Dog Training Tips - Crate Training by Jeremy Lawrence

Dog training is more than just telling your dog to stop doing what he's doing, it is the process of teaching a dog to exhibit certain desired dog behavior in specific circumstances. Proper dog training is not a "quick fix" - it is an ongoing, life-long process. It is especially important when adopting an adult dog, since new owners generally have no knowledge of the dog behavior history. Additionally, successful dog training means your dog is less likely to end up a lost pet. Dog training is easy, but fixing problems born from nervousness is very hard.
Dog training is similar to raising children but more difficult for people to understand because we must communicate with the dog from a canine point of view. This requires that we have an understanding of how dogs think and perceive their world. It is an ongoing process that occurs during specified training sessions and through the rest of every dog's day. The lessons taught during dog training times should be reinforced at all times. Dog training is a process that may involve treats, but too many of these treats can be a bad idea for your dog's waistline. Use small treats and wean your dog off treats as they understand the different commands.

Dog Crate Training
One method of training a dog is by using a crate. Dog crate training is not always easy and you have to do it consistently otherwise it will not work the way you would like it. You may also need an air filled dog bed and a transport dog crates as well. Dog crate training is not cruel. I repeat: Crate training is not cruel. It is a method of training recognized and recommended by veterinarians, trainers and breeders, that takes advantage of a dogs natural instinct to find place of its own.
This is especially good for potty training a dog. Dog crate training is based around the premises that most dogs will not eliminate where they sleep or rest, provided that they are given options to release elsewhere. Therefore, owners will temporarily confine their pet to a cage of some sorts, in order to change negative behaviors. Dog crate training is based around the premises that most dogs will not eliminate where they sleep or rest, provided that they are given options to release elsewhere. Therefore, owners will temporarily confine their pet to a cage of some sorts, in order to change negative behaviors. Dog crate training is good for a variety of training problems such as potty training, chewing and anxiety. The premise behind crate training is to keep your dog in its' crate whenever you are unable to supervise its' activities.
Dog crate training is generally easier with a puppy as they have no bad experiences to recall when you are enticing them into the crate. Adult dogs can be trickier, especially rescue dogs as you may not possess a lot of knowledge pertaining to the dog 's history.

Dog Obedience Training
Dog obedience training is more than just training your dog, it involves teaching the dog owner too. Going through dog obedience training is something every dog owner should do. it isn't just about showing off the latest pet tricks to your friends. Dog obedience training teaches your dog how to think and problem solve. Dog obedience training is in general, an education to cultivate dogs to become well-disposed. Normally, in the process of educating or training the dogs their tendency for aggressiveness and over reaction may be diminished to the least possible level.

About the Author

Jeremy Lawrence is a dog lover and enthusiast. See his website http://trainthatdog.net for the latest Dog training tips and a free 15 part email course on Dog training.

