by:
Pets. They clearly represent everything that we look for in a partner.
Affection, constant attention, and a pair of ears that listen and never quite talk back. These characteristics are just a few that allow us to bond with our furry friends. While they may never be our lifetime partner or husband material, they are our best friends. Without them, chances are we would be lost and unable to tell our secrets to the world.
When our pets become ill, the last thing we want to do is watch them suffer. We know that they are struggling to tell us what’s wrong, yet it is often difficult to figure out what the problem is. With exuberant medical fees and medicines that cost more than your car payments alone, dealing with their issue can also be frightening. Fortunately, there are plenty of opportunities to take care of your pet, without taking out a loan. Herbal remedies are wonderful resources for pets who struggle with joint pain, stomach aches, or allergies. Below are just a few remedies that may alleviate some of the ailments.Surprisingly, a simple herb such as rosemary can easily help with pain relief. Since it is an anti-inflammatory, it will help with joint pains and muscle tension. If you do give this to your pet, it will allow them to live more comfortably. As a result, you will not have to pay thousands of dollars for a medical pill that may not even work. Other anti-inflammatory herbs include Aloe Vera, which is also a popular remedy when humans find themselves dealing with pain. An additional herb that is used quite frequently on pets is Dandelion. This flower actually helps with the immune system, as it treats liver or kidney deficiencies. If you use the leaves, it actually can work as a diuretic. While these are just a few herbal remedies that will help your best friend, Noni supplements tend to work the best. These nutritional products, which began in the Pacific Islands, are making large splashes in the medical industry. After it was heard that Noni Juice could help with the spreading of cancer, people flocked towards this substance. Once it was found that it can alleviate joint pain, boost immune systems, and create energy, pet owners were trying this on their furry friends. Luckily, it works just as well. You no longer have to worry that your vet will not be able to fix the problem. Noni products may actually reduce the pain, and make your pet a lot happier.
Regardless of where we live in the world, pets are our lives. For some, they are a means of comfort. It is reassuring to know that they are always there when we need them the most. For others, they simply are a best friend that could never be replaced. After all, their ears are always on “turn on” mode, and they are more than happy to keep your darkest secrets. For these rasons, we absolutely want to do what’s best for our pets. If this means trying out alternative medicines such as Noni and herbs, then so be it. No matter what effects it has, at least we know that we gave it our all.
Sunday, December 31, 2006
Friday, December 29, 2006
Tips About Your Dogs Room And Personal Space
by:Randy Jones
Regardless of where you live, your dog must always have its own private domain where it can feel at home. Find a quiet place for the dog to sleep. The location should be convenient for you and suitable for your pet. Make sure your dog feels comfortable there, and do not change the location afterwards.
An uncarpeted room, not too cold, with a floor that is easy to wash, is a good choice. A puppy must be well protected from draughts. Beware of cold air seeping in around doors and windows. A dog will automatically settle with its back against a wall, so arrange your pets spot next to a wall or in a corner but not too close to a radiator or heating vent because the dogs coat will dry out and become brittle.
The dogs place should be away from heavily traveled areas because the animal will probably need a lot of sleep, initially. But the dog should also be able to observe everyone’s comings and goings so it can start taking part in family life. Your pet can probably sleep comfortably in a crate lined with cushions, a towel or shredded newspaper. Large dogs generally just sleep on a blanket.
If your dog will weigh less than 30 pounds when fully grown, you can use a wicker basket lined with a soft, easily washable cushion. The main concern is to see that the animal is well insulated from the floor. Air the dogs bedding every day and clean it once a week. In summer, if your dog gets fleas or tics, treat the bedding with flea and tick powder or replace it completely.
You can put the dog’s two bowls – one for food the other for water, near its bed. If the dog’s muzzle is pointed, use deep bowls, if its muzzle is blunt, shallow bowls are preferable. For a toy, give your dog a bone made of animal hide. It can cut its teeth safely, on the hide because even if it swallows a piece, the material is digestible. You may find that your dog will choose its own plaything; if so, make sure the choice is not an old shoe. This may encourage it to start chewing new shoes.
