petcarefun.info

September 27th, 2008 by PetGuru

Aggression in a dog is something, which an owner should not tolerate and should be dealt with as soon as the problem arises.  However, in order for an owner to find the right kind of dog aggression training they should be using to control this problem they need to understand the kinds of aggression that dogs suffer from. 

In this article, we take a look at just what these are.  It is important to remember that a dog may not only show just one type of aggression in fact they could show several.

1.  Dominance – This is where the dog you own thinks that they are in fact the alpha member of the group and will assert themselves more, especially against those they consider to be predators.  This type of aggression is often found in male dogs and certain breeds.  In order for you as the owner to bring this particular problem under control you will need to quickly establish who is pack leader (you).

2.  Fear – This is type of aggression occurs when a dog feels insecure or frightened.  They will often react to a disturbance or when being approached by either barking, growling, they may bare their teeth, snap or bite.  In some cases, if they feel cornered or threatened they may actually bite.  It is important that you do not think that your dog will grow out of this problem, as they will not.

3.  Territorial or Over Protective – This type of aggression in a dog could cause them to be a danger to anyone (not just strangers).  They will not only feel territorial about the things in your home, but will also feel territorial when they are out walking with you. 

4.  Possessive – This can make a real Jekyll and Hyde out of your dog, one minute they can loving and playful the next they are baring their teeth or snapping at you.  This will normally occur when you approach something that they consider to be theirs.  In many cases, a major trigger for this type of aggression is when you approach them when they are eating.  If you want to stop this problem, you need to react as soon as you notice it occurring.

5.  Punishment – This type of aggression normally occurs in a dog where they have been incorrectly punished or their owner is trying to exert their dominance of the animal.  Although they may not respond aggressively, in the beginning to such treatment over any period of time, things will change and sooner or later, they are going to turn and become aggressive.

Above we have looked at just a few of the types of aggression, which a dog may suffer from.  Only once you are able to identify just what type of aggressive behaviour it is your dog suffers from, can you then find the right kind of dog aggression training for them.  A quick search of the internet and you are going to be able to quite easily find the right kind of training for both you and your dog.

September 27th, 2008 by KittyKitty

aggression dogs is something, which an owner should not tolerate and should be dealt with as soon as the problem arises. However, in order for an owner to find the right kind of aggression dogs they should be using to control this problem they need to understand the kinds of aggression that dogs suffer from.

In this article, we take a look at just what these are. It is important to remember that a dog may not only show just one type of aggression in fact they could show several.

1. Dominance – This is where the dog you own thinks that they are in fact the alpha member of the group and will assert themselves more, especially against those they consider to be predators. This type of aggression is often found in male dogs and certain breeds. In order for you as the owner to bring this particular problem under control you will need to quickly establish who is pack leader (you).

2. Fear – This is type of aggression occurs when a dog feels insecure or frightened. They will often react to a disturbance or when being approached by either barking, growling, they may bare their teeth, snap or bite. In some cases, if they feel cornered or threatened they may actually bite. It is important that you do not think that your dog will grow out of this problem, as they will not.

3. Territorial or Over Protective – This type of aggression in a dog could cause them to be a danger to anyone (not just strangers). They will not only feel territorial about the things in your home, but will also feel territorial when they are out walking with you.

4. Possessive – This can make a real Jekyll and Hyde out of your dog, one minute they can loving and playful the next they are baring their teeth or snapping at you. This will normally occur when you approach something that they consider to be theirs. In many cases, a major trigger for this type of aggression is when you approach them when they are eating. If you want to stop this problem, you need to react as soon as you notice it occurring.

5. Punishment – This type of aggression normally occurs in a dog where they have been incorrectly punished or their owner is trying to exert their dominance of the animal. Although they may not respond aggressively, in the beginning to such treatment over any period of time, things will change and sooner or later, they are going to turn and become aggressive.

Above we have looked at just a few of the types of aggression, which a dog may suffer from. Only once you are able to identify just what type of aggressive behaviour it is your dog suffers from, can you then find the right kind of aggression dogs for them. A quick search of the internet and you are going to be able to quite easily find the right kind of training for both you and your dog.

