Sunday, January 10, 2010

Dog Behavior Problem - 7 Tips To Change Your Dog's Behavior Problem

By Martin L

Whether you like it or not, every dog is going to have its problem behavior from time to time. What you do about this behavior problem can make the difference in whether or not your dog changes. Here are 7 tips to help you change your dog’s behavior problem.

Dog Behavior Problem Tip 1: Control the dog

The most basic tip is to get control of your dog. If you can have control over your dog, you will be able to control the dog’s problem behavior. You can control your dog by putting them on a training collar and showing them that you are boss. You want to do this without physical punishment if you can.

Dog Behavior Problem Tip 2: Stay positive

Too many pet owners focus on the negatives and verbally abuse their dog’s with “NO” and “bad girl.” While you do want to get the point across that it is not ok for them to do what they did, you also want to give them encouragement for what to do right. Instead of saying “no” tell them to “sit” or “heal.”

Dog Behavior Problem Tip 3: Consistency

The number one rule to changing a dog’s problem behavior is consistency. You have to get it across your dog’s minds that it is never ok to do the bad behavior. Not once in awhile because you forgot. It is unfair to a dog to change your rules or forget because this will simply confuse them.

Dog Behavior Problem Tip 4: Have the dog earn it

There is a fine line between giving your dog love and handing out love freely. You want to show your dog that you care about them, but make them earn your affection. If you can teach your dog to ask politely for things such as sitting or lying down, they will have much more respect for you as an owner.

Dog Behavior Problem Tip 5: Exercise

Believe it or not, dogs can get bored just like humans. Boredom is one of the biggest causes of a dog’s problem behavior because they have nothing else to do. If you take your dog to the park, play with them and take them on walks they won’t have this boredom bottled up.

Dog Behavior Problem Tip 6: Learn your dog’s heritage

Dogs are bred to do certain things in particular, whether you like it or not. Certain breeds are born to stay close while other breeds are born to be wild. Some dogs are born to hunt while others are born to guard. Every breed has a different genetic heritage, and it is up to you as an owner to understand this and then go from there.

Dog Behavior Problem Tip 7: Train

Every dog is different, but no dog is born with perfect manners. For you to get rid of your dog behavior problem you have to train them to be polite and act civilized.

Dealing with a dog’s behavior problem can be difficult since every dog is different and every situation is different. By incorporating a little of every tip listed above, you will be able to easier get rid of your Dog Behavior Problem.

To Learn More About Dog Behavior Training And Receive Our Free Dog Training Tips Go To Dog-Behavior-Training.com Today And Read More!

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

Saturday, January 2, 2010

A Few Tips For Fixing Dog Behavior Problems

By Gerald Hartenhoff
Owner's need to work with their pets so dog behavior problems won't develop. Training puppies early will help prevent behavior problems later. There is still plenty of time if you haven't started from day one. It's well worth the time and energy to get your dog trained. Every person that has a dog wants a well behaved companion.

-Method For Training

The best method in training a dog is using positive training. Rewarding a dog for good behavior is part of positive training. This is a good way for the dog to know everything is okay. Start training your dog in short sessions. One step at a time for slow consistent progress. Learning takes time, it's a gradual progress. Owners need to be aware of some solutions for unwanted behavior; prevent it, ignore it, or teach an alternative behavior. Starting the dog out with positive behaviors' will allow for better results. Once a dog has learned an incorrect behavior, it's up to the owners to retrain for the correct response. Always reward any good behavior and correct bad responses.

-Behavior Problems

Behavior problems can only be fixed by first understanding the reason behind the behavior. Owners are always wondering why their dog is acting this way? Most of the reasons are that the dog is either timid, bored, or possessive. You can solve these behavior problems by being more aware of the reason your dog is responding to certain situations. Behavioral problems can be corrected with a little patience from the owner. Remember, some problems can be challenging to solve.

-Who's the Leader?

Dog are known for their pack animal instincts. There is always a leader in the pack. The owner has to establish himself as the leader. Establishing the leadership control over your dog will allow for easier training down the road. Building a partnership with your dogs can help solve problems later on. You want your dog to please you and not be afraid.

A lot of dogs behavioral problems can be solved with training. Positive training can improve the relationship between dog and owner. A dog will listen better and be easier to be around when fixing behavioral problems. The result that positive training focuses on is getting your dog to do what you want. A dog not realizing his role can cause bad behavior. Obedience training is the best way for a dog to understand his role in life.

Let's Get To Work!

Gerald has been involved in the dog business for a good number of years. He enjoys trying to help dogs and dog owners have a better life together. You can learn more at http://mydogtrainingadvice.com.

