Tall Indoor Dog Gates – How They Can Help With Your Dog Training & Your Families Safety
Submitted By: Sean Dominey
When you have a dog in the house it is vital that he knows who is in charge and what he is allowed to do, he must also know what the rules of the house are.
If you do not set the rules for your dog he will think that he is in charge and set the rules himself, this can result in a dog that is very hard to train and who might become aggressive. One way to avoid such problems is to set firm boundaries that the dog is not allowed to cross, you might decide that he is not allowed in the kitchen or up stairs, this will give the message to the dog that because you are in charge you have access to every area of the home but the dog as a lower (although much loved) member of the family (or pack as the dog will see it) only has access to some areas.
Obviously you are not going to be in the same room as the dog 24/7 and if you were to go from the front room to the dining room you could not reasonably be expected to shut the dog in the front room every time to stop him wondering off, If you did do this it might cause some separation anxiety, as the dog is unable to see through the door and does not understand why you have left him.
If you have a tall indoor dog gate fitted, and they can be fitted with out leaving marks on the door or wall, then all you need do is open it walk through and close it, there is now a barrier between you and the dog, so he is unable to go into the restricted areas of the house, but the dog can see through it and the anxiety is no longer a problem.
If you have a dog that jumps up and misbehaves when you have visitors, an easy way of solving this problem is to shut the dog in a room where he can see the door that your guests are coming through but because you have put up a tall indoor dog gate he is unable to get into the same room as your visitors.
He will be excited when your visitors arrive and want to be centre of attention (this is most likely why he misbehaves) the idea of the barrier is to allow him to take some time to calm down at the thought of the visitors and once he has you may open the tall indoor dog gate and let him join your guests. Once the initial excitement has worn off he can greet your visitors in a much more acceptable manor, this technique is remarkably effective and after a short time the gate becomes unnecessary as the dog recognises to be calmer when people come to your house.
If you decide to allow your dog to go upstairs then a tall indoor dog gate is essential to stop him bolting down the stairs and hurting himself. If you do not have a barrier at the top of the stairs then the dog could run down them and loose control, and a run can very easily turn in to a fall. With a tall indoor dog gate in place you can control when the dog goes down the stairs and you can be on hand to ensure the slow decent.
I hope these observations have helped you think about the need of getting some tall indoor dog gates for your home, they can help with training and with the safety of your pet and family.
28 Jun 2008
27 Jun 2008
Secrets Of Professional Dog Trainers: Top 10 Tips To Successfully Training Your Dog Yourself
Submitted By: Nicholas Dodman
Dog obedience training is one of the best things you can do for your dog and yourself. Obedience training doesn't solve all behavior problems, but it is the foundation for solving just about any problem including soiling your house, destroying your belongings, barking excessively, digging holes in your yard, fighting other dogs and even biting you.
For most dog owners, dog obedience training is a daunting task. However, training your dog is about to get much easier, if you follow my advice below.Here Are My Top 10 Tips for Training Your Dog
1. Dog training should be an enjoyable experience for you and your dog. If you are not in the right mood for training, don't even start.
2. Keep dog obedience training sessions short (5-10 minutes) to maintain your dog's motivation. Dogs will learn much more from regular short sessions than from longer, less frequent ones. Once the dog has learned several useful commands on the continuous reward schedule, the schedule should be changed to one of intermittent rewards.
3. Always end training on a positive note. Ask your dog to respond to a command you know he or she will obey. Then reward your dog for a job well done and issue a finish command such as “free” or “release.” Avoid common words such as “okay.” Following a training session, both owner and dog should be left with feelings of accomplishment.
4. Keep in mind that your dog's motivation to respond to a command decreases as the complexity of the task increases. If your dog doesn't respond appropriately to a command after several attempts, don't reward him or her. Resume training a few seconds later using a simpler command. Return to the more complex task later.
5. Remember, the odds of success hinge not only on the degree of sophistication of the task, but also your dog's motivation to respond. From a dog's perspective the question is, which is more rewarding: chasing the squirrel or returning to the owner? Understanding this aspect will increase your patience and chances for dog training success.
6. Training should not involve any negative or punishment-based components. There should be no yelling, no hitting, no chain jerking, no hanging, and absolutely no electric shock. Remember that the opposite of reward is not punishment; it is no reward. If you ignore unacceptable responses, your dog will not be rewarded for his or her failed response. Most dogs want to please their owners or, at the very least, to obtain highly valued resources (food, attention and toys).
7. Ensure that your dog's motivation for reward is highest during a training session. If food is the reward, train before a meal, not after. If praise, petting and other aspects of your attention are to be used as a reward, schedule the training session at a time when your dog hungers for your attention (for example, after you have returned home from work).
For complex tasks, such as the off leash down-stay, your dog will be more motivated to comply if he or she has received moderate exercise before the training session. Asking a dog that is bursting with energy to remain in a prolonged reclining position is asking for failure during the early stages of training.
8. Make sure the reward you offer in training is the most powerful one for your dog. Food-motivated dogs work well for food, but the treats used should be you dog’s favorite food. If praise is used as a reward, deliver it in high singsong tones, which are most pleasing for the dog. Also, enthusiasm in your voice will be much appreciated. If petting is to be used as a reward, it should be in a way that the dog enjoys, such as stroking the dog's hair on the side of his or her face in the same direction that it grows, or scratching him or her on the chest.
9. After a correct response, reward your dog within ½ second of the command. This will ensure your dog makes the connection between the behavior and the reward.
10. Use short commands such as sit, down, leave it, quiet, out, and off. Say the word once. Do not repeat the command. Dogs will remember a command for about two minutes before the notion is lost. Shorter words are better than longer words and words that end in a hard consonant (C, K, T, X) are better than those that end in a vowel because you can “spit” them out.
A Bonus Dog Training Tip:
The “Holy Grail” of training is to have the dog reliably obeying commands off lead, even when other things are going on around him or her. This level of training can be achieved, but only after a lot of hard work and investment of time. It's something to strive toward.
