Nov
08
2011
0

Proper Training For Dog Obedience Problems

Having a dog that exhibits poor behavior will make the relationship between human and dog strained and your life filled with stress. A properly behaved dog is a dog that is welcome just about everywhere. It is extremely important to take time correctly training your dog.

Dog obedience problems can arise as a result of many issues. One of the most important things to be aware of is that obedience training starts before you ever bring the dog home. No matter whether you will be getting a puppy or an adult dog, there are actually ground rules that should be established. If you reside with other people, it can be crucial to get everybody aboard to be sure that training will be positive and consistent.

Decide beforehand such things as where the dog will be let outside to use the bathroom and have exercise. Have a designated area that they will eat their meals. Is one individual going to be responsible for walking the pet or will it be a task that will have different people taking turns? Having a number of the basics in place beforehand will make it much easier after you actually bring your dog home.

A few of the most typical dog obedience problems include jumping up on people, barking excessively, chewing on things it should not and playing way too rough. Consistent training with positive reinforcement needs to be started at the very beginning and continued regularly. You’ll need to be certain that the dog has learned simple obedience commands like sit, stay and down. Set very clear boundaries concerning what’s appropriate and what’s not. When the dog jumps up on you once and you don’t correct it yet the next time you discipline him for it, you will be sending him very mixed signals.

This lack of communication will not just serve to confuse your dog, it can make it more difficult to discipline him simply because he will not clearly understand exactly what you’re expecting. Make certain that your commands are clear, consistent and authoritative. In the event that barking becomes an issue, first check to see whether there are outside issues creating this problem. Is the dog hungry, cold, stuck or tangled up? Many things can cause him to bark so first check to make sure that it isn’t a problem such as this. In the event that barking is excessive without any root cause, be consistent with letting them understand it is not acceptable. Spending more time with your dog and making certain he’s getting sufficient exercise can sometimes make a significant difference.

Dog obedience problems don’t need to create stress and havoc in a household. Make properly training your dog a major goal and always be consistent. Before you realize it, you’ll have a dog that is well-behaved and a joy to be around.

Are you wondering how to stop a dog from biting? Find out more about biting and puppy chewing problems by visiting Alpha Training 4 Puppies.

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Written by Sandy Rutherforde in: Dogs | Tags: , , , , , ,
Nov
05
2011
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Does Your Dog Have Separation Anxiety?

Does your dog miss you too much when you’re away at work, shopping, visiting or whatever? It’s normal for them to miss you some, and it’s not uncommon for them to have some serious problems with being left alone. This can cause you both some distress.

This issue is known as separation anxiety and there are ways to effectively cope with it and make it easier for your dog to deal with those times when you must be away.

Signs of Separation Anxiety

If your dog is chewing, digging and scratching they are showing signs that they are trying to escape. While barking, pooping and peeing and excessive salivating are signs of fear and anxiety. These are the classic signs.

Causes of Separation Anxiety

Often this behavior started early and is often the result of improper training. Or it could be due to former mistreatment by another owner or even too much socializing and bonding. The good news is that you should be able to control it.

Treatment of Separation Anxiety

There are things that you can do to prevent separation anxiety. When you put your dog in his crate, don’t have a long, emotional good-bye. Simply, walk away. It is even a good idea to ignore your dog 5 minutes before you leave. If you draw attention to your departure, your dog will worry when the love and emotion is suddenly stopped.

Try and change your leaving routines somewhat. My dogs have caught on to the fact that when I put makeup on, it means I’m probably going somewhere so they hang around and keep an eye on me.

A few things that I’ve tried have been putting my makeup on earlier and hanging around them for a little while before I leave. Another going outside with my keys but not really going anywhere. Maybe take the garbage out or something. Because they always associate my keys with the car, they get excited because they think they’re going somewhere (which they usually are) and if they are left behind they get very upset. By getting them conditioned to my leaving with they keys and coming right back, they don’t become so anxious. You can even give them a small treat when you return so they associate your coming and going with good stuff.

