Best Dog Names

Hot Weather and Your Dog By Jennifer Ayalon

After a winter spent cooped up inside, it?s likely that both you and your dog will be anxious to get outside and enjoy the warmer weather. Although the temperatures in spring are generally fairly moderate, regions in the south can be hot even in April and May. As the years moves into summer, higher temperatures will prevail almost everywhere, meaning that you will have to make some effort to assure that your dog is negatively impacted by hot weather.

Obviously, any breed of dog can be harmed by high temperatures, but there are some breeds of dog, called brachycephalic, that have heightened sensitivity to summer heat. Brachycephalic dogs have shortened faces and include breeds like English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Boxers, Pugs, Japanese Spaniels, French Mastiffs, Toy English Spaniel, Boston Terriers, and Bullmastiffs. These dogs with flatter faces are much more likely to be affected by high temperatures and care must be taken to prevent heat stroke or dehydration.
You must restrict exercise to early morning or evening when the temperatures are cooler and suspend exercise completely during a heat wave. Make sure the dog always has fresh water available. No brachycephalic dog is an ?outside? dog, especially during the summer. When the temperatures soar, keep the dog in an air conditioned room or home. You must take your flat faced dog to the vet at the first signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

Although the terms ?heat exhaustion? and ?heat stroke? are used interchangeably, they are slightly different, with heat exhaustion being the milder form that could lead to heat stroke if untreated. Because of the inability of a dog to describe his or her symptoms, treat any heat related problem as heat stroke. There are signs that your dog may be suffering from heat stroke and these include thick saliva and bright red or even purple tongue and gums, rapid, excessive panting, wobbly gait, vomiting, and/or hot ears and nose.

Because heat stroke includes dehydration, your dog will need to be treated at the vet?s office as soon as possible to prevent permanent organ damage, but you can help to treat heat stroke by bathing the dog in tepid water, giving your pup cool water (if your pup will drink Gatorade, give that), and getting him or her into the shade or an air conditioned space. Even if your pup seems to revive with your treatment, intravenous fluids will probably be needed to restore the body?s chemical balance.

As much as you may enjoy riding with your dog, you may want to leave him at home once the temperature gets above 60 degrees F. We leave our French Bulldogs at home during the warmer months unless they have to visit the vet. We have found that even a short trip of 2 miles during the summer can begin to affect them. Older dogs will be much more likely to be harmed by high temperatures than younger ones.

It is thought that hundreds of dogs die from being left in cars every year, and this is totally preventable. Cracking a window, even if the car is left in the shade on a hot day, will do nothing to prevent the heat in the car from rising above 120 degrees in less than half an hour. Air conditioning will be of little or no use since, even if you leave the car running, it will shut itself off in about 20 minutes, meaning that the dog will have no protection whatsoever against climbing temperatures. And, even if you think you will only be in the store or bank for a minute or two, these visits have a way of stretching out to a half hour or more.

If you must take you dog with you when it?s hot, make sure you take along water. A cooler with ice and a wet towel is also a good idea. A breakdown could create an emergency situation for your dog, so always be prepared for the worst.

Curbing Dog Aggression By Jennifer Ayalon

Uncontrolled aggressive behavior is one of the major reasons why dogs are either given to animal shelters or put down. All dogs, and all living creatures, have the capacity to act aggressively because it is a survival technique. However, when the dog acts aggressively towards other pets or humans, the behavior must be corrected as quickly as possible. In addition to the possibility of injury to the other party, serious legal ramifications can arise.

Although any dog can growl and bite inappropriately, certain breeds are much more prone to this kind of behavior than others. The size of the dog is also a factor in this and an attack by a Chihuahua will be considerably less serious than an attack by a German Shepherd or Rottweiler. However, any dog that behaves aggressively should first be seen by a veterinarian to make sure that a physical condition, such as infection, cancer, or a thyroid problem, isn?t at the root of the behavior.

One of the biggest causes of dog aggression is fear. The dog in question is acting aggressively precisely because it thinks it will be attacked, and evidently adheres to the old adage, "The best defense is a good offense". If you have gotten a puppy and would like to prevent future inappropriate aggression, the puppy should be socialized at an early age. Because of dog diseases, wait until the shots have all been taken care of and then take your puppy with you to introduce it to different situations.

Dogs that become used to being around other dogs and people at an early age will be much less likely to react aggressively in later years. However, even adult dogs can be trained to overcome aggression by careful training and socialization.

Unless you will be able to sequester your aggressive dog away from people and other animals for its entire lifespan, the dog should be trained to overcome its aggressive tendencies. The safety of others will always be the first consideration, so make sure that the dog is on a leash and is wearing a muzzle during training.

An aggressive dog can be socialized to feel comfortable and calm in the presence of others. It will take time and patience, but even violently aggressive dogs can be turned into good canine citizens in most cases.

In order to do this, you need to enroll the dog in an obedience class and make sure the person conducting the class understands your dog?s aggression problem. Learning to obey basic commands is a good way to bring the dog under control in other situations. Take the dog to an area where it will be exposed to people and dogs and keep it to the side. When a dog or person comes near and the dog begins to lunge or to growl or bark, give a sharp tug at the least to redirect its attention. In addition to the corrective action, you will need to reward the dog when it behaves correctly. Have a supply of small treats on hand and be lavish with pets and verbal praise as well when the dog remains calm.