Submitted By: Nicholas Dodman
Dog obedience training is one of the best things you can do for your dog and yourself. Obedience training doesn't solve all behavior problems, but it is the foundation for solving just about any problem including soiling your house, destroying your belongings, barking excessively, digging holes in your yard, fighting other dogs and even biting you.
For most dog owners, dog obedience training is a daunting task. However, training your dog is about to get much easier, if you follow my advice below.Here Are My Top 10 Tips for Training Your Dog
1. Dog training should be an enjoyable experience for you and your dog. If you are not in the right mood for training, don't even start.
2. Keep dog obedience training sessions short (5-10 minutes) to maintain your dog's motivation. Dogs will learn much more from regular short sessions than from longer, less frequent ones. Once the dog has learned several useful commands on the continuous reward schedule, the schedule should be changed to one of intermittent rewards.
3. Always end training on a positive note. Ask your dog to respond to a command you know he or she will obey. Then reward your dog for a job well done and issue a finish command such as “free” or “release.” Avoid common words such as “okay.” Following a training session, both owner and dog should be left with feelings of accomplishment.
4. Keep in mind that your dog's motivation to respond to a command decreases as the complexity of the task increases. If your dog doesn't respond appropriately to a command after several attempts, don't reward him or her. Resume training a few seconds later using a simpler command. Return to the more complex task later.
5. Remember, the odds of success hinge not only on the degree of sophistication of the task, but also your dog's motivation to respond. From a dog's perspective the question is, which is more rewarding: chasing the squirrel or returning to the owner? Understanding this aspect will increase your patience and chances for dog training success.
6. Training should not involve any negative or punishment-based components. There should be no yelling, no hitting, no chain jerking, no hanging, and absolutely no electric shock. Remember that the opposite of reward is not punishment; it is no reward. If you ignore unacceptable responses, your dog will not be rewarded for his or her failed response. Most dogs want to please their owners or, at the very least, to obtain highly valued resources (food, attention and toys).
7. Ensure that your dog's motivation for reward is highest during a training session. If food is the reward, train before a meal, not after. If praise, petting and other aspects of your attention are to be used as a reward, schedule the training session at a time when your dog hungers for your attention (for example, after you have returned home from work).
For complex tasks, such as the off leash down-stay, your dog will be more motivated to comply if he or she has received moderate exercise before the training session. Asking a dog that is bursting with energy to remain in a prolonged reclining position is asking for failure during the early stages of training.
8. Make sure the reward you offer in training is the most powerful one for your dog. Food-motivated dogs work well for food, but the treats used should be you dog’s favorite food. If praise is used as a reward, deliver it in high singsong tones, which are most pleasing for the dog. Also, enthusiasm in your voice will be much appreciated. If petting is to be used as a reward, it should be in a way that the dog enjoys, such as stroking the dog's hair on the side of his or her face in the same direction that it grows, or scratching him or her on the chest.
9. After a correct response, reward your dog within ½ second of the command. This will ensure your dog makes the connection between the behavior and the reward.
10. Use short commands such as sit, down, leave it, quiet, out, and off. Say the word once. Do not repeat the command. Dogs will remember a command for about two minutes before the notion is lost. Shorter words are better than longer words and words that end in a hard consonant (C, K, T, X) are better than those that end in a vowel because you can “spit” them out.
A Bonus Dog Training Tip:
The “Holy Grail” of training is to have the dog reliably obeying commands off lead, even when other things are going on around him or her. This level of training can be achieved, but only after a lot of hard work and investment of time. It's something to strive toward.
26 Jun 2008
Dog Training: Hunting Dogs: Training Equipment That Is Essential
Submitted By: Freddy Cedano
Producing a “finished” hunting dog, one that will perform the tasks of pointing out game or retrieving game, is not a simple matter. In some cases, it can take several hunting seasons and specialized training equipment to achieve the desired results.
It would be ludicrous to begin training a dog to perform hunting skills without first teaching it basic obedience. Your dog must be able to sit, stay, remain quite and come on demand before moving into the more complex areas of the hunt. The success of the hunt, as well as the safety of the dog and its handler, is directly correlated to the dog’s performance and self control. For example, an unruly dog that barks at incoming geese will not only spoil the hunt, but will not be invited back again. Further, a dog that bolts out of a blind too quickly can jeopardize a shot and even cause a shooting accident. Control is most essential.
When the hunter is ready to begin training his dog for the hunt, there is a variety of equipment that will prove valuable. Probably the first and most essential item is a piece of 3/8-inch polypropylene rope of about 30 feet in length. The rope allows the handler to maintain control of his dog during exercises and eliminates the chance of having to chase the dog and correct him for straying.
Most dogs have a natural fear of loud noises, especially gunfire. Therefore, the trainer will have to involve a training pistol or firearm in his training program. A handgun is preferable; a shotgun is too large and difficult to handle while holding the lead line and juggling other training devices. When training the retriever, training “bumpers” or dummies are utilized to teach the dog to fetch. These aides come in various colors and sizes. White bumpers are generally used for “marking” drills where the dog is being taught to retrieve by sight and colored bumpers are used for “running blinds” where the dog is sent blindly into an area to retrieve a downed bird that fell out of sight.
The retriever should be trained to respond to the sound of a whistle. The voice of the dog’s handler will not always be loud enough or distinct enough to alert the dog to give up the search and return to the handler’s side. Some of the more elaborate whistles come with built-in megaphones that allow the sound to be heard more easily and direct the blaring sound away from the hunter(s). They are usually well worth the extra cost.
Some trainers will use a friend or “bird boys” who position themselves some distance from the trainer and toss the bumpers high into the air to simulate a falling bird. For those who train without assistance, bird launchers are a big help. These launchers come in single or multiple bird capacity; however, they are usually bulky and can be expensive.
Electric dog training collars are effective but controversial. These collars have a small electronic device attached that administers a remote controlled mild electric shock to the dog. The control is hand held by the trainer. These pieces of equipment allow an immediate correction when the dog fails to respond to the more conventional command. The level of shock involved has been compared to the static shock one receives from a carpet or from touching a car door handle in cold weather. Actually, the electric collar could be considered a humane alternative to the aggressive tactics or brute force used by some trainers.
