Dog Toilet Training

Dog toilet training is the process of teaching your dog to eliminate where you want him to. It's all about getting to the point of allowing him freedom in your home without worrying about him making a mess.

Dog Toilet Training With a Crate

The most effective method of dog toilet training involves the use of a dog crate. A dog crate, available at most pet supply retailers, provides your dog with a place of his own. Your dog is genetically predisposed to keep the place where he sleeps clean. During a short period (usually about two weeks) of dog toilet training, your dog is in one of three places: using the bathroom in the place you designate, inside the house playing with you or your family after you're sure he's "empty," or in the crate. This virtually eliminates chances of mistakes, and your dog will quickly understand what's expected of him in terms of toilet habits.

It is possible, though not often recommended, to attempt dog toilet training without a crate. Even if you just borrow a crate for dog toilet training and return it later, it's worth the effort to use the crate. However, if you're completely opposed to using a crate for dog toilet training, or there's some reason that a crate is unavailable to you, then there are some tips for dog toilet training without a crate.

Dog Toilet Training Without a Crate

Accept the fact that dog toilet training without a crate will be more difficult, with more accidents to clean up. But resolve to keep your dog toilet training positive. Negative techniques often just end up confusing your dog.

The key to dog toilet training without a crate is to stay in touch with your dog throughout the day. You'll need to recognize signs that he needs to use the bathroom, and then immediately take him to the spot where you want him to go, give the command word and praise his successes. If you don't want to keep your dog or puppy on a leash with you during the entire period of dog toilet training, then confine them to an area you can watch using something like a baby gate. Your dog will be able to see you and you can see what he's up to. A closed door will make it impossible for you to catch him getting ready to go.

Dog Toilet Training Using Papers

Using papers for dog toilet training is really not practical for large dogs. The amount of waste they produce will make paper-training an entirely distasteful option for dog toilet training. You should realize if you intend for your dog to use the bathroom outside, there's no need for involving papers in dog toilet training at all. Take your dog outside to eliminate from day one.

If you have a small dog and going outside is difficult (perhaps you live in a city apartment), then dog toilet training with papers might work for you. There's really no secret to paper-training. It works just like all other forms of dog toilet training. Just take your dog to the papers instead of outside. Give him your chosen command word and praise him when he eliminates onto the papers.

Once you've successfully completed dog toilet training using papers, if you decide you want your dog to go outside, then you'll need to start over. It's not impossible, in fact it may be fairly painless, but just remember your dog won't figure out on his own what you want.

Training your Pet

Pets are unique in their own sense. They have their own natural behavior. You have to mould their behavior as per your requirement. All this calls for training of pets.

Two cardinal rules that are to be followed while training your pet towards desirable behavior are:

1. Never reprimand or punish your cat for an unwanted behavior. This may make your pet fearful of you or else the pet will continue with the unwanted behavior in your absence.
   
2. Reward your pet for the desired behavior. It will act as a positive reinforcement.

While training a puppy regarding food habits, put your puppy on a consistent feeding schedule. Feed a puppy below six months three times per day and at the same time each day. Feed an adult dog twice a day and at the same time each day. Feed the same food consistently. Changing foods can cause finickiness and intestinal upset.

Regarding bowel habits, puppies typically need to go out within 30 minutes after a meal, and almost immediately after awakening, shortly after a play session, and just before going to bed at night. Puppies have limited bladder and bowel control and need to go out rather frequently during the day, and sometimes during the night.

Cats have an excessive habit of meowing. They do so when they want to attract attention, when they are hungry or when they are bored. Do break this habit exercise and play regularly with your cat. Don't pay attention to her and give her anything when she is meowing. In fact ignore her completely whenever she does so. Fulfill her needs when she is quiet. This will instill in her mind the desired behavior that is expected of her.

Cat is a nocturnal animal and its natural tendency is to sleep in the day and remain active in the night. To break this habit, change the biological clock of the cat as per your schedule. Firstly, don't reward cat in anyway - by playing with her or feeding her - whenever she wakes you in the night. Secondly, don't let your cat doze off in the day. Keep her active all day along and feed her late in the evening/early night. By following this schedule you will deprive your cat of sleep in the day and hence she will catch up with her sleep in the night. In about 2 weeks time her biological clock will match yours.

