinations and heart worm medicine. Third, is the size of your home. You must gage what size animal can comfortably fit in your home, and what your family will be comfortable with.
Having a dog is very rewarding but a large responsibility as well. They need considerable space to run and walk and may need an outside kennel area as well as an inside crate. If you have no yard, you must be willing to take your dog for walks many times daily for exercise and for potty breaks. Dogs need to see the veterinarian regularly in order to get the appropriate vaccinations and medications. It's almost like having another child in your home. Also, have a plan on where to leave your dog if you need to go on vacation or out of town for several days and can't take them with you.
Cats are wonderful pets and do not require as much care as a dog. Cats have different challenges, such as, they like to scratch their claws on furniture and doors in your home. They also need food, treats, bedding etc. It's best to have a scratching post for them to get that urge out without damaging your home. Cats love to play, especially when they are kittens, therefore, they need lots of attention and toys to play with.
Birds are a good choice for some homes. Always remember, whichever the pet, you must keep a clean environment. Birds are the same. They keep a very messy cage, spreading seeds everywhere, and that has to be cleaned daily. Their cages need weekly cleaning. Fresh water and food every day is necessary for a healthy bird and you need to make sure you keep plenty of bird seed available. They also require millet spray, cutlet bone for the beak health and toys.
All you have to remember is that your pet is a PART of your family. They give pleasure and fulfillment to deserving families. You must treat your pet with the same love and caring that you do with any other member.
All Natural Pet Foods
With all the media attention regarding many commercial dog foods we all must be a little more careful choosing what food we purchase for our pets. Some owners are going to ALL NATURAL dog foods which are becoming more and more popular.
One of the things that dogs or cats need in their food is protein. Ingredients such as Chicken Meal, Whole Wheat Flour, Ground Rice, Lamb Meal, all are good ingredients to find in your commercial dog food. Natural dog food helps your pet maintain better health. Meats, mainly chicken should be used and grains are a great ingredient too. Make sure the label says, human grade, before purchasing.
Your dog's daily amount of food is calculated based on its weight. Once you find out your pets weight, follow the directions on the bag based on that. You might give the entire amount at one meal, or split it up between morning and evening feedings.
Another thing to consider is what size the food is. Some manufactures offer a larger bite food for larger dogs and a smaller kibble size for smaller dogs. You should match the size of your dogs bite to the size of its food or choking can occur.
The best all natural food we have found at Pampered Pets is Flint River Ranch. Their food is all natural, human grade and is baked fresh every day. Different formulas for the different needs of your pets. There is also a formula for tender stomachs. To assure freshness they ship factory direct to locations all over the country.
The Lhasa Apso Breed
The Lhasa Apso is a friendly and devoted companion. A small dog that exudes an outward appearance of dignity and comedy at the same time. He will never let you down.
Considerable grooming is needed to maintain the long coat of the Lhasa Apso. He has a long durable coat that is straight and heavy which causes it to drape over their eyes and on to the floor. Some of the more popular colors are honey, cream and gold. It also comes in brown, slate, smoke and two-toned brown and white and black and white. Brushing is required every day to keep their coats in good shape. They have a dark beard and mustache with a medium-length muzzle. They are known for their small, dark eyes with long eyelashes that need to be cleaned also daily. Finally, he has a distinctive tail that curls over his back.
Lhasa Apso dogs are about 10 to 11 inches tall and weigh between 12 and 15 lbs. They generally live to be around 15 years old. Apso's breed goes back to 800 B.C. from the country of Tibet. Called the "Bark Lion Sentinel Dog" for two thousand years, they were raised and bred solely by holy men and nobles. They were used as watch dogs in the temples and monasteries. They were finally introduced to the rest of the world when the Dalai Lama offered a "Bark Lion Sentinel Dog" to some foreign diplomats and in 1930's were brought in to the U.S.
