Thursday, April 30, 2009

Tips For Training a Rescued Dog

0 comments
Training a dog requires many hours of dedication and patience. A rescued dog will require double the patience and dedication to achieve the desired results. However, the rewards will be worth the effort.

Unplanned litters continue to be common even though the practice of spaying and neutering has been around for decades. The result is that the number of puppies born far outnumber the number of available homes. And if you combine this with dogs that are lost or have runaway, the animal shelters are spilling over. Many of these dogs will never find homes in time and be euthanized.

For a some lucky dogs, there is a second chance. They could be adopted from shelters or missions or taken in off of the street and into the care of a willing family. The new owners, however, are often not quite sure how best to deal with the rescued dog.

Rescued dogs are often in poor shape when they are brought in to a shelter. They often have a history of abuse or neglect and sometimes lived in horrendous conditions. Other times, for a number of different reasons, these dogs were released into the wild to fend for themselves.

A dog's nature is to be a pack animal. Wild dogs generally do poorly on their own. Released domesticated dogs do very poorly in the wild, without any animal or human interaction. Wild dogs such as these are usually fearful and distrustful of humans, but with proper training they can learn to overcome these traits.

A rescued dog will need a full examination by a vet as the first step in the rehabilitation process. A dog will not be able to respond positively to any training if it is in pain or sick. It's crucial to give them enough time regain their health.

It may be a tall order, but whenever possible try to get the dog√¢‚Ǩ‚-¢s history. Your training efforts will be helped if you have information on the dog's past abuse or medical history.

It is important to establish trust with a rescued dog slowly. It is important not to force yourself on the dog. The animal will begin to seek you out once they have learned to trust you. Many dogs are food driven so using treats to build trust can help. Try stepping back a bit after putting a treat on the floor. Avoid direct eye contact. It is important to praise them once they take the treat.

It is not uncommon for some rescue animals to initially seek out physical contact . Many others will take longer. But once you have established it, try to roll the dog over onto his back and place your hand on their chest. You will have two possible reaction, either resistance from an aggressive dog or fearful acceptance from a passive dog. Neither aggression nor fear is good. Forcing an aggressive dog into a submissive position is done under normal training. A rescued dog will not respond well to this. Take your time and establish trust. Make sure that a fearful dog understands that being on its back is not a punishment by given it a belly rub and talking in a calm voice.

In the case of a rescued dog training can be slow and difficult. They are often older dogs, mixed, and with difficult temperaments which makes training more challenging. Don't give up. Your perseverance will pay off.

Don't feel sorry for the dog. This is counter-productive and will only hinder the training. Be patient, loving and understanding but don't let the dog have the run of the house. You must establish your position as a leader and let the rescued dog understand that you are the alpha of the pack.
  • Digg
  • Del.icio.us
  • StumbleUpon
  • Reddit
  • RSS

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Best Manly Dogs A Guy Can Own !

0 comments

Best Manly Dogs A Guy Can Own !

“manly dogs” doesn’t translate to mean “macho dogs.” Manly dogs are not necessarily aggressive or wild by nature. Manly dogs are measured by their physical presence (a combination of size, strength, endurance, agility, and appearance), intelligence and personality. These will be used as three gauges, measured out of a score of 10, and the better the synergy between the three, the manlier the dog. So, let’s take a look at 10 manly dogs a guy can own.


Bulldog

Taking a turn toward a smaller breed, the Bulldog is a pint-sized tough guy, or at least they’re designed to look that way. This dog looks like a mix of a pug and a Mastiff. Bulldogs can look simultaneously peeved and happy, and they have lovable and quirky personalities that are a significant departure from the other manly dogs seen here.

Having a Bulldog as a pet is a surefire way to win friends and impress women; their bullish looks and saggy skin folds provide lots of laughs and their relatively poor conditioning, due to their heavyset, makes for some hilarious outings at the park when tossing a stick around. Still, they are just as dedicated to their territory as any other breed, and their dedicated companionship and ability to inspire are perfect reasons for their use as the official mascot of the U.S. Marine Corps.

Intelligence: 5
Personality: 8
Physical presence: 4


Husky

The Alaskan Husky is not so much a breed or a type as much as it falls into its own category, that of traditionally being a sled dog. Majestic in their presence (deep chest and muscular all around) and durable by nature, the Husky is part and parcel of being out in the wild -- and that truth becomes vividly clear when you consider that these manly dogs have a strain of genes from one of the most well-known carnivores -- the wolf.