Fearful Dog - Dog at the Vet by Rena Murray

Many a proud and assertive dog suddenly melts into jelly as a fearful dog when you take him to that dreaded appointment -- dog at the vet! Just as children (and adults) dislike or fear going to the doctor's office, there is much dog fear of vet. Yours does not have to be a generally fearful dog, simply one who feels threatened by the cool efficiency of all these strangers who hustle around in this cold, sterile place with so many scents of fear!... and especially if a dog muzzle is unceremoniously shoved over the dog's face!
My rescued Border Collie is obediently, but he certainly does not love it at the vet, and is quite eager to return to the car. Most people just rush in there, get the thing done, then get out... and that is scary for a dog! I always prepare my dog in advance.
So before you go, first check your own attitude. Come in feeling good, exuding confidence and a carefree attitude of "business as usual, no big deal." That will calm and reassure your dog.
But he, too, must come in feeling good. Give him fun outings, so going to the car to this place is just another of your outings to him. Make sure he is relaxed even before getting in the car by giving him proper exercise -- such as running him on a bike or roller blading. Make sure he has had a bowel movement if at all possible, because you want him comfortable.
Then you need to address the situation at the vet's office itself. One of the reasons dogs do not often like to go to the vet is because the veterinarian is always in a rush... and so are the staff. That can feel threatening.
Every dog (especially a fearful dog) should be allowed time to become familiar with the scent of the veterinarian, staff, and vet environment. He needs some positive time with them in advance of exam time if at all possible. Try to introduce him in a fun way and give him time to adjust to the vet and staff before you actually take him there for an official visit and exam. Just knowing them in advance will provide reassurance to ease your dog's fears... even if they are then moving quickly and efficiently in "work mode" (just as you might do during your own work day, so even that might be familiar to the dog).
If your dog is extremely fearful and requires a dog muzzle, take your time in introducing one. Introduce it on a day prior to the vet appointment, at some place else where the dog is not so stressed and is having fun. Take your time introducing the dog muzzle. It may take thirty minutes, but it is worth it to make the fearful one surrender to the muzzle. This way, she will not fear it any more and will see that it means no harm. Then when vet appointment time comes, go early and, by advance arrangement with the staff, start on this process at a calm, leisurely pace -- not the frenetic pace of a normal in-and-out, get-it-done, office visit.
Cannot get a dog muzzle on? Here are two important dog behavior tips.
1. Get an obedience dog trainer with muzzle experience to help in advance of the vet visit or to go with you. Have the professional restrain the dog while she releases her frustration -- by holding the scruff of the dog's neck, or the loose skin on the sides of her neck under her jaw. A skittish dog often screams the first time this procedure is done, so do not panic if such occurs. (That is all the more reason to acclimate her to the dog muzzle in advance.)
2. Remember to make your dog face his or her fear. The more you give in to her fear displays, the worse it will be. Never let the dog go when she is nervous, as that is when most dog bites occur. Fear bites. They can be nasty. So just stay in your control position until your dog calms down and you accomplish your goal.
It is the same thing always in dog training and dog relationships. Fearful dog or not, YOU must be a firm, consistent, persistent Leader. Never let go when the dog throws a tantrum (or you will be bitten), and always maintain your position until the dog is calm. The dog must see that you will not be the "first to look away" (hence, lose), but that you remain immovable until you accomplish your goal. Such leadership will comfort, reassure, and restore your fearful dog more than anything else -- even at the vet!

About the Author

Fearful Dog Problem? Ask Rena Murray at http://www.pawpersuasion.com/contact.php for Coaching! This Dog Behaviorist-Obedience Dog Trainer blends best of the Dog Whisper Behavior and other methods in no-nonsense Articles and FREE Newsletter at www.PawPersuasion.com . Suspect a medical problem? Get expert Veterinarian insight - http://www.pawpersuasion.com/health.php

3 Awesome Raw Dog Food Recipes by Katy

Raw diets are excellent for dogs. They boost your dog's energy. He will not need supplements or vitamins anymore. He will stop smelling like a dog. Raw dog food means also healthier teeth, skin, less digestive problems and fewer visits to the veterinarian. Raw food is particularly important for puppies because it allows them to follow their natural course of growth. Believe it or not, raw food is also cheaper than commercial dog food, considering your dog is healthier and you stop paying pricey vet bills.
The only trick with raw dog food is that you have to very careful with the freshness of the ingredients. Never feed your dog old food and carefully wash the meat and the vegetables before preparing any recipe. I am going to present you 3 raw dog food recipes that you can prepare very easily for your dog or puppy.
1. Natural Mix
¾ lbs minced raw organs (chicken liver, heart, kidneys, or a mix of these)
¼ freshly grated carrot
1 small cup of grated zucchini
½ cup of chopped broccoli
1 teaspoon of olive oil
First mix the vegetables and the olive oil and then add the meat. Serve the food! Note that zucchini can help your dog lose some weight as they are low on calories.
2. Sushi Delight
¾ lbs salmon (boiled or steamed)
2 cups of boiled white rice (you can use brown as well);
½ grated carrot
1 teaspoon of olive oil
1 raw egg
Mix the rice with the carrots and the oil (you can add other veggies like grated zucchini or minced steamed broccoli). Add the raw egg and mix until you have a consistent mixture. Shape the mixture into small sushi-sized pieces. Cut the salmon into appropriate slices and place it over each rice piece. Serve the sushi!
3. Chicken Breast & Green Beans
3 cups of minced raw chicken breast
½ cup of grated carrots
1 cup of steamed green beans (minced if the dog is small-sized)
1 medium-sized steamed sweet potato (minced)
1 teaspoon of oil (olive or flaxseed)
First you have to mince and steam the green beans and the sweet potato until they become tender. Then mix the chicken with the carrots and the oil. Add the steamed vegetables (they shouldn't be hot) and mix with the other ingredients. Serve the food!
Starting your puppy on a raw diet might seem hard at first. If you have doubts, you can boil the meat a little and steam the vegetables before preparing any recipe. Also, it's best to consult with your vet before starting your puppy on a specific diet.