These dogs need lots of socialization and obedience training should be started very early. If not, they will become overly shy towards strangers and could become aggressive. Since they are on the stubborn side, training should be done with patience and positive reinforcement. Dog respond well to positive reinforcement with treats for good behavior. Children that pull and tug on them are not welcomed by the Lhasa Apso, so socialization is key.
Lhasa Apso's are considered to be one of the most strong-minded and strongest-willed out of all the small breeds. They thrive on attention and often like to be the only dog in the house if they are not socialized very early with another dog. When properly introduced and raised with another dog, they can get alone fine with other dogs.
Make sure you get your Lhasa Apso from a reliable, responsible breeder to ensure you are getting a healthy puppy. The American Kennel Club should be able to help you find a good breeder. Also, your veterinarian will be able to help you.
Training your Dog Not to Jump
As all Spaniel owners will attest to, dogs are extremely social animals and most of them just want attention in the form of face to face contact. This desire often leads them to want to jump on people to achieve this face to face greeting. Unfortunately, most people don't want animals jumping on their clothes and some are even afraid of strange dogs. The good news is you can stop your pet from jumping with certain techniques, love and patience. As in all training, you must be consistent with the technique you choose so the animal doesn't become confused.
Pick a command that is only used for the "down" command, such as "Off" or "down". Different dogs will respond to different things, so your job is to find the one that works best for you. Make sure you make a command for your dog that does not conflict with any other command you use for other training.
One technique for "jumpers" is when your pet tries to jump, get down to his or her level, possibly on your knees so that his need to jump up to yours will not be necessary. Over time as he grows, he will learn that it's not necessary to jump up to get your attention. Again, there are some breeds that love to jump so much that this technique will take lots of work to get them to understand.
Another technique is to just ignore him and refuse to cooperate with him when he jumps on you. When he gets the message, then get down to his level and give him attention. Turn your back and look anywhere else but at him. Make no eye contact with him as this will only get him jumping again. This will only work if you are consistent and persistent with your training.
For more stubborn and even larger dogs, don't be afraid to use negative reinforcement. You must understand that this technique will not harm your dog in any way. When your dog jumps up simply lift your knee up in to his chest and give your command "Down". Every time he jumps up, instead of your eye contact he will encounter only your knee to look at and will soon learn this is not what you or he wants. When he is back down in to a sit, bend over and praise him for sitting instead of jumping. You'll be surprised how the tone of your voice will make your dog understand if you are happy or not. In my experience, this technique works very well over time and does not hurt your animal in any way. If you are hurting your pet, you're doing it wrong.
You must be consistent and assure your pet that you mean business and be firm with your command. If you follow those rules, your pet will learn very quickly what is right and what is wrong behavior.
Secrets to Caring for a Mastiff
If you are reading this article, then Mastiffs at least get your curiosity up. As you are doing your research, you may be asking yourself if you are really ready for a Mastiff. Mastiff's, while loving and loyal, pose some unique challenges for the first time owners. Any dog, regardless of the breed, takes time, patience, love and training. The key elements to raising any breed of dog.Because of the Mastiffs massive size, they require extra time and patience when trying to train. They can weigh anywhere from 100 to 200 pounds. That's the weight of an adult human if you think about it. Without proper training, socialization, limitations and rules, you might find yourself with a 200 pound animal bounding through your home. Before you take home that wonderful puppy of your dreams that will grow in to a loving Mastiff, here are some things to know about them.
* Mastiffs love to jump and play and require lots of exercise.
* Mastiffs do not like strangers and often show real aggression towards them.
*Mastiffs are extremely social animals and absolutely love attention.
If you appreciate these traits of the Mastiff, then he is the perfect dog for you and your family. Mastiffs require vigorous daily exercise and in fact taking walks or jogging with him will greatly increase the bond between you and your canine friend. Another thing to know is that walking with your Mastiff awakens a primal migratory instinct within your pet. Walking with him in a heal position will enforce your roll as "pack leader" or "head of the pack", in his world. If you can't give your Mastiff regular vigorous exercise then he may get obese, causing joint pain and other health problems.Mastiffs thrive on human interaction and attention which is why it's not good to leave your pet confined to the basement or backyard. Problems with digging, chewing and excessive barking can occur if this is the case. They have a meek and gentle disposition which allows them to interact with children very well, even if the children get a little rough at times. As with most canines, Mastiffs love to please their owners and the people in their households, and make wonderful companions because of that.