Make sure they have lots to do when you’re gone. Leave his favorite toys and treats. The interactive dog treat dispensers are great for this as you can regulate how many he has and it keeps him busy trying to get at them. When your dog knows that he has access to treats, he won’t care so much that you’re gone. Also leave on the TV or radio when you’re gone. There are even special CDs you can get made especially for dogs, or you could record your own voice.

When you return home, don’t give your dog any emotion or attention when you let him out of his crate. This will reinforce that being outside of the crate is better than being inside the crate. Let him outside to eliminate immediately.

Like all forms of dog training, you have to have time and patience. In time the Separation Anxiety should lessen. If it doesn’t or if he becomes aggressive you should consult your vet who may prescribe a light mellowing out pill. I prefer a small dose of Melatonin which is a natural calming/sleeping aid for humans (check with your yet or pharmacist on the amount that should be given).

Just remember that your dog wants your love and attention, so pay attention to his behavior and use the above training methods to help overcome his problems.

Alex is an avid pet lover who has had many pets throughout her life. She has taken her experience with pets and her love of writing and published Henri’s Online Dog Obedience School where you can sign-up for her pet tips and tricks e-newsletter or visit Henri the Hound, the place to go when you’re looking for awesome gifts for your furry friends.

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Oct
26
2011
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Is Your Dog Getting Fat Because Of You?

Perhaps you’d like to ignore the situation, but if your dog is fat, you are cheating it out of the chance to live the best possible life. Overweight dogs are at increased risk of developing painful conditions like arthritis and life-threatening ones like cardiovascular disease or diabetes. They need to go on a dog diet.

Your dog is at your mercy when if comes to meal and snack time, and the only discipline being exercised in doggie’s diet is yours. If you have a hard time turning away from those pleading eyes (and what dog owner doesn’t?) perhaps realizing that you are doing your pet much more harm than good with each unnecessary bite will help you. Statistics show that a recent pet population survey in the USA showed that 40 percent of the pets are overweight.

If your dog is overweight then it is eating more calories than necessary. Period! If your dog is overweight and is otherwise healthy then it is eating way too much. Certainly have your pet examined by your Vet to check for heart, thyroid or other metabolic disorders to rule out a possible medical cause. Be honest with your vet about how much or how little exercise your dog gets, and how often, as well as how much you feed, what and when you feed, and how often you treat.

DON’T MAKE EXCUSES

Are you giving your dog rewards for negative behaviors? Things like: He won’t go to bed until he gets his special treat, is something that you have taught him. You might think that it’s cute, but all you’ve done is teach him bad manners. Now he knows that if he makes a fuss, he’ll get a treat.

And the classic excuse for overweight dogs is the one that goes “Buster won’t eat dog food.” Oh really? Then what does Buster eat? You got it, table scraps and whatever it wants. Once again the dog has succeeded in training the owners to give it what IT wants. And it worked, but the dog is paying the price for it physically. Hard not to overeat when you’re getting the “select” goodies isn’t it? Remember this, it is NOT up to the DOG to choose what it eats in your house – it is up to YOU – the owner. And you choose the best high quality nutritious feed on the market or make it at home.

START A DIET PROGRAM

First take a good hard look at the food you are feeding. The FIRST ingredients present in the bag of food should be MEAT or meat products, NOT grains like corn.

Record your dog’s present weight and date and then start reducing his present intake of food by 1/3rd. This includes treats and snacks. Do not give in to any begging or whining. You are doing nothing to harm him and in time he will learn that begging won’t work. After two weeks, weigh in again.

If Buster has lost weight at the end of the two week dog diet, then stick to this schedule. If he hasn’t lost any weight, reduce his intake by another one third and also find out if someone else in the house is treating Buster.

If you’re wondering about low cal diets for dogs, you CAN get them, but many vets don’t like to recommend them as they have very restricted fat levels BUT because the fat is reduced the carbs are increased. Increased carb production produces extra insulin that tells the dog’s body to store the unused calories as fat.