One of the best ways to embark on training your hunting dog is learn from the experts. Training tips and guidelines are now available on tapes that show the student step by step training procedures. These instructional tapes should be on every novice trainer’s list of essential training equipment.
When you’re training your dog in the wilds you should be prepared to care for him if he is injured. Therefore, the final thing on our list of essentials is a First Aid Kit. Many of the items you’ll need for your dog are also appropriate for use on humans, so the kit can be mutually beneficial to both you and your dog. Fill the kit with such items as: sterile bandages, topical solutions, tape, scissors, tweezers, antibiotic ointments such as Neosporin, ibuprofen (safe for both humans and canines) and possibly a veterinarian prescribed anti-inflammatory such as Deramaxx or Rimadly. A well stocked First Aid Kit has prevented many a pleasant hunting trip from becoming a nightmare.
Submitted By: Freddy Cedano
Producing a “finished” hunting dog, one that will perform the tasks of pointing out game or retrieving game, is not a simple matter. In some cases, it can take several hunting seasons and specialized training equipment to achieve the desired results.
It would be ludicrous to begin training a dog to perform hunting skills without first teaching it basic obedience. Your dog must be able to sit, stay, remain quite and come on demand before moving into the more complex areas of the hunt. The success of the hunt, as well as the safety of the dog and its handler, is directly correlated to the dog’s performance and self control. For example, an unruly dog that barks at incoming geese will not only spoil the hunt, but will not be invited back again. Further, a dog that bolts out of a blind too quickly can jeopardize a shot and even cause a shooting accident. Control is most essential.
When the hunter is ready to begin training his dog for the hunt, there is a variety of equipment that will prove valuable. Probably the first and most essential item is a piece of 3/8-inch polypropylene rope of about 30 feet in length. The rope allows the handler to maintain control of his dog during exercises and eliminates the chance of having to chase the dog and correct him for straying.
Most dogs have a natural fear of loud noises, especially gunfire. Therefore, the trainer will have to involve a training pistol or firearm in his training program. A handgun is preferable; a shotgun is too large and difficult to handle while holding the lead line and juggling other training devices. When training the retriever, training “bumpers” or dummies are utilized to teach the dog to fetch. These aides come in various colors and sizes. White bumpers are generally used for “marking” drills where the dog is being taught to retrieve by sight and colored bumpers are used for “running blinds” where the dog is sent blindly into an area to retrieve a downed bird that fell out of sight.
The retriever should be trained to respond to the sound of a whistle. The voice of the dog’s handler will not always be loud enough or distinct enough to alert the dog to give up the search and return to the handler’s side. Some of the more elaborate whistles come with built-in megaphones that allow the sound to be heard more easily and direct the blaring sound away from the hunter(s). They are usually well worth the extra cost.
Some trainers will use a friend or “bird boys” who position themselves some distance from the trainer and toss the bumpers high into the air to simulate a falling bird. For those who train without assistance, bird launchers are a big help. These launchers come in single or multiple bird capacity; however, they are usually bulky and can be expensive.
Electric dog training collars are effective but controversial. These collars have a small electronic device attached that administers a remote controlled mild electric shock to the dog. The control is hand held by the trainer. These pieces of equipment allow an immediate correction when the dog fails to respond to the more conventional command. The level of shock involved has been compared to the static shock one receives from a carpet or from touching a car door handle in cold weather. Actually, the electric collar could be considered a humane alternative to the aggressive tactics or brute force used by some trainers.
One of the best ways to embark on training your hunting dog is learn from the experts. Training tips and guidelines are now available on tapes that show the student step by step training procedures. These instructional tapes should be on every novice trainer’s list of essential training equipment.
When you’re training your dog in the wilds you should be prepared to care for him if he is injured. Therefore, the final thing on our list of essentials is a First Aid Kit. Many of the items you’ll need for your dog are also appropriate for use on humans, so the kit can be mutually beneficial to both you and your dog. Fill the kit with such items as: sterile bandages, topical solutions, tape, scissors, tweezers, antibiotic ointments such as Neosporin, ibuprofen (safe for both humans and canines) and possibly a veterinarian prescribed anti-inflammatory such as Deramaxx or Rimadly. A well stocked First Aid Kit has prevented many a pleasant hunting trip from becoming a nightmare.
18 Jun 2008
Time For A Dog Bath? Dog Bathing Tips For You And Your Dog
Submitted By: Teresa James
Cleanliness and proper grooming can be very important to the continued good health of our beloved pets. But bathing our puppy or adult dog can often prove to be a challenge. There are many questions, myths and opinions floating around when discussing the best care for different dog types and temperaments. Check out these dog bathing tips to get some great ideas so you’ll be prepared for your next dog bath and grooming session.
How often should you bath your dog?
How often your pet will need a dog bath will depend on the breed and what type of activities the dog is involved in. It’s best to bathe your dog only when your dog is really dirty. Just use your nose – that tell tale doggy smell will let you know it’s time for a bath.
If a dog is bathed too often the skin will be stripped of its natural, protective oils. This will result in dry itchy skin, which will cause your dog to scratch, further irritating the already sensitive skin. If you need to bathe your dog more frequently make sure to use a pet shampoo that will also moisturize your dog’s skin. You may also want to follow up with an after bath pet coat conditioner specifically formulated for dry skin.
Where’s the best place to bath your dog?
In warm weather you can bathe your dog outside. Pick a place that will not turn to mud when it gets wet. It’s a good idea a have a washtub large enough for your dog to stand up in and fill it with a few inches of water. Water straight from a garden hose may start off warm, but usually gets cold very fast. If your dog starts to resist and shiver, as the water gets colder, you may want to consider another option.
