July 22nd, 2009
Owning a puppy can be quite exciting but you must also be sensible with your new charge and start puppy training him as soon as he arrives home with you. Depending on the size of your puppy and the breed you will inevitably face many different challenges. One of those challenges will be to keep your puppy from biting. Hopefully, we can address the dilemma of puppy biting in this article.All puppies are naturally playful and may accidentally bite you in the excitement of play but if not trained to stop this behaviour it can soon escalate and can eventually become a habit that may be hard to break. Provided that you are aware that your puppy has a biting problem early on you should be able to quickly put a stop to this bad behaviour and then enjoy your puppy growing up.
Whilst we are all aware that puppies have to go through a teething stage just as babies do, they can do a lot more damage, not only to your fingers but maybe your furniture, shoes or plants etc. They don’t know what is good or bad behaviour and unless you teach them from the start to behave correctly they will continue with the bad habits. They need your help to educate them so they can behave in an acceptable manner.
Don’t despair as it is easier to correct their behaviour at this puppy stage before it develops into a major problem. With a lot of patience and understanding you can stop your puppy from biting very quickly and simply.
When starting to train your dog in any task you should always try to distinguish the training from the playing by altering the tone of your voice. When training to stop a bad behaviour use a more firm tone and when playing with your puppy use a softer tone. Your puppy will soon learn to recognise between the two. Always remember to be consistent and persistent with the training of your puppy.
So, let’s move on to correcting the problem of puppy biting. Remember that this is a very common problem faced by many dog owners so you are not alone. When puppies play together they will tend to stop if one of them is hurt by another and then yelps. This is part of their natural learning process so make the most of this by making them believe that when they bite you, even slightly, they hurt you, so by crying out “Ouch” when they bite you this should make them stop immediately. Remove your hand away from them slowly. Never, ever smack your puppy for biting, this will only make things worse.
If after a few attempts the biting still continues then try another approach such as turning away from them or removing a favourite toy each time that they bite you. With repetition, they will then associate the removal of toys or your affection with their biting and they should soon stop. After all, your puppy just wants to please you. You can then return their toy or give them some affection to display that you are pleased with them. Repetition is the key to success.
Another method to use when your puppy bites you is to react in a firm voice “No!” or “Stop!”– then remove your hand, slowly and re-direct their attention immediately on to another object such as a bone or toy.
To stop your puppy biting or chewing your belongings or furniture, always make sure that your puppy has available age-appropriate chew bones or toys that will help them with their teething rather than chewing your things. When you catch them chewing or biting something that they shouldn’t, react with the techniques mentioned above.
Sometimes puppies can bite or chew items out of boredom so always make sure that they have plenty to keep them occupied with and that they have plenty of attention in their early months. Once they have had their injections they can then be taken out for walks which will help to tire them out and make them less likely to bite or chew. Enrol them on a puppy-training class where they will have fun learning new things and socializing with other dogs. Establish a good regular routine and before you know it you will have a fit, healthy and happy dog.
Provided that you are aware that your puppy has a biting problem early on you should now be able to quickly put a stop to this bad behaviour and enjoy your puppy growing up.
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May 19th, 2009
Why is it that so many dog owners give up on obedience training for their dogs? One of the main reasons for this is that people think of their new puppy as just a cute bundle of fun. They think that training this little pup can wait – he is just having great fun getting to know his new family and surroundings. But let me tell you that this little pup will soon grow up and then who will be having fun?
If you don’t start your dog’s training from day one you are asking for trouble. More so if you have a larger breed. It will be a much harder job to train your dog. If you don’t take them in hand at the beginning of your journey together then you are giving yourself a mountain to climb with regards to obedience training.
Think of your puppy as a small child. They will soon learn what they can and can’t get away with. They are not yet aware that they are being naughty. It is up to you, the owner, to correct any bad behaviour and nip it in the bud. If you don’t train them at this stage of their lives then they are bound to continue with their bad conduct. You, as the owner, are totally responsible for the behaviour of this little puppy and it is something that needs to be worked on.
If you have to go out to work and your little puppy is going to spend some time at home on his own then it will be a good idea to start crate training him from day one. This way he cannot get into mischief when you are out. Give him a toy such as a Stuffed Kong to keep him occupied. This will also help with any separation anxiety as he will be missing his littermates and it also assists in teething. But don’t just put him in his crate when you are out. Try putting him in it when you are in the house so he will not always associate his crate with being left alone.