People who love their dogs tend to make excuses for the dog?s bad behavior. However, there is no excuse for a dog biting another dog or a person unless the owner is under attack. This sort of behavior can have very serious consequences for both the dog and the owner. In extreme cases, when someone has actually been killed by an aggressive dog, the owner has served jail time. The owner can also be sued for bites and the offending dog can be ordered to be put to sleep. It is critically important to get your dog?s aggression problem under control.

If your dog is acting aggressively towards others, start seeking a solution immediately before the problem gets totally out of hand. You and your dog will both be much happier.

Parasites in Dogs By Jennifer Ayalon

Diseases such as distemper and parvovirus can have a serious impact on your dog?s health, but your dog can also be affected by external and internal parasites. Parasites are creatures that derive their living from feeding on the blood or tissues of a living host. These creatures, generally small in size, can weaken your dog?s system and make them much more likely to become ill, and can also cause a great deal of damage to the dog?s body themselves. A visual check for external parasites should be made daily, and periodic testing to make sure your dog is not supporting a multitude of freeloaders can keep your companion healthy.

Few dogs go throughout life without experiencing some of these parasites, and the effect on the health of the dog can be slight or profound.
Fleas are insects, and good indications that your dog has these small, but pestiferous insects will include frantic scratching, flea dirt (the bloody flea feces), and irritated patches of skin from severe infestations. Fleas will be happy to feed on you and your family, too. Large populations of fleas on dogs can actually cause anemia and, if eaten during grooming, fleas can give your dog tapeworms.

Ticks are deeply-dyed villains that can carry dangerous illnesses such as Lyme disease, Ehrlichiosis, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, and Babesiosis. Dogs should be checked after being outside during tick season and the ticks removed as quickly as possible ? the longer a tick is biting your dog, the greater the chances of infection.

Mange mites can infest a dog?s ears or the coat in general. These mites can cause extreme irritation and inflammation if untreated. Ironically, most pooches carry some mange mites on them from birth, but the creatures will simply live quietly on them in their hair follicles. However, if the body?s balance is upset, the mites will gain the upper hand and cause discomfort and irritation. Body mites can cause large portion of the body to lose hair and ear mites can cause swelling and intense itching. Treatment is available for mites that can return your pup to normal.

There are preventives such as flea collars and anti-tick treatments that can help to keep your dog at least relatively free of external parasites. Take your pet to the vet if he or she shows any signs of illness as a result of a tick bite ? treatment is available.

As serious as external parasites of dogs can be, those that dwell inside your dog are probably even worse. Internal parasites can literally suck the lifeblood out of your pooch, leaving it weakened and unable to fight off illness. The only good news about internal parasites is that there is treatment available that will kill them.

Tapeworms are less likely to cause serious harm to your dog than other internal parasites. These segmented worms suck less blood out of the dog?s body, and are visible in the stool or on your pet?s bottom as resembling flattened grains of rice.

Roundworms are very common in dogs, and puppies often contract them from their mothers while still in the uterus or while nursing. Dogs will sometimes vomit up roundworms, and they can also cause diarrhea. Puppies are most at risk from roundworms and a bad infestation can actually be fatal. Roundworms can be spread to humans, especially children.

Whipworms can seriously impact your dog?s health as these worms embed themselves in your dog?s colon. Bloody diarrhea is a good sign that your dog may have these worms, and dehydration can occur.

Hookworms are among the most serious internal parasite that can infect your dog. These worms live in the small intestine and not only suck large amounts of blood, but also leave wounds that continue to bleed because of the anticoagulant in the worm?s saliva. Hookworms can cause not only bloody or tarry stools, but also anemia, and can kill the dog, especially younger ones. Humans can, in rare cases, pick up hookworms from infected dogs.

As it is impossible to absolutely prevent infestation of internal parasites, it?s a good idea to have your vet check out a stool sample twice a year, even if your dog is showing no symptoms. Any dog showing signs of internal parasites should be seen by the vet immediately.

Pet proofing your home using indoor dog gates By Wilma Barrier

Most people know that when you have a toddler running thru your home you are going to need a baby gate to keep them safe. Well the same hold true for your furry friend, using indoor dog gates will keep them confined so your pet will be safe. When you bring a new pet into your home it can be overwhelming to figure out how to take care of them and give them just what they need. That is why I recommend that you do what new parents have to do with their homes, and I call it pet proofing, much like baby proofing, it is something you must do to keep your pet safe and secure.

Pet proofing can be a bit easier since most dogs are pretty smart and can be trained in a quick amount of time. Consistency and praise are the most important two things, when it comes to training a dog. I have four dogs, and this seems to be the best way in my opinion to get them trained with out your dog thinking you are being mean. Just like with children love goes along way when you are training your pet and this will make them try harder because that is a dogs nature, to make you pleased with them.

One other tool I have found to be most useful is indoor dog gates. They can be placed anywhere with ease and can help you to keep your sanity while keeping your pet safe and sound. I have seen some pet owners that decided to not use pet gates and found that their dogs will tear up their home, furniture or shoes. The pet gets into trouble for it and this is turn will make both the dog and the master feel bad. If you set boundaries for your dog at a young age they will respect you, and your home more. This will make for a happy and healthy relationship with your dog, which is a real rewarding experience.