Many pet owners have overcome this problem by purchasing a raised dog bath. This convenient, back-saving dog bath is often used with a water temperature mixer valve assembly that completely solves this problem. With the proper equipment set up you’ll be able to save your back and control the water temperature of your dog’s bath. Some temperature mixer valve assemblies hook up to your existing washing machine water supply. At bath time just connect an ordinary garden hose to the valve assembly and run it outside to the bathing area. This convenient type of back-saving dog bath can even be used for bathing your dog inside.
If you choose to bathe your dog inside, regulating the water temperature shouldn’t be a problem. But deciding where to bathe your dog might be. Small dogs and puppies can usually be bathed easily in a sink or a washtub. For bigger dogs you will need something bigger like a bathtub or a large shower stall. And of course, the bigger your dog is the bigger the potential hassles.
Are you tired of chasing and wrestling with your dog at bath time?
Many dog owners solve this problem by purchasing a raised dog bath. An ergonomically designed dog grooming bathing tub elevates your dog to a level that’s comfortable for you and keeps your dog securely contained, taking the hassle out of washing your dog. You’ll get the job done in half the time, save your back and stay dryer. The raised dog bath that is available in most pet shops and online stores will also save your dog stress at bath time. No more slipping and sliding. Your dog will really feel secure standing on the padded non-slip surface. This type of raised dog bath has been recommended by Dog World Magazine in their "Notable Products for the New Millennium".
Does your dog tend to get away from you during a bath?
Bathing your dog is a challenging, but essential, part of dog grooming. It’s funny how your dog will cleverly evade you when you try to get him into a dog bath, but will be just as determined to get past you when you don’t want him to jump into the water at the beach.
If you’re washing your dog in a room with a door make sure to close it so that your dog will not see an escape route or get very far if he prematurely gets out of the bath. This way you’ll have an easier time getting him back in the tub to finish the job. It can be a challenge bathing a dog that’s wiggling around but the challenge gets a little tougher when your dog is an escape artist. If your dog takes any opportunity to get away from you at bath time you may want to consider restraining your dog.
Restraints are used during bath time to avoid injury to you as well as your pet. Some pet bathing tubs come with restraints included. With these your dog will be safely and securely restrained and you will be able to give your dog a quick and hassle-free bath.
Is your dog slipping and sliding in the bath?
Slipping and sliding can be the most stressful part of bath time for a dog. Put a rubber mat down on the bottom surface of the tub to prevent your dog from sliding and getting hurt. A sure-footed dog will be less resistant and much more at ease during bath time.
Things to have on hand at bath time:
Raised Dog Bath - This is a fantastic idea for a dog bath. It’s ergonomically designed for both you and your dog’s comfort. Your local pet groomer is likely to have just such a bathing station set up in their shop. If you’re thinking about buying a tub or basin to bathe your dog in, ask them if you can check out their tub set up. If you have the room or more than one dog, you may find it worthwhile.
Pet Shower or Plastic Pitcher - A Pet Shower is great, but if that’s not possible make sure you have a large plastic pitcher for wetting and rinsing your dog.
Drain Screen - Make sure to protect your plumbing from hair clogs with a simple to use drain screen.
Cotton Balls - Can be placed in each ear to prevent water from running into your dog's ears.
Pet Shampoos - There are many different pet shampoos each formulated to work on problems such as dry itchy skin, inflamed or dry scaling skin, fleas & ticks, doggy odor, skunk odor, abnormal shedding, quick rinsing for dogs that don't like to take a bath, whiteners for white coats, color intensifiers for dark coats, and coat shine to bring out the natural luster of your dog's coat. You may want to try a hypoallergenic shampoo/conditioner that will gently clean and conditioner your pet's coat in one step.
Coat Conditioners - There are many pet coat conditioners that will help manage and or improve the appearance of your dog's coat like crème rinse, grooming spray, after bath dry skin treatment, and herbal mist conditioner that will soothe, re-moisturize and detangle your pet's coat.
Pet Drying Towels - If you want to get your dog dry faster check out a specialty pet-drying towel. Some are available that will absorb 10 times its own weight in water!
Eye Protective Gel - Are you concerned about shampoo making its way into your dog’s eyes? Just put a little protective eye gel in each eye just before bath time to prevent burning and redness.
Ear Drying Solution - If your dog is prone to ear infections make sure you have some ear-drying solution on hand. Using an ear drying solution will assure that the ear canal is nice and dry after bathing.
Brushes/Combs - There are many different styles and sizes of traditional dog grooming brushes and combs that you can choose from. If your dog has very sensitive or irritated skin you may want to consider a higher quality brush that will not scratch the skin or aggravate existing skin irritations.
Pet Dryer - If your dog has a thick, long or double coat it’s best to use a pet dryer. Unlike “people” hair dryers, pet dryers are designed to use less heat and more air volume so they quickly and safely dry a dog without damaging the coat or burning the skin. If you use a "people" blow dryer be very careful since you can easily burn your pet!
Plastic Bucket - It’s very convenient to have a waterproof container that will keep your dog grooming supplies close at hand.
Remember to get all your dog grooming supplies ready before hand and let your dog sniff everything.
Why you should brush your dog thoroughly before bathing.
Depending on the type of coat your dog has you may need an assortment of grooming brushes and combs to properly care for your dog's skin and coat. Before you bathe your dog it's always a good idea to brush your pet's coat thoroughly to remove any tangles or matted areas as well as any other foreign debris. Many dog owners know first hand that if they don't spend time removing old, established tangles and mats before bathing many times they just get worse. If your dog's coat tangles and mats easily make sure to look for shampoos and conditioners that are formulated to prevent and break up mats.
If your dog has gotten into any sticky or gooey substances like tar or gum never use commercial solvents or industrial cleaners on your dog’s coat. Many of these are toxic to your dog. Try dissolving these substances with mineral oil. If you’re unable to remove something from your dog’s coat carefully snip away the affected area. It’s always best to sacrifice some hair or fur since it will grow back rather than risk damage to the skin. Brush your dog thoroughly between baths, daily if you can, to distribute the natural oils and remove tangles, mats and foreign matter.
Choosing the best pet shampoo/coat conditioner for your dog.