About the Author

Find out more about puppy food and discover 21 easy raw dog food recipes!

Enjoy walking your dog - how to stop your dog from pulling by Nicolette Craig

As an owner of two very boisterous dogs, this author can testify to how frustrating it can be to walk dogs that constantly pull on their lead. Not only does it make dog walking uncomfortable, but at times it can even be dangerous.
Walking your dog can be pleasurable, however! There are a few ways that you can tackle pulling so that your dog stops and you can once again enjoy walking together. Dogs often pull because they are very excited. Once you have your dog's lead on, stand with him on the lead for a couple of minutes until the excitement to pass and then they may walk calmly.
Often the problem is one of control. Unfortunately, your dog may believe himself to be the alpha dog in your 'pack' and this is why he is pulling. Reinstate your position as 'top dog' with some basic obedience training. Without this training you may always find that you will always struggle to control him. Ensure your dog sits calmly before you put his lead on and walks calmly to the door. If they do not then stop immediately and do not continue until they have calmed down.
Once out on your walk, it is important to keep your dog focussed on you. As you walk stop frequently and get your dog to sit when you stop. If your dog pulls immediately, stop again and get him to sit. Each time the dog does as you ask praise him and maybe even give a small reward.
Other dog trainers recommend rather than forcing your dog to sit, simply changing direction when the dog pulls. This means that the dog soon learns that if it pulls, it doesn't get to go in the direction that it wants to. This also reinforces you as the pack leader, telling your dog which way you will walk.
Of course, these methods require patience and time. A more immediate way of tackling with pulling is to invest in a collar or harness specifically designed to stop pulling. There are a number of different types and a visit to any pet supplies shop will show the full variety. Ask the retailer or a vet for recommendations. One highly respected brand name is the Halti collar these come in different sizes according to the size of your dog and mean that whenever your dog pulls it is automatically turned so that it is facing away from where it is intending to go. The collars are designed to be kind to your dog, allowing freedom to pant and yawn whilst controlling misbehaviour.
Finally, if possible don't always take same route when walking your dog. They are pulling because they are excited and are anticipating the walk to come. If they are slightly unsure of where they are going, they are much less likely to pull.
Most of these methods require some persistence but if you are consistent you should see some improvement within a short while, your dog will collapse in its dog bed on its return and you will have had as much fun on the walk as your dog!

About the Author

Nicolette Craig is a writer for Swell Pets, the UK's Leading Online Pet Superstore. Visit Swell Pets to see their range of pet supplies and dog food.

Before You Send Your Pet To a Dog Boarding Facility by Sandra Stammberger

Often, you tend to become busy and simply cannot afford to have the sufficient time to spend with your pet. Or you are in vacation and may not tag your pet along with you. This in effect will become detrimental to your dog's over-all well being as he may not be given the proper care and assistance he needs.

Dogs nowadays are no longer like their predecessors (the wild dog breeds). Unlike them, they need to be constantly taken care of and their maintenance is a must. Given that these two factors are lacking, the dog may become too unhealthy and susceptible to the variety of diseases that abounds.

However, dog boarding is now rising in popularity and is designed to provide your pet with sufficient care in case you are not on the look out to give him the companionship he needs. Or you are on

Instead of having your pal stay alone in your home, it is a better option if you would enter him in a dog boarding program. Wherein he'll be properly taken care for and you will be assured of your peace of mind that your dog gets expert dog guardianship.

To assure that your dog gets the best standard a dog boarding program may give, compiled below are some guidelines that you may follow in evaluating a top-rate dog boarding facility:

Foremost, contact the dog boarding facility that you are interested of. Check for their availability. Particularly, there are certain dog boarding kennels that are fully booked during holidays and vacation periods. Additionally, ensure to it that if your pet needs special care you have them informed to the dog boarding staff so that his special needs maybe sufficiently addressed.

