Posted on 30 August 2010. Tags: barking dog, barking dogs, Breeds & Hybrid/Mixed Breeds, dog bark, dog barking, dog breed, dogs bark, dogs barking, good dog, Ownership Advice, Tips and Advice, Train Your Dog
Dog barking and complaints from the neighbors about barking dogs are the most frequent reasons that dogs are voluntarily sent to shelters and rescues by owners that have no idea how to stop barking. Besides voluntary surrenders, there are also by-laws in many cities, towns and urban areas that can result in a dog being seized by the city if there is a repetitive pattern of complaints about barking. Unlike what many owners believe, there are very successful ways to train a dog to only bark when required.
Dog Barking – The Good
Dogs instinctively bark, they don't need to be trained to be watch dogs. Even toy dogs and companion breeds will vigorously bark to let their owners know that someone strange or something different is in their environment. Most people that have dogs appreciate this natural instinct, however when barking gets out of control or is allowed to continue for prolonged periods of time it quickly changes from a benefit to a serious problem.
Part of the problem with good dog barking and bad dog barking is that the dog really has no idea when the line is crossed. This is an important part of training that owners need to start as soon as the puppy or dog starts showing the behavior. By training barking dogs a simple "enough" or "stop" command the issue can be resolved, at least while the owner is present.
Stop Barking Techniques
As mentioned above, there are different techniques that owners can use when they are home and when they are away to help their dog learn to stop barking. Teaching the stop command or the enough command, depending on your preference, is the easiest way to control barking dogs.
To do this simply allow the dog to bark once or twice as normal, then give a sharp but not loud command such as "Stop barking Spot" or "Enough barking Fido", at the same time offering a treat or a favorite toy. The dog will naturally turn to the sound of your voice, see the treat or reward and stop barking. Reward immediately then have the dog sit or chase the toy, resulting in a distraction and cessation of the barking behavior.
If your voice doesn't stop the dog from barking, you can use anything else that will make a noise that is unusual. A whistle, bell or even a few coins or dried beans in a tin can will all produce a sudden, sharp and unusual noise that will get the dog to stop. If you are using a noisemaking device, remember that a reward needs to be provided the second the dog is not barking, and you have to give the verbal command of either stop or enough before making the noise.
Dog barking when you are away is more problematic. If it is caused by boredom, provide more exercise, toys and attention to the dog before you leave, plus ensure the dog is attended to when you are home. It may also be caused by separation anxiety, which will need more intensive training. This type of barking is the hardest to stop. Barking from anxiety is usually accompanied by other symptoms such as panting, frantic behaviors and unwillingness to be away from the owner at any time.
Citronella collars for barking dogs are a safe way to monitor your dog when you are gone, as the collar will spray a puff of citronella in front of the dog's nose when triggered by the vibrations in the throat. Of course barking dogs will also need attention, training and ongoing monitoring to learn how to stop barking and remain quiet when left alone.
Posted in Psychology & Training
Posted on 18 August 2010. Tags: aggression, aggressive dogs, Breeds & Hybrid/Mixed Breeds, dog aggression, Dog Behavior, dog behaviour, dog breeding, Dog Training, good dog, Tips and Advice, Train Your Dog
Owners of aggressive dogs have a very real, serious issue that they have to deal with either through training or ongoing modification of this potentially serious dog behavior. There are literally hundreds of dogs that are seized and destroyed every year in most major cities because they became aggressive and either injured or killed another animal or even more serious a child or adult. While there are breeds that are known to be more aggressive, it is really a case of inappropriate training or lack of training that results in these types of attacks.
Aggressive Dog Breeds
There is no doubt that some dog breeds are more closely associated with dog aggression than others. It is interesting to note that there are just as many if not more smaller breeds that are considered to be dog aggressive or generally aggressive than the larger breeds, however it is the bigger dogs that tend to carry the negative stereotype. This is because a larger dog breed such as a Pit Bull or a Rottweiler is much more likely to cause serious damage when it becomes aggressive than a smaller breed.
In reality any dog that is mistreated or not properly socialized and trained can become aggressive. Many of the breeds of so called aggressive dogs are excellent family pets when properly trained and socialized and are routinely worked with by someone that is knowledgeable about the breed. Unfortunately irresponsible owners that have encouraged aggression or simply failed to control and train their dogs have resulted ruining the reputation of many breeds and breed bans in some cities and urban areas around the world.
Training and Managing Aggressive Dogs
One of the most important factors in managing aggressive dog behavior is to start training very early. If you are working with a breed that is known to have some aggressive tendencies be sure to get the puppy into a puppy obedience class at approximately the 12 week mark. This will help with early socialization as well as help the owner learn about how to work with the breed.