I have also found that I can clean up my house or have a dinner party a lot easier with the use of indoor dog gates, which I know some of my guest appreciate since I am well aware that not everyone is going to be a dog person. Dog gates can make a better experience for your dog, and your guest so that you can avoid any awkward situations.

I do have a fenced in yard I can put them in when I have guests. But when it is raining or really cold outside I do not feel right about putting my furry friends out there to suffer since my pets are used to being indoors. In contrast I do not want to lose my friends just because they are not comfortable around a dog.

With the proper love and encouragement your pet can be a really well behaved member of your family. Just remember that a lot of love and praise, and setting boundaries will make your dog respect you more and give them a feeling of trust that will make them a better pet for you. And safety first when it comes to dog gates, just check out http://indoor-doggates.com for more about indoor dog gates and what types you may find the most useful for your home.

Purchasing Dog Beds: A Comprehensive Guide By Janet Hosler

Our pets are just like us and why not! After all, they are part of our very own family. So, quite like most of us, they have their own siesta or party time, lounging hours, bed times, and also their favorite resting spot. And, in order to provide the ultimate comfort to your pet dogs, you would also need to buy dog beds that are aesthetic, durable, and provide the requisite amount of comfort. Besides, once you have purchased this bed, it would be equally important to place it in their favorite spot as well!

What are the desirable dog bed features you should be looking for?

* To begin with, it should be adequately comfortable.
* It should be able to conserve the body heat for a warm and restful sleep.
* It should protect bony prominences fittingly as well. If your pet has aged or has special needs with respect to bone and muscle support, you could also opt for orthopedic dog beds.
* You need a bed that is easy to clean and wash. It would be prudent to consider beds that come with covers that can be machine washed. It is important to maintain hygiene for your pets in order to keep them clean and healthy.
* Your dog bed should be durable enough to stand the test of time.
* Consider waterproof material for pet beds that resists moisture build-up.

Ideally, a dog bed made from soft poly-fill that is marginally elevated would be considered as the ideal choice. However, if you are looking for specialized orthopedic dog beds that cater to specific medical needs, it would be prudent to have your personal vet verify the features and the make, before you buy.

Some Practical Tips for Choosing Dog Beds

* When you select a dog bed, consider the size of your dog and choose one that is likely to be sufficient for him even as an adult. You could seek your vet's advice in case you aren't sure of the size of a full grown dog of the breed.
* It should fit into his crate snugly, so that his so called "home" could be made more comfortable.
* Keep in mind that dogs can try to rip or consume the bed materials. So, beds need to be sturdy enough to protect them from damage and dog bites. If the dog does decide to chew on the bed, the bed will be worn out eventually and eventually ruined. You should buy something else for the dog to chew on and keep them easily accessible for the dog so they do not feel inclined to chew on the bed.
* Again, if you have opted for orthopedic dog beds, all specifications provided by your vet for the same, needs to be adhered to.

A Better Life for Your Dog

Whether you choose ordinary beds for your pet dogs or orthopedic dog beds, the choice should be planned well. Just make sure you take time in selecting them, so that your coveted pets can enjoy the benefits of a restful sleep.

There are many things to consider when selecting the right bed for your pet.

Janet Hosler

Controlling That Pesky Bark By Andy Gonzalez

Above anything else, a dog wants to please its owner. Dogs view their family as their pack, and they are biologically wired to provide and desire extensive protection for them. There are times when a dog's passion for protecting its 'pack', however, is translated through an excessive amount of barking, which may quickly become a nuisance for its owner. It may not be appreciated by those next door either and its owner may be met with a barrage of complaints from sleep-deprived neighbors.

Fortunately, there are a number of ways to achieve bark control which don't put our enthusiastic, four-legged friends in danger. Some of the most common tools for bark control are anti-bark collars. These collars have an assortment of designs, but the two most popular on the market are shock collars and spray collars.

Shock collars work by delivering a small, yet harmless shock to a dog when their barking is detected to be excessive in volume or length. Some models deliver a warning tone first so that they aren't immediately punished for what is, after all, their instinct. The shock collars often come with a number of settings so that the power of the shock or the sensitivity of the collar can be carefully adjusted to meet the owner's preferences, with the maximum settings still being safe for even the tiniest of dogs.

Just the idea of shocking a dog, however safe it may be, may come off inhumane for some owners. For those, there is the popular alternative of spray bark collars. The spray bark collar works in a way easily predicted from its name. Just like shock collars, it has the ability to detect nuisance barking and can be adjusted to meet a number of settings. However, instead of delivering a shock, it simply sprays the dog with a bit of liquid which the dog typically finds unpleasant.

The spray bark collar can be filled with many liquids, but the citronella bark collar is a highly recommended choice for any owner seeking a bark-controlling collar, as it is fully safe while still remaining remarkably effective. The liquid inside it, citronella, is colorless and has a lemony odor, making the citronella bark collar an even friendlier choice for owners who are concerned about ensuring their house looks clean and keeping the aroma of their house pleasant.