Cats have a natural instinct to scratch. They scratch our valuable furniture, carpets etc. To prevent them from doing so place double-sided tape or masking tape left sticky side up at strategic places on the furniture. Cats don't exactly relish having an object cling to their sensitive feet. Bring them a scratching post to satisfy their scratching instincts.

To ensure that your cat eliminates in the proper place litter box training is very important. . As a kitten, every time that she looks like she's about to crouch or she starts sniffing near a corner (classic signs of oncoming urination or defecation), pick her up and put her in the litter box. Also, first thing in the morning, put your kitten in the litter box. Kittens learn extremely quickly. Cats don't litter in dirty litter boxes so keep the litter box always clean. Reward your cat for eliminating in the litter box. In order to do so you must be present there at the time when she eliminates

How To Adopt A Dog

Humanity and kindness go hand in hand. All the animal lovers have a special place in their hearts for their furry companions and love to provide for them, care for them and love them. Adopting a homeless dog is not just an act of kindness but finding an unwavering devotion, loyalty and companionship forever. Though, it may take time and patience, your rewards come inn the way these animals wait for you anxiously at home, without questioning your lifestyle and run to hug you and are contented to be petted. The pet and owner bonding is one of the most beautiful relations in the world. It is interesting to see how the two specials, naturally abhorrent to each other, live in harmony in a loving home and even become the best playmates ever. Such relationships include the friendships between cats and dogs.

Adopting a dog means choosing the correct type of dog for you as the fist step. You will have to decide whether you want a dog that is large or small according to the space available to you. You may want an active companion that loves to go hiking or a gentle one that is contented to sit in your lap and be petted regularly. There are dogs with long fur that look cute or the smooth-coated ones that shed very little. Guardian dogs need to be stronger and more intelligent while toy dogs need to be cute and gentle and easily sociable. Hundreds of breeds of dogs are available for adoption but you should be careful to choose the one that suits your personality type. Here are some things to keep in mind, before you adopt a dog:

• Consider the size of your dog according to the size of your house. Flats, unit houses and farmhouses may all be suitable for different breeds.
  
• Urban and suburban areas are more suitable for particular breeds while rural and semi-rural areas are preferable for others.
  
• While choosing a dog, keep in mind that you have a yard at home or not.
  
• Is the dog contented to be chained or stay within the property limits or is a natural wanderer.
  
• The daily exercise that the dog breed needs on a regular basis.
  
• The time you can spend with your dog and its need of companionship.
  
• People with oldies, invalid people or kids at home must choose a dog that will not be a problem for them later.
  
• The age group and the fitness level of the dog owner and the main dog sitter.
  
• Energy level of the dog that you find comfortable.
  
• The toy or small dogs such as Pekingese, medium dogs such as Cocker Spaniel and large dogs such as German Shepherd Giant and St. Bernard have all their exclusive uses.
  
• The price of the dog and its daily maintenance cost.
  
• Preferable length of coat of the dog. Smooth coated ones such as Basset Hound, dogs with short coat such as German Shepherd, medium coated ones such as Cocker Spaniel or long-coated ones such as Maltese, all have different looks and are suitable for different weather conditions. Long coated dogs in warmer regions need to be kept cool constantly by air-conditioning, while smooth-coated ones in cold countries will need warming up, thus, increasing their maintenance cost.
  
• Grooming the dog requires.
  
• The purpose for adopting the dog. Some dogs are so sociable that they are contented to keep quiet when strangers come into the house, while some breeds are merely threatening with barking but rarely bite. Some other breeds are quite dangerous and can attack any stranger savagely.
  
• The number of dogs and cats that you already own, for this will determine how social and adjustable a dog you might need.
  
• The training level, fitness level, age and health of the dog.