Once you are through with this, you can go further as to evaluate the facilities of the dog boarding kennels themselves. By this, you may visit or tour around the place. Depending on your own preference, you may visit them announced or unannounced, both ways may be appropriate as they have their own pro's and con's. Typically, an unannounced visit will provide you with a more realistic site of their dog boarding facilities but some may not accommodate you better by this. In most cases, most facilities require you to arrange an appointment.

Once you're in there, be observant in checking out things. Check their facilities and equipment. The crates should be large enough for your pet and the dogs must be kept in separate cages as to prevent the stress of barking.

Check the food they fed to the dogs, some may allow you to bring in your own food. Also, take note if they have separate drinking bowls and the schedules for giving the animals their food. Also, see where the dog gets to exercise and who attends to them.

Additionally, it is best if you inquire for the policies of the dog boarding facility and their specific issues on health. Check if all dogs get to be immunized and what are their criteria before your dog gets accommodated.

It is with equal importance that the staff of the boarding facility has sufficient training whereas they can properly determine if the pets in their custody are becoming unhealthy or may be needing extra assistance. A veterinarian or two (depending on the volume of the dogs) must be at hand to extend professional check-ups and see also that they are certified.

Once these are all done and you are now ready to send your dog to the dog boarding kennel, allow some familiar things to come along with him like a dog toy or his usual blanket as to provide familiarity in the new place. Also, make you farewell short so he wont have hints that he will be left in the place for quite a time.
Author Resource:- S. Stammberger is the owner of Dog Plaza. Her website offers a vast selection of dog resource. Including dog information, dog training ideas, and dog care.
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How to Crate Train a Dog by George Dunn

Crate training a dog involves teaching a dog to stay in a crate on command. A dog crate is basically a portable kennel made of either plastic or metal. If the training is properly done, the crate should provide a safe place for a dog, a "den" if you will.
Crate training a dog is a controversial subject at best. There are pros and cons for crate training. We will take a brief look at both sides of this issue and then discuss some points on how to crate train a dog.
Proponents of crate training insist that dogs are "den creatures" by nature, and it is natural for a dog to want to seek an enclosed place during certain periods of the day. Critics of crate training insist that crate training is nothing more than "caging" a dog, which is cruelty. The truth probably lies somewhere in between. As with anything, crates can be overused and perceived as punishment by the dog.
Why would anyone want to crate train a dog in the first place? Crates for dogs are used for several purposes. First, it is used to help housebreak a dog. Dogs do not urinate or defecate in their dens. Therefore, when house breaking a dog, the dog is kept in the crate during feeding time, or play time. Then the dog is taken outside and encouraged to relieve itself in a place the owner wants to designate as the "potty area."
Crate training a dog also has other uses. When dogs spend time at a veterinary clinic, they are kept in cages. If a dog already feels comfortable in its crate, it will suffer far less stress at the clinic. The same is true during transporting a dog for any reason, whether for the family vacation or moving. A crate should be used during the move to both keep the dog safe and comfortable.
There are several steps to crate training a dog. Of course it is easier to start when the dog is a puppy. However, a dog can learn to stay in a crate at any age. An older dog will just require more time and patience to unlearn old habits and learn the new one.
It is important to make the learning fun for the dog. Treats and praise should be provided during the training process. This will give the dog a positive attitude about the process. Crates should never be used as punishment.
The crate itself should be comfortable and large enough for the dog to stand and turn around. A puppy should only be left in the crate for three to four hours, and an adult dog should spend no more than about eight hours in the crate. It is very important to keep the crate clean.
When beginning the process of crate training a dog, keep several things in mind. First, the dog may whine and put up a fuss. If this occurs, most professional canine trainers encourage the owner to ignore the fussing until the dog is quiet before letting the dog out. This will reinforce the correct behavior. Praise and treat the dog when it behaves correctly.
Start slow. Don't crate your dog for several hours at the start. This will instill the wrong impression of the crate with the dog. You may have to start with only a few minutes at a time. Just be sure and wait until the fussing has stopped before you let the dog out of the crate. Since dogs are social animals, it may be best if the crate is kept in the room where the most people are most of the time.
The most important thing is to have patience with your dog. A well-trained dog is a well-behaved dog and an enjoyable member of your family.