WHAT IS THE SOLUTION?

There are far better ways for you to let your dog experience your love than with too much food. Your pet will almost certainly enjoy spending more time on walks or playing games with you than he or she will when eating alone. There are plenty or nutritious foods which have loads of doggie palate appeal out there, so you should never feel like Buster is missing something by not dining at the family table.

Alex is a freelance graphic artist with a love of writing and dogs. She has a long and personal background with dogs and has studied what works and what doesn’t when teaching them. If you liked this article, check out a couple of her others, like Why Are Some Dogs Afraid Of Thunder? or Is Your Dog At Risk . . . Effects Of Sun & Heat On Dogs.

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Oct
26
2011
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How To Introduce Your Dog To Your Baby

In my last article about how to prepare your dog for your new baby, we covered all the thing you should do before you bring your baby home from the hospital. In this article, we’ll cover the actual meeting of baby and pup and what you should do and be aware of.

First impressions are very important when you have your baby and puppy meet. Whatever goes on in this initial meet will set the tone for the upcoming years and months for everyone involved.

Here are some tips to make your first meeting successful.

* When the baby comes home, another person should hold the baby while you greet your dog. Your dog has missed you and it is important to pay attention to him or her when you first get home.

* It’s a good idea to bring your dog home a new toy that you can introduce him to and take some time to play with him. This will help the two of you to bond and hopefully tire him out a little.

* If you are unsure of you dog’s behavior, leash or restrain him or her during the introduction. Talk to your dog, pet and encourage him or her to get a good look and sniff the baby’s hands and feet. Do not force a reluctant dog by pushing the infant in front of the pet. Allow the pet to explore the new smells at their own pace.

* Never leave your baby unsupervised with your pet. An infant is incapable of pushing the animal away and your dog may inadvertently smother the child. The actions of a baby may scare your dog and cause it to bite in self-defense. If your dog reacts aggressively, put him or her in another room until it is calm and try the introduction again.

* After the initial meeting, sit on the couch with your baby and your dog at your side. Speak to both calmly and show your love to both. Reward your pup for his good behavior so he will associate the baby with a positive experience. Remember the importance on never forcing the baby and dog together and never leave them unattended.

* Your life has now changed for ever and you will have many things to learn and adjust to, but always remember that your pup needs your love too. Try to keep to as regular schedule as possible and you’ll find that in no time at all, baby and dog will be the best of friends and bring much joy to your life.

Alex is a freelance graphic artist with a love of writing and pets. She has a long and personal history with pets and has noted what works and what doesn’t when teaching our pets. If you liked this article, check out a few of her others, like Tips On Socializing Your Puppy or Preparing Your Dog For The Baby’s Arrival.

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Oct
25
2011
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Should Dogs Get Table Scraps?

You love your dog, and you hate to waste food. Now there’s a dilemma. What to do with those table scraps when there’s still some nice meat on that bone, or the macaroni-and-cheese leftovers aren’t enough to make another meal? Fido’s one of the family, and certainly would appreciate a taste of what was on the dinner table. So what’s the harm in letting doggie, and not the garbage disposal, dispose of the table scraps rather than eat ‘traditional’ dog food?

Table scraps should not be the main source of dietary intake for your dog but may be fed as small treats here and there. Harmful table scraps like chocolate and bones, however, can cause extensive harm and even death to your pet. Digestive problems do occur when dogs eat table scraps that are too rich or that simply do not agree with their stomachs. Be wary of what table scraps you allow your dog to have and never overdo it.

Never feed your dog human food because you have deemed him a “fussy” eater. It is you who made him this way and of course he’s going to gobble it up and love you for it. But in the end you will both pay for it with ill health. Remember who is the boss in this relationship and do what is right for your dog.