Regardless of where you live, your dog must always have its own private domain where it can feel at home. Find a quiet place for the dog to sleep. The location should be convenient for you and suitable for your pet. Make sure your dog feels comfortable there, and do not change the location afterwards.
An uncarpeted room, not too cold, with a floor that is easy to wash, is a good choice. A puppy must be well protected from draughts. Beware of cold air seeping in around doors and windows. A dog will automatically settle with its back against a wall, so arrange your pets spot next to a wall or in a corner but not too close to a radiator or heating vent because the dogs coat will dry out and become brittle.
The dogs place should be away from heavily traveled areas because the animal will probably need a lot of sleep, initially. But the dog should also be able to observe everyone’s comings and goings so it can start taking part in family life. Your pet can probably sleep comfortably in a crate lined with cushions, a towel or shredded newspaper. Large dogs generally just sleep on a blanket.
If your dog will weigh less than 30 pounds when fully grown, you can use a wicker basket lined with a soft, easily washable cushion. The main concern is to see that the animal is well insulated from the floor. Air the dogs bedding every day and clean it once a week. In summer, if your dog gets fleas or tics, treat the bedding with flea and tick powder or replace it completely.
You can put the dog’s two bowls – one for food the other for water, near its bed. If the dog’s muzzle is pointed, use deep bowls, if its muzzle is blunt, shallow bowls are preferable. For a toy, give your dog a bone made of animal hide. It can cut its teeth safely, on the hide because even if it swallows a piece, the material is digestible. You may find that your dog will choose its own plaything; if so, make sure the choice is not an old shoe. This may encourage it to start chewing new shoes.
Dog Cat And Other Pet Natural Remedies
by:Joe Rote
Since ancient times, hundreds of thousands of known herbs and other natural remedies have been used to treat human illness, and unwanted conditions. Like people, today's pets are affected by the health hazards of pollution, poor nutrition, and stress, and are becoming more and more vulnerable to chronic disease and bad health.
Animals in the wild have always been known to instinctively find and consume many of the healing herbs that may help them overcome illness, and aid in building healthy bodies.
Now more then ever people are starting to realize the value of using natural vitamins, minerals, herbals, and other natural products to prevent or treat dog, cat and other pet diseases such as:
Pet --Aggression, Stress, Anxiety Pet --Diabetes Pet --Digestive Problems Pet --Kennel Cough Pet --Parasites Pet --Urinary Infection, (UTI)
You can also choose from a variety of natural remedies for non - disease conditions, such as: Pet --Teething Pet --Poor skin and coat conditions Pet --Cleanse-Disinfect Wounds Pet --Teething Pets Pet --Weight Management etc. Just to name a few.
Many veterinarians are also beginning to recognize the holistic methods of keeping our pets healthy, as well as using them for enhancement and maintenance.
Your pet can be helped by a good diet, with the latest findings leaning towards the development of pet foods with less carbohydrates and more protein. Add the proper supplements and/or herbal formulas as needed, and you will have a healthy, happy, attractive pet.
As you can see there are remedies that can enhance a pet’s health, appearance, attitude, and performance. A growing number of the population is using natural herbals with very favorable results, and little or no adverse effects on the family dog, cat, or other pet.
A natural pet remedy could alleviate many of the problems that arise with properly caring for your pet.
Since ancient times, hundreds of thousands of known herbs and other natural remedies have been used to treat human illness, and unwanted conditions. Like people, today's pets are affected by the health hazards of pollution, poor nutrition, and stress, and are becoming more and more vulnerable to chronic disease and bad health.
Animals in the wild have always been known to instinctively find and consume many of the healing herbs that may help them overcome illness, and aid in building healthy bodies.
Now more then ever people are starting to realize the value of using natural vitamins, minerals, herbals, and other natural products to prevent or treat dog, cat and other pet diseases such as:
Pet --Aggression, Stress, Anxiety Pet --Diabetes Pet --Digestive Problems Pet --Kennel Cough Pet --Parasites Pet --Urinary Infection, (UTI)
You can also choose from a variety of natural remedies for non - disease conditions, such as: Pet --Teething Pet --Poor skin and coat conditions Pet --Cleanse-Disinfect Wounds Pet --Teething Pets Pet --Weight Management etc. Just to name a few.