Often aggressive breeds also tend to be dominant dogs in training, meaning that a person that is planning on owning these dogs needs to have some experience or knowledge of how to correctly train and manage these dogs. Since these dogs also have their wonderful, loving and playful sides, finding a balance between companion and leader is absolutely essential in the relationship.
Spaying and Neutering Dogs
As with non-aggressive breeds, it is absolutely essential to neuter or spay aggressive breeds as soon as possible. Dog behavior will become more pronounced in both males and females during the reproductive cycle, so early spaying or neutering will prevent issues of aggression related to hormonal changes.
There are many examples of aggressive dogs in any breed or hybrid mix. In most cases the dog behavior that is problematic is caused by inexperienced or ineffective owners. As a prospective owner of a breed that is known to be aggressive, it is essential to get help in managing dog behavior in a proactive and responsible manner. This will include early and ongoing socialization and training as well as spending lots of time in developing a great relationship with your dog.
Posted in Psychology & Training
Posted on 29 July 2010. Tags: cesar millan, cesar's way, dog book, Dog Care, Dog Training, dog whisperer, dogs, good dog, Ownership Advice, Psychology & Training, Spoiled Puppy Behavior, Tips and Advice, Train Your Dog
Cesar's Way : The Natural, Everyday Guide to Understanding and Correcting Common Dog Problems
by Cesar Millan, Melissa Jo Peltier
Cesar Millan is the founder of the Dog Psychology Center in Los Angeles and is the star of Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan on National Geographic Channel. In 2005, he was awarded for his work in rehabilitating sheltered animals. "I rehabilitate dogs. I train people." - Cesar Millan. Why is it that in America alone, there are at least 68 million dogs, but so many of them have problems? And their owners spends millions on them every year getting pampered. In this guide we learn about what goes on inside our dog's mind and we learn to develop a positive, fulfilling relationship with them. This book gives you a deeper appreciation of how your dog sees the world and it will help to make the relationship you have with your dog a lot more rewarding, and make the bond even stronger between you.
Cesar Millan is America's most sought after dog-behaviour expert. He's not a trainer but he has the ability to comprehend dog psychology. He takes us through the basics of dog psychology and behaviour. Millan's formula for a contented and balanced dog seems impossibly simple: exercise, discipline and affection, in that order. He shares with us how common behavior issues develop and how they can be corrected.
You will learn, to mention a few, that what your dog really needs may not be what you're giving him, why a dog's natural pack instincts are the key to your happy relationship, how to relate to your dog on his level, there are no "problem breeds", just problem owners, how to choose a dog that's just right for you and your family, the different between discipline and punishment and there is so much more.
This is the only book you will need to have for a more rewarding connection with you four-legged companion.
Click to View on Amazon
Posted in Dog Books
Posted on 29 December 2009. Tags: Breeds/Hybrids/Mixed Breeds, canine, dog, dog breed, dog breeding, Dog Care, Dog Health, doggy, dogs, good dog, owner, Ownership Advice, Routine, Routine Dog, Routine Dog Vaccinations and Vet Visits, tips, Tips and Advice, Train, Train Your Dog, Vaccinations, Vaccinations and Vet Visits, vet, Vet Visits, vets, your vet
Making sure that your dog gets his or her routine annual vaccinations and vet visit is really an important part of overall dog health and care. Using the same vet is highly recommended since he or she will have a better idea of your dog as well as your sense and understanding of your pet. If you go to a different vet every year or use whichever vet is at that clinic that day the vet is really at a disadvantage to catch small changes in your dog's behavior and health. It is similar to going to a family doctor rather than just going to the emergency ward or the local clinic. Building a rapport with your vet also helps you feel comfortable in asking questions and finding out information about your dog from a trusted professional.
Annual Vaccinations
Luckily, or perhaps thankfully, most of the canine species are relatively healthy provided they are vaccinated and protected from some of the very serious and fatal viral illnesses that are all too easily passed between dogs and animals. The way that owners and vets are able to protect puppies and dogs from these health conditions are through vaccinations. During the puppies first few months he or she will go through a series of shots and then boosters that need to be re-vaccinated every year or every other year, depending on the vet and the vaccination used. In most but not all areas the following vaccines are included in the combination of vaccinations for your dog:
- Canine distemper
- Canine leptospirosis
- Canine adenovirus-1 & hepatitis
- Canine parainfluenza virus
- Canine parvovirus
- Canine coronavirus
In addition rabies may be an annual or every two year vaccination and some dogs will also receive treatment for Bordatella, more commonly known as kennel cough, as well as Lyme Disease in areas with ticks.