Table scraps, fed in small amounts, DO have their good points. There is an enormous difference between good quality leftovers and “scraps”. The quality leftovers are the pieces of steak (trimmed of fat), roast beef, chicken or turkey. Adding this to your dog’s bowl is fine, only when done IN MODERATION. In addition leftover both pasta and rice are good, so long as they are minus the butter or other fatty sauces and are plainly cooked.

Feeding your dog too many “bad” table scraps can cause may problems besides just becoming overweight. Some food, like grapes, can cause pancreatitis which is a serious gastrointestinal problem which can lead to death. It’s kind of hard to believe but in fact, their stomachs are more sensitive than ours.

Some say that dogs should not get any human food, but I don’t agree with that. Of course there are all sorts of commercial products that will provide your pet with all the nutrients they need, an occasional “good” table scrap is great as a special treat. Just be responsible about it.

You should forget, for example, about serving your dog the leftover macaroni and cheese, even though pasta is OK and the cheese is low-fat. Dogs do not have the needed lactose to break up the lactose the result can be diarrhea. Turkey, chicken, steak, or any other kind of cooked bones are no-nos, because they can splinter and pierce or obstruct the dog’s digestive tract.. Bones can also cut the roof of the mouth.

Leftover stew is OK, as long as you first discard the onions, and if your family loves sushi, Fido will have to pass Raw fish can create a thiamine deficiency in dogs. As a result the dog will suffer from seizures and possibly death.

Easily digestible foods such as cooked rice or chicken and turkey (boneless) will be fine to feed your dog. Even some fruits and vegetables are well received by dogs, though there are some types to avoid such as grapes. Feeding your dog grapes causes severe kidney damage. While some fruits are acceptable to feed your pet, avoid grapes at all times.

If your dogs are anything like mine, they have the whole table scrap begging down to a fine art. Be strong and don’t give into their wiley ways. Understand what is good and what constitutes an acceptable amount for your particular pet and stick to it. Never try to save money by feeding them your human diet. If you want to feed them non-commercial food, like a raw diet, learn how to prepare it properly.

Remember, in the end you are not doing them any favors by giving them food that is ultimately harming them. Be strong!

Alex is a freelance graphic artist with a passion for writing and pets. She has a long and personal background with pets and has studied what works and what doesn’t when teaching them. If you liked this article, check out a couple of her others, likeBenefits Of Crate Training Your Puppy or A New Baby Coming? Time To Get Your Dog Ready!.

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Oct
24
2011
0

Tips To Help With Potty Training Your Dog

All dogs, just like children, may be different but they all go through the same basic phases in life. One of the more difficult phases in both dogs and kids, might well be the potty training stage. It must be done and it will take some time. Potty training does not happen overnight. If you want any success at all with your puppy, You will to need to take him out often.

When you first get your puppy or new dog, you want to get in the habit of taking them outside as much as possible. This will help them learn that outside is where they go to the bathroom. Instead of just going inside, they will quickly realize where the appropriate place to go to the bathroom is.

Although we all wish our puppies could hold it for an eight hour period, the fact of the matter is they cannot. It is up to you to keep an eye on your puppy as all it takes is a few seconds for them to do their business. By watching any warning signs or hints that they may need to go outside, you will be able to stop them before they go.

It is important you do not vary their diet while potty training your dog. This will create a change in their system which will ultimately fluctuate their bathroom cycle. Maintaining a consistent diet will help them get used to the food they are eating allowing their stomach to properly digest the food.

Although every parent wants to give their little puppy treats for being cute, make sure you are only giving them treats for going into the crate. Too many treats will mess with their diet as well. For this reason, keep your treat-giving to a minimum.

Something that many people do not do is associate their dog with the words “go outside!” It is imperative you take your dog on walks to give them more exercise. Every time you are going to take them for a walk, you want to ask them if they want to go outside. In addition, learn to say this every time you let them out to go to the bathroom. This will help them realize it is time to go to the bathroom.

On the other hand, if they do have an “accident” inside, you should treat them to negative reinforcement. This can be done humanely by, not talking to them, pinching their ear a loud noise such as a clap, or my favorite, a water spray with a spritzer. They will in turn associate this negative behavior with their “accident”.