Hair Loss in Dogs

A common veterinary condition, hair loss (Alopecia) in dogs is sometimes considered a normal process of shedding. However, in case you notice tufts of pet-hair on your rug or a continuous thinning of your pet's coat, its time to pay your utmost attention. Though a dog may suffer from hair loss for many reasons, in most cases, hair loss is a major symptom of various fatal diseases and infections. Hair loss may even arise due to poor nutrition. Sometimes, there might be symmetrical hair loss on both sides of the body and sometimes hair loss might be in an asymmetrical manner and occur in patches. Generally, symmetrical hair loss denotes that there is some kind of hormonal disorder in your pet, while patchy hair loss means that he is suffering from some kind of skin infection.

Sometimes, thyroid problems may cause shedding of hair, thereby leading to thinning of the dog's coat. Eventually, it gets a peculiar appearance - overweight with brittle fur that is thinning. Old is also one of the most popular reasons for hair loss in a dog. Hence, it is very important for dog-owners to have an idea as to what exactly is causing unhealthy shedding of hair their canine. Whenever you notice any abnormal loss of hair in your pet, immediately get him diagnosed by a good veterinarian. With proper medication and treatment, you will get back your fluffy friend in no time. To know more about hair loss in your canine, we have enumerated below a few major reasons.

Causes of Hair Loss

• 'Callus' or persistent pressure (mostly in giant dogs)
  
• 'Cushing's Disease' or high level of corticosteroids
  
• 'Acanthosis nigricans' or infection caused by friction, hormonal abnormalities, or hypersensitivities
  
• Drug or injection reaction caused by a drug which is inhaled, given orally, or applied topically
  
• Interstitial cell tumor or tumor of the testicle
  
• 'Kerion' or complication of ringworm infection
  
• 'Demodectic Mange' or infection caused by the Demodex mite
  
• 'Diabetes Mellitus' or diabetic conditions in dogs
  
• 'Folliculitis' or infection in the hair follicles
  
• 'Sarcoptic Mange' or infection caused by the Sarcoptes mite
  
• Tail Gland Hyperplasia' or enlargement of the sebaceous gland of the tail
  
• Allergic reactions to various substance like metals, chemicals, mites, pollens or certain food
  
• Sebaceous adenitis or the destruction of the sebaceous glands
  
• 'Leishmaniasis' or hair loss caused by a parasite of blood cells
  
• Certain growth hormones lead to hair loss. They are witnessed during puberty and mostly in puppies
  
• Excessive estrogen in the body or 'Hyperestrogenism'
  
• Excessive stress (observed during pregnancy and nursing)
  
• Fungal infections, like ringworm
  
• Insufficient hormone production by pituitary gland (Pituitary Dwarfisim)
  
• Low estrogen level or 'Hypoestrogenism'
  
• Low thyroid hormone production or 'Hypothyroidism'

Tips on Keeping Dog’s Teeth Clean

Are you worried about your dog’s dental health? Here are a few tips to keep their teeth and gums looking great.

Try to come up with a routine for brushing its’ teeth. There are toothbrushes and brushes that go on your finger like a finger puppet. You can also purchase a baby toothbrush to use on puppies. Be careful using human toothpaste as it may ingest more than recommended. Dog toothpaste is also available and can make the tooth brushing process easier with their chicken and beef flavors.

If you can’t stick to a great brushing schedule, there are dental treats available like DentaStix, Busy Bone and Dental Fresh, which dogs love. These treats help remove plaque and stimulate the gums. There are various brands, sizes and favors, so it’s easy to find a brand that works well.

If it appears it needs a dental cleaning, you can take it to the vet. I recommend trying to keep up with a schedule that enables you not to do so. Dental cleanings can be very expensive and a lot of times they put the pet under to perform the cleaning, which is sometimes dangerous for puppies.

A friend of mine has come up with a routine that she stands behind. In order to make sure she keeps its teeth healthy, every time she gives him a bath she makes sure to brush his teeth. This ensures that his teeth are cleaned at least once every two weeks. She follows up his day of cleaning with a DentaStix. Between bath days, she brushes his teeth whenever it pops into her head or gives him a DentaStix. If she does see any tartar build up, she removes it with a tooth cleaning utensil.