Always use a pet shampoo that is specially formulated for the pH of your pet's skin. Never use “people” shampoos since our skin pH level is much more acidic than our canine friends and could irritate your dog’s skin.
Start bathing your dog at the beginning: Your Dog's Head.
A popular bathing technique is to start at your dog’s head and work your way toward the tail. This is especially the case if it’s possible that fleas are present. If you know that your dog has fleas you may want to use a flea & tick shampoo. Starting at your dog's head forces any fleas to gather away from your dog’s face, eyes, and ears. It is much easier to dunk the rear of your dog into the tub than your dog’s face. As you may imagine, your dog is likely to be much more cooperative by following this simple bathing technique.
Let your dog get used to the sound of the running water. If you’re using a tub or basin fill it with a few inches of warm water. Then get your dog into the bath. If you’re using a raised dog bath just secure your dog into the dog bath. Starting from the head thoroughly wet your dog with warm water. You can use a plastic pitcher or a spray nozzle for this task. If you’re using a spray nozzle make sure the spray is not too strong. Never spray water directly onto your dog’s face or genitals.
Apply a pet shampoo/coat conditioner. Follow the instructions on the package. Work it in from the head to the tail. Be sure to get all those nooks and crannies; like the rectum, between the toes, behind the ears and under the chin. Be careful not the get shampoo in your dog’s eyes. If this is a concern you can protect your dog’s eyes by putting some protective eye gel in each eye just before getting your dog into the bath.
Rinse your dog thoroughly with warm water. Shampoo residue can cause skin irritations so make sure you give your dog’s coat a thorough rinsing. Towel drying your pet’s coat in the dog bath will remove some of the excess water before you take your dog out of the tub. Some breeds should never be rubbed, only patted, since their coats easily tangle. Dog owners often prefer to use dedicated pet towels. There are pet drying towels available that will absorb 10 times their weight in water. These are very handy towels to use for a dog bath and can also be used any time your pet gets wet.
Although many dog owners think of bathing their dog as a challenge, with the right approach, supplies, and equipment, you can get through it relatively unscathed. And don’t forget to reward your dog’s good behavior in the bathing process with treats and plenty of loving kindness.
Copyright 2004, Dog-Supplies-Advisor.com, all rights reserved. Reprinted with permission.
About the Author
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Submitted By: Teresa James
Cleanliness and proper grooming can be very important to the continued good health of our beloved pets. But bathing our puppy or adult dog can often prove to be a challenge. There are many questions, myths and opinions floating around when discussing the best care for different dog types and temperaments. Check out these dog bathing tips to get some great ideas so you’ll be prepared for your next dog bath and grooming session.
How often should you bath your dog?
How often your pet will need a dog bath will depend on the breed and what type of activities the dog is involved in. It’s best to bathe your dog only when your dog is really dirty. Just use your nose – that tell tale doggy smell will let you know it’s time for a bath.
If a dog is bathed too often the skin will be stripped of its natural, protective oils. This will result in dry itchy skin, which will cause your dog to scratch, further irritating the already sensitive skin. If you need to bathe your dog more frequently make sure to use a pet shampoo that will also moisturize your dog’s skin. You may also want to follow up with an after bath pet coat conditioner specifically formulated for dry skin.
Where’s the best place to bath your dog?
In warm weather you can bathe your dog outside. Pick a place that will not turn to mud when it gets wet. It’s a good idea a have a washtub large enough for your dog to stand up in and fill it with a few inches of water. Water straight from a garden hose may start off warm, but usually gets cold very fast. If your dog starts to resist and shiver, as the water gets colder, you may want to consider another option.
Many pet owners have overcome this problem by purchasing a raised dog bath. This convenient, back-saving dog bath is often used with a water temperature mixer valve assembly that completely solves this problem. With the proper equipment set up you’ll be able to save your back and control the water temperature of your dog’s bath. Some temperature mixer valve assemblies hook up to your existing washing machine water supply. At bath time just connect an ordinary garden hose to the valve assembly and run it outside to the bathing area. This convenient type of back-saving dog bath can even be used for bathing your dog inside.
If you choose to bathe your dog inside, regulating the water temperature shouldn’t be a problem. But deciding where to bathe your dog might be. Small dogs and puppies can usually be bathed easily in a sink or a washtub. For bigger dogs you will need something bigger like a bathtub or a large shower stall. And of course, the bigger your dog is the bigger the potential hassles.
Are you tired of chasing and wrestling with your dog at bath time?
Many dog owners solve this problem by purchasing a raised dog bath. An ergonomically designed dog grooming bathing tub elevates your dog to a level that’s comfortable for you and keeps your dog securely contained, taking the hassle out of washing your dog. You’ll get the job done in half the time, save your back and stay dryer. The raised dog bath that is available in most pet shops and online stores will also save your dog stress at bath time. No more slipping and sliding. Your dog will really feel secure standing on the padded non-slip surface. This type of raised dog bath has been recommended by Dog World Magazine in their "Notable Products for the New Millennium".
Does your dog tend to get away from you during a bath?
Bathing your dog is a challenging, but essential, part of dog grooming. It’s funny how your dog will cleverly evade you when you try to get him into a dog bath, but will be just as determined to get past you when you don’t want him to jump into the water at the beach.
If you’re washing your dog in a room with a door make sure to close it so that your dog will not see an escape route or get very far if he prematurely gets out of the bath. This way you’ll have an easier time getting him back in the tub to finish the job. It can be a challenge bathing a dog that’s wiggling around but the challenge gets a little tougher when your dog is an escape artist. If your dog takes any opportunity to get away from you at bath time you may want to consider restraining your dog.
Restraints are used during bath time to avoid injury to you as well as your pet. Some pet bathing tubs come with restraints included. With these your dog will be safely and securely restrained and you will be able to give your dog a quick and hassle-free bath.
Is your dog slipping and sliding in the bath?
Slipping and sliding can be the most stressful part of bath time for a dog. Put a rubber mat down on the bottom surface of the tub to prevent your dog from sliding and getting hurt. A sure-footed dog will be less resistant and much more at ease during bath time.
