Training Dog

The Decision to Put Your Pup to Sleep

2009-02-20T00:31:00.001+02:00

The Decision to Put Your Pup to Sleep
by John Grimes

Dogs are absolutely wonderful pets. As the years pass, they become an integral part of your family. Unfortunately, the life span of a pup is not as long as ours which leads to some difficult decisions.

The Decision to Put Your Pup to Sleep

All dog breeds are unique, but the one constant is that they do not live as long as we do. As your pup ages, you will inevitably be faced with some very difficult decisions. One of the hardest is putting your pup down. The decision to put your pup down often comes at a point when you cannot help but recognize the pup is in a lot of pain or has severely restricted movement or both. In making the decision, it sometimes helps to know what happens.

Euthanasia is the practice of terminating life in a painless manner. While this is a highly controversial topic when it comes to severely ill humans, it is less so with pups. Society has come to accept that animals in severe pain should be mercifully released from it. The process can be undertaken in different ways, but the most common is through an injection. Your pup is given a shot of barbiturate that eliminates pain. The quantity is sufficient that your pup will actually overdose with the heart, lungs ceasing to function, but only after unconsciousness occurs. In short, it is a merciful, painless death, but that does not make it easy for you.

There is an old adage that if you really love something, you will let it go. This is pretty much the decision you will face with your pet. Inevitably, you will have to recognize that your pup has reached a point where it is in constant distress. While you probably can't bear to think of doing the act, you have to determine if you are being selfish by not doing so. Nobody, pet or human, wants to live in constant pain. It is misery defined. While you love your pet dearly, you have to determine what is best for it.

One of the surefire ways to deal with this issue is to ask your vet. He or she can give you options on any treatment for your pup and pain management issues. Vets are also trained to be subtle, but frank, about when it is time to let your dog go. From exams, they can recognize when a pet is having a very hard time and tell you as much.

Once you make the decision, you need to prepare yourself for it. It is going to be very hard, just like losing a family member. Don't feel guilty afterwards. You have done the right thing in eliminating the misery your loved one was suffering. It will also help to commiserate with friends with pets. Whatever you do, don't isolate yourself.

At the end of the day, our dogs represent an integral part of our lives. That being said, there comes a time when you must recognize that your pup is miserable and take the step you dread, but know is right.

About the Author:John Grimes is with All Terrain - makers of natural pet products for the outdoors.

How To Decide On A Dog Training Collar

2009-02-20T00:17:00.001+02:00

How To Decide On A Dog Training Collar
by Paul P. Duxbury

Many dog owners find that their efforts toward training their pet are greatly aided by the use of a training collar. There are many types of collars available and each employs a different mechanism meant to guide your pet, restrain him or discourage bad or disobedient behavior. Some training collars can harm a dog if they are not used appropriately or are the wrong size; so, you should research training collars thoroughly before choosing one and consult with a training expert if you are unfamiliar with how to use a chosen collar. Some common dog training collars are: the prong collar, the Halti, the Gentle Leader, the choke collar and the electronic collar.

Prong Collar

The prong collar looks a lot more painful to the dog than it actually is. This collar is made up of metal prongs that have been linked together. When you apply a pulling pressure to the collar (via the leash), it gives the dog a little pinch that is meant to duplicate the effect of a mother dog's teeth when she grabs here pup by the scruff of the neck. The prong collar is a safe and effective training tool as long as the fit is correct and the collar is used appropriately. The prong collar should not be used if your dog is one to consistently yank at his leash.

The prong collar should fit snugly against the dog's neck. As most prong collars can be adjusted by simply adding or subtracting prongs, the correct fit should be easy to achieve. A properly fitted collar should leave approximately half of a finger space in between your dog'ss neck and the prong tip. A collar that is any looser than that will not do its job and will needlessly chafe the dog's skin.

Halti and Gentle Leader

Both the Halti and Gentle Leader head halter devices look a lot like the harnesses that are used to control horses. While the prong collar is designed to condition behavior and movement, the head halter is designed to restrict or restrain your dog's movements. The thought behind the halter's design is that if you can control the head, the body will follow its movement. When you pull on the attached leash the device closes the dog's mouth and restrains his head. These types of collars are great for dogs that lunge, bite or display other aggressive behaviors.

There are drawbacks, however, to using a head halter device. Most dogs will not take very easily to any device that positions a strap over its nose. You may have to struggle with your dog many, many times before he will submit to wearing it. Another drawback is that pulling at your dog's head makes it a lot more likely that you will inadvertently injure the dog's neck or back. To avoid injury, you should always make sure you are restraining your dog in the correct manner.

Choke Collar

The choke collar is one of those dog training devices that is often surrounded by controversy. Proponents of the choke collar point to its humane effectiveness, while critics say that the collar is more torture device than training tool. The truth is that what the collar becomes is largely dependent upon who is using it.

A properly fitted choke collar works by tightening around the dog's throat when the trainer pulls on the leash and then releasing pressure when the trainer does. If the collar is not put on correctly, however, the pressure will remain and the dog could truly choke to death. These collars are not meant for dogs that consistently pull at their leash or for inexperienced trainers. As is the case with head halters, the choke collar has the potential to cause injury to the dog's neck.

Electronic Collar

Just mention the option of an electronic dog collar and many dog owners (even some people with no pets at all) will look at you as if you have suggested training your dog with a stun gun. The reality is that electronic collars can be a very humane way to train a dog. As with any other training device, however, whether or not it is used for purposes of cruelty is totally dependent upon the intentions and experience of the trainer.

The electronic collar works by allowing the trainer to give the dog small, electric shocks (via remote control) in order to modify its behavior. The intensity of the shock is left to the trainer. In general, the setting should be strong enough to make the dog's ears twitch. If the dog howls or yelps when the shock is delivered, then the setting is too high. Again, the electronic collar should only be used by experienced trainers.

About the Author:
Paul Duxbury writes extensively on dog and pet care at http://www.pet-care-centre.com and http://www.my-dog.co.uk

Cost To Owning A Puppy Or Dog

2009-02-18T00:28:00.000+02:00

Puppies - The First Year Veterinary Care/Laboratory Tests - $100 to $200. Immunizations - $50 to $100.
Internal/External Parasite Treatment and Control - $100 to $150.
Spay/Neuter - $40 to $200. The cost often depends on the dog's size and age.
Food - $150 to $250Miscellaneous (collars, leads, obedience training) - $200 to $225.
Total: $640 to $1,125

Dogs - Annual Costs Veterinary Care/Laboratory - $50 to $125
Immunizations - $40 to $75
Internal/External Parasite Preventatives - $100 to $150
Food - $150 to $300
Miscellaneous - $100 to $125
Total: $440 to $775

Picture dog : NO comment

2009-02-06T21:25:00.002+02:00

Caring For A Dog: 5 Steps To Potty Training Success

2009-02-06T20:11:00.000+02:00

Caring For A Dog: 5 Steps To Potty Training Success
by Michael Lewis

Potty training a dog is one of the most frustrating things you will have to do. Take heart in the fact that once your dog gets the potty training, you won't have to teach it again. In many ways, potty training can be rewarding too. Not only can you help your pets to stop making messes on your favorite carpeting, but you can develop a strong relationship of trust and bonding with them to.

Here are 5 steps to make potty training successful in your home.

1.Use a crate. Crate training is very effective. A crate is used to allow your pet to have a place to sleep and teaches them to control their bladder. They won't soil their bedding. Then, when it is time to get up and go out, you can easily do just that. The dog learns from the start that you control potty time.

2.After meals, give your pet 15 minutes and then take them out. Food is a trigger not only to eat but also to go. When it comes to potty training success, allow your pet to get outside when the urge is approaching. What's more is that you shouldn't leave food out. Put it down for them at the designated time and allow them to eat for 15 minutes to 30 minutes and remove the bowl. Soon he will learn and that again allows you to control potty time.

3.Pick a potty spot. Select the area of your yard that you want your pet to go in. Take them to that spot every time to go. This will help your puppy to learn that when he needs to go, he needs to come here. What's more is that the smell of urine is yet another trigger to your pet to go.

4.Don't reward them with food. Remember that rewards need to be emotional, and therefore it is more successful to give them a reward of a patting and rub down then it is for you to hand them a treat. Also, treats are food which triggers potty time again!

5.Reward success, but don't punish accidents. Although you will be angry and you will want to punish your pet, your pet does not see this as a bad thing. He sees it as attention. He also can become aggressive as well as not like to be around you. Dogs don't relate their potty mistake to the punishment you are given them. Instead, ignore them when they do something wrong. Don't speak to them or interact with them.

Caring for your dog is hard work, but when it comes to potty training, success can and will happen when you install these five tips into your program.

About the Author:
Michael Lewis is an editor at ClearlyPets.com where you can find more articles about dog training.

How To Take Care Of A Dog: 21 Key Factors You Should Know

2009-02-06T19:22:00.001+02:00

How To Take Care Of A Dog: 21 Key Factors You Should Know
by Mike A. Jones

It is crucial to learn how to take care of a dog well before taking ownership. A dog requires a serious investment of the following resources:

1. Time 2. Energy 3. Finances

By the time you finish reading this article, the first level of your education on how to take care of a dog will be complete.

Below you will find 21 key factors involved. 11 are under Basic Needs, 5 under Equipment, and 5 under Treatment.

Section 1: Learn how to take care of a dog by being aware of their BASIC NEEDS

Dogs need:

1. Toilet and obedience training. A lack of training in these two areas can result in frustration and inconvenience for the owner to say the least, and at worst the dog could become a danger to their owners, the public, and to themselves.

2. To be with other dogs or people. Leaving them alone for long periods can have a serious effect on their health and well being. Even being left alone for 4 or more hours a day can contribute to destructive behavior.

3. To be brushed every day. This is especially important if their coat has long hair.

4. To have their teeth brushed and cleaned regularly.

5. Regular walks. How far and how often will depend on the size and nature of the dog.

6. A well thought out, balanced diet. You may need to get advice from your vet. A good range of high protein, fat, and carbohydrates is needed to ensure the dog remains healthy. Often the prepared foods available in pet shops or supermarkets contain the needed balance.

7. Plenty of water: A bowl of fresh, clean water should always be available.

8. Space: a fenced in area for play and exercise. The area will need to be kept clean of dog waste to avoid a health hazard.

9. A dry, warm place to sleep out of a draught. The bedding should be aired each day and preferably washed or replaced weekly.

10. Arrangements to be cared for when the owner take a vacation.

11. A vet so you can quickly take them in case of sickness or emergency. Think out carefully your choice of a vet. What equipment and facilities does the surgery offer? What costs are involved? Does the vet communicate well with you so you feel relaxed asking questions?

Section 2: Learn how to take care of a dog by obtaining the EQUIPMENT they need

Dogs need:

1. A lead for walking in urban areas.

2. A collar and/with an identity label or tag.

3. A bed and a dog blanket.

4. A scoop to collect dog waste for disposal.

5. A good quality dog brush.

Section 3: Learn how to take care of a dog by arranging for the TREATMENT they need

Dogs need:

1. Regular checks and treatment for worms and fleas.

2. Injections to protect against serious diseases: check with your vet.

3. Regular teeth checkups by the vet.

4. Optional: Neutering.

5. Optional: Microchip implanting.

Regarding the last two optional procedures, keep these points in mind:

Apart from avoiding unwanted pregnancy, some authorities say neutering can make a dog a better pet. For example, neutered dogs tend to be less dominant, and have a lesser tendency to roam and mark territory.

Dog microchipping will allow you to easily locate your dog in the event it gets lost or stolen. Regretfully many dogs end up with new owners, or are taken to dog shelters, because their owners cannot find them. The microchip can forestall that heartbreaking scenario.

The microchip is no larger than a grain of rice. The procedure is no more painful than a vaccination as the tiny chip is implanted under the loose skin over the dog's shoulder.

The guidelines above emphasize the need to carefully think out dog ownership. However, this is just the first part of the education.

To have an in-depth understanding of how to take care of a dog, you are well advised to have a good talk with a local veterinary surgeon who can answer specific questions relating to the type of dog that is best suited for your circumstances.

Once you have decided on a particular breed, seek out other owners of that breed and learn more about the characteristics of the dog and considerations you will have to keep in mind. You will get a very accurate perspective by talking to other dog owners.

Learn how to take care of a dog well before ownership and you will be rewarded with an intelligent, loyal friend who will give you unlimited fun and enjoyment!

About the Author:

5 tips for choosing the best vet - check Mike's tutorial:
http://www.vitalstop.com/PuppyTraining

Here Is A Way To train a dog in 10 easy lessons

2009-02-06T02:21:00.000+02:00

Here Is A Way To train a dog in 10 easy lessons By: JohnJames

The socialization period is the most suitable time for bonding between you and your dog. During a puppy’s socialization stage, it learns by experience and can easily learn to foster relationships with both humans and its fellow dogs. A puppy learns new behaviors during the socialization stage that helps it learn its master’s needs.

Don’t make the mistake of waiting till your dog grows up a bit before you start training them because grown up dogs are usually hard to train. Puppies that aren’t trained before they get to a particular age may not be pliable to training. You need to make sure that you start training your puppy at the right time to prevent frustrations.

The learning theory is a dog training premise that inculcates four basic messages; reward marker, the keep going signal, the no reward marker and the punishment marker. The dog you are handling in training needs to be clear about each message you send out for it to respond favorably.

You need to understand that the mind of a dog is linear if you want to train it successfully. A dog can understand a string of commands in one setting but may have to be reeducated with the same string of commands in another setting. A dog that obeys a sit command at home may be confused when you order it to sit in a park because of the change of location.

The mind of a dog is unlike the reasoning and thinking of human beings. A dog cannot respond to commands that are given haphazardly. If your dog bungles one command, go back to the start of the instructions and make it respond to them all over again.

Shepherd dogs are those dogs that are trained to herd. Shepherd dogs are naturally good herders and make the sheep feel comfortable around them. Shepard dogs can be found in large sheep farms.

A dog is usually trained in line with its instinctive characteristics. A naturally territorial dog is trained to be a guard dog because of its inherent traits of territory protection. A naturally protective and tender dog is trained to be a herd dog in accordance with its traits.

Training your dog not to bark at the wrong time is also part of a dog’s training. A dog that barks at the wrong time can be a source of embarrassment to the family. Dog training is a process that helps you as much as it helps your dog.

Yorkshire Terriers – Basic Training Tips for Your Yorkie

2009-02-06T02:18:00.000+02:00

Yorkshire Terriers – Basic Training Tips for Your Yorkie By: Sam Nichols

Yorkshire Terriers are one of the smartest dogs alive. They are very cute, and are actually one of the easiest dogs to train.
Yorkies understand you well, but forget things very easily. First of all, you need to remember to find a treat that your dog likes, Yorkies specifically love Steak, and Beef. Beef Jerky treats are the best; however, you can use human food as well.
Depending on what you are teaching your dog, you will need to do it every day until the dog has a grasp of it forever. If your Yorkie is just a puppy, and you need to train it when it needs to go out (waste), then its best that you teach it to bark, and stand beside the door when it needs to go.
You may be thinking this is tough; however, it’s one of the easiest ways to train your puppy well. At first, you need to teach your puppy that it can only waste outside. You can easily do this by calling your puppy once every 1 or 2 hours, and going on a quick 1 minute walk. Of course, accidents will happen, and you will defiantly get a little ‘treat’ on the floor sooner or later.
Here is the part where you absolutely need to get it through the puppy’s head that it is unacceptable to waste indoors. Carry the puppy over to where it left its waste indoors, and point to the waste, talking to the puppy just like to a human. Use a tone that sounds a bit angry, but do not harm the puppy no matter what.
Yorkies tend to understand it a bit quicker than other dogs, however, this form on training works well on every dog. When you go on your daily walks with the puppy, and he wastes outside, congratulate it, and give it a treat. Whenever you go on walks with the puppy, always have 1 or 2 treats with you, as you need to show the puppy what he did, and that he did it outside, that it’s good. Have a happy voice when talking to the puppy and giving him or her the treat. As time goes on, your puppy will begin to realize that he or she is better off to leave waste outside, and will begin to show you some kind of action when he or she needs to go out to waste.
After your puppy has this mastered, you can start with the necessary things that a dog needs to know around the house, for example, no jumping on the table, no going on the leather couch, etc. These are easy to teach, as you can use a very similar method as the one I used when training my puppy to go and leave waste. Basically, the hardest part with all dogs and especially Yorkies is to teach the dog the very first big thing, which is to leave waste outside.
After that, your puppy understands that they are rewarded when they do something good, and yelled at when they do something bad, which you can apply to the ‘no jumping on the table, no going on the leather couch.

Potty Training Puppies With Methods That Work Now

2009-02-06T02:15:00.000+02:00

Potty Training Puppies With Methods That Work Now By: Sarah Brogdon

To feel like it is hopeless is normal when potty training puppies. The two P's - patience and persistence is what it takes for it to work. You have to show you puppy that you are the boss for the start. By instinct, dogs travel in packs and have a pack leader. You need to be stern when housebreaking a puppy to make him understand that he has a certain spot to do his business. You definitely don't want this to happen.
When your puppy is inside your house, what you want him to learn is how to "hold it", and when taken outside, to potty on the spot you have designated. Show your puppy that you are well pleased when she potty's in the right place, to help her understand that is where she is to go everytime.
Deciding who is going to help with housebreaking a puppy is the next thing that needs to happen. Everyone will have to be prepped as to how the method of potty training puppies work and will have to do it the same way. Remember that the key to your success will be repetition and to be consistent. 8 to 12 weeks old is when you can begin potty training puppies.
It is very important that you come up with a schedule when housebreaking a puppy. A puppy will need to go potty every hour or two and after meals, after naps, after playtime, before going to bed, and in the mornings after he first wakes up. You will want to write down a schedule of your puppy's trips made outside, playtime, and his feedings. Make sure you have how you are going to carry out your routine in place. Decide where your puppy will potty in your yard and which door you will be taking him out of.
You will need to put a leash and collar on your puppy. Letting your puppy run freely through the house is the biggest mistake most puppy owners make when potty training puppies. Never let your puppy out of your sight. Have your puppy on a leash and hook it to your belt or belt loop so you will not loose sight of him. You will want your puppy in his crate if you can't keep an eye on him. Taking your puppy outside to go potty on a leash is the key to housebreaking a puppy. Your puppy will soon learn that you are taking her outside to potty and not to play.
It is very important that everyone involved must do the same thing or it will be confusing for your puppy. When you take your puppy to the spot you have picked out in your yard for her to eliminate, give a short verbal command like "go potty". When your puppy starts to eliminate, give her a whole lot of praise and keep praising her until she has finished. When housebreaking a puppy always use the same verbal command and pretty soon your puppy will understand what you want her to do. You can also reward your puppy with a treat after she has eliminated on the right spot.
It is critical when housebreaking a puppy that you have a schedule of feeding time. A puppy will eat three to four times a day. Do not make the mistake that most puppy owners make by leaving food out all day. Leave fresh water out for you puppy all day....just take it up two hours before bed time. Take your puppy's food bowl up after she has finished eating and about 15 minutes later take her out the designated door to her potty spot on a leash.
When it comes to potty training puppies make sure everyone always keep the same schedule and routine. Consistency will be the key to your success. This will be less confusing for your puppy. You will find that it is not that difficult when housebreaking a puppy if you follow these methods.

Rottweiler Training

2009-02-06T02:11:00.001+02:00

Contrary to popular belief, Rottweiler training is not a tough job as these dogs are extremely intelligent and eager to be loved and work for you. You will actually be surprised with the joy they show when they do a job for you that you appreciate and they literally beam with positive reinforcement.

The most important aspect in the training of a Rottweiler is that it has to start very early in life and continue directly and indirectly until the dog is at least two years old. It is highly recommended that this dog undergoes Rottweiler obedience training so the owner has a good control over it.

The best Rottweiler training is done with the help of positive reinforcements and corrective measures should be limited to using a sharp voice and verbal reprimands when the dog does not perform the way it should. Avoid violence and rough handling at all costs. Change the trainer if you find that they are too rough on the animal. Rottweilers tend to increase in aggressiveness when handled with aggression.

The Rottweiler will tend to bluff or bully their owners if not trained well and given their size, you would not want to have to fight with this dog everytime you want a certain behavior from it. Therefore, you will need to be very persistent with Rottweiler training, right from puppy-hood. Another thing to keep in mind regarding control of a Rottweiler is that it observes the pecking order in a household and will respect only those who can control them. This is why it is important that the owner of this dog is able to physically control it as well.

House Breaking Important Part Of Obedience

Two of the main training concerns that need to be addressed are the Rottweiler obedience training and potty training. The obedience training can be taken care of by a good trainer who will go through all the trade tricks and hand you over a well behaved dog which listens and follows verbal command easily and without any resistance. Once the pecking order has been established at home, you should have no more problems with your Rottweiler. The Rottweiler, owing to its ancestry, respects the head of the pack and obeys unquestionably.

The Rottweiler potty training is another matter and has to start very early and it will require lots of patience since it will take some time to sink in. The puppy when young will have very little control on its bladder or bowel and will have the need for you to take it out even at two in the morning, a time when most of the Rottweilers get up and want to go. You will need to reinforce good behavior for a long time until it learns what you want out of him. This is tough and sometimes takes up to six months to accomplish.

The Rottweiler obedience training on the other hand is a bit easier to impart and the dog responds much faster when the training is imparted with the right technique and a lot of patience and love.

Eliminate Your Dog Behavior Problems

2009-02-04T00:22:00.000+02:00

Eliminate Your Dog Behavior Problems
by Alex de la Cruz

Dogs are considered as mankind's best friend but you got to know the fact that they too have a mind of their own. They act in certain ways that human beings cannot easily relate with. They also have mood swings and can throw tantrums anytime. Dogs also need the right attention and love. If they don't get much of this emotional security and pampering, they might start to misbehave. Allow your dog to adapt to your lifestyle because if they don't, they might start to become too aggressive and nervous about their new environment. As a responsible canine owner, you need to stop dog behavior problems because you are the first one to be affected by these anyway.

It will be difficult to live with a misbehaving pet in your home. Dogs with behavior problems tend to be uncontrollable and might hurt other people or damage properties. To read a guide to dog behaviors may be a helpful thing to do. You will get acquainted with various characters and temperaments of different breeds. There are certain behaviors that could be natural in some breeds. With the right knowledge, you will surely know how to deal with it in a less harsh manner. Without a proper dog training system, your pet might show destructive behavior, excessive barking or growling.

In worse situation, they may even bite other people or display other threatening behavior and damage their surroundings. You need to be able to recognize dog behavior problems so that you can make necessary actions accordingly. Spending quality time with you pet will enable you to do this. You may also ask other members of your household to report any negative observations they might have about your pet. You need to correct bad behavior in dogs as soon as possible. Otherwise, your pet might get used to it and make it a bad habit to break. On the other hand, you have to be observant on certain factors that may cause the dog to act in an unruly manner.

By knowing the roots of the behavior, you will know where and how to start an effective training for dogs. Make sure that you give ample time to be with your dog and take him out for a walk. When possible, this must be done on a regular basis to avoid making dogs bored. Most of the time, dogs that are bored are the ones that tend to be restless. They would start doing bothersome things that may irritate you and other household members. Always make time for your dog. They are not mere decors in your house. Treat them as a member of your family who also needs to be loved and cared for.

There could be many factors that may cause dog behavior problems. For all you know, the dog may be suffering from an illness. Thus, be keen at observing the circumstances that may cause behavior problems in dogs. Be patient in dealing with dog behavior problems. Your pets need your assistance in helping them to overcome their behavioral problems. In the end, it will be rewarding to have a well-behaved pet.

About the Author:

The author of this article Alex De La Cruz is a Dog Trainer who has been successful with several dog training courses for many years. Alex decided to share his knowledge and tips through his website http://www.doggyweb.info. You can sign up for his free newsletter and enjoy a healthy and submissive dog.

How to Stop Dog Whining - The DO's and DON'Ts

2009-02-04T00:19:00.000+02:00

How to Stop Dog Whining - The DO's and DON'Ts
by Craig Vic

You may be lucky enough to have had a dog that has never had a whining problem, and then all of a sudden starts to begin to whine uncontrollably day in and day out. Don't get flustered with the dog. The dog isn't doing this to get on your nerves. So, punishment, as in most cases is not the answer. In fact, it will only worsen the problem.

Instead, see if you can dig a little deeper and see if you can spot the underlying reason as to why the dog is whining.

A common reason for dog whining is the feeling of abandonment. If you notice this kind of behavior when you leave the house for work, then that's probably what it is. A good idea may be to get him used to the concept of being alone, by taking short, sporadic, breaks from him in 30 minute spans, by leaving the house for a walk, and seeing how the dog reacts. Hopefully the more times you do it, the more the dog will get used to the concept of being left alone, and it may not be so emotional for him when you leave the house to go to work.