Huskies are extremely adaptable and love pushing their bodies to the limit. Huskies are natural competitors and they need lots of activity, which makes them less-than-desirable urban dogs. However, they are excellent in the country and they can also tussle with anyone who tries to mess with their owner. Reliability and durability are the Husky’s defining traits.

Intelligence: 7
Personality: 4
Physical presence: 8


English Mastiff

The word “mastiff” evolved from the English word “masty,” which meant powerful. That should be enough indication that this dog means business. Centuries ago, these manly dogs were used in the sport of bear baiting in England; that’s because they were one of the strongest breeds, able to stand up to one of nature’s most vicious beasts.

The English Mastiff is a broad, thickly built canine that has come to represent most of the breeds within the Molosser type. Their powerful bodies are only eclipsed by their trademark patience, grace and displays of undying loyalty to their owners -- no matter the stranger, the Mastiff will only approve if the owner approves first.

Be ready to stay in shape when you own one of these manly dogs; they need an ample amount of activity to avoid lazy behavior.

Intelligence: 6
Personality: 6
Physical presence: 7


Cane Corso

This dog is another of the Molosser type, but different enough from the English Mastiff to warrant a separate recommendation. The Cane Corso has a physical presence unmatched by medium-sized dogs; this is an extremely muscular breed that is blessed with a brilliant coat. Their athleticism is their most defining feature, which is likely owed to their Italian roots as farming, hunting and gaming dogs that were also considered reliable and trustworthy.

The strong, silent type, these dogs are definitely only for a specific type of owner; one who is gentle, subtle and willing to put in the effort to earn the Corso’s trust. Not the best dog to bring around strangers and children (unless they’ve been brought up in a family environment), but when raised properly, Corsos are able to remain well-behaved around many types of people and generally pacifist around other canines. These dogs need the gentle approach because of their cautious instincts, but they easily personify what it takes to be on this list of manly dogs.

Intelligence: 5
Personality: 5
Physical presence: 9


Doberman Pinscher

The Doberman pinscher is probably one of the most easily recognizable manly dogs around, partly because of the media coverage they receive. Like the German Shepherd, they were often used for police work, hunting and general laboring, but have since become more domesticated for the normal owner. The Doberman is also visually stunning as it’s one of the most muscular dogs and one of the most agile and versatile.

Surprisingly, Dobermans are much more docile, intelligent and friendlier than they’re perceived. They can easily be mistaken as nasty guard dogs with a sharp bite, but only if provoked in an aggressive manner by an unassuming stranger. When these dogs are properly socialized, they become loyal and offer a great mix of protection, personality and manliness.

Intelligence: 5
Personality: 5
Physical presence: 9


Rottweiler

Rottweilers are much maligned by the media, but they’re often less aggressive and unstable as they’re made out to be. If brought up with the right training and with exposure to many different people, situations and environments, the Rotty can easily be man’s best friend.

Much of their manliness comes from the same attitude that defines the human male; their natural desire to assert a level of dominance. When given property or something to call their own, Rottweilers will fiercely defend it, and that includes their young, their owner and their favorite chew toy. Their stoic nature can instantly turn into a snapping bite, so strangers should approach cautiously.

Still, while Rottweilers are often misunderstood and considered too manly, they can be lovable and social.

Intelligence: 6
Personality: 6
Physical presence: 7


German Shepherd

These manly dogs have unfortunately been cast as utilitarian animals; you can’t watch television without seeing them in action as a bomb-sniffing, drug-searching, criminal-chasing do-it-alls. However, that’s exactly what they are capable of and, as result, they are one of the manliest dogs because of their ability to perform the most masculine jobs that most other dogs just can’t do.

Gorgeous and confident, they are also both proud and modest. They have the size of a large dog that intimidates (usually 60 pounds to 90 pounds), but they also have a heartwarming affection and loyalty for their owners and the people they know.

They are fiercely territorial and make great guard dogs for people and property. Their confidence is only matched by their agility and durability, and so these dogs are great companions if you’re an active individual.