If you are worried about the dental health, check to see if there is any tartar along their gum line or any loose teeth. Excessively bad breath is also an indication of poor dental health. Keeping your dog’s teeth healthy can be easy and inexpensive if you stay proactive.

Dogs and Water

Water makes up close to 80% of the dog’s body. It is necessary for almost all vital functions, regulates temperature, and filters waste from the body. If your dog loses even one tenth of the water in his body, he is in serious trouble.

Clean Bowl
Bacteria is microscopic, so you do not see it when it begins to develop. This means you need to wash your dog’s bowl before it looks like it needs to be washed. Bacteria can make your dog sick, and it can also make the water’s taste unappealing. If your dog does not like the taste of the water, he might not drink, and can become dehydrated.

Alone Time
Make sure dogs who are left alone have ample water to last while you’re gone. If the water bowl is empty when you get home, you should probably be providing more water. Also, lots of dogs have a tendency to knock over their water bowl. If this occurs, they are left the rest of the time you are gone without water. Especially heavy bowls, or very wide bowls with a low center of gravity are good for dogs who like to tip their bowls over. You can also leave more than one bowl out, just to make sure. Remember, one can never provide too much water for a dog.

Type of Bowl
Many vets suggest that stainless steel bowls are best. Ceramic and stoneware bowls can develop tiny cracks and chips which can harbor bacteria. Plastic bowls can develop scratches and divots which make nice homes for bacteria as well. This is not to say that you cannot have a plastic or stoneware bowl, but they must be used with accompanying vigilance.

Chained Dog
Dog chaining is not suggested and is illegal in many places. However, if you insist on chaining your dog, be sure that his water is located very close to the chain’s anchor. If the dog wraps his chain around the pole or tree to which he is attached, he may not be able to reach his water. Furthermore, bear in mind that dogs can wrap their chain around other objects, and even their own legs, or they can overturn their water with their chain, so it is difficult to predict the best spot to place their water bowl. The best way to make sure a chained dog is receiving sufficient water is to check them regularly, and never leave them chained for long periods of time. Read more about Dogs and Chaining.

Potty Mouth
Make it a habit to keep the lid on the toilet down, or to keep the bathroom door closed. Bacteria builds up in the toilet bowl and it can make your dog sick. Also, toilet cleaning products can make your dog extremely ill.

Beach Bums
Never let your dog drink water at the beach. Saltwater and brackish water will dehydrate your dog. Even freshwater rivers and lakes contain tons of microorganisms that can wreak havoc on your dog’s digestive system.

Exercise
The more exercise you dog gets, the more water he needs. When you go for hikes, long walks, or even just play sessions at the park, make sure you bring a portable dog bowl and a bottle full of clean water.

Treating Your Dog

Everybody loves to treat their dog, and we all know dogs love treats. With all the options out there, how does one figure out the best way to treat his or her pooch?

Vet
If your dog has any health issues, including illnesses or obesity, talk to your vet about what treats would be best. Different treats are better-suited to different dogs and different health concerns.

Dog Treats are for Dogs
It is best to avoid people-food all together when it comes to giving your dog treats. There are many human foods that can make your dog very sick. The easiest way to avoid someone giving your pooch a dangerous food is to have a strict “no people food” rule. This is also a big help when it comes to maintaining your dog’s trim waistline.
Mind Meal Times
Don’t go heavy on the treats close to meal times. Letting your dog fill up on treats can spoil his appetite. This not only means that he misses out on important nutrients, but it also skips a chance to reiterate discipline and maintain routine.

Multi-Purpose Treats
It is great to take advantage of treat-giving by providing treats that are also beneficial to your dog. Dental treats, like Greenies, are fantastic because they clean your dog’s teeth and freshen his breath. Any biscuit-like, crunchy treats will help to scrape plaque from the teeth for better dental health and fresher breath too.

Fruits & Veggies
Fruits and veggies make great, healthy treats for your pooch. Try sweet potatoes, celery, broccoli, spinach, alfalfa, carrots, zucchini, apples, pears, oranges, and grapefruit.

