Dealing With House Training Issues

Dealing With House Training Issues - By: Weston Lewis

The best house training uses the dogs own instincts to avoid soiling its bed to train the dog where and where not to eliminate. That is the basis behind crate training, in which the dog is confined to its crate in the absence of the owner, and den training, in which the dog is confined to a small area of the home. In essence, the crate, or the room, becomes the dog?s den. Dogs are naturally very clean animals, and they try their best to avoid using their dens as toilets.

This type of training usually works very well, both for puppies and for older dogs. Problems with this type of toilet training are usually the result of not understanding the signals the dog is sending, not being consistent with feeding times, or trying to rush the process.

While the house training process can be sped up somewhat by consistently praising the dog and rewarding it for toileting in the proper place, some dogs cannot be rushed through this important process. It is always best to house train the dog properly the first time than to go back and retrain a problem dog.

If the dog continues to soil the den area after house training, the most likely reason is that the owner has left the dog in the den for too long. Another reason may be that the den area is too large. In this case, the best strategy is to make the den area smaller or to take the dog to the toilet area more frequently.

If the dog soils the bed that has been provided in the den area, it is most likely because the owner has left the dog there for too long, and the dog had an understandable accident. Or it could be that the dog has not yet adopted this area as the bed. In addition, urinary tract infections and other medical conditions can also cause dogs to soil their beds. It is important to have the dog thoroughly checked out by a veterinarian to rule out any medical problems.

One other reason for house training accidents that many people overlook is boredom. Dogs who are bored often drink large amounts of water and therefore must urinate more frequently than you might think. If you notice your dog consuming large amounts of water, be sure to take the dog to the established toilet area more often, and provide the dog with toys and other distractions to eliminate boredom.

Boredom is the root cause of many dog behavior problems, not only house training issues. Chewing and other destructive behaviors are also often caused by boredom and separation anxiety.

Other problems with house training can occur when the dog?s den is not properly introduced. In some cases dogs can react to the den as if it is a prison or a punishment. Those dogs may exhibit signs of anxiety, such as whining, chewing and excessive barking. It is important for the dog to feel secure in its den, and to think of it as a home and not a cage.

The best way to house train a puppy or dog, or to re-house train a problem dog, is to make yourself aware of the dog?s habits and needs. Creating a healthy, safe sleeping and play area for your dog, as well as a well-defined toilet area, is important for any house training program.

House training is not always an easy process, but it is certainly an important one. The number one reason that dogs are surrendered to animal shelters is problems with inappropriate elimination, so a well structured house training program can literally be a lifesaver for your dog.

Weston Lewis has been a dog trainer for the past twenty years. After running his own kennel for most of his adult life, he is now retired and sharing his knowledge on the Internet.Visit this site for more information:
Dog Training Clinic

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Puppy Mills, Pet Stores, Shelters and Breeders

Puppy Mills, Pet Stores, Shelters and Breeders - By: Weston Lewis

What Are They and What Is the Difference?

There are many ways to acquire a new dog and some methods are definitely better than others. Puppy mills, pet stores, shelters and dog breeders are the most common sources of new pets for most people. Carefully examine the nature of each of these venues before buying a dog.

Puppy Mills

The term ?puppy mill? refers to any breeding facility that breeds dog for profit only. Very little attention is paid to the animals and breed standards are not held to. In the worst of the puppy mills, dogs are stacked up in cages, are underfed and given very little medical care. The dogs are continually bred, heat cycle after heat cycle, giving the female dog little or no time to recover before she is impregnated once again. The conditions under which these dogs are kept and bred often produce dogs with minor to major behavioral and medical problems. Not all puppy mills are large facilities. Even the ?backyard breeder? who breeds dogs only for profit and not for the benefit of the breed is considered by many to be a puppy mill. The prices you?ll pay to a puppy mill may be less than what you would have paid for a dog from a reputable breeder, but you may end up paying more in the long run anyway. Dogs from puppy mills are usually plagued with medical problems (resulting from a lack of proper medical care and malnutrition) that require an excessive amount of medical exams, shots and medication.

Pet Stores

No trip to the mall would be complete without a walk through the pet store, right? All of those cute little puppies, so excited to see you! It?s a miracle that anyone ever makes it out of a pet store without taking one of those cuties home with them. The animals from a pet store might appear to be well cared for and the store?s staff may vouch for the health and quality of their inventory, but the truth is usually something entirely different. The only source of dogs for today?s pet store is the puppy mill. No reputable breeder would allow his or her dog to be displayed and sold in such a manner, so what other kind of breeder is left?