September 26th, 2008 by KittyKitty

Probably the largest breed register center in the USA is the American Paint Horse Association. A Paint Horse can be recognized by its very distinctive color pattern: white hair over skin with another color. This is the breeds most important characteristic.

The white hair of the American Paint Horse can be combined with other colors found in horses, such as black, gray, tan or brown. The colored markings can be on any place of the body. The American Paint horses has the same ancestors as the American Quarter Horse, and both breeds are known for their athletic qualities and speed.

To register these horses, it needs to comply with some strict requirements. For example both the dam and the sire have to be registered in the club for Thoroughbreds, one of the parents has to be registered as an American Paint Horse and of course the horse itself needs to comply with the color requirements.

An American Paint Horse has, just like the American Quarter Horse, a heavy, very muscular body and because they’re not very tall, they have a low center of gravity. Their back legs are extremely powerful and they can easily maneuver and run very fast. Because of their excellent temperament they make great pets and are the most popular horses in America.

One thing to consider before buying, or start breeding with, an American Paint Horse, is that the horses are susceptible to a genetic disease called lethal white syndrom. The symptoms of this disease are a malfunctioning colon and sometimes a pure white color. Foals born with the disease have a life expectancy of less than two weeks and because living with this disease is very painful, they are usually put down. Many horse breeders have encountered this disease and there is no cure available yet.

Even though the disease is a common known problem amongst horse breeders, the American Paint Horse still is very expensive.

More information about different types of horses can be found on Pony and Horse Portal.

September 26th, 2008 by PetGuru

Along with teaching your dog to respond to verbal commands, one can also teach them to respond by using hand signals.  When it comes to learning, the different types of dog training hand commands these in the beginning will need to be taught in conjunction with the verbal ones as well.  In this article, we take a look at the way in which such commands can be taught to your dog.

Certainly, teaching your dog hand signals is very simple and most dogs will find them very easy to understand.  But in order to get started on training them you will need a few treats, which you can provide to your dog as a reward for getting what, you have asked (signalled) of them right. 

It is important that in the beginning when you are teaching your dog to react to hand commands is that you use the words as well.  Therefore, you will need to decide which hand signals relate to which commands you will be giving to your dog.  Only once you have made a decision on which verbal commands go with which hand signals can you then start your dogs training. 

In the beginning as you, say each command to your dog you should also very slowly and deliberately show the hand signal as well.  You will need to repeat the verbal command and the hand signal several times in order for your dog to understand what it is you would like them to do.  Then once they react the first time to you saying the word and doing the hand signal then you can reward them.

As you continually repeat the commands and signals you should very slowly you should start to eliminate the verbal commands.  However, you should still use the rewards of food and praise for your dog when they respond to your hand signals only.  For a while as you begin to slowly eliminate the verbal commands you should when carrying out the training, use them half of the time, and the other half of the time just hand signals. 

Then when you start to notice that your dog is reacting purely to your hand commands only then this is the stage when you start to stop giving them food as a reward.  However, you should never eliminate the rewards immediately from the training and if you want praise, them slightly for doing as commanded instead of offering them food.

When teaching your dog to react to hand signals it is best to start of with the most basic commands that you would normally teach them.  So it is best to start with sit, down and stay.  Then when you feel able to and when you feel that your dog is capable you can move on to much more elaborate ones if you wish.

Actually getting advice on the right way dog training hand commands should be done is easy.  There are plenty of sites on the internet today that can offer lots of practical advice and tips.  Plus there are plenty of books and videos, which can help you with training your dog to respond to such hand signals.

September 26th, 2008 by KittyKitty

Boxers are a great all around breed. They are a distinguished canine and the coolest, most lovable dog out there! Okay, as a long time owner of Boxer dogs perhaps I’m a little biased.

It is a medium-built and strong breed that is so named because of its habit of standing on the hind legs to begin a fight and boxing with the front paws.

By their nature, Boxers are working dogs. Throughout history they have been used as:

- hunting dog
- police dog
- seeing-eye dog for the blind
- guard dog
- circus dog
- courier dog on the battlefields during World War I and World War II
- Fighting dog in the once popular sport of dog fighting.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) categorizes dogs into 7 groups:
• herding
• hound
• non-sporting
• sporting
• terrier
• toy
• working

And the largest breed registered in the working dog category is the Boxer.