Things to have on hand at bath time:
Raised Dog Bath - This is a fantastic idea for a dog bath. It’s ergonomically designed for both you and your dog’s comfort. Your local pet groomer is likely to have just such a bathing station set up in their shop. If you’re thinking about buying a tub or basin to bathe your dog in, ask them if you can check out their tub set up. If you have the room or more than one dog, you may find it worthwhile.
Pet Shower or Plastic Pitcher - A Pet Shower is great, but if that’s not possible make sure you have a large plastic pitcher for wetting and rinsing your dog.
Drain Screen - Make sure to protect your plumbing from hair clogs with a simple to use drain screen.
Cotton Balls - Can be placed in each ear to prevent water from running into your dog's ears.
Pet Shampoos - There are many different pet shampoos each formulated to work on problems such as dry itchy skin, inflamed or dry scaling skin, fleas & ticks, doggy odor, skunk odor, abnormal shedding, quick rinsing for dogs that don't like to take a bath, whiteners for white coats, color intensifiers for dark coats, and coat shine to bring out the natural luster of your dog's coat. You may want to try a hypoallergenic shampoo/conditioner that will gently clean and conditioner your pet's coat in one step.
Coat Conditioners - There are many pet coat conditioners that will help manage and or improve the appearance of your dog's coat like crème rinse, grooming spray, after bath dry skin treatment, and herbal mist conditioner that will soothe, re-moisturize and detangle your pet's coat.
Pet Drying Towels - If you want to get your dog dry faster check out a specialty pet-drying towel. Some are available that will absorb 10 times its own weight in water!
Eye Protective Gel - Are you concerned about shampoo making its way into your dog’s eyes? Just put a little protective eye gel in each eye just before bath time to prevent burning and redness.
Ear Drying Solution - If your dog is prone to ear infections make sure you have some ear-drying solution on hand. Using an ear drying solution will assure that the ear canal is nice and dry after bathing.
Brushes/Combs - There are many different styles and sizes of traditional dog grooming brushes and combs that you can choose from. If your dog has very sensitive or irritated skin you may want to consider a higher quality brush that will not scratch the skin or aggravate existing skin irritations.
Pet Dryer - If your dog has a thick, long or double coat it’s best to use a pet dryer. Unlike “people” hair dryers, pet dryers are designed to use less heat and more air volume so they quickly and safely dry a dog without damaging the coat or burning the skin. If you use a "people" blow dryer be very careful since you can easily burn your pet!
Plastic Bucket - It’s very convenient to have a waterproof container that will keep your dog grooming supplies close at hand.
Remember to get all your dog grooming supplies ready before hand and let your dog sniff everything.
Why you should brush your dog thoroughly before bathing.
Depending on the type of coat your dog has you may need an assortment of grooming brushes and combs to properly care for your dog's skin and coat. Before you bathe your dog it's always a good idea to brush your pet's coat thoroughly to remove any tangles or matted areas as well as any other foreign debris. Many dog owners know first hand that if they don't spend time removing old, established tangles and mats before bathing many times they just get worse. If your dog's coat tangles and mats easily make sure to look for shampoos and conditioners that are formulated to prevent and break up mats.
If your dog has gotten into any sticky or gooey substances like tar or gum never use commercial solvents or industrial cleaners on your dog’s coat. Many of these are toxic to your dog. Try dissolving these substances with mineral oil. If you’re unable to remove something from your dog’s coat carefully snip away the affected area. It’s always best to sacrifice some hair or fur since it will grow back rather than risk damage to the skin. Brush your dog thoroughly between baths, daily if you can, to distribute the natural oils and remove tangles, mats and foreign matter.
Choosing the best pet shampoo/coat conditioner for your dog.
Always use a pet shampoo that is specially formulated for the pH of your pet's skin. Never use “people” shampoos since our skin pH level is much more acidic than our canine friends and could irritate your dog’s skin.
Start bathing your dog at the beginning: Your Dog's Head.
A popular bathing technique is to start at your dog’s head and work your way toward the tail. This is especially the case if it’s possible that fleas are present. If you know that your dog has fleas you may want to use a flea & tick shampoo. Starting at your dog's head forces any fleas to gather away from your dog’s face, eyes, and ears. It is much easier to dunk the rear of your dog into the tub than your dog’s face. As you may imagine, your dog is likely to be much more cooperative by following this simple bathing technique.
Let your dog get used to the sound of the running water. If you’re using a tub or basin fill it with a few inches of warm water. Then get your dog into the bath. If you’re using a raised dog bath just secure your dog into the dog bath. Starting from the head thoroughly wet your dog with warm water. You can use a plastic pitcher or a spray nozzle for this task. If you’re using a spray nozzle make sure the spray is not too strong. Never spray water directly onto your dog’s face or genitals.
Apply a pet shampoo/coat conditioner. Follow the instructions on the package. Work it in from the head to the tail. Be sure to get all those nooks and crannies; like the rectum, between the toes, behind the ears and under the chin. Be careful not the get shampoo in your dog’s eyes. If this is a concern you can protect your dog’s eyes by putting some protective eye gel in each eye just before getting your dog into the bath.
Rinse your dog thoroughly with warm water. Shampoo residue can cause skin irritations so make sure you give your dog’s coat a thorough rinsing. Towel drying your pet’s coat in the dog bath will remove some of the excess water before you take your dog out of the tub. Some breeds should never be rubbed, only patted, since their coats easily tangle. Dog owners often prefer to use dedicated pet towels. There are pet drying towels available that will absorb 10 times their weight in water. These are very handy towels to use for a dog bath and can also be used any time your pet gets wet.
Although many dog owners think of bathing their dog as a challenge, with the right approach, supplies, and equipment, you can get through it relatively unscathed. And don’t forget to reward your dog’s good behavior in the bathing process with treats and plenty of loving kindness.
Copyright 2004, Dog-Supplies-Advisor.com, all rights reserved. Reprinted with permission.
