Doggy Mentor

Archive for May, 2009

It can be quite costly to take your dog to a salon for its grooming. However, you must not compromise your pet’s hygiene and overall physiological and psychological health by ignoring its need to be well-groomed. Just like people, they also need some pampering and grooming every now and then so that they look and feel better.

Happily, it’s not necessary to spend a lot on grooming your dog. There are various ways in which you can take care of your pet by yourself in your own home. Just buy some pets grooming supplies and read the following tips on how to groom your dog.

The place to start is with your dog’s coat. You don’t want your pet to develop problems with fleas and other pests so you must always clean and maintain its hair. A critical pet grooming tool is a brush with soft bristles. You have to make sure that you brush your dog’s coat every day to prevent it from becoming tangled. Regular brushing will also make the coat shiny because it stimulates and spreads the natural oils found in the coat. By getting rid of the hair that’s dead or dying, it will cut down on the amount of shedding your dog does.

As well, you need to have your dog’s coat trimmed every month or two, depending on the breed. If you plan on doing this yourself, you’ll have to get some clippers, scissors, a brush and a comb, all designed for dogs, not humans. You’ll also need a blow dryer and towels.

Next, when it comes to bathing your dog, you need to get a good dog shampoo and soap, towels, comb, and brush. Prior to bathing, brush out the coat so it doesn’t get hopelessly tangled in the water. Your dog needs a bath once a month if it has long hair, and every two months if it has short hair. It might also need supplementary baths in certain circumstances, like when it has rolled around in the mud or something smelly. Regular bathing will prevent your dog from getting fleas and other skin diseases. And your dog will smell fresh and clean.

Nail clipping is another important component of grooming your dog. Your dog’s nails grow just like yours and longer nails can do a lot of damage to your home. They might also break off, which would be painful for your pet. So you need to trim your dog’s nails on a monthly basis. This is quite different from trimming your own nails since your dog’s nails are thicker and a different shape. A dog nail trimmer must be utilized. You’ll also need some powder to stop the bleeding if you should happen to cut your dog.

Every couple of weeks, inspect your dog’s ears to see if there are any open sores or fleas. Then use warm water, mineral oil and cotton balls to get them clean.

Finally, not only people have to brush their teeth. Your dog can also develop cavities and other diseases of the mouth, teeth, and gums. You need pet toothpaste and a toothbrush to clean the mouth twice a week.

Dog training does not have to be an excruciating painful task, it can actually be quite enjoyable, if it is done appropriately. It is always very important for a dog owner to understand that dog training is not going to happen overnight, it will in fact take a little bit of time, which means patience is an absolute must. With the right amount of knowledge and a really good attitude, your dog could eventually be the best and most trained dog around in your area, which could really give you something to brag about right. Every dog owner desires a dog that listens to their commands and is well behaved, but most want this to happen with no investment of time and effort. Interestingly, many seem to expect that their dog will automatically heed to their every command as if it is a natural instinct.

Unfortunately, this is not the case, and whipping their behinds with the daily newspaper will only lead to the next day’s paper used the same way. It is important to understand that having a well trained dog requires that you do some research to find some accurate information on useful dog training tips to help you through the dog training process. And digging through dog training books does not have to be a dreaded task. Personally speaking, it is my favorite part of training my pets. I absolutely love reading through dog training books, watching videos, and really seeing what amazing results that these intelligent dogs can display. Training your dog is a wonderful opportunity to develop trust between you and your pet. Dog training will be a time when you and your dog will be spending a great deal of time with one another, which is always a great thing. One reason for so many different kinds of behavior problems with a dog is because they are lonely, nobody to play with, not getting enough attention, which is why spending time with your dog is so very important.

Let your dog know how very proud of him you are anytime that he does something worth rewarding, even if it is just something small really. It is psychological, actually. The more praise you give for good behavior, the more likely they will be to keep up that same behavior. Have fun with your pooch, try throwing a ball for him and letting him go and get it and bring it back to you. This is some great one-on-one time with you and your dog giving him or her the attention needed to help alleviate some of the behavior problems caused by lack of attention. What started out as fun, leisurely time with your dog, is also a form of dog training, even if you are just hanging out in the backyard, sipping on ice-tea, and tossing the ball back and forth to your dog. During this time, you could start to apply some of the dog training techniques without your dog realizing what you are doing. You and your dog will be much happier in the end thanks to you giving him the attention that he requires and applying dog training techniques on him every single chance that you do get with him.