One must remember that even though Mastiffs have a gentle and loving disposition, they do have fighting and/or guard dog roots. Your Mastiff will require an introduction of all strangers, as they will not welcome them with open arms without letting them know its ok to accept a new person. This wonderful breed makes a loving, protective pet and with the proper information, all owners will reap the rewards of this large breed of dog.
Health Needs of Your Pets
Preventative care is the key to dealing with your pets life, and good food and reqular check-ups are at the top of the list. It is essential to the health of your pet to be checked out by a regular professional veterinarian on a regular basis.
If pets seem to live longer these days it is because the public is waking up to the fact that good healthcare is the responsibility of the pet owner. In this century as in the old days, people cherish their pets more than ever before. Activates for pets in the country have come out and are protesting against the unfair treatment of animals. Dogs and Cats are beloved and taken care of as if they were one of the family.
Managing health through weight control is a good way to start in the good health direction. Feed your dog the same healthy dry dog food. Preferably a food that is balanced and has been certified human grade. This should keep your pet at a steady healthy weight. This will also tell you how he is feeling. It is much easier to monitor your pets health when you stay on a strict diet and do not deviate.
Dogs should be seen by a veterinarian once a year for a check-up and to fill heart worm medication and any other medications necessary. Veterinarians can head off problems such as gum disease that will not be evident to the average pet owner. Other exams can alert you to Cancer, cataracts, glaucoma and dry eye, liver problems, stomach problems etc.
There are many things that go in to good health for your pet. Exercise is something we humans have come to realize is very important to good health. It is the same with dogs. Take them on regular outings and walks. These walks will also build self esteem and give them socialization with other animals and people. If it’s good for you, it's good for your pet. Good diet, regular visits to the veterinarian, exercise and socialization with others are the keys to good health for you and your pet.
Vaccinations
Vaccinations help to keep your dog from getting many serious illnesses and diseases. There are different theories and opinions on how often to give vaccines or if its even necessary at all. The best bet is to listen to your veterinarian. It is the responsibility of the pet owner to make sure proper health care is given to their pet.
Vaccinations usually begin at five or six weeks of age. Prior to this, the maternal immunity prevents your puppy from getting any serious diseases. As in humans, mothers milk bulids up and protects your puppy. It is best to de-worm your pet before giving any kind of vaccinations. The Parvo virus is very deadly to dogs and the vaccine for this disease needs to be given at a very young age. It is very important to give vaccinations at the proper to make them most effective.
Many countries have joined the U.S. in giving vaccinations for rabies, and often tags are placed on a dogs collar to this effect. Usually, rabies shots should be given between thirteen and fifteen weeks and then again fifteen months later. As adults, this vaccine should be given every three years.If you plan to take your dog to the groomers or plan to board your pet while you are on vacation, Bordetella and Lyme disease vaccinations are very commonly requested before they will accept your pet in to their kennels. This helps to stop the passing of harmful diseases to other animals housed in the same facility.
There a few different ways that vaccines can be given. Under the skin; in to the muscle and sometimes through the nose. It is most common to get vaccines in to the muscle.Although some people choose to give their own shots for vaccinations, it is best to take your pet to the veterinarian for proper records to be kept. Give your pet a check up once a year and you should have no worries keeping up to date on all vaccines.
Why You Should Buy a Pet kennel
Dogs by nature feel safe in a den environment, much like their cousins the wolves. If you can introduce your dog to the plastic of wire kennel correctly, it provides a feeling of security and becomes a refuge. Many times your dog will be in need of some peace and quiet, or to just get away from the busy activities in your home.
