One of the biggest complaints of dog owners and their families and neighbors is that they want their dogs to stop barking. Depending on how bad the dog is, they may bark all the time, or only at certain things. Typically those things that they bark at are usually something that happens quite frequently, like a person coming to the door or a car driving by. Any dog can be a chronic barker, and there are actually a few very simple things you can do to try to curb the annoying yelping...
To first understand why a dog barks is the best way to figure out how to stop it. Really, they only bark for a few reasons; attract attention, warn others (people or dogs) of impending danger, or to bring an object they find interesting to the attention of someone or another dog in the room. A good example of each, respectively, is when they're hungry, when a stranger is at the door, and when they're barking at a squirrel. The best way to address these issues immediately is to remove them from the situation or remove the situation from the dog. But sometimes, that is either impossible or just doesn't work, as the dog will still seem very frustrated and vocal even when you remove the situation.
You should first stop giving them attention when they bark. If they bark, acknowledge whatever it is that your dog is barking at and let them know that it is alright and that you see the object they're barking at. This should get them started on the path to "recovery" for their barking dependency.
Want a step-by-step, safe, and guaranteed way to stop your dog from barking?
Click here => Stop Barking Now
If you have 15 minutes, I guarantee you'll end all of your dog's worst behavior problems at http://www.DogObedienceSystem.com.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Dog Ownership Can Positively Affect Your Health in Five Ways
Most dog owners already know about the dogs positive affect on their health. Just think of all the therapy dogs used in hospitals, nursing homes and schools. Simply petting a dog can lower your blood pressure, resulting in a better heart rate. Here are five ways that dogs has a profound positive affect on someone in poor health.
1- Interacting with a dog can lift the spirits of an ailing person. Whether it is a physical illness or someone really down in the dumps, the presence of a dog is sure to elate the person and change their whole attitude and outlook.
2- A primary caregiver can benefit through a lower risk of stress related ailments when there is a dog in the home of the patient.
3- The odds of surviving a heart attack improve dramatically and add to an increased one year survival rate for those who own a dog.
4- Studies have shown that the presence of a canine companion can relieve some of the anxiety in an Alzheimer's patient.
5- Those with mobility can benefit drastically from daily walks. Not only is walking the dog healthy, but you may meet other dog owners along the way.
Caring for a dog, or any pet for that matter, can be a chore. For most dog owners it is a labor of love. The reward of being a dog owner are numerous and the positive affect they have on our health is a fact that cannot be denied. Owning and caring for your dog can actually add a few quality years to your life.
Robert Barrington is a dog owner and all around animal lover. The Doberman Pinscher is my favorite breed however, we own a Beagle mix, Shepard mix and an American Terrier (Pit Bull). Our goal is to someday start a Doberman Pinscher rescue operation. We love to share information about dogs and invite you to visit http://www.bigdogsonlystore.com to view other articles and become aware of the big dog supplies we offer. For the care and welfare of animals, share the passion to make an impression.
1- Interacting with a dog can lift the spirits of an ailing person. Whether it is a physical illness or someone really down in the dumps, the presence of a dog is sure to elate the person and change their whole attitude and outlook.
2- A primary caregiver can benefit through a lower risk of stress related ailments when there is a dog in the home of the patient.
3- The odds of surviving a heart attack improve dramatically and add to an increased one year survival rate for those who own a dog.
4- Studies have shown that the presence of a canine companion can relieve some of the anxiety in an Alzheimer's patient.
5- Those with mobility can benefit drastically from daily walks. Not only is walking the dog healthy, but you may meet other dog owners along the way.
Caring for a dog, or any pet for that matter, can be a chore. For most dog owners it is a labor of love. The reward of being a dog owner are numerous and the positive affect they have on our health is a fact that cannot be denied. Owning and caring for your dog can actually add a few quality years to your life.