A true accident is no one’s fault but our own, if their diet was changed or were not let out in time, or were frightened by something, you can hardly blame the dog. Use your common sense, a few small, healthy treats and lots of love and you’ll have your puppy trained in no time.

If your dog’s behavior persists or get worse, you might want to call in the top guns. Check out other in-depth training practices that will teach you much more than the basics covered here.

Alex is a freelance graphic designer & marketing pro with a love of writing and pets. She has a long and special history with pets and has studied what works and what doesn’t when teaching them. If you enjoyed these tips, go to her website Henri’s Online Dog Obedience School or visit her blog Henri’s Pet Tips, Tips & Trivia.

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Oct
21
2011
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Don’t Forget To Prepare The Dog For The Baby Too!

After welcoming a baby in to the world you are probably concerned about how your dog is going to react to him or her. Many people surrender their pets to shelters because of exhibited jealousy from their dog after a new baby’s arrival and fear of the infant being harmed by the animal. Yet many families have been successful in introducing their dogs to the new baby.

There is no room for error with dogs and babies so you must start to prepare your dog as early as possible. Like all training, it takes time and patience to see results, so prepare in advance.

Some jealousy is to be expected in the beginning because your dog is so used to being the center of attention, but follow some simple rules and everything will go great.

* Take your dog to your local Veterinarian for a complete checkup a few months before the baby arrives. Worms and parasites can be harmful to your baby so be sure to worm your dog before the baby arrives and at the normal intervals to keep on top of this problem. If your dog is not spayed or neutered, this is also the time to get it done.

* Try to get your dog used to babies by introducing to any of your friend’s or families babies. Always supervise these meets and this will go a long way to making your dog more comfortable around babies.

* Allow your dog to explore the baby’s sleeping, diaper changing areas, and related items such as baby powder, lotions, and diapers to become familiar with the new smells and objects. Apply baby lotion or powder to your hands, for example, and allow your dog to sniff the new smell. Dogs rely on their sense of smell, so familiarity with the new baby smells will help him or her recognize the baby as a part of the family. If possible, allow your dog to smell clothing that your baby has used before you bring the baby home.

* Get your dog used to baby related sounds as well, such as the infant swing, rocking chairs or rattles. Another good idea is to play recordings of baby noises, yes, they actually sell these, or make a recording of a friends baby. When you introduce your dog to these sounds, have him associate them with pleasurable things by giving them love and treats.

* Do not allow your dog to sleep on the baby’s furniture or play with the baby’s toys. Your dog should know that the furniture is not for him or her and should treat it as such. Provide toys for the dog that do not resemble baby toys. A dog may take the toy from the baby’s hand and unintentionally injure the infant.

* If you don’t want the dog in the baby’s room at all, install a barrier that will prevent them from getting in, but will also allow they to see and hear what’s going on. This will make him feel part of the process and feel more comfortable knowing and hearing the new baby sounds.

* Use a baby doll to help your pet get used to the real thing. Carry around a swaddled baby doll, take the doll in the stroller when you walk your dog, and use the doll to get your pet used to routine baby activities, such as bathing and diaper changing.

* Both you and your dog need to always know who is boss. Remember you are the alpha dog and never let your pup think otherwise. Always be vigilant around the baby and dog and always reprimand the dog when he shows any form of jealousy.

In my next article, I’ll cover all the things I recommend for the actual meeting of your new baby. Stay tuned or sign up for my pet tips and tricks e-newsletter found on my website

Alex is a freelance graphic designer & marketing pro with a passion for writing and dogs. She has a long and personal history with dogs and knows what works and what doesn’t when training them. If you liked this article, check out a few of her others, like Does Your Dog Have Separation Anxiety? or Reasons Why You Should Groom Your Dog.