Another reason for this, might be that the dog just simply wants some attention. Maybe you have been busy and the dog hasn't gotten the same attention that he is used to. Take some time to play with your dog. Play fetch, take him to the park, play a good game of tug of war, and notice if that puts a stop towards the whining. A lot of times could be that the dog is just bored, and just wants a little fun. After all, if you were bored, you'd probably be whining to, wouldn't you?

Another problem may be that the dog is in pain. Notice if your dog is wincing. Pet your dog around his body and notice if he shows any signs of pain.

If you aren't able to figure out what is causing your dog to whine, make sure to take your dog to the veterinarian immediately.

About the Author:

Dog training – Dealing with House Training Issues

2009-02-04T00:06:00.005+02:00

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For instant access to more dog training tips and advice, visit here:

Dog training videos

2009-02-03T23:58:00.000+02:00

Dog training is the oldest and probably the most common solution to bridge the understanding gap between people and dogs as their best friends. There are plenty of solutions to help dog owners train their animals, and one of the most popular is the dog training video. Sold online or in special pet stores, dog training videos provide comprehensive techniques and tricks that can turn the most disobedient of animals into an obedience example. People often prefer dog training videos to individual trainers for a variety of reasons.

First of all, there is the money issue; dog training videos are a lot cheaper than special training classes. Furthermore, many dog owners want to be actively involved in the training process; thus, with the help of a dog training video they can exploit the two sides of the experience: the fun part and the practical one. When you’ve got a puppy, it is all the more rewarding for you to be the one to train it how to target focus or fetch and retrieve. Dog training videos come with very professional solutions that can be put to practice by people who don’t have a clue on the subject.

The lessons presented by dog training videos are gradual and take you step by step to achieve the behavior patterns you want for your pet. It is a good idea that you watch every training stage on the dog training video, several times. Then you have to put into practice with your dog. Of course results appear in time, but make sure you are persistent in exercises; skills must be used, otherwise they’re wasted. Some other member of the family may get involved too, watch the dog training video together and exchange opinions. However, only one trainer should work with the dog at a time, in order not to create confusion.

Keep in mind that all the tips presented on a dog training video need to be integrated in the special context of your house. Avoid giving your pet conflicting orders and don’t use too complex linguistic structure. As you’ll learn from any dog training video, short words like ‘sit’ or ‘down’ are most effective, not to mention that the dog is receptive first and foremost to the voice pitch. Therefore, you don’t need a dog training video to tell you that animals are susceptible to raised voice for instance and they become defensive. Good luck!

One site you can get all this tips is my favorite source of the next dog training tip.Go there by clicking Dog training videos.

How to Train a "Crazy" Dog!

2009-02-03T21:32:00.001+02:00

I like over-the-top dogs, dogs that come bounding in biting at their leashes (or anything else they can cram into their mouths). I like rambunctious, nutty, go-getters that exhaust their owners. Those are my favorite dogs to train. Why do I enjoy these dogs so much? I find them to be surprisingly easy and rewarding. All of that dog energy can be channeled to our own purposes!

crazy dogs

Most pet owners want to reduce the arousal their dogs show (and most dogs will calm progressively with age and training); some competition or working handlers want to keep the hair-trigger reaction, but with reliable, trained behaviors. Both ends are possible with clicker training.

A friend, a crossover trainer like myself, was bemoaning the superb enthusiasm of her young, unneutered, standard poodle. His habit of pogo-jumping was wearing her out. "I can't train him to heel until I can stop his bouncing," she complained.

"Not true at all," I protested. "Don't you dare try to stop that bouncing. You want that energy for happy, enthusiastic heeling. Use it!"
Channel the energy

How do you channel and use that energy? There are several principles I follow in channeling the energy of eager achievers.

* Ignore the crazy stuff. Owners of "crazy dogs" tend to see and focus on the obnoxious jumping, the leash biting, the lunging for enthusiastic greetings, and the persistent harassment to play tug or fetch. I see a dog asking in every possible way to engage with his human, a dog begging for the interaction of operant conditioning. These dogs just adore inducive training and respond to it quickly.

Many compulsive methods require considerable time and effort to suppress unwanted behavior, all before starting to teach desirable behavior. With clicker training, you can jump straight into teaching a new behavior and disregard what you don't want, trusting that it will disappear shortly. If you are like me, the surplus excitement won't bother you. With clicker training, you'll get what you want soon enough!
Why do I enjoy these dogs so much? I find them to be surprisingly easy and rewarding.

* Love that energy. Enthusiasm carries into training, making training that much easier. All the effort the dog is putting into bucking like a bronco on the leash will soon be thrown into eager downs and fast targeting! This makes the trainer's work simpler. You don't have to create new behavior, you just have to shape what's already occurring. And that's perfect for a lazy trainer like me!

* Use the dog's own motivation. With an average dog, you have to take time to find what motivates that dog—a special toy, a preferred treat? Crazy dogs are motivated by everything! That means you won't be stumped when the dog gets distracted or when you're caught without treats on hand. Simply use whatever is stimulating the dog in the current environment. More benefits for a lazy trainer! "You want to see that friendly new person? Fine, let's work for it! And you can keep eye contact to earn this stick I picked up."

Crazy dogs tend to tell you exactly what they want to work for at the moment. If you believe them—he wants to play tug, or meet a person, or chase a ball—they're eager to work for their reward.

* Reinforcement is control. Too often, owners have been told they have to "get control of" their dog by suppressing his natural energy. But energy has a critical mass; if suppressed and contained too long, it cannot help but explode into activity. This is why a dog that does not know how to earn a toy, for example, will grab at hands or clothing.

The forcible condensing of fusion results in a supernova, and the same is true for crazy dogs! Suppression creates time bombs, and the mere illusion of command.
With clicker training, you'll get what you want soon enough!

Channeling creates true control. A dog that knows it's possible to earn what he wants can control himself to get it instead of fighting with his owner or trainer. (Careful management of criteria is critical here!) If you try to fight the dog's natural exuberance, you will never really manage his energy. But once the dog believes he can earn his energy release, you have him forever.

The dog wins—and chooses control

That's all very well in theory, but how does this work in practice?

The dog can always win. I start teaching a very basic concept—what the dog wants is available to him, but by my rules. You don't want frustration, you want analytical thinking. It's very easy for this type of dog to get locked into frustration and hectic behavior. You can establish right from the start that there's a way to win if he thinks about it.
A dog that knows it's possible to earn what he wants can control himself to get it instead of fighting with his owner or trainer.

Inherently, this concept includes impulse control. Rather than plunging about in a desperate scramble for what he wants, the dog can hold himself still and try to earn it. (If the dog and owner team need impulse control instruction right away, for safety reasons, it is possible to start there. Personally I prefer to jump right in to teaching a new behavior, but I don't mind being jumped on or scratched before the dog acquires the new behavior. Some handlers can't tolerate such risks, though.)

Here's how I teach very basic impulse control.

I show the crazy dog a treat, briefly, and then enclose it in my fist. The dog will probably attempt to poke it free, nudging my hand, pawing at me, nipping, and barking. (I usually start this exercise myself, as most clients don't have the experience to trust where this is going!) The average crazy dog is active and will not pause in his quest, but will actually pull back as if to pounce again. Right then, I click that quick movement and open my hand, delivering the treat or letting it drop to the floor. Then I repeat the process. Most dogs are backing up within a half dozen repetitions, though some take longer if they've been reinforced for obnoxious or pushy behavior. It's also possible to do this with a tug toy, but, in any case, practice your technique in advance—accidental nips and grabs are no fun!
Helpful hints

* Split criteria. Then, split it finer. And even finer! Criteria-splitting is the single biggest error made with crazy dogs. Trainers and handlers tend to "lump," failing to break behavior into achievable pieces. What would seem like an ideal increment for a more typical dog is really a tremendous leap for "crazy" dogs. When success isn't achieved quickly, these dogs load energy and release it in hectic and undesirable behavior. (It's at that point that some owners or trainers decide to use compulsion or coercion to control the dog.)
Right then, I click that quick movement and open my hand, delivering the treat or letting it drop to the floor.

The thing to remember is that the dog can always win. If the dog knows there's a right answer and that he can achieve his click, he will not stop trying to get it. There will be problems only if the criteria is not appropriate or if all the pent-up energy is not relieved appropriately.

When I worked with my young dog, Laev, I taught stationary duration behaviors in quarters or eighths of seconds initially. I've worked with other dogs and taught them to tolerate a handler's departure with the slight movement of one shoe. Once the dog has the idea and develops the necessary self-control, increments can be increased substantially, and the larger behaviors can be achieved (a three minute stay, for example). Always start small.

* Provide an energy release. Most people don't realize how stressful learning can be. Stress isn't necessarily bad. In fact, sometimes it's not distress, but eustress (a pleasant or curative stress). Stress does still take a toll on the dog, though. Many dogs indicate that they need a break by losing attention, wandering away, or sniffing. My favorite crazy dogs indicate fatigue by launching themselves at you or another attractive outlet, or by jumping, nipping and barking.

There has to be a way for the dog to dump energy, and it should almost always be through movement. Play tug, prompt a favorite active trick, or simply move about. Place this release behavior on cue early in training and use it to release energy when the dog has been demonstrating a good deal of self-control or otherwise working hard.

If the dog explodes energetically outside of the cue, that means the training has continued too long or an unrealistic jump in criteria was attempted. Adjust the training and try again.

* Use active behaviors. Passive behaviors are much more difficult for crazy dogs than active behaviors—the dogs have to contain themselves! Behaviors which involve movement allow a constant release of that mental energy and are less likely to lead to explosive outbursts. This is why a crazy dog can retrieve or search for much longer than he can practice his down stay, which seems to be a much less complicated behavior.
The movement helps dispel stress much more efficiently and still provides the benefits of a focused behavior.

This is useful information for managing dogs in daily life. Is the dog stressed by an outside influence, perhaps a stranger or a rude dog? Instead of "sit and watch," as many teach, ask the dog for a heel, a spin, or a leaping target. The movement helps dispel stress much more efficiently and still provides the benefits of a focused behavior.

Is your crazy dog too enthusiastic at the door? Instead of teaching "sit" to greet, which is very tough for these dogs, teach the dog to fetch a toy and bring it to the new arrival, holding it in his mouth as he is petted. This gives the dog a place to channel his energy (his jaws) while also preventing mouthing or licking.

* Be proactive. The problem with crazy dogs is that they are faster than humans, mentally as well as physically. By the time you realize you've encountered a challenge, your dog might have evaluated several behavioral options and settled on what makes the most sense to her—something you probably do not want!

At the educated end of the leash, your job is to instruct the dog about what will pay off best—well before that scenario arises. Dogs load energy too quickly to interrupt them once they're reacting (although they can learn that later). Catch them before they lose their focus.

In the end, crazy dogs show some of the most dramatic transformations, from happy, brash, and crashing maniacs to happy, enthusiastic, and focused partners. That's reinforcing to all of us.
Source: http://clickertraining.com

How To Train Your Dog To Come When Called video

2009-02-02T21:42:00.002+02:00

Dog Behavior & Training:How To Train Your Dog To Come When Called

Learn how to train your dog to recognise its name and come when called. The Head of Training at Battersea Dogs and Cat's Home, Ali Taylor, takes you through the technique.

Step 1:: When and how to reward; Reward your dog all the time for movements in the right way, then for the whole action, then for best attempts. Rewards can be food in the form of treats or part of your dog's dinner, praise, or a toy or game. Remember it is only a reward if your dog wants it.
Step 2:: Name recognition; To get your dog to pay attention to its name, hold a reward between yours and your dog's eyeline, say its name and as soon as it looks at you, give the reward.
Step 3:: Coming when called; To get your dog to come when called, show it a toy or treat, then move away a couple of paces. Call out your dog's name and say 'come' in a happy voice, smiling and gesturing to your dog. As the dog comes to you, hold its collar and either feed or play with it. Gradually increase the distance between you and your dog until you can call it from room to room or in and out of the garden. Don't call your dog if you are going to punish or shout at it.; Remember to make learning fun. Your dog will respond more quickly and won't be afraid to try again if you make a mistake.

Dog Training And Tricks video

2009-01-31T16:03:00.002+02:00

Dog Behavior & Training:Dog Training And Tricks

You can teach all dogs new tricks! Learn the basics of dog obedience training through this useful video. Mitch Wilder offers tips and tricks for training your dog to do simple tricks. Dog obedience is important for many different reasons. It’s fairly simple to teach your dogs to sit, stay and heel, plus it comes in handy when taking your dogs on walks, to the park and to the vet.

Step 1:: Learning Tricks; Chanda-Leah, a toy poodle from Canada, is listed in the Guinnes Book of World Records as the world's smartest dog. She can perform over 1000 tricks! Pretty impressive! While your lazy Lab might not reach this level of achievement, he can certainly learn the basics.
Step 2:: Trick For Treat Method; Most trainers use a positive reward system of training. I call it the "trick for treat" method. It's an effective and humane way to get your dog to obey simple commands, like "Come" and "Speak". A dog that is not well heeled can pull your arm too hard, and he can get into lots of mischief. That's why you should use treats when heeling. Hold the treat in the position where you want your dog to heel, and tell him to heel. Give him a treat. After about a week or so, you can do without the treats and he'll start heeling naturally.
Step 3:: Re-Calling Your Dog; Re-calling your dog is an important command, especially if you take your pooch to a dog park. One of the biggest mistakes people make when re-calling is to stand facing their dog. You should run away or face the direction you want your dog to come. Dogs will play "Follow the Leader".
Step 4:: Teaching New Tricks; A simple way to teach your dog a new trick is to attach a word to an action they already do. Buddy loves to jump up a tree and chase squirrels, so I use the word "squirrel". Now he's associating the word "squirrel" with jumping up the tree.
Step 5:: Top Training Tips; Here are some other training tips: No yelling. It can scare your dog and create a negative experience. Get really excited when they perform a trick! It'll reinforce their behavior.Talk to your pet. The more you talk, the more tricks they'll learn. While your boxer might not ever learn to play the piano, he can certainly make you proud by learning the basics.

Dog Behavior And Training video

2009-01-31T15:56:00.002+02:00

Dog Behavior & Training: Dog Behavior And Training

How do I interpret my dog's body language?

Contrary to popular belief, a wagging tail is not always a sign of a dog who's happy – they can be wagging their tail and biting somebody – so you have to read the whole dog. Basically you look at the dog and you say, "OK, is the dog leaning forward or is the dog leaning backward?" If he's leaning forward, he's more aggressive, more aroused, and more confident. If the dog is leaning backward, meaning the ears are back, then the whole demeanour is backward, and that's a more fearful dog. That's a really good tip on how to read a dog in general: forward or backward.

What is the best age to teach my dog tricks and commands?

The day you get your dog is the day you start training you dog, whether that's at 7 or 8 weeks old, 8 or 9 years old; it doesn't matter. The day you get your dog is the day you start working with your dog.

How do I housebreak my dog?

The most important thing to think about when housebreaking a dog is prevention. You shouldn't give the dog the chance to make an accident in the house. Yet the reverse side is you take them outside, and you praise them like gold is coming out of their body. So you're teaching potty on the command, “good potty, good potty” as they are actually going potty. Therefore you prevent and you praise.

How do I get my dog to stop barking at the front door?

Dogs are naturally territorial and it's in their nature to bark at the front door if somebody's coming to greet you. What I do when they bark at the front door, is I say, "Thank you for letting me know an intruder's coming in," and then I teach "quiet", so a quiet command is imperative. I might also use different techniques such as maybe having the dog on a leash, using a spritz of breath spray, which is a deterrent, and saying "quiet". But I also acknowledge the dog for letting me know that there's an intruder by barking at the front door. But once they've become accepted, they need to be come quiet. "Quiet" is the command.

How do I teach my dog that I am the "boss"?

A dog needs to know that you are the mum, the authority figure, the person, and they like it. It's something that people have to come to terms with - the fact that dogs like it. It makes the dogs feel comfortable. The ways you can do that are by making the dog earn its food. No food for free, no free lunch. We make the dog earn praise. Before petting it, make the dog sit, lie down, or do something simple. It's very easy to get the dog to understand that you are its leader, and they want to be lead.

What is the difference between "negative" and "positive" training?

The difference between “negative” and “positive” training, is that in the old days, dog training came out of the military and so it's very punitive. If the dog didn't sit they would choke them in a choke chain. We learned since then that dogs are able to learn as early as six, seven, or eight weeks old. So, we use positive reinforcement to train dogs, meaning we use their food to train them; we make them work for their food. Dogs are much happier to do that than be choked by a choke chain.

What is the best way to discipline my dog?

Disciplining your dog has to do with who your dog is and its sensitivity level. Sometimes just a sharp command of "off" or "quiet" can do the trick. Sometimes, depending on the age of the dog, you might do an old-fashioned leash correction. You might do a muzzle grab. You might use breath spray. There are many, many ways to discipline your dog, but we need to make sure that the dog understands and takes the discipline seriously.

When should I begin to socialize my dog?

Socialisation begins at birth. The dog is socialised to the world - it's handled. So, socialisation is an ongoing process that never ends. It never ends.

Abnormal Dog Behavior video

2009-01-31T15:51:00.002+02:00

Dog Behavior & Training: Abnormal Dog Behavior

What is considered "abnormal" behavior for a dog?

There's not a lot of abnormal behaviour for dogs. Dogs act in ways that we don't accept as humans. A lot of times it's normal for the dog but it's not okay for us. However, if you're talking about seriously abnormal behaviour in dogs, we would be talking about things such as seriously excessive barking, excessive fear, and excessive aggression. These are abnormal if they get to the point where the dog simply can't function in society.

What causes abnormal behavior in dogs?

Abnormal behavior in dogs can be caused by two things, it's the old nature versus nuture debate. Possibly the dog was born that way. More likely the dog has abnormal behavior because of a lack of social skills given to the dog initially, a lack of exercise, and a lack of proper care and training. These are all ways that you can create a dog who is abnormally functioning in the world.

How long should I wait to talk to a professional trainer about my dog's abnormal behavior?

The second that thought crosses your mind, you should call a professional trainer. However, it's really imperative that you get in touch with a positive trainer. The Association of Pet Dog Trainers is available, APDT.com, and they will help you to find someone who's a positive trainer in your area. A positive trainer is simply somebody who uses motivational methods as opposed to punitive, harsh methods.

Can abnormal behavior be corrected in older dogs?

Abnormal behaviour can be corrected in older dogs depending on the severity of the situation. You can teach an old dog new tricks. However, it's really important that we take into consideration how long the dog has been doing the behaviour and what the behaviour is. They're all different; they're just like humans.

How do I prevent my dog from acting overly timid?

A dog that is timid or fearful is a dog that needs to be helped through the situations that he is fearful of. For example, if you have a dog that's fearful of children, every time that dog sees a child, you pair the child with food; not as food, with food. So, the dog sees the child, he gets a titbit, and he comes to realize that children are no threat. In fact, they come bearing gifts.

How do I prevent my dog from acting aggressive?

Aggression in dogs has many forms. There's fear aggression, dominance aggression, and many other forms of aggression. Preventing the dog from acting out is imperative, of which there are many ways. If you have a dog who's acting in an aggressive manner, you must seek professional help.

House Training Puppies - The Various Methods

2009-01-30T23:22:00.000+02:00

There are two widely accepted methods of house training puppies. The first method is paper training; this method is widely used and better known than the alternative. The second method is not as well known, but is accepted as a better alternative, this is called crate training.

Paper training is a method whereby you direct your puppy to use the same spot that you have layered with newspaper. When using this method you would want to ensure that you have papered a large area to begin with. To make cleaning easier you will want to pick an area with no carpet, kitchens and laundry rooms are the usual spots. As the puppy grows you will want to shrink the area covered by the newspaper. This method is not suggested for larger dogs as the mess they create will be larger than a papered area or you could handle.

The second method mentioned here for house training puppies is crate training. This method involves keeping your puppy confined to a crate when there are not people around to supervise it. To save on costs, I suggest you purchase a crate that will accommodate the puppy when it is full grown, barricade off part of the crate and increase the available area as the puppy grows into adulthood. This method works with the puppy's natural instinct to not eliminate where they sleep.

Both methods of house training puppies are acceptable and each has their own positives and negatives. Crate training requires a lot of attention be given to the puppy and the maintenance of a very strict schedule. Paper training requires less attention but does have the puppy learning to go to the bathroom in the house, if you decide to move to crate training later on, it would be more difficult.

For more information on House Breaking your puppy or for specific information on Crate Training or Paper Training come visit us at The Obedient K-9.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Adrian_Van_Drunen

5 Must Read Tips to Puppy Training

2009-01-30T21:39:00.000+02:00

Buy a puppy training book, do a search on the internet for training puppies, or ask your local veterinarian where to find the best puppy training classes in the area. However, you choose to train your puppy here are 5 tips to help you train your puppy.

Tip # 1 - Be consistent and patient. I cannot stress enough when training a new puppy about consistency and patience. Remember this is just a little thing that wants nothing more than to please its master but does not have the mental capacity at such a young age to just "get it". You have to be patient and repeat yourself over and over again. He'll get it but it will take a little time and he will make mistakes. Also realize some breeds will learn faster than other breeds so stick with it.

Tip # 2 - Create some type of reward system for your puppy that he or she only gets during the puppy training process. For example: If you are using dog treats to reward your puppy only provide those treats during puppy training and only when the puppy has completed the command. If you give the puppy his treats throughout the day just because this will confuse the puppy. You can use the puppy's favorite toy or training aid as a positive reward and to reinforce the command. Some trainers use a puppy's play toy and only play with the puppy using the toy during the training process.

Tip #3 - Purchase a puppy crate as a training aid for the puppy. Dog crates can be used to housebreak new puppies, train puppies to stay on command, relieve anxiety in puppies, and also train puppies that a crate is their safe haven. Many people believe that using crates, cages, or kennels is cruel. This is farthest from the truth. The truth is training a puppy using a crate can improve puppies behavior and mannerisms.

Tip #4 - Do not punish your puppy during puppy training. Many people believe that if you punish the puppy while training this will correct the bad behavior and speed up the learning process. This too is not true. Positive reinforcement and praise is the best way to train your new puppy. Punishing your dog could create a very aggressive dog and dangerous dog. Stick with the positive rewards and watch your puppy thrive to please you and your family.

Tip # 5 - If you feel that you cannot train your puppy yourself then hire a dog trainer or sign up for dog training classes. If you hire a dog trainer do not think that you will not be involved in your puppy's training. It is very important that you are the one that is giving your puppy the commands and you are the one the puppy will trust. Dogs look to their owners for safety and protection. In return they will be well mannered and good socialized dogs who will love their owner unconditionally.

Attending puppy training classes with your puppy is a great way to learn techniques to train your puppy and also allow your puppy to learn how to socialize with other dogs and people. Contact your local veterinarian for suggestions on dog training classes in your area or contact the local animal shelter.

A well trained and obedient dog will be a perfect fit into you family and give your family years of love, joy, and fun. All that dogs ask is to be given the same from their family.

Pat Turman is a successful mid-level manager and internet entrepreneur. She co-owned and operated a quarter million dollar e-retail store selling golf equipment for women, runs numerous online businesses, and manages a company with revenues of over a million dollars. She holds a BBA from an accredited University and numerous awards and certificates. To find out more on how to train a puppy visit http://www.SitSpotSit.com for all of your puppy training videos, articles, and products.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Pat_Turman

3 Secrets To Better Dog Training

2009-01-30T20:46:00.001+02:00

There are virtually as many approaches to training a dog as there are dogs to train! It seems as if every day new systems and techniques are announced or older methods are resurrected. Check a bookstore shelf or do a quick internet search and you will be overwhelmed with the number of ways people may advocate training a dog.

Despite the tremendous diversity of methods, almost every successful dog training system is premised on positive reinforcement techniques. The once frequent techniques involving intimidation, humiliation and punishment have long been abandoned in the face of growing proof of their relative ineffectiveness. All of the new, more effective, recommended means of dog training share something else in common: their effectiveness can be enhanced significantly by remembering three simple secrets.

Start Young

We've all been told a thousand times "you can't teach an old dog new tricks." That popular old saying, of course, is not entirely true. Any dog, regardless of age, can learn new things. However, like most old adages, it has been remembered because it contains a kernel of truth. Dogs, like humans, are much more receptive to learning new behaviors when young. The earlier you are able to start training your dog, the more effective the training will be.

Puppies will learn at a much faster clip and do not have ingrained behaviors that must be un-learned. Thus, any training regimen is sure to be more successful when conducted with a puppy for a subject instead of an older dog.