Robert Barrington is a dog owner and all around animal lover. The Doberman Pinscher is my favorite breed however, we own a Beagle mix, Shepard mix and an American Terrier (Pit Bull). Our goal is to someday start a Doberman Pinscher rescue operation. We love to share information about dogs and invite you to visit http://www.bigdogsonlystore.com to view other articles and become aware of the big dog supplies we offer. For the care and welfare of animals, share the passion to make an impression.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Useful Tips and Advice for Potty Training a Dog the Right Way
Relationship with your dog can be made or break with a potty training. How does that happen? Picking a dog from shelters full of sweet and friendly canine faces, we might just have to reconsider that they are not really housebroken yet. Imagine coming home from a long day at work, we do not want to exhaust ourselves more by start cleaning the floor, furniture and in the worst case scenario; have to clean the clothes if you keep a jumper at home.
Reconsidering for a potty training? There are several methods to potty train a dog and is important to choosing the right one. It is not advisable to mix several methods since this will only confuse your dog and slowing down its learning process.
For those living in an apartment, it is important to train your beloved dogs to do their business outside the house as early as a pup. If you're living on the ground floor, you can consider yourself lucky. But if you're living on the floors that doesn't have immediate access to the ground, perhaps it's better to keep your dog indoor. Do not get me wrong, keeping your dog indoor doesn't mean you let your dog to get busy on your expensive Persian rug! Well, unless it was a gift from someone you hate. What I meant was, to get your dog an indoor potty training.
Method 1: Outdoor Potty Training
This is probably the easiest yet not always practical method if you're living in an urban area. Basically, what you do is to take your dog outside as soon as you notice its tell-tale potty signal. We will look further into this later.
Do know that puppies have preference on the surface. Meaning, when you train your dog to do their business on grass, your dog will always do it on the grass rather than going to the dirt or concrete. So, make sure there are plenty of grassy areas for your dog.
It is better if your dog get potty trained for different kind of surfaces to make it an ease for you later.
Method 2: Paper Training
This is the most commonly used dog potty training if you could not get your dog outside in an instant.
First, identify few ideal spots in your house or apartment where you want your puppy to do its? business. Preferably on a cleanable surface or floor but make sure it's not next to the dogs' eating or sleeping place.
Then, lay some newspapers in that spot. The moment you notice your puppy need to go, pick him up and place it on the newspaper. Once he's done, praise him like there's no tomorrow.
After your puppy knows he's supposed to go on the paper after a while, try to shrink down the number of spots where your dog has to go to do his business. This process has to be done step by step or else you will experience where your puppy will pee all over the place with just his front paws on the newspapers. Too little place to go, too little time but too much to let go.
Method 3: Indoor Potty Training
Similar to cats litter tray, dogs also can use indoor potty. It can be as basic as a cat litter box and tray, maybe with some decorative artificial grass or fire hydrant. Some of them just fit in with your furniture. Type and range of this indoor potty is up to you, all depends on your choice and budget.
This method is similar to the paper training. Choose a suitable spot, place your puppy on it when he shows the 'let go' sign, once done praise like there's no tomorrow. Just make sure the potty spot is not somewhere close to his sleeping or eating place.
Consistency Is the Key
Consistency is the very essential in any dog training, including potty training. Example: Do not let your dog pee in your house. If it does happen, scold him for it. To make it an ease to the both of you, perhaps you could pick a spot in your house where your dog can get his mind off from the outside. Do not take him anywhere until he has done his business in that spot. Make him familiarize with that spot and let him understand that the spot is his. After a while, he'll understand that that's 'his' spot. This will save a lot of time and cleaning effort for you in the morning.
Take note that, to ensure a success in potty training you and your dog have to establish a consistent routine. Example: every time you notice a change in you dogs' way or during break time in the day, immediately bring your dog to his potty place.
There are five keys to a successful dog potty training. They are:
1. Take your dog to his potty place when he wakes up in the morning.
2. Make sure you feed your dog on a fixed regular schedule. Example: twice a day, with the interval of 10 to 12 hours in between servings. After meal, take him to the potty place.
3. After playing, training or exercise, bring him to the potty place.
4. To prevent peeing during night time, withhold your dog from drinking 2 to 4 hours before bed.
5. Prior to bedtime, bring him to the potty place.
Do not forget to take note of your dogs' age and background as you may need to take into consideration of one variations recommended in the training courses.
If you are looking for preventive measures to protect your dogs from diseases such as Cushing Disease, dog ear infection or even renal failure, a good place to visit is Doggie Doggie, a popular website that provides free tips and advice about caring for your dog.