Many veterinarians are also beginning to recognize the holistic methods of keeping our pets healthy, as well as using them for enhancement and maintenance.
Your pet can be helped by a good diet, with the latest findings leaning towards the development of pet foods with less carbohydrates and more protein. Add the proper supplements and/or herbal formulas as needed, and you will have a healthy, happy, attractive pet.
As you can see there are remedies that can enhance a pet’s health, appearance, attitude, and performance. A growing number of the population is using natural herbals with very favorable results, and little or no adverse effects on the family dog, cat, or other pet.
A natural pet remedy could alleviate many of the problems that arise with properly caring for your pet.
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
How To Teach Your Dog Nifty Tricks
by: Paul Dogman
Believe it or not you can teach an old dog new tricks! Most of the tricks that you see dog’s on TV or in the movies completing are relatively simple once you break them down to their basic components. Teaching the dog complicated tricks step by step is the most effective way to have your dog work through even elaborate tricks quickly and as a positive experience. Punishing dogs for not learning the tricks will actually harm your pet’s chances of learning the trick. Dogs learn new tricks and commands by praise and social interactions, not by punishment. Keep in mind that not all dogs are physically suited to complete all tricks, and try to watch for activities that your dog does naturally that are close to the tricks that you would like them to do on command.
Tricks should usually only be taught after the dog has a basic understanding of the commands come, sit, down and stay. Without these basic commands being understood and followed learning more complex commands is more challenging and frustrating for both the dog and the owner.
Wearing items.
Many people like their dogs to wear clothing items, hats, sunglasses, bandanas or even complete theme items or costumes. Dogs, by nature, are not always happy about this decision. Start desensitizing or training your dog to tolerate these items by having the dog sit and gradually moving the item toward the dog. Praise the dog as the item gradually gets closer before the dog starts to move away. As the dog becomes comfortable with the item it can be brought against the body.
Only allow the item to be on the dog for very short periods initially. Praise the dog for wearing the item so that they begin to associate wearing the item with fun and attention. Gradually extend the amount of time the item is on the dog.
Speaking.
Most dogs will naturally bark, but teaching them to do so on command requires a bit of patience. Have the dog sit or stand beside you and hold out a treat or toy just beyond the dog’s normal range. Say “Speak” and immediately reward the dog when they make any kind of noise. Once the dog understands that you want them to bark they will usually catch on very quickly. Be sure to also work on being quiet at the same time. Give the command to “Quiet” and ignore the dog. As soon as he or she stops barking immediately give another treat and lots of praise.
Crawling.
Crawling is a nature behavior that often occurs when owners are trying to teach a dog to stay in a prone position. Often the dog stays “down” but doesn’t stay put, rather they do a belly crawl across the floor. Rather than punishing the dog for this behavior why not include it as a trick. When you notice the dog crawling, simply say “Crawl” this will help the dog learn that crawl means move and down means stay put.
Jumping
Jumping, like barking, is very natural for dogs. Be sure to check with your vet to be sure that it is safe for your dog to be jumping on command. Start with a low jump that is no higher than the dog’s legs from the ground to their belly. Run with the dog and jump over a dowel or broom handle placed across two boards or blocks at the correct height. The stride before the jump simply say “Jump” or “Up”. Praise the dog immediately. As the dog begins to understand try increasing the height or changing the jumping apparatus. To teach a dog to jump through a hoop mount the hoop low to the ground after they have mastered the jump command and run them through the same exercise. Once they are comfortable jumping or walking through the hoop take it in your hand and gradually raise it higher.
Always take care when teaching a dog tricks, especially jumping, that the dog is not straining or overexerting itself. If the breed is prone to any kind of joint or bone conditions jumping is never advised.