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

Friday, January 1, 2010

How to Care For a Dog in Today's Economy

By Gaetane Ross
In this manual, you will learn how to care for a dog in today's economy. Considering the economic woes that we face today, it is important to know and understand how to save money when it comes to the care of our canine friends. Many believe that in order to save money when caring for a pet that we must sacrifice the quality in which we provide to our pets, but this is a misconception. There are many unique strategies that can be used in order to appropriately care for your dog for less. Here, you will learn how to care for a dog in today's economy based on these strategies.

1. The first thing that you should do in order to care for your pet without spending a fortune is to consider the amount of food that you purchase at once. If you observe the prices of dog food in the large bags to dog food in the smaller bags, you will actually discover that buying more means spending less overall. Prior to purchasing the food, check your local newspaper and the internet for valuable coupons that can offer you a tremendous amount of savings.

2. If you are looking to save money on dog food altogether, you should consider purchasing the supplies to make your own dog food. Many pet owners have tried this and have found that it is more cost effective, easy to do, and leaves their pet healthier. If you are budgeting your pet care, creating your own dog food can be a wonderful method of saving some cash, potentially hundreds of dollars annually!

3. When caring for a dog, it is important to ensure that they see a vet on a regular basis for routine check ups and worming procedures. If you want to save money on dog care in today's economy, you will be happy to know that there are many things that you can purchase from a pet pharmacy and/or specialty store that will allow you to save hundreds of dollars a year in vet care. First, you may purchase various types of flea treatments. Next, you may purchase preventive supplements for heartworms. Next, you may purchase medicated soaps and similar products to treat conditions like skin irritations and more.

4. When caring for your dog, there are many things that you may want to purchase for their comfort. This includes pet beds, a doghouse, toys, and even feeding dishes. Many people who purchase these items new often find that they spend a tremendous amount of money. If you want to save, try local thrift stores, yard sales, and flea markets. You will be amazed at all the items that you can find without having to blow a large amount of money!

5. Lastly, when caring for a dog in today's economy, it is important to ensure that you extend a large amount of love to your pet. It has been found that dogs that are loved unconditionally are happier and healthier overall!

If you want to learn how to care for a dog in today's economy for less, these helpful strategies will assist you.

To find out what you need to know about your dogs health, learn how to save your dogs life in an emergency and save thousands of dollars in vet bills, visit Gaetane's site and get a FREE Dog Training Guide.

How To Be Your Own Vet

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

House Training Puppies - Do it Wrong and House Training Puppies Can Destroy Them Forever

By John Mulder
Having owned and bred many puppies of various breeds, I know that nothing comes close to a giving a new owner a nervous breakdown then house training a new puppy. House training puppies can be the most difficult thing you do or the easiest. The decision is yours, but do it wrong and you can scar a young dog for life.

So what can you do to get your puppy house trained with the least amount of trouble and frustration? Well here are some key areas to concentrate on;

Firstly, you need to understand that a puppy needs you a lot more than you need him. Being separated from his mother and brothers and sisters is very stressful, so you can expect to have some accidents for the first few days. You need to moderate your expectations and be gentle, loving and kind. Consider that the puppy needs to get used to the idea of being on his own or with strange humans and pets. You must accept responsibility for your new companion.

Puppies are like children in a number of ways. It takes time to potty train a child, usually a few months. Your puppy will learn this skill in as little as a few days if you are patient and consistent. Getting into a routine is essential and you must be prepared to lose a few hours sleep each night making sure that your puppy gets the right attention.

Your puppy needs an area into which he can go at any time of the day or night and not be disturbed. Puppies require plenty of sleep and they must not be woken up by children or noise or you will have the makings of a neurotic pet. The area should be large enough for the puppy to comfortably move around in and is usually a large crate or kennel.

Your puppy will give you hints that he wants to go to the toilet. Most puppies will run around a little with their noses sniffing the ground before having their wee or poo. This happens straight after they wake up or after they have had a meal and some water. Within 10 to 15 minutes of waking up or eating you will usually get a wee or bowel movement from your puppy.

All you have to do is ensure that your puppy is outside at this time and praise him when he has a wee or poo. This is not brain surgery. It happens every time, every day. You must make sure that you are consistent by taking your puppy outside for a wee and a poo as follows:

- First thing in the morning

- Immediately after each feed time

- Last thing at night before being put to sleep

If you follow this routine for the first few days to a week you will have a puppy that is just desperate to please you because he gets praised every time he does it right. You can put down some newspaper at night in case of accidents, but you will find that your puppy will usually cry a little in expectation of going outside to wee.

Follow these simple instructions and you will develop a strong and lasting bond with your puppy.