Reconsidering for a potty training? There are several methods to potty train a dog and is important to choosing the right one. It is not advisable to mix several methods since this will only confuse your dog and slowing down its learning process.
For those living in an apartment, it is important to train your beloved dogs to do their business outside the house as early as a pup. If you're living on the ground floor, you can consider yourself lucky. But if you're living on the floors that doesn't have immediate access to the ground, perhaps it's better to keep your dog indoor. Do not get me wrong, keeping your dog indoor doesn't mean you let your dog to get busy on your expensive Persian rug! Well, unless it was a gift from someone you hate. What I meant was, to get your dog an indoor potty training.
Method 1: Outdoor Potty Training
This is probably the easiest yet not always practical method if you're living in an urban area. Basically, what you do is to take your dog outside as soon as you notice its tell-tale potty signal. We will look further into this later.
Do know that puppies have preference on the surface. Meaning, when you train your dog to do their business on grass, your dog will always do it on the grass rather than going to the dirt or concrete. So, make sure there are plenty of grassy areas for your dog.
It is better if your dog get potty trained for different kind of surfaces to make it an ease for you later.
Method 2: Paper Training
This is the most commonly used dog potty training if you could not get your dog outside in an instant.
First, identify few ideal spots in your house or apartment where you want your puppy to do its? business. Preferably on a cleanable surface or floor but make sure it's not next to the dogs' eating or sleeping place.
Then, lay some newspapers in that spot. The moment you notice your puppy need to go, pick him up and place it on the newspaper. Once he's done, praise him like there's no tomorrow.
After your puppy knows he's supposed to go on the paper after a while, try to shrink down the number of spots where your dog has to go to do his business. This process has to be done step by step or else you will experience where your puppy will pee all over the place with just his front paws on the newspapers. Too little place to go, too little time but too much to let go.
Method 3: Indoor Potty Training
Similar to cats litter tray, dogs also can use indoor potty. It can be as basic as a cat litter box and tray, maybe with some decorative artificial grass or fire hydrant. Some of them just fit in with your furniture. Type and range of this indoor potty is up to you, all depends on your choice and budget.
This method is similar to the paper training. Choose a suitable spot, place your puppy on it when he shows the 'let go' sign, once done praise like there's no tomorrow. Just make sure the potty spot is not somewhere close to his sleeping or eating place.
Consistency Is the Key
Consistency is the very essential in any dog training, including potty training. Example: Do not let your dog pee in your house. If it does happen, scold him for it. To make it an ease to the both of you, perhaps you could pick a spot in your house where your dog can get his mind off from the outside. Do not take him anywhere until he has done his business in that spot. Make him familiarize with that spot and let him understand that the spot is his. After a while, he'll understand that that's 'his' spot. This will save a lot of time and cleaning effort for you in the morning.
Take note that, to ensure a success in potty training you and your dog have to establish a consistent routine. Example: every time you notice a change in you dogs' way or during break time in the day, immediately bring your dog to his potty place.
There are five keys to a successful dog potty training. They are:
1. Take your dog to his potty place when he wakes up in the morning.
2. Make sure you feed your dog on a fixed regular schedule. Example: twice a day, with the interval of 10 to 12 hours in between servings. After meal, take him to the potty place.
3. After playing, training or exercise, bring him to the potty place.
4. To prevent peeing during night time, withhold your dog from drinking 2 to 4 hours before bed.
5. Prior to bedtime, bring him to the potty place.
Do not forget to take note of your dogs' age and background as you may need to take into consideration of one variations recommended in the training courses.
If you are looking for preventive measures to protect your dogs from diseases such as Cushing Disease, dog ear infection or even renal failure, a good place to visit is Doggie Doggie, a popular website that provides free tips and advice about caring for your dog.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Does Your Dog Need Aggressive Dog Training?
Aggressive dog training may be essential if your dog shows signs or symptoms of dominance, including not really following instructions all the time which you give, or never obeying commands from someone else. Another sign involving aggressive behaviour is usually shown via fear that is alongside anxious growling and too much barking.
Territorial dogs, which growl whenever anybody goes around their food bowl, or perhaps some other possessions, may also be displaying signs associated with aggression. In addition, dogs that fight with other dogs, or maybe run after after people or perhaps other animals, and/or who growl and bark if someone shows up at the property or their bed, undoubtedly have to have some aggressive dog training.