It may be a dog's instinct to bark in order to protect its 'pack', but a dog is also known for its extreme intelligence and ability to adapt. Dogs are certainly smart enough to adjust to anti-bark collars quickly, and they can be a perfect aid in the training of dogs at night when their owners are not present to guide them. Since dogs function as our best friends, showering us with love, attention and joy, it?s best that we treat them well in return. If excessive barking is an issue, anti-bark collars are safe, effective, and humane tools we can use to improve our and their environment alike.

Common Illnesses of Dogs By Jennifer Ayalon

When Pandora?s Box was opened, not only were a host of diseases released upon mankind, but also plenty of illnesses that would affect dogs. Most of these diseases are dog-specific, but several of them can pass over and be spread to their owners or other people. In many cases, vaccination will prevent these illnesses in the first place, preventing the need for often catastrophic veterinary bills and possible heartbreak.

Distemper is probably the most common disease to afflict unvaccinated dogs. It is actually more likely to impact puppies, and getting your pup vaccinated early can help to prevent this disease. Distemper is spread by a virus, and includes some symptoms reminiscent of human influenza, such as respiratory distress and coughing. However, it also can cause seizures, diarrhea, and vomiting, and can result in the death of the dog.

Rabies is probably the most serious illness your dog could ever acquire. Rabies is a virus and spreads from infected saliva from a bite, and it affects the nervous system and the brain. There is no treatment for rabies and it is fatal. Rabies can be spread to humans, but is entirely preventable with vaccination.

Parvovirus is another highly contagious disease affecting the gastrointestinal system. It will include severe diarrhea and vomiting, and it can cause death. Puppies are much more likely to become ill with parvovirus than adult dogs.

Unlike the above illnesses, leptospirosis is caused by a bacterium. The infective agent can be found in water such as rivers, lakes, and even puddles. This disease affects the kidneys and liver and spreads through contaminated urine. Humans can catch leptospirosis, so cleaning up after a sick pet should always be done wearing gloves.

Kennel cough is another viral disease that causes coughing, vomiting, and a runny nose and eyes. While this disease generally goes away by itself, the owners can look forward to spending some sleepless nights tending to their sick dog.

Coronavirus is another malady that is usually more serious in puppies and younger dogs, although dogs of any age could catch it. This disease causes diarrhea and vomiting, and can be serious enough to merit hospitalization.

Lyme disease is a bacterial illness spread by ticks. This disease causes fever, vomiting, diarrhea, painful joints, and possible permanent damage to the heart if left untreated.

All of the above diseases can be prevented by use of vaccines, and a consultation should be made with your veterinarian as to the correct vaccination schedule for your pet. It is best to allow your vet to vaccinate your pet in case your dog experiences a negative reaction to the shot. Allergic reactions are not uncommon with vaccinations, so ask your vet what you should be alert to in this respect.

Rabies vaccine is always administered by a veterinarian, and make sure that your vet uses a better brand of vaccine that will be less likely to cause problems. All rabies vaccines are not the same, as we found out when one of our bulldogs had an anaphylactic allergic reaction to the shot and nearly died. Iris was in the hospital, in the equivalent of intensive care, for almost 5 days and needed continued care at home, including subcutaneous fluids and antibiotic shots. The veterinary bill was enormous.

Because of the problems many dogs have experienced with rabies vaccine, some vets and dog owners suggest having a titer done on the dog to see if antibodies to rabies are still present. Keep in mind that the shot that a 300 pound Tibetan Mastiff receives is exactly the same dosage that your Toy Poodle will get.

It is always best to talk to your veterinarian about your dog?s healthcare needs.

Does Your Dog Need To Bark All The Time? By Jennifer Ayalon

Barking is natural for your dog; he or she uses it to communicate and under ideal circumstances, barking is used as a warning or to signal fear. However, all too often barking slides from being a normal means of communication to being a nuisance. Dogs never seem to become hoarse from barking, and dedicated barkers can keep up the opera for hours at a time. Not only can barking become annoying to you, it can be even more obnoxious to your neighbors. In order to stop your dog?s excessive barking, it?s important to find out the reason for the behavior.

Although a woof or two to let you know that a stranger is approaching the house is fine, a barking session that continues without respite is certainly not called for. Dogs who bark like this will also generally start in as soon as they hear any odd noise or catch a glimpse of something moving outside.

Some dogs bark just to keep themselves amused. Like people, dogs can become bored, and this is probably especially true with dogs that belong in the working breeds. These dogs have been used over the centuries in various occupations, and if simply left to sit with nothing to do, they will bark to pass the time. Dogs that have been left out on a chain are particularly prone to do this.
Sometimes our dogs love us so much that they simply cannot bear to have us away from them. They will bark when we go out, evidently hoping that the barking will cause the owner to return. This is called separation anxiety. Dogs with separation anxiety will often be destructive in the house as well, tearing up furniture and eliminating on the floor, bed, or sofa.

One of the most common mistakes owners make when attempting to curb excessive barking is to pay attention to it. This doesn?t mean that you praise the dog or give it a treat when it barks, but even yelling at the dog is providing attention ? like children, dogs will take negative attention if nothing else is available. One way to deal with a problem barker is to deny the attention that they crave when barking. However, staying quiet and unresponsive while the bark session is going on is not enough; you have to pay positive attention to the dog when the barking stops. Spending more time playing with your dog or otherwise providing affection can help to curb barking.