If you’d like to know even more ways to train your dog to be well behaved, play safe and respect your every command, then check out this review of the best dog training book today and see how anybody, including you and your dog, can learn to live in perfect harmony without frustrating and aggressive episodes of bad dog behavior.

Puppies training are needed from the first night they arrive in their permanent homes, and puppy sleep care is most important right from the start.  Many people never think about puppy sleep care because puppies seem to fall asleep almost everywhere and without any special preparations.  Puppy sleep care could make a difference in the way a puppy adjusts to a new environment and new owners who should remember that everything is totally new to them.  The first night in the new place will probably be proof enough that this is a difficult experience for the puppy, but the new pet cannot tell the owner the reason.

Just like small babies, puppies cannot explain their problems so in the beginning their problems might not be understood clearly.  Unfortunately without some insight, a new owner could be confused and sleepless.  Dog training could make the difference between a smooth transition and some nights of trauma and confusion.  Puppy sleep care is not difficult, but a few measures and precautions should be taken.  Every one of these provisions could make the first days of the little puppy much easier. 

Puppy Sleep Care Requires Some Special Arrangements

Puppy sleep care includes establishing a new routine for a puppy used to a different routine that has been suddenly and unceremoniously disrupted.  The first few nights will be very difficult for the puppy because of the strange surroundings.  To a puppy, even more luxuriously surroundings will be strange surroundings.  The puppy will not realize that a more expensive carpet is better than the one he or she is used to from the former home.  People seem to forget that the puppy has been taken away from the mother who raised him or her to the point of departure.

The puppy in a new home will not have the brothers and sisters around any more either.The puppy will feel very lonely.  The puppy will bond with the new owner quickly, but until that bonding takes place, the puppy will be lonely.  The puppy needs to feel loved so shouting at the puppy will not endear him to a new owner or surroundings.  The puppy will also learn what works as far as behavior.  If he cries and the new owner runs to him or her, the puppy will realize that crying works if you want the owner to appear.  Puppy sleep care requires a warm place free of drafts.

There are many dog owners that choose to let their animals run freely around the house and other choose to purchase a dog cage for them to sleep in at night. This is usually done as a way to control the dogs that tend to run all over the house and bark consistently annoying the sleeping owners.

There are many places that have dog cages for sale so do check the major retail stores and pet outlets and you will find one that suits your budget. You can also find great deals on the internet, so do a Google search to find one that suits both your taste and budget. If you do drive, you can always check the garage sales that are around your town and you might just be able to find what you are looking for.

Dog cages are a great way to transport pets from home to the vet’s or on a family excursion when you don’t want the pet climbing all over the seat of the car. When out visiting the beach, or on a family picnic take the dog cage along and you will be able to place your pet inside when you so desire.

Depending on what type of dog cages you choose, make sure to lay some old blankets inside as a way to provide warmth and comfort to the family pet. Toss in some toys and bones and use the cage at night, if you don’t like your pet roaming around the house.

Dog cages are reasonably priced so a good idea would be to invest in a larger, more expensive one for home and a cheaper, but well made plastic carrier that can be used to travel short distances, such as to the vet’s for a check-up.

There are many dog owners that choose to let their animals run freely around the house and other choose to purchase a dog cage for them to sleep in at night. This is usually done as a way to control the dogs that tend to run all over the house and bark consistently annoying the sleeping owners.

A dog cage comes in a wide array of colors, shapes, sizes and budgets to suit almost anyone’s needs. For the larger dogs, a steel cage is recommended due to its strength and long life. There are many places where you can get a dog cage at great savings. Check the largest retail pet store outlet in your area as you will find many great bargains.

Transporting a pet becomes a much easier task when placed in a cage, especially if you are going to a place where there will be lots of animals. If your pet is a little leery of new surroundings or does not like to go to the vet and shows signs of anguish then placing it inside a cage will help it to feel more secure and unobtainable from other animals.

Dog cages come in a wide variety of materials, and depending on the size of you pet will help you to make a decision about which type to choose. Whatever type of cage you choose make sure to lay some old blankets, or comfy soft pillows inside so to provide a warm,comfortable, resting place for your pet.

Dog cages are reasonably priced so a good idea would be to invest in a larger, more expensive one for home and a cheaper, but well made plastic carrier that can be used to travel short distances, such as to the vet’s for a check-up.

When done correctly, crate training benefits both your dog and you.  It will create a much happier household for all family members when you dog learns and understands his boundaries.