If you weren't able to start training a particular dog when he or she was younger, don't fret. Training is still effective for older animals. However, if you do have the chance, start training early and you'll reap the benefits of increased effectiveness.

Remain Gentle

Dogs are social animals and develop a real attachment to their owners. That attachment, in large measure, is at the heart of successful dog training. A dog who trusts his owner and who sincerely wants to please his companion is far more likely to remain attentive and compliant during the training process.

A failure to act gently jeopardizes the training program by undermining the quality of the dog/owner relationship.

Of course, aggressive behavior also runs contrary to the very foundations of most dog training techniques. Dog training is premised on the notion that positive reinforcement techniques best modify dog behavior. The interjection of inconsistent activity frustrates that process. Furthermore, there are ethical and moral concerns about mistreating an animal, in addition to the practical concerns. By making a commitment to retain gentleness throughout the training process one can insure they are consistently treating their dog appropriately.

A gentle dog owner will find himself with an ally for a trainee rather than a rival. Instead of a battle of the wills, training can become a cooperative exercise. Under those conditions, training tends to take less time and be far more effective.

Emphasize Prevention

Too often, training a dog devolves into a series of constant corrections for behaviors the owner finds unsuitable. This reduces the pleasure found in dog training as well as its overall effectiveness. A strong emphasis on preventing inappropriate behavior reduces the need for correction efforts and can help spur quick progress.

The basic goal of prevention is to intervene before a problem is created instead of simply responding to the problem. Instead of waiting for the dog to make a mistake to correct, the prevention-minded owner will keep close watch to see imminent difficulties and will intervene early to prevent them from arising in the first place.

This technique allows one to avoid spending undue time on correction and to emphasize real positively reinforced training methods, keeping a program on track and accelerating its successes. It also decreases frustration throughout the training process making it more enjoyable for both the dog and the owner.

Although there is a multitude of training strategies form which one can choose, all of them can have their effectiveness increased by adhering to the aforementioned principles. By starting early, remaining gentle and emphasizing prevention, any reasonable method of dog training can garner better results. These three secrets, if always operating in the background, serve to push the effectiveness of any training technique.

Dog Article courtesy of I-Love-Dogs

3 Common Dog Training Mistakes

2009-01-30T20:35:00.004+02:00

There are many different approaches to dog training and many different ways of implementing each of those approaches. Most techniques utilized today however, are premised upon the idea that positive reinforcement is likely to create the best results. Virtually every truly functional dog training system is outgrowth of positive reinforcement thinking.

Regardless of which specific program a dog owner may choose to adopt, there are common pitfalls that can be avoided. Dog owners are particularly susceptible to making three critical errors, which if avoided will make the training process far more enjoyable and effective. Three of the most common mistakes are inconsistency, impatience and treating the dog as a subject instead of a training partner.

Inconsistency

Consistency may be hobgoblin of little minds in terms of the need for human creativity. With respect to dog training, however, inconsistency is the quickest way to reduce the experience's effectiveness.

Dogs thrive on predictability. In fact, their ability to grasp cause and effect is at the very root of training. Operant conditioning is predicated on the fact that dogs will begin to associate events with consistent outcomes. This notion of consistency's importance must be extended to the overall process of dog training.

A dog is likely to best respond to a system in which regular actions produce regular results. Too often, dog owners fail to be entirely consistent. In the dog's mind, these lapses in regularity convey a sense of randomness to the process and make it difficult for the pet to associate his specific behaviors with specific results-the key to training. Dogs will excel when they are taught that things happen for specific reasons. When surprises occur it undermines the whole of the training process.

A successful trainer will retain consistency and will not deviate from an established course.

Impatience

There can be a great deal of frustration in dog training. Concepts we believe dogs should be able to grasp easily often escape them completely for quite some time.

We live in a world that is so often focused on immediate results. We learn to expect that our actions will be met by prompt, anticipated responses. Dog training runs counter to this societal trend toward speedy, immediate gratification. Training is an extended process that can require a great deal of patience from the trainer.

Impatience results in unpredictability on the part of the owner as they hastily cease a training session or abandon positive reinforcement techniques in hopes of finding a shortcut to desired results. Patience is, indeed, a virtue when one considers the role of the owner in a dog training situation.

A successful trainer will master developing a patient outlook throughout the extended process of dog training.

Treating The Dog As A Subject Instead Of A Partner

Dog training requires two participants: the dog and the owner. Frequently, however, owners tend to perceive the process as being uniquely about them. They fret over their techniques, equipment and strategies without giving real consideration to their training partner, the dog.

When an owner approaches the dog as a simple subject for experimentation, they lose track of what makes the dog unique and denigrate the always-important dog/owner relationship. Training becomes a chore, rather than a joint activity. What might have been a pleasurable chance for interaction becomes an un-enjoyable task.

Dogs are sufficiently intuitive to be attuned to a trainer's attitude and are less receptive to learning when they are treated merely as a subject instead of as a complete being. Owners who fail to see their pet's identity during training are unable to pick up on subtle clues and possible means to improve their techniques.

The successful trainer will treat his dog as a full partner in training, not merely as a subject.

By avoiding these three common pitfalls, a dog owner is more likely to be able to implement a training strategy that produces results. Additionally, the training experience is likely to be enjoyable for both the dog and owner, giving them a tremendous opportunity to build their relationship. Regardless of the exact methodology adopted by the owner, the training process will benefit extraordinarily from avoiding the mistakes of inconsistency, impatience and treating your pet as a subject instead of as a partner.

Dog Article courtesy of I-Love-Dogs.com

Fido Problems Dog Behavior Guide

2009-01-30T20:30:00.001+02:00

Professional "dog trainers" usually do not train the dogs, but actually train the owners how to train their own dogs. Although it is also possible to send a dog away to a training school, the owner still must at some point learn what the dog has learned and how to use it and reinforce it. Owners and dogs who attend class together have an opportunity to learn more about each other, dog behavior and how to work together under a trainer's guidance. Training is most effective if everyone who handles the dog takes part in the training to ensure consistent commands, methods, dog behavior and enforcement.

Formal training in classes is not always available until the puppy has completed all its vaccinations at around 4 months; however, some trainers offer puppy socialization classes in which puppies can enroll immediately after being placed in their permanent homes as long as disease risk is minimal and puppies have received initial vaccinations. In most cases, basic training classes accept only puppies who are at least 3 to 6 months old.

Dog Training Videos & DVD's Which One Is Right For You?

2009-01-30T19:23:00.005+02:00

Watching online dog training videos or DVD's is a fantastic way to learn how to properly train your dog.

The benefits of watching dog training videos and DVD's rather than reading or going to obedience training classes are many:

You get to clearly see and most importantly hear how professional dog trainers operate in real life situations with real dogs.
Dog obedience training classes are a very effective way to train your dog but they are expensive and can be difficult to get to.
You can start your training right now on your computer - these dog training videos are all viewable on your computer screen. No waiting for books or postage.

I've reviewed 6 of the best online dog training video & DVD courses below on this page. Please read my reviews to discover exactly what each of these dog training courses offer - and which one (if any) is best suited to your personal situation.

After studying and assessing all 5 dog training video and DVD packages I have reached an informed recommendation below.

SitStayFetch Premium - Dog Training Video / DVD Series by Daniel Stevens
Puppy Training & Dog Training Online Video's by Dove Cresswell
Instant Dog Training Videos by Debbie Jeane
Puppy N' Dog Training Secrets Online DVD's by Kevin Lynch
Dogsology Instant Expert Dog Training Video Series by Jessica Baker

1. SitStayFetch Premium Dog Training Course

$96.95 (It is a massive resource of dog training information) by Daniel Stevens, Professional Dog Trainer.

SitStayFetch Premium is a comprehensive and professional dog ownership and training package. SitStayFetch covers lots of the big picture dog ownership issues plus it details many specific dog training issues. SitStayFetch is an excellent product (by far the best of its kind), the videos are insightful and the rest of the package is all you will need to properly care for and train your dog.

It is easy to purchase and download to your computer right now - no waiting, you watch the dog training video lessons on your computer screen. The overwhelming focus of the SitStayFetch dog training package is on preventing and solving problem behaviors in your dog - and how to build and strengthen a close bond with your dog. The many free bonuses that come with the SitStayFetch Premium package contain some excellent responsible dog ownership information.

What Do You Get In The SitStayFetch Premium package?

Dog Training Video Files - 6 Comprehensive Online Dog Training DVD's

Video 1: Alpha Dog Training, by professional dog trainer Brian Heward - 59 minutes.

Discusses in detail the alpha dog concept and why it is such a crucial factor in determining the relationship you will share with your dog. This video provides a great overview of how to set up the right type of relationship with your dog - for the benefit of you both. It covers heaps of day to day living situations and also how the pack instincts of your dog affect his/her behavior. Some of the topics covered in Video 1:

What is an alpha dog, and what makes a dog become the alpha?
Why you must become the alpha dog in your dog's mind.
What you must do to become the alpha - and stay there.
How you should control your dog's environment and speak to him/her in a language they will understand.
How to successfully incorporate the "5 minute rule" and "gesture eating" into your daily schedule.
Why you should always avoid conflict with your dog - it's much more effective to use your brain instead.

Video 2: How To Stop Your Dog's Barking Problems - 35 minutes.

Barking is one of the biggest behavior problems that dog lovers are confronted with. This video addresses the many forms of problem barking in great detail.

What the different types of barking are and what causes a dog to bark excessively.
More about using alpha dog training to control your dog's barking problem.
Usable training techniques you can implement immediately to stop your dog from barking.
Are electronic barking collars a viable option?
Learn how to stop your dog from barking when you are not home, in the car, when the doorbell rings or at other dogs.

Video 3: Stop Your Dog's Barking Problems - 29 minutes.

More about how to treat your dog's barking problems. The key is to talk to your dog in a language they will understand and respond to.

How to deal with aggressive barking.
What you must do when handling a dog who has on leash aggression.
A great tip you can use to stop your dog from barking when in the car.

Video 4: How To Stop Your Dog's Biting & Chewing Problems, by Susan Morton - 55 minutes.

Excellent online DVD which covers all of the mouthing, nipping, play biting, snapping and aggressive biting issues. Includes real life case studies which is good vision to see.

Why you and everybody who comes into contact with your dog must be consistent in your training methods.
The importance of your puppy's socialization to all people, animals and the environment.
Should you desex your dog?
The best way to deal with a teething puppy.
The chew toys and food you should provide to your dog?
Dealing with obsessive behaviors, canine possession aggression and play biting.
How to respond if your dog growls at you.

Video 5: How To Stop Your Dog's Aggression, with Brian & Susan - 42 minutes.

Comprehensive online dog training video that discusses the different types of canine aggression and the various causes. These tips are long-term lifestyle changes and not a quick fix.

How to prevent aggression problems - 4 rules you should follow.
How to deal with territorial aggression, fear aggresssion and attention seeking behavior.
What to do if you have dogs in your household that fight with each other (sibling rivalry).
How to properly socialize your dog in order to prevent dog to dog aggression.
Should you use a muzzle?
Real life case studies you can learn from - including dog park etiquette.

Video 6: In Field Training - Real Life Case Studies Of Dog Training In Action - 46 minutes.

Live footage of professional dog training sessions in action. Provides a great insight into how professionals deal with specific issues - and how you can do this for yourself.

Pulling on leash: You can see with your own eyes how to prevent your dog from pulling on the leash. Includes the "random walking technique" which helps your dog to focus on you rather than on dragging you down the street.
Food bowl aggression or resource guarding: Very comprehensive video footage of treating a dog who has food bowl aggression. Includes step-by-step instruction which will set your dog up to succeed. Discusses the importance of teaching your dog in a language they will understand and the value of a technique called "gesture eating".
Aggression towards children & visitors: Is this a dominance issue or something else? Discusses the impact of playing too roughly with your dog and more great information on how to become the alpha.

Secrets To Dog Training Online Video

As part of the SitStayFetch premium upgrade package you also receive the online video called "Secrets To Dog Training". This is a great bonus which complements the other 6 dog training videos perfectly. What is covered in "Secrets To Dog Training"?

When Accidents Happen:

The importance of catching your dog in the act and rewarding successful eliminations.
Why punishment does not work.

The Alpha Dog:

Dogs are pack animals which means that they look to a leader or alpha dog for guidance.
Learn 11 easy to apply dog training techniques to establish and reinforce your authority.
Keep your dog at the right place in the family hierarchy.

Crate Training Your Dog

Excellent crate training information which will help to house train your puppy and also keep him/her safe.
Outlines 11 tips to keep in mind when using a crate including - how to choose a crate, using the dog crate properly and how to make the crate comfortable.

The Direct Method Of House Training

Discusses the best way to house train puppies and how to deal with potty mistakes.

Leash Training Your Puppy Or Older Dog

Learn how to train your dog to walk on a loose leash.
Discover why positive reinforcement is crucial to your training success.

The Paper Training Method Of House Training Your Puppy

Learn how to paper train your puppy step-by-step. Good vision detailing exactly how to paper train your puppy the right way.

House Training Or Re-House Training Tips & Techniques

11 great tips to follow when formulating your puppy house training schedule. Information includes feeding times, how to restrict your dog's movement, using the same potty place everytime and your vocal support.

The Top Dog Maintenance Program

Good information for people who live in a multi dog household. Discusses the importance of recognizing and respecting which one of your dog's is the dominant dog.

Apart From The Videos What Else Do You Get With The SitStayFetch Premium Upgrade?

SitStayFetch - Dog Training To Stop Your Dog's Behavior Problems

This is the famous best selling dog training ebook written by professional dog trainer Daniel Stevens. SitStayFetch is a professional, comprehensive and complete dog training resource of 186 pages.

SitStayFetch covers many of the topics related to responsible dog ownership. It discusses in detail how to understand your dog, how to improve the wellbeing of your dog, solving problem behaviors and teaching obedience training commands and tricks. Note: You also receive the SitStayFetch book as an audio download if you prefer to listen to all the dog training tips instead of reading them.

A Quick Guide To Dog Aggression:

28 page dog training ebook which discusses the various types of dog aggression. This ebook also outlines how to prevent aggressive behavior before it arises and how to treat established aggression problems. You'll also find out which dog breeds are more prone to aggression problems.

The Dog Grooming Book:

16 pages of dog grooming and health care information. Learn the proper techniques to keep your dog's teeth and gums healthy, how to clip your dog's nails and how to give him/her a trim. Also covers the grooming equipment you will need to do the job properly.

The Security Dog Training Book:

14 pages of protection or guard dog information. Learn how to pick the right breed for this type of job, how to select the right puppy from a litter and how to precondition your dog.

All The Latest House Training Methods & Tricks:

12 pages of step-by-step and simple to follow instructions regarding the puppy house training process. Learn about the direct method and the paper method of housebreaking and also how to correct house training problems.

Secrets To Becoming The Alpha Dog:

12 pages of subtle tips you can put in place everyday to reinforce your position as your dog's leader. Discusses the importance of working with your dog's natural instincts.

The Ultimate House Training Guide:

This is a free SitStayFetch members bonus written by Martin Olliver. This bonus is an absolute gem - the ultimate house training guide is the most complete and comprehensive guide I have ever seen on this important topic. It is 126 pages of brilliant information and pictures which addresses all of your house training questions and problems. Look out for the 10 house training rules that you must follow in order to quickly and successfully house train your puppy. This book alone is worth the price of the SitStayFetch package.

180 Gourmet Recipes For Your Dog:

202 pages of healthy recipes written by John Stanley. With all the recent concern over the dog food recalls of 2007 many dog lovers are choosing to prepare fresh wholesome homemade meals for their dogs. This is the perfect guide to follow in order to prepare healthy well balanced dog food meals and also to determine which foods you must avoid. This is another great book.

Top 20 Consultations by Daniel Stevens:

Professional dog trainer Daniel Stevens receives a ton of questions from dog owners everyday. This is Daniel's list of the top 20 questions he receives - topics include barking, digging, house training, aggression, food stealing and whining.

SitStayFetch Pro - Software Download

This is an impressive piece of software that you can easily download to your computer. SitStayFetch Pro is particularly useful for multiple dog households or for the organized dog owner. This software helps to keep track of all the important details and dates in your dog's life. You'll have important information such as your dog's registration details, date of birth, medical history, Vet appointments, worming dates and training classes at your finger tips.

Free Email Consultation With Daniel Stevens (value $120)

If you have a specific dog related question that you are struggling to solve by yourself you can email Daniel and his team for some professional help. This is a great bonus which I would encourage every SitStayFetch Premium customer to utilize.

My Conclusion On SitStayFetch Premium

For sheer quantity and quality of dog care and training advice you cannot go past SitStayFetch Premium - this package blows all of its competitors away. The SitStayFetch package is not a magic pill for all of your dog problems - but if you apply what you see, hear and learn I'm sure you will achieve great results with your dog.

Visit the SitStayFetch website - remember that the SitStayFetch Premium upgrade is what you will need to purchase in order to receive the online dog training videos and all the other great bonuses.

2. Puppy Training & Dog Training Online Video's by Dove Cresswell

$39 - Dog training online is a series of 7 clear and straight forward video lessons put together by professional Hollywood dog trainer, Dove Cresswell. I believe that Dove's video training lessons are best suited to new puppy owners. The great thing about Dove's course "Puppy Training & Dog Training Online" is that you can see and hear exactly how to train your dog - you simply copy what Dove demonstrates on the videos.

What Do You Get In Dove's Dog Training Online Video Package?

The package is made up of 7 complete dog training dvd lessons which you can watch over and over on your computer screen. The 7 video lessons are clear, easy to follow and another benefit is that there are no big ebooks that need to be printed out. You also receive 8 free bonus audio lessons when you purchase Dove's dog training resource.

Video 1: Puppy House Training / Potty Training

*This first video includes a separate section for house training toy dog breeds.

Dove explains how to set up a potty training schedule.
Discusses the delicate subject of dealing with potty training "accidents".
Learn how to use your praise and positive reinforcement to speed up the puppy house training process.
Dove advocates the use of a dog crate when housebreaking your dogs.

Video 2: Crate Training

Video 2 concentrates on using the dog crate for tasks other than house training.

Learn how to choose the right type and sized dog crate.
Why it is crucial that you don't let your dog form an association between his/her crate and something negative happening.
Proper use of a dog crate makes your puppy safe and also protects your house and belongings.
Dove discusses how to use your crate to prevent many common behavior problems.

Video 3: Basic Dog Obedience

This dog training video focusses on effective and positive obedience training methods.

Discusses the importance of using your voice and body language in the training process.
Learn when to start your dog training and how long the sessions should go for.
Learn how to teach your dog to Sit, Stay and get into the Down position.
Set your obedience training sessions up so your dog thinks his/her way through situations rather than by you physically forcing him.
Consistency is the key to your obedience training sessions.

Video 4: Walking Politely On A Loose Leash - The Informal Heel

Dog training video 4 shows you how to teach your puppy to pay attention to you while on leash.
Also learn what training tools you should and should not use when training your puppy to walk on a leash.
Simple but effective leash training techniques.

Video 5: The Recall

Train your dog to respect your "come" or recall command - first time every time.

Discover the training tools you will need when teaching the recall. This may include a long line.
Dove offers some great tips in this online DVD and suggests some problem solving strategies.

Video 6: Good Puppy & Dog Manners

This is one video most of us dog owners will need to view at some time. It offers suggestions on how to stop unacceptable behaviors such as jumping up, barking and chewing.

Shows you the "off", "leave it" and "Quiet" obedience training commands.

Video 7: Special Dog Tricks

Teaching your puppy some dog tricks is a great way to strengthen the human-dog bond that you will enjoy with your dog.

Dove explains why it is crucial that you keep your dog trick training sessions fun, positive and free from corrections.
See Dove teach the "Shake-a-Paw", "Wave", "Rollover" and "Speak" dog tricks.

What Else Do You Get In Dove's Puppy Training & Dog Training Online Video Package?

Dove has put together 8 free bonuses that are included with the 7 video lessons outlined above.

Free Email Consultation With Dove Cresswell:

This is a very valuable bonus. Any dog training related question that you have can be asked directly to Dove. Simply email your question through to her with your receipt number and she will reply with your answer. I'd advise everyone who purchases Dove's dog training course to take advantage of this bonus.

Teaching Your Dog To Fetch:

This audio lesson explains how to teach your dog to play fetch the right way. This means that your dog will bring the ball straight back to you every time.

Train Your Dog To Play Soccer:

This audio lesson teaches you how to train your dog to play soccer with you - this is one of the most enjoyable games you and your dog can play together.

Teach Your Dog To Play Hide 'n Seek:

Another fun game you can play with your energetic little beast. The "Find it" command is a great tool to use when you are leaving your dog at home.

Information On Dog Sports:

Learn about some of the other dog sports such as Agility, Fly Ball and Rally Obedience.

Choosing The Right Toys For Your Dog:

Dove explains which toys are safe and ones that will keep your dog busy while you are away from home. Kong toys are a good choice - with frozen peanut butter stuffed inside.

Earning Your Dog's Respect:

Dove explains how you must reinforce your position as the leader of your dog. She outlines a few simple exercises you can implement for this purpose.

Choosing The Right Dog Food & Treats:

Dog food nutrition is a very important subject. Dove outlines exactly what to look for when choosing your dog's kibble (and what to avoid).

My Conclusion On Dove's Online Dog Training DVD Course

Good dog training course which is straight forward, clear and easy to follow - Dove explains the lessons very well. This product covers the basic training issues well and the main benefit is that you get to hear the right way to use your voice in training situations. There is no unnecessary filler included in Dove's course which is a nice change from similar training programs. As I mentioned earlier, I believe Dove's training videos are probably best suited to people with a young puppy.

Go to Dove's Puppy Training & Dog Training Online Videos .

3. Instant Dog Training Videos

By Professional Dog Trainer Debbie Jeane - $47

Another good dog training video course. The lessons focus on solving problem behavior in your dogs - they are well thought out and easy to follow. Debbie talks you through each lesson and does provide some footage of her techniques in real life situations with her dogs.

This package is a series of 10 online dog training DVD's with a written transcript to back up each lesson.

Video 1: Housebreaking Your Dog

Debbie stresses the need for consistency in your potty training and the correct use of rewards.
Learn how to take your puppy outside to his/her potty spot.
Discusses how to properly use a dog crate in the puppy housebreaking process.
Also shows you how to deal with potty accidents and what you must avoid doing.

Video 2: Jumping Up On People

Shows you exactly how to stop your dog from jumping up on people.
Outlines how to teach your dog the correct way to greet people.
Ignoring the jumping up behavior is one technique that works well - the only time your dog receives attention from you is when he/she has 4 feet firmly planted on the ground.

Video 3: Dog Barks Too Much

Debbie explains which dog breeds may be more susceptible to barking problems.
Demonstrates some techniques you can apply to put an end to excessive barking problems.
Explains how barking is a "self rewarding behavior" to your dog - this can make it a difficult habit to break.
Train your dog to bark on command.

Video 4: Pulling On Leash

Debbie explains why you must stop the tug of war.
Pulling on the leash is another self rewarding behavior to your dog - you must put a stop to it.
Most importantly you need to ensure that you don't inadvertently reward your dog's pulling behavior.

Video 5: Dog Not Coming When Called

Discover how to make coming to you a positive thing to your dog everytime.
Learn how to make yourself the center of the universe in your dog's mind.
Debbie outlines some very clever tips in this video.

Video 6: Nipping & Biting Problems

Learn how to educate your dog in regard to bite inhibition.
Discover how to prevent or put a stop to puppy mouthing.
Debbie shows you how to teach the "out" obedience training command - this is a good one.

Video 7: Stop Your Dog From Running Away

Learn how to keep your dog safely at home in his/her yard.
Discover how to properly teach the "recall" obedience training command.

Video 8: Dog Chewing On Things

Discusses some training techniques you can apply to stop your dog from chewing on your items.
Provide some good chew toys like Nylabones and Kongs.
Keep your personal household items out of your dog's reach.

Video 9: Problems With Digging

Debbie discusses why boredom is the number 1 reason for your dog's digging problems.
One technique is to put some feces in the problem area and also provide a digging spot.

Video 10: Nervous Or Shy Dogs

This can be an inherited trait which is hard to overcome.
Learn how to approach and deal with a nervous puppy or older dog.

My Conclusion On The Instant Dog Training Videos Course

Good dog training video lessons - Debbie has a straight forward, no-nonsense style. She obviously has great confidence in her techniques and doesn't feel the need to complicate the training process. This course would best suit dog owners who have a dog that is displaying one or more of the behavior problems covered in the 10 online DVD lessons.

Go to Debbie's Instant Dog Training Videos .

4. Puppy 'N Dog Training Secrets

By Kevin Lynch - $47

Very comprehensive dog training course. Focusses heavily on the alpha dog principles. This training package consists of 9 downloadable video lessons and a great selection of dog training ebooks. I feel that the value in Puppy 'n Dog Training Secrets is in the bonus ebooks - there are some real gems included.