Kennels are a great tool for house training. They will help your puppy have better control their bladder as puppies or even grown dogs don't like to lie in their own waste. Confining your pet to the kennel in between eating, playing and going outside is the basics for sound house training. This kenneling should go on for the first three days you own your pet, and periodically after that to retrain your pet as time goes by.
Since dogs have a natural love of a den type situation, they will grow to love their kennel as a place that is all their own and where they can rest or just be by themselves. A puppy especially should be confined to a small area or kennel until they are fully house trained.Kennel's are also good for keeping your pet contained on a long trip in the car. Often a dog will get underfoot and cause accidents if they are not contained in a kennel.
A
wire mesh kennel is a good selection for indoor or outdoor use. Great for your car or any other situation. And most kennel's come with a
plastic pan in the bottom to collect any accidents that may occur.
Pet Diseases and Dangers in Diet
If you are feeding your dog store bought food that is produced by the large manufacturing companies, your pet may face some health problems and in some cases death. Find out what you are feeding your dog or cat.
Like most of the population, you would think that dog and cat food manufacturers are paying close attention to a healthy formula of food for your pets' good health and wellbeing.
Pet owners were shocked recently to find out that the food they were feeding their dogs had toxic ingredients and were causing many deaths in the pet world. Otherwise healthy dogs were fed this store-bought food that was well trusted by the public. Testing of some of the cat and dog food turned up the chemical melamine, which can be toxic in high doses.
Know what's in your pets food. Make sure to always read the labels. Watch for by-products, which can contain diseased and contaminated slaughterhouse meats. Also, meat from animals that have been drugged and chemical preservatives added to the food are also dangerous. Rule of thumb is that anything that is not good for humans, is usually not good for your pet either.
If at all possible, feed your pet all
natural dog foods that has had a short shelf life. Food that has been sitting in a store for a year will not have the same quantities of nutrition it did when fresh. The longer the food sets the less nutrition. Bottom line is the fresher the better.
Many things can be caused from improper nutrition such as, Allergies, Arthrutis, Bladder problems, Cancer, Dental problems, Diarrhea, Diabetes, Digestive problems, Kidney problems, Liver problems and Obesity. Obesity can be caused by too much sugar and carbohydrates in the food.
A healthy dog should have a life expectancy of twenty years or more, yet most only survive ten to fifteen years. Good nutrition is key to ensure your dog lives out his full life and is not taken early by preventable diseases and bad diet.
In the end, buy a quality dog food. All natural
human grade food with no preservatives added and a short shelf life for freshness. In doing so you will increase their lives and their happiness.
Dog Clothes and Jewelry
All thru history Dogs, cats and pets in general have proven valuable additions to the families of millions of people. Even Kings and Queens have seen the value of a non-judgemental companion to ease the tensions of everyday life. Pets leave us with childhood memories we'll never forget even during the last days of our lives. If you've ever loved a pet, then you understand completely the attachment that comes from an adoring animal who thinks you can do no wrong. And if you do, he will completely forgive you in ten minutes.
Luxury
Dog apparel and
jewelry has become extremely popular with pet owners that are trying to make their pets a little more like a family member. From cool hoodies for casual wear, to tuxedo and wedding dresses for the most formal events, dogs and cats are getting stylish with the latest fashions. Hoodies, t-shirts, dresses, jackets, rain coats...you name it. There is an outfit on the Internet for every occasion. Jewelry can be worn alone or as a way to complete an outfit with
hair pins and shiny collars along with
necklaces and tiaras.
Along with fun and good fashion comes a practical side to dog clothes. Smaller breeds are always in need of extra warmth as they don't have as much body fat as the larger breeds. I live in south Texas and own a darling Maltese breed with lots of fur. Even still he shivers when let outside to urinate and often will just turn around before accomplishing the task. Therefore, we have to keep a hoodie or t-shirt on him to keep him warm and cozy. Clothes for your pet, especially in colder climates are a must. Many people think that animals coats are enough to keep them warm in the winter, but this is simply not true. Even large dogs can use a hoodie or two in the winter for added protection against the elements.So whether you live in a cold climate and need added protection against the elements or you just like the looks of your precious little pal with a harley jacket on, dog clothes are here to stay and they are growing in popularity as we speak. And, jewelry to accent the clothes or just all by themselves is a great addition to your dogs' appearance.