Being continuously really stressed out from aggressive behaviour is detrimental for almost any animal, including human beings as well as dogs. Your dog won't grow out of aggressive behaviour, and also you can't afford to really feel flattered simply because he's 'protecting' the yard since he should not be the boss of anywhere, you need to be in charge of your dog and his environment. If this aggressive behaviour isn't checked, he may possibly injure someone or himself.
As an example, at times owners of little dogs are excessively protective of their dogs this also results in the little dog showing the same behaviour to get affection. Endeavor to correct this with aggressive dog training. Utilize 'Time Out' method. Every time h exhibits snarling, growling, aggressive behaviour, say 'No' strongly, leave the room and shut the door for a few seconds.
Dogs who bark at everything that passes ones backyard may need to be muzzled first after barking, after which you should place your hand over the muzzle and say "Quiet". Whenever your dog is relaxed, and quiet, praise and reward your pet. Once you recognize aggressive behaviour, you have to change your behaviour if you want your dog to behave.
As an illustration, if your dog is in the habit of jumping up on people, before beginning aggressive dog training, you should look at how you greet your dog. When you arrive home, does a person's happy dog run to meet you, jump up at you, and receive praise, then food, after which a walk or some playtime? Perfectly logical he jumps up on everyone else when he receives such rewards from their owner. Teach your dog to "sit" and "settle"
Next, learn more about Aggresive Dog Training here.
Thanks for reading - I LOVE this site! It's part of my all-free system of making money, which helps me to take care of my rescue animals. I have rescue horses, dogs, cats and birds.
Now, get more essential dog training secrets at http://www.dogtrainingalley.com
Territorial dogs, which growl whenever anybody goes around their food bowl, or perhaps some other possessions, may also be displaying signs associated with aggression. In addition, dogs that fight with other dogs, or maybe run after after people or perhaps other animals, and/or who growl and bark if someone shows up at the property or their bed, undoubtedly have to have some aggressive dog training.
Being continuously really stressed out from aggressive behaviour is detrimental for almost any animal, including human beings as well as dogs. Your dog won't grow out of aggressive behaviour, and also you can't afford to really feel flattered simply because he's 'protecting' the yard since he should not be the boss of anywhere, you need to be in charge of your dog and his environment. If this aggressive behaviour isn't checked, he may possibly injure someone or himself.
As an example, at times owners of little dogs are excessively protective of their dogs this also results in the little dog showing the same behaviour to get affection. Endeavor to correct this with aggressive dog training. Utilize 'Time Out' method. Every time h exhibits snarling, growling, aggressive behaviour, say 'No' strongly, leave the room and shut the door for a few seconds.
Dogs who bark at everything that passes ones backyard may need to be muzzled first after barking, after which you should place your hand over the muzzle and say "Quiet". Whenever your dog is relaxed, and quiet, praise and reward your pet. Once you recognize aggressive behaviour, you have to change your behaviour if you want your dog to behave.
As an illustration, if your dog is in the habit of jumping up on people, before beginning aggressive dog training, you should look at how you greet your dog. When you arrive home, does a person's happy dog run to meet you, jump up at you, and receive praise, then food, after which a walk or some playtime? Perfectly logical he jumps up on everyone else when he receives such rewards from their owner. Teach your dog to "sit" and "settle"
Next, learn more about Aggresive Dog Training here.
Thanks for reading - I LOVE this site! It's part of my all-free system of making money, which helps me to take care of my rescue animals. I have rescue horses, dogs, cats and birds.
Now, get more essential dog training secrets at http://www.dogtrainingalley.com
Sunday, March 14, 2010
6 Good Reasons For Using a Puppy Training Book by Jim McClinsey
A well trained animal starts with a well trained master. A puppy training book can be a big help with avoiding novice mistakes. Of course, you can always rely on the advice of a relative or friend, but using a training book consistently will produce a much better result. With differing training methodologies come differences of opinion. When using your resource, make sure that the book meets the needs of both dog and owner.
Good Reason Number One: Respect
Dogs must respect their master but this must be a two way street. As human beings, it is incumbent upon us to meet the dog at their level so that they can learn from you. Consider how rewarding any relationship is without the element of respect.