Instinct Vs Man Dog Training DVD's

The 9 video lessons are an animation or cartoon like production with audio over the top. You won't see any real live dogs in these videos.

Video 1: Introduction

Learn how to think like your dog and communicate to him/her in a language he will understand.
Video 1 is all about building a healthy and productive relationship with your dog.
Stresses the importance of working with your dog's natural instincts.

Video 2: General Interaction

There is a strong emphasis on becoming and staying the alpha dog in your human-dog relationship. You must make it clear that you are the boss or pack leader.
Learn some training steps and exercises which will set you up as the dominant one in your human-dog relationship.
Always respect that your dog is a pack animal.

Video 3: Playtime

Learn why you should always initiate playtime - not the other way around.
Warns against playing tug-of-war games (alpha dog or dominance issue).
Learn how to teach your dog how to play fetch.

Video 4: Discipline

Discover the right way and the wrong way to discipline your dog.
The tone of your voice is a crucial ingredient in the dog training process.
You'll find out that dogs learn through association.
Learn why you should never use physical force to discipline your puppy.

Video 5: Food & Eating

Learn why food is such a good motivator to your dog.
Discusses why you should control your dog's feeding time and why you should always eat before your dog.
Learn how to use tasty treats in your dog training sessions.

Video 6: Sleeping

Learn that your dog sleeps most of the day when you are out.
Discover why exercise is important for your dog's sleep cycle.

Video 7: Territory

Discusses urinating to mark territory and why it is so important to your dog.
Learn about food aggression and why they will most likely test you at some stage.
Dogs learn heaps from the scent of urine - it is a source of pride to them.

Video 8: Breed Behavior

Researching your breed of choice is a crucial long term decision. Every breed has there own unique traits and characteristics.
Some breeds are more prone to certain problem behavior such as barking, digging and chewing.
Always try to work with your dog's natural instincts.

Video 9: Obedience Training

Learn all the ins and outs of using hand signals in your training sessions.
Discover the right way to teach the "sit" command using positive reinforcement training methods.
Teach "Down", "Stay" and "Come" using the lure and reward training technique.
This video covers heaps of obedience training topics but does not go into great detail.

What Else Comes In The Puppy 'N Dog Training Secrets Video Package?

There is some great information and value contained in these bonuses - in my opinion more value than the online dog training video presentation.

Puppy 'N Dog Training Secrets - The Main Book by Kevin Lynch

Good dog ownership manual - plenty of useful responsible dog ownership information. Covers a wide range of topics including how your dog thinks, when you should start training, house and crate training and many obedience training commands. 104 pages of valuable dog training information and tips.

House Training Made Easy

Good little quick reference guide for puppy house training issues. It is a 4 page ebook which shows you the right way to set up your dog's living area, how to choose a potty area and when you should give praise to your puppy.

10 Cool Tricks You See In The Movies

This ebook contains 10 fun and easy tricks to teach your dog. Learn how to train the "wave", "speak" and "play dead" dog tricks. Tricks are explained but not in great detail.

Dogs And All About Them

This is a nice bonus. This ebook is 280 pages long and was written by Robert Leighton. It includes a good chapter about the history of dogs and also features detailed descriptions of most purebreed dogs (dalmations, golden retrievers, beagles etc..). Plus you'll find some great explanations and treatment advice for many common dog ailments.

Secrets To A Healthy & Happy Pooch

This is the best ebook in the Puppy 'N Dog Training Secrets package. It is 91 pages of dog nutrition and general health care advice. You'll learn heaps about puppy selection, skeletal and skin health, dental advice, tips on first aid for your dog and an excellent dog food analysis. All dog owners will learn something from reading this great book.

101 Ways To Spoil Your Dog For Under $10

Another valuable ebook written by Kevin Lynch (48 pages). It outlines some great activities you and your dog can do together to strengthen the relationship you share. Your dog will love it if you implement some of these cheap (or even free) tips.

180 Delicious Gourmet Dog Recipes

Written by Kevin Lynch. This is 199 pages chock full of tasty dog food recipes. This book is one of the best tools I have seen for dog lovers who choose to prepare wholesome homemade dog food. You will be able to feed you dog forever using this great resource.

The Complete Open Obedience Course

96 pages written by Blanche Saunders. Another excellent ebook for more advanced obedience training commands such as heeling, drop on recall, take it, dumbbell work and hurdle work. Great information for obedience training enthusiasts.

20 Natural And Healthy Recipes

Some more holistic and natural dog food recipes written by Kevin Lynch. Contains some especially good kibble recipes.

My Conclusion On The Puppy 'N Dog Training Secrets Package

Puppy 'N Dog Training Secrets is a good dog ownership resource which is suitable for all dog owners. As I mentioned earlier I feel that the value in this package is in the ebooks. This dog training course is suitable for all dog owners whether you have a young puppy or an older dog who you believe could use some training!

Go to the Puppy 'N Dog Training Secrets website for more information.

5. Dogsology Instant Expert Dog Training Video Series

$48 - From Jessica Baker

Please note that this package is very similar to the Puppy 'N Dog Training Package which I have reviewed above.

The 9 online dog training videos or DVD's in this Dogsology package are exactly the same as the ones in the Puppy 'N Dog Training Secrets package. They are a cartoon like animation with an audio voice over. Please read the above review for my thoughts on the online dog training DVD's.

The Dog Lovers Dream Reference Book

This is the same book titled "Secrets To A Healthy & Happy Pooch" which I discussed in the Puppy 'N Dog Training Secrets review above. Good ebook covering nutrition and basic health care.

Fun Activities With Your Dog

Some good fun activities to help you bond with your dog. Learn about fly ball, herding, agility and hiking.

The Complete Dog Owners Guide

Covers all the basic dog ownership and training information - doesn't go into much detail.

180 Delicious Gourmet Dog Recipes

Excellent ebook which is the same as the book with the same name in Puppy 'N Dog Training Secrets.

More Than 100 Ways To Pamper Your Dog

Same as the ebook in Puppy 'N Dog Training Secrets - has some good tips in it.

20 Healthy & Natural Dog Recipes

Once again this is the same ebook as the Puppy 'N Dog Training Secrets one. Some excellent healthy dog food recipes.

My Conclusion On The Dogsology Dog Training Course

Dogsology Instant Expert Dog Training Video Series is a decent package but Puppy 'N Dog Training Secrets is superior and therefore better value for money.

Go to the Dogsology Instant Expert Dog Training Series website.

My Conclusion And Recommendation

SitStayFetch Premium is the best package for its sheer quality and quantity of information - it blows the competition away (it is more expensive though).

Ebook Review

2009-01-30T18:56:00.008+02:00

Canis Clicker Training Academy - Ebook Review

ClickerTraining: The 4 Secrets To Becoming A Supertrainer

Ebook Review: Conducted on November 21, 2008 by Chris Smith

Straight off the top I'm going to give myself up here. I'll let you in on the fact that this is a fantastic dog training tool. Clickertraining: The 4 Secrets Of Becoming A Supertrainer is a much needed and long overdue training guide for those of us who like to use positive, non violent, reward based dog training methods.

I'm sure this clicker training package is going to be a big hit with dog lovers worldwide. The authors Morten Egtvedt and Cecilie Koeste have put together a great resource which covers in detail the history, principles, theory and practical application of clicker training techniques. They have found the right balance between educating the reader and also providing clear and concise step-by-step instruction.

What Is Covered In Clickertraining: The 4 Secrets Of Becoming A Supertrainer

The short answer is "a whole lot". The book contains more than 200 pages of expert advice and easy to follow clicker training examples. You can view a more comprehensive list of contents and features on the Canis Clicker Training Academy website.

Some of the more beneficial information I personally gained from this clicker training download are:

A great overview and explanation of the scientific principles behind clicker training. These methods have been tested and proven time and time again in the animal training world. The best thing about them is that they work - far more effectively than any other dog traininig techniques I have come across.
The 7 different ways your dog learns - and how to use this to your advantage.
The overwhelming focus of this method is on teaching and reinforcing your dog's desirable behaviors rather than on punishing those that are undesirable. This is in contrast to many dog training technique you may have employed in the past - and your dog will be very pleased with this.
There's a great piece on how to properly motivate your dog/s. Finding and using the right motivation for your dog is absolutely crucial to your success as a clicker trainer.
How to correctly introduce the clicker to your dog - what they call "charging the clicker".
Easy to follow step-by-step instruction on several behaviors/commands such as sit, down and the retrieve. There's actually 30 different behaviors covered in detail within Clickertraining: The 4 Secrets Of Becoming A Supertrainer. Plus once you learn the underlying theory behind clicker training you can pretty much train your dog to do anything you desire.
As well as the downloadable ebook you also receive 4 clicker training videos which you can view online. These videos are an excellent tool because you actually get to see some real life clicker training exercises conducted by professional clicker trainers. This vision helps to clarify the clicker training process in quick time.

The Video Above Provides A Brief Introduction To Clicker Training

Who Is This Clicker Training Package For?

Basically I'd recommend this training resource to anyone who wishes to improve the behavior of their dog/s. Alternatively if you are in the process of just bringing a new puppy into your life, this book would be most beneficial (you'll be very glad you found it).

Whether you are a complete newbie or have years of experience with other types of dog training methods (like me), Clickertraining: The 4 Secrets Of Becoming A Supertrainer will prove to be a highly valuable resource.

You can visit the website here - (www.clickertrainingacademy.com)

SitStayFetch - Dog Training Book To Stop Your Dog's Behavior Problems!

2009-01-30T18:31:00.004+02:00

SitStayFetch is one of the most comprehensive and complete dog ownership tools I have found. Let me say upfront I am a big fan of this Dog Training Package. I was very happy when I discovered it and have used it with great effect on my own dogs ever since.

SitStayFetch is well over 150 pages chock full of all the latest dog training methods and techniques. This, along with the 7 free bonus books that come with it cover every aspect of responsible dog ownership and training.

From before you bring home your new puppy or older dog, right through to advanced obedience training, it seems nothing has been left out of SitStayFetch. If you have a specific question or problem that isn't addressed you can even email the author Daniel Stevens for the answer! (This is another free bonus that comes with the SitStayFetch package).

Daniel, who is a professional dog trainer clearly knows his stuff, he has a deep understanding of how dogs think, and what motivates them to do what they do.

What You Get In The SitStayFetch Package

I purchased the SitStayFetch Premium Package in January 2008. Below is a list of the resources I received for instant download - complete with my review.

SitStayFetch - Dog Training To Stop Your Dog's Behavior Problems

175 pages jam packed with dog care and obedience training advice. It also includes more than 100 photographs which prove to be a great visual learning tool. The book is very detailed and descriptive and offers clear step-by-step solutions to your dog issues. The main books broken up into 9 separate chapters, which I discuss in more detail below. Please note that the SitStayFetch ebook is now also included as an audio download when you purchase this package - listen on your computer or ipod!

Bonus Book 1 - A Quick Guide To Dog Aggression

This is a very thorough 28 page ebook. It discusses the various types of dog aggression, how to prevent aggression and how to treat established aggression problems. You'll also learn which dog breeds are more prone to showing aggression.

Bonus Book 2 - All The House Training Methods and Tricks

Everything you need to know to quickly and successfully house train (potty train) your new puppy or even older dog. The two most effective methods of house training are discussed and described in detail. Includes step-by-step instructions and how to correct house training problems.

Bonus Book 3 - Secrets To Becoming The Alpha Dog

One of the key areas to learn and apply if you want a happy and obedient dog. This e-book is based around dogs having developed as pack animals and how you need to maintain the proper hierarchy in the owner-dog relationship. I found this part of SitStayFetch to be most beneficial in curbing some dominant/aggressive behavior in my Dalmation, Harrison. You'll learn some subtle but highly effective tips you can apply every day in order to establish and maintain a healthy relationship with your dog.

Bonus Book 4 - Dog Grooming Made Easy

This book explores the different bathing, grooming, dental and clipping techniques needed to keep your dog looking and feeling in peak condition. There are also some very useful tips in this book on detecting early signs that something may be wrong with your dog. Good for Labradors and Golden Retrievers.

Bonus Book 5 - Tips On How To Security Train Your Dog

It goes without saying that if you are considering training your dog to be a guard dog, you need to do it the right way. This book outlines the correct methods needed to security train your dog. Includes how to choose the right breed for the job, selecting the right puppy from a litter and how to precondition your dog.

Bonus Book 6 - The Ultimate House Training Guide

This is 126 pages of gold. Written by Martin Olliver this ebook is the most complete and comprehensive house training guide I have ever seen. This book covers everything imaginable including the correct way to use a crate, ring the bell to go potty, heaps of pictures and ten rules you must follow in the puppy house training process. In my opinion this ebook alone is worth the purchase price of SitStayFetch Premium.

Bonus Book 7 - 180 Gourmet Recipes For Your Dog

This is one of my favorite ebooks in the entire package. With all the publicity and concern with the dog food recall of 2007 many dog lovers are choosing to prepare fresh homemade dog food meals. This book outlines an enormous amount of wholesome dog food recipes and also lists the foods you must avoid feeding. This is a great resource of 202 pages.

Bonus Book 8 - Top 20 Consultations, by Daniel Stevens

Professional dog trainer Daniel Stevens receives a ton of questions everyday from dog owners around the world. This ebook is a list of the 20 most common questions. These include questions regarding barking, digging, house training, aggression, food stealing and puppy whining.

Bonus 9 - Free Email Consultation With Daniel

This is a great add-on to the SitStayFetch package, it can be used for any specific dog related query you may have. Whether you are struggling to correct a behavioral problem or would like to teach your dog a new trick, you can use this consultation to find the answer. I actually used this free service to fix a destructive chewing habit my mum's Shih Tzu had developed. It took a couple of days to receive a reply from Daniel (or one of his team) but it was very thorough and did the trick with little Macy (our Shih Tzu).

Bonus 10 - SitStayFetch Pro Software

With the SitStayFetch Premium package you receive this valuable software download. Sit Stay Fetch Pro will help you keep track of all the important details and dates in your dog's life. Things like registration details, date of birth, medical history, vet appointments and training sessions can all be accessible to you at the touch of a button. This is a great bonus for the organized dog owner or for an owner of more than one dog.

Bonus 11 - Secrets To Dog Training Online Video

This is another valuable aspect of the SitStayFetch Premium package. You can watch these online videos on your computer screen. Topics covered in this video are puppy house training, alpha dog training, crate training, leash training and a top dog maintenance program.

This online dog training video includes some excellent dog ownership tips and tricks - provides some real video demonstrations.

Bonus 12 - 6 Comprehensive Dog Training Video Files

As part of the SitStayFetch Premium Package you receive these online dog training DVDs - put together by professional dog trainers Brian Heward and Susan Morton. These video files are an instant download which can be viewed right now on your computer screen.

There is close to 5 hours of dog training interviews and real life demonstration included in these 6 video files.

The 6 videos are:

sitstayfetch dog training

1. Alpha Dog Training:

* The importance of you becoming the alpha dog in your human-dog relationship.
* What you must do to become the alpha.
* Learn how your dog thinks and learn to talk to him/her in a language they understand.
* Why you should avoid conflict with your dog.

2. How To Stop Your Dog From Barking:

* Learn the different types of barking.
* Discover the causes that trigger excessive barking.
* Learn how to solve problem barking in any situation - in the car, barking at family members, when doorbell rings and at other dogs.
* Dealing with on leash aggression.

3. How To Stop Your Dog's Biting & Chewing Problems:

* Learn how to deal with puppy mouthing, nipping, play biting and snapping.
* The importance of puppy socialization.
* Canine possession aggression or food aggression.
* How to deal with a teething puppy.
* Which chew toys are safe and what you should feed your dog.

4. How To Stop Dog Aggression Part 1:

* How to prevent aggression.
* How to deal with fear aggression.
* 4 rules you should follow to prevent dog aggression.
* How to deal with 2 dogs fighting in the same household.
* Real life case studies.

5. How To Stop Dog Aggression Part 2:

* The importance of puppy socialization.
* Proper dog park etiquette.
* Dealing with Separation Anxiety.
* These are lifestyle changes rather than a "quick fix".

6. In Field Training:

* Real life case studies of dog training in action.
* Pulling on the leash - a great "random walking" technique.
* Food bowl aggression - set your dog up to succeed.
* Aggresssion towards children - is it a dominance issue?

Topics Covered Within SitStayFetch

As I mentioned earlier Sit Stay Fetch really is the complete dog ownership and training resource. It's not really fair of me if I detail every topic Daniel has included in the books, but I'll just outline the 9 Chapters that provide the book's framework.

1. It's A Dogs Life
2. Caring for Your Dog
3. Training Methods Revealed
4. Secrets To Understanding Your Dog
5. Dog Problems Solved
6. Commands To Start With
7. Dog Whispering Uncovered
8. More Dog Problems Solved
9. Advanced Commands and Tricks

Some specific tips in SitStayFetch which I have personally found to be very useful:

* Daniel discusses and explains many of the dog training techniques and methods being used today. He then picks out a couple which he believes to be superior to the others. He bases this on personal experience and most importantly results. A relatively new technique called Dog Whispering receives a strong endorsement from Daniel.

* The right age to start your dog off with the various commands and techniques is also covered in detail. For example it is important to start your young puppies off with very basic obedience commands and short sharp training sessions. At this early stage in your puppies life anything else is pointless.

* Another great insight Daniel gives is that you should never call your dog over to reprimand him. The reason for this is because dogs need to be praised or disciplined within two or three seconds of their action (or inaction). So if your dog is disobedient, then you call him over to discipline him, he will think you are angry at him for coming to you. He will have forgotten all about the thing you are actually trying to discipline him for.

The list of Dog Problems addressed in SitStayFetch is extensive and is backed by real lifecase studies:

* Aggression
* Thieving
* Biting and Nipping
* Travel Problems
* Coprophagia (poop eating)
* 2 Dogs In The House
* Destructive Behavior
* A Death In The Family
* Digging Holes
* Bad Breath
* Disobedience
* Cat Chaser
* Dominance Aggression
* Flatulence
* Fear of the Leash
* Fleas
* Fights Between Dogs
* Hot Weather And Heatstroke
* Nuisance Barking
* Jealousy
* Off-Leash Problems
* Jumping On Furniture
* Jumping On People
* Worms

These are the Obedience Training Commands and Tricks Explained in Sit Stay Fetch:

* Come (Recall)
* Roll Over
* Sit Stage 1
* Seek (Find)
* Okay and No
* Training Program
* Hold and Leave
* Advanced Sit and Stay
* Sit Stage 2
* Advanced Seek (Find)
* Sit and Stay
* Beg
* Down (Drop)
* Fetch (Retrieve)
* Heel Stage 1
* Catch
* Heel Stage 2
* Shake
* Heel Stage 3
* Climb
* Stand
* Crawl
* Wait
* Jump

What Type of Dog Owner Would Benefit Most from SitStayFetch?

The easy answer is probably - any responsible dog owner. But more specifically:

1. Anyone who is just about to get a new puppy or has just recently brought one into their family. If you bought SitStayFetch at this stage you would be able to use it immediately and right throughout your dogs life. It will help prevent any behavioral problems and correct any which may develop along the way.

2. Anyone interested in addressing a specific behavioral problem in their dog. This type of user would go straight to the relevant section of SitStayFetch and begin to remedy the problem immediately (or even use the free email consultation).

3. For a dog owner who wishes to teach their dog a difficult or advanced level command.

My Experience With SitStayFetch

I read the books from cover to cover when I first downloaded them (and watched the online videos). I picked up heaps of useful and useable tips right from the start. I was soon applying the recommended dog training techniques and have now had great results with my own and family's dogs. Even now, if one of my dogs looks to be developing any behavioral problems I reach for my copy of Sit Stay Fetch.

You can learn more about Daniel Stevens and Sit Stay Fetch here.

How to Manage Your Dog's Energy

2009-01-29T16:10:00.002+02:00

The body of any animal has two basic energy systems. The nervous system (which includes the brain, the spinal cord, and all the neurons, axons, and dendrites), and the emotional system (limbic system, endocrine glands, sexual and sensory organs). Both types of energy are necessary. For instance you can obtain a great deal of knowledge about a person's internal organs through an MRI machine: a magnetic resonance imaging. But it doesn't work unless you plug it into the wall first.

So it turns out that most dogs who act out, bark too much, get into the garbage, don't get along with other dogs, or just generally "have too much energy," actually DO. They actually have too much electrical energy running through their bodies. And it seems to me that there are four basic ways to use, manage, control, and modulate your dog's natural energy in training.

First let's talk about the differences between electrical energy (neediness) and magnetism (desire).

We all have survival needs, and the survival instinct exists to ensure that we act to protect ourselves from danger, drink when we're thirsty, eat when we're hungry, etc., etc. Sometimes, however, we attach survival feelings to something unrelated to our actual survival needs. How many times do we tell ourselves that we "need" to get to work on time, or that we "need" a raise or a new car. Another example is the kid, like Ralphie in The Christmas Story, who thinks he'll die if he doesn't get the air rifle he wants for Christmas. When we attach needinesssurvival energyto non-essential things it screws us up, it puts stress on our bodies and actually makes us less efficient at getting what we really need. It also makes us feel unconnected from our co-workers, whocome onaren't going to kill us if we're late to work, or our bosses, who are not going to kill us, and it makes us feel like our parents "don't understand" us when they say it won't kill us to not get exactly what we want for Christmas.

But what do we say? "You don't understand! If I don't get it I'll die!"

Yet, here we are. We're all still alive.

On the other hand, when you have a strong desire for somethingand I mean pure desire, without any neediness attachedyou often feel a sense of steadiness and calm as if your desire has created a direct link between you and whatever it is you want so deeply. You are connected.

Desire is governed by the sex instinct; never mind the actual act of mating, the sex instinct governs the creative

aspects of life, in all its forms. When you're in a state of pure desire you almost know you'll get what you want eventually, you have new, unexpectedly creative ideas on how to do things. And if you hold on to that feeling of desirethat fire in the bellyit will almost always bring some kind of positive results. It sets things in motion. This is what I mean when I say that desire has a kind of magnetic energy.

So electric energy runs your survival needs; it has a choppy feel, it makes you feel alone, disconnected, it's chronological, meaning it makes you feel the pressure of time, and it also causes the bad kind of stress on the body. Magnetic energy is desire; it has a smooth rhythm to it, it makes you feel connected, it's timeless, and creates mostly the good kind of stress.

I think this is a helpful model in learning how to manage your dog's energy. And as I see it, there are four basic ways to do that.

The Four Ways to Handle Your Dog's Energy

One: Give your dog a satisfying "ground wire" to offload excess energy.

Ground wires include playing tug-of-war or fetch with your dog, giving him lots of play sessions with other dogs, the "eyes" exercise (found on my blog), some types of massage, and even taking your dog on long walks in nature. (Believe it or not, trees and grass are natural ground wires for a dog's energy.)

A lot of what I "know" about this stuff is intuitive or comes from my subconscious mind. I'll give you an example: The other night I had a session with a new client. They've got a pit bull named Latte who was found on the street, emaciated, over a year ago. She's reportedly been a lovely girl since then, very affectionate indoors, very obedient and willing to learn, but she's started exhibiting occasional leash aggression recently.

When I came in and sat down, she was unable to settle down. We tried giving her a bone or a ball, but nothing seemed to work, so while I was discussing options, describing the possible source of the dog's behavioral problems, and she was still at it, trying to jump all over me, I put my fingers between her teeth, hoping to give her a chance to ground her energy by mouthing my hand. She pulled away, zipped around the room a little, then settled next to me on the couch again and kind of "sneaked" in close and started to nibble my fingers, hoping I wouldn't notice. I let her do that. Five minutes later she was sound asleep.

I actually didn't even notice all this as it happened; that kind of thing happens a lot with the dogs I work with and my mind is usually busy with other things. But in a subsequent conversation with her owner, she told me she thought it was amazing that Latte had been so relaxed that she'd fallen asleep next to me on the couch. That's when I remembered what I'd done with my fingers, and by doing that what I had given the dog permission to do, which was to use me as a ground wire. That's why she fell asleep right next to me.

Two: Upgrade the dog's "wiring/hardware."

This will give your dog a better ability to handle his excess energy levels on his own. Instead of just plugging him into a ground wire (like a tug rag or a tennis ball), this would be similar to replacing old corroded wiring with newer, stronger, thicker wires. It's also analogous to removing emotional blocks. This is where what's called the pushing exercise (found on my blog) comes in handy. Also, certain training exercises where the dog has to change emotional gears quicklythings like the "off-lead heel" or the "down-while-running" and conflict training (found on my blog)would also fall into this category. They make the dog's energy system more productive and less wasteful.