Shelters

If you don?t really care about the breed of a dog and are simply looking for a companion animal, your local animal shelter is a great place to begin your search. Dogs of all ages and sizes are available. Many shelters allow you to play with a dog and spend some time with it before you make the final decision as to whether or not you want to adopt it ? they want to make sure the fit is just right! For an adoption fee, you?ll get a new dog that has been fixed, vaccinated and injected with a microchip.

Breeders

Reputable breeders are the best option if you?re looking for a purebred puppy. A reputable breeder is one who works for the benefit of the breed, not for profit and who cares where his or her puppies end up. Expect to be questioned about your plans for the dog and don?t be surprised if, after a conversation or two, the breeder decides that your home would not be the best one for their dog. If you are approved by the breeder, you will probably have to sign some sort of contract in which you agree to: immediately spay or neuter a dog bought for companion purposes only; notify the breeder of any medical conditions that the dog develops; notify the breeder if you have to get rid of the dog so that he or she can find it a new home; and, breed your dog (if that?s why you?re buying it) in accordance with breed standards. The actual contract might include other stipulations as well. This may seem a bit stringent, but the breeder is only trying to ensure the health and well-being of the animal. A pet you buy from a responsible, reputable breeder can be very expensive, but you?ll know that your new addition to the family is as healthy as he can be and free of genetic defects. Where do you find a reputable breeder? Once you decide on the breed that?s right for you, check with the relevant local and national breed clubs. They will be able to recommend a breeder in your area.

Weston Lewis has been a dog trainer for the past twenty years. After running his own kennel for most of his adult life, he is now retired and sharing his knowledge on the Internet.
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How to Choose a Dog Perfect for Your Home