Believe it or not you can teach an old dog new tricks! Most of the tricks that you see dog’s on TV or in the movies completing are relatively simple once you break them down to their basic components. Teaching the dog complicated tricks step by step is the most effective way to have your dog work through even elaborate tricks quickly and as a positive experience. Punishing dogs for not learning the tricks will actually harm your pet’s chances of learning the trick. Dogs learn new tricks and commands by praise and social interactions, not by punishment. Keep in mind that not all dogs are physically suited to complete all tricks, and try to watch for activities that your dog does naturally that are close to the tricks that you would like them to do on command.
Tricks should usually only be taught after the dog has a basic understanding of the commands come, sit, down and stay. Without these basic commands being understood and followed learning more complex commands is more challenging and frustrating for both the dog and the owner.
Wearing items.
Many people like their dogs to wear clothing items, hats, sunglasses, bandanas or even complete theme items or costumes. Dogs, by nature, are not always happy about this decision. Start desensitizing or training your dog to tolerate these items by having the dog sit and gradually moving the item toward the dog. Praise the dog as the item gradually gets closer before the dog starts to move away. As the dog becomes comfortable with the item it can be brought against the body.
Only allow the item to be on the dog for very short periods initially. Praise the dog for wearing the item so that they begin to associate wearing the item with fun and attention. Gradually extend the amount of time the item is on the dog.
Speaking.
Most dogs will naturally bark, but teaching them to do so on command requires a bit of patience. Have the dog sit or stand beside you and hold out a treat or toy just beyond the dog’s normal range. Say “Speak” and immediately reward the dog when they make any kind of noise. Once the dog understands that you want them to bark they will usually catch on very quickly. Be sure to also work on being quiet at the same time. Give the command to “Quiet” and ignore the dog. As soon as he or she stops barking immediately give another treat and lots of praise.
Crawling.
Crawling is a nature behavior that often occurs when owners are trying to teach a dog to stay in a prone position. Often the dog stays “down” but doesn’t stay put, rather they do a belly crawl across the floor. Rather than punishing the dog for this behavior why not include it as a trick. When you notice the dog crawling, simply say “Crawl” this will help the dog learn that crawl means move and down means stay put.
Jumping
Jumping, like barking, is very natural for dogs. Be sure to check with your vet to be sure that it is safe for your dog to be jumping on command. Start with a low jump that is no higher than the dog’s legs from the ground to their belly. Run with the dog and jump over a dowel or broom handle placed across two boards or blocks at the correct height. The stride before the jump simply say “Jump” or “Up”. Praise the dog immediately. As the dog begins to understand try increasing the height or changing the jumping apparatus. To teach a dog to jump through a hoop mount the hoop low to the ground after they have mastered the jump command and run them through the same exercise. Once they are comfortable jumping or walking through the hoop take it in your hand and gradually raise it higher.
Always take care when teaching a dog tricks, especially jumping, that the dog is not straining or overexerting itself. If the breed is prone to any kind of joint or bone conditions jumping is never advised.
Sunday, December 10, 2006
Hidden Cameras For Pets
by:
You can find hidden cameras for all sorts of purposes now. They come in all sorts of things too. You can get teddy bears with a camera in the nose, to watch the babysitter. A pack of cigarettes that is actually a camera can record your conversations. However, there is one camera invention that I haven't yet seen marketed: hidden pet cameras.
I imagine it has been done a number of times by those who play with - I mean work with - surveillance equipment. It seems a natural thing to look at the dog one day and say, "Hey, let's put a camera on Fido." Now we just need someone to make it into a workable product.
You can find hidden cameras for all sorts of purposes now. They come in all sorts of things too. You can get teddy bears with a camera in the nose, to watch the babysitter. A pack of cigarettes that is actually a camera can record your conversations. However, there is one camera invention that I haven't yet seen marketed: hidden pet cameras.
I imagine it has been done a number of times by those who play with - I mean work with - surveillance equipment. It seems a natural thing to look at the dog one day and say, "Hey, let's put a camera on Fido." Now we just need someone to make it into a workable product.