Intelligence: 6
Personality: 5
Physical presence: 9


Bloodhound

Famous for having personable faces that kids and adults have loved for decades (Pluto, Huckleberry Hound and McGruff the Crime Dog come to mind), the special skills of these dogs is not their strength or speed, but their uncanny ability to follow a scent, which makes them an ideal companion for hunting. It is said that Bloodhounds can detect the scent of only a few skin cells, and will be persistent in capturing its prey for hours -- even days.

Beyond their hunting abilities, these are big, graceful dogs with a physical presence that can also provide a few laughs with their excessive drooling and sometimes clumsy delivery. Interesting to note, it may sometimes feel like you have to make a pact with these dogs for them to behave; Bloodhounds can be stubborn unless they get what they want, so take the tongue-in-cheek approach with them and it’ll be gravy. Their ability to strategize as well as use their impeccable instincts makes them an easy manly choice.

Intelligence: 8
Personality: 6
Physical presence: 8


Black Labrador

The black Labrador, and Labrador retrievers in general, are an instant favorite for owners of manly dogs. The Labrador is a broad-headed, thick-necked pooch with a water resistant coat who is always charming people with his intelligent facial expressions. More interesting, however, are the black Lab’s webbed feet, which these Canadian-originating dogs used to swim around in icy waters and drag nets to shore after leaping off fishermen’s boats.

Labs have since been domesticated further, but they still hold true to their retriever name; they’re naturally inclined to fetch most things on command. Dog personalities don’t come much more humanized than these pooches, and Labs are very receptive and responsive to family, kids, friends, and strangers.

Intelligence: 8
Personality: 8
Physical presence: 8


Rhodesian Ridgeback

Never heard of this beast before? That might be because you’ve heard of their alternate name instead, the African Lion Dog. That’s right; the Ridgeback earned that name by standing up to lions on South African plains.

These dogs were also built to last; they have tick-resistant coats, tight paw pads to overcome thorns and thistles, and they’re intelligent and muscular enough to challenge and avoid predators, including snakes and crocodiles. Beyond that, these dogs are fair and rational in their temperament; they will not foolishly attack or become enraged without a severe and persistent threat present. Historically, they’ve also been great guard dogs, loyal defenders of their owners and his families, and even able to round up cattle.

Perhaps it doesn’t have the same physical threatening size as other breeds, but it doesn’t have to be -- its sheer resilience, intelligence and tenacity make this dog the manliest of them all.

Intelligence: 10
Personality: 8
Physical presence: 10
Pet Travel Insurance |Bird Care |Handling Pet Caimans |Choosing a Pet
  • Digg
  • Del.icio.us
  • StumbleUpon
  • Reddit
  • RSS

Smartest Dogs

0 comments

Australian Cattle Dog

You don’t have to live in Australia to encounter this dog. These dogs generally grow to be 30-50lbs. Australian Cattle Dog’s are known for their intelligence, especially when it comes to being able to train them to herd in cattle (this is where the name comes from) They have also been trained to be “biting” dogs. Don’t be scared, unless you’re training this dog to bite you. Australian Cattle Dogs are trained to bite cattle (not too hard) to keep them moving. These dogs have been herding cattle since the 19th century and today they still do just that. Australian Cattle Dogs are very active and love having a task at hand.


Rottweiler


Better known as the “Rottie,” Rottweilers are known to be very vicious, mean dogs that can take down a human. Speaking of humans, Rottweilers can weigh as much as a petite sized female; about 110lbs in fact. This breed of dog originates out of Germany but was used in the Roman Empire. Rottweilers are sometimes used as police dogs because of the strong jaw and teeth that they have. Rotties can take you down! In the olden days, they were used to carry wood and other large heavy goods to markets and houses. If you’re looking to train a dog to protect you and all of your (precious) belongings, the Rottie is definitely the way to go.


Papillon

This breed of dog is probably one of the cutest and smartest you’ll find. Papillons are able to show that cute things can be smart too. This breed also proves that small things (brains) do come in small packages. Papillons can weigh up to 11lbs and can weigh as little as 3lbs. These dogs are very charming and have always been a symbol of elegance. During the Renaissance, these dogs were adored by royal courts and the aristocrats of the time. They always proved to be good watch dogs because of their keen sense of hearing. Make the slightest sound and the Papillon’s ears will be up faster than you can say the name. King Henry II is said to have spend crowns upon crowns on his own Papillons.