About the Author
Article courtesy of: http://www.dog-supplies-advisor.com/home-dog-grooming.html dedicated to providing quality dog care advice on a broad range of dog-related topics. Includes articles, frequently asked questions, recommendations, and Free Ezine. Publication is permitted so long as the resource information remains intact and the link is live.
11 Jun 2008
Dog Training Online: Best Place For Dog Training
By: David Willis
Where to Train Your Dog?Do this dog training in a quiet environment so your dog doesn't get distracted. Dogs will soon learn to relate to doing this when and where it should because it gets rewarded for it. Instead for effective dog training praise your dog and pet it when it chews on what it is supposed to chew on.
There are many different kinds of dog training available. There are also many different places to go for your dog training. Dog training can also protect your dog. A dog that has been properly trained won't go chasing after a bouncing ball into traffic. Despite the differences there are some basic things in common for training all dogs. No matter why you have a dog he should at least have some very elementary dog training. No one wants a dog who isn't housebroken who runs away or into the street who won't sit come or stay when you want him to. See http://www.dogtraining-online.us/kingdomofpets.html
Hence with dog training bad habits are removed and dogs have better control of their feelings and behavior towards environmental and social variables. Dogs love to be trained because they get to spend time with you and they really like the attention. It is not meant to turn your dog into some kind of robot who follows commands accurately and mindlessly. It is also not aimed to make your puppy into a show dog that can do tricks to amuse your friends. You should make a set of do's and don'ts for your dog. Follow these guidelines to the letter if a dog does something desirable always reward it if a dog does something bad punish him or her appropriately.
Therefore when a person even if it's his master touches him he may think that it's the person who causes the pain and so his tendency is to fight back by biting. Dogs are sometimes afraid just like humans. Your best bet would be to maximize training of your dog when it decides to bark. With all the companionship and love that our dogs give so freely it's hard to imagine that some owners just don't take responsibility for their dogs. But it's true.
By: David Willis
Where to Train Your Dog?Do this dog training in a quiet environment so your dog doesn't get distracted. Dogs will soon learn to relate to doing this when and where it should because it gets rewarded for it. Instead for effective dog training praise your dog and pet it when it chews on what it is supposed to chew on.
There are many different kinds of dog training available. There are also many different places to go for your dog training. Dog training can also protect your dog. A dog that has been properly trained won't go chasing after a bouncing ball into traffic. Despite the differences there are some basic things in common for training all dogs. No matter why you have a dog he should at least have some very elementary dog training. No one wants a dog who isn't housebroken who runs away or into the street who won't sit come or stay when you want him to. See http://www.dogtraining-online.us/kingdomofpets.html
Hence with dog training bad habits are removed and dogs have better control of their feelings and behavior towards environmental and social variables. Dogs love to be trained because they get to spend time with you and they really like the attention. It is not meant to turn your dog into some kind of robot who follows commands accurately and mindlessly. It is also not aimed to make your puppy into a show dog that can do tricks to amuse your friends. You should make a set of do's and don'ts for your dog. Follow these guidelines to the letter if a dog does something desirable always reward it if a dog does something bad punish him or her appropriately.
Therefore when a person even if it's his master touches him he may think that it's the person who causes the pain and so his tendency is to fight back by biting. Dogs are sometimes afraid just like humans. Your best bet would be to maximize training of your dog when it decides to bark. With all the companionship and love that our dogs give so freely it's hard to imagine that some owners just don't take responsibility for their dogs. But it's true.
10 Jun 2008
Dog Training Tips And Tricks: Recall Training Your Dog
Recall training has two basic concepts. The first is to treat your dog well each time he comes to you. Be it a kind word, a pat on the head, or a scratch behind the ears, Buddy will relish the affection you show him.
The second concept takes much more effort. Purchase a line that measures ten to twenty feet. Clip it onto Buddy’s collar and take him to the park or into the yard. Then, start training.
The line allows Buddy to put some distance between you. When Buddy has ventured almost to the end of his line, call him. A simple, “Buddy come,” will suffice. Be sure to have lots of treats in your pocket just in case he shocks you and comes immediately. If he does come, give him a treat. The worst scenario is that you will have to reel in the line to make him come. With this method, Buddy is responsible for his own behavior, but you still have control over the situation if he doesn’t obey.
If Buddy sits perfectly still when you give the “come” command, or watches birds and squirrels playing in a nearby tree, he hasn’t obeyed. Either reel him in, or go and get him and bring him to the spot where you gave the command. If this is the case, Buddy gets no reward, but no punishment either. Down play the incident and try again later.
The next time you try recall training, follow the same agenda. Never repeat the “come” command. Buddy should come the first time he’s called. If not, reel him in or go and get him and take him to where you gave the command. Down play the incident and try again later. Do this again and again and… well, you get the picture. Repetition is the name of the game. The process is long. It may take a week, a month, a year or more of constant recall training before Buddy gets it right and comes on your first command every time. But…diligence pays off and in time when you say, “come,” Buddy will obey.
In the meantime recall training will have its ups and downs. There will be times when Buddy will come. When this happens, give him a treat, rub his head, and scratch his ears and say, “good boy,” or some thing similar. Whatever else you do, reward his obedience immediately. He’ll soon get the message that obedience reaps rewards and affection.
Above all, never scream, yell, or hit Buddy if he doesn’t obey. If you do, it will set your training efforts back to day one. Buddy will fear you and instead of coming on command, he will put more distance between the two of you. When he doesn’t obey simply go to him, grasp his collar and gently take him to where you gave the command. This lets him know you are ready to enforce your commands and that he has no choice but to obey.
If you run into problems and Buddy just won’t obey, seek the services of a professional dog trainer. It may cost a bit, but a professional will be able to point out where you’re going wrong. It’s well worth the expense to know that Buddy will respond to your commands. This ensures that he will always be safe, so you can enjoy each others company for many years to come.
By: Shagnik
Dog Training Leads And How To Start Dog Training Products Business?
Dogs often require to be trained in obedience and other training forms before they can serve people or be able to associate with other people and dogs.This article will provide you Dog Training Leads information also it will show you how you can make some extra money by starting a Dog training products business.