No doubt the Boxer breed makes for great utility dog but the greatest advantage to owning one is that a Boxer can be your most outstanding companion on four legs.

Devoted and glad owners of Boxers have come up with a long list of attributes and traits of their favorite pet. These include:

• Alertness
• Boisterous
• Boundless energy
• Brave
• Canine clown
• Courageous
• Devil dog
• Devoted
• Dignified
• Exuberance
• Family dog
• Fearless
• Friendly
• Hearing dog
• Highly trainable
• Intelligent
• Intuitive
• Keen judge of character
• Loving
• Loyal
• Patient with children
• People dog
• Poor swimmer
• Playful
• Quick learner
• Self-assured
• Smart
• Soulful
• Spirited
• Stoical
• Vigilant
• Working dog
• Wonderful pet

The Boxer’s history could be traced back to feudal Germany, where it was a small hunting dog that could tenaciously cling onto a boar, bull, or bear until the master arrived. It was also a utility dog for peasants and shop owners, and even a performing dog in circus.

The Boxer as we recognize it today is a bigger breed – a blend of the German Boxer with a taller, more elegant English import. The era of the modern Boxer began in the 1880s and became really popular in the US in the late 1930s-1940s.

Within the canine world, the Boxer is a medium-sized dog standing at 21 to 25 inches at the shoulder for a full-grown female, and weighs some 50 to 65 pounds. The male can be taller and around 15 pounds heavier.

It has a striking good look with chiseled head, square jaw and muscular body that make for a very handsome silhouette.
The ears are cropped and erect that enhance its hearing – the Boxer’s most developed sense. It is always alert and vigilant, a natural guard dog.

Its shortened muzzle makes hot and humid conditions uncomfortable for the Boxer.

The coat is short, hard and smooth, and possesses a natural sheen that can be improved with rubdowns with a chamois cloth (especially after a bath).

The short coat does not protect him well from extreme elements of the weather. Therefore a Boxer should definitely not be kept outdoors. It is a most certainly a housedog, sensitive to extremes of temperature and does not like the draft

Every dog, no matter the breed needs to be correctly house trained.
house training dogs
Puppy toilet training
house training puppies
These articles are packed with practical guidance

September 26th, 2008 by KittyKitty

Although cats often appear independent–even aloof–they are actually eager to interact with their human. Although they are notorious nap-takers, cats adore getting all your attention.

A cat that is often left to its own devices is certain to become lonely.
Make sure your cat has plenty of exercise equipment while your away at work The play things which have a fragrance ,a little pungent are the Refillable toys and their aroma is retained.

To help pass a long day for your cat and make it more interesting get him or her a catnip filled window ledge. And when you come back, you’ll want to overindulge your cat with play time and attention. After all, she really has been a wonderfully good cat.

Even if gone for just a week-end, your cat will still need someone to make sure she’s all right. A family member, friend or ideally a person your cat knows and is familiar with. You can ensure that your pet will get the best care and attention while you are away. Your mind will be at ease and will insure the health of your cat but taking this precaution.

The typical cat is very attached to its usual environment, which makes boarding a very troubling experience and causes considerable stress. A brief visit, along with a prompt reunion, while they get accustomed to this new situation might reduce a bit of their separation anxiety. When there are no dogs, a cats only facility may be the best way to go.

Your pet can remain in her familiar area and with her own creature comforts. Your cat will miss you but her daily routine will not change.

For more information visit Smart Pet Shop.

September 26th, 2008 by KittyKitty

According to the American Humane Association, only about 17% of lost dogs and 2% of lost cats actually find their owners after being lost. In fact, more than 20 million pets are euthanized year after year because animal rescue units cannot find the original owners. But you need not fear because there is now an effective way of tracking down lost pets.

Lost pets can easily be found with a microchip. Every chip is encased in a smooth, strong biocompatible glass, and is small enough to fit into a hypodermic needle. The microchip is encoded with an identification number and this unique number can identify them throughout their life.

Veterinarians and most animal shelters can provide this service. If you opt to have a microchip inserted in your pet, the fee is $5 to $10 in most animal shelters, and about $50 at private veterinary clinics. The process is quick and painless as a microchip ID is a very small chip, it’s just about the size of a grain of rice.