Good Reason Numbers Two and Three: Routine and Rigidity.
Much like a child, dogs will thrive on routine as a means of organizing their day; a skill that serves humans well later in life in the world of work. Your chosen book should allow for you to complete your own routine in addition to training the dog. This is a prime reason that many people do not enjoy weekly training classes, although a proper resource can be an excellent supplement to a current training class regimen.
Rigidity comes in as a way of letting the dog know that you are in charge. Again, like a human child, dogs will test their boundaries. It is best to address behavior such as this in the puppy's formative years.
Good Reason Numbers Four and Five: Praise and Positive Reinforcement
Although there are always exceptions to a given rule, generally a dog will do much better with praise and positive reinforcement than with yelling or a swat on the behind. A good resource will focus on rewarding good behavior in the name of positive reinforcement. Praise and positive reinforcement can come in the form of a physical treat or words of praise that make the dog happy because she/ he made you happy. It's a reciprocally reinforcing relationship, in this sense.
Good Reason Number Six: Reviewed
Lastly, you want to choose a book that has been favorably reviewed. Even simply perusing a website with testimonials for a given book is a good way to do some research and find out which puppy training book is right for you and your dog.
To Summarize, the Six Good Reasons to Use a puppy training book are:
1. Respect
2. Routine
3. Rigidity
4. Praise
5. Positive Reinforcement
6. (well) Reviewed
If you would like to read more about choosing a puppy training book, please visit my puppy training book blog. To see my recommendation, please visit my puppy training book lens. My name is Jim McClinsey and writing helpful articles is my passion.
Good Reason Number One: Respect
Dogs must respect their master but this must be a two way street. As human beings, it is incumbent upon us to meet the dog at their level so that they can learn from you. Consider how rewarding any relationship is without the element of respect.
Good Reason Numbers Two and Three: Routine and Rigidity.
Much like a child, dogs will thrive on routine as a means of organizing their day; a skill that serves humans well later in life in the world of work. Your chosen book should allow for you to complete your own routine in addition to training the dog. This is a prime reason that many people do not enjoy weekly training classes, although a proper resource can be an excellent supplement to a current training class regimen.
Rigidity comes in as a way of letting the dog know that you are in charge. Again, like a human child, dogs will test their boundaries. It is best to address behavior such as this in the puppy's formative years.
Good Reason Numbers Four and Five: Praise and Positive Reinforcement
Although there are always exceptions to a given rule, generally a dog will do much better with praise and positive reinforcement than with yelling or a swat on the behind. A good resource will focus on rewarding good behavior in the name of positive reinforcement. Praise and positive reinforcement can come in the form of a physical treat or words of praise that make the dog happy because she/ he made you happy. It's a reciprocally reinforcing relationship, in this sense.
Good Reason Number Six: Reviewed
Lastly, you want to choose a book that has been favorably reviewed. Even simply perusing a website with testimonials for a given book is a good way to do some research and find out which puppy training book is right for you and your dog.
To Summarize, the Six Good Reasons to Use a puppy training book are:
1. Respect
2. Routine
3. Rigidity
4. Praise
5. Positive Reinforcement
6. (well) Reviewed
If you would like to read more about choosing a puppy training book, please visit my puppy training book blog. To see my recommendation, please visit my puppy training book lens. My name is Jim McClinsey and writing helpful articles is my passion.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
How to Deal With a Dog That Jumps
How-To Deal With a Dog That Jumps by Amanda Jacobs
in Family / Pets (submitted 2010-02-17)
Jumping is a very common issue and it can have serious consequences especially if you are dealing with a large or giant breed dog.
Clothes get muddies and torn, people can become quite terrified and badly scratched in the process. Even with smaller animals it can be a concern.
Often people encourage this behaviour without even realizing it, particularly when dealing with a puppy or younger dog. When they come running up to us and jump up we respond by bending down and giving them attention. Unfortunately dogs do not understand the difference between a small puppy jump and a huge full size jump. As far as they are concerned jumping brings attention and therefore must be a good thing.
Although owners of toy breeds jumping is often encouraged as it seems doubtful that they could cause any real harm. However no one likes being jumped on by an unknown dog regardless of its size. Overall it is a good idea to train your dog not to jump, to do so you need to make it clear to your dog that jumping is not acceptable.