How to Choose a Dog Perfect for Your Home - By: Lori S. Anton

Many years ago I read a book about how to choose a dog. The concepts in that book altered my life forever, because it changed the way I made pet selection.Instead of picking a puppy simply because it was cute, I learned how to choose a puppy
correctly. I put each puppy considered for adoption through certain “tests” in order to select the right puppy. One compatible with my family and home needs. The tests helped to reveal certain aspects of each puppy’s individual temperament and personality. Selecting a new puppy based upon test results instead of how adorable they were helped ensure that the adoption would be a happy and successful experience, both for me and the puppy. We would fit together like a glove!Things to consider Before Acquiring a New DogBefore choosing a new family dog, first and foremost one should consider the basics: where they live, home type, yard size, ages and temperament of family members, family lifestyle, and characteristics of that particular dog breed.For instance, a dobby or a Great Dane might not make the best companion for someone with a busy lifestyle who lives on the fifth floor of a high-rise apartment building in a one room kitchenette. As a rule, a family with small, active children might not be the best home in which to try and adapt a new pit bull. Larger, more active dogs like Labrador Retrievers and shepherds appreciate lots of yard space to exercise, while a small dog breed such as toy poodles and Yorkies would make sad guard dogs, banned to a dog house in the back yard.In addition to family, home, and location considerations some breeds of dogs, such as Irish Setters and Shelties, are generally considered higher strung then, let’s say, a Golden Retriever or Basset Hound – both breeds renowned for their “low key,” easy going temperament. And, generally speaking, breeds such as German Shepherds and Malamutes have naturally protective instincts that make them more suspicious of strangers.Another consideration is “why” a new family pet is being sought. Is it for adult companionship, or as a playmate for children and to help teach responsibility? Will the new family pet be trained as a hunting dog, or to provide protection as a guard dog? Once these type questions have been considered and certain sizes or breeds of dogs that do not “fit” family purpose and location needs omitted as candidates, you are ready to start looking for your new family pet.How to Choose a DogWhen it comes to selecting an adult dog, regardless of whether it is a purebred or a mixed dog breed, making the right choice is much simpler than it is for a puppy. What you see is basically what you get; size, appearance, temperament and personality. By spending a little time getting to know the dog, you can get a general idea as to whether or not that particular dog would fit into your family, adapt well to your lifestyle, or adequately meet your needs. How to Choose a Puppy Puppies are an entirely different matter. A puppy changes as it grows. But, whether you purchase a puppy from a pet store, licensed breeder, adopt a mixed dog breed from an animal shelter, or acquire one by responding to a newspaper ad, you can still pretty much determine which pup has the temperament best suited for your home. Do that by implementing one or more of the following tests:1.) Kneel beside the puppy. Calmly and gently stroke his chest with one hand while lifting his head to make eye contact. Once eye contact is made, stand and walk away. Does the puppy run after you, jumping up on your leg, nipping at you and demanding more attention? This might suggest a dominant personality. Does he merely sit and watch you walk away? If he does, this might indicate a more passive personality. A puppy that prances along side of you or follows you might be middle of the road – neither too aggressive nor too passive.2.) Kneel beside the puppy. Play with the puppy until he responds, then turn him over on his back. With one hand on his tummy, hold him down. What does he do? Frantically thrash about and nip at you? Again, this would suggest a more aggressive personality. Does he fail to resist at all? He is probably very passive. Or, does he struggle somewhat, then lay still once he realizes he can not free himself? This type puppy will probably grow to be “middle of the road,” and easier to train.3.) Kneel beside the puppy. Calmly stroke the puppy’s head and chest while lifting his head to make eye contact. Talk to him in low, friendly tones. While he is in the sitting position, have someone hold him in place while you walk about 8-10 feet away from him. Facing the puppy, kneel; call to him at the same time the person holding him in place releases their grip. What does he do? Does he lung toward you and jump up on you and nip? Does he run to you, slowing down as he nears, without jumping? Does he approach hesitantly, or with his head down and his tail between his legs? Or, does he fail to come to you at all? Each response reveals to you something about that puppy’s level of aggression or passiveness.Making a Wise Selection Based on Test ResultsIf you seek a well rounded family pet, one that will be both a companion for adults and a playmate for children, as well as provide protection around the home, a “middle of the road” response is what you should be looking for.An all adult household looking for a canine family member for the main purpose of providing protection might want a puppy responding on the aggressive side. More passive responses might be good in a puppy obtained as a playmate for small children. However, totally passive responses most likely indicates the pup will grow into a more difficult dog to train, requiring extra patience, and will be more easily intimidated by people and other dogs.Temperament, Plus Size, Plus ExpenseBesides temperament, the dog breed size is an important consideration. Based upon where you live, the size and type home you have, and available yard space, decide whether a small dog breed or large breed would make a better choice. Is having a purebred dog important, or would a mixed dog breed – usually considered a great all around family dog – fit your needs?Lastly, but equally important, is expense. This includes the cost of the dog, costs of food and other dog products, and other expenses associated with owning a dog. This includes, but is not limited to, grooming costs, kennel costs, training costs, and veterinary and vaccination costs. A dog breed such as a poodle will require regular clipping, because their fur grows and doesn’t shed. Larger dogs require not only more space, but eat larger amounts of food, as well. And certain breeds of dogs are more likely to develop health complications than other breeds. The choice is yours. Now that you know how to choose a dog and how to choose a puppy, it is time to start looking for you new canine family member. Select one you can afford, with the best qualities and temperament for your home and family, and bark at your success!© 2006 Lori S. Anton, Writers Write NowLori S. Anton is a published writer with 30 yrs. experience, and founder of Writers Write Now, providing unique content, SEO content, and free content. With a passion for creative writing, Lori has learned to exploit the effectiveness of engaging titles, crafting interesting content that holds the reader's interest. She resides in Wyoming with her husband, Jeff, and diabetic canine darling, Muffy. Click here for Lori's free content.

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Getting a Puppy? Make the Right Choice

Getting a Puppy? Make the Right Choice - By: Nikola Marshall

We all love a sweet, cuddly-faced puppy. Who wouldn’t? But those little bundles of joy grow up and we must make an informed decision in order to have a happy household.

Each breed of dog has its own set of characteristics and quirks. These can either be endearing or run us batty, depending upon our own personalities. Small dogs can be yappy and are often like small children. Some breeds, like the Saint Bernard, are “wet mouth” dogs. This means they have a tendency to drool—a lot! Other breeds tend to be diggers, swimmers and climbers. Working and herding breeds are very intelligent and will need “jobs” to keep them occupied.