One of the best ways to start training your puppy is to start with positive reinforcements to reward good behaviour. Every time your dog does what is asked of him reward him with a small treat. If he doesn’t – he doesn’t get the treat – keep repeating the task and he will soon learn. Be patient and consistent. Never be aggressive towards him. Use a firm tone to your voice when training your puppy but when you are playing with him try using a softer tone.
Once your puppy has had its vaccinations it would be a good idea to enrol him in puppy training classes where he will learn socialization with other dogs. Starting your dog’s training in this way will also help increase your own confidence in handling your dog.
As an owner you must take the time to train your dog but also remember to have fun whilst doing so. I am sure your puppy will grow to be a well-behaved dog who will give you years of unconditional love and companionship.
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Tags: dog obedience., dog owners, dog's training, obedience training, puppy training classes., start training your puppy, to train your dog, training your puppy
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May 18th, 2009
Deciding on dog ownership is quite a commitment on your part. Yes dogs are fun and cuddly, but you need to be aware of certain responsibilities before you take on this mammoth task. Whether you buy a new puppy or take on an older rescue dog, that dog is going to be completely dependent on you for everything for a healthy, happy life. It can be a huge step but well worth it for the rewards dog ownership can bring you.Before bringing your dog home you must make sure that your home and garden are going to be safe and secure. The best way to do this is to get down on your hands and knees and see things from your dog’s height. What obstacles and hazards do you come across? Depending on the breed and size of your dog, make sure you can remove any dangers. Fix any holes in fences etc and pick up any objects that a dog may like to chew or anything you think may be harmful to your new dog.
You must also make sure that all members of your family are warned not to leave doors open so that your dog can run out on to the road. Have a dog tag made up for him with your address and telephone number on it before you collect him so that if he does escape he can be returned to you. Another major warning for all the family would be to make sure they do not feed your dog any human chocolate as this can be fatal.
Once you are happy that your house is a safe environment for your dog the next important step is to start his obedience training. If you have a puppy you must wait until he has had all his vaccinations before enrolling him in puppy classes. Prior to this you can try some basic obedience training with him yourself – especially dog potty training! If you have taken on a rescue dog then it may still be a good idea to enrol him for obedience training to see just what he can do and make sure he can socialise with other dogs. It will also help build up your confidence in handling your dog.
Training your dog correctly from the start brings with it lots of benefits. It is also a good way to bond with your dog. Some dogs can be considered ‘bad’ dogs but really it is the owner who is ‘bad’ in not taking the time to train him correctly. All dogs want to please their masters and once they accept you as the ‘alpha’ dog they will be more willing to listen to your commands.
A well-trained dog will be a joy to own. It will be obedient and well-mannered when you have visitors to your home or whenever it is out and about with you.
Another responsibility you have for your dog involves good and regular veterinary care. It is important to always keep up to date with your dog’s vaccinations worming and flea treatments. You should also check your dog regularly for ticks and fleas and any other skin problems and see your vet if you are at all worried about anything. It is always better to be safe than sorry. It may also be a good idea to get your pet insured. The premiums are usually quite reasonable – it depends on the age and breed of your dog. It could save you a lot of money in the long run.
One more aspect of dog care is grooming. Depending on the breed of your dog, he may need regular professional grooming. This will include shampooing, clipping, trimming his nails, cleaning around his eyes and his ears. In between visits you can keep him tidy by brushing his coat and also cleaning his teeth regularly. If started at an early age your dog will get used to this but if you have an older dog this may be more difficult. Try to persevere as it is very important to keep the tarter build up at bay. If left alone, this can cause all manner of problems for your dog. There are plenty of dog chews and toys that can aid teeth cleaning and these may be a good alternative for some dogs.
So, I hope I have given you plenty to think about before considering the ownership of a dog or puppy. Some breeds of dogs can live until around the age of 16 so it is not a commitment to be taken lightly. Happy dogs will give you years of unconditional love and companionship and be faithful to the end.
Tags: basic obedience training, buy a new puppy, dog ownership, dogs., ownership of a dog, your new dog
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April 22nd, 2009
Dogs are still considered to be man’s best friend. Owning a dog is such a pleasure and a joy. This article will help you achieve a happy well-balanced relationship with your dog.
All dogs respond to love and attention in a positive way. They crave attention and want to please you all the time. As your dog is another member of your family make a fuss of them as you would any other family member. They want to belong and to be close to you. But remember, owning a dog is a big responsibility.