Finally, the fasting exercise, described in Kevin Behan's book, Natural Dog Training, and what I call the Frankenstein exercisewhere you pretend to "stalk" your dog until she barks at you, then you run awayis also helpful at removing emotional blocks in the dog's system and getting it to run smoother. Kevin Behan has a couple of versions of the Frankenstein exercise, described on Neil Sattin's blog.

Three: Drain the battery/shut down the system.

This is where a crate comes in handy. Another thing that helps is NOT feeding into the dog's nervousness. That's part of what worked with Latte the other night. If I had reacted to her energy with any kind of "dominance" or fear, she would've had even more trouble settling down. If you're not reacting to your dog's behavior in a stressful way, she'll have no excess energy to feed off and will be able to calm down much quicker.

Four: Provide a transformer.

This is where praising the dog to settle his nerves works wonders. When a dog has too much nervous energy and you praise him, this will often help him relax. I've described this in more detail (excruciating detail, some might argue) in my article on using praise as a correction (on my blog). But in terms of energy exchange it works like this: the dog is nervous (electric energy), praise makes him feel connected to you (magnetic energy)you've transformed that excess buzzing of electrical energywhich eventually has to find a way to ground itselfinto smooth magnetism, which has more of a gentle, steady hum to it. Make sense? It may seem crazy to praise a dog while he's supposedly misbehaving, but in most cases it actually works much better than saying no because it changes the dog's emotional (or energetic) state.

For nervous dogs who can't pay attention, you can sometimes nterrupt the flow of electricity by applying light shocks on the collar, a well-timed throw chain, etc.; all of these things have a tendency, when applied to an overly nervous dog to shift her focus from choppy/disconnected/solo mood type behaviors to something more like a group mood feeling. Again, you have to be very careful and not apply too much pressure or you'll get the opposite result. So if you don't know what you're doing don't use or rely too much on these methods.

I hope this helps you understand the basic premise of how this modelof the dog as an energy systemworks.

Dog Training Secrets

2009-01-29T15:52:00.000+02:00

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How To Train Your Dog To Be Obedient Video

2009-01-29T15:37:00.000+02:00

Dog Behavior & Training:How To Train Your Dog To Be Obedient

Learn how to train your dog to be obedient. The Head of Training at Battersea Dogs and Cat's Home, Ali Taylor, takes you through the technique to improve your dogs obedience.

Step 1:: When and how to reward; Reward your dog all the time for movements in the right way, then for the whole action, then for best attempts. Rewards can be food in the form of treats or part of your dog's dinner, praise, or a toy or game. Remember it is only a reward if your dog wants it.
Step 2:: Self Control; This exercise will teach your dog to hold back from taking a reward. Put a treat in your hand and hold it out to the dog in a closed fist. Don't give it to your dog if he touches your fist or is persistent in any way, instead raise your hand and say LEAVE. When he eventually stops trying to get at it, say 'take it' by moving your hand towards your side in a flat palm and let it have the reward.
Step 3:: Walking on a loose lead; This exercise will help stop your dog pulling on its lead. Decide which side your dog will walk on and how far in front you are prepared to let it go. Get your dog to sit as you put the lead on. With your dog sitting at your side, set off. If it goes too far ahead, stop and encourage it back with a titbit. Keep talking to the dog to hold it's attention and motivate it to stay with you. Once your dog is happy walking near to you, practice without a lead in a secure area.; Remember to make learning fun. Your dog will respond more quickly and won't be afraid to try again if you make a mistake.

Dog Behavior And Training video

2009-01-29T15:27:00.000+02:00

Dog Behavior & Training: Dog Behavior And Training

How do I interpret my dog's body language?

Contrary to popular belief, a wagging tail is not always a sign of a dog who's happy – they can be wagging their tail and biting somebody – so you have to read the whole dog. Basically you look at the dog and you say, "OK, is the dog leaning forward or is the dog leaning backward?" If he's leaning forward, he's more aggressive, more aroused, and more confident. If the dog is leaning backward, meaning the ears are back, then the whole demeanour is backward, and that's a more fearful dog. That's a really good tip on how to read a dog in general: forward or backward.

What is the best age to teach my dog tricks and commands?

The day you get your dog is the day you start training you dog, whether that's at 7 or 8 weeks old, 8 or 9 years old; it doesn't matter. The day you get your dog is the day you start working with your dog.

How do I housebreak my dog?

The most important thing to think about when housebreaking a dog is prevention. You shouldn't give the dog the chance to make an accident in the house. Yet the reverse side is you take them outside, and you praise them like gold is coming out of their body. So you're teaching potty on the command, “good potty, good potty” as they are actually going potty. Therefore you prevent and you praise.

How do I get my dog to stop barking at the front door?

Dogs are naturally territorial and it's in their nature to bark at the front door if somebody's coming to greet you. What I do when they bark at the front door, is I say, "Thank you for letting me know an intruder's coming in," and then I teach "quiet", so a quiet command is imperative. I might also use different techniques such as maybe having the dog on a leash, using a spritz of breath spray, which is a deterrent, and saying "quiet". But I also acknowledge the dog for letting me know that there's an intruder by barking at the front door. But once they've become accepted, they need to be come quiet. "Quiet" is the command.

How do I teach my dog that I am the "boss"?

A dog needs to know that you are the mum, the authority figure, the person, and they like it. It's something that people have to come to terms with - the fact that dogs like it. It makes the dogs feel comfortable. The ways you can do that are by making the dog earn its food. No food for free, no free lunch. We make the dog earn praise. Before petting it, make the dog sit, lie down, or do something simple. It's very easy to get the dog to understand that you are its leader, and they want to be lead.

What is the difference between "negative" and "positive" training?

The difference between “negative” and “positive” training, is that in the old days, dog training came out of the military and so it's very punitive. If the dog didn't sit they would choke them in a choke chain. We learned since then that dogs are able to learn as early as six, seven, or eight weeks old. So, we use positive reinforcement to train dogs, meaning we use their food to train them; we make them work for their food. Dogs are much happier to do that than be choked by a choke chain.

What is the best way to discipline my dog?

Disciplining your dog has to do with who your dog is and its sensitivity level. Sometimes just a sharp command of "off" or "quiet" can do the trick. Sometimes, depending on the age of the dog, you might do an old-fashioned leash correction. You might do a muzzle grab. You might use breath spray. There are many, many ways to discipline your dog, but we need to make sure that the dog understands and takes the discipline seriously.

When should I begin to socialize my dog?

Socialisation begins at birth. The dog is socialised to the world - it's handled. So, socialisation is an ongoing process that never ends. It never ends.

Abnormal Dog Behavior video

2009-01-29T15:20:00.000+02:00

Dog Behavior & Training: Abnormal Dog Behavior

What is considered "abnormal" behavior for a dog?

There's not a lot of abnormal behaviour for dogs. Dogs act in ways that we don't accept as humans. A lot of times it's normal for the dog but it's not okay for us. However, if you're talking about seriously abnormal behaviour in dogs, we would be talking about things such as seriously excessive barking, excessive fear, and excessive aggression. These are abnormal if they get to the point where the dog simply can't function in society.
What causes abnormal behavior in dogs?

Abnormal behavior in dogs can be caused by two things, it's the old nature versus nuture debate. Possibly the dog was born that way. More likely the dog has abnormal behavior because of a lack of social skills given to the dog initially, a lack of exercise, and a lack of proper care and training. These are all ways that you can create a dog who is abnormally functioning in the world.
How long should I wait to talk to a professional trainer about my dog's abnormal behavior?

The second that thought crosses your mind, you should call a professional trainer. However, it's really imperative that you get in touch with a positive trainer. The Association of Pet Dog Trainers is available, APDT.com, and they will help you to find someone who's a positive trainer in your area. A positive trainer is simply somebody who uses motivational methods as opposed to punitive, harsh methods.

Can abnormal behavior be corrected in older dogs?

Abnormal behaviour can be corrected in older dogs depending on the severity of the situation. You can teach an old dog new tricks. However, it's really important that we take into consideration how long the dog has been doing the behaviour and what the behaviour is. They're all different; they're just like humans.

How do I prevent my dog from acting overly timid?

A dog that is timid or fearful is a dog that needs to be helped through the situations that he is fearful of. For example, if you have a dog that's fearful of children, every time that dog sees a child, you pair the child with food; not as food, with food. So, the dog sees the child, he gets a titbit, and he comes to realize that children are no threat. In fact, they come bearing gifts.

How do I prevent my dog from acting aggressive?

Aggression in dogs has many forms. There's fear aggression, dominance aggression, and many other forms of aggression. Preventing the dog from acting out is imperative, of which there are many ways. If you have a dog who's acting in an aggressive manner, you must seek professional help.

Labrador Retriever Puppies - 10 Commandments Or More?

2009-01-28T16:12:00.000+02:00

Written by : Anna Hart

Labrador Retriever puppies seem to be for sale everywhere these days. From Georgia to Michigan, Temecula to Hawaii, Labrador Retriever puppies have become very popular. Your new puppy may be a black, chocolate, or yellow Lab. Labrador Retriever puppies are cute, but they are energetic, too, and require immediate training.

Labrador Retriever puppies need 10 commandments - or maybe more! From the puppies' standpoint, the 10 commandments should be given to the humans who will care for them. For example:

* You must take me out for long walks at least 3 times a day.
* You must feed me from your plate when I whine and beg.
* You must let me sleep in your bed with you so I don't get lonely.

You are intelligent enough to know that would be a big mistake. You must be in charge, and you must have rules for your Labrador Retriever puppies. For your help, and with a bit of tongue-in-cheek, we offer the following.

Labrador Retriever Puppies' 10 Commandments from a Human Standpoint

1. As long as they live under my roof, Labrador Retriever puppies will do as I say. When I say "come," you will come. When I say "sit," you will sit. I am the boss - leader of the pack.

2. Labrador Retriever puppies will always tell me when they need to relieve themselves. We will go outside, which is the only place you may do this. And on the same subject, Labrador Retriever puppies will learn not to make water simply because they are excited or acting submissive.

3. I have given you Labrador Retriever puppies comfortable beds. You will sleep in your beds - not in my bed, not in the cat's bed, and not in the children's beds.

4. All Labrador Retriever puppies in this home will be given good, nourishing dog food everyday. You will not supplement that food by chewing my shoes, furniture, and other belongings. You will not beg at the table, laying your soft, cuddly head on my lap to coerce a bite from my plate.

5. I know that Labrador Retriever puppies want to bite and gnaw, but you will not bite and gnaw on people. If you were home with your mother, she and your litter mates would soon teach you not to do it. I'll give you bones to chew instead.

6. All Labrador Retriever puppies get a stomach ache when they eat the wrong things. If you feel sick, you must never throw up inside the house - especially not on the carpet or on any of MY clothing!

7. I understand that Labrador Retriever puppies simply must tell everybody how exciting life is, but please do it quietly. You must never, never try to tell the whole neighborhood, especially in the middle of the night.

8. All Labrador Retriever puppies in this home must understand that the house is not a glorious obstacle course. You must not race from one end of the house to the other. You must not use the furniture when playing keep away.

9. I know that Labrador Retriever puppies love running in the rain. I do not! You will ask to go out in the rain only when you absolutely must. You will then do your business quickly so that I can get dry again.

10. All Labrador Retriever puppies in this house will like the people that I like, and behave properly around them. You will NEVER slobber all over people, even though you may love them.

Labrador Retriever Puppies' 10 Commandments From a Pet's Standpoint

If you are looking for the 10 commandments from a pet's standpoint, you will find them on several websites. The Dog Listener is a British site that lists them. Ontario Pet Rescue also lists them.

Traveling With Your Golden Retriever

2009-01-28T15:51:00.000+02:00

Golden Retrievers love to be included in family activities, which includes take rides in the car and traveling. They love attention, and love for you to treat them just like they are a member of your family. When you first get your Golden Retriever puppy, you’ll have to teach him how to enjoy car rides and traveling, so he can come to appreciate it more as he gets older.

When you decide to take him traveling for the first time, you should always give him food in small amounts throughout the day, while he adjusts to traveling. If you feed him a lot of food before you head out, he may get sick in the car and have an accident. By reducing the amount of food that he consumes, he’ll be much more in control of his bladder and himself.

When you are traveling, always plan to make frequent rest stops and allow your Golden Retriever time to relieve himself. You should also take some time to exercise as well, stopping every few hours for bathroom breaks and exercise. Golden Retrievers will hold themselves if they need to, although it isn’t good for them. No matter how far you travel, you should always be kind to your dog and stop every so often to let him have some time.

A common mistake that many have made, and one you should avoid at all costs, is letting your Golden ride in a moving vehicle with his head out the window. Although you may think this is a good idea, your Golden can easily get an eye, ear, or nose injury. Cars and trucks move at very fast speeds, and something can pop up when you least expect it and do serious damage to your dog.

When you stop for a break or to fill up your car, you should never allow your Golden Retriever to be alone in the car with the windows up. Even though you may crack the windows for him, the heat of summer can result in a heat stroke if you aren’t careful. If your dog does get a heatstroke from being locked up in a hot car, he can easily die before you are able to return to the car. If you simply must leave your dog in the car, make sure that you park in the shade and give him plenty of air.

As long as you do your part and take care of your Golden Retriever when you travel, he will love to travel with you. Traveling is something that your Golden needs to get used to, although most adapt to it fairly quick. Once you have taken your dog traveling with you, he will know when it’s time to travel and eventually learn to tell you when you need to stop so he can use the bathroom.

Training Your Golden Retriever

2009-01-28T15:49:00.000+02:00

Dogs aren’t like humans, so they need to learn in different ways. Dogs don’t have human responses, meaning that they don’t operate with the principle of right or wrong. Instead, they operate on a principle of response, guided by the actions you give them. If their actions lead to a bad response from you, then they not that what they are doing is wrong and will avoid doing that type of behavior.

If your dog does something right, he should be praised for it. If your Golden Retriever is listening to what you say and doing well, you should reward him with a treat or praise. Letting him know that he is doing good leads to positive response. On the other hand, if he isn’t listening to you or doing the total opposite of what you say, you shouldn’t reward him at all - but instead scold him with a stern NO.

When training your Golden Retriever, timing is the most important factor. If your dog is doing something wrong, you shouldn’t wait or hesitate to correct him. Doing so may send the wrong impression. When your Golden is doing something wrong, you should correct him right then and there, so he will know without a doubt what he is doing wrong.

For example, if your Golden Retriever is chasing cars, you obviously want to stop this habit before it gets it out of hand. The second you see him doing this, you should always stop him and let him know he’s wrong. This way, he will know that chasing cars is something he shouldn’t be doing. It may take a bit of time for him to realize this, and you’ll need to hold your ground and continue to correct him when he is doing something that you don’t approve of.

This type of theory is similar to that of praise. When you see your Golden Retriever doing something right, you should praise him instantly. If you don’t praise him instantly and instead wait until he has stopped, he will assume that you are praising him for stopping. To be on the safe side and get the most from your Golden, you should always praise him when he is behaving in the right way, then correct him when he is behaving in a negative way.

If you take your time and show patience with your Golden Retriever, you shouldn’t have any problems training him. The training process may take quite a bit of time, although it is more than worth it in the end. Once you have trained your Golden Retriever, he will react to what you say, and avoid doing the things he has been corrected for. Training is essential for Golden - and will make him a much better dog when he grows older.

Training For Your Golden Retriever

2009-01-28T15:46:00.000+02:00

With the term training in mind, there are several different meanings involved. When you are looking to train your Golden Retriever, you have a few options available to you. Below, we will take a look at the many types of training for your Golden, and help you decide when type of training is best for both you and your Golden.

Behavior training
Behavior training teaches a Golden Retriever to be a good dog in general. The training involved includes house breaking, good general behavior around people and pets, leash training, and other types of things that will make him a better companion. Dogs that who passed obedience training and well composed - no matter where you decide to take them.

Activity training
Activity training teaches Golden Retrievers various activities such as hunting, herding, search and rescue, and several other tricks that you can do together. Activity training is very popular with the Golden breed, as it helps to make the relationship between you and your pet a lot more interesting. By concentrating on activities that the Golden breed was bred to do, activity training is always very beneficial to your Golden Retriever.

Obedience training
Obedience training teaches your Golden how to perform various activities. This type of training focuses on general behavior as well, teaching the dog to be well behaved. Most dogs who go through a class in obedience training turn out to be well behaved and will listen to your commands and shouldn’t do things such as chewing and barking for no reason. If you want your Golden to be well behaved and obedient, you should enroll him in a obedience training class as soon as you can.

Keep in mind that there are certain lines and distinctions with each type of training. If you choose obedience training for example, then your Golden Retriever won’t get any help with his behavior. When you select a class for your Golden, you always want to select a class that fits his needs at that time. If you are having trouble controlling your dog, you may want to start him off with behavior training, which is what most Golden owners tend to do.

When you look for a training class, you should also know what area your dog needs help with. Sometimes, a behavior pattern can be the result of boredom, which can easily be fixed by spending more time with your dog. Once you have spent more time with him, you’ll sometimes notice his patten to stop. Other times however, he may need a bit more help with certain behavior patterns, which is where training comes into play. Although Golden Retrievers are smart dogs, they won’t know if they are doing something wrong unless you show them.

Before you can train your Golden puppy, you need to know what to teach him. Golden puppies adore routines, and feel more at ease than ever if they are on a schedule that they can predict. When you take your dog to training, you should always be patient with him and reassure him that he is doing good. As your Golden gets older and begins to learn new things, he will never forget his training. In the unlikely event that he starts to slip on some of his training, you can always let him go through a course again to brush up on the techniques. This way, no matter how old your Golden Retriever gets, he will always be the ideal companion that you have grown to love over the years.

Tips For Training Your Golden Retrievers

2009-01-28T15:43:00.000+02:00

Although there are many training tips for Golden Retrievers, teeth is the most common. Golden puppies love to chew, and will chew anything they can get. Although chew toys are preferred, there is a way that you can help your Golden fulfill his natural instinct to chew, and help him to ease the pain of teething as well.

To start, simply fill an old sock you have with several ice cubes. Next, put a knot in the sock and place the sock with the cubes in the freezer. When your puppy starts to chew on things, simply give him the sock. You can keep several socks with ice in it in your freezer if you want, so your puppy will always have a chew toy. Although this is great to use, you should never leave your dog alone with the sock. He could end up chewing the sock and swallowing pieces of it, which could lead to very serious health problems.

Leashes
During leash training, a lot of people prefer to attach the leash to the Golden then drag him in the direction they want him to go. This isn’t the best way to train, as it often sends the wrong signal to the puppy. Instead, you should first get your Golden puppy used to the collar and the leash. You can do this by putting his collar and leash on inside the house or outside in a fenced in area, so that he can walk around and move about freely with the leash on, dragging it alongside him.

Once you have given him some time, pick the leash up, then start calling him to you. Once he comes over to you, start praising him for it, so he knows that he is on the right track. Always be patient when leash training, as it will take some time for him to get used to it. If you continue to praise him when he is doing it right and continue giving him time to get used to the leash, you shouldn’t have any problems.

Digging around
Digging is something that Golden Retrievers love, as it is essential to their nature. Digging can be somewhat frustrating if you don’t give your Golden an area to himself, as he will dig holes in your yard. If you keep your Golden indoors, he may try to dig in the floor, on the couch, or on the bed. Digging is part of their nature, and you should never punish a Golden for digging.

To help him fill this need, you should give him an area to dig in. You can get him a kiddie pool or sandbox, filling it with either soil or sand. Then, try burying a treat or toy in inside, so your Golden will dig to get it out. Once he learns this is where he should dig, he will more than likely head to that area when he has the need to dig. Later on, when he becomes a bit older, you should invest in obedience training classes that will help him to get his digging habits under control.

The above tips can help a great deal when training your Golden Retriever puppy. Golden’s are great dogs, although you’ll need to have a bit of patience with them. Even though they are very smart dogs, it may take them time to learn. Once they start learning however - they will become an integral part of your family that you couldn’t begin to live without.

Walking Your Dog With a Harness

2009-01-27T11:25:00.000+02:00

Walking Your Dog With a Harness
Written by Joshua McNiel

When most people walk their dogs, they use a traditional collar and leash set. However, more and more dog owners are trading those in for a dog harness.

Dog harnesses are ideal to walk dogs with for several reasons. One of the main reasons is because of how is distributes their weight. When you walk a dog with a collar, the pulling force will be on their neck, where the collar is. However, if you have a harness on your dog, it will spread the force out underneath their body. This makes it so they can't even feel being pulled.

Dogs choking themselves while they are on a leash or lead is a serious problem. Not only can this cause them discomfort, but it can also cause breathing problems, gagging, vomiting, loss of breath, and in even death in some extreme cases. The chance your dog will choke on a harness is greatly reduced due to the principle behind them. Remember, the force is spread under their body, instead of the neck.

For anyone with a small dog, like Chihuahuas and Yorkies, harnesses are perfect for. These small breeds are often hyper and will try to run away even when they are on a leash and collar. This can cause them to strain their fragile necks. However, a harness is a quick and easy fix for this.

Dog harnesses are also used for sled dogs. Chances are you probably wont need one for this purpose, but it's still a neat piece of information to know about them.

If you decide to get a dog harness there are a few things you should be aware of. Not all dog harnesses are one size fits all. Make sure the dog harness you are buying will fit the dog you need it for. Also, not all dog harnesses work the same. Some harnesses may attach underneath their body and to the collar. Check and make sure you understand how it works before you buy it.

The last thing you will have to decide on is the style and color of the dog harness. Dog harnesses come in a wide range of colors, designs, and styles. Some are made to look more "girly", while others look like they are made for males. I saw a cute harness the other day that was pink with rhinestones embedded in it. It would be perfect for a cute girl dog!

For the small price tag they cost, dog harnesses are well worth the money. They will give your dog the freedom to roam while staying in a safe and comfortable distance.

Top Tips To Training Boxer Puppies

2009-01-27T11:21:00.000+02:00

Top Tips To Training Boxer Puppies
Written by Jason Rusch

Boxer puppies are playful, independent thinkers and strong willed. They have unchecked dominance due to which it can be uncontrollable and difficult situation to control them. For the boxer puppies, play time can be an opportunity for total fun, wherein you can easily train him an appropriate behaviour. Because of this, it is an opportunity wherein you can increase the level of trust of your dog and who can respect you as a leader too.

There are online provisions of the boxer puppies wherein you can get to see and also adopt the puppies. There are images and the addresses where such puppies are made available for you. Once you choose the puppy, you have to be well prepared in guiding it to a good life and also in training it. For a puppy, play time can be the most important pass time and which can be of great importance for the puppy for improving his inbuilt skills. These skills can be of hunting or of fighting techniques. During such games and play time, the boxer puppies get more exercise and get powerful too.

Goal

The main goal over here is the training of the puppies which should be provided for the control of the aggressive behavior and also for proper channeling of your dog's energy and intelligence. Further, you should never ever use any reinforcement of your authority on the dogs. You have to strive to keep your dog's attention focused on you and who can see you as a leader having the upper hand than the vice versa situation. Also, you should avoid games which resemble tug of war. You should also not encourage the dog to play with your hands, feet or clothing. Always remember, not to encourage your boxer puppy to jump on you and avoid any wrestling and chasing games.

You should also avoid teasing your boxer puppy as it can get frustrated instantly and turn its attention away from you. You should offer him with treats and praise frequently when both of you are playing. Boxer puppies are also known as comedians and with your back up and encouragement, they can learn discover and invent games by themselves. There are specific rules too which are appropriate when playing games and training itself can encourage your dog to use its natural curiosity and intelligence to invent fun filled games. Such inspiring games can be enjoyed by both of you and this can be a stress reliever for you.

There are lots of websites wherein you can get information on where you can get to know on boxer puppies and the adoption process. The registration process and the background history of the dogs are also provided on the site for you and your family. Adoption of the puppy can seem easy but to look after the puppy 24 hours a day can be tiresome. So, think before you take that step to adopt a dog. It is your and your family's own responsibility towards the puppy to look after him for the rest of his life.

Article Source: http://www.ArticleBlast.com

Boxer Puppy Training

2009-01-27T11:20:00.001+02:00

Boxer Puppy Training
Written by Jason Rusch

Almost everyone is familiar that any addition to the family and specially a new puppy would need plenty of attention and should be cared for very extensively. However before you can purchase a live household member make sure that you are aware of their routine in everyday life and also find out about their traits. If you are not sure about this then it is important that you do a good research about the desired puppy you need to purchase and pin down the points that you will need to train the puppy when it is home.