What you need to Consider When Buying Dog Training Leads?
For most dogs, there is a need for dog training leads especially younger dogs. There are two major things that need to be considered when you get dog training leads for your dogs. The very first thing to consider when buying training leads is the size of the dog that you have.
Dogs grow quickly so you might try to anticipate the actually size of your dog when it matures when you think of buying a dog training lead. If the puppy is still too small for a large sized training lead, get an ordinary leash for the puppy until it grows enough to be trained.
The best use Of Dog Training Leads
Do you know why need dog training leads? Many people ask why we need dog training leads. Actually, these training leads are a safety precaution on top of the fact that it trains our dogs to stay close to us.
It is a safety precaution for times when the dog is still not well trained enough and might lunge after people or other animals. Leads for dog training keep dogs in check and keep you away from any liabilities if you are vigilant.
How can you make money Selling Dog Training Products?
You can can you make money Selling Dog Training Products, if you run it as a business!. If you are a stay at home parent, that does not mean that you cannot earn income to contribute to the family coffers.
There is a lot of stay at home parents that are actually earning fulltime income working in the comforts of their homes. If you are a dog lover, one of the best ways for you to earn income while staying at home with the kids is to sell dog training products online.
Are Dog training products are some of the most salable items?
Sure it is.Dog training products are some of the most salable items online so you have a fair chance of earning money. Moreover, selling dog training products online does not really need a huge start-up capital on your part.
You do not really have to keep an inventory of dog training products if you are selling them online. As long as you have access to these products, you can already put these things up for sale on your website.
How to start dog training products business online?
You have to think before you start building your website. You need to find the right dog training products to sell online.
You need to do some research on the different dog training products available in the market. Study each product carefully and make sure that these products are really what they claim to be. Once you are sure which products you want to sell online, find a good supplier who can provide you with these products anytime you need them.
How to drive Traffic To You Site?
Having a good website is not really a guarantee that you will be able to sell some dog training products. Note that there are thousands of other websites out there that are selling dog training products so you need to work hard to attract customers and beat your competitors.
To drive traffic to your site, you need to advertise. Use those free advertising sites to get you started. You can also send emails to friends, relative and colleagues telling them about your business.
By: Mark Robert
Dog Training Accessories, Making Dog Training A Lot Easier
Having the proper dog training accessories can make training your dog a whole lot easier. Of course your dog needs a house, a crate or a bed. Your pet needs his/her very own plate. Your dog needs attention, guidance, tender-loving care and utmost concern. And, aside from the usual needs of any canine, your lovable pup needs dog-training accessories.
For a dog training to be truly successful, the primary essential components are a good dog trainer equipped with an almost ever lasting patience and a dog that is determined, patience, and willing to learn. To be able to have a training that is reliable and productive and to be able to yield immediate and positive results, you ought to provide your dog with the right set of training accessories.
If you are on for a serious dog training, then you should first acquaint yourself with the right set of training accessories and equipment. If you enroll your dog in a training school, then the training accessories usually come with the training fees. However, if you plan to train your dog at home, then you can purchase training accessories at various pet shops or dog schools. There are also many training accessories that are sold on the net. Training materials are usually sold separately but there are some who offer items as a complete set. If you are blessed with carpentry skills and overflowing creative juices, then you can also opt to create your own set of training accessories.
In purchasing dog-training accessories, here are some points to remember that will help you make the right choices:
a. Know right tools for the right training. The right type of training accessories depends on the type of training you would like your dog to engage with. There is a specific set of equipment that is designed to hone skills needed for each specific field. Also, make up your mind about the dept of the training you would like to impose.
b. Function over fashion. Choose the training equipment that function well, not something that looks good on your dog but is difficult to use.
c. Comfort is essential. Be sure that the dog-training accessories are fit for your dog. The right choice of materials depends on the size of your dog. The correct material is one that does not compromise the comfort, safety, and the health of your dog.
d. Take the age and the characteristic as bases. The correct training materials to choose should correlate with your pet's age and behavior. Sometimes, breed is an important consideration as well.
e. Choose the items that also suites you well. Dog Training accessories should also be easy to use and manage for you. Avoid materials that may give you allergies or can cause back pains or arthritis. Go for a material that will allow you to train at ease.
Having the proper dog training accessories can make training your dog a lot easier. Spending the money on these training tools is a great investment in your dog.
Dog Training Online: How Good Are Home Dog Training Courses?
Dog Training From Home
Dog training with an obedience instructor can vary in price and it usually takes place in a class. If you do the dog training yourself it is usually free and you can do it from your own home. You will soon see for yourself how effective a crate will make your dog training easier!. Many people find this part of dog training to be more common in puppies.
Should You Scold Your Dog?
Reprimanding is a type of dog training that should not be done unless necessary. It is possible that reward training for dogs has been around as long as there have been dogs to train. Early humans probably used some informal kind of reward training when taming the wolf pups that eventually evolved into modern dogs. Dogs are very much like small children and have short attention spans. See http://www.dogtraining-online.us/know-your-dog/opting-for-a-purebred-dog.html
Dogs are Simple Creatures..
But the dog is simply following its basic programming. Some collie owners acquire a family of ducks for their dog to "boss around;" this satisfies the dog's herding instinct and the ducks don't mind. Establishing yourself as pack leader to your dog is very important. Each dog pack only has one leader and in your case it must be you the human. Simple dog obedience training will not solve your dog's aggressive problems only some serious dog training will do the trick. Dog aggressiveness doesn't just mean biting; it means barking and lunging at people as well. Within a week your dog should sit when you tell him to.
Can Dogs Be Controlled?
Experts say that dog behaviors can be controlled through proper training. Dog behaviors are actually responses that are mostly triggered by environmental and social factors. Your best bet would be to maximize training of your dog when it decides to bark. Provide Adequate Food and Water - Provide food suited to your dog's age size and condition. Walk Your Dog - Your dog will let you know when it needs to be walked.
By: Beverley Brooke
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