The main reason most dogs jump is simply because they are excited. Some dogs jump for other reasons such as to attempt to show dominance over you. You need to ensure that you are actually the one in charge of your owner-pet relationship!
As with anything else regarding dogs, consistency is key. If you decide not to allow jumping there cannot be any exceptions.
The most popular method of stopping your dog from jumping is to ignore him when he does. No attention at all, not even negative actions. Turn your back to him and do not yell or talk to him. Make sure that you are not ignoring the dog, you are ignoring his behaviour. Instead of carrying on with whatever you are doing and pretending the dog does not exist, you are snubbing him when he jumps. Your reaction is to ignore him. Dogs are amazing attuned to body language and emotions; it will not take long before he catches on.
When he has all four paws on the ground make sure to praise the heck right out of him! He will quickly associate jumping with no attention and not jumping with lots of attention. Due to dogs typically short memory it is fine to ignore him while he bounces around and them begin to praise the very second he calms down.
With a bit of time and patience you and your dog can master the jumping issue once and for all.
For more information and resources to help you and your pets stay happy and healthy
Click Here
If you are interested in a FREE Book about making money online check this site out. Purple Drool
About the Author
Amanda is an experienced writer and trainer and is happy to be able to combine both passions here at GoArticles. Her personal focus is on staying healthy and organized, living green and taking care of the home and everything in it. She has also dedicated time to find out how to actually make money online. Visit her site for more information and resources.
Life and Other Stuff
in Family / Pets (submitted 2010-02-17)
Jumping is a very common issue and it can have serious consequences especially if you are dealing with a large or giant breed dog.
Clothes get muddies and torn, people can become quite terrified and badly scratched in the process. Even with smaller animals it can be a concern.
Often people encourage this behaviour without even realizing it, particularly when dealing with a puppy or younger dog. When they come running up to us and jump up we respond by bending down and giving them attention. Unfortunately dogs do not understand the difference between a small puppy jump and a huge full size jump. As far as they are concerned jumping brings attention and therefore must be a good thing.
Although owners of toy breeds jumping is often encouraged as it seems doubtful that they could cause any real harm. However no one likes being jumped on by an unknown dog regardless of its size. Overall it is a good idea to train your dog not to jump, to do so you need to make it clear to your dog that jumping is not acceptable.
The main reason most dogs jump is simply because they are excited. Some dogs jump for other reasons such as to attempt to show dominance over you. You need to ensure that you are actually the one in charge of your owner-pet relationship!
As with anything else regarding dogs, consistency is key. If you decide not to allow jumping there cannot be any exceptions.
The most popular method of stopping your dog from jumping is to ignore him when he does. No attention at all, not even negative actions. Turn your back to him and do not yell or talk to him. Make sure that you are not ignoring the dog, you are ignoring his behaviour. Instead of carrying on with whatever you are doing and pretending the dog does not exist, you are snubbing him when he jumps. Your reaction is to ignore him. Dogs are amazing attuned to body language and emotions; it will not take long before he catches on.
When he has all four paws on the ground make sure to praise the heck right out of him! He will quickly associate jumping with no attention and not jumping with lots of attention. Due to dogs typically short memory it is fine to ignore him while he bounces around and them begin to praise the very second he calms down.
With a bit of time and patience you and your dog can master the jumping issue once and for all.
For more information and resources to help you and your pets stay happy and healthy
Click Here
If you are interested in a FREE Book about making money online check this site out. Purple Drool
About the Author
Amanda is an experienced writer and trainer and is happy to be able to combine both passions here at GoArticles. Her personal focus is on staying healthy and organized, living green and taking care of the home and everything in it. She has also dedicated time to find out how to actually make money online. Visit her site for more information and resources.
Life and Other Stuff
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Dogs-Friend Or Foe
When dogs are friendly there are distinct mannerisms you can observe that show they are happy and receptive to meeting you and other dogs. Studying dog gestures and mannerisms is interesting because you learn so much about their personalities, moods, likes and dislikes and whether or not they are friendly or about to attack or become aggressive. Dogs have body language and gestures that are easy to read if you pay attention and observe.