The best time to address barking problems is when the puppy first comes into your home. Young puppies will often bark out of excitement, but once again, paying attention to them when they do not bark is a good way to short circuit future barking problems.

Obedience training for dogs of any age is another way to either control or prevent barking issues. A dog that undergoes obedience training not only learns a certain set of commands, but also comes to understand his place in the home ?pecking order?. This is not a bad thing as wild dogs of all kinds have an established social order that helps maintain the security and order of the pack. Learning what is considered appropriate behavior will keep the house and neighborhood much more peaceful. While obedience training is most effective when started early, adult dogs also respond well to this training, especially when it heavily emphasizes positive reinforcement.

There has been a good deal of controversy over the use of bark collars on dogs, and there are arguments for both sides. Some dogs respond very quickly to even a vibration on the throat, but anyone who uses these collars should realize that some dogs will be able to block out the ?stimulation? and will continue barking. Injury can be done to the dog if the collar is used too long, especially if there are no results.

It is possible to train a problem barker to stop serenading, but in all cases, it will take time, patience, and understanding. Always remember that your dog doesn?t realize that it is being a pest, and finding out what is causing the behavior is the first step to stopping it.

Tips for Litter Box Training a Dog By Darrin Swain

Smaller dogs obviously have smaller bladders. That means that they have to go outside more often than their larger counterparts. One way to avoid frequent trips outside is to teach your small dog how to use a litter box much like a cat.

Be aware that your dog's won't have a cat's natural instincts when it comes to using a litter box or burying waste. Therefore, it will take a lot of patience when it comes to litter box training a dog. The following tips should help somewhat though.

Many people are surprised to learn that there are litter boxes designed especially for dogs. However, you can still use those designed for cats. Just make sure that it's one of the largest that you can find so that your dog doesn't have space issues.

Your little one won't just go running to the litter box whenever it's time for him to go to the bathroom. You will need to pick him up and take him there instead, at least until he gets used to the process. This means that you'll need to keep a watchful eye on your canine.

Dogs typically start walking in circles or sniffing the ground whenever they're about to go. Dogs also have to eliminate whenever they wake up in the morning, so take him to the box then too. A few minutes after he eats is another time that he needs to be taken to the litter box.

You may not want to go about litter box training a dog right from the start. The old method of using newspaper will help considerably. Once your dog gets used to going on the paper, you can just switch it out to a litter box.

As with any type of training, you will need to be patient with your dog. Whenever things go right, make sure that you praise him for it. Give him a nice treat or two whenever he successfully uses the litter box too.

Conversely, make sure that your dog gets the message whenever he messes up. Don't worry about scolding your dog if you find an accident at a later time, since doing so will do no good. Catch him in the act and reprimand him, just not physically.

When there are accidents, make sure that you're prepared. You will need to clean up messes thoroughly. Dogs have an amazing sense of smell, and will be drawn back to spots that they've eliminated on in the past.

Litter box training a dog isn't the easiest thing in the world to do. However, it will save you a lot of trouble if you can do it successfully. Good luck.

Choosing a Dog That Fits Your Lifestyle By Jennifer Ayalon

Other than serious behavioral problems, such as aggression, the reason most dogs wind up in shelters is because their owners find out that they have just chosen the wrong dog for the way they live. Dogs have evolved with humans over the course of thousands, maybe tens of thousands of years, and as they shared our homes and lives, they have been bred to fill specific roles.

Besides the innate personality of the breed, there is also the dog?s adult size to take into consideration. That fluffy little St. Bernard puppy that fits so well on your lap now could grow into a 200 pound giant in over a year. If your house or apartment is simply not big enough, at some point your dog is going to outgrow its living space.

Regardless of the breed, all dogs require some exercise during the day. While some breeds can have their exercise requirements met with indoor play or a short walk, other breeds will need to run every day to satisfy their energy demands. Another thing to consider is the grooming needs of the dog; some dogs have a carefree coat that requires no maintenance to keep it looking good, while others (especially those with long hair) will need intensive grooming to keep the coat free from tangles, debris, and external parasites.
If you are unfamiliar with dog breeds in general, and are considering adding a puppy or dog to your life, do some research not only into the different breeds. You also need to determine why you want a dog, and how much time you will have to spend with the dog. Always keep in mind that nearly all dog breeds will want to interact with their humans ? dogs have emotional needs, too.

If you are looking for a lapdog or companion, choosing a smaller breed is often a good idea, but make sure you understand the different energy level of different breeds. Jack Russell terriers and Westies are small dogs, but they require enormous amounts of exercise, otherwise they can develop personality problems. Breeds such as French bulldogs, English bulldogs, Chihuahuas, Japanese Chins, and Papillons are all excellent choices as well, although all of these dogs will need a lot of attention from their owners.

Hunting dogs combine great personality with the high energy needed for hunting. Those who enjoy taking to the field and woods during hunting season will want to focus on such dogs as Labrador or Golden retrievers or one of the spaniels, such as English or Cocker Spaniels. A laid back hunting dog that works well even in an apartment is the Clumber Spaniel. Vizslas and pointer breeds also are a good choice for hunters. Remember that these breeds will still need plenty of exercise outside of hunting season so be sure to take them for walks or runs daily.