Hidden Cameras On Collars
Most likely, the cameras would have to be attached at the collar of either dogs and/or cats. The weight isn't an issue now, since there are cameras that weigh an ounce out there. Hiding the camera might be the real challenge. Perhaps a flower or bow on the dogs collar might do the trick, with the lens in the center.
Of course, the camera would have to transmit the image to a remote monitor or recording device. The range on these types of cameras is enough now to get a clear image from around the neighborhood.
Why Hidden Cameras For Pets?
Novelty value is a start. Just strap the camera on Spot, and let him go wander the neighborhood while you watch the show. Just don't tell the neighbors you saw what happened in their backyard. Naturally, all the surveillance enthusiasts out there would have to add this invention to their collections.
With a trained dog, you could use this system for more specific spying. It has probably been done before, whether or not such a camera has been marketed yet. The first such use might be for a reporter's expose of the conditions in dog kennels.
Now the people at PETA might not like this next idea for these hidden cameras, but it is a natural. In a war zone, dogs could go into areas that are too dangerous for soldiers, and provide a view of what's going on. There might be similar applications in criminal investigations too.
Finally, have you ever wondered where your cat goes all day? Or where the kids go when they have the dog along? You could easily find out with these hidden cameras.
Monday, December 04, 2006
Dog Training For Kids At Home
by:Kanishkm
Little kids are particularly fond of dogs and dogs too like running around children. Dogs really take very good care of kids and are quite protective about them. However, if you have a kid, there are several important factors that you must consider before deciding to bring a pup home. Learn about various breeds and their primary traits. Choose the dog breed that is known to be of easy temperament and training friendly. Besides, the breed the individual traits also matter. For instance, Dobermans are not supposed to be the children's friend yet some of them have been found to be extremely friendly with kids and are very tolerant of their rashness. In a few instances dogs of certain gentle breeds turn out to be short tempered and highly irritable. The best way to find out whether a pup will grow into an angry dog or an affectionate one is to have a look at his mother or grown up siblings.
Never forget that the puppy might be much smaller than your kid but would grow much faster than him. One thing that you must make your little ones understand that a pup is not a toy and cannot be handled the way they like. The child, therefore, must give a gentle treatment to the dog and mend his pushing, pulling and twisting ways.
Kids have the habit of putting everything in their mouths and once they get a dog they try to put all of it in his mouth. Teach him not to, for the dog might not like it that much, besides the kid might also hurt himself or herself doing it. And
, no tailpulling.
The child must also be encouraged to train the dog himself or herself so that they grow up together and the dog understands your child's commands fully well. Do not allow your child to walk the dog unless you or some other elder is around because dogs often get distracted by sounds and may go berserk in excitement. This might hurt the child though the dog himself would feel very sorry for having hurt the little one. Dogs are very sensitive creatures and can feel human pain. If you are in pain they just might end up crying literally.
Little kids are particularly fond of dogs and dogs too like running around children. Dogs really take very good care of kids and are quite protective about them. However, if you have a kid, there are several important factors that you must consider before deciding to bring a pup home. Learn about various breeds and their primary traits. Choose the dog breed that is known to be of easy temperament and training friendly. Besides, the breed the individual traits also matter. For instance, Dobermans are not supposed to be the children's friend yet some of them have been found to be extremely friendly with kids and are very tolerant of their rashness. In a few instances dogs of certain gentle breeds turn out to be short tempered and highly irritable. The best way to find out whether a pup will grow into an angry dog or an affectionate one is to have a look at his mother or grown up siblings.
Never forget that the puppy might be much smaller than your kid but would grow much faster than him. One thing that you must make your little ones understand that a pup is not a toy and cannot be handled the way they like. The child, therefore, must give a gentle treatment to the dog and mend his pushing, pulling and twisting ways.