Learning about the puppy

Firstly you should learn about the distinguishing traits of the puppy with other conduct. If the puppy features a particular lifestyle which is vastly different from your own then you might have to try some other puppy for your home. There are boxer puppies that make a great home pet but they require someone to pay attention on them all the time. If they are not paid attention to them they might try to get it by doing something naughty. You should also know that puppies which are left along and get bored can also become ill. You should try to give them regular exercise so that you avoid any physical and emotional pain.

Secondly you should know that puppies generally like to live a carefree life and most of them also wander around pointlessly. As they can be very active breeds make sure that you do not place any valuables on their path. Boxer dogs can make wonderful pet for your children too. If you have your small baby and the boxer puppy in the same room it would not be any problem but never leave them together unattended.

The third thing you should know is boxer dogs are sociable who most often want to be around other animals and humans. In order to encourage this it can be a good trait to have other animals. The puppy would love to be introduced to other pets and people. You will also want the socialization training to be with the right type of people and so your puppy should know different matures to learn better.

The forth thing is if you find your boxer dog to be very shy then get them to socialization as soon as possible. You can take along your puppy when you go out for walks and including in the pet stores. You should remember that you do not keep two female boxer dogs in the same household as they can be quite antagonistic.

Boxer puppies can make a great house pet but similar to humans, boxers also have some bad qualities. Boxer dogs can sometimes get stubborn if they are not shown the right way or not thought properly how to act. Make sure that you place your boxer puppy in some type of obedience training classes if you need the best for the dog and you. When you have completely learnt about your boxer puppy they would soon try learning and get obedient as you train them.

Article Source: http://www.ArticleBlast.com

The Three Main Principles of Dog Obedience Training

2009-01-27T11:13:00.000+02:00

The Three Main Principles of Dog Obedience Training
Written by Sam Nichols

Dogs will always need obedience training, at least at a basic level. This is true even if the breed is well designed to fit the needs that humans have. You need a minimum level of obedience training because you can't expect them to learn what you want on their own. There are some principles behind obedience training that insure that you get the results that you're going after.

Principle One: YOU SHOULD BE CONSISTENT
Consistency is an important part of obedience training, probably the most important. You should be consistent in the actions that you use together with commands or words, and you should also use a consistent tone and words when you talk with him. When you start the obedience training, you should decide what parameters you are going to use and what do you want the dog to learn.

Just saying a command, like "come" doesn't mean that the dog will understand it. Obviously, a dog can't understand out language or thing in the same way that people do. Using the same command on a regular basis and consistently, makes sure that in time he will associate the meaning with the word you're using for it.

In the example I gave before, for the "come" command, everyone in the house should use the word in its singular form. He needs to understand that "come" means that he needs to approach the person that gives him the command. When you give him the command "come", you should not be doing anything that will confuse him in regards to its meaning.

If he doesn't obey the command, you shouldn't force him to do it, and then punish him for coming to you. This way, the dog will associate the punishment with the command. Since he thinks that this command will bring him a punishment, the dog will not obey it in the future.

That's why it's important that everyone that deals with the dog uses the same form of the command. A good example that you see in everyday life is the substitution of the "come" command with words like "come here boy" or "here".

Principle Two: YOU SHOULD KEEP IT SHORT
You should keep both the command words and the training sessions short. Dogs don't have the biggest attention span in the world, and training sessions aren't exactly activities that can keep them interested for very long. In the case of puppies, a stimulus that will keep them interested is a moving toy car that they can follow, and once they lose interest in it they would do something else.

The interest they had in the beginning isn't the same as it will be a few minutes later, so they get bored quite easily. 10-15 minutes of training should be enough for each obedience training session.

Principle Three: YOU SHOULDN'T PUNISH YOUR DOG
If you want to train a dog to listen to you, punishment isn't an option. Forcing a dog to obey the commands you give him if he isn't prepared is also not an option.

During training, don't push the dog too far. Since he thinks he's playing, he's not prone to learning things right then, just by hearing a command only once. He will only see that you're upset at him, but he will not understand that you want a faster progress.

Negative reinforcement is a much better choice for training, since force will not bring your point across as it should. Praise him when he does something you want, and don't do it when a command isn't followed.

Puppy Potty Training - Learning the Basics

2009-01-27T11:06:00.000+02:00

Puppy Potty Training - Learning the Basics
Written by Sam Nichols

In most cases, potty training is done with puppies, but there are plenty of dogs that haven't learned when and where is fine to poop. Even with the popularity that housetraining had in recent years, a lot of people haven't housetrained their dogs yet. Don't underestimate the confidence that having a housetrained dog can bring you, especially when you need to leave him alone.

Some of the things you need to do effective potty training are written below. There are steps to be taken, just like with any other type of dog training:

1. The Timing
You can't potty train a dog whenever you want to. He needs to be ready for it. Waiting for the time when he poops is probably the best moment to correct his behavior. When you see him do it, call him on it and invite him to go outside and finish.
Making sure that you're using a low tone in your voice, give him the stop command. Next, begin to teach him about the "outside" command, guiding him slowly to a place where you're OK with him doing his needs on a regular basis.

2. The Act
In most cases, people will see the effects of the accident only after it happened. When you see this, but didn't catch him in the act, it's better to ignore it and act on it next time that it happens. You shouldn't rub the dog's nose in it, because the lesson you teach him this way isn't the proper one.

A better choice would be to bring the dog to that area and take the poop while he's watching. That's because he will not understand why you're scolding him, even if only a few moments have passed since his action. Scolding the dog while he's eating a bone will make him think that the bone is the reason you're upset. He will not be able to make the connection with the pooping he's done earlier.

3. The Accompaniment
In some cases, you will see your dog pooping inside the house, and you'll tell him to go outside and do it. If he doesn't react and continues to do it inside the house, it's because he doesn't know what you want from him, so it's not his fault. If you want him to obey your commands, be patient and take him outside yourself, teaching him that he needs to do it there. You can use a leash to improve your control of the pet.

4. The Command
Talking with the dog is best done by using commands, which makes training much easier. What is important is how you teach him the meaning of the words. Since the dog can't understand what you're saying unless he's trained, you need to teach him.

If you want the best results possible in dog potty training, your dog should be taught well what each command means. An example would be teaching him that the word "outside" means that he should leave the house, and "go potty" that he should poop.

Whether he does what you ask of him or not, punish or praise him, depending on what the results are. When you do this regularly, he will be conditioned to think that "outside" and "go potty" mean that he needs to do his needs.

Training Your Dog the Right Way

2009-01-26T15:25:00.000+02:00

Training Your Dog the Right Way
Written by Sam Nichols

A lot of dog owners want to train their dogs either for housebreaking or competition purposes. There are many advantages to training your dog. Well trained dogs are easier to take care of. And you can also use the pet for several purposes other than merely making it your best friend.

If you train your dog right, you will be able to use your pet as a guard dog, a helper, or even a sled runner, if you must.

Here are tips when training your dog:

1. Establish a good dog-owner relationship with your pet.
You have to establish trust with your pet. Only through this you will be able to teach your dog some tricks. Don't worry. Dogs are naturally trusting animals, especially if their masters are good to them. It is quite easy to establish trust with your pet. You just have to feed it right, give it treats, and play with it from time to time.

2. Build confidence and control.
Control is very important. Control means directing your dog to do the things it is supposed to do and make it stop doing things it shouldn't. You can control your dog with the use of strict words. Strict doesn't mean harsh. Know the difference between the two. When you give commands to your pet, be sure that you're firm enough and stand by it.

3. Make your dog happy and outgoing.
A happy dog is a lot easier to train. It is the same with people. If you're in a good mood, you are more likely to do things right. The disposition is the same with your pet. Strive to keep your dog happy so that any day becomes a good day for training. An outgoing dog is a free-spirited dog. These are the dogs that can be ideally trained.

4. Know your dog's natural drives.
Your dog has its own natural pleasure and drives. Make sure that you know what these are so you can use it to your advantage. Dogs can easily be trained if you use their natural instincts. With the right motivation, the entire dog training process can be a jiffy.

5. Don't use cruelty when training.
Cruelty doesn't work well with pets. Never use harsh punishments or cruelty when teaching your dog anything. Dogs would trust you less if you hurt it. This won't help you at all. It is best that you use firm but doting words instead. Dogs would easily be trained if it is not subjected to harsh elements.

Training your dog is quite a job. Keep in mind that everything can't be achieved overnight. It can't even be done in a week either. You have to be very patient. This means that you have to know your dog's limit. This way, you'll be able to groom and train your pet in the right manner. There would be trial and errors in the whole process. Be sure that you are mentally and physically fit for the challenge.

How to choose a hunting dog

2009-01-26T15:19:00.000+02:00

Hunting upland birds is a guess for the most part. Unlike decoying ducks or bugling elk, it is impossible to draw upland birds to you. You are constantly seeking your quarry. Some days are just going to be tough and that's the case no matter where you hunt. To eliminate some of the "guess work", the number one tool you have at your disposal is a good dog. This begs the question; what breed of dog is the best for me?

The first thing you can do is understand the species that you are hunting. For this area of Montana pheasants generally hang around water and specifically seek cover that is thick, heavy or sometimes even impenetrable. Having a dog that is willing to get right in the middle of this thick nasty stuff is invaluable. Breeds most likely to "bust" heavy cover include; labs, golden retrievers and numerous spaniel breeds. Many people would argue that the best "Pure Pheasant" dog you could have is a Springer Spaniel and I would completely agree. Springers are lively dogs that exude confidence in thick brush. Their smaller stature allows them to root and burrow under and around cover that most labs or goldens wouldn't even consider. Although generally not as good of retrievers, springers often have a natural desire to pick up downed game. If you're looking for a pure pheasant dog a springer is the perfect choice.
If your focus is strictly huns and sharptail you will most likely be hunting wide open cover; such as edges of wheat fields, CRP, sage brush and prairie grass. In this terrain the strongest argument can probably be made for an English Pointer as they tend to range longer and have stronger pointing instincts than all other breeds. Their stamina and toughness is unmatched. This is important when covering large pieces of territory and when holding points for long periods of time is critical. Other versatile breeds like a German Shorthair or Wirehair retrieve better than a pointer and you only lose a little range, however the German breeds have less natural pointing instinct often causing them to "creep" into birds. Other people have success with Brittany's or Setters although these breeds may lack some "toughness" as well as range. While there are plenty of options for huns and sharptail, strictly hunting these birds is probably best accomplished with an English Pointer. German Shorthair's rank a close second, with Setters and Brittany's 3rd and 4th respectively, followed by a Wirehair.
If you're looking for a good all around dog to hunt numerous species with, I would consider a lab as your only choice. There's a reason they are the number one selling dog in America (golden retrievers being #2). They make great pheasant dogs, are usually willing to hunt thicker cover and their 2 layered coat keeps them warm in the winter. A lab is second to NONE in a duck blind. Labs, particularly smaller labs 70# or less, will also make admirable hun and sharptail dogs when given enough conditioning prior to the season. Around the house labs are easy to train, they are smart and very willing to please. A well trained lab is easily the most versatile and effective birddog for the average hunter. So the question is this: do you hunt mostly one bird? If so, choose a dog that fits that game. If you hunt a little bit of everything, get a smaller lab and train, train, train. Good Luck!

Learn more about this author, Jeremy Devries.

Hunting dogs - Basic Training Tips

2009-01-26T15:08:00.000+02:00

Hunting dogs - Basic Training Tips
Written by Cristian Stan

Even if you were an avid hunter, there would have been many instances of misfiring and even if you have aimed right you would not have fetched the hunt for obvious reason that you could not track it.

Should you be carrying a hunting dog with you, this would not have been the result because a hunting dog would simplify your job whilst not cutting any frills on the thrills you maybe experiencing while on a hunting expedition per se.

Be it a small game of hunting a lakeside duck or a countryside turkey to a big game of hunting an elk or a buck, a hunting dog can smell blood in a jiffy and would take you to the target. With this snap shot of a hunting dog, you need to know that a great hunting dog is not available in a nearby canine store or even an online store. All you need to know is that you should train your canine to make one great hunting dog. And, no means this training is easy and to get desired results, you need to know some tips and probably you can tame even a hardheaded canine.

Picking the right breed for hunting
Remember that a show-style breed is far different from a hunting dog. The first and foremost quality is a breed that has a good sense of smelling. You can look at those that are tamable as well as those that can endure long outdoor activities; in fact, the breed should love to stay more of outdoors. They must obviously possess decent stamina and built.

Hunting dog example breeds include the bloodhounds, dachshunds, basset hounds, German pointers, Labradors, beagles, mountain curs, feists. Know some characters of the breed and check if their temperament suits yours even to tame.

Bring the canine when it's very young
Yes, for the reason that it will have time to bond with you and follow your communication.

Time and patience
Time needed to train a hunting dog is far greater than training a canine for other jobs, and it calls for good patience on the part of master.

Condition the canine
Train your canine to be resilient when faced with adversities of outdoors. And for this take him out more frequently and allow it to freak around the areas under your vigilance. This will be perfect priming for your canine before the game of hunting begins.

Take him out more often, say at least once a week and see that you are supplying him with adequate nutrition for this extra exercise as well as normal development. Give him good quantities of water so he is not dehydrated.

Train him to chase a target or follow a trail
Use dummy rabbits or fowls to tease the canine and allow him to learn chasing the target and teach him to bring the target to you. Use a whistle as an indication of command and let him get used to your commands. Teach him to focus even when there are disturbances around. You may simulate a noisy surrounding yet command him to chase a target or follow a trail. However, this can be done during advanced training and not at pup stage.

Training as fun
Most important is to make your training as much fun as possible. Reward your canine for any signs of excelling in the training and he should find it interesting and exciting.

And, remember that if you have trained your dog properly, he will never like to eat the hunted animal but will love to return to his master.

Things to Consider before You Go for a Dog Training Career

2009-01-26T15:04:00.001+02:00

Things to Consider before You Go for a Dog Training Career
Written by Sam Nichols

While a lot of people will become dog training careers because it's something that a lot of people do, there are others who actually do it because they love dogs and feel that this is a career that they want to pursue.

Are you one of those people that go for a dog training career because they heard someone saying that it's a good career, or are you someone that actually loves dogs and wants to be around them more?

Basic principles to follow

Loving dogs isn't the only motivation you should have to pursue dog training; you will also need the skills and knowledge to discipline dogs, to handle them and to understand what motivates their behavior. In most cases, people that become dog trainers have previous experience with dogs, and an understanding on how they usually handle pets.

What is your "dog division"?

If you want a career that revolves around dogs, there are two options at your disposal: dog training or pet service training. They're both highly looked after jobs, but a pet dog training career can bring you more opportunities.

Pet dog training is usually done on pet dogs, just like the name suggests. Its purpose is to help dogs become better companions for humans, both at house and in outdoor activities. Basic training includes agility training, obedience training, potty training and even training to prevent the dog from biting or barking.

If we're talking about service training, you should know that it's made specifically to prepare a dog for helping someone that has a disability or is going through some form of therapy. Other service dogs are trained to sniff bombs, drugs or to chase criminals, hunt or rescue people.

This type of training is very intensive, and the trainer needs to be well prepared in teaching the dog how to do his functions.

Canine psychology understanding

What do you want to know about a dog? How they behave, think or how they react to outside stimulus? What training actually does is making a dog modify his behavior, so they respond in certain ways. Associative conditioning is one of the fundamentals of dog training, so you should know this as well.

What about dog training education?

Like any other career, dog training needs you to have some basic skills, in this case in the area of handling and dog training. But, this isn't a career that you can learn at a university or college, so a degree is out of the question. There are schools however, and some academies, which you can go to in order to learn dog training. In most cases though, dog trainers have a natural inclination for their job.

While some have a natural feeling on how to train dogs, other have been apprentices with great dog trainers. And if you want some extra information, you should contact a dog training organization, which can offer it to you.

Comparison of working attitude with people and dogs

When you train dogs you also have to teach the dog handlers how to use them. Besides training dogs, if you plan to make a career out of it, you will also need to have some people skills, to teach the handlers.

Some dog owners don't have the patience to wait for their dogs to learn, expecting for it to be a fast and simple process. You need to be able to deal with this type of dog owners, and to let them know how the process works. That's why you need people skills as well, not just experience with dogs.

Miscellaneous

Besides the normal aspects of training, other things you need to know are nutrition, dog hygiene and grooming.

Other fields of interest include accessories, dog competitions and training ads. You should also learn about the differences between dog breeds, as each one behaves differently.

You can be a great trainer without being a guru. You only need a number of skills that will teach you how to handle dogs.

Article Source: http://www.ArticleBlast.com

Free Dog Training Tips

2009-01-26T01:01:00.001+02:00

Free Dog Training Tips
Dog training behavior is more than making your dog more obedient and safe to leave home all alone,process is too complex to reduce it to this.Since dog owners have to be an active part involved in dog behavior training,they come to learn the unexpressed parts of their pets.In a nutshell,dog behavior training is abut getting an obedient animal around the house while also getting more familiar with the expectations of a close friend who doesn't speak the same language.You should be ready to learn the drives behind your dog's behavior.

The drives or the instincts that make your animal react in a certain way in response to certain stimuli are the main focus of dog behavior training.The explanation for low sociability may be rooted in the animal's genes or in its c;lose environment,once you get to manipulate these drives by dog behavior training, spectacular changes are not short to appear.Therefore special institutions and centers that assistance for dog behavior training have a scientific background of tests and studies about the nature and flexibility of the canine drives.

Probably the most significant part of dog training behavior lies in understanding the way you can encourage or discourage certain drives and the skills of the trainer are best reflected here.The main instincts that are targeted by dog behavior training are:prey,play pack,defense and food.The order is not relevant for their importance,since each plays an important part in a dog's life determining the relationship with their masters and other dogs.However,mention should be made that the domination of a certain instinct varies from one breed to another,and dog behavior training also tackles with breed specificity in the context.

Many people are surprised to learn that dog behavior training implies teaching the animal how to play.This special drive seems to be the one that is not inherent to the genetic structure of your pet.In order to learn how to jump and wrestle it is essential that the owners help the puppy acquire the skills,normally they would be the responsibility of the mother and brothers as its true pack,but in their absence,you need to do it.The educational side is an essential part of dog behavior training,since it actually shapes the future relationship you develop with your pet in future.Dog training can be a very rewarding and relaxing hobby but it can also become stressful if you don't get the right advice so be sure to read more here

Puppy training tips

2009-01-26T01:00:00.000+02:00

Puppy training tips

The big joy a puppy brings around the house may fade a little if you realize you’ve got to waste a lot of time cleaning after it. Therefore, start training the dog from day one; here are some puppy training tips you may find useful at the beginnings of a relationship with your new friend. Puppy training tips are a book subject and they are thoroughly covered by professional sites such as this where you can find the first steps of teaching new things to your puppy. General puppy training tips apply to all breeds so don’t worry about this aspect, the only problem is that some dogs are more difficult to potty train than others.

The first puppy training tip is not to allow it to eliminate everywhere; you don’t need such kind of accidents when the dog becomes an adult. Yet, mention should be made that no puppy training tips are going to turn the pup into a reliable dog until it is at least six month old. Training only creates a good habit that requires constant reinforcement. There should be permanent access to the potty area. The puppy training tip here is to never allow your dog to eliminate on carpets, tiles or hardwood.

Then the next very important puppy training tip is to teach it how to love and respect you, and this has very much to do with learning self control. Just like with small children, puppy training tips insists that you don’t give in to every whim of your puppy; you are the leader and you set the rules. Up to a certain point, there is dominance, only then, we’re talking about respect and friendship. Beware, by respect we mean love and attention combined with discipline. Puppy training tips are not for bullying and terrorizing your pet.

Probably the top puppy training tip of all is to make your dog as sociable as possible. Dogs that develop fear are likely to show outward signs of aggression too, and this should be avoided at all costs. You can socialize the animal by inviting people to meet the pup. The puppy training tip is that the pet get friendly and accustomed to having strangers around the house. Seeing that guests are no threat to you and the house environment, lies at the basis of this puppy training tip. Keep it in mind and you won’t see your dog attacking anyone!

The power of positive dog training

2009-01-26T00:55:00.000+02:00

The power of positive dog training

Everyone who wants to have a harmonious happy relationship with a dog should learn to apply the power of positive dog training. What exactly do we mean by the power of positive dog training? The answer shouldn’t be too complex though we can elaborate a lot on it: basically the power of positive dog training means the ability to develop skills and obedience in your dog while avoiding physical punishment. It is not yet sure whether the power of positive dog training could solve all kinds of behavior problems, but we are convinced that a lot more loving methods can be used in teaching obedience to an animal.

The power of positive dog training has gained prominence in recent years as people have reached the conclusion that forceful methods can sometimes do more bad than good. From a certain point of view, the power of positive dog training only implies a shift of attitude, a different approach to our four-legged companions. We should definitely start by changing our way of seeing them: dogs are not animals that will dominate you unless you show control first. The main aspect of the power of positive dog training is to see your pet as a creature that needs love and a good environment.

Since positive influences are so appealing to humans, why should it be the case for dogs too? They’re very tender animals that attach to the family and the environment, therefore, the power of positive dog training should work wonders on them. If you don’t know where to start, the reward type of training is a good way. The power of positive dog training is obvious in the rewards the animal receives when it performs a certain task. Sometimes, the dog may be more thrilled about the owner’s attention than by a toy for instance. Try the power of positive dog training for yourself and see what it is like.

Most animal centers now recognize and widely use the power of positive dog training, and of course people find it more appealing to take their pet to a place where it will be well taken care of. There are even books and guides on the power of positive dog training, tackling with all the methods enjoyed by both handlers and animals. If you choose to test the power of positive dog training on your own, have a look from time to time to the many sites providing useful tips online.

Interpreting Dog Aggression

2009-01-26T00:50:00.000+02:00

I recently was in the vet's office with one of my dogs. There was a man there who had brought his young dog in for a check-up. His dog was of a breed that is often considered aggressive. He stood near the counter with his dog on leash. His dog sat near a chair with his hair up growling at everyone and showing his teeth. One woman walked past and commented, "Wow, your dog is really aggressive." It was as if the man transformed into a proud father before my eyes, "Yeah," he replied, "He always acts like that." As he said it you could see the pride dripping of his person. He had obviously acquired this dog for moments like these, expecting that this dog behavior would be interpreted as tough and powerful. Oh, how wrong he was.

Dog aggression is one dog behavior that is so often misinterpreted. Many see a dog such as I saw in the vet's office and think "That dog is really mean" or "That dog is vicious". But what is the real cause of this so-called dog aggression. The answer may not be what you think.

The man at the vet's office thought he had a tough guy on his hands. He saw the growling and the hair rising and the lip curling as signs of dog aggression, which for him was a desired trait. I am sure he imagined that this show of aggression would protect him if the situation was ever called for. His dog, however, was telling a story with his body language that had nothing to do with dog aggression.

Police dog trainers and protection dog trainers argue about many training methods and techniques, but there is one thing that they will all agree on. A dog that is called on to protect must be full of courage and must be very self-confident. Only a dog that is strong of mind is capable of actually engaging a human in combat when called upon.

So what of the dog in the vet's office? Let's examine his body posture and language.
* Hair raised. A dog that has the hair on his back raised up is showing a tell-tale sign of stress. His surroundings make him so nervous and fearful that the manifestation is the hair going on point. This is more a sign of fear than dog aggression.
* Growling. Whenever you see a movie where a dog is attacking a person there is almost always some audio work done to add growling as the dog fights the person. The reality is that growling is rarely a part of the equation when a police dog goes to apprehend a criminal or when a protection dog protects his family by biting. If there is growling involved it is a sign of weakness and that dog is not really committed to the fight. Growling is another sign that the dog feels stressed and unsure of his surroundings.
* Lip curled. When a dog shows his teeth it is because he perceives something as a threat. In the case of the dog in the vet's office he perceived everything as a threat. This is a poorly socialized dog and a liability to the owner. This is a very undesirable trait. Even if you want a dog for protection it is a very bad idea to have a dog that sees everything in terms of level of threat. A dog like this isn't capable of protecting you or your home.

Dogs that show these traits are typically weak dogs. They are often poorly socialized and don't see the world as they should. That doesn't mean that you should approach dogs like these because they are too mentally weak to bite you. On the contrary, their fear and uncertainty is so ingrained that they may see anyone as a threat and could possibly run away or bite out of fear. It is best to avoid these dogs at all costs.

If you own one of these dogs your best bet is to learn proper socialization techniques and work to show your dog that the world isn't a scary place.

About the Author:
Author Ty Brown is a renowned dog trainer whose training adventures and clients have taken him to 18 states and 5 countries to teach others how to properly train their dogs. Go to dogbehavioronline.com for more dog training articles, advice, tips, and answers from a professional dog trainer.