Many people are worried about home security and will use a dog to guard the home. In one respect, nearly every dog breed is a guard dog, but some breeds are more protective than others. When you looking for a guard dog, you should look for a breed that will be easy to train, passive with the family, and have a defensive rather than an aggressive nature. Dogs like English Mastiffs, Bullmastiffs, and Schnauzers are good with members of the family, but do not possess the hair-trigger attacking instincts of dogs like Dobermans, Pit Bulls, and German Shepherds.

Flock guardian dogs are often important to those who live in rural areas and keep livestock. These dogs tend to be more aloof with people than other breeds and tend to concentrate their attention, and affection, on the sheep or cattle they guard. These dogs can be difficult to train as they have been bred to think independently and are best employed in more isolated situations where they will not have to interact with people.

Being a responsible dog owner isn?t restricted to how your dog gets along with other people and animals, it also means that you have chosen a dog that you will be able to take care of properly and that will be able to live out its life with you in comfort and dignity.

How Ticks Can Impact Your Dog's Health By Jennifer Ayalon

There is basically no region of the country that can be considered free of tick borne diseases. These diseases can have a serious impact on your dog?s life, and being aware that they exist can help you detect symptoms early and get treatment when it will be most effective.

Ticks are active during the entire year in winter-free regions and will appear in colder areas as soon as the ground thaws. Never assume it?s too early or too cold to find ticks on your dog. Our Pip even got one from somewhere when there was 2 feet of snow on the ground. Check your dog over after every outing, even if it?s only been to the backyard. Catching ticks before they attach to the pet is much easier than prying them off later.
Most people probably think that ticks are insects, but they are actually a member of the spider family. An adult tick has 8 lets, just like a spider, and feeds on the blood of living animals. However, while spiders will form egg cases for reproduction, the female tick itself sometimes forms the egg case ? in some tick species, the eggs mature inside the swollen body of the female, which eventually bursts to release hundreds of tick nymphs, while other species simply lay the eggs on the ground. These tiny ticks have only 6 legs and generally feed on smaller animals like mice and shrews until they mature.

Ticks feed by inserting their mouthparts into the flesh of their host and drawing blood out. An anticoagulant is used to keep the food supply flowing, and the bite itself causes extreme irritation including itching and oozing of clear liquid.

Removing ticks from your dog safely is important because they can either leave mouthparts in the skin or regurgitate into victim, opening the possibility of more infective agents entering the dog?s body. Use fine tweezers or a special tick removing tool to grab the tick as closely to the skin as possible, and use a slow, but steady motion to draw the tick out. From personal experience, I have found that swollen female ticks will inevitably leave their mouthparts in the skin regardless of how careful I have been, raising the chance of infection.

The types of ticks most dogs and people encounter are the dog or wood tick and the deer tick. There are actually about 90 species of ticks found in the United States, although some have a very limited geographic range.

Tick borne diseases can cause serious illness in dogs, as we found out with our French Bulldogs several years ago. The first to become ill, Iris, was taken to the vet the first day her symptoms of limping and lethargy appeared. A blood test revealed that she had both Lyme disease and Ehrlichiosis. Although she was on the appropriate antibiotic, she lost the use of all 4 legs in 3 days, and was unable to even drink on her own; we had to use a syringe. She ate nothing for over a week until the medicine finally kicked in. She was literally reduced to a loose bag of bones. Primmy and Pip also became ill, but not to as great an extent, and all the dogs recovered after a month of antibiotic treatment.

Ehrlichiosis is also called tracker dog disease and is a legacy of the Vietnam War. Returning dogs used by the military were infected with Ehrlichiosis, and it causes symptoms such as joint pain, high fever, lethargy, vomiting, and diarrhea. Unless treated, long term damage can occur to the heart and joints.

Lyme disease causes many of the same symptoms as Ehrlichiosis, and the antibiotic used to treat it, doxycycline, is also the same.

Rocky Mountain spotted fever is even more serious a disease than the above two, and can be fatal if untreated. Symptoms, again are similar to tracker dog disease and Lyme, but can include skin lesions and cough. Heart attacks can also occur. In addition to doxycycline, tetracycline can also be used to treat it.

Anaplasmosis is yet another serious tick borne disease and this time the infective agents target either the white blood cells or the platelets. This disease causes muscular pain, fever, general malaise, coughing, and diarrhea. Doxycycline is the medicine of choice to cure the dog.

Babesiosis is caused by a tiny parasite, and this one attacks the red blood cells. Anemia is one obvious result as well as red urine, lethargy, fever, and weakness. Unfortunately, treatment for this disease is more complicated than for the others, and often involves a combination of drug therapies combined with blood transfusions in extreme cases.

There are a number of products on the market that are applied to the dog?s back that will either kill ticks on contact or hopefully before they are able to infect the dog. Flea and tick collars also offer protection.

Carefully checking your dog after he or she has been outside is also a good way to prevent these diseases. Ticks often wander around for quite a while before settling in for a meal, and disease transmission depends on how long the tick has been attached ? it usually takes about 72 hours before enough pathogens enter the system to do harm. You should check with your vet with any concerns or questions regarding tick borne illnesses in your pet.