Kids have the habit of putting everything in their mouths and once they get a dog they try to put all of it in his mouth. Teach him not to, for the dog might not like it that much, besides the kid might also hurt himself or herself doing it. And
, no tailpulling.The child must also be encouraged to train the dog himself or herself so that they grow up together and the dog understands your child's commands fully well. Do not allow your child to walk the dog unless you or some other elder is around because dogs often get distracted by sounds and may go berserk in excitement. This might hurt the child though the dog himself would feel very sorry for having hurt the little one. Dogs are very sensitive creatures and can feel human pain. If you are in pain they just might end up crying literally.
Saturday, December 02, 2006
A Guide to Tracking Down a Good Dog Training Club
by:David the Dogman
How do you find the RIGHT Dog Training Club?
To find a good training club is not as easy as it might appear. One of the most important things to remember is that just because a club is two minutes away from your home, it does not necessarily mean it is the right one for you.
Yes! But where can I go?
The Federation of Dog Trainers and Canine Behaviourists (FDTCB) can step in to make your decision easier. All Federation Members have been vetted and their training practices are continually scrutinised, to ensure that the training methods that they use are not unkind. Members train by using primarily the rewards and play training method, none use a choke chain, spike, prong or electric collar.
Federation Members will be able to help you understand your dog, giving the reasons behind its behaviour. Plus furnishing you with the skills to modify the behaviour that you do not like, such as chewing, biting, barking and pulling on the lead. Most vets are more aware how important puppy social classes are and work with local training clubs.
Most clubs offer starter courses, usually of 8 or 10 weeks duration, a fee is payable before you start. All clubs should insist on seeing vaccination certificates as well. Always ask if you can watch a class before you join. If you are told NO, then do not consider paying for something you have not seen. It is worthwhile watching not only the class you will be joining, but also the higher class to see what can be achieved.
What should you expect to see at a training club?
Expect to see friendly people and happy dogs.
DO NOT expect to see people shouting at their dogs all the time, hitting them or continually checking them on a check chain, shouting ̉‘heel, heel̉‘ at the top of their voices.
Expect to see dogs being taught the recall (to come back when called). In a happy manner, being praised and played with, not being yanked in on a lead, or the owner calling them in a threatening manner, and the dogs coming back hesitantly.
Listen to the Trainers
Are they telling people to praise their dogs? Are they encouraging and imparting information at the same time? Is the whole class involved and interested, or are they bored and talking amongst themselves.
Some bad clubs have a bully type person as a so-called trainer. This person stands in the middle with everyone walking around them, shouting all the time and humiliating the person that gets it wrong. This is not repeat NOT training, and you and your dog will learn nothing. Your trainer should be able to advise you numerous things such as toilet training, tips on chewing. But if you have a specific behavioural problem you might need an in-depth consultation and the training club is not the place for this. Speak to your trainer about a private session in your home, if they cannot help you, they will know someone that can.
ABOVE ALL REMEMBER THAT YOUR DOG IS FOR LIFE AND ITS TRAINING SHOULD BE AN ENJOYABLE EXPERIENCE. A WELL TRAINED DOG IS A JOY TO OWN, AN UNTRAINED ONE QUICKLY BECOMES A MENACE AND A BURDEN.
Finally, do not attend a club that insists on putting a check chain on your puppy. With the right type of training it should not be necessary. Commitment, Firmness, but kindness.
Friday, December 01, 2006
Choosing A Good Dog Obedience School
by:Lee Dobbins
Everyone wants a well trained dog, but sometimes your pet may be a little difficult or you just might not have the time or know how to train him properly. Luckily you can get help and it’s as easy as enrolling your dog in a dog obedience school.
Perhaps you have seen people with unruly dogs, or maybe even have resigned yourself to think that your dog will never do as he’s told. Maybe you’ve gotten used to coming home from work and finding chewed shoes and trash all over the house. Perhaps you’ve even taken to walking your dog at night when no neighbors are out because you simply can’t control him when people and other dogs are around.
You don’t have to resign yourself to thinking your dog will never behave and in, fact you owe it to yourself and your pet to do everything you can to get him trained properly. Having a well behaved dog can save trouble for both yourself and your pet. An unruly dog could bite a neighbor or child causing you legal problems. If your dog barks a lot or gets loose all the time you may even find yourself in trouble with the police. And most importantly, if your dog will not come when called, you have limited methods to keep him out of harms way.