Vet Examination
Besides just the vaccination your vet will also want to complete a physical examination of your dog. This will include getting the dog's weight, heart rate and checking their respiratory system by listening to their lung function. In addition vets may also examine the skin and coat, check the eyes and ears and examine the dog's legs, feet and head for any signs of tumors or problems.
In most cases the vet will also worm the dog with an oral paste, do a blood test if heartworm is problematic in your area as well as check out any specific concerns that the owner has.
Talking to your vet about your dog during the exam is important. If you have concerns about vaccinations or are planning on taking your dog to another area, region or country be sure to tell your vet so he or she can advise you on any vaccinations or health concerns you should be aware of.
Posted in Dog Health
Posted on 29 December 2009. Tags: A Recap of the Summer’s Sightings 2005, Breeds/Hybrids/Mixed Breeds, celebrities, Celebrities and Their Dogs, Celebrities and Their Dogs—A Recap of the Summer’s Sightings 2005, Celebrity, dog, dog breed, dog breeding, Dog Care, Dog Health, doggy, dogs, dogs lie, good dog, owner, paris hilton, Puppies, Puppy, tips, Tips and Advice, Train, Train Your Dog
While some celebrity dogs get a lot of recognition for their fashion triumphs and their up to date carry cases, others just let dogs lie (get it? let sleeping dogs lie, well, it was funny to me when I was writing this).
There are the Paris Hiltons and the Tori Spellings that publicly and privately love and adore their dogs as though they were their own children. Paris and her Tinkerbell made appearances as Grand Marshals of the 2005 Gay Pride Parade. Tinkerbell was sporting a lovely matching pink ensemble as was her owner. Fashion and social consciousness, that’s so HOT.
And as for Ms. Spelling and her Mimi La Rue, they were out on the town to show their support in the 11th Annual Bid Dog Parade. Funny enough, Tori’s pup isn’t very large, but Ms. Spelling’s devotion most certainly is. Tori is a frequent supporter of dog rights and care. Also found at the Much Love animal rescue fundraiser, Tori brought both of her dogs in full costume for the celebration.
But there are other celebs that like to let their dogs be dogs. Owen Wilson and Jake Gyllenhaal can be seen walking their dogs around California or New York, letting them lay in the grass as their owners catch a little time for themselves. Jennifer Garner and Ben Affleck have been seen walking her pup Martha Stewart, looking very much the family that they’ve recently made official.
Nicole Ritchie takes Foxxy Cleopatra and Honeychild to the vet. Mischa Barton plays with her new dog Charlie on breaks while filming “The O.C.” Courteney Cox and David Arquette are frequently spotted with their adorable dogs Hopper and Hardy as Ms. Cox is in New York making a new film. Kate Beckinsdale’s new teeny tiny pup was spotted on a recent trip to an L.A. costume shop.
Posted in Hello! Celebrity Dogs
Posted on 29 December 2009. Tags: blap, Breeds & Hybrid/Mixed Breeds, dog, dog breed, dog breeding, Dog Care, Dog Health, doggy, dogs, good dog, Hybrid Dogs, owner, Puppies, Puppy, THE FOUR TYPES OF DOG VOMIT!, tips, Tips and Advice, Train Your Dog, train your puppies, train your puppy
This was forwarded to me from the Border Collie banter elist - if you are the author please contact me to be credited for writing your article!
YELLOW URKA-GURKAS
Dog runs around the house and hides under furniture while making a prolonged 'uuuurka-guuurka, uuurka-guuurka' noise. (this noise is the only thing guaranteed to wake up a true dog lover who is hungover from a post dog show celebration at 3:30 am) After mad scrambling to capture the dog and drag him outside the episode ends with an indelible ten yard line of slimy yellow froth from the living rug to back door.
BLAP DISEASE
Dog exercises hard and a) eats large mouthfuls of snow(Winter Blap Disease) or b) drinks a bucket of water (Summer Blap Disease). Within 2 minutes of returning inside the dog spews out large amounts of clear slimy liquid while making a distinctive 'blap' sound and sharp percussive noise as it hits the linoleum.
GARKS
Dog suddenly clears his throat with loud and dramatic 'gggaark, gggark,' noises, generally followed by prolonged 'iiikssss', licking sounds and then loud satisfied smacking noises. There is nothing on the rug. Don't investigate, you don't want to know.
RALFS
Appropos of nothing, the dog strolls into the dining room and waits till the innocent dinner guests are all watching him. Then with a single deep gut-wrenching 'raaaalfff' disgorges the entire week's contents of his stomach on the dining room rug. VARIATION: then he eats it.
In all the above events, the dog is entirely healthy and indeed deeply pleased with himself.
Posted in Ownership Advice
US $9.55