Puppy House-Training - it's easier than you think

2009-01-26T00:45:00.000+02:00

Puppy House-Training - it's easier than you think
by Justine Kay

House training is something that is vital if you want to have a good experience of being a dog owner. It is a training that should stay with your dog for his whole life so it's worth getting it right from the start. A lot of people think that this is a difficult task, that it will take months of work, but in reality it is one of the simplest things to achieve. It took me just four days to house train my puppy, to give him a command for going to the toilet that he always responds to, and with the following methods, you can be just as successful. It may take a few weeks, depending on you, your attitude, your living arrangements and many other factors, but with patience and lots of time and effort, you can have a perfectly house-trained dog for life.

This method does not entail using a crate, just regularly keep your dog in one particular area of the house, especially when unsupervised. It's best if it's an easily cleaned floor, such as a linoleum in the bathroom, as there will be a few accidents to start with. You cannot allow your puppy to wander around the whole house unsupervised as she will just go to the toilet whenever she feels like it without being trained to do otherwise. Make sure your puppy has a nice comfortable bed in her chosen area and that she is happy to use it. Once she establishes the bed as her own, she is less likely to mess near it. You should also ensure that she is happy in this area - fresh water should always be available, and play with her and pet her there so she feels happy, safe and secure.

The key to this method of house training is observing your puppy's behaviour, so you must spend lots of time with her. The other important factor is to have a regular routine for feeding. Puppies usually need to go to the toilet after eating, so a routine will help you both. Check also that her food and water and the quantities are suiting her digestive system. You can't house train a dog who has diarrhoea, so this must be sorted out right at the beginning. Speak to your vet if you can't resolve this yourself or if there are urinary problems - it could be an infection.

So here's the procedure, once you have everything in place. Think of a command word that you will use every time you see your puppy about to go to the toilet or when you want to encourage her to do so. When she wakes in the morning, within half an hour after eating and before she goes to sleep, you should take her to her toilet area (this will either be some newspaper on the floor or a convenient area just outside the back door in the garden) and give her the command. The likelihood is that, if you are patient enough, she will go to the toilet and you can praise her for doing so in the right place. When a puppy is young, they have little control and a small capacity for urine and faeces in their system, so you should take her out every two hours so she has the opportunity to go if she wants to.

When you are spending time with your puppy (and you should spend a lot time with her at this point in her life) you must observe her and become familiar with her behaviour when she's about to go to the toilet - mine looks agitated and walks around with his knees slightly bent just before he goes, sniffing the ground in circles. Once you know this, you can pre-empt your own puppy's need, and either pick her up or call her quickly to her toilet area. Once your puppy is in the toilet area, give your toilet command in a friendly encouraging tone. If she walks away from the toilet area, lead her gently back there and give the command. If your puppy is really averse to going in that area, look for a reason why - there could be a good reason that needs addressing.

When your dog successfully goes to the toilet in the correct area, praise her and maybe give her a favourite treat. Each and every time she does as you've asked, in the toilet area, praise her enthusiastically. This is positive reinforcement and is the most important aspect of this training method. Soon, your puppy will look at you or whine when she wants to go to the toilet. You must be there, ready to respond quickly otherwise she will have an accident. If you are using newspaper in the house, this can be gradually moved outdoors, so that she understands that that is the new toilet area.

DO NOT chastise your dog when she gets it wrong. She will not understand why you're telling her off and it will only confuse her. You should also be careful to clean up any accidents with a detergent that removes the smell - dogs like to mess again where they have left their scent and you need to discourage this through thorough cleaning practices.

So, to re-cap, spend lots of time with your puppy, learn her pre-toilet behaviour and pre-empt it. Lead her to her toilet area and give the toilet command. Praise her abundantly when she goes on command in the right place. Keep her living area clean, comfortable and fun to be in for both of you. Above all, be patient - house training does take time and your dog has a lot to learn at this stage of her life. She need lots of love, lots of fun and games and lots of encouragement.

About the Author:
Justine Kay is an experienced dog owner and trainer. She is the webmistress at Dog Training Tips where she writes dog training articles and discusses the intricacies of dog psychology.

Top Dog Training Tips that Work!

2009-01-26T00:39:00.000+02:00

Dog Training Tips that Work!
by Armen T. Ghazarians

In dog training, the most simple acts often produce the best results. In any dog pack, the alpha sets the rules and the rest follow. Therefore, by establishing yourself as the alpha, you can be sure that your obedience training sessions will be that much more productive. The following is a list of 8 simple things you can do to teach your new puppy or unruly dog that you are the alpha in your pack.

1. Never feed your dog from your plate while you're eating. A dog must learn that your are the alpha and that it can only eat when you are finished with your meal.

2. Never allow your dog on the sofa or on your bed. And if your dog sits on your path, gently shove it out of the way with your foot. By setting boundaries, you will instill in your dog that it must obey the alpha.

3. Never allow your dog to chew on your towels, socks, shoes, or clothing. Use bitter apple to discourage these behaviors.

4. NEVER HIT YOUR DOG FOR MISBEHAVING. Instead use the tone of your voice and a collar/leash to teach and make corrections.

5. Never allow a puppy to chew on your fingers. Otherwise, it will become a habit that will be very hard to break when it becomes an adult. Spray you hands and fingers with bitter apple and then allow the dog to proceed. The dog will learn not to bite your fingers without associating any negative thoughts about you as the alpha.

6. Never leave a hyper dog unexercised. Playing ball before you leave for work and after you return can help alleviate your dog's pent-up energy.

7. Never keep your dog alone in a yard for days at a times. Without proper socialization your dog will become aggressive towards other dogs as well as other humans. A dog needs contact with its own species in order to learn how to behave in a dog pack equally as well as it must learn to behave in a human pack. A dog left alone for long periods of time will believe itself to be the alpha and try to dictate to its master instead of the other way around.

8. Never allow your dog to jump on you or your guests. Its fun when your dog is a puppy, but it isn't fun when it becomes a 100lb behemoth. Practice with a collar and leash and set up situations where a neighbor rings your doorbell while your dog awaits their entrance. Make a sharp correction and command your dog to "sit" when as your neighbor enters the house. And, of course, don't forget to praise the dog as soon as it follows your command. Once the dog knows what to do, try the same thing off leash, but this time use a water spray bottle and spray your dogs face with water as punishment for jumping with a stern vocal correction of "NO". Proceed to praise your dog once again when your dog obeys your command. This way, it will learn to associate praise with correct action.

By following these steps, you will establish yourself as the alpha. And, you will have a head start in training your dog because it will have already learned to respect your authority as its leader.

Train Your Dog With Respect

2009-01-24T14:45:00.000+02:00

Proper training of your dog should begin when he is a puppy. The first four months of a dog's life are very important in the training of your dog. This is when they learn behaviors that they will practice in the future.

Socializing your dog is one of the most important things you can do to influence your dog's future behavior. As soon as you bring your new puppy home, you should start letting him interact with other puppies, dogs and humans. Take your dog to parks where there will be other pets and people. Ask your friends if it is okay for your dog to visit their dog at their home or yours. Puppies will learn how to get along with other puppies and dogs if they are allowed to play with them when they are young. Introduce your dog to new experiences. Give him rides in the car, walk him on a leash around the park, let him hear the vacuum cleaner running. Help your puppy get used to a regular routine of baths, brushing , and healthy meals.

Housebreaking your puppy takes a lot of patience. Fix up a nice little space or room for your puppy. Place his food and water bowl there along with some favorite toys. Be sure to put newspapers all over the floor and replace them often. When you are at home with the puppy, let him out of his room for a short period of time to roam around and play. Return your puppy to his room and the newspapers after about 30-45 minutes to help with his housebreaking. Do not punish your puppy for having an accident. It could take up to six months before he is fully housebroken. Remember, most puppies can't control their bladder overnight until they are about four months old.

Your puppy will undoubtedly want to chew on things he shouldn't. Train him to leave your things alone by keeping them out of reach and by providing him with a variety of doggy chew toys. If he chews on your favorite slipper, don't punish him. Simply replace the slipper with one of his own chew toys. Praise him for playing with his own toys.

Sometimes, you will have to leave your dog home alone. Help him to feel comfortable alone by leaving on the television or radio for company. Leave an adequate amount of food and water. Don't forget to leave lots of doggy toys for him to play with.

You may be having trouble training your dog. Maybe he's not responding to your commands or seems to be ignoring you. Or maybe the housebreaking is backfiring and your dog is having accidents all over the house. These may be signs of a medical condition. Be sure to visit the vet regularly to rule out things like loss of hearing or bladder infections. Always be sure your dog is healthy, happy and well cared for.

If you feel this job is too big for you or you just want some additional instruction or behavioral training for your dog,, there are many reputable professional dog trainers and obedience schools. Do some research and ask questions to find the right school for your dog.

Most importantly, you must be a responsible owner in order to train them properly. If you want your dog to trust and respect you, you must do the same in return. Never hit, kick, or slap your dog. Include your dog in family outings and games and general family life. Do not play aggressive games with them as this can cause them to behave aggressively. Reward good behavior and yet do not spoil your dog. Remember, if you practice lots of patience, love and respect for your dog, you will receive the same from him.

About The Author

Wendy Yeager

http://www.wenmarcorp.com/dogs-go2

4 Ways In Which You Can Show Your Dog How Much You Love Him

2009-01-24T14:41:00.000+02:00

Do you have at least one framed photo of your dog somewhere in your house... or maybe in your wallet? Is your dog pretty darn close to being the very center of your universe? Do you love spoiling him, respond to his every whimper and cry, and spend hundreds of dollars on gourmet treats? To say that dogs are man's best friend is anything but a cliché. You might be the most miserable person in the world without a friend to your name... but your dog will treat you like royalty every time you walk through the door. So how do you repay that unconditional love and devotion? There are hundreds of different ways!

1. Spoil him rotten.

A lot of people spend a lot of money at chic pet boutiques, dressing their dogs in hundred-dollar sweaters and paying for meticulous pawdicures. They buy diamond studded collars and give their dogs rooms all to themselves. You probably don't have the budget for things like that, right? You can still spoil your dog with simple, everyday things that cost you the absolute minimum. Next time your pooch needs a bath, focus on giving him a massage while you're working the shampoo into his coat. Take him out for a drive once each week and dress according to the weather so you can open a window and let his head hang out, his ears flapping in the breeze. Or you can?

2. Stuff him silly.

Your dog lives by food! It drives every thought he has, every impulse in his body. But you're more rational, you know that food needs to be both delicious and nutritious to make sure he has as long and happy a life as possible. Why not try making some homemade treats and dog food that are absolutely packed with all of the vitamins and nutrients he needs? Bake him a delicious, healthy cake for his next birthday, then share a few cookies with him!

3. Prepare for the worst.

If you know exactly what to do in a tough situation or an emergency, you infinitely increase the chances that your dog will be around for a long time to come. Do you know what to do when he's choking? You should lay your dog on his side and place one hand on his back and the other on his stomach just behind his rib cage. Using the stomach hand, push in and toward the throat twice, but without too much force. If you can see a foreign object, sweep your fingers through his mouth to remove it. If he's still choking, place your mouth over his nose and exhale until his chest rises. Repeat once, and then thrust two more times. Continue until he coughs out the obstruction. Now consider what would happen if he started to choke and you had no clue what to do, then ended up spending 10 minutes calling vets and driving him there. Making sure you're prepared to care for his health and wellbeing is a great way to show him how much you love him.

4. Speak his language.

Unless you believe in pet psychics, there's really no way for you to read your pooch's mind and figure out exactly what she's thinking. The good news is that, like many dog owners, the problems you're having can probably be traced to one simple thing: you're trying to communicate with your dog from a human standpoint, and your dog isn't a human. Rather than saying "no," a word that doesn't really mean anything to a dog, try growling in a deep, throaty voice the next time you're unhappy with something he's done. He'll get the message immediately and you won't have to go through a big, drawn-out battle of wills. He'll appreciate you meeting him halfway!

These are just a few of the ways in which you can show your dog how much he means to you, and I'd love to share hundreds more with you. That's why I've assembled the DogMatters.com Megapack, a collection of my hottest dog care titles. From 101 Ways to Spoil Your Dog for Under $10 and Secrets to a Healthy and Happy Pooch to 180 Gourmet Dog Recipes and Instinct vs. Man, you'll be amazed at all of the information, tips, and ideas you never even imagined existed. Why not give it a try? Think about it ? it's just one more way to show your pooch how much you love him.

Mark Eckenrode is a lover of dogs, his own is named Ryker. Mark is also the creator of an amazing website that offers free step-by-step tips on how to spoil your dog, cook up delicious dog recipes, insights into health, and communicating with your dog?

"Finally! A Quick and Easy Way For YOU to Learn Exactly What Your Dog is Looking For? Without Being a Vet, Visiting an Animal Shrink, or Paying Outrageous Prices for Dog Toys!"

http://www.DogMatters.com

How to become Top Dog - A Dog Owners Guide to Sanity

2009-01-24T14:38:00.000+02:00

Peeing on the carpet, knocking you down, or stealing dinner off the counter are all signs that your dog doesn't respect your rules. In other words, you are not the Alpha Dog.

If you ever want to have a peaceful and happy relationship with your dog, you need to learn how to become top dog.

It's not just a silly phrase. Dogs have a heirarchial ranking system. In simple reality, the only two ranks you need to know of are top dog , and not top dog.... The Ruler, and the Rule Follower. Naturally you don't want to be caught in the trap of being subject to your dog.

You want your dog to respect you and obey you. Don't confuse the two. A dog may obey you out of fear, but not respect you. That is a dangerous situation to be in. Have you ever seen the movie Iron Will? If not, watch it. It gives some great insight.

There's a dog sled driver who beats his dogs into submission and treats them terribly. They respond to his beatings and he has a winning team, but at the first sign of weakness, they turn on him and... well it wasn't pretty.

Of course that's a dramatization and worse case scenario. Frankly, I think anyone who beats dogs has it coming. It's just not necessary to rule with an iron fist.

Most dogs are receptive to attitudes that are as basic and primal as fighting, but are much less violent.

For example, simply giving commands and being consistent goes a long way. If your dog is always made aware of what is and what is not acceptable, you will have a greater chance of success.

When your dog disobeys, scold him and send him to his quarters- whether it be a dog bed, a kennel, going outside or just a specific place in the house.

Don't allow him to beg for food. Doing this gives him the impression that it's okay to whine to get what he wants.

It's not.

If and when a dog should bite you, and you have had this dog and don't believe him to be wild or sick, then you have to take action to ensure he knows that it will not be accepted. (If there is any indication of disorientation of your dog at this time, call a vet. Dogs can bite if they are sick, hurt or scared. You should seek professional advice.)

Appropriate action would not be to scold or hit the dog but rather to grab his head firmly, not in anger or rage but in calm control, and bite him on the ear. Don't try to break the skin or really hurt the dog. You are just making a point here that you are the leader and he needs to respect you.

It is also highly recommended that you train your dog to walk with you on a leash, at your heel level. This puts the dog in an active submissive role on a regular basis and helps you to enforce that you are the boss.

I would suggest getting a book or training video to get more details on the topic, or research dog forums for advice from other owners who prefer to train themselves and not send their dogs to obedience school.

Remember that if you want to be the top dog, you have to take control. Leadership is essential in a dog's life. You are the one who gets to choose who that leader is.

About the Author:
Tina Spriggs is an expert dog lover whose lifelong interest in canines provides the motivation for her site. To learn more about dogs or to find gifts and toys for them visit her site at Dog Gifts and Toys for Dog Lovers.

Puppy Training that is Safe for Your Puppy

2009-01-24T14:32:00.000+02:00

Puppy training can and should begin the day you bring your puppy home, but only if it's approached in a safe manner for your puppy and his sensitivities. Housetraining your puppy can be a rewarding and non-stressful experience when you shape behavior from a series of positive experiences, instead of attempting to correct unwanted behaviors before your puppy has a chance to learn what you DO want.

Trying to teach your dog what NOT to do is not conducive to healthy, reliable learning. Your puppy must have the opportunity to learn the behaviors that you DO want which will be incompatible with behaviors that you don't want.

Never say, "No" or yell the word "Nooo!" if your dog doesn't understand something while training, and/or fails to perform on cue. Simply try the exercise again and if that doesn't work, go back to a previous step. Many times you will need to settle for rewarding just a partial behavior and work up in steps from there until the whole behavior is performed.

Here's an example. You catch your dog chewing your $90 shoes. By running over and screaming, "No!" you've done one of two things:

1. You've either rewarded him for chewing by giving him attention; this is especially true if you give chase while he's running with your shoes; or

2. You've scared the bejeebers out of him and he learns that it's not safe to relieve stress and/or sore teeth and gums when you are present. Therefore he must do it when you're gone in order to keep himself safe and not upset you. The dog has no malice in these actions, he's just following instinct.

This applies to crate training as well, (if the crate is introduced and used appropriately), in that it can prevent accidents from happening during the housetraining process while repeatedly giving your puppy the opportunity to be successful at eliminating outdoors. His repeated success builds his confidence and instills in his mind that the outdoors is the only place to even consider eliminating.

This kind of housetraining is not based on fear, which inhibits the learning proccess but on repeated successes. This makes the desired behavior more reliable and the puppy more confident and able to learn.

Training your puppy using positive reinforcement and other healthy behavior shaping techniques insures that his puppy training will not negatively affect his personality. This type of healthy interaction with your puppy during his first year will enable you to build a cooperative bond and to have a well mannered but confident companion by the time he reaches maturity.

Kathleen Amaro is the owner of http://www.puppy-potty-training.com.

Her instantly downloadable ebook 25 Secrets to Raising the Perfect Puppy, not only tells you how to raise the perfect puppy, but how to get him perfectly potty trained using only positive and healthy puppy training techniques.

Dog Training - How To Win Your Dogs Confidence

2009-01-24T14:27:00.000+02:00

Settling a puppy into a new home successful is often easier than an older dog because a young dog will adapt more willingly to joining what is, in effect, a new pack.

Even so, it's usually possible to win the confidence of older dogs so that they will adapt well to their new environment, although this will require more patience.

After bringing your new puppy home for the first time, he will initially need time to adjust to his new environment. He shouldn't be crowded, particularly by children, during his first few days.

? Training helps your new puppy settle into his new home. It builds his confidence at the same time as building a relationship with his owner.

? A puppy will initially not be able to understand what is not acceptable in his new home. Be aware that he has to learn: he will not respond immediately to you, so just be patient with him.

Old Dog, New Tricks.

The natural curiosity of puppies means that they will usually have little, if any, natural shyness after the first day or in new surroundings, after being separated from their littermates.

Older dogs will be less adaptable, partly because of the disruption to their established routine.

Here are several guidelines to keep in mind when training an older dog:

? Dogs that haven't lived with children before may find it hard to adapt to a home where children are present. It is important to build trust between them carefully as a result, especially if the children are relatively young.

? An older dog, like a new puppy, will need to adapt to a new routine, so don't become impatient if training takes longer than you expect.

? Try not to change the name of an older dog, simply because he will have become used to his name, and any alternation is likely to be confusing to your new pet.

RESCUED DOGS.

There are certain situations in which it can be harder to win your dog's confidence, particularly with rescued dogs which have been mistreated.

A rescued dog will be inherently wary at first, and the process of building his confidence in people is likely to take longer than with a puppy.

Realistically, in many instances, you will probably not be able to persuade him to forget his previous life entirely.

A rescued dog may encounter something mild, perhaps something as simple as a particular color and style of garment, which reminds him of his past. This is then likely to trigger an unexpected reaction, which will initially be of fear and may occasionally turn to aggression.

It is important to build up a detailed picture of the past of such dogs, as this can help to prevent your pet acting out of character in the future.

Be sensitive too, to what your dog tells you.

If he starts growling unexpectedly when you pick up an umbrella or something, it may well be that he was hit with one in his previous home.

Amy Howells is the owner of a website dedicated to teaching you the short-cuts to dog training.

You can also sign up to a free e-course and discover the astonishing short-cut secrets to dog obedience training

Dogs can Detect Cancer !!!

2009-01-24T00:44:00.000+02:00

WOW! A Recent Scientific Study Proves that Dogs can Detect Cancer with Greater Accuracy than Mammograms.
by Armen T. Ghazarians

I had always known that dogs could detect cancer, but I had no idea that they could pinpoint lung and breast cancer with greater accuracy than any detection method currently available. A recent double blind control study by the Pine Street Foundation in a peer-reviewed journal describes the hypothesis and methodology behind this remarkable finding.

The hypothesis is that dogs can detect the different metablic products released by cancer cells even in the early stages of the disease.

Current techniques detect lung and breast cancer in the latent stages of the disease when it's too late to help patients. However, in this study, it was found that dogs could distinguish breath samples of the diseased patients from the breath samples of the normal (or control) patients with a 90% accuracy in the preliminary stages of cancer. And for the skeptics, there were over 12000 patients, which lends further credence to the results of this study.

The study used Labrador retrievers and Portuguese water dogs that ranged from ages 7-18 months. The dogs were household pets with some basic obedience training that were eager to sniff objects and respond to commands. The trainers used "clicker training" to teach the dogs scent detection (you can find several articles in the March 2006 archives of my blog for further information on clicker training).

What is important about this study is that (1) ordinary dogs can be quickly trained to pick out lung and breast cancer patients by smelling samples of their breath (2) dogs can accurately and reliably pinpoint the patients with cancer (3) the dog's performance is not affected by specific human behaviors such as eating and smoking.

The Pine Street Foundation may be recruiting dogs for a future study in the San Francisco Bay Area if they receive further funding. If you wish to explore this study in further detail or if you wish to offer the services of your dog as a detection candidate in their future studies, visit them at:
http://www.psmerg.org/articles/canine.html

An announcement will be made through their newsletter, if you sign up to receive their e-mail updates.

The article "Diagnostic Accuracy of Canine Scent Detection in Early and Late Stage Lung and Breast Cancers" can be accessed at no-charge for a limited time on the Integrative Cancer Therapies web site at http://ict.sagepub.com.

Using Reward and Punishment to Train Your Dog

2009-01-24T00:42:00.000+02:00

Using Reward and Punishment to Train Your Dog
by Brent Jones

The basis of all animal training is reward and punishment, and repetition leading to reflex actions. Pleasure and displeasure are sufficient rewards and punishments for dogs. Dogs never become capable of understanding the moral distinctions between right and wrong, as children do, and they seldom evolve beyond the "childish" stage of doing something because it makes their owner happy.

In dog training, punishments and rewards are really an elementary form of communication, a means of getting the dog to understand what you want him to do. You will get the best results from the mildest punishment and the most extravagant praise at first. Later on, an affectionate word or an imperceptible pat will suffice.

The most effective canine rewards are a word of praise such as "Good Dog!" in an affectionate, enthusiastic tone of voice. A caress, such as stroking the back, rubbing behind the ears, along the muzzle, or stroking the head. Edible rewards can also be used such as cooked liver, a biscuit, a sliver of cheese, or whatever your dog prefers. Edible rewards work better on puppies, while adult dogs generally prefer praise.

The most effective forms of punishment are the absence of praise. Saying "No, Bad Dog" in a firm but not loud voice. Try to say the word "no" as little as possible, and emphasize more on the positive instead. Constraints such as making the dog sit or lie down after the misbehavior. You should never strike or hit a dog on any part of their body, especially with your hand. It is humiliating, traumatizing, and can undo much hard work in the positive or reward side of the training.

Shy and sensitive dogs respond to gentle correction and lavish praise. They can be terrorized by severe handling. In spite of their reputation for toughness, most Terriers require gentle handling too, since they tend to associate pain with fighting, and painful punishments can trigger instinctive resistance or aggression.

Sheep dogs and hounds, as well as many of the large breeds react to the gentlest measures, and most learn best from rewards alone. Due perhaps to the dog's rapid evolution toward a more civilized, sensitive mentality, old fashioned punishment is not as effective as it used to be and as stated earlier, may have a negative effect.

If punishment must be used, preferably by scolding, always be brief, and try to not show any anger. The dog may not comprehend exactly what you want him to do, or exactly what "good" behavior is in this situation. After a punishment is given you should return at once to the lesson or some other positive activity.
The more time you spend with your dog, and the earlier the training is started will go a long way in producing good results and good behavior. Puppies always learn faster than older dogs that have already been conditioned by their environment, but you the owner are they key, and they look to you to lead and guide, reward and praise.

About the Author:
Randy Jones and his partner Brent Jones have been in the pet industry for a long time. Recently they formed Joncopets.com. On the site, customers can read articles about anything pets as well as shop for the latest designer dog clothes, dog collars, dog strollers and more for their best friend. Feel free to check out the site at http://www.joncopets.com

Prepare yourself for training your dog

2009-01-24T00:39:00.000+02:00

"Training Your Dog"

Yes, this article is about how to pick the perfect pet dog, but you should also know what you’re in for once you get it. If you don’t want to get a living hell it is important to train and "fix" your pup, and it’s better to get this information sooner than later.