There are three companies that dominate the US market for pet microchips- AVID, HomeAgain and 24PetWatch The microchip manufacturer keep the chip numbers that you have purchased and all the necessary information in their databases to be able to traced you in the event that your pet gets lost.

A handheld electronic scanner can scan the microchip to retrieve the information. Small handheld scanners are held close to the implant site while scanning and they have a reading range of about 3 inches. Larger, more powerful scanners can be used for various commercial and research applications and they read ranges vary from 6 to 20 inches depending upon specifications.

If a pet is found by local authorities or taken to a shelter, it is scanned during intake to see if a chip exists. If a microchip is detected, authorities call the recovery service and provide them the ID number, the pet’s description, and the location of the animal. The recovery service will be the one to notify the owner that the pet has been found, and where to go to recover the animal.

For pets traveling to all countries with the exception of China, you should use ISO 15 digit microchip that meets ISO standards 11784/11785. This is because the immigration officers use the microchips to compare the pet they are scanning to the presented veterinary documents.

There are still some owners who are against microchips even though studies have shown that using microchips to track your pet is completely safe. There is an issue reported that these microchips are the culprits that cause Fibro Sarcomas in the animals that have been implanted with these devices.

But this doesn’t really hamper dog and cat owners to have their pets microchipped. These electronic IDs offer a number of physical advantages over external tags. They are considered remarkably more reliable. The process is even quick and painless, similar to receiving a vaccination. The chip is permanent and can never be lost. The pet’s identification number is unique in the world and the database can have the pet’s pertinent history.

Microchips provide an important extra level of protection for you and your pets in the event that your worst nightmare happens- your pet gets lost. But before you do anything drastic or something you might regret later, weigh your options first.

Pet Medications, Pet Supplies SuperStore, Bargain Prices Now

September 25th, 2008 by KittyKitty

If you are a dog owner, you have probably thought about this question. Are luxury dog beds worth it? Do not obsess over this question when shopping. You will find in your search for the perfect pet bed that the term luxury dog bed is used very loosely. One shop owner may call their $50 dog pet beds luxurious and another may consider $1,000 to be the bottom of the barrel in luxury. Therefore, some better questions to ask yourself before investing in a dog bed is, “What is the definition of luxury?” or “What would be luxury to my dog?”

Defining luxury can be tougher than you think because we are programmed through advertisements to envision luxury as top of the line or designer labels. Remember that price does not define luxury when it comes to dog beds. Each manufacturer gets their raw materials to create the beds from different suppliers who charge different of prices. Various factors influence pricing including how much volume a retailer orders. rather than questioning your selection of dog beds, follow your own instincts. Some dogs, like large fluffy ball beds others like firmer beds while still others like a sofa bed with edges to snuggle against.

You know best your dog’s likes and dislikes. If your dog tends to lean against something to sleep, then he may appreciate a sofa dog bed or a bolster dog bed (a bed with raised sides). A dog that is used to resting on a hard floor may not be comfortable in a large fluffy bed that many pet owners would consider to be luxurious. It is almost impossible to take advice from other pet owner on dog beds because every pet and every owner has different needs and likes.

Don’t try and compete with the neighbors when selecting a key item for your dog. A luxury dog beds can only be selected by your definitions for your dog. The one thing that is important when selecting your best friend’s sleeping spot is the bed dimensions. Make sure that your pet will fit on the bed you choose. Dog Beds are are available in all shapes, sizes and colors. You should have an easy time finding a quality selection of luxury dog beds for your pooch where he can drift off into his doggy dream land.

September 25th, 2008 by KittyKitty

If your dog has a yeast infection, it may be that your dog has a weak immune system and will be vulnerable to problems with yeast. When the immune system is weak, it lessens the good bacteria and yeast changes to a full blown yeast infection in dogs. The odor of yeast is noticeable especially in dogs.

You might think it is wax since it is brown in color and thick and it can go untreated.