For example, most people think that if dogs are wagging their tails that means they're happy and being friendly. Usually that is the case, but not always. And, it is extremely important to be able to read the difference because it will determine whether a dog is a friend or a foe. When dogs wag their tails straight up and like a flag, very stiff and in short cycles they are actually exhibiting aggressive behavior and are about to attack, especially if they flick their tongues briefly. They are showing signs that they are in fight not flight mode. If their tails are lower, loose and not stiff or vertical, wagging loosely in wide flowing motions then they are happy to see you or meet a new doggie pal. So, watch and learn to make your own observations about the different kinds of tail wagging and what they mean. Notice that when their tails are even with their backs and wagging tentatively that they are unsure and perhaps shy or insecure about the current situation but they are probably more likely to try to flee than fight in that circumstance.
Another misperception about dogs is that they lick when they are happy or showing friendliness. Sure, most of the time that is the case. But, like tail wagging there are signs that show some licking is not friendly licking. For example, when they flick their tongues out of the front of their mouths briefly that is a sign that they are about to attack and bite. Also, when they lick compulsively it is a sign of either insecurity or a bit of needy aggressive behavior. They are licking to hang onto you or to dominate you. But most of the time when they are licking you incessantly it means they adore you and want to clean you out of respect and worship, like they do with the alpha dogs of the pack.
Often times we may think shy dogs are insecure dogs that just need a friendly advance in order to warm them up to us. Be careful with the shy ones! They can often be the most dangerous dogs because they aren't giving any warnings that they are about to bite. Dogs almost always warn before they attack or bite with a growl or a sneer- lifting their lips to show their teeth. But with shy dogs sometimes they are so shut down that they are very quiet with very little signs to warn that they are about to bite. So, it is important to pay attention to other signs. Shy dogs will back away or try to retreat. They will hang their heads down low and avoid eye contact or stare at you when they are uncomfortable. Shy dogs bite out of fear. Aggressive dogs bit out of dominance. Both are dangerous and need to be respected.
There are other dog gestures and behaviors that are interesting to observe that show you their nature. Dogs are very territorial and need and respect their individual space. If you watch dogs that share a home or yard or are playing at a dog park, you will notice that they respect each others space and walk around each other's body bubbles. If they want to pass by another dog they will find an alternate route rather than infringe on that dog's personal space. There are those socially inept dogs, just like people, who don't have a clue and barge right through another dog's space but it is rare and will be met with a reaction. Dogs, even the more mild mannered ones, will warn each other with a growl or sneer, to keep their distance or go around another way.
Dogs have a funny way of showing that they really like each other that is completely the opposite as we humans act when we like each other. They do not engage in eye contact. Eye contact for dogs, rather staring is not only rude but a sign of aggression and dominance. When they really like each other they don't look at each other and seem to even be ignoring each other. But, when they are hovering around each other and following and playing with each other that means they really like each other. When they ignore each other without any kind of butt sniffing or show of interest then they don't care one way or the other for each other. They are not friend or foe; they are simply strangers who don't have any interest in connecting with each other. Sniffing is their way of showing interest in getting to know each other. If they allow others to sniff them or if they are doing the sniffing that is good social behavior for dogs that want to be friendly and get to know each other. So sniffing should not be discouraged just because we think it is uncouth or obscene because in the dog world it is like our human handshake or hugs.
Dogs are interesting and easy to read and understand if you are paying attention and observing their mannerisms. For the most part, dogs enjoy each other's company and want to get along because that is how they best survive is in packs and families. They are happy and social creatures who know life is short so they wag more and bark less!