Safety in Homes With Dogs and Children By Jennifer Ayalon

While it is true that most dogs are strongly attracted in a positive way to children, the truth is that a good relationship between kids and dogs is something that rarely comes about without some work. Most children who are bitten by dogs are bitten by the family pet, and while it might be easy to blame the pup, it is actually primarily the fault of the adults who have not provided the leadership and guidance that both dogs and children need.

Small children, especially, have no concept that they might be abusing the dog when they pull on its ears or poke their finger into its eyes. Babies have a grasping instinct that could lead them to inadvertently pinch the dog. Some breeds, including breeds like French and English Bulldogs, and English Mastiffs will tolerate just about any punishment that comes their way from a child, but other breeds will not be so patient.

The adults in the household should teach the children the proper way to behave with a dog, and even babies can be taught (through positive reinforcement) that they should not ever pull or pinch your pet. Any striking of the dog by a child is totally unacceptable, and this sort of behavior should never be tolerated. Small dogs are often looked upon as toys by children who are too young to really understand that the dog is a living being.

Because of the possibility of harm being done to either, it is best not to leave a child under the age of 7 or 8 alone with a dog. Parents should never leave a baby or toddler alone with the dog, even for a few minutes.

It is quite true that children need to learn the proper way to behave with dogs, but your pup must also learn that even the smallest baby is above them in ?rank?. A dog that believes that it is superior to a human member of the home will simply be more likely to bite than one that views humans as superior. Use positive reinforcement as much as possible when accustoming your pet to its household status, but time out in a crate or correction with a sharp word may also be necessary. A pup that has received obedience training is much less likely to cause problems than one that has not.

In order to prevent problems arising when a new baby is brought into the home, make the dog a part of the preparations. Dogs are just as likely to become jealous as an older child will be when a baby arrives if they are deprived of the attention they have previously been getting. After the baby is born, have the father bring home a blanket or article of clothing the baby has been wearing to let your pet become familiar with the baby?s scent. Let the dog be part of baby care by keeping it close while feeding, bathing, and changing the baby. And, once again, do not ever leave the baby alone with the dog.

Children will often make a beeline to a dog when they see one outside. However, a strange dog is an unknown factor and kids should be taught never to approach a dog they do not know. They should always ask the owner?s permission to pet the dog.

Teach children that a growl means ?No? in dog language and to back off if any dog growls at them. Likewise, if a dog rushes at them, they should never run ? it will make them into prey. It?s best to stay where they are, lower their eyes, and slowly back away.

Taking a bit of time and effort to train both dogs and children in a home can mean that there will be less likelihood of conflict between them.

Things to Consider Before Getting a Dog for the First Time By Darrin Swain

Are you thinking about getting a dog for the first time? If so, then hopefully you have thought the decision through thoroughly. There are a few things that you may not have considered yet. Keep reading to learn a few things to consider before you make your decision.

Dogs aren't goldfish. You can't buy one and expect to be rid of it a few weeks later. Although various breeds have differing lifespans, dogs live approximately 12 years. This is a lot of time to take care of something.

You need to realize that you'll be making a huge commitment before getting a dog for the first time. Dogs need to be fed and walked daily. Don't forget about other tasks such as brushing teeth and hair, especially for longer-haired breeds.

Owning a dog isn't for everyone's lifestyle. Do you spend all day at work? Your dog will get lonely without attention from you. Also, if you frequently travel out of town, you would need to make arrangements for your pet's care.

Before you get a dog, you need to think about your family's situation. Is everyone in the household fine with bringing in a canine? After all, they will likely care for and love him too. However, if there are small kids around, certain breeds won't be suitable.

The amount of space you have to offer is something else that you should think about before you get your first dog. This is especially important if you plan on getting one of the larger breeds. However, small dogs need space to run around too, since they're often more energetic.

Even if you have a big enough yard, it's best that it also has a fence around it. Not only does it keep your dog from getting out, but it keeps other animals from coming into your yard to bother your dog too. Living in close proximity to a dog park will come in handy for daily exercise.

Even if you have adequate space to accommodate a dog, you need to consider the community that you live in. Not all of them are pet-friendly. Your apartment manager or home owner's association may have something to say about it. It's vital to understand the rules that apply to pet owners before you go about getting a dog for the first time.

Owning a dog can be relatively costly, so make sure that you have enough room in your budget. In addition to standard items such as food and toys, your dog may need medication for some reason. In fact, flea and heartworm medication on a monthly basis is often recommended.

Keep in mind that you don't always have to get a cute little puppy as your first pet. Older dogs are in need of rescue too. There are plenty of benefits like not having to go through the housetraining process.

Preparing For Your New Puppy By Jennifer Ayalon

Regardless of whether you?re an adult or a child, there is nothing more exciting than bringing a new puppy into the home. However, successfully introducing a new puppy depends upon a good deal of thought and preparation, and there are a number of things that should be kept in mind when getting ready for this new family member. Is the puppy?s breed suitable for the situation (a mastiff in an efficiency apartment is probably not the best choice)? Are there children or other pets in the household? Do you understand any potential health problems associated with the breed?

In addition to the above, people sometimes forget that each puppy is an individual living creature with its own personality and needs. Getting a puppy, in most cases, means that you are going to provide a lifelong commitment to this animal, and no one should take this responsibility lightly.