Yeast infection targets the ears, feet and anal parts of a dog’s body. Anywhere that is moist will attract yeast. Dogs that have this infection usually have an excess of oil on the skin. The yeast loves this kind of oily skin texture. Extreme itching and irritation is also a product of yeast infection in dogs. Learn more at Dogs Yeast Infection.

If your dog has an infection, be sure that you have to do things such as always keeping your dog clean. If the dog is outdoors in the rain or snow, make sure you bring him or her inside and thoroughly dry them especially in between the toes and behind the ears. The dog’s bedding should also be kept dry.

Poor diet and a weak immune system is a serious cause for dogs yeast infection.

Start feeding your dog premium food or a raw diet. Use food that has allergy blend if your dog is allergic to anything including yeast infection.

Use shampoo with less grease when bathing your dog. Yeast thrives on moisture. Antibiotics will only worsen the yeast infection and cause recurring yeast infection. Using natural baby wipes on your dog each day can help. If you can find one that has aloe as part of the ingredient, that would be helpful. You can also try enzyme supplements along with the premium diet.

Here is a homeopathic yeast infection remedy to try:
Use rubbing alcohol – about four ounces and mix it with two tablespoon of boric acid and a tablespoon of glycerine. You can put this in a dropper and administer two drops in each of your dog’s ear. Use this weekly until the dog ear yeast infection clears up.

Learn about how to cure dog yeast infection here at Dogs Yeast Infection.

September 25th, 2008 by PetGuru

You hate to admit it, but your furry pal is getting a little older. You want to ensure that your pet is happy and healthy for many years to come. You have heard all of the hype about the new dog diets for older pets. Is there really a difference between dog food for adult dogs and kibble recommended specifically for seniors? How do you know when to switch your pet to a different diet?

The best resource for advice about dog diets is your pets vet. Only you and your trusted vet know the particular needs of your pet. Talk with your vet about any concerns and questions you may have. Your will vet help you with any changes, that is if any, need to be made to your dogs diet. 

If your senior dog does not have any health troubles and keeps a healthy weight, then there will be no need to change your dogs diet from adult to senior dog food. But, on the other hand, if your dog has trouble keeping there weight down or digestive problems, you may need to switch diet. If weight is the only problem, then consider lowering the amount of dog food you give to your pet. This may be all the change your dogs diet needs.

A senior dog is classed as a dog in the last third of their life. Larger dogs, such as Great Danes, live to be about 9 years old. When they reach the age of 9 years old, you may want to think about a senior dogs diet. On the other hand, a Poodle will not reach senior status until about age of ten, this is due to the longer life expectancy. The decision to alter your dogs diet should be based on there health condition, rather than there actual age in years. Your vet will help you to decide when the right time is to change your dogs diet.

Dog food especially prepared for senior dogs typically has less calories. This helps to combat any weight issues. The senior dog food also contains more fiber for the different needs in your dogs diet. As dogs age, they tend to suffer from constipation, this extra fiber will help remedy this problem.

Renal failure can be a health problem for senior dogs. How can your dogs diet help with this problem? Cutting down the amount of protein in your dogs diet will decrease the work load of the kidneys. For the most part, this is the reason, senior dog food often has lower protein content than regular adult formulas.

You should when possible, give your dog to eat dry dog food to encourage excellent dental health. Dry kibble helps to reduce plaque and any tartar buildup. If your senior pet rejects the food dry, then try moistening it with water or you could the purchase moist canned varieties. 

When your vet recommends supplements may be a help as part of your senior dogs diet. It Is because, some pets are unable to eat properly due to dental problems. many other older pets are not able to gain all of the nutrients from their food, this again is for various health reasons. Supplements such as, vitamins given everyday and glucosamine can be a great help to maintain a healthy diet for your dog.

Glucosamine helps joint health. For senior dogs, glucosamine can help to fight arthritis and hip displasia. 

Vitamins C, A, and E, help reduce the natural aging process and encourage better health for senior dogs.  You should talk to your vet about adding such supplements to your dogs diet.

We all want what is best for our pet. Your senior dog should have a diet that meets their nutritional needs. You and your vet should work together to determine what is the best diet for your senior dog. Your dogs diet will directly affect their health. Take care of your pet by supervising your dogs diet closely with the help of your veterinarian.

For further free information try visiting Free Dog Diet Tips