Labrador Retriever


This is one of the most intelligent as well as one of the most popular breeds of dog in the world. The Labrador Retriever is an amazing breed of dog that offer many different services. The breed originates from Newfoundland and was trained to hunt waterfowl. As time has passed, Labs have been introduced to more and more jobs. Many of these dogs are used in the police force as bomb sniffing or drug sniffing dogs. Any dog that can be trained to do this is most definitely smart. These dogs are also used as rescue dogs. Many are trained to help the disabled, especially the blind. Labs can be trained to lead a human around while ignoring any type of distraction. The Labrador Retriever is a loving, obedient, and patient dog that can be trained to do almost anything.


Shetland Sheepdog


Though not one of the most popular dogs around, the Shetland Sheepdog is a very smart dog. Some owners of this breed of dog claim that they are just as smart as a human is. Shelties originated out of Scotland. Sporting a furry two-layered coat and definitely not the toughest looking dog around, Shelties are used to herd sheep. Since the breed can be both big and small in size, some of these dogs are used to keep pests and smaller animals out of gardens. Shetland Sheepdog’s are generally very hyper, but they have a great sense of hearing. If anyone ever shows up at your door or a car pulls into the driveway, you can expect to hear a bark from this dog.


Doberman Pinscher


This breed of dog comes in right at the middle of the list. The Doberman Pinscher is another German breed to make the list. In the past, these dogs were trained to be police dogs, watch dogs, and guard dogs. In the 1800s, men were looking for a dog that was loving and loyal as well as tough and ferocious when necessary. This is exactly where the Doberman Pinscher fits in. Even though they can be trained to be ferocious, many of these dogs are very gentle and docile. Some have even been used in hospitals to help patients that are undergoing therapy. Slightly vicious by nature, you can expect that this breed will protect you.


Golden Retriever


Often confused with the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retrievers are also very popular dogs that seem to be perfect for a family. In the past up to today, these dogs are man’s companion, especially for those who hunt. This breed can be easily trained to find and bring back waterfowl or game that has been shot. The dog’s soft mouth allows it to bring back unharmed game to its owner. Aside from being a hunting dog, Golden Retrievers can be used as rescue dogs, drug sniffing dogs, and guide dogs. This breed is very patient, which makes it that much easier to train. If you ever find a dog sports competition online or on the television, you are sure to see a Golden Retriever competing.


German Shepherd


Rin Tin Tin! This is the one breed of dog that you can say actually looks tough and mean. Looks are most definitely deceiving because the German Shepherd is one of the most lovable breed of dog you will ever come across. Loving or not, these dogs can be trained to do things that humans can’t. Today, these dogs are usually trained to be police dogs, rescue dogs, and some are even able to work with the military. These dogs are so bright that the Army and Marines have allowed them to be used in overseas activity. German Shepherds are very obedient dogs as well as protective. In the past, German Shepherds were used as herd dogs but today they are used in more “higher up positions,” so to speak. The German Shepherd is one of the smartest dogs around.


Poodle


The Poodle is number two on the list. Don’t let the fluffy, curly, white coat fool you. This breed of dog is absolutely brilliant. Though you have probably never seen it, Poodles are used as hunting dogs as well as watch and rescue dogs. The Poodle (sounds like puddle doesn’t it?) is also used as a water dog. Poodles come in all sizes, but even the Toy Poodle can be used to hunt birds. Poodles love to be around people and are very protective. Though this breed only weighs up to 8lbs, a mighty heart can come out of such a pretty looking dog.


Border Collie


Topping off the list is the Border Collie. This dog lives to work, literally. Though it may seem only us humans have a lifetime full of hard work, this breed of dog needs something to do to be happy. The Border Collie is used as a herding dog and has since grown to be used as a sporting dog as well. The breed is known for its agility, speed, and obedience. It is also known for it’s ability to learn new tricks quickly. These dogs love being able to work next to your side. Collies are especially great at dog sport competitions. You will generally see them competing in Flyball and disc games.