Your Dog Crate Makes Housebreaking Much Easier

No dog enjoys resting in his own mess, therefore dogs will tend to gain better bladder control when confined to dog cages.  This will make housebreaking easier when you then associate going outside with the act of relieving himself.

Dogs, being den animals,  generally like their place clean and quiet.  It is also good to remember that puppies need to go more often, so do not keep them in the crate for a long period.

Destructive Behaviors Are Limited

Since your dog naturally love chewing on things, your job is to train him on acceptable objects.  Your dog crate will assist you in this job.  By providing acceptable chew toys in his crate, you dog will begin to learn the right things to chew on and in the right place.

Dog Crates Protects Your Dog from Household Hazards

Typically, a house contains many potentially dangerous objects for your dog.  You can be asking for trouble when you let your dog roam the house unsupervised.  Your dog may be tempted to chew on lethal objects like electrical wires or poisonous foods or plants.

Proper crate training of your dog provides more confidence that your dog will limit getting in trouble even when you are not around to supervise.

Dog Crates Make Traveling Safer

Your car trips will be safer and more peaceful if your dog is resting contently in his crate. A crate trained dog will eliminate any possible distractions as you drive.

Crates provides you dog security when he desires to rest or be alone.

Do you ever notice dogs sleeping under tables or desks?  Naturally, dogs like small enclosed spaces in your home that may mimic a den.  Dog crates can serve as a great refuge and excellent dens your dog can hangout in.  Crates will also prepare your dog from some potentially stressful situations like going to the vet.

As you can see, crate training is beneficial for both your dog and you.  Start your crate training today, buy a dog cage, and reap the benefits.

Caring for a bulldog can take up quite a lot of a person’s time as these types of dogs need a lot of exercise and a lot of care on a daily basis. To be able to care for your bulldog properly you should know how much exercise, grooming, feeding and cleaning they need on a day to day basis. This will ensure that your bulldog has a full and healthy life.

Bulldogs come in many different types, and you should make sure that you understand the personality of the dog before you commit to ownership. English bulldog puppies may be more suitable to your lifestyle than, say, American bulldog puppies.

Many people are under the false impression that bulldogs do not need a lot of daily exercise, this is not true. Bulldogs need exercise just like any other dog needs exercise, obviously not as much exercise as you would give an Alsatian for example, but enough exercise to keep your bulldog healthy. Find the rhythm that is good for your dog and never walk him just after a meal and you will find that your bulldog will be healthy and happy.

In order for your bulldog to maintain overall good health, you must be prepared to handle the grooming requirements that bulldog ownership entails. Bulldog grooming should be a routine that occurs one to two times a week to ensure that the coat remains healthy. If you groom your bulldog from puppyhood, you can teach him to sit relatively still while he’s being groomed, which will make the grooming process a cinch!

With bulldogs, it is imperative that you understand the feeding requirements. While your bulldog is young and getting plenty of exercise, he will need to be fed about for times a day to ensure that he can grow strong and healthy. Bulldogs are very muscular and it takes a lot of protein and certain fats to maintain that muscle. As the dog becomes fully grown, you should reduce the feeding schedule to twice a day to prevent obesity.

Bulldog puppy training can be difficult if you aren’t consistent. The key is to keep correcting him until he understands what he is supposed to do. Make frequent trips outside and try not to use much physical correction with the pup, as they can be provoked easily. When lead training, it is recommended to use a lightweight chain collar. Many have found the choke chain collars are very effective with such strong-built pups.

Golden Retrievers are known for their gentle well-mannered temperament, making them easy to train and loyal companion dogs, because of this they make a wonderful addition to any family. They have energy and endurance that was Originally bred in to them as they worked as retrievers for hunters. Although hunters very rarely use them these days they still have a super high level of energy to burn and require lots of exercise!

Golden Retrievers are not for people who are going to be gone over 8 hours a day as this would be cruel to say the least. They have a big appetite requiring lots of food. Golden Retrievers are a large athletic type of dog breed, but are slightly longer than they are tall. Not only are they beautiful dogs, they are also kind, affectionate and love to be in your attention.

Golden retrievers are very laid back and friendly to everyone and all other dogs. Being placid by nature they dont bark as often as other dogs, which will please the neighbours, but startle them and they will bark. You can trust a Golden Retriever to try and protect you in dangerous situations but they are not by nature suspicious of strangers, which rules them out as being any kind of guard dog.

Golden Retrievers tend to be worriers and great care should be taken during training; ensuring you are sensitive to their needs at all times. Because of their intelligence they are easily trained, also due to Golden Retrievers athleticism and desire to please their handlers they generally excel in obedience trials. Very competitive by nature you will find them to be great in agility and other similar events.