Where do you live? If an apartment is your home, you certainly don’t want a large dog. It would need more space for exercise. A small breed is perfect for you. Think Boston Terriers, Maltese, and Chihuahuas. A mid or large size dog is great if you have a large fenced-in yard. Consider Boxers or Shetland Sheepdogs. If you reside in the country with plenty of space, any large breed would benefit. Choose Border Collies, Great Danes and Australian Shepherds. Make sure your dog has plenty of room to exercise. And please keep them safe! A dog running loose in the city is hazardous for the dog, people and traffic.

How much time do you have for your puppy? Some dogs are great at occupying themselves, while others need constant supervision. Know what you can offer. You will get back from the relationship what you give to it.

Is your heart set on a purebred dog? Mixed breeds are a joy and often have fewer health issues. Your local newspaper will often have quite a selection of mixed breed dogs and the local animal shelter shouldn’t be overlooked.

These are but a few considerations you should think about when adding a puppy to your household. And but a very few breeds. Use these guidelines, add some of your own. The more thought you put into this important decision, the happier you, and your new puppy, will be.

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Choosing a Suitable Dog - One that fits your lifestyle.

Choosing a Suitable Dog - One that fits your lifestyle. - By: Marion Herbertson

Choosing a suitable Dog? Large or small - active or couch potato - longhaired or short - with the myriad of options out there, how in the world do you pick the right dog?

Will a large dog be best - or a small one? Do you have children? Do you have other pets? Choosing a suitable dog raises so many questions, but choosing the perfect family dog is one of life's big bonuses. Dogs make brilliant companions and wonderful family pets - if you get the maths right! Making the wrong decision results in heartbreak for yourself and your family - and yet another unhappy or abandoned dog.

Choosing a suitable dog for your family is a major decision and there are ALL SORTS of things to consider. Will a dog fit your lifestyle? Will you have the patience to cope with a puppy ? Or would re-homing a mature dog be best for your family? If you do decided to go the puppy route - are you prepared for sleepless nights, puddles in the most unexpected places, not forgetting chewed up family heirlooms?

However, with a little bit of help, picking the perfect family dog can be a breeze if you do your research and remember the following basic points -

What TYPE of Dog will suite your lifestyle?
Simply put, the type of dog that will fit your lifestyle largely depends on the type of lifestyle you have.

Are you an active, outdoors type of person? You will probably enjoy a medium to large, active dog which needs regular exercise and can join in all your fun. If, however you lead a more sedate lifestyle, a smaller, calmer dog would be suitable and more appreciative of your calm lifestyle.

Space is also an important consideration. Some large dogs need plenty of space whilst small dogs do quite well in flats and apartments.

What BREED of Dog will suite your lifestyle?
Once you've decided what "type" of dog will best suit you, you can now work out the breeds which fit the bill. Dog breeds differ from each other as much as night does from day - this is why research is an absolute must.

Do take time to check out the breed AND the breeder thoroughly. Your dog's temperament is decided primarily by his breed and breeding and only then by human conditioning and training. However, when he is under pressure or provoked, it is almost always your dog's breed and breeding that will win - do bear this important fact in mind.

Other Factors to Consider
When choosing a suitable dog, don’t forget to take into account the cost of looking after a dog. Consider, for example, a dog's grooming needs - ie: shorthaired or longhaired? If you go for a longer haired breed, you need to factor in the additional cost of time and/or professional grooming.

In addition to the usual expenses such as food, vet bills, annual vaccinations and insurance you also need to consider the care of your pet while you're on holiday . Believe me, this can be expensive! More dogs than you care to imagine end up in a dog shelter or worse still on doggy death row simply because their owner had not considered these cost implications.

Last by not least, what type are you?
Well ...... choosing a suitable dog largely depends on your own personality. After all, it's no point picking a dog which is the life and soul of the party if you're the retiring type. Nor is it much fun choosing a dog which matures early and becomes all "dignified" - when what you thrive on is regular rough-and-tumble sessions! Yet another reason for you to do your research thoroughly.

So, do your research at this stage - there is a lot to be considered when choosing a suitable dog. Read as much as you can - and take your time. You'll find a dog which settles into your lifestyle so comfortably, you wont remember a day when he wasn't there - and even if you do, you’ll wonder how in the world you managed without him!



With years of experience in breeding, training and handling dogs, Marion Herbertson is first and foremost a dog lover. Visit http://www.advice-on-pet-care-and-pet-product-supplies-online.com/Choosing-A-Suitable-Dog.html - for more of her practical, sometimes humourous advice on pet care.

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