Training

We assume you want a dog because you yearn for the companionship of an animal, not just because you want a new toy (unless it’s a toy dog, which, by definition, absolves you). But getting the dog is only part of the equation. To create a wonderful companion and a happy, healthy dog, you have to put some time into obedience training.

Just as time on the Stairmaster every day makes for a butt you can be proud of, so too will consistent daily obedience training make for a mutt you can be proud of. At the very least, you’ll want to housebreak your pooch. Teaching commands like "sit" and "stay" will make your life a LOT easier. And if you go on to advanced obedience training, you too can have one of those superstar dogs that catches Frisbees and runs obstacle courses when it’s not busy signing autographs.

The point: obedience training is how you get the best from your dog. It’s also how you give the best to your dog: a well-trained dog is a happy dog. They’re secure. They know that you’re the boss and that you’ve got a plan. So keep training in mind when you get a pup.

Fixing

Fix my dog? I didn’t even know it was broken! But unless you’re prepared to take care of 13 more puppies, you really should spay (for girl dogs) or neuter (for boy dogs) your dog immediately. Millions of dogs die each year in shelters and on the streets, and much of it could be prevented if people had their pets fixed.

You might think that having your ’nads snipped off is a bad thing, but the world does not need more puppies. It needs people to take care of the ones that have already been born. Next to getting married, having kids, buying a house or running a country, caring for a dog is the biggest commitment you’ll ever make. You know why: because a dog is a living thing. Dogs feel pain, fear, loneliness, joy, love, and loyalty. It’s all part of the dog-owning experience.

Dog Behavior Training

2009-01-24T00:36:00.000+02:00

Dog Behavior Training Don'ts- What Not to do With Your Dog
by Ty Brown

Over the years I have seen my clients commit numerous dog training atrocities. Okay, I too have committed my fair share. So let me share the benefit of having witnessed some dog training mistakes that I have seen time and time again so that you can avoid them. Here are some dog training don'ts.

* Don't yell at your dog. Too many dog owners seem to feel that the degree in which a voice is raised is directly in proportion to the level of dog obedience. This is not true. In fact it is my experience that the opposite is true. The more you raise your voice at your dog the more you condition your dog to listen only when you are yelling. What happens then when you aren't yelling? Better to never get in the habit.

* Don't forget what you have learned. Apply dog training principles across the board. Too many times a dog owner will learn a new technique for a dog training behavior and will apply it dutifully during 'training time'. But after training time, during 'TV time' or 'cooking in the kitchen time' that same principle gets swept under the rug. What does your dog learn? He learns that he needs to be obedient only during 'training time' and every other time is open season.

* Don't go too fast. Good dog behavior training is done at the speed of dog. It takes a dog much longer to form an association than it does a human. You have to understand that that your rate of teaching your dog should be slow and steady.

* Don't get frustrated. There will surely be times in your dog behavior training that you aren't going to like how things are going. If this happens, stop the training session right away. Your frustration can cause you to want to force the issue and end up taking two steps backward with your progress.

* Don't forget to praise your dog. Dog behavior training should be fun for both you and your dog. Give your dog plenty of praise for performing correct behaviors. Dog behavior training by nature is oppressive; you are asking your dog to submit his will to yours. This can create stress. Praise is a great way to alleviate that stress. A stress-free dog learns quicker and has more fun.

* Don't be lazy. How many times have I been to a client's home after a weeks absence only to hear, "After that first day we really didn't work on his training too much." Owning a dog is a big time responsibility with dog behavior training being one of those major commitments. If you are going to own a dog, invest time in training.

* Finally, don't be too hard on yourself. With dog behavior training you will fail and you will succeed. Focus more on your successes and less on your failures to be able to have repeated success.

About the Author:
Author Ty Brown is a renowned dog trainer whose training adventures and clients have taken him to 18 states and 5 countries to teach others how to properly train their dogs. Go to dogbehavioronline.com for more dog training articles, advice, tips, and answers from a professional dog trainer.

Things to know

2009-01-23T23:46:00.001+02:00

Important Things You Need To Know About Puppies And The Dog Training Basics
by Louise Nova

The excitement of choosing your dog is over. You are arriving home and the family is rushing out of the car and into the house with the new puppy. As you look at the cute little face you ask yourself one question. Am I ready for this?

What to Feed This New Puppy.

First things first. You will have to decide on what this little puppy is going to eat. You need to choose a high quality diet. You need to do a little reasearch and make some decisions. Your first decision is what type of dog food you will choose.

1. Canned Dog Food 2. Dried Dog Food

Some people choose canned dog food because they feel it is more like real food. It retains about 70-80% of the water that is naturally in the vegetables and meat. This usually means that the puppy will drink less water. Be sure to supplement with some hard dog biscuits that are suitable for puppies which will help to keep their teeth clean.

Currently the most popular choice seems to be the dried dog food. Always choose the best quality food you can afford. You have to remember that if you were only going to eat one thing all your life it had better be good for you. Dried dog food is now a scientific blend of all the nutrients your dog will need but the better ones have less filler and the puppies need a lot of protein to grow.

For the first few days you might want to give the new puppy that same food that they were receiving at the kennel you bought them from. After that you can slowly start mixing in your new choice, using more each time until you have 100% of the new food. You may as well start with some dog training basics now by not leaving the food on the floor all day. Only put the food out when you decide and take it away after they have eaten. Do it often as they have to learn that food is only available when you decide.

Sleep Time Comes Fast.

Hopefully you have thought ahead enough to buy a crate. Get your puppy started sleeping in the crate from the first night and it will eventually treat it as a safe place to stay. Make sure that the bottom has a soft blanket for the puppy to curl up in. Unfortunately if you think that's the end of it for the night, you are wrong. As you try to sleep you will be constantly woken by the sad little cries of a puppy missing its mother and siblings. They are used to lots of warmth and noise so it might be a good idea to add a hot water bottle under the blanket and to leave a radio or TV on for a while. Some people even leave a loud ticking clock near the cage to simulate the heart beat of the mother.

Who Is Entertaining Whom?

You will soon realize that your puppy is not just entertaining but also needs to be entertained. You should have a selection of safe toys for them to play with such as:-

- Chew Ropes, - Balls and Bones of Nylon - Soft Toys

Make sure to be careful of the squeaky toys as the puppy could chew the toy and swallow the squeaker. This has often ended in surgery and even if it doesn't the squeaking will drive you insane as they catch on pretty quickly on how to bite in exactly the right spot. Only let them play with rubber balls if you are supervising as swallowed rubber can upset their stomachs.

Start With Dog Training Basics

A crate is useful training tool both for house training and puppy behavior in general. Treat it as you would a child's bedroom. It is a safe comfortable place to sleep but occasionally they will be sent there when naughty.

You should begin your dog training basics by putting your puppy in it's crate any time you need to leave them unsupervised in the house, or at night. This gets them used to it and they will often go there on their own when they want to get away from people. They will cry at first but do not let them out right away. If you do they will quickly learn that all they have to do is whine and you will let them out.

There will come a time when you need to discipline your puppy. You should never hit your puppy or raise your voice. You can use the crate as a time-out place. This is useful if your puppy is play biting too much or if you have caught them chewing the furniture. Make sure that the punishment instantly follows the bad behavior or they will not know what they are in there for. Put them in quickly with a firm "No" and leave them in there for a few minutes. If you have to repeat it then increase the minutes until you get the action to stop. This one tool will give you some control and get you started on the dog training basics you will need.

About the Author:
Louise Nova has had a passion for dogs for decades. She pays particular attention to quality information and endorses the best in dog behavior training programs on her site at Dog Training Basics

Stopping Bad Behavior

2009-01-23T00:47:00.000+02:00

Bad behavior in dogs can consist of many problems. Does he bark all night long and keeps you from sleeping? Are you afraid he is going to keep biting? Does he chew everything except his toys? If the answer to any of these questions are yes you need to invest some time into a little bit of dog behavior training. A little training will go a long way.

Dogs that bark can be extremely irritating but the main thing is not to loose your cool, if you shout at him he will try to shout louder than you. Try and find out the cause of his barking. Is he barking because he is afraid? Is he happy? Is there someone out there? If you can’t find the reason for the barking then he is doing it because he doesn’t know it is wrong to bark all the time. This is where dog behavior training comes in. There are lots of products available to help dogs with constant barking, there are special collars which gives them the tiniest of electric shocks so they know that it isn’t good to bark.

A biting dog is maybe one of the more serious behavior problems, especially now that the laws are tightened and any dog that bites someone is more than likely to get put down. Teaching your dog not to bite is one of the most important teachings you can give him. This is where you have to be firm and stick to your guns. When playing with a young dog they will automatically nip and gnaw at your hand this is because when dogs play together they play with their mouths. When teaching your dog not to bite stroke him with one hand while offering something which is acceptable to be bitten with the other hand, something like a chew toy or a raw hide treat. Your dog will soon realize that hands aren’t there for biting. This process has to be done repeatedly for it to take effect.

Dog behavior training is simple enough for the experienced dog lover but when it comes to beginners all the help available is needed. Accept help from friends and family and maybe even enroll in a dog behavior training class, this will help you to meet other people, having the same problems with their dogs that you are with yours. You are not alone when it comes to having trouble with dog behavior problems. Every dog will get them, it’s just a matter of how you fix them.

Dog Training Technique

2009-01-23T00:28:00.000+02:00

When you say "sit" does your dog give you that “there’s no way I’m going to do what you say” look? When you’re taking him for a walk does he tug and pull and make you half run to the park? If the answer is "yes" then you need to learn some dog training techniques. They are harmless and aid free ways to train your dog to listen to what you have to say to him.

There is one dog training technique which I have tried and tested and it is great. It’s called the “Nothing in life is free” technique. It basically works on the fact that nothing is free, your dog has to do something to get something in return. For example if he wants food he has to remain seated until you make his dinner, or if you want to talk him for a walk then he has to lie down until you put his leash and collar on. These training techniques all are based on the fact that your dog will realise to get what he wants he has to do what you are telling him to do. What if he doesn’t do it? Walk away. Don’t shout at him or keep trying if he doesn’t listen just ignore him and walk away then about 5 minutes later go back and try again. He soon comes to realise that you are in charge and he has to do what you say to get what wants.

When dogs are born they usually have siblings and their mother is the “Leader of the pack”, when a young dog leaves his mother he starts to think that he is free and can do what he wants. When he first joins a family he starts to act dominant. He tries to be leader of the house. You can’t let him gain this position you need to show him through dog training techniques that humans are the head of your house not the dog. He does not have to be aggressive to get what he wants. Sometimes dogs use the sympathetic approach using their puppy dog eyes. This is just another attempt at trying to get higher in the dominance hierarchy and you can’t let them get ahead of you.

When it comes to kids dog’s see them more as playmates than masters as children can get down to their height and play with them, under adult supervision when your child gets to around the age of nine you can start to teach them to use dog training techniques so they can show the dog that when they ask him to do something he has to listen to them, not just listen to you.

Dog training techniques are extremely efficient and very simple to carry out, the training doesn’t even seem like training it just requires repetition and you dog will soon catch on that nothing in life is free!

Training Your Puppy Not to Bite

2009-01-23T00:20:00.000+02:00

Training Your Puppy Not to Bite by Tony Robinson Biting is one of those things that every puppy seems to do, and every puppy must be taught not to do. Like many behaviors, such as jumping up on people, biting and nipping can seem cute when the puppy is small, but much less so as he gets older, larger and stronger. Left to their own devices, most puppies learn to control their biting reflex from their mothers and from their littermates. When the puppy becomes overenthusiastic, whether when nursing or playing, the mother dog, or the other puppies, will quickly issue a correction. Unfortunately, this type of natural correction often does not occur, since many puppies are removed from their mothers when they are still quite young. It is therefore up to puppy's owner to take over this important process.

Socializing the puppy with other dogs and puppies is one of the best and most effective ways to teach the puppy the appropriate, and non appropriate way to bite, and to curb the biting response. Many communities and pet stores sponsor puppy playtime and puppy kindergarten classes, and these classes can be great places for puppies to socialize with each other, and with other humans and animals as well.

As the puppies play with each other, they will natural bite and nip each other. When one puppy becomes too rough or bites too hard, the other puppies will quickly respond by correcting it. The best time for this socialization of the puppy to occur is when it is still young. It is vital that every dog be properly socialized, since a poorly socialized dog, or worse, one that is not socialized at all, can become dangerous and even neurotic. Most experts recommend that puppies be socialized before they have reached the age of 12 weeks, or three months. Another reason for socializing the puppy early is that mothers of young children may be understandably reluctant to allow their young children to play with older or larger dogs. Since socializing the dog with other people is just as important as socializing it with other dogs, it is best to do it when the puppy is still young enough to be non threatening to everyone. It is important for the puppy to be exposed to a wide variety of different stimuli during the socialization process.

The socialization process should include exposing the puppy to a wide variety of other animals, including other puppies, adult dogs, cats and other domestic animals. In addition, the puppy should be introduced to as wide a cross section of people as possible, including young children, older people, men, women and people from a variety of ethnic backgrounds. While socialization is very important to providing the puppy with life lessons and preventing him from biting, it is not the only method of preventing unwanted biting and mouthing. Giving the puppy appropriate things to play with and bite is another good way to control inappropriate biting. Providing a variety of chew toys, ropes and other things the puppy can chew is important to preventing boredom, keeping his teeth polished and keeping him from chewing things he should not.

As with any training, it is important to be consistent when teaching the puppy not to bite. Every member of the family, as well as close friends who may visit, should all be told that the puppy is to be discouraged from biting. If one person allows the puppy to chew on them while everyone else does not, the puppy will quickly become confused, and that can make the training process much more difficult than it has to be.

About the author: Tony Robinson is an international author and dog lover. His website http://www.dogtraining4u.com contains valuable insights into the life of our canine friends.

Obedience Training

2009-01-23T00:16:00.000+02:00

Obedience Training is one of the best things you can do for your dog or puppy... and yourself. Obedience training doesn't solve all behavior problems, but it is the foundation for solving just about any problem. Training opens up a line of communication between you and your dog. Effective communication is necessary to instruct your dog about what you want her to do. You can teach her anything from 'stay' (don't bolt out the door) to 'sit' (don't jump up on the visitors) to 'off' (don't chew the furniture). Dogs are social animals and without proper training, they will behave like animals. They will soil your house, destroy your belongings, bark excessively, dig holes in your yard, fight other dogs and even bite you. Nearly all behavior problems are perfectly normal canine activities that occur at the wrong time or place or are directed at the wrong thing. For example, the dog will eliminate on the carpet instead of outside; the dog will bark all night long instead of just when a stranger is prowling around outside; or the dog will chew furniture instead of his own toys.

The key to preventing or treating behavior problems is learning to teach the dog to redirect his natural behavior to outlets that are acceptable in the domestic setting. Obedience training is also an easy way to establish the social hierarchy. When your dog obeys a simple request of 'come here, sit,' she is showing compliance and respect for you.

It is NOT necessary to establish yourself as top dog or leader of the pack by using extreme measures such as the so-called alpha roll-over. You CAN teach your dog her subordinate role by teaching her to show submission to you in a paw raise (shake hands), roll over or hand lick (give a kiss). Most dogs love performing these tricks (obedience commands) for you which also pleasantly acknowledge that you are in charge.

Obedience training should be fun and rewarding for you and your dog. It can enrich your relationship and make living together more enjoyable. A well-trained dog is more confident and can more safely be allowed a greater amount of freedom than an untrained one. A trained dog will come when called.

Some people debate whether or not it is possible to train puppies, and others ask whether it is possible to teach an old dog new tricks. The answer to both questions is an unequivocal YES. Whatever the age of your dog, the right time to begin training is right now! The most important time in your dog's life is right now.

Your dog's behavior is constantly changing. A dog that is well-behaved today will not necessarily remain that way forever. New problems can always develop. Existing problems can always get worse. Enroll in a local dog obedience training class to learn the basics. Then most teaching and training can and should be done in your home. It is best to begin training in an area that is familiar to your dog and with the least amount of distractions as possible.

When you feel both you and your dog are skilled at several obedience commands, then take these commands to different areas. Introducing distractions may seem like starting all over again, but it's worth the effort. In reality, who cares if your dog will sit stay when no one is around? What you need is a dog who will sit-stay when company is at the door.

Who cares if your dog heels beautifully in your own back yard? But you need to start there if you eventually want a dog who will heel beautifully when walking down Union Street. f you want your dog to be obedient in your car, guess where you have to practice? If you suddenly want your dog to down-stay while you are trying to move over 3 lanes to make an exit, you had better find time to practice those obedience commands in the car long before you need them. Don't drive and practice at the same time.

Practice while the car is parked or while someone else is driving. Keep the obedience training sessions short and sweet. It is dull and boring to schedule tedious and lengthy training sessions. Instead, integrate training into your daily routine. Make obedience training interesting and meaningful to your dog. If Puppy insists on following you from room to room while you are getting ready for the day, then insist he have something to do too. "Heel" from the bedroom to the bathroom. "Down-stay" while you're brushing your teeth. "Heel" from the bathroom to the kitchen. "Sit-stay" while grinding the coffee beans. "Go find the ball" while you get dressed. Now "go get the leash" so you can go for a walk. "Sit" when the door is opened, "sit" again when the door is closed. And so on.

Be sure that obedience training infiltrates your dog's favorite activities and that your dog's favorite activities infiltrates training. Your dog's favorite activities should become training, so that training becomes the dog's favorite activity. Rewards While Training The single most important aspect of training is rewarding your dog for good behavior.

The more times the dog is rewarded, the quicker he will learn. Therefore, it's essential that you set up situations repeatedly in order for your dog to get plenty of practice at doing the right thing. It's equally as important that you always praise your dog for good behavior instead of taking it for granted. It's easy to forget to praise good behavior because it goes unnoticed. But the very nature of misbehavior gets our attention.

We don't notice when our dog is lying quietly, but excessive barking gets our attention. How many of us take notice and praise our dogs when they chew their own toys? But we all go berserk when we notice our favorite pair of shoes chewed up! Praise and reward are the most important part of maintaining good behavior and preventing problems from arising. Reprimands While Training Some dogs feel they are constantly bombarded with, 'NO, Stop that, get off, Bad dog!' They tend to get used to it and so the reprimands become meaningless and are ignored. If most of our interaction with the dog is praise for good behavior, then reprimands will take on much more meaning.

Whenever you find the need to reprimand your dog, immediately show him what you want him to do, then reward him for getting it right. If you catch him chewing the furniture, tell him, 'Off!' Then immediately direct him to his own toys, enthusiastically entice him to chew on them and praise him for doing so. If done correctly, your voice alone is sufficient for reprimand. A correct reprimand is short, sharp and immediate. Don't continue to nag the dog and never reprimand him unless you catch him in the act. Never hit, kick, slap or spank your dog. This type of inappropriate punishment always creates more problems and usually makes existing problems worse. Not only will you have a barking, chewing dog, but one that is leery, hand-shy, fearful or aggressive.

Article Source: http://www.perfectpaws.com/whytr.html

Dog Training Course

2009-01-23T00:13:00.000+02:00

In agility your dog has to be trained to run courses. You can train him on obstacles separately or you can train him on a dog training course, either option is ok but a course is much better in the long run. Most dog agility handlers have had experience running and training their own dog but when new handlers arrive at a club they have had no experience in agility and need all the help that they can get! So advising them about dog training courses is the best way to start.

Some handlers may have had previous experience in competitions like dog obedience, show dog work or flyball but not in agility. When starting out learning courses is the first thing any handler must do, they must know what a course involves and how to run one, if they do not know then how is their dog supposed to? A dog training course is a simple method to teach your dog agility and is great practice for when it comes to competitions. Any dog can run a course, mini’s, midi’s or full seized dogs are welcome in shows but of course the obstacles are lowered for the smaller dogs!

A dog training course is usually used on training nights by all the members of the club and there is usually one handler there who helps the rest, by letting the handlers know what they are doing “wrong” with their dog, the handler must project good body language and good commands for the dog to follow orders if the handler doesn’t then the dog will just run around and not do anything correctly!

Separate obstacles are usually set up for handlers and dogs who need to concentrate on just one aspect of the course, for example their jumping, weaves or contact points. Again there is usually a guide there to help the beginners to show their dog what it needs to do. A lot of dog training courses are ran with inexperienced dogs on the leash so that they don’t interfere with other dogs running on different training courses.

Any dog can learn agility with the right method of training, dog training isn’t only available in agility or obedience either. I mentioned something earlier called flyball. Flyball is the new competition sweeping the UK by storm. Crufts (the biggest UK dog show) now even have a course for it. It is where the dog runs over five small low to the ground hurdles and then reaches a box where it places it two front paws on a pad, when the pad is pressed a tennis ball is released from behind the machine and the dogs aim is to catch it and run as fast as they can back! This is great to watch and even better to train for.

If trained correctly on a training course dogs can be taught amazing things and reach new heights that you didn’t think possible, try and train as often as you can and your dog will soon be a master in its game and you’ll carry home many trophies and rewards for your efforts!

Basic Dog Training

2009-01-23T00:10:00.000+02:00

“How does your dog sit when you tell him to and mine doesn’t?", “How can your dog heel to you like that?", “Wow! He comes when you tell him to” - Sounds familiar? If it does, you need to invest some time into a little bit of basic dog training. Starting to train your dog from a young age is crucial as the first few months of his life is when you will have the greatest influence on him; this is where he is shaped into the dog he is going to be when he is all grown up.

The most basic of dog training is to get your dog to sit and come. Teaching him those commands are essential for him to learn. These commands are used for various different reasons, if you are in competition, if your dog jumps making him sit will immediately get him off and "come" is the all important one. If you take your dog for a walk, you let him of the leash and you expect him to come back to you, not run around the park with you chasing after him shouting at him to “get here right this instance”. That would be just down right embarrassing!

To teach your dog how to come requires only the most basic of techniques but a lot of repetition. The simplest way to get him to come is have a toy in one hand and a treat in the other, when you are in the house simply walk away from him, hold out the toy and excitingly call him to you, when he comes over give him a treat, always use the command for come that you are going to use in the future. Doing this several times a day is a great way to teach him, but remember to have lots of long breaks so he doesn’t get bored and stop enjoying it, and don’t forget the treats!

Getting him to sit could be a slight bit harder but again only requires basic dog training. When you have mastered the come command call him to you, place your hand on the end of his back and say "sit" while gently pushing down on his backside, when he sits his bottom down give him a treat and a lot of praise. If you want him to sit longer just delay giving him the treat and the praise, get him to sit but take your time bending down to him and feeding him his titbit.

Basic dog training is simple and very effective. It should also be fun for you and your dog, it doesn’t have to be hours and hours each day just may be 5 minutes or so. Don’t forget to reward your dog and yourself for all the “hard” work though!!

How To Train Your Dog

2009-01-22T00:40:00.000+02:00

How To Train Your Dog By: rayter

Teaching your dog basic execution and obedience of most course obstacles require simple training techniques, a little amount of time and patience.

The course familiarization depends on the ability of a dog while the physical responses will depend on the dog’s age. There are several dogs that can be enthusiastically convinced to run through a short and straight tunnel to chase a toy or to go to the pet owner.

In training your dog, it is important that you know your goals. Set your objectives prior buying any obstacle training equipment. Basically, an agility course or training helps you as pet owner teach your dog basic obedience and follow your simple commands. It even allows you both, you and your pet to have to great, fun and quality time together.

There are actually several ways to train your dog. Setting up an agility course within your home is one of the natural and exciting ways to impose the obedience you want from your dear pooch friend. Make sure that you are physically and emotionally ready before taking the course with your dog.

Your role as his trainer or handler is very important. This is because as your dog moves, you are also required to make some movement to get along with his excitement and enthusiasm.

You also need to prepare a prize for a job well done by your dog. Make sure that you have something for him upon finishing any obstacle challenge to encourage him more in his training. This is also a one way of convincing him that something great is waiting for him.

Dogs are intelligent animals and they can absolutely finish their training in a small span of time. They can also practically do strategic plans just to know what’s in store for them in the other end of the obstacle. All you need to do is to encourage them more and build the most important element of teaching them, trust.

There are also some cases that dogs become traumatic instead of being enthusiastic in taking the course due to some unwanted problems or events. In case you can’t handle your dog’s fear or trauma, you must see your most trusted veterinarian and see what he has to give you as an advice.

Dog training using the dog agility equipment and obstacle challenges is just like playing around with your pet. You as pet owner must give your instructions in an inviting yet firm voice so that he won’t be afraid to you while enjoying his training. Remember a careful and step by step training process will help you in achieving all your goals.

Author's Resource:

The author is a pet lover and web copywriter connected to a company that specializes in dog agility equipment , wireless dog fence and other dog training collar products at affordable rates.

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