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Oct
11
2011
0

Tips on Pit Bull Training: Help Change the Public Perception of These Amazing Dogs

Unfortunately, the pit bull has become thought of, as a vicious breed and only pit bull training will make a big difference. This is a hotly debated topic among pit bull lovers and everyone else and without trying to spark an argument, suffice it to say the CDC has determined that there is no conclusive data linking one breed to dog bites and fatalities. What is important to realize about pit bulls is how proper training and treatment affect their demeanor and personality.

Heritage

The name “Pit bull terriers” can in fact make reference to a number of different kinds of dog, and each of them have been subjected to very similar breeding that dates back to bulldogs as well as terriers. The main difference between an American Staffordshire, American Pit Bull Terrier and a Staffordshire terrier, happens to be in the actual terriers employed to breed, and also the region they were bred in. These types of dogs have been carefully bred for various objectives, and occasionally they were also bred solely to fight in pits, hence the term pit bull.

Training

The first step to pit bull training is to establish firm boundaries, respect and love between you and your pet. When your dog understands boundaries and respects you there is very little they would not do for you. Love may seem like the most important; however, it is the one trait that is almost automatic. Boundaries and respect will take a bit more work. Puppy training begins the moment you bring your new pet into the household.

Boundaries

While you may enjoy snuggling with your pet on the couch you should actually make this a dog free zone, or at least by invitation only. This is the first step to establishing boundaries and installs you permanently as the alpha personality. In the wild canines live in packs, within the pack there is one alpha personality who rules the roost so to speak. That is the role you want to hold.

Basics

Pit bull training needs to include the basic directions, so just after you’ve finished setting the stage as discussed above, you must teaching your dog the basics. Start this by instilling a mentality of compliance to the point where your dog will obey the following commands

* Sit
* Stay
* Come
* Here

Behavioral Problems

During puppy training, you may come across some inherent bad behaviors. Generally, behavioral problems stem from poor training or mishandling, but you will find there are a few dogs that are naturally a bit more aggressive, passive or prone to tearing up furniture. If you find in the midst of your pit bull training that you are dealing with a dog like this, you will want to address the behavior firmly and consistently. In some cases, a professional trainer may be required.

Conclusion

Whilst schooling your puppy, do not forget that everybody in the house, and also and visitors you may get that come into contact with your dog must adhere to the identical set of training requirements. For instance, when you’re attempting to keep your pit bull from lunging up on everyone, everyone needs to do their share to let the dog know it’s out of the question. If anyone, including your kids allows this sort of behavior; your puppy training will achieve nothing at all. Pit bull training can certainly make an enormous difference with regards to the temperament of pit bull terriers, so it really is worth investing time to get it done effectively. In so doing, you can make a substantial difference to the average person’s opinion of this wonderful breed.

Want to find out more about dog obedience training, then visit Philllip Cohen’s site on how to choose the best pit bull training for your needs.

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Written by Philllip Cohen in: Dogs | Tags: , , , , ,
Oct
11
2011
0

Things to Consider about Boxer Dog Training

Getting a new dog means, you are going to be making some decisions, including what type of dog is best for your family. There are several different breeds and some are better suited to specific environments than others. Your lifestyle and family composition will be an important factor. If you have children in your family and are looking for the perfect dog one breed you might want to consider is the boxer as they are great with kids. As good as, they are with family and children you will still want to ensure they go through boxer dog training. This will give them a good foundation of how to act inside and outside of your home as well as with your family.

boxer dog training

Boxers are great dogs and owning one is very rewarding for you and your family; however remember to institute the right boxer dog training from day one. This breed is highly intelligent and like most dogs love to please. It is a good idea to do a bit of research on the breed, this way you will know exactly what to expect from your new boxer dog. Training approaches and more will hinge on the distinct breed characteristics. Dogs are similar, but each has a few character traits that are unique to the specific breed. When it comes to boxers, you can expect a dog who forms strong bonds with their human “family” which is one reason they are so popular.