Regardless of the breed of dog you have decided upon, all puppies will need equipment and supplies to keep them healthy and comfortable. Having everything needed on hand when you carry your puppy into the home will help make the period of adjustment smoother and easier on everyone.

Most breeders will give you a small supply of the food that the puppy has been eating. You will probably want to choose your own brand or one that your veterinarian suggests. Get the best quality you can afford ? the puppy will not need to eat enormous quantities just to get adequate nutrition, and higher quality foods also contain more meat protein. Meat should be the first item on the ingredient list.

Food and water dishes are a necessity and probably the best type to use are stainless steel ? they are easy to keep clean and the puppy won?t be able to chew them up. Clean water should be available at all times.

Puppies are extremely active and playful, and your puppy will also be shedding its baby teeth. Have plenty of safe toys on hand and be prepared to spend time playing with your puppy, this will help with the bonding process. Avoid rawhide as it can cause gastrointestinal problems if pieces are chewed off and swallowed. You should never leave toys with the puppy when it is unattended.

A first aid kit for dogs is another item you might want to have ready. Being able to treat relatively minor injuries at home can save a trip to the vet.

Although most people usually use a collar and leash with their puppy, a harness may be a better choice as it keeps pressure off the neck. Be prepared for some possible dramatic activity when you first put the harness or collar on the pup. Our Frenchies threw themselves onto the ground and writhed around as if in agony the first time we put their harnesses on. We paid no attention and they just got up and forgot they were even wearing them.

Hopefully, you don?t subscribe to the old idea of putting a new puppy into a box with a towel, clock, and hot water bottle. If you have decided to get a puppy, it is going to be a member of your family and should be treated as such. Your puppy should sleep in your bedroom. You can let the pup right into bed with you, or you can put the pup?s bed on the floor next to your bed. The puppy has, up to this time, been sleeping with its mother and siblings, and isolating it in a cardboard box is cruel. If you want to keep the pup in a crate at night, at least place the crate next to the bed so you can reassure the pup during the night.

There will be times when even the best puppy will portray frustrating and destructive behavior. It is completely inappropriate to yell at or strike the puppy. At this early stage in the puppy?s life it is easy to use positive reinforcement, combined with ignoring bad behavior, to help the pup develop into a good companion. Obedience training is a good idea, especially with larger breeds, and can help your puppy become confident and calm.

Caring for Your Dog During a Disaster By Jennifer Ayalon

Natural and manmade disasters or emergencies can happen anywhere, and often with little or no warning. Whether you are dealing with the aftermath of a tornado, coping with a hurricane, or recovering from an earthquake, your dog will be impacted as much as the members of the human pack. In fact, dealing with a disaster is probably more difficult for dogs because they have no way to understand what is actually happening.
However, a bit of preparation and planning on your part can help your dog to survive even the most difficult situations with as little trouble as possible.

Anyone who has seen coverage of the aftermath of disasters like the 2011 Japan tsunami, Hurricane Sandy, or tornadoes knows how confused and disrupted life has become. Both people and animals are dazed, and many are injured. In these circumstances, dogs can easily become separated from their owners, and if there is no way to identify the dog, reunion will be unlikely.

Most dogs wear collars or harnesses, and making sure that your dog?s license, at the very least, is attached to the collar can help to return a lost pet. Tags are also available that will give detailed contact information, including the owner?s address and phone number.

Microchipping is an excellent way to help track down a missing dog. A tiny microchip is injected into the skin on the dog?s shoulders that contains information on tracking the dog. This is a painless procedure that is low in cost. Universal microchips are now used that will identify a lost dog at any shelter, and nearly every veterinary office in the country.

It is recommended that every household have a 3 days? supply of food and water on hand, and this should include the needs of your dog, as well. As far as water is concerned, this translates into 1 gallon per person per day. This is also a sensible guideline that should also be followed for your dog. While a small dog will not use nearly that much water, the extra can always come in handy for other purposes.

Among the family?s emergency supplies should also be food for the dog. Disaster supplies for dogs are available, but your pet?s ordinary food can also be put aside, although this will not have as long a shelf life as food designed specifically for emergency purposes. Rotate food when the expiration date approaches, and keep bags sealed until they will be used.

Keeping warm is another consideration when your dog is involved in a disaster. Although certain breeds of dog are very cold tolerant, many are not, and suitable dog clothing and extra blankets for your pooch should be a part of the household emergency supplies. Towels to dry off a wet dog can help to keep it from developing hypothermia.

If your dog is taking medication on a regular basis, you should have a supply that will see it through 2 weeks if necessary. Make sure you have the name and phone number of your veterinarian and a copy of the prescription. A dog first aid kit can help you to treat any minor injuries that may occur during the crisis.

Dogs can easily become confused and disoriented during an emergency ? even in their own yards. Because panic might cause the dog to run off, he or she should be kept on a leash at all times when going outside the house.

Standing water can conceal a number of dangers for your dog, such as broken glass and other sharp objects, downed electrical lines, and bacteria and viruses. Do not allow your dog to either walk through flood waters or drink from them.

No one can do much to prevent a disaster or emergency from happening, but understanding the needs of your dog under these circumstances will increase the chance that he or she will come through it unscathed.