If you adopt a new puppy then it is a good idea to enrol your puppy on a basic obedience training course which will also help him to socialize with other dogs and people. He must have had all his vaccinations before you can do this.
Always treat your dog well. Never be rough or aggressive with him. When you are training him you need to make sure he knows you are the boss but you can do this by talking to him with a firm tone of voice. Dogs are very much like children – they need to know limits but will not react well to physical violence. When you are playing with them then use a softer tone to your voice.
Depending on the size and breed of your dog will determine the amount of exercise he will need. Dogs need to burn off their excess energy otherwise they will need to find another outlet which you may not like! If they are not exercised regularly they may start chewing things they are not supposed to like your slippers or digging your plants up in the garden.
Large dogs, especially, will need long walks or if you can, and you are confident your dog will come back to you when you call him, you can find a field where you can throw a ball, frisbee or a stick for him to retrieve thus giving him plenty of exercise to tire him out. Smaller dogs don’t need as much exercise but they still enjoy going for walks and retrieving toys.
Dogs are sociable animals so try not to leave them on their own too often. If you need to go out to work see if you can get a neighbour or relative to call in and let him out to relieve himself and to play with him for a while. When you do need to leave him restrict his access to one room so he can’t do too much damage.
If you get your dog as a puppy you could Crate train him then he will be safe when you have to go out. Give him a Kong toy filled with Kong stuff or peanut butter and this will keep him occupied for ages. Otherwise he will get bored and may howl or bark and that will annoy your neighbours and will also distress your dog.
Feeding your dog should be done at the same time of day so your dog gets into a good routine but always feed him after you have had your meal. Dogs are pack animals and this way you are assuming the role of the “Alpha Dog” by feeding yourself and your family first. Feed your dog the best food you can afford. Whether it is tinned, sachets or dried food is a mater of personal preference. Try to read the labels and buy food which has very little or no additives or preservatives in it.
There have been many reports made lately telling of the dangers in some of the dog foods we feed to our dogs. If you are not sure, there is plenty of information about dog food online or ask at your local Pet Store. Your vet will also be able to give you advice on owning a dog and will guide you on the best nutrition for your particular breed of dog.
Use this link for more information and advice on owning a dog and keeping your dog safe and well.
Tags: adopt a new puppy., basic obedience training, feed your dog, feeding your dog, man's best friend, owning a dog
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April 20th, 2009
Once upon a time you were the master of your own house. Then you brought home a new puppy which grew into a bigger dog. You were diligent and took your puppy to training classes and did your ‘homework’ when at home. Then as time goes by and your dog grows up life gets in the way and you and your dog fall into bad habits.
You feel as if your dog is ruling your life and he is now becoming the ‘master’ in your house. He sits and lies where he likes and if you dare try to move him he glares at you and growls! Is your dog consistently disobeying your commands? Doing as he pleases and pushing the boundaries further and further away?
Don’t despair, you are not alone. It is never too late to teach your dog new tricks (or old ones). There is always a way to turn back the clock and redeem your faithful friend with the correct dog obedience training. You just need to allocate some time to re-affirm and re-train your lovely dog.
Remember, dogs are pack animals and if you don’t take control and assume the role of the ‘alpha dog’ then your dog will do so. If your dog has been allowed to do as he pleases and take control over a certain part of the house then he will see that as you giving him permission to be the dominant one in the pack.
So when training your dog you need to break the pattern and assert your dominance. Be confident in your manner and your posture. You need to show your dog that you are back in control without being aggressive or rough but you need to be strong and dominant in order to successfully train your dog.
One important thing to get across when training your dog is the tone of your voice. If you have a firm unwavering voice when doing your training your dog will know that you mean business. Keep your soft tone of voice for when you are playing with him.
Another vital element of your dog obedience training is for you to re-establish yourself as the ‘alpha’ dog. To do this successfully you need to be first to do everything before your dog in your house. You should always have your meals before feeding your dog. When taking your dog out for a walk you must go through the door first and again when you return. Even playing with your dog should be initiated by you and not when your dog says so!
It won’t be an easy task at first but if you persevere and have patience then the rewards are well worth it. You will have a happy obedient dog and best of all a happy household where you are back in control.
Tags: dog obedience training, dog obedience., dog training, faithful friend, new puppy, teach your dog
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