If you have a puppy who is not house trained and you need help and advice to correct any mistakes you may have made or reverse the effects of less than gentle handling then learn how I can help you house train puppies

Let me help you discover the easiest and most effective ways to potty train puppies at http://all-about-your-dogs.blogspot.com

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

Happiness is a Well Trained Puppy

By Steve Allison
If you are reading this article you might be thinking about buying a puppy; or already bought on. Congratulations on the new addition to your home! You now have a friend who is always ready to play, never too tired to go for a walk and one of the most loyal companions you will ever have. There are some things you are going to need to know about training your puppy. A puppy is only as well-behaved as his training allows.

During the first few weeks your puppy needs constant supervision to prevent accidents in the house. But it's easier to teach good habits now than it is to correct bad behavior later in life. Your puppy needs to start understanding what is and isn't acceptable in your home right away. You are the leader of the pack in the home and your puppy looks to you to work out what is allowed and what isn't.

It's important that your puppy starts to understand their boundaries. You will need to decide soon what the limits are - what furniture they may or may not climb on - what areas of the house they are allowed. Decide where your puppy will sleep and what they may or may not chew on.

Getting your puppy housetrained is not difficult and can be quick if you follow some of these tips. Make housetraining a painless and quick procedure by using the crate method.

The Crate method

The crate method is well known because it is one of the most humane ways to train a puppy. Your puppy will need to relieve himself after eating, drinking, running, playing. The frequency will depend on the size of your dog and also on the breed. Be careful - it can happen as soon as 15 minutes after any of these activities. One of the easiest ways to keep your home pee free is to keep a record of when he needs to go. Try to learn the natural schedule and take your puppy outside at the times when you know they are going to need to go. Plan your walks around this schedule. Take the puppy out when you expect they will need to urinate.

When your puppy is 10 weeks old until they are six months they will need to be walked between 5 and 10 times a day. Quite a task if you are not used to including a puppy in your daily schedule. Take turns walking the puppy. One of the most important things about housetraining you pup is that you do not return from your walks until he/she has urinated and done all his business.
If for some reason you need to go inside before he has gone you will need to take your puppy out every 15 minutes. Give lots of praise and affection when your puppy has done what you wanted. You might feel silly praising your puppy for going "wee wee" (or other!) but it is very important to the housetraining process.

Some tips for using the crate:

The crate method works and is one of the most humane ways to train your puppy. It works because dogs are naturally neat and don't like to eliminate in their sleeping area. If your puppy sleeps in the crate they will not want to mess in it. It's an instinctive desire to keep their sleeping area clean.

The crate should become a sanctuary for your puppy. A crate is your dogs' den in the house; their very own 'safe space'. Your puppy needs to associate the crate with positive feelings. Put your puppy’s favorite blanket, toys and treats inside.

Help your puppy get used to the crate by leaving the door open until the dog seems comfortable. It's important that your puppy is comfortable in the crate - the more comfortable they are - the less likely they are to soil inside.

Never use the crate as punishment. The crate must be associated with positive feelings. If your puppy does start whining, barking or scratching don't let them out. Establish a regular schedule. After feeding take you puppy outside until they have done their business.

Put your puppy in the crate at night - but make sure to take him outside before bedtime and first thing in the morning. Let your puppy play for a while after they have done their business. Don't give your puppy free reign of the house until they are housetrained.

Make a chart of when your puppy needs to go. Take the puppy outside within 15 minutes of eating, or any other time you know they will need to go.

After they have done their business; play with them for a while and then put your puppy in the crate for a nap. Repeat this throughout the day. After your puppy is fully housetrained you can leave the crate open during the day.
Some do's and don'ts when housetraining:

DO

- If you are going to be away for long periods of time put your puppy in an area of the house where you are prepared for accidents. Put newspaper in this area.

- Limit the food and water supply if you are going to be gone for long periods of time. If it's hot make sure your puppy has enough to drink (but remember what goes in must come out!).

- Praise your puppy when they are good.

- Be consistent. You don't want to confuse your puppy.

- Involve the whole family in the training process. Even small children can participate in the housetraining.

- Be realistic, you can't get mad with a puppy for not being completely housetrained. Accidents happen despite your most careful schedule.

Don'ts

- Don't ever use the crate as punishment.

- Don’t let your puppy outside of your designated area until they are housetrained.

- Don't reprimand your puppy for accidents.

If this all sounds like a lot of work - don't worry. Your puppy should be completely housetrained after about 6 months. Even sooner if you use the crate method. As your puppy gets older it will get easier. A well trained puppy will bring much more happiness into the home then an untrained puppy. Owner and puppy will be more happy and in tune with each other for years to come.

Steve Allison is a third generation of professional dog breeders along with his brother Gary. It all started with his grandparents in 1970 with the Boston Terriers and has expanded to Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers, Pugs, Shih Tzu’s and Pomeranians. He is also actively involved with dog rescue and has a website that showcases the puppies they occasionally has for sale at All My Puppies Online Steve is also the co-author of two consumer guides, Carpet Secrets and Moving Secrets Guide.

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