Count Calories
Remember that treats count toward your dog’s daily calorie count. If you give your dog treats every day, you should subtract from the amount of food he gets each day as well. This is not to say Fido has to skip dinner if you give him a biscuit, but dog owners must remember that treats are a part of his daily food intake, so they should make it count with healthy treats and not too many.

Training Treats
Using treats is a great way to keep your dog interested in training-time. However, as mentioned above, these treats do count towards daily calorie totals. So, if you are conducting daily training sessions, consider dividing your dog’s food into small portions and using those portions in your training.

If your dog doesn’t get very excited about his usual kibble, training treats are the best option. Good training treats have a strong scent to entice your dog. They are also small and soft. Small soft treats are easy to eat quickly so your dog’s mind doesn’t have a chance to wander away from the task at hand while he’s busy chewing.

Why Feed with Organic Dog Food

Certified Organic food is produced under stringent standards that ensure safe and natural farming practices and ecologically friendly methods within guidelines set by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The organic food movement is gaining more and more support as green living finds itself at the forefront of our society’s consciousness. Today one can find the organic version of most products, including dog food and treats. So, why should you feed your dog organic food?


Organic food is made with no additives, chemicals, colorants, pesticides, or bulk fillers. This means the products on which you’re spending your hard-earned money are natural, high-quality foods. When you buy organic, you truly know what you’re getting, and what is being consumed by your beloved pooch. The USDA strictly monitors the production of organics. A company cannot legally advertise its foods as “certified organic” unless both the place of production, and any other location or company that handles its products between production and sale have been certified by agents of the USDA’s National Organic Project (NOP). There is much comfort to be found in the fact that the food you’re giving your dog has been certified by the United States Government as completely organic.

Organic food, by the very nature of its production, is healthier for your dog. Since the standards under which organic foods are produced are so strict, one need not worry about the risks associated with contaminants finding their way into products. Animals raised organically are free of antibiotics, growth hormones, and other artificial drugs. In fact, a company cannot boast that its meat is organic unless the animals eat nothing but organic foods themselves. Again, this ensures that you know exactly what you are providing your dog when you feed with organic dog food.

Furthermore, it has been concluded by the American Association for the Advancement of Science that organically grown foods have higher nutritional value than those grown in standard, industrial environments—namely, more vitamins, more antioxidants and lower levels of nitrates (which can form cancer-causing compounds). Non-organic dog foods are choc-full of sodium, preservatives and artificial colors, none of which are healthy for your dog. Organic food, however, includes nothing but actual, wholesome, food products. Feeding your dog an organic diet is believed to boost the immune system, thus lessening the risk of infection and various diseases.

The health benefits associated with eating foods that are literally more nutritious cannot be ignored, but that’s only part of the multifaceted argument for buying organic. If you’re interested in a greener lifestyle, organic is the way to go.

The farming industry uses 12% of the US energy supply, more than any other industry. Due to production, transporting, processing and marketing, non-organic farming is extremely dependant on fossil fuels. Organic farming, however, requires 70% less energy.

The lack of pesticides and herbicides on organic farms safeguards groundwater, topsoil, habitats and neighborhood health. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that agriculture is responsible for 70% of the pollution in US rivers and streams. It is believed that pesticides contaminate the groundwater in 38 US states. These dangerous and often carcinogenic chemicals are making their way into our drinking water, and, in much greater volume, into the bodies of farmers. Farmers are six times more at risk for cancer than any other profession.

Buying organic benefits the community by supporting the avoidance of dangerous chemicals in farming, and it also gives local economies a leg-up. According to the USDA, 50% if farm products come from 1% of farms. This is one of the reasons that the US has lost more than approximately 650,000 family farms in the last ten years. Supporting the smaller, more efficient farms that produce organic products means supporting small business, family farms, and the wholesome lifestyle that goes along with the two.

One of the most feel-good reasons to buy organic is that organic food has been scientifically proven to taste better. Organic farming actually improves the soil. Soil quality has been proven to improve quality, taste, and storability of foods.

So what are you waiting for? Do your part for farmers, the economy, the environment, and your dog—Go organic for your dog’s food!