Boxer puppy training should begin as soon as possible, starting with a few basic commands. This is one breed that is well known for being willful and a bit stubborn at times, which means times of testing your resolve will be at hand. The younger your dog is when boxer puppy training begins the better they will respond and the more you will be able to teach them. You will have the added benefit of avoiding common bad habits as well. Many people look at boxers as a dangerous animal; this is due in large part to their fearsome appearance. With a well-bred and trained dog, you can help change the perception of this breed overall. In addition, people will not fear your pet!

Training a boxer is not much different from other breeds; you simply must stay committed to the course and strong. Boxer puppy training demands that all members of the household stay on the same page. This promotes stability and consistency both of which are important to boxer dog training. When you are ready to begin training find a system of rewards that your dog will enjoy, never use violence or physical punishment on your pet. Make sure you are ready for the challenges of training, as your boxer will test your resolve. Take some time out for leisure and play, perhaps fetch. Playing together will ensure your dog bonds with you.

When you want to ensure good behavior and an obedient dog your boxer dog training. Correct training will do both of these things and give you a dog who responds well to you and others. In order to have a good relationship you should understand why they do things and how they think. When you understand your dog both your lives will be much happier, and a happy dog is one that will respond well to boxer dog training.

Looking to find the best deal on basic dog training, then visit http://dogobediencetrainings.org to find the best advice on boxer dog training for you.

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Sep
29
2011
0

The Do’s And Don’ts When Socializing Your Puppy

Now that you’re the new parent of a new puppy, you want to make sure that it grows in to a beautiful, obedient and healthy dog. The first step in your adventure is to make sure your puppy gets socialized.Socialization is the foundation for determining if your dog will develop aggression issues and poor manners. Here are a few ideas to keep in mind on your journey.

When it’s time for your pup to interact with other animals or people you must make sure that this is done as calmly and peacefully as possible. You do not want to make your pups first experiences scary or confusing. Ensure that your puppy is in a safe environment that he will not be frightened in.

Start them off by meeting some of your friends including men, women, children and adult. The more people they meet, the less frightened and protective they will be down the road. Once you have introduced them to a wide array of people, you can then bring friendly and healthy dogs into the picture. Keep in mind you want to introduce happy and friendly dogs that will enjoy your new puppy’s company.

Next, while they are still young, you’ll want to take them out in public as often as possible. Take them to parks and playgrounds, walk them to the store or drive them to pet stores. Basically just get them meeting and used to strangers on a regular basis.

Now that you know what you do want to teach your puppy, let’s cover some things you want to avoid when socializing the puppy. The first thing you want to avoid is waiting too long to begin the socialization process. The sooner you get started, the easier it will be for them to get used to people, animals, and surrounding areas.

Steer clear of placing your pup in frightening scenarios where they might not feel secure. In the event you go into uncharted territories, for instance when traveling, give them a secure location to be on their own and keep their eye on you. Do not allow them go near to other pets you don’t know. Since you don’t know how other pets may behave, you don’t want your pup subjected to any aggressive dogs that will scare them as this may emotionally scar them for life.

Never reward your puppy for being afraid, it will only enhance this behavior. This isn’t just a problem for your dog because often when dogs are scared they lash out and biting is just one of their defense mechanisms. You do not want to encourage that behavior.

Last but not least, you have to remember to be patient. Socialization is a very important part of their growing up and you don’t want to rush them through it. Dogs like people will learn at their own pace and if that pace is slowly you will do no good by forcing them to learn at your pace. Take it slow and be consistent should be your new mantra (It’s not a bad way to live life either!)

If you’re having trouble socializing your puppy, despite all your efforts, it might be time to call in the pros. They will have more answers and solutions than just the few tips mentioned here

Alex is a freelance graphic artist & marketing pro with a penchant for writing and pets. She has a in-depth and personal history with pets and has studied what will work and what doesn’t when training them. If you enjoyed this article, check out her other pet related articles;Why Physical Force Won’t Work When Training Dogs or Do Dogs Have Human Emotions.

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