A dog obedience school trainer will show you how to communicate with your dog to get him to listen to you. He’ll learn how to behave around people as well as other dogs and the basic commands such as "down", "sit", "stay", and heel. Your dog will probably even enjoy this as he will get to spend time with your which is all he really wants in the first place!
Picking a dog obedience school is kind of like choosing a school for your kids - you want to be sure to send him to the right one. Of course, since you will probably be attending as well you want one that works for the both of you so you need to do a little research before you settle on the school.
One thing to consider when researching dog obedience schools is a reference from others who have attended the school. Perhaps you have a friend, co-worker or neighbor you can ask? If not you can ask the school for references and phone someone who has been through the program. You should have a list of basic questions you can ask about the school and the outcome of the dogs training. If you get positive answers then you may have found your school, otherwise, it’s time to move on to the next choice.
Another thing you want to do when narrowing down your choice of obedience schools is to visit the "campus". Just like picking a college, you want to be sure that the school offers a good environment. Make sure the school seems well organized and the trainers are knowledgeable. Also, you will probably want a friendly environment where your dog (and you) feel comfortable.
Talking to the trainers at the school is also a good idea. Find out about the methods that each instructor uses and you might even introduce them to your dog to be sure they will get along. Your training will be much more successful if both you and your dog are comfortable with the trainer.
Dog obedience school can be a great way to turn your unruly pet into a great companion that will not embarrass you in social situations and you can really take anywhere you want. The whole training process can help you bond with your dog and truly help him be your best friend.
Everyone wants a well trained dog, but sometimes your pet may be a little difficult or you just might not have the time or know how to train him properly. Luckily you can get help and it’s as easy as enrolling your dog in a dog obedience school.
Perhaps you have seen people with unruly dogs, or maybe even have resigned yourself to think that your dog will never do as he’s told. Maybe you’ve gotten used to coming home from work and finding chewed shoes and trash all over the house. Perhaps you’ve even taken to walking your dog at night when no neighbors are out because you simply can’t control him when people and other dogs are around.
You don’t have to resign yourself to thinking your dog will never behave and in, fact you owe it to yourself and your pet to do everything you can to get him trained properly. Having a well behaved dog can save trouble for both yourself and your pet. An unruly dog could bite a neighbor or child causing you legal problems. If your dog barks a lot or gets loose all the time you may even find yourself in trouble with the police. And most importantly, if your dog will not come when called, you have limited methods to keep him out of harms way.
A dog obedience school trainer will show you how to communicate with your dog to get him to listen to you. He’ll learn how to behave around people as well as other dogs and the basic commands such as "down", "sit", "stay", and heel. Your dog will probably even enjoy this as he will get to spend time with your which is all he really wants in the first place!
Picking a dog obedience school is kind of like choosing a school for your kids - you want to be sure to send him to the right one. Of course, since you will probably be attending as well you want one that works for the both of you so you need to do a little research before you settle on the school.
One thing to consider when researching dog obedience schools is a reference from others who have attended the school. Perhaps you have a friend, co-worker or neighbor you can ask? If not you can ask the school for references and phone someone who has been through the program. You should have a list of basic questions you can ask about the school and the outcome of the dogs training. If you get positive answers then you may have found your school, otherwise, it’s time to move on to the next choice.
Another thing you want to do when narrowing down your choice of obedience schools is to visit the "campus". Just like picking a college, you want to be sure that the school offers a good environment. Make sure the school seems well organized and the trainers are knowledgeable. Also, you will probably want a friendly environment where your dog (and you) feel comfortable.
Talking to the trainers at the school is also a good idea. Find out about the methods that each instructor uses and you might even introduce them to your dog to be sure they will get along. Your training will be much more successful if both you and your dog are comfortable with the trainer.
Dog obedience school can be a great way to turn your unruly pet into a great companion that will not embarrass you in social situations and you can really take anywhere you want. The whole training process can help you bond with your dog and truly help him be your best friend.
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