Bottom line is have fun with your pet!! Enjoy the love and companionship they give you and try to give them something in return.
The Most Popular Small Dog Breeds
Small dogs in today’s society are becoming more and more fashionable. With so many different breeds it's hard to keep track of all of them. We will discuss this fad and the most popular of the small dog breeds.
More and more people are living in small metropolitan areas and have limited space for keeping a large pet in an apartment. Small breeds are great because they can comfortably live inside small living areas, they don't create a lot of waste, and they make loving companions with unique personalities. It is important to remember that different breeds have different temperaments and characteristics. Some of the most popular dog breeds are as follows:
*Chihuahua - The Chihuahua has over time become the most popular of the small dog breeds. Celebrities like Paris Hilton carrying her pet Chihuahua everywhere she goes has made them all the more popular. They are the smallest dog breed in the world, but their temperament doesn't show it at all. Chihuahua's like to bark at larger breeds and may even show aggression towards them. Keeping the away from larger dogs is a must for every owner. Chihuahuas are smart, but are very well known for being difficult and stubborn when it comes to training them.
* Yorkie - The Yorkie is the second most popular dog breed in the United States. Yorkies are loving, loyal, energetic and highly intelligent dogs, Yorkies are known for their long, flowing hair which leads to lots of dog competition awards. Their intelligence level is notorious, as they can learn commands much faster than the majority of other dog breeds. Some tricks you can teach a Yorkie are lying down, go fetch (of course), standing up, sit and whatever else your imagination can come up with.
* Poodle - This breed of dog is known for their elegance in the show ring. Their coats do require regular, professional grooming to keep their lofty look, but they don't shed like some other breeds, which is a plus.
* Pug - Pugs are recognized right away because of their wrinkled faces that people seem to adore. Very social dogs, they seem to adapt well with other animals and people, but they are somewhat difficult to potty train.
If you are thinking about owning a small breed dog the above are some of the most popular, but there are many other options. You may look around and find a breed to like better.
Yorkies and Possible Health Problems
Just like all breeds, Yorkies have their special needs and health problems. Hopefully, this article will explain a few common health issues associated with Yorkie Dogs. Yorkies are great pets and are extremely loved by their owners.Being small can unfortunately cause some problems with Yorkies. They are very fragile little dogs and need to be kept out from under foot of running children and adults need to keep looking down to keep track of where these little guys are. Injury can result from being kicked or stepped on by adults just walking around the house.Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, can happen when Yorkies have too much time in between eating or can also be caused by stress, depression, malnutrition, fatigue, infection, parasites or bacteria. It is important to look for the signs of Hypoglycemia when you are a Yorkie owner. Signs are drowsiness, red-eyes and disorientation. Hypoglycemia can cause seizures, comas, brain damage and death in some cases.Yorkies, like other small breeds, must be careful of Tracheal Collapse which can occur over time with the weakening of the walls of the trachea. Tracheal collapse can cause a Yorkie to whelp and cough. If you see these signs, you should take your pet to the veterinarian, as sometimes surgery can repair the trachea.Sensitive skin is another common issue among Yorkies. Many have allergies and will scratch or bite their skin, which leads to damaging the skin surface. A Veterinarian can give you some kind of lotion for this condition.Yorkies have very sensitive digestive systems which can cause the to have diarrhea and vomiting from diet changes or not eating the right kind of food. All natural foods such as Flint River Ranch products can help tremendously with this problem.Bladder stones are very common among Yorkies. They form in the urinary tract, and could inhibit urination and even cause death. Some signs of bladder stones in Yorkies are blood in urine, and less frequent urinating. Veterinarians can do a simple x-ray to determine if there are any stones present.Healthy Yorkies can live up to 15 or 16 years, and that’s why it’s important to take good care of them.