Deborah Brightstar-The Doggie Diva, owns and operates, Doggie Diva Pet Care, LLC, a licensed, bonded and insured, pet sitting business in Tucson, AZ, where she customizes her service with a, "We take care of your pets and home as if they were our own!" approach, providing the highest quality of care and service to all of her clients- people as well as furry, feathered or scaly. She shares her active and fun-filled life and her abundance of love with her two rescued greyhounds Kali and Dora and the love-of-her-life Pepper, her English Springer Spaniel and Pet Therapy partner. She enjoys writing about pet related topics and on a variety of other subjects in her spare time. For more information, visit her website at http://www.doggiedivapetcare.com
For example, most people think that if dogs are wagging their tails that means they're happy and being friendly. Usually that is the case, but not always. And, it is extremely important to be able to read the difference because it will determine whether a dog is a friend or a foe. When dogs wag their tails straight up and like a flag, very stiff and in short cycles they are actually exhibiting aggressive behavior and are about to attack, especially if they flick their tongues briefly. They are showing signs that they are in fight not flight mode. If their tails are lower, loose and not stiff or vertical, wagging loosely in wide flowing motions then they are happy to see you or meet a new doggie pal. So, watch and learn to make your own observations about the different kinds of tail wagging and what they mean. Notice that when their tails are even with their backs and wagging tentatively that they are unsure and perhaps shy or insecure about the current situation but they are probably more likely to try to flee than fight in that circumstance.
Another misperception about dogs is that they lick when they are happy or showing friendliness. Sure, most of the time that is the case. But, like tail wagging there are signs that show some licking is not friendly licking. For example, when they flick their tongues out of the front of their mouths briefly that is a sign that they are about to attack and bite. Also, when they lick compulsively it is a sign of either insecurity or a bit of needy aggressive behavior. They are licking to hang onto you or to dominate you. But most of the time when they are licking you incessantly it means they adore you and want to clean you out of respect and worship, like they do with the alpha dogs of the pack.
Often times we may think shy dogs are insecure dogs that just need a friendly advance in order to warm them up to us. Be careful with the shy ones! They can often be the most dangerous dogs because they aren't giving any warnings that they are about to bite. Dogs almost always warn before they attack or bite with a growl or a sneer- lifting their lips to show their teeth. But with shy dogs sometimes they are so shut down that they are very quiet with very little signs to warn that they are about to bite. So, it is important to pay attention to other signs. Shy dogs will back away or try to retreat. They will hang their heads down low and avoid eye contact or stare at you when they are uncomfortable. Shy dogs bite out of fear. Aggressive dogs bit out of dominance. Both are dangerous and need to be respected.
There are other dog gestures and behaviors that are interesting to observe that show you their nature. Dogs are very territorial and need and respect their individual space. If you watch dogs that share a home or yard or are playing at a dog park, you will notice that they respect each others space and walk around each other's body bubbles. If they want to pass by another dog they will find an alternate route rather than infringe on that dog's personal space. There are those socially inept dogs, just like people, who don't have a clue and barge right through another dog's space but it is rare and will be met with a reaction. Dogs, even the more mild mannered ones, will warn each other with a growl or sneer, to keep their distance or go around another way.
Dogs have a funny way of showing that they really like each other that is completely the opposite as we humans act when we like each other. They do not engage in eye contact. Eye contact for dogs, rather staring is not only rude but a sign of aggression and dominance. When they really like each other they don't look at each other and seem to even be ignoring each other. But, when they are hovering around each other and following and playing with each other that means they really like each other. When they ignore each other without any kind of butt sniffing or show of interest then they don't care one way or the other for each other. They are not friend or foe; they are simply strangers who don't have any interest in connecting with each other. Sniffing is their way of showing interest in getting to know each other. If they allow others to sniff them or if they are doing the sniffing that is good social behavior for dogs that want to be friendly and get to know each other. So sniffing should not be discouraged just because we think it is uncouth or obscene because in the dog world it is like our human handshake or hugs.
Dogs are interesting and easy to read and understand if you are paying attention and observing their mannerisms. For the most part, dogs enjoy each other's company and want to get along because that is how they best survive is in packs and families. They are happy and social creatures who know life is short so they wag more and bark less!
Deborah Brightstar-The Doggie Diva, owns and operates, Doggie Diva Pet Care, LLC, a licensed, bonded and insured, pet sitting business in Tucson, AZ, where she customizes her service with a, "We take care of your pets and home as if they were our own!" approach, providing the highest quality of care and service to all of her clients- people as well as furry, feathered or scaly. She shares her active and fun-filled life and her abundance of love with her two rescued greyhounds Kali and Dora and the love-of-her-life Pepper, her English Springer Spaniel and Pet Therapy partner. She enjoys writing about pet related topics and on a variety of other subjects in her spare time. For more information, visit her website at http://www.doggiedivapetcare.com
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