  • Digg
  • Del.icio.us
  • StumbleUpon
  • Reddit
  • RSS

Saturday, January 17, 2009

Dog Training: Tame Your Pets at Ease

0 comments
If you have a new puppy or dog, then you need to provide some sort of basic training for your pet. You can train your dog yourself or can get it trained through an obedience instructor. As dogs are like kids, they need proper training to mould them into obedient pets. With the required training, your dog can learn how to behave. You can be a happy owner if you have a trained dog. Dog training involves learning to communicate with a dog properly. You can train young pups within 2 to 3 weeks while for an older dog it can take about 7 to 8 weeks for training. Basic training can be started for pups when they are about 8 -12 weeks old for teaching commands and tricks. From about 3 to 6 months, formal classes can begin.

With understanding and patience, the trainer can impart efficient training to resolve the behavioral problems of dogs. For adequate training of your dog, you do not require any strong language or physical discipline. There are a number of methods for making training enjoyable for both your dog and yourself. Certain specific trainings are also available for dogs for doing tasks such as rescue dogs, guiding for the blind, hunting dogs etc.

When providing training for your dog, ensure that the place is open and quiet without any distractions. You can make the training experience an enjoyable one for both of you for ensuring that your dog stays happy, gains confidence and behaves well. The way and tone of speech is important in dog training. You need to use a friendly and happy tone for commands like 'come' and ‘heel’. Your voice can be firm and low for commands such as ' stay' and ‘Sit down'. You need to appreciate your puppy or dog by offering some toy or food when it obeys the command. After the training class, you can take a little time to play with your pup or dog and this can develop a bond between both of you during the training. You should have good endurance to train and always should avoid harsh punishment.

Remember that food is important in dog training, as most dogs will love to eat. Some foods are tasty for dogs and it is also convenient for the trainer as bits of food can be kept in bag or pockets. Also note that giving food brings positive associations while training. You need to just know which food your dog likes. Never use food for behavior control; instead food should support a behavior. Never train the dog on a full stomach.

Keep the leash a bit loose when you walk with your dog because a tight leash could teach the dog to pull. Do not punish the dog after calling to you. Only one command should be given at any one time. Dogs cannot differentiate the good and bad deeds, as they know specific behavior to certain situations; therefore name a behavior to reinforce some control. Behavior will increase with reward.

You can also choose online dog training if a dog trainer or dog training school is not accessible. You can enroll for some online dog training classes and know all the secrets and techniques used by professional dog trainers for activity training, behavior training and obedience training.
  • Digg
  • Del.icio.us
  • StumbleUpon
  • Reddit
  • RSS

Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Is Your Pet Ready for the Big Road Trip?

1 comments
By Kim Salerno
Planning to hit the road with your best friend? Before you do it’s important to plan ahead and always keep the best interests of your furry, four-legged, or feathered friend in mind. Traveling with your pet can be a wonderful and bonding experience or a not so pleasant one. It’s all function of proper planning and preparation.

Your first decision is whether to bring your pet along with you on your trip. Not all pets are suited for travel. While it may be very tempting to bring your pet with you, keep in mind that not all pets are happy travelers. Things to consider include your pet’s temperament, any physical impairments, or if your pet suffers from an illness. If you’re uncertain whether your pet is suited for travel, you may want to consult with your veterinarian.

If you determine that your pet is up for the trip, then it’s always best to have a healthy start. The last thing you need is a sick pet when traveling. This means a visit to the vet for a medical checkup and to ensure that your pet is up-to-date with all necessary vaccinations. The veterinarian can also issue a health certificate for your pet. If you and your pet will be traveling across state lines, you must obtain a recent health certificate and a certificate of rabies vaccination. If your plans include traveling with your pet from the United States to Canada, you will need to bring along a certificate issued by a veterinarian that clearly identifies the animal and certifies that your pet has been vaccinated against rabies during the preceding 36 month period. Be sure to contact the government of the province you plan to visit as each province has its own requirements.

Have a plan for how you’re going to properly restrain your pet in your vehicle. This is a crucial element of pet travel that is not taken seriously enough. The reality is that hundreds of pets are injured or even killed each year because they are allowed free reign in cars, trucks, RVs, and SUVs. Even more real is the toll in human life and property damage caused when an "enthusiastic" animal distracts a driver, leading to an accident. Vehicle pet barriers, pet safety harnesses, and pet carriers are all excellent ways to keep your pet (and you) safe when traveling in your vehicle. It’s important to familiarize your pet with the vehicle restraint of choice weeks or months before traveling so that they are comfortable.