About the Author

George Dunn is a writer specializing in family issues. A dog owner, one of his favorite areas to cover is pet ownership and care. For one of the best dog training guides he has discovered CLICK HERE This guide also offers a FREE dog behavior training tips newsletter.

Dog Clothes: Essential Fashion Items For Your Dog by Olga Sen

A dog is a man's best friend. Yes! The affable chap is your best companion. If you own a dog, you definitely love to shower him with affection. Anything you do for your dog, even a little attention, brings him happiness. And you love him like a baby. Don't you?
You probably spend a lot of money on quality dog food, biscuits and vet bills. But does your dog possess a sufficient variety of clothing? Why it roams stark naked at times. It's time you get some really cool dog clothes for your favorite friend this season. The clothes your dog wears reflect your personal style statement.
Are you aware of the fact that clothing for dogs is readily available in the market? The range varies from dog coats to dog hats, dog formal wear, dog collars and much more.
One of the essential items of dog clothing includes dog coats. Dog coats are used to protect your dog and enhance its living quality. Dog coats provide essential warmth for your dog during cold weather. Dog coats also protect the vital organs of dog such as his heart and lungs from getting affected by the cold weather. Dog coats, besides keeping your dog warm, keep your dog clean and dry. It can even protect your dog from skin disorders and allergies.
Dog coats are available in different designs and styles. They are available as denim coats, hooded coats, rough style coats and in many more patterns.
Dog T-Shirts are meant for well-dressed dogs. When your dog wears a pretty T-shirt he looks special and nice. Dog T-shirts too are essential for your dog A good quality T-shirt can help prevent harmful sunrays affecting your dog. Dog T- shirts also help in keeping your dog warm when it gets cool during at night. T-shirts are available as cotton T-shirts, velour T-shirts and in many more fabrics.
Dogs can develop skin cancer! If your dog is out and about in the sunshine a lot there is the risk of him developing skin cancer. Skin cancer is known to affect a majority of dogs more than any other type of cancer. So it becomes quintessential for you to protect your dog against skin cancer. Provide your dog with a dog sun suit. Dog sun suits are made using UV resistant fabric. This fabric greatly reduces the chance of skin cancer in your dog. Now you can leave your dog in the sunshine or play with him for hours in the sun without the worry.
Pet-jamas and playsuits for your dog are also readily available. These are beneficial if you like to play with your pet inside the house. These pet-jamas and playsuits act as essential and natural dog coats. It even keeps your house furniture and bed clean from unwanted doggy hair.
If it is raining outside, and you want to take your dog along for a walk, what would you do? You have a raincoat for yourself. What would your dog wear? Do not worry at all! A variety of dog raincoats are available. Dog raincoats are especially made from polyester backed vinyl and are available in all sizes. They even have a hole for the lead too. Now you can take your dog out, without getting him wet in the rain, making him the envy of other dogs.
Dog hats are another classy clothing item for your lovely dog. These hats come in various shapes, sizes and fabrics. Dog hats help to shade the eyes of your dear pet. Hats also provide your dog with great sun protection. Slip a hat onto your dog, ensuring it is well protected and looks smart and cool too.
Doing a little shopping for your dog can improve his living style and protect him from many diseases and dangers. Go on, be indulgent and buy something for your four-legged friend today.

About the Author

Olga Sen writes articles on a number of different topics. For more information about Dog Clothes please visit http://www.dog-clothes.org/dogclothes/and for additional Dog Clothes related articles please visit the following article page http://www.dog-clothes.org/dogclothes-articles/