A well-bred Golden Retriever is gentle, kind, loving, loyal, happy, confident and outgoing. Your Golden retriever will love nothing more than going for long walks, and being a playful pet they will enjoy the usual games of fetch and frisbee catching etc. Teaching them tricks is quite easy as well and its great to see your children’s faces light up with pleasure at seeing their dog perform the latest trick.

Care and maintenance is Important and regular brushing helps to promote a shiny, healthy coat and decreases shedding. This is also an opportune time to find those nasty mats that can be painful for your pet. Brushing several times a week will help control shedding. Golden Retriever’s have heavy sheds twice a year, but they do shed all year long.

You couldn’t wish for a better companion than a Golden Retriever. Day In and day out they will shower you with affection, their obedience and companionship never in question and you will be hard put to repay the love and devotion they give to you.

When you decide to adopt a new puppy or purchase one from a breeder, you will probably go home with a puppy training sheet along with your dog. This paper will give you all of the essential information that you will need to care for your pup during the first few days that he is at home with you. It is even a good idea to locate one of these puppy care sheets prior to picking up your dog, so that you will be well equipped and prepared before your puppy sets one paw inside of his new environment. There are many resources where you can receive this information including veterinarian offices, breeders and kennels, and even from the Internet. Some of these puppy care sheets will be unique to the breed that you are getting, and others will simply offer good, basic information that is applicable to any type of dog.

What will you find on a Puppy Care Sheet?

These dog training sheets will provide plenty of information that you will find helpful as a new dog owner. For example, you will receive detailed instructions on how to feed your new pet, and the supplies that you should have on hand for feedings before your dog comes home with you. Keep in mind that no matter what food your puppy care sheet recommends, you are better off to wait to purchase food until you speak with the breeder about the dog food brand that your pup is currently eating. It is best to keep young dogs on the same food for as long as possible, and to switch their fare gradually if a change is indeed in order.

Another piece of vital information that you will probably find on your puppy care sheet is a schedule of necessary vaccinations. This is information that you should take with you to every visit to your dog trainer or veterinarian, so that you can keep track with your vet of the shots that your puppy has had and which ones are still to come. Your puppy care sheet may also provide information about having your dog spayed or neutered, and what to expect before and after the procedure.

Finally, your puppy care sheet will undoubtedly have advice and guidance on house breaking, since this is usually a major concern with new pet owners. Keep in mind that the more consistently that you follow the steps that will be outlined on your puppy care sheet for training, the quicker and easier the house breaking process will go for you and your puppy. If you have additional questions that are not answered on your puppy care sheet, you can contact your veterinarian or breeder for more information.

Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, are unique little dogs with a look that’s all their own. These little lap dogs with long fur tend make great pets, both outgoing and affectionate, craving plenty of attention from their owner. These dogs are fiercely territorial, but can still be good with other pets and with older children. Dog trainer who know how to care for a Yorkie puppy will find that they have a beautiful little pet that gives love and devotion. Learning the basics of how to care for and groom a Yorkie puppy will prove useful.

Long, Long Fur

One of the interesting features of these dogs is that instead of a fur coat, their coat is much closer to hair, constantly growing, which means they can develop long hair styles. Knowing how to do Yorkie puppy training and its hair will prevent you from having a dog with ugly tangles. Because the hair is constantly growing, this breed will need frequent trims to prevent its coat from getting too long.

For those who want a dog with a short coat or want an easy time of learning how to care for a Yorkie puppy and its fur, simply have the groomer clip the fur short. A short clip will prevent the fur from getting too long for a while. However, if you’re planning to show your Yorkie at dog shows or want to keep it long, frequent brushing and clipping will be necessary. And of course, one thing to remember in learning how to care for a Yorkie puppy is that the long fur on top of its head traditionally is tied with a bow, creating a topknot.

Strong Personalities

For such a little dog, Yorkies have very strong, willful personalities, and you should take this into account when learning how to care for a Yorkie puppy. Because they do have such strong personalities, these dogs will respond best to dog training with firmness. However, since they also love attention, this gives you an easy way to work with the dog, since attention and praise when they do respond to attention will be helpful.

On the other hand, since they hate to be ignored, the worst thing you can do when learning how to care for a Yorkie puppy is to ignore it. Dogs such as these will develop terrible personalities and more aggressive behavior if ignored, so take care to give your Yorkie plenty of attention. Those that do will find that they have a little dog that's great to have around.