In the unfortunate event that your pet runs off while you’re traveling. A temporary identification tag, along with a photo of your pet will help ensure their safe return. Attach a temporary ID tag to your pet’s collar in addition to their permanent tag. Include the address and phone number of where you’ll be staying along with your cell phone number and perhaps your email address. This is one of the most important aspects of traveling with your pet, but also one of the most overlooked. In addition, bring along a current photo of your pet. A photograph will make it easier for others to help you find your lost pet.
When packing for your pet include an ample supply of your pet's food. Don’t rely on stopping along the way to pick up their food or picking it up at your final destination. Their particular brand of food may not be readily available and it is not advisable to introduce your pet to a new brand of food while traveling. Other essentials to pack for your pet include collapsible travel food and water bowls, bedding, litter and litter box, leash, collar and tags, favorite toys, grooming supplies, a pet first-aid kit and any necessary medications. And of course…be sure to always have an ample supply of water available for your pet.
If you’re planning a long journey and will need to stay in pet friendly accommodations on the way to your final destination, be sure to secure these accommodations BEFORE you hit the road. Map out where you'll be spending the night and arrange for lodging along the way. TRIPSwithPETS.com provides an online directory of pet friendly accommodations across the U.S. Pet policies do change and accommodations may be limited so it's recommended that you contact the property in advance.
In case of a medical emergency while traveling you can find a directory of pet hospitals on the TRIPSwithPETS.com website. Research this before your trip and bring this information along with you. It is also advisable to bring along your own vet’s contact information should they be needed for consultation.
Careful preparation is the key to ensuring that you and your pet have a happy and safe trip. Check back next month when we talk about “Rules of the Road” when traveling with your pet!
  • Digg
  • Del.icio.us
  • StumbleUpon
  • Reddit
  • RSS

Saturday, January 3, 2009

Choosing A Dog Obedience Training Course Online

1 comments
Every dog owner wants a dog that is well trained, but sometimes your dog may be a little problematic or you simply may not have the time or be know how to train him correctly. Fortunately help is at hand. You can sign your dog up in a dog obedience training school.
Or, you can learn about Dog Obedience Training.

You may know people with disobedient dogs, or possibly even accepted that your dog will simply not do as he/she is told. You may have simply become accustomed to returning home to find chewed up shoes and trash scattered all over the house.

You may have even taken to walking your dog at night because that’s when none of your neighbors are outside. For the reason that you just can’t manage your dog when people and/or other dogs are about.

You don’t have to give yourself up to believing that your dog can’t be controlled.
In reality you are accountable to yourself and your dog and you can get him/her trained appropriately. Obedience training your dog can reverse the difficulties for both yourself and your dog.

If your dog howls or barks a lot and tries to get loose you may even find yourself with a legal problem as well. And, if your dog will not come up to you when called, he/she could be seriously injured or worse. Or, at the very least get into trouble.

A dog obedience training school will give you an idea about you can establish a connection with your dog and teach you how to make him to pay attention to you.

He/she will be trained how to act with people around and also with other dogs.
You will also be able to teach your dog the fundamental instructions such as “sit”, “down”, “heel” and “stay”.
Your dog will even take pleasure in this. Pleasing you, his master, is #1 on his list. And he will have your attention, which in fact is all that he wants in the first place.

Selection of a dog obedience training school or course is sort of like deciding on a school for your kids. You would like no doubt, to send him to the proper one. Of course, given that you will, in all probability, be attending, or training yourself, you would like one that works for the both of you. So you have to do a bit of investigation before you decide on the dog obedience training school or online course.

One thing to think about when considering a dog obedience training school/course is a recommendation from others who have used the school/course.
Maybe you have a co-worker, a neighbor, or a friend you can inquire from.
If not, feel free to request recommendations and/or call up somebody who has experienced the course.
You ought to have a list of essential queries you can inquire about the school and the effect of dog obedience training. If you get encouraging replies then you have found your school/course.
One more thing you have to do when sorting your selection of dog obedience training schools is to drop in at the “campus”. Be sure that the school/course is well structured and the instructors are qualified.
  • Digg
  • Del.icio.us
  • StumbleUpon
  • Reddit
  • RSS
 
Copyright © My Lovely Pets