Learn To House Train Your Dog Easily & Effectively by gene sower

The information in this article is based on the successful crate training method. Crate training is not cruel. I repeat: Crate training is not cruel. If used correctly, it uses the dog's natural den instinct to your own advantage by encouraging the dog not to pee or poop where it sleeps. Dogs are naturally clean animals and will avoid going to the bathroom where they sleep. But you need to keep the following points in mind to be successful. Establish A Regular Eating Routine As I'm fond of saying, "what goes in must come out". To help you figure out the best times to get your dog to go to the bathroom it's important to feed your dog at the same times every day. This is the ideal time to practice your house training lessons. For your dog's comfort it's also a good idea to feed your dog in the same place every day, a place that they will identify as their eating spot. With your puppy, there's a very short time between eating and eliminating. Figure around 15 - 20 minutes. When feeding your dog, give her 15-20 minutes and then pick up the uneaten portion (if any). This will also teach your dog to eat when fed. Again, these rules can be relaxed once your dog is house trained but for now it's key to establish a routine. Until your dog is house trained, also avoid treats and in-between meal snacks. The whole idea is to feed your dog, observe them constantly for the 15 -20 minutes after they eat and then bring them to the place where you want them to do their business. Do it like clockwork and you'll be putting your puppy in a position to succeed. This is all about setting expectations and teaching your eager learner to do what you want. And when they do, praise them wildly. Make it seem like that little pee or poop that they did is the greatest and most magnificent thing you've ever seen in your entire life. Your friends and neighbors may think you're crazy, but I can't stress enough the power of praise. It's what your puppy craves. Give it to her in generous amounts. How Old Should Your Puppy Be? How old should your puppy be before you begin house training? Start as early as you can but don't expect results until the pup is about 14 weeks old. Before 14 weeks your pup cannot physically hold it in. Then why start early you may ask? Well, even though your pup may not be physically able to hold it in, she'll at least begin learning what's expected of her. Consider any training before 14 weeks to be "pre-school". When her physical abilities catch up with what you taught her, it will make it that much easier to put the lessons into practice. Size Matters If you're considering crate training your dog as a means of house training, keep in mind that the size of crate you choose is very important. A good rule of thumb about size is: the crate should only be big enough for the dog to comfortably stand up and turn around in. You don't want the crate so big that the dog will mess at one end and sleep at the other. For large-sized breeds that will continue to grow substantially, you may need to buy a larger size later on if you intend for your dog to continue using the crate after it is house trained. And the most important rule of all: NEVER, under any circumstances, use the crate as a form of punishment. The crate should be a place where your dog wants to go, to sleep and get away from the bustle and activity in your home. You never want them to associate it with being punished. Happy House Training!

Author Resource:- Gene Sower is the author of the Happy House Training ebook. Learn To House Train Your Dog Easily & Effectively" http://www.lucythewonderdog.com/ebook.htm

Finding the Right Training School for You and Your Pup by Chad Henry

So you are thinking about some dog school training for your pup, but with all the training schools out there which one is right for you and your dog. Below are some general points and steps to take when choosing a dog school training program.

1) Make up a short list of dog schools consisting of schools in your area and ones you may have heard about from friends etc. Now go to these schools and ask to sit in on a dog training session, most should oblige but if they don't you can cross them off your list right then. While at each dog school keep a close eye on the training methods used and how the dogs are responding. You will want to find a method that both you and your dog will be comfortable with. If time permits try to take in 2 training sessions, one at the beginning of the program and one near the end, that way you can watch how some of the dogs have progressed.

2) While sitting in on each of the dog school training sessions talk to some of the current owners to get their feedback. A lot can be learned about the dog trainer and the course just by asking a few questions. Find out how long they have been attending the dog school and if the training has been affective.

3) Make a note of the breeds at each dog school training session and how they respond to the training method used. Certain breeds will respond differently to say the clicking method than others. Are the trainers showing flexibility in their training methods to accommodate different breeds and personalities? Simply put if your dog is a rottweiler joining a training school consisting mostly of poodles is probably not in your best interest.

4) Do your homework and get some background information on each of the dog schools. Find out how long they have been in business, what education the trainers have, and what prerequisites are involved before attending. It is a good idea to only consider training schools in which vaccination is a prereq.

5) Remember dog school training should be about developing a better relationship between you and your dog, so any dog school where you drop your pup off and come back later should not even be considered. Find a training school with an enjoyable environment, where the dogs are obviously having a good time. Dog school training shouldn't have to be a chore, rather a part of your week that you and your dog look forward to.
Author Resource:- For more info on dog training check out dog training and